As sure as the first bloom of summer ... Farm Bureau members can pick their own health insurance plan from among the five Blue CrosslBlue Shield plans offered by Michigan Farm Bureau. Consider these plan advantages * No age restrictions * Nationally accepted ill card'" Oose to home, personal service by the county FB secretary * BCBS Oaim and Benefit Information Unit expressly for MFB members. CMM 250 Provides FB members our most extensive coverage. All basic comprehensive benefits. Just $3 co-payment for each covered prescription or refill. Deductible of $250 per person, $500 per family per calendar year. CMM 500 This is our most popular CMM health insurance plan All basic comprehensive benefits, except for prescription coverage. Lower premium, with a deductible of $500 per person, $1,000 per family per calendar year. CMM 1000 Gives the most cost effective coverage. Basic comprehensive benefits in full, except for prescription coverage. Lowest premium, with a deductible of $1 ,000 per person, $2,000 per family per calendar year. HMO Plan The best cure is HMO preventive care, your effective alternative to traditional health insurance, with statewide access to BCBS Association HMO's. Though programs may vary at different Blue Care Network HMOs, you can benefit from health education, nutrition classes, stress reduction, dietetics, women's health programs, pre- and post-natal programs, diabetics counseling and health risk management Plus well-baby care, your own personal physician and no claim forms. Just $5 co-payment for physician's office calls. Only $3 co-payment for each covered prescription or refill. In-patient hospital care and services covered in full for an unlimited time. INDEPENDENCE PAST 65 To supplement Medicare benefits, Farm Bureau offers a full choice of BCBS complementary coverage: --- Comprehensive plan, Econo plan, or an HMO plan. Consider all the advantages of each plan and make your choice during our annual enrollment period. Call the County' Farm Bureau during OPEN ENROLLMENT DATES, JUNE 1 - JUNE 15 FaRm~ BUreaU For your nearest Farm Bureau office call 1(800)292-2680 extension 3239/3240 BECAUSE YOU CAN'T CALL IN SICK Safemark Summer Steel Sale Savings from 20% to 50% Sale Ends July 22 l~ Riveted Sickle Assemblies for Mower/Conditioners Part No. Make/Part Sale Reg. and Combines P20197G Soilsaver blade $19.22 $23.06 Sickle PD20071814 20" deep cone disk 15.20 18.24 Machine Model Length Sale Reg. PF20071118 20" flatcenter disk 14.34 17.20 F22197JDM 22" JD coulter 26.07 31.28 New Holland 469 9' $63.60 $76.32 F171571H 17" IH couher 12.29 14.75 New Holland 479-488-1469 9' 57.60 69.12 WCC7A3 7" sweep 2.04 2.45 New Holland WI-25 IH shin 6.37 7.64 Combine TA85 16' 168.48 202.18 Trash boards JD 10.51 12.62 John Deere Combine 200 Series 16' 134.40 161.28 International Harvester Combine 820 hd. 20' 162.00 194.40 AllisChalmers Combine H-C IIIfloating 15' 146.40 175.68 .Sold only In cartons of six with bolts. Special buy for Farm Bureau members Extra 10°,10discount on HKK rollerchain LW SHARE (WITH BOLTS) 16" from $9.38 ea. Chain Reg. Reg. PLAIN DISC BLADE 16" from $6.44 #40 $12.86 $17.15 $64.27 $85.69 #50 16.18 1~.42 85.44 113.92 #60 23.14 00.85 115.68 1$4.20 CC-124 TWISTED CHISEL 4" SLASH POINT $9.67 WC-134 DOUBLE POINT $1.55 Ask your local county Safemark coordinator or callyour county Farm Bureau secretary. Send dealer inquiries to: Michigan Farm Bureau Group Purchasing, Inc., P.O. Box 30960, 7373 W. Saginaw, Lansing, Mich. 48909 VOL.65 NO.6 JUNE 1988 Hearings on Ag Labor Camp Licensing Rules Set The Michigan Department of Public Health will hold public hear- ing concerning the proposed agricultural labor camp licensing rules. The proposed rules provide for an A Publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau advisory board, appointed by the MDPH director, to represent growers, processors, local health About the Cover department, and religious or frater- nal organizations; the collection, Today's careers in agriculture will re- treatment, and disposal of human quire science-oriented students willing waste and sewage; the supply and to work on a global basis. maintenance of safe water; the temporary storage and removal of food waste and rubbish; seasonal housing for laborers and their In This Issue families, including adequate and safe construction and repair, fire protection; facilities for laborers High School Graduates Needed Now MSU predicts relating to their good health, safety that students pursuing careers in agriculture will find employers and welfare; and the administration 7 anxious for their specialized skills in animal, crop and soil sciences, horticulture, technology, engineering, and natural resources. of migratory remodeling grants. labor housing People can testify at the public Crop Insurance Vitally Important With new USDA hearings and are encouraged to present their comments in writing, 8 eligibility requirements for disaster loans tied to crop insurance, farmers are protecting their investment and their options with Federal with a copy to be submitted for the record. Those unable to attend may Crop Insurance coverage. submit written comments prior to hearing dates to the Division of En- Get Set for Summerfest! The July 8 deadline for MFB Sum- vironmental Health, Bureau of En- 12 merfest ticket orders isn't far off. Use the form on page 12 to reserve your Summerfest tickets today! vironmental and Occupational Heal th, Michigan Department of Public Health, 3500 N. Logan St., Columns P.O. Box 30035, Lansing, MI 48909. Farm Bureau members are en- couraged to comment in support of President's Message 5 Grassroots Perspective 13 the need for consistent, annual fund- Legislative Review 6 Farm Bureau Market Place 15 ing of the Michigan Migrant Hous- Agrinomic Update 10 Advertiser's Index 15 ing Grant Program. Hearing Schedule: • June 87 p.m., State Office Building, Rural Living is Published Monthly: on the first day, by the Michigan Farm Bureau Infor- Michigan and Huron rooms, 350 Ot- mation and Public Relations Division, except during July and August when a combined Issue is published on tawa, N.W., Grand Rapids July 15. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Mich. 48917, Post Office Box 30960 (zip 489(9); phone 517-323-7000, extension 6585. • June 9 7 p.m., Oleson Center, Subscriptions: $1.50 per year to members, Included In annual dues. $3.00 per year non-members in Rooms 1,2, and 3, 1701 E. Front St., Michigan, $5.00 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13, 1923 as Traverse City Michigan Farm News, name changed to Michigan Farm News Rural Lilling Dec. I, 1981. Third.c1ass postage paid at Lansing, Michigan, and at additional mailing offices. • June 13 7 p.m., Wicks Lecture Hall, Editorial: Connie Turbin, Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber, Contributing Editor; Marcia Saginaw Valley State University, Ditchle, Associate Editor; Kimberly Marshell, Associate Editor and Production Manager. Saginaw Officers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President, Wayne Wood, • June 15 7 p.m., Matthews' Con- Marlette; Administrative Director, Charles Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; ference Center, South Western Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. Michigan College, Cherry Grove Directors: Dlstrlct I, Marlin Outman, Constantine; Dlstrlct 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; Distrlct 3, Rd., Dowagiac Diane Horning, Manchester; District 4, Charleen Thompson, Freeport; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Jack Laurie, Cass City; District 7, Larry Snider, Hart; District 8, Lyle LeCronier, Freeland; District 9, • June 16 1 p.m., Manty Conference Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District II, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-large: David Conklin, Corunna; Wayne Wood, Marlette; Richard Leach, Saginaw. Promotion and Center, Rooms 1Band C, Mich. Education: Janis Sanford, Parma. Young Farmers: Ed Cagney, Scotts. Dept. Public Health, 3423 N. Logan St., Lansing 4 RURAL LIVING, JUNE 1988 President's Message We Need to Have Influence on 1990 Farm Bill One of the appeals of farming is that you have some control over your own destiny. You decide what to plant ...you cultivate it all year long ...then, with luck, you have a good harvest. Ironically, along with this sense of control comes a lot of uncertainty over things like weather, prices, new technology, foreign trade, and government programs. So, you do what you can to cut down the risk. You attempt, to paraphrase our Farm Bureau Insurance Group advertising, to make your fu- ture a little more predictable. One of the greatest uncertainties on our horizon is the direction of future government farm policy. As we move into the final phases of Farm Bill '85, it's clear to see that the farm economy is harvesting the benefits of this legislation. But, what kind of seed do we plant next? What's in store for the next farm bill? What's the best long term federal farm program strategy that will ensure our prosperity to the year 2000 and beyond? American Farm Bureau Federation President Dean Kleckner has appointed me to a 10-member Farm Program Study Committee of state Farm Bureau Seeds presidents. The group's purpose is to develop the questions and frame the issues that need to be considered as we move toward developing a 1990 Farm • MFB President Jack Laurie at- Bill. The assignment includes reviewing and evaluating the successes (and tended a meeting of the Farm failures) of current farm legislation; analyzing how the provisions we are Program Study Committee at now operating under might be extended or changed; and looking at new the AFBF office in Washington, areas that should be included in farm program discussion. May 9. This committee is another example of your organization taking a national • On May 14, President Laurie at- leadership role on an issue crucially important to our industry. But, it is tended the Antrim County also a great opportunity for Farm Bureau members to be out front in the farm Membership Victory Party. policy debate. Antrim County was the first As we move into this summer's policy development season, let's discuss county in the state to report and analyze the issues, concerns and opportunities that we have in farm membership goal. policy. Get involved now to share your ideas and plans with other members • President Laurie was a seminar of our organization ...because contributing your thoughts and concerns is the presentor for MSU's Depart- real responsibility of each Farm Bureau member. ment of Animal Science, May Find out who is on your county Policy Development Committee and when 16. His topic: liThe Future of En- they meet. Perhaps more importantly, if you are not a part of a Community hancing Ag in Michigan." Action Group, join one that is already operating. Or get together with your • On May 18, President Laurie at- neighbors and start a new Community Action Group and participate in this tended a meeting of the Task very basic part of our policy development process. Force for Curriculum Re- Using policy development ...that unique Farm Bureau method of discussion, vitalization of Ag and Natural analysis and idea sharing ...will make our industry an even stronger and more Resources at Michigan State competitive force in our economy. And you'll make a great contribution to University. shaping our industry for future generations. • President Laurie also accepted invitations to speak before the East Lansing Kiwanis on May 23 and the Charlotte Rotary, May 31. Jack Laurie, President Michigan Farm Bureau TUNE 1988, RURAL LIVING s Legislative Review Renewed Efforts Underway to Repeal Diesel Tax Reagan follows through on his threat to and Transportation. The series of bills Washington veto the bill, FB will urge members of based on federal proposals would make Congress to strip the plant closings and major changes to the Commercial Truck Diesel Fuel Excise Tax - At FB's re- pass a bill that can be signed into law. FB Act by requiring all loads be covered, quest, three members of the House believes that trade legislation is vital to brakes on all wheels, additional driver's Ways and Means Committee initiated a the future of agriculture. 0 license requirements, all trucks be new effort to repeal the excise tax on categorized as commercial trucks, ad- diesel fuel purchased for off-road use. ditional taxes would be generated, They circulated a letter among members Lansing tachograph required on all trucks. The of the House urging the committee bills extend to all trucks over 26,001 chairman to mark-up repeal legislation. Low Interest Loans (H.B. 5515 and S. pounds and may impact pick-ups In a nationwide effort, state and county 808) - Sponsored by Rep. Niederstadt depending on product being carried, FBs and individual members contacted and Sen. Barcia. The bills would expand such as fertilizer. FBvery active, offered their congressmen urging immediate ac- the low loan interest program which is numerous amendments. Also, AFBF tion to repeal the diesel tax and asking set to expire in June 1988. Estimated working aggressively to fnc1ude exemp- them to sign the letter. Even though savings to an individual farmer would tions for farmers in federal proposal. there were 262 cosponsors on a variety range from $3,000 to $4,000, with es- of House bills to repeal the tax, and legis- timated savings to the agricultural com- H.B. 5501 amends the Safe Drinking lation to this effect was marked up by the munityat$4to $S million per year. S. 808 Water Act to require a well test within Senate Finance Committee, the Ways extends one year. H.B. 5515 extends one year prior to sale of property. H.B. and Means Committee failed to act on until 1990. Mixed reaction in Legisla- 5502 amends the Public Health Code the issue. The letter will be printed in ture, state budget tight. Cost to state and requires that a new well be tested AFBF's Farm Bureau News, with the depends on details - up to $3 million. FB for all substances which there is a names of all representatives who signed supports concept. federal maximum contaminant level. it. H.B.'s 5503, 5504, and 5505 amend Commodity Insurance (H.B. 4997) -- township, municipal and county zoning FIFRA Reform - The Senate Ag Com- Sponsored by Reps. Spaniola and Ran- act to require wellhead protection mittee passed a pesticide reform bill that dall. Passed the House and now in measures when updating the master includes three of the four provisions Senate Ag Committee. The bill amends plans or zoning ordinances. H.B. 5506 sought by FB. Under the bill, farmers the Grain Dealers Act to provide for a amends the Public Health Code to re- would not be responsible for environ- state insurance fund generated by the quire the grouting of all wells and the mental damage if they used farm collection of 1/10 of a cent per dollar closure of all wells that are no longer chemicals according to federal stand- value on specific grains. The bill contains being used. H.B. 5507 amends the Un- ards and label directions. Also, EPA provision for a grower referend urn. FB derground Storage Tank Registration would reimburse farmers for any chemi- supports with the referendum Act and designates the State Police as cals they had purchased that were provision. the lead agency (formerly the DNR). It banned by the agency. The bill would re- also mandates that all suspected or quire EPA to use the same standards for Animal Industry Act (S. 511) - Spon- threatened leaks be reported and estab- rural drinking water as those used in sored by Sen. Smith, passed Senate and lishes a penalty provision for con- public drinking water systems. The in House Agriculture Committee. The tamination of groundwater. There is committee did not include an amend- bill is a rewrite of the 1919 Animal In- farm exemption for tanks under 1,100 ment to establish uniform national pes- dustry Act (P.A. 171). The bill regulates gallons, and for home heating fuel ticide residue standards which FB the vaccination, testing, and movement tanks. H.B. 5508 creates the Leaking Un- sought in order to eliminate the con- of any animals, poultry, for any purpose. derground Storage Tank Act to assure fusion of each state setting separate It does not include exotic animals or the reporting, investigation and clean levels. wildlife. The rewrite would also place up. H.B. 5509 amends the Public Health The Senate Ag Committee action was additional testing or vaccination re- Code and establishes a statewide well the first step in what is expected' to be a quirements on animals going to a show permit program incorporating informa- controversial and uncertain attempt to or exhibit. The bill contains a provision tion, well construction, abandonment amend FlFRA. A similar effort failed in for indemnity of $800 maximurn based standards, permits and fees, as well as 1986. FlFRA has not undergone any on slaughter value. This value is higher well log data. D major changes in the past 12 years. than surrounding states. FB supports. Trade Bill Passes, President Expected Commercial Truck Regulations (S. to Veto - FB supported the Omnibus 700, 701, 702, 703) - Sponsored by Sens. Trade Bill passed by Congress, even Faust, Fessler, O'Brien, and Binsfeld. though it contained the controversial Reported out May 3,1988, by the Senate plant closing provision. If President Committee on State Affairs, Tourism 6 RURAL LIVING, JUNE 1988 High School Graduates Needed Now By Kimberly Marshell W anted: High School graduates with an interest in the science of agricul- ture and related fields. Apply now more than 20,000 new engineers each year," said Don Edwards, Department of Agricultural En- gineering chairperson. "These new fisheries and wildlife is in education and government. This public dimension requires combining the knowledge of biology with people at Michigan State University! engineers are going to be involved skills to teach youths or adults, work "I don't think there has been a bet- wi th people from such areas as as governmental aides or liaisons to ter time in agriculture when stu- chemical engineering, mechanical organizations and agencies, local dents could choose from any num- engineering, and the food sciences." development, and planning com- ber of rewarding and important Most of these areas will require missions. career possibili ties," said science-oriented students who will 'The hiring outlook for all students MaYnard Hogberg, MSU Animal be willing to work essentially on a is better than it has been for the past Science Department chairperson. "A global basis in food processing and five to ten years," McCarty said. lot of areas in agriculture are beg- new product development. Crops and Soil Science ging for new talent." "There are some great oppor- tunities for young men and women 'The education that we offer goes Animal Science who are interested in the very broad beyond production agriculture," "There is a real need for managers area of new food and product said Don Penner, Crops and Soil on many of our larger farms and development and I "do not see a Science professor. "Our two- and that need is going to continue for a decrease in agricultural career op- four-year degree programs are while as these operations become portunities beyond the farm gate in based on basic agricul tural science larger," Hogberg said. the future," Edwards said. that prepares graduates for The service sector of sales and tech many potential careers." industries, ranging from coopera- Horticulture Because of this broad background, tives such as DHIA, MABC-Select Here, the booming area is a wide variety of industries are in- Sires, the feed industry, and all the landscape horticulture, including terested in these graduates. policy and credit-forming in- floriculture. With new lawn and "Our two-year turf program grads dustries is an area where program garden centers opening and are in high demand, as well as the graduates could be working very homeowners willing to spend more graduates who enter the consumer closely with the farmer, getting a lot money on plants, landscape design, packaging field," said Penner. of satisfaction out of it and making and lawn care, plenty of jobs are Crops and Soils Science majors are a good living, too. opening up for students with both being encouraged to enter graduate "Regardless of the shrink in farm two- and four-year degrees. programs because with a decreasing numbers, now something like two Curt Peterson, Horticulure number of enrolled students there is percent of the entire population, the Department assistant professor, more scholarship money, and open- agricultural service area has said that jobs in landscape horticul- ings in a wide range of studies, remained constant at about twenty ture outnumber prospective available. percent employment of the popula- employees by at least 20 to 1. The Institute of Agricultural tion. And I suspect that it will market is also very good for floricul- Technology even grow in numbers as farming ture grads. and food-processing becomes more Fruit and vegetable majors have to Agricul tural technology grad ua tes sophisticated. look at little harder for work, though are in high demand and can expect 'The other area where we really MSU could easily double its enroll- above average salaries, according to have a lot of potential is for young ment in this area without saturating results of a recent Institute survey. people who are very science- the market, said Frank Dennis, Hor- The study, which surveyed the oriented and want to go into ticulture Department professor. Institu te' s 1982-86 grad ua tes, graduate school within the Students interested in advanced showed that 90% of the grads are animal science sector. Programs degrees will be able to find teaching employed full-time in the occupa- range from developing genetically and research positions opening up tion they prepared for in college and improved animals through biotech- as older scientists at universities and 89% are satisfied with their present nology to developing new meat federal agencies retire. employment. The average annual food products." income with benefits was $23,465 - Fisheries & Wildlife Agricultural Engineering compared with $21,816, the average According to Shari McCarty, annual income of an MSU graduate 'We estimate in the United States, Fisheries and Wildlife Extension with a bachelor's degree. 0 for the immediate future, a need for specialist, the growing area in JUNE 1988, RURAL LIVING 7 Crop Insurance Vitally Important Crop insurance protects most crops against almost any kind of unavoidable loss, including drought, hail, excess moisture, freeze, and disease. By Luke Schafer everal Michigan farmers are avoidable loss, including drought, didn't carry insurance on all in- S still in business in 1988 be- cause they made an important decision in 1987. They purchased hail, excess moisture, freeze, and disease. Most Michigan crops are eligible for Federal Crop Insurance surable crops during the preceding crop year will be ineligible for a Farmers' Home Administration crop insurance protection. They had coverage. emergency loan. This means that the protection of Federal Crop In- "The cost of crop insurance is anyone who doesn't carry insurance surance when heavy rains and based on each farmer's individual on this year's crops won't be eligible drought caused several millions of yield experience," Gallagher said. for an emergency loan next year. dollars in crop damage in Michigan "Youalso have the option of further last year. customizing your policy with dif- Free Crop Insurance Booklet Farm Bureau Insurance Group, ferent levels of coverage. Crop in- Michigan's largest farm insurer, surance takes into account each You can get a free guide to 1988 reports that farmers are gaining a farm's unique production history crop insurance protection by con- new appreciation of the value of and financial needs." tacting the Farm Bureau Insurance crop insurance. Premiums for crop insurance agency manager for your county or "In 1987our crop insurance sales coverage are not due until around by writing: Jim Gallagher, Farm were double our 1986total,"said Jim harvest time, even though coverage Bureau Insurance Group, 7373 W. Gallagher, manager of an FBIGsub- begins when the crops are planted. Saginaw, P.O. Box 30400, Lansing, sidiary that writes Federal Crop In- "Crop insurance is important from Mich. 48909. surance in Michigan. several standpoints," Gallagher The eight-page guide answers the "Our agents wrote $850,000in crop said. "Besidesaverting the financial most commonly asked questions insurance premium in 1987,provid- disaster that could result from a about crop insurance, explains how ing protection for hundreds of crop loss, crop iflsurance is also costs are figured and provides other farmers. As a group, those farmers widely accepted as loan collateral, were paid $1.5 million in crop in- helpful information about the big and starting this year farmers must difference crop insurance can make. surance losses in 1987,so the need have crop insurance to be eligible for the coverage is obvious," said FBIGnow has more than 80agents for emergency federal disaster who are trained to sell and service Gallagher. loans." Crop insurance protects most According to the U.S.Department Federal Crop Insurance. D crops against almost any kind of un- of Agriculture, any producer who 8 RURAL LIVING, JUNE 1988 Who Can Benefit FroID Leasing? "I want a lower monthly payment." "I'm not sure what kind of car I Farm Bureau Leasing Service Monthly payments on a lease can be want." much lower than monthly payments Dealers have a limited number of One of the most common questions on a finance purchase. If you models available. If you want to see asked is, "Who can benefit from financed the Ford Taurus L shown for all your choices, you have to go to leasing?" The fact is there can be as 48 months, your monthly payment several dealers. When you do decide many reasons to lease as there are would be $314.36. If you leased the on a car, you then have to shop different kinds of people. A lease vs. same car your payment would be only several dealers and haggle over price. buy analysis is the best way to $197.35. That's a savings of over All of this takes up your valuable determine if leasing is for you. To $117 per month. We use the Ford time. At Farm Bureau Leasing you make an appointment for your free Taurus L as an example. This can get any make or mode~, import or analysis call us at 1-800-544-4819. If comparison can be done with any car. domestic, at low discount prices one or more of the following Contact Farm Bureau Leasing for every day. With our one-stop statements sounds like you, you may details. find that leasing is your best choice. shopping you can save time and 48 Month Finance Purchase money. $314.36 per month. "I like to drive a new car." Most people like to drive a new "I know what I want, but I car. With leasing you're only want to make sure I'm getting paying for the portion of a good deal." the car you use, not Let's look at our example the full purchase again. Over 48 months price. Many people you would spend over find this makes it easier $5,616 less to lease than and more affordable to change 48 Month Closed End Lease to finance. Of course, if you cars more often. With leasing, you $193.41 per month •• financed you'd own the car after decide how often you'd like a new "I'd like to drive a nicer car, but I 48 months, but the projected used car car. can't afford it." value would only be $4,250. That Since lease payments can be much means you could save over "I've always owned my cars." lower than finance payments, and $1,366*** by leasing. And with the Because there is no down payment there is no down payment with reputation of Farm Bureau behind with leasing, you can turn your leasing, many people find they can every lease, you know you'll get the current car into cash by selling it outright instead of trading it in. afford to drive a more expensive car. quality and service you expect. Think of the things you could do with With leasing you may be surprised by that extra cash. the level of luxury you can afford. TOLL FREE ALL AREAS 1-800-544-4819 • $11,806 base MSRP x 4"10sales tax - $12,278.24 at 10.5"10apr. over 48 months - $314.36 per month for a total of $15.089.28 . .. Price accurate at time of publiCalion. Subject to change without notice. 48 month closed end lease to qualified applicants. No down payment $500 refundable security deposit, license registration, and first month's rental . required at lease signIng. No mileage charge up to 72,000 miles. Additional mileage calculated at $.08 per mile. Option to purchase at market value alter 12 months. Subject to surcharge before lease expiration. Lessee responsible for excess wear and tear. Total of payments equals $9,283.68. Illustrations mayor may not reflect actual equipment. . Difference in cash outlay 01$5,805.60 minus projected residual value of $4,250.16 equals projected net saVIngs of $1,366. Agrinomic Update Important Information About the Special Agricultural Worker Program A lthough the general amnesty mula would be used in fiscal year believed employers could be held provision in the new im- 1989. In fiscal years 1991, 1992, and criminally responsible for harbor- migration law expired May 1993, the formula would be up to ing in these situations even though 4, 1988, amnesty provisions of the 90% of the previous fiscal year. they are not liable for employment Special Agricultural Workers sanctions. (SAWs) program continue until EnforcementlPenalties Take Effect The best ad vice is to complete an Nov. 30, 1988. This program It's also time to start talking about INS 1-9 form on every person provides that aliens may qualify as penalties for employers who employed. It must be kept for three SAW s if they have lived in the knowingly hire, recruit, refer, or years and be available to govern- United States and worked in continue to employ an un- ment agencies upon request. Enfor- agriculture for 90 days during the authorized alien. Every employer in cement will probably be initiated for period May I, 1985 through May I, the United States is required to com- one of the following reasons: 1986. The aliens must have worked ply with this law. Farmers should • A disgruntled employee or 90 man-days in seasonal field work not confuse the SAW program as potential employee who is not in planting, cultivating, growing, applying to all agricultural hired complains to a government harvesting, drying, processing, or labor. Only those farmers in defined agency such as the U.s. Depart- packing any fruits, vegetables, or perishable commodities may hire ment of Labor Wage and Hour other perishable commodities as the SAWs. Others, such as livestock, Division or the Michigan Civil defined by the secretary of agricul- poultry, dairy, etc., are subject to the Rights Department. ture. same law as all other employers. • A serious accident or fatality oc- Legal status for agricultural With the ending of the amnesty on curs at the workplace. workers benefits farmers by ensur- May 4, 1988, the Immigration and • Another government agency that ing that a skilled work force is avail- Naturalization Service (INS) chan- is authorized to inquire about 1- able now and in the future. During ges from their public relations mode 9's, finds violations and reports this qualifying period, farmers are back to their enforcement respon- them to the U.S. Border Patrol, encouraged to supply applicants sibilities. who enforces the immigration with the necessary documentation The civil penalties are: first viola- law on all agricultural lands of and refer them to the qualified tion - $250 to $2,000 for each the state. designated entity (QDE) nearest unauthorized alien; second viola- • Cross checking a computer- to them. In Michigan, QDEs are lo- tion - $2,000 to $5,000 for each un- generated list provided to the dis- cated at the main offices of the seven authorized alien; and third and sub- trict offices. The Border Patrol Catholic Dioceses. sequent violations - $3,000 to must use this list to avoid charges Because there are implications for $10,000 for each unauthorized alien. of discrimination on their part. the future labor available, it is to There are also criminal penalties the grower's advantage to see as when an employer engages in a pat- Employer Handbook Available many SAWs legalized as possible tern or practice of violations. The Copies of the Handbook for during this qualifying period. criminal penalties are up to $3,000 Employers, with instructions for Another program called the fine for each unauthorized alien and completing the form 1-9 (blank Replenishment Agricultural imprisonment for up to six months copies included), can be obtained by Workers (RAWs) program starting or both. writing the U.S. Department of Jus- Dec. 1,1989, uses Census Bureau in- There is one other factor that tice, Immigation, and Naturaliza- formation to determine whether should concern farmers who tion Service, 425 1 Street, NW, adequate agricultural labor is avail- operate migrant housing. Even Washington, DC 20536. It is Form able. If the Census Bureau survey though penal ties for farmers in M-274 (5-87). It can also be obtained reveals a shortfall of SAWs, the perishable commodities do not from the U.S. Border Patrol, P.O. secretaries of labor and agriculture start until Dec. 1,1988, there is a pos- Box 32639, Detroit, MI 48207. Some are authorized to use a formula sibility they could be subject to the copies are also available from the which could admit up to 95% of the felony provisions of providing shel- Michigan Farm Bureau Public Af- number of individuals who were ter or lodging for aliens and thereby fairs Division. 0 classified as SAWs. The 95% for- violate the harboring provision. It is 10 RURAL LIVING, JUNE 1988 Group Toursl Join other Farm Bureau members on world-wide travel. ~ October 27-31, 1988 Extended weekend. Car rental. 4 nights - Deluxe Hilton. Roll into winter with this final summer weekend adventure! Caribbean Cruise ... January 28-February 4, 1989 7 day cruise on board ABC TV's II Love Boat the Island Princess! ,II Hawaii ... March 8-18, 1989 Back by popular demand a fantastic 3 island tour! Disney World/Bahama's Cruise ... March 27-April 3, 1989 .2 trips for one low price! 4 nights in Orlando and/or a 3 night cruise, plus a Florida farm tour! British Isles... June 1989 Plan now for next summer! r-----------------------------------------------------------------------------~ • ~ Please forward brochures for these Farm Bureau Group Vacations: _San Diego _ _Hawaii Caribbean Cruise CALL TODAYI _ _ Disney World/Bahama's Cruise British Isles Toll Free Name _ 1-800-331-1729 Address _ in Grand Rapids City/Town _ 1-616-452-9556 State and Zip Code _ Mall to: Farm Bureau Travel Service. 2421 Eastern Ave .• S.E., Grand Rapids, M149507 ------------------------------------------------------------- J Boost Milk Production By Up To 15 Pounds Per Cow Per Day. New Dairy Pro RC works with hay, haylage, corn silage ... or any combination. Dairy Pro RC is a complete dairy feed that scientifically regulates protein and carbohydrate sources to enable your cows to use the feed more effi- ciently. Dairy Pro RC helps provide a steady flow of protein and energy in the optimal amount, precise type and correct balance for a more pro. fitable ratio of milk to feed. In tests at the Cooperative Research Farm in Tully, New York, where Dairy Pro RC was developed, Dairy Pro RC increased milk production by up to 15 pounds per cow per day, compared to conventional ration ... and up to 6 pounds per cow per day, compared to a ration balanced only for protein solubilityl. Best of all, Dairy Pro RC achieves this increase in milk production withoul increasing daily feed intake. To learn more about this innovative new dairy feed, contact your Coun. trymark feed specialist. • u.s. Patent Number 4.118.513 • U.S. Patent Number 4.615.891 U.S. Patent Number 4.616.276 I Production increases attributable to Dairy Pro RC are based on controlled experiments and are not directly projectable due to differences in management practices. genetic potential. available forages. etc. For Results You Can Count On .•• Count On Country mark. FD-8602.6R Count;'~.':,k 4565 Columbus Pike • Delaware, OH 43015 GetSetForSu1n1n~esti This summer season just won't be complete without a visit to Farm Bureau's 1988 Summerfest, July 20 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the grounds of the FE Center in Lansing. For just $3 per person you'll enjoy a great steak sizzler dinner and all the fixin's, special events and games, and the fun and fellowship of your FB friends and neighbors. You can order tickets with the form below, or by using the form mailed to Community Action Groups. You can also order tickets by contacting your county FE office. But don't delay. A huge crowd's expected, so be sure and get your reservations in before the deadline of July 8. While you're in the Lansing area remember to stop by the FB tent at Ag Expo! There'll be fun for the whole family and information abou t the member benefits of the entire FE family of companies. A limi ted number of hotel rooms is available in the Lansing area at special FE Summerfest rates. They can be reserved on a first come, first serve basis. For information contact Michigan FE Meeting and Travel Services, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, 48909, or call 517-323-7000, extension 3066. TICKET ORDER FORM Please make checks payable to: Michigan Farm Bureau Remember: Orders must be received before July 8 Return form to: Summerfest, Michigan Farm Bureau, Field Operations Division, Box 30960, Lansing, MI 48909 PLEASE SEND ME SUMMERFEST TICKETS. I HAVE ENCLOSED $3 FOR EACH TICKET, A TOTALOF$ PLEASE MAIL THE TICKETS TO: NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP: WE ARE MEMBERS OF A COMMUNITY ACTION GROUP: YES NO THE NAME OF OUR GROUP IS: COUNTY: 12 RURAL LIVING, JUNE 1988 Grassroots Perspective Getting Together Dear Michigan Farm Bureau: The following counties have reported newly organized CAGs: This letter is late in coming, but we hope the impact intended is still Bay - Bay County Young Farmers strong. The Farm Bureau Leaders' Conference we attended in Midland this past March was exhilarating. It's hard to put into words everything C;:alhoun - The Back Forty the conference meant to us. Ionia - The Last Straws We learned so much about FB, the people involved, and what an asset Lapeer - The Rural Farm-its, the organization is to our farm. The need to get involved and be dedicated Freeway Friends to our communi ty and county FB functions became so evident and neces- Mason - Meet If We Can sary to us. We now understand the need for Community Action Groups Mecosta - East Side Stoney Hills and attending various other functions our Young Farmer group conducts. Oceana - Happy Harvestors We are ready and willing to participate in our CAG and will gladly help Ottawa - Bill's Bunch in the organizing and planning in any way we can. *Three groups in Sanilac, and one We are proud to be a part of this FB organization and ...we look forward each in Eaton, Gladwin, St. Clair and to attendIng next year's Young Farmer Leaders' Conference to learn more and to feel the special support from such a "rich" and "full" organization. VanBuren have organized, but have Thank you for everything. not decided on a name. Community Acti vi ties Manager Greg and Sandy Pluger, Missaukee County Rebecca Jeppeson draws names from the tumbler each week (until July 13, 1988) to be entered in the Caribbean cruise/Florida vacation Discussion Topic for two. The grand prize drawing will be held at MFB's Summerfest celebration, July 20. V o-Ag and FFA Support These new CAG members are Just as a tractor needs a full tank of fuel to get the job done, Michigan weekly finalists through May 2 for agriculture needs talented, well-trained young people to power a prosperous the Paradise Vacation: future. But the pipeline is draining because of declining participation in Wayne - Dennis Wilken, Wayne #1 vocational agriculture and Future Farmers of America (FFA). Hiawathaland - Tony VanDamme, The St. Nicholas Scope of the problem Lapeer - Jerry Duckert, Freeway Enrollment in secondary vocational agriculture programs has ranged from Friends a peak of nearly 15,000 in 1977, down to only about 8,400 students in 1986, Benzie - Jim Gray, Farm Friends according to "A Report on the Status and Future Direction of Vocational- Technical Agriculture Education in Michigan" done recently for the Michigan Council on Vocational Education and the Michigan Department of Education. Participation in FFA declined 42% since 1977. The number of FFA chapters ''You Said If' dropped from 155 statewide in 1977 to only 129 in 1986. Here's how Community Action Increased graduation requirements are one of the reasons for the decline Group members around the state in vo-ag, according to Rich Karelse, consul tant for program development and responded after discussion of the operations in the Vocational Technical Education Service, Department of March 1988 topic, "Ethano!." Ed ucation. "When students have to take more ma th, English and science, there Only 18% of the CAG members who are fewer hours available to take electives like agriculture," he said. responded said that they used "Another reason is the poor image of agriculture. I've talked with groups of ethanol fuels. people who are in production agriculture, and not all of them are supportive 95% favored a 6 cent/gallon of their children looking at agriculture as a career." federal tax exemption for ethanol The vo-ag report also surveyed secondary school principals. They reported fuel. that new graduation requirements had little influence on their decisions to drop vocational agriculture programs. Of primary importance, according to the survey, was the technical Next Month competence and flexibility of the vo-ag teacher. Community Action Group mem- Revitalizing Vocational Agriculture bers: Watch for next month's discus- The vo-ag report recommends redefining the purposes for offering instruc- sion topic, "Policy Development," in tion about agriculture to include: preparation for entrepreneurship and the July issue of the Rural Leader employment in occupations requiring knowlege and skill in agriculture; newsletter. understanding and appreciating the nature and importance of food, agricul- (continued on page 14) JUNE 1988, RURAL LIVING 13 Discussion Topic VACATION? You Name It! (continued from page 13) ture; understanding and appreciat- ing the nature and importance of By Marcia Ditchie food, agricul ture and natural resour- ces in our economy and society; S AN, SFO, ORL, OGG, MSYI Alphabet soup? No, city codes used by airlines. Many Farm. Bureau members are becoming familiar with these codes since Farm Bureau Travel Service was initiated in December knowledge of occupational professional preparation opportunities; for and and advanced 1986. study in colleges and universities. "The service was developed primarily for the benefit of Farm Bureau Other suggestions included members looking for group travel opportunities and who would like to broadening instruction of agricul- travel with people with similar interests," said Doug Fleming, manager of ture to grades K through 12; expand- MFB's Membership Services Department. "Through the group programs ing the Agriculture in the Classroom offered by Farm Bureau Travel Service, a lot of members can travel with prog}'am; offering new courses in friends, relatives, or other Farm Bureau members." agnbusiness and agricultural science; and magnet schools specializing in agricultural sciences In the months ahead, FB members have the to be established in major urban areas. opportunity to choose from five group tours How Can County FBs Help? being offered by FB Travel. Young people need to be shown the bread th of opportunities in Of course, everyone is interested in saving money. FB Travel helps there, agriculture and refated businesses, said Karelse. "Agriculture education too. "By using the group travel packages, members can get discounts of is more thanJ'ust farming," he said. five to thirty percent," Fleming said. He suggeste that county FBs ag- Operated by DeVries Travel in Grand Rapids, FB Travel Service is a full- gressively provide input to school line travel agency. 'We have the capability of booking reservations for air, districts by providing advisors or train, cruises, car rentals, and hotel accommodations, as well as group volunteer resource people. For ex- tours," said Joyce Dunne, who along with Janet Cousineau, handles the FB ample, Robert Thompson, Travel Service for DeVries. president of the Kalamazoo County Since beginning operations, FB Travel has offered two group tours: one FB, spearheaded a successful effort to EuroPe in 1987 and a very successful Hawaiian tour in March 1988. to revive the Vicksburg vo-ag Fleming explained how the destinations for the group travel packages program. In Vicksburg, the county are selected. 'The Membership Services Department works with Farm FB encouraged the program to be redirected toward agribusiness. Bureau Travel to develop group travel destinations. Initially, we look at County FBs have a crucial role to places we feel would be attractive to Farm Bureau members and their play in ensuring the vitality of their families. local vo-ag and FFA programs. The 'The destinations are also based on inquiries to Farm Bureau Travel. If a future of the food and natural re- certain destination is generating a lot of calls, then we'll try to put sources industry depends on it. 0 together some type of group package." In the months ahead, FB members have the opportunity to choose from Discussion Questions: five group tours being offered by FB Travel. • What is the status of your local vo- 'We have an extended weekend package to San Diego in late October for agprogram? anyone who wants to have one last weekend of summer," said Fleming. • What are some ways your Com- "Also, because of the terrific response we had for the Hawaiian tour last munity Action Group can main- March, it will be offered again next year." Other group tours include a tain or revitalize your vo-ag and seven-day Caribbean Cruise, Disney World/Bahamas Cruise, and the FFA programs? British Isles. (See FB Travel's ad on page 11.) • What are some ways members of According to Fleming, member participation in the service is steadily your group can personally assist increasing. As a result, the service is considering an additional toll free your vo-ag programs? number. • What are some ways members of What is the advantage of using FB Travel Service over a local travel your group can encourage young agent? According to Fleming it's a social and economic advantage. people to consider careers in "People with like interests can travel together, either abroad or within agriculture and natural resources. the continental United States. In addition, we can put together unique group travel packages that take advantage of group discounts," Fleming ~. 0 14 RURAL LIVING, JUNE 1988 Farm Bureau Market Place CLASSIFIED AD POLICY MISCELLANEOUS FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK LUXURIOUS GERMAN SOAPS. CUSTOM MANURE PUMPING SER- REGISTERED ANGUS BREEDING • Farm Bureau mem- Aromatic. long lasting. Makes unique, af- VICE - Emptying liquid storages with ir- STOCK: For sale at all times. Bordner bers pay 25 cents per fordable gift. Send SASE to Su periorScents, rigation equipment. PhU Banner 1-800-632- Angus Farms, 68730 County Farm Road, Box 23 RL. Eagle River, MI 4~24. 7731. ""2t-13p) Sturgis, MI 49091. Phone 616-651-8353. word for all clas- a-llt-20p) (6-12t-20p) sified advertise- WRITE YOUR OWN WILL - It's legal. FOR SALE: 20,000 WATTS PINCOREAL- BABY CHICKS - Free prices and details. TERNATOR. Phone 517-288-3096. ments. Save money. 4-Forms fill out. $6.50 CS-2t-8p) Shephard Hatchery, Route 1, Dept. MI, prepaid. Fast service, m>neyback guaran- Cannelton, IN 47520. (3-3t-15JHli) • All other advertisers pa y 50 teed. PICK's, Dept. RL. Tompkinsville, I