Rural Route October November 2020

Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION®'S

october | november • vol. 26 no. 5 | wfbf.com

COMMITTED TO CONSERVATION MEET PETER KIMBALL

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

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VFA ENDORSEMENTS

WFBF’s political action arm has announced its endorsements.

MEET KIM POKORNY

WFBF's new CAO answers questions so you can get to know her.

LEOPOLD FINALISTS

Five finalists have been selected for the Leopold Conservation Award®.

MEET PETER KIMBALL

The new District 9 Board Director is committed to conservation.

EXCELLENCE IN AG

Four YFA members have been selected as finalists.

MEMBER BENEFIT SAVINGS

Farm Bureau member saves $1,000 with CAT® member benefit.

OPINIONS

Columns from Bragger, Duvall, Hetke, Setzer and Niswander.

FARM BUREAU FLAVOR

Celebrate October Pork Month with these great recipes.

CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN

Last call to participate in WFBF's 100th anniversary fundraiser.

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Ag in the Classroom program hosted back to school kick-off.

RURAL MUTUAL

Harvest safety tips and reminders.

COVER PHOTO BY SARAH HETKE

ONLINE LIBRARY

Read our previous issues at wfbf.com/read.

wfbf.com

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Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION'S

EDITOR'S NOTE

I

’m certain this year has brought you some challenges in one way or another.

Despite being pushed to our limits, I’m finding that some people are still doing good things for others.

After our daughter unexpectedly died in June, we heard from many people in the form of notes, calls, texts and gifts showing their support. One Farm Bureau member in Milwaukee County shared that he planted a ‘Chloe’s Patch’ of sunflowers.

He may have felt that the gesture was small, but the impact was big. I told people how much that act of kindness meant to me. Knowing this member was struggling with his own challenges, I understood that this was no small feat for him.

I know it’s a cliché, but you should never underestimate the impact you have on others. Recently, when I learned that the caretaker of ‘Chloe’s Patch’ died, I was extremely sad. But I smiled

when I remembered the impact that he left with me.

Navigating through the sadness and hardship that 2020 has brought, there are still some simple joys and happy stories that have surfaced. I have learned to appreciate these more and not take good times for granted. A lesson we hopefully can learn before it’s too late.

We must take it upon ourselves to be the light someone else may need each day.

Because the day you may need that light, I hope someone is there to give you hope.

During a speech at my sister-in-law’s wedding, my husband and I gave the following advice to the bride and groom: Support each other and build each other up – the world already does a good job of beating us down.

I hope you think of this advice as you face the weeks before the election and the ongoing devastation that COVID-19 is bringing. I can’t name one person I know who has not experienced a challenge this year. I can name the people who have been going above and beyond to support those around them.

We can build each other up and serve as examples in our communities.

As you flip through the pages of this Rural Route, may it serve as a reminder of the good our members are doing despite the turmoil around them.

Amy Eckelberg Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

Editor Amy Eckelberg - 608.828.5706 Designer Lynn Siekmann - 608.828.5707 Contributors Sarah Hetke - 608.828.5711 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 Joe Bragger, Independence (President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove (Vice President) Arch Morton Jr., Janesville Robert Nigh, Viroqua Kevin Krentz, Berlin Rosie Lisowe, Chilton Brian Preder, Weyauwega Ryan Klussendorf, Medford Peter Kimball, Baldwin Darby Sampson, Melrose (Promotion and Education Committee Chair) Kelly Oudenhoven, De Pere (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.

PHOTO BY PAM PERCY

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

NEWS

Trump, Biden Outline Agricultural Priorities

A

new look into the priorities for rural America of President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden is revealed in responses to a questionnaire distributed by the American Farm Bureau Federation. AFBF asked the Republican and Democratic candidates to respond with their stances on several topics directly affecting America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities, including trade, labor, regulatory reform and sustainability.

“The views of Farm Bureau members are as diverse as the food that is grown in this country, but we share the same goal of choosing leadership that will help America thrive,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We are at a crucial time for agriculture as we navigate the challenges of a global pandemic, trade wars and depressed markets. It is important for our members to understand where the presidential candidates stand on issues important to rural America.”

President Trump’s responses focus largely on his first-term accomplishments. He pledges a science-based approach OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

to regulation going forward. He commits to addressing the “rural/urban divide” and emphasizes support for voluntary conservation programs.

Former Vice President Biden’s responses focus heavily on environmental sustainability and improving prosperity in rural communities. He, too, pledges to rely on experts and scientists when it comes to policies and regulation. He commits to “rebuilding the middle class” and working with farmers to achieve net-zero emissions.

The questionnaire includes 12 questions. In addition to the topics listed above, it covers food system resiliency post-pandemic, rural life and health, biotechnology, clean water, the Endangered Species Act, energy, taxes and farm policy programs.

The answers are presented as they were received, unedited, to give members an unfiltered look at each candidate’s platform.

AFBF has invited candidates from both parties to respond to election questionnaires for more than 40 years. The survey is available now on FB.org/election2020. wfbf.com

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Volunteers for Agriculture® Announce Legislative Endorsements

T

he Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s political action arm, the Volunteers for Agriculture® Committee, has announced its endorsements of candidates in key State Assembly and Senate races for the Nov. 3 general election.

“The farmers who make up the VFA Committee take their role very seriously," said WFBF Senior Director of Governmental Relations Debi Towns. "They recognize that these candidates are supportive of issues that are important to the farm families that make up Wisconsin’s agricultural

community.”

Since 1990, the VFA has helped elect candidates who work for agriculture in Madison. The VFA Committee is comprised of 18 farmers from across the state. It was formed to give farmers a more direct role in electing leaders who best represent agriculture’s interests. The committee builds strong relationships with legislators of both parties to help achieve legislative priorities. For more information about the VFA, visit wfbf.com/ policy/vfa.

Goals

How VFA Helps

• Promote the economic and social well-being of farmers, rural families and agricultural interests.

• Contributes directly to the candidate’s campaign committee.

• Head off burdensome legislation and regulations.

• Advocate for farmers’ and agriculturists’ interests amid a changing social, economic and political climate.

• Purchases advertising in support of candidates.

• Motivates our members to vote for endorsed candidates.

“As a committee of farmers and agriculturists, the VFA truly looks out for the best interest of Wisconsin farmers. This group identifies the candidate who will be the best advocate for our members at the Capitol. With less than two percent of the U.S. population still farming, this has never been more critical.” – Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Joe Bragger

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

State Assembly Endorsements • Joel Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay), 1st District • Ron Tusler (R-Harrison), 3rd District • Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna), 5th District • Gary Tauchen (R-Bonduel), 6th District • Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield), 13th District • Joe Sanfelippo (R-New Berlin), 15th District • Evan Goyke (D-Milwaukee) 18th District • Paul Tittl (R-Manitowoc), 25th District • Jessie Rodriguez (R-Oak Creek), 21st District • Jim Ott (R-Mequon), 23rd District • Terry Katsma (R-Oostburg), 26th District • Tyler Vorpagel (R-Plymouth), 27th District • Shannon Zimmerman (R-River Falls), 30th District • Amy Loudenbeck (R-Clinton) 31st District • Tyler August (R-Lake Geneva), 32nd District • Rob Swearingen (R-Rhinelander), 34th District • Jeff Mursau (R-Crivitz), 36th District • John Jagler (R-Watertown), 37th District • Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam), 39th District • Kevin Petersen (R-Waupaca), 40th District • Jon Plumer (R-Lodi), 42nd District • Don Vruwink (D-Milton), 43rd District • Travis Tranel (R-Cuba City), 49th District • Tony Kurtz (R-Wonewoc), 50th District

State Senate Endorsements

• Rob Stafsholt (R-New Richmond), 10th District • Mary Felzkowski (R-Irma), 12th District

• Todd Novak (R-Dodgeville), 51st District • Jeremy Thiesfeldt (R-Fond du Lac), 52nd District • Michael Schraa (R-Oshkosh), 53rd District • Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh), 54th District • Dave Murphy (R-Greenville), 56th District • Robert Brooks (R-Saukville), 60th District • Samantha Kerkman (R-Salem), 61st District • Robin Vos (R-Burlington), 63rd District • Rob Summerfield (R-Bloomer), 67th District • Nancy VanderMeer (R-Tomah), 70th District • Katrina Shankland (D-Stevens Point), 71st District • Scott Krug, (R-Nekoosa), 72nd District • Dianne Hesselbein (D-Middleton), 79th District • Dave Considine (D-Baraboo), 81st District • Ken Skowronski (R-Franklin), 82nd District • Patrick Snyder (R-Schofield), 85th District • John Spiros (R-Marshfield), 86th District • James Edming (R-Glen Flora), 87th District • John Macco (R-Ledgeview), 88th District • John Nygren (R-Marinette), 89th District • Treig Pronschinske (R-Mondovi), 92nd District • Warren Petryk (R-Eleva), 93rd District • Loren Oldenburg (R-Viroqua), 96th District • Scott Allen (R-Waukesha), 97th District

• Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan), 14th District • Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point), 24th District

iFarmiVote Election Toolkit and Voter Pledge A

merican Farm Bureau’s iFarmiVote election toolkit gives you the information you need before voting, including access to your voting status, polling place, absentee ballots and more information about the candidates. Due to the pandemic, there are a lot of changes happening to how voting will take place. This toolkit has an entire team dedicated to keeping up with changes happening state-bystate and county-by-county so that no one will be unsure of how to cast a ballot. Visit fb.org/ advocacy/vote to learn more.

When you visit the website, pledge to vote in 2020. By taking the pledge, you are demonstrating how Farm Bureau members are civically engaged. When you take the pledge, a pindrop will be added to your location on a map of the U.S. to visually show the strength of the Farm Bureau family.

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wfbf.com

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NEWS

Wisconsin Farm Support Program Wraps Up Second Round W

ith $8.4 million still available to support Wisconsin farmers who have faced financial challenges due to the effects of COVID-19, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection reopened the Wisconsin Farm Support Program for additional applications from Aug. 10 to 24.

Earlier this summer, Wisconsin received approximately $2 billion through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. Gov. Tony Evers committed $50 million to direct payments for farmers in the state. In the first round of applications, DATCP distributed $41.6 million to nearly 12,000 farmers across 71 counties. Each recipient received $3,500.

This second round of funding was open to farmers whose gross income from farming in 2019 was between $10,000 and $5 million. The initial round of funding was limited to gross farm income between $35,000 and $5 million. In the second round, more than 3,300 individuals received the remaining $8.4 million in direct support to help cover economic losses suffered during the pandemic. Almost 60 percent of the secondround recipients reported a gross income from farming at less

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than $40,000. The payments were distributed on a sliding scale ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 with the average being approximately $2,500.

Additionally, Gov. Evers directed $15 million in CARES dollars to be used for funding a food security initiative. Through the COVID-19 Food Security and Wisconsin Products grant process, DATCP distributed $5 million to 17 food banks, non-profit organizations and tribal nations to help them adapt to infrastructure challenges they experienced as a result of the pandemic.

The remaining $10 million will be distributed across two of Wisconsin’s largest statewide hunger relief organizations. The two recipients demonstrated an ability to successfully network with producers, processors, tribal nations and food banks from across the state.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation appreciates Gov. Evers and the many legislators who recognized the tremendous impact the agricultural industry has on the state’s economy.

WFBF is proud to advocate for its members and thanks farmers, processors and retailers who have worked tirelessly during the pandemic to keep the food supply chain flowing smoothly.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Anzy Maerz Joins Wisconsin Farm Bureau Team "I am excited to be part of the Wisconsin Farm A Bureau team and looking forward to learning as nzy Maerz has been hired as bookkeeper II for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s operations division.

“We are excited to have Anzy join the Farm Bureau team, her previous accounting experience will be an excellent asset to the organization,” Executive Director of Operations Jeff Fuller said.

In this role, she will provide bookkeeping support to county

much as I can in the up coming weeks."

Farm Bureaus that are part of the county financial services program. She also will answer questions county board members have on county financials and assist county Farm Bureaus with government reports, fair stand filings, etc.

Anzy earned an associate degree in accounting from Madison Area Technical College. She came to WFBF from a local public accounting firm and began her duties on Sept. 14. Anzy and her husband, Nick, reside in Arena with their two children.

Wisconsin Agriculture Adds to Local Economy A

griculture plays a vital part of the economy in nearly every Wisconsin county, whether urban or rural, contributing both jobs and income. The economic impact varies from county to county as do the commodities represented.

“While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on jobs and businesses throughout the state – including agriculture, Wisconsin farmers and farm businesses continue to provide food for local and global consumers,” said Dean and Director of UW-Madison Division of Extension Karl Martin.

An updated UW-Madison study completed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, examined the economic impacts of agriculture at the county level using data from 2017.

“Although data for the county reports does not reflect activity in the recent months, it provides a basis and perspective of agriculture trends,” said Extension Agriculture Institute Director Heidi Johnson.

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Family-owned farms, food processors and agriculture-related businesses generated thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of economic activity while contributing to local income and tax revenues. While dairy is the number one commodity in most counties, other top commodities include grain, poultry and vegetables. Several counties have a strong green industry presence that includes greenhouse and nursery operations.

Agri-tourism and farm-to-table businesses also are adding to agriculture’s economic impact in counties throughout the state.

According to the “Contribution of Agriculture to the Wisconsin Economy: Updated for 2017” study released by Steven Deller, Division of Extension community development economist and professor in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics at UW-Madison, statewide, agriculture is a $104.8 billion industry and provided 435,700 jobs. Other findings include: • In 36 Wisconsin counties, agriculture impacts 3,000 or more jobs; five of those counties have more than 10,000 ag-related jobs • In 42 Wisconsin counties, agriculture stimulates more than $500 million in industry sales • In 18 Wisconsin counties, agriculture generates more than $32 million in sales, property and income taxes Information about each county’s top commodities, the number of people employed by agriculture-related businesses and the economic impact are available online at go.wisc.edu//i0ja99.

This research was done to help communities and agricultural leaders make informed decisions that leverage Wisconsin’s agricultural strengths. The study was made possible because of strong partnerships with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection; Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation. wfbf.com

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Q&A with WFBF CAO

KIM POKORNY

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Doyle, and I have three children and live northeast of Waupun, in Fond du Lac County. We own a farm next to the Rock River, in the Horicon Marsh zone. A neighbor rents the cropland and our children raise animals for their FFA and 4-H projects.

My husband is a project manager for M.P.B. Builders, Inc., in Ripon. He manages the sales team.

In December, our oldest son, Dylon, will graduate from UW-Green Bay with a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management. After graduation, he will work for Paper Transport, Inc., in De Pere.

Our daughter, Katrina, is a sophomore at Marian University with a double major in business administration and health administration. She plans to work in public health.

Our youngest son, Cameron, is a junior at the Waupun Area Junior/Senior High School. His goal is to be an engineer.

When each of our children were in sixth grade, my husband and I set each child up with a small business. Dylon is a beekeeper. Katrina makes value-added beeswax products out of

the wax and traveled to Haiti to teach her skills. Cameron raises laying hens, broilers and garden produce. He has an agreement with the local food pantry, and most of his produce and products go to the pantry. He also has some regular customers through private sales.

Community service and making our community a better place is a core component of our family and our children’s small businesses.

What is your connection to agriculture?

I have deep agriculture roots being raised on a registered Brown Swiss and crop farm in Monroe. I was your typical farm kid spending time in the barn and the field, and actively involved in 4-H, FFA and showing and judging cattle.

I attended UW-Platteville where I earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural-related areas. I also received an MBA from UW-Oshkosh. I’ve held positions including: UW-Extension dairy and livestock agent in Sheboygan County; local markets specialist with MorganMyers on the Wisconsin Milk Marketing account, now Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin; program manager with Professional Dairy Producers; and executive director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association before taking on my role at WFBF.

What is your favorite food or meal?

Meal: A good deep-dish pizza with a lot of cheese, and a piece of creamy milk (from left): Cameron, Shelby (Dylon's girlfriend), Dylon, Katrina and Doyle in Eagle River. chocolate.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Favorite season or time of the year?

It’s a toss-up between spring and fall. I love the new beginnings that springtime brings us, but I also enjoy the colors of fall and sweatshirt weather.

How would you describe yourself in one word and why?

Driven. Throughout my life, I have been labeled not smart enough, not fast enough, didn’t go to the right college, etc.

That has given me the drive to overcome those labels, it has served me well.

Who inspires you?

My friends – Judy Batker and Kelly Crowdis – are servant leaders and volunteer their time and resources to those in greatest need, through their animals – both in the U.S. and around the world. And do so through education versus handouts. So, people learn how to be independent and more self-sufficient through better care of their animals.

What is the best piece of advice that you have received?

Not to let others define who I am.

Favorite Wisconsin product?

A tall glass of cold milk!

I f you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?

with animal-care education and to provide medical services to animals.

Those experiences have changed my life and when I feel sorry for myself or I’m frustrated with challenges, I think about my days in Haiti and on the Pine Ridge Reservation and I realize how lucky I am to have the ‘first world problems’ I have.

What is your favorite Wisconsin sports team?

The Waupun Warriors. I enjoy supporting and watching our son's cross country and track teams.

What is something that most people don’t know about you?

I was a supreme dairy showman at the Wisconsin State Fair. I also won the State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest and was second place individual and a member of the firstplace team at the National Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Contest. UW-Platteville’s only winning team at the National Intercollegiate Contest.

What Makes Wisconsin Farm Bureau most unique?

Farm Bureau is unlike other organizations because it represents all-sizes of farms, all-types of agriculture commodities, individuals with different goals and ambitions in agriculture, all while remaining true to its commitment of being a grassroots organization.

What is your vision for the future of WFBF?

A good veterinarian friend of mine introduced me to veterinary missionary work a few years ago. Every year I travel with her to Haiti, and the U.S. Pine Ridge Reservation, to help

I’m learning and evaluating the internal and external staff team, systems, programs, relationships, etc. Once I have a good grasp of the dynamics, I will build a plan; however, as with any business or organization, it starts with a great staff team.

Making sure that I’m supporting the team and addressing concerns and challenges is where I need to start. From there, as a team, we will implement the WFBF Board's strategic plan in the best way possible.

We also need to know our members better, making sure our internal systems can assist us in communicating better, providing services and supporting our members is essential.

The Wisconsin missionary team consisted of veterinarians and veterinary students who trained Haitian vet agents on basic animal care.

A farmer waited in line to get his animal vaccinated and dewormed. Every animal walks by a rope, as shown in the picture.

My family. As my children have become older and gone to college, I miss the kitchen full of noise and everyone around the dinner table with the kids joking and teasing each other and talking about their activities.

What motivates you through challenging days?

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NEWS

Finalists Selected for Leopold Conservation Award® F ive finalists have been selected for the 2020 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award®.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the prestigious award recognizes farmers and foresters who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat in their care.

In Wisconsin, the $10,000 award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, American Farmland Trust, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

The finalists are: •M ike Berg of Blanchardville in Lafayette County: Berg’s farm has long featured contour strips and no-till practices.

Recently, he’s planted more than 25,000 trees. Rip-rapping installed along the Pecatonica River has reduced erosion, minimized cropland damage from flooding, and improved fish habitat. Waterways are lined with grass buffer strips of at least 16-feet wide. Berg’s beef cattle are rotationally grazed in a manner than encourages grass growth while retaining soil.

• John and Melissa Eron of Stevens Point in Portage County: The Erons designed ponds to collect runoff from spring rains, and installed woodchip bioreactors to remove nutrients from runoff.

The water and nutrients are later recycled via irrigation on crop fields in the summer.

Such efforts conserve soil and improve the water quality of Mill Creek, a Wisconsin River tributary. Field corners are planted with native wildflowers and grasses to provide habitat for wildlife and pollinators.

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Mike Berg

John and Melissa Eron

Dorothy and John Priske

Charlie Hammer and Nancy Kavanjian

• John and Dorothy Priske of Fall River in Columbia County: The Priskes adopted no-till and rotational grazing practices, and installed grass waterways to improve water infiltration, sequester carbon and build organic matter in their soil. They raised and direct marketed Scottish Highland beef cattle until 2015. Their pastures provided deep-rooted ground cover to reduce soil erosion.

The Priskes lease 165 acres of farmland to Madison College for use as an agricultural education facility.

• Charlie Hammer and Nancy Kavazanjian of Beaver Dam in Dodge County: These early adopters of reduced-tillage farming methods are also leaders in other ecological ways to protect soil and water. Cover crops are incorporated into their corn, soybean and winter wheat crop rotation. Pollinator habitats and prairie strips of native wildflowers and grasses are installed within their crop fields. Duck scrapes and food plots provide wildlife habitat. Solar and wind energy systems reduce their farm’s carbon footprint and electrical bills.

• Brian Maliszewski of Independence in Trempealeau County: Maliszewski grows corn, soybeans, alfalfa and rye on rolling hills of erodible land, where conservation can be a challenge. He experiments with cover crop varieties and no-till planting methods to decrease soil erosion, build organic matter, improve earthworm activity and promote soil health. As president of the Buffalo/Trempealeau Farmer Network, he partners with Pheasants Forever on providing bird habitat by planting cover crops.

The recipient will be revealed

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

later this year. Earlier this year, owners of Wisconsin farmland and forests were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award.

Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.

“In a year where it feels like everything has been flipped on its head, it is comforting to see farmers’ continued commitment to conservation through the good times and the challenging,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Joe Bragger. “Each one of these finalists is extremely deserving to have been nominated for this award and to receive extra recognition for their conservation efforts.”

“Recipients of this award are real-life examples of conservation-minded agriculture,” said Sand County Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin McAleese. “These hard-working families are essential to our environment, food system and rural economy.”

The first Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award was presented to woodland conservationist Gerry Mich of Appleton in 2006. The 2019 recipient was Jeff and Kelley Lake and family

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of Boyceville in Dunn County.

The Leopold Conservation Award in Wisconsin is made possible thanks to the generous contributions from American Farmland Trust, Sand County Foundation, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Compeer Financial, Culver’s, McDonald’s, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, We Brian Maliszewski Energies Foundation, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board, Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association, and Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association.

In his influential 1949 book, "A Sand County Almanac," Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.”

Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 21 states with a variety of conservation, agricultural and forestry organizations. For more information on the award, visit leopoldconservationaward.org.

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COMMITTED TO

CONSERVATION

By Sarah Hetke

“Maybe the way we’ve always done it, isn’t the best way to do it moving forward,” said Pierce County Farm Bureau member Peter Kimball.

P

eter has a clear commitment to conservation and leaving the land better than he found it and he is not afraid to do things differently than they have been done in the past. His farm is home to 120 Jerseys cows, heifers and a small flock of Hampshire sheep. Kimball also grows crops to feed the cattle on 230 acres of land, on which he has recently started to use no-till and cover crops.

“One of the unique things about our dairy farm is that we don’t have a manure pit,” Peter explained. “We recently started composting all our manure and it is a way for us to change the way we fertilize our fields with reduced potential for runoff from rain.”

Peter shared that composted manure can be applied throughout the growing season giving much-needed flexibility to work around rain events in the spring. He also credits composted manure with being easier to transport from farm to field since it is drier and lighter than liquid manure and is incorporated into the soil, which is one way to help protect nearby waterways.

“Water is a topic we are going to continue to hear about within agriculture, but also outside of our industry – this is something that is important across the entire state,” said Peter.

“As farmers, we can’t dig our heels in the ground and refuse to

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try something new. We need to be open-minded and willing to admit that maybe there is a better way to do things without getting defensive.”

Conservation and sustainability are rooted in the desire to leave the land better for the next generation, something that is on Peter’s mind as a new father.

Peter and his wife, Leanne, welcomed a baby boy, Micah, into their family in July.

“I am grateful to have grown up on a farm where my father instilled a passion for caring for the land in me from a young age,” Peter shared. “As Micah grows, I’m excited to watch him learn about the farm and, if he so chooses, take it over one day. Choosing to farm today in a way that will allow future generations to continue farming – that is what sustainability is all about.”

As if being a full-time farmer and new father doesn’t keep Peter busy enough, he also is the newly-elected District 9 Director on the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Board.

“I want to give back to this organization because it has given so much to me throughout my 10 years as a member,” said Peter.

Past WFBF President Jim Holte announced his retirement from the board and concluded his service in December of 2019.

This left the District 9 board seat up for re-election.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

“I bring a unique perspective to our board,” Peter explained.

Peter’s advice to other young farmers is to remember to treat “I’ve been farming for long enough to have real-world your farm as a business first. experience and really understand the implications of certain “If your business is successful, then you can enjoy the farming policy proposals, yet I remember what it is like to be a young, lifestyle,” Peter shared. beginning farmer trying to make a business plan and find In addition to farming experience, Peter also brings years financing among other challenges.” of involvement as a county Farm Bureau leader to the board.

Peter did not grow up on a dairy farm but worked on a nearby He served as Pierce County Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and dairy throughout high school and Agriculturist Committee chair college. After college, he worked “I bring a unique perspective to our board. from 2010 to 2016. Then he in the feed industry and then in as Pierce County Farm I’ve been farming for long enough to have served 2007 he rented a dairy farm where Bureau vice president in 2018 and he milked 40 cows. In 2013, Peter real world experience and really understand was elected president in 2019, purchased the farm where his the implications of certain policy proposals, a position he has stepped down family now lives. since being elected to the yet I remember what it is like to be a young, from “It was a once-in-a-lifetime state board. Peter also is a past beginning farmer trying to make a business Discussion Meet participant, opportunity to purchase this farm,” Peter said. “It is close to my attendee of a YFA Washington, plan and find financing among other parents’ farm where we were and D.C., fly-in advocacy trip and challenges.” still are raising heifers, it was a Volunteers for Agriculture no-brainer to make the purchase.” interview panel participant.

Within two months, Peter went from looking at the property Peter shared that as a board member he is excited and to moving in. Peter credits his local extension office as being a passionate about getting to know more members throughout the stepping-stone to creating the business plan needed for him, as district and amplifying their voices. a first-generation dairy farmer, to enter the business.

Farming is a challenging career, but through faith, personal “Working with my extension agent allowed me to create the connections and a lot of hard work Peter and his wife have plans needed to meet with FSA (Farm Service Agency) and talk built a farm they are proud of. The couple has future goals about a beginning farmer loan to purchase my first cows and get and aspirations for the farm, their conservation efforts started,” Peter explained. “Without the loan, I’m not sure that I and involvement with Farm Bureau. As their family and would have been able to purchase my farm. At the very least, the farm continues to grow, their passion for conservation and payments would have been a lot more difficult to make.” sustainability continue to shine through.

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Leadership

Saturday, Nov. 14

Now Virtual

Training Series Brought to you by the WFBF Promotion and Education Committee

ENGAGING IN LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY AT THE LOCAL LEVEL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Do you have unanswered questions about legislative advocacy and how to be more involved at the local level? Do you want to proactively monitor town and county legislation, but aren’t sure where to begin? Attend Leadership Boot Camp to get answers to common questions about local affairs and learn how you can make an impact on legislative issues.

10:00 a.m. - Training Begins

Members of the WFBF government relations team will lead attendees through a series of discussion topics including how to keep track of what is happening locally and the role of a county local affairs chair. Attendees also will hear from local leadership on how to best make an impact when advocating for agriculture. Lastly, attendees will learn how to think about, and advocate for, state and federal issues on a local level.

12:30 p.m. - Training Continues

Steve Boe presenting on the Local Affairs program.

• What is local affairs?

• What does a county local affairs chair do?

• How do I keep track of what is happening locally?

11:45 a.m. - Break • How can I make an impact locally?

• What can I do locally to advocate for state and federal issues?

2:00 p.m. - Closing Comments

Members on their way to the Capitol to meet with legislators.

REGISTER BY WEDNESDAY, NOV. 11 Registration details are available at wfbf.com/leadership-boot-camp.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

WFBF

ANNUAL MEETING and YFA CONFERENCE WFBF Annual Meeting Goes Virtual “After thoughtful consideration, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Board has made the decision to host the 2020 WFBF Annual Meeting completely virtually. The meeting will now begin on Friday, Dec. 4 and will conclude Saturday, Dec. 5.

This is not a decision that was taken lightly as we know there are many members who look forward to the networking and learning opportunities that happen in-person at the WFBF Annual Meeting each year. We had many conversations with Farm Bureau leaders and consulted with other stakeholders, that ultimately made us realize that this is the best decision for our organization.

Due to the fluid nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to start finalizing plans for our largest event of the year, we quickly realized that the best way to control all the variables is to host a virtual event.

During the coming weeks, WFBF staff will be working diligently to finalize the details of the virtual meeting and we are committed to communicating with our members about the changes and how they can participate. We are excited to embrace technology for this large event that may result in additional participants this year.

Policy development is one of the most important things our organization does each year and this year will be no different. Voting delegates will receive detailed information on how to participate in the policy development process.

WFBF is committed to making this new format a successful experience for all members. We ask our county Farm Bureau members to be flexible, openminded and willing to ask questions along the way.”

- WFBF President Joe Bragger

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

WFBF 101ST ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA FRI

Opening Session Workshops DEC Management Reports YFA Discussion Meet Final 4 Distinguished Service to Farm Bureau and Agriculture Awards

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SAT

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DEC

District Caucus Meetings WFBF/RMIC Business Meeting Resolutions Session

Notice of Annual Meeting of Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cooperative

Notice of Annual Meeting of Rural Mutual Insurance Company

In accordance with the bylaws and pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, the undersigned Secretary hereby gives notice that the Annual Meeting of members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cooperative, will convene on Friday, Dec. 4, 2020, at 3 p.m. The meeting with be conducted virtually through web access permitting each member to participate in accordance with the guidance from the Department of Financial Institutions dated April 3, 2020. Information concerning accessing the meeting will be provided to members in advance of the meeting.

In accordance with the bylaws and pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, the undersigned Secretary hereby gives notice that the Annual Meeting of policy holders of the Rural Mutual Insurance Company will convene on Friday, Dec. 4, 2020, at 2 p.m. The meeting with be conducted virtually through web access permitting each member to participate in accordance with the guidance from the Department of Financial Institutions dated April 3, 2020. Information concerning accessing the meeting will be provided to members in advance of the meeting.

- Kim Pokorny, Secretary

- Kim Pokorny, Secretary

For most up-to-date information regarding the WFBF Annual Meeting, visit wfbf.com/ events/annual-meeting-yfa-conference.

To register and attend this year’s virtual event, all attendees will need a valid email address.

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LEADERSHIP

Participants Selected for 2021 WFBF Leadership Institute F ourteen emerging agricultural leaders have been selected to participate in the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Leadership Institute. This year-long leadership training program’s mission is to develop strong and effective agricultural leaders.

“Today’s farmers and agriculturists must take the lead to be advocates for their farms and agribusinesses,” said WFBF Senior Director of Member Relations Wendy Kannel. “The Institute gives participants the skills and confidence necessary to lead the future of farming and agriculture in their county Farm Bureau, local community and beyond.”

Members of the 2021 WFBF Leadership Institute class are: Paige Blair, Brooklyn; Chad Bruss, Green Lake; Heather Erdman, Augusta; Robert Fox, Kaukauna; Logan Frei, Janesville; Rachel Harmann, Algoma; Michael Luebke, Maribel; Shawn Monien, Beaver Dam; Kat Nissen, Rock Springs; Sam Olson, Chetek; Charisse Orth, Fennimore; Nichole Rabitz, Crivitz; Andrea Rippley, Whitehall; and Tess Zettle, Juda.

The Leadership Institute consists of five, multi-day sessions that provide hands-on learning on agricultural issues, leadership development and speaking skills, interaction with Farm Bureau staff and government leaders at the state and national levels and

networking with other participants. The class capstone event will be a trip, with the WFBF Board of Directors, to Washington, D.C., in March 2022.

Farm Bureau members interested in applying for the 2023 class should contact Wendy Kannel at 608.828.5719 or email wkannel@wfbf.com.

Farm Bureau Launches Think F.A.S.T. for Youth A merican Farm Bureau has launched a new online youth safety course, Think F.A.S.T. (Farm & Ag Safety Training).

The program was developed to help youth ages 14 to 17 think through and learn about avoiding common safety hazards on the farm and ranch.

“Safety on the farm and ranch is vital,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Young people are the future of agriculture and we’re pleased to provide them with tools to help them become grounded in skills that will serve them well throughout their careers.”

The program and related materials focus on general safety, leadership and critical thinking skills applied to technical and agriculture-specific contexts. The training is available at no cost to anyone interested in learning about farm safety (Farm Bureau membership is not required for access).

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The program includes 10 modules that each take 10 minutes to complete and follow-up competency quizzes. A curriculum guide for classroom and workshop settings is available for download at fb.org/programs/safety-health/thinkfast.

The program also includes online self-paced and in-person direct instruction options for a variety of skills.

Program modules include: • Attention and Distractions with ATVs and UTVs • Spatial Awareness with Livestock • Looking at Situations from Multiple Points of View with Tractors and Machinery • Task Breakdown and Job Safety with Personal Protective Equipment • Matching Tasks and Skills with Electrical • Decision Making for How to Complete a Task with Manual Labor • Situational Management with Bins, Silos and Pits • Empowerment and Permission to Say No with Chemicals and Pesticides • Tough Conversations with Slips, Trips and Falls • Impact of Injuries with Shop Safety WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Shining the Spotlight on the Collegiate Farm Bureau

WFBF has established collegiate Farm Bureau chapters at UW-Madison, UW-Platteville and UW-River Falls.

Each chapter is a student-run organization with an elected officer team and a faculty advisor. Chapter officers plan a yearly program of work which typically includes Farm Bureau events and activities at the county, state and national levels; social activities; service projects; and regular meetings to conduct the business of the chapter. Meet this year’s collegiate Farm Bureau presidents.

UW-River Falls

Name: Claire Olson Hometown: Sturgeon Bay Year in School: senior Major/Minor: agricultural studies major, dairy science minor Why are you a collegiate Farm Bureau member? I am a collegiate Farm Bureau member to advocate for agriculture and to expand my network within the agriculture community. I also see it as a stepping-stone for me, as I would like to continue to be a Farm Bureau member in my home county after graduation. This year, I am looking forward to connecting with new members as well as having a productive year despite all the changes that come with it!

UW-Platteville

Name: Kristen Felton Hometown: Wisconsin Dells Year in School: junior Major/Minor: dairy science major; agribusiness/crop and soil science minors Why are you a collegiate Farm Bureau member?

Collegiate Farm Bureau allows me to be a part of the community in Platteville. I would like to be involved in my county Farm Bureau once I am done with college and this helps me to stay involved in the agriculture community while in school. This year, I am looking forward to new leadership opportunities as well as meeting new individuals in both the chapter here at Platteville and other collegiate chapters. This will be a challenging year but I am excited to see what we will be able to provide to our members despite COVID-19.

UW-Madison

Name: Taylor Gracyalny Hometown: Pulaski Year in School: senior Major/Minor: dairy science and life sciences communication with an agricultural business management certificate Why are you a collegiate Farm Bureau member? I love sharing the story of agriculture and being an agricultural advocate. Being a collegiate Farm Bureau member has allowed me to promote agriculture within the UW-Madison campus and Madison campus and community through Ag in the Classroom, Ag Day on Campus and Harvest Handouts, to name a few. This year, I am looking forward to connecting with and sharing a passion for agriculture with fellow members. I hope to grow involvement and get members excited about everything collegiate Farm Bureau offers.

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LEADERSHIP

WFBF Announces Excellence in Ag Finalists F

Excellence in Ag award applicants are agriculturists who our individuals have been selected as Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Excellence in Ag finalists and will compete in have not derived a majority of their income from a farm (that November for the top honor. they own) for the past three years. Examples of occupations of past finalists include agricultural education instructor, The Excellence in Ag award recognizes members of Farm fertilizer salesperson, veterinarian, farm employee, journalist Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Program who excel in their leadership abilities and involvement in agriculture, and marketer.

Each finalist must make a presentation and answer questions Farm Bureau and other civic and service organizations. for a panel of judges. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s “We have four outstanding agricultural advocates in this contest will be held virtually. The state winner will compete year’s state competition,” said WFBF President Joe Bragger. at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2021 Annual “This contest highlights these individuals and how they have Convention. positively impacted Wisconsin agriculture and Farm Bureau and inspire others to do the same.”

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation co-sponsors this The four finalists are: contest with GROWMARK, Inc., and Rural Mutual Insurance • Stephanie Abts of Manitowoc County. Stephanie is a dairy Company. Farm Bureau’s YFA program is open to members nutritionist at Rio Creek Feed Mill, Inc. Stephanie and her between the ages of 18 and 35. Information and applications for husband own and operate Abts Champion Dairy, where all YFA contests can be downloaded from wfbf.com. they milk 130 Holstein cows.

Last year’s Excellence in Ag award recipient was Ben Huber • Natasha Paris of Green Lake County. Natasha is the from Green County. agriculture teacher and FFA advisor in Ripon. She and her husband also own Stephanie Abts ParKelm Farm, a direct-marketing pastured meats operation in Green Lake.

• Julie Wadzinski of Barron County.

Julie is a farm operations instructor at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College. She has participated in the Discussion Meet, Kellie Zahn been a delegate for Barron County, served as the District 9 YFA Representative Natasha Paris and the WFBF YFA Committee Chair.

Julie Wadzinski • Kellie Zahn of Shawano County.

Kellie is an agriculture agent at the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. She is a board member for the Shawano County Farm Bureau and a graduate of the WFBF Leadership Institute.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

e c n e r e f n o C A F Y l a u t r i V 0 2 20 ! d n e t t a d l u o W hy you sh KEITH AND KELLY OUDENHOVEN "We all know the YFA Conference isn't going to be what we have experienced in the past, but tune in to see all the fun things we have planned for you. There will be opportunities to win cash prizes, Farm Bureau swag, learn more about the diverse agriculture community and so much more!"

BEN AND HAILY SAND "Attending the virtual conference will be a great way to stay connected with fellow YFA members. We know it won’t be the same and may even be a little weird to some, but give it a try.

Why not be a trailblazer? With new experiences can come great memories, which can influence our future (YFA events) for years to come."

“A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” - O.W. Holmes

ROSLI BRAGGER "The virtual YFA Conference will offer you an opportunity to be engaged and involved in great discussion while remaining safe at home. We want our YFA members to stay safe but remain connected within Farm Bureau."

SALLY TURPIN "The YFA Committee is working hard to put together a great virtual YFA Conference and you will want to tune in to cheer on our Excellence in Ag and Discussion Meet finalists."

BRAD AND KRISTINE BOON "We are committed to providing the same quality content you are expecting. The virtual conference format will allow members to connect with fellow agriculture enthusiasts and hear from industry leaders excited to share their experiences."

ANDREW DALSANTO "We all know that things are a bit different this year but we can still expect our YFA Conference to be engaging, educational and entertaining! Be sure to tune in during the conference for trivia games, workshops and opportunities to learn more about YFA. See ya there!"

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Reap the benefits

of your Farm Bureau membership 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 ($300 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 off the purchase or lease of an eligible new Ford vehicle and $750 bonus cash off the purchase or lease of an eligible new Lincoln vehicle. 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

Farm Bureau Member Saves with Caterpillar® Benefit U sing Farm Bureau’s member benefit to save on the purchase of a Caterpillar skid steer, Shawano County Farm Bureau vice president and member Bob Krause purchased a Caterpillar skid steer from Fabick Cat Sales in Green Bay and saved $1,000.

Bob, his wife Doreen, and their son, own a 400-acre cash grain farm in Shawano County near Krakow.

The family uses the skid steer primarily for snow plowing, bringing in hay bales from the fields and picking rocks with a stone bucket.

Bob said that he has worked with Fabick for other equipment in the past but when he went in to see what skid steers were available, the Fabick ag specialist salesperson, Eric Driessen, asked if he was a Farm Bureau member.

“When I said that I was a member, Eric called the Farm Bureau office for my member number and then printed the member benefit certificate,” said Bob. “He cut me a good deal on a new machine.”

Driessen added that the Caterpillar partnership with Farm Bureau is great for everyone involved.

“The partnership is great for the customer and beneficial for Fabick and Farm Bureau,” said Driessen. “The Farm Bureau member benefit is the first thing I mention when I start working with potential customers.

Knowing there is potential for saving money when it comes to a major purchase, it propels the conversation in a positive direction.”

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members can save up to $5,000 on the purchase or lease of eligible Cat wheel loaders, small and medium dozers, backhoe loaders, compact track loaders, multi-

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terrain loaders, skid steer loaders, telehandlers or mini hydraulic excavators and excavators.

Members also receive an additional $250 credit on work tool attachments purchased with new Cat machines.

These discounts can be combined with any current retail discount, promotion, rebates or offers available through Caterpillar or its dealers, with the exception of the Cat NCBA membership incentive.

You must present the certificate at the time of purchase or lease quote to receive the discount.

One certificate is required per machine. Eligible Farm Bureau members may obtain an unlimited number of certificates, but certificates do expire.

Bob has served on the Shawano County Farm Bureau board of directors since 2008 and serves as the vice president. He also serves as chair of the legislative and local affairs committee and is a member of the donations committee.

For several years, Bob also was the chair of the Shawano County Farm Bureau’s brunch on the farm committee and organized Shawano County’s premier dairy promotion event each June. Each year, the Shawano County Brunch on the Farm showcases a different farm and informs 2,500 to 4,500 visitors about life on a farm and agriculture.

For more information about Farm Bureau member benefits, please visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits. wfbf.com

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ggie nswers

We asked WFBF Board Directors: 2020 has brought many challenges. During this year of complexity, what is something you’ve learned?

Darby Sampson

Robert Nigh

Kelly Oudenhoven

Arch Morton, Jr.

Dave Daniels

As a group, people in agriculture have always been great at adapting to what is going on around them. I’ve learned there hasn't been a time when that is more necessary than now. I couldn't be more proud of how resilient and flexible our Farm Bureau members and staff have been to carry on the work of this great organization!

As a farmer, I never thought I would miss human interaction as much as I have. I may have gone weeks before without going to town, but during the shutdown, I could not go and I was craving interactions with others.

I also found out that I was a little better with technology than I thought I was.

The one thing that I can say from the year 2020, I have learned to rely on my faith. No matter how much planning, goal setting and organizing we do in our life whether it be on the farm or in our personal life, God and Mother Nature really are the ones in control. But it is up to us to keep our faith strong in the hard times that brings us to the good times.

I've learned how to participate in video conferences. I'm very happy with how well our WFBF staff and counties have adapted and adjusted to the challenges.

Party lines (old telephone talk) used to be the way to communicate with neighbors and friends.

During COVID-19, we're using video platforms to communicate with family and friends, even those who live just a mile down the road. It allows us to stay connected and maintain cohesiveness.

Promotion and Education

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District 3 Director

YFA

District 2 Director

District 1 Director

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

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OPINION

Marriage and Elections

A Message from WFBF President Joe Bragger

R

ecently, I had the great joy of coming upon a group of wonderful ladies at my house that had gotten together to host a wedding shower for a niece of mine. They had answered a set of questions and were offering advice to the bride-to-be. Nearly all the ladies agreed that for a happy marriage the bride should never go to bed angry.

When I was posed with what makes a happy marriage, I offered up a different thought, never go to bed angry is an unattainable ideal that will only lead to disappointment. I believe that a good debate, even a fight is OK. It is when you no longer care to get angry and stop being engaged that the cracks start to show. A fight in a marriage as long as it is respectful and out of love means that each partner is committed to the betterment of the other.

What does this have to do with politics and elections?

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As we are clearly seeing there is a lot of negative discourse across the country.

There is a lot of angst among many as the November elections approach.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Board of Directors has not endorsed a presidential candidate, yet I get emails asking why WFBF members have been hosting and attending Trump campaign events. The reason is quite simple – it is because the campaign reached out and asked for our participation. Farm Bureau is a bipartisan organization and we would make the same effort to assist the Biden campaign or any other elected official that reaches out.

I want to highlight that these farm visits and events are valuable because campaign officials are asking us to engage in conversations about how farmers and the agriculture industry are being impacted by various factors and what future needs are to address today’s challenges. This goes to show the value the administration places on farmers, rural residents and Farm Bureau members.

Additionally, I was brought to tears as I proudly listened to WFBF member Cris Peterson, a dairy farmer, speak at the virtual Republican National Convention.

She had an opportunity to reach beyond the traditional agriculture audience to speak directly to elected officials and others who have probably never stepped foot on a farm. She talked with great pride about dairy farming, her family and their heritage. Farmers' voices need to be heard at all levels and this was an important platform.

At the time of publication, I am not

aware of the Biden campaign reaching out to WFBF to request a farm tour or farmer representatives at an event. We would welcome the opportunity to have the same meaningful dialog and we would be proud of it.

Let’s be honest, at this point you may very well be feeling frustrated as we discuss politics. I have tried to walk a fine line of staying bipartisan yet being open and honest about the experiences WFBF members are having. The same can be said within marriage. I can’t say that my wonderful wife Noel and I don’t disagree sometimes and she isn’t always impressed by the thoughts I share.

I can’t say that as Farm Bureau members we never disagree during policy debates, and I certainly can’t say that I’ve never gone to bed angry because of that. What I can promise you is that just like in a marriage, we may disagree on political candidates or organizational policy but we all have a common goal of standing up for farmers and doing what is best for agriculture.

Regardless of your political views, please get out and vote on Nov. 3. This is a right that many have fought for and we must not take this opportunity for granted.

Forward together.

Bragger was elected president of Wisconsin Farm Bureau in 2019. Bragger is a dairy and poultry farmer from Independence.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Second Batch of Coronavirus Assistance Will Help Farmers A Message from AFBF President Zippy Duvall

P

resident Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue announced a second round of direct aid to farmers and ranchers through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Up to $14 billion will be used to help farmers who continue to suffer from depressed markets due to the pandemic. Farm Bureau greatly appreciates this lifeline to help more farmers and ranchers stay afloat and survive the economic impacts of COVID-19.

The first round of CFAP aid to farmers and ranchers covered sales, or losses, through April 15. Of course, we know that COVID-19 didn’t disappear on that date. In fact, case numbers and economic impacts worsened over the summer in some areas that were not as hard hit in the earlier days of the pandemic. That rolling wave has lengthened the economic toll, and many farmers are just now getting a handle on how their operations have been affected.

Then there’s the matter of CFAP aiding farmers who never participated in farm programs before—farmers who may not have realized that aid was available.

The situation was further complicated as commodities were added to the CFAP program over time. Farmers who saw that their commodities weren’t covered in the initial package might not have realized it changed and they should apply.

One of the first impacts of the

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pandemic was concern about food supplies. While the temporarily empty shelves were more a result of changes in consumers’ buying habits and processing bottlenecks, we all know that keeping farmers and ranchers in production is a key to ensuring we all have access to the foods we need. The term “safety net” is often used in the context of farm programs, but I believe CFAP is as much a safety net for consumers and American food security as it is for agricultural producers.

Finally, the coronavirus pandemic hit at a time when farmers and ranchers were continuing to struggle with low prices due to reduced exports. You know, after several years of low prices, back-toback weather disasters, trade disruptions and, now, a global pandemic, I’m sure many farmers and ranchers are starting to feel a little like Job, whose faith was tested. But just as Job never lost his faith in God, farmers and ranchers will not lose their devotion to farming and feeding our nation. And thanks to the assistance provided to help them survive the economic impacts of the pandemic, more farmers and ranchers will survive to see our markets not only restored, but increased.

Another phrase we often use in agriculture is that farmers would rather get their income from the market than the government. That remains true.

We’re all looking forward to the time when markets recover, trade returns to its pre-trade war levels, and commodity prices increase. We also pray for an end to this pandemic and its devastating impact on many people’s lives and livelihoods.

Like Job, farmers and ranchers have been both blessed and tested. But we know the future of agriculture is bright.

We’ll be here, #StillFarming, and continuing to feed, fuel and clothe the world.

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

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OPINION

Share This, Not That

A Message from WFBF's Sarah Hetke

“Y

ou can’t believe everything you read on social media.”

How many times have you found yourself saying that to others, or maybe yourself ?

Social media has become one of the largest news sources for Americans. A 2016 Pew Research Center study found that 62 percent of adults in the U.S. rely on social media to get the news. This same study found that between 2013 and 2016, there was nearly a 20 percent increase in the percentage of Facebook users who get news from the platform.

Social media platforms have become ingrained in our culture and daily lives. They serve as a way for us to stay connected, especially during quarantine, and to share stories about our farms and families. For many, social media has become a platform for social change and advocacy. This can be positive because

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a farmer can connect with an urban consumer who would otherwise not have an opportunity to learn about how food is grown and raised. This also can be challenging because we have the freedom and flexibility to post anything without fact-checking or being held accountable for our statements.

Have you ever seen a Facebook post that upset you because it was inaccurate, misleading or downright fake news? I know I have, and you probably have too.

So how can we spot these kinds of news stories?

1. Check the source and the date.

Many news stations have social media accounts, so you have probably seen friends sharing stories from your local news station, Washington Post, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Wall Street Journal, etc. However, there are some accounts that aren’t connected to reliable news sources. If you don’t recognize the source, it is worth a Google search to learn more about its reliability.

Additionally, it is important to look at the article date. This is especially important with things like COVID-19 that are rapidly changing as facts become outdated almost as soon as they are shared.

2. Is there bias? The goal of a news story is to present both sides of an issue.

This is a fair and balanced article that allows readers to form their own thoughts based on the facts and personal stories shared by the reporter. You do need to be aware though that some outlets have moved more toward sharing one-sided stories that only touch on the other side

or may not include it at all. There are plenty of news outlets that present a balanced point of view on controversial topics – these are the kinds of stories you want to read and share.

3. Verify the details. Check other news sources to see what they are reporting.

If others aren’t reporting on the topic or are reporting information in an entirely different manner, there’s a good chance you’re not getting accurate information.

4. Read the article. Headlines can be extremely misleading to get more clicks. It is essential to read an article in its entirety before sharing it. There have been several occasions where I was about three-quarters of the way through a great article. Then, snuck in, somewhere in the last few paragraphs was inaccurate or misleading information that I didn’t agree with and wouldn’t share on my social media platforms.

We must keep our eyes open for inaccurate, misleading or flat out fake news as we find ourselves in a very confusing time. Information about COVID-19 seems to change hourly, we are nearing a presidential election and consumers are becoming further removed from the farm. This creates the perfect storm for opinions to be reported as facts and emotions to take control of our thoughts. As you spot accurate and informative articles, be sure to share them on social media and with friends and family. The higher engagement helps positive stories take center stage.

Hetke is WFBF's Director of Communications.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Harvest Starts, Markets React

A Guest Column by AgriVisor's Karl Setzer

N

ow that it’s harvest time in the United States, we will see some changes in the commodity market.

For one, we will start to see more interest on basis values. Historically, buyers back off their basis values once harvest starts and new crop bushels become available. During recent weeks, basis values have become mixed though, with firmer bids in the eastern Corn Belt than the west. Crops are not as favorable in the eastern Corn Belt and producers are not forward contracting as many bushels as in the west. We also have seen elevated country movement up to this point in the west, further stressing basis values.

Not only does this year’s crop appear to be slightly lower than average in the eastern Corn Belt, but this makes the second year of poor crops for some producers. This means that storage facilities are mostly cleaned out and the producer has no need to move commodities during the harvest season.

This can end up being a benefit for everyone, because not only does it allow a farmer to take advantage of future market activity, but it limits congestion at delivery terminals. This could easily shorten any basis weakness that may take place.

Recently, we have seen a shift in buyer

OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

attitude that is supporting basis values.

Buyers in today’s market are more willing to buy larger volumes of fall delivered bushels as they tend to be the most affordable of the marketing year. This also is when farmers are more willing to market inventory, especially if yields are higher. As a result, many buyers are not as willing to back off basis values when new crop inventory becomes available.

The weaker futures we are seeing this year compared with those in recent history also are limiting basis softening at this time.

One difference in basis this year versus previous years is the amount of government support payments that have been received. Many farmers are using this money for cash-flow and will on the next round of payments as well. This is keeping sales at a lower volume and will probably cause buyers to pay an incentive to get movement to take place.

Even though it is harvest time, it does not mean weather is no longer an issue. For one, trade will closely monitor forecasts to see if any delays may happen. Trade also will start to monitor long-range weather outlooks for an indication of how much fall tillage will be accomplished. Historically, the more fieldwork that can be completed in the fall, the higher the corn acreage is the

next year. This is because farmers have more time to apply fall nitrogen for the next year’s crop.

We also will start to see more interest in South American weather during the next few weeks. That is because farmers in those countries have started their planting season, with most interest on Brazil. Officials believe Brazil will expand plantings of corn and soybeans, but that will depend heavily on planting conditions.

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

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OPINION

Positivity During the Pandemic

A Guest Column by AFBF's GO Team Member Matt Niswander

I

’ve been in the medical field for 15 years, and in my medical training, I was taught that you should sing happy birthday twice while washing your hands to get off all the germs – high-level stuff that I learned at a very prestigious school. Well, now that we can’t get together for birthday parties then I suppose your next best choice is “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, because some days it feels like we are just trying to keep going. Even here in rural America, COVID-19 has exposed the weaknesses in our homes, our communities and our country.

In the past, I might have taken care of one or two people a day for mental health issues, but now there are days that 90 percent of my patients want to discuss anxiety associated with the pandemic.

A disease we can’t see and can’t seem to get a grasp on all across the globe seemingly hides around every corner, affecting everything from meat and toilet paper supply to our jobs and schools. I see friends, family members and strong community leaders come in for mental strain and stress caused by being laid off work or from the fear of dying from a disease with no cure and no widely accepted treatment. The truth is, if we

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all sit and think about our lives and our futures in the current societal climate, it is easy to see how any of us could succumb to anxiety, worry and depression.

We are tough in farm country.

Sometimes we think we are too strong to be seen as weak, and that we have weathered many storms before and come out “just fine” on the other side. The truth is that none of us are perfect and we all need help, and this fear we are all experiencing is becoming a catalyst for change. It is breaking down barriers and creating conversations with my patients, who have been able to discuss long-standing depression, marital issues, abusive relationships and deep-seated anger and regret, because COVID-19 has created a space for honest vulnerability where growth is happening as we all try to figure life out. I’m learning and I’m leaning on my family, my colleagues and my community so that we not only get through this together, but so that I can relearn what it means to trust in someone and have someone trust in me regardless of the labels society says we should follow.

This virus has made us quarantine physically in our homes, but in rural America, we have a long history of quarantining our emotions and compartmentalizing our fears because we are afraid people might see the real us. In fact, if I could get all my patients and friends to be as real and raw with each other as they are with me, people would see a reflection of themselves with the fear, anxiety, joy, love, compassion, grace and mercy included in that image.

We need each other in every single community across this great nation, urban and rural.

I have seen a thousand different responses to this virus in my medical practice. From people refusing to acknowledge that COVID-19 is even real with all the conspiracy theories included, to others that have completely isolated themselves. To be honest though, the

overwhelming, most common response I see and hear from my patients has been of caring and compassion toward others and being sensitive to what we say or do and how it may affect others. Ultimately, our time here on earth is about choices. I have seen altruism become the theme in my patients and my community, even if they don’t see it in themselves.

COVID-19 has scribbled its name on the pages of history, hopefully soon to be just a speed bump and an agent for positive change in the future. Something I have known for a long time, which has been reinforced daily during the pandemic, is that we need each other. I have seen people risk their own health to deliver food to children when school was canceled, making hunger a real risk for many families. And I have seen people adapt and persevere over these new obstacles despite their anxiety and fear with help from a kind word and maybe even becoming new friends with an old neighbor during their quarantine.

News reports often show us a world in which fear appears to be the emotion of the majority and we are divided by the many labels we consciously or subconsciously accept, but in rural America I have seen the opposite. I have seen communities that choose to be present and helpful regardless of labels or media narratives. So whether you choose to quarantine or not, I hope you choose the good things in life. In order for us to change the course of history, we must choose reason and communication over confusion, grace and mercy over condemnation and love over fear.

Niswander, a Farm Bureau member in Tennessee and member of AFBF’s Grassroots Outreach (GO) Team, is a first-generation cattleman and owner of Niswander Farms. He is also a family nurse practitioner and owns Niswander Family Medicine. He and his wife Colbie have three sons.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Up the Creek A column by Ken M. Blomberg

“Gotta eat, or you’re gonna die!”

T

hat is exactly what the old man wielding a full shopping cart and a large smile exclaimed as we came faceto-face at the local grocery store.

When you are on top of nature’s food chain, you hold the cards. Humans have the ability to pick and choose what they eat and from the beginning of time, that included meat, vegetables and fruit. Every time we eat, something has to die. Even true vegetarians are ultimately responsible for the death of thousands of insects – both crawling and flying – as well as small mammals and nesting birds, which die each time heavy farm equipment plows, plants and harvests. That is the price we pay to produce the food we eat – the price we pay to survive. “Gotta eat, or you’re gonna die!”

Humans raise livestock and grow crops to fill a craving for fast food, slow food and everything in-between. Some folks are attached by umbilical cords to grocery stores and restaurants. Others hunt, fish and gather to contribute to the dinner table. Our family does both. A good portion of what our boys were weaned on was venison, game birds and fish. Now, that they are on their own, their personal refrigerators and freezers are full of fish and wild game.

Personally, I love to eat – and about OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

every four to five hours, my furnace cries out to be fed.

When you are on the peak of nature’s food chain, you control your own dietary destiny. Only once did the role of sitting on top slip into neutral for me, as I gazed into the eyes of a mother black bear, while she and her cubs came out of winter’s hibernation. Luckily, her winter slumber still controlled her mobility and I walked away in one piece with a couple of pictures and a head full of memories.

Our need to eat pales in comparison to the drive wildlife has to feed. Our freeloading songbirds visit the feeders non-stop. Deer emerge from the woods several times a day – while chewing their cud – to graze for hours in our soybean food plot. Waterfowl on the neighbor’s backwater slough seem to dabble and consume aquatic vegetation and acorns from dawn to dusk. The only creatures that appear to pause between bites are the fourlegged and winged predators – on a constant prowl for their next meal.

Creatures of the wild survive from day to day, hour by hour and minute by minute following three simple rules – sleep, eat and procreate. In addition, they are constantly on the alert for danger and continually eyeing their human neighbors. Have you ever pondered on the multitude of perils wildlife face? Life expectancy for wild animals is short and making it through a typical day can be difficult.

Like young rabbits, potential victims of an owl’s wrath while dancing on the lawn in the moonlight. Or, neighbor Larry’s sandhill cranes, who together, stand lonely in the mowed hayfield, chickless after two disastrous summers.

At least three, maybe four young chicks were lost to predators during the course of two breeding seasons.

Ground nesting birds of all stripes, like ruffed grouse, woodcock, killdeer and mallards face immense challenges surviving nesting and brooding seasons.

Last summer, I noticed a shortage of turkey broods near our place. Hungry predators take out nests and young of the year – and once again, a family of fishers and several packs of coyotes have been active in the neighborhood. Last spring, I spotted a large fisher with a turkey egg in his mouth running along the edge of a cornfield. He stopped long enough to show off his prize and then hightailed it to the den to feed its young. On the whole, there still is a large population of turkeys. Just imagine, without the presence of predators, we would be up to our eyeballs in toms and hens.

Such is the balance of nature and as the saying goes, “Gotta eat, or you’re gonna die!”

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. wfbf.com

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#

1SELLING SUB-COMPACT TRACTOR

FOR OVER 10 YEARS

*

BX1880

You own the land. Make it yours.

Find your local Wisconsin Kubota dealer at

GoKubota.com *Based on EDA tractor sales data of under 20 horsepower models from 2009 to 2019.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau October is Pork Month

This information provided by

Alice in Dairyland Pork Recipes Video Series: Julia Nunes is serving as the 73rd Alice in Dairyland. As Wisconsin's agriculture ambassador, her goal is to educate audiences across Wisconsin about the $104.8 billion economic impact and importance of our state's diverse agriculture industry in our daily lives. This fall she is highlighting Wisconsin pork. Check out five recipes using pork at aliceindairyland.com/single-post/2020/09/15/ Pork-Recipes-to-Fuel-Your-Fall.

Resources for more recipes and tips on cooking pork: Real Pork Campaign: pork.org/real-pork Pork cooking tips: pork.org/cooking Recipes: yummly.com/page/pork

Sweet Southern Slow-Cooker Ham Ingredients

• 1 bone-in ham, fully cooked (about 51/2 pounds) • 1 c. apple cider • 1/2 c. dark brown sugar

• 1/3 c. bourbon (Kentucky) • 1/4 c. honey • 1/4 c. Dijon mustard • 4 sprigs fresh thyme

Directions

1. Place ham in a large slow cooker.

Whisk the cider with the brown sugar, bourbon, honey and mustard. Slowly pour over the ham. Scatter the thyme sprigs into the slow cooker.

2. Cook, on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours, or until very tender. Remove ham to

rest on a cutting board. Pass the remaining cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a saucepan.

Simmer for 10 minutes or until slightly reduced. Cut the ham into chunks or slices. Brush the cut pieces with the cooking liquid before arranging on a platter.

Serve warm or room temperature.

Pulled Pork Soft Tacos Ingredients

• 11/4 lbs. pulled pork, cooked • 12 corn tortillas (5- or 6-inch,)

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place two tortillas in the skillet and cook until warm and softened, about 30 seconds per side. Fill the tortillas with about 11/2 oz. of pork, 1/4 c. of lettuce and 4 tsp. of salsa.

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• 3 c. lettuce, shredded • 1 c. salsa 2. R epeat with the remaining tortillas and serve. * If you prefer to heat all of the tortillas at once, microwave them on high until warm and softened, 1 to 2 minutes.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

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Jenn Bjornstad-Helgerson, Cashton PHOTO BY HIGH ENERGY PHOTOGRAPHY

Nathan & Jessica Twardokus, Mayville

Debbie Ossmann, De Pere

Eli Strebig, Medford

Raven DeLange, Elkhorn

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

County Kernels Price and Lincoln - Cheese Lovers Celebration

Dane County - SILO Screening

In August, Lincoln and Price County Farm Bureau Dairy Promotion Committees celebrated all things cheese. Brigadoon Winery supplied wine and the committees brought the cheese.

There was no fee for cheese sampling. There also was live music.

On Oct. 4, the Dane County Farm Bureau Safety Committee hosted a free virtual screening of the independent film, SILO, and received 110 views. SILO is the first ever feature film about a grain bin entrapment, a possible tragedy faced in agriculture every day. A live Q&A session followed the film that about 30 people participated in.

Manitowoc County - Grilled Cheese Kits

Barron County - Drawing Contest

Elliot Meyer, daughter of Barron County Farm Bureau members Damon and Arlaina Meyer, won the National Ag Day drawing contest. For winning, she received a bag of goodies supporting Wisconsin’s agriculture community. For more information on agriculture activities that you can do with your children, please visit the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom website at wisagclassroom.org or visit the Ag in the Classroom Program Facebook page.

In May, Manitowoc County Farm Bureau donated $100 to the Kiel FFA Alumni and supporters to assemble Grilled Cheese Kits to serve 65 families. The following items were in the bags: a loaf of bread from Roeck's Bakery; a pound each of cheese whips and string cheese from Henning's Wisconsin Cheese; a pound of butter from Pine River Dairy; a pound of sliced cheese from Sargento; a gallon of milk from Kwik Trip; and promotional items donated by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

Shawano County - Community Support Shawano County Farm Bureau supported several local groups in need while promoting healthy products from farmers. They have donated more than $2,000 in support to local organizations. Bonduel FFA sells 'Support Dairy' yard signs and uses the money to buy dairy products for the Cecil food pantry. Shawano County Farm Bureau donated $250 towards the purchase of the signs. The Tilleda/Bowler area food pantry serves 15-20 families twice a month. Shawano County Farm Bureau bought 20 gallons of milk and 20 packages of cheese for each delivery day in May and June. The Boys and Girls Club of Shawano received $330 for the purchase of yogurt, cottage cheese and string cheese for 55 families. The Menominee Early Childhood Services received $1,000 for purchasing 2% or whole milk for kids. The donation will provide milk to about 80 families. Shawano County Farm Bureau donated $250 towards the Tiger’s Den Daycare in Tigerton to purchase milk.

OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

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O

n Sept. 15, the 23rd Annual Wisconsin Ag Open was held at The Oaks in Cottage Grove. There were 74 golfers who participated in this year’s event. Due to COVID-19, Dane County restrictions created some challenges for the organizers and golfers. Thanks to event volunteers, golf course staff and attendees, the day was a fun and safe event. Event contests included a putting contest, Par 3, 50-50 raffle, mulligan sale and basket raffles. The winning team members were Brad DeBels, Doug Soldat, Paul Koch and Kurt Hockemeyer.

Whether you attended or supported the event financially, your contributions were greatly appreciated.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Last Chance: Centennial Campaign Concludes

D

ÂŽ

au re

Wi s

uring the past two years, Wisconsin Farm Bureau has been celebrating its l Cen a i 100th anniversary. n ten As we wrap up the celebration, we also will be culminating the Centennial Campaign.

Contributors to this campaign help preserve Wisconsin’s farming heritage by supporting the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. Programs supported by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation include the WFBF Leadership Institute, Young Farmer and Agriculturist, Promotion and The WFBF Leadership Institute is one of the programs funded by the Wisconsin Education and Ag in the Classroom.

Farm Bureau Foundation.

WFBF is fortunate to have the support of Rural Mutual Insurance Company and their match of donations ($50-$10,000) up to $100,000 for the Centennial Campaign. As a 501(c)3, donations are tax-deductible and 100 percent of funds received support agricultural education and leadership programs.

Donations received between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31 will be recognized by the following gift and will be listed in Rural Route as a contributor. a. $50 - $199 donations - Centennial pin b. $200 - $499 donations - Centennial pin and commemorative coin c. $500+ donations - Centennial pin, commemorative coin and sign n Farm B nsi u co

To donate, visit wfbf.com/centennial/centennial-fundraising. Checks can be mailed to WFB Foundation, PO Box 5550, Madison, WI 53705. To learn more about the WFB Foundation, visit wfbf.com/foundation.

Double your impact with Rural Mutual's Contribution Match.

Centennial Donations July 21 - Sept. 28, 2020 $50-$199 DONATION

Wes Raddatz in memory of Chloe Eckelberg Dave and Kim Daniels in memory of Bob Bartholomew Randy Paulson

$500+ DONATION

Dave and Kim Daniels Bill and Mary Bruins Joe and Rosie Lisowe Pearl Goetsch Waukesha County Farm Bureau in memory of Bob Bartholomew

OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

wfbf.com

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Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION®’S

Statement of Ownership

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Program Announces Book of the Year and Essay Contest Topic W

isconsin Ag in the Classroom is kicking off the 2020-2021 school year by announcing the Book of the Year, “Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car” written by Peggy Thomas.

Each year, the Ag in the Classroom program holds an essay contest in conjunction with the Book of the Year for fourth- and fifth-grade students throughout the state. This year’s essay contest topic is, ‘How have Wisconsin soybean farmers fueled Wisconsin’s economy?’

Thomas’ book also is the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture’s Book of the Year and has an educator’s guide developed for it. Accompanying lessons aligned to educational standards and Wisconsin educational resources are available online for teachers, students and volunteers to use in promoting and preparing essays.

This topic will enable teachers and students to use the Soybean Science Kits to learn about how soybeans grow and connect to science.

“There is so much behind the Henry Ford story and his connection to agriculture,” said Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Darlene Arneson. “The book looks at how Henry Ford grew up on a farm and searched for ways to use soybeans in the car plant, in his diet and in other ways. The essay contest focuses on how soybeans continue to be used and how they impact Wisconsin’s economy.”

Essay submissions must be 100- to 300-words in length and will be judged on content, grammar, spelling and neatness. The essay contest rules, lesson plans and sample classroom activities are located at wisagclassroom.org/eventsactivities/essay-contest. Essays are due April 1, 2021.

The contest is sponsored by Wisconsin Soybean Association, We Energies, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

Five Wisconsin Recipients Chosen For White-Reinhardt Resource Grant T

he American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture announced the first round of WhiteReinhardt Resource Grant winners. Five winners were from Wisconsin. Thanks to a generous donation from the CSL Foundation, set up in memory of the AFBFA’s late executive director Christy Lilja, they were able to fund 70 grants, 20 more than expected.

The purpose of the grants is to provide funds to educators to enable them to purchase accurate agricultural literacy materials from the AFBFA store for use in their classrooms. By providing this grant, AFBFA hopes to help students gain access to more accurate information about agriculture. Seventy educators from across the country received $100 credits to the AFBFA Farm Bureau Store.

and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation.

Nine district winners will be selected with one being chosen as the state winner in May. Each district winner will receive a classroom presentation for his or her class. Last year, more than 1,500 students participated in the contest.

Questions about the book or essay contest can be directed to Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Darlene Arneson at darneson@wfbf.com.

The Wisconsin educator winners included: • Lisa Jagielo, Unity High School in Balsam Lake • Amy Mather, Northern Hills Elementary School in Onalaska • Kristina Puntney, Baraboo High School in Baraboo • Kirsten Konder, Luck High School in Luck • Carla Zimmerman, Lombardi Middle School in Green Bay Find out more about AFBFA and this grant program by visiting agfoundation.org. wfbf.com

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AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Back-to-School Event at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center O n Aug. 23, the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom program hosted the Back-to-School KickOff at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc. Twentytwo participants watched the announcement of the 2020-2021 Book of the Year and essay contest topic. The group listened to presentations on how to share Ag in the Classroom resources during COVID-19 and how to work with schools that are virtual, hybrid and in-person.

Attendees engaged in discussions on how they can share essay information, network with teachers, conduct virtual farm tours and National Ag Day events. The group learned about new resources including the Growing Wisconsin lessons and activities, fall-themed programming, Training Tuesday videos and reviewed deadlines for contests, scholarships and grants.

Thanks to essay contest sponsors We Energies, Wisconsin

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Soybean Association, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation, each participant received a package of Soybean Ag Mags, other educational resources and a free copy of the 2020-2021 Book of the Year, "Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car." After the event concluded, the participants had lunch and toured the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center. The destination also is changing programming for schools and tours during COVID-19. Teachers are still able to bring student groups to Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center to see the interactive exhibits that teach students about Wisconsin agricultural production, food processing, and sustainable farming.

Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center offers 10,000 square feet of interactive experiences for various ages. With activities developed for grades K-12, the exhibits have something for everyone. They also offer Advanced STEM courses in soils and crops, culinary, reproduction, calf care and maternity care.

Learn more about the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center at farmwisconsin.org.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Watch for Ag in the Classroom Fall Programming W

isconsin Ag in the Classroom will offer several resources for K-12 teachers, students, parents and volunteers this school year.

The Training Tuesday series on the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom YouTube channel will continue through the end of 2020. Each week, the video will cover resources, grants, projects, commodity partners, programs and activities that Ag in the Classroom offers.

Monthly themes will be offered throughout the school

Thank You

to the Following WFB Foundation Donors:

• YourCause LLC Trustee • Benevity Community Impact Fund • Carl Casper in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Steve and Dawn Jones in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Carol Bartholomew in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Tom Oberhaus in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Dave Kruschke in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Wall Street Farmers Investment Club in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Judith Porter in memory of Bob Bartholomew

About the

Founda tion OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

year. The compiled lessons will be located in the Lesson Plan section of the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom’s website (wisagclassroom.org). Each month will feature an animal and crop. The packet will have lessons for elementary, middle and high school students from Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom, National Ag in the Classroom, American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture and other commodity groups. The packet also will contain a career focus, activities students can do and links to videos on that topic.

(Donations were made between July 21 and Sept. 28 2020)

• Michael Beaumont in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Robert and Marilyn Stigler in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Racine County Farm Bureau in memory of Marjorie Demuth • Dan and Jean Poulson in memory of Chloe Eckelberg • Dan and Jean Poulson in memory of Eugene Krohn • Washington County Farm Bureau in memory of Marilyn Strupp • Jim and Gayle Holte in memory of Barbara Brock • Jim and Gayle Holte in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Sally Schoenike in memory of Bob Bartholomew • Joseph Kaczmarek in memory of Evelyn and Harold Sheedy

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.

wfbf.com

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RURAL MUTUAL

Important Information Regarding Health Insurance W

ith everything going on right now, the last thing you want to be concerned about is your health insurance coverage.

Rural Mutual has partnered with Broker Source to offer individual, group, short-term plans, vision, dental and senior products like Medicare Supplements. As a valued Rural Mutual member, you can be confident that we have you covered with expanded health insurance options for you and your family.

Rural Mutual and Broker Source understand that health insurance can be complicated and the importance of understanding your options is valuable.

With Medicare Open Enrollment right around the corner from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, our America's Health Insurance PlansCertified Enrollment Specialists can assist our members older than 65 with plan changes or purchasing supplemental and prescription drug coverage.

Additionally, for those younger than 65, the Individual/Family

Open Enrollment through the Affordable Care Act Healthcare Marketplace is available from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15.

Experienced insurance agents will walk you through the process, help you review your plan options and check for tax credit eligibility.

For those who have recently had a policy terminate or are without coverage, Short-Term Medical policies are available to cover unexpected injuries and illness. A Short-Term Medical plan allows you to stay covered month-to-month for up to a year.

For members who own their own company with at least one other full-time employee, Rural Mutual can assist in exploring health insurance options for small-group health insurance coverage.

Whether you need health insurance, Medicare options, dental, vision, life or disability, as well as auto, home and farm, Rural Mutual can guarantee, “we’ve got you covered.”

To explore your options, please contact your local Rural Mutual agent or visit RuralMutual.com to find an agent near you. You also can contact the Brokers Source enrollment center at 913.777.7732.

Rural Mutual Recognized by Ward’s Group and AM Best R

ural Mutual Insurance Company has been selected as a ‘Ward’s Top 50 Performer’ for the 12th consecutive year.

“Being recognized with this honor for 12 consecutive years is an accomplishment that we are very proud of,” said Rural Mutual’s Director of Marketing Mike Lubahn.

Each year, Ward’s Group analyzes the financial performance of nearly 3,000 property-casualty insurance companies in the U.S. to identify the top performers.

“The Ward’s Top 50 is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Rural Mutual team who every day reaffirms our company’s unwavering commitment to provide the best protection and value to our customers we proudly serve throughout Wisconsin,” said Rural Mutual’s Executive Vice President and CEO Dan Merk.

The top 50 companies are awarded the Ward’s 50 seal, and their names are listed as the Ward’s 50 Top Performers for the year. Each Top 50 insurer passed safety and consistency screens and achieved superior performance during the five years analyzed.

Additionally, Rural Mutual is one of five single-state insurers in the U.S. and the only single-state insurer in Wisconsin to receive a Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) for the third year in a row from AM Best.

AM Best is a global rating agency with a unique focus on the

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insurance industry. Only a small percentage of U.S. property and casualty insurance companies overall are awarded an A+ (Superior) rating from the agency, and achieving the highest rating is especially rare for single state insurers. This is due to isolated weather-related events, regulatory orders issued due to COVID-19 or other economic concerns that can’t be offset by better conditions in other regions.

Rural Mutual’s accomplishment resulted from the company’s consistently strong balance sheet and operating performance, demonstrated by 71 consecutive quarters of policyholder surplus growth. This was enhanced by introducing new coverages including a limited water endorsement and milk spoilage due to interruption of electrical service.

“This A+ Rating is a result of hard work and dedication by everyone to provide excellent products and services for our customers day in and day out,” said Merk. “The rating also reaffirms our company’s unwavering commitment to stay ahead of the competition and adapt to our customer’s changing needs and demands in the communities we serve throughout Wisconsin.”

Rural Mutual has protected Wisconsin homes, farms and businesses since 1934. The company does business in only one state, so premiums paid here, stay here to keep Wisconsin strong.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

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RURAL MUTUAL

Harvest is Here: Don’t Forget These Safety Tips T

iming is everything with fall harvest. Sometimes Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate adding pressure to a short time frame that can make or break the year. Remind your family and employees about these safety tips to make sure you have a safe and productive harvest.

Roadway Safety

Many roadway accidents involving farm equipment happen at dawn and dusk. Ensure that all equipment is properly placarded with a Department of Transportation slow-moving vehicle sign and appropriate yellow warning lights. The Wisconsin DOT provides a quick resource to determine what safety precautions are required for your situation at wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/ agri-eq-veh/ag-veh-safety.aspx.

If possible, have someone follow in a truck equipped with yellow warning lights to act as an escort vehicle. The escort vehicle should maintain a safe following distance behind the equipment to provide the operator with a buffer from other vehicles approaching too closely.

Do you have a tractor that isn’t equipped with rollover protection? Did you know there is a rebate program that will cover 70 percent (up to $865) for the purchase and installation?

For more information, visit the National Farm Medicine Center Rollover Protection Structure Rebate Program at marshfieldresearch.org/nfmc/rops.

Recovering Stuck Vehicles

Every year we see claims related to pulling out equipment mired in a field. Some are simply for damaged vehicles when the chain or strap snaps, others are more serious.

Think about investing in a device like the Safe-T-Pull (safe-t-pull.net). This is a positive attachment device that not only eliminates the failure potential of a rope, chain or sling; but eliminates the need for employees to get out of the vehicle to hook and unhook. This helps avoid slips, trips or falls that we see regularly from workers getting in or out of vehicles.

If you must use something else, never use a chain. The repeated use of a chain weakens it to an unpredictable breaking point with disastrous results. Using a wide-belted sling or strap, positioned as close to the stricken vehicle as possible, using a

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steady pull instead of jerking the slack out and placing a heavy mat over the center portion of the sling or strap to weight it down if it does come undone are ways to avoid serious injury.

Hazardous Energy Control: Lockout/Tagout

Lockout/Tagout is a process you should know to ensure that potential energy sources have been isolated and rendered inoperative. Potential energy sources include electrical power, hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, thermal energy, gas (energy potential as well as oxygen displacement or toxicity), gravity or mechanical (springs, belts and other moving parts).

Never work on equipment until it has been completely powered down, pressures bleed off and parts have stopped moving. Take measures to secure the power sources involved to ensure the equipment can’t be accidentally or intentionally started while servicing it. Once these measures have been taken, attempt to restart the equipment to ensure it can’t be down.

On equipment using hydraulics to move parts, use blocks to secure these components so after the equipment is powered down, it does not unintentionally move parts when pressure has been bled off.

Communicate what you are doing to others onsite to ensure someone doesn’t inadvertently place a piece of equipment back into service before its ready.

When working with grain elevators, conveyors or other fixed equipment, use padlocks and tags to secure power sources.

Make sure that when equipment is in operation, appropriate guards are in place and operators are not wearing loosefitting clothing.

Hay Fires

Ensure hay is within the proper moisture content range based on the type of hay and baling method. Bales should be probed to test for above-normal temperatures. Temperatures up to 140°F are acceptable, however, once temperatures exceed 150°F, steps should be taken to provide better air circulation.

Once temperatures exceed 175°F, a fire is imminent or already present near the probe. Call 911 and have the fire department on hand before moving hay bales. A temperature in excess of 200°F indicates a fire is present at or near the probe.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION