OFN August 17, 2020

AUGUST 17, 2020 • 24 PAGES

VOLUME 14, NUMBER 9 • WWW.OZARKSFN.COM

LIVESTOCK MARKETS • FARM FINANCE

Building a Future from the Past

Kenny Underdown has built his farming operation around land that was once sharecropped by his father

A Lifetime in the Industry

Dale and Niki Peterson have many years of experience in the livestock market business

Bees for Agriculture Danny Brewer improved his operation with pollinators

Come COVID or High Water Keeping your farm financially strong

rumor mill

Association announces scholarships: The Angus Foundation has announced the recipients of 97 academic scholarships to offset the cost of undergraduate and graduate degrees for National Junior Angus Association members.

Winners from the Ozarks are: Hailey Roye, Fayetteville, Ark., Arkansas Angus Auxiliary Scholarship; Nicholas Pohlman, Prairie Grove, Ark., Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program Undergraduate Scholarship; and Sydnee Gerken, Cashion, Okla., and Ross Wingert, Rose Bud, Ark., Allied Angus Breeders Scholarship.

The Ozarks Most Read Farm Newspaper

AUGUST 17, 2020

Adapting during a pandemic

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Brandt earns award: Taylor Brandt, a University of Arkansas student in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, has been named recipient of a Homegrown by Heroes scholarship for 2020. The program is sponsored by Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. Brandt, a sophomore majoring in food science, earned a scholarship for $1,500. Also an Arkansas Alumni Scholar, he is from Bentonville, Ark., and minoring in agricultural business and horticulture.

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Youth from the Ozarks place at junior nationals: Youth from the Arkansas and Oklahoma Ozarks earned honors at the National Junior Angus Show, which was held in July in Tulsa, Okla. In the junior photography division, Gage Long of Adair, Okla., was first in the landscape class. In the senior quiz bowl, Hailey Roye of Fayetteville, Ark., was a member of the first-place team. Long also exhibited the first-ever Phenotype and Genotype Show (PGS) Champion female, Long Lucy 909.

Arkansas berry wins award: Ouachita blackberry, a 2003 thornless variety from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, received the Outstanding Fruit Cultivar Award from the Fruit Breeding Professional Interest Group of the American Society of Horticultural Science. The Outstanding Fruit Cultivar Award recognizes noteworthy achievements in fruit breeding and highlights a modern fruit introduction that has a significant impact on the industry.

Know a Good Rumor?

OzarksFarm @OzarksFarm

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Do you have a rumor you would like to share with our readers? Mail them to: PO Box 1514, Lebanon, MO 65536; fax them to: 417-532-4721; or email them to: editor@ozarksfn.com

VOL. 14, NO. 9

JUST A THOUGHT

3 Jerry Crownover –

Unsolicited seeds arriving in Arkansas: The U.S. Department of Agriculture is warning Americans to watch out for unsolicited packages of seeds that appear to be shipped from China. According to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, the identities of the seeds are unknown and may be an invasive plant species. Arkansans who have received a package of seeds should immediately contact the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Plant Industries Division at 501-225-1598.

Virus found in Benton County, Ark: The highly-contagious vesicular stomatitis virus was recently confirmed in Benton County, Ark. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, VSV primarily affects horses and cattle, although it may affect other hooved animals such as sheep, goats and swine. Humans can also become infected with the virus when handling the animals and coming into contact with infected saliva or nasal secretions. It is primarily spread among animals through black flies and other biting insects. The virus outbreak in Benton County appears to be a strain specific to horses.

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Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

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Jody Harris – Missing Aunt Jan Julie Turner-Crawford – False advertising

MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS 7

Dale and Niki Peterson have many years of experience in the livestock market industry

Danny Brewer finds many benefits with pollinators

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Eye on Agribusiness features J&D Custom Meat Processing

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Organization is dedicated to saving regional history

Town & Country spotlights Dennis Donahou

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14

Kenny and Pam Underdown purchased a piece of family history in 1995

Youth in Agriculture highlights Conner Pell

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FARM FINANCE/FARM HELP 17 Hitting the curveballs 18 Knowing the score 19 Meeting the challenges 20 Diversifying income 21 It’s all about balance

AUGUST 17, 2020

just a

thought

What’s On Your Mind, Ozarks?

Life Is Simple

By Jerry Crownover

T

e f i L elpmiS si

— Continued on Page 6

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he global pandemic has necessitated so many changes in our daily lives that it, sometimes, seems like nothing is as it was. While many of these changes seem like insurmountable probrevonworopportuC yrreJ yB lems, others have provided interesting nities. Wouldn’t you like to have been a toilet paper manufacturer these past few months?

Jerry Crownover is I have talked to several people and relatives who have a farmer and former transitioned to working at home during the crisis. Surprisprofessor of Agriculture ingly, most have told me that they actually like doing so, Education at Missouri with more than a couple telling me that they think they State University. He is a are more productive because of fewer distractions from native of Baxter County, co-workers and the chance to get more sleep because they Arkansas, and an don’t have to drive to work (or shower, shave and get author and professional dressed). As a farmer, I’ve been working from home for the speaker. To contact Jerry, past 23 years, so there was no newness for me to experience. go to ozarksfn.com and With most schools shutting down last March, parents of click on ‘Contact Us.’ school-aged children were able to experience their stint at home-schooling, and to quote one such parent, “It really wasn’t that bad.” As a result, many are considering homeschooling as a viable and permanent option. Since my wife and I homeschooled our two sons, before it was a fad, I was not surprised at these comments, either.

Since many restaurants and fast-food eateries were either closed or limited in their services, many people had to relearn to cook and eat at home, finding homemade meals, with a sit-down time with family, was actually a pretty nice change. In addition, the absence of school activities, coupled with no ballgames, ballet classes and music lessons, parents and grandparents were able to have evenings at home for several weeks. Again, since we live 10 miles from the nearest café, we rarely ate away from home before the pandemic, so we weren’t inconvenienced, in the least, when it came to meal time.

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Toll Free: 1-866-532-1960 479-846-1002 • Fax: 479-846-1003 E-mail: editor@ozarksfn.com

Eric Tietze Publisher

Administrative Amanda Newell, Marketing Manager Eric Tietze, Accounting Advertising Pete Boaz, Display & Classified Sales Amanda Newell, Production Sales Circulation Eric Tietze, Circulation Editorial Julie Turner-Crawford, Managing Editor Jerry Crownover, Columnist Jody Harris, Columnist Production Amanda Newell, Production Contributors Jessica Allan, Kathy Daily, Jim Caniglia, Monte Elam, Ken Knies, Amber Parham, Kathy Parker and Terry Ropp

About the Cover Kenny Underdown runs 200 cow/calf pairs at his Alpena, Ark., farm. See more on page 14.

Photo by Terry Ropp Ozarks Farm & Neighbor accepts story suggestions from readers. Story information appears as gathered from interviewees. Ozarks Farm & Neighbor assumes no responsibility for the credibility of statements made by interviewees. © Copyright Ozarks Farm & Neighbor, Inc., 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.

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Freshly Picked

By Jody Harris

E

verybody has favorites. We all try to pretend like we don’t. Secretly most of us do have a favorite aunt, uncle or friend. A favorite horse. A favorite chicken. It happens. There are some people Jody Harris is a freelance and animals in this world who we just enjoy a communications specialist, little more than others. gardener, ranch wife and Recently one of my favorite great aunts battled with mother of four. She and COVID-19. She has been in a nice nursing home for a few her family raise Angus beef years because her health was declining. When the pancattle and other critters on demic hit, like most nursing homes, hers was shut down their northwest Arkansas to outside visitors. Unfortunately, this virus is mean, and ranch. She is a graduate it got in her facility via the staff anyway. Aunt Jan has alof Missouri State University. ways been known for being tough and I knew in my heart To contact Jody, go to that she would eventually beat it. When our family got the ozarksfn.com and click on great news that her test had come back negative and she ‘Contact Us.’ could move back to a regular room (and have visitors), we were elated for her. However, the virus damaged her body and she passed shortly after.

My heart was broken. I had hoped to go visit her one more time. Have one more conversation with her about my kids or the garden. It wasn’t meant to be, and I had to set my selfishness aside and be happy that she was finally at peace.

Most of the time, funerals and weddings for our family happen in Iowa. The kids are back involved in school sports and I did not want them to leave the state and be required to quarantine upon their return. I decided to make the trip to Iowa alone to say goodbye to this beloved aunt.

Why was she my favorite? She was very funny and a little ornery. She always spoke her mind. She loved the Iowa State Cyclones, Cubs baseball and her family. She told me one time that you knew you loved someone when it tingled when you kissed them. She loved all of us so well. You could not tell which one of us was her favorite because she loved us all the same. Every year for more than 40 years she remembered my birthday with a card and some money to go buy a favorite treat. She shared her amazing custard rhubarb pie recipe with me once, including her famous homemade crust. That handwritten recipe card is a treasure. I still can’t replicate it to her level of perfection. She and my uncle always had a beautiful garden.

When I was learning to can my own garden produce, she was always my first phone call.

She was also a quilter. Her quilts were deeply personal, and everybody got one. For my wedding, she made me one with beautiful red apples to match my kitchen at the time. When each of my babies were born, they received one of these treasured quilts. I do not know how she knew but even today when my kids are fourteen, twelve, ten and eight, their quilts match their personalities and interests. She was so good.

It was fitting the night before I left for Iowa, we canned more 20 pints of salsa from the tomatoes we harvested from our own garden. I was able to take some back to my other relatives to share. I think she would have been proud to see my children learning an art she had inspired in me a long time ago.

In this time of vast uncertainty, I feel uneasy about a lot of things. One thing that comforts me is to spend time with my favorite people. I love sharing my favorite people with you, neighbor.

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

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Across the Fence

By Julie Turner-Crawford

O

ne of the nation’s largest burger chains quickly dropped its recently-released commercial targeting the cattle industry. Why the change?

They figured out their ditty was out of tune.

Julie Turner-Crawford For those of you who missed it, Burger King is a native of Dallas launched a commercial recently featuring kids dressed like County, Mo., where she cowboys and cowgirls, singing “meth-aa-aa-aane, meth-aagrew up on her family’s aa-aane,” with pots of lemongrass on their heads. Why? farm. She is a graduate Because Burger King hedged it’s latest marketing gimmick of Missouri State on unpublished research by the Autonomous University University. To contact of the State of Mexico that “discovered” lemongrass reJulie, call 1-866-532-1960 duced methane emissions by 33 percent. When the comor by email at editor@ pany jumped on the bandwagon of this “groundbreaking” ozarksfn.com. research it actually jumped the gun and became yet another victim of one of the biggest hoaxes and false claims of the cattle industry. To make it worse, they planned to capitalize on this misinformation in the

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Desserts

Strawberry Lemonade Icebox Cake

Submitted by: Julie Turner-Crawford, Phillipsburg, Mo.

Ingredients:

• 2 C heavy whipping cream • 1/2 C powdered sugar • 2 tsp lemon zest • 1 Tbsp vanilla • 4 Tbsp lemon juice, divided

A group of horn flies is called a “business.”

Ironic, since they could be hurting yours.

• 1 (15-ounce) package Golden Oreos or lemon-flavored sandwich cookies • 1/2 C lemonade • 2 pints strawberries, sliced

Directions: Chill the bowl and beaters of a mixer for 30 minutes in the freezer or fridge.

Pour heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla in the bowl and whip on medium high for about 2 minutes, until fluffy and thick. Stir in lemon zest and half of the lemon juice. Taste and add more lemon juice as needed.

Dip about half of the Oreos in lemonade and line them up in the bottom of an 8-by-8 pan. Layer whipped cream and strawberries, then Oreos again, and whipped cream and strawberries. Finish with a sprinkling of strawberries on top. Crush the remaining Oreos and sprinkle on top of the cake.

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least four hours or overnight. Slice and serve cold.

Know a Good Recipe? Send in your favorite recipe to share with our readers. Mail them to: PO Box 1514, Lebanon, MO 65536; fax them to: 417-532-4721; or email them to: editor@ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

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Miami, New York, Los Angeles and Portland markets with a specialized burger labeled “Reduced Methane Emissions Beef.” It was all a marketing ploy, just like the fake burger-like Impossible Whopper.

Bill and I saw the commercial when it debuted.

He asked me what we were watching and accused me of changing the channel. At the end of the two-minute ad, Bill looked at me and said, “What did we just watch?” I admitted I wasn’t really too sure, but it wasn’t funny or cute.

We, apparently, were not the only ones who were not fans of the commercial. Agricultural organizations, agricultural scholars, farmers and ranchers, and even a few lawmakers, quickly defended the cattle industry with facts, figures and science.

According to Agweb.com, comments from Frank Mitloehner, University of California-Davis Air Quality Extension Specialist, Department of Animal Science, prompted officials from the fast-food chain to contact him. Mitloehner stated he “educated them on the facts, and they made several changes.”

“They took content out that was demeaning to farmers….and they pulled the content from all TV stations,” Mitloehner told Agweb. “So, to me, that is very positive and it is indicative that they ‘get it’ – that the mistake was made and that it needs to be corrected.”

Mitloehner went on to say he was asked by Burger King to “cooperate with them in order to infuse science-based research on the one hand and get communication out – and check it before it reaches the masses.”

I hope they listen to what Mitloehner has to say, as well as others who truly are experts.

I’ve only seen the full commercial once on TV and the smaller blurbs about the company’s campaign to reduce methane have disappeared from the airways as well. Maybe BK got the hint.

Cattle and agriculture are not the causes of the world’s environmental problems, people are.

A study released in February states humans are responsible for more methane releases than previously thought. The study, published by the publication Nature, states both natural- and human-released methane emissions are responsible for about a quarter of global warming, and the human contribution is about 40 higher than previously thought.

With the world population estimated at 7.8 billion, that’s a lot of methane.

Maybe people should eat more lemongrass.

Life Is Simple Continued from Page 3

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Across the Fence Continued from Previous Page

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Shopping may have changed forever, as well. Even the most technologically illiterate person in the world (me) has discovered that I can order machinery parts, animal health supplies, work clothes, etc., with a simple click of the mouse and have the things I want delivered right to my door in a matter of a couple of days. It was so easy, I even ordered a few things I didn’t need, just because I could. After all, there is another stimulus check coming, right?

This can all be summed up by a phone conversation I had last week with an old friend who lives in rural Georgia. Randy works in sales for a major feed additive manufacturer in Texas and had been working from his home for a few weeks, completing the same job he’s

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

been doing for years traveling all across the country every week. When I called, I asked how he and his wife were doing.

“Oh, we’re fine,” he began. “But, since this pandemic lockdown started, and I’ve got so much more time at home, I’m working during all my spare time widening the road down to my house.” (Randy lives about a half mile off the main road at the end of a winding, one-lane driveway through the woods).

“Why, would you do that?”

“With me and Cheryl at home all the time and ordering everything online, all the delivery trucks would have to veer into the grass and brush as they met each other, coming and going.”

AUGUST 17, 2020

meet your

neighbors

Photo by Terry Ropp

A Lifetime in the Industry

By Terry Ropp

Dale and Niki Peterson have many years of experience in the livestock market business More than five years ago, Dale and Niki Peterson purchased Welch Stockyards in Welch, Okla.

The sale barn began operations in 1980 and has had at least six owners in the succeeding years. According to Dale, in the livestock market business the most important part of establishing a new business is building up a reputation for fairness and reliability. He believes the auction business is trust-based and will only grow when his words and values are proven. Therefore, word-of-mouth advertising is the best and most reliable form because you only tell your friends what you truly believe.

“We started out with only 20,000 head annually,” Dale said. “But the last 18 months have been good and we are now up to 75,000 head per year. The good Lord has had a lot to do with our success and we begin every sale with a prayer from a local preacher in recognition of His gifts.”

An important part of their success is Clint Cornelius from Prescott, Ark. Clint serves as a field man and gathering point for cattle from smaller, southern Arkansas producers.

When a trailer load has been filled from 10 to 12 sellers with a total weight of 45,000 pounds, Dale drives to Prescott to pick up the cattle for the next auction.

Dale was raised in the sale barn business and remembers being only 6 when he helped push baby calves into pre-auction holding pens. Dale also met his wife through livestock auctions because she was a secretary at another facility, a role familiar to her since starting as soon as she graduated high school.

The relationship proved excellent on both personal and business levels. The couple has a blended family with four children: sons Justin (24), Tuf (20) and Jacob (19), with daughter Delaney (13). In terms of the business, Niki handles the office and books while Dale manages the hands-on side, as well as scheduling.

Though Welch Stockyards holds a bimonthly sale of bred females, the weekly sales are held each Tuesday beginning at 9:30 a.m. The sale begins with stocker calves followed by feeder cattle and ending with weigh cattle.

“Purchasing the livestock auction facility made sense because I’ve always been in the business in addition to raising cattle,” Dale explained. “It came up for sale, so we bought it. Because I work the cattle business from birth to harvest, I know and understand the needs of my customers. That knowledge allows me to present each customer’s stock to the best advantage while providing the buyers accurate information.”

Timely and dependable customer service is essential. Ranchers begin delivering cattle for the next sale as soon as the Tuesday auction is over, with Dale accommodating them by charging a per day fee for feed and care. Another important service is having veterinarian Tyler Dillon from Cheepeta, Kan., on-site during sales with ranchers and buyers who have many requests for various services, including verifying ages, preg checks and vaccinations.

Local resident Trey Dodson, 23, is the auctioneer. He began auctioneering when he was only 19 after being taught by his father. Trey handles live video coverage while auctioning, which allows buyers to buy online with ease. Trey is notified of an online bid on a computer directly in front of him. The real-time delay is only two seconds which he handles easily as he proceeds with selling the lot in the ring.

The only full-time employees are Dale and Niki. Sale days are busy with 35 parttime employees making sure everything runs smoothly. Some start on Monday both AUGUST 17, 2020

in the yards and in Niki’s office which has a total of six ladies on Tuesday with three of them beginning Monday.

“Our staff is outstanding and an invaluable part of our growth,” Dale explained.

Another income stream comes from stockers and feeders. Dale partners with his sons on these cattle as a way of helping them get started.

“My boys love competing in ranch rodeos and have done well, but one of my goals is to help them down the road with a little better buffer than I had,” Dale commented.

Additionally, Dale and his brother Scott have a substantial cattle ranch in Kansas. Scott and ranch manager Roy Wessel coordinate the busy operation. The ranch is a cow/calf operation with commercial Angus cows and a registered Charolais bull. They believe in the Angus/Charolais combination provides hybrid vigor and calves that are typically 75 to 100 pounds heavier when harvested. Roy developed a custom ration based upon crops the ranch produces. Weaned calves are fed in their private feedlot until sold for processing.

The rest of the herd is grass and hay fed but receives supplementary grain during the winter. Free choice, lose mineral that sometimes Welch, Okla. contains an additive for flies during the summer is also available yearround. Calves are born both in the spring and the fall with the ranch allowing a cow to skip one cycle before she is culled.

“We may have a lot of irons in the fire, but we’ve also had a lot of practice with the balancing act and have a system that works for us,” Dale said.

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

7

meet your neighbors

Bees for Agriculture

By Amber Parham

Danny Brewer improved his operation with pollinators Danny Brewer from Van Buren, Ark; was introduced to the idea of beekeeping in 2011, but it wasn’t for the honey.

Retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2008 at the age of 38; he decided that he would start homesteading.

“We had all kinds of animals and a garden, but my garden wasn’t producing like it should have been. We did all kinds of soil testing and finally my father-in-law, who used to be a beekeeper, said ‘Boy, you need more pollinators in your garden,’” Danny recalled.

Danny visited with a seasoned beekeeper with a brand new hive that he had painted.

“He kind of laughed at me, but he put bees in it for $90,” Danny said. After that, Danny started catching swarms and by the end of the season had three hives, which expanded to eight by the next year and thirteen the next.

“Last year, I had 50 hives, so I’ve doubled that this season.” He has around 115 hives, nucleus boxes and mini mating boxes and has plans to keep growing. He sells honey locally and next year plans to offer nucleus hives and queens for sale.

In 2017, during a hive inspection by one of the two state bee inspectors from the Arkansas State Plant Board, the inspector recommended he apply for the position that he would soon be leaving. Danny got the job and loves it. He spends his work hours travelling the northern half of the state inspecting hives and catching swarms to ensure the state insect’s population, both feral and farmed, are healthy and thriving.

“This used to be garden,” he said motioning to a large swath of cleared land. He said that he made the decision to focus on growing the bee aspect of his business and did not plant a garden this year, rather, he barters his honey to neighbors that have gardens. However, he still has shrubs and fruit trees, as well as blackberry cultivars that provide nectar and pollen.

He said that they particularly like the Vitex.

“Right now they seem to be bringing in plenty of nectar,” Danny said, pulling up a new frame of foundation that he had added to this particular hive only two days before

8

Danny Brewer incorporated bees in his own operation and now is a state bee inspector.

keeper doesn’t smash as many bees, they don’t get sticky with built up propolis, and they won’t have the retained odor of venom that agitates a colony when it’s being checked.

Danny also said changing out old brood comb for new is critical. “That comb acts like a sponge.” To prevent pathogens and pesticides building up over time, he recommends brood comb be replaced every three years.

For his hives near crop land, Danny places them near, rather than in the center, of the fields. This offers some protection from pesticides and allows the bees to gather nectar and pollen from a variety of sources to improve nutritional value of their foraging.

Migratory Beekeeping “In late winter and early spring, migratory beekeepers send their hives on a cross country journey to almond fields in California,” Danny explained. The hives are graded by a broker and loaded onto the truck. The colonies are rented to the farms for a fee, and brought back home in time for nectar flow or sent to other farms where they are needed. Other beekeepers move their hives to local farms.

This spring, Danny placed several hives at Randy Arnold’s strawberry farm in Alma. The bees got to work quickly on the early flowering plants. The bees were then removed before the farm was opened to the public for picking.

that was nearly full. “But it’s going to get really dry soon so I’ll move them down by the river and they will get going again.”

Photo by Amber Parham

keeping colonies healthy. He stressed that treatment without knowing what is going on in the hive can be harmful. “The key is being able to diagnose what’s wrong.”

Pest and Disease Management He rotates mite treatments to prevent reHive Health sistance and temperature sensitivity, using To prevent or limit the spread of disease, Apiguard in the spring, Apivar, in the fall and Danny uses a whole yard approach. “I’ve reOxalic acid fumigation as needed. cently started leaving a hive tool at He warned against tempting hive each yard and changing out 7 mil Judsonia, Ark. beetles into the hives with “wet nitrile gloves yard to yard during comb” after honey extraction. hive checks.”

As with all forms of farming, Although the bees can sting problems do arise. Checking through them, using new gloves each hives regularly and treating time has several benefits, the thinner when necessary is critical to style allows more dexterity so the beeOzarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

Advice to new beekeepers “Educate yourself first, and get a good mentor. A mentor will help with more than just teaching, he said. They can also help buying equipment in bulk to help reduce the cost of getting started.” Many areas have a local bee club that can help you find a mentor. The University of Arkansas also maintains literature on the state’s apiary laws and other helpful information.

Danny has served as president for the Western Arkansas Eastern Oklahoma Beekeepers Association and is also a member of the Crawford County Beekeepers Association.

He is frequently seen at Central Beekeepers Supply and has had displays at various farm and garden shows around the area.

AUGUST 17, 2020

eye on

agri-business

By Terry Ropp

Owner: John Valencia Location: Greenwood, Ark.

BULL-PROOF

• • 6’ model holds 650 pounds of mineral • 4’ model holds 350 pounds of mineral

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50 50 50 50 50 50

GRAINS

Bag

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Submitted Photo

50 50 50 50 50 50

WINTER PEA, Austrian HAIRY VETCH, Winter Legume TURNIPS, Purple Top TURNIPS, 7 Top Forage RADISH, Daikon Driller COLLARDS, Impact

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Products and Services: “As long as an animal to be processed doesn’t have feath-

ers, I will gladly process it. Once I processed a beaver and another time saved the hide of a water buffalo for a customer, something that I do when requested. Game accounts for 60 percent of my business, with livestock filling out the rest. Livestock customers bring live animals by appointment and specify how they want the animal processed so they get the exact cuts they want. In addition, I make breakfast sausage, summer sausage, jerky, snack sticks, bratwurst and/or bacon if requested. The turnaround time for cattle is an average of 18 days and hogs 14 days. I discontinue processing livestock the first or second week of October in order to meet the demands of my hunter customers and resume livestock processing in December. Deer have a seven-day turnaround with the facility processing 70 deer a day during hunting season.”

Business Philosophy and Future: “My workers are an amazing group of peo-

ple I knew and respected before I opened my business. They are diligent, hard-working and dependable. We always greet customers with a smile. For me, the most important part of what we do is to ensure customers receive the exact animal they bring in which is accomplished through a tagging system. Because I am booked solid about a year ahead, I am planning on building an additional facility since the need is so obvious. I have not yet decided if the one plant will be for game and one for livestock or if both will be modeled after our current dual method of operation.”

AUGUST 17, 2020

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SAVE YOUR SEED SAMPLE SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

9

ozarks

roots

Trapper Cabin

Garner Train Depot

the people, places and traditions that make the ozarks home Submitted Photos

The Old Store

The Old Store

Saving History One Building at a Time

The Gorden Cabin

By Terry Ropp

White County Historical Society and Pioneer Village brings the history of Arkansas to one location History is being lost every day. Buildings burn or are torn down, memories disappear through deaths, and museums cull artifacts. Nonetheless, many people strive to retain and restore history for future generations. An important arm of that restoration is local historical societies.

In 1961, the White County Historical Society was formed to preserve and restore their local history.

An early but important and ongoing project of Searcy’s historical society is the Pioneer Village. In 1967, a Searcy merchant and the grandfather of the Pioneer Village named Oran Vaughn turned his interest in history into a one-man campaign to find and save late 19th century buildings.

The process began when the Yingling family land owners donated an old log house constructed on their land in 1865. The house was moved to the Searcy County Fairgrounds and contained a dogtrot with rooms on each side and a loft/attic. Though abandoned for 50 years, the house was remarkably preserved. The logs were hand cut with the ax marks still visible.

“The Gordon family, who built the house, spread all over the country. Locals loved to look at the house where they used to play while many family members from across the nation have come to view the house,” His-

10

torical Society President Shelly Churchwell said. “A few years ago, a lady from Texas had a very personal moment as she viewed the structure and the tie to her family history.”

Oren gathered a number of buildings with many coming from his childhood home of Pangburn, 15 miles north of Searcy. A building named Little Red Schoolhouse came from the Little Red Community near Pangburn and was moved to the fairgrounds. Other saved other buildings, include a late 1800s train depot from Garner, Ark. Through the years the building served different purposes such as an antique shop location. The different uses resulted in interior changes. That building, however, was structurally very sound and first had an exterior facelift with the interior restoration to its original use and appearance still ongoing.

Pioneer Village also contains the Pangburn jail, which is nothing more than a room-sized tin box with a wood floor. A period sawmill building is now used as home for a woodworking shop with old tools and demonstrations open during three annual open houses. Another part of the large building is used for cotton displays because cotton was an extremely important local commodity in the late 1800s.

One artifact is the last bale of cotton ginned in the county along with explanatory cotton displays. There is even a patch of cotton

plants periodically inspected by the state to ensure the plants host no boll weevils. The last portion part of the building is a multipurpose open area with seating and used for entertainment and additional displays.

A favorite attraction is an old pole barn, home to a blacksmith shop with a blacksmith demonstration during events and to period carriages, tractors and wagons. The pole barn even has a “Sunday best wagon” and a mail wagon dating back to the original postal system. A smaller barn features some displays but is highly popular with children during events when volunteer Jan Ebner brings animals such as goats, sheep, ducks and chickens for the children to view.

In addition to a fruit or canning house, the attraction also has a trapper’s cabin built from logs discovered underneath the stucco exterior of an old home as it was being torn down on Rand Street in Searcy. The logs were donated and protected for years before volunteers in 2014 built the cabin without changing any of the notches in the logs.

In 2000, the Pioneer Village was in danger because the fairgrounds no longer wanted to house the attraction. Bill Leach, a past society president whose parents were also presidents, made the move to its current location within Searcy possible. He donated part of the money, gathered contributions from businesses

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

and individuals, and organized the entire process which took place in 2002. Pioneer The White County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that raises funds through memberships, donations and the three annual free open houses whose diverse and interesting activities and displays draw many people who then make donations.

Event personnel dress up in period clothes and give tours and information supported by lifestyle demonstrations. Vendors offer late 1800s style products such as braided rugs, preserves, and wood items. The fall event is the largest and provides games such as jump roping, stilts, and rolling pinecones covered with peanut butter to be used as birdfeeders.

The Christmas event offers free sugar cookie decorating as well as free cookies and apple cider with Santa and Mrs. Claus available for Christmas wishes. Sheep have red ribbons with a bell, and a real sleigh with wooden reindeer contribute to the authentic Christmas experience.

Historical preservation is not done. Elizabeth is one day hoping to have an old country church to be located in the remaining space at the attraction site. Shelly, on the other hand, has just acquired a grant with private and public financing to restore the old American Legion rock building located on Searcy’s court square.

AUGUST 17, 2020

country

Serving Arkansas & Oklahoma

H

By Terry Ropp

T SMIT R O

ST

Dennis Donahou

F

in the field and in the office

O

CKYAR US Hwy 64 Moffet, Okla.

Family: Wife Dollie, son Derek,

and daughters

Denissa and Darcy Hometown: Combs, Ark. In Town: “I am vice president of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Union. I have been a member for 44 years. I began as a millwright and then started working on the administrative side in 1991. I was elected vice president in 2015, at our general convention, which is held every five years. Before that, I served as the executive secretary/treasurer of the Southern States Millwright Regional Council. My position does require constant travel and keeps me away from the farm much Photo by Terry Ropp of the time, but I really enjoy working for our members and helping them have a better life.

“My wife Dollie retired from the St. Paul School District where she served as district treasurer for 27 years. She now spends time with her three grandkids.”

Future: “For now, the size of Double D Ranch is what I enjoy given the time I have at

On Farm appraisals • Early drop off pens with 50 grass traps, water, and plenty of shade • Hauling available • Convenient Location • Family Owned & Operated

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In the Country: “We run a cow/calf operation on two farms covering 315 acres, with

190 used for pasture and hay meadows. This is the farm I was raised on, and it is the one I raised my family on. I clearly remember a cow crashing through a gate with both the gate and the cow landing on my dad. Even though I was only 9 and struggled to get the cow and the gate off of him, he amazingly didn’t get hurt. Double D Ranch has one herd on each farm with a combined total of 50 commercial Limousin-influenced cows bred by two registered black Angus bulls who remain with the herd year-round. We have natural spring and fall calving. Calves receive one round of shots when they are 250 pounds and sold after weaning when they weigh about 500 pounds. I use an injectable wormer twice a year and supplement grass and hay with protein tubs but also feed cubes to keep the animals manageable. Additionally, free choice loose mineral and block salt sometimes containing fly control are available. Pastures are mostly fescue though the hay meadows are orchard grass with some fescue and clover mixed in. I fertilize with chicken litter and I spray for weeds twice a year. Spot spraying catches spring buttercups and other weeds during the rest of the year. The hay meadows produce 400 to 450 large bales annually so I don’t need to purchase hay. When I travel, my son Derek and my two sons-in-law, J.R. Mayes and Anthony Blok, take up some of the responsibility. I sometimes get additional support from a part-time farmhand, James Presley.”

OWNERS FIELD Sam Chandler • 918-696-6029 REPRESENTATIVES Scottie Smith • 918-696-0793 Carl Quinton • 479-856-5500 Budge Herbert • 918-658-4781 Dax Tyler • 479-461-3678

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home to spend on it. However, when I retire, I’m looking to increase my herd size to 75 to 80 cows; numbers I believe my land can handle with the correct techniques.”

Toll Free 1-866-532-1960 AUGUST 17, 2020

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

11

slaughter

market sales reports

bulls

(Week of 8/2/20 to 8/8/20) Arkansas Cattle Auction - Searcy Ash Flat Livestock

beef

None Reported † None Reported †

Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction

cattle

Midwest - High Plains Direct Slaughter Cattle

None Reported † 70.00-107.00*

5 Area (Tx-Ok, Ks, Neb, Ia, Colo) Live Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Steers: 99.00-105.00; wtd. avg. price 102.38.

Heifers: 99.00-105.00; wtd. avg. price 101.94.

Dressed Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Steers: 163.00-164.00 ; wtd. avg. price 163.91.

Heifers: 163.00-164.00; wtd. avg. price 163.65.

56.00-101.00 † None Reported † 85.00-107.00* None Reported*

Kids - Selection 2-3: 215.00-220.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 1: 200.00-220.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 1-2: 171.00-185.00.

8/9/20 Bucks/Billies - Selection 1: 230.00.

Wethers - Selection 1: 265.00-270.00.

Wethers - Selection 1-2: 280.00.

Norwood, Mo. • Producers Auction Yards Sheep/Goat

Diamond, Mo. • TS White Sheep/Goat

7/25/20

Receipts: 1,939 Compared to last month, slaughter lambs under 70 lbs.

Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita traded 10.00-20.00 lower while 70-90 lb. lambs traded Farmers Regional Sale Barn 69.00-105.00* 40.00-50.00 higher. Feeder and slaughter goats traded Fort Smith Stockyards 64.00-103.00* 20.00-40.00 lower. Demand was good, especially on 70 Four State Stockyards 94.00-112.00* and 80 lb. slaughter animals. The supply of slaughter I-40 Livestock - Ozark 64.00-95.00 † lambs and replacement animals was heavy while the Joplin Regional Stockyards 71.00-114.50 † supply of feeder and slaughter goats was moderate. SupMid-State Stockyards 102.00* Buffalo, Mo. • Buffalo Livestock Market Sheep/Goat 7/28/20 ply included: 62% Slaughter Sheep/Lambs (0% Wooled North Arkansas Livestock 71.00-103.00 † Receipts: 902 & Shorn, 96% Hair Breeds, 3% Hair Ewes, 1% Hair OKC West - El Reno 75.00-106.00 † Compared to last month, a nice big run of very high quality Bucks); 6% Replacement Sheep/Lambs (100% Hair 72.00-94.00 † Ouachita Livestock Auction sheep and goats.

Slaughter lambs and ewes sold steady to firm.

Ewes); 6% Feeder Goats (100% Kids); 17% Slaughter Ozarks Regional Stockyards 75.00-125.00 † Market goats were 5.00 to 10.00 higher while feeder goats were Goats (92% Kids, 4% Nannies/Does, 4% Bucks/Billies); Stilwell Livestock Auction 85.00-99.50* mostly steady. Supply was good. Demand was very good. Supply 9% Replacement Goats (100% Nannies/Does).

Tulsa Livestock Auction 73.00-118.00 † included: 5% Feeder Sheep/Lambs (100% Hair Lambs); 76% Slaughter Sheep/Lambs: Welch Stockyards 95.00-118.00* Slaughter Sheep/Lambs (6% Wooled & Shorn, 1% Wooled, Wooled & Shorn - Choice and Prime 1-3: 165.00.

30 50 70 90 110 130 150 56% Hair Breeds, 16% Ewes, 19% Hair Ewes, 1% Bucks, 1% Hair Breeds - Choice and Prime 1-3: 180.00-232.50.

Hair Bucks); 4% Feeder Goats (100% Kids); 15% Slaughter Hair Breeds - Choice 1-3: 130.00-180.00.

Goats (65% Kids, 26% Nannies/Does, 2% Bucks/Billies, 7% Hair Ewes - Utility and Good 1-3: 50.00-100.00.

Wethers).

Hair Bucks - 1-3: 57.50-105.00.

Feeder Sheep/Lambs: Replacement Sheep/Lambs: (Week of 8/2/20 to 8/8/20) Hair Lambs - Small and Medium 1: 205.00-207.50.

Hair Ewes - Small and Medium 1: 190.00-225.00. † Arkansas Cattle Auction - Searcy Slaughter Sheep/Lambs: None Reported Hair Ewes - Small and Medium 2: 110.00-165.00. † Ash Flat Livestock None Reported Wooled & Shorn - Choice 1-3: 148.00-182.50.

Hair Ewes - Small and Medium 3: 65.00-115.00.

Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs None Reported † Wooled - Choice 1-3: 164.00.

Feeder Goats: 46.00-75.50* 4 Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Hair Breeds - Choice and Prime 1-2: 190.00.

Kids - Selection 1: 270.00-350.00.

Cleburne County Livestock 43.00-74.00 † Hair Breeds - Choice and Prime 1-3: 175.00-215.00.

Kids - Selection 2: 180.00-275.00.

35.00-74.00 † 3 County Line Sale Barn Hair Breeds - Choice 1-3: 150.00-197.50.

Kids - Selection 3: 155.00-170.00.

Decatur Livestock Auction 55.00-78.00* Hair Breeds - Good and Choice 1-3: 165.00-177.50.

Slaughter Goats: None Reported* Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Ewes - Utility and Good 1-3: 87.50-97.50.

Kids - Selection 1: 275.00-355.00.

Farmers Regional Sale 330.00-74.00* Ewes - Cull and Utility 1-3: 65.00.

Kids - Selection 2: 180.00-275.00.

33.00-79.00* Fort Smith Stockyards Hair Ewes - Good 1-3: 100.00-125.00.

Kids - Selection 3: 115.00-200.00.

Four State 21.00-76.00* Hair Ewes - Utility and Good 1-3: 65.00-100.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 2: 155.00-205.00.

I-40 Livestockk 21.00-74.00 † Hair Ewes - Cull and Utility 1-3: 70.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 3: 105.00-145.00.

Joplin Regional Bucks - 1-3: 80.00-87.50.

23.00-78.00 † Bucks/Billies - Selection 1: 165.00-190.00.

Mid-State Stockyards Hair Bucks - 1-3: 128.00-185.00.

78.00* Bucks/Billies - Selection 2: 175.00-205.00.

North Arkansas Livestock Feeder Goats: Replacement Goats: 39.00-77.00 † † Kids - Selection 1-2: 275.00-300.00.

31.00-81.00 Nannies/Does - Selection 1: 180.00-325.00.

OKC West - El Reno Kids - Selection 2: 255.00.

Ouachita Livestock Auction Nannies/Does - Selection 2: 170.00.

44.50-76.50 † † Kids - Selection 2-3: 170.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 2: 135.00-350.00.

Ozarks Reg 22.00-103.00 Slaughter Goats: Nannies/Does - Selection 3: 125.00.

Stilwell Livestock Auction 60.00-74.50* Kids Selection 1: 225.00-330.00. † Tulsa Livestock Auction 448.00-81.50 Kids Selection 1-2: 245.00-295.00.

Welch Stockyards 60.00-86.00* Kids - Selection 2: 215.00-265.00.

sheep &

slaughter

20

Steers, Med. & Lg. 1 300-400 lbs.

400-500 lbs.

500-600 lbs.

600-700 lbs.

700-800 lbs.

Bulls, Med. & Lg. 1 300-400 lbs.

400-500 lbs.

500-600 lbs.

600-700 lbs.

700-800 lbs.

Heifers, Med. & Lg. 1 300-400 lbs.

400-500 lbs.

500-600 lbs.

600-700 lbs.

700-800 lbs.

12 12

40

cows

60

80

100

stocker & feeder

120

County Line Sale Ratcliff✝ 8/5/20 231

Decatur Livestock*

8/5/20 1,117

Cleburne County Livestock✝ 8/3/20 283

Uneven

St-4 Higher

3-5 Higher

158.00-168.00 147.00-171.00 135.00-150.00 130.00-141.00 126.00

180.00-209.00 159.00-187.00 150.00-162.00 140.00-155.00 135.00-149.00

127.00-177.00 120.00-166.00 110.00-157.00 110.00-150.00 107.00-140.00

155.00-182.50 140.00-150.00 135.00-144.00 120.00-132.00 105.00-113.00

150.00-168.00 135.00-156.00 130.00-146.00 122.00-137.00 110.00

173.00-193.00 149.00-184.00 120.00-158.00 129.00-141.00 119.00-140.00

140.00-163.00 135.00-159.00 120.00-139.00 120.00-136.00 110.00-111.00

135.00-140.00 130.00-140.00 120.00-134.00 115.00-125.00 110.00-115.00

144.00-167.00 134.00-154.00 130.00-148.00 120.00-138.00 114.00-118.00

Ark. Cattle Auction, LLC - Searcy✝ 8/4/20 995

Ash Flat Livestock✝

Families - Selection 1 Families - Selection 1 Bucks/Billies - Selecti

National Dairy Market at a G

Cheese: Barrels closed at $ weekly average for barrels i (-0.4890).

Fluid Milk/Cream: Milk o country. Warmer weather c also more or less affecting m hurricane Isaias had caused milk transportation, but th USA, farm milk supplies ar but loads are a bit tight for to the Southeast. As severa others adopt hybrid curricu how the milk market will b the decline in cheese produ are moving more milk arou weakened a bit. Cream int to declining. In the Midwe cream in preparation for th multiples for all Classes are Midwest, and 1.05 to 1.26 available, but at the mome in the East.

SPOT PRICES OF CLA BUTTERFAT F.O.B. pro - $2.2817.

prices

avg. g

Soybean 12 9 6 3 0 Blyt

8.92

8.9

5.06

5.2

3.26

3.2

le hevil

Hele

8/4/20 990

Farmer’s & Ranchers Vinita, Okla.* 8/5/20 -----

Farmers Regional Sale Barn* 8/7/20 345

Uneven

3-5 Higher

-----

-----

-----

St-3 Higher

Uneven

St-3 Higher

-----

160.00-200.00 145.00-160.00 135.00-144.00 125.00-135.00 -----

158.00-167.00 140.00-151.00 140.00-150.00 133.00-144.00 -----

145.00-195.00 140.00-167.00 128.00-161.00 125.00-158.00 123.00-145.00

170.00-184.00 155.00-170.00 146.00-155.00 ---------

139.00-170.00 131.00-160.00 143.00-161.00 125.00-146.00 118.00-132.00

160.00-213.00 147.00-174.00 134.00-162.00 125.00-156.00 -----

150.00-178.00 142.00-169.50 137.00-158.50 136.00-154.00 128.00-144.50

155.00-179.00 140.00-165.00 129.00-155.00 120.00-142.00 126.00-137.00

177.50-205.00 159.00-175.00 146.00-165.00 137.00-157.00 138.00-146.00

150.00-190.00 150.00-177.00 145.00-162.00 130.00-155.00 100.00-125.00

---------------------

----138.00-151.00 113.00-143.00 119.00-131.00 117.00-126.00

--------130.00-139.00 118.00-131.00 120.00-125.00

140.00-165.00 120.00-145.00 120.00-143.00 115.00-140.00 -----

---------------------

---------------------

---------------------

153.00-164.00 124.00-157.00 140.00-156.00 126.00-151.00 -----

--------124.00-138.00 114.00-129.00 112.00-126.00

210.00 150.00-166.00 138.00-151.00 136.00 117.00-131.00

---------------------

120.00-153.00 109.00-142.00 110.00-139.00 109.00-128.00 100.00-126.00

128.00-151.00 117.00-145.00 100.00-135.00 110.00-125.00 -----

138.00-146.00 133.00-140.00 129.00-131.50 124.00-129.00 105.00

130.00-163.00 125.00-150.00 120.00-146.00 115.00-137.00 110.00-128.00

144.00-148.00 140.00-144.00 135.00-140.00 ---------

118.00-142.00 126.00-143.00 120.00-133.00 98.00-120.00 107.00-112.00

135.00-167.00 129.00-156.00 119.00-140.00 111.00-136.00 -----

131.00-156.00 120.00-152.00 121.00-143.00 111.00-135.00 107.00-124.50

138.00-180.00 129.00-171.00 117.00-171.00 123.00-130.50 119.00-127.00

142.00-153.00 132.00-158.00 130.00-150.00 129.00-140.00 123.00-134.50

130.00-155.00 125.00-144.00 120.00-144.00 95.00-124.00 90.00-113.00

Cattlemen’s Livestock*

8/7/20 1,571

Benton Co. - Siloam Springs✝ 8/6/20 2,136

St-12 Higher

Uneven

167.50-190.00 145.00-172.00 133.00-152.50 120.00-148.00 124.00-128.00

NONE REPORTED

0

goats

7/23/20

Receipts: 1,741 Compared to last month, supply was heavy, with good buyer attendance. Several new buyers. Active online bidding especially on the goats. Sheep were sharply higher with heavy supply and active bidding, with several large lots. Goats were steady with quality animals in demand.

Supply included: 60% Slaughter Sheep/Lambs (35% Wooled & Shorn, 52% Hair Breeds, 3% Ewes, 5% Hair Ewes, 2% Bucks, 2% Hair Bucks); 0% Replacement Sheep/Lambs (100% Ewes); 22% Feeder Goats (100% Kids); 15% Slaughter Goats (75% Kids, 20% Nannies/ Does, 5% Bucks/Billies); 3% Replacement Goats (68% Nannies/Does, 16% Families, 16% Bucks/Billies).

Slaughter Sheep/Lambs: Wooled & Shorn - Choice and Prime 1-3: 155.00-215.00.

Wooled & Shorn - Choice 1-3: 143.50-155.00.

Wooled & Shorn - Good 1-2: 90.00-135.00.

Hair Breeds - Choice and Prime 1-3: 190.00-217.50.

Hair Breeds - Choice 1-3: 145.00-192.50.

Hair Breeds - Good 1-2: 97.50-145.00.

Ewes - Good 2-3: 90.00-100.00.

Ewes - Utility and Good 1-3: 70.00-80.00.

Ewes - Cull and Utility 1-2: 62.50.

Hair Ewes - Utility and Good 1-3: 75.00-125.00.

Hair Ewes - Cull and Utility 1-2: 65.00-72.50.

Bucks - 1-3: 70.00-135.00.

Hair Bucks - 1-3: 80.00-167.50.

Replacement Sheep/Lambs: Ewes - Medium and Large 2-3: 170.00.

Feeder Goats: Kids - Selection 1: 330.00-400.00.

Kids - Selection 1-2: 290.00-350.00.

Kids - Selection 2: 300.00-305.00.

Kids - Selection 2-3: 270.00-295.00.

Kids - Selection 3: 100.00-265.00.

Slaughter Goats: Kids - Selection 1-2: 305.00-345.00.

Kids - Selection 2: 290.00-305.00.

Kids - Selection 2-3: 250.00-285.00.

Kids - Selection 3: 165.00-245.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 1-2: 165.00-170.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 3: 125.00-160.00.

Bucks/Billies - Selection 2-3: 135.00-235.00.

Replacement Goats: Nannies/Does - Selection 1-2: 210.00-245.00.

Nannies/Does - Selection 3: 195.00-225.00.

Fort Smith Four State Stockyards* Stockyards Exeter, Mo* 8/3/20 8/4/20 2,208 1,825

I-40 Livestock Ozark✝ 8/6/20 835

Joplin Mid-State Regional Stockyards* Stockyards✝ 8/3/20 8/3/20 410 7,030

✝ USDA Reported * Independently Reported

Ozarks FarmFarm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com Ozarks & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

sales reports

St-3 Higher 150.00-178.00 142.00-169.50 137.00-158.50 136.00-154.00 128.00-144.50 153.00-164.00 124.00-157.00 140.00-156.00 126.00-151.00 ----131.00-156.00 120.00-152.00 121.00-143.00 111.00-135.00 107.00-124.50

I-40 Livestock Ozark✝ 8/6/20 835 Uneven 155.00-179.00 140.00-165.00 129.00-155.00 120.00-142.00 126.00-137.00 --------124.00-138.00 114.00-129.00 112.00-126.00 138.00-180.00 129.00-171.00 117.00-171.00 123.00-130.50 119.00-127.00

AUGUST 17, 2020

6 3 0

5.06

5.25

3.26

3.26

ille thev

Bly

a elen

H

3.23

e Elain

la sceo

O

Joplin Mid-State N. Ark. Regional Stockyards* Livestock Stockyards✝ Green Forest✝ 8/3/20 8/3/20 8/5/20 410 7,030 884 St-3 Higher 177.50-205.00 159.00-175.00 146.00-165.00 137.00-157.00 138.00-146.00 210.00 150.00-166.00 138.00-151.00 136.00 117.00-131.00 142.00-153.00 132.00-158.00 130.00-150.00 129.00-140.00 123.00-134.50

----150.00-190.00 150.00-177.00 145.00-162.00 130.00-155.00 100.00-125.00 --------------------130.00-155.00 125.00-144.00 120.00-144.00 95.00-124.00 90.00-113.00

Uneven 171.00-187.00 153.00-159.00 146.00-159.00 144.00-148.00 132.00-142.00 164.00-169.00 145.00-161.00 132.00-142.00 126.00-137.00 117.00-125.00 139.00-150.00 130.00-143.50 129.00-139.00 122.00-131.00 115.50-118.00

Ash Flat Cleburne El Reno Green Forest Joplin Ouachita Ozark Ratcliff Searcy Siloam Springs West Plains Tulsa

pairs

Mid-State Stockyards North Arkansas Livestock Auction OKC West - El Reno Ouachita Livestock Auction - Ola Ozarks Regional Stilwell Livestock Auction Tulsa Livestock Auction

3.01

k Roc

Welch Stockyards

0

250

2000

1200.00 * 830.00-950.00 † None Reported † 650.00-1400.00 * None Reported * 800.00-1325.00 * 450.00-1140.00 * None Reported * 850.00-1100.00 † 975.00-1400.00 †

Week of 7/12/20

** 139.86

155.13

130.97

153.81

2250

-----

The&Ozarks Most•Read Farm Newspaper Ozarks Farm Neighbor www.ozarksfn.com

125.00

142.20

St-12 Higher

146.00-175.00 136.00-166.00 129.00-147.00 129.00-142.50 124.00-130.00

135.91

**

Steady

147.00-163.00 137.00-149.00 127.00-139.00 117.00-127.00 100.00-115.00

130.66 128.31

153.55

St-4 Higher

142.00-168.00 138.00-154.00 128.00-149.00 130.00-142.00 128.00-132.00

133.38

126.37

155.19

475.00-1500.00 † 900.00-1235.00 * 1025.00-1350.00 †

170.00-185.00 150.00-174.50 123.50-152.00 126.00-143.00 115.00-117.50

130.78

148.65

Uneven

144.00-162.00 135.00-157.00 129.00-144.50 112.00-128.50 109.00-122.50

137.74 134.71

139.74 122.54

141.63

810.00-1340.00 †

170.00-190.00 150.00-180.00 145.00-165.50 135.00-155.25 139.50-146.50

142.67 124.00

155.62

950.00 †

1750

131.49

146.23

None Reported * 785.00-1600.00 †

---------------------

120.00

151.29

1-10 Higher

150.00-157.50 137.00-147.50 135.00-137.00 ---------

134.97 132.12

162.05

Welch Stockyards*

158.00-171.00 149.00-168.00 134.00-147.00 129.00-139.00 116.00-128.50

128.08

141.81

None Reported † None Reported †

189.00-200.00 160.00-183.00 146.00-166.00 136.00-147.00 120.00-135.00

123.87

139.91

Tulsa Livestock Auction✝ 8/3/20 2,752

187.50 152.00-175.00 147.00-165.00 140.00-156.00 134.00-147.00

129.64 126.02

154.00

Stilwell Livestock Auction* 8/5/20 840

164.00-177.00 145.00-156.00 139.00-145.00 133.00-149.00 129.50-138.75

134.49 132.67

155.93

Ozarks Regional West Plains✝ 8/4/20 4,217

137.00-183.00 151.00-178.00 139.00-158.00 134.00-151.50 137.00

135.62 119.77

153.91

Ouachita Livestock Ola✝ 8/4/20 572

177.50-205.00 173.00-175.00 153.00 ---------

151.18

134.67

OKC West - El Reno, Okla.✝ 8/4/20 7,266 185.00-193.00 167.00-185.00 153.00-176.00 142.00-161.50 137.00-156.00

139.47 124.32

135.72

None Reported †

1250

122.32

145.36

None Reported †

750

123.18

156.51

650.00-1200.00 * 1325.00 † 700.00-1150.00 † 500.00-1160.00 †

1500

Ash Flat Cleburne El Reno Green Forest Joplin Ouachita Ozark Ratcliff Searcy Siloam Springs West Plains Tulsa

134.73

500.00-1125.00 † 575.00-1200.00 †

May 20 June 20 July 20

heifers 550-600 LBS.

141.82

350.00-1310.00 * 700.00-1170.00 *

1000

Feb. 20 Mar. 20 Apr. 20

Week of 7/19/20

500

Fort Smith Stockyards Four State Stockyards I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards

8.68

Little

steers 550-600 LBS.

750.00-1350.00* None Reported * 900.00-1050.00 *

750.00-1210.00 *

Arkansas Cattle Auction - Searcy Ash Flat Livestock Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County Livestock Auction County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Farmers Regional Sale Barn

5.06

3.16

Aug. 19 Sept. 19 Oct. 19 Nov. 19 Dec. 19 Jan. 20

170.00-191.00 150.00-168.00 135.00-145.00 120.00-139.00 100.00-119.00 145.00-168.00 140.00-164.00 137.00-148.00 132.00-144.00 125.00-135.00

158.36 138.28 145.00 140.65

128.10 129.67 130.80

150.68 149.09

134.41

150.01

133.35

126.24

145.00

121.00

139.23 159.78

141.77 130.11

152.38 156.06 141.25 146.06 145.69

141.88 133.77 126.21 129.61 129.22

141.69

134.81

152.68

90

139.10 131.04

**

**

8/4/20 2,445 170.00-180.00 155.00-178.00 150.00-168.00 142.00-164.00 138.00-151.00

Week of 7/26/20

9

8.92

$80

None Reported † 1275.00 * 750.00-970.00 † 65.50-79.00 † Prices reported per cwt

(Week of 8/2/20 to 8/8/20)

Corn

8.88

$120

300.00-1250.00 † 700.00-1100.00 * 950.00-1435.00 †

cow/calf

12 8.95

None Reported †

0

Daily Report 8/10/20

8.92

None Reported †

Ash Flat Livestock Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County Livestock Auction County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Farmers Regional Sale Barn Fort Smith Stockyards Four State Stockyards I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards Mid-State Stockyards North Arkansas Livestock Auction - Green Forest OKC West - El Reno Ouachita Livestock Auction Ozarks Regional Stockyards Stilwell Livestock Auction Tulsa Livestock Auction Welch Stockyards

avg. grain prices Soft Wheat

Arkansas Cattle Auction - Searcy

Week of 8/2/20

prices

Four State * Stockyards Exeter, Mo* 8/4/20 1,825

8/7/20

Cheese: Barrels closed at $1.5175 and 40# blocks at $1.7050. The weekly average for barrels is $1.7275 (-0.6575) and blocks, $1.8685 (-0.4890).

Fluid Milk/Cream: Milk outputs are stable to decreasing across the country. Warmer weather conditions in many parts of the U.S. are also more or less affecting milk volumes produced. In the Northeast, hurricane Isaias had caused some disruptions in power outages and milk transportation, but the problems are mostly resolved now. In the USA, farm milk supplies are generally available to meet buyers’ needs, but loads are a bit tight for some mid-Atlantic operations as they ship to the Southeast. As several schools move to virtual learning, while others adopt hybrid curriculum, market participants are wondering how the milk market will be affected, especially Class I sales. With the decline in cheese production in the mountain states, handlers are moving more milk around the region. The cream market has weakened a bit. Cream intakes by ice cream manufacturers are steady to declining. In the Midwest, butter manufacturers are churning more cream in preparation for the usual upticks in fall demands. Cream multiples for all Classes are 1.33-1.40 in the East, 1.23-1.39 in the Midwest, and 1.05 to 1.26 in the West. Condensed skim supplies are available, but at the moment several buyers are not taking spot loads in the East.

SPOT PRICES OF CLASS II CREAM, $ PER POUND BUTTERFAT F.O.B. producing plants: Upper Midwest - $2.1996 - $2.2817.

Soybeans

$160

Week of 7/12/20

dairy sales

National Dairy Market at a Glance

cows

(Week of 8/2/20 to 8/8/20)

Week of 7/19/20

eipts: 1,741 pared to last month, supply was heavy, with good r attendance. Several new buyers. Active online bidespecially on the goats. Sheep were sharply higher heavy supply and active bidding, with several large Goats were steady with quality animals in demand. ply included: 60% Slaughter Sheep/Lambs (35% led & Shorn, 52% Hair Breeds, 3% Ewes, 5% Hair s, 2% Bucks, 2% Hair Bucks); 0% Replacement p/Lambs (100% Ewes); 22% Feeder Goats (100% ); 15% Slaughter Goats (75% Kids, 20% Nannies/ s, 5% Bucks/Billies); 3% Replacement Goats (68% nies/Does, 16% Families, 16% Bucks/Billies). ghter Sheep/Lambs: led & Shorn - Choice and Prime 1-3: 155.00-215.00. led & Shorn - Choice 1-3: 143.50-155.00. led & Shorn - Good 1-2: 90.00-135.00.

Breeds - Choice and Prime 1-3: 190.00-217.50.

Breeds - Choice 1-3: 145.00-192.50.

Breeds - Good 1-2: 97.50-145.00. s - Good 2-3: 90.00-100.00. s - Utility and Good 1-3: 70.00-80.00. s - Cull and Utility 1-2: 62.50.

Ewes - Utility and Good 1-3: 75.00-125.00.

Ewes - Cull and Utility 1-2: 65.00-72.50. ks - 1-3: 70.00-135.00.

Bucks - 1-3: 80.00-167.50. acement Sheep/Lambs: s - Medium and Large 2-3: 170.00. er Goats: - Selection 1: 330.00-400.00.

- Selection 1-2: 290.00-350.00.

- Selection 2: 300.00-305.00.

- Selection 2-3: 270.00-295.00.

- Selection 3: 100.00-265.00. ghter Goats: - Selection 1-2: 305.00-345.00.

- Selection 2: 290.00-305.00.

- Selection 2-3: 250.00-285.00.

- Selection 3: 165.00-245.00. nies/Does - Selection 1-2: 165.00-170.00. nies/Does - Selection 3: 125.00-160.00. ks/Billies - Selection 2-3: 135.00-235.00. acement Goats: nies/Does - Selection 1-2: 210.00-245.00. nies/Does - Selection 3: 195.00-225.00.

replacement

Families - Selection 1 w/<20 lbs kid: 275.00-375.00.

Families - Selection 1-2 w/<20 lbs kid: 160.00-230.00.

Bucks/Billies - Selection 1-2: 245.00-265.00.

550-600 lb. steers

$200

Week of 7/26/20

7/23/20

12 Month Avg. -

$240

Week of 8/2/20

ond, Mo. • TS White Sheep/Goat

✝ USDA Reported * Independently Reported

152.71

138.22

155.58

139.83

121 152 183 214 * No price reported in weight break **USDA Failed To Report *** No Sale

245

Prices Based on Weighted Average for Steers and Heifers 550-600 lbs.

90

112 134 156 178 * No price reported in weight break **USDA Failed To Report *** No Sale

200

Prices Based on Weighted Average for Steers and Heifers 550-600 lbs.

13 13

meet your neighbors

Photo by Terry Ropp

Building a Future from the Past

Kenny Underdown and his wife Pam purchased several farms over the years, but they have built their farming operation around a single farm.

By Terry Ropp

Kenny Underdown has built his farming operation around land that was once sharecropped by his father When Kenny Underdown of Alpena, Ark., was young, his father Eu- ny believes black cattle sell better. An unusual farming protocol is the couple preferring gene worked in a canning factory and was a sharecropper. Kenny met one long calving season that begins in October and ends in March. Bulls are selected for his future wife Pam in grade school. When they began dating, they often passed the farm easy calving, a choice that supports the long calving season since the two herds are not always close to the house but rather in large, but crossed fenced, pastures further out. where his father sharecropped.

“It’s just me and my wife that run this place and we don’t have the time and the energy “Kenny always used to say one day he would own that farm, and now we do,” Pam said.

Kenny’s off-the-farm job until retirement was building houses, first as a carpenter’s to handle two calving seasons, so this is what works best for us,” Kenny explained.

One result of this system is that they have calves of three different sizes, which they typihelper in high school and then independently since 1979 while Pam spent many years working in the garment industry and later a few at the Harrison Hospital. Regardless, cally sell locally in June, August and late November. The market, however, is the deciding both were raised on farms and wanted their own. Throughout their married life, they factor for the timing of sale. Occasionally, the calves are sold just after weaning though purchased rundown and overgrown farms that they improved and then later sold, put- most are sold later having been bunk broke with a ration Kenny mixes himself. Bulls are also sold at market every three or four years in order to keep the bloodlines clean, ting the money back into buying more land. According to Kenny, he’s not while culled females are sold when not producing a good calf or other health sure who was more excited, Kenny or Eugene, when Kenny and Pam were Alpena, Ark. issues arise. able to purchase the old sharecropping farm in 1995.

Kenny and Pam hire help when working calves. All calves receive their They have since added to the land and now have 940 acres dedicated to shots with Kenny, believing one of the most important elements is combating raising commercial beef. When purchased, the land was so overgrown that pneumonia. Bull calves are castrated or banded with Kenny preferring castration they were able to cut timber and used it to build their home. because he believes it is more certain. Having help is important for the couple Kenny and Pam run 200 mommas, with 75 percent of them being black and as a safety practice as was building better working pens in order to have an easier the rest of mixed colors. The cows are bred by four Angus bulls because Ken-

14

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

AUGUST 17, 2020

You Get Spring-Ready!

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time getting out of the way when necessary. The cattle are sprayed every two weeks for flies after Kenny throws out pellets so that the process is easy with spraying supported by back rubs.

“I don’t know exactly why, perhaps because of the warm winters, but flies the last three or four years have been a much more serious problem,” Kenny said.

Kenny strongly believes the only way to make a profit is to be as self-sufficient as possible. Consequently, for the last 15 years Kenny has raised both corn and alfalfa in addition to mostly Bermuda hay on 120 acres. Corn, on the other hand, is grown on 10 acres which are planted using Haflinger horses and harvested with a New Idea two-row corn picker from the 1970s. An additional 10 acres is devoted to alfalfa with an alfalfa field lasting about five years before it needs to be plowed up and reseeded. The farm typically produces 50 round bales of alfalfa in addition to a thousand square bales, 150 bushels of corn per acre and 800 round bales of Bermuda hay.

Kenny uses a New Holland mixer hammer mill. The ear corn and the cobs are ground and mixed with the alfalfa for a good quality ration.

Though the husks are rather low in nutrition, they make the ration more palatable so the cattle are eager to eat it. Calves are fed the ration after weaning until being sold with the bulls receiving some when not in service and the cows receiving a 20 percent salt mixture in early spring until the grass comes on.

Through the years, Kenny and Pam have taken advantage of water-based government programs. Those programs help drilled wells and support the implementation of spring boxes that piped water from tanks to where it is needed.

Like many farmers, Kenny was deeply influenced by his father who, above all else, taught him to love the hard work it takes to make a farm thrive. The other important influence was his ag teacher, Lanty Frazier, who not only introduced him to all areas of agriculture but instilled the importance of honesty. Those two characteristics gave Kenny what he needed to succeed.

Kenny and Pam have two children and five grandchildren, the oldest being an ag communication and ag leadership double major senior at the University of Arkansas. The whole family loves the farm though each grandchild pursues individual specialized interests whether that is fishing or being around the animals or showing pigs. Their daughter Victoria lives in a house on an edge of Still Springs Farm while their son Chad lives in Elkins. The Underdown family live in the same area and are the center of life for this beautiful farm.

Berryville • 344 Hwy. 21 North 870-423-4245

550849z

meet your neighbors

Your Powell Location is Here to Help Heat Increases The You InsectGet Population Spring-Ready!

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NORTH ARKANSAS LIVESTOCK AUCTION, INC. Call 870-438-6915 For Sale Information & For Special Sales For on Farm Appraisal or Hauling Contact One of the Following: Berryville

Clifty

Kevin (Short) Williams H - 870-423-3099 C - 870-423-8444

Elmer Robertson C - 479-466-0904

Kevin Logan H - 870-545-3637 C - 870-423-7708

Troy Cline H - 479-665-2934 C - 479-738-7746

Kingston

Restaurant on Premises

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Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

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Love agriculture and rural life, and have a knack for writing?

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OFN is currently seeking freelance feature writers.

Experience in agriculture preferred, but not required. Some photography skills needed.

Freelancers should have excellent organizational and time management skills, the ability to produce news stories following AP style and a strong initiative. Must be able to meet deadlines and follow through with projects.

Freelancers are required to travel to farms to conduct interviews and take pictures.

Please submit a current resume and writing samples to julie@ozarksfn.com

16

youth in

agriculture tomorrow’s ag leaders

Conner Pell

By Kathy Parker

Hometown: Locust Grove, Okla.

FFA Chapter: Locust Grove FFA Parents: Holly and Ray Pell Siblings: Brothers Corey and Caleb Pell

What is your FFA project?

“I raise, sell and show pigs.

I also work for Breedlove Ranch feeding cattle. I’m on the Horse Judging and Livestock Judging teams.”

How did you get involved in agriculture?

“I’ve always been active in 4-H and then FFA. Both my Photo by Kathy Parker parents showed and raised livestock for a long time. My dad is one of the ag teachers who have provided the opportunity for me to be in 4-H and FFA since I was 9. My older brother Corey and I are involved in the family farm, which is called RJ Genetics. We work as a team with my Dad, and we all have input on breeding and farm decisions. Our goal is to eventually take over the family farm, my brother and me, and advance the operation to a larger scale.”

What are your accomplishments as a result of your involvement in 4-H and FFA?

“I’ve won some contests. I won the American Quarter Horse Association Congress in Columbus, Ohio, as an eighth grader; the Oklahoma State University Big 3 Field Days in Stillwater and the Tulsa State Fair Senior Livestock Contest as an eighth grader. My favorite was last year when my team won the State FFA Livestock Contest and I was high individual.

“In the show ring I won a Certified Oklahoma Bred Association class at the Oklahoma Youth Expo, showing the Reserve Grand with a Berk recently and making the county premium sale every year. But raising pigs is awesome, too. Last year we raised a Berk gilt that was third overall at OYE and Supreme Champion at the Northwest Oklahoma District Show in Enid.”

How does agriculture fit into your future?

“I want to continue working on the family farm and prepare to go to college and judge. I plan to major in Ag Business and possibly go to law school.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

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his year has not been the kindest for cattle producers. Things were starting to look good – we had rain, plentiful pasture, decent prices. Then COVID-19 hit the markets. As the financial markets took a Jessica Allan is an beating due to the uncertainty of the virus’ effect agricultural lender on our national and global economies, cattle markets reacted and commercial accordingly and dropped limit down. It wasn’t a matter of relationship manager supply, or even demand, that caused the drop, but rather the at Guaranty Bank in anticipated drop in demand. Typically, when incomes tightNeosho, Mo. A resident en, one of the first items adjusted in a family budget is the of Jasper County, she is purchase of meat products, especially beef. also involved in raising We now know demand was not the reason for the concattle on her family’s tinued low cattle prices, but rather the bottleneck our curfarm in Newton County rent marketing system has created – but that’s a topic for and is an active alum another day. The point is, the situation that was created of the Crowder Colat the beginning of the year is still rectifying itself. Cattle lege Aggie Club. She prices have started to ease back up, slowly, but they are may be reached at still being affected by our stalled economy on top of sumjallan@gbankmo.com. mer heat and pasture issues.

Cattle producers are familiar with price fluctuations in the markets, but this last decade seems to have had more than its fair share of extremes from the highs of 2012 to current day. This has created challenges for both producers and their financial partners alike. Price fluctuations, whether minor or significant, impact a producer’s cash flow and can determine whether that producer will be able to profit that year.

When working with a producer on their annual cash flow, a financial advisor will take into account historical prices as well as projections from trusted sources like the extension office.

But sometimes life throws a curveball. So what happens then? Both parties want the producer to stay in business and be able to pay back their debts, so it takes teamwork and adaptability.

For many, that may mean requesting payment extensions or revising a loan to provide temporary relief with the hope that prices will recover within a certain timeframe. But solutions like this can seem a little like closing the gate after the bull has escaped the pen.

Is there a way to prevent temporary solutions for unforeseen circumstances? A couple that come to mind are budgeting and price protection. Creating a budget for cash flow that allows for repayment of debt at the lowest expected prices and sticking to that plan in years with better prices allows producers to set back funds to carry them through the unexpected years.

Price protection can be another tool to ensure a producer’s projected income won’t go below a certain level. This can be done through puts and options, market futures, video sales and more. Every producer has a unique business operation and may use any or all of the tools available depending on the farm’s needs at that point in time.

Bottom line, curveballs are a part of life. For cattle producers, they can come out of nowhere just like COVID-19. But we can prepare for them. Even if those plans aren’t enough, maintaining a good relationship with a financial advisor can go a long way toward reaching the other side of any difficult situation, even a global pandemic.

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Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

17

farm

finance Making farming a little easier

FICO Score Changes

By Jim Caniglia

The changes do not mean an instant drop in your credit score Much has been made recently about upcoming changes to the FICO models or “scores” that are scheduled to go into effect this summer and how they will impact consumers. Many of the headlines make it seem as though nearly everyone’s score will go down and it will become more difficult to secure credit. This isn’t necessarily the case, however.

1

What goes into your FICO score

Today, your FICO score is based on several elements: n 35 percent comes from how often you make on-time payments and how frequently you’re late. n 30 percent comes from credit utilization, which is the percentage of credit you’re using that’s available to you. In general, the FICO formula prefers to not see you using all of your available credit. n 15 percent comes from the age of your credit history – i.e. how long your credit accounts have been open. n 10 percent comes from your credit mix. This refers to the types of credit you have, whether it’s bank-issued cards, auto loans, mortgages, etc. The FICO formula

what do you say?

What is a deciding factor on where to sell your livestock?

18

generally likes to see a mix of credit and not one specific type. n 10 percent comes from how much new credit you have or have inquired about. If you suddenly have begun opening a number of new credit lines, this could be a red flag.

10-T will see this too, and this could make obtaining credit somewhat more challenging.

FICO 10-T also examines some factors that help it predict upcoming changes in financial situation, such as when student loan payments might start becoming due or increase.

2

3

The new version is more like a movie

The newest FICO release, called 10-T (the T stands for trended data), can be thought of as capturing your credit usage more like a short movie than a snapshot in time.

For example, say you use the majority of credit available to you each month, but pay it all off the day it’s due on the 5th of the following month. If you applied for credit on the 30th of any given month, an older version of FICO might flag up that you use most of your credit without noting that you pay it off in full every cycle, as it only pulls data from the day you submit your application. FICO 10-T, on the other hand, looks back to the past 24 months of activity, and will see you responsibly pay off your debts each month.

On the flip side, if you’ve continuously consolidated your debts into a personal loan through fintechs or a similar service, FICO

“For us, it’s a combination of good pricing and convenience.”

Not all lenders use the same FICO scoring release

Just because there is a new FICO scoring system doesn’t mean all lenders will adopt it right away – or at all. The most current FICO system release is version nine, and while some lenders operate using that system, others still use older versions.

all lenders use 4Not FICO at all

There are other alternatives to FICO scores, one such score called VantageScore, is becoming a more popular measurement tool for lenders when evaluating applicants’ credit.

VantageScore is a model developed by the three primary credit bureaus (Trans Union, Experian and Equifax). VantageScore 4.0, which is the most current score on the market was released in 2019, and already contained the trended data technology.

“We always sell at Siloam Springs because Cary Bartholomew has a long-standing relationship with my dad and has always treated as well.”

Levi Tincher Sequoyah County, Okla.

There are some notable differences between the two, however. VantageScore only requires as little as one month of credit history to develop a score, compared to FICO, which requires at least six months of credit history with recent activity. In addition, VantageScore considers data such as rent, utility and phone billing information, if that information is already contained in your credit report to help develop a credit profile for applicants, while FICO currently does not.

For these reasons, VantageScore can be more advantageous for those new to credit such as college students or recent immigrants.

Lenders, especially larger banks and credit card issuers, are increasingly using the VantageScore to evaluate consumer credit.

According to a recent study by VantageScore, use of their credit score increased by 20 percent between 2017 and 2018, and by 300 percent between 2013 and 2018.

The bottom line – there are a variety of scores lenders use to evaluate consumers’ credit profiles. The newest FICO scoring release is just the most recent development in a somewhat crowded space that is likely to continue evolving.

Jim Caniglia, is the senior vice president/ consumer credit risk director at UMB Bank

“The most important factor for me is convenience by the day of the week because I travel for business constantly and I need to sell when I am home which is not on a routine schedule.”

Logan Gragg Washington County, Ark.

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

Dennis Donahou Madison County, Ark.

“I want people I can trust and a fair price which is why I always sell at I-40 Livestock Auction.”

Barbara Hammond Crawford County, Ark.

AUGUST 17, 2020

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Come COVID or High Water When I was an ag lender in Texarkana, Ark., I vividly remember the day I received news about the upcoming rains that would wreak havoc on the Red River and towns along its banks.

Local farmers immediately took to their fields and pastures to do what they could prior to the cresting waters. They herded cattle to higher ground, reinforced levees and moved valuable equipment out of the flood’s destructive path.

That day drove home for me that change can come when we least expect it – whether in the form of a flood, frost, disease, slashed grain prices, heightened input costs, etc. It also drove home the resilience, determination and resourcefulness of our farming community. Amidst all life’s changes, what I’ve hardly ever seen waver is the commitment farmers have to doing everything they can right now to make for a brighter tomorrow.

Just like the farmers, I knew whose preparation saved their cattle, crops and equipment from flooding, there are financial steps you can take to help overcome future challenges. The below three tips will help you keep your financial footing – come COVID or high water.

First, think of relationships like a root system. The deeper and wider it is, the better. Remember, each person we meet knows something we don’t. Take advantage of the vast amount of knowledge right in front of you. Meeting with your neighbors, banker, accountant, extension agent and field tech

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will expand your knowledge and resource base, not to mention enrich your life. One of my best friends, who passed away in 2015, used to say, “Relationships are the only things we can take with us to heaven.” That’s always stayed with me.

Next, plan. I frequently receive calls from my borrowers long before renewal season hits or well before they need new equipment. I can’t tell you how important that is from a financial perspective. Sure, you’ll always have those outlier years when a piece of equipment breaks down or you need to drill another well, but if you have a good plan in place, your banker will be ready to act quickly instead of scramble for solutions. Help eliminate tough conversations by keeping an open line of communication with your operation’s stakeholders. I promise your banker and accountant will appreciate it!

Last, invest – in your community, family and future. I always remind my farming customers and friends not to get so focused on feeding others that they neglect to feed themselves and their family. I get it, farming is hard, consuming work and it deserves our time and attention. But I’ve had conversations with several tenured farmers who wish they’d have slowed down a bit and enjoyed the little things a moment more. Food for thought.

Monte Elam is a community banker who helps oversee Simmons Bank ag loans for Searcy, Arkansas.

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Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

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farm finance

Income Ideas for Tough Times

By Kathy Daily

Producers can diversify their income by offering custom services and other products • Custom manure spreading if you have adequate equipment. Be sure to check for state and local permit

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The last few years have been difficult years for farmers and ranchers, but 2020 is one for the record books.

We would never have imagined that we would be facing some of the lowest prices in decades, dumping milk, shutting down slaughter plants and facing a pandemic, not to mention the social unrest in our nation.

It doesn’t matter how dire the news, the daily lives of farm families go on. The cows still need to be milked, hay still needs to be cut, corn needs to be planted, calves are still being born and there are still bills to be paid.

So what do you do when your farm or ranch isn’t making as much money as it used to? I’ve written articles, and so have many others, about how to cut expenses, so this time we are going to focus on a

few ways to increase income.

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• Custom machinery services – use your machinery to do

requirements.

• This is the year when it may be necessary for you or your spouse to seek off-farm income to help with family living expenses and health insurance. It may not be something that you want to do, but the net affect may put you ahead when you consider the cost of benefits.

• Are you or your spouse good at bookkeeping?

Could you help another farm family or business with their bookkeeping needs? This would be a good source of income that would allow for a flexible time schedule.

• Sell unused assets such as equipment you no longer need or use. We

custom planting, spraying or harvesting for your neighbors. This is often done, so I’m probably not telling you anything new, but have you ever thought about buying a snow plow and cleaning parking lots for local businesses in the winter? That is usually a slow time for most farmers and a little investment could bring you income during the winter.

tend to accumulate a lot of extra equipment that never gets used.

• If you raise produce or just have a home garden, consider planting a few extra rows and selling some at the farmers market or at the end of your drive. If you live out

• Add another enterprise that doesn’t require a huge capital investment. For example, cattle

producers may look at running sheep with their cattle. Cattle and sheep graze differently and use different portions of the forage base. Research has shown that you can effectively add one ewe for every cow you graze.

This could help maximize returns from your most expensive asset, land. I understand this isn’t for everyone, but in some areas of the country it could be an option.

• If your farm is near a lake or recreational area, consider allowing boat and RV parking on a non-productive portion of your property. Folks from

the city or suburbs will pay good money for boat and RV storage over the winter months.

• Increase utilization of your feed mixing equipment by mixing for other producers in the area.

west, this probably isn’t a good idea, as you may not see your neighbors for days.

• Consider bee boxes and honey sales. They take little room on the farm, help in

pollination and local honey is growing in popularity to assist in allergy prevention.

• For our ranch friends – have you considered a Cow Camp experience for a group of hunters or a family? It doesn’t have to be a decked out lodge. Give them a real

cowboy experience. Campfire cooking, horseback riding and sleeping under the stars.

These options may or may not be right for you and your operation, but maybe they will get your wheels turning a little and help you realize that there are some unique options which you may not have thought of yet.

Kathy Daily is the managing director of First Financial Bank’s Farm and Ranch Division.

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

farm finance

Financial Balance

By Ken Knies

During challenging times, balance can be comforting Our farmers, ranchers and producers are working hard to stay afloat in these difficult and challenging times. When we consider the dynamics of weather, unstable market conditions, increasing expenses and often, increasing debt, it’s remarkable that so many survive. In challenging times, searching for that level of balance can be both important and comforting.

From a financial perspective, balance is important. A lender looks for some balance and equity in your balance sheet as well as in your cash flow projections. We’re all concerned about income vs. expenses, and rightly so.

A prudent banker is tuned in to this as well.

In a difficult farming environment, that same banker will search for ways to ease the burden by finding the right tools to help. This can be accomplished through simple payment forbearance, payment restructuring, re-amortizing your debt, payment extensions and other servicing options. If you’re in good standing and managed your business, your banker will want to help.

Think about your balance sheet. This document represents an ever-changing picture or snapshot of your overall financial position.

Here again, we’re looking for balance. You don’t want to be overweighed to a large degree in any one area.

Too much short-term debt (credit cards, feed or co-op tickets, etc.) can impact your short-term repayment position. In general, you would like to see more asset and debt reflected as long-term items. Your banker is looking for areas of equity where you have a significant asset base compared to the corresponding debt.

Some balancing questions:

n Are your short-term and long-term debts supported by appropriate assets? n Do you see an opportunity in restructuring to help stretch out some payments? n Where is the most pressure on your balance sheet – where can you reposition to relieve that pressure? n Are there “bankable” assets that can be used to help support loan repayment?

In farming, as in life, finding balance is an AUGUST 17, 2020

on-going challenge and opportunity. A cattle producer searches for the right balance of acres per cow and grass vs. supplements. Poultry producers and livestock feeders are looking for the best ratio of feed to gain maximum pounds. Crop and forage producers want the right balance of seed quality, fertilizer and soil amendments to gain maximum yields.

“Work, love and play are the great balance wheels of man’s being.”

– Orisen Swett Marden Financial balance helps in many ways. By re-positioning, if needed, you can not only relieve the pressure but also make more of your asset base work for you. Ask your banker, financial advisor or another trusted financial friend to take an objective look at your financial position. A fresh set of eyes can offer constructive ideas and suggestions, often at no cost.

“We come into this world head first and go out feet first; in between it’s all a matter of balance.”

– Paul Boese Balance impacts and affects us all. Periodically, it’s prudent to take a step back from the daily routine and really look at our operation relative to our families and everything else important to us. Consider a weekend away, if possible. Use that time with your spouse and family to re-group and reflect on what’s important in your future.

Ultimately, we’re all searching for that elusive work/life balance. The search is worth it and the benefits can be profound.

Ken W. Knies is an agricultural and rural consultant. He holds a bachelor’s of science and arts from the University of Arkansas and a master’s of business administration from Webster University in St. Louis, Mo. He formed Ag Strategies, LLC as a business unit focused on quality borrowers and lenders.

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ozarks’

calendar

Online Courses and Programs

Beekeeping Basics Podcasts – five parts – contact Benton County Extension

Office for more information 479-271-1060 – go.ozarksfn.com/xof

Southern Fruitcast Podcast – contact Benton County Extension Office for more

information 479-271-1060 – go.ozarksfn.com/g8d

Arkansas Center for Farm and Food –contact Benton County Extension Office

for more information – go.ozarksfn.com/e2m August 2020 17-23 Johnson County Fair – Johnson County Fairgrounds, 1586 W. Oakland St.,

Clarksville, Ark. – www.thejohnsoncountyfair.org or facebook.com/jocofair/ 18 Fall Vegetable Gardening and Food Tips – via Zoom at noon – mmobley@uaex.edu

or 501-362-2524 19 Fire Ants, Fleas and Ticks – Online via Zoom – ssanders@uaex.edu to register 20 Rancher’s Thursday Lunchtime Series – Incorporating Alfalfa into a

Bermudagrass Forage System – 12:30-1:30 p.m. – register online go.ozarksfn.com/zk3 22-29 Carroll County Fair – Carroll County Fairgrounds and Indoor Arena, Berryville,

Ark. – facebook.com/carrollcountyarfair 23-30 Newton County Fair and Rodeo, Inc. – Newton County Fairgrounds, Jasper, Ark.

– www.thenewtoncountyfair.com 25 Pesticide Applicator Training – Yellville, Ark. – 6 p.m., reservation only – call 870-449-6349

ozarks’

September 2020 1-5

3

7-12 8-12

9-14

10

Marion County Fair & Livestock Show – Marion County Fairgrounds, Summit, Ark. – marioncountyarfair.org Rancher’s Thursday Lunchtime Series – Reduced Lignin Alfalfa in a Beef Cattle System – 12:30-1:30 p.m. – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/zk3 Van Buren County Fair – Fairgrounds, Clinton, Ark. – vanburencountyfair.org Conway County Fair – Morrilton City Park, 100 City Park Drive, Morrilton, Ark. – facebook.com/conwaycountyfair or www.conwaycountyfair.com Mayes County Fair – Mayes County Fairgrounds, Pryor, Okla. – mayescountyfair.com or facebook.com/mayescountyfair/ Rancher’s Thursday Lunchtime Series – Utilization of Alfalfa in Growing and Finishing Rations – 12:30-1:30 p.m. – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/zk3

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17 17 17 17

19 23 24

24 24 25 31

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THM Land & Cattle Female Sale – Vienna, Mo. – 573-443-4521 Aschermann Charolais/Akaushi 31st Edition Bull Sale – 1 p.m. – at the ranch, Carthage, Mo. – 417-793-2855 or 417-358-7879 Bradley Cattle Bred Heifer & Bull Sale – Springfield, Mo. – 417-848-3457 Circle A Ranch Fal Bull & Heifer Sale – Iberia, Mo. – 1-800-CIRCLE-A Heart of the Ozark Angus Association Sale – West Plains, Mo. – 734-260-8635 Seedstock Plus Fall Bull & Female Sale – Joplin Regional Stockyards, Carthage, Mo. – 877-486-1160 Hinkle’s Prime Cut Angus Fall Sale – Nevada, Mo. – 417-944-2219 Spur Ranch Sale – Vinita, Okla. – 918-256-5850 Cattlemen’s Preferred Sale All Breed Registered Bulls & Females Plus Commercial Females – noon – County Line Sale Barn, Ratcliff, Ark. – 205-270-0999 Mead Farm Fall Production Sale – Barnett, Mo. – 573-216-0210 – 573-302-7011 New Day Genetics Fall Sale – Springfield, Mo. – 573-453-0058 Baker Angus Sale – Butler, Mo. – 660-679-4403 McBee Cattle Company Annual Fall Bull & Female Sale – 221 State Hwy H, Fayette, Mo. – 573-228-2517 Wall Street Cattle Company Sale – Lebanon, Mo. – 417-288-4444

auction block

September 2020 6 Badger Creek Cattle Company Complete Dispersion of the Kansas Unit –

Emporia, Kan. – 620-794-7601 – 618-316-0039 – 530-913-6418 7 27th Annual Autumn in the Ozarks – noon – Chappell’s Sale Arena, Strafford,

Mo. – 405-246-6324 19 Seedstock Plus The Complete Dispersal of Oak Ridge Farms & Showcase

Sale XV – Kingsville Livestock, Kingsville, Mo. – 877-486-1160 26 Satterfield Charolais & Angus Annual Female Sale – Norfork, Ark. –

870-499-5379 – 870-499-7151 October 2020 3 Jac’s Ranch Production Sale – Bentonville, Ark. – 479-273-3030 3 Journagan Ranch 29th Annual Production Sale – 11 a.m. – William H Darr

Agriculture Center, Springfield, Mo. – 660-527-3507 3 Pinegar Limousin Fall Production Sale – Springfield, Mo. – Toll-Free

1-877-PINEGAR – 417-833-6784 9 Smith Valley Angus Sale – Salem, Mo. – 573-729-3616 – 573-729-2910 10 Big D Ranch Building Your Tomorrow Sale – Center Ridge, Ark. – 501-208-6119 10 Bonebrake Herefords Female Production Sale – Buffalo, Mo. – 417-693-7881

– 417-588-4572 10 Byergo Angus Sale – Savannah, Mo. – 816-261-5198 10 East Central Missouri Angus Association Sale – Cuba, Mo. – 314-393-2885 10 Missouri Red Angus Association Fall Bull & Female Sale – Sedalia, Mo. – 417-962-0181 10 MLBA Heart of Missouri Limousin Sale – Lebanon, Mo. – 14 Valley Oaks Angus Bull and Female Sale – Oak Grove, Mo. – 816-365-5930

– 573-280-2351

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25 Fall Landscapes – via Zoom at noon – mmobley@uaex.edu or 501-362-2524 26 Growing a Vegetable Garden – Online via Zoom – ssanders@uaex.edu to register 27 Rancher’s Thursday Lunchtime Series – Baled Alfalfa Silages: Potential

Advantages over Dry Hay, and Unique Differences from Traditional

Precision-Chopped Silages – 12:30-1:30 p.m. – register online at go.ozarksfn.com/zk3 27-29 Wagoner County Fair – Wagoner County Fairgrounds, 30058 E. 147th Street

South, Coweta, Okla. – facebook.com/Wagoner-County-Fair-562836720503008/ 29 Van Buren County Fair Queen Pageants – Fairgrounds, Clinton, Ark.

– vanburencountyfair.org 30-9/6 Madison County Fair – Madison County Fairgrounds, Huntsville, Ark. – 479-738-6826

November 2020 6-7 GenePlus Brangus Sale – Chimney Rock Cattle Company, Concord, Ark. –

620-583-3706 – 417-425-0368 7 Seedstock Plus RED REWARD ‘Fall Edition’ Bull & Female Sale – Wheeler

Livestock Auction, Osceola, Mo. – 877-486-1160 7 Worthington Angus Sale – at the farm, Dadeville, Mo. – 417-844-2601 14 24th Annual Show-Me Plus Gelbvieh & Balancer Sale – noon – Springfield

Livestock Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo. – 660-635-1433 – 573-690-3813

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

AUGUST 17, 2020

Cattlemen’s Seedstock Directory ANGUS Jac’s Ranch - Bentonville, Ark. 479-273-3030 Rose Bud Bull Development & Sales - Rose Bud, Ark. 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com BALANCERS Bob Harriman Genetics - Montrose, Mo. - 660-492-2504 Hodges Ranch - Omaha, Ark. 870-426-4469 - 870-704-9450 Rose Bud Bull Development & Sales - Rose Bud, Ark. 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com BRANGUS Horsehead Ranch - Talala, Okla. 918-695-2357 www.HorseheadRanch.net Rose Bud Bull Development & Sales - Rose Bud, Ark. 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com CHAROLAIS Rose Bud Bull Development & Sales - Rose Bud, Ark. 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com GELBVIEH Hodges Ranch - Omaha, Ark. 870-426-4469 - 870-704-9450 HEREFORDS Rose Bud Bull Development & Sales - Rose Bud, Ark. 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com RED ANGUS Watkins Cattle Company Harrison, AR - 870-741-9795 – 870-688-1232 – watkinscattleco@windstream.net SIM ANGUS Bob Harriman Genetics - Montrose, Mo. - 660-492-2504 ULTRA BLACK Horsehead Ranch - Talala, Okla. 918-695-2357 www.HorseheadRanch.net

Farm Equipment

Livestock - Cattle

Prairie Phoenix Cattle Oiler

Edwards Limousin Ranch

The Flies Won’t Know What Hit Them!

Strongest, Simplest, Cheapest

417-286-3540 cell 774-696-2344

Reg. Black Bulls & Heifers Cameron, Okla.

918-654-3546 or 479-414-8324

9/28/20

8/17/20

Vets

Country Veterinary Service Tim E. O’Neill, DVM

479-267-2685 Farmington, AR

cvsvet.com 30 years of serving both farm and family.

Do You Have a Favorite Family Recipe?

Send in your favorite family recipe to share with our readers.

julie@ozarksfn.com

Website

BARTON COUNTY IMPLEMENT

Trade Website Design For Fresh Beef

New and Used FARM tires & wheels 100 plus used tires 200 plus wheels

Selling New Firestone Tires 606 West 12th • Lamar, MO Jack Purinton 417-682-1903

Poultry Litter Fertilizer Application Service Available • Application Rate 1-2 Tons Per Acre • GPS Guidance

If You’re Looking For A Website For Your Farm, Here’s Your Chance. I’m Looking To Do Some Trading For Fresh Beef.

Green Forest, AR hostetlerlitter@emypeople.net

Since 1986 No Sunday Calls “Get More Out of Your Pasture”

TURN-KEY PACKAGE INCLUDES

Louis Hostetler 870-438-4209 Cell: 870-423-8083

Hostetler Litter Service

4 Full Website Design 4 1 Year of Hosting

Connecting Buyers and Borrowers with a Quality Bank

4 1 Year of Domain Name Registration

Ken W. Knies

417-322-4711

479-426-9518 kenknies1@gmail.com

“A Passion for Agriculture”

TFN

Sell Your Farm Equipment or Livestock with an Ad in Our Classified Section!

Be Sure to Ask About Our Rate Discounts!

Don’t Delay! Call Today!

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24,000 Readers Who Are Primarily Livestock Producers,

By Placing Your Ad In the Purebred Corral, Call Today!

532-1960

1-866-

AUGUST 17, 2020

Toll Free: 1-866-532-1960 ads@ozarksfn.com Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

23

WELCOME TO

Wood Motor Company is constantly working and sanitizing to ensure a safe environment.

WITH OUTSTANDING INCENTIVES, NOW IS THE TIME TO PURCHASE A NEW CAR OR TRUCK. So for a safe, sanitized sales experience come, call, email or text.

WE ARE OPEN AT ALL LOCATIONS!

WE’LL DELIVER TO YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS! — WOOD MOTOR COMPANY WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR CUSTOMERS FOR RECORD SALES MONTHS AT BOTH LOCATIONS! — MISSOURI ARKANSAS

We’ve got Heavy Duty Trucks Ready to upfit to your specific needs with several brands of Cab and Chassis models to choose from!

With More Arriving Soon!

WE HAVE USED CARS & TRUC KS AVAILABLE!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE @ WOODMOTOR.COM • UPDATED DAILY WITH THE BEST DEALS ON USED CARS AND TRUCKS

JUST IN 3 K ’ 24 GOOSENEC R! LE AI TR E! CALL FOR PRIC

Wood Motor Company has been a Gooseneck Brand dealer for over 30 years, we stock the trailers that you want to buy and We will not be under sold on a Gooseneck brand livestock trailer – Period!

Email or Call Mark Hanshaw with your Specs for a Quote! mhanshaw@woodmotor.com or 870-715-9177 Financing Available!

A SOLID NAME YOU CAN TRUST

WOOD WOOD WOOD WOOD

MOTOR MOTOR MOTOR MOTOR

CHEVY • 877.203.6897 • 600 US-62, HARRISON, AR 72601 NISSAN • 888.202.2709 • 600 US-62, HARRISON, AR 72601 FORD • 417.952.2992 • 94 HIGHWAY 00, JANE, MO 64856 CDJR • 417-708-5746 • 94 HIGHWAY 00, JANE, MO 64856

Check Out More Of Our Inventory at WoodMotor.com