Rural Route April | May 2021

Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION®'S

april | may 2021 • vol. 27 no. 2 | wfbf.com

Essential Heroes MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTED DURING SUPER BOWL

PAGE 16

Watershed Relationships: THE FARMER, THE CONSERVATIONIST AND THE CROP CONSULTANT PAGE 8

contents vol. 27 no. 2

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AG DAY AT THE CAPITOL

This year's virtual event kept farmers connected.

FARMER-LED WATERSHED

Dane County members achieve conservation through conversations.

DISCOVERY FARMS® PROGRAM

Discovery Farms® latest research results on agriculture’s relationship to water quality.

AG LEAD SUMMIT

Members gathered virtually for the Ag LEAD Summit.

ESSENTIAL HEROES

Wood County members featured in Super Bowl commercial.

PROMOTION AND EDUCATION

Learn more about WFBF's Promotion and Education Program.

SPOTLIGHT ON YFA

Meet District 3 YFA Committee Representative Andrew Dal Santo.

GRASSROOTS IN ACTION

Learn what Farm Bureau is doing on the local level.

VOICES

Messages from Krentz, Duvall, Nigh and Setzer.

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Check out this summer's opportunities with Ag in the Classroom.

RURAL MUTUAL

Rural Mutual agents give back to their local communities.

COVER PHOTO BY CASSIE SONNENTAG

ONLINE LIBRARY

Read our previous issues at wfbf.com/read.

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Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION'S

EDITOR'S NOTE

I

t could be just me but the anticipation of green grass, tulips and watching tractors in the fields is growing by the day. The sounds and smells of spring we’ve already experienced have lifted my spirits. After a long winter and months of quarantine, I think this might be the most welcomed spring ever, at least in my small amount of record books.

There might be something more to this season change. I think it is bringing renewed hope. Warmth is coming, restrictions are lifting, vaccines are being distributed and people are getting to connect again in person rather than just virtually. It truly feels like we can let ourselves be hopeful.

What I enjoy about spring is the sense of ambition and the feeling of motivation it brings with it. It is a time set aside to refresh and renew thoughts, ideas and dreams. No idea seems too big or project too much work during these spring months.

Earlier this year some Wisconsin Farm Bureau staff gathered to talk about Rural

Route and discussed some ideas to tweak the content it provides you. We wanted to bring even more member voices to the pages.

I hope you can see this change reflected. We will continue to improve what we provide to keep you, our members, informed, involved and engaged.

There are some exciting features in this issue. I hope you enjoy learning about the Hughes family who was not only featured in a Super Bowl commercial, but they also have played a significant role in the pandemic. This story is featured on page 16.

There is also a subtle theme of water, environment and Earth Day in this issue.

A fitting theme for spring. Not only will you read about some of Discovery Farms' latest resources on page 10, but you will learn firsthand about the Brown family and how they are working hard to preserve their watershed on page 8. WFBF Board member Robert Nigh writes about his insights on the water conversation on page 30 while WFBF President Kevin Krentz shares why Earth Day is every day on the farm.

I hope hearing from a variety of Farm Bureau voices gives you some motivation to hit the ground running this spring; both in your personal life and in Farm Bureau. The last year has been tough but the grass is turning green, giving the light to move ahead and start again.

It was Will Rodgers who said, "The farmer has to be an optimist or he wouldn't still be a farmer." No one understands the meaning of hope more than a farmer.

Wishing you a safe planting season and a renewed hope for the coming months.

Amy Eckelberg Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

Editor Amy Eckelberg - 608.828.5706 Designer Lynn Siekmann - 608.828.5707 Contributor Marian Viney - 608.828.5721 Address of Publication Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. Madison, WI 53705-0550 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550 Contact Information 608.836.5575 800.261.FARM (3276) wfbf.com info.demingway@wfbf.com WFBF Board of Directors Kevin Krentz, Berlin (President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove (Vice President) Arch Morton Jr., Janesville Robert Nigh, Viroqua Joe Bragger, Independence Rosie Lisowe, Chilton Brian Preder, Weyauwega Ryan Klussendorf, Medford Peter Kimball, Baldwin Lynn Leahy, Plover (Promotion and Education Committee Chair) Emily Johnson, Orfordville (YFA Committee Chair) Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation's Rural Route (ISSN 1082-1368) (USPS 39940), the official publication of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, is published six times per year in February|March, April|May, June|July, August|September, October|November and December|January. Subscription of $5 is included in Farm Bureau dues. Periodical postage is paid at Madison, Wisconsin. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without written consent.

For advertising rates and information: Wisconsin accounts contact Slack Attack at 608.222.7630 or barbara@slackattack.com.

National accounts contact Casey McNeal at 800.798.2691 ext. 334 or casey@iafalls.com.

For general inquiries, contact Amy Eckelberg at 608.828.5706 or aeckelberg@wfbf.com.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

AG DAY AT THE CAPITOL Virtual Event Keeps Farmers Connected O

n March 24, more than 250 farmers and agriculturists met virtually for Ag Day at the Capitol. This annual event is for Wisconsin farmers and agriculturists to learn more about state issues affecting agriculture and meet with their state legislators.

Attendees listened Evers to prerecorded welcome messages from Governor Tony Evers and Secretary-designee of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Randy Romanski.

Attendees listened to issue briefings on Romanski increased funding for broadband expansion, providing farmer grant programs for nitrogen optimization projects, addressing meat processing infrastructure, transportation funding, well remediation, wildlife damage claims, truth in food labeling and a host of other bills including farmland preservation tax credit and the Wisconsin initiative for agricultural exports and dairy processor grants.

Besides broadband, another focus area was support for agricultural nitrogen legislation. Attendees were asked to

encourage the legislature to support grants to farmers for the implementation of on-farm projects that are designed to reduce nitrate loading to groundwater, improvements to DNR’s Well Compensation Program and create Cover Crop Insurance Premium Rebate Program.

During the event, Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Kevin Krentz addressed the virtual crowd and encouraged members to share their stories with legislators in their meetings and throughout the year.

“It’s important that they hear directly from you and how an issue is impacting you, your farm and your community.”

Rural Mutual Insurance Company and FS GROWMARK, Inc., were major sponsors of the event. Co-sponsors of the event, with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, included the Dairy Business Association, Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Hemp Alliance, Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association, Wisconsin Soybean Association and the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association.

The following is an overview of the items discussed during the event’s briefing session. Attendees were encouraged to support these initiatives.

Producer-Led Watershed Grant Program – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill

• This provision in the governor’s budget proposal increases funding to $2 million during the biennium.

• The program supports local farmers and stakeholders working together to collaborate on local watershed issues, implementation of practices in order to focus on local solutions.

• Last session, additional funding was approved by the legislature to address additional grant requests that exceeded the funding authority of the program. Funding requests have consistently exceeded the funding level authorized for this program at DATCP.

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Dairy Processor Grants – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill

• The governor’s budget proposal includes a grant program administered at DATCP for small dairy processing plants.

• The intent of the grants is to promote and enhance the growth of the dairy industry through research, planning and assistance.

• This proposal would increase funding for this program by $1.2 million over the biennium for a total of $1.6 million.

• Similar legislation was drafted in 2020 as Special Session AB 7 and unanimously passed the Assembly last session.

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Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill

• The proposal from the Governor’s budget includes funding for an export enhancement program, administered at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

• The intent of this initiative is to increase exports of Wisconsin agricultural and agribusiness products.

• Half of the funding is specified to promote dairy exports and half specified to promote vegetable, meat and fish exports.

• This budget proposal would provide just over $1,000,000 for each year of the biennium and create one position at DATCP. • Similar legislation was drafted in 2020 as Special Session AB 6 and unanimously passed the Assembly last session.

Tracking and Reporting Outreach and Extension Hours – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill and AB 76 / SB 79

• The researchers who are most critical to the development of improved farming practices are the UW-Madison Division of Extension state specialists.

• In addition to conducting research, our state specialists teach farmers and transfer research into on-farm innovation.

• Urge the legislature to adopt a mechanism to track and account for the hours that UW faculty spend teaching farmers.

Additional Funding for UW State Specialists – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill and AB 77 / SB 80

• In recent years, we have lost a significant number of applied agricultural research faculty positions at UW-Madison and UW-System.

• The open positions have included: dairy markets; forage; farm finance; milk quality; beef production and swine production; insect pest management; ruminant nutrition; and farmstead planning and storage.

• Ask the legislature to authorize additional funding for extension specialists who are critical to the economic health of Wisconsin’s farm economy.

Meat Processor Grant Program – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill (DATCP) • Support the creation of a meat processor grant program through DATCP. • Grants would be used to expand and modernize meat processing operations and grow the meat industry.

Meat Talent Development Program – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill (DATCP)

• Workforce issues are a critical sticking point for the expansion of Wisconsin’s local meat processing infrastructure.

• Ask the legislature to support workforce development needs by creating a tuition assistance program to award funding to individuals pursuing meat processing programming at Wisconsin universities, colleges and technical schools.

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Expanded Meat Inspection Program – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill (DATCP)

• During the pandemic, we saw how limited our state meat supply chain was due to the limitation of our current state plant inspectors.

• All new meat inspectors must be authorized by the legislature and hired by DATCP. (There is no private-sector alternative under federal regulations.)

• Ask the legislature to support 6.0 additional full-time inspectors to assist in more timely inspection and sampling of meat processors.

Budget Transportation Funding – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill (DOT) • The governor’s budget proposal increases General Transportation Aids for cities, villages, towns and counties by 2 percent each year.

• The Governor’s budget includes $278.5 million in bonding allocated for the rebuilding of highways and bridges within the state highway rehabilitation program. Maintenance of state highways and bridges is critical to our agricultural economy.

• There is concern that a disproportionate amount of funding is directed toward large, urban road projects. We support assistance directed to local towns and counties for road and bridge improvements and maintenance.

Farmland Preservation – AB 54 / SB 68

• The current Farmland Preservation program protects farmland from development, provides farmers with ongoing financial compensation and provides soil and water standard compliance.

• Sen. Testin (R-Stevens Point) and Rep. Oldenburg (R-Viroqua) have introduced SB 68 and AB 54 to update the program to encourage enrollment, protect farmland loss and provide updated financial compensation.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

• Changes to the program include elimination of the current $10,000 cap on claims, full administration of the program by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and remote monitoring on all bear traps.

• Additional changes include reimbursement for crop damage from vehicles to place a bear trap as well as lifting program hunting requirement for participants that only opt for placement of a bear trap on lands.

Wisconsin Broadband Coalition

• Increase funding for the Broadband Expansion Grant Program • Focus the Broadband Expansion Grant Program on “Unserved” Areas • Prioritize Future-Proof Network Investments • Create a Low-income Family Broadband Assistance Program • Create a Broadband Line Extension Grant Program

Farmer Grant Program for Nitrogen Optimization Projects

Truth in Labeling Bills – AB 73 / SB 81; AB 74 / SB 83; AB 75 / SB 82

• Sen. Marklein (R-Spring Green) and Rep. Tranel (R-Cuba City) have introduced the truth in labeling bills for dairy products and milk and Sen. Marklein and Rep. Moses (R-Menomonie) have introduced the truth in labeling bill for meat products for public consumption.

• AB 73 / SB 81 legislative bills require the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection to create and implement regulation that would prohibit any product from being offered for sale labeled as a dairy product unless the food is derived from cows’ or other mammals’ milk.

• AB 74 / SB 83 legislative bills prohibit any product from being labeled as milk unless the product is derived from cows’ or other mammals’ milk.

• AB 75 / SB 82 legislative bills prohibit any type of meat food product from being labeled as meat unless the food product is derived from the flesh of an animal. This does not include cultured animal tissue grown in a lab.

• Within the provisions of these bills and federal interstate commerce rules, a number of other states in our region would need to adopt similar legislation for these laws to be implemented in Wisconsin.

Wildlife Damage Program – SB 63 / AB 49

• Sen. Petrowski (R-Marathon) and Rep. Edming (R-Glen Flora) have introduced SB 63 and AB 49 to revise the Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program.

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• We believe that the best environmental improvements on farms come from farmers.

• Ask the legislature to support grants to farmers for the implementation of on-farm projects that are designed to reduce nitrate loading to groundwater.

• 2019 AB 796 / 2019 SB 718 – Rep. Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay) and Sen. Cowles (R-GreenBay); Budget Bill

Well Remediation Program – 2021-23 Biennial Budget Bill

• This provision in the Governor’s budget proposal provides an additional $1 million each year of the biennium for well compensation and abandonment grants, totaling $1.2 million each year.

• This program would provide funding to replace, reconstruct or treat contaminated water supplies that serve a residence or provide water to livestock.

• The program eligibility criteria are changed to increase the annual family income limit to $100,000 and specifies contaminants and rates of 10 parts per billion for arsenic and 10 parts per million nitrate.

• Similar legislation was drafted in 2020 as SB 724 and AB 789.

The Assembly version passed the Assembly last session and the Senate version passed the Senate Committee on Natural Resources & Energy.

Cover Crop Insurance Premium Rebate Program

• The planting of cover crop can assist with the reduction of nitrogen leaching from agricultural fields.

• Ask the legislature to create a program at DATCP to incentivize the use of cover crops by providing rebates of $5 per acre for a cover crop planted for crop insurance premiums paid for those acres.

• 2019 AB 795 / 2019 SB 725 – Rep. Tranel (R-Cuba City) and Sen. Cowles (R-Green Bay); Budget Bill

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Eric Birschbach, the crop consultant, had a handful of dirt that was coming to life 24 hours after the snow cover was removed and the soil was warming up.

The Farmer, the Conservationist and the Crop Consultant

By Marian Viney

B

rian Brown knew he had to educate and grow relationships with other farmers and landowners if he was going to achieve conservation success on his family’s farm and throughout the watershed.

“I figured I had the most to learn because I didn’t do much as far as conservation,” said Brian, who co-owns Sunburst Dairy near Belleville with his wife Yogi. “I knew I wanted to set up our farm as an example for other farmers in the Upper Sugar River Watershed.”

The Upper Sugar River Watershed covers about 110,000 acres in the Madison to Belleville area and the Sugar River Watershed covers a half-million acres in south-central Wisconsin and northern Illinois. It stretches from near Madison to Shirland, Illinois, where the Sugar River flows into the Pecatonica River.

“Although the watershed is mainly rural, with more than 50 percent of the land used for agriculture, it also includes urban areas,” explained Wade Moder, executive director of the Upper Sugar River Watershed Association.

In addition to working with farmers, Wade notes streambank erosion as a focus of the association, “because as the soil is loosened along the streambank, more nutrients such as phosphorus leach out of the soil, which in turn affects water quality.”

Years ago, after Brian graduated from UW-Madison Farm & Industry Short Course he bought a neighboring farm near his parents and noticed erosion along the Sugar River streambank

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PHOTO SUPPLIED

Farmer-Led Watershed Relationships:

On Observatory Hill Road looking to the west. Brian grows crops on these fields as well. This photo was taken during the fall of 2020.

that dissects the farms.

“That’s really what started things in motion,” said Brian. “I decided to learn everything I could and pursue efforts in land conservation.”

Brian says a two-year streambank project he conducted with the Natural Resources Conservation Service captured the attention of Upper Sugar River Watershed Association staff while canoeing and collecting vegetation data.

“They were impressed by the streambank work we did,” he said.

He later attended one of the watershed association’s meetings and left as a farmer representative to the watershed board.

“I thought, this group wants to build better relationships with farmers, that’s a good idea. What could it hurt?” asked Brian.

“Brian talked to us about the challenges with working with agriculture, but he wanted to ‘plant the seed’ about conservation and the possibilities if we worked together,” said Wade.

At about the same time the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection was investigating farmer-led watershed groups and offering grants for conservation efforts.

“During the first year, 14 producer-led groups submitted applications totaling more than $242,000,” said Kevin Hoffman, DATCP’s public information officer.

“We were one of those initial 14 producer-led groups,” said Brian proudly. “Now, the Farmers for the Upper Sugar River WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Group has more than 50 members who are continuing to learn about cover crops, grass strips along stream banks and waterways, no-till options and other practices that aid in enhancing water quality and reduce soil erosion and protecting and conserving our watershed for future generations.”

In response to an increase in applications and interest in the program since its inception, Governor Tony Evers increased the annual program funding to $750,000 in the 2019-2021 state budget.

This year, DATCP’s grant program added a conservation benefits tracking component. DATCP will use this to measure the water quality benefits associated with the conservation practices implemented by participating farmers throughout the state.

“Brian is great to work with, and I’ve seen him grow into his leadership role within his group,” said Rachel Rushmann, a producer-led program manager in DATCP’s Division of Agricultural Resource Management. “He leads the Farmers for the Upper Sugar River group, hosts conservation events and field trials at his farm and spends a lot of time developing partnerships within the watershed.”

Initially, the farmer-led group needed a fiscal agent and the Upper Sugar River Watershed Association agreed to serve.

“It’s developed into an incredible partnership,” added Wade, who said Brian is the poster child for trying something new. “Brian helped to knock down barriers and build the trust. He often says, ‘We’re going at the speed of trust.’”

Brian has embraced cover crops and no-till planting to enhance soil health and water quality.

“Four years ago, I never planted cover crops,” said Brian.

“Now, we are doing no-till planting with 70 acres of alfalfa, 450 acres of corn and 95 acres of soybeans.”

Eric Birschbach, an independent crop consultant with Ag Site Crop Consulting LLC in Verona, has assisted

Brian with his transition into no-till.

“It takes proper planning, preparation and execution,” Eric said of the challenges of no-till alfalfa. “In 2018, Brian no-tilled one alfalfa field, which was the first spring after he bought a no-till drill. We made mistakes. By 2020, Brian no-till seeded all his 85 acres of alfalfa seeding. We continue to learn and adjust, but in the process, we have reduced our soil erosion by 1.0 ton per acre per year in a corn-soybean-alfalfa rotation. Brian realized the need to make no-till seeding of alfalfa successful to achieve these soil saving results.”

Brian's first year of no-till planting was 2016 when he only no-tilled corn following alfalfa. Now he no-tills most of his corn, and all the soybeans and alfalfa.

In 2017, Brian started experimenting with cover crops after harvesting corn silage.

With funding from DATCP’s grant program has experimented with winter rye, winter barley, winter wheat, radish, berseem clover, oats, barley, rapeseed, and cowpeas as cover crops.

“We've had varying success with these cover crops, but to Brian's credit, he continues to embrace innovative ideas to continuously improve his farming operation,” said Eric.

The Upper Sugar River Watershed Association will host a field day on Tuesday, April 13, to discuss cover crops and to demonstrate no-till roll crimp cropping.

“We are fortunate to live near UW-Madison and to work with UW Extension and the amazing experts on staff and to have other resources nearby,” added Brian. “If we work together for water quality, we will continue to make a difference and build even more relationships.”

Brian and Yogi have four adult children: Erin, Chris married to Rachel, Cory married to Katy, and Whitney; and three grandchildren. The Browns own Sunburst Dairy, milk 500 cows and grow crops on 1,000 acres. A constant consideration is improving feed quality and enhancing environmental stewardship.

In April of 2019, the Farmers of the Upper Sugar River Watershed hosted a field day and dug a soil pit to demonstrate the different soil structures from two different cover crops and to demonstrate compaction.

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Discovering New Ways to Bring You Water Quality Research A message from the Discovery Farms® Program T

hough we have only connected virtually with many of you in the past year, Discovery Farms® is working hard to bring you our latest research results on agriculture’s relationship to water quality. We know the work that goes in to each farming decision you make, and we put the same care into research and recommendations, and tailor our educational options so that you can apply knowledge and tools to your individual farming systems to protect and preserve our Wisconsin waters.

The Discovery Farms Program is a part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension and it was established in 2001 on the foundation of farmer leadership, credible on-farm research and effective communication of results. We monitor water quality in a variety of ways including at surface edge-of-field runoff collection stations and tile drainage edge-of-field collection stations. We also have a nitrogen use efficiency project which aids farmers in their nitrogen management decisions. Soon, we will begin new projects to monitor groundwater quality.

Partnership Powers our Research

Fortunately, Discovery Farms was able to continue all of our research efforts in 2020 with the help of our local partners and Edge-of-field surface monitoring site in Kewaunee County.

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team of staff to ensure samples from monitoring stations were safely retrieved. In 2018, we began partnerships with Juneau County Land and Water Conservation, Kewaunee County Land Conservation and Ag Source Laboratories in Langlade County to collect water quality samples and complete monitoring site maintenance tasks in their respective counties. We are so grateful to our partners who kept all of our sites actively collecting Discovery Farms Partners in Juneau County data for our water performing site maintenance. quality and nitrogen use efficiency projects in 2020.

Dustin Ladd and Sarah Fleck of the Juneau County Land and Water Resources Department perform sample collection and site maintenance at two edge-of-field monitoring stations.

When asked what the most rewarding part of this project is, they answered “Seeing first-hand how conservation efforts in our watershed affect runoff. We have been surprised at how our sites compare to other sites throughout the state. When we installed the two sites I thought that we would see some pretty significant runoff/erosion with our slopes, and so far that hasn’t really happened.”

We’ve seen this sentiment time and time again. It’s very hard to visualize the amount of runoff or soil and nutrient loss until it is quantified with results from a monitoring station. Models are helpful as an analysis of risks associated with certain practices or landscapes, but using local monitoring stations helps to zero in on the subtlety of agriculture’s impact on water quality.

Local monitoring stations also create a lot of buzz and great discussion among landowners. As Chuck Bolte of Ag Source Laboratories who leads site maintenance efforts in Langlade County put it, “Growers are extremely interested in the results so far. This project has been great to accelerate the topic of soil health into a conversation with growers instead of a lecture, as it was in the past. My conversations with growers really show that they care about this long term and value this real data that we are creating here in their backyards.”

One of our goals for 2020 and beyond was to continue to elevate the conversations about runoff and nutrient loss beyond one “perfect” solution or villainizing one practice or another.

Discovery Farms data from Wisconsin and Minnesota show WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

that agriculture’s impact on water quality does not boil down to one successful thing or some failure, but rather the way that practices are applied to a landscape, and the individual daily decisions that go along with farm management. One-sizefits-all is not a model that works very well in a lot of sectors, and especially not in agriculture. However, Discovery Farms will continue to be a source of reliable on-farm water quality research that can empower you to make decisions with confidence.

Access our New Resources at your Convenience

Training partners in Langlade County how to Discovery Farms offered 18 virtual collect water quality monitoring samples. educational opportunities over the last year. While we miss seeing everyone in person, we were determined to keep Nutrient Loss sharing our research and to get farmers like you access to tools Controlling Nutrient Loss for conservation and water quality improvements.

Discovery Farms has learned several key lessons from our Did you miss our virtual conference series? Did you 200+ site years of edge-of-field surface water quality data. Learn participate in the series but want to revisit one of the topics? how to mitigate nutrient losses from your field based on our No problem! Check out the Discovery Farms and Minnesota findings.

Agricultural Water Resource Center YouTube channels for Manure Application through the Seasons recordings of all our virtual events.

As a busy springtime fast approaches, it’s time to have your plan ready for manure applications in 2021. Reduce your losses with these management considerations.

Research to Database to Resource Library Nitrogen Use Efficiency: A Guide to Conducting your Own of Results Assessment We recently launched a newly-designed website that Are you part of a farmer-led watershed group? Are you includes our Resource Library. To see our full collection of looking for a way to track your nitrogen management and research results and tools that can be applied on your farm, visit learn how to make improvements? Calculating Nitrogen Use uwdiscoveryfarms.org/resource-library. Here are just a few items Efficiency (NUE) can be relatively simple and offers insight you can find in our library. into how N management can be altered in order to achieve economically optimum yields while reducing nutrient losses to Tile Drainage the environment.

Guide for tile regulation compliance in Wisconsin If you have plans for your existing tile drainage lines or would like to make new installations, this guide will walk you through how to be sure you follow regulations.

Repairing tile blowouts: What you need to know Spring is a great time to assess your tile drainage system and make necessary repairs. Tile blowouts can introduce soil and nutrients into the tile drainage system and increase the potential for nutrient loss and tile blockage.

Connect with the Discovery Farms Program!

UW Discovery Farms @DiscoveryFarms Discovery Farms Channel, Minnesota Agricultural Water Resources Channel uwdiscoveryfarms.org APRIL | MAY 2021

We look forward to seeing you again at field days and events like this soon. wfbf.com

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LEADERSHIP • ENGAGEMENT • ADVOCACY • DEVELOPMENT

Members Gather Virtually for Ag LEAD Summit

Leading Your Own Self Development

Advocating for Agriculture

Engaging Consumers

Developing Agribusinesses

O

Paul Wesselmann, Opening Keynote Speaker

Claire Olson, UW-River Falls Collegiate Farm Bureau member

Brenda Dowiasch, District 4 Promotion and Education Committee Representative

James Schneider, breakout session presenter

n March 12, Farm Bureau members gathered virtually for the Ag LEAD Summit.

The opening keynote speaker was Paul Wesselmann who is known as ‘The Ripples Guy’ because of the upbeat and positive weekly ‘Ripples’ emails he sends every Monday morning.

In his ‘Ripples of Resilience’ message, Paul shared his best ideas around dealing with the inevitable difficulties and transitions that occur in work and life.

Hannah Thompson-Weeman, vice president of strategic engagement with the Animal Agriculture Alliance, was the afternoon keynote speaker. During her address, Hannah provided tips on how the agriculture community can step up and engage in proactive conversations with influencers, consumers and neighbors.

In addition to hearing from keynote speakers, attendees participated in breakout sessions aligned with the four Ag LEAD Summit tracks: Leading Your Own Self Development, Engaging Consumers, Advocating for Agriculture and Developing Agribusinesses.

The Ag LEAD Summit takes place on a biennial-basis and is coordinated

by WFBF’s Promotion and Education Committee. Rural Mutual Insurance Company is a co-sponsor of the event.

The purpose of the Ag LEAD Summit is to provide an opportunity to learn more about tools, resources, ideas and best practices when advocating for agriculture and conducting promotional events.

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM THE AG LEAD SUMMIT? Taking time to acknowledge your feelings is important.

Learning about the dietitian viewpoint of food consumption.

A goal without a deadline is nothing more than a dream.

Finding out my Enneagram number.

Lots of ways to promote Wisconsin agriculture in COVID-19 times.

The great resources available from Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom, National Ag in the Classroom and the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.

It is our responsibility to be approachable and willing to answer questions about the agricultural industry.

Seeking understanding and shared values is a key component to communication.

Farm transition conversations are hard but you need to have them.

2021 FFA Farm Forum

F

or 49 years, FFA Farm Forum has provided high school students with an introduction to Farm Bureau and an opportunity to learn about agriculture career paths, hot topics in the industry and network with other FFA members from across the state.

While those pieces remained constant in 2021, things looked different as the event was held virtually for the first time in its history.

In 2021, workshop sessions were pre-recorded, and videos were made available for teachers to use in their classrooms.

In the videos, students learned from farmers and agricultural professionals representing each of the agriculture, food and natural resources career cluster pathways.

They also learned about Farm Bureau programs and the value of Farm Bureau membership from WFBF Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee members.

Paul Wesselmann, known as ‘The Ripples Guy’ shared a message with students about finding balance between comfort and challenge in school and everyday life.

Each of the videos was paired with Ag in the Classroom lesson plans to provide teachers with supplemental activity ideas to use in their classrooms.

Finally, to allow students to interact with peers, the Wisconsin State FFA Officers held three chat sessions using Zoom. Each chat session included an interactive activity to get students out of their seats and engaged in the discussions.

Although students and teachers were unable to gather in person for the 2021 FFA Farm Forum, Wisconsin Farm Bureau and the Wisconsin FFA teamed up to provide students with a valuable experience.

FFA Farm Forum workshop videos, lesson plans and recordings of the live chats are available at: wfbf.com/events/ffa-farm-forum Materials will remain available through the end of the school year.

Here's what participants had to say: "I liked how each agricultural pathway was highlighted and had real world professionals interviewed and presented on their specific area."

- Justin Doyle, Darlington FFA Advisor

"After listening to Alison Wedig from Culver’s I have a better understanding of Culver's appreciation and how it shows gratitude through its Thank You Farmers Project. It’s great they recognize farmers for producing the food they serve."

- Nathan Wessel, Darlington FFA Member

“ I loved learning about the UW Swine Research and Teaching Center and definitely enjoyed the virtual tour."

- Ashley Loehrke, Weyauwega-Fremont FFA Member

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"We mostly used the Zoom calls and it was beneficial for my students to hear the John Deere portion. I was very appreciative of the knowledge companies had to offer to students."

- Rebecca Kramer, Seneca FFA Advisor

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Essential Heroes

WOOD COUNTY FARM BUREAU MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTED DURING 2021 SUPER BOWL SEGMENT

By Cassie Sonnentag

F

ootball fans across America unite on one night for the greatest game of them all, the Super Bowl.

Whether they are watching the game, the commercials or the halftime show, millions of Americans gather with their families to partake in the game every year. Wood County Farm Bureau members, Alan and Stephanie Hughes, are no different.

This year, the food was prepared, chores were done early and the entire family gathered around the TV as the game time inched closer.

The Hughes family was not cheering for a particular team or waiting on a particular performer, but rather were waiting for a very special segment. Prior to Super Bowl LV on Feb. 7, the Hughes family was highlighted in a moving piece named “Essential,” representing agriculture as an essential industry in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The family owns Sunsett Dairy, a 55-cow dairy farm near Pittsville. Like many Americans, their lives were completely disrupted by the pandemic.

“Throughout the pandemic, the land and cattle still needed to be taken care of,” Stephanie said. “Any of us farming still had to do what we do; agriculture doesn’t stop.”

In addition to farming, Alan is in his second enlistment as an F-16 Crew Chief for the Wisconsin Air National Guard.

In 2019, Alan was deployed to the Bagram Airforce Base in Bagram, Afghanistan, as part of the 115th Fighter Wing. After returning home in late 2019, he said he was looking forward to returning to the farm.

“I was always looking for a little break from the day-to-day work on the farm. My break just happens to be getting to work on F-16 fighter jets,” Alan said. “While I was in Afghanistan,

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all of the harvest work fell on Steph’s shoulders. That is a lot of work for one person, so I was looking forward to being back home to help with planting.”

Coronavirus had different plans. In April, as the virus made its way to the Midwest, Alan was called to assist with testing processes. He received a temporary certified nursing assistant certification to assist in the field hospital at the Wisconsin State Fair Park, if needed, but was ultimately transferred to a call center to report test results back to patients.

“There were days when people were making up to 600 calls each,” Alan recalled.

Back at home, Stephanie worked to balance the dayto-day work of the farm, spring planting season and caring for their three children, Bryce, 10; Gavin, 9; and Derek, 4. Once homeschooling became an inevitable reality, schedules were adjusted to make the balance more manageable.

“I would get up and out for chores by 3 a.m. so I could make it in by 6:30 a.m. to start schoolwork with our oldest two before our youngest woke up,” Stephanie said. “It was during this time that made me really feel lucky to have this occupation to be here with the kids WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

and give them the space to be free to roam.”

Throughout spring and summer, the family kept the farm going with plenty of extra family time together. Stephanie said she grew to appreciate quality time with the children.

“The pandemic forced us to slow down, be home and focus on this time together,” Stephanie said. “It gave us that time we needed to focus on the management of our cows and try new things on the farm, which ultimately reflected in the cows’ production, as well.”

On Dec. 14, Alan was contacted by his cousin, Gareth Hughes, who is a seven-time Emmy winner and creative director at CBS Sports. He informed them of a project he was working on for the Super Bowl and wanted the family to participate.

“He told us the storyline was a tribute and celebration of the people who are essential that kept life going through the pandemic. When his team sat down to discuss what careers they wanted to include in the piece, Gareth was the one who suggested farming,” Alan said.

“Gareth knows agriculture is important and knew we didn’t stop during the pandemic,” Stephanie said. “When he made the ask, it was a no-brainer for us.”

The piece features 12 groups from across the country with different occupations essential to the pandemic. Set to Miley Cyrus’ rendition of David Bowe’s “Heroes,” the completed piece featured occupations from nurses to mail carriers to grocers.

“To be put in a [segment] with nurses, bus drivers, paramedics

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– it’s unfathomable being put on that same pedestal. It is an honor to be thought of, not because we feel that we ourselves are heroes, but we are humbled to represent people that we think are,” Alan said.

The family appreciated the opportunity to share a glimpse of agriculture on a national scale.

“Any opportunity we are given to tell a farmer’s story, we need to do that in this day and age,” Alan said.

Keeping agriculture in the public’s mind also is why the Hughes family chooses to be Farm Bureau members.

“Farm Bureau is an outstanding way to provide agriculture programs and activities to people in our own local communities,” Stephanie said. “There are also many opportunities for members to speak to our government representatives on behalf of farmers.”

Members of the filmmaking crew included: Gareth Hughes (creative director), Laura Dunham (producer), Sean Brennan (director of photography) and Josh Glaser (editor). The crew spent Dec. 28 and 29 with the Hughes family gathering a variety of footage to be used for the segment. Once filming was complete, the anticipation of the reveal began.

“We didn’t see the piece until it aired on television,” Alan said.

“Gareth texted me moments before it aired, saying, ‘It’s one of the best pieces I’ve ever done. We are really proud of it; it is a big deal’.”

As the family settled in to watch, Stephanie said they were moved by the end result.

“I started crying, everything about it was emotional – the piece itself, our family connection behind it, what it all represented,” Stephanie said. “It really is beautiful.”

Reflecting on their experience throughout the pandemic and developing the Super Bowl segment, the family said they feel exceptionally fortunate.

“After this past year, I cannot imagine any other way to raise a family [than on a farm],” Alan said. “We missed out on a lot of things this year, but we gained a lot of things, too.”

Stephanie agreed and said this year is one that taught them to appreciate more than ever before.

“We are extremely fortunate to be farmers,” Stephanie said.

“This lifestyle is one we will not take for granted.”

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Farm Bureau Member Engagement By

The Numbers

Farm Bureau’s strength comes from the diversity of its members and their commitment to be involved in the programs and activities of their county Farm Bureaus. The following numbers illustrate the variety of volunteer opportunities that exist within Farm Bureau.

The organization’s membership is WFBF is a federation of

61

County Farm Bureaus.

47,213, more than

23,000

of which are voting members who each hold the right to vote on the organization’s policies.

The WFBF Board of Directors is composed of

11 farmers

who are elected by their peers. WFBF board members have a total of

67 years of service on the board.

226 68

volunteers who conduct a variety of programs and activities as members of their county’s Promotion and Education Committee.

county Ag in the Classroom coordinators and

262

volunteers serve as members of their county’s Ag in the Classroom Committee.

WFBF’s first-ever virtual Young Farmer and Agriculturist Conference attracted

670

participants.

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92%

30

Farm Bureau volunteers conduct the Marketbasket Survey in communities across the state.

Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program

Retention rate for membership in Wisconsin Farm Bureau.

In 2020, a total of

1,447 new voting members and 2,582 new associate members joined Farm Bureau.

Farm Bureau members serve as directors on their county Farm Bureau board of directors.

14 farmers from across Wisconsin served on WFBF’s 2020 Policy Development Committee, which reviewed 664 resolutions submitted by county Farm Bureaus.

More than 200 county delegates voted on the organization’s 2020 policies at the WFBF Annual Meeting.

This year, a volunteer force of

169

membership workers signed-up a combined total of new members.

472

663

The WFBF Leadership Institute has provided personal and professional training for

176 13

graduates from

classes.

In Wisconsin, there are

125

college students who are members of collegiate Farm Bureau chapters.

Farm Bureau offers numerous opportunities for you to take an active role.

How will YOU get involved?

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Promotion and Education Program WFBF's

What is the WFBF Promotion and Education Program?

The WFBF Promotion and Education Program is designed to develop, implement and promote projects and programs that build awareness and understanding of agriculture and provide leadership development for the agricultural community.

Program Focus Areas Youth Education Leadership Development Consumer Outreach Agriculture Outreach Legislative Outreach

Who leads the state program?

Examples of Promotion and Education Activities

The WFBF Promotion and Education Program is led by a nineperson committee that serves as an advisory committee to review, develop and recommend programs. One representative from each of the nine WFBF districts is appointed by the board to serve on the committee. Those serving on the state committee are: District 1 – Kathy Muth District 2 – Andrea Brossard District 3 – Krista Klinkner District 4 – Brenda Dowiasch District 5 – Lynn Leahy (Committee Chair) District 6 – Kathy Duescher District 7 – Brittney Muenster (Committee Vice-Chair) District 8 – Katie Zoromski District 9 – Steven Mueller

State Activities

Promotion and Education versus Ag in the Classroom: What is the difference, and do they work together?

The Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom program provides agricultural information through teaching resources and lesson plans to help preK-12 students develop an understanding of how their food is grown and raised. The Promotion and Education program focuses on education and promotion opportunities outside of the classroom. However, the Promotion and Education program often uses Ag in the Classroom materials and resources in their outreach. Additionally, Promotion and Education Committee members serve as the Ag in the Classroom essay contest district judges and assist with judging other contests throughout the year.

The Promotion and Education Committee also helps promote Ag in the Classroom events and training opportunities.

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Leadership Boot Camp Ag LEAD Summit Workshops at WFBF conferences Promotion and Education ‘Playbook’

District Activities

Youth Ag Summit Food Influencer Dinner Beef, dairy and pork month promotions Farm and industry tours

County Promotion and Education Programs

County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education committees are an integral part of county Farm Bureau programs. County Farm Bureau volunteers focus their energy and skills on promoting positive messages about agriculture to youth, consumers and media. If your county Farm Bureau doesn’t have a Promotion and Education committee, consider establishing one to boost education and outreach activities.

Promotion and Education 'Playbook' The WFBF Promotion and Education Committee created this resource by compiling events, programs and activities that happen throughout the state on a local level. The ‘Playbook’ is a one-stop resource with ideas for planning county activities and events. Throughout the ‘Playbook,’ you will find activities and events for all ages, time frames and budgets. The ‘Playbook’ is available to view online at wfbf.com/ programs/promotion-and-education/playbook.

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LEADERSHIP

Mack Competes in Collegiate Discussion Meet Mack, a student J ared from UW-River Falls

competed in the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Virtual Collegiate Discussion Meet held in conjunction with the FUSION Conference.

Finalists included: Sarah Byrd, Mississippi; Marisa Phelps, Tennessee; and the Collegiate Discussion Meet

winner Grace Hasler from Indiana.

Mack is a junior at UW-River Falls majoring in agriculture education and minoring in agribusiness. He spent last year serving the Wisconsin Association of FFA as a state officer.

"It was a great privilege to represent the Wisconsin Farm Bureau in the Collegiate Discussion Meet,” Mack said. “The Fusion Conference was a tremendous experience to work with other Collegiate Farm Bureau members from across the nation to discuss ideas about agriculture, leadership and opportunities that Farm Bureau has to offer!"

The Collegiate Discussion Meet, conducted using web conferencing this year, is designed to replicate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each collegiate participant. Participants are judged on their ability to exchange ideas and information on an agricultural topic and find answers or solutions related to it.

Mack qualified for the national competition upon winning the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Collegiate Discussion Meet. All competitors received a $150 scholarship courtesy of CHS Foundation, in recognition of their efforts and making it to the national level.

The YF&R program includes men and women between the ages of 18 and 35. The program’s goals are to help younger Farm Bureau members learn more about agriculture, network with other farmers and realize their full potential as leaders in agriculture and Farm Bureau.

About Collegiate Farm Bureau W

FBF has three established Collegiate Farm Bureau chapters at UW-Madison, UW-Platteville and UW-River Falls. Each chapter is a student-led organization where members shape their chapter and develop their own program of work.

The purpose of Collegiate Farm Bureau is to: • Introduce students to Farm Bureau.

• Promote leadership opportunities while participating in district, state and national events.

• Provide networking opportunities with fellow students, Farm Bureau members and leaders at the county, state and national levels.

• Engage students in agriculture advocacy efforts within the communities they live.

Learn more about each Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter by following the chapters on Facebook.

Farm Bureau

®

Collegiate Chapter

@CollegiateFarm BureauMadison

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Farm Bureau

®

Collegiate Chapter

@Collegiate Farm Bureau at UW-Platteville

Farm Bureau

®

Collegiate Chapter

@UwRiverFallsCollegiate FarmBureau

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Spotlight on YFA

Get to know the members who are leading Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program.

Andrew Dal Santo, District 3 WFBF YFA Committee member Farm Bureau member since 2013 What has been your favorite Farm Bureau activity?

It is probably high on the popularity list with others, but I would have to say the WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference. We get to see faces that we probably have not seen for a year and it's usually accompanied by smiles and laughter. Being on the YFA Committee has given me a new respect for the WFBF Annual Meeting. I never truly understood the amount of work that goes into planning that type of event and to see the amount of enjoyment that is shown during the meeting kind of catches me off-guard. That weekend is truly, for some, a time to take a step back, decompress and enjoy spending time with those who have the same passions. I always dread the last day of the meeting but know that the memories I make will always be there for me to look back on until next year.

What would you tell YFA members about getting involved in the YFA program?

Farm Bureau member, I would not have the close-knit friends that I have across Wisconsin and many other states. I would not have had the opportunity to be involved in one of the best leadership institutes in the state and the opportunity to travel to our nation's capital to advocate for agriculture. But I would have to say that the biggest value that I have when it comes to my Wisconsin Farm Bureau membership is knowing that I am surrounded by those who want the same thing to keep Wisconsin agriculture on the forefront, to keep a grassroots mindset and to ensure that we as farmers and ranchers are heard and known for what we want, who we are and what we need to pass our legacy on to the next generation.

In 2019, Dal Santo was one of nearly 30 Farm Bureau

Best words of wisdom. members and staff who visited Washington, D.C., to Their involvement is essential for advocate for Wisconsin farmers.

The trip marked the One of my idols is Mike Rowe Farm Bureau. YFA members are completion of the WFBF Leadership Institute, a yearfrom Dirty Jobs. I was fortunate not only the future of Wisconsin long leadership training program available to Farm enough to hear him speak at the agriculture but the future of WFBF. Bureau members.

American Farm Bureau Annual You are bringing the newest vision, Convention. One of his saying resonated with me – ideas and thoughts to the table. We cannot move forward “Anything worth doing hurts a little.” without their involvement. Do not be afraid to voice your ideas and your thoughts because more likely than not those thoughts No matter what it may be - putting in the extra hours will be a talking point or hot topic in the future. To be honest, I while others are out on the town, staying up throughout was unsure about becoming more involved in the YFA program the night while others are sleeping or putting yourself in an but once I took that step, I could not imagine where I would uncomfortable situation in order to grow. Whatever your worth be today. So many opportunities have come my way and it is is, the time and sacrifice you put into it will always outweigh not simply because I became involved. It’s a program that is there doing anything at all. to build, grow, guide you to become a voice and a vision that agriculture needs.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist program is for members between 18 and 35 years Why do you value your Farm Bureau membership? old. To learn more, visit wfbf.com/programs/young-farmer-andI value my Farm Bureau membership because I know that it agriculturist-program. has and will continue to give back to me. If I had not become a APRIL | MAY 2021

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SPRING INTO SAVINGS with Farm Bureau member benefits.

For complete details, visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits.

Farm Bureau members who are agricultural producers and patrons of their local FS cooperative are eligible to receive patronage when patronage is paid.

Members receive an incentive discount (up to $500) when purchasing qualifying Case IH equipment from participating dealers.

Rural Mutual

Special member pricing and free shipping. Visit wfbf.com for more details.

Through an exclusive program offered by Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, Farm Bureau members receive a factory direct rebate of $250* on the purchase of a new *Yamaha 4WD ATV, Side-by-Side or Snowmobile. Fill out the rebate form at bit.ly/3inykme. You need your Farm Bureau member number to complete the form. *You must be a paid Wisconsin Farm Bureau member at time of purchase to receive the $250 rebate.

Insurance Company To find a Rural Mutual Insurance Company agent, visit ruralmutual.com or call 877.219.9550.

Members are eligible for a complimentary John Deere Rewards upgrade (Platinum 1 status) – which unlocks the best loyalty rewards including valuable equipment discounts. Visit JohnDeere.com/FarmBureau today to register!

Farm Bureau members receive $500 bonus cash on the purchase or lease of a new Ranger, F-150 or Super Duty® Must be a member for 30 days. Visit fordfarmbureauadvantage.com/Login/Login for complete details or to print your certificate.

Take advantage of Farm Bureau Bank's FDIC-insured checking, savings and money market accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards and vehicle and home loans.

Visit farmbureau.bank.

Members qualify for a variety of discounts on new purchases. Visit wfbf.com to print your certificate and for details on models and discounts.

You can get more information about the services Farm Bureau Financial offers from your local Rural Insurance agent. Learn more at fbfs.com.

Accidental Death Policy • AgriVisor • Life Line Screening • Avis • Budget • ScriptSave • $500 Reward Protection Program Choice Hotels • AgriPlan Medical Reimbursement Program • Office Depot • Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Visit wfbf.com to find out more about your membership benefits! *WFBF member benefits may be changed or discontinued at anytime without notice.* 22

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

MEMBERSHIP

Member Saves Three Ways With Office Depot®/Office Max M arathon County Farm Bureau member Beth Schaefer uses the Office Depot/ Office Max member benefit regularly for county Farm Bureaurelated and work-related projects, and familyrelated purchases.

“I have used the discount for Farm Bureau projects, but I also used it for print projects and office supplies for my job as I have a home office and can easily order my copies, signs and office supplies online at Office Depot,” said Schaefer who works with volunteer-driven dairy promotion programs for Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. “I can pick up my orders at my local Office Max/Office Depot and be on my way, or I can directship so orders directly ship to the promotion or event that I am working with without leaving my office – it’s a time saver and I love to increase the efficiency of our dairy farmers' checkoff dollars by saving money on materials when and where I can.”

She said that she got started using the Office Depot/Office Max benefit about eight years ago.

“Fellow Young Farmer and Agriculturist committee member Shannon Boschma told me about the discount that she received on print services for an event that our committee was hosting - she saved more than 40 percent on color copies and postcard invitations,” said Schaefer. “I looked into the discount and started using it immediately.”

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members have access to exclusive FREE discount benefits at Office Depot® OfficeMax® to save on office essentials, ink and toner, paper, cleaning/breakroom items and more including up to 75 percent off Best-Value Products; exclusive copy/print pricing; Hewlett-Packard ink and toner discounts; and next-business-day delivery.

You can print off a discount card online and have it laminated for free at your local Office Depot store. Members also can use the discount card when ordering online.

To learn more about this member benefit, visit wfbf.savingcenter.net.

Schaefer says that she recommends the Office Depot/Office Max benefit to fellow Farm Bureau members as well as coworkers, “because we all are looking to save time and money.”

For her work, Schaefer works with APRIL | MAY 2021

county dairy promotion groups, 4-H, FFA and manages Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin’s partnership with the Alice in Dairyland Program.

“We printed cards for a cheese promotion and my Farm Bureau membership cut the bill in half,” added Schaefer. “The discount is cheaper than printing at home and I get high-quality, professional materials. Plus, the online portal makes it easy to order and shop online so even if you don't live near an Office Depot, you can take advantage of the discounts on printing and everyday office products.”

Last fall, Schaefer also tapped into the discount for back-toschool shopping.

“I received our Farm Bureau discount in addition to Office Depot’s great back-to-school prices.

Schaefer is a former member of the WFBF Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee, winner of the YFA’s Excellence in Agriculture Award and a graduate of American Farm Bureau’s Women’s Communications Boot Camp.

By being a Wisconsin Farm Bureau member, you qualify for benefits and services that provide a range of options that respond to the needs of farmers, families and businesses in Wisconsin.

For more information about WFBF member benefits, visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits.

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Grassroots in Action

Farm Bureau prides itself on being a grassroots organization. Members belong to one of the 61 county Farm Bureaus. Throughout the state, local members advocate for Farm Bureau and agriculture in a variety of ways. Here are some of the activities and projects happening locally.

Racine County Agriculture Ambassador Program In 2012, Racine County Farm Bureau started an Agriculture Ambassador program. Those interested apply for the position and the new Agriculture Ambassador begins the term at the county annual meeting in September, while the outgoing Agriculture Ambassador gives a farewell speech. Some of the duties include parades, participating in the county fair, going into classrooms to teach about agriculture and social media.

This year’s Agriculture Ambassador is Chase Pirocanac and she achieved her goal of getting more than 700 'likes' on the Agriculture Ambassador Facebook page. Because her in-person events are limited, she has been touring a different farm or local agriculture business each month. In January, she toured Harry Hansen Meat Service.

Grant County Pork Chop Dinner The Grant County Farm Bureau Pork Chop Dinner was held on Aug. 11, 2020.

The event featured a drive-thru format at the Grant County Fairgrounds in Lancaster. Each meal included: a marinated pork chop from Weber Meats, potato salad and cookies from Ma’s Bakery, cheese curds from Carr Valley and Prairie Farms chocolate milk from Fishnick Dairy.

Udder Brothers Creamery served delicious hand-scooped ice cream for dessert. Grant County Farm Bureau also partnered with the Wisconsin Pork Association to sell pork bundles full of nutritious pork products.

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Columbia County Online Fundraiser Columbia County Farm Bureau raised more than $1,500 by holding an online fundraiser via Facebook from Nov. 6-13, 2020.

In a year where COVID-19 canceled the county fair and one of Columbia County Farm Bureau's largest fundraisers, the fair food stand, it had to think outside the box to generate funds to continue to give scholarships, support Ag in the Classroom and continue county operations. Board directors gathered locally-sourced items to host a silent auction. Lot items included: • Dinner for four at Sassy Cow Creamery, sponsored by Sassy Cow Creamery, Baerwolf Family

• Build your own cheese and sausage tray, sponsored by Dreamstone Dairy, Joel and Stephanie Hammerly • Homemade pies, sponsored by Columbia County Farm Bureau President Jayne Nakielski • Hunting land for gun deer season, sponsored by Dalton Grain Farms/3-D Angus Naturally Fed Beef, Cal and Joanne Dalton • Farm table bundle, sponsored by Lewiston Farmstead, Heinze Family • Produce baskets, sponsored by Alsum Farms and Produce

• 25 pounds of freezer beef, sponsored by Walk-Era Farms, John and Marci Walker Thank you to those who generously donated items and bid to help Columbia County Farm Bureau.

Price County Placemats Price County Farm Bureau in partnership with Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin created and printed 2,500 placemats to disperse to local restaurants and meal on wheels programs throughout the county.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Green Lake County Hosts Virtual Judging Contest Green Lake County Farm Bureau hosted its first virtual livestock judging contest on Jan. 22-24.

Members judged eight classes of livestock and presented oral reasons on one of the classes.

Waupaca and Outagamie YFA Bowling Night The Waupaca and Outagamie County Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Agriculturist committees cosponsored a bowling event on March 4 at the New London Lanes in New London.

Members from six counties participated, with prizes being awarded to YFA and seasoned members.

Eighteen attended this fun family event. It was a great opportunity for young members to get together with old friends and make new ones while enjoying pizza and beverages, with a little friendly competition thrown in for good measure.

In the seasoned division, third place: Pete Badtke, Green Lake County; second place: Meredith Paul-Bowers, Waupaca County: and first place: Liz Gartman, Sheboygan County.

Barron County ‘Thank a Farmer’ Campaign

In the YFA division, third place: Tony Klotzbuecher, Waupaca County; second place: Chad Bruss, Green Lake County; and first place: Aaron Wachholz, Marquette County.

The award for the best set of reasons went to Alissa Grenawalt of Green County. Thank you to those who participated.

Sheboygan County Game Night Sheboygan County YFA hosted a Card and Game Night on Feb. 27 at the Greenbush Town Hall. The event was open to all Farm Bureau members, not just YFA. Members played sheepshead and other games and enjoyed a free chili supper.

District 4 Local Producer Shopping Guide The District 4 Local Producer Shopping Guide was first developed in the spring of 2020 as a response to food shortages in result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. County leaders in District 4 created an online form and asked community members to submit recommendations for farmers with goods and produce available for purchase. The guide was published on county Facebook pages and websites, in the District 4 newsletter and then was created into a brochure that was shared with Rural Mutual Insurance agents, UW-Extension Offices and agricultural businesses throughout the district’s six counties.

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Food brings everyone to the table, and National Ag Week was the perfect time to thank those hard-working farmers who put food on the table.

Barron County Farm Bureau teamed up with Rural Mutual Insurance Company agents Eva Curtis, Greg Hayes, Tyler Holten and Christina Jacobson to make that happen.

Members of the Barron County community were invited to ‘Thank a Farmer’ with a simple nomination. Efforts were highlighted on local radio station WJMC, press releases in county newspapers and Barron County Farm Bureau’s social media. Multiple winners were randomly drawn to receive gift certificates to dine at one of the county’s fine dining establishments complements of the county Farm Bureau and Rural Mutual Insurance agents.

Barron County Farm Bureau’s ‘Thank a Farmer’ campaign was well received by the community with nearly 40 nominations received. The nominees were mentioned and the winners were drawn on WJMC as part of the National Ag Week publicity.

Thanking our Farmers, supporting our local restaurants and celebrating agriculture’s fantastic story made this effort a winwin-win.

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5

MINUTES

SHAWANO COUNTY'S

NEIL CHRISTIANSON Please share a little about yourself.

I grew up in the township of Navarino and I was the middle child of five with three sisters and one brother. I graduated from Bonduel High School and studied in the farm management program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. I live in the same house that I grew up in and have been farming full-time since 1977.

When you were growing up what did you want to be?

A farmer. Why? Because you are your own boss and no two days are ever the same.

Tell us about your farm and your responsibilities.

I own and operate a 200-cow dairy. My role is herdsperson and I do all the feeding. I guess it was in my DNA. I am the second generation at this location.

You participated in the WFBF Leadership Institute in 2018. Please share the four top takeaways that you learned and have used either in your role as president of Shawano County Farm Bureau or other ways that you advocate for agriculture.

• The class participated in the Clifton StrengthFinder, which helps discover a person’s strengths and then we learned how to use our strengths in the best way. I found out I am an Includer. Includer means you always want to include everyone in the things you do, and you do not want to leave anyone out. You are an accepting person and you cast very few, if any, judgments on people.

• As a farmer you have a story to tell, just tell it.

• Now, I’m more comfortable in front of a crowd.

• I try to make the county board meetings short and to the point, and I make meetings fun.

What is one agricultural experience that has defined you?

In 1976, I participated in an artificial insemination training session. I have been breeding my own herd now for 46 years.

The training helped me understand more about animal husbandry.

If you could change one thing what would that be?

The weather.

What is one Farm Bureau experience that you are most proud of?

Most definitely the WFBF Leadership Institute. I made some lifetime friends in the class.

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Neil in front of his barn quilt. His quilt was number 302 to be put up in Shawano County. It was sponsored and gifted to Neil by his kids, Jennifer and Blair, for Father’s Day. The quilt is named Community Pastime because a lot of his neighbors learned to ski there and basically grew up there. The long skis on his left are his jumping skis and the skis on his right are his downhill skis.

Please share some of your Norwegian heritage. What is your favorite Norwegian meal?

Well, I guess it would have to be skiing, I have been on skis pretty much my whole life, and taught skiing lessons for years at the local ski hill.

During my younger years, I enjoyed ski jumping at our local hill but later it was turned into a downhill ski hill. I joined the Iola Ski Jumping Club and filled my bucket list by continuing my jumping career for a few years. There is nothing like feeling a rush of adrenaline flying off the ramp at 40 miles per hour and landing 120 feet down the hill.

My favorite Norwegian meal is Norwegian meatballs and of course, Lefse.

What is your favorite way to eat Lefse?

I use butter and regular sugar and then heat it in a microwave for a few seconds.

Is there anything else that you want to add?

My Farm Bureau experience has been nothing but positive, maybe some kind of divine intervention. I never thought I would be this involved in this organization.

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APRIL | MAY 2021

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VOICES

Earth Day is Every Day on the Farm

A Message from WFBF President Kevin Krentz

I

think it’s safe to say that spring is here.

Buds are showing on trees. Alfalfa and wheat fields are beginning to green.

Farmers are bursting with excitement and anticipation of warmer weather and a new crop year is on their minds.

Farmers fully understand in order to yield a successful crop we need our vast natural resources. The sun, air, water and soil are just some that we rely on. For thousands of years, farmers have fed the world while protecting these resources.

In order to keep us sustainable in our businesses, we have a mindset that every day is earth day on the farm.

Water During the last 100 years, many wars have been fought regarding oil. During the next 100, many will be fought regarding another precious liquid, water.

Because of its abundance, fresh water is something we take for granted in the

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Midwest, but many parts of the country and certainly parts of the world struggle to find it and when you do, you pay high prices for it. Protecting our clean water is critical for society and critical for producing food.

Farmers will continue to use innovation and practical means in protecting this vital resource. However, we need to tell the story of how we have protected water and what we are doing to safeguard it in the future.

Nutrient management plans help budget what crops need for nutrients.

The plans lay out crop needs, soil requirements and fertilizer applications.

With timely applications of nutrients at the right amount, we will lower our impacts of nutrients escaping to water.

Moving forward, we need to get more acres covered by nutrient management plans. We also need to get more funding for farmer-led watershed groups. Farmerled watershed groups across the state have been a way for farmers to use innovation and collaborative efforts in protecting waters and soils.

Soil Preservation Another tool that agriculture can use to protect topsoil and water is the use of cover crops. Creating a cover of green and growing crops in between cash crops has helped in many ways. It creates a root mass to hold topsoil and to create a healthy environment for soil microbes to live. It also takes up nutrients and holds the nutrients until the next cropping season. The use of cover crops has steadily increased over the years and will play a key role in continuing protecting

water and soil. Cover crops help recycle the nutrients.

Environment Farmers are instinctive recyclers. We feed our livestock the crops we grew with the help of these precious resources. The livestock help us produce nutritious food for our consumers. We complete the natural cycle by using the waste produced by livestock for the next crop. But this is only a small picture look at what farmers do for our environment.

Our efficient burning engines run cleaner than any time in history. Some farmers are using manure digestors, as well as solar and wind energy. We are partnering on phosphorus trading, using perennial crop and pasture-based farming for sequestration of carbon.

Farmers are natural innovators. We will continue to find solutions to better our environment and protect our soils and water. American farmers will keep proving ourselves to our consumers that we produce the safest, cleanest food in the world while continuing to lower our footprint on the environment around us.

Farm Bureau carries this message of environmental stewardship through both our outreach work and policy work. I am proud to say that we will always carry the message of the hard work being done on the farm. Every day is Earth Day for a farmer and we all should be reminded of that.

Krentz was elected president of Wisconsin Farm Bureau in 2020. He is a dairy farmer from Berlin.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Bright Trade Outlook for U.S. Ag

A Message from AFBF President Zippy Duvall

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s the economy here and abroad slowly begins to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, America’s farmers and ranchers are ready to meet increased demand both in the United States and worldwide. There is no questioning our resilience in adapting to and meeting some of the greatest challenges we have seen. Time and again, U.S. agriculture leads the global marketplace because we can be relied on to grow the safe, sustainable products consumers want and need. Americangrown means the highest quality to consumers worldwide, and now is the time to work together to build on our trade partnerships, open new markets and ensure American farmers can compete with other countries fairly.

When the Phase 1 trade agreement with China went into effect just over one year ago, we were on the brink of a global pandemic—none of us knowing how long it would take hold or how it would rattle economies. Still, China imported a record $27.2 billion in U.S. agriculture products—nearly double what it imported in 2019. While that was more than $6 billion off the goal set in the agreement, I would call that a success

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given the challenges in the supply chain and export restrictions early on.

Overall, the outlook for U.S. agriculture exports is bright, according to the USDA. We are nearly halfway through the current fiscal year, and the latest USDA trade outlook, released in February, predicts a record $157 billion in U.S. agriculture exports—that’s a $21 billion increase from the previous fiscal year.

This is some much-needed good news for farmers and ranchers, and a hopeful sign of better days ahead.

As the Biden administration continues negotiations with our global partners and begins new conversations, expanding opportunities for America’s farmers and ranchers and our rural communities must remain a top priority. I’m glad to say that all early signs show we agree on that priority. In early March, the administration presented President Biden’s trade agenda for the year, which said the President would seek to expand our global market opportunities for farmers and ranchers and enforce global agriculture trade rules. At Farm Bureau, we look forward to working with the new United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to see those goals achieved for a stronger farm and rural economy.

America’s farmers and ranchers have repeatedly been unfairly targeted with tariffs and other trade barriers abroad.

Your American Farm Bureau has worked for decades to level the playing field with fair trade deals to help our industry be the global leader it is today. And we will continue to work with this administration to ensure new trade agreements open markets still unfairly closed off to American farm and ranch products.

Often the barriers agriculture faces in trade have nothing to do with us. We’re just caught in the crossfire. In March, the U.S. put a four-month pause on tariffs on U.K. and European Union products as a

sign of good faith as we work to resolve an escalating dispute on airplane parts that has put farmers on the frontlines of the skirmish. This is a hopeful development and perhaps the first step to forming a comprehensive trade agreement with the U.K. that is sciencebased and removes the non-tariff barriers to American agriculture.

The success of U.S. agricultural trade also depends on us holding trade partners accountable as we implement agreements. The new USTR will need to address quickly the implementation of the USMCA, which came into effect on July 1, 2020. USMCA put into place new trading standards and strong enforcement mechanisms. While there is some friction regarding potatoes and biotech crops with Mexico and dairy products with Canada, the USTR can use the enforcement mechanisms in the agreement to resolve issues. As two of our largest trading partners, the strengthened partnership is paying off for farmers and ranchers. For example, exports of poultry and dairy products to Canada, which have been a sticking point between the U.S. and Canada for a long time, were up 5 percent in the last six months of 2020, compared with the last six months of 2019.

Building strong trade partnerships takes time, and America’s farmers and ranchers understand that well. The strong outlook we’re seeing for agriculture exports didn’t happen overnight. We came to the table and worked with our nation’s leaders to ensure agriculture remained a priority. I am confident that together we will build on that work, and that we will continue to provide the best food, fiber and renewable fuel for customers near and far.

President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, Duvall raises beef cattle, hay and poultry in Greshamville, Georgia.

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VOICES

Start Your Ripple in the Water Conversation A Message from WFBF Board Director Robert Nigh

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t was 1951. Looking out their kitchen window they watched neighbors rescue the family car and close the shed doors so that other belongings didn’t float out the doors. The peaceful south fork of the Bad Axe River had become a raging torrent. Others weren't as lucky, and they lost more. They were forced to abandon homes and farms. There was nothing left to salvage. For them, a little water seeping into their partial basement was the easiest clean up.

Fast forward to 2018 and the same house had water in the same partial basement, even with five flood control structures up stream that weren’t available in 1951. In many ways, the flooding was worse than 1951, and many old-timers agreed. More damage to crops and stream banks and more lost homes and outbuildings.

Severe climate events are happening every year. With farmers and advocates stepping up to mitigate these events, lives and livelihoods have been saved although, Mother Nature seems to have stepped up her game even more.

No matter where you live, water plays a role in your life, too. Can you think of some examples?

Wisconsin Farm Bureau has and will

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continue to be front and center during discussions about what can be done with this natural resource. Farm Bureau has continued to be at the table representing you, our members, as well as friends and family. Together we are making a difference.

One example of the advocating work we are doing is by having representatives on the Lieutenant Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change. I am proud to serve as one of those representatives.

The discussions have centered around agriculture’s role in combating environmental issues. Those outside of agriculture are looking for farmers to improve. They are interested in farmers storing more carbon and they want zero environmental accidents. They are demanding clean, safe and plentiful water for all. Without the necessary science, they are proposing regulations that target agriculture's role in water contamination without realizing that agriculture is only part of the issue. We need to work together to solve the complex issues of groundwater contamination, run off during extreme weather events, flooding and carbon sequestration. You and I both know farmers are not the problem, but part of the solution.

Producer-led watershed groups and Discovery Farms have been great at providing farm-level and watershed-level data that helps us understand the effects of farming practices.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau is a dedicated supporter of producer-led watershed groups and Discovery Farms. We need more science-supported information and local solutions that will allow us to implement on-farm practices that have the desired effect on solving complex issues.

In my area of the state, the Southwest Wisconsin Groundwater and Geology study (SWIGG) and Driftless Area Water Study (DAWS) is providing baseline data regarding groundwater

contamination in southwest Wisconsin.

Finding the sources of contamination will help target effective practices and regulations. Without this information we can’t put effective practices in place that solve this contamination issue. However, we can’t just throw money and time at the problem and hope it works. There is so much more to it.

Stream bank protection, trout cribs, flood control structures, dry dams, contour farming, contour strips, grassed waterways, no-till farming, minimum-till farming, rotational grazing, cover crops, prairie strips and rainwater capture are climate-smart practices employed by farmers around Wisconsin.

Many farmers have been the best at protecting their land and our resources.

They develop and follow nutrient management plans to protect surface and groundwater. These farmers have generations of experience that they should be proud of. But, have we done a good job of sharing these successes outside of our circles? Something I ponder.

Daunting challenges have been met at every turn and overcome with diligence, demanding work and ingenuity. Many farmers contribute this wisdom of experience and innovation every day to help make Wisconsin a better place to live, work and play. They are involved in county committees, state task forces, watershed groups, stewardship groups and many others as they advocate for the environment and agriculture. A true partnership with the land.

Don’t let the flood of water discussions wash your farm’s legacy away. Just like the floods of the past, we will survive this.

Decide how you will create a ripple in the water conversation in your community and don’t delay in taking action.

Nigh is a dairy farmer in Vernon County and represents District 3 on the WFBF Board.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Market Focus Shifts

A Message from AgriVisor's Karl Setzer

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e are starting to see a shift in market fundamental focus as we approach the spring planting season in the U.S. For one, acres will be more of a factor as the market knows we need to see a substantial increase in soybean plantings to build reserves and at the same time satisfy a growing demand. It has been touted that the U.S. needs to see an additional six-million soybean acres to achieve this, but some forecasters believe

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the number could be closer to 10 million.

If we are going to achieve this increase, we will need to see the spread between new crop corn and soybeans widen more than it is.

One factor that will benefit acreage this year is farmers have adequate cash flows across the Corn Belt. In such years we tend to see more plantings as well as elevated use of crop nutrients. High commodity values also will encourage production. It won’t be surprising to see an early planting season either as farmers may try to capture the premium we are seeing for early fall deliveries.

Analysts also are taking current weather conditions and trying to predict what it may mean for this coming production season in the U.S. So far, this winter has been warmer and drier than usual, but compared with recent winters, this is not that uncommon. In fact, several of the most recent winters have been just as mild as the current one. Looking at production the following year there is not a definitive pattern when it comes to yields or crop sizes, as growing season weather is much more of a factor.

The combination of these factors will probably bring about a factor in the

market that we have not seen for the past few years, that being the addition of risk premium to futures values. Risk premium is the practice of buying in the futures market in case production falls short of demand. For the past several years the U.S. has had enough of old crop supplies that most losses could be absorbed. This is not true at the present time and any yield loss will have a sizable impact on balance sheets, especially with soybeans.

Just because we are shifting into the U.S. growing season it doesn’t mean South America will no longer be a factor though. Double cropped acres in South America are still growing and will have a considerable impact on world production, primarily with corn. The higher values we are seeing in the U.S. also are encouraging South American farmers to plant larger crops, especially with the U.S. dollar stronger than their currency values.

Trade is actually hoping these farmers do increase plantings as it is probably the only way we do not deplete our reserves, possibly for the next two years.

Setzer is the commodity risk analyst for AgriVisor, one of WFBF's member benefits.

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Up the Creek A column by Ken M. Blomberg

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ur creek drains the better part of 240 acres, then flows into a larger stream that discharges into the Wisconsin River.

South of our little watershed lies the Mill Creek Watershed. Our county of Portage shares 12 watersheds with nine surrounding counties. Collectively, they drain more than 2,090 square miles of rural and urban landscape.

Portage and Wood counties contain the Mill Creek Watershed within their borders. Mill Creek is a 47-mile tributary of the Wisconsin River. Originating in the City of Marshfield, more than 90 percent of the creek’s headwaters streamflow originates from the city’s treated wastewater.

According to the DNR, the stream is impacted by storm-water runoff from Marshfield, sedimentation, barnyard and cropland run-off, flashy streamflow, channel ditching, stream bank erosion, ammonia toxicity and nutrient enrichment. Mill Creek has been listed as an impaired water body by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and was once classified as having limited aquatic life. Slowly, it’s showing improvements over time.

In 2000, Marshfield built a new wastewater plant and two citizen-based groups stepped up to the plate – The Friends of Mill Creek and Farmers of

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Mill Creek Watershed Council.

In 2002, a Department of Natural Resources grant facilitated by the Golden Sands Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc., led to the organization of a citizen-led watershed group, the Friends of the Mill Creek Watershed, Inc. It began with several stream improvement and public education projects, continuing with other strong community-based stream improvement programs.

Then the Farmers of Mill Creek Watershed Council stepped up their efforts. This new farmer-led committee came together with the goals of educating “ourselves and our neighbors on phosphorus best management practices ... adopting more environmentally friendly farming practices that will ensure clean water and healthy soils for future generations while maintaining or improving profitability ... and to be stewards of environmental sustainability for our land and water in our watershed.”

The committee is directed by local farmers - completely voluntary and non-regulatory - with assistance from UW-Extension and the Portage County and Wood County Land and Water Conservation Departments.

The Farmers of Mill Creek Watershed Council include members John Eron, Kyle Altmann, Mike Berdan, Tyler Bulgrin, Jim Coenen, Brian Otto, Pat Slattery, Jeff Wiernik and Ken Schroeder of the Portage County UW-Extension.

I had the pleasure of being invited to and attending early Farmers of Mill Creek Heritage Equipment and Conservation Field Days held at the John and Melissa Eron’s Portage County farm. From tractor-drawn wagons, participants viewed the Eron farms while tour guides described environmentally friendly farming practices – some in place and some in the process of being installed.

We observed no-till planting versus conventional corn plantings, pivot irrigation using retention ponds – full of reclaimed water from drain tiles and vegetated waterways.

We viewed established and maintained buffer strips along the edges of fields as well as in-field waterway buffers – all of which were seeded with flowering plants and grasses to slow runoff flow and encourage pollinators and other wildlife.

I was surrounded by a large group of environmentalists from the Petenwell and Castle Rock Stewards (PACRS) on my wagon tour. These Adams County and Juneau County advocates were impressed, to say the least, with what can be done on largescale farms to prevent nutrient-laden runoff from reaching our streams and rivers. I saw firsthand a change in their attitudes in a matter of a few hours on John and Melissa’s farm.

On hand were members of the Rudolph Old Tractor Club, Glacier Ridge Tractor Club, Sherry Tired Iron and the Rosholt Area Threshermen. Their vintage tractors and equipment brought our farming heritage and modern techniques together – young and old working side by side on common conservation goals.

It was and still is the desire of the Farmers of Mill Creek “to demonstrate to the general public that farmers are conservation leaders – and that they care about their land and water and are doing everything they can do to take care of it.” If what’s going on at the Eron farm catches on elsewhere in the watershed and beyond, well then, their goals will come to pass.

Blomberg is a freelance writer and a member of the Portage County Farm Bureau. His books, "Up the Creek" and "Wisconsin Bird Hunting Tales and Letters from Art" are available at amazon.com.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau On Feb. 25, schools, early care and education programs, hospitals and colleges celebrated local foods by cooking and serving a chili recipe made with local ingredients. It was the perfect way to celebrate National Chili Day. Participating in the event was easy. You just had to prepare and serve your Wisconsin Chili Lunch using as many locally grown ingredients as possible.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Promotion and Education Promotion and Committee shared their Education Program favorite chili recipes on the WFBF Facebook page to help promote the event.

Below are two of the recipes they highlighted.

Do you have a chili recipe to share? Or another recipe that showcases Wisconsin products? Share it with us via this form: bit.ly/FarmBureauFlavor

Chili from Brenda Dowiasch Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef • 1½ c. onion, chopped • 2 Tbsp. garlic, minced • 2 medium bell peppers, chopped • 2 15-oz. cans chili beans, drained • 1 46-oz. can tomato juice • 1 12-oz. can beer, any kind • 1 14-oz. can ready-to-serve beef broth • 1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes, undrained

Directions

1. Heat large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef; cook over medium heat until brown. Pour off drippings. Remove beef, set aside.

2. In stockpot add beef, onions, garlic, bell peppers and chili beans.

Stir in tomato juice, beer, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste and honey.

Add chili powder, cumin, oregano,

• 1 141/2-oz. can chili-seasoned or zesty-style diced tomatoes, undrained • 1/3 c. tomato paste • 2 Tbsp. Wisconsin honey • ¼ c. chili powder • 1 tsp. ground cumin • 1 tsp. dried oregano leaves, crushed • 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves, crushed • salt and pepper to taste

thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to boil and stir occasionally.

3. Reduce heat; cover and simmer on low for 3 hours, until vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally.

4. U ncover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Top with Wisconsin cheese, sour cream and crackers.

Chili from Krista Klinkner Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs. ground beef • 2 14.5-oz. cans diced fire roasted tomatoes • 16-oz. can tomato sauce • 1 16-oz. can mild chili beans

Directions

1. Brown ground beef.

2. Add remaining ingredients, simmer.

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• 1 onion, chopped • 3 tsp. chili powder • 1 tsp. salt • 1 tsp. garlic powder • 1 tsp. mustard 3. Enjoy with a generous amount of cheese, sour cream, black olives and crackers or cornbread. wfbf.com

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Check In with Yourself and Others May is Mental Health Month

Stress affects us all. Maybe you are coping with a difficult relationship, having a hard time managing finances or trying to home school your kids while farming or working off the farm. These situations maybe different but knowing how stress affects you and how to manage it can help.

How Stress Affects You

First, it is important to note that not all stress is bad. Everyone will face short-term stress from time to time. If your stress doesn’t ebb and flow but remains at a high level for a long period of time you may be experiencing chronic stress.

Chronic stress can impact our decision-making ability, mental and physical health and relationships with our family and friends.

Some ways to identify whether you may be experiencing chronic stress: • Heart races • Fatigue • Changes in appetite • Feel like you are in a fog • High blood pressure • Easily angered • Muscle cramps • Nervous • Upset stomach • Feeling depressed

• Trouble making decisions • Withdraw from people •N ew or increased drug, alcohol or tobacco use

If you or someone you know is dealing with chronic stress, don’t be embarrassed or ashamed. The Wisconsin Farm Center staff are uniquely trained to assist farmers and to understand the stress that farmers face. Seek out tools, resources and other information to help address the stress you’re facing before it severely impacts your life.

Call the Wisconsin Farm Center at 800.942.2474.

Managing Stress HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY

Eat Right

Exercise

Laugh

You wouldn’t fuel your equipment with low grade fuel, so why feed yourself junk food and soda? Eating a healthy diet is not only good for you, but it also makes you feel good too. Plan meals ahead of time to have healthy food choices during busy times of the year.

Farming is a physically demanding job so it can be easy to sit down in the easy chair whenever a free moment presents itself. Find time, even during the busy seasons, to take a few minutes to walk or engage in another form of exercise you find enjoyable. It doesn’t need to be an all-out effort, just something to get your heart pumping and take your mind off the farm for a few minutes.

We’ve all heard the saying laughter is the best medicine. If you’re experiencing something particularly stressful have a lighthearted conversation with a friend or watch your favorite comedian on TV or the internet.

Avoid Unhealthy De-Stressing Unfortunately, folks under too much stress may turn to drugs, alcohol or tobacco. While these substances may lead to temporary relief of stress, increased use and dependence and can damage relationships with friends and family or lead to farm or roadway incidents.

*Information taken from farms.extension.wisc.edu/farmstress/stress-management.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Testimonials "The rollercoaster of market fluctuations forced a balancing act for farmers: ensuring they made decisions that preserved their position as stewards of the land and their animals while fighting to maintain a financial position that would situate their farm business to continue into the future. As I crunched numbers with farms we were grasping at straws—how could we calculate a return on investment when the milk price could fluctuate so much, not to mention the question of whether there would be a market for that milk? I am constantly challenging and questioning myself to ensure the resources I develop for farmers take into account as many factors as possible; my success is rooted in their success, and I feel that deeply.” – Taliah D.

“Farming is so dependent on the weather and it can lead to a lot of stress. I often say, ‘If you can control the weather, you’re closer to God than me.’”

– Stan K.

Wisconsin Farmer Peer Support Groups

The Wisconsin Farm Center is hosting free, virtual farmer-led support groups. There are two options to choose from, one for farmers (offered as an afternoon or evening session) and another for farm couples. You may remain anonymous by signing in with only your first name and keep your camera turned off. If you’re curious what these groups are about, tune into the next session. The afternoon farmer support group meets the first Tuesday of each month while the evening support group meets the fourth Monday of each month. The farm couple support group meets the third Thursday of the month.

To learn more or to register, visit datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Growing_WI/FarmCenterOverview.aspx.

Heroes of Hope

Heroes of Hope is an effort under the NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS Farm Neighbors Care campaign focused on shedding light on rural heroes who have helped others through a tough time, i.e., helping harvesting crops while going through a tough time, providing positivity in their day-to-day careers, uplifting other farmers to get through a tough season, etc. The contest aims to identify those people who have helped to bring hope to farmers or businesses, either in large or small ways. Members of the agriculture community are encouraged to nominate individuals who have made an impact on the way they conduct business, both ordinarily and extraordinarily.

Heroes of Hope

Farm Neighbors Care was created by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, with help from other agriculture organizations, in the spring of 2019 to shed light on mental health in the farming community.

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Key aspects of this program: • 91 percent of rural adults say mental health is important to them and their family.

• 31 percent of rural adults have personally sought help for a mental health condition, and 24 percent have a family member who has sought care for a mental health condition.

• A 2017 study revealed that farmers and ranchers had a suicide rate that was, on average, 3.5 times that of the general population.

• Farming can be an isolating career; the Farm Neighbors Care campaign asks rural residents to have face-to-face conversations with fellow farmers and agri-business owners, providing a dose of positivity to their day.

• Be a part of the solution and help end the stigma around mental health.

Heroes of Hope will recognize one grand prize winner and four runner’s-up with prize packages from local sponsors.

To nominate someone for this award, visit bit.ly/ HeroesofHope2021. wfbf.com

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Kelsey Woldt, Brillion

Janet Kunde, Oshkosh

Raven DeLange, Elkhorn

David Lee Schneider, Oconto

Ten Eyck Family, Brodhead

Bill and Karen Knutson, Holmen

Send us YOUR Photos

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members live and work with beautiful landscapes and livestock. On this page we highlight those sights and special moments.

Please email your best photos (high resolution jpgs at 300 dpi) to Lsiekmann@wfbf.com. Due to the high volume of photos we receive, we are unable to publish every photo. Photos sent in may be used in other WFBF publications.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

APRIL | MAY 2021

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AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Find Your 'Field of Dreams' at the National Ag in the Classroom Conference T

he 2021 National Ag in the Classroom Conference will be held on June 28-July 1 in Des Moines, Iowa, at the Iowa Event Center/Hilton Des Moines Downtown.

It will be offered as a hybrid conference, meaning it will be held in person for those who can travel and virtual for those who can't.

Online registration went live on March 1, and the early registration deadline will be extended to June 1 to allow for flexibility as people determine if they can travel and if they feel comfortable traveling.

The early rate for in-person registration is $435. The virtual registration rate is $50.

Conference organizers want to assure everyone that social distancing measures, including mask-wearing, will be implemented to keep everyone safe at the conference.

The National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference brings together hundreds of teachers, volunteers, informal educators and industry experts from across the country to share ideas, network and celebrate agricultural literacy.

The conference moves to a different region every year and is only in the Midwest every four years. This will be the first time that it has been hosted in Iowa.

With the conference so close, we encourage as many of our Wisconsin teachers and volunteers to attend as possible.

On county Ag in the Classroom reports, many counties do not spend the full amount budgeted for Ag in the Classroom. This opportunity could help a county use the full budget along with some additional dollars from the county Farm Bureau.

For more information, please view the video at youtu.be/ yFrH6zJP58M.

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Ag in the Classroom Opportunities to

Check Out New Career Resources Watch for new career resources and an updated An Agricultural Career for You Student Book and Educator Guide.

Wisconsin State Fair Culinary Contest Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom is sponsoring the ’Wisconsin Dreamin … legend-dairy Wisconnie-strone Soup’ culinary contest at the Wisconsin State Fair. This open class competition will have exhibitors mixing up a batch of delicious soup using primarily Wisconsin products.

The entry deadline is June 3, and the contest is held on Aug. 8 in the Grand Champion Hall at the Wisconsin State Fair. Watch for registration information and details at wistatefair.com/competitions/ culinary.

Summer Ag in the Classroom Training

Our usual series of summer trainings have not been planned yet due to uncertainty with COVID-19. We will use the Training Tuesdays on the Ag in the Classroom YouTube channel to conduct trainings along with several live presentations. We plan on organizing a Back-to-School Kick-Off again in August.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

2021 Wisconsin Farm Facts Available T

he Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Program has the updated 2021 Wisconsin Farm Facts brochures, bookmarks and other resources available for teachers, students and volunteers to use.

The annual brochure highlights the top 10 commodities, where Wisconsin ranks nationally, features other agricultural and jobs statistics and has an annual feature. This year honey and maple syrup are featured on both the brochure and bookmarks.

Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom also has a PowerPoint presentation, lesson plans, resources and activities

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available for classroom use. A collection of videos about honey and maple syrup is on the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom’s YouTube channel. Look for the playlist dedicated to the Wisconsin Farm Facts project or visit bit.ly/WisconsinAITC. Along with the Wisconsin Farm Facts resources, an updated Fun Facts about Wisconsin Agriculture also is available for younger grade levels.

Find the resources and links on the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom website atwisagclassroom.org/wisconsin-agfacts. Brochures and bookmarks can be ordered through the online store atwisagclassroom.org/shop.

For more information, contact Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Darlene Arneson at darneson@wfbf.com or 608.828.5644.

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AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Soybean Science Kit Shows Collaborative Success F or nearly 20 years, the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom, the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board and Wisconsin Soybean Association have worked together to help educate students, teachers and others about soybeans and the importance to agriculture and our country.

Program Overview In 2004, the first set of Soybean Science Kits were purchased as a test run to see if the educational kits would be of value to Wisconsin teachers, students and volunteers. Now, more than 70 kits later, the soybean kits continue to help students tie agriculture and science together using some fun hands-on lessons.

The kits were developed by the Indiana Soybean Program as it worked with elementary teacher Fred Henderson. When Fred retired from teaching, he along with his sister and wife, also retired elementary teachers, moved the program from the Indiana Soybean Program to make it into their retirement business.

They assemble the kits, send out supplies and complete hands-on training throughout the country. The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board has sponsored trainings in Wisconsin numerous times at teacher’s conventions, stand-alone trainings and at FFA Farm Forum for agriculture educators.

Kits Available Around the State Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom places the kits with a coordinator who houses the kit, tracks its usage and restocks the kits. The kits are taken care of by the coordinator, but the sponsored kits are to be available for any teacher, volunteer, 4-H or FFA and others interested in using them. The list of kit coordinators can be found at wisagclassroom.org/lessonsresources/classroom-lessons/soybean-science-kits.

“The Iowa-Grant fourth- and fifth-grade students have checked out the Soybean Science Kit to complete some of the experiments to enhance their education on soybeans and relate it to this year’s essay contest. From what I understand, the lip balm experiment was a hit!”

- Lara Hammerly, agriculture educator at Iowa-Grant Schools

“I used the Soybean Science Kit at our County 4-H Fun Day. I made lip balm and candles with the kids. Parents attended with their children and I remember one mom saying, "I can't believe all these years I didn't know vegetable oil was soybean oil!!!"

- Rebecca Poppy, Winnebago County Ag in the Classroom Coordinator

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"The Fond du Lac Agri-Business Council Ag Ambassador Program utilizes the Soybean Kit to share the benefits and uses of soybeans in our lives through the interactive student lessons. Teachers in Fond du Lac County Area schools enjoy the hands-on presentations.”

- Amy Ries, Director of Agricultural Programs & Director of Youth Leadership at Envision Greater Fond du Lac, Inc.

Continued Support Even after this many years, there are still requests from schools or county programs for additional kits. Executive Director of the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board Robert Karls recently approved a new kit for Washington County Ag in the Classroom as they are getting more requests to use their existing kit.

“This seems to be the time of year when we have teachers consistently wanting the kit. We sometimes have others in the fall, but this seems to be when the kit coordinates with the school curriculum. We are super happy that the kit continues to be a teacher resource, even during these crazy times. We look forward to continuing to educate through hands-on experiences!"

- Melanie Gierach, Washington County Soybean Kit Coordinator

Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom is extremely grateful for the partnership with our soybean growers and their associations.

Through the Soybean Science Kit program and their support to offer in-person trainings on how to use the kit, this has helped us reach teachers of all grade levels.

Book of the Year and Essay Contest With the selection of this year’s Book of the Year, "Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car" by Peggy Thomas and illustrated by Ed Fotheringham, the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board and Wisconsin Soybean Association joined We Energies as sponsors of the 2020-2021 Essay Contest. The topic, 'How have Wisconsin soybean farmers fueled Wisconsin’s economy?' allows students to learn more about the soybean industry, how they are grown, uses of soybeans, sustainability of the crop and how Henry Ford used soybeans in many parts of their plant.

Learn more at wisagclassroom.org/events-activities/essaycontest.

THANK YOU for sponsoring the Essay Contest WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Local Learning: Rock County Celebrates National Ag Day D espite COVID-19 and pandemic precautions still hampering a second National Ag Day, Rock County Ag in the Classroom coordinator Sheila Everhart made the best of a challenging situation by involving many Rock County residents, students and teachers.

Rock County Ag in the Classroom contacted FFA chapters in the county to help offer a free, family-friendly traveling virtual scavenger hunt in eight Rock County communities during synchronized times between March 20 and May 19. The theme is ‘Farmers Grow, Food Brings Everyone to the Table.’

Wisconsin’s top commodities were highlighted using the commodity fact sheets found on the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom’s website at wisagclassroom. org/wisconsin-ag-facts/wisconsincommodity-facts.

Once the FFA chapters committed to the project, the student leaders and advisors brainstormed and determined community locations for scavenger hunts.

FFA chapters secured 12 to 24 large community windows to place posters inside the building due to weather conditions. These include banks, schools, libraries, fire departments, restaurants, etc., or other community building clusters within one-quarter to one-half mile walking or driving radius. The posters must be visible from the street.

Once community locations were finalized by the business or property owner, student leaders and advisors created clues for each location. Student leaders and advisors delivered and placed the posters in the windows of authorized community locations.

Chapter FFA members created a Facebook event page that was launched at noon on the first day of the community scavenger hunt event. The Chapter FFA Facebook page and clues were linked to the Rock County Farm Bureau Facebook page.

APRIL | MAY 2021

wfbf.com

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Get Your Golf Game Ready

Wisconsin Ag Open to Be Held in September Registrations and sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 24th annual Wisconsin Ag Open. This fundraising event for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 14, at The Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove.

“Attending the Wisconsin Ag Open is a fun way to support our Foundation, along with giving you the opportunity to network and socialize with many people within Farm Bureau and Rural Mutual Insurance.” - Kevin Krentz, WFBF President

The 18-hole scramble offers a day of golf, socializing and various contests and raffles that help raise funds for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. The Foundation sponsors activities such as the 4-H Key Award, Ag in the Classroom, Wisconsin FFA Discussion Meet and Food for America, Young Farmer and Agriculturist activities and Collegiate Farm Bureaus.

“We participate in the Wisconsin Ag Open to donate to the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. By giving we get to participate in a fun event and get a day off the farm to enjoy with other aggies and Farm Bureau members. We also have some friendly competition between Kenosha and Racine counties.” Dave Daniels, WFBF Vice President

Farm Bureau members are encouraged to consider attending the event. County Farm Bureaus might use the opportunity to recognize membership workers, food stand volunteers, committee chairs, award winners or by a random drawing. It might be a fun opportunity for Young Farmer and Agriculturist members, Ag in the Classroom volunteers, Promotion and Education committee members or collegiate Farm Bureau groups to have fun, golf and support the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation, which supports these programs.

“I have so much fun golfing at this event! Between the enjoyment of golfing, everyone is excited to be there. It is a great way to support our educational programs.”

- Rosie Lisowe, WFBF Board Member

If you aren’t a golfer but want to support the event, individual or county Farm Bureaus can be a sponsor, donate door prizes, baskets for the raffles or provide a monetary donation to support the event. Any help in offsetting expenses for the event helps to raise more money for the activities that the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation supports.

Information about the event can be found at wfbf.com/events/ wisconsin-ag-open. All registrations must be completed online.

“The Wisconsin Ag Open is a great opportunity to support the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. We know the importance of promoting agriculture within our state and what better way to do that with a great day on the golf course. Along with a fun afternoon, there are many opportunities to reunite with supporters who you know throughout the state. There are chances to win prizes, great food, along with a lot of fun in a best ball outing. I encourage county Farm Bureaus to support this fundraiser by sponsoring a team from your county.”

- Sam Skemp, Dane County Farm Bureau Vice President

Thank You

to the Following WFB Foundation Donors: (Donations were made between Jan. 26 and March 26, 2021)

• Carol Bartholomew in memory of Ruth Clark • Dan and Jean Poulson in memory of Rolland Nelson • Dan and Jean Poulson in memory of Tom Lyon • Donna Fae Kruse in memory of Edward Kruse

Founda tion About the

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation was established in 1988 to provide support for agricultural education and leadership programs. Through donations and other contributions, the foundation invests time and resources to support the next generation of agriculturists.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

RURAL MUTUAL

Rural Mutual Agents Give Back to Communities R ural Mutual Insurance continues to ask themselves, “What more can we do to support our customers and communities to help keep Wisconsin Strong through the pandemic challenges?”

From our office in Madison and locations throughout Wisconsin, corporately and individually we are involved with organizations to give back to our communities. With agents throughout Wisconsin, we’ve seen a generous outpouring of donations from our agents.

Bobby Mickelson and Nathan Sylte in Eau Claire donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin. They wanted to give back to an organization that helps shape the youth and future leaders of our communities. Big Brothers Big Sisters coordinates events, pairs leaders with future leaders and is an organization that provides an outlet and direction for youth.

Charles Collier in Dodgeville donated to the Iowa County Humane Society. The humane society is dedicated to making communities more humane places for animals by providing shelter and care to animals in need. They are a voice through animal welfare advocacy and working towards a world where every animal has a loving home.

Deanna Richert in Hammond donated to Five Loaves Food Shelf. Being involved in her community, Deanna sees many requests for help with food, especially families who have been affected by the pandemic. The food shelf also provides weekend meals for elementary school families and works with the local homeless shelter.

Jason Lincicum in Waunakee donated to Prairie Valley Resale Store.

The store has provided household and personal items to the community for the past 11 years. This last year particularly, they assisted in programs such as grocery delivery for elderly, disabled or financially insecure citizens.

Louis Bentley in Monona donated to Operation Fresh Start. As a member of the board of directors, Louis sees the impact this organization has. Operation Fresh Start provides comprehensive employment and training services to youth and adults in Dane County. Their core program enables young people to develop green construction and conservation skills by involving them in the construction and renovation of affordable homes as well as environmental stewardship projects.

Cheyne Count in Elkhorn donated to the Lakeland Animal Shelter. The vision is to achieve zero tolerance for ending the lives of savable pets in the community. Every year, the animal shelter cares for more than 2,500 animals. Cheyne’s family has a passion for helping animals and has adopted several animals from the shelter.

Your community is our community. As a Wisconsin-only company, Rural Mutual strives to make Wisconsin a better place to live.

To find an agent near you, visit RuralMutual.com/agent.

Rural Mutual Insurance Declares 5 Percent Farm Dividend F

or the fifth year in a row since Rural Mutual Insurance established the first-of-its-kind Farm Dividend Program, the company’s Board of Directors declared a 5 percent dividend on all eligible farm policies for 2020 farm policyholders.

During the past five years, Rural Mutual has paid out more than $12.5 million to Wisconsin farmers as part of this program.

Based on the company’s positive operating results, an estimated $2.5 million will be paid out in 2021 at the time of farm policy renewal. Farmers started receiving dividend checks in late February.

“This program wouldn’t be possible without our Wisconsin farmer’s hard work, belief in farm safety and loyalty to Rural Mutual. This is one way that we can reward our farm policyholders in recognition for their essential work to our APRIL | MAY 2021

economy,” said Executive Vice President and CEO of Rural Mutual Insurance Dan Merk.

This is the fifth year a Farm Dividend has been declared. In 2017, Rural Mutual Insurance became the first Wisconsinbased insurance company to offer its farm policyholders a dividend. The Farm Dividend is one of the ways Rural Mutual continues to support their farm policyholders, especially amidst a difficult year. It also reinforces their strong relationship with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau.

Rural Mutual is the number one writer of farm insurance in Wisconsin. The company was founded by farmers to better understand farmers’ unique insurance needs, no matter the size of the farm operation. Rural Mutual is a single-state insurer, so local agents’ knowledge is specific to Wisconsin.

Its farm coverage options include home and personal items, farm buildings, vehicles, farm personal property and workers’ compensation for farm employees.

For more information, please contact a Rural Mutual agent, or visit RuralMutual.com/farmdividend. wfbf.com

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RURAL MUTUAL

Rural Mutual Recognizes Top Agents O n Feb. 19, Rural Mutual Insurance’s 2020 top-producing agents were recognized at the virtual Sales Rally and Awards.

Jenni Zinda-Mancl, Stevens Point, Lake and Woods District, was named Rural Mutual’s Agent of the Year.

Jenni Zinda-Mancl also was recognized as the Company Top Performer in Commercial Lines, Farm Lines and Personal Lines.

Tyler Kuehni, Delavan, Badgerland District, was named Rookie of the Year.

The District of the Year honor went to the Lake and Woods District managed by Dave Meihak.

Mathew Immel, Fond du Lac, Big Lakes District, was the Company Top Performer in Life Lines.

Congratulations to all of Rural Mutual’s agents on an outstanding year.

How to Prepare and Safely Weather a Tornado D on’t wait for severe weather to arrive to start thinking about keeping yourself and your family safe.

Now is the time to become StormAware. Being StormAware means that you and your family not only know how to protect yourselves in the event of a tornado or severe weather, but that you are aware of whenever the weather forecast calls for a chance of severe storms, that during those times you monitor the weather for severe watches and warnings.

Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings • Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.

• W hat is the difference between a tornado watch and warning?

• A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.

• A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.

• Tornado WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued at the county level.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit • First-aid kit and essential medications.

• Canned food and can opener.

• At least three gallons of water per person.

• Protective clothing, bedding or sleeping bags.

• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.

• Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.

• Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. Remember, you will need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.

Prepare NOW • Know your area’s tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the southeast have a greater risk for tornadoes.

• Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnelshaped cloud; an approaching cloud of debris; or a loud roar — similar to a freight train.

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS). If your community has

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sirens, then become familiar with the warning tone.

• Pay attention to weather reports.

Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.

• Identify and practice going to a safe shelter. The best protection is a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.

Survive DURING • Immediately go to a safe location that you identified.

• Take additional cover by shielding your head and neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around you.

• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for emergency information and instructions.

• Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle.

• If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building.

Seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

Cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.

Be Safe AFTER • Keep listening to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local authorities for updated information.

• Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.

• Do not enter a damaged building until you are told that it is safe.

• Save your phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messaging or social media to communicate with family and friends.

Tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent storms and can cause death, injury or destruction within seconds.

For more tips on preparing your family for severe weather, visit the Preparedness section of RedCross.org.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION