March 2015 Union Farmer by North Dakota Farmers Union

Mission Statement: Guided by our cooperative, legislative and educational goals, North Dakota Farmers Union is a grassroots organization committed to the advancement of family farm and ranch agriculture and quality of life for people everywhere through member advocacy, educational programs, cooperative initiatives and insurance services.

UNION FARMER

www.ndfu.org

In this issue

Hearing draws a crowd

Around the state

10.

Willer goes the extra mile

23. President’s message

March 2015 – Volume 62 • Number 3

FARM AND RANCH INSURANCE

TRUSTED LOCAL AGENTS Insurance for your farm or ranch is just one more way in which Farmers Union Insurance works to keep your family safe and secure. For more information, e-mail us at info@fumic.com

North Dakota Union Farmer

The UNION FARMER is published monthly by North Dakota Farmers Union at 1415 12th Ave SE, Jamestown, ND 58401. Annual subscription is $30 with membership. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, ND.

March 2015

EDITOR: Anne Denholm 800-366-8331 • www.ndfu.org adenholm@ndfu.org POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NDFU, PO Box 2136, Jamestown, ND 58402-2136 Copies mailed this issue: 33,901 • USPS 016-211

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: President: Mark Watne Vice President: Bob Kuylen Secretary: Ellen Linderman Treasurer: Terry Borstad James Kerzman; Wes Niederman Jr.; Dennis Stromme; Jim Teigen; Ronda Throener

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Bus brings members to capitol to oppose bill

BY PAM MUSLAND, NDFU

By bus, car and pickup, Farmers Union members traveled to the state capitol early Friday morning, Feb. 13, to hear testimony on SB 2351 before the Senate Agriculture Committee. The bill exempts dairy and swine operations from complying with the state’s Corporate Farming Law and allows corporations to own land. The bill’s lead sponsor, Sen. Terry Wanzek, R-Jamestown, said the bill is patterned after South Dakota law and “opens the door a little bit” to allow capital investments in dairy and swine. He believes equity capital is a development barrier to livestock production in North Dakota. “There is a lot of untapped potential within animal agriculture when we look at surrounding states and how far behind we are,” he said. Wanzek and Ag Commissioner Doug Goehring testified that North Dakota is one of nine states with anti-corporate farming laws, all of which allow for some livestock exemptions except North Dakota. Goehring said he supports opening the law to also include cattle feedlots. North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne testified in Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

of land would threaten family opposition to the bill, saying low farmers. “It is a religious issue, a milk prices have caused the decline moral issue, a human issue. Our of dairies in the state, not the relationship with the land is about Corporate Farming Law. “Pricing is family. It is important to understand the issue and farmers not getting that outside investors cannot be paid enough for their milk,” he said. like family. How we engage in “Building a bigger truck is not the agriculture, affects who we are as mechanism” to improve the dairy humans,” he concluded. “What is industry. Of the 51 dairy corporations that have been set up in South Dakota, 49 are family corporations that are allowable under current North Dakota law, Watne said. He suggested greater investment is needed in market analysis and consumer trends – even perhaps a state-owned dairy processing facility – to help grow the dairy industry in North Dakota. “We need to have a strategy for marketing outside of the state,” he said, “not a conversation about a philosophical change that isn’t NDFU President Mark Watne testified against necessary.” SB 2351 during the Senate Ag Committee A number of individuals hearing. and organizations spoke in the profit in our state if we gain opposition to the bill, including investors but lose our soul in Larry Kinev of the Independent agriculture?” Beef Association of North Dakota After more than four hours (I-BAND) and Christopher Dodson of testimony, the Senate Ag of the North Dakota Catholic Committee did not take action on Conference. the bill. s Dodson said investor ownership March 2015

NDFU President’s written testimony to the Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Miller and members of the Senate Agriculture Committee: My name is Mark Watne. I am the president of the North Dakota Farmers Union. Our organization stands in strong opposition to SB 2351. We believe this bill is unwarranted, and we see this as a fundamental change to North Dakota’s system of family agriculture, which is the foundation of our state’s economy, society and future. We believe agriculture is best left in the hands of individual entrepreneurs, who own the land and animals. NDFU has advocated for policies that ensure that ownership, operation and management of a farm or ranch is held within the family who makes a livelihood from that land and lives in or near the community that land is adjacent. This bill is being promoted as the only solution to stop the decline in dairies. We disagree. South Dakota has been the example to justify this change. Our research, which was provided to you on Wednesday, shows that the number of dairy farms in South Dakota has declined at a similar rate as North Dakota dropping from 1,404 in 1997 to 260 in 2014. South Dakota changed their corporate farming law in 2008 and it did not stop this decline. According to the 2012 ag census, there are 51 corporations in South Dakota; 49 of them are family corporations and these are allowable in North

March 2015

Dakota. Furthermore, South Dakota has done some additional work to stimulate growth in their state, including a county siting program. We need to have a conversation about the causes of the declines and be creative in finding solutions. The sponsors of SB 2351 say this bill is necessary to give producers needed access to investment capital and credit in order to expand or diversify. Access to credit is not what’s standing in the way of agricultural profitability. There are plenty of lending institutions across this state that can finance agriculture operations. What’s standing in the way of agricultural profitability in dairy farming is low commodity prices and high production costs. Current law already provides channels for investment in agriculture – the very thing this bill claims to do. Through legal tools such as partnerships, loans, and family corporations, individuals can already invest in agriculture in North Dakota and they don’t need to form a corporation to do so. What this bill is really all about is the ownership of assets and land. Who in North Dakota do we want to own our land and animals? Corporations or family farmers and ranchers? SB 2351 guarantees farmers and ranchers will have to compete against corporations to buy, rent or even access land. Opening up our corporation farming law does not guarantee greater profits for

farmers and ranchers. It does not guarantee more good jobs. It does not guarantee greater patronage or economic returns for rural main street businesses. Why? Because non-family corporations are focused on stockholder profits. If a greater return on investment can be realized for stockholders through volume discounts on commodities for feed and inputs outside the state, corporations will do so. Mr. Chairman and committee members, there is no compelling argument to pass SB 2351. North Dakota’s corporate farming law cannot single-handedly guarantee the existence of healthy, independent family farmers and ranchers. What it currently does guarantee is a level playing field that requires all ag participants to be liable for their actions and responsible to communities. And I believe that the vast majority of farmers and ranchers in this state do not support legislation to weaken this law. Sound public policy in North Dakota builds family farm agriculture. We believe it would be much more productive to lead a conversation that includes all stakeholders, to explore all possible solutions to this issue. This is an approach that we believe would unite the agricultural community, instead of dividing it. We ask for the committee to give a “do not pass” to SB 2351. I will stand for any questions. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

The legislative team is working for you!

Kayla Pulvermacher

Richard Schlosser

The 2015 North Dakota State Legislature is officially underway and the North Dakota Farmers Union legislative team is working to determine the impact of bills on our membership and to advocate for NDFU’s Program of Policy and Action. The team also keeps members educated about issues the legislature is considering that will affect farmers and ranchers and the rural way of life. Priorities include: · Upholding the current Corporate Farming Law; · Supporting the governor’s proposal for infrastructure funding; · Advocating for landowner rights and improved reclamation practices; and · Reinforcing the need for

Kristi Carlson

balanced tax policy in North Dakota. NDFU Member Advocacy Director Kayla Pulvermacher reported, “The legislative team stays focused on our Policy and Action that has been developed democratically by our grassroots membership. That is one reason NDFU is such an effective voice at the legislature. We are most successful, however, when members play an active role in the legislative process.” She explained that members have the opportunity to receive weekly legislative updates by e-mail. “Just let us know and we’ll send you an online publication. We also invite you to share your story with your elected representatives.

Dane Braun

Pam Musland

Talk to them when they are home on the weekends, and attend or host town hall meetings. E-mail, write or call your legislators any time. You can also visit the capitol and testify during a hearing. Don’t be afraid to speak up and talk about your experiences. NDFU can help you understand the process and get involved.” Pulvermacher said that all North Dakotans should learn about the process and find out what happens at the state legislature. “The legislature’s actions will affect your farming and ranching operation, your school, your taxes, your roads and bridges, the state’s landscape and our future. It’s important to know how to become involved in that process.” s

Who to contact on state ag committees HOUSE:

• Rep. Dennis Johnson, Chairman, Devils Lake (R), Dist. 15 - djohnson@nd.gov • Rep. Wayne Trottier, Vice Chairman, Northwood (R), Dist. 19 - wtrottier@nd.gov

• Rep. Craig Headland, Montpelier (R), Dist. 29 - cheadland@nd.gov • Rep. Tom Kading, Fargo (R), Dist. 45 - tkading@nd.gov • Rep. Dwight Kiefert, Valley City (R), Dist. 24 - dhkiefert@nd.gov

• Rep. Bert Anderson, Crosby (R), Dist. 2 - bertanderson@nd.gov

• Rep. Diane Larson, Bismarck (R), Dist. 30 - dklarson@nd.gov

• Rep. Joshua Boschee, Fargo (D), Dist. 44 - jboschee@nd.gov

• Rep. Alex Looysen, Jamestown (R), Dist. 12 - alooysen@nd.gov

• Rep. Alan Fehr, Dickinson (R), Dist. 36 - afehr@nd.gov

• Rep. Alisa Mitskog, Wahpeton (D), Dist. 25 - amitskog@nd.gov

• Rep. Jessica Haak, Jamestown (D), Dist. 12 - jhaak@nd.gov

• Rep. Cynthia Schreiber Beck, Wahpeton (R), Dist. 25 cschreiberbeck@nd.gov

SENATE:

• Chairman Sen. Joe Miller, Park River (R), Dist. 10 joetmiller@nd.gov • Vice Chairman Sen. Larry Luick, Fairmount (R), Dist. 25 lluick@nd.gov • Sen. Jerry Klein, Fessenden (R), Dist. 14 - jklein@nd.gov • Sen. Oley Larsen, Minot (R), Dist. 3 - olarsen@nd.gov • Sen. Erin Oban, Bismarck (D), Dist. 35 - eoban@nd.gov • Sen. John Warner, Ryder (D), Dist. 4 - jwarner@nd.gov

For more contact information, call the legislative hotline at 1-888-635-3447 or visit the “Contact My Legislators” page at www.legis.nd.gov Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

March 2015

THE

AROUND STATE State office employees gathered to say goodbye to retiring staff member Dale Enerson at the end of January. Pictured from left to right are Dale, Dane Braun, Dale’s wife Mary and Jeff Willer. Braun presented Enerson with a large umbrella and colorful leis for the Enerson’s upcoming trip to Hawaii.

BreeAnn Hauck, the Farmers Union Insurance of Killdeer, presented a $500 check to two local nonprofit organizations including the Sunrise Youth Bureau (above) and the Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center (below).

NDFU Member Advocate Director Kayla Pulvermacher talks with KFGO Radio Host Joel Heitkamp at the state capitol. NDFU sponsors Heitkamp’s News & Views Show.

Members of the Velva Farmers Union Oil Company Board met at the state office in January to discuss strategic plans for their cooperative.

Ag Commissioner Doug Goehring addressed a joint meeting of the House and Senate Ag Committees recently at the state capitol.

Dickinson area Farmers Union Insurance agent Kelly Braun presents a check to Dickinson High School Wrestling Coach Pete Dobitz for their new wrestling mat. The wrestling team includes athletes from Trinity and South Heart. 6

March 2015

Farmers Union Insurance agents worked at the KMOT Ag Show in Minot. Pictured in back, from left to right: J.R. Johnson, Grenora and Travis Lee, Ray. In front from left to right: Lucas Schumacher and Theron Huwe, Crosby.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

crop genetics of today & tomorrow Conference set for March 24 in Jamestown Mark your calendar for Tuesday, March 24, from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. to discuss plant genetics, biotechnology and traits at the North Dakota Farmers Union Conference Center. This one day workshop will address: • The importance and need for ever-improving traits of crops to survive weeds, insects and

diseases to increase global food production. • Using new and improved traits to help agriculture adapt to changing climate conditions. • Understanding how long and how expensive it is for a company to develop, test, and get approval for new traits, conventional, hybrid and genetically improved strains. • How and why consumers

react the way they do, regarding biotechnology in general and specific issues like food safety, food allergies (real or perceived), organic or sustainable labels, and related topics. Cost is $30 to attend the workshop. Register online at: https://www.regonline.com/ cropgenetics s

COOL case dismissed in U.S. Court; World Trade Organization dispute pending On Monday, Feb. 9, the industry groups opposed to Country-ofOrigin Labeling (COOL) signed a stipulation of dismissal in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. This dismisses the case against the United States Department of Agriculture brought in July 2013. The plaintiffs of the suit included the American Meat Institute, American Association of Meat Processors, Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, Canadian Pork Council, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Producers Council, North American Meat Association, Southwest Meat Association, and Mexico’s National Confederation of Livestock Organizations. The case alleged that the COOL law violated plaintiffs’ constitutional right to free speech by requiring meat processors to affix the label with more detailed information and was overly burdensome. They Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

argued that the government could only compel speech to prevent deception. National Farmers Union intervened in the lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture along with the United States Cattlemen’s Association, American Sheep Industry Association, Consumer Federation of America, Food & Water Watch, Inc., Ranchers Cattlemen Action Legal Fund, United Stockgrowers of America, the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association, and the Western Organization of Resource Councils.

This dismissal marks the end of litigation in U.S. courts on COOL, ultimately culminating in the legal defeat of opponents of COOL. Since passage of COOL in 2002, Farmers Union has been a staunch proponent of the law and a major player in defending it in repeated legal challenges by multinational meatpackers and foreign competitors. Each court ruling domestically has upheld the law. Although this is a strong victory for National Farmers Union and its allies, a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute remains outstanding. Canada is arguing that COOL creates a technical barrier to trade that is in violation of WTO rules. A WTO appellate body held an oral hearing on Feb. 16 -17 in Geneva on the complaint. A final ruling is expected sometime in the spring. s

March 2015

Celebrate National Ag Day on March 18 Where does food come from? Many Americans think the answer is the grocery store. Far too many people are unaware of the role of American agriculture and what it really takes to have food on the dinner table. That’s one of the reasons the Agriculture Council of America (ACA) will host National Agriculture Day on Wednesday, March 18. This marks the 42nd anniversary of National Ag Day, which is celebrated in classrooms and communities across the country. According to North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne, “Ag Day is a good time to reflect and be grateful for American agriculture. Please join North Dakota Farmers Union in celebrating Ag Day and salute our family farmers and ranchers!” National Agriculture Day is an opportunity to tell the true story of American agriculture. As the world population soars, there is even greater demand for the food, fiber and renewable resources produced in the United States. Today, each American

farmer feeds more than 144 people. Agriculture is vitally important in sustaining a healthy economy. The National Ag Day program believes that every American should: 1. Understand how food, fiber and renewable resource products are produced. 2. Value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong

economy. 3. Appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products. 4. Acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, fiber and renewable resource industries. s

Collegiate students attend conference Over 150 students from across the nation gathered in Minneapolis Feb. 19-22 for National Farmers Union’s (NFU) College Conference on Cooperatives (CCOC). Several students from North Dakota attended including: Amanda Bitz, Jasmine Stevens, Mikaela Long, Chris Hoffert, Forrest Carlson, RaeLynn Leier and Kyle Knutson. The annual conference featured presentations by cooperative leaders from all across the spectrum, and was beneficial to both beginning students and to those with some previous co-op education. Participants learned how cooperative businesses operate for the benefit of their customers. The annual event focused on how

March 2015

and why cooperatives succeed in America’s competitive business environment. “This was an opportunity for Farmers Union and the cooperative community to teach young people about cooperative business principles and history, to introduce them to a wide variety of co-ops, and to show them that there are great careers in strong, ethical and community-minded businesses,”

said NFU President Roger Johnson. “Cooperatives continue to be viable and successful business models in almost every sector of the U.S. economy.” The students toured the CHS main facility and discussed grain marketing, finance, marketing, agronomy and communications with CHS officials. They also toured other area co-ops and visited with Twin Cities leaders who explained their perspectives. The trip included a tour to the Mill City Museum, a show at the Old Log Dinner Theater and a discussion about career opportunities. The CHS Foundation, CoBank, Farmers Union Industries Foundation, National Farmers Union Foundation and others sponsored the conference. s

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Looking at the impact of declining oil prices on state funding BY KRISTI SCHLOSSER CARLSON, NDFU GENERAL COUNSEL

Generally, oil harvested from North Dakota is subject to two state taxes: the Oil & Gas Gross Production Tax (an in-lieu-of property tax) and the Oil Extraction Tax. As prices of oil have declined, people have asked about the impact on the oil extraction tax and the state’s use of the revenue from that tax. The extraction tax is imposed at a rate of 6.5%, with a number of rate reductions and exemptions in place depending on the type of well, duration, and other factors. Some types of wells are always exempt (e.g., stripper wells) and some are exempt for a specific period of time. But for the rest of those that enjoy a lower rate or an exemption, the lower rate and exemptions go away if the price of a barrel of oil exceeds a trigger price for five consecutive months. Since 2004, the price of oil has been over the trigger price, so most all wells (except those that are always exempt or are exempt for a specific period of time) were subject to the 6.5% rate. Now that oil has fallen below that trigger price, watch to see if it stays that low for five consecutive months; if it does, those lower rates and exemptions will kick in. Once that happens, the price will need to rise above the trigger price for five consecutive months before the 6.5% kicks in again. The trigger price is $35.50 indexed for inflation; for 2015, it is $52.59. To determine the impact of the oil extraction tax to the state’s budget, it’s helpful to understand that the revenue from the oil extraction tax is distributed as follows: • 30% allocated to the Legacy Fund, which is Constitutional. The Legacy Fund cannot be touched until 2017, and after that, the principal and earnings can only be spent after a 2/3 vote of each house of the legislature. • 30% to the state. Along with a portion of the Gross Production Tax, this piece is allocated to the state General Fund, Property Tax Relief Fund, the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund (SIIF), and the State Disaster Relief Fund. This formula will expire in July 2015; the legislature this session will determine whether to continue or change the formula. • 20% divided between two school funds: the Common Schools Trust Fund and Foundation Aid Stabilization Fund. • 20% to the Resources Trust Fund (RTF), which is available for water projects along with a small portion available for certain energy and energy conservation projects. The General Fund is the state’s main operating Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

fund that is available to be appropriated by the Legislature; it does not include the various dedicated funds such as the Legacy Fund, the SIIF, the RTF and many others. About 5% of the General Fund comes from oil taxes. Other sources of revenue in the General Fund include Sales, Use & Motor Vehicle taxes (which make up about half the General Fund), income taxes (about 22%), and other revenue. The General Fund is used to fund elementary, secondary and other education (which makes up about 25% of the appropriations from General Fund), transportation projects (about 21%), health and human services (about 18%), higher education (about 13%) and general government (about 13%). Agriculture, Economic Development & Research makes up about 2.8% of the appropriations. For the best explanation of any tax, go to the North Dakota Tax Department’s Red Book. It explains the definition, history and distribution of all taxes. Find it online: http://www.nd.gov/tax/genpubs/2014-redbook. pdf?20150106161851. s March 2015

A million miles and more! BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

Contact Jeff Willer through the NDFU Transportation Department about future bus trips or excursions: Call 800-366-8331, ext. 108 or visit our website at www.ndfu.org to learn about exciting travel opportunities available to North Dakota Farmers Union members! 10

March 2015

Jeff Willer hasn’t reached his final destination yet but he has surpassed over one million miles in his driving career. This record number includes over 750,000 miles driven for North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU). NDFU President Mark Watne commented, “This is quite an accomplishment. We are very fortunate to have Jeff lead our transportation department and we’re very proud of his commitment to quality excursions and bus trips.” Willer got his start in the 1980s when he worked for Valley Bus Company and Red River Trails as a student. “That’s how I put myself through college at North Dakota State University,” he remembered. After graduating in 1987, Willer drove full time for Red River Trails for a year, then worked in Philip, S.D., as a county extension agent from 1988-89. When he transferred to Huron, S.D., Willer began driving part-time for South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU). In 1992, he was hired as the cooperative services and membership director for SDFU and worked with the young farmers program. Willer added, “I also drove bus for all co-op and youth trips plus one excursion trip a year. Even when I worked for Extension, I used a week of vacation to drive the bus for the SDFU annual excursion.” It was during a National Farmers Union Fly-in when Willer found out about a job at the NDFU state office in Jamestown. “When I was in college, I used to work with NDFU driver LeRoy Noreen at Red River Trails so I talked with him about the job opening,” he said. Willer began his career at NDFU on June 26, 1995. “When I first started at NDFU, I drove the same two buses (a 1976 MCI and 1982 MCI ) that I rode on when I went to NDFU camp as a youth. They were the same buses that the legendary Dick Greene and Bud Pederson drove,” Willer added. Over the years, NDFU has purchased four different buses including a new 1996 MCI model, a 1998 used bus, a 2009 MCI touring model and the 2014 J model. In 2009, NDFU downsized from having two buses to just one vehicle due to the expense. Willer explained, “At that time, counties weren’t as active. Now, things are picking back up. We will accommodate any county or co-op trip that we can. If the NDFU bus is not available, then we’ll arrange for a charter bus and we’ll continue to staff it.” Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Over the last 20 years, Willer has witnessed many changes including better equipment with more bells and whistles. “The buses are more comfortable and a lot safer. They are also more eco-friendly with all the emission controls,” he said. NDFU has also changed focus. Many of the trips now include some agricultural tie. He expanded, “We’ve started global travel with tours to Key West, Hawaii, Alaska, Costa Rica, Brazil and Australia. We add in stops to local farms or plantations. But right here in North Dakota, the oil field trips have been really popular. Over 1,000 people have traveled with NDFU to see the benefits and challenges of oil country. We have educated people about the environment, natural resources, surface owner rights, mineral rights, legalities and more.” No matter where he drives, Willer seems to love it all. “I enjoy all the trips because every trip is unique in its own way. My favorite part of every trip is the members. We always have great people traveling and we have one of the best transportation teams,” he said. According to Willer, the staff deserves a lot of credit for how successful each trip and excursion ends up. He elaborated, “Sue Paulson is in the office and is my right-hand person. The work she does makes us look good on the road. She has all the details down and she makes sure it’s all done right. We have excellent, safe drivers that are good with the equipment and we always have Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

great tour guides. That’s why we’re booked a year in advance.” Paulson turned it around and said, “Jeff is the one who makes our bus trips and excursions so good. People want to be on the bus he drives. Everywhere he goes, Jeff makes friends. When I call a hotel representative out on the East Coast, they remember Jeff. He gets Christmas cards from some of them.” As a private carrier, membership is required to go on the bus. Willer said, “It’s important that we get the chance to teach travelers about the value of Farmers Union. If people don’t want to pay a $30

membership, they are losing out.” Willer concluded, “Farmers Union has always been part of my life. Within my own family, the youth program has been a vital part of how we’re raising our kids. So far, we’ve had three of our kids earn the Torchbearer Award and my wife, Maria, is an assistant youth leader. It’s helped keep us together. It’s made us a strong family.” “There’s no way I could do what I do without the support of my family,” he said. The Willers live in Jamestown and have six children: Michaela, Nathan, Katelyn, Christen, Zebedee and Rebecca. s

NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION

2016 Excursion Tour!

South America Tour February 11-22, 2016

• city tours of Santiago, Chile; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • magnificent views, beautiful beaches, flamboyant Carnival costumes, and friendly people • witness the transformation as Rio prepares to host the 2016 Summer Olympics Passport & Visa for Brazil required. For details go to www.ndfu.org or call 800-366-8331 ext 108 Susan or ext 111 Jeff March 2015

Women travel to national conference

Nine women from North Dakota attended the National Women’s Conference in Florida. Pictured from left to right: Sheila Ostrem, Carmen Rath-Wald, Lori Carlson, Libby Gravning, Christie Jaeger, Rochelle Bitz, Alyssa Steiner, Shelly Ziesch and staffer Chelsey Thronson.

BY CHELSEY THRONSON, NDFU

The North Dakota Farmers Union Women in Leadership Development (WILD) program sponsored eight members and one staff member to attend the National Farmers Union (NFU) Women’s Conference from Jan. 17-21, in Clearwater Beach, Fla. The eight women were chosen to attend the conference from an online application process and included: Alyssa Steiner, Dickinson Lori Carlson, Jamestown Shelly Ziesch, Pettibone Carmen Rath-Wald, Napoleon Christie Jaeger, Esmond Rochelle Bitz, Napoleon Sheila Ostrem, Rugby Libby Gravning, Hettinger The conference curriculum is based on the educational program Annie’s Project. Annie’s Project is committed to helping women strengthen their roles in the modern farm enterprise. To date, the program has reached 34 states featuring six different educational sessions, including training on problem solving, record keeping and decision-making skills for farm women. “This conference built on NFU’s experience in offering adult education classes specifically designed for women in agriculture and provided participants with important leadership and management skills, as well as networking opportunities,” said 12

March 2015

of the documentary “Terra Firma,” NFU President Roger Johnson. which is an award-winning “Family farm operations and documentary about women dealing communities benefit when each with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder person understands strategic through farming and agriculture. planning, business analysis, risk During the last full day of the management, and transferring conference, the women toured operations from one generation to farms in Plant City including the next.” The different breakout sessions that were offered at the conference included managing farm finances, estate planning, direct marketing, crop insurance, food safety and also featured updates on the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and the 2014 farm bill programs. “It was very interesting to see how others farm and hear their perceptions of how we farm in Althea Raiford was one of the keynote speakers and one of the main characters in the documentary, “Terra Firma,” North Dakota,” said NDFU member Shelly that was presented during the conference. Ziesch. “It was almost Williamson Berry Farms, Castile unbelievable that we all deal Farms and Keel and Curley Winery. with almost all the same issues NFU is planning on hosting including landlords, outside interest, another women’s conference next problems with high expenses and year. Stay tuned to the NDFU WILD varying markets. It didn’t matter Facebook page for more details as what part of the industry they were they develop. s in.” There was also a screening Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Sharing a well-kept secret What happens on a farm and where does our food come from?

BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

Katie Pinke can’t keep a secret–at least about agriculture and what is happening on her family farm. Pinke has been sharing her message to engage and empower thousands of people each year through social media including a blog, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. She uses these channels to talk about her family, food, faith, farm life and community. During the National Hard Spring Wheat Show in Williston on Feb. 3-4, Pinke explained her communications mission. Pinke said, “It’s not a secret that more Americans have become disconnected from farms. We have to find a way to bridge this gap so that people can be more knowledgeable about where their food comes from and how farmers are part of that food chain. Consumers have lots of questions and lots of concerns about the origins of their food. There are so many misconceptions out there. I want to challenge everyone to listen, find your voice and engage in these discussions, online and offline.” After a decade working across North America for an agriculture advertising agency and then in state government, Pinke started her own speaking and marketing consulting business two years ago from her home in Wishek. Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

She speaks to agriculture and women’s groups, non-profits and small businesses and works on marketing strategy with additional clients. Pinke utilizes technology and social media tools to stay connected and work effectively across North America. She and her husband, Nathan, also own Pinke Lumber and Pinke Homes in Wishek and have three active children. While Pinke’s lifelong agriculture and marketing experiences have prepared her for this social media challenge, she says that everyone can have a role in connecting the farm to the consumer. Pinke added, “This is something everyone can do. You can post a photo of the harvest, write about your farm’s history or explain how a farmer sells grain. My mother’s GriggsDakota farm

blog was picked up by Bloomberg Business Week, featuring her in between the former Secretary of Labor and the CEO of Home Depot. She found her voice and writes about things in her everyday life. The most important thing is to start listening, sharing and building personal connections.” “I hope everyone leaves here and feels like you have a role to tell your agricultural story. If you don’t tell it, someone not connected to ag might try to tell it for you. Farm organizations can’t do it all. We need everyone to build relationships and together, we can change the conversation at America’s dinner table,” she emphasized. Connect with Pinke on Twitter @katpinke and read her blog at thepinkepost.com

Ladies Ag 2015 Refuse to be ordinary ... SHOW THE WORLD YOUR

COLORS

Monday, March 30, 2015 Egeland Community Center 5:30 – Social Hour 6:15 – Supper Speaker: Kim Wagner,

Motivational humorist speaker, author, breast cancer survivor, quilter, lion-roaring grandma, believer in miracles

Tickets $20

Towner County Soil Conservation District 701-968-4457, ext 3 carie.moore@nd.nacdnet.net March 2015

WILD regional event held in Dickinson

The first regional Women in Leadership Development (WILD) event was held in Dickinson on Saturday, Feb. 7, at Dickinson State University. The guest speaker was Assistant Professor Amy Hollar from the University of Mary in Bismarck. Hollar’s message stressed the importance of using powerful language versus powerless language. She also explained how important gender roles and nonverbal communication can be to effective communicating. Other programming for the day included ice breakers and activities, communication exercises and a presentation by Alyssa Steiner and Libby Gravning, highlighting the National Farmers Union Women’s Conference in Clearwater Beach.

About 20 women attended the Dickinson event. Three other regional events will be held in March. All meetings will feature professional speakers that will provide tips and insights to develop leadership skills. Upcoming dates include: • March 21 at the Ramada Plaza Suites in Fargo from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • March 28 at the State Fair Center in Minot from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • March 28 at Peterson Arena in Devils Lake from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Check out the NDFU WILD Facebook page for more information or call Chelsey Thronson, member relations specialist for NDFU, at 800366-8331 ext. 131 or e-mail: cthronson@ndfu.org. s

About 20 ladies attended the Dickinson WILD event.

More Power to You!

Upcoming Regional Events:

Fargo – March 21 at the Ramada Plaza Suites Minot – March 28 at the State Fair Center Devils Lake – March 28 at Peterson Arena Call Chelsey at 800-366-8331 ext. 131 or e-mail cthronson@ndfu.org 14

March 2015

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Don’t follow gluten-free diet just because it’s popular BY ANNE DENHOLM, NDFU

Gluten-free is the new catch phrase and the latest food fad. Grocery stores are devoting sections filled with gluten-free items and many people are following a gluten-free diet. However, Julie Garden-Robinson, a food and nutrition specialist for North Dakota State University Extension Service, cautions that gluten-free doesn’t mean healthier or that a gluten-free diet is a cure for weight control. “There are many food myths out there. Some people claim that gluten-free diets are good for weight reduction. The reality is that these foods may actually lead to weight gain because they are often higher in fat and sugar,” she said. For people not diagnosed with celiac disease, food allergy or gluten intolerance, a gluten-free diet is unnecessary and more expensive to follow. “These glutenfree products usually cost more at the grocery store and often have no caloric advantage,” GardenRobinson added. The registered dietitian led an in-depth discussion on gluten intolerance and the latest food fad during the National Hard Spring Wheat Show on Feb. 3-4 in Williston. According to GardenRobinson, just a small percentage of individuals have a medical condition caused by wheat. She said, “The Celiac Disease Foundation reports that only one percent of the population has celiac disease. However, gluten intolerance or celiac disease are often confused with a wheat allergy. Only qualified physicians can make a scientific diagnosis.” Garden-Robinson explained that a true food allergy causes the immune system to recognize the offending substance in the wheat as foreign and begin to produce antibodies to halt the invasion. Swelling of the lips, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, hives, wheezing or breathing problems are the most common reactions. Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

For those individuals with celiac disease, gluten damages the lining of the small intestine, reducing its ability to absorb adequate nutrients from food, resulting in illness that may resemble malnutrition. People with celiac disease might experience one or more of 300 different symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, damage to their intestines and skin rashes. People who are glutensensitive have similar symptoms but do not have the damage to their intestines. Issues with gluten must be diagnosed through medical testing with qualified professionals. Garden-Robinson explained that gluten is a protein found in some grains like wheat, rye and barley. “In simple terms,” she said, “It forms when flour and water are mixed together. Gluten provides structure and texture in food like bread.” Wheat may be milled into flour, bread, biscuits, cakes, pastries, puddings and pies but can also be found in manufactured and processed foods. Because wheat flour is so common in prepared foods, it is important to read labels. She noted that people who need to avoid wheat for medical reasons should recognize that the following terms indicate the presence of wheat: bran, bread crumbs, bulgur, cereal extract, couscous, cracker meal, durum, farina, gluten, graham flour, high gluten flour, high protein flour, semolina, spelt, vital gluten, wheat bran, wheat germ, wheat gluten, wheat malt, wheat starch, whole wheat or enriched flour. Garden-Robinson said, “North Dakota grows some of the best wheat in the country. Not everyone has to avoid it. Choose to feed your gut with antioxidant-rich foods, eat smaller meals, increase your fiber and lead a healthy lifestyle. For nutritional guidelines, you can go online to www.choosemyplate.gov, www.ag.ndsu.edu/food or contact Extension for more information.” s

Addressing the claims

BY THE WHEAT FOODS COUNCIL

Claim 1: Gluten-free diets are good for weight reduction or maintenance. Reality: Gluten-free grains have no caloric advantage over gluten containing grains (wheat, barley and rye). All carbohydrates have four calories per gram. Gluten-free foods are often higher in fat and sugar, and are often lower in fiber, which may actually lead to weight gain. Claim 2: Gluten-free products are healthier than those containing gluten. Reality: Many gluten-free products are refined starches which have not been enriched with B vitamins (including folic acid) and iron. Alternative whole grains are available, but rarely consumed. Glutenfree diets often lack various nutrients such as iron, calcium, many B vitamins (including folic acid), zinc, magnesium, and a host of other nutrients found in wheat, barley and rye products. For those without disease or sensitivity, this diet is unnecessarily expensive, restrictive and may cause harm by eliminating healthy gut and colon bacteria. Claim 3: Genetically modified wheat could be the cause of an increase in the incidence in celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Reality: Genetically modified wheat is not present in the world food supply and cannot be blamed for the increase. s

March 2015

Experience fun ... friendship ... memories at NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION CAMP!

JUNIOR CAMPS • completed grades 3-6 Wesley Acres, near Valley City Camp #1 • June 14-17 • Benson, Cavalier, Eddy, Foster, Grand Forks, Griggs, Nelson, Pembina, Pierce, Ramsey, S, Rolette, Steele, Towner, Walsh, Wells 4 DAY Camp #2 • July 12-15 • Cass, Traill

TS 3 NIGH 5 7 $ Y L ON

NEW THIS YEAR

online registration only!

Camp #3 • July 15-18 • Dickey, LaMoure, Ransom

Camp #4 • July 19-22 • Logan, Emmons, McIntosh, Richland, Sargent Camp #5 • July 22-25 • Barnes, Kidder, Stutsman Heart Butte, near Elgin Camp #1 • June 14-17 • Adams, Bowman/Slope, Grant, Hettinger, Morton, Sioux Camp #2 • June 17-20 • Billings/Golden Valley, Dunn, McLean, Mercer, McKenzie, Oliver, Stark Camp # 3 • July 12-15 • Bottineau, Burke, Divide, McHenry, Mountrail, Renville, Ward, Williams Camp #4 • July 15-18 • Burleigh, Sheridan NORTH DAKOTA FARMERS UNION CAMP IS A GRASSROOTS COOPERATIVE CAMPING PROGRAM PARTIALLY FUNDED BY CHS FOUNDATION & COOPERATIVE EDUCATIONAL FUNDS.

March 2015

SENIOR CAMPS

for completed grades 7-12

June 22-26 July 6-10 July 20-24 July 27-31 Aug. 3-7

Grades 7-12 Grades 7-12 Grades 7-9 Grades 7-12 Grades 11-12 TS5 DAYS, 4 NIGH only $125

TOTAL AWESOMENESS! Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Trained counselors encourage campers to develop positive and constructive attitudes about their own capabilities through cooperation and teamwork. Our program, exercises and activities are designed to highlight the individuality in all of us.

ACTIVITIES water games • skits • four-square • banquet sports • campfire • talent show banquet • camp project crafts & more Theme Nights: Junior Camp: Disney characters Senior Camp: “Nerd” & “Hawaiian”

REGISTRATION INFO AT

www.ndfu.org

Check out our camper incentives!

CALLING ALL 7TH AND 8TH GRADERS! you are invited to the 3rd annual 7th and 8th Grade Lock-In at the NDFU state office in Jamestown, March 28-29, 2015 Free to NDFU members, $30 for non-members.

Items to bring: sleeping bag or blanket, pillow, personal hygiene items (there are no showers) and a change of clothes. Food and entertainment will be provided. Transportation will be provided at several stops, to be determined once everyone is registered. Activities: dance, movies, bowling, education and a sneak preview of camp activities. Call the NDFU State Office for registration forms at: 1-800-366-8331, Marsha, ext.105 Space is limited to 60, so get your registration in as soon as possible.

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

March 2015

Find out how to select trees to plant Homeowners who need ideas for trees to plant in their yards are invited to attend a free workshop from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at the Ernie French Center at the Williston Research Center. Kim Holloway, the research specialist with Williston Research Extension Center, explained, “The spring tree workshop is an educational class geared toward the homeowner in northwest North Dakota who needs to know about trees, the regulations on how to place, prune, plant and select them. With the influx of new people to the area, the city forester asked us to hold this informational class.” During the day, several speakers will focus on different

tree issues. After welcoming people to the workshop, Holloway will provide information on tree selection along with local nursery owner Andrew Kuester. City of Williston Forester Bruce Johnson will talk about planting and placement choices. North Dakota State University Forester Dr. Joe Zeleznik will address pruning tips and how to scout for tree pests. North Dakota Community Forestry Program Manager Gerry Makay will outline the Tree City USA program and state forestry issues. Continuing education credits are also available for certified arborists. Contact Holloway for more information or with any questions at 701-774-4315. s

acre to make 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches. • It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-oz. jar of peanut butter. • The average child will consume 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before he/she graduates high school. At Founding Farmers, we love our Virginia Peanut Butter Mousse Pie (above). A deliciously decadent dessert featuring a buttery graham

cracker crust, with a bottom layer of peanut butter caramel laced with whole peanuts, and filling of peanut butter mousse. All topped with a thin layer of chocolate glaze and garnished with a dollop of whipped cream and crumbled graham crackers. Another peanut butter dessert option is a scoop of fresh, smooth and creamy peanut butter ice cream. A guest favorite that is great on its own or over a warm brownie. Enjoy!

National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day! FOUNDING FARMERS RESTAURANT

Rejoice! Peanut butter lovers celebrated National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day on March 1. So in honor of National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day, we’re dedicating this Farmers Corner to peanut butter and all its deliciousness. Who knew that there was a day dedicated to peanut butter lovers everywhere? As food industry professionals, we pride ourselves on our appetite for true food and drink and peanut butter is one of our all-time favorites to feature. Turns out, there’s much to know about this protein-packed, immunity-boosting food. Here are some fun peanut butter facts from the National Peanut Board (http:// nationalpeanutboard.org): • Peanut butter is consumed in about 94 percent of U.S. households. • Peanuts account for two-thirds of all snack nuts consumed in the U.S. and contribute more than $4 billion to our economy each year. • The average peanut farm is 100 acres, and there are enough peanuts harvested in that one

March 2015

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

National Convention Set for March 14-17

Registration is open for the National Farmers Union 113th anniversary convention, which will be held March 14-17, in Wichita, Kan. The convention is the cornerstone event for the Farmers Union family. During the convention, attendees are afforded the opportunity to hear from a wide variety of speakers, tour the local area, attend educational sessions, have their voices heard on official NFU policy, as well as spend time with their fellow Farmers Union members. The convention convenes Saturday, March 14, with the opening banquet. President Roger Johnson will give his annual state of the Farmers Union address, review the year’s accomplishments and obstacles, and focus for the coming year. More information and registration is on NFU’s website at www.NFU.org/convention. You can also contact Melisa Augusto, NFU director of membership and marketing, with any questions. You are encouraged to register and reserve your hotel room early.

Obama Submits Budget Proposal

President Obama submitted his fiscal year 2016 budget proposal to Congress at the beginning of February. Included in the president’s proposal were: investments in clean energy and climate resilience, like the permanent extension of the production tax credit and investment tax credit; meaningful changes to the tax code; investments in rural development programs; and expanded educational opportunities. Other aspects of note are proposed cuts to crop insurance. The administration has proposed

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

changes to subsidies for the harvest price option and buy-up coverage for prevented planting. The president’s budget has contained these changes over the last three proposals, and each time there has been strong congressional opposition. NFU President Roger Johnson joined Senate and House leadership in insisting agriculture has already done its part to reduce the deficit. “The 2014 farm bill just included $23 billion for deficit reduction, so agriculture has clearly already done its part,” said Johnson. He urged the administration to look to other parts of the budget for additional reductions. “When Mother Nature strikes or markets fluctuate, without crop insurance, many family farmers and ranchers could be put out of business,” he said.

Renewable Fuel Standard

Family farmers, ranchers, rural communities and the biofuels industry continue to await the release of 2014, 2015 and 2016 volume targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)

from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In late January, a group of lawmakers pushed legislation to scale back parts of the RFS. The bill is an attempt to eliminate the corn-based ethanol requirement of the RFS. “The elimination of the cornbased ethanol mandate and blend cap will gut the nation’s biofuel production, strand existing investment in second generation biofuel production and hurt family farmers, ranchers and rural communities that have experienced much-needed reinvestment from this policy,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. The bill would not only be a bad step for agriculture, but also a major setback to the environment and the ability of the U.S. to manage its carbon emissions. NFU has urged Congress to reject that policy and continue to embrace the vision of a robust renewable fuels industry as a component of the nation’s overall energy portfolio. NFU also continues to press EPA to set target levels for 2014-2016.

BFI Applications Now Being Accepted

Applications for the 2015-2016 Beginning Farmer Institute are now being accepted. The annual program is open to individuals who are new to farming, in the process of transferring an operation from a relative or non-relative to themselves, or contemplating a career in farming or ranching. Interested applicants can find more information and a link to the application at www.nfu.org/ education.s

March 2015

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS Classified ad space is free and available to NDFU members. Ads will run one time only. Ads must be mailed, e-mailed or faxed. NO ADS WILL BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. Include your name, address, phone number and mail to: NDFU Classifieds PO Box 2136 • Jamestown ND 58402-2136 e-mail: bthoms@ndfu.org Fax: 701-252-6584 • 701-952-0102 The next deadline is March 13 Contact us to repeat your ad. Limit-175 words.

FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Versatile bi-directional 276 II, Cummins engine, self-leveling loader, 9,000 hrs., excellent mechanical condition, $15,000. 871-9930, Duane Rockvoy, Willow City. FOR SALE Farmall A, engine completely gone thru, new bearings, crank turned, new sleeves & pistons, new rear tires, changed to 12 volt system. 701-754-2455 or 702-6062020, Ronn Wilke, Napoleon. FOR SALE Moridge 400 bushel PTO portable grain dryer, $300. 789-1062, Randy Johnson, Aneta.

FOR SALE 2011 JD 1890, minimum till disc drill, 42 1/2’, 7 1/2” & 15” spacing, single shoot air pkg., primary monitor, JD 1910 tow behind commodity cart, 270 bu., 150/120 bu. split, 12” conveyor fill system, dual caster wheels, 5,419 acres, cart - $142,000; hopper topper for 2388 combine, electric - $400. 728-6760, Gary Lenton, Norwich. FOR SALE Two 8’ wide, 3 pt. mount Lorenz snowblowers’ IH 6x16” plow with 8’ packer’ 18’ Minneapolis chisel plow; 15’ IH chisel plow; behind the cab pickup toolbox. 597-3107 leave message, Ken Koch, Shields. FOR SALE 1992 5140 IHC, MFA, 7,400 hrs., 1,200 hrs. on engine, trans. and hyd. pump overhauled, Great Bend 660 loader, $36,000. 878-4967, Roy Schneider, Hebron. FOR SALE 1996 9600 JD combine, 930R head w/ finger reel, 2005 914 pickup head, 224 sunflower head, 2013 36’ tricycle style header trailer w/lights, $55,000; 1460 IH combine, Case IH 1010 head w/finger reel, 810 pickup head, $10,000; 8640 JD tractor w/EZ-steer and 2002 Summers 1,500 gal. 100’ boom sprayer, $40,000; 895 Versatile tractor, $22,500; 2000 Case IH Concord 3010 air hoe drill w/2300 air cart w/NH3 kit, $35,000; 1,000 gal. NH3 tanks. 764-6410, Casey Lund, Killdeer. FOR SALE Horst 36’ header trailer, like new, 15” 8 ply. tires, pulled 22 miles, paid $3,965 will sell for $3,800. 320-7391, Howard Stemen, Dickey. FOR SALE 265 gallon oval shaped fuel tank; 14’ Versatile cultivator; New Holland 114, old Hydro-swing haybine frame. 465-3550, Kenneth Seehafer, Drake. 20

March 2015

FOR SALE Trac Wacker for tractor dual wheels; 18.4 x 38 used tractor tire, first $100 takes it. 225-2187, Lacy Gutenkunst, Lefor.

FOR SALE IHC 50T baler; Schulte RS hyd. rock picker; h.d. Russell Reliance 10’ grader; 10’ h.d. V packer; 5 bottom packer w/hitch; 8 steel grain bins w/steel floor,1,000-12,400 bu.; Peterson dual rims, 18.4-34 to 232.1-30; 11’ wide push-all hay basket for DuAl loader; push-off hay basket for DuAl loader; Versatile 8”x50’ pto. auger; Feterl 6 “x36’ electric auger. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley. FOR SALE Calving pen with self catching head gate, nice; big round bale feeders; feed bunks; mineral feeder; several corral panels - 24’ and 30’ free standing, also other lengths; homemade loading chute; 6x28’ triple axle stock trailer; 6x16’ bumper hitch stock trailer. 947-5871, Darrell Anderson, Sheyenne. FOR SALE Semi water trailers for spraying; tanks, cone-bottom tanks and spray parts; used 48’ Cornhusker hopper bottom trailer; storage van trailers; containers; 48’ flatbed trailers; curtain van trailers, $2,500. 4745780, rydelltrailers.com, Richard Rydell, Fairmount. FOR SALE 1945 IH B w/59” Woods belly mower, engine kit put in by Berg Auto, new fan belt, manifold, muffler, clutch kit, rebuilt carburetor, $2,900 obo. 840-3091 or ken. votava222@gmail.com for pics, Ken Votava, Finley. FOR SALE 836 Versatile tractor, 5,188 hrs., 4 hyds., pto., 15 speed; 800 Cyclo air planter, 8 x 30 row; Kiefer stock trailer, 6’x16’; swather transport for 400 Versatile swathers; Crown rock picker, prong type. 438-2482 or 3410764, Milton Wisness, Bismarck. FOR SALE REM 2700 grain vac, always shedded, bought new in 2010; JD 930 header, Seed-eater pans; MDS pallet fork fits 82 lb. & 84 lb.; NH loader like new; liquid mineral feeder; Westfield hyd. drill fill; 8” hyd. drag auger; 2,000 gal. fuel tank; clipping chute for bulls; 2003 JD 9750 ST5 combine; 30’ Honeybee header. 626-7180, Daryl Verbitsky, Butte. FOR SALE 1250 Demco PT sprayer, 1,250 gal. tank, 90’ boom, 2012 model, Raven monitor, $25,000. 743-4227 or 898-0152, John Haugen, Roseglen. FOR SALE 1982 JD 4640 row crop, 2 WD tractor, 7,179 hrs., 14.4 x 16 front tires, 20.8 x 38 rear tires with dual hubs, 3 pt., 3 hyds., quad range shift. 465-3940 or 681-1578, Lawrence Paulus, Drake. FOR SALE 80’ AgShield pull-type sprayer, 1,200 gal. tank, power fold, hyd. lift shields, shedded; 1963 Chevy truck w/14’ box and newer hoist, diamond fert. box and endgate drill fill; Foremost self-catch cattle headgate and head table; Ritchie plastic water fountain. 529-4421 or 720-1808, Bob Finken, Douglas.

FOR SALE 40’ Concord air-seeder, $8,000; 750 gal. fertilizer tank on trailer with ground drive pump & hyd. agitating pump, $1,000; Concord hyd. soil probe, $750; JD rotary hoe, $500; 21’ JD drill, $500; 24’ JD drill $500; 1978 Vers. 400 self-propelled windrower, $1,500; complete straw spreader for JD 8820 combine, $250; 30’ 3 pt. anhydrous applicator, $500; 45’ pulltype anhydrous applicator, $500; 4 wheel windrower transport for self-propelled windrower, $250; Velmar 160 granular applicator w/cover crop seed roller, $500; 750 gal. sq. fuel tank, $750; 65’ x 8” Federal pto. grain auger, $600; set of 6 front end weights w/bracket to fit JD 30 or 40 Series tractors, $750; 45’ rod weeder to mount on tool bar with 3 hyd. motors, $750; new 9’ JD sickle bar w/guards and sickle, will fit 350 or 450 JD mower, $500. 373-5480, Donald Jorissen, Valley City. FOR SALE 2005 Rowse double mower with NH heads, good condition, $8,000. 447-2604 leave message, Lyle Brewster, Mercer. FOR SALE 970 Case tractor, CAH, 3 pt.; 1979 S 1824 IH tandem disc; 19’ aluminum box hoist; 1974 Dodge 600, 16’ Knapheide box and hoist, 36,000 mi.; 24’ 490 IH tandem disc. 549-3269, Bill Hardy, Walhalla.

FOR SALE Misc. parts for N6 or N7 Gleaner combine - filters, belts, sickle sections and sickle guards; MacDon 3600 Prairie Star Model, pull-type swather; Cenex 2,200 bu. grain bin, excellent shape, to be moved; truck mounted drill fill auger. 263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau. FOR SALE Model 8500, 45’ IHC air drill, motor drive, nice shape, $6,500; Set - 30’ Morris M-10 disc drills, good condition, $675; 22’ IHC bean header with Sund pkup., good condition, $400; 4 new 1/2 hp., 3 ph. electric motors, still in box, $30 ea.; 930 Case motor, setup for irrigation pump, never used since being rebuilt, $1,000; Industrial vertical coring machine with self-contained Ford motor, for drilling 6” and 12” holes, test drilling for water or gravel, putting in posts, etc. 447-2467, Russell Makeeff, Mercer.

FOR SALE MacDon FD70 35’ flexhead, JD hookups, $34,500; 2004 Peterbilt 379 C15, nice truck, $42,500; Case IH 4375 terragator, airbox, 60’ boom, Cat. motor, $45,000; 1980 Brigadier w/flatbed & water tanks, ex. unit, $6,900; Int. H wide front w/quick hitch, $2,400; JD 787 air seeder cart, 230 bu. w. or w/o. 41’ 1060 air disk drill, $10,000. 549-3420, Shane Heck, Cavalier. FOR SALE Flexicoil packer, 8’ wide, made in Canada, like new; Melroe #903 plow, 6 bottom, 16”, h.d. with reset mechanism. 527-2656, Esther Kuehn, Mott.

FOR SALE New Holland 851 round baler, new upper chains, hyd. tie, 1,000 pto., field ready, $1,250; JD 535 round baler, auto tie, hyd. pickup lift, 1.000 pto., good belts, monitor, $3,400; Go Kart with roll cage, 5 hp., kid size, excellent condition, $800; good hood fits 1964, ‘65 or ‘66 Chevy, $100. 320-8543, Kevin Raugutt, Edgeley. Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

FOR SALE New Holland 114 mower conditioner for parts. 263-1427, Terry Keller, Bantry.

WANTED Hay sweep with push-off, w/steel teeth. 789-0966, Allen Gruman, Cooperstown.

WANTED 806, 1206, 1256, 856, 1466 IH tractors; John Deere 5010, 5020, 6030; MM 1350, 1355; others also, running or not. 6282130, Jerry Lumley, Stanley. WANTED Used 1475 New Holland 16’ haybine in good condition. 422-3754 or 426-8798, Jim Blotske, Selfridge. WANTED IH tractor for parts or otherwise, 544 or 656. 263-1427, Terry Keller, Bantry.

WANTED Owners manual, cab and 18.4 x 30 tires for 1977 Model 6600 Ford tractor. 928753-8925, Arnold Seibel, Harvey.

WANTED Self-catching livestock chute in good working condition, does not have to have a palpation cage as it will be used for 4-H calves. 626-1492, Leo Thomas, Velva. WANTED Small square hay baler, must be in good shape; self-propelled swather with 20’ grain head, cab & air; drill transport for 2 - 10’ JD #9350 grain drills. 597-3107 leave message, Ken Koch, Shields.

WANTED 6” openers for Morris Seedrite grain drill. 833-4600, Craig McCormack, Des Lacs.

FEED AND SEED FOR SALE Large round bales of alfalfa, alfalfa mix, millet, and prairie hay. 537-5290 early mornings, Adam Bachmeier, Rugby. FOR SALE Feed oats, test weight 42lbs./bu., very clean, $3. per bushel, have semi, can deliver. 256-2188 or 370-8986, Leon Hiltner, Wales. FOR SALE Large round alfalfa, brome hay bales. 465-3550, Kenneth Seehafer, Drake.

FOR SALE HRSW seeds – Elgin, Barlow, MS Stingray; durum – MS Dart (new), yellow peas – Agassiz, Jetset, NuTech and Legacy corn, soybeans, alfalfa and sunflowers; salt tolerant grass and alfalfas; also cover crops, seed treatments and inoculants. 529-4421 or 720-1808, Bob Finken, Douglas.

FOR SALE Large round bales, alfalfa/broom, prairie hay made by NH 688 baler with thick plastic twine, could load. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields. FOR SALE Horse, beef quality, large round bales alfalfa/brome, brome alfalfa, most no rain, $65 - $70/ton. 225-2187, Lacy Gutenkunst, Lefor.

FOR SALE Hard Red Spring wheat seed - Registered Barlow and Elgin, delivery & totes available. 739-0191, Brian Ludwig, New Rockford. Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1984 Datsun Sentra, new tires, 4 dr., excellent shape, good work car. 870-0817, Elmer Lauf, Hazen. FOR SALE 1976 Mercedes Benz 3000, $1,500; 230 Cummins D engine, $!,500; 238 Mack engine, $1,500; 1948 Buick Straight 8 engine, $500; 1854 Olds Rocket 88 engine, $500; 1936 Pontiac Straight 8, short block engine, $150; 1946 Studebaker short block engine, $150; 1964 Corvair engine and transaxel, $250. 373-5480, Donald Jorissen, Valley City. FOR SALE 1989 Mercury Marquis; 1985 F350 Ford dually, diesel. 263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau.

FOR SALE 2004 Venture van with 85,600 miles in good condition. Can e-mail or text photos. 206-0082, Marcus Fischer, Bowman.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE AGSCO air seed treater, $200, all complete, includes manual, AGSCO air tank, cradle for DB Green tank, bracket for truck and 5 gallons of DB Green. 789-1062, Randy Johnson, Aneta.

FOR SALE Tri-Star propane char-broiler grill, 36” wide, stand included; Vulcan commercial range, 4 burner, 36” flat top grill, double oven, propane; both items recently used in restaurant. 226-8321 call or text, Richard Gross, Napoleon. FOR SALE Graziers - books – Intensive Grazing Management; Smith Holistic Resource Management; Savory manual of the Grasses of the US; Hitchcock. 349-4179, ddhviste@drtel.net, Douglas Hvistendahl, Ellendale.

FOR SALE Convention delegate badge for the United Norwegian Lutheran Church of America, held on June 9-17, 1915 in Minneapolis, $100 obo. 541-1699, Chet Larson, Fargo.

FOR SALE Studebaker hood for a 1949-1953 truck, off white - eggshell color, with the original hood ornament and name plate! 628-6949 or 314-640-1884, Mike Ryan, Stanley.

FOR SALE Horse collars & related items; 45 used utility poles, 35’-50’ long; used tires - 6 Bridgestone, 245-75-R16; 4 - 225-60-R16 M&S; 4 used Firestone P265-70-R16 M&S; 3 Michelin P225-60-R16 M&S; 4 Hercules Ultra 215-70-R15; 2 Co-op Ready Grip G78-15 MS studded, less than 2,000 mi.; 2 Firestone L78-15 studded; 2 P25-75 R15 Cooper Weathermaster studded, less than 2,000 mi.; 2 P125-75 R15 Goodyear studded on Ford wheels; 2 P215-75 R15 Sears Snow Handlers; small cement mixer. 584-2025, Elmer Lemke, Bentley. FOR SALE Demco tow bar with attachments, $100; travel trailer equalizer hitch, 1,000#, like new, $130. 838-4326, Leroy Beyl, Minot.

FOR SALE German Wirehair pointer puppies, will be ready to go March 16, 2015, 5 females - $550 ea., 4 males - $550. 799-8634, Todd Berg, Chaffee.

FOR SALE Antique 1940s drum table, round with leather top, curved legs, Lion’s claw feet, Lion’s head pulls in drawers and doors: Stever radio, tube type, record player, must see, $650; 2 authentic handmade Ballady dance costumes - 1 is royal blue, trimmed in gold, 1 is gold trimmed in gold, original cost $250 ea., will sell for $125 ea. 628-6949 or 314-640-1884, Rose LaRocco Ryan, Stanley.

FOR SALE Arctic Cat Prowler snowmobile, very low mileage; average size V-belt driven cement mixer; “Van Vetter” 300-400 gallon milk tank. 597-3730, larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields. FOR SALE Chevy 235 cu. in. engine, runs good, complete with radiator and 4 spd. trans. in 1955 1 1/2 ton truck cab; parts from 1987 Chev. 70 Series truck, 5 spd. fuller, Eaton 2 spd. differential, complete 366 fuel injected engine with ECM and wiring harness, engine is stuck, any reasonable offers or may trade for old tractor. 218779-2274, James Tangen, Northwood.

FOR SALE 4 wheel trailer, rubber tires, 4’ x 10’, 3 bench seats, seats 6 people, pull with tractor or 2 horses, $750. 947-5424 evenings, Paul Hungness, New Rockford.

FOR SALE Home loomed rugs of any color; Resistol Beaver triple X hat, dark color, size 7 3/8, like new; CP exercise bike; Old Style beer brand bar sign; Dell printer; Portable basketball hoop on wheels. 263-1206, Lathan Romsos, Bottineau. FOR SALE 560 gallon bulk fuel tank with Gas Boy pump; 2 18.4x38 Goodyear tractor tires, good lugs. 578-4306, Clayton Patterson, Donnybrook.

FOR SALE 2 twin captain beds, shaker style, natural wood color, 1 used with drawers on 1 side, the other new with drawers on both sides; stainless steel water distiller; GE electric self-cleaning stove, almond color, with electric touch pad $ 220 cord; Whirlpool stainless steel diswasher; 4 dome tops off International Pro-Star semi’s. 693-2371, Rick Frueh, Martin.

FOR SALE Toy collection: Harley Davidson Franklin Mint bikes & smaller pieces, 1 Ken doll, 3 Barbie dolls and her HD bike; Ertl banks, 1/64 toys: semis–Super Valu, Ag chem, Cenex tanker, 1993 Fargo Farm Show, JD Freightliner; 1/16 toys: Steiger Cougar, Fordson Model F, JD 8820 combine w/2 headers, header trailer; Farmall A collector’s edition; Oliver 1800, restored, JD tandem disc w/lift wheels, Dyersville Iowa; anitque glass lite globes, various sizes; 4 pieces Rosemeade pottery; Fostoria Century platter; 3 1/2x4 1/2 silhouette picture; 10”x24” white salt-glazed jug; Hamilton-type set drawer; 11”x17” metal medicine cabinet w/ mirror; women’s square dance clothes, size 10-12. 524-1395 or 789-1112. Carol Mikkelson, Aneta. March 2015

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS LIVESTOCK FOR SALE Red Angus bulls, yearlings and 2 yr. olds, out of top Canadian and U.S. bloodlines, Cowboy Cut, Honky Tonk, Direct Travel and Net Worth bulls. 845-3020 Jim Stevens, 845-4925 Kory, leave message, Rusty Spur Red Angus, Valley City. FOR SALE Registered Percheron stud colts coming yearlings; also yearling filly. 226-3412, LaVern Frankfurth, Bismarck.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Generation 3 Kirby vacuum cleaner with attachments, $150. 845-1375, David Berntson, Valley City. FOR SALE The North Dakota Farmers Union State Office has a variety of items for sale that are imprinted with the official NDFU logo. Choose from T-shirts, sweatshirts, tanks, notepads, coffee cups and more! Prices vary depending on item. For more information, contact Marsha Skattum at mskattum@ndfu.org or call 800-3668331 ext. 105. FOR SALE Troybilt tiller - electric start, forward and reverse, 32” front blade, 20” rear tiller; 8.3 x 16 tractor tire; 2 - 6 x 12 front tractor tires. 928-753-8925, Arnold Seibel, Harvey.

WANTED Advertising signs; old gas pumps, old metal oil cans; crocks, jugs with advertising; old advertising clocks or thermometers; old road signs, traps, shell boxes, guns, tokens, marbles, anvils, old pop or old medicine bottles; old tin coffee cans; ND pottery, carnival glass. 220-5746 or 2580420, Val Ganje, Bismarck. WANTED Prairie dog hunters to come and hunt on my land, make reservations now. 597-3730 or larryn@westriv.com, Larry Nagel, Shields. WANTED Older metal pedal tractors - JD, Oliver, International, New Holland, etc. 833-2352 or 839-2424, Greg Simonson, Minot. WANTED Need 4 tile, vinyl, 4”x4”, to fix old shower stall, prefer white, accept any color. 7486602, Delores Chase, Hazen.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Condo, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, electric heat, furnished, double garage. 870-0817, Elmer Lauf, Hazen.

COUNTY CALENDAR

Burleigh – March 23 • Family Fun Night • Tumbleweed Bar & Grill, Lincoln • 5:30-8:00 p.m. • supper, snacks, prizes & games • RSVP to Denise Brown: 471-7368 or dbrown@ndfu.org or Arlene Olson: 943-2672 or dnaolson@bektel.com Logan – March 30 • Board meeting Rick’s Cabin, Napoleon • 7:30 p.m. Richland – March 22 • Fairmount Local • 2 p.m. • Fairmount Fire Dist. Hall

WANTED The water container for a Med-Tech hi-speed water distiller. 445-7427, Doris Carlson, Mandan. WANTED Combine owner/operator to run with me for fall 2015 harvest. 230-1203, Dean Bittner, Clyde. WANTED Used 8 - 14.5 MH mobile home tires, must be good useable tires. 246-6469, Randy Hochstetler, Rolette. WANTED Savage Model 99 lever action deer rifle. 263-1427, Terry Keller, Bantry.

March 2015

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

Message from

the President BY NDFU PRESIDENT MARK WATNE

I was asked by a Farmers Union county board to write an article on agriculture as it relates to farm and ranch investments, potential returns, and challenges surrounding profitability. This is a much more complicated subject than the average food consumer may realize. Farming and ranching is both a business and a lifestyle. I say this because in most operations, the life of the farmer and rancher is determined by the style of agriculture they choose, the weather, the markets, input costs, planting time, harvest time, and many factors that simply are out of their control. Today’s family farmers and ranchers are very sophisticated and utilize a number of business tools and equipment to minimize their risks. In recent years, agriculture has enjoyed great success. This past year, however, appears to be a transition year from positive returns for farmers to the point where positive cash flows this spring will be challenging. At the same time, we are seeing well-deserved profits for cattle ranchers, as the price for beef remains high. This economic situation is not uncommon in agriculture, where one sector is profitable while another is financially challenged. The positive news is that we were able to pass a farm bill that is quite good and includes crop insurance and disaster programs for livestock. These tools are partly how farmers and ranchers minimize risk with variables they can’t control. The best way to understand farm profitability is to use parity pricing, which is a price paid to farmers that was designed to give them the same real income they had between 1910 and 1914. For example, a farmer today should receive $18 per bushel for wheat to achieve parity rather than

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org

the current $5 per bushel. Farm profitability would be much easier if producers received parity prices. But $18 wheat would drive up the price that consumers pay for bread and cereal. In order to remain competitive and survive, family farms and ranches must also invest in equipment, technology, and services, just like other businesses. Owning planting and harvesting equipment with the latest technology is not a luxury or comparable to owning recreational vehicles. It is farmers and ranchers investing in their business to stay competitive and to be more efficient to succeed in a marketplace that is extremely volatile. From a consumer’s perspective, everyone should be glad that America has a great ability to produce food. The farm program is necessary because we create large supplies as compared

to demand that keeps food costs low. U.S. consumers spend less for food as a percentage of disposable income (approximately 10 percent down from 23 percent in the 1920s) than anywhere in the world. U.S. retail shelves are full of food, unlike many other countries. Abundant food, just like water and energy, is in the interest of national security. This is often taken for granted in our country. Agriculture is a major driver in North Dakota’s economy. It has been our economic foundation and will always be the bedrock. It is important for all of our society that farmers and ranchers have fair prices, a good farm bill and good crop insurance program. These tools keep food prices reasonable, food and energy supplies abundant, and a diverse group of family farms and ranches on the land. s

March 2015

Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America, ND Division

PERIODICALS – POSTAGE PAID

1415 12th Ave SE PO Box 2136 Jamestown, ND 58402

Click here and get the latest legislative news through e-mail or go to:

www.ndfu.org

You need an UMBRELLA ...

... if you ha v young driv e ers

ve asset

ha ... if you

... if you have a family business and/or partnership

... if you are nearing retirement ... if you have large equipment on public roads

Union Farmer • www.ndfu.org