Union Farmer May 2023

S.D. Farmers & Ranchers Ask for MCOOL During Farm Bill Fly-In

It’s calving season across South Dakota, but a group of family farmers and ranchers still made time to travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with policymakers and USDA officials and advocate for what they need in the upcoming Farm Bill.

“No one can carry our message like we can. This advocacy effort is important because as farmers and ranchers, what is in this Farm

Farm Bill Fly-In Continued on Page 6

Riding out to check cows with a cup of morning coffee, their youngest son, Cale, 3, on her lap and oldest son, Cade, 9, on the seat between her and her husband, Chris – this is the way Amy Albrecht likes to spend Saturday mornings.

“These are the mornings when I say a silent prayer of thanks – we get to be outside, on the farm together, doing what we love,” said Amy, who grew up on the Alpena farm where she and Chris raise their sons today.

“I always wanted to raise my kids on the farm because they can play outside but also learn responsibility and humility with this lifestyle,”

The Albrechts farm near Alpena, Chris and Amy with their sons, Cade and Cale.

SDFU members advocate in D.C. ahead of new Farm Bill: Lance Perrion, Oren Lesmeister, Doug Sombke, SDFU President; Sarah Perrion, Rob Larew, NFU President; David Reis; and Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director.

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she said. “Not that the boys are old enough yet to have major chores, but they see their dad and grandpa out caring for the livestock and crops regardless of the weather, other responsibilities, or wants. They work until the work is done. It takes resilience to farm. Those are important lessons for my kids to learn.”

Amy spends weekdays off the farm working as a family nurse practitioner in Huron while Chris works on the farm raising

cattle, crops, and operating a custom farming business.

“It keeps us busy,” Chris said. “Not many slow days around here. I like it when we have the opportunity to all get in the Ranger and check cows together or when the kids come ride along with me in the tractor. Amy likes to help when she can as well.” He knows Amy and the kids like to ride along whenever able, so he often waits until she is home from work before he does the evening check.

Chris added that considering the volatility of livestock and crop markets, Amy’s off-farm income provides the household budget with some stability as a bonus. “Heck of it is there are so many outside farm factors that weigh so heavily on our profitability anymore,” Chris said. “Amy having a job in town levels the playing field so to speak. It makes these market changes a little more tolerable knowing we have somewhat of a back up.”

Growing up on a farm near Marion, Chris always loved farming, but his family’s farm was small. He knew there was not an opportunity for him to build a career there. So, he got a degree in diesel mechanics from

Lake Area Technical College. He was working as a mechanic when he met Amy.

Amy shared the story. “I was showing cattle in an open show in Valley City, North Dakota, and we had a guy helping us fit cattle. He brought his brother to the show to help, who also brought his best friend Chris.”

Like Chris, Amy loved growing up on her family’s farm.

“I always loved being outside with the animals, and I absolutely love taking care of things,” she said. “When I was 5, I told my dad I wanted a dog or a horse or I was moving out.”

Amy’s dad, Scott, bought her a dog. He also helped her bottle feed some kitties she found in the barn. “My parents were always supportive.”

Although she loved caring for animals, she found her calling in human medicine.

“I’m a science nerd at heart,” she explained. “I find the human body so

Albrecht Family Continued from Page 1

“These are the mornings when I say a silent prayer of thanks –we get to be outside, on the farm together, doing the work we love.”

– Amy Albrecht

Like dad, Chris, and grandpa, Steve, Cale, 3, and Cade, 9, like antique tractors too.

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fascinating. Probably a bit like Chris with his engines, I want to know why and how it works and what I can do to make it work better.”

Chris and Amy were in their mid-20s when they married. Amy’s dad, Scott, and mom, DeVonne, helped them get started by letting them run their cattle on the farm and cost-sharing equipment. Amy’s parents also helped Chris purchase a service truck. For the first several years after they moved to Amy’s family farm, Chris ran a diesel repair shop to help supplement the farm.

“We would not be where we are today without the jumpstart they gave us,” Chris said.

Chris began leasing cropland and started custom farming so he could purchase newer equipment. In addition to helping cover land and equipment costs, Chris said his mechanics business and custom farming helped him get to know the neighbors.

“I was the outsider who moved here from 150 miles away,” Chris said. “We have great neighbors who have become great friends.”

Chris gradually slowed down the shop work as the farm, crops, and cattle took over as his primary focus. He closed his shop in 2019; however, he is a born tinkerer, so there is always a project underway in the shop. Likely he’s there building a part for something on the farm or pulling tractor to make it more efficient.

“I really enjoy fixing stuff,” Chris said. “When I was 5, I took Grandma’s exercise bike apart. I did not have permission, and even though it looked like it was back together,

it never worked again. I guess she was pretty upset. It even came up at her funeral.”

To keep his “tinkering” hobby alive, he restores antique tractors and competes in tractor pulls.

“I would say my mechanic interest came from my dad,” he said. “We did our own repairs on farm equipment, and my family has collected antique tractors since the ’40s.”

Chris explains the antique tractor collecting began since his grandpa ran a salvage business during World War II.

“He would round up the iron and haul it to Sioux Falls for scrap. He would keep the ones he thought were too cool to sell,” Chris explained.

Like their parents, Chris and Amy’s sons enjoy farm life.

“Cade would rather be on the farm with his dad than anywhere else,” Amy said. “He does not always enjoy school work; however, he will take the tractor and feed wagon out to feed cows. I did chores with him once and he told me, ‘we have 250 head of cows, I have 13,000 pounds of feed, I need to have at least 12 piles, but it would be better if I had 14, so I am going to put a little less than a thousand pounds in each pile.’ He had no idea he was essentially doing algebra.”

Providing a childhood on the farm for their sons similar to the way they grew up is important to Chris and Amy.

“There’s always work to be done on the farm, but it’s work we can do together,” Amy said. “And there’s plenty for my boys to do. Often I look out the window to Cale on his pedal tractor with the cat and he is hooking up his wagon to feed the cows while Cade is out actually feeding the cattle with his dad. It’s a perfect site and one I never want to change.” ■

By Lura Roti for SDFU

Cade and Amy enjoy creating strawbale art each fall. They started the tradition and now neighbors join in.

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Rural Leaders Connect During Rural POWER 2023

Brendyn Richards is actively involved in rural South Dakota. The Director of Development and Advocacy for Siouxland Community Heath Center volunteers his time as treasurer of his township board and as a member of Clay County Preservation Commission. And yet, he is driven to do more.

“I want to get more involved in my state. Now that my kids are grown, I feel like it’s time for me to get back to my roots and do more,” said Richards, who lives near Beresford.

Motivated to connect with other rural leaders, Richards applied to participate in the 2023 Rural POWER class. Rural POWER is a year-long leadership development program sponsored by South Dakota Farmers Union and hosted by the Billie Sutton Leadership Institute.

Richards was one of seven South Dakotans selected for the 2023 class, other members are: Bobbi Jo Horsted, Sioux Falls; Carmen Garcia Pacheco, Tabor; Courtney Sully, Wagner; Jessica Murano, Brookings; Lesley Atkins, Gregory; and Sentel Schreier, Belle Fourche.

The class met this spring for their first seminar that focused on a variety of leadership topics: communication and listening in leadership, leadership styles and effecting change in your community, public and private sector special guest speakers and a visit to the Dignity sculpture.

“Year after year I’m impressed by the talent and passion of the leaders who come to this program with a focus on making our state a better place,” said Billie Sutton, a former state senator, 2018 candidate for governor of South Dakota and founder of the Sutton Leadership Institute.

Throughout the year, not only will Rural POWER participants strengthen their leadership skills, but they will give back by developing a community engagement project.

Richards’ project will focus on revitalizing Hub City Youth Baseball – beginning with rehabbing existing baseball fields that have been neglected in recent years.

Richards’ passion for this project stems from years of coaching youth baseball and the fact that his home sits across the street from the neglected field where he remembers playing.

“I once hit a homerun into the corn field, just like Field of Dreams movie, which was super cool. I am eager to get this started,” Richards said.

Community engagement projects are as unique and diverse as the individuals who make up the Rural POWER class.

Belle Fourche native Sentel Schreier’s project looks to support female ranchers.

“I never really envisioned myself as a rancher growing up because I did not recognize that women could be ranchers,” explained Schreier who raises cattle and sheep on her family’s ranch. “I want my project to encourage young women to feel welcome and empowered to be ranchers – I want more young women to see agriculture as a viable career path.”

In the early stages of development, Schreier said although she does not know exactly what her project will look like in the end, she wants to work with other women ranchers and farmers around the state to provide mentorship to women starting out in the profession. She said engaging with the Rural POWER network is helpful.

“It is inspiring to be around all the other participants. They are gogetters,” Schreier said. “I had ideas, but before this, I did not have the confidence to go out and do what I need to do.”

Carmen Garcia Pacheco agreed.

“I feel inspired, there are so many great thinkers and doers in the group,” Garcia Pacheco said.

She added that the Rural POWER/Sutton Leadership group is quite diverse compared to other groups she is a part of, and this matters to the Tabor resident of Puerto Rican and Italian descent.

“I love South Dakota and I love being a citizen of this state, but it can be lonely as a person with brown skin,” Garcia Pacheco said. “It was refreshing to be in a group with other people who look like me.”

Like Schreier, Garcia Pacheco’s project is inspired by her work. She

Brendyn Richards

Sentel Schreier

Carmen Garcia Pacheco

2023 Rural POWER and Billie Sutton Leadership Institute Classes.

Get to Know 2023 Farmers Union Enterprise Leadership Couple

This spring when Tonner Bowman asked Samantha Olson to marry him, his desire to farm was among the many reasons she knew he was Mr. Right.

“The biggest things in life we are on the same page. We both want to farm, so we are both willing to do what it takes to make it work,” Samantha explained.

Doing what it takes means the couple works full time off their Mitchell farm. Tonner is an agronomist and Samantha is the Education Specialist for South Dakota Farmers Union.

“Working full time off the farm is part of making our goals and dreams work out,” Samantha said. “It’s a lot of long days, but we are working as a team.”

all of the acres.

“Most of the land was rented to neighbors, my dad made the comment to me, that if I wanted to farm, this was my chance,” he said.

Like Tonner, Samantha spent a lot of time on her Grandpa John Kippley’s farm. She helped with livestock chores and enjoyed showing cattle in 4-H and FFA. Her involvement in FFA eventually led her to serve as the 2020-2021 State FFA President.

Her passion for agriculture and interest in educating others about the industry led her to a degree in Agriculture Education – and South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU). In 2021, she served as an intern, helping with youth programming and camps.

National Farmers Union Convention was Tonner’s first exposure to Farmers Union. He and Samantha traveled to San Francisco to attend the first workshop of the 2023 Farmers Union Enterprise Leadership (FUEL) program. The couple was selected to represent South Dakota.

And seeing what they can accomplish together is rewarding, Tonner added. “There is a lot of pride that comes with being able to raise a crop and call it your own.”

Growing up farming was all Tonner wanted to do. Growing up in Brandon, he and his dad often traveled to Mitchell to help his grandparents on their farm.

His love for farming influenced his decision to pursue an agronomy degree at South Dakota State University.

In 2019, a few years after his grandpa passed away, Tonner began farming a portion of his grandparents’ land. Then, in 2022, he made the decision to lease and farm

Rural Power Continued from Page 4

is a labor program specialist for the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation. In this role she helps incarcerated individuals receive job training while they are in prison, so they can help meet labor demands once they are released.

Her project will focus on connecting teenage family members of incarcerated individuals with post-secondary education options.

“It was a good experience,” Tonner said. “I enjoyed networking and being able to learn from and meet other young couples involved in agriculture from other states.”

Each year, Farmers Union Enterprise sponsors farm and ranch couples to participate in the program. Couples are selected from each of the following states: South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana and Wisconsin.

Farmers Union Enterprises is the organization that oversees Farmers Union Industries. FUEL is designed to strengthen young producers’ leadership and communication skills. FUEL seminars are held throughout the year.

“In a time when many agriculture

“I am really excited about working on this project while I am participating in Rural POWER,” Garcia Pacheco said. “This is a class where I am surrounded by others who care about their work and the impact their work has on others.”

The community engagement projects developed by Rural POWER participants are one of many ways this program benefits rural communities, explained Sutton.

organizations are concerned about the lack of interest in younger farmers and ranchers to take on leadership roles, we feel investing in the next generation is not only valuable to the future of family farming and ranching, but to the future of our organization as well,” explained Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

Communication was the focus of this first FUEL workshop. Throughout the year, Tonner, Samantha and the other young producers will focus on sharpening their leadership and public speaking skills; increase their understanding of policy development and advocacy; and overall, learn more about how they can serve as leaders in Farmers Union and other agriculture organizations.

To learn more about FUEL, contact Karla Hofhenke, Executive Director SDFU at Karla@ SDFU.org. ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU

“South Dakota and all of its towns and cities are stronger because of their contributions to their community,” Sutton said. “We’re proud to be investing in these leaders’ potential and supporting their efforts across the state.”

To learn more, visit https:// suttonleadership.org ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU

Tonner Bowman and Samantha Olson

“I enjoyed networking and being able to learn from and meet other young couples involved in agriculture from other states.”

– Tonner Bowman

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Farm Bill Fly-In

Continued from Page 1

in this Farm Bill,” Kolousek said.

Kolousek explained that MCOOL would ensure that consumers know where their meat comes from. And because U.S. livestock producers follow humane treatment and safety regulations, MCOOL would help them receive a premium for their product because it differentiates it from foreign-raised meat products.

In March, the USDA took an initial step toward truth in labeling announcing a proposed ruling that only livestock born, raised and processed in the U.S. could carry the “Product of the USA” label.

“Secretary of Agriculture Vilsack’s announcement in March is the first step,” Kolousek said. “In our meetings with policymakers, we have also been encouraging them to support this ruling – and letting them know we need more. We need MCOOL.”

Kolousek, said ahead of the Fly-In, his employee, AJ Karsky, his wife, Amber, and their daughters, Ella and Abby, worked to welcome 200 calves to the family farm. He says there are quite a few more to come, but thanks to Karsky and his family, he knows things will be OK for the few days he is away.

In-person meetings are essential, explained Oren Lesmeister.

“The one-on-one interaction allows for questions and answers to flow back and forth. There is brainstorming happening instantly versus waiting for a return email or phone call,” Lesmeister said.

The Parade rancher also serves as the District 28-A Representative. After meeting with the Department of Justice and representatives from Sen. Mike Rounds’ and Sen. Jon Tester’s office he feels optimistic.

Bill impacts our lives and livelihoods,” said Doug Sombke, a fourthgeneration Conde farmer and President of South Dakota Farmers Union. “Yes we are calving, yes we are gearing up for planting season 2023, thankfully we all have family or friends stepping in to pick up the slack and help out while we are away.”

South Dakota Farmers Union organized this Farm Bill Fly-In. As the state’s largest agriculture organization, grassroots policy guides its efforts and for 30 years its members have asked policymakers for MCOOL (mandatory country-of-origin labeling). It is the primary reason fifth-generation Wessington Springs cattle producer Scott Kolousek took time away from his family’s livestock operation during calving.

“If we are going to get MCOOL implemented, it needs to get done

“In the past, I have felt like some of what we were saying was falling on deaf ears. Today, I feel like we are being listened to,” Lesmeister said.

Ipswich cattle producer and agribusiness owner Lance Perrion agreed.

“It seems like they are engaged with what we are talking about and working to get done,” Perrion said. “We visited about MCOOL and supporting the USDA-proposed ruling and we have support from Thune and Tester.”

Perrion added that he felt like they are gaining momentum when it comes to holding meatpackers accountable.

“I feel like we are sharing the right information with the right

“No one can carry our message like we can. This advocacy effort is important because as farmers and ranchers, what is in this Farm Bill impacts our lives and livelihoods.”

– Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union

“I feel like we are sharing the right information with the right people.”

– Lance Perrion, Ipswich farmer

“If we are going to get MCOOL implemented, it needs to get done in this farm bill.”

– Scott Kolousek, Wessington Springs

Local Co-op Helps Youth Understand Where Their Food Comes From W

hile we may live in rural America, plenty of youth do not know where food comes from or what local cooperatives are.

Prairie Ag Partners, the local cooperative with headquarters in Lake Preston, teamed up with Kingsbury County Farmers Union to help children better understand just that.

“This was an opportunity to partner with South Dakota Farmers Union to bring something good to our communities,” said Al Vedvei, Prairie Ag Partners Board Chairman. “It’s a chance for the kids to learn about farm life, where the food on their table comes from and to help them start understanding the cooperative business model.”

“These books are good for the youth in Kingsbury County to reenforce the importance of family farms and cooperatives,” said Soren. “The sooner we can introduce kids to the importance of co-ops, the better.”

Talking to youth about rural agriculture is important, but making sure they have access to resources and an understanding of agriculture and where their food comes from, is equally important. Creating enthusiasm for reading at a young age is also vital.

“After all, some of these kids will grow up to be farmers, and they are the future of our communities,” Vedvei continued. “Let’s help them, at an early age, get a start in agriculture and our cooperatives.”

Together, the two organizations purchased books that were donated to all the local schools and community libraries in the county.

“Our Family Farm,” a series of four books written and illustrated in 2018 by Dana Sullivan in partnership with the North Dakota Farmers Union, tells the story of the Rhodes family farm, showing how multigenerations work together to feed livestock and grow crops.

This series includes colorful illustrations of farm life and animals, as well as trucks and tractors. Each book shows the family working hard together at different tasks, including fuel purchases and grain sales at their local co-op.

“Our Family Farm” can be purchased through the North Dakota Farmers Union, with all proceeds going to their foundation, which supports youth education programs.

Wayne Soren, president of the Kingsbury County Farmers Union, is excited about these books geared for children ages 3-8 and hopes the children in our communities take the opportunity to read and learn, not only about family farmers, but the role co-ops play in communities.

Soren, Chad Dylla, Prairie Ag’s General Manager, and Scott Jensen, Prairie Ag Board Member, delivered these books to Lake Preston, Arlington, De Smet and Iroquois schools as well as Lake Preston, De Smet and Oldham community libraries. A common theme they heard from the librarians was how excited they are to incorporate these books into their summer reading programs.

“It’s all about getting these books into the hands of the youth of our communities,” said Soren.

“And ... maybe adults reading one of these books to their children will find something even they can learn from,” said Vedvei. ■

By Corrie Walter, Kingsbury Journal

Scott Jensen, Chad Dylla and Wayne Soren deliver a set of “Our Family Farm” to Barb Jones, school librarian at the Lake Preston School Library.

Scott Jensen and Wayne Soren deliver a set of “Our Family Farm” to Mary Purintun, librarian at the Hazel L. Meyer Memorial Library in De Smet.

“This was an opportunity to partner with South Dakota Farmers Union to bring something good to our communities.”

– Al Vedvei, Prairie Ag Partners Board Chairman

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Celebrate Farm & Ranch Moms

As we reflect on the women who raised us this Mother’s Day, South Dakota Farmers Union would like to celebrate the many women who support the state’s No. 1 industry – farm and ranch moms!

Profiles by Lura Roti for South Dakota Farmers Union

Rachel Kippley, Farm Mom, Aberdeen

Read on to learn about Aberdeen farm mom Rachel Kippley and Parade ranch mom Carleyn Petersen.

four children, Noah, Titus, Aaron and Moriah, on the family farm near Aberdeen.

And although her career after college eventually led her to Washington, D.C., Kippley always thought that when she was ready to marry and start a family, she would make her way back to the farm.

“Lots of little girls want to marry someone just like their dads. My dad was a farmer and I realized when I was working in D.C., the person I wanted to marry was going to be someone who works the land,” said Kippley who worked as a policy analyst for former Congressman Bill Janklow. “The dream I had for myself involved wide open spaces where I could put down roots.”

Growing up on a farm near Guelph, North Dakota, Rachel Kippley says she comes from a long line of farm moms.

“The tradition of farm moms goes back generations – my grandma was a farm mom, her mom was a farm mom, my mom was a farm mom. It is one of those things, if you are raised in it, you appreciate and yearn for it,” explained Kippley, who together with her husband, Jeff, raises their

Kippley met Jeff as a college student during a Board of Regents meeting in 1999. At the time, she served as student association president of Northern State University and Jeff was serving as a student association senator at Black Hills State. They reconnected five years later at a music festival.

What advice would you share with a new mom?

“Time will fly by, so whether working together or doing something fun together, seize the moments when you are together, just take a deep breath, and enjoy it.”

Jeff is a fifth-generation farmer and raises crops and cattle.

“Four months later we got engaged and that summer we were married. When you know, you know,” Kippley explained.

After their oldest son, Noah was born, Kippley said she needed a career change. “I realized my heart was not in the 8-5 work shift. It was brutal for me dropping him off at daycare.”

So, she traded in her office job for one on the farm. “I have so many pictures with my kids in the buddy seat rock rolling, grain

carting or trucking. Farm work is not always fun, but it is a lot more fun when I’m working with my kids.”

Today, Kippley says she and Jeff could not get the farm work done without their kids’ help. “When they are little, it may take more time and patience to have the kids working with you, but it sure pays off when they are older,” Kippley said. “There is no way we could get cattle chores done or harvest in without them. We make a point to ensure they know this and thank them often for their help.”

In addition to a strong work ethic, Kippley says she and Jeff have also worked to instill a strong faith in God.

“Growing up my mom made sure priorities were faith, family, then farming. We are the same way,” Kippley said.

Each Sunday the Kippley family makes the 45-minute trek to attend services in the same church where she grew up.

“If there are tough times, our kids need to know where to lean and where to put their trust. I think they get it.”

– Rachel Kippley, Farm Mom, Aberdeen

Rachel Kippley, (far right) with her mom, Linda Hansen, and daughter, Moriah.

Rachel Kippley and her husband, Jeff, raise their four children, Noah (far right), Titus (far left), Aaron and Moriah, on the family farm near Aberdeen.

Carleyn Petersen, Ranch Mom, Parade

Moving from Aberdeen to her husband, Cole’s family ranch 17 miles east of Eagle Butte was a bit of a shock at first for Carleyn Petersen.

“When I helped my husband with branding for the first time, at the end of the day I was like, ‘Whew! I am glad that is done.‘ He said, ‘we have four days left.‘ But I would not change living out here for the world. I love what I do as a stay-at-home rancher’s wife,” Petersen said.

The location of the ranch is among the many things Petersen appreciates.

“I love looking out into the fields and not seeing any neighbors. And I don’t have to tell my kids to be quiet because of the neighbors,” Petersen said. “I get to take my kids on adventures city people don’t get to do.”

Nearly every day Petersen takes her children: Patricia, 8, Zachary, 6, and Lizzie, 3, to visit one of the many ranch dams.

What advice would you share with a new mom?

“Take the extra minutes to spend with your kids. Don’t try to clean the house or do laundry, if you have some extra time, go outside and spend it with your kids.”

“In the winter we go look at how much ice is on the dam and sled down the hills. Patricia has a name for every dam,” said Petersen, listing off some of the names: Beaver dam, Heart dam, Mr. Turtle’s dam and Shapes dam.

Being a mom is what Petersen said she always wanted to do. “I love everything about being a mom,” Petersen said. “From going to see them at their school concerts, to changing those poopy diapers, and the fact that I get to live out here and let my kids run and explore.”

Petersen said going on adventures with

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her children comes naturally because this is how her mom was when she was growing up.

“My mom was always right next to me when I was learning new things. So, I like to be with my kids as they explore,” she said. “It’s amazing to see their eyes light up at the simplest things – it’s a rock, but it’s a dinosaur egg to my son or a gem to my daughter.”

During haying season, Petersen takes the kids on “camping trips,” parking their camper next to a hay field.

“We sleep there and then my husband, mother-in-law and I each take a different one with us when we start haying the next day. The kids love it.”

Rachel Kippley Continued from Page 8

Recently, Kippley received a phone call from a parent of one of her son’s classmates. “The parent called to tell me that her kid was getting picked on at school, and our son stood up for her kid,” Kippley said. “As a mom, I was pretty proud to learn that he was putting other people before himself.”

Today, Noah is a sophomore in high school and her youngest, Moriah, is 8. Kippley returned to full-time work off the farm in 2021 when she accepted the position to serve as Brown County Fair and Park Manager. Unique to other South Dakota fairs, the Brown County Fair does not charge admission. It is among the largest fairs in the state, welcoming about 280,000 visitors.

This is not to say that being a full-time mom to three children 8 years old and younger is always fun and games.

“Once 6:15 a.m. hits and I wake up the kids for school, it gets pretty chaotic around here.”

Petersen credits her early morning coffee and devotion with helping her take everything in stride.

“I get up around 5:30 and take time for my morning coffee and devotions. It is a great time to reflect on the previous day and the good Word helps me throughout the day.”

She added that sharing a yard with grandparents helps too.

“My mother-in-law is really great and helps watch the kids if I need to go out and help Cole pull a calf or something.” ■

Reflecting on her decision to return to work off the farm, Kippley said she knew her kids were old enough because her mom, Linda Hansen, made the decision to work off the farm when she was about Moriah’s age.

“They know that no matter how busy we are, they are always our priority,” Kippley said. ■

– Carleyn Petersen, Ranch Mom, Parade

Carleyn and her husband, Cole, ranch near Parade with their children (left to right): Patricia, 8, Zachary, 6, and Lizzie, 3.

Grassroots Policy Begins with You –Attend 2023 Policy Meeting

In 2022, Gregory County Secretary Melissa Wonnenberg began calling Farmers Union members throughout the county and asking what they were concerned about.

state.”

In an effort to engage as many members as possible in the State Policy Meeting, the meeting is held in a hybrid format. Members of the State Board and State Policy Committee meet in person and other members join in virtually. This hybrid format came about in 2020 after the entire meeting was held virtually due to the pandemic.

“Members told us it was more convenient to join in on a Zoom,” Sombke explained. “This way they only had to take a few hours off from July farm or ranch work and once the meeting was over, they could go right back to work.”

Another idea, Inventory Management Soil Enhancement Tool (IMSET) was developed by Farmers Union member and Salem crop and livestock producer Craig Blindert. Blindert also works as an independent crop insurance agent. Blindert brought this idea to the 2017 State Policy Meeting. It was adapted into State Policy that same year. And after six years of advocating, Sombke said IMSET has really gained ground and he is optimistic that it could become part of an upcoming Farm Bill.

She compiled a list and made time for the State Policy Meeting where she shared what members had to say. Her husband, Hank, credits this effort with helping increase engagement in local Farmers Union meetings and activities.

“Our organization prides itself on being grassroots. When members experience the way Farmers Union engages with policy –and know their voice is heard – they want to get involved,” said Hank Wonnenberg, who also serves as State Policy Committee Chair.

Local policy discussions ensure policy is developed by members, for members, explained Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union. “Policy comes from the people. It is not National Farmers Union down,” Sombke said. “If you have ideas of what you think needs to be done to change issues you see impacting your farm or ranch or rural community, talk to your county or district leaders so it is discussed during our State Policy Meeting.”

2023 State Policy Meeting is July 20 at 9 a.m. Issues or concerns discussed during the State Policy Meeting are then voted on by members during South Dakota Farmers Union State Convention. Delegates elected during convention take these policy items to the National Convention.

“Our policy is only as good as the ideas brought forward by members who are willing to have their voice heard,” Wonnenberg said. “If we only have a handful participate, then we only have their perspective. We want our state’s policy to reflect issues across the

A Farmers Union member since the mid-1970s, as he reflects on the nature of grassroots policy, Sombke said taking a concern, developing policy and then advocating on behalf of this policy to enact real change in Pierre and Washington, D.C. takes time.

IMSET is an incentive-based, voluntary crop insurance plan to protect farmers against market lows by encouraging farmers to cut back on production by taking marginal acres out of production when commodity markets drop.

Basically, a farmer’s crop insurance guarantee would go up 2 percent for every 1 percent of land that farmer voluntarily enrolled in a soil enhancement management plan for that growing season.

“The idea of COOL (country-of-origin labeling) got its start during a State Policy Meeting decades ago. At first, most new ideas or policy solutions get push back. COOL took time, but when it was part of national law, livestock producers felt the impact,” Sombke said. “MCOOL remains part of our policy, and it looks like we may see a return of it in the upcoming Farm Bill.”

Although SDFU State Policy Meeting is a few months away, Sombke encourages members to consider the issues their family farm or ranch faces, as well as potential solutions. Save the date for the July 20 Policy Meeting where the issues can be further discussed and potentially first steps can be taken to draft policy to be voted on during the 2023 State Convention.

If you have questions, reach out to your county or district leaders or call the State Office and visit with Karla Hofhenke, SDFU Executive Director, 605-554-3028. Also, reach out to Hofhenke if you would like a paper copy of the policy book mailed or emailed to you ahead of the Policy Meeting. ■ By Lura

Roti for SDFU

Melissa Wonnenberg

Hank Wonnenberg (center) is Chair of SDFU Policy Committee

Members vote on policy developed during the July Policy Meeting. During state convention, delegates take approved policy to NFU Convention.

“Our policy is only as good as the ideas brought forward by members who are willing to have their voice heard.”

– Hank Wonnenberg, State Policy Committee Chair

Farmers Union Camp Teaches Youth About Farm Life & The Cooperative Way

It’s Camp Season! And as Clark farmer Gail Temple helps prepare for Clark County Camp she reflects on the summers of her childhood and says Farmers Union Camp was always a highlight.

“It was always nice to get away from home and meet other kids from across the state and build friendships – Farmers Union Camp is where I made lifelong friends,” explained Temple, who grew up on her parents’ farm 20 miles from where she and her husband, Brad, farm today.

When Temple’s own children were old enough, she made sure they had an opportunity to attend Farmers Union Camp. “I always had a positive experience when I went to camp, so I wanted my kids to have that too. And they did,” said Temple, whose children are now young professionals.

In addition to friendships and fun summer memories, Temple explained that Farmers

Union Camp is also where she gained a lifelong skill that has served her well.

“It’s where farm kids learn how to advocate for themselves and their family’s business,” said Temple, who serves as District 3 Board Member for South Dakota Farmers Union and is the Clerk and Treasurer of Darlington Township Board.

Temple also serves as Clark County Farmers Union Education Director. She says this is one way she can give back.

“Farmers Union Camp is among the only camping programs that is focused on farm life and the cooperative way. It plays an important role in our rural state,” Temple said.

Key to advocacy is understating the value of work farm and ranch families do, explained Samantha Olson, SDFU Education Specialist. “When the next generation of South Dakota farmers and ranchers attend camp, they have

the opportunity to dive into what they are excited about back home and learn about why what their parents and family does on their farm or ranch is so important,” Olson said.

Olson explained that even though South Dakota is rural, many farm students attend school where they are the minority. And growing up outside of Aberdeen, she understands what that is like.

“I was in 4-H and FFA, but most of the kids I went to school with did not know what that meant or what a farmer does on the farm,” Olson said. “Through fun activities, we want to make sure that all youth who attend Farmers Union Camp – whether they live on a farm or not – clearly understand the impact of cooperatives and family farms and ranches have on our communities and state.” ■

By Lura Roti for SDFU

JUNE

Union Farmer

2023 Camp Dates

COUNTY/DISTRICT

Faulk County .................................

Haakon/Jackson County ................

Hanson County .............................

Clark County

Yankton County

Jerauld/Buffalo County

Hutchinson County

Charles Mix County

State Sr. Camp

Corson County

Bon Homme County

Kingsbury County

Lyman County

Tripp County

Minnehaha County

Beadle County ..............................

Marshall County............................

Brown County ...............................

Spink County ................................

Davison County .............................

Meade/Pennington County ...........

Harding County

Perkins County Camp

Brule County

McCook County

Clay/Lincoln County

Gregory County

State Jr. Camp

May 17 ................ Faulkton

May 24 ................ Philip

May 31 ................ Hanson

June 1 Clark

June 2 Yankton

June 5 Wessington Springs

June 7 Tripp

June 8 Geddes

June 11-16 Storm Mountain

June 19 McIntosh

June 21 Tyndall

June 22 DeSmet

June 26 Reliance

June 27 Colome

June 28 Hartford

June 29 ............... Huron

July 6 .................. Britton

July 7 .................. Aberdeen

July 10 ................. Frankfort

July 11 ................. Mitchell

July 12 ................. Union Center

July 13 Buffalo

July 14 Bison

July 17 Kimball

July 18 Salem

July 19 Lennox

July 20 Gregory

July 23-26 Huron

Around the State with Farmers Union

South Dakota Farmers Union members and staff are making a difference in rural communities across South Dakota.

Wanda Artz receives 40-Year Education Leader Award as Farmers Union Education Leader

Thank you for your years of service to South Dakota Farmers Union Educational Programming! Farmers Union 40-year Education Leader award presented by Scott Kolousek, District 2 President, to Wanda Artz, Minnehaha County Education Director, during the District 2 meeting held in Mitchell on March 23.

FARM SAFETY TRAILER

Colton 4-H Safety Day

Faulkton Colony

Lennox School Safety Day

Union Farmer

FFA Chapters Qualify for Farm Safety Quiz Bowl Championships

“Farm safety is a focus of all our youth educational programming because so many South Dakota youth either live on a farm, work on a farm or enjoy time on friend’s farms.”

– Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union

Four FFA chapters qualified for the Farmers Union Farm Safety Quiz Bowl Championships during the 2023 State FFA Convention. The qualifying FFA chapters are Gettysburg, Selby Area, Platte-Geddes and Wolsey-Wessington.

The four teams qualified to compete in the Quiz Bowl Championships held during Farmers Union Day at the South Dakota State Fair, Sept. 2. The state’s largest agricultural organization hosts this competition annually to encourage farm safety.

“Farm safety is a focus of all our youth educational programming because so many South Dakota youth either live on a farm, work on a farm or enjoy time on friends’ farms,” explained Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union. “Farms and ranches are some of the best places to raise children, but they are also work zones where accidents can and do happen.”

Gettysburg FFA Adviser Mercedes Lemke agrees.

“In rural South Dakota, even town kids come in contact with tractors, trailers, grain bins and livestock. This contest is a great way

to get students to think about safety,” Lemke said.

Cayla Graves, Platte-Geddes FFA Adviser, added that she appreciates the contest because it motivates students to engage with this serious topic in a way that is fun. “Kids like competition and they like a challenge,” Graves said. “If I just assign a reading about PTO or grain bin safety, the likelihood that the students will remember what they read is not as great as if they have to think about the answer in a quiz bowl.”

Platte-Geddes FFA Chapter President Brooklyn Nepodal agrees. “The contest is a fun way to incorporate farm safety. We were all focused and ready to answer questions,” said Nepodal, who lives on her family’s farm northwest of Platte. “Farm safety is extremely important. My grandpa actually gives us demonstrations on how to be safe around our family farm.”

A senior with plans to pursue a degree in pharmacy at South Dakota State University, Nepodal said she appreciates the hands-on learning aspect of Farmers Union Farm Safety Quiz Bowl and other opportunities FFA has

provided to her over the years.

“FFA has completely changed my life,” Nepodal said. “It has given me the opportunity to be a leader and work on my public speaking skills. And I am going to be a pharmacist because my FFA adviser encouraged me to look into it.”

Over the next few months, Nepodal said she and her teammates plan on making some time to study farm safety so they are prepared for the State Fair Championship. The winning team receives a cash prize.

In addition to Nepodal, her teammates include Harper Kirsch, Natalie Severson and Skylar Hanten; Gettysburg FFA team members are: Tanner Eide, Trace Genzler, Alex Tanner and Owen Rausch; Selby Area FFA team members are: Wayde Grage, Trevor Gill, Camden Hirsch and Keaton Fiedler; and Wolsey-Wessington FFA team members are: Kelsie Roberts, Ty Olson, Harley Roberts and Keaton Zomer.

To learn more about how South Dakota Farmers Union supports rural youth, visit www.sdfu.org. ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU

Colome farmer and Farmers Union member,Joel Keierleber (front right) valued the opportunity to visit with District 15 Representative Linda Duba (front left) and other legislators.

Gettysburg

Selby Area

Platte-Geddes

Wolsey-Wessington

people. When we met with the Department of Justice, they were eager to talk with us because they said they need to know what is happening in the countryside,” Perrion explained. “They are here in D.C. doing their job, but they are not here in the country. They are not seeing what we are dealing with. They need to hear our story and our side of what is actually happening so they can do what needs to be done for change.”

Like everyone participating in this Fly-In, Perrion and his wife, Sarah, left a calving cow herd under the watchful eye of Lance’s parents while they spent these three days advocating.

In addition to MCOOL, the Perrions joined the other South Dakota Farmers Union members to ask for continued support for higher ethanol blends and crop and livestock protection programs in the 2023 Farm Bill.

“Cleaning up our air and higher ethanol blends not only increase our use of renewable fuels, but ethanol is a clean-burning fuel that keeps carcinogens out of our air,” Sombke said.

During the Fly-In, farmers and ranchers also met with Department of Justice officials to discuss progress on anti-trust oversight of packers.

The group also met with Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux; Risk Management’s Marcia Bunger; South Dakota Sen. Mike Rounds and Montana Sen. Jon Tester.

“Sens. Rounds and Tester have done so much good for us already working together and getting things done,” Sombke said. “I believe Rounds and Tester are the reason we now have the USDA proposed ruling.”

To learn more about how South Dakota Farmers Union supports family farmers and ranchers through grassroots policy, visit www.sdfu. org ■ By Lura Roti for SDFU

“We need to get to congressional leaders and let them know what we want in the Farm Bill. If we don’t, then someone else will and they will tell our story for us.”

– David Reis, Reliance rancher

“In the past, I have felt like some of what we were saying was falling on deaf ears. Today, I feel like we are being listened to.”

– Oren Lesmeister, Parade rancher and District 28-A Representative

Lance Perrion shares during a meeting SDFU members had with the Department of Justice to discuss packer challenges.

Union Farmer

NFU President Rob Larew Highlights Farm Bill Priorities in Senate Ag Hearing

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew appeared before the United States Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Commodities, Risk Management and Trade for a hearing titled “Industry Perspectives on Risk Management and Access to Credit.”

In his testimony, Larew highlighted Farmers Union priorities for the 2023 Farm Bill, including a strong safety net, along with fairer and more competitive markets for farmers and ranchers.

Appearing before the Committee, Larew said, “We can all work together to ensure that the next farm bill is as strong as it can be through sound crop insurance and commodity programs. I also want to emphasize the importance of diversified income streams and opportunities, as well as the need for fair and competitive markets.”

Through a grassroots policy development process, delegates at the 2023 NFU convention adopted policy on a wide range of topics and identified three special orders of business: “Family Farming and the 2023 Farm Bill,”

“Family Farming and Dairy Policy Reform” and “Fairness for Farmers.” Drawn from these priorities, NFU’s policy views on the next farm bill center on enacting an effective farm safety net, bolstering diverse income streams for family farmers and ranchers and our communities, and ensuring a competitive and resilient food system.

In closing, Larew added, “We know that a farm bill coalition gets stronger by bringing in allies and supporters, and that a farm bill coalition becomes weaker when it is divided. I want to reiterate our willingness to work with other farmers and ranchers, with our rural and urban neighbors, and with groups who want to ensure that the farm bill includes strong policy – not only on the farm safety net, but also for nutrition, energy, forestry, research and more. I look forward to working with you to address these issues. Thank you for the opportunity to testify.” ■ Courtesy of NFU

Colorado Right to Repair Law a Win for Farmers Across the Country

After months of work from National Farmers Union (NFU), Rocky Mountain Farmers Union (RMFU), PIRG, and Right to Repair advocates around the country, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed into law the Consumer Right to Repair Agricultural Equipment Act (HB 23-1011). This law will give farmers and ranchers in the state of Colorado the ability to repair their own equipment.

“This is a huge win for farmers and ranchers in Colorado and across the country,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “NFU has been pushing on Right to Repair issues for years and seeing a bill like this cross the finish line is a testament to the persistence of our members and the need for this issue to be addressed nationally.”

Passage of HB 23-1011 makes Colorado the first state to pass an agricultural right to repair bill into law. The bill will serve as a model for legislation in other states and at the federal level as elected officials seek to codify the Right to Repair.

Major farm equipment manufacturers have been refusing to make the software tools necessary to repair modern tractors, combines, and other farm equipment fully available to farmers and independent mechanics. This leaves farmers no choice but to take their broken equipment to licensed dealerships, which has led to repair delays and inflated repair costs.

Right to Repair is a key issue in NFU’s Fairness for Farmers campaign, which aims to build fairer and more competitive agricultural markets and to address the monopoly crisis in agriculture.

NFU President Rob Larew added, “Farmers Union members have spoken out time and again that the lack of repair options is hurting their bottom line. I want to thank Rocky Mountain Farmers Union and PIRG for their strong partnership to secure the Right to Repair in Colorado.”

Passage of HB 23-1011 marks the beginning of ensuring farmers’ fair and affordable repair access. NFU will continue to fight alongside partners and advocates to secure the Right to Repair for all consumers. ■ Courtesy of NFU

Big Oil Has New Focus on Higher Blends of Renewable Fuels – Experts Say Ethanol Industry Should Too

Recent announcements by Chevron and Exxon demonstrate Big Oil is planning to go big when it comes to blending renewable fuel with traditional petroleum products. In response to the announcements, two South Dakota ethanol experts ask: why is the ethanol industry still focused on E15?

“E30 Challenge has been ongoing since May 2016 and NE South Dakota has sold over 10 million gallons since then. At a 20 mpg rate that is 200 million trouble free miles. We have not collected specific data as the article suggests but we have not heard about any engine issues,” said Jim Seurer, Chief Executive Officer for Glacial Lakes Energy.

Headquartered in Watertown, South Dakota, Glacial Lakes Energy has focused on promoting fuels that include 30 percent corn-based ethanol for decades. The mostly farmer-owned entity has compiled millions of miles of data over several years from nonflexfuel vehicles using E30. Results show the high-octane, low-carbon fuel works yearround. In 2021, the University of Nebraska released a report which corroborated the findings.

“I don’t want the ethanol world to miss the boat here. It’s time we all embrace higher ethanol blends – and maintain our U.S.-based renewable fuels market before foreign-owned entities take it over.”

– Doug

Since day one, South Dakota’s largest agriculture organization, South Dakota Farmers Union, has served as a dedicated partner in the effort to advocate for E30.

“E30 checks all the boxes,” said Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union. “It provides drivers with a high-octane fuel that is renewable, has a low-carbon footprint and does not pollute our air with cancer-causing chemicals. As for farmers? Farmers created the ethanol industry. Farmers saw corn-based ethanol as an opportunity for farmers and an opportunity for our country to have a secure, U.S.-based renewable fuel supply.”

Thirty years after the ethanol industry began providing drivers with renewable fuel blends, E15 fuel has yet to be approved by the EPA for year-round driving. And while many ethanol manufacturers and industry groups are still working to get E15 approved, Sombke and Seurer say if Big Oil is promoting higher blends of renewable fuels, ethanol advocates should as well.

“Now that Big Oil is doing this, it says the barriers are being knocked down because they are recognizing electric vehicles as a

legitimate threat,” Seurer said. “Because of the low-carbon and lower emissions footprint benefits renewable fuels provide, Big Oil knows they need to get on board with higher blends.”

Sombke adds.

“I don’t want the ethanol world to miss the boat here,” Sombke said. “It’s time we all embrace higher ethanol blends – and maintain our U.S.-based renewable fuels market before foreign-owned entities take it over.” ■

Sombke, SDFU President

Union Farmer

Fresh off our 121st Anniversary Convention in San Francisco, NFU returned to Washington with a fresh policy book and a slate of special orders to champion. This year, the appropriations timeline has tightened considerably, as pressure builds on Capitol Hill for spending cuts amidst divided government and the upcoming budgetary and farm bill deadlines. With this in mind, NFU has finalized and begun advocating for its Farm Bill and appropriations priorities, as we hope to continue delivering results for family farmers and ranchers.

NFU SUBMITS FY24 APPROPRIATIONS PRIORITIES

In late March and early April, NFU submitted testimony on its Fiscal Year 2024 (FY 2024) appropriations priorities to the agriculture subcommittees of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees.

Highlights include:

• Increased funding for Packers & Stockyards Act (P&S Act) enforcement from $30 million in FY23 to $35 million in FY 2024, and opposition to efforts to interfere with USDA’s rulemaking authority and ongoing P&S Act rulemaking.

• Strong funding for the Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) to build fairer and more competitive markets, including through the ongoing “Product of USA” labeling rulemaking, and funding for reductions in overtime and holiday inspection fees for small and very small establishments.

• No less than $1.2 million for Conservation Operations for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to ensure additional resources for Conservation Technical Assistance (CTA), including $30 million for the Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative (GLCI) to ensure specialized technical assistance funding to support pasture and grazing management.

• Increased funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to $12 million, up from the current level of $10 million.

• No less than $15 million for grants through the Rural Cooperative Development Grant (RCDG) program for Cooperative Development Centers.

• Full funding for the ReConnect Loan and Grant Program for rural broadband.

• Ongoing support from USDA and FDA for outreach, education, and technical assistance to small- and mid-sized, beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and processors to help them comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

On March 9, President Joe Biden submitted his FY 2024 budget request to Congress. The budget includes proposed changes to both mandatory spending levels (which are dictated by laws such as the farm bill and others), as well as changes in discretionary funding levels determined through

annual appropriations. Under Biden’s proposal, discretionary funding for USDA would rise approximately 14 percent under the White House budget to about $30 billion in FY24.

Additionally, NFU was among the signers of a letter to the leadership of the House and Senate Budget Committees – which also play a key role in the annual budget and appropriations processes. The letter asks the budget committees to provide the agriculture committees with “sufficient budgetary resources to write a new bipartisan, multi-year, comprehensive and meaningful” farm bill.

USDA ANNOUNCEMENTS: “PRODUCT OF USA” LABELING, MEAT AND POULTRY PROCESSING

Over the past month, USDA made a string of announcements advancing the Biden-Harris administration’s action plan for a fairer, more competitive, and more resilient meat and poultry supply chain, as well as the efforts at USDA to boost competition and expand domestic production in the fertilizer industry.

Under a proposed rule issued by USDA on March 6, the voluntary “Product of USA” label will now require all steps in the production chain occur in the U.S. in order for a meat or egg product to bear the label. Secretary Tom Vilsack announced this rule while speaking at NFU’s national convention in San Francisco.

The current rules for the label allow meat from animals that spent some of their lifespan outside of the U.S. to be labeled as “Product of USA,” which runs counter to consumer expectations from such a label. While this new rule is a not a replacement for mandatory country-of-origin labeling, it is a major step in the right direction. NFU continues to advocate for mandatory COOL legislation, like the American Beef Labeling Act, to provide consumers with the information they seek about their food and the opportunity to American farmers and ranchers to convey that information clearly, accurately and consistently.

USDA also announced nearly $200 million in investments to increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity. The investments were announced as part of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) and the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program (MPILP). The programs are aimed at helping processors increase capacity and finance independent processing startups. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) also announced investments into meat and poultry processing research, focused on developing and deploying emerging technologies and making applied research more accessible to independent producers, cooperatives and worker associations.

As part of USDA’s Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP), USDA announced a $29 million investment to help increase production of American-made fertilizer, as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to spur competition, provide

U.S. farmers with more choices and fairer prices, and reduce dependence on foreign fertilizer sources, such as Russia and Belarus.

In May 2022, amidst robust demand, Biden directed USDA to increase the program from $250 million to $500 million. USDA received nearly $3 billion in applications for crop years 2023 and 2024. As fertilizer prices have skyrocketed due to a lack of competition in the industry and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the FPEP program will be critical to ensuring the long-term availability of American-made fertilizer for farmers.

YEAR-ROUND E15; LOW-CARBON, HIGH-OCTANE FUELS

Throughout March, there have been several developments in Congress and from the Biden administration that will have major implications for the production of biofuels in the years ahead.

On March 1, the EPA approved petitions from eight states to allow for year-round sales of E15, starting in 2024. The proposal covers petitions from Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. NFU has urged the Biden administration to allow E15 usage for the upcoming summer driving season, as was done last year. NFU continues to advocate for higher blends, such as E30, for greater reductions in air pollutants while increasing octane.

Over on Capitol Hill, two key pieces of legislation have been reintroduced in the 118th Congress. On March 14, Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023. This legislation will enable the year-round, nationwide sale of E15 and permanently extend the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) volatility waiver to ethanol blends above 10 percent, providing nationwide uniformity across U.S. fuel markets. Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01) are leading companion legislation in the House. NFU endorsed this legislation in the 117th Congress and is pleased with its quick reintroduction.

On March 22, Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) announced the reintroduction of the Next Generation Fuels Act, with Rep. Miller-Meeks sponsoring the House companion. This legislation establishes a minimum research octane number (RON) standard of 98 for gasoline, requires the added octane value to reduce carbon emissions by at least 40 percent compared to regular gasoline and incentivizes vehicle technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase fuel economy.

NFU will pursue the passage of both bills this Congress. NFU supports efforts to expand the production and sale of E15, while noting use of higher-level blends of ethanol, like E30, would add additional benefits to the economy, the environment and America’s farmers. ■ Current as of April 17, 2023

Rob Larew

National Farmers Union President

Union Farmer

From the President.... Summit Carbon Solutions is No Friend to Farmers

Summit Carbon Solutions has violated farmers’ landowner rights. The company attempting to build a CO2 pipeline across the state is suing more than 80 South Dakota farmers who do not want the company and its pipeline on their land.

South Dakota Farmers Union members addressed the importance of landowner rights decades ago in their policy. It still stands as a major issue for today’s members. Our policy strongly supports farmers’ control and use of their own land. News of Summit Carbon Solutions suing 80 South Dakota farmers claiming eminent domain with more to come strikes a nerve at South Dakota Farmers Union.

During the 2023 Legislative Session, Farmers Union joined with others to support HB1133. This is a House Bill which would have protected landowners from Summit Carbon Solutions. Unfortunately, the majority of state legislators did not support landowners. The bill failed.

Once again, South Dakota Farmers Union calls on state legislators and our congressional leaders to not allow misuse of eminent domain laws. No private company should be allowed to rob family farmers of their land rights. If this is allowed what is next?

Summit Carbon Solutions has shown its true colors and it is no friend to farmers or other landowners - period.

Summit Carbon Solutions is a privately held company with millions to lose if they are not able to complete their plans for this CO2 pipeline. They claim eminent domain with the excuse that this pipeline will benefit the public.

The facts are Summit Carbon Solutions in many cases has not dealt fairly in valuing

the land or the farmers on an individual case by case basis. Nor have they been up front with them when discussing specifics of safety.

Pipelines can and do leak. And because the CO2 is converted to a liquid when it is pumped into the pipeline, if it springs a leak, the scary fact is, it could explode.

Experts say a CO2 gas explosion would result in death of any human, livestock or wildlife in the vicinity of the pipeline.

As the state’s largest agriculture organization, South Dakota Farmers Union wants to let family farmers and ranchers know South Dakota Farmers Union is on your side. Family farmers and ranchers, we have your back!

To help preserve landowner’s rights, please visit this website and sign this petition: https://sdpropertyrights.com/

Sincerely,

Doug Sombke, President South Dakota Farmers Union

Congressional Leaders Contact information:

Rep. Dusty Johnson 202-225-2801 / 855-225-2801 reid.rasmussen@mail.house.gov

Sen. Mike Rounds Michael Brooks – 202-570-1558 Michael_Brooks@Rounds.Senate.gov

Sen. John Thune 202-224-2321 / 866-850-3855 ryan_donnelly@thune.senate.gov

South Dakota Union Farmer, ISSN 0745-8797, publishes seven times per calendar year, with issues printed in January/February, March/April, May, June/July, August, September/October and November. Periodical postage paid at Madison, S.D.

Karla Hofhenke, Publisher Lura Roti, Editor Wendy Sweeter, Copy Editor Diane Martinson, Layout & Design

All information for publication must be submitted by the 15th of the month. You may submit items to address below or email items to: sdfu@sdfu.org

POSTMASTER: Address changes to: SDFU, PO Box 1388, Huron, S.D. 57350-1388

Contact SDFU • 605-554-3028 1410 Dakota Avenue South, PO Box 1388, Huron, SD 57350 www.sdfu.org sdfu@sdfu.org

Doug Sombke ext. 1240 President

Groton Direct Line 605-554-3027

Karla Hofhenke ext. 1140

Executive Director Huron

Direct Line 605-554-3028

Rocky Forman. ext. 1170

Member Services Coordinator Huron Direct Line 605-554-3025

Kelli Peterson ext. 1160

Administrative Assistant Huron Direct Line 605-554-3023

Doug Bruckner ext. 1180 Controller

Wessington Springs Direct Line 605-554-3026

Samantha Olson ....... ext. 1250

Education Specialist Mitchell Direct Line 605-554-3022

Luke Reindl ext. 1220

Comm. & Policy Specialist Wessington Springs Direct Line 605-554-3024

SDFU Board of Directors

Doug Sombke.........President Groton

Wayne Soren Vice President

Lake Preston

Larry Birgen District I

Beresford

Scott Kolousek District II

Wessington Springs

Gail Temple District III

Clark

David Reis District IV

Oacoma

Dallis Basel District V

Union Center

Oren Lesmeister District VI

Parade

Chad Johnson District VII Groton

Contact NFU National Farmers Union 20 F Street NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001

Rob Larew, President ~ Jeff Kippley, Vice President

Darin Von Ruden, Secretary ~ Doug Sombke, Treasurer 202.554.1600 www.nfu.org

Doug Sombke, SDFU President

TThe reason Grant Sjaarda left car sales to become an insurance agent says a lot about his work ethic. The work was no longer challenging.

“I had been in car sales for eight years, so I could do my job in my sleep without having to try very hard,” Sjaarda said. “It was definitely a leap of faith, upending my career and trying something new.”

But one month in, Sjaarda said he made the right decision. “It’s challenging. I find I learn something new every day. And it has been a long time since I’ve been excited to get up and come to work in the morning.”

Sjaarda adds that he has discovered a common thread between his work in car sales and his new career as an insurance agent – helping people find a product that is right for them. “There is not one car that everyone likes and in insurance there is not a one-size-fits-all product. So, it is my job to get to know the

Get to Know Farmers Union Insurance Agent: Grant Sjaarda

customer and understand their needs so I can help them find the product or products that are right for them,” Sjaarda said. “You know, insurance is a product we all hope we never, ever have to use, but it is important. I always joke that I don’t plan on dying next week, but I still have life insurance.”

In addition to researching insurance products and gaining an understanding of the industry as a whole, Sjaarda has enjoyed getting to know the Farmers Union Insurance customers he is now serving. Customer outreach is another difference he appreciates in this new career as an insurance agent.

“In car sales, I would wait by the door for customers to walk in. As a new insurance agent, I am reaching out and introducing myself, and getting to know the customers I now get to serve. I want to make sure they know I am more than a name on a letter and I am not a person at a call center several states away. I am a real human. I live in Sioux Falls, and I care about helping to make sure they have the right risk management products.”

When Sjaarda is not working as an insurance agent, he and his wife, Stephanie, keep busy with their sons: Mason, 10, Gauge, 8, and Austin, 6. The family enjoys indoor rock climbing and outdoor camping. ■

THAN

As a member of the 2023 Billie Sutton Leadership Institute, I wanted to thank you for your support of the program. Your contribution is helping me to develop a project preserving South Dakota’s history and enrich my contributions to the state. Thank you for your contribution.

Dr Lindsey Peterson

***

K YOU [ DEPARTED \

Thank you for helping make the 2023 show a success. See you next year!

Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo ***

Thank you for your partnership on the Rural POWER program! Our first event was a success with your support!

Billie Sutton Leadership Institute

4 Ways to Connect With Us!

SOUTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

mail

Darlene F. Malone of Lake Preston, passed away April 15, 2023. Darlene is survived by her husband, Bernard; her children, Lori Malone-Hansen and Lisa Malone.

FARMERS UNION SIGNS AVAILABLE

Show your Farmers Union spirit with a special Farmers Union sign. Available for a limited time, the sign makes a fun addition to the farm driveway, the side of a barn or even a statement piece in the house.

The cost per sign is $10 or free with a fiveyear or greater membership to Farmers Union. To get yours today, contact Membership Specialist Kelli Peterson at 605-352-6761 ext 116 or at kpeterson@sdfu.org.

COOK’S CORNER

Lazy Dazy Supper

2 ½ lb. hamburger

¼ onion, diced

1 c. rice, uncooked

1 med. head cabbage, cut up

ORDER YOUR OWN COPY OF THE FARMERS UNION CENTENNIAL COOKBOOK

Cookbooks are $10 plus tax and shipping. Contact Kelli Peterson 605-352-6761, ext 116, to place your order today!

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SDFU CLIP AND SAVE CALENDAR

Lynn Frey Lemmon S.D. Lifetime Member

1 can tomato soup

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 can water

Brown hamburger and onion. Add uncooked rice. Layer cabbage, hamburger mixture in casserole. Mix soups and water; pour over all. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 1 hour.

Protecting What’s Important in Life

ABERDEEN J.R. Johnson 725-3003

ABERDEEN J.R. Johnson ............725-3003

ABERDEEN Cameron Lux 229-3945

ABERDEEN Cameron Lux ............229-3945

BISON Alan Voller 244-7431

BISON Alan Voller ................244-7431

BISON Karen Voller 244-7431

BISON Karen Voller ..............244-7431

BRITTON Tom Farber 448-5150

BRITTON Tom Farber ...............448-5150

BROOKINGS Gary Ray 692-6735

BROOKINGS Gary Ray ..................692-6735

BROOKINGS Matt Field 692-9224

BROOKINGS Beth Reams .............690-3018

BROOKINGS Heidi Fields 881-2830

BROOKINGS Heidi Fields ..............881-2830

BUFFALO Jenn Wickstrom 375-3311

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HURON Blaine Anderson 352-2130

GROTON J.R. Johnson ............397-8155

IRENE Brendon Hansen 263-2121

HURON Blaine Anderson .......352-2130

IRENE Brian Hansen 263-3342

IRENE Brendon Hansen ......263-2121

KADOKA Donna Enders 837-2144

IRENE Brian Hansen ...........263-3342

LEMMON Chris Goldsmith 374-3462

KADOKA Donna Enders...........837-2144

MARION Kevin Albrecht 941-0650

LEMMON Carrie Derschan........374-3462

MENNO Brendon Hansen 387-5555

LEMMON Chris Goldsmith ........374-3462

MITCHELL David Schelske 660-2743

MARION Kevin Albrecht ..........941-0650

MITCHELL Zach Horstman 840-0440

RAPID CITY Dan Lewis 342-3585

RAPID CITY Kasey Keller..............343-4213

RAPID CITY Jake Lewis 342-3585

RAPID CITY Dan Lewis.................342-3585

SIOUX FALLS Stacy Mongar 338-5302

SIOUX FALLS Jeff Nord ..................338-5302

SIOUX FALLS Grant Sjaarda 338-5302

SIOUX FALLS Stacy Mongar ...........338-5302

SISSETON Erica Steiner 698-7316

SISSETON Erica Steiner .............698-7316

SPEARFISH Scott Sabers 642-8870

SPEARFISH Scott Sabers .............642-8870

STURGIS Scott Sabers 347-4507

STURGIS Scott Sabers .............347-4507

WATERTOWN Todd Nichols 886-9683

WATERTOWN Todd Nichols ............886-9683

WEBSTER Debbie Baumgarn 345-2640

BUFFALO Jenn Wickstrom ........375-3311

CLARK Lon Reidburn 532-3299

CLARK Lon Reidburn ...........532-3299

DOLAND Mark Rozell 635-6511

DOLAND Mark Rozell ..............635-6511

FAULKTON Dawn Melius 598-6570

GROTON J.R. Johnson 397-8155

FAULKTON Dawn Melius.............598-6570

MENNO Brendon Hansen ......387-5555

MITCHELL Blake Guymon 996-7132

MITCHELL Ryan Leischner .........996-9651

PIEDMONT Ce Faulkner 737-0463

PIEDMONT Ce Faulkner ..............737-0463

PIERRE Andrew Mefferd 224-4123

PIERRE Andrew Mefferd ........224-4123

RAPID CITY Kasey Keller 343-4213

WEBSTER Debbie Baumgarn ....345-2640

WINNER Jeremy Clay 842-1556

YANKTON James Murphy 664-2121

WEBSTER Larry Baumgarn........345-2640

WINNER Jeremy Clay ..............842-1556

YANKTON James Murphy..........664-2121