Discount Farm Fasteners & Hardware Program ORDER FORM HEXAGON BOLT ~ Quantity per package GRADE # 5 \~OARSE THREAD PLATED Price per package He)( Lock Flat LGT 1-1/2 2 2-1/2 3 3-1/2 4 5 6 Nuts Washer Washer DIA 40 35 30 25 20 20 10 10 10 150 150 150 1/4 1.16 1.32 1.43 1.49 1.43 1.71 1.21 1.38 1.64 1.60 .94 1.27 40 35 30 25 20 20 10 10 10 150 150 150 5/16 1.71 1.98 2.09 2.05 2.04 2.53 1.54 2.09 2.64 2.53 1.05 1.60 1 I 40 30 20 20 10 10 12 10 8 120 100 100 3/8 2.42 2.48 2.04 2,42 1.43 1.76 2.48 2.59 3.08 2.97 1.38 1.60 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 8 6 60 60 60 7/16 1.82 1.16 1.43 1.71 1.98 2.26 2.59 2.64 2.37 3.08 1.27 1.60 10 10 10 10 10 10 8 6 5 50 50 50 1/2 1.21 '1.71 1.87 2.26 2.59 2.92 2.64 2.42 2.59 2.64 1.54 2.37 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 4 25 25 25 5/8 1.27 1.49 1.76 2.04 2.31 2.59 2.59 3.03 3.03 1.43 2.37 5 5 5 5 5 4 4 24 18 18 3/4 2.15 2.42 3.14 3.19 3.52 3.19 3.85 4.35 1.65 2.53 DIRECTIONS FOR ORDERING: CARRIAGE BOLT Quantity per package To order, simply indicate the number of Price per package COARSE THREAD PLATED packages desired by placing a 1, 2 or 3, etc., in LGT the proper square for the size needed. (Note: You DIA 1.1/2 2.1/2 4 must order full package quantities only.) Then cir- 50 50 50 50 50 25 25 25 cle the square that you have marked. Be careful to 1/4 1.40 1.95 2.25 2.65 3.00 2.15 2.55 3.07 mark the correct square on this full-page order 50 50 50 50 25 25 25 25 form. Fill out the shipping information below and 5/16 2.40 2.95 3.55 4.27 2.59 3.31 4.03 4.75 enter the total cost for each kind of hardware you 25 25 25 25 25 10 10 10 ordered. 3/8 1.95 2.25 2.75 3.00 3.72 1.92 2.35 2.76 SHIPPING INFORMATION - Please print clearly. 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Name 1.39 1.65 1.92 2.16 2.51 3.31 3.84 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Address 1.80 2.16 2.47 2.83 3.48 4.08 4.75 Zip Send your order to: Hi-Grade Nut & Bolt Com- Phone pany, 1490 Maplelawn S.W., Wyoming, Mich. Total Cost of Hexagon Bolts $ 49509. Your check, made payable to Hi-Grade Nut & Bolt Company, must accompany the order. Total Cost of Hex Nuts $ Freight prepaid on orders of $50 or more. For more information call 616-538-9900 or Total Cost of Lock Washers $ 616-532-9000. Total Cost of Flat Washers $ A complete catalog of available hardware prod- Total Cost of Carriage Bolts $ ucts (drill bits, hacksaw blades, bins, etc.) can be obtained from your county Farm Bureau secretary TOTAL ORDER $ at no cost. Tax (if applicable) $ GRAND TOTAL $ FaRm~ MEMBERS ONLY BUreaU FEBRUARY 1986 FARM NEWS- VOL. 65 NO.2 THE COVER Larry Priest of Berrien County, celebrates following the an- A publication nouncement of his win in the of the AFBF Discussion Meet. He will receive free use of a Deutz- Michigan Allis tractor for one year. Photo By Cathy J. Kirvan Farm Bureau In this issue: SPECIAL AFBF ANNUAL MEETING REPORT: Excellence Takes State to the Top! Cheers from proud members filled the convention center when MFB Vice President Jack Laurie accepted the state's program awards of 13 gold stars and one silver star 8 Political Dangers, Uncertainties Pre-Packaged With Federal Help In his final report to FB members at the organization's annual meeting, Robert Delano warned against the dangers of federal "help" for agriculture 9 AFBF Conferences and General Sessions High powered speakers and experts in commodities and economics addressed FB members attending the convention conferences and general sessions 10 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Agrinomic Update - page 18 Legislative Review - page 6 Discussion Topic - page 19 Front and Center - page 13 Farm Bureau Market Place - page 23 Rural Exchange - page 14 Michigan farm News RURAL LIVING: I'1lchlgan Farm News Rural Living is published monthly. on the first day. by the ~1ichigan t"arnl Bureau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Mich. 48917. Post Office I~o:>.30960 (lip 48909): telephone Lansing 517-323- 7000. extension 510. SUBSCRIf>TION f>RICE: $1.50 per year to members. included in annual dues. $3.00 per year non. members in Michigan $5.00 per year non.members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13. 1923 as Michigan Farm News. name changed to I'1lchlgan Farm News Rurall.lvlng Dee. I. 1981. Mailed second class postage. permit pending. at Lansing. ~1ichigan. ~lake change of address requests. in writing. to Rural Lh ing of. fices. Lansing. EDITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor and Business Manager: Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor: ~larcia Ditchie Associate Editor' Cathy J. I\irvan. Associate Editor. OffiCERS: Michigan Farm Bureau President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; Vice I'resident. John Laurie. Cass City' Administrative Director Robert Braden: Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Matthew Butzin; Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District I. ~larlin Outman. Constantine: District 2. Lowell Eisenmann. Blissfield: District 3. James Sayre. Belleville: District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia: District 5. ~lark Smuts. Charlotte; District 6 John Laurie. Cass City: District 7. Larry Snider. l1art; District 8. Lyle LeCronier. t'reeland: District 9. Donald Nugent. Franl\fort. District 10 ~largaret I\artes Westlhanch: District II. Robert Wahmhoff. Baraga. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: David Conl\lin Corunna: Michael Pridgeon, Montgomery' Waync Wood ~larlclle. fARM BUREAU WOMEN: Dianc Horning. Manchester. fARM BUREAU YOUNG fARMERS: Gary Skinner Ithaca. You're the Tops! *-- There were some proud mo- earned is a good time, I think, All of us are well aware of the ments for me and for all the to remem ber that the success many challenges we, as farm- Michigan Farm Bureau members of our organization is possible ers, are facing. I hope we'll use attending the AFBF annual only because of a solid founda- this moment of glory to reaf- meeting in Atlanta. The first tion built on strong county firm our belief - and share that came when our Young Farmer Farm Bureaus. The people who belief with others - that work- contestant, Larry Priest, won make up our county Farm Bu- ing together through Farm Bu- the national Discussion Meet. reaus are our most important reau, we can and will effectively Then came the awards program resource. meet those challenges. and MFB was recognized as the The AFBF has no individual We have just completed our top state in the nation. How I members; it has member states. grass roots policy development wished that every member who Our MFB, the top state in the process. The policies we have played a role in earning our 13 federation, has no individual adopted at the local, state and gold stars and one silver star members; it has member coun- national levels provide us with could have been there to share ties. Only the county Farm what we believe are the best, in the glory. Bureaus have individual mem- long-term solutions to our prob- bers and it's the involvement of lems. Now we must invest all of these members at the grass- our available people resources roots level that makes our toward executing those policies. This national organization effective. It is this effective member- recognition was the It's individual members who involvement process that serve on county committees makes our organization the true result of year-long and membership drives, 'individ- voice of agriculture. ual members who give their We <;Ieserveour moment of activities involving time and abilities as county FB glory but we have much work to directors, individual members do and can't afford too much PHmembers in every who contribute to the mainte- time for "star-gazing." Let's put nance of this problem-solving those stars in their proper per- Michigan county. tool we call Farm Bureau, that spective. They are not laurels give us the power to get things upon which to rest. They are done. well earned tributes to your ef- When you carried out those forts in 1985 and motivators for I extend my sincere congratu- successful, award-winning pro- us to remain the best in 1986. lations because it was you who grams, I'm sure that national Most of all, they are evidence earned those awards for pro- recognition was not your moti- that "Farm Bureau - Together gram excellence. This national vator. You invested your time, We Win" is more than just a recognition was the result of efforts and God-given talents to year-long activities involving FB slogan; it's a proven formula for benefit agriculture and those in- continued achievement. members in every Michigan volved in our industry. It was county. It resulted from your in- your dedication and willingness vestment of time, effort and to accept the responsibility of talents toward achieving the helping to solve agriculture's goals of our organization that problems, through your organi- made us a winner. Elton R. Smith, President zation, that made our Farm While we're basking in the Michigan Farm Bureau Bureau tops in the nation. glory of all the many stars we 4 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 AT&T and Farm Bureau "A Partnership Farm Bureau members can count on" _v- r _ / .- yo-- Allal _ .. / For information on how you can receive a 30% discount on AT&T computers, please fill out the coupon below or dial 1-800-247-1212, extension 99. Software for farm, home and business available at member discount prices. Call collect 616-388-3000. -------------------- CLIPHERE ~----------------_, Yes, I want to know more about AT&T special discount to Farm Bureau Farmers. I am a: o Student o I would like to be contacted by Approximate budget o Farmer/producer o Other AT&T Marketing promptly for the computer Commodities: _ o I have a computer _ o I am planning to make a buying o Less than $1,000.00 Model o I am considering buying a decision for a computer o $1,000.00-$3,000.00 o Commodity Trader o In the next month o S3,OOO.()().$5,OOO.oo computer o Educator o In the next 3 months o More than $5,000.00 o I am a Farm Bureau member o In the next 6 months Name _ MAil TO: Add res 5. _ AT&T City State Zip _ Attn: Paul E. Split 781 Kenmoor Southeast Phone (__ ) County _ Grand Rapids, MI 49506 ----------------------------------------- LEGISLATIVE REVIEW Congress Attempts Budget Balancing Act projects and activities (PPAs)" rowers who are $100 or more Gramm-Rudman Balanced that are targeted for reduction. behind on payments. Borrowers Budget Requirements - No The conference report on FY '86 receiving letters will have 30 concrete information has been agriculture appropriations in- days to respond. Action on the released yet concerning the ef- dicates that among the pro- delinquent accounts will be fects of the Gramm-Rudman grams subject to budget reduc- handled on a case-by-case basis balanced budget requirements tions would be specific research in county FmHA offices. on agriculture. The USDAGener- locations, individual flood Options for avoiding fore- al Counsel and USDABudget Of- prevention projects and opera- closure include reamortizing, fice are continuing to review tional watershed projects, in- rescheduling, a five-year defer- the new law and assess its im- dividual state, district and ral with no interest on principal pact on agriculture. county offices of FmHA and in- or lower loan rates if the bor- dividual state and county ASCS rower qualifies. Farmers who ig- offices. nore the notice and do not re- spond within the 30-day period lose all rights to appeal FmHA An additional $11. 7 billion in FmUA Loan Notices - The action. spending cuts are required to court-ordered, 22-month mora- According to Michigan FmHA, be made by March I, 1986. torium on foreclosures of delin- the agency expects to mail These cuts are to be divided quent FmHA loans was lifted 1200 letters to delinquent bor- evenly between defense and Dee. 31, 1985, when new rules rowers in the state. non-defense areas with the ex- assuring proper notification to ception of exempt items like borrowers about their rights and repayment options were ac- Farm Program Annouce- Social Security, and it is specu- cepted by the court. The new ment - See Discussion Topic lated that an across-the-board rules included so-called "intent "Farm Bill" on page 19 for cut of 6% will be needed to to take adverse action" letters details. come up with this amount. Cuts in agriculture, as well as other which were expected to be out budget areas, will be quite by the end of January. The let- specific as to the "programs, ters are being sent to all bor- MFB President Smith Agricultu re- Legisla tive Reception - Legislators re- Praises Block's USDA Service ceived their traditional winter welcome from represen tatives John Block, who announced his resignation as secretary of the of Michigan agricultural organi- U.S. Department of Agriculture last month, was praised by MFB zations Jan. 8 at the President Elton Smith for "the fortitude he has displayed during Agriculture-Legislative Recep- one of the most difficult periods ever experienced by American tion at the Lansing Civic Center. agriculture." Smith added that "those of us in Farm Bureau Speakers at the gathering in- have enjoyed a good relationship with him during his years of cluded Gov. James Blanchard, service to our industry. Because he was a farmer himself, he who announced the appoint- communicated well with other farmers and understood their ment of MMPAPresident Elwood concerns and needs." Kirkpatrick to the Michigan Smith said it would take a very strong, knowledgeable, Commission of Agriculture, and dedicated believer in the future of U.S. agriculture to fill the role MSUPresident John DiBiaggio. of Agriculture Secretary and he said he hoped the Reagan ad- Special recognition was also ministration will recognize the n'~ed for someone with those given to Sen. Harry Gast Jr. of qualifications when a replacement is named. Possible can- St. Joseph. Gast was presented didates for the post include former USDAofficial Richard Lyng, with a plaque honoring him for U.S.Trade Representatiye Clayton Yeutter, and immediate past distinguished service to Michi- president of the AFBF Robert Delano. gan agriculture. The award is 6 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 made each year by the event's sponsoring organization, the Michigan Agriculture Confer- ence. Uniform Commercial Code - This is one of the bills signed into law during the last few days of December. S.B. 362, : now known as Public Act 199, amends the Uniform Commer- cial Code. This bill was the sub- ject of considerable discussion, numerous amendments, and a great deal of work by the Legislature. (For details on how the new law will affect com- modity sales, see Agrinomic Up- date on page 18.) Michigan's cherry hospitality made plenty of friends at the AFBF an- nual meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, where MACMADirect Marketing representatives served Michigan's premiere fruit crop by the scoopful. Water Resources Study It was a fitting way to remind FB members across the nation that Commission - Sen. Nick February is Cherry Month. Smith (R-Addison) has intro- duced S.B. 629, a bill that Livestock and Wildlife who are exposed to chemicals would add two public members Shining - Two bills dealing in the workplace. The bill now to the IS-member Water with "shining" have been in- moves to the Senate for con- Resources Study Commission. troduced, but neither have been sideration. The commission was recently considered in committee. H.B. appointed by the governor and 4847 would amend the Michi- state legislative leaders. Recreational Trespass Act gan Penal Code to prohibit shin- Passage of the bill would pro- - H.B. 4576, which would ing of private property, such as vide an opportunity for an ag amend the Recreational Tres- buildings and livestock. H.B. representative to be appointed pass Act, had only one hearing 4873 would amend the Michi- to the study group. Agriculture in the first half of the session. gan Game Law and would fur- is a major consumptive user The amendments would expand ther curtail wildlife shining, and the farm community was the definition of trespass, which is currently prohibited totally overlooked in the first strengthen landowner rights, from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. round of appointments. and would provide more protec- The commission has until the tion against nuisance suits. fall of 1987 to complete its Swine Imports - H.B.5025 study and recommend a com- would prohibit the import of Insurance Premium Tax - swine treated with chloram- prehensive state water manage- H.B. 4702, which would tax in- phenical. ment plan to the Legislature. surance premiums of domestic In addition to the' above bills, (Michigan-based) companies, there are numerous proposals Right to Know - This bill continues to be debated. Inter- which are under consideration (H.B. 4111) is among those ested parties are working to or pending, e.g., imposing a which carryover from the first reach a compromise on this mandatory deposit on wine half of the session. The bill, controversial bill. The results of coolers, developing pesticide which passed the House on Jan. an insurance premium tax management strategy, amend- 15 by a vote of 99 to 0, would would mean higher insurance ing the Plat Act, and ongoing mandate that employees work- costs for policyholders, particu- discussions on taxes and ap- ing with chemicals be advised larly for farmers _WhO must propriations. of the hazards and treatment. maintain many types of insur- Some exemptions for agricul- ance. ture are included. The bill has Lansing legislative topics are wide ranging implications for reviewed by Ronald E. Nelson, all employers and employees MFB legislative counsel. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 7 Excellence Takes state to the Top! Michigan's Young Farmers, attending the AF8F Annual Meeting, were really in a celebrating mood when program awards and a national Discussion Meet title made their state the tops in the nation I Michigan Farm Bureau topped ACRES,and special project self an award-winning country all states in the AFBF galaxy of (Farm Bill '85). A silver star was music and comedy star. awards, winning 13 of a possi- awarded for national affairs. ble 17 individual gold star Other top award winners, one Berrien County Young awards for 1985 membership in each of six categories based Farmer Wins National Title growth and program excellence. on membership size, were: New MFB's representative in the Michigan also received one Mexico Farm and Livestock Bu- AFBF Discussion Meet at Atlan- silver star. reau, 10 gold and two silver ta, Georgia, Jan. 12, captured The awards were presented at stars; Illinois Agricultural Asso- first place honors and the use a special program during the ciation, nine gold and two sil- of a Deutz-Allis tractor for one AFBF annual meeting. Elton ver; Pennsylvania Farmers' As- year. Larry Priest of Galien in Smith, sharing award presenta- sociation, seven gold and five Berrien County talked his way tion honors with AFBF President silver; Virginia Farm Bureau to victory in quarter-finals, Robert Delano, was privileged Federation received six gold semi-finals and finals competi- to make the prestigious award and one silver star, while Maine tion against state title holders to MFB Vice President Jack Farm Bureau Association's from other Farm Bureaus across Laurie. plaque contained six gold stars. the nation. Michigan was recognized for A total of 44 state Farm Bu- Topic of the final discussion gold star achievement in reaus achieved membership meet was "What is the future of membership, commodity ac- gain this year to qualify for antibiotics, pesticides, and tivities, FB Women, Young awards in all program and ser- related chemicals for agricultur- Farmers, information, local gov- vice-to-member areas. al use?" Contestants addressed ernmental affairs, marketing, Entertainment for this year's the questions: To what extent political education, policy program was by Roy Clark, him- development rural health, agri- culture in the classroom, FB 8 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 do chemicals from fields and state and national contest by gathered in day-to-day living livestock facilities contribute to reading and reviewing farm with farming and in Farm Bu- contamination of ground water publications such as the Farm reau," said Priest, who operates supplies? Who will bear the cost Journal and Successful Farm- a 180-acre farm specializing in of correcting contaminated ing, and by talking with repre- corn and soybeans. water supplies? How can sentatives of the farm chemical Priest is the first national farmers continue to justify industry. He extended special Discussion Meet winner from chemical use in ther operations thanks to MFB staff specialists Michigan since 1969 when an- and maintain public confidence in the Public Affairs Division for other Berrien County contes- in the safety of agricultural the resource assistance provid- tant, John Nye, took first place products? ed to him in preparing for the in the AFBF competition at Kan- Priest said he prepared for the national contest. "Of course a sas City. lot of information can only be Political Dangers, Uncertainties Pre-Packaged with Federal Uelp, Delano Warns "For the first time, program Looking ahead, Delano cited loan rates are tied to market farm credit, tax reform, trade prices. This is a vital require- expansion, and a balanced fed- ment of any responsible farm eral budget as key issues to be legislation and will eventually addressed by farmers in 1986. lead to more market competi- "For these and many other tiveness and better prices. We reasons, this is a critical elec- avoided repeated attempts to tion year. This is the time for place tight, mandatory produc- agriculture to identify our tion and marketing controls on political opponents and to sup- agriculture," he said. port our friends," he said. Farm people have grown used Delano said that he believes to congressional delays and the next few years will set the "political logrolling" on farm course of American agriculture program issues, Delano said, for the rest of the century and but never before while under challenged farmers to set that the same intense economic course themselves. pressures. "If farmers and ranchers "We lost money as commodity choose not to set this course, markets became even more there are others who will gladly volatile, and as the new harvest do it for us," Delano said. came in while farm program "Liberal politicians will do it. legislation was undecided. Church activists have been try- "We started the year deter- ing to set farm policy for many In his final report to FB mem- mined to gain more recognition years. The environmentalists bers at the organization's an- for markets as the key to im- have their own agenda for nual meeting in Atlanta, Robert proved farm and ranch income. American agriculture. Magazine Delano warned against the "po- We were determined to do our and newspaper editorial writers litical dangers and uncertain- part in keeping program costs think they have the answers to ties that come pre-packaged" down to remove inflation and farm problems and labor union with help from the federal reduce the deficit," he said. "It leaders are anxious to get con- government. soon became evident that we trol of food production and food In a review of 1985 activities, were almost alone in these con- prices. he said that while FB's efforts to cerns. The progress we should "Farm Bureau has earned a pass a "constructive, long-term have made toward gaining new reputation as the reasonable farm program of reasonable income from the marketplace voice of American agriculture. cost and effectiveness" were degenerated into months of Now is the time to use it. Now is frustrating, he considered that wrangling and debate over how the time to lead," he concluded. some gains were made. much federal money Congress should give farmers." RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 9 AFBF Conferences Yeutter Predicts Improving Export Dairy and Livestock Markets for u.s. Agriculture A livestock marketing expert encouraged cattlemen to pur- Recent developments point to Another factor, he said, is the sue a course of promotion and "gradual improvement" for U.S. recently-enacted 1985 farm law, advertising to halt what has farm exports over the next sev- which provides "ammunition" been a steady decline in the de- eral years, according to the na- for U.S. producers to compete mand for beef. tion's top trade official. by tying loan rates to market Glenn Grimes, professor of U.S.Trade Representative prices. agricultural economics at the Clayton Yeutter, speaking at Most important, however, are University of Missouri, told FB the AFBF annual meeting Jan. policies to cut the budget defi- members attending the conven- 14, said the combination of a cit and reduce interest rates, tion's Livestock and Dairy Con- weaker U.S. dollar, competitive the trade official stressed. The ference, Jan. 13, that the beef U.S. commodity prices and Gramm-Rudman deficit reduction industry has "few alternatives," progress in combating foreign legislation, he said, means "we other than increasing the basic competitors' unfair trade prac- finally have an opportunity" to promotion of their product. tices makes the long-term ex- reduce the deficit "in a very Grimes said even though cat- port outlook brighter for Ameri- dramatic way." If that occurs, tle numbers are the lowest can farmers and ranchers. Yeutter said, both interest rates since the early '60s, lack of de- and the value of the dollar will mand for beef has kept pro- fall, which will boost U.S. farm ducer prices at a low level. In a exports. less than optimistic analysis of On the trade negotiating the livestock industry, Grimes front, Yeutter said the Reagan said, "The probabilities appear administration's "far more ag- to be high for continued weak- gressive" actions in confronting ness in beef demand for at least other nations' unfair trade prac- the next few years." tices has resulted in a "more at- Grimes said cattle producers tractive environment" in which have continued to reduce the to negotiate with the European cattle herd to below 106 million Community than there has been head, the smallest herd since previously. January 1963 and the outlook Although there are still sever- for a reversal of this trend is al outstanding disputes remain- bleak. ing with the EC and the two Grimes also had grim news sides are "miles apart" on some for the dairy industry. Although issues, Yeutter said there are the recently passed farm bill "many opportunities" for prog- may provide long-term help for ress with the EC in the next two the dairy industry, he predicts or three years. next year's outlook to be marred CLA YTON YEUTTER At home, Yeutter said the ad- by continued surpluses. u.s. TRADE REPRESENTATIVE ministration will object to pro- LaVern Freeh, vice president tectionist legislation it expects for international development Congress to debate this year, in and governmental affairs for Yeutter, who has served in part because such measures Land O'Lakes, Inc., also spoke the trade post for the last seven would trigger automatic retalia- to the more than 200 farmers months, said the key for agri- tion against U.S. farm exports. present. culture is to "become interna- Instead, he called for Con- He said, "Farmers can only tionally competitive again." He gress to redirect its "Iegislative compete by turning attention to said a number of interrelated adrenalin" toward approving world markets and large, coop- factors point to that goal being legislation that would improve erative groups. Small producers realized. U.S. trade laws so that remedies do not have the resources and One of those factors, the 20% for unfair trade practices, such assets to compete. Consoli- drop in the value of the dollar as dumping and export subsi- dating gives the small pro- last year, is helpful, he said, but dies, could be more easily ef- ducers the same marketing clout the dollar will have to fall an- fected. as the big guys," he said. other 10% to 15% for agricul- ture to benefit. 10 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 AFBF Conferences Farm Bill Provides Tools for Better Export Grain Promotion Says Senate Majority Leader Economists view market-ori- ented farm policies contained in Asserting that 1986 is a Congress would approve legisla- the 1985 farm bill as being most "watershed year" for American tion to assist troubled rural effective in relieving America's agriculture, Senate Majority banks, particularly if there is a farmers from a world awash in Leader Robert Dole told FB "liquidity crunch" before spring grain. members in Atlanta that the in- planting, but he cautioned that Ewen Wilson, USDAdeputy as- dustry has "very serious prob- the approach must be "respon- sistant secretary for economics, lems" but they are "bottoming sible and reasonable" because an~ economist John Schnittker, out." of the budget deficit. "The U.S. president of John schnittker The Kansas Republican said government cannot afford to Associates, told farmers at the the recent enactment of the bail out every agricultural AFBF Grain Conference that 1985 farm bill and the Farm lender any more than it can market-oriented policies con- Credit System assistance legis- step in and save every farmer or tained in the 1985 farm bill to lation signified that" govern- rancher who is in distress." reduce price supports are ex- ment has been responsive" to pected to improve American the farm crisis. farmers' competitiveness on the Dole, who shepherded the world grain market. farm bill through the Senate, Some farmers expressed con- said the bill "puts in place in- cerns about Agriculture Secre- come protection for farmers. tary Block's decision to drop What we hope happens is im- loan rates to their minimum proved land values, better cash allowable levels for wheat and flow and increased market feed grains. schnittker explained shares and prices." the decision was made in part He singled out the bill's ex- to ensure they would not sur- port promotion features as ones pass average market prices. that will help farmers because Even with lower loan rates, they provide "a lot of tools to both economists predicted par- make the program work," and ticipation in the program to he urged the administration to climb significantly because of undertake an aggressive sales its attractiveness compared campaign for farm exports. with non-participation. "But whatever we do on farm They forecasted that at least credit, export promotion and 80% of corn producers and at the 1986 farm program pales least 85% of wheat growers will by comparison with the number SENATOR ROBERT DOLE participate in the programs. one problem for rural America, SENATE MAJORITY LEADER the federal deficit, "said Dole. The three-term senator brushed aside the notion that the Dole also predicted that 1986 International Trade Gramm-Rudman deficit-reduc- will see a major debate on trade The best hope for increased tion law, which he called legislation in Congress, saying export sales of U.S. farm prod- "another discipline Congress there will be "not only rhetoric ucts will come from improved needs," would hurt agriculture but a lot of action." He decried world economies, a panel of in- and he said that paring the other nations' unfair trade prac- ternational trade specialists deficit would greatly help tices, calling it "an American told an AFBF group meeting in farmers. Dole said he hopes a tragedy" if farmers or other Atlanta, Jan. 13. The trade ex- bipartisan coalition will take ac- businessmen go out of business perts also warned there is no in- tion by summer to cut the defi- because of unfair competition. terest more important to agri- cit so the automatic Gramm- "I do believe we are going to culture than guarding against Rudman cuts do not take place, have to see a more aggressive protectionist actions by Con- but if some farm spending is policy ... emanating from the gress. cut it "might not be the end of administration," said Dole, urg- "If we restrict European steel, the world." ing passage of legislation to textiles and other big ticket Turning to the farm credit counter unfair trade practices. situation, Dole predicted that (continued on next page) RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986' 11 AFBF Conferences (continued from page 11) Delegates Select President items from entry into the and Set Policy for 1986 states, the nation's farmers could lose major sales of soy- On the closing day of the saying the credit and other tax beans, corn gluten and other 67th AFBF Annual Meeting in breaks hurt agriculture because exports," said James Starkey, Atlanta, Georgia, Dean Kleck- they encourage overproduction who served as the agricultural ner, Iowa Farm Bureau Federa- of many commodities and pull trade negotiator during the tion president, was elected as down prices. Tokyo Round of the multilateral the 10th president of the na- In addition, the tax reform trade negotiations. tional organization. South package ratified by the dele- "As world traders we.have Carolina Farm Bureau President gates would treat proceeds been fighting over a declining Harry Bell was selected as the from livestock sales as ordinary market the last five years due federation's vice president. income instead of as capital to worldwide recession," said At a news conference, Kleck- gains. The tax reform proposals Dale Hathaway, former USDA ner was asked several times were similar to those contained under secretary for interna- about current conditions in ag- in an AFBF tax reform study. tional affairs and currently a riculture. ''I'm sensitive to the On the issue of possible tax private consultant on economic fact that agriculture in general increases to slice the federal and trade issues. Hathaway and is in a depressed state," he deficit, the delegates reaffirmed Starkey warned that in the said, adding that he hopes the their long-held stance against short term, the dollar value of worst is over but doesn't see a new or additional levies. u.S. farm exports will continue quick turnaround. Also debated was the problem to fall as a result of sharply "Everything we are going to of grain quality, which foreign lower rates contained in the do is going to be slanted buyers have complained about new farm bill. The trade special- toward improving net farm in- in recent years. The delegates ists said the lower loan rates come," said Kleckner. He said urged that grain grade stan- will eventually benefit the na- one answer is more exports and dards be improved to "give tion's farmers by removing the he indicated that Farm Bureau assurance that we will provide umbrella which has at'lowed will continue to look at other clean ... grains for our custom- other countries to produce ideas to achieve a turnaround ers at home and abroad." more. in the industry. Addressing an issue in last Other conference speakers Another priority, Kleckner year's farm bill debate, the described what the United said, will be in the credit area, delegates changed the federa- States will seek in a new round and he said he expects addi- tion's position on commodity of trade talks under the General tional measures to be consid- promotion programs. They said Agreement on Tariffs and Trade ered in Congress to help farm- that such programs should fea- (GATT). "We will pursue total ers and their lenders. ture an initial referendum and prohibition of export subsidies," "We have simply got to do a have'mandatory participation said Charles O'Mara, assistant better job in the export market" after the program has been ap- administrator for international he said. proved. The delegates said ref- trade policy for USDA's Foreign With the convention coming erenda should be held at least Agricultural Service. O'Mara shortly after enactment of the every five years to reaffirm called arbitrary health and 1985 farm bill, the 280 voting checkoff programs. Previous sanitary standards imposed by delegates turned their attention policy said that producers other countries a major detri- to other national issues. should be given the option of ment to sales. "Frequently Most prominent among the obtaining refunds if they did these standards prove more dif- more than 200 considered was n-ot want to participate. ficult to overcome than tariffs tax reform legislation, which is The delegates rejected two and quotas." said O'Mara. one-half the way through Con- proposals of note. They voted "GATT rules on agricultural gress and will be considered against a proposal calling for a trade are weak," said Suzanne this year in the Senate. national tax on sales of food Early, assistant U.~ Trade The delegates endorsed a tax with the revenues earmarked Representative, "and what rules reform package that would re- for helping troubled farmers. exist are easily circ'umvented. If peal the investment tax credH, Also, the delegates turned the international business com- down a proposal to establish a munity and the contracting par- national political action com- (continued on page 22) mittee for the AFBF. 12 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 I FRONT & CENTER MFB's AgriCom I AgriVisor Winter Marketing Seminar will be held in Chicago, Feb. 18-20. The seminar will be combined with tours of the Chicago Board of Trade, Chicago Mer- cantile Exchange and Mid-America Commodity Exchange. Cost for AgriCom / AgriVisor subscribers is $150 and includes bus transportation from Saginaw, Lansing or Kalamazoo, two nights lodging and all meals while in Chicago. FB members who are not subscribers will be charged $275, but those who sign up for an AgriCom subscription within 30 days of the seminar will receive a $125 subscription credit. For registration information, contact MFB AgriCom, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909, phone 517-323-7000, ext. 547. MSU's Agriculture and Natural Resources Week is set for March 17-22. More than 200 activities will be offered, with topics ranging from how to increase tourism in local com- munities to how to dispose of locally-generated solid waste. A number of sessions will deal with issues affecting county and township governments. Other topics will include non-point source pollution issues, use of microcomputers for land management, and wetland preservation. Details of the annual event, formerly known as Farmers' Week, will be available soon from Cooperative Extension Service offices. The second financial survey of Michigan farmers in nine months is underway. The mail survey of 3,500 randomly selected farmers is being conducted by the Michigan Ag Report- ing Service and will be analyzed by MSU'sAgricultural Economics Department. The results are expected to measure any changes in the state's farm financial situation since MDA's survey of last April, and provide current information to help the department create new strategies to aid farmers in need of assistance. MDA stresses that individual farmers' information will be kept confidential. The focus will be on working together for successful FB policy execution during the Information I State & National Affairs Conference, Feb. 26-27, Darley Dotel, Lans- ing. County presidents, Information and State &. National Affairs committee members will develop communications strategies to gain understanding of, and support for, FB's policy on a key issue by the organization's publics, including members, legislators and the general public. Agenda and reservation information is available from county FB secretaries or the Member Communications Dept., Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. National Agriculture Week is March 14-20 and with current national media atten- tion focusing mainly on the negative, county Farm Bureaus are developing plans for ac- tivities that will "accentuate the positive." Tuscola, Huron and Sanilac county FB leaders and the Cooperative Extension Service are planning a four-hour "radiothon" on March 15, to be aired on three local radio stations. The program, which will include call-ins, will be narrated by Bob Driscoll, farm director for the Michigan Farm Radio Network. Lansing Legislative Seminars, an opportunity to develop a stronger working rel~- tionship with state legislators and share MFBpolicy with them, are scheduled for February and March. The seminars, held at the YWCAin Lansing, include a legislative update by MFB Public Affairs staff, a noon luncheon with legislators, and a visit to the capitol. Dates are: Feb. 12, Saginaw Valley; Feb. 19, Northeast, North, Northwest and U.P. regions; March 4, Southwest and Southeast; March 5, South and Central; March 6, Thumb; and March 12, West and West Central. Make reservations through your county secretary. Michigan Farm Bureau's complete 1986 policies will be will be available i~ booklet 'form in the near future. Copies of the AFBF policy book will also be available in a few weeks. Please send me the following: Name o -1986 MFB Policy Book Address _ o 1986 AFBF Policy Book Mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau, Public Affairs Division, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI 48909 RURAL LIVING. FEBRUARY 1986 1.3 RURAL EXCHANGE FAKMETTE Newsletter Editor Urges Members to By Andrea Hofmeister Use and Promote Local Products Tuscola County Hiawathaland Farm Bureau thanks to the manager and ex- members are being urged to plain why. support locally grown and pro- "Let's take an interest in the duced products when they do farm products we buy. When we their grocery shopping. purchase locally grown and In a recent issue, newsletter locally processed products, the editor and county secretary Bar- money stays in our area and bara Cotey reported that Jilbert continues to work for us. dairy products are made from "I can't tell you how good I locally produced milk and proc- felt when 1saw a display of essed at a plant in Marquette. Garden Orchards apple cider in "They are offering a quality the grocery store where 1shop," product and the investment Cotey said in the article. "I feel they have made in the facility the same way when 1 learn the tells us they believe in the French fries 1am being served agriculture community of the are from VanDammes." " ... and you said this was a Upper Peninsula," the article Cotey ended the article by very small box of Valentine's said. "If your store does not of- asking members to let her know Day chocolates because I'm fer Jilbert products, ask them about other locally grown and still on my post-Christmas to. If it does, express your processed foods for recognition dietf" in future newsletters. Do You Know CPR? "You never know when you'll MACMA be called upon," said Sanilac MID-WINTER SALE County Farm Bureau member Geraldine Smith. The topic was Sale Features: CPR - cardio pulmonary resusi- • Fresh Citrus tation. The place was on loca- • Fruit Concentrates tion at an u-pick apple orchard Obtain product and price infor- last summer for filming of a mation for citrus products, segment for the TV-5 "Farm and , cheeses and meats from your Garden" show . ~~, -participating county FB. They were waiting to tape, .~~ ,}' Order deadline: Smith reported, when suddenly February 12th someone rushed up needing as- Delivery: Week sistance. His friend had collapsed ''l ') of March 3rd. from an apparent heart attack. ~y, Of the several people on hand, only Smith had training in CPR. The cameraman, Bob Campeau, offered to help though he ad- mitted he had only "observed" CPRclasses before. RURAL RASCAL - The Michi- Smith urges all FB members, gan vs Ohio rivalry will go be- and the general public as well, yond college sports this year, to get training or update your with an all-out membership challenge between the two state skills. "You never know when Farm Bureaus. At a joint you'll be called upon," she said. Michigan-Ohio Breakfast Jan. 13 in Atlanta, Amy Noecker, 18 months, and her father, Ray, show the side they're supporting. 14 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 Michigan Blitz to Dazzle Ohio Membership Efforts Riding the crest of an out- Breakfast in Atlanta, Georgia, a successful drive in 1986 held standing membership year in where the 1986 membership their kick-offs in early January. 1985 - almost 5,000 over goal proclamation and challenge was Most FB counties scheduled - and still exhuberant from issued by MFB's President Elton kick-offs for the week of Jan. 20 winning a national FB title as Smith and OFBF President for training, "equipment check" "Top Farm Bureau in the Na- James Patterson. Members from and to review the "membership tion" (see story page 8), FB both states cheered as the two playbook." Special emphasis membership campaigners, staff presidents agreed to wear the will be on volunteer involve- and agency representatives are opponent's "school tie" if they ment during the la-day Mem- charging into Blitz '86 with en- were bested in the "big game." bership Blitz to reach member- thusiasm and confidence. The MFB Campaign Blitz '86 ship gain or regular member "It's a real boost to every has been scheduled to kick-off target. Membership gain is campaign worker, whether vol- the week of Jan. 27 and contin- reached when the sign-up is one unteer or Farm Bureau staff ue through Feb. 7, but some FB membership over the last year's member, to know that they are county organizations, eager for representing the best in the na- tion. Just knowing that you're part of a winning team that has proven itself on the field, gives all of us that extra competitive edge," said Robert Braden, MFB's administrative director. Adding to the spirit of com- petition, and putting a little ex- tra incentive in this year's cam- paign, is a renewal of the "gen- tle rivalry" between Michigan Farm Bureau and the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. Seasoned FB campaigners on both sides of the state line recall the good spirited competition between the states during past cam- paigns. Rivalry on the "mem- bership gridiron" during 1986 is expected to be high. Cam- The interstate seating arrangements for the Michigan-Ohio Breakfast paign spirit was soundly ex- in Atlanta gave members a chance to get acquainted with their hibited at the Michigan-Ohio membership rivals across the state line. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 15 total; target means that cam- paign workers have signed the number of last year's regular members plus one. "The Blitz worked well last year," says Susan Garner, regional representative in MFB's southeastern counties. "Volun- teers appreciated knowing that there was a definite time frame on their involvement. Because they knew that they were being asked to deliver their best ef- forts for membership gain and/ or regular member target during the Blitz, they really came through. I was proud of that volunteer effort and proud, too, of the continued work by our county secretaries and agents throughout the member- ship year. I know that's the kind of effort we can count on again in '86!" Going into the Blitz, statewide Michigan-Ohio 1986 Membership Proclamation membership reports showed that new member sign-ups were Over the years, the great states of Michigan and Ohio have running an outstanding 200% enjoyed a spirit of compe"tition, not only on the gridiron, but above 1985 statistics for the in Farm Bureau programs and accomplishments as well. This same period, while renewals rivalry has resulted in a record of achievement that stands sec- lagged by 4% - some 3,000 ond to none in Farm Bureau clrcles around the nation. memberships behind last year's We call attention to the fact that 1985 marks an increase of stats. 10,272 Farm Bureau member families for Ohio and Michigan. Campaigners on the MFB staff Both states have enjoyed 18 consecutive years of membership expressed confidence that the growth. We consistently rank among the top membership Blitz squads would meet the states. We continue to grow and prosper because our strength challenge to conduct an all out, is in our membership. intensified effort by the entire Our founders conceived Farm Bureau as a farmers' organiza- state to sign new members. tion: built, financed, owned and operated by farmers on behalf There will be plenty of Blitz of farmers. With this as our foundation, we call on every activities at Farm Bureau membership worker to make every effort to assure that every Center in Lansing again this farmer in Michigan and Ohio is afforded the opportunity to year with a phone answering join Farm Bureau in 1986. slogan, pep rallies, and Keeping in mind that we have a very aggressive workforce, "cheerleading" by scout team we wish to discourage crossing state lines to sign members. members in the state office Violators, if apprehended, will be dealt with in a severe man- through personal visits to the ner which is deemed appropriate at the time. counties during kick-off week, Wealso admonish staff members, membership chairpersons and phone calls during the and others in positions of authority - be it granted or assumed Blitz. Conference-wide newslet- - to practice accurate and timely reporting, and to hold to a ters will report membership minimum sandbagging, over-reporting, under-reporting, brag- status and give encouragement ging, boasting, threats of bodily harm, or other devious acts to campaigners who will be of which they may be capable. joining "players" across the As we set our hand to this document this day, January 1.3, state - and across state lines 1986, we agree on behalf of the membership workforce to - who will be "Going for challenge each other to have the largest numerical gain in Membership Goal!" membership by the end of the 1986 member~hip year. James Patterson, President Elton R. Smith, President Ohio Farm Bureau Federation Michigan Farm Bureau 16 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 EXECUTIVE CLUB CONFERENCE Rounding Out Leadership Skills for FB Women and Young Farmers The Executive Club Confer- Workshops offered on the first followed by workshops dealing ence, sponsored by the MFB day were maintaining an effec- specifically with officers' Women's and Young Farmer tive organization, conducted by responsibilities. The Young committees January 7-8 at the Norman Bless, Lenawee County Farmer programs and Women's Flint Hyatt Regency, received Cooperative Extension Service programs workshops were con- high marks from the nearly 100 director; teamwork, presented ducted by Vie Verchereau, man- participants. by communications specialist ager of MFB's Young Farmer Officers of county FB Young Vicki Pontz; public speaking Department, and Rosemary Farmer and Women's commit- with Mike Kovacic, MFB Infor- Kartes, manager of MFB's tees attended general sessions mation & Public Relations direc- Women's Department and edu- and workshops designed to help tor; and effective meetings, cation coordinator. them sharpen their leadership conducted by Scott Walter, MFB Conference participants were skills and learn about their member records/ county ser- sent back home to their respec- responsibilities as "executives." vices coordinator, and MFB tive county Farm Bureaus with Setting the mood for the con- Regional Representative Doug. a challenge from Dr. Howard ference was Dr. David Lands- Fleming. Hickey, professor of educational werk, superintendent of Owa- C. Leslie Charles, president of administration, Michigan State tonna (Minn.) Public Schools, Training Works, Inc., kicked off University, who told them, with the topic, "It's What You the second day's activities with "There's a job to do." Make It." Landswerk was the a presentation on motivation, banquet speaker at the 1983 MFB annual meeting. Dr. David Landswerk, Minnesota school superintendent who was a crowd-pleaser at the 1983 MFB County FB Women's and Young Farmer committee .officers exchange annual meeting banquet. spoke viewpoints on their responsibilities as "executives" and oppor- to the participants of the Ex- tunities to sharpen their leadership skills. Nearly 100 county commit- ecutive Club Conference on the tee officers attended the Executive Club Conference in Flint. Jan. 1 subject, lilt's What You Make It." and 8. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 17 AGRINOMIC UPDATE - Uniform Commercial Code Changes Until Public Act 199 of 1985, Jail and monetary -penalties amending the Uniform Commer- are assessed, too, against cial Code, was signed into law lenders for improper actions, in- by Governor Blanchard, buyers cluding providing false informa- of farm products purchased ag- tion to the buyer(s), notifying ricultural products at risk. Un- buyers not listed by the farmer, der the prior provisions of the or for failure to notify the buyer Uniform Commercial Code, the within 11 days that the loan buyer of farm products was re- had been paid. sponsible in the event that the Buyers, listed by the farmer seller failed to satisfy a lien. For and properly notified by the example, a crop lien could be lender, are required to issue a placed by the lender when a joint check to both the farmer farmer borrowed money to plant, and lender. In addition, the grow and harvest corn. If the buyer may not withhold any farmer failed to satisfy the loan, portion of the payment unless the eventual buyer of the corn the buyer has a prior perfected could legally be held responsi- lien on the commodity in ques- ble. tion. If the buyer fails to comply This lien payment mechanism with these sections of the law, presented increasing problems he is subject to a penalty of 90 for buyers in recent years and days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or was further complicated by the both. The lender has a maxi- difficulty in determining where mum of two years to take ac- the lien was filed and under tion against any buyer who has what name. Legislative propos- violated Public Act 199. als to correct the situation were Farmers, lenders and buyers the subject of lengthy debate will need to make a special ef- and many drafts were written. fort to make themselves famil- On Dec. 26, 1985, S.B. 362 was iar with the provisions of this sent to the governor for his new law to satisfy the legal re- signature. The bill, which had quirements and to protect their an effective date of Jan. 1, own interests in buying and selling transactions where a commodity lien is involved. The law, similar in many ways to the Grain Dealers' Act, was drafted after long discussion and com- promise. Its intent is to protect all parties to the transaction and provide a workable mecha- nism that will preserve the right for the farmer to transact business on borrowed money. 18 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. 1985 Farm Bill A move toward reduced price 1986 crop. But, in many areas, should take a long look at their supports for corn, wheat and mandatory acreage reductions production and marketing op- soybeans while maintaining in- and a $50,000 payment limita- portunities before deciding not come supports and new pro- tion are connected to receiving to participate. grams for dairy and livestock deficiency payments. Wheat - The national loan producers makes the new farm "While many said they wanted rate will be $2.40 per bushel, bill crucial to farmers. Several to clear the market of excess down from $3.30 in 1985. The other features pertaining to production," he continued, "the target price is frozen at 1985's other farm program commodi- politics of the situation say not $4.38 level, giving a potential ties and conservation issues to clear the market of pro- deficiency payment of $1.58 per make the farm legislation im- ducers. Congress left target bushel, with $1.38 subject to portant. prices alone for the time being the payment limitation. Further- "In general, we're going to a to help keep farm incomes from more, there is a requirement of much more market oriented dropping lower and driving 22.5°/0 for the acreage reduc- price support program," said more-farmers out of business." tion program and a 2.5°10 paid Robert Craig, manager of MFB On Jan. 13, 1986, USDAof- diversion which may be "in- Commodity Activities and Re- ficials said that crop program kind." Also, a cross-compliance search Department. "In the loan rates for corn and wheat requirement between wheat and past, support prices were based were set at the lowest allowable feed grains is mandatory in the on some concept of parity or levels because they wanted 1985 Farm Bill. This require- some variation of costs of pro- prices for those crops to reach ment is causing many problems duction. This is a very signifi- market-clearing levels as soon and may have to be changed cant change in philosophy on as possible. through a technical amendment price supports." While the Food Security Act of by Congress, he said. If cross- One of the program's key 1985 made many changes in compliance is not changed, par- changes was in the federal crop farm support programs, Craig ticipation may be reduced, price support loan program, said that with sign-up to begin Craig added. Craig said. The 1986 loan rates in early March, the following are Soybeans - The 1986 and will drop to the minimum allow- the most important points for 1987 loan rate will be between able levels of $1.92 a bushel for producers: $4.77 and $5.02 per bushel and corn and $2.40 for wheat. Corn - The 1986 national is to be set by the secretary of "Livestock producers need to loan rate will be $1.92 per agriculture. The legislation has look at whether it will be cheap- bushel, down from $2.55 in no acreage set aside provisions, er for them to buy their feed 1985. This year's target price is so farmers don't have to do than to produce it. Corn pro- $3.03, the same as 1985. There anything to be eligible for sup- ducers should seriously con- will be an 88~ deficiency pay- ports. As in the past, there are sider participating in the ment rate, all but 25~ of it to no target prices or income defi- . government program in 1986," be subject to the payment limi- ciency payments for soybean Craig advised. tation. To participate in the growers. Farmers should take a close 1986 program, farmers must re- Dairy Production - This look at the new proposals if for duce their base acreage by at portion of the bill is designed to no other reason than deficiency least 20°/0 - 17.5°10 in unpaid reduce surpluses through a payments, he said. These are reduction, and 2.5°/0 possibly to whole-herd diversion program. reimbursements for the dif- be paid "in kind." Using histori- If this plan does not cut sur- ference between target prices, cal yield and cost trends, Craig pluses sharply, substantial sup- which are set at what is con- says the typical corn producer port cuts would be authorized sidered to be a sufficient level would have to receive over beginning in 1988. Chief fea- to cover production costs, and $2.68 per bushel to earn more tures include continuing the the average market price. With by not being in the program if current $11.60 per hundred decreased loan rates pulling the it required a 20°/0 acreage re- weight support level for calen- market down and target prices duction. With next year's prices (continued on next page) frozen at 1985 levels, partici- predicted to be between $2.00 pants should receive significant and $2.25, he said, farmers deficiency payments on their RURAL LIVING. FEBRUARY 1986 19 Discussion Topic pluses. To fund the program, per hundredweight. On Oct. 1, farmers would pay an assess- 1987, the assessment would (continued from previous page) ment of 40~ per hundredweight end but the secretary would be dar 1986 but activating an durinfJ 1986 giving a net effec- required to lower the support to 18-month, farmer-funded pro- tive price support of $11.20 on $11.10. Beginning Jan. 1, 1988, gram under which producers manufacturing-grade products. the secretary would be required can voluntarily elect - in On Jan. 1, 1987, the secretary to make 50~ annual cuts in the return for payments set on a would be required to lower the support rate if surplus pur- bid basis - to take entire dairy support rate to $11.35 but the chases are expected to exceed 5 herds out of production for five assessment would drop to 25~ billion pounds a year or 50~ in- years in order to reduce sur- creases if surpluses are ex- pected to be under 2.5 billion pounds. After the whole herd BUY YOUR NEXT CAR AT 1% disposal program ends, the secretary would have discre- OVER FACTORY INVOICE tionary authority to adopt a diversion program of whole- Save hundreds of dollars on herd or partial cuts. Differen- a new American car or truck! tials used in setting minimum fluid milk prices in some mar- Sav-On Cars is furnishing Farm Bureau members important keting orders would be increased car-cost information which will save you substantial time to reflect current transportation costs. and money when shopping for your next car. * Livestock - To protect Save-on Cars with Your Farm Bureau - HERE'S HOW: livestock producers in case of • Select as many cars or trucks as you are seriously considering. FiJI in the appropriate in- heavy dairy cow sales into the formation on the coupon below. meat market because of a milk • Within one business day of receiving your request we will return to you a computer diversion program, the bill re- printout personalized for the specific modeJ(s)you have selected. This Car-Option Printout will show you the wholesale and retail cost for the base model and for each quires additional government and every option available on that particular model. purchases of 400 million • You pick the options YOU want, at home, without being pressured. Then, at the bot- pounds of red meat for the dur- tom of your Car-Option Printout you will find a simple form to fill out which .will help ation of the whole-herd diver- you calculate the final dealer invoice cost, including any mandatory charges. • Use this price to negotiate your best deal with your local dealer, OR, if we list a par- sion for export or domestic ticipating factory-authorized dealer in your general area, you can buy the car from donation. The bill also includes him at an average of just 1% over dealer invoice. new authority for farmer-funded beef and pork promotion. Pro- Please send me a price and options printout for each model listed below. ducers can get refunds of check-off contributions during Style Model Year Make the period between the start of Model IMPORTANT Example the programs and, later referen- LESABRE 4-DOOR dums. The beef check-off would 1986 BUICK LIMITED SEDAN be $1 per head (including im- ported beef) with a credit of up to 50~ for assessments of state nd 2 eM beef councils; the pork check- rd off would be one-fourth of 10/0 3 car of the. sale price of hogs and PRICES:$9 for 1 car, $17 for 2 cars, $24 for 3 cars. imported pork. Also, the bill re- quires that imported meats, Please Print livestock and poultry comply Name with American standards and residue regulations. Address Sugar and Wool - The bill City "tate Zip generally extends current pro- Here is my: OCheek OMastereard or Visa Card # Expiration Date grams. The current wool sup- Farm Bureau Membership # port formula would be frozen Mail with payment to: Sav-On Cars for five years. Sugar supports 26711 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 336 would continue for five years at Southfield. Michigan 48034 no less than the 1985 level of ________________________________ • Due to demand, some models may not be available for prompt delivery. 1J 120 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 I 18ft a pound. To avoid a build- loan levels, (2) any payments Finally, the 1985 Farm Bill up of surplus stocks in govern- made under several program established a conservation ment hands caused by forfei- cost-reduction items which the reserve and bids for it will be tures of support loans when bill provides for discretionary accepted beginning in March market prices are low, the bill use by the secretary, and (3) 1986 with the first payments to requires that import quotas cur- any gains farmers realize when be made in October. Highly rently scheduled through Sept. paying off support loans at less erodible cropland that enters 30, 1986, be extended for at than the initial loan level. A the conservation reserve pro- least three months, thus reduc- $100,000 ceiling would be pro- gram will be ineligible for farm- ing per-month import levels. As vided for disaster payments to ing for 10 years and must in- an alternative, the secretary producers of grains, cotton and stead be planted with perma- would reduce quota levels to rice and similar disaster pay- nent vegetative cover. Up to 45 protect domestic prices. Begin- ments are authorized for the million acres may be enrolled in ning with the next quota year, 1985-90 crops of soybeans, the reserve from 1986-1990. the secretary would be directed sugar beets and cane and pea- The total amount of rental to operate the sugar program nuts. Advance deficiency pay- payments for any fiscal year with quota levels which avoid ments would be required for (Oct. 1 - Sept. 30) may not ex- any cost to the government. 1986 crops using target price ceed $50,000 or its equivalent, Also, the bill provides that programs and would be discre- if in-kind payments are made. beginning with the 1987 quota tionary in future years, and 5% Farmers interested in partici- year, no import quotas can be of total deficiency payments pating in any federal programs given to countries which are net could be made in kind at the described above should contact importers of sugar unless they secretary's discretion. New pro- their local office of USDA's verify that they do not import vision for determining crop and Agricultural Stabilization and Cuban sugar. total farm acreage bases are in- Conservation Service. Payment Limitations and cluded, along with revisions in other General Commodity the farmer-owned grain reserve Discussion Questions Provisions - The law con- program putting new limits on - How will the Farm Bill provi- tinues the present $50,000 an- the reserve. And in programs sions apply to your own farm nual per producer ceiling for using target prices, the secre- operation? program payments. Exe'mpt from tary would have discretion to -What types of implementation the ceiling would be: (1) target make payments to farmers who rules would improve the new price payments which offset are eligible for loans and tar- farm law? support loan cuts below basic gets prices but agree to forego those benefits. Reinforce Pole Barns to Prevent Collapse If you have any kind of pole In many cases, the company corroded to the diameter of a building on your property, you says, the roofs caved in be- toothpick. can take a simple step that cause spikes in the truss plates Keep in mind that these could prevent your structure had corroded and could no spikes and the truss plates are from collapsing when heavy longer support the weight of all that is supporting the entire snow and ice accumulate on the the roof. roof structure. roof. As snow piled on the roof, the But the problem is easily cor- It's simply a matter of renail- increasing weight caused the rected. Simply respike the truss ing and reinforcing the truss truss plates to shear off the plates, using a ring-cut galvan- plates that hold up the roof, ac- weakened spikes. ized pole building spike. For ex- cording to Farm Bureau Mutual Many of the spikes used in tra protection, add a support Insurance Company of Michigan. older pole buildings are un- onto the pole just below the The company put out the ad- coated or ungalvanized. The truss plate. vice after its claims adjusters chemical content in the treated These are simple steps, but noted that a large number of poles and lumber eats away at they could save your pole build- older pole buildings were col- the spikes over the years. ings (and their contents) this lapsing each winter under the Farm Bureau claims adjusters winter. Your county building in- weight of accumul~ted snow. report that some spikes removed spector shou Id be able to an- from older pole buildings had swer any questions. 21 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 AFBF Conferences programs, like target prices, "If the Department of Labor is (continued from page 12) could be interpreted as being a in total control of it, you will tool to subsidize exports. He not have a guest worker pro- ties are to retain confidence in said that export promotion pro- gram of any type," said Walter the GATT system, an expedi- grams, such as the export Kates, labor division manager tious and effective dispute set- bonus and various credit pro- for the Florida Fruit and Vegeta- tlement mechanism is essential. grams, could be vulnerable to ble Association. "If we can't GATT is in urgent need of repair such a test. make some ground on this, and updating," Early warned. we're going to work hard to kill Each of the conference speak- the legislation," said Roy Labor ers warned that gains for agri- Gabriel, legislative director of culture wi)) be difficult in a new Two farm labor representa- labor affairs for the California round of talks. "Are we serious tives issued a stern warning to Farm Bureau Federation. "We about giving away provisions a major congressional architect are talking about the basic such as Section 22 protection?" of immigration reform that right of a grower to harvest his Hathaway asked, referring to pending legislation could be crop. Without these guarantees the mechanism that allows the killed if adequate provisions we cannot support any legisla- president to impose import governing foreign workers are tion." limits to protect domestic farm not included. Kates and Gabriel were re- support programs. Section 22 Congressman Romano L. Maz- sponding to Mazzoli after he ex- limits are now in effect for dairy zoli, chairperson of the im- plained that i!TImigration re- and sugar imports. migration subcommittee of the form legislation still has several In addition, Hathaway said, it House Judiciary Committee, months of work before it.is could be dangerous to press for heard t,he warning as he re- placed on the floor of the House uniform trade laws such as a viewed progress toward im- of Representatives. The con- ban on export subsidies be- migration reform at the AFBF gressman predicted the legisla- cause features of domestic farm annual meeting, Jan. 13. tion would not pass out of the House Judiciary Committee un- til mid-April. 5-YeD1l OM, 1-2 Fl Tail Free 88-pg. catalog of sausage-making supplies OHfy $1.95 ea. with cures, seasonings, spices, equipment. You can cure and smoke meat, game, fowl, fish. Includes info on a new, illustrated, 500-pg. book with 200 l ... -;l '3 bOll $5.75 6 bOll $10.95 recipes. Join 100,000 satisfied customers. 9 bOll $15.95 12 bOll $19.95 ~~~. THE SAUSAGE MAKER 177-198A Military Rd. Buffalo, N.Y. 14207 N6172. Now you can purchase the ever- :It ' popular, ever-beautiful Colorado Blue" _~ Spruce (Picea pungens glauca) at this special ~. , I . low price - only $1.95 each. These versatile .:.,;. Blue Spruce are lovely as single accent planting, ' Earn $10to $20per hour as a privacy row or windbreak, and as a colorful corner grouping. Its rich silver-blue foliage m~kes . in your neighborhood '". it a welcome sight all year around. You'll receIve write orders for Mason Shoes Present the Mason Shoe catalog to neighbors, I select, nicely branched 5-year-old transplanted trees . relatives or friends. Let them thumb through the that are at least 1 to 2 feet tall. Having been transplanted, the root system IS well pages, over 400 up-to-date shoe styles. developed and will help the tree get off to a fast start. Order your Blue Spruce on the Then take their order. Their deposit I convenient coupon below. Send $1.95 for 1, $5.75 for 3, $10.95 for 6, $15.95 for 9, and -from $3.00 to $18.50 per pair-is 12 for $19.95. yours to keep. That's right, you get I paid before the order is sent to S~ecille Obbe1tl C~ Bfue ~'WU Mason. No investment ... ever. 3 nftlo ~ .. OnJ U&. 10 &- W. 18 uu:.tl :..• '. SilJJ1, r N620S.Strong ..northerngrownl0tolS".3 year old seedlings. are Nursery grown. Catalog and sales tools are free. 3 1_....~ D.. $249 6 ~lVl $4 SS They're just the right size for planting. (Get started, just send the These trees. will he~ turn your yard into a coupon below to Mason.) r (lOlL ~ •• :~~~~!i~~~~gt-~~~~~::~:~~~y~r.;;;~~~~:~-~---------- receipt of your order I. , ..---- -- ... I MASON SHOE MFG. CO., Dept. F-792 MASON SHOE MFG. CO. 1251First Ave. Chippewa Falls, WI 54774 any plants do not Please send the follOWIngItems: I 1251First Ave. ~1l.EJUStHr~~yn~ N6172. 5-Year Old Blue Spruce $ I Chippewa Falls, WI 54774 I I I LABEL ONLY for a N620B. 3-Year Old Blue Spruce $ Ra." giant free catalog and .tarting kit to: free replacement or ~~chase price .re. III.Residents add 6% Sales Tax. TOTAL $ I.NAME T~dW I~WAJ~1s NAME I ADDRESS ~2kD SH~~~f~~ ADDRESS ICITY I I LABEL TURNED. IS RE- CITY STATE ZIP I STATE --------------------------. ZIP I 22 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE FARM EQUIPMENT NURSERY STOCK MISCELLANEOUS MISCELLANEOUS Complete Line of l'Iew and Used Irrl. Bel'l'f Flants - Raspberries, strawber- I"I'0perty Fasted Signs - 1'10Duntlng Fart-tlme sales opportunity - Major gatlon ~ulpment - Also equipment ries. blueberries, currants. gooseberries. - Trapping - I"rlvate I"I'0perty, U.S. shoe manufacturer seeks sales peo- for manure pumping and spreading by others. Free catalog. Maklelski Berry Permanent (cold resistant) plastic 8"x8". ple to handle an established line of over gun. tanker. or InJection. Plummer Nursery. 71.30 Platt Road. Dept. RL. Ypsi- $53.00 per I 00 minimum, Including 400 styles. No travel. No investment. Supply. Inc., 1-800-6.32-77.31. lanti. Mich. 48197. Phone .31'}'4.34-.367.3. shipping. Individual signs for your farm Earn extra money In your own local area (1-12t-24b) (11-12t-22p) on request. ASA Co.. .3153 U.S. 2.3 South. during your spare time. Write for details Alpena. MI 49707. Phone 517-354-5198. to Vie Mason, Mason Shoe Company. Wanted to Buy: milk cans for shipping Michigan certified IItl'awberry plants (l-2t-34p) Dept. K-995. 1251 First Avenue. Chip- milk, New Holland #455 and #456 hay available as low as $59 per thousand. 15 pewa Falls. WI 54774. (l-.3t-54p-ts) mowers. International corn binders, varieties all grown on fumigated sandy grain binders and silo fillers. John loam soli. Krohne Plant Farms. Rt. 6. Box Spezla. Leonard, Mich. 480.38. Phone 586, Dowagiac, Mich. 49047. Phone 616- .3l.3-628-4147. (2-27p) 424-.3450. (11-8t-32p) CLASSIFIED AD POLICY Dog Equipment - Dei-Air heat ex- Gladiolus bulbs: We're back by popular changers. Osborne feeders. K.G. John- demand. Buy direct from grower and - Farm Bureau members pay 25 cents per word for all son farrowing crates, Chore-Time feed- save. All large. healthy bulbs. Rainbow classified advertisements. Ing, Mix-Mill systems. Hamilton Distri- Brite mixture. 50 bulbs. $7.00. 100 buting Company, 616-751-5161. bulbs. $12.00. Postpaid. Send orders to -All other advertisers pay 50 cents per word for one insertion (6-12t-17p-ts) Poest Gladiolus. Box 55, Dept. R. and 45 cents per word for two or more consecutive insertions Zeeland, Mich. 49464. (2-3t-39p) of the same ad. Gl'aln Dl'fel's - Stormor Ezee-Dry, Farm Fans Automatic, Used Dryers, PTO and "ybrld Foplal', as little as IU each. -All advertisements are subject to a IS-word minimum Automatic. Hamilton Distributing Com- Other trees and shrubs. Coldstream charge, including member ads. pany, 616-751-5161. (6-12t-17p-ts) Farm. 2030T Freesoll Road, Freesoll. -Please indicate if you are a Farm Bureau member. Mich. 49411. Phone 616-464-5809. Irrigation Flpe - 5,250 n. of 6 in.; ( 12-6t-20p) -The deadline for ads is the first Monday of the month 1,050 ft. of 4 In. Ford V-8 Gorman Rupp preceding publication. pump. water winch traveler. Phone - All ads must be pre-paid and may be pre-paid up to one .31.3-522-0162. (12-6t-20p) LIVESTOCK year in advance. Snow bloweI' - 7 ft. front mount on 90 -It is the responsibility of the advertiser to re-insert the ad on M.F. gas with chains. Low hours on trac- Reglstel'ed l'Iublan billy-goat. Good tor since major. With Freeman loader, blood lines. Breeding age. $75.00. a month-by-month or year-by-year basis. bucket and 6 ft. blade. All in A-I condi- Rhoda Short. 4026 Holbrook Rd.. Ubly. -The publisher has the right to reject any advertising copy tion. Phone Fowler, 517-59.3-.3124. Mich. 48475. Phone 517-658-1485. submitted. (1-2t-14p) (2-2t-19p) -No ads will be taken over the phone. Fol' Sale - IH 504 dlesei with duals, IH Dletel'le Corrledale sbeep, give sbeal' B-414 diesel with loader. $2.000 each. pleasul'e. Breeding stock. Blue ribbon Fill out form below and mail to: Phone 517-772-4258 after 5 p.m. fleeced flock. Spinning Fleece's. phone Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, !'Iich. 48909 (1-2t-19p) 313-429-7874. (5-12t-15p) Fol' Sale: John Deere 200 stack wagon Duroc Baal'S and Gilts sound and and mover. Good condition. Phone durable. Delivery available. Jim 517-427-577.3 between 8 p.m. and 10 Prevlch. 8147 Forrlster Road. Adrian. Mich. 49221. 517-265-4112. Name p.m. (2-15p) (6-12t-18p) Wanted: farm tractors, N.1.corn pickers. J.D. Qulk-Tach corn heads and N.H. chop- Fl'ee: Colorful poultry catalog, Offer- Address pers, haybines and other equipment. ing top quality chicks (Bantams-Exotlcs- Phone 517-52.3-280.3 evenings. Standards) at rock-bottom prices. Clin- (2-12t-20p-ts) ton Hatchery. Box 548-MRL. Clinton. Missouri 64735. Phone 816-885-8500. (2-2t-24p-ts) OFarm Bureau member ONon-member MISCELLANEOUS Run the following ad in the issue(s): REAL ESTATE ACCOUI'ITII'IG and II'ICOME TAXES Wlntel' In east Texasl Lovely furnished done by a CI"A, REASONABLE RATES. mobile home on wooded lot available for Small businesses and Individuals rent by month or season. Small western welcome. 313-348-2982. (1-4t-16p) town right out of the movies. No snow to shovel. no tramc to combat. Comfor- Wanted: hand.splnners; hand.knltters. table winter temperatures. Call or write Hand made sheep or rabbit gift items. for details. Ken Mlckam, Star Rt. I. Box Write Moon Shadows Farm-FB, P.O. Box 115. Coldspring, Texas 77.3.31. Phone 38, Karlin, Mich. 49647. (2-22p) 409-653-2268. (1-2t-53p) Gallons O'l'Iutsl Fresh shelledl Quart Bed and Breakfast at Ludington. each pecan halves, walnuts. brazlls, sliced Many beautiful acres groomed cross almonds. $ 14.95 postpaid. Guaranteed. country trails. snowshoe. toboggan, Canecreek Farm, Cookeville. TN 38502- fireplace. hot tub. Couple $35. Call col. 2727. (2-20p-ts) lect 616-843.9768. (2-2t-22p) "llIsdale County - 40 acres of prime Will fOl'ms - Make your own will easilyl recreational land with woods and water. Ready to fill in. Two for $3.50. Ideal for hunting and 4-wheelers. Guaranteedl Forms. Box .3609, New $19.900 low down payment. Land con- Haven. CT 06525. (12-9t-22p-ts) tract. Don Helton &. Assoc .. Inc. Phone 517-439-9.373. Ask for Don. (2-2t-73p) Why die wltbout a will? Two legal "Will Forms" and easy Instructions. Only Cheboygan County - 240 acres of $4 ... Order Todayl Guaranteed1 TY- prime hunting land, 'I.-mile north of Company, Box 1022-MF. Prior. OK 74362. Black Lake. frontage on two roads. Most- (11-6t-22p-ts) ly timber and some tillable land. Under $.300 per acre. Don Helton &. Assoc .. Inc. Old-time fiddle Music on cassette. Words lnsertions TotaIDue _ Phone 517-439-937.3. Ask for Don. Send SASE for list to Fiddle Music. 448 E. (2-2t-73) Main St.. Kinde. Mich. 48445. (1-3t-15p) ------------------------ I RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1986 Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Non-Profit Organization P.O. Box 30960 U.S. POSTAGE 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. PAID Lansing, Michigan 48909 Lansing. Michigan Permit No. 37