THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NEW MEXICO FARM AND LIVESTOCK BUREAU®
How the Energy Transition Act will affect New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers and dairy producers
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NMF&LB President’s Column TRACTOR SEAT DAYDREAMING
BY CRAIG OGDEN
Changing the Ending
COVID -19 is still challenging our lives as businesses suffer and attempt to stay alive. I keep hearing the term “the new normal” is what we will need to live by in the near future. There is nothing NORMAL about any of this, this is our existence as we now know it. I don’t want to be negative, but these are hard times for everyone. This will be a big chapter in our history books and how we deal with the challenges this very moment determines the outcome. My wife, Teresa, put a quote on our refrigerator from C.S. Lewis many years ago that says “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” This quote holds so true during these uncertain times. We all must keep putting one foot Ogden cont. on page 20
AFBF President’s Column BEYOND THE FENCEROWS
BY ZIPPY DUVALL
Pledge to Vote in November
In Farm Bureau, we often talk about how active and engaged our members are in policy advocacy. We’re usually referring to Farm Bureau members’ engagement on specific legislation or issues—their calls, emails and in-person visits (pre-pandemic, anyway) to ensure that those who are elected to serve us are aware of what’s important to agriculture. Just as important is engagement to make sure the right people get into office in the first place. Farmers and ranchers tend to vote at a high rate. They know that who’s in office can have a huge impact on their ability to farm. From regulations and taxes to access to labor and foreign markets, policies Duvall cont. on page 22
NMF&LB CEO’s Column CHATTING WITH CHAD
BY CHAD SMITH
Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act
Although New Mexico has had a comparatively mild fire season, our skies are still hazy as smoke drifts in from the devastating fires on the West Coast. Our prayers are with those in California, Oregon and Washington whose lives and livelihoods are being destroyed by wildfires. But we can do more than offer prayers, we can support those who are trying to rectify decades of forest neglect with legislation that would institute better land management practices in our national forests, parks, and other federally managed lands. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act, S. 4431, introduced by Senator Steve Daines (MT) and Rep. Doug LaMalfa (CA-1) and co-sponsored by Senator Diane Feinstein (CA), would expedite forest management, accelerate post-fire restoration Smith cont. on page 22
On the cover: Wind turbines near Broadview. See page 4 for the story on alternative energy and how it will affect affordable food production in New Mexico. Page 2
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
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Ian & Colin Robson
Farm Credit of New Mexico has been farmer and rancher owned for over a century. Year in and year out, we’ve provided financial services to family-owned businesses of all sizes, helping them grow and prosper. That’s the difference between being a bank and being customer owned. What can we do for you? farmcreditnm.com 1-800-451-5997
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How will the ETA affect Ag?
By Dalene Hodnett, NMF&LB Director of Communications and Media Relations
You can’t drive between Clovis and Tucumcari without noticing the abundance of wind turbines. Some see a move towards renewable energy while others see a cluttered landscape. No matter which camp you’re in, expect more wind turbines on the horizon as New Mexico begins enacting the Energy Transition Act signed by Governor Lujan Grisham in 2019. Senate Bill 489 aims to move the state towards renewable energy and away from traditional sources of energy such as coal and natural gas. The bill mandates that by 2030, 50 percent of energy generated by investor-owned utilities and rural electric cooperatives will come from renewable sources such as wind or solar, increasing to 80 percent by 2040. By 2045 the law requires zero-carbon energy generation. Passed in the House by a vote of 43-22, and in the Senate by 32-9, Governor Lujan Grisham was eager to sign the bill saying in a press statement that it “sets bold statewide renewable energy standards and establishes a pathway for a low-carbon energy transition away from coal while providing workforce training and transition assistance to affected communities.” Dubbed “New Mexico’s Green New Deal,” the law puts the state on par with Hawaii, California and Washington DC in Page 4
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ETA cont. on page 8 Fall 2020
Farming is a Calling By Don Hartman
Who will fill my shoes? Who’s going to be the next one to plant the seeds, and grow and harvest the crops? Who will feed the calves and milk the dairy cows when farmers are no longer here or not able to do so? Young farmers, that’s who. But where do they come from? They could be a first-generation farmer like myself or the eighth generation on a farm that was established years ago. For me, it started with a dream. A dream is like a seed that gets planted, then cultivated, and with hard work it finally grows and bears fruit, becoming reality. Farming is a calling. It gets in your blood. Family farmers are a special breed. We are thick-skinned but tender-hearted. We are church deacons and T-ball coaches. We are 4-H leaders and volunteer firefighters. We are the neighbor in times of need. The volunteer in hard times. We are members of our small communities, but feeders of the world. There are both challenges and opportunities ahead of us. It’s a challenge to connect with consumers, to understand their wants and needs. It’s also a challenge to earn and keep their trust. But there is opportunity now more than ever. Recent issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a breakdown in the supply chain. People need to know that those of us in agriculture never stopped. We have always produced food – during wars, pandemics and every trying and difficult time throughout history – family farms are there for you. We produce! Although time and technology have changed the way we farm, farm families haven’t changed. We still have the same spirit, drive and work ethic. I love what I do! My son followed in my footsteps and learned from me. Today, my grandson is working with and learning from his daddy. That’s what farm families are all about. We are growing families, growing food, growing America and #StillFarming. Don Hartman is a farmer and member of the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau. He grows small grains, watermelons, onions and chile.
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Southwest Cheese LLC Values Ag Literacy Southwest Cheese LLC, in Clovis, NM, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of American style cheese, is partnering with New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom (NMAITC) to help provide eLearning educational opportunities to New Mexico students and families. The mission of NMAITC is to strengthen pre-kindergarten through 12th grade agricultural literacy outreach. This is especially important during this time of COVID-19 restrictions and an increased need for virtual learning. “Southwest Cheese LLC recognizes the importance of current agricultural educational outreach in a format that is safe, yet easily accessible. It is now more important than ever before to raise awareness about the importance of how our food gets to our tables and all the amazing people and processes it takes to help make it happen. We are excited to expand our virtual educational outreach thanks to the support of Southwest Cheese,” said Traci Curry, NMAITC Director. Southwest Cheese LLC processes over 5.1 billion pounds of milk, produces in excess of 588 million pounds of superior block cheese and 36.8 million pounds of high value-added whey proteins powders each year. The company generates sales in national and international markets and employs a first-rate workforce of over 453 employees. To learn more about Southwest Cheese, please visit their website at southwestcheese.com.
Rainmaker Sponsors:
Harvester Sponsor:
Cultivator Sponsors: New Mexico Beef Council New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association Roswell Livestock & Farm Supply Page 6
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Additional Sponsors: Copper CowBelles Doña Ana County Farm Bureau Farm Bureau Life Financial Group Lyles Farms Foundation, Inc. National Agriculture in the Classroom New Mexico CowBelles New Mexico FFA Association New Mexico Mining Association NextEra Energy, Inc. Paul’s Veterinary Supply Peregrine Corporation Rio Valley Chili Inc. Seco Spice Western New Mexico Telephone Fall 2020
New Mexico Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom (NMAITC) are excited to announce the 2020-2021 NM Grow Project awardees. Congratulations to:
• Wilson Middle School, Susan Schipull, Albuquerque • Mountain Mahogany Community School, Pili Burkett, Albuquerque • Rudolfo Anaya Elementary, Maria Rivera Alvarez, Albuquerque • Desert Montessori School, Liza Marshal Frolkis, Santa Fe • Melrose Middle/High School, Alan Daugherty • Maxwell High School/ FFA, Christina Rubio • Garfield Elementary, Pam Carpenter, Hatch • Snell Middle School, Cindy Lee, Bayard • Aztec Youth Academy, Corrina Franks, Las Cruces • Columbia Elementary, Amanda Krentz, Las Cruces • Holloman Middle School, Holly VanderMolen, Holloman Air Force Base • Berrendo Middle School, Kathleen Arias, Roswell
“NRCS is proud to once again partner with NMAITC on the New Mexico Grow Project,” says Alicia Rodriguez, NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Partnerships. “Agriculture is fundamental to the health and economy of our state and our nation. This year’s applicants were exceptional, demonstrating the incredible work that New Mexico schools are doing across the state to promote science and agricultural literacy, to build awareness of the role of agriculture in our daily lives, and to establish important ties between schools and their local agricultural communities. NRCS believes that the grant awards will help promote student’s interest in agriculture with the hopes of encouraging the next generation of farmers, conservationists and scientists in helping people help the land. We thank NMAITC for their commitment to agricultural education and look forward to working together on future endeavors.”
Free Webinar Hosted by NMF&LB When reaching your customers how do you overcome skepticism, confusion and clutter? Steve Lerch, founder and president of Story Arc Consulting will be answering that question on November 11th during a free webinar co-sponsored by New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau and Farm Bureau Financial Services. Prior to the formation of Story Arc Consulting, Steve spent nine years at Google crafting his unique perspective on the topics of innovation, strategy, and digital marketing. He has helped the country’s largest membership organizations, advocacy groups, non-profits, government agencies, and agricultural checkoff programs better utilize digital tools and strategies to understand and reach their desired audiences. Mark your calendars for this exciting event and stay tuned to our facebook page for more details. Page 7
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ETA cont. from page 4 adopting climate change abatement goals. Currently, our state generates 20 percent of its energy from renewable sources, including importing power from the Arizona’s Palo Verde nuclear plant. Unfortunately, as we’ve seen with the rolling blackouts in California, solar and wind produce intermittent power not well-suited to provide the constant energy farm, ranch and dairy families need to produce our favorite foods such as chile, beef and milk. Dairy producers need reliable electricity to run the fans that cool their cows in the summer and operate the milking machines twice a day, 365 days a year. Ranchers rely on affordable energy to power the pumps that keep their cattle watered in remote areas. And farmers need electricity to operate cold rooms that store chile and packing sheds for sorting onions. Obviously these food producers cannot afford the spotty coverage caused by renewables that are not fully backed up with adequate storage capacity. Unfortunately, current batteries are not up to the task, a problem many hope will be solved by 2030. But reliability is not the only issue, we can expect electric rates to rise by 17 percent, according to a paper from the University of Chicago (https://news.uchicago.edu/story/renewable-energy-mandates-reduce-carbon-dioxide-emissions-cost). Californians are experiencing that reality as their electricity rates have doubled in the past 15 years. According to the United States Energy Information Agency, California citizens pay almost double for their energy as New Mexicans do at 20.49 cents and 12.47 cents per kilowwatthour respectively. This necessary rise in rates was confirmed by Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) as they testified before the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) during a hearing to shutter the San Juan Generating Station in accordance with ETA standards. They estimated that rates would rise by as much as 14 percent. Notably, while New Mexico is headed towards a greater reliance on renewables, commissioners of a public utility department in the state of Washington say they do not support further wind power development in the Northwest. In a report issued by the Benton PUD on July 14, 2020, commissioners state that large-scale wind farms drive up customer rates and do not make a signifYour food. Your neighbors. icant contribution to reducing greenhouse gases. Additionally they write, “We are continuing to sound the alarm regarding the unacceptably high risk of power grid blackouts in the Pacific Northwest being precipitated by overly aggressive clean More than 95% of New Mexico energy policies and deepening farms are family-owned. Collectively, these nearly 24,000 dependence on wind power to family farms: replace retiring coal plants… rolling blackouts jeopardize the • Grow local foods, protect green health, safety and well-being of spaces, and create habitat for wildlife; all citizens.” •
It remains to be seen if the benefits of the ETA will outweigh the costs, but we are sure that if electricity rates increase by even 10 percent, it will have devastating effects on food producers and consequently, food prices. Page 8
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Conserve precious natural resources by protecting soil health and maximizing water efficiency; Provide over 250,000 jobs and contribute over $3 billion to our state’s economy
Learn more at NewMexicoAgriculture.com
Fall 2020
Member Benefits NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU ijIJƟéǂļŞČ
FORD Members get $500 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2020/2021 Ford vehicle! Get big savings when you choose from the comfortable and capable lineup of Ford cars and trucks. www.fordfarmbureauadvantage.com for more details.
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CALICHE’S FROZEN CUSTARD 30% off with printed coupon. To print coupon go to www.nmflb.org and find this benefit under the Member Benefits tab.
WYNDHAM HOTEL Up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating locations. Call (877-670-7088) discount code: 1000000506
Fall 2020
LINCOLN
ENTERPRISE
GRAINGER
Members get $750 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2020/2021 Lincoln vehicle! www.lincolnspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/nm for more details.
With the largest fleet in North America and a great selection of vehicles. We’ll Pick You Up® Visit www.enterprise.com and apply the code to receive discounts. Pin: NMF Discount: L34D077
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
JOHN DEERE New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members receive an upgraded John Deere Rewards membership (Platinum 1) – which unlocks extra discounts on equipment, parts, and merchandise. Register today, and explore all that Rewards has to offer.
BENEFIT HUB SUNGLASS 15% off: Auto Glass Auto Glass Tinting Residential Glass Replacement Commercial Glass Replacement www.sunglassfarmington.com Show your membership card for discount.
Discounts & rewards on: - Local deals - Restaurants - Electronics - Tickets - Travel www.nmflb.benefithub.com
FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES
AVIS From premium SUV’s to smart cars, we have the vehicle that fits your needs for up to 25% off. Go to www.avis.com to view our fleet and find #WhatDrivesYou. Call (800)422-3809 Discount A298800
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CRUNCH FITNESS All members receive a special on enrollment offer to jump start your fitness journey with Crunch Fitness. $0 Enrollment www.crunch.com Show your membership card for discount.
Work with just one Farm Bureau agent and one company you can trust. Farm Bureau Member’s Choice can help you protect your home, vehicles and other property with only one deductible per occurrence or accident, no matter how many covered possessions are involved. Visit www.fbfs.com
Fall 2020
HIGH DESERT OUTFITTERS Free bow and arrow rental with basic instruction for the first visit. Stop in and try archery for free today! High Desert Outfitters for all of your archery, muzzleloader and hunting needs. www.highdesert-outfitters.com
BUDGET Members now save up to 25% off budget base rates! Book your car today at www.budget.com/nmflb Discount Y775731
ORGAN MOUNTAIN SOLAR & ELECTRIC A New Mexico company delivering solar installations with over 20 years of diversified solar experience, including NABCEP certified sales and installation teams, certified project management and an installation team 100% of licensed electricians. Serving southern New Mexico within a two hour radius of Las Cruces. Members show current membership card for free offer. (575)288-1792
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FREE PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT DRUG CARD - Save up to 75% on prescriptions - Everyone is elegible - Accepted at over 68,000 pharmacies nationwide - Card is pre-activated - No health restrictions - Covers many pet prescriptions - No limits on usage Visit www.nmflb.org/UNA
FARMESILLA FARMesilla is a farm to market store that specializes in all things New Mexico, from produce & skin care to beer & wine. 15% off all purchases excluding alcohol to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau Members. www.farmesilla.com Show your membership card for discount.
CHEEKY CHAPS BARBERSHOP Cheeky Chaps is an affordable, yet luxe, barbershop in Mesilla, NM. We are committed to providing an excellent client service experience with every visit and our goal is to provide a unique grooming experience for every customer. Everyone is welcome. - 20% off services - 10% off products www.cheekychapslc.com Show your membership card for discount.
FARM BUREAU BANK Farm Bureau members can save big utilizing the services offered through an exclusive program with nationally, recognized Farm Bureau Bank. www.farmbureaubank.com
GUSTIN ENTERPRISES CHOICE HOTELS Go to www.choicehotels.com to view participating hotels. Call (800)258-2847 Discount code 00209720
Boat & RV Storage Facility in Truth Or Consequences, NM. Discounts available to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members upon presentation of their current membership card. 10% off all rates. (575)740-4293
Fall 2020
IN-N-OUT LUBE & WASH
PACKING SERVICES & SUPPLIES
Free $5 car wash with full service purchase in Silver City, NM. Please show your membership card to be eligible. (575)538-5911
15% off: Mailing services including FedEx, UPS, USPS. Packing services and supplies. Fax, scan, notary, binding, copy services, large format, color and screen printing in Edgewood, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (505)284-2400
RUSK’S RUSTIC ROSE @ TRIPLE R RANCH 15% Off everything. Fresh or artificial floral arrangements, house plants, gifts. Custom orders available for weddings and event. La Plata, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (505)360-3482
JIFFY LUBE To receive special account pricing members should ask that their Jiffy Lube account be tied to the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau account.
WINDMILL RV PARK 10% off all rates. Discounts available to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members upon presentation of their current membership card. Williamsburg, NM. (505)803-3826
NEKO NEKO
Show your membership card to receive a 20% discount on your order! Albuquerque, NM
MOUNTAIN MUSIC 1/2 Price strings on Saturday or Sunday. Las Cruces, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (575)525-0603
VSP INDIVIDUAL VISION PLANS You now have easy access to affordable Individual Vision Plans from VSP®Vision Care. Here are some reasons to enroll: - Lowest Out-of-pocket Cost - You'll enjoy the lowest out-of-pocket cost in individual vision care, which could save you hundreds on your eye exam and glasses. Plus, you’ll have access to more than $2,500 in additional savings with VSP Exclusive Member Extras including laser vision surgery, contact lenses, and up to 60% savings on hearing aids from TruHearing®. Visit www.nmflb.org to learn more.
Use the FB Benefits app to search for member discounts in your area. Download by searching for “FB Benefits.” Visit www.nmflb.org for more information. Service and discounts are subject to change without notice.
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Community Solar Can be a Boon for New Mexico Farmers Community solar is a simple concept. It involves the installation of solar panels at a site such as a farm, large roof, or other area. Nearby residents and customers can sign up to participate in the project and save money on their electric bill for their share of the power produced. These projects give homeowners, renters and businesses equal access to the benefits of solar, regardless of the physical attributes, financial barriers, or property ownership. Currently there are 20 states that have passed legislation to enable community solar development. Since farmers have the land, barn roofs and range of spaces suited to host these small-scale solar arrays they have an opportunity to play a pivotal role in helping harvest homegrown energy that also happens to be a cash crop. For farmers in New Mexico, this represents a tremendous opportunity. Community solar can help improve the economics of farms by providing farmers with year-round and dependable income by leasing a small portion of their land for development. With a project lifespan of 20 years, these leases can help farmers weather fluctuations in commodity prices and make longterm investments in their farms. Community solar development is not intrusive, so these projects do not have a negative impact on land stewardship or the environmental sustainability of farm operations. In fact, community solar projects are built in ways that minimize the impact on the land and often allow for simultaneous use of agricultural land for food production. And if a farmer wants to put their land back into production at the end of their lease, this can easily be done by simply removing the panels. It is therefore no surprise that numerous Farm Bureaus across the U.S. support community solar legislation to give farmers in their state additional revenue opportunities. In New Mexico, the state legislature will be considering community solar legislation in the upcoming session. If it passes, solar could be a new cash crop and the boon New Mexico farmers have been looking for. For more information go to youtube and search for NMF&LB’s page where you can view the Community Solar webinar.
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Direct to Consumer Marketing for New Mexico Producers By Dr. John Townsend and Dr. Chadelle Robinson, NMSU Ag Economists
New Mexico is diverse when it comes to agricultural producers and consumers. Recent events in the world has revealed significant issues and opportunities for our agricultural sector. Many producers may be considering marketing direct to consumers to expand the market opportunities for their products. To develop a direct to consumer marketing approach one should first identify demand trends, potential customers, and assess their supply potential to capture more of the customer’s food dollar. It is important to stress that if a producer is considering this approach, knowing and following all applicable food safety regulations at the local, state and federal level is required. NMSU Cooperative Extension, NMDA and USDA all have resources available to producers to assist in following food safety regulations. Liability is a concern for producers considering direct to consumer marketing. Food safety regulations include possible liability for producers who use this marketing method, so producers will require liability coverage to meet food safety regulations. A starting point for producers is researching and identifying potential customers and their preferences. This initial effort to understand your targeted consumers and their demand will be time well spent. Identifying potential customers is a good starting point. 1.
a. b. i. ii. iii. iv. c.
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Who are my potential customers and where are they located? Local, regional, online, or a combination? Who are your potential customers and where can you access them? Area farmers’ markets Online platforms Local restaurants Independent grocers Where are the population centers? Are they in the area of your production, or nearby? •
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Fall 2020
d. What would be the transportation costs of offering direct to consumer marketing? e. Costs of marketing locally? f. Can I change production in a cost-effective way as to access these markets? 2.
3.
a. b. c. d.
Who is your competition? How many competitors are in the market? Volume of their sales? Are the consumers loyal to your competitor? What makes your product better or more desirable then the competitions?
Farmers’ market information a. Location(s) b. Days and hours of operation c. Any fees that the market may charge d. Seasonality of the market
Here is the link to New Mexico Farmers’ Marketing Association’s map with all New Mexico’s farmers’ markets identified. https://farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market/ Thinking about going directly online? Producers may also be considering establishing an online presence for sales of their product. If an online presence is desired, what will your online presence be? These may include an individualized website or partnerships with existing online marketplaces. 4.
Online customers a. Online products need to be packaged in a method that maintains the product’s quality and safeness. b. Consider researching online purchase trends for similar products. Companies such as Google, Facebook and Instagram all have trend data with details of consumer demographics to allow for niche marketing and specific consumer reach. Consideration for selected shipping and delivery options and costs. c. Costs of establishing an online sales presence d. Product guarantees are clear and presented to all potential customers.
Considering supplying local restaurants or grocery stores? Both outlets require product liability, as well as common expectation for food safety protocols. They will want products in a larger volume than a direct to consumer and will want a wholesale type pricing structure. All characteristics about your product will still need to meet the expectation of the buyer; quality, grade, flavor, etc. Another consideration would be a value-added element for the raw product. An example of such value-added would be the process of making jam from raw fruit. Specifically, can the producer add value to their product in a cost-effective way so as to increase returns on their product. Some things for producers to consider: 1. At markets where the producer is considering selling, are value-added goods selling well? 2. What value-added goods do consumers want? 3. Are customers willing to pay for the added value? If so, how much? 4. Can my business add value in a cost-effective way, whether it is processing, refrigeration, drying or some other method? Additional options for producers to secure a piece of the retail dollar could be establishing a “pick you own” retail operation. Allowing consumers to reconnect with the farm and experience the harvest processes can build great loyalty to local farms, build community support and increase income while decreasing harvest cost. Direct to consumer marketing is an option for New Mexico agricultural producers. Taking a systematic approach to determining if this is an option you would consider can help you make an informed decision about your business. Page 15
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A Taste of New Mexico in Every Box “Loyal to local” is the business moto of Heather Salopek, creator and owner of Enchanted NM Box. This monthly subscription box service features food, spice and art items from across the state helping to boost small businesses while introducing subscribers to new flavors or providing them with old favorites. “Our goal each and every month is to surprise and delight you with the best that our state has to offer,” says Salopek a 4th generation pecan farmer from the Mesilla Valley. Feeling the impacts of COVID - 19 travel restrictions, her pecan and southwestern gift store on the Mesilla Plaza, Legacy Pecans, was faltering due to a lack of foot traffic. Heather decided if customers couldn’t come to her, she would go to them. “The only way we can change the volatility of our local economy is to support our local economy. We’ve partnered with other small businesses in New Mexico who share our mission of cultivating our local communities,” says Salopek. The boxes are carefully curated and each month subscribers will receive up to six items from New Mexico farmers and artisans. Past items have included New Mexico Pinon Coffee, green chile sauce from The Fresh Chile Company, totes from Organ Mountain Clothing, granola bars from Taos Bakes and of course pecans from Legacy Pecans. Salopek says the boxes are great for corporate
thank you, holiday gifts, or to lonely college students who miss a taste of New Mexico. “The Enchanted Box is a way for New Mexican’s to gift or enjoy the best products from around the state.” While the first boxes shipped October 5th, there’s time to sign up for the next offering. A recurring monthly subscription to Enchanted NM is $49, while a three-month subscription is $45 a month and a six-month subscription is only $43 a month. For more information, or to subscribe, go to enchantednmbox.com Heather (bottom row, far right) with the Salopek family.
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2021 AFBF
YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS
COMPETITION AWARDS
The YF&R program helps young members shape their future and American agriculture through leadership development and personal growth opportunities. Three competitions enable members to showcase their leadership experience, communication skills and successful business plans as they compete against the best of the best from each state Farm Bureau.
As part of the YF&R competitions, the top four competitors in the Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture areas will receive:
1st
A New Ford Vehicle
3rd
Case IH 40” Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest
PLACE
PLACE
(up to a value of $35,000) and paid registration to the AFBF FUSION Conference in Portland, Oregon courtesy of Ford.
and $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH, a $2,500 Investing in Your Future cash prize, courtesy of American Farm Bureau Insurance Services, Inc. plus $1,850 of Stanley Black & Decker merchandise, courtesy of Stanley Black & Decker.
2nd
Case IH Farmall 50A Tractor
4th
Case IH 40” Combination Roll Cabinet & Top Chest
PLACE
PLACE
courtesy of Case IH.
and a $500 Case IH parts card, courtesy of Case IH.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:
YR&R Competitive Event Ad 2020.indd 3
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Fall 2020
The Value of an Elected, Not Appointed, PRC By Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO
The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) serves an important function as it regulates the utilities, telecommunications, and motor carrier industries in New Mexico to ensure fair and reasonable rates and adequate services to our state’s citizens. But lately the PRC has been quite dysfunctional. The PRC is a five-person board established by a constitutional amendment passed in 1996. They are elected from districts throughout the state and rule on issues such as insurance rates, electricity costs and federal regulations in regards to pipeline safety. Commissioner Theresa Becenti-Aguilar represents District 4 which covers the northwest corner of the state. She has been quoted as saying “Our voice, it affects every person’s pocketbook. Chile farmers, ranchers and shepherds are all impacted by rates and would not otherwise have a voice in the process.” Some of the dysfunction is beyond their control, like when Governor Lujan Grisham evicted them from their government office although they had a lease that runs through 2022. With no prior warning, the office space they had held for over a decade became the new home of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department. Some of it is self-made chaos such as when the commission voted recently to remove Becenti-Aguilar as chair and replace her with Stephen Fischmann, representative for District 5, the southwest part of the state. Cynthia Hall, District 1 Representative said she didn’t know why she and fellow commissioners voted to select a new chairman after Becenti-Aguilar had served in that role for nearly two years and did not know who led the charge. And now, if voters pass the constitutional amendment 1 on this year’s ballot, the PRC will cease to be an elected board, replaced instead by a three-member body appointed by the governor. One political mailer bills it as a “politicians versus professionals” situation saying that experts with credentials should oversee our utilities, rather than elected officials. We however disagree. Santa Fe has consolidated power at a rapid rate lately and we feel that elected officials will always be more aware of their constituents’ needs. The PRC will be dealing with all the regulations stemming from the recently passed Energy Transition Act and appointed officials will be insulated from the concerns of typical New Mexicans. If the PRC doesn’t have to answer to the will of the people with a future election in mind, they are more likely to allow rate increases that will necessarily skyrocket as we head towards a greater use of renewable energy. We urge you to prevent taxation without representation by voting NO on constitutional amendment 1. Page 18
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County Annuals - A Different Approach
By Valerie Huerta, NMF&LB Director of Organization
If this year has taught us anything it’s that life keeps moving forward. There are no exemptions or time-outs in a pandemic. Throughout this year, counties have continued to move forward by meeting virtually and have found ways to support the youth and businesses in their communities. As we approach annual meetings, counties have had to get creative when planning their annual meetings. For many, not having an annual meeting is simply not an option. Some counties are opting to have a “mail out” annual meeting. In this option, minutes from the previous annual meeting, as well as financials, a president’s report and committee reports, proposed resolutions, and board member nominations are mailed out to the county’s Ag membership with deadlines to respond. Other counties are proposing a hybrid model in which the county board will meet, adhering to social distancing and maximum size, conduct their business meeting and broadcast their general meeting to their membership via a Zoom webcast. The webcast allows for others to participate using the chat feature but minimizes distractions and noises by automatically muting everyone. Some are utilizing a Zoom meeting as to allow everyone to participate from the safety and comfort of their own home. If a virtual meeting is something your county has discussed as an option for an annual meeting, you can contact Benjie or myself, we are happy to help. Regardless of the format, annual meetings are an important part of the year and an important part of the policy process. The resolutions brought forth are the guidelines that we as an organization follow. As always, I am proud to be part of an organization that works from the grassroots and finds ways to move forward!
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Ogden cont. from page 2 in front of the other and trod on as we respect each other’s differences. It is NOT business as usual at the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau. The staff, along with all of us, adjust to new and innovative ways of doing business. To reach our membership with continuing education they have started a new program called First Thursdays. Mike White, New Mexico State Executive Director for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency and Xavier Montoya, New Mexico State Conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, were our speakers for September. We plan to continue these First Thursdays and would encourage all of our members to take advantage of these free opportunities. We are collaborating with other State Farm Bureau organizations and with the folks from the Farm Bureau Insurance to find speakers. Our entire membership is invited to be a part of this program, so be looking for that in the future. We want your membership to be something you value and that you are part of something that is beneficial to the entire state not just agriculture. Since schools are still closed, the New Mexico Ag in the Classroom has found new ways to reach students with agricultural education. Their “Breakfast With Brit” series of live cooking demonstrations on Facebook has been immensely popular. Viewers are treated to a recipe utilizing New Mexico agricultural products and then are led through a lesson in order to increase awareness of ag processes in our state. NMAITC has also started visiting farms, ranches and dairies state-wide to give students a virtual field trip. Thanks to those food producers who have offered to host a tour, what a great way to let students experience ag first-hand. As autumn closes in on us, my farming season will soon be over. I will have put up my last cutting of hay and hopefully all the cotton will be harvested and out of the fields. Winter is always a time to reflect how the year has gone. You don’t forget your mistakes; you just hope you remember what you did right and correct the mishaps. What is great about agriculture is that you have a reset button from one growing season to the next. However, as stated in the quote above, there is no reset button for life but you can start from where you are to change the ending. I pray and hope that your ending story has the conclusion for which you were working. Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly.
Reader Mail It’s always nice to receive mail from our readers, especially when it includes handdrawn art! Thanks to Paul Hoylen of Deming for this fun cartoon.
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Duvall cont. from page 2 supported by those whom we elect to Congress, the White House and other offices directly affect our farms and families— and our ability to feed our nation. I don’t have to tell you that the next election, coming up this November 3, just six and a half weeks from now, is a big one. Not only will voters choose the president of the United States. A third of U.S. Senate seats up for election this November, and of course all 435 U.S. House seats are up. Plus, across the country, hundreds of state and local offices are on the ballot. Farm Bureau is working to ensure that farmers and ranchers make an impact at the polls in two ways: encouraging them to vote and helping them to be informed voters. We recently launched our iFarmiVote toolkit with information farmers need before voting. They can register to vote and find ballot information by using the toolkit. They can look up who their candidates are. They can even find out if their voting location, hours and requirements have changed because of the pandemic. While on the toolkit website, farmers can pledge to vote in the 2020 elections. By taking the pledge, they show the importance of the farm vote and the power of the farmers’ voice. We’re asking Farm Bureau members to take that pledge and then share it on social media so their friends and followers can do the same. Also, last week, we published President Donald Trump’s and former Vice President Joe Biden’s responses to 12 questions on our presidential questionnaire. We’re proud that, for 40 years if not longer, presidential candidates have responded with their positions on issues that affect America’s farmers and food security. We publish their answers as we receive them, unedited, so farmers and ranchers can get an unfiltered look at the candidates’ platforms and make the best choice based on the issues that matter to them. As I said in our announcement of the questionnaire answers, the views of Farm Bureau members are as diverse as the crops they grow and the animals they raise. But they have a lot in common, too: patriotism, a sense of duty, a strong work ethic and engagement in civic matters and policy advocacy. It’s these values that will drive them to do the work and inform themselves on where the candidates stand—and drive them, once again, to vote at a high rate this November.
Smith cont. from page 2 and reforestation, and remove dead and dangerous wood from national forests to help prevent future catastrophic wildfires. With over six million acres of forest land currently burning in the western United States the need for the legislation is dire and so we, along with 12 other farm bureaus including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming, signed on to a letter of support for the bi-partisan legislation. In part it states: “Backlogs in adequate management coupled with drier, hotter conditions, have resulted in unhealthy, overly dense forests. When fires inevitably occur, these conditions result in larger, more catastrophic fires that are difficult to control, destructive to both urban and rural communities and pose great threats to both private property and human life.” Please join us in urging your legislator to support S. 4431.
ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT With the current health restrictions, and to ensure the safety of our members and staff, the annual meeting planning committee has decided that the Annual Meeting will be hosted virtually. We will have business meetings for the Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers and Ranchers programs, caucuses for Districts 2, 4 and 5, and our business meeting with a financial review and election of officers. Details for the Zoom meetings will be sent to State Board members and voting delegates. We look forward to seeing you as soon as circumstances allow. Thank you for all you do for New Mexico agriculture. Page 22
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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. A yearly subscription is $12.00. 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 Chad Smith Chief Executive Officer Page 24
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Burl Brown, Des Moines Bud Deerman, La Mesa Crystal Diamond, Elephant Butte Jim Ellett, Hope Duane Frost, Claunch Travis Harris, San Antonio Don Hartman, Deming Gary Hathorn, Flora Vista Leon Hemann, McDonald John Jackson, Lake Arthur Deena Kinman, Elida Donald Martinez, El Rito Steve Myrick, Clovis Tommy Ortiz, Las Vegas Stewart Rooks, Gila Troy Sauble, Maxwell Casey Spradley, Cuba Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner Anita Hand, Chair Women’s Leadership Committee Andy Ellett, Chair Young Farmer & Rancher Committee
REGIONAL DIRECTORS Benjie Segovia Valerie Huerta Director of Organization Tiffany Rivera Director of Governmental Affairs Traci Curry Director, Ag in the Classroom Britney Lardner Coordinator, Ag in the Classroom Francisco Hatay Marketing Coordinator Dalene Hodnett Director of Communications and Media Relations Cecilia Diaz-Johnson Bookkeeper Theresa Widner Director of Membership Services
Fall 2020