The Land - March 31, 2023

“Since 1976, Where Farm and Family Meet”

© 2023

418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 • (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com • theland@TheLandOnline.com

March 31, 2023

Let the resurrection of Christ grant you peace and hope this Easter season.

The FFA of yesterday

The Land’s Laura Cole checks in on Minnesota’s 1997-98 State FFA officers to see what they’re doing today.

PAGE 2

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

FFA is more than farming 418 South Second St. Mankato, MN 56001 (800) 657-4665 Vol. XLVII ❖ No. 7 28 pages, 1 section plus supplements

www.TheLandOnline.com facebook.com/TheLandOnline twitter.com/TheLandOnline

Cover photo submitted

COLUMNS Opinion Farm and Food File Table Talk The Bookworm Sez From My Farmhouse Kitchen Healthcare Focus Calendar of Events Marketing Mielke Market Weekly Auctions/Classifieds Advertiser Listing Back Roads

2-3 3 4 4 5 6 6 18 19 23-27 27 28

STAFF

Publisher: Steve Jameson: sjameson@mankatofreepress.com General Manager: Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com Managing Editor: Paul Malchow: editor@TheLandOnline.com Staff Writer: Laura Cole: lcole@TheLandOnline.com Staff Writer Emeritus: Dick Hagen: rdhagen35@gmail.com Advertising Representatives: Dan McCargar: (507) 344-6379, dmccargar@thelandonline.com Deb Petterson: dpetterson@TheLandOnline.com Office/Advertising Assistants: Joan Compart: theland@TheLandOnline.com Lyuda Shevtsov: auctions@thelandonline.com For Customer Service Concerns: (507) 345-4523, (800) 657-4665, theland@TheLandOnline.com Fax: (507) 345-1027 For Editorial Concerns or Story Ideas: (507) 344-6342, (800) 657-4665, editor@TheLandOnline.com Because of the nature of articles appearing in The Land, product or business names may be included to provide clarity. This does not constitute an endorsement of any product or business. Opinions and viewpoints expressed in editorials or by news sources are not necessarily those of the management.

The Publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The Publisher’s liability for other errors or omissions in connection with an advertisement is strictly limited to publication of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the advertisement.

Classified Advertising: $21.99 for seven (7) lines for a private classified, each additional line is $1.40; $26.89 for business classifieds, each additional line is $1.40. Classified ads accepted by mail or by phone with VISA, MasterCard, Discover or American Express. Classified ads can also be sent by e-mail to theland@TheLandOnline.com. Mail classified ads to The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001. Please include credit card number, expiration date and your postal address with ads sent on either mail version. Classified ads may also be called into (800) 657-4665. Deadline for classified ads is 5 pm on the Friday prior to publication date, with holiday exceptions. Distributed to farmers in all Minnesota counties and northern Iowa, as well as on The Land’s website. Each classified ad is separately copyrighted by The Land. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

Subscription and Distribution: Free to farmers and agribusinesses in Minnesota and northern Iowa. $49 per year for non-farmers and people outside the service area. The Land (USPS 392470) Copyright © 2023 by The Free Press Media is published biweekly by The Free Press, 418 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727. Business and Editorial Offices: 418 S. 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727, Accounting and Circulation Offices: Steve Jameson, 418 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001-3727. Call (507) 345-4523 to subscribe. Periodicals postage paid at Mankato, MN. Postmaster and Change of Address: Send address changes to The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato MN 56001-3727 or e-mail to theland@ TheLandOnline.com.

When I was a kid, I mostly wanted to responsible for The Paw Print, our stube one of two things when I grew up: an dent body newspaper, as well as the archaeologist and a writer. The truer of yearbook. The writing I did in the dreams was to write; but a job title Journalism my senior year was the first I ending in “-ologist” sounded pretty imporhad ever shared. Without that nudge, it tant. Indiana Jones might have had never would have happened. something to do with it, too.

It’s nothing new, but still deserves to be Since I grew up with a typewriter and said: quality teachers are so, so impornot a computer, I had to turn to an actual tant. It’s imperative for kids to have LAND MINDS book to learn more about what the occuspace aside from the rest of their lives,

By Laura Cole pation would require. My neighborhood have new opportunities presented, be friend was set on being an architect, allowed to tiptoe or plunge into real and so we pulled out the “A” encyclopeworld scenarios, and to receive encourdia to find out what would be required agement along the way. of us in our future careers. We were both quickly A teacher’s approach will resonate differently with dismayed to learn she wouldn’t just be drawing pic- each student. No one’s a mind reader and no matter tures of buildings and I wouldn’t just be digging in how hard a teacher tries, they might not be able to dirt. I’m guessing our next actions were climbing on get the delivery right every time for every kid. But our bikes, riding to the nearby park, and forgetting kindness, encouragement, positivity, and presence about growing up. can fill the gaps. And when a connection is made, it As time went on, the archaeology thing faded, and has a lasting effect. my handwritten stories about finding hidden treaI recently had the pleasure of speaking with the sure were replaced by teenage angst poetry and way six Minnesota State FFA officers from 1997-98. too dramatic short stories, always tucked safely Within this issue, you’ll be able to read about their away.

FFA experiences and what they’re up to now.

It’s never just academics that’s going on in high My first conversation was with Jill Grams, who school. It’s also dealing with friends, non-friends, spoke so highly of her ag teacher/FFA advisor and once friends but no longer, relationships, break-ups, the encouragement he gave her. It was amazing to self-discovery. It can be a lot. I stayed in a dorm hear. My next talk was with Natasha Mortenson, Sunday night through Friday afternoon, so the act and she shared similar sentiments about her own of figuring life out often felt like a full-time spotag teacher being encouraging and someone she light situation. At my school, teachers could select looked up to. By the time I had finished the last from pre-written remarks to add to report cards. interview, I was sincerely impressed to have heard One of my more consistent comments received my such praise and admiration for the officers’ ag freshman and sophomore years was something teachers and mentors. It’s clear these teachers both along the lines of “more interested in her social life followed and taught the FFA motto of Learning to than academic learning.” I failed, among other Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to things, to see a problem.

Serve.

At the time, Mrs. Jaeger was the junior and senior FFA had not been offered at my high school and I literature teacher. Once I became an upperclassmen, didn’t grow up knowing much about the organizaher classes quickly became my favorite. She was tion. Learning that FFA is not only about farming calm, steady, reliable — not too affected by teenage left me feeling a bit like the Grinch realizing that antics. Every once in a while she’d make a joke or Christmas doesn’t just come from a store. Instilling laugh at one of ours. She had the gift of being able values, life lessons, and trust — along with providto establish and maintain order in a relaxed enviing occasions to maybe flounder but also succeed — ronment. Her husband was also a teacher at my are all so vital for youth. school and had very similar traits. But he taught Special thanks to the ag teachers of this state offimath, and so those 50 minutes just weren’t as close cer team: Mr. Yusten, Mr. Erickson, Mr. Larson, Mr. to my heart.

Swanson, Mr. Hermanson, Mr. Rambow, and Mr. Both Mr. and Mrs. Jaeger played a part in me Rick. gaining an improved outlook on education as well as To all of the teachers, mentors, and encouragers: becoming a little more well-balanced of an individuyour unending efforts are appreciated. Thank you! al. I’ve kept many of my papers from Mrs. Jaeger’s classes. One includes a note encouraging me to conLaura Cole is the staff writer of The Land. She sider joining her Journalism class. That class was may be reached at lcole@TheLandOnline.com. v

OPINION

THERE’S EVEN MORE ONLINE... @ TheLandOnline.com • “Calendar of Events” — Check out The Land’s complete events listing • “E-Edition” — Archives of past issues of The Land

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 3

Ag’s new normal includes trade deficits, not surpluses Nearly drowned out in all percent.” the farm group cheering Still, that same AFBF that U.S. ag exports hit a analysis showed “In 2022, record high $196 billion last U.S. exports remained conyear was the inarguable centrated in the top six fact that U.S. ag imports markets. Sixty-seven peralso hit a record-high, $199 cent of U.S. ag exports were billion — or $3 billion more to China ($38.2 billion), than ag exports.

FARM & FOOD FILE Mexico ($28.5 billion), That’s right, sports fans: Canada ($28.3 billion),

By Alan Guebert during its biggest ag export Japan ($14.6 billion), year ever — when the EU-27 ($12.3 billion) and value of American ag South Korea ($9.5 bilexports grew an astonlion).” ishing $19.5 billion, or 11 percent, over Like trade itself, however, those big 2021 — the value of U.S. ag imports players aren’t static. That’s especially grew by $28 billion, or 16 percent. true for China — our biggest, richest All that farm and food outflow and ag customer, suggests a recent article even more farm and food inflow is a by the Council on Foreign Relations. hallmark of ever-changing global marEven while “China ranks first globkets. Caught in that change is ally in producing cereals (such as America’s fading dominance of world corn, wheat, and rice), fruit, vegetaag markets — markets which yielded bles, meat, poultry, eggs, and fishery a $17 billion surplus as recently as products,” CFR explains, it will contin2017. ue to import ag commodities like soyNow, however, it’s ag trade deficits beans whose “cost to grow … in China and none are going away anytime is 1.3 times than it is in the United soon.

States, and the yield is 60 percent less.”

On Feb. 23, the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated the Fiscal Year Which is exactly what happened in 2023 U.S. ag trade deficit will balloon 2022. China’s imports of U.S. soybeans to a wide $14.5 billion as American ag were up 8 percent by volume last year; exports fall to $184.5 billion and ag but its corn import volumes dropped imports remain at $199 billion.

16 percent and wheat fell 13 percent.

If accurate (the trade numbers will That may become a trend, foresees be updated May 31), two eye-watering CFR, as China seeks “to diversify its facts leap out. First, FY 2023 will post import sources… In 2021, Brazil the largest ag trade deficit since at replaced the United States as China’s least 1959; and second, 2023’s forecast largest agricultural supplier, providing means U.S. ag will have run trade def- 20 percent of China’s agricultural icits in four of the last five years. imports.”

Few, if any, American farmers have Other observers agree. witnessed a similar run of export red In a cold-eyed analysis of recent ink. trade patterns between China and the Part of the U.S. shift to trade deficits United States, the Peterson Institute swings on 2022’s strong commodity for International Economics (Peterson) prices tied to both the Ukrainiansays the die was cast when “U.S. Russian war and global weather woes; exports to China … cratered during and the export slowdown those steep, President Donald Trump’s trade war volatile prices caused global buyers. of 2018-19” and now “are continuing to suffer.”

For example, notes the American Farm Bureau Federation in a recent Farmers and policy makers should Market Intel report, “(E)xport value take heed, because Peterson is not across all products [in 2022] increased some lily-livered, lefty anti-trade hotby 11 percent year-over-year, but house. It is, in fact, the direct opposite. export volume actually declined by 6 See GUEBERT, pg. 7

OPINION

Your farm, your legacy

Farming is a way of life and a family’s valuable legacy.

With a well-planned charitable gift of your farmland to the University of Minnesota, you can make a lasting difference for future generations. You may designate your gift to benefit any program, college, or campus you choose, to be used in a way that’s most meaningful to you.

Like each farm, each farm gift is unique. Contact the University of Minnesota Foundation planned giving staff to discuss your options.

612-624-3333 | 800-775-2187 plgiving@umn.edu

z.umn.edu/farmgift

PAGE 4

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

The road less traveled (unless you happen to live on one) You can always tell. to go to the gym when a kid spends a summer stacking square bales, building It’s either a road grime-colored vehicle strength and endurance. I have also or dress pants which have that tell-tale walked about a billion miles on our gravmark about calf-high that tattles on el roads — sometimes drowning in a someone whose path to church involved a cloud of road dust. I’m certain the medigravel road or two. cal community will someday be treating Whether or not you live on a gravel something called, “Walker’s Lung.” road, it’s hard to avoid them. But if you Farm fields are places where dreams do, you learn clotheslines are only useful TABLE TALK come true for young and old, and offer a on days when manure hauling is not on

By Karen Schwaller place for a farm mother to spend time the docket, or on days with gale-force with her children once they’re old enough winds which leave clothes dirtier than to help with the field work. It’s the only they were before they were washed. time she’ll see them — especially as teenagers and There is a lot that happens on gravel roads. They young adults. are places where kids grow up in lots of ways: drivMy sister and I developed a strong sister-bond on er’s education class for eight- and nine-year-olds; the gravel road by our house, as we would walk that driving that semi for the first time under Dad’s half-mile to the corner, then sit and throw rocks at a watchful eye; learning how to handle a loaded hayrack or water tank for the long haul; tractor and pole for target practice while we discussed the hot topics of the day at school. There was a creek and implement operating lessons; school bus pick-ups and drop-offs; and they even offer a walking trail for bridge not far from our driveway which also served as great entertainment for all of us kids in all four reasons of fitness, spiritual healing and escape. seasons.

Athletes are made in farm fields. There is no need

There was (and still is) the art of rock collecting which I learned from my grandmother who first introduced me to the word “interesting” as it pertained to rocks on our gravel road. I had never really noticed them before she helped us know that rocks are little chunks of art.

There are martial-art conquests with wasps in mailboxes that happen on gravel roads … some of the most entertaining dancing you’ll ever see. And gravel roads can be places of complete tranquility and a little slice of Americana — until the hogs get out.

When that happens, farm families understand Shakespeare’s winter of discontent.

Terrible things happen along gravel roads, too. A bus accident took the life of a 15-year-old young man near our childhood home — right after we had gotten off the bus after school. The gravel road taught me that day we don’t all get a chance to grow old.

They are farm-to-market roads and places which allow us to get to and from our fields and the elevaSee TABLE TALK, pg. 8

Three books offer different looks at World War II Dates and battles.

World War II books When you were in school, you thought that was all there was to history: dates by various authors and battles. So why not change your own c.2022, 2023, various publishers mind this spring with one of these great $28.00 - $32.50 new books about the hidden histories of various page counts World War II? By definition, a World War means that nearly the whole world was involved; but Imagine how the war would THE BOOKWORM in “Hitler’s Aristocrats” by Susan Ronald SEZ might’ve ended without every single (St. Martin’s Press, $32.50), you’ll read one of its Allies in control. In “The Nazi

By Terri Schlichenmeyer another part of the story not often preConspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill sented. Ronald pulls the covers back on Roosevelt, Stalin, and Churchill” by Brad the elite civilians, wealthy donors, royal influencers, Meltzer and Josh Mensch (Flatiron Books, $29.99), and non-military business leaders who quietly you’ll read about a chilling plan that, if it had come helped Hitler and the Nazis. But these behind-theto fruition, could have altered the world forever. screen forces, those friendly to the Fuhrer, came True story: when the Nazis learned Franklin from surprising places. Some of these names will Roosevelt was planning on a meeting to discuss the shock and surprise you, making this a book for War’s strategies with Churchill and Stalin in every World War II buff’s bookcase.

Tehran in 1943, Hitler’s men began to hatch a plan of their own. It involved not just one, but three assassinations they hoped would alter the course of the War. That might sound like the plot of a novel, but this tale is true and told only as Meltzer and Mensch can tell it. Yes, it’s a history book; but fans of fictional thrillers will eat this up.

• 6 Year • Lowest Rates And finally, a book begins before the War and then Warranty • Quality takes readers past it...

• Free Workmanship Estimates • Insured In “The Confidante” by Christopher C. Gorham (Citadel Press, $28.00), you’ll read about the life of a CALL Clint 507-528-2243 woman history has largely ignored. Her name was Specializing in applying ribbed steel to barns, Anna Marie Rosenberg and she was a PR person in garages and outbuildings.

C & C STEEL ROOFING

Manhattan in the Jazz Age when she became friends with Eleanor Roosevelt — who was not yet then a First Lady.

Mrs. Roosevelt later urged her husband, the President, to hire Rosenberg — and he did, which was a good call since she was the right person for the job of special envoy for FDR during World War II. After the War, Rosenberg continued to work in Washington and she held considerable power (though, officially, she couldn’t). She rubbed elbows with the famous and infamous. She had the ear of some very influential men in America over the course of decades.

Some of the issues at the heart of politics today were on Rosenberg’s mind and if you follow current events, then you need to know this book.

Not enough for you? Then you need to seek out your favorite bookseller or librarian, who is a topnotch ace at finding the right book for you. In the meantime, grab one of these books and make a date with your easy-chair.

The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old and never goes anywhere without a book. She lives in Wisconsin with three dogs and 10,000 books. v

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 5

Mules … and why I need four of them When my farmer and I one time, the state — which were discussing which liveis sometimes referred to as stock we wanted on the pasthe “Mother of the West” — ture, we did consider mules. was the largest mule-proPerhaps we were beginning ducing state in the union. to realize we have become It definitely was the like two old stubborn mules; birthplace for the or we are thinking it is time American/Missouri mule. to consider trading my bicyFROM MY The famous Santa Fe Trail cle for something that took FARMHOUSE also had its beginning at less exertion.

KITCHEN Franklin. It was started as For many reasons, mules a commercial trail.

By Renae B. are appealing. They have Vander Schaaf William Becknell, a tradproven useful on the farm, er and War of 1812 veteran, in the freighting decided to expand business and with his business with the U.S. Army. trade to Mexico. In Horses receive a September of 1821 great deal of glory (the same year (which is deserving); Missouri was but the mule also admitted to the has its place.

Union), he left his The parentage of home town of a mule would Franklin with a always be a quescaravan of freight tion I would fail to wagons loaded with answer correctly if cargo. Mules proit were on a test; vided the draft but a mule is a power. cross between a His destination Jack (a male donwas Santa Fe, key) and a mare which at the time (female horse). But was in Mexico. guess what? I Mexico had recently looked into two difgained its freedom ferent encyclopedias and the one from Spain. While under Spanish conreversed the parentage … so no wontrol, it had been a closed empire. Now der I am confused. the country was open to trade and The mule would know, as this cross anxious for it. produces a superior animal with great Several months later, after miles of intelligence. rough travel, Becknell’s caravan The mule was introduced to America arrived at Santa Fe on Nov. 16. The

by Stephen Cooper in 1823, according trip was successful and they were to the book “Saga of Old Western greatly encouraged by the people in Travel and Transport” by Wilbur Mexico to come again — which, of Hoffman. Mules had been used in Old course, Beckwell did. By listening to Mexico for a long time. others and trying new ways, he perfected the route for better travel.

He explains that Mr. Cooper had purchased 400 mules, jennets (a Freighting — despite the hardship female donkey) and Spanish jacks and danger — was appealing as it was while on a Santa Fe trading expedivery lucrative. Mules were well-suited tion. for this work. Cooper took the initiaCooper took these mules back to his tive and risk to bring breeding stock home near Franklin, Mo. He probably back to Missouri. raised a few eyebrows when these aniMules not only proved their usefulmals appeared on his farm. But when ness on the Sante Fe Trail, but also these jacks sired the first ‘Missouri during the California gold rush of Mules,’ and his neighbors saw the 1849. They brought supplies to remote practicality of these animals, they regions and packed out the diggings. soon began raising their own stock. At On one convoy, nearly 1,000 mules

were carrying $2,600,000 in gold.

There were 500 armed guards and homeward-bound miners on this trip.

What a picture that would make!

There are plenty of good reasons why mule trains are a symbol of the old west.

Probably the most famous mule train is the one still barely pictured on the Twenty Mule Train Borax box. The book gives an excellent description of the work and dangers of freighting Borax 164 miles through the desert where temperatures soared over 130 F in the shade (if there had been any shade on the Death Valley Trail).

The trail was appropriately named as nothing really grew there and watering spots were separated by 20 to even 60 miles of desert.

The wagons pulled by the 20-mule trains were huge. They would weigh 7,800 pounds empty and could carry 22,500 pounds of cargo. It’s no wonder it took a train of 20 mules to pull one wagon. A round trip was usually 20 days long.

They had to be quite self-sufficient.

The life-saving 1,000-gallon iron water tank was mounted to a standard wagon gear. On the trip to the Borax mines, the wagons carried hay and grain. These supplies were left out on

the desert spaced an average of 16 miles apart, which was considered a day’s journey.

This whole history is rather interesting — especially when you consider the proficiency of the teamster who managed the 20 mules with a jerk on the reins. The skill required to keep the train under control and take corners at the speed they travel is admirable and something to marvel about.

The pay was $120 per month for the muleskinner and $80 for the swamper.

This was thought to be good money — especially as there were no places to spend it while on the trail. In between trips, the crew were only given an afternoon off before embarking on the next trip for Borax.

Mules are very intelligent with an excellent memory. It’s rather important to have a patient, kind trainer — a worthy attribute for every livestock owner and parent.

What I especially liked about mules was that they require less forage than a horse and do not overeat. Perhaps that mule could teach me a thing or two.

I’m not making this next statement up. It can be found in the 1934 edition of “The World Book Encyclopedia.”

See FARMHOUSE KITCHEN, pg. 7

Join us for our 2023

Open House!

Keepers RV Since ‘63

Apri1 20-22

Thursday & Friday 8:00am - 8:00pm Saturday 9:00am - 4:00pm Door prizes, free refreshments from The Pelican food truck, and 10% off all store merchandise!

Arrive in a 60s-era car and receive a free gift! www.keepersrv.com Located off Hwy 22 22, South of Mankato

(507) 625-4647 625 4647

Check out the latest models!

Flagstaff E-Pro Cedar Creek Catalina NuCamp Little Guy The Black Hole

PAGE 6

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Rural doctor program students make small towns home Spring has technically been here for a ticipated. Two out of three of this group while. (It depends, of course, which defipractice medicine in Minnesota. Seventynition of spring one uses.) But it is now five percent are primary care physicians. beginning to feel like spring. In celebraForty percent practice in rural areas. tion of the positive, this month’s column That is a successful program. is about the University of Minnesota I had the pleasure of recently talking to Medical School’s work to train primary Dr. Adrianne Moen who practices in care physicians for Minnesota and particStaples, Minn. She personally participatularly for the non-metro parts of our ed in the RPAP program and now lives state.

HEALTHCARE and practices in Staples. The hospital FOCUS In 1971, the medical school launched a and clinic she works at currently host program to place third-year medical stuBy Mark Brakke two RPAP students each year. She recalls dents in rural communities for part of her rural healthcare experience as a stutheir training. The medical students live, work and dent as being very positive. study in these communities for nine months. The Another recent development from our University program is called the Rural Physician Associate Medical School will be very positive for rural Program (RPAP).

Minnesota. A new medical school campus will open Most of us recognize involvement in a community in St Cloud and have a class size of 80. is a positive experience. The medical students get to Currently, the Minneapolis campus has 175 stumeet patients, nurses, hospital and clinic staff, comdents per year and the Duluth campus has 65 stumunity members and local doctors. It is an opportudents per year. Fifty-five students at the Minnesota nity for those students to become enthusiastic about Mayo Medical School makes a total of 295 medical the option of practicing medicine in a non-metro students per year. Adding another 80 in St Cloud location. will be a 27 percent increase.

Since 1971, over 1,700 medical students have parThere is currently a shortage of primary care phy-

sicians in Minnesota and the United States, so this increase in physician supply is much needed. We can be thankful the University of Minnesota Medical School is responding to this need. It is worth mentioning the University of Minnesota Medical School’s program for training primary care physicians (family practice physicians, pediatricians, obstetrician/gynecologists, internists) is ranked as one of the best in the country.

Recalling that we live in a democracy and the government needs our input to make good decisions, consider contacting your Minnesota senator, representative and the governor and let them know you appreciate their commitment to making healthcare work in outstate Minnesota. Just as it is said it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to raise a doctor.

Best wishes to all of you for a fine spring.

Mark Brakke is a retired family practice physician.

He cared for patients in Coon Rapids, Minn. for 41 years during which time he was on the boards of directors of two health insurance companies. He currently is on the board of the educational non profit Health Care for All Minnesota (HCA-MN.org). v

Calendar of Events Visit www.TheLandOnline.com to view our complete calendar and enter your own events, or send an e-mail with your event’s details to editor@thelandonline.com.

April 1 — Gardening Education Day — Hutchinson, Minn. — The day will include guest speakers, vendors, a silent auction, door prizes, and access to horticultural resources. Contact the McLeod County Extension office at (320) 484-4302.

April 1 — Gardening in the Driftless — Houston, Minn. — The annual Spring Days event will include morning and afternoon keynote speakers as well as a variety of breakout sessions taught by local experts.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to visit vendor booths, bid on silent auction items and shop at the country store. Contact Houston County Extension at (507) 725-5807.

April 10 — Navigating Business Resources with the Help of Your Local Business Incubator — Online — Learn about how local business incubators can help your food business navigate business resources. Contact Jessica Jane Spayde at spayde@ wisc.edu.

April 11-13 — Dairy Calf & Heifer Association Annual Conference — Prior Lake, Minn. — The conference will include three speakers, Ross Bernstein, Dave Kuehnel, and Peggy Coffeen. There will also be a trade show with approximately 50 companies highlighting their calf and heifer products. Visit their website for more information at calfandheifer.org.

April 11-13 — PEAK 2023 — Minneapolis, Minn.

— Formerly called the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention, PEAK is the nation’s largest trade show and convention in North America focused exclusively on the business and food production of poultry. Contact Lara Durben at ldurben@midwestpoultry.com or (763) 284-6763.

April 12 — International Dairy Federation Webinar — Online — The IDF will offer a technical webinar to share some of the main takeaways of the recently published Global Marketing Trends report. Visit their website for more information at fil-idf.org.

April 12 — Women’s Ag Leadership Conference — Chaska, Minn. — The conference will begin with a welcome session, followed by roundtable discussions.

There will also be mini-sessions focused on current topics, two breakout sessions, and an optional historic Red Barn self-guided tour. Contact Doris Mold at doris@ sunriseag.net or (612) 414-7574.

April 13 — How to Bring Skilled Professionals to Your Farm Using the Visa Programs Webinar — Online — Miguel Rangel, DVM will discuss the process of using the U.S. visa programs to bring skilled professionals to U.S. dairy operations from foreign countries.

Information provided will include the application process, rights and responsibilities of employers and employees, and clarification of common misconceptions. Iowa Contact: Fred Hall, (712) 737-4230 or Minnesota Contact: Jim Salfer, (320) 203-6093.

April 14 — Things to Think about when Planning a Timber Sale — Online — Join University of Minnesota Extension foresters to discuss a key issue facing woodland owners in Minnesota. Contact Gary Wyatt at wyatt@umn.edu.

April 17 — Spring Gardening Seminar — Sauk Rapids, Minn. — This event will include horticulture topics, and is open to all gardening enthusiasts. The workshop will include two sessions: “Soil, starting from the ground up” and “Going ‘No-Till’ with your garden 2.0.” Visit http://z.umn.edu/SpringSeminar2023 for more information.

April 21 — Strategies to keep your woods healthy and resilient — Online — Join University of Minnesota Extension foresters to discuss a key issue facing woodland owners in Minnesota. Contact Gary Wyatt at wyatt@umn.edu.

April 28 — 2023 Participatory Science: Spotted Lanternfly, Mock Strawberry, Garlic Mustard Aphids — Online — Join University of Minnesota Extension foresters to discuss woodland topics.

Contact Gary Wyatt at wyatt@umn.edu.

April 29 — Minnesota River Valley Master Gardeners Spring Workshop — Mankato, Minn. — Sessions include Tips for Growing Tomatoes, Trees and Shrubs for a Changing Climate, and Discovering the Beauty of Usefulness of Native Plants. Contact U of M Extension Office for Blue Earth County at (507) 304-4325.

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 7

Stephen Cooper introduced mules to America FARMHOUSE KITCHEN, from pg. 5 “Mules inherit from their jack fathers the faculty of saving themselves when forced to work hard and for a long time and they are therefore less likely to suffer from overwork than horses.”

Hmm… Since I have a tendency to be timid, it’s nice that mules are generally smaller than horses — although they come in a variety of sizes. They will plod along at a steady, less fatiguing pace and can work in heat. To me that means when it is too hot to work, a trail ride on a mule would be the perfect way to spend a summer day.

We would have had to have a small pack of mules, as I am inclined to over-pack — even for an overnight trip. So by my estimate, we would need four mules. One for each of us to ride and two to carry my camping gear.

Cooper was on to something when he introduced the mule to America. Who knows? Maybe someday we will add mules to our farm. It would be rather

pleasant to hear the mules braying (which apparently also comes from the father). At this point, it is barely an idea. So my mule time is better spent listening to the stories of other people who know mules — such as this one from a friend. The true tale takes place in Wyoming.

Work was well underway at the Wheeler Ranch as Mr. Wheeler and his outfitters planned to guide another hunting expedition into the Teton Mountains.

Each planned hunt went deep into the wilderness into areas that were only accessible on foot or a pack train of horses or mules. On this particular trip, Wheeler was utilizing mules.

Mules can work quite well in rough terrain, as they are surefooted, tend to follow a leader and can carry a goodsized load, which comes in handy if the hunt is successful. The one drawback is that each mule usually has a contrary trait.

In the case of Sebastian (not the mule’s real name, but since this is

China has yet to follow through on agreed purchases GUEBERT, from pg. 3 One columnist called it the “locker room of Team Globalization and Free Trade cheering squad.”

But this cheerleader can find no good news in the trading relationship that, in 2020, signed a “Phase One” deal which committed China to purchase an additional $200 billion of U.S. goods and services. “In the end, China bought none of the extra $200 billion...”

As such, today’s facts and tomorrow’s forecasts suggest ag trade deficits — not surpluses — may be the new normal.

The Farm and Food File is published weekly through the United States and Canada. Past columns, events and contact information are posted at www. farmandfoodfile.com. v

Letters to the editor are always welcome.

Send your letters to: Editor, The Land, 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001 e-mail: editor@thelandonline.com All letters must be signed and accompanied by a phone number (not for publication) to verify authenticity.

based on a true story that was told me, it’s best to give the mule a different name. According to baby name books, Sebastian means ‘venerable’ or ‘honorable’. As you will see, the name fits.)

In the case of Sebastian, his peculiar trait was he liked to sit down once the pack was secure on his back.

One of the paying guests had brought with him a rare vintage of wine which had been processed at a vineyard in California. He was planning to share it with the others as they sat around the campfire at night discussing important matters. Now this just so happened to be in the pack that Sebastian was carrying.

Despite the many admonitions not to sit down, about 15 minutes after the pack was snugged up, wouldn’t

you know it? Sebastian decided it was time to rest his legs. In the stillness of the early morn, that moment when all is peaceful and calm, just before the sun breaks through the darkness, everyone heard the sound of glass breaking. Hence, in my opinion, Sebastian could be called the temperance mule.

By the way, “The Science of Animal Husbandry” by James Blakely and David H. Bade states the mule was first popularized by George Washington who had received a jack as a gift in 1787 as a gift of the king of Spain. In time, Mount Vernon had some top quality mules.

Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker.

Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v

PAGE 8

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Custom farm rate results released for Iowa HAMPTON, Iowa – In order to help producers and custom operators examine the custom farming service market, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach publishes the Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey.

This year’s survey, published in March, includes 94 responses and 2,621 custom rates for tasks related to tillage, planting and seeding, spraying, harvesting, farm labor and more. Additions to the survey for 2023 include ground (broadcast) spraying with a selfpropelled, tall-crop sprayer and liquid fertilizer high clearance application with drop hose and Y spray nozzle.

Most custom rates saw an increase of 10-15 percent. Custom planting ranges from $12.50 to $45 per acre, depending on the type of planter and setup.

Combining corn shows an average of $41.30 per acre and combining soybeans averages $39.90 per acre, an increase of 12.4 percent and 10.7 percent, respectively. Table 1 shows historical prices for select operations.

This year’s publication — as well as previous reports — can be found at https://www.extension. iastate.edu/agdm/crops/html/a3-10.html.

The survey may lag increases in diesel prices and other inputs that change more frequently. This means that for custom farming practices which involve these inputs, the cost may be even higher.

Table 1 — Average farm custom rates reported for Iowa Operation

1978

1988

1998

2008

2018

2021

2022

2023

Chisel plowing, per acre

$6.00

$8.40

$9.65

$13.70

$17.60

$17.50

$18.00

$19.75

Planting (no attachments), per acre

4.40

6.80

8.85

13.20

19.15

20.60

21.00

24.70

Spraying, per acre

2.40

3.50

4.00

5.60

6.60

6.55

6.75

7.00

Combining corn, per acre

16.20

22.00

23.40

28.10

34.80

35.10

36.75

41.30

Combining soybeans, per acre

14.00

20.60

22.55

27.10

34.00

34.20

36.05

39.90

Custom farming, corn, per acre

58.00

71.00

75.80

94.10

128.80

127.50

138.75

152.60

Custom farming, soybeans, per acre

50.00

65.00

70.65

83.00

117.10

115.60

125.65

139.65

Machinery operating wage, per hour

3.50

5.10

7.20

11.70

16.30

17.60

19.65

21.75

Source: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Iowa farm custom rate surveys, FM1698

The current survey assumed diesel prices would be $3.39 a gallon in 2023, based on forecasts from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The information in the survey is meant to be a starting point for farmers and agribusiness to engage in conversations and negotiations. The survey is not meant to set the rate for a particular practice or operator. This is an opinion survey and represents the responses of participants.

If you wish to join the survey list for 2024, email

Extension Economist Alejandro Plastina at plastina@iastate.edu, or Ann Johanns at aholste@iastate. edu.

This article was submitted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. v

Gravel road is the road home TABLE TALK, from pg. 4

Answers located in Classified Section

tors. They bring neighbors together for fun, help and in times of need. They can bring an ambulance and a fire truck, which also brings neighbors together ahead of that billowing cloud of gravel road dust.

They are places where farmers gather to discuss the day’s grain and livestock markets and weather, and where they rubberneck to evaluate someone else’s crops, compile and orate their commentary and analysis, and note that someone got a new tractor or truck … all while Mrs. Farmer wipes the drool which fell out while she napped during much of that process.

Gravel roads can become cow paths in the spring — necessitating four-wheel-drive or horse travel to get to work — and can be dangerously dry and dusty in the summer.

But mostly, a gravel road for many is the road home. When I left home, trips back would lead me over a hill, where I could finally see the white barn that told me I was home … something kids don’t always appreciate until they are grown.

They are the roads less traveled; but for many a farm family, gravel roads lead to the people they love the most — who often wear calf-high road grime on the backs of their pants.

That and … well, other things.

Karen Schwaller writes from her grain and livestock farm near Milford, Iowa. She can be reached at kschwaller@evertek.net. v

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 9

Rainfall monitoring network seeks volunteers The Minnesota State Climatology Office is looking for volunteer rainfall monitors for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). The network includes more than 20,000 volunteers nationwide who measure precipitation in their backyards using a standard 4-inch diameter rain gauge.

These rainfall monitoring activities are performed by individuals at home

who submit their reports online.

Climatologist Luigi Romolo said the data from backyard rain gauges are helpful and important in many ways.

“These volunteers help the DNR verify high rain and snow totals after big events, monitor drought and flooding, make our precipitation maps more accurate and provide needed guidance on Minnesota’s changing climate,” Romolo said. “This is also a great edu-

cational activity for families with kids and a rewarding hobby for anyone interested in weather or climate.”

Volunteers are particularly needed outside the immediate Twin Cities metro area. Volunteers receive training on how to observe weather trends and how to submit their precipitation and weather event reports. All training material is available online. Observers must purchase or provide a standard

4-inch-diameter rain gauge (available at discount through CoCoRaHS) and have internet access to submit reports.

To sign up or for more information, visit CoCoRaHS.org or contact Luigi Romolo at luigi.romolo@state.mn.us.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. v

Spring is ideal time for planting fruit trees in Iowa For those looking to grow and enjoy fruit from their backyard, spring is the ideal time to start. However, to ensure healthy growth and good yields, it is important to select fruit tree cultivars that will be successful in Iowa’s cold climate, and to plant them in a way that will set them up for a lifetime of enjoyment.

The first step in planting a new fruit tree is deciding what to plant. While apple trees are an excellent option that is well suited to Iowa’s frigid temperatures, Suzanne Slack, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach fruit crops specialist, also recommends tart cherry trees — especially the variety “Montmorency.” Some cultivars of sweet cherries can be successfully grown. However, it is best to purchase cultivars bred for colder climates, such as “North Star” and “Black Gold” to ensure adequate winter hardiness.

Plum and pear trees generally do well in Iowa also, but may experience some disease issues; so it is important to monitor them closely. For a less traditional option, Slack recommends the native paw-paw tree, which produces a small, green fruit with a sweet, bananalike flavor and is deer resistant.

An additional factor to consider when

selecting a fruit tree for your back yard is many fruit trees are self-incompatible, meaning they require a nearby pollination partner in order to produce fruit. Pawpaw, pear, apple, plum and most sweet cherry trees require a partner to produce fruit. However, apple trees can be cross-pollinated by nearby crabapple trees as well. Tart cherries are self-pollinated, and do not require a partner.

While some nurseries may claim to sell self-pollinating apple varieties, Slack warns these trees often produce lower-quality fruit — both in size and general taste — without a pollinizer partner.

When selecting a site for a fruit tree, one of the most important factors to consider is light availability. Fruit trees generally require full sun and will produce significantly less fruit when shaded out. They also prefer well-drained soil. As Slack explains, it is also important to plan for the tree’s mature size — especially when planting near homes, roads, neighboring trees and other obstacles.

Planting fruit trees too deep is one common mistake.

Most commercially-available fruit trees have been grafted on to a root-

Join Online!

Facebook.com/TheLandOnline Twitter.com/TheLandOnline Instagram@thelandmagazineonline

stock (a totally different tree) for benefits such as increased disease resistance, drought tolerance or size control.

Gardeners may see the graft union (where the fruit-producing upper portion of the tree and the beneficial rootstock are joined together) as undesirable, and attempt to bury it. However, this will cause the top portion of the graft to grow its own roots, completely overriding any benefits from the rootstock. This can cause trees to grow much larger than intended, or suffer decreased disease, pest or drought resistance.

Pruning is also an important part of caring for fruit trees, as sun exposure and air circulation are essential for fruit formation. Fruit trees require regular pruning — even in their first year. Late February is the perfect time to prune fruit trees. For more information on pruning, visit https://hortnews. extension.iastate.edu/your-completeguide-pruning-trees-and-shrubs.

For many fruit trees, obtaining edible

fruit is a bit of a waiting game. However, the length of time between planting and harvesting is largely dependent on the size of the tree. Some dwarf varieties may produce fruit in their first year after planting. However, Slack recommends removing the blooms from these trees before the fruit is formed in order to encourage the tree to invest in more shoots and leaves, which will be more beneficial long-term.

Most semi-dwarf varieties will produce edible fruit between 2 and 3 years of age, while full size rootstocks can require between 5 and 8 years to produce fruit.

For questions or more information, contact Suzanne Slack, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach fruit crops specialist. She can be reached at (515) 294-0035 or slacksuz@ iastate.edu This article was submitted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. v

PAGE 10

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Department of Agriculture updates noxious weed list The Minnesota Department of Agriculture added Tatarian maple (Acer tataricum) shall carry a label nine new weeds to the state’s Noxious Weed List on advising, “Tatarian maple should only be planted in Jan. 1. The Noxious Weed List places weeds into four areas where the seedlings will be controlled or eradicategories: Prohibited Eradicate, Prohibited Control, Restricted, and Specially Regulated. These categories define how the plants must be managed. Four weeds on the list also changed categories.

The MDA, with recommendations from the Noxious Weed Advisory Committee, updates the state’s Noxious Weed List every three years.

Plants are placed on the Noxious Weed List because they may be harmful to public health, the environment, Amur Cork Tree public roads, crops, livestock, or other Johnson Grass property. There are restrictions on the weed’s sale, transport, growth or spread.

Added to the Prohibited Eradicate category are Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense); Pale swallowwort (Cynanchum rossicum); and Red hailstone/ goldencreeper (Thladiantha dubia).

Newcomers in the Restricted category are Amur silvergrass (Miscanthus sacchariflorus); Lesser celandine (Ficaria verna); and Pale Swallow Wart Callery Pear Saltcedar (Tamarix ramoissima).

Three plants were added to the Specially Regulated category. Amur corktree (Phellodendron amurense) — only sales of named male cultivars are permitted. Sales of all other Phellodendron amurense are prohibited. All existing planted and escaped fruit producing trees must be controlled, by tree removal or other means, such that no seed is disseminated.

Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana) is in the process of a three-year produc- Red Hailstone Tatarian Maple tion phase-out period, after which sale of this species will be prohibited and the species will be designated as Restricted in 2026.

Amur Silvergrass

Lesser Celandine

cated by mowing or other means. Tatarian maple seed is wind dispersed, so trees should not be planted closer than 100 yards from natural areas.”

The four species changed category.

Meadow knapweed (Centaurea x moncktonii) has moved from Prohibited Eradicate to Prohibited Control; Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) from Prohibited Eradicate to Prohibited Control; Round leaf bittersweet (formerly oriental bittersweet) (Celastrus orbiculatus) from Prohibited Eradicate to Prohibited Control; and Winged burning bush (Euonymus alatus) from Specially Regulated to Restricted.

Prohibited Eradicate species are considered a serious threat and are the state’s highest priority noxious weeds. These species must have all above and below ground parts of the plant destroyed.

Prohibited Control weeds are found in higher populations than those on the Eradicate species list, and they must be stopped before the weeds mature and spread through seeds, cuttings, and other plant parts.

Restricted noxious weeds are widely found throughout Minnesota.

Landowners with Restricted weeds on their property are encouraged to manage these species but cannot be forced to do so under the Noxious Weed Law. Specially Regulated plants are native or have the potential to cause harm in non-managed landscapes.

These weeds have specific management plans developed by the MDA, and measures must be taken to minimize their potential harm.

To view the updated Noxious Weed List and to learn more about the category definitions, go to www.mda. state.mn.us/ n o x i o u s weedlist.

This article was submitted by Emilie J u s t e n , Minnesota Department of Agriculture. v

Salt Cedar

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

PAGE 11

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

25 years later, FFA officers are still involved in ag The FFA mission is to “make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.”

While that’s a lofty undertaking, FFA goes far beyond that. The organization not only aims to provide students with the tools to succeed in their educational and career paths, but for so many of its members it’s the lasting memories and friendships which have made their time in FFA such a well-rounded experience.

When memories and experiences remain with

someone for 25 years, the stories are worth noting. Every year, The Land tracks down the Minnesota state FFA officers from 25 years ago to hear of the impact FFA had made in their lives. And every year the stories carry a common thread of hard work, nerves, comradery and rewards sometimes not realized until years later.

We would like to thank the people who shared their time and stories for this issue. The Land would also like to thank the many ag instructors and FFA advisors who guide and influence our future leaders.

FFA Creed led Schliep to chapter presidency

By LAURA COLE state office, she recalled feeling that The Land Staff Writer “any role would be well-taken.”

Leah (Schliep) Addington first got Named president, Addington enjoyed involved in FFA when her dad recomthe sense of adventure involved in travmended she try an ag class her fresheling the state to different events such man year. She was just one of three as chapter banquets, the State girls in the class.

Greenhand Leadership Conference, and B, I, and E tours (Business, Industry The first activity was to learn the and Education). Of the tours, Addington FFA creed, which is five paragraphs said, “It was a highlight to be visiting long. Students could receive extra credschools in a part of the state that was it if they recited the creed in front of different than where I grew up. We saw the class, and Addington took on the sugar beets, wheat fields, and edible challenge. She was selected Creed bean fields. I had not previously seen speaker for her Zumbrota-Mazeppa this type of crop production.” chapter. “We participated in a national invitational Creed speaking event She states the officers in 1997-98 had which allowed me to attend the nationa variety of personalities, noting al FFA convention,” Addington said. Leah (Schliep) Addington Natasha “brought the fun,” Jill was She stated she still remembers the “very warm and welcoming,” and John, “stars in your eyes” feeling as a ninth grader at her Noah, and Pete were all very intelligent, driven, and first convention. brought a level of professionalism to the table.

Addington served as her chapter’s secretary, vice Addington recognized her ag teacher, Mr. Yusten, as president, and president, and also served as her someone she aspired to be. She appreciated that he region’s secretary and president. When running for presented opportunities which took students out of

2017 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA 125 EVOLUTION

628,745 miles, 455 HP, automatic transmission, air ride, very clean, tires 60%, brakes all new, double bunk, fridge, jake, cruise, loaded up

For Sale Price $54,000

2005 FREIGHTLINER COLUMBIA 120

2,700 miles on a new ECM, jake, cruise, telt & tele, air slide 5th, heated mirrors, air ride cab, chrome bumper, aluminum rims, LP22.5’s, 90% steers, NEW drives, NEW air brakes & drums

CALL FOR PRICE

their comfort zone, but encouraged them to know they were capable.

After high school, Addington attended the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. In college she was involved in Dairy Club, Agriculture Education Society, internships, and was also a tour guide — noting she “was always looking for ways to grow as a person.” After receiving her degree in ag education, she went on to receive her master’s degree in ag education from the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities.

Addington has held a variety of positions within the ag industry: teaching as an ag teacher and FFA advisor for four years, serving as the FFA Leadership Development Coordinator for eight years, and working for Pioneer Seed for nine years. Since this past July, she has been employed as a sales rep for Elanco Animal Health.

Addington lives in Cannon Falls, Minn. with her husband, Matt, and three children: Cameron (15), Emerson (14), and Keaton (11). Both Cameron and Emerson are involved with the Randolph FFA chapter, where Addington previously served as an assistant advisor. “It’s a family thing for us,” Addington said.

See SCHLIEP, pg. 16

2017 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA 113

Just in, very clean inside and out, steers are LP22.5 at 50%, drives are 445/50 22.5 fronts are 90% rears are 60%, disc brakes, jakes cruise.

For Sale Price $45,000

2007 MACK VISION CXN613

1,458,717 mi New crate motor a few years ago, new drive tires, steers are half, brakes are 90%, Jake, cruise, air slide 5th, load gauge

CALL FOR PRICE

ON THE COVER: Minnesota State FFA officers from 199798 were (clockwise starting at left) Secretary Peter Lammers, Treasurer Noah Barka, President Leah Schliep, Vice President John Roberts, Reporter Natasha Cronen and Sentinel Jill Guggisberg.

2001 VOLVO VNL64T630

595,769 miles, jake, cruise, heated mirrors, air ride cab, air slide 5th, air ride seats, 3:73 ratio, aluminum rims, LP22.5, 70% steers, 40% drives, air brakes, 50% brakes, 40% drums, interior good, rust on back of cab and bottom of sleeper, needs 1 fuel tank strap, driveshaft, windshield.

For Sale Price $9,000

1992 WABASH 53-ft. x 102-in.

Steel rims, LP 22.5 caps 60-70% remaining, air brakes, exterior is good, sides are clean but have a couple of patches on the passenger side. Oak floors are in good shape, plywood lined walls.

For Sale Price $9,500

PAGE 12

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

Once a student, Vice President Roberts is now the teacher

By LAURA COLE The Land Staff Writer “It’s always a good idea to keep an open mind,” John Roberts said as he recalled both his own ag journey and shared advice for the next generation of students.

Roberts grew up raising pigs in west central Minnesota, though stated he did not have plans to make it his own future career. “Every ninth grader was required to take an ag class,” Roberts said, which led him to join FFA. He was an officer with the Battle Lake, Minn. chapter for three years, and served as regional vice president his junior year of high school and regional president his senior year. He held the state officer role of vice president his freshman year of college.

Coming from Otter Tail County, Roberts’ home chapter was the farthest distance away from any of the other members’ chapters. However, he was already acquainted with three of the other officers.

“Three of us had served as region presidents together,” Roberts said, referring to Leah Addington and Natasha Mortenson. He also had met Pete Lammers at Greenhand Camp.

Originally planning to focus on electrical engineering, Roberts attended North Dakota State University for one semester before transferring to the University of Minnesota campuses of Crookston, and later the Twin Cities, to major in ag education.

After graduating, Roberts taught for four years in the Glencoe-Silver Lake school district before accepting a position with Holdingford High School where he continues to teach ag classes and serves as the FFA advisor.

John Roberts

Reflecting on his time as state officer, Roberts shared he was given the opportunity to do and see things he might not have otherwise coming from a school with an average class size of 35 students.

Roberts was able to travel to Washington D.C. for a week to attend the State Presidents’ Conference with Addington and was also a delegate at the Kansas City national convention. Another highlight was “zigging and zagging” through the northeastern region of the state for the business tour, traveling in the middle of the Iron Range and even learning about the existence of Cherry, Minn. — an unincorporated community in St. Louis County.

See ROBERTS, pg. 16

You can call State Secretary Lammers ‘Professor’

By LAURA COLE The Land Staff Writer Growing up on a farrow-to-finish pig operation — along with a family history of FFA membership — naturally led Pete Lammers to begin his own FFA journey at Southland High School.

Lammers held multiple leadership roles including chapter president. His FFA chapter was advised by Leroy Swanson. Lammers was also assistant regional officer for Region VIII the year Leah (Schliep) Addington served as president for the same region.

Of the state officer interview process, Lammers stated it was taken seriously and was kind of intense as he knew a lot of people who were running. Besides Pete Lammers

already knowing Addington, Lammers had also previously met John Roberts at Greenhand Camp their freshman year of high school, and saw each other at conferences. Seeing so many people he had previously met made the event similar to a “class reunion, in a sense.”

Lammers was appointed secretary and served in the state officer role during his freshman year at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, along with Addington and Jill (Guggisberg) Grams.

“I have really good memories of the time,” Lammers shared. He noted there was “a lot of carpooling to Minnesota.”

Lammers said their team worked well together, recalling job duties such as putting together Greenhand and

Leadership camps, and attending the state convention. “There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes,” Lammers said.

He also mentioned the big impact Jim Ertl had on not only him, but also many other students during Ertl’s time with the Minnesota FFA Association.

With a variety of interests, Lammers found himself switching career paths a few times throughout college.

He settled on a degree in broad area agriculture — a “choose your own adventure major,” Lammers remarked. An advisor encouraged him to attend graduate school, but Lammers opted to join the work force, working for a year or two with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a soil conservation technician. When he did attend grad school at Iowa State, he credits mentor Dr. Mark Honeyman as someone who “really got me thinking about teaching on a collegiate level.”

See LAMMERS, pg. 16

Treasurer Barka says FFA gave him a different perspective

By LAURA COLE The Land Staff Writer Noah Barka always had an interest in the agriculture industry. Involved in FFA and 4-H, Barka

d

CUSTOM FENCE BUILDERS SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA 507-956-2657

Daniel & Terese Hall 40133 - 620th Ave. Butterfield, MN 56120

served as state officer for both organizations. While some aspects of FFA were familiar territory due to his upbringing on a livestock farm, Barka mentioned one of his favorite things was learning about topics he had not initially considered to be part of the FFA realm — such as forest resources and mining. “It opened up my perspective on what agriculture is,” he said.

Looking back, Barka appreciates that the value of teamwork is introduced in FFA. He mentioned many instances of gaining beneficial experience from working on teams, such as in judging, sales, and various statewide events. “There is a real skill to that,” he said, adding that the project Noah Barka

work in FFA gives students real life experiences of working on teams and proved to be helpful later on.

Barka held leadership roles within his Litchfield, Minn. chapter and recognized his two ag teachers for the different strengths they brought to the chapter. “Jere Rambow and Bob Rick were both very inspiring teachers. Mr. Rambow in encouraging you to try things like judging or speaking contests, and be aspirational in leadership roles and SAE projects — much more than I would have otherwise. Mr. Rick really excelled in getting teams to work well together and how to think See BARKA, pg. 16

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 13

Dealing with failure made Reporter Cronen a success

By LAURA COLE sold” at that point.

The Land Staff Writer Mortenson held variIn the early 90s, a ous roles in her local young Natasha (Cronen) chapter and during her Mortenson was growing senior year of high school up on a Minnesota crop served as regional presifarm and “definitely did dent. She held the state not think farming was reporter role her freshcool.” But her attitude man year of college at changed during her ninth the University of grade year, and she has Minnesota–Twin Cities her ag class to thank for where she earned a that. Mortenson shared degree in ag education. her advisor of the Benson, “We had to work hard,” Minn. Chapter was Mortenson recalled of her Chuck Erickson and state officer commitment, noted he had a special noting the group didn’t skill of knowing how to have the luxury of Zoom Natasha (Cronen) Mortenson work with each student. at that time. Mortenson As a freshman, she stated that between her and the other placed first in ag sales at the regional five officers, there were a lot of different level, and remembers being “pretty

skills and personalities — adding that with a diverse group they are able to reach out to as many different students as possible. “We learned a lot from each other,” she said.

Top FFA memories for Mortenson include attending her first national convention in Kansas City. “It was the moment my life changed.” Remembering the huge convention center, she added, “I’ll never forget the feeling.”

Mortenson also cherished the leadership positions she was able to hold and working with different types of people.

She noted what set FFA apart from other organizations is that while adults were providing support, “it really was student-driven, student-led.”

Mortenson reflected that failures help make better humans and made her a better adult. “Where would I be with-

out the lessons learned?”

Allowing students to grow through failure is a concept that Mortenson carried over when she became an ag teacher, acknowledging how hard that can be. She taught for 14 years in Morris, Minn. For the past eight years she has been working in community relations with Riverview — a dairy company headquartered in Morris.

Mortenson is also one-third of the team behind the podcast, “Keepin’ It Rural.” She runs the show alongside butcher Lindsey Loken and ag teacher Rebekka Paskewitz. The trio’s goal is to use their platform to share agricultural truths directly from the sources. Their first episode aired September 2022 Dr. Temple Grandin as their guest.

See CRONEN, pg. 16

‘Less than thrilled’ at first, Guggisberg shone as Sentinel

By LAURA COLE The Land Staff Writer As a freshman in high school, Jill (Guggisberg) Grams never saw her life taking the direction it did. “I didn’t think I wanted to be a part of agriculture,” she recalled. That changed when her high school at Gibbon-Fairfax-Winthrop made a course restructure and she found herself enrolled in an ag class.

She admits being less than thrilled.

Her ag teacher, Mr. Hermanson, then suggested she sign up for FFA — with her dad agreeing it was a good idea.

Not exactly interested, Grams did see one silver lining: she had always wanted to attend a camp. The State Greenhand Leadership Conference is an overnight experience that serves as an introduction to FFA. So she signed up, went to Greenhand, and as Grams puts it, “The rest is history.”

“I served as chapter sentinel, chapter president, and was Region VII sentinel,” Grams said. She remembers a rigorous interview process for the state officer position, completing group tasks, writing exercises, and individual interviews before being appointed sentinel.

Grams served as sentinel as a sophomore at the University of WisconsinRiver Falls where she majored in ag education — a decision also encouraged

by Mr. Hermanson. Grams had initially planned on majoring in ag business,

Recalling her own FFA sees others occasionally at fairs and but eventually agreed ag experience, Grams trea- conventions. “It’s fun to reconnect.” education was the right sures the friendships fit. Grams said of her While Grams knows firsthand the made along the way, commitment required to be a state offiformer teacher, “He was especially the close bond cer, she recognizes the value in the role. right about the fact that her GFW Pioneer “Their face is so important to agriculI should go into FFA. He Express chapter formed ture and the ag industry.” Grams stated was right about the fact with the Watertown- she utilizes FFA officers on a local level. that I should go into ag Mayer chapter after “To have them back us is amazing.” education.” they rode the same bus Grams was the 4-H Looking back, Grams stated, “I never to national convention. program coordinator in anticipated where FFA was going to take The chapters invited McLeod County for 13 each other to activities me.” Now, she sees FFA as an opportuyears. She has now been like hay rides and sled- nity for youth to find themselves. teaching ag education ding. As a state officer, Her advice to current members? “Do for grades 7-12 in the Grams noted the team- it all,” Grams encourages. “Take the Buffalo Lake-Hectorwork involved to plan opportunity to travel whether it’s camp Stewart school district events. Some of the offi- or a regional event. Do things in your for seven years. She also cers also attended community.” She credits FFA with serves as the school’s Jill (Guggisberg) Grams UWRF with Grams.

“We teaching her how to believe in herself FFA advisor. Every so did a lot of traveling together back and and challenge herself, and has also often, Grams brings in her state officer forth to events.

We got along really given her lasting friendships. “Soak up jacket upon a student’s request. She v shared the characteristics held by Mr. well. We supported each other.” Grams everything you can.”

Hermanson which she hopes to emu30676 County Rd 24 Sleepy Eye, MN. 56085 late in her role: being kind, encouragwww.mathiowetzconst.com ing, and someone who teaches students office@mathiowetzconst.com to believe in themselves.

507-794-6953 Grams lives on an acreage south of In All We Do, Farm Friendly Since 1924 Buffalo Lake with her husband, Kyle, We Do It Right! and is the proud mom of two boys: – Aggregates – Grove Removal Ethan, who is employed as a welder – Building Pads – Hauling and Mason, currently a senior in high – Demolition – Site Grading school. She’s had the special privilege – Ditch Cleaning – Terraces of advising both of her sons in their – Farm Drainage – Equipment Sales & Service own FFA journeys.

MATHIOWETZ CONSTRUCTION

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

PAGE 14

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

Hands-on experience makes Faribault’s ag program soar

By TIM KING jerky and pork sausage.

The Land Correspondent It’s important that students understand the FARIBAULT, Minn. — importance of processing Since 2020, the agriculand adding value to meat tural education classes at products, according to Faribault High School, in Schultz. this town of 25,000, have grown more than four The “Exploring times — from 90 students Agriculture” class in 2020 to 415 students in includes more traditional 2022. agricultural education material such as learning Madeline Schultz, a about the wide range of 2014 graduate of Faribault livestock breeds. A high High School, came on point for students is to see board as the schools some of the breeds they’ve Agricultural Education been studying in real life, instructor in 2020 with a Schultz says. vision. She intended to “Exploring Agriculture” show students all aspects students also get to make of agriculture — from proice cream.

Photos submitted duction to processing to These Faribault High School students are from the “Exploring Animals” companion animal class.

Guest speakers are invited to marketing to eating — by “They study different using a creative curricu- come in to talk about possible careers working with small animals. types of ice cream and lum with a strong handsthen they learn how to on component. She believed once students under- Schultz who raised chickens as a youngster, “but we develop an ice cream business plan,” Schultz, who stood how a chicken was raised and how it arrived on finish processing them in the processing facility the wants her student to visit a robotic dairy, said. “Once the grocery store shelves, they would become not only school has built.” they have a plan, they run it by their classmates to advocates for agriculture but they would understand The processing facility, with freezers, coolers, floor get their input.” the wide range of career opportunities associated drains, and stainless steel tables and sinks, is in a Faribault’s “Plant Science” class features hands-on with agriculture. converted office space which is in what Schultz experience growing greenhouse lettuce in hydroponic To that end, Schultz — backed by a $5,000 grant describes as a very large classroom. and aeroponic production systems. from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and a “When the students are done they take a chicken Schultz also teaches a companion animal class.

Minnesota FFA partnership, restarted the school’s home,” Schultz said. “It’s super important that kids “We call that class Exploring Animals,” Schultz said. agricultural education program by launching a series understand what’s involved in raising a chicken and “In it, students learn about how to take care of small of innovative courses. why producers do what they do.” animals such as dogs and cats. We also have guest “The opportunity to bring agricultural education The agricultural classes also use the processing speakers come in — such as a vet and an owner of a back to the high school was super exciting,” Schultz facility to make processed meat products such as beef dog resort — to talk about possible careers with told the Faribault Daily News when she was hired. small animals.”

“It wasn’t here when I was in high school, so I’m pasAs the Faribault agricultural education program sionate about getting involved in bringing it back.” grew in recent years, it took on a second teacher.

The courses she introduced included “Raising Among her six classes are metals and welding, taxiChickens,” “Companion Animals,” “Plant Science,” dermy, fish and wildlife, and field biology.

“Meat Science,” and “Exploring Agriculture.”

Schultz says enrollment in agricultural education In the “Raising Chickens” class, students learn has probably grown because students in the early about the basics of poultry production. That includes, grades are now able to choose to take more elective Schultz said, the importance of bio-security during classes than they were in years past. There are other the avian flu outbreak. But the agricultural classes reasons as well, she says. at Faribault High go beyond theory.

“A lot of kids want hands-on learning. They learn “We have a broiler flock and a layer flock,” Schultz best that way,” Schultz said. “As kids have realized said. that’s what we do, they promote our classes through word of mouth. At the same time, I try to support The students are involved in managing all aspects what kids are learning in math and English and of the two flocks — from receiving the day-old chicks more traditional academic courses.” in the mail to putting them into brooders to feeding them … and, in the case of the broilers, harvesting In addition to teaching her classes, Schultz is the These students are from Landscaping Class. They do landscap- school’s FFA advisor. All of her agricultural education them. ing on the school grounds in the fall and flower arranging in students are eligible to join FFA and many do. v “We harvest and eviscerate them outside,” says the winter.

www.TheLandOnline.com

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 15

AgMag brings Minnesota agriculture to the classroom

By WHITNEY NESSE The Land Correspondent Since 1986, Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom, a Minnesota Department of Agriculture division, has been publishing a magazine series to enhance classroom curriculum for children ages kindergarten through sixth grade called the AgMag. During the 2023 school year, nearly every school district across the state will have the AgMag as an enrichment tool in the classroom. “It’s our flagship publication! That’s really the first thing that Minnesota Ag in the Classroom did when it got started back in the 80s,” said MAITC Education Specialist Keri Sidle.

“What’s really great about the AgMag is it’s a way for teachers to enhance their curriculum. It’s standardsbased, but it’s a non-fiction resource about Minnesota agriculture,” explained Sidel. “We try to do this in a really appealing-to-kids way.”

AgMag is not a onesize-fits-all tool; MAITC publishes two issues each year for each grade level, K-6 for a total of 14 issues per year. Not only do they publish 14 Keri Sidle issues, but each issue is unique.

“Minnesota agriculture is a wide-ranging industry from small farms to big farms, livestock to corn and produce. Our goal is that

kids would get [every issue] from kindergarten to sixth grade and really get a full picture of agriculture in Minnesota,” she said.

One of the benefits of the AgMag is that it is standardsbased. “We choose the content for AgMag based on the Minnesota Academic Standards. So depending on what topics are covered in each grade level is really what guides what topics we choose; but we make them agriculturally themed,” Sidle shared.

MAITC has former school teachers on staff, including Sidle, and a team of teachers who review each issue before printing.

Seventy thousand issues of AgMag were sent out this school year, said Sidle. And the best part about AgMag is that it is free of charge!

Furthermore, MAITC also provides teachers with extra curriculum to extend ag-based learning. “I do think teachers tend to gravitate toward the print because it’s not that often as a teacher that you can find local, statebased content for Minnesota that’s in print and in color, free of charge,” said Sidle. “Our model is teachers go to our website and sign up to receive the AgMag. We like the model in that teachers, individual-

MSCA sets summer tour SLAYTON, Minn. — Murray and Pipestone county cattlemen associations are hosting the annual Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association Summer Beef Tour and Trade Show on July 17 and 18.

The tour will showcase experienced cattlemen, innovative techniques, quality beef setups and vendors featuring new products and services.

The Summer Tour events begin with the quarterly board meeting of the MSCA at Key Largo on Lake Shetek, just north of Slayton.

The tour and trade show will take

place on July 18. This year’s tour begins in Pipestone, Minn. and will feature farm stops in Murray and Pipestone counties.

To register for the tour, visit eventbrite.com/e/murraypipestone-countysummer-tour-2023-tickets-578342978417 or visit MSCA’s website at mnsca.org.

For more information, contact Angie Ford at (507) 360-7937 or Glenn Johnson at (507) 820-1502.

This article was submitted by the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association. v

ly, sign up and decide to use it rather than it being required.”

Sidle said one of their biggest challenges is getting the word out that AgMag is available. “There are so many resources out there that teachers can use, and there is so much that they need to teach,” she said. The MAITC attends various conferences for teachers and uses online platforms and word of mouth to share its resources.

AgMag can also be found online, so students, parents and teachers can access it at any time. They also have a YouTube channel where they take students on virtual field trips and feature “Harvest of the Month” and “Follow Your Food” videos.

MAITC does more than just publish materials for K-6 learners. They also have a curriculum, hands-on learning opportunities, and career exploration

for 5th through 12th grade called “Farm Camp.” Farm Camp is a new program in its pilot year. Attending the camp is free of charge and transportation grants are available to help cover costs. Sidle said, “This program looks to connect 5th through 12thgrade classrooms to a farm or ag business to take a field trip and do an immersive experience before and after the field trip around ag careers.”

Coming from a non-agricultural background, Sidle is passionate about getting ag-related resources into the classrooms.

While she was a student at the University of Florida, Sidle became an ambassador for the college of ag and life sciences while pursuing a nutrition degree.

However, her career path changed once she attended the national FFA convention. “I had never really heard of FFA before I went to [the convention].

I was fascinated by what all of these [agricultural industries] were doing to provide our food supply and beyond. I loved it! I went to the national FFA convention to recruit students for the University of Florida. While I was there, I decided to change my major to become a high school teacher and FFA advisor [so I could] show kids all of these different careers in agriculture and the whole world of agriculture, and I’ve loved it ever since!” she shared.

There is a growing interest in connecting agriculture to everyday life and that is precisely the goal of MAITC. For more information and free resources, check out https://minnesota.agclassroom.org. v

rranty a W r ea 25 Y

n? i ’ n i t et em’ Out. G s t r i Sn Keep an • Le Wnoew •CWater • Dirt S

•C aves

r it t e r

s•C

o ld

OUR ON Y RS! O D DO TO 2 OVERHEA P U PS ting OP & SH S GA rocke % y k SEAL GARAGE S 40 are

ES INCH

TO Bills Heat SAVE UP

Call Today 800-250-5502 or Visit snirtstopper.com

PAGE 16

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

FFA officers treasure travel and relationships SCHLIEP, from pg. 11 The FFA mission statement of developing student potential for “premier leadership, personal growth and career success” is something Addington believes in, stating, “I experienced it myself.” She shared how incredible the opportunities are for networking, being able to meet industry leaders, and developing contacts for internships and references. “In my opinion, it’s one of the greatest organizations that a student can be a part of,” Addington said.

BARKA, from pg. 11 more broadly about what we could do and accomplish as a local FFA chapter,” Barka remarked.

Barka held the state officer role of treasurer during the same year he began his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities.

He recalled the 1997-98 team being congenial and having a lot of fun during his time in the role. Barka added the group’s different perspectives were beneficial in completing their required duties, such as setting up events.

The opportunity to travel to other areas of the state was a highlight for Barka. He particularly valued visiting northern regions of Minnesota during the Business, Industry, and Education tours. Barka also stated he enjoyed being able to share his perspectives through the public speaking events, as well as meeting other members in different chapters around the state.

Becoming a dairy vet was Barka’s “whole plan from the jump.” He was accepted into the veterinary medicine program at the University of Minnesota.

Noting it’s a competitive program, Barka gives credit to the youth organizations he was involved in that assisted him in developing a variety of skills.

“It’s where I met some of my ROBERTS, from pg. 12 greatest friends.”

Robert’s stated how his high school advisor, Blaine Her advice for anyone conLarson, effectively “knew sidering FFA is simple: “Go how to push people,” and for it.” She noted the many how helpful the previous ag avenues students can take, teachers at Holdingford the experiences to gain, and were to him. “They were the connections to be made. almost like a second and And FFA continues to third ag teacher for me,” he impact Addington’s life. said. Arlynn Lawrence “Your FFA experience does not stop when you take off your FFA retired upon Roberts’ arrival, but conjacket.” v tinues to serve as his substitute. Mark Stai worked alongside Roberts until he retired, and both taught him new things. Roberts said a hallmark of the During vet school, Barka switched Holdingford chapter is students are gears when he learned about the option involved in a tractor restoration every to develop medical devices for people. year. Once it’s reached “parade queen” He has been with Medtronic since 2004 status, the tractor is raffled off. and is a Technical and Bakken Fellow “Being on the other side of the table, in the organization. In his current role as a student you don’t recognize the as a distinguished scientist, Barka amount of time that goes in as a teachshared that he is constantly applying skills he learned when he was in FFA. LAMMERS, from pg. 12 Physicians present the obstacles Lammers also stated he’s not sure he they’re facing and he problem-solves would have attended grad school had it solutions. not been for the experiences he gained Barka credited FFA with teaching during his time in FFA — noting the him about “opening assumptions” and program assisted him in building confiseeing things in different ways, not just dence and self-awareness. from his initial perspective. He also Majoring in animal science and susadded that the lessons taught to him tainable agriculture, Lammers received by his ag teachers “have been broadly his Ph.D. and taught several years at applicable in my career choices and Illinois State University. He has been team building approaches in organiza- with the University of Wisconsin– tions today.”

Platteville for the past seven years teachNow living in Ramsey, Minn., Barka ing a variety of undergraduate courses enjoys woodworking and gardening in within the college’s School of Agriculture. his free time. His advice to current FFA A highlight Lammers shared is being members is to “keep an open mind.” He able to teach students multiple times encourages them to stay curious about throughout their undergrad journey.

A benefit to UW-Platteville’s location the different pathways available as he found in his own experience the new is being an equal distance from options that arise can be “extremely Lammers’ family in Minnesota and his rewarding.” v wife’s family along with some of his family in the Chicago area. Lammers

FREE INTERNET

Qualify today for the Government Free Internet Program YOU QUALIFY for Free Internet if you receive Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline and Tribal.

Bonus offer: 4G Android Tablet with one time co-pay of $20

CALL TODAY (866) 443-3789 C O N N EC T S

ACP program details can be found at www.fcc.gov/affordable-connectivity-program-consumer-faq

er,” Roberts said. He relayed a previous student’s comment that FFA is an organization which gives and gives.

Members can take as much as they want, and still FFA continues to give.

Roberts is in agreement with the sentiment. He commented FFA has so many opportunities “if a student is willing to put in the time.” He finds it especially rewarding to see his students go on to become productive citizens and be successful in their own operations.

When he’s not in the school’s shop, Roberts enjoys fishing and hunting.

The jury’s still out on how good of a hunting dog his two-year-old Beagle Labrador cross will be, but shared Chester is showing a lot of promise.

Roberts also collects antique Farmall tractors and grows sweet corn in the summer. v

and his wife, Jen Filipiak, live in rural Belmont, Wis. on an acreage. Filipiak is the Executive Director of the Driftless Area Land Conservancy.

Lammers recalled asking himself “now what?” after having been so involved in FFA and having the experience end. He insightfully remarked that although what you’re doing currently won’t always be the most important thing, “it will set you up for the next most important thing.”

Whatever paths the next generation of FFA students find themselves taking, Lammers gives the kind of advice apt for a professor (with a laugh): “Go to class.” He also encourages them to do what they enjoy — emphasizing it might not always be easy or come without struggle. He concluded, “Life is too short and too long to not enjoy what you’re doing.” v

CRONEN, from pg. 13 Agriculture is huge for Mortenson’s family as well.

She lives in rural Danvers, Minn. with her husband, Matt, who is a farmer. They have two children: Grace and Cowan. Grace will soon be following her mom’s footsteps and majoring in ag education. Cowan is currently a junior at Morris High School. Both offspring have a cattle herd.

25 years ago, Mortenson said she did not anticipate the kind of network she’d be able to create as a young person and the reconnections she continues to make throughout her life. She stated she’s had many opportunities which have come through relation-

ships she’s formed in FFA. For example, Mortenson and Loken first met as FFA members, reconnected years later through the Minnesota Beef Council, and now work on their podcast together.

Mortenson shared how the ag teachers she most admired put opportunities in front of their students and it was up to each person to take them. She discussed how fear can get in the way of people trying new things; but her words of wisdom to current FFA students is to do it anyway. “Do all the things and do it scared.” v

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 17

Students discover dairy through Adopt a Cow program

By LAURA COLE With a passion for ag promoThe Land Staff Writer tion, Tauer also loves making connections with other cultures.

In classrooms throughout the Since 2010, the family has housed United States (and even outside interns through the University of the country), the usual class pets Minnesota’s MAST program. of goldfish and gerbils are moving (MAST brings young people from aside for Holstein and Jersey around the world to train for 3-18 cows. Discover Dairy established months in greenhouses, farms, the Adopt a Cow program in 2011 research labs, and wineries, where and their outreach continues to they learn new skills, improve grow. their English, and experience The program was developed American life.) Tauer said she thanks to a staff member’s son’s enjoys that her and her husband’s second grade class. Emily Barge, two children have been able to the communications and marketgrow up with this unique experiing manager with the Center for ence.

Dairy Excellence Foundation, While the majority of the classshared that this particular classrooms Tauer Dairy was paired room adopted a jaguar from with in 2020-21 were from the Africa. The staff member thought central Minnesota area, the farm if a classroom can adopt a jaguar, was previously connected with why not a cow? Discover Dairy classrooms in Oregon and saw this idea as a great option to Photos submitted expand their work, and the pro- Students connect with local dairies to learn more about cows in the Dairy Excellence Foundation’s “Discover Washington, as well as an innercity school in San Diego, Calif.

Dairy” program. “Not every kid gets to see a farm,” explained Angie Tauer, a Brown County farmer who gram began. participated in the program.

“The program has grown expoThe Dairy Excellence nentially,” Barge said, especially the United States and Barge stated they make an Foundation manages Discover Dairy, an educational series which provides lessons attempt to match participants with a cow near their noting the increased interest due to the Covid pandemic. She shared teachers were looking for virtual designed for grades 3-5 and 6-8. The lessons include area. options to engage students, and homeschooling paractivities, worksheets, reading materials and videos, “There are 60 classrooms in Minnesota enrolled in and are available to anyone interested in providing the Adopt a Cow program,” Barge stated. Minnesota ents were looking for activities for their children.

Barge also stated a lot of nursing home and assisted dairy education. According to its also is home to one of the particiliving facilities signed up for the program during website, Discover Dairy meets pating farms in the program. that time as well.

Common CORE standards for Tauer Dairy, located in Brown math, science and reading.

Since 2020, the program has continued to steadily County, Minn., has been involved grow. For Valentine’s Day, Discover Dairy held a The Adopt a Cow program runs in the program twice over the “Most Kissable Calf” poll. Over 1.5 million votes adjacent to a traditional school past several years. A 2022 Farm later, the crowned winner out of the 84 calves was a year. The initial host farm and Family of the Year, the Tauers Holstein named Willow. calf announcement is sent in have about 275 Holsteins and October with information and Barge has been with the Dairy Excellence also farm about 500 acres — updates provided close to monthFoundation for about four years. She admitted the mainly alfalfa and corn. ly. Barge stated on off-months, most meaningful aspect of the program has been the Not usually apt to name their the program provides correimpact it’s making on the classrooms. “I’ve always calves, “Peaches” was their first sponding materials such as a calf involved in the Adopt a Cow See ADOPT A COW, pg. 19 farm tour video. Twice a month, program in 2017-18, and “Pearl” groups receive extra lessons and was their most recent in 2020-21. activities. Towards the end of the Angie Tauer shared the Discover school year, participants are able MINNESOTA’S LOW PRICED AG CHEMICAL DEALER Dairy organization has been to be part of a live chat with the great to work with. host farm and calf.

Tauer, also a middle school sciDiscover Dairy is based in ence teacher at St. Mary’s in Pennsylvania, but makes its Sleepy Eye, Minn., said a favorite impact globally. Barge reported Chemicals ~ Fertilizers ~ Seeds part of her involvement was conthat 40,500 classrooms are necting with the students.

“Not enrolled in the free Adopt a Cow ll for current Chemical prices every kid gets to see a farm.” She program for the 2022-23 school stated it was fun to put videos year which impacts 1.2 million together of the farm and answer students. Classrooms are reprethe students’ questions. “The sented in all 50 states as well as In the “Adopt a Cow” program, students in 55 countries. The 33 contribut- chart the development and growth of various best way to teach people is just be real,” she shared.

Serving Minnesota Farmers Herbicide Needs since 1950! ing farms are spread throughout animals.

LETCHER FARM SUPPLY, INC

Ca Call for Current Chemical Prices

(507) 549-3168 or 549-3692 www.letcherfarmsupply.com

PAGE 18

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

MARKETING

Grain Outlook A drop in corn acres forecasted The following marketing analysis is for the week ending March 24.

CORN — Corn consolidated higher this week, but it tried to break out both to the upside and downside on various days. The May corn contract settled between $6.30 and $6.33.5 per bushel March 20-23 as it traded to a new high for the month and before it concluded the week with a nice upswing. December angled lower through the week to trade to its lowest since late July and closed every day this week before March 24’s rally to cut losses.

A big factor over the last couple of weeks has been the exit of managed money length. It’s estimated they are short 42,200 con- PHYLLIS NYSTROM tracts as of the close on March CHS Hedging Inc. 23. However, we have reached St. Paul prices to attract export business and improved ethanol margins.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced corn export sales to China for four straight days totaling 26.2 million bushels.

The Black Sea grain corridor has been extended for 60 days, so that gives us some breathing room.

Russia wants relief on sanctions that make it difficult for customers to buy their commodities and will likely push that argument when the deal comes due May 18. With the extension of the Black Sea grain agreement for only 60 days, vessel insurers are requiring a short renewal frame of every seven days in case the situation changes.

We continued to see more corn export sales announcements to China this week. Weekly export sales were at a marketing year high at 121.9 million bushels thanks to the persistent Chinese interest last week. Next week’s sales will also include some of the sales and we should see another high number.

Total export commitments at 1.375 billion bushels are down 34 percent from last year vs. down 39 percent last week. The USDA is predicting a 25 percent year-on-year decline in exports. We need to average 17.2 million bushels of sales per week to ring the bell on the USDA’s 1.85-billion bushel export forecast.

Weekly ethanol numbers were neutral to slightly bearish. Ethanol production was down 17,000 barrels per day to 997,000 bpd and was the lowest in 10 weeks. Ethanol stocks fell 206,000 barrels to 26.2 million barrels. This was a record high on a sameweek basis. Net ethanol margins improved by 2 cents

Cash Grain Markets corn/change* Stewartville $6.40 +.34 Edgerton $6.87 +.36 Jackson $6.65 +.31 Hope $6.22 +.02 Cannon Falls $6.41 +.37 Sleepy Eye $6.57 +.41 St. Cloud $6.37 +.41 Madison $6.37 +.32 Redwood Falls $6.54 +.28 Fergus Falls $6.22 +.41 Morris $6.39 +.35 Tracy $6.70 +.33 Average: $6.48 Year Ago Average: $6.95

soybeans/change* $14.18 $14.13 $14.19 $14.20 $14.19 $14.25 $14.23 $14.00 $14.23 $14.03 $14.10 $14.17

-.10 -.26 -.26 -.19 -.04 -.14 -.21 -.31 -.25 -.16 -.19 -.22

$14.16 $15.97

Grain prices are effective cash close on March 28. *Cash grain price change represents a two-week period.

to 30 cents per gallon. Gasoline demand was at a three-week high at 8.96 million bpd.

The Federal Reserve met trader expectations this week by raising interest rates 25 basis points to a range of 4.75 to 5 percent. This is the highest rate since September 2007. Their comments suggest we’ll see another small increase in May, but they did drop the phrase “ongoing increases” from their comments.

The Buenos Airres Grain Exchange in Argentina kept their corn production estimate unchanged at 36 million metric tons vs. the USDA at 40 mmt. Recent rains may stabilize the corn crop.

A news report on March 24 said that Russia was considering temporarily halting or limiting wheat and sunflower exports. The announcement gave a substantial boost to wheat prices which spilled over to the corn market. However, by mid-morning, Russia disclaimed the report. It was also reported Russia was considering increasing grain purchases from the 2023 grain crop for grain reserves to 10 mmt from this year’s 3 mmt to support domestic prices.

China’s President Xi met with Russian President Putin recently and will meet with Brazil’s President Lula this coming weekend. China is strengthening ties with its trading partners.

Outlook: Traders are anxiously awaiting the March 31 Prospective Planting and Grain Stocks reports. The widening old crop inverses suggest the stocks number may be tight. The falling ratio of soybeans to corn may push some uncommitted acres to corn at these levels. The CZ/SX ratio was 2.27 at the end of the week. May corn on March 24 closed at its highest settlement for the month and December corn posted a key reversal higher.

For the week, May corn managed to bounce 8.75

cents higher at $6.43, July gained 5.25 cents at $6.23, and the December contract only saw a penny decline to $5.60.25 per bushel.

SOYBEANS — “Ouch!” comes to mind when you look at the soybean chart. From the March 6 high in May soybeans at $15.38.5 to this week’s $14.05 low, this contract plunged $1.33.5 per bushel before bouncing. For the same time frame, the November soybean contract crumbled from a high of $13.86.5 to a low of $12.47.5 for a $1.39 per bushel decline.

November soybeans closed lower for 13 consecutive sessions as of March 23’s close before snapping the streak to end the week. This was the longest losing streak for a new crop soybean contract within its expiration year since 1973! Basis numbers have firmed in many areas, but not anywhere near enough to make up for the extremely heavy fund selling.

Crush margins have been declining for the last two weeks to the lowest since July in the May crush and since December in the July crush. As of March 23, it was estimated that managed money was still long 80,700 soybean contracts. Basis levels and prices have fallen sharply in Brazil as their harvest picks up and is nearing 75 percent complete.

Weekly export sales were disappointing at 5.6 million bushels and below the lowest trade estimate.

This was the second-lowest weekly total of the marketing year. Total export commitments at 1.818 billion bushels are down 8 percent from last year compared to the USDA’s projection of a 6.6 percent decrease in exports year-on-year. We need to average 7.8 million bushels of sales per week to attain the USDA export forecast for 2.015 billion bushels.

Weekly meal sales were the lowest in four weeks while soyoil sales were a marketing year high. Soyoil hit an eight-month low this week and meal a sixweek low on fund liquidation.

Abiove estimated Brazil’s soybean production at a record 153.6 mmt with exports at a record 92.3 mmt.

Agroconsult has the crop at 155 mmt and exports at 96 mmt. The USDA has Brazil’s crop at 153 mmt with exports at 96.5 mmt. The BAGE kept its Argentine soybean estimate at 25 mmt compared to the USDA’s latest estimate of 33 mmt. The USDA attaché to China estimates their soybean imports at 97.5 mmt vs. USDA at 96 mmt. There are rising concerns about increasing cases of African Swine Fever in China’s hog population and what that will mean for feed demand.

Outlook: Long funds were rushing to the exit this week and there hasn’t been any indication they are finished. The upcoming March 31 reports may put some hesitation in the action ahead of the reports.

With current world conditions, we can’t afford any weather glitches in the United States this year. I believe we said the same thing last year.

The soybean/corn ratio favors planting any uncommitted acres to corn. May soybeans traded to their See NYSTROM, pg. 19

Information in the above columns is the writer’s opinion. It is no way guaranteed and should not be interpreted as buy/sell advice. Futures trading always involves a certain degree of risk.

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 19

Despite rising feed costs, dairies are adding cows This column was written for the marketsince July 2021. ing week ending March 24.

Output per cow averaged 1,877 pounds, Dairy farm milk tanks are not being up 7 pounds or 0.4 percent from 2022. refilled very quickly. The U.S. Department California cows put 3.3 billion pounds of Agriculture’s latest preliminary data of milk in the tank in February, down 29 shows February output at 17.68 billion million pounds, or 1 percent from a year pounds. This is down 1.6 billion pounds ago (due to lots of rain), 2,000 fewer from January, but 135 million or 0.8 percows, and a loss of 20 pounds per cow. cent more than February 2022, and less Output there hasn’t really shown much MIELKE MARKET than the 1.3 percent increase seen in of an increase since August 2021.

WEEKLY January.

Wisconsin output, at 2.4 billion pounds,

By Lee Mielke The 24-state total, at 16.9 billion was up 7 million or 0.3 percent, due to a pounds, was up 1 percent from a 10-pound gain per cow offsetting a year ago. Both January totals were loss of 3,000 cows. revised up 5 million pounds.

Texas was up 5.5 percent thanks February was the eighth month in a row that milk to 22,000 more cows and a 40-pound gain per cow. production topped that of a year ago.

Idaho was up 3.4 percent on 15,000 more cows and Farms are adding cows. Cow numbers totaled 9.42 a 20-pound gain per cow. million, up 12,000 head from the January count Florida again registered the biggest loss, down which had no revision, and was up 37,000 head 11.4 percent. Michigan was up 3.1 percent, thanks from a year ago, largest dairy herd since August to a 30-pound gain per cow and 7,000 more cows.

2021. The 24-state count was up 12,000 from Minnesota was up 1 percent on a 10-pound gain per January and 54,000 above a year ago, the largest

MARKETING

Soybean futures have a tough week NYSTROM, from pg. 18 lowest since October but managed to stay above the $14.00 per bushel level. November soybeans traded to their lowest since July as they faded below $13.00 per bushel.

May soybeans failed at $15.00 per bushel and didn’t look back until fund selling evaporated into the weekend. November soybeans have slipped below $14.00 per bushel and was able to cut the weekly loss

into the weekend. For the week, May soybeans tumbled 48.25 cents to $14.28.25, July crashed 55 cents to $14.06.25, and November plunged 40.25 cents to $12.73.25 per bushel.

Weekly price changes in May wheat for the week ended March 24: Chicago wheat dropped 22 cents to $6.88.5, Kansas City was 12.25 cents higher at $8.48, and Minneapolis fell 3.25 cents to $8.57.5 per bushel. v

Adopt a Cow signup begins May 1

ADOPT A COW, from pg. 17 loved education.” Through the Adopt a Cow program, Barge said students are able to learn about an industry they may have never been exposed to before as many students come from urban areas. Barge explained farmers often have an idea what stores their cows’ milk is going to and what brand will be supplying it. That knowledge helps a student make a closer ag connection the next time they go to a grocery store.

Barge also enjoys seeing the creative things teachers come up with to incorporate into the lessons. An example Barge gave is the implementation of a growth chart. It provides the visual of cows being different sizes. There’s a universal message to be learned that everyone is different and an individual.

This year, the Adopt a Cow program is a part of 200 Spanish-speaking classrooms. Barge stated those classrooms are paired with a farm with a Spanishspeaking contact, so they are able to connect during

the spring live chat.

For many of the elderly populations residing in facilities, agriculture was a big part of their upbringing. Barge shared that many residents involved in the program had memories of growing up on a farm or an ag connection. The program resurfaced past times, even for some dealing with memory loss.

Barge notes Adopt a Cow would not be possible without the partnership of 13 dairy organizations throughout the United States. Minnesotans participating in Adopt a Cow specifically have the Midwest Dairy Association to thank for their assistance in making the program available to the area.

Teachers and facilitators of a variety of programs — including 4-H, library and after-school programs — are eligible to sign up for the 2023-24 school year.

Registration begins May 1. Interested parties can visit discoverdairy.com/adopt-a-cow and submit their email address to receive more information. v

cow and 2,000 more cows. New Mexico was down 4.2 percent on 12,000 fewer cows, though output per cow was unchanged. New York was up 2.9 percent, thanks to 10,000 more cows and a 25-pound gain per cow.

Oregon was down 2.4 percent on a loss of 3,000 cows. Output per cow was unchanged. Pennsylvania was off 0.1 percent on a loss of 2,000 cows, though output per cow was up five pounds. South Dakota was up 6.2 percent, thanks to 12,000 more cows offsetting a 10-pound loss per cow. Vermont was down 1 percent on 1,000 fewer cows, though out per cow was up five pounds. Washington State was down 2.2 percent on 6,000 fewer cows. Output per cow was unchanged.

The March 20 Daily Dairy Report warned, “Greater milk output in nearly every Midwestern state overwhelmed the region and resulted in steeply discounted spot milk prices and smaller checks for dairy producers. Cooperatives in Texas frequently dumped milk, despite self-imposed caps on members’ output.” n Flooding occurred throughout California — covering fields and roadways with water, reports HighGround Dairy, “closing primary and alternative routes throughout the state, delaying transportation and causing plant downtime. The state remained under siege this week and Governor Newsom designated 40 counties as disaster counties, including Tulare, Fresno, Kings, Madero, Mariposa, and Merced.”

Meanwhile, a Nor-easter dropped three feet of snow on parts of New England last week which caused delayed milk pickups, according to Dairy Market News. However, milk production was steady in other parts of the Eastern seaboard. n The Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the ninth time in a row this week by a quarter percent to just under 5 percent in its ongoing effort to control inflation. The action comes in the face of the collapse of two regional banks.

Lots of eyes are on dairy culling as finances tighten on the farm. The USDA’s latest Livestock Slaughter report shows an estimated 266,500 head were sent to slaughter under federal inspection in February, down 31,400 head from January, and mirrored numbers in February 2022. Culling in the two month period totaled 564,400, up 37,000 or 7 percent from the same period a year ago.

The week ending Mar. 11 saw 67,300 head go to slaughter, up 421 head from the previous week and 2,300 more than a year ago. Year-to-date, 673,400 cows have been culled, up 24,000 head or 3.7 percent from the same period in 2022. n See MIELKE, pg. 20

PAGE 20

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Global Dairy Trade activity continues to slide MIELKE, from pg. 19

March 21 Global Dairy Trade’s weighted average dropped 2.6 percent following the 0.7 percent slip on We have plenty of butter. The USDA’s latest Cold March 7, and 1.5 percent on Feb. 21. Traders Storage report shows the Feb. 28 inventory at 295 brought 59.1 million pounds of product to market, million pounds. This is up 30.7 million pounds or up from 59 million March 7, and the average metric 11.6 percent from the January figure which was ton price slipped to $3,361 U.S., down from revised 1.6 million pounds higher, and was 32 mil$3,403.00 on March 7. lion or 12.2 percent more than February 2022. It Cheddar led the declines, down 10.2 percent after was the third month in a row butter stocks topped those of a year ago but the report is viewed as neu- dropping 10.2 percent on March 7. Anhydrous milkfat was down 3.8 percent following a 1.8 percent tral to the market. decline, and butter was down 3 percent after a 0.3 American cheese stocks fell to 816.9 million pounds, down 6.5 million pounds or 0.8 percent from percent slip. Skim milk powder was down 3.5 percent following a 1.1 percent descent, and whole milk the January inventory which was revised up 4.6 powder was down 1.5 percent after inching up 0.2 million pounds. Stocks were down 14.2 million percent. pounds or 1.7 percent from a year ago.

StoneX Dairy Group says the GDT 80 percent butThe “other” cheese category crept up to 605.5 milterfat butter price equates to $2.1012 per pound lion pounds, up 5.7 million pounds or 0.9 percent U.S., down 6.7 cents, and compares to Chicago from January, and 5.1 million or 0.8 percent above a Mercantile Exchange butter which closed March 24 year ago. at $2. GDT cheddar, at $1.8381, was down 20.7 The total cheese inventory came in at 1.446 billion cents, after losing 26.2 cents in the previous event, pounds, down 234,000 pounds or 0.02 percent from and compares to March 24’s CME block cheddar at January, and 20.7 million or 1.4 percent below a a very pricy $2.10. GDT skim milk powder averaged year ago. $1.2012 per pound, down from $1.2424, and whole milk powder averaged $1.4641 per pound, down n from $1.4865. CME Grade A nonfat dry milk closed Woes continue in international dairy trade. The

March 24 at $1 per pound.

Analyst Dustin Winston says, “North Asian purchases — which includes China — were higher than last year and the last event as the region continues to stay above 50 percent market share since returning to this trend in February.” n China’s dairy imports indeed looked a little more favorable, according to the latest data. HighGround Dairy points out China did not release January data during the usual time in February, but waited to release January and February data at the same time in March — an occurrence which began during the pandemic.

February imports of skim milk powder totaled 108.2 million pounds, down 31.1 percent from February 2022. However, skim milk powder imports totaled 89.2 million pounds, up 42.9 percent.

Market share of skim milk powder is steadily changing, says HighGround Dairy, with New Zealand’s share falling in January to 53 percent, from 64 percent the year prior. U.S. skim milk powder market share increased the most, shifting from See MIELKE, pg. 21

Snow season soon giving way to mud season ST. CLOUD, Minn. — As we enter the month of April, at the top of everyone’s mind is warmer weather and the growing season to come. Many cattle producers are chatting at the coffee shop, in the hardware store, and over the dinner table about mud.

Melting snow can trigger a myriad of issues which can be a struggle to manage.

Dry matter intake may decrease as mud in the environment increases. University of Minnesota Extension Veterinarian Dr. Joe Armstrong shared research which shows in dairy herds, dry matter intake decreases by 2 percent for every inch of mud.

Armstrong added mud which is hock deep decreases dry matter intake by 28 percent. That lack of nutrition impacts rate of gain, production, and health.

An option for navigating these muddy situations may mean reshaping mounds to promote quick

BO%GO 40 OFF OFFER EN

DS 4/30

855-502-6514

drainage, changing bedding material, and scraping lots to maintain a 3 to 5 percent slope away from feed bunks and waterers.

Depending on each situation, mud can be controlled be renting a dryer site with less ponding water in the. Drier sites result in stronger cow performance, decreased incidences of scours in calves, and less stress for farmers hauling bedding through mud.

In dairy herds, depending on housing situations, the milking herd may see an increase in incidences of clinical mastitis. This can be traced back to warming temperatures, which can increase pathogen loads in the environment. Producers should monitor somatic cell counts and stay vigilant with their sanitation procedures. Utilize strong sanitation protocols when milking. Prioritize clean teats, fore stripping, and checking for clinical mastitis when appropriate to minimize mastitis risks. For both dairy and beef, providing clean, dry bedding will be beneficial to overall performance.

This article was submitted by Dana Adams, University of Minnesota Extension. v

For more news briefs, visit the “Nuts and Bolts” section at www.TheLandOnline.com

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

PAGE 21

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

Class I milk price still slumping Conventional product sales totaled MIELKE, from pg. 20 3.5 billion pounds, down 1 percent 5.5 percent in January 2022 to 11.5 from a year ago. Organic products, at percent this year.

258 million pounds, were up 4.8 perWhey imports totaled 113.7 million cent and represented 6.8 percent of pounds, up 52.6 percent from a year total sales for the month. ago and have grown in annual comWhole milk sales totaled 1.3 billion parisons, says HighGround Dairy, but pounds, up 1.2 percent from a year are still lagging the market highs in ago, and represented 34.2 percent of 2021. The total milk sales for the month. Skim United States is milk sales, at China’s numberSales of lactose-free and low- 193 million one whey supplipounds, were lactose milks are growing er, taking a 42 down 6.2 perpercent market share. even more rapidly than plant- cent from a based alternatives. These Butter totaled 13.8 year ago. The milks include longstanding million pounds, down figures reprebrands like Lactaid, as well 15.1 percent; while sent consumpas the newer ultra-filtered, anhydrous milkfat, at tion in Federal nutrient-dense, high-protein 4.6 million, was down milk marketmilks such as Fairlife and to a ing order 41 percent. lesser degree the much newer areas, which Cheese imports account for amounted to 27.6 mil- A2 milks. While technically approximately lion pounds, up 0.1 per- not low-lactose, A2 milk, 92 percent of which contains only the A2 cent, while infant forprotein, have been shown to total fluid milk mula, at 53.6 million sales in the pounds, was up 37.4 prevent some symptoms for United States. percent from a year those who suffer from lactose ago.

One more malabsorption. positive note: Lucas Fuess, Rabo — Daily Dairy Report, March 16 the March 16 Bank senior dairy anaDaily Dairy lyst, shared some Report says, “Sales of lactose-free and insights from Robo’s Global Dairy low-lactose milks are growing even Quarterly report in the March 27 more rapidly than plant-based alter“Dairy Radio Now” broadcast. He warned of an abundant spring flush in natives. These milks include longthe United States with steep discounts standing brands like Lactaid, as well as the newer ultra-filtered, nutrienton milk; but said he doesn’t see a lot more near term weakness, “as demand dense, high-protein milks such as Fairlife and to a lesser degree the holds up.” much newer A2 milks. While techniEurope is seeing more milk, he said, cally not low-lactose, A2 milk, which and the weak March 21 GDT came contains only the A2 protein, have even as Chinese demand was “fairly been shown to prevent some sympdecent. Other buyers did not step up toms for those who suffer from lactose enough to lift those global product malabsorption.” prices.”

Speaking of fluid milk, the USDA Fuess expects some price recovery announced the April Class I base for the United States in the second price at $18.85 per hundredweight. half of 2023; though he admits it will This is down 14 cents from March, be a challenge to keep pace with 2022 $5.53 below a year ago, and the lowest export records in 2023.

Class I since November 2021. It equates to $1.62 per gallon, down n Back home, fluid milk sales looked a from $2.10 a year ago. The four-month Class I average stands at $20.26, little better in January, in that they down from $22.15 a year ago, and didn’t fall as much as has been the compares to $15.35 in 2021. case. The USDA’s latest data shows n packaged fluid product sales totaled 3.8 billion pounds, down just 0.6 perDairy prices were mixed as spring cent from January 2022.

See MIELKE, pg. 22

Subscribe to The Land!

2023 Subscription Form Please complete the form below.

Sign and date, include your check and put it in the mail.

 I own or operate 80+ +acres of Minnesota and/or Northern Iowa

ag cropland, raise 25 head of livestock or am actively involved in agribusiness.

Full Year Voluntary Subscription:  $49  Other

 I do not qualify but would like a one-year subscription.

Full Year Subscription:  $49

Important – Please check all boxes that best match your farming operation.

Acres

1-99

100-249

250-499

500-999

1000+

     

     

     

     

 Corn  Soybeans  Alfalfa  Wheat  Sugar Beets TOTAL ACRES  Hogs marketed  1-99  100-249 Sheep raised  1-99  100-249 Beef Cattle marketed  1-99  100-249 Dairy Cattle milked  1-50  51-99

Livestock Head  250-499

 500-999

 1000+

 250-499

 500-999

 1000+

 250-499

 500-999

 1000+

 100-199

 200+

Data will NOT be sold.

Mail to: THE LAND 418 South Second Street • Mankato, MN 56001 PLEASE PRINT Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address ____________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip ______________________________________________________________________ Phone # ____________________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address _____________________________________________________________________ Signature __________________________________________________ Date __________________

This form MUST BE signed and dated to meet postal regulations.

PAGE 22

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

Nonfat dry milk hits lowest level since March 2021 MIELKE, from pg. 21

Varietal cheese demand from retail and food service purchasers is steady in the West. Close to sold was sprung this week. The cheddar blocks, after out inventories for contract sales continue. Export pole vaulting almost 22 cents the previous week, demand remains strong to steady from Asian marmade it to $2 per pound on March 22, and closed kets and more consistent prices holding. Export two days later at $2.10. This is the highest since demand to other areas is reportedly steady to light Jan. 11, up 10.25 cents on the week, but 17.5 cents but less competitive to European and Global Dairy below a year ago.

Trading pricing. Ample milk volumes are available The barrels went the other direction after gaining for cheesemakers to keep regional cheese production 42 cents the previous three weeks, falling to $1.94 strong, says Dairy Market News. on March 22. They rallied to close March 24 at n $1.9625, up a quarter-cent on the week, 28.75 cents Cash butter saw its March 24 finish at $2.345 per below a year ago, and raised the spread to 13.75 cents. Sales totaled 14 cars of block on the week and pound, down 5.5 cents on the week and 45 cents below a year ago, with 11 loads sold on the week.

19 of barrel.

Butter demand ranges from on par to busy, with Midwestern cheesemakers are still finding spot some plants saying spring holiday demand has milk as low as $11 under Class III, according to Dairy Market News. There is no shortage of milk in backed off. Certain retailers are still ordering somewhat actively. Butter churning is very active. Cream the Midwest, though cheesemakers who had been is available locally, but offers are quieter and some reporting heavily discounted milk in recent weeks plants were obtaining cream from the West. Organic weren’t getting those offers this week. Cheese inventories are balanced to tight. Some cheesemak- cream is reportedly widely available, in comparison to conventional cream, says Dairy Market News. ers are running behind, as demand has returned.

Barrel cheese producers suggest similar sentiment.

Cream volumes are plentiful in the west and demand is steady to light. Some cream was being brought in to keep production at max capacity, while others remain at decreased capacity due to equipment repairs. Retail demand is steady, with spring holiday season orders picking up. Export demand is steady for Asian markets, while lighter for European markets due to less competitive U.S. prices.

CME nonfat dry milk fell to the lowest level it has seen since March 22, 2021, closing at $1.15 per pound, 3.75 cents lower on the week and 70.25 cents below a year ago, with three sales put on the board.

The whey closed March 24 at 44.5 cents per pound, down 2.25 cents on the week and 27.5 cents below a year ago, with five sales on the week at the CME. Lee Mielke is a syndicated columnist who resides in Everson, Wash. His weekly column is featured in newspapers across the country and he may be reached at lkmielke@juno.com. v

Silage management doesn’t end after harvest ST. CLOUD, Minn. — One of the largest expenses for a dairy is the feed bill. Each Holstein dairy cow consumes approximately 50 pounds of dry matter daily to meet her milk production needs. Of her total mixed ration, typically 50-60 percent are ensiled forages. Many dairy producers put up silage or baleage after harvest and feed this part of the ration daily without another thought. Just like a silage bunk or bag will differ in moisture or crude protein from year to year, feeding practices and that feed analysis might be worth further examination.

Throughout the year, dairy producers send silage samples to feed labs to better understand the quality of what they are feeding their cows. The nutritive value of the silage coming out of the field is impacted by both crop factors and management factors.

Crop factors which impact the quality of silage include moisture content, buffering capacity, and sugar content. Some common management factors important to monitor during harvest include chop length, silo packing speed, and silage pack density.

The silage which has been stored can continue to change over time. To continue feeding high-quality silage, producers should monitor management factors such as silo feed-out and silo management during storage.

In mid-winter, little can be done to alter silage moisture content, chop length, and packing speed.

Manage how silage is fed out and the silo itself.

Creating and maintaining an anaerobic (no oxygen) environment with low pH limits the activity and growth of spoilage organisms. However, exposure to even a small amount of oxygen allows yeast to grow.

Yeast converts organic acids and residual plant sugars to carbon dioxide, water and heat. This results in silage pH increasing which allows bacteria, yeast and molds once inhibited by the acidic environment, to grow. These organisms consume nutrients and produce heat.

To collect the highest quality silage from a silo or bag, the daily removal rate must be kept ahead of aerobic spoilage. This delicate balance can be navigated by sizing storage structures to forage needs.

The removal rate is determined by environmental temperatures and the density of the silage mass, which affects the rate at which air permeates the forage.

Silage quality requires constant vigilance. What arrives at the dairy cow’s bunk is a combination of forages produced during the growing season, management steps during ensiling, and stored silage management practices. To keep quality at its best, there are some key steps which need to be performed.

All exposed surfaces of the silage mass allow oxygen to enter, therefore warranting a plan of attack to maintain silage quality. Properly packing and sealing structures limit exposure to oxygen, creating an anaerobic environment, and limiting loss during storage. Once silage is collected from the silo and is exposed to oxygen, it begins to heat and spoil. The time it takes for this to occur is referred to as anaerobic stability. Anaerobic stability can be affected by spoilage organism populations, temperature, forage dry matter, or forage species to name a few.

Management of the silage face is also extremely

important due to its exposure from the time the bunk is opened until it is emptied. Minimizing oxygen exposure can be accomplished by evenly removing silage from the face, and maintaining a smooth vertical surface perpendicular to the ground.

Silage quality can vary throughout a pile or throughout a bag. Regular silage testing allows producers to know, rather than guess, if what the TMR is providing. Typically, a lab’s fermentation analysis can be a more in-depth look into that feed and what level of fermentation has occurred. In some cases, it can qualitatively explain the poor nutritive value, high refusals, and therefore low intakes by the herd.

A fermentation analysis should not be relied on alone, but paired with a standard chemical analysis.

Fermentation analysis may be used in identifying intake or performance issues. Feed and fermentation analysis can be used as a tool for making management decisions.

Silage management is a marathon and not a sprint.

It requires a strong start composed of appropriate chop length, silo packing speed, and silage pack density during ensiling. To maintain that high quality silage, strong silage management also requires maintaining an anaerobic environment through minimizing oxygen exposure to the pile or bag face. Starting with a quality silage, mindfully maintaining the silage face and regular sampling work together to allow producers to keep their ration on track and reach the herds’ potential.

This article was submitted by Dana Adams, University of Minnesota Extension. v

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

Announcements

Fertilizer & Chemical

WANTED: Land & farms. I have clients looking for dairy, & cash grain operations, as well as bare land parcels from 40-1000 acres.

Both for relocation & investments. If you have even thought about selling contact: Paul Krueger, Farm & Land Specialist, Edina Realty, 138 Main St. W., New Prague, MN 55372. paulkrueger@edinarealty.com (612)328-4506

Specializing in silos in congested areas.

FULLY INSURED mobile concrete crushing.

507-236-9446

Classified Line Ads

WORK!

Call 507-345-4523

FOR SALE: JD 7000 planter, 8R w/ bean cups, w/ JD monitor 200 Series; Century Hiniker sprayer, 45’ hyd fold boom, w/ Hiniker 8160 monitor & foam markers; Hiniker 1000 8R cult; JD 960 field cult, 23 1/2 ft. 507-317-5966 Looking for something special?

Put a line ad in The Land and find it!

Call 507-345-4523

AUCTIONS & FOR SALE

Feed Seed Hay Hay for sale: Big Square 3x3x8 Grass/Alfalfa. $100 each 5+$95. 4x5 rounds $90, 5+$85. Mostly 2nd of 3 crops.

Stored inside no rain. Delivery available up to semi load. Discounts available.

Owatonna. 507-213-0560. Also Certified Seed Potatoes For Sale. Souba Greenhouse OPEN Pollinated Seed Corn.

Produces more high quality silage on less acres than hybrid. $67/bushel plus shipping. High feed value grain. borriesopenpollinatedseedcorn.com 217-857-3377 or 217-343-4962

“Where Farm and Family Meet” THE LAND...since 1976

WANTED

Bins & Buildings

Reminder...

Glyphosate 5.4 totes, $20.95 Stormor Bins & EZ-Drys.

Get one FREE classified line Gen Liberty totes, $44.95; 100% financing w/no liens or ad if you return your 2023 Enlist 1 totes, $46.95. Sure- red tape, call Steve at FairLAND subscription card. start 2 totes, $44.95. We ship fax Ag for an appointment.

Call us at 507-345-4523 for most everywhere & all tote 888-830-7757 more details. Thank you for prices include Free Delivreading THE LAND! ery to your farm or busiFarm Equipment ness. Please call or text for any other chemical needs.

Real Estate Phone 612-210-3685 72” skidloader snowblower, exc cond, $5,795; 1830 Case IH 12R30” row cultivator, FOR RENT: 20 acre horse Bins & Buildings $6,750; Case IH 5300 grain pasture w/ creek/trails, barn drill 24’ tandem unit, $7,500; & house also. Kimball area Rock Bucket for skidloader, 320-221-1872 SILO 78”, $1,095. 507-240-0294 Take-down & clean up

Real Estate Wanted

PAGE 23

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

DAMAGED GRAIN

Classifie d line ad

STATEWIDE

deadlin

noon o

e is

n Mond

ay

We pay top dollar for your damaged grain. We are experienced handlers of your wet, dry, burnt and mixed grains.

Trucks and vacs available.

Immediate response anywhere.

Copy is 5.16” x 5”

CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY

PRUESS ELEV., INC. 1-800-828-6642

Land Auction Tuesday, April 11th - 11:00 am Auction held at: Gaylord American Legion 329 Main Ave, Gaylord, MN 55334 Here is your chance to own easily accessible farmland in Sibley County. This land has been in the Witt family for 75 years, thoroughly tiled and highly productive.

Do not miss this rare opportunity!

Location of property within Sibley County: Sibley Township, Section 4, Range 28

This property will sell as one parcel:

Only registered bidders may attend

145.5 total acres, approx. 141.53 acres tillable.

Productivity Index: 87 *Note: All acres are published based on Sibley County Online Records & FSA records.

In case of severe weather, listen to 860 AM KNUJ & 107.3 FM SAM 8:30 the morning of the auction for postponement & rescheduling info. Blizzard Date is April 13th ~ 11:00 am

Witt Farm

Listing Auctioneers: Ryan Froehlich ~ 507-380-9256 & Joe Maidl ~ 507-276-7749 For property brochures, contact Hertz at 507-345-LAND (5263) WWW.HERTZ.AG 151 St. Andrews Court #1310, Mankato MN 56001

Auctioneers: Matt Mages L ic 52-22-018, Larry Mages, Joe Wersal, Joe Maidl, John Goelz, & Ryan Froehlich Broker/ Clerk: Mages Land Co. & Auction Ser vice, LLC. Not r esponsible for accidents at auction or during inspection. Everything sold “AS IS”. Everything to be settled immediately after the auction. For all full terms and bidding go to magesland.com.

magesland.com

PAGE 24

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com —”Where Farm and Family Meet”

irst Your F or f Choice ds! ie Classif

Place Your A d Today!

Livestock, Machinery, Farmland... you name it! People will buy it when they see it in The Land!

To submit your classified ad use one of the following options: Phone: 507-345-4523 or 1-800-657-4665 Mail to: The Land Classifieds, 418 South Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 Fax to: 507-345-1027 • Email: theland@TheLandOnline.com Online at: www.thelandonline.com DEADLINE: 7 days prior to publication.

Plus! Look for your classified ad in the e-edition.

South Central Minnesota’s Daily News Source

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

26

27

28

29

30

32

33

34

35

36

31

*

THE FREE PRESS

1

25

*

• Reach over 150,000 readers • Start your ad in The Land • Add more insertions • Get more coverage

The ad prices listed are based on a basic classified line ad of 25 words or less. Ads running longer than 25 words will incur an added charge.

CHECK ONE:  Announcements  Employment  Real Estate  Real Estate Wanted  Farm Rentals  Auctions  Agri Business  Farm Services  Sales & Services  Merchandise  Antiques & Collectibles  Lawn & Garden  Feed Seed Hay  Fertilizer & Chemicals  Bins & Buildings  Farm Equipment  Tractors  Tillage Equipment  Planting Equipment  Spraying Equipment

 Hay & Forage Equipment  Harvesting Equipment  Grain Handling Equipment  Livestock Equipment  Wanted  Free & Give Away  Livestock  Poultry  Dairy  Cattle  Swine  Sheep  Goats  Horses & Tack  Exotic Animals  Pets & Supplies  Cars & Pickups  Industrial & Construction  Trucks & Trailers  Recreational Vehicles  Miscellaneous

NOTE: Ad will be placed in the appropriate category if not marked.

Now... add a photo to your classified line ad for only $10.00!!

1 edition @ $21.99

= _______________________

2 editions @ $38.99

= _______________________

3 editions @ $48.99

= _______________________

Each additional line (over 7) + $1.40 per line per issue

= _______________________

EXTENDED COVERAGE FARM NEWS (FN) - Serving farmers in Northwest Iowa, 8,400 circ.

THE COUNTRY TODAY (CT) Serving farmers in Wisconsin, 7,902 circ.

THE FREE PRESS (FP) Serving south central Minnesota, 11,157 circ.

STANDOUT OPTIONS  Bold  Italic  Underline  Web/E-mail links

EXTENDED COVERAGE

Name ____________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________State_________ Zip__________

must run the same number of times as The Land

PAPER(S) ADDED $7.70 X _____ each edition X _____ publications STANDOUT OPTIONS (THE LAND only) $2.00 per run:

FN

CT

FP

(circle all options you want):

= _______________________

Phone __________________________________________ # of times _______ Card # ____________________________________________________________

CHECK

= _______________________

Exp. Date__________________

(The Land only) $10.00 each, per edition.

= _______________________

Signature _________________________________________________________

TOTAL

= _______________________

SORRY! We do not issue refunds.

*

 Photo  Border

This is NOT for businesses. Please call The Land to place line ads.

ADVERTISING NOTICE: Please check your ad the first week it runs. We make every effort to avoid errors by checking all copy, but sometimes errors are missed. Therefore, we ask that you review your ad for correctness. If you find a mistake, please call (507) 345-4523 immediately so that the error can be corrected. We regret that we cannot be responsible for more than one week’s insertion if the error is not called to our attention. We cannot be liable for an amount greater than the cost of the ad. THE LAND has the right to edit, reject or properly classify any ad. Each classified line ad is separately copyrighted to THE LAND. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023 Farm Equipment

Farm Equipment

Tractors

Please support our advertisers. Tell them you saw their ad in THE LAND.

Hay & Forage Equipment

FOR SALE: 2013 Kubota FOR SALE: Brett 880 grain FOR SALE: JD 8640, 2640 FOR SALE: 3 - 4516 Meyer F3080 front mount lawn cart w/ tarp, nice shape, hours, 3pt, PTO, Rock Box, forage boxes w/ tandem runmower, 3 cyl. 30HP dsl, $26,900. Located at C&D New cab interior, very well ning gear, good condition, al4WD, hydro, 1479 hrs, 60” tilt Equipment near Edgerton maintained, always shed- ways shedded. Near Altura, ded, always been on a small MN. 507-208-8310 up fabricated deck, steer- MN. Call Tim at 815-988-2074 ing wheel steer, bought new, farm. $31,000. 507-213-0600 JD 2210 27.5’ field cult w/ single nice!! $10,750. 507-440-1990 Livestock point depth & 3 bar harrow, NEW AND USED TRACTOR Equipment FOR SALE: NH T4-75 tractor $25,750; JD 520 20’ 3pt drill, PARTS JD 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, loader, 4x4, CAH, 1000 hrs, 10” spacing w/ markers, 55, 50 Series & newer trac- FOR SALE: Stainless steel $39,900; JD 6430, premium, $4,900; 2012 Unverferth 165 tors, AC-all models, Large fence line dry hog feeders, loaded, $44,900; NH LX665 40’ rolling harrow, $11,900; Inventory, We ship! Mark many sizes. 507-383-7858 skid loader, new tires & Case IH 183 12x30 vibra tine Heitman Tractor Salvage Albert Lea, MN bucket, $15,900 Best offer or flat fold cult, $1,950; NH 650 715-673-4829 4’x6’ round baler, twine tie, trade. 612-719-6524 Wanted exc cond, $4,900. 320-769-2756 FOR SALE: 1980 8820 com- or 320-361-0065 cell.

Spraying Equip bine with dual wheels, tires All kinds of New & Used farm We buy like new, with rear wheel equipment - disc chisels, field FOR SALE: 2006 Rogator 1074 Salvage Equipment assist, last 5 yrs $12,000 on SP sprayer, 3900 hrs, 1100 cults, planters, soil finishers, Parts Available repairs. asking $10,000. gal S/S tank, 80/90’ booms, 3 cornheads, feed mills, discs, Hammell Equip., Inc. 507-391-5127 way nozzles, Raven SCS 4000 balers, haybines, etc. 507(507)867-4910 monitor, 5 shutoffs, JD ATU, 438-9782 FOR SALE: 8x53 10HP electric auger on transport; also White 6122 12R30” liquid very nice, $45,000. Road WANTED: Late model Farm8x53 PTO auger on trans- $8,500; HD 10’ Sovema 3pt Boss 24’ triple axle trailer w/ Fans or Super B 12’ AB/CF port; also gravity box on tiller, $6,500; Older Dagel- 2000 gal tank, pump, induc- dryer, w/ low hours/LP. man rock picker, $900; 6-JD tor & chemical tanks. Both running gear. 701-412-8910 763-301-4245 please leave 10” ripper points at 75%, always shedded. Must see. message.

Sell your farm equipment $450/all; 4 front disc, com- Lamberton MN 507-828-1963 in The Land with a line ad. plete assemblies for JD 2700 ripper; $300/ea. 952-212-3328 Please recycle this magazine.

507-345-4523 TRACTORS NEW NH T4.75, T4.90, T4.120 w/loader On Order NEW NH Workmaster 60, 50, 35’s/loaders On Order NEW NH 25S Workmasters ...…......…. On Order NEW Massey Tractors ........................... On Order NEW Massey 4710 w/loader ….......... COMING NEW NH Boomer 40w/loader ….......… On Hand 3-New Massey GC1725 ……..................... Just In ’16 Massey 4608 rops w/loader …............. $43,900 ’11 Massey 7475 Nice ………............……. SOLD Massey 1652/cab/loader …….......………. $37,900 NH 8970 ………………….....…...……… $58,500 ’21 NH T7.260 ………............………… $169,000 ’18 NH Boomer 55/cab/loader ……......… $43,000 ’18 NH T4.75 w/loader .............................. $54,000 ’17 NH T4.75 w/loader ……..................… $53,000 ’13 NH Workmaster 35w/loader ……...…. $18,500 Bobcat CT440 w/loader ……........… $16,900 Kubota/cab/loader …….....................…… $29,500

• 5/8” drum roller wall thickness • 42” drum diameter wall thickness • 4”x8” frame tubing 3/8” thick • Auto fold

MANDAKO 12’-60’ LONG ROLLERS

PAGE 25

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

FOR THE BEST DEAL ORDER NOW!

GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177 14 miles So. of Sauk Centre

TILLAGE Sunflower 4610 9-24 …….............…… COMING DMI Tigermate II 46.5 w/bskt ….....….…. $32,000 DMI Tigermate II 36.5 w/4bar ….....….…. $22,000 DMI Tigermate II 40.5 w/3bar ….…......… $25,900 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NEW NH L318/L320/L328 wheeled units ....... On Hand NEW NH C327/C337/C345 track units .......... On Order NH L228 low hours ............................................ $44,900

HAY TOOLS

New Disc Mowers - 107,108,109 New Disc Mower Cond. - 10’, 13’ New Wheel Rakes - 10,12,14 New NH Hay Tools - ON HAND Frontiern WR1010 wheel rake …….............……… $5,950

PLANTERS JD 7200 12-30 w/LF ………........................…… $21,000 White 6186 16-30 w/liq …....…...................……. $15,900 Price chg White 6186 …….........………………. $12,000 ’12 White 8222 w/liq ……………...……………. Just in Taking 2023 New Spring Orders COMBINES NEW Geringhoff chopping cornhead .................... Call ’02 Gleaner R62 …...............................……… $53,500 ’02 Gleaner R62 ……………...................……. $35,000 ’94 Gleaner R72 ………….......................…… $27,000 Gleaner R65 ……...............................…….. COMING Geringhoff parts & heads available

MISCELLANEOUS NEW Salford RTS Units ........................................ Call NEW Unverferth Seed Tenders .............................. Call NEW Westfield Augers .......................................... Call NEW REM VRX Vacs. .......................................... Call NEW Hardi Sprayers ............................................. Call NEW Riteway Rollers ........................................... Call NEW Lorenz Snowblowers ................................... Call NEW Batco Conveyors ......................................... Call NEW Brent Wagons & Grain Carts ....................... Call NEW E-Z Trail Seed Wagons ................................ Call NEW Rock Buckets & Pallet Forks ...................... Call Pre-Owned Grain Cart .................................. On Hand New Horsch Jokers ................................................ Call

NOW HIRING SERVICE TECHS

THANK YOU FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

(507) 234-5191 (507) 625-8649 Hwy. 14, 3 miles West of Janesville, MN

Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00 • Sat. 7:30-Noon

PAGE 26

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com —”Where Farm and Family Meet”

Have an upcoming Auction?

Talk to your auctioneer or call our friendly staff

at 800-657-4665

to place your auction in THE LAND theland@thelandonline.com or www.thelandonline.com

Wanted

Swine

WANTED: John Deere no till FOR SALE: Yorkshire, Hampdrill, model 1590 or 750. Must shire, Duroc, cross bred be 20’, in good to excellent boars, and gilts. Top quality. condition. Call 507-404-0580 Excellent herd health. No PRSS. Delivery available.

320-760-0365

Livestock

HOLLAND AUCTION

A.M. Saturday, APRIL 22, 2023 2022 - 9:30 9:30 A.M.

Spot, Duroc, Chester White, Boars & Gilts available.

FOR SALE: Black Angus bulls Monthly PRRS and PEDV. also Hamp, York, & Hamp/ Delivery available. Steve Duroc boars & gilts. Alfred Resler. 507-456-7746 (Mike) Kemen 320-598-3790

LOCATION: East of Beaver Lake, Ellendale MN

Tractors • Combines • Haying Equip. • Tillage Equip. • Planters • Wagons • Farm Pickups & Trucks • Construction Equip. • All Types of Farm Machinery • Recreational Items Welcomed (No car or truck tires)

Sell your livestock in The Land with a line ad. 507-345-4523

Call early to take full advantage of advertising.

Always a large auction, running two auction rings all day.

Limited Rack Items Accepted!

Delivery of Consignments will be on April 16, 17, 18, 19, 2023 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NO Consignments on April 20th and 21st!

Holland Auction at (507) 684-2955 or

Cattle

Tracy Holland, 507-456-5128 (cell) or

e-mail hollandauction@frontiernet.net

SEALED BID / LAND AUCTION

150 Acres

Litchfield, MN

Meeker County, Harvey Township, Section 6 This land is rented for 2023. Rent and taxes will be pro-rated.

This land would make a great addition to an exisiting farm.

Registered Polled Hereford yearling bulls for sale.

Have had all shots, poured and semen tested. Halter broke and broke to lead.

Fantastic growth EPD’s!

Will deliver. Klages Herefords, Ortonville, MN. 320-273-2163(H) 605-8800521(C)

Miscellaneous PARMA DRAINAGE PUMPS New pumps & parts on hand.

Call Minnesota’s largest distributor HJ Olson & Company 320-974-8990 Cell - 320-212-5336 REINKE IRRIGATION Sales & Service New & Used For your irrigation needs 888-830-7757 or 507-276-2073

One Call Does It All! With one phone call, you can place your classified line ad in The Land, Farm News and Country Today.

Call The Land for more information 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665

For Viewings or Questions Call Greg 320-894-5782

Submit all bids by April 28th to: Ray R. Rew, 301 14th Ave NW, Waseca, MN 56093 Top 4 Bids Will Be Notified to Increase Their Bid If They Choose.

Terms:

$50,000 Down Day of Purchase - 5% Buyers Premium - Non-Refundable /Non-Contingent Attorneys Wood & Rue will do purchase agreement on May 1st.

Balance Due: June, 1 2023 Auctioneer: Ray R. Rew

Phone: 320-815-0460

Answers for Food Safety Word Search

Cleaning out your attic or shed?

Put a classified ad in Classifieds work! 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

d . o .

, . . e

S .

-

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

PAGE 27

Have you returned the 2023 subscription card for THE LAND? Upcoming Issues of THE LAND

April 14, 2023 April 28, 2023 May 12, 2023

Ask Your Auctioneer to Place Your Auction in The Land!

AKC REG. COCKER SPANIEL PUPS: Big Litters! 1/2 PRICE! 2-M, 5-F shots & wormed. 920-563-3410 mornings (#268588)(mcn) CASH FOR CARS! We buy all cars!

Junk, high-end, totaled – it doesn’t matter! Get free towing and same day cash! NEWER MODELS too! Call 1-877-978-2510. (mcn)

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 844-716-2411. (mcn)

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 855-752-6680 (mcn)

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance- NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-973-9175 www.dental50plus.com/https://www. dental50plus.com/midwest #6258 (mcn)

Thank you for reading The Land. We appreciate it!

Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-855-977-7030. (mcn)

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility!

Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-877-916-2093. (mcn)

ADVERTISER LISTING

FREE high-speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl.

Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay.

Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-866-443-3789. (mcn)

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866742-7290. (mcn)

Deadline is 8 days prior to publication.

Indicates early deadline, 9 days prior to publication. * 418 S. Second Street • Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: 507-345-4523 or 800-657-4665 Fax: 507-345-1027

6

Beck's Hybrids ....................................................................... 1 C & C Roofing ....................................................................... 4 Greenwald Farm Center ........................................................ 25 Grizzly Buildings, Inc. ........................................................... 7 Hertz Farm Management ..................................................... 23 Holland Auction ................................................................... 26 Hughes Auction & Real Estate .............................................. 26 Kannegiesser Truck ...............................................................11 Karsten Nursery ..................................................... Cover Wrap Keeper's RV Center ................................................................ 5 Kerkhoff Auction ................................................................. 26 Letcher Farms ...................................................................... 17 Mages Auction Service ......................................................... 23 Mathiowetz Construction Co. ............................................... 13 MaxSip Internet ................................................................... 16 Pruess Elevator, Inc. ............................................................ 23 Renewal by Andersen ........................................................... 20 Schweiss Doors .................................................................... 25 Smiths Mill Implement, Inc. ................................................. 25 Snirt Stopper, LLC ............................................................... 15 Southwest MN K-Fence ........................................................ 12 Triple R Auction .................................................................. 26 U of M Foundation ................................................................. 3 Wealth Enhancement Group .................................................... 9 507-345-4523 • 800-657-4665 418 South Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 www.thelandonline.com

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 855-824-1258. (mcn) DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $74.99/month! Free Installation!

160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-558-1767 (mcn) DISH Network. $64.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/ mo. (where available.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today!

1-855-434-0020 (mcn) Get DIRECTV for $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package.

NEW 2 YEAR PRICE GUARANTEE. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included!

Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Some restrictions apply. Call 1-866-296-1409. (mcn) Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 844-878-2209. (mcn) Dish Network: Only from Dish3-year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee.

Includes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone.

Switch and Get a FREE $100 Gift Card.

Call today! 1-855-434-0020. (mcn) Worthing SD is hiring a full-time Utility Maintenance person with full benefits. Responsibilities include working in the city’s water, sewer, streets, and park departments. Information can be found at www.cityofworthing.com. (mcn) The COVID crisis has cost us all something. Many have lost jobs and financial security. Have $10K In Debt?

Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans.

Call NATIONAL DEBT RELIEF! We can help! Get a FREE debt relief quote: Call 1-866-552-0649.(mcn)

Vivint. Smart security. Professionally installed. One connected system for total peace of mind. FREE professional installation! Four FREE months of monitoring! Call now to customize your system. 1-855-962-5554. (mcn) DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER? You may qualify for a substantial cash award - even with smoking history. NO obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-888-490-8260. (mcn) BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call 1-866-585-7073. (mcn) LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 877-327-0795. (mcn) BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 855-8362250. (mcn) NEED NEW FLOORING? Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE inhome estimate on Carpeting & Flooring.

Call Today! 844-785-0305 (mcn) Never clean your gutters again!

Affordable, professionally installed gutter guards protect your gutters and home from debris and leaves forever! For a FREE Quote call: 877-761-1449 (mcn) The Generac PWRcell, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home.

Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-877-381-3059. (mcn) Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-877-228-5789 (mcn)

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever!

LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-5771268. (mcn) Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance PublishingTrusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-516-0706 or visit dorranceinfo.com/Midwest (mcn) Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 877-326-1608. (mcn) Trouble hearing your TV? Try TV EARS Voice Clarifying Wireless TV Speaker. Better than a soundbar and/or turning the TV volume way up. Special, limited time $50 off offer. Call TV Ears.

Use code MBSP50. Call 1-844-4550505. (mcn) Safe Step. North Americas #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844-2905083. (mcn) Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time offer!

Get $50 off on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-888-909-7338. (mcn) Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills?

Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-888-680-3016 to get a free quote or visit mfcp. (mcn) PAYING TOP CA$H FOR MEN’S SPORT WATCHES! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner, Speedmaster.. Call: 866-314-9742. (mcn) TOP CA$H PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. 866-470-1643. (mcn) Wanted: Antique Bicycles from 1930’s-50’s. Deluxe or unusual models with horn tanks, headlights, etc. Also buying Schwinn Stingray bikes from 1960’s-70’s. Top prices paid. Will pick up anywhere. 309-645-4623. (mcn) Buying and selling silver bars, silver dollars, rare coins, gold coins, gold jewelry, any gold-silver items, collector coins. Kuehl’s Coins, Fairmont, Minnesota, 507-235-3886. (mcn)

PAGE 28

THE LAND — MARCH 31, 2023

www.thelandonline.com — “Where Farm and Family Meet”

This week’s Back Roads is the work of The Land Correspondent Richard Siemers.

I

Farming as it once was

n the early 1960s, when Minnesota planned to build a college in southwest Minnesota, the city of Fairmont purchased a 40-acre homestead on the west side of town as part of their bid for the institution. Marshall won out as the college location, but that land was still destined to be an educational center.

In 1976, a group of folks who saw the swiftlychanging farm scene, realized that soon younger generations would have no idea of how farming had once been. The result of that concern is Heritage Acres Agricultural Interpretive Center.

The barn is the only original building from the Reuben Ward homestead. A volunteer group runs the non-profit organization. They started an annual music festival to draw people to the grounds.

“The first music festivals on the Fourth of July were outside up by the barn and house,” said Jerry Simon, current president of the board of directors. “There were no other buildings here [at the time].

Then the church, the school, and the elevator all show up by truck.”

The festivals expanded beyond the Fourth of July with the addition of a Threshing Day and a Fall Festival (though Covid and a lack of volunteer help have put a strain on that). The number of buildings expanded even more. There is now a granary, chicken house, windmill, silo, log cabin, and blacksmith shop. In front of the depot (from Welcome, Minn.) is a track with a caboose, and railroad crew maintenance cars. The railroad mainte-

Fairmont, Minn.

nance cars were manufactured in Fairmont in the early 1900s.

Heritage Acres has added a third pole building to store all of the machinery and items they have received. One building houses Prairieville Mall.

Rather than create a Main Street with numerous small buildings, the Mall is a 1940s Main Street of business facades constructed inside — each business filled with related artifacts.

Heritage Acres has a volunteer board, but anyone is welcome to donate time and run for the board. The organization farms the 22 tillable acres with corn, beans and oats using older machinery (of which they have plenty). Retired farmers basically outfitted the place, Simon said.

“They wanted to have a place for their old machinery to educate the young kids how things were done in the past.” Two acres are set aside for public gardens for which individuals sign up to cultivate.

Since this is city-owned land, the public has access much like a park. The buildings, however, are only open during Heritage Acres festivals and by appointment.

They encourage bus tours and tours of school children.

The church building can be rented for weddings.

Heritage Acres is located at 507 West Lake Avenue in Fairmont, on the west side of Lake Sisseton.

For tours and rental information, call Simon at (507) 238-4645. Visit their Facebook page, HeritageAcresFairmont. v

Page 4 - April 1/April 8, 2022

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

Make the Perfect Wind Break!!

© 2022

April 1/April 8, 2022 (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001

Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Make Perfect Wind Break

KARSTEN NURSERY

Is the home of the Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Growing and Shipping Hybrid SuperTrees for 30 years!

We have 100 other species in addition to the fast-growing SuperTrees™ Visit our website, www.KarstenNursery.com, to view our entire list of trees, shrubs and conifers offered for sale. Download our list of stock and submit inquiries for any of the more than 100 species via email to Joel@KarstenNursery.com

PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE A WHOLESALE NURSERY!

• Create a Windbreak in Just 2 to 3 Years • Strong Tree - Not Subject to Broken Branches Like a Weeping Willow • Disease and Insect Free • Can Be Planted with a Tree Planter or Easily

by Hand • Plants Come 12-24” and Have a Root Ball about the Size of a Soda Can • Spacing is 6’ for a Single Row and 10’ on a Double Row • SuperTree™ Grows 6-10’ a Year • Max Height 45’

Photo Taken 4 1/2 Years After Planting

We have 100 Other Species in Addition to the Fast-Growing SuperTrees™

We sell to anyone, however all orders must be for full bundle quantities.

NO SINGLE TREES are offered for sale.

We do not have a retail store or regular hours. All orders are sent by UPS, Postal, or SpeeDee.

Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096

Discounts for Larger Quantity Orders Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096

Page 2 - April 1/April 8, 2022

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

Hybrid SuperTree™ Great for Windbreaks Karsten Nursery has been in the tree business for over 40 years, originally specializing in bareroot wind-breaks. Now, they have established an effective, fast-growing windbreak with its Hybrid SuperTree™. The hybrid is a cross between the Chinese Willow and the White Willow, and is sold to Midwest farmers and ranchers primarily for windbreaks.

The Hybrid SuperTree™ stands out from other windbreak species due to its growing speed & strength. Both traits mean they can act as a windbreak within 3 years of planting. Joel Karsten of Karsten Nursery says “In some parts of the country, these trees will grow 10 to 14 feet per year, but in our shorter growing season here in Minnesota, we see 6 to 8 feet per year.” The photo at the top of this page shows a row of Hybrid SuperTree™ planted six feet apart after 50 months of growth. Average height is 35’ and width is 15-20’. Hardy down to the cold of zone 3, and up to zone 10, this hybrid tree is sold all over the USA, and grows well in all climates.

HYBRID SUPERTREES™ are a unique cross that grows extremely quickly, usually reaching 18-20’ often within two years of planting, and yet maintains structural integrity to allow it to reach a mature height of 50 - 70 feet if left without any pruning. The width can reach 15-17’ but can easily be controlled by pruning. This cultivar is disease resistant and has no known insect problems that affect the overall growth habit. It grows well in many different soil types, from sandy

to clay soils, however the most important requirement is moisture. If water is provided weekly during the first year after planting, the root system will easily support the tree after that, unless drought conditions occur.

This tree seems to have a lifespan of around 30 years but they do begin to decline at about 18-20 years old. Other internet sellers will say they live longer, but we have over 500 of these that are 28 year old trees at our nursery, and the trunk diameter is about 30” on average. They began to have broken branches and decline at about 18 years old, and now we are about to remove them and replant. Don’t believe it when others tell you they live 70 years, it is just not true.

We have a Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association Certified Nursery Professional on staff, and the owner has extensive experience in nursery production for more than 40 years.

Many past customers have returned year after year to purchase additional stock and have always found the finest quality and lowest prices around.

We are normally a wholesale business, however over the years retail customers looking for good prices, and willing to order in our minimum bundle quantities have used Karsten Nursery as a great source of trees, shrubs and conifers at a very good value.

Why Plant Hybrid SuperTree™?

Other trees can take 30 years to give you shade and provide a visual barrier from unsightly views.

If you need a fastgrowing hedge row that will provide quick protection from wind, snow, noise or dust then order online today and get your Hybrid SuperTrees in the ground soon! We encourage you to plant a variety of other species inside of the outside row of Hybrids, so that in 20 years you will have a good stand of trees inside of the declining row of Willows.

Important Please Read *Caution: Avoid purchasing Hybrid trees from nurseries or online sellers who offer them BARE-ROOT. The death loss percentage is very high (35%+) because the Salix species DOES NOT like to be bare-rooted, and tend to die in high percentages.

This means extra work for you even if the seller replaces the dead ones. If one tree in a row dies, you’ll have an open space in your row that is difficult to fill in. The new replacement will be very small and the others grow very quickly. Remember 35% of those replacements will also die, and so on. Our stock is sold as rooted plugs, so the soil COMES WITH enclosing the roots, this way they are never exposed to the air. OUR STOCK will NOT die if given even basic care.

Other species of trees grow well from bare-root stock, but NOT the Salix species. OUR STOCK can be planted anytime during the year while bare-root stock should only be sold/planted during the early spring. We used to sell these Hybrids bare-root, but we stopped 22 years ago and developed a better method that really works. Don’t get fooled by low prices, you will be sorry.

For more information on our Hybrid SuperTrees™ or any of our other 100 species of trees, or to order online, please visit www.KarstenNursery.com, or call 651-470-2096.

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

April 1/April 8, 2022 - Page 3

Here's What Our Customers Have to Say...

“I bought about 20 or so of your willows just a few years ago. I wanted some privacy from the street at our home. I will say I am very happy with the willows. First off, they all survived and they are looking great. We live in Michigan and winters can be tough but these willows are doing fine. These pictures are from summer of 2019. Glad I found your trees.”

– Christopher E “The SuperTree Hybrid Willows we purchased last spring are already providing us with a privacy screen and shade. Our neighbors are amazed that we have gotten nearly 12 feet of growth already since we planted them.”

– Mike L. - Sioux Falls, SD “These hybrids were the only trees in this area that survived the derecho unscathed, while most other trees were leveled.”

– Crystal J. - West of Cedar Rapids, IA

“Every single one of the 250 SuperTrees I purchased last spring made it through the winter and are still growing like weeds.

It won’t be long now until we cannot see our neighbor’s ugly backyard.”

– John W. - Sibley, IA

Page 2 - April 1/April 8, 2022

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

Hybrid SuperTree™ Great for Windbreaks Karsten Nursery has been in the tree business for over 40 years, originally specializing in bareroot wind-breaks. Now, they have established an effective, fast-growing windbreak with its Hybrid SuperTree™. The hybrid is a cross between the Chinese Willow and the White Willow, and is sold to Midwest farmers and ranchers primarily for windbreaks.

The Hybrid SuperTree™ stands out from other windbreak species due to its growing speed & strength. Both traits mean they can act as a windbreak within 3 years of planting. Joel Karsten of Karsten Nursery says “In some parts of the country, these trees will grow 10 to 14 feet per year, but in our shorter growing season here in Minnesota, we see 6 to 8 feet per year.” The photo at the top of this page shows a row of Hybrid SuperTree™ planted six feet apart after 50 months of growth. Average height is 35’ and width is 15-20’. Hardy down to the cold of zone 3, and up to zone 10, this hybrid tree is sold all over the USA, and grows well in all climates.

HYBRID SUPERTREES™ are a unique cross that grows extremely quickly, usually reaching 18-20’ often within two years of planting, and yet maintains structural integrity to allow it to reach a mature height of 50 - 70 feet if left without any pruning. The width can reach 15-17’ but can easily be controlled by pruning. This cultivar is disease resistant and has no known insect problems that affect the overall growth habit. It grows well in many different soil types, from sandy

to clay soils, however the most important requirement is moisture. If water is provided weekly during the first year after planting, the root system will easily support the tree after that, unless drought conditions occur.

This tree seems to have a lifespan of around 30 years but they do begin to decline at about 18-20 years old. Other internet sellers will say they live longer, but we have over 500 of these that are 28 year old trees at our nursery, and the trunk diameter is about 30” on average. They began to have broken branches and decline at about 18 years old, and now we are about to remove them and replant. Don’t believe it when others tell you they live 70 years, it is just not true.

We have a Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association Certified Nursery Professional on staff, and the owner has extensive experience in nursery production for more than 40 years.

Many past customers have returned year after year to purchase additional stock and have always found the finest quality and lowest prices around.

We are normally a wholesale business, however over the years retail customers looking for good prices, and willing to order in our minimum bundle quantities have used Karsten Nursery as a great source of trees, shrubs and conifers at a very good value.

Why Plant Hybrid SuperTree™?

Other trees can take 30 years to give you shade and provide a visual barrier from unsightly views.

If you need a fastgrowing hedge row that will provide quick protection from wind, snow, noise or dust then order online today and get your Hybrid SuperTrees in the ground soon! We encourage you to plant a variety of other species inside of the outside row of Hybrids, so that in 20 years you will have a good stand of trees inside of the declining row of Willows.

Important Please Read *Caution: Avoid purchasing Hybrid trees from nurseries or online sellers who offer them BARE-ROOT. The death loss percentage is very high (35%+) because the Salix species DOES NOT like to be bare-rooted, and tend to die in high percentages.

This means extra work for you even if the seller replaces the dead ones. If one tree in a row dies, you’ll have an open space in your row that is difficult to fill in. The new replacement will be very small and the others grow very quickly. Remember 35% of those replacements will also die, and so on. Our stock is sold as rooted plugs, so the soil COMES WITH enclosing the roots, this way they are never exposed to the air. OUR STOCK will NOT die if given even basic care.

Other species of trees grow well from bare-root stock, but NOT the Salix species. OUR STOCK can be planted anytime during the year while bare-root stock should only be sold/planted during the early spring. We used to sell these Hybrids bare-root, but we stopped 22 years ago and developed a better method that really works. Don’t get fooled by low prices, you will be sorry.

For more information on our Hybrid SuperTrees™ or any of our other 100 species of trees, or to order online, please visit www.KarstenNursery.com, or call 651-470-2096.

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

April 1/April 8, 2022 - Page 3

Here's What Our Customers Have to Say...

“I bought about 20 or so of your willows just a few years ago. I wanted some privacy from the street at our home. I will say I am very happy with the willows. First off, they all survived and they are looking great. We live in Michigan and winters can be tough but these willows are doing fine. These pictures are from summer of 2019. Glad I found your trees.”

– Christopher E “The SuperTree Hybrid Willows we purchased last spring are already providing us with a privacy screen and shade. Our neighbors are amazed that we have gotten nearly 12 feet of growth already since we planted them.”

– Mike L. - Sioux Falls, SD “These hybrids were the only trees in this area that survived the derecho unscathed, while most other trees were leveled.”

– Crystal J. - West of Cedar Rapids, IA

“Every single one of the 250 SuperTrees I purchased last spring made it through the winter and are still growing like weeds.

It won’t be long now until we cannot see our neighbor’s ugly backyard.”

– John W. - Sibley, IA

Page 4 - April 1/April 8, 2022

THE LAND, Advertising Supplement

Make the Perfect Wind Break!!

© 2022

April 1/April 8, 2022 (800) 657-4665 www.TheLandOnline.com theland@TheLandOnline.com 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN 56001

Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Make Perfect Wind Break

KARSTEN NURSERY

Is the home of the Fast-Growing SuperTree™ Growing and Shipping Hybrid SuperTrees for 30 years!

We have 100 other species in addition to the fast-growing SuperTrees™ Visit our website, www.KarstenNursery.com, to view our entire list of trees, shrubs and conifers offered for sale. Download our list of stock and submit inquiries for any of the more than 100 species via email to Joel@KarstenNursery.com

PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE A WHOLESALE NURSERY!

• Create a Windbreak in Just 2 to 3 Years • Strong Tree - Not Subject to Broken Branches Like a Weeping Willow • Disease and Insect Free • Can Be Planted with a Tree Planter or Easily

by Hand • Plants Come 12-24” and Have a Root Ball about the Size of a Soda Can • Spacing is 6’ for a Single Row and 10’ on a Double Row • SuperTree™ Grows 6-10’ a Year • Max Height 45’

Photo Taken 4 1/2 Years After Planting

We have 100 Other Species in Addition to the Fast-Growing SuperTrees™

We sell to anyone, however all orders must be for full bundle quantities.

NO SINGLE TREES are offered for sale.

We do not have a retail store or regular hours. All orders are sent by UPS, Postal, or SpeeDee.

Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096

Discounts for Larger Quantity Orders Easily Buy Online at: www.KarstenNursery.com or call 651.470.2096