MDCHDGAN+tFARM NEWS THE ACTION PUBLICATIO~ OF THE MICHIGAN Vol. 47, No.7 Published Monthly by Michigan Farm Bureau , 1968 ': .. .;: " . , ... ,; .. .,6 ' , " .:.~--~ .' ',::~::~-~;:~~:~;:,,;:::i~ ". ;;::::~t.~'!~t:;'lT .. ... : : j ~. ~ ~. ~. 4 ... ' C.':;,.,._ '~:., .. t •• ~~4 .. '. . .. , '.' ...( .; " ' •.. ".t :--.: t::-, . : ..... - .. :-.:.~:.:::4::;::~: ~~-_;'..-;.:. ... "....#&" ._. ':if2;:;i;E;~~;f~;~i~~?~; .... -- ~....... ,. ... ' " i'~.;~. .. ,. ..... ~.. ' .... ~ ... Old-Fashioned Capitol Blue-Ribbon Pictorial Discussion ON THE INSIDE: Patriotism Page 2 Report Page 4 Group Named Page 9 Report Page 12 Topic Page 14 TWO July 1,1968 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Editorial Tinze To Hoist It rrI Believe ••• " II ow about sparking a display of old- fashioned patriotism as a direct answer to those who u;ould tear down America? Isn't it time for good citizens everywhere to speak out and demand we stop coddling communists, anarch- ists and others who would destroy us? \"'hy not smother flag burners under a tide of flag-raising? Let's demand that courts stop ignoring victims while catering to criminals. Let's stop the exploiting of the fears and problems of minorities. Let us insist that civil rights leaders be civil. Let us listen to more praying preachers and less political parsons. Shouldn't we v.,'e expulsion, :" necessary, to dcmand that students study? America needs more r~sp )nsi~ treabnent of violence; America IJeeds m\ re f( LJonsible lead- ers in our news meilia, in ( lur~~ 'es, in political parties and unive:'sities. lVe need less tcartltg down and more emplw- sis on ~.1lid thiT'''': in which we believe ... as illustrated by this Credo presented to all new students at Hillsdale College by President ]. Donald Philips: I BELIEVE in the dignity and sanctity of every individual as a child of God, and in the intent of our Declaration of Independence and of our Constitution to protect and foster this dignity and sanctity. I BELIEVE in the principles of democracy as set forth in our Declaration of Independence, I BELIEVE in our republic as defined by our cherished Constitution, I BELIEVE that any potential danger to the future of our country lies as much within our- selves through apathy and ignorance as from enemies outside our borders. I BELIEVE that every American has an ob- ligation to unden:tand and protect the fullness of our heritage, through knowledge. of our his- tory, through knowledge of our government, and through knowledge of our hasic ,economic principles and beliefs. I BELIEVE that my great heritage as em American has come by reason of the constant, dedicated striving of others to protect the dig- - Reprinted from the lansing State Journal by permission of Newspaper nify and sanctify of every man and that my contribution to God and cOllntrrj. can be Mareat as I, too, protect and defend the dignity and worth of others. A PERSONAL WORD I BELIEVE that as others are imperfect- FROM THE WOMEN: A Harvest of Thought so also am I - and I shall be patient, humble and understanding with others (even includ- ing family, faculty and administration) as I July, the beginning of harvest time. Please remember to be It will be an exciting day for all of us, with would have them be patient, humble and un- alert to the safety roles of your harvest machinery. Be careful most of our visitors from foreign countries wearing derstanding with me. with all the children home - many of them are so curious their native costumes. I BELIEVE that to fulfill my personal des- about farm implements. tiny I must develop: I have a little verse from Hi-Time that might ... an appreciation for the dignity of work AC\V\V and September are coming up fast, and, although help us, as mothers and homemakers, during these hot summer months when times become tense. It's ... the will to work - even at tasks which our voting delegates and accredited visitors have been chosen, may not be personally pleasant but which oth- a' nice thought to keep before us, especially if we anyone can attend U.S.A. Day on September 5. Ladies, you can ers wiser than I have determined are necessary are together with young children most of the dav. bring your husbands, and they are most welcome. You wiII need I'd like to share it with you - . to the fullness of my preparation for, and par- to take action right now, in order to have your reservations ticipation in, life; accepted. Send reservations immediately to: USA Day, 103 "If a child lives with criticism . He learns to condemn, . . . the abilitv to discern what is good and Home Economics Building, East Lansing, Michigan 48823. right for me a~d for others; i\Jake all checks payable to :Michigan State University. If a child Jives with hostilitv the courage to undertake an honorahle Cost is $4.25 for registration and the noon luncheon; for the He learns to fight .. ' task regardless of personal sacrifice; full day, including two meals and registration, cost is $6.75 . . . . the skill to perfonn ably. If a child lives with ridicule, He learns to be shy. I BELIEVE that my college grades will he symhols throughout my life which will repre- MICHIGAN'-'@FARM NEWS If a child lives with jealousy, He learns to feel guilty. s~nt to me and to others a pattern of my reac- THE ACTION PUBLICATION 0" THE MICHIOAN "ARM BURI!AU hon to tasks assigned. The MICHIGAN FARM XEWS is DIRECTORS: District I, Han)' puhlished monthly, on the first day, !\ye, St. Joseph, R-l; District 2, Nich- If a child lives with tolerance, I BELIEVE that as I would wish to live by tbe ~{jchijtan Farm Bureau, at its olas Smith. Addison, R-l; District 3, He learns to be patient, puhlication office at 109 X. Lafavette Andrew Jaclcson. Howell, R-l; Dis- only in communities which have churches, so Street, Greenville, ~{jchiJ!an .. trict 4, Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R-l; Editorial and Ileneral offices at 4000 District 5, David Morris, Grand Ledj.te. If a child lives with encouragement, should I support some church locallv as welJ North Grand River Avenue. Lansinl!, R-3; District 6. Jack Laurie, Cass City, Michi!!an 48904. Post Office Box 960. R-3; District 7, Kenneth Bull. Bailey, He learns with confidence. as all pertinent college church-rl'lated 'activitil's. Telephone, Lansin~ .18.5-8121, Exten- R-l; District 8, Harvey Leuenherger. sion 317. Subscription price, 50c per SaJ!inaw, R-6; District 9. EUJ!ene Rob- If a child lives with praise, 1. BELl EV E that no person of history has t'rh, Lake City, R-l; District 10. year. Richard Wieland, Ellsworth. R-l: Dis- He learns to appreciate. achIeved trul' gf(latness who has not professed Established January 12, 1923. St'C- ond Class Postage paid at G r('en ville. trict 11, Clayton Ford, Cornell. a Power greatl'r than himself, and that. therc- :'vlichigan. If a child lives with fairness. EDITORIAL: Editor, ~fdvin L. DIRECfORS AT LARGE: W"lter forl', 1 shall Tll'Vl'r c('ase in my efforts to dis- 'Vo('ll; Aswcinte Editor, ~farlo!:aret G. Frahm. Frankenmuth; D('an Pridl!eon. He learns justice. cover and acknow1edg(l that Power ill order ~fcCall; Staff Photoltrapher, Ch,ules Montl!omery, R-I; James Thar. Deea- Bailc)'; tur, R-2. If a child lives with secmitv. that I may live lip to tIle' full ('xl<'nl of thi~ OFFICERS: ~(ichigan Farm Bur- eau; President. Elton R. Smith. Cale- 'VO:\fES OF FAR~f nUREAl': Mrs. He learns to have faith .. Credo as a studl'llt. as a citizell. and as a child donia. R-l; Vice President. Dean Jerold Topliff, Eaton Rapids. H-l. of God. Pridjteon. ~fontltomer)'. R-l. Secretaf"- FARM BUREAU YOUXG FAR~IERS: ManaJ!er. Dan E. Reed, Lansinlt. ' ~fichnel Satchell. Caro. R-.t, If a child lives with approval, He learns to like himself. POSTMASTER: In using form 3579, moil to: Michigan Form News, 4000 N. .Hil,lsdal~ ~oncgc President J. Donald Philips Grand River, lansing, Michigon 48904. If a child lives with acceptan('(' and rri(,lldship. Said It. "c rc proud to print it. Second class postage paid at Greenville, Michigan He learns to find love in the world," M, "'. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1, 1968 THREE President's Column AG-RESEARCH HIGH TIME THE PUBLIC IS TOLD Although there are untold millions of people in the world who are not properly fed, we occasionally hear the suggestion that we should FOOD SUPPLIES NOT GUARANTEED cut or temporarily halt agricultural production research. Farmers have no illusions about what it takes to make a Before this happens, pesticides must be ex- Some scientists predict that we have already good crop. Blisters and backaches are plentiful evidence of plained for what they are - life-saving aids to .....lost the race against the population explosion. the work needed in daybreak-to-dark hours during which all agriculture, through which a "ten to fifteen per Only a few days ago Dr. Paul Ehrlich of Stan- the skill and ingenuity known to mankind must be employed to cent increase .in farm output since 1940 can be ford University said that if there is not a sud- keep a farm going. Included in the long list of expensive tools directly credited. den halt in the birth rate or a sudden increase which must be used are substantial amounts of pesticides and The authority for this statement is Dr. 'Var- in the death rate in the Orient, there will be other fann chemicals. ren Shaw of the Agricultural Research Service, mass starvation there in the 1980's, possibly But it is high time the public learns that their food supply U.S. Department of Agriculture, who adds that earlier. is not necessarily guaranteed, that it is not some automatic the complete withdrawal of pesticides now Given the opportunity and incentive of the blessing visited upon them by a benevolent Providence. used in farm production would reduce total American farmers, I believe the Asian farmers Farm~rs themselves will have to stop talking only to each output of crops and livestock by a full 30 per coulfl work miracles in a very few years or even other and tell the story, direct, plain and soon. Perhaps fanners cent. Shaw says that farm exports would be months. must become as emotional in this task as those who use emo- completely eliminated and that the price of Another reason for the continued emphasis tions against them in hinting at the supposed dangers to every- farm products in the United States would likely on production research is the long period be- one and everything from pesticide "build-up". increase by 50 to 75 per cent. tween the basic research and its application on To begin soundly, farmers must first make sure. that they - Housewives everywhere must be told that the farm. handle and use all farm chemicals properly. Next, they must this can mean hamburger at $1.00 per pound, I'm told that the research which led to the insist on adequate research to back the confidence they have pork chops around $1.75 per pound ... milk development of the specific weed killers such that agriculture is not a major contributor to either pollution at $1.57 per gallon and apples in the neighbor- as 2-4-D took nearly 20 years in one of Amer- or other environmental contamination. hood of $1.00 for three pounds. ica's most modern research laboratories. 'Ve Finally, and this may be the hardest task of all, farmers And in telling the story, farmers must make just can't afford to stand around while new must begin an all-out campaign to convince non-fanners that it plain that they too are primarily concerned methods are being perfected. The methods the food they eat is good, safe and in abundant supply at with the health and welfare of the public- have to be ready when we need them - or reasonable cost as a direct result of the wise use of fann and active in protecting all of the important people may starve in America, too. chemical tools. values of our environment against the potential We farmers are in a feal bind just now be- A small measure of the great misunderstanding and misin- hazards of pesticides. cause we didn't push hard enough for water formation which now abounds in Michigan and elsewhere If emotionalists speak of robins, fanners must pollution research, although we recognized the was evident in the current session of the ~'1ichigan legislature speak of rats. Of lice and mice, of mold and need for it several years ago. I am positive that where bills were introduced in House and Senate to place mildew, of fungoids and virus, of death-dealing the farmer is one of the minor offenders in the pesticide users under strict new controls. mosquitoes, of flies steeped in filth. Of malaria current furor over pesticide pollution here ;;1 The bills died for this session but the issue is sure to be and cholera - of the bony fingers of disease Mi.chi{.!.an, Imt tee ;ust can't prove it completely presented again in much the same emotional context in sessions and starvation marking out little children for with data currently at hand. Research under- to come. death. way will very likely clear us in a matter of a few years, but by then we could he completely tied with unneeded laws and regulations on pesticides use. Then there is the matter of artificial foods. Bug Killer! Milk currently is the one being attacked, but others very likely will follow when the econom- ics become favorable for their commercial pro- duction. I wonder if there isn't some way we can dress up our old favorite, milk, so it will be more attractive to Mrs. Housewife. '''e can whip the imitation products with a real product which is different and which is supported with energetic sales effort. '''e certainly can't whip it with prohibitive legislation or regulation. The research for these new products is overdue. Although our requests for research funds for Michigan State University have been very mod- est in recent years, we are meeting more and more resistance from both lahor and business leaders in the Legislature. They say, «'Vhy don't YOll farmers put lip a little of your own money for research?" "Ve are putting more and more of our own money into research both here in Michigan and nationally, hut we need - and I do mean need - far more than we are currently spend- ing. In recent weeks we have completed the legalities for setting up a new research foun- dation at the American Farm Bureau and several problems are already being considered, along with ways to finance them. As farmers utilizing the research from all these sources, I believe we must also ma;nta;n closer contact with on{.!.oin{.!.research at both state and federal research facilities. 'Ve can often help with the hasic planning to make sure the money is spent on projects which give some promise of profitahle US(' either now or at some point we can anticipate. T sometim('s fear that in the current push to spend federal research monies we may wind up with several people duplicating some of the research projects or doing research purely as a hasis for learned technical papers. Basic re- search wc need for its potentialuscfulness, hut hasic research for pure knowledgc's sake we cannot afford. 'Vc must stay abreast of the projects. Research is 01lr responsibility- we cannot evode this re~1)()ns;b;lity (lnd survive. Elton Smith /1 \ / FOUR July 1,1968 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS --:-- --- =-- -=-_?::-~ • HOW FARMERS FARED the LEGISLATURE In increase over last year. If this record number of bills! amount, statewide, were to be raised by property taxes, it would require nearly two mills. The By: Robert E. Smith total state aid will amount to $615 Legislative Counsel million. To this amount must be As this is written, the legislahlTe has for the most part taken added another $137.5 million for the Teachers' Retirement Fund, final action on this year's record numbez: of bills. ~'fany of the making a total of $752.5 million. measures were of vital interest to ~'Iichigan farmers, with the Several other educational bills bills that were killed in committee - or defeated, often of passed, including one _permitting more importance to the welfare of farmers than some of the intermediate school districts and legislation which was passed. other school districts to form an Here - by topic area, is a condensed report of some of the authority for the purpose of legislation of most interest to Farm Bureau members. building facilities for handi- capped, retarded, or mentally dis- TAXATION turbed children. Another, per- The five bills, in both the FARM LABOR mitting school district reorganiza- House and Senate, that would Here again,' most of those bills tion in emergency situations, was have repealed the present sales regarding farm labor which would finally amended to apply only to BALCONY SCENE - at the state legislature, showing a portion tax exemption on farm machinery have placed added burdens on \Vayne County. Other drastic re- of the House Chambers near the windup of the legislative ses- and other farm supplies died in farmers died in committee. Those organization bills either remained sions. Desks are piled high with some of the record number committee, but not without some included a bill that would have in committee or did not get in- of bills. struggle in the Senate committee. eliminated the important amend- troduced. S. 1348, as originally written ments to - the \Vorkmen's Com- and introduced, would have, by pensation Law that were won last MARKETING a restrictive definition of agricul- year. Another bill would have Last year's change in the 'Vine ture, eliminated some farmers brought farmers under the Mich- Law, increasing the price of wine from the farm personal property igan Labor Mediation Board (ag- grapes $15 per ton, was part of tax exemption. Farm Bureau riculture is presently exempt). A Farm Bureau's marketing effort worked to eliminate the restric- third bill would have put several for that commodity. This year, tive definition and proposed a restrictions on farmers hiring at least two other bills that would broad definition to assure all farm- labor, including the prevention have damaged last year's success ers of the exemption. This bill of transportation of seasonal were killed in committee. On the also was finally amended to ex- employees without a written other hand, H. 2702, requiring empt from personal property tax contract with each employee processors of fruits and vegetables new farm machinery being held stipulating wages a.nd all other to announce a price unless there in the dealers' hands. Farm conditions of employment. is a written agreement died in Bureau has supported this pro- Other bills would have created the Senate Committee on Agri- posal for some time as it is in the a Commission on Agricultural culture. The bill did pass the best interest of farmers, and as it Labor within the Department of House by a large vote anp was is merely giving the farm machin- Labor. This idea was finally at- given immediate effect. This bill ery dealers the same considera- tached to another bill and is appeared to be a victim of some 1 tion that the automobile dealers presently in a conference com- political trading. BIll-SIGNING DAY - at the Governor's office, brings mem- have had for many years. The mittee. ~larkets for Michigan livestock bers of the legislature and other interested persons to witness bill also contains other amend- S. 1238 would have rewritten have declined since the United the signature. At extreme upper right is Farm Bureau Legislative ments to the tax statute that are ~lichigan's Minimum \Vage law States Congress passed the federal Counsel, Robert Smith. in line with Farm Bureau policy. and, in its original form, would meat inspection law last year. For S. 979, which would have re- have eliminated specific piece instance, meat packers not under ously affected agriculture. It will Passage of S. 682 creates a quired assessors to take "zoning rate provisions, broadened the federal inspection in the Detroit be a continuing issue, as the op- foreign trade branch in the De- and land use" into consideration, coverage to include those over area have lost nearly 30 percent posing groups are well financed partment of Agriculture, designed passed the Senate by an over- 65, and incerased the wage rate of their market. This affects the and dedicated to eliminating the to assist in the expansion of for- whelming vote of 28 to 3. How- from the present S 1.25 per hoUl' marketing of farm livestock. use of pesticides. eign marKets. Farm Bureau, on ever, it failed in the House bv to SI.50 per hour by 1972. Farm Bureau supported and There are two special interim both national and state levels, has only four votes. It was kept Farm Bureau was successful in worked for an amendment to an study committees -a three-mem- already had considerable success alive by putting it on the table, including the present piece rate appropriation bill to permit Mich- ber Governor's committee and a in finding new foreign markets. but finally died, along with many provisions, rewriting the section igan to enter into an agreement ten-member joint House-Senate other bills, at the deadline time. defining agriculture, and adding with federal authorities which legislative committee. Desirable amendments were However, progress is being provisions that would have re- will, in turn, permit the use of also made to the fertilizer law Two other Farm Bureau-sup- made on the problem of assessing quired that the minimum wage for the federal meat inspection stamp. and the present potato bonding p~rte~ pesticide bills passed. They property on its potential value. agriculture would be no more This should help to regain some act. requiring buyers to be Will tighten the laws regulating The Court of Appeals has ruled than the equivalent of the federal of the lost market. bonded. custom application of pesticides that property zoned for one use minimum wage for agriculture. Of course, the most important and also tighten the present pesti- In the areas of agricultural re- cannot be assessed on its potential The bill passed the Senate. but and far-reaching legislation this cide registration requirements. search, the legislature continued value for another use. The Tax was defeated in the House. year occurred when Congress appropriations for research on Some of the strictly agricultural Commisison is carrying this case Therefore, the present state Mini- passed Farm Bureau-supported S. legislation iJ)('luded changes in cherries, new vcgf'table varieties, to the Supreme Court. mum \Vage Law will remain in 109, which wiII prohibit a pro- and pesticides. In addition. new the sausage law and upgrading Bills to prevent the assessment effect. cessor from discriminating against resean.h programs will be set up of the Michigan ice cream law. of farm land and other property a farmer because he chooses to Another dairy bill permits a low- for research on mastitis, beef and on its "potential value" rather EDUCATION belong to a marketing organiza- fat eggnog. It also spells out forage, sod and turf production, than its agricultural value re- The new State Aid Act, as far tion. J~ore specifically what a milk new wheat varieties and di ..easc mained in committee. This is a as amounts of money and equity PESTICIDE ISSUE h,~uler must do when picking up control. complex issue, involving constitu- are concerned, is considered the milk at the farm. This is to as- This summary is far from com- tional problems, and the Tax hest ever passed. It is definitely S. 984 and H. 3911, introduced sure the producer of greater ac- plete. A more comprehensive re- Committees intend to make a 'n line with Farm Bureau policy. through the pressure of the De- curacy and to lesSen the chance port of Fann Bureau's legislative specific interim study of the issue. There are now four formulas in- partment of Conservation, finally ',f violation. The present dis- program will be released as soon Other tax bills, while impor- stead of two, which should par- died either in committee or on tance-from-the-wall reql1ir~ment as all issues are finally settled ancl tant, were of more of an admin- ticularly help the low valuation the table. This was a major iSSll(' ~rol1nd bulk tanks has been elim- the le~islahlre adjonrns for the istrative nature. districts. It contains a $60 million and, jf passed, would have seri- mated. year. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1, 1968 FIVE WILL BULLETS-oR IT BE BALLOTS.? YOU HELP DECIDE by Dale Sherwin, Legislative Counsel Recently, a national convention of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) was held on the campus of Michigan State Uni- versity. At this convention, members were continually urged to get changes by marches, demonstrations, disorders, and even riots - revolution. This event was well covered by the press and brought to the attention of the general public some of the means by which some of our people would advocate that we effect changes in our government. The hue and cry of many minorities and dissident groups today is, "'Ve demand our rights," with little or no regard to carrying out their responsibilities in our democratic system of running the business of the people (our government). Today, SDS and other such groups operate under the phony slogan of the "right to dissent." They distort the constitutional guaran- tees of freedom of speech and the right of peaceful assembly into a legalization of intimidation, riot and anarchy. Can a democratic society like the United States survive in such conditions where people try to make changes in laws by these means rather than through our political system of govern- ment? Congressional Legislative Status Subject House Senate In order to keep Americ~ an orderly, free, prosperous nation, \Vheat and Feed 1-1.R.17036 introduced S. 3158 introduced we must maintain and str~nbrthen our system of government by Grains of 1968 laws rather than men. In order to provide for needed changes Rural Telephone Financing H.R. 12066 set aside S. 696 introduced in the law and adequate enforcement of the law, we must by Rules Committee become more concerned and active in nmning our own business. Approved by Senate "'heat Trade People in America are very apathetic about their responsibili- Convention ties in electing qualified people to office. Nationwide, general Passed Congressional Reorganization Before Rules Committee elections in November will see about 60 percent of those eligible Extend NLRA to Approved by Approved by Labor to vote exercising that right and responsibility. Prior to this, Agriculture Labor Committee Subcommittee in the primary election where the determination of candidates is made, only about eight percent of those eligible to vote will Strategic Reserves of wheat, Agriculture Subcommittee ~Iay be part of omnibus be making these choices. In other words, theoretically, five per- feed grain, soybeans tabled bill Farm Bill ------,,----- cent of the people (a majority of the eight percent who voted in Grain standards H.R. 15794 passed Agriculture Committee'" the primary) are really making the choices we have for political by House held hearing office. Financing Election Reported by "It doesn't matter if I vote or not - neither one of the candi- Campaigns Finance Committee dates is any good." Did you ever hear anyone express this? ------- Revenue and Expenditure House-Senate Conference Committee recommended If so, the person making the remark is obviously not involved Control Act of 1968 SID billion tax increase with substantial budget cuts in a political party. A major function of a political party is to USDA appropriations Awaiting House-Senate conference ------- get candidates nominated and elected to office. If we, as individuals, are not active in this process, then we have no one Poultry Meat Approved by House No hearings to blame but ourselves if we don't like the choice available Inspection scheduled ---.-------------------------------- in the general election. P. L. 480 Approved one-year extension Approved three-year Not all people of voting age are even registered to vote. This extension ----------- ---- ------------- ---------- is rather primary and is a prerequisite for all other political Extension of Food and Before Rules Committee Agriculture Committee plans activitv. Check to make sure that all Fann Bureau members Agriculture Act of 1965 additional hearings in you~ community arc registclcd to vote. The deadline for the ------------- ----- Potato Before Agriculture Committee No action primary election is July .5, and for the general election October 4. checkuff You as a Farm Bureau member can help in this 1968 election year by: Proposed _ Becoming active in the political party of your choice. _ Becoming a candidate for public office or urging friends Youth Labor. to become candidates. - Serving on a "Farmers for Joe Candidate" committee. Rule Supported _ Contributing money to the party and candidate of your choice. The American Farm Bureau _ Expressing your views on pu hlic issues, and your favorite Federation has endorsed a pro- posed Labor Department ruling candidates, whenever you have the opportunity. wihch would permit employment _ Helping to get everyone who has YOllr hasic philosophy in specific "hazardous occupa- registered to vote and encouraging them to vote in the tions" of 4-H Club participants, primary and general elections. 14 or 15 years of age - who have _ Helping to get puhlic understanding of at least three received specific training in the safe use of agricultural machinery issues on the hallot: and equipment. 1. Income Tax In a letter to the Department, 2. Double Daylight Saving Time Hoger Fleming, American Farm 3. Graduated Income Tax Bureau Sel'retary- Treasurer and director of the \Vashington office, Lets vote to get \fichigan hack on Eastern Standard Time, said the proposed ruling should and maintain our hroad-hased, fIat rate income tax. he approved. Your vote in the election docs count, and in ~reater propor- tion than just one vote. Because of the apathy of many people, He added that Farm Bureau a few active citizens can have a profound effect on the outcome recommends a similar authoriza- of the election. tion for young workers provided Contact your County Farm Bureau to find out what activities comparable training in high school ;1re planned to help insure that chan.ges in our government come agricultural courses or in other \\YOU KNOW WHAT? IT IS GREENER!" hy ballots rather than bullets. educational institutions. SIX July 1, 1968 MARKET DEVELOPMENT SIMPLE LOADING IDEA MAY SELL MORE BEANS -~._ In m 0 v in g bagged Michigan promised for early delivery. For- .~\"1k¥" . ,~ NYLON-REINFORCED TAPE~ is applied . .-- to bagged beans stacked navy beans, the Michigan Ele- tunately, Farm Bureau's Michigan Photo-Story vator Exchange division of Farm Agricultural Services Association on pallets, in one of the first steps in a new loading procedure Bureau Services is helping to test was able to recruit a crew to load by Charles Bailey devised originally by the H. J. Heinz Company, ltd., of England, a new system of "unitizing" to the beans on time. and recently used at Port Huron, Michigan. speed up the process and to re- Since that time port and ele- duce costs of moving beans to vator officials have been haunted European customers. by memories of that bleak No- Working with the H. J. Heinz vember morning when 60 freight Company, Ltd., of England, they cars of beans stood on the tracks are making experimental ship- at Port Huron, a waiting ship tied ments of beans which have first up at the dock, and only four been fastened to panets for ship- stevedores available to load. ment. The current shipment, which is The unitized pallet-loads of going to the Heinz Company in beans are handled by machines England, consists of 18,000 bags such ase fork-lifts and cranes, sav- of No. 1 navies. Heinz is Eng- ing substantial amounts of labor land's largest canner of Michigan in all the handling steps from navy beans. elevators to ships and into the pro- In the new technique, which is cessor's plant in England. being tried by several exporters, On occasions in the past near the bags are stacked on pallets the end of the shipping season, a and are strapped down with a shortage of stevedores has created high-strength, nylon-reinforced serious problems when ships had tape. This tape has the ability to to be loaded. In previous years stretch about 15% with the the beans were lowered into the strains of handling and still return hold on pallets, and they then had to its original length and tight- to be unloaded bv hand and stored ness, holding the bags in place. in the hold .. Once the bags are strapped to About 18 months ago, the Port the pallets they are handled by Huron Terminal Company had crane and fork-lift. In the ship's agreed to load 14,000 tons of hold the bags are stowed by a beans for the Michigan Elevator small fork-lift, and the pallets go Exchange only to find few steve- along to England with the beans. dores were available. Everyone in H the test proves the worth of UP AND OVER THE RAll- and into the hold, goes the stack of beans, pallets and all. The resil- the industrv was frantic because the system, it might make Mich- ient binding material around the stack reduces damage to the bags by its ability to stretch dur- the shippi~g season was nearly igan navies more competitive on ing the process. Although pallets were used in the past, they were later unloaded in the ship's over and the beans had been the foreign market. hold, causing multiple man-handling of each bag. MECHANICAL POWER - largely replaces man-power in stowing beans into the TOPPING. O~F .A HOLD - the ship's crane takes over when the fork-lift has ship's hold. Using the fork-lift, two men can stow the beans faster than was reached Its limits and moved on to another hold. Qualit is a stron point in common with an 8 or 10-man crew. At the English port, they will unload in the overseas . sale of Michiga n b eans. N ote t h e protectIve. Ypaper g. covenngs sep- similar manner and with large savings in labor cost. arating the pallets while in transit. - MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1, 1968 SEVEN LIGHT CROP RECORD PRICE A light crop of asparagus selling year when MACMA's Asparagus at a record price of 20 cents per Marketing committee negotiated key committeemen. He said plans are already underway for an even * NEW TO STAFF * pound was reported by the Aspar- with processors and signed con- better season next year, and the agus Marketing committee of tracts for a new high of 19.5 cents sign-up of additional growers in Jerry Campbell, 31, of Decatur, 'Villsie. Other staff members MACMA at the close of the cur- per pound. AU 14 Michigan pro- MACMA's asparagus division will has ;oined the staff of Michigan serve on a state-wide basis. The rent season July l. cessors signed MACMA contracts. continue through the remainder of Agricultural Cooperative Associa- company provides marketing and MACMA worked with processors the year. tion (MACMA) as field represent- crop information services to mem- \Vith the 1968 harvest begin- ative serving the southwestern ber growers. to increase the quality of the crop ning three or four weeks ahead of All Farm Bureau members who Michigan area. A resident of the Decatur area as well as the price. last year, prospects for a bumper raise asparagus are urged to join His appointment was an- since 1955, Mr. Campbell at- Approximately 40 percent of crop were bright. However, cold MACMA arid the Asparagus di- nounced by Robert Braden, tended Arkansas College in Bates- Michigan's asparagus acreage is wet weather throughout May vision. A number of growers have MACMA manager, included in the MACMA Aspara- who said dUe, Arkansas. Since 1962, he brought a decline in production. expressed interest in participating. gus division. Alton Wendzel of Campbell will begin work July 1, had been plant manager for Cus- This was followed by exception- Watervliet is chairman of the As- Other MACMA programs in- devoting his time to various com- tom Farm Services in Lawrence, ally hot weather in early June. and is well-known to area farmers. As a result, deliveries to proces- paragus Marketing committee, clude red tart cherries, apples, modities grown in southwestern and Tom Greiner of Hart is vice- grapes and processing vegetable Michigan. Prior to that time, he was em- sors are down an estimated 17 chairman. crops. With asparagus harvest MACMA, an affiliate company ployed in the national produce percent for the season. Reporting on the successful past, MACMA will intensify work of Michigan Farm Bureau, also division of the A & P company. Last year's record price of 18.5 season just completed, Wendzel in the Red Tart Cherry division, has a field representative assigned He also operated a farm for sev- cents per pound was broken this paid tribute to the leadership of the next crop to be marketed. to northwestern Michigan, John eral years. FUTURE FARMERS The VVIDE One HOSTED A two-day leadership training program for new state officers of the Future Farmers of America will be highlighted by a dinner meeting July 11 at Michigan Farm Is Here! Bureau center, hosted by Michi- gan Association of Farmer Coop- eratives. As part of the program the boys will tour facilities of Farm Bureau Services, Farm Bureau Insurance, Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, and Michigan Farm Bureau. Attending, along with the new officers, will be members of the Administrative Council of MAFC and other statewide cooperative leaders representing all types of cooperatives serving Michigan agriculture. During the evening, the role of cooperatives as an extension of the farm business will be re- viewed by Elton R. Smith, presi- dent of Michigan Farm Bureau. Richard E. Posthumus of Alto, WIDE MARK newly-elected FFA state presi- dent, will discuss activities of the association. Other new FF A officers in- clude: Dennis R. Konczal, Fowler- ville, secretary; Roger Courtland, GLAS-BELT Scottville, treasurer; Jim May, Sparta, reporter; and Arlen Bell, Sault Ste. Marie, sentinel. Regional vice presidents are: Bill White, Cassopolis, region 1; Gary Leininger, \Valdron, region High Performance Tires 2; Tom Richardson, Marlette, re- gion 3; Philip Strauch, Durand, region 4; Dwight Nash, Lyons, region 5; George Hubbard, Lake- view, region 6; Roger Dennings, Gladwin, region 7; and Dennis Here's a bold, new concept in tire design and construction. Greenman, East Jordan, region 8. This polyester cord has the strength and moisture resistance Announcing plans for the din- of nylon yet provides the smooth no-thump ride of rayon. ner meeting, L. A. Cheney, sec- retary of MAFC, said, "Michigan Unico wide tire cross-section is only 70% as high as it is wide cooperatives are interested in local (th is ratio for most conventional tires is about 840,10). The and state Future Farmer programs Glas-Belt puts two belts of Fiberglass on a bias with two plies since these young men will be the of polyester cord for better skid control, better handling and future leaders and members of longer mileage than conventional tires. Take advantage of agribusiness organizations. Over the years, cooperatives have filled this and other low prices during your local dealers big sale a real need of farmers, providing services in the areas of marketing, supplies, electricity, credit, insur- ance and animal breeding." FARMERS NATIONAL FIRM SAFm WEEI PETROLEUM JULY 21-27 (9 * Always abreast of the modern trends, Unico offers one sidewall red and one sidewall white! 4000 N. GRAND RIVER AVE. LANSING, MICHIGAN 48904 1968 \: ~ KEEP YOUR IUARD UP STOP ACCIDENTS! MICHIGAN FARM NEWS EIGHT AN OPEN-HOUSE TEA - was served recently to mark extensive remodelling of the livingston County Farm Bureau office in Howell. Around the table are: (left to right) Mrs. Roland AII- Emblem is Effective mand; Farm Bureau Queen Mrs. Duane Herbert; President George Damman; Jonathan Musch; Women's Vice Chairman Mrs. Keith Huck; Women's Treasurer Mrs. Howard Jenks; Mrs. George Damman and Women's Chairman Mrs. Andrew Jackson. Vice President Safety Experts Note ~fichigan Farm Bureau 'Vomen are delighted by new figures showing that fatal traffic accidents involving slow-moving Friends, both old and new, . Mrs. Keith Huck, vice presi- Mrs. Elton Copeland, Mrs . vehicles in our state are down. They feel that this is evidence were welcomed at an openhouse dent, was in charge of the tea, Charles Latson, Mrs. Robert Fin- of their hard work in promoting passage of the slow-moving- recently which marked the open- assisted by Mrs. Howard Jenks, ley, Mrs. Frank Herbert and Mrs. vehicle law and in distributing the emblems. ing of new offices for the Living- Mrs. Donald Bianco, Mrs. Rex Arnold Johnston. 'Vith from 3 to 15 of the bright-colored emblems per farm, ston county Farm Bureau. \Vilson, Mrs. Dan Patrick, and Wives of the county Farm they are to be seen everywhere, with farmers and others who More than 100 guests, includ- Mrs Clifford Van Horn. Bureau board provided scores of ing Elton Smith, Michigan Farm The tea table carried out the homemade cookies. use slow-moving vehicles on our highways appearing to be Bureau president, attended. Farm Bureau colors of red and much more safety conscious. Now, the alert Safety Committee Board members and Farm Bu- Located in the same Coopera- white. Silver and crystal were of Fann Bureau \Vomen is using the July 21-27 national Farm reau Insurance agents served as tive building, the new facilities used, and a cloth of red nvlon Safety \Veek to remind all ~Iichigan residents of the direct link hosts of the office tour. The of- have just undergone extensive re- net over white lace covered' the between farm and non-farm people and accidents - and to fices hOlIse membership and in- modelling at substantial cost. The tahle. promote further understanding and correct use of the "SMV" surance services. office is situated at the comer of Mrs. Lawrence Bamber created Members expressed special ap- emblems. Walnut and Clinton streets in a centerpiece of garden flowers in preciation of the cooperation For example, the most recently compiled figures show that Howell. shades of red and white. given by the county secretaries, Mrs. Andrew Jackson, presi- of the 2,900 accidental deaths in farm work over the United dent of the Farm Bureau Women's Pouring tea and coffee were Mary Ellen Lucas and JoAnn States, 800 of them involved non-residents of farms. Deaner, during both the remodel- group in Livingston, was_hostess Mrs. George Damman, Mrs. Ralph Another set of figures spotlight the 53,000 motor-vehicle at the openhouse. Allmand, Mrs. Russell Glover, ling and the openhouse. fatalities in 1967 - revealing that only 30 per cent died in urban accidents, while 70 per cent died from rural accidents. As might be suspected, tractors and similar slow-moving vehicles are often involved, with more than 1,000 persons killed alone each year in tractor accidents over the United States. The new evidence that in ~1ichigan, the widespread use of the slow-moving-vehicle emblem is reducing our share of that toll, is expected to encourage other state legislatures to make the emblem mandatory. ~fichigan Farm Bureau \Vomen fought for the state law re- quiring their use, and conducted a highly successful campaign to distribute the emblems and assure their correct use. Nearly 50,000 of the emblems were distributed by Farm Bureau "'omen since the law went into effect and the emblems still remain available at modest cost through Farm Bureau JULY21-27 Services, Inc. ~Ieanwhile, close observation reveals many improper and illegal uses of the device, all too often seen displayed upside down, at a wrong height, or on high-speed machines or trucks. 1988 Farm Bureau \Vomen remind all users that the law is quite specific about how the emblem shall be mounted and under what conditions it shall be used, stating: "When operated on the highway, every vehicle which has a maximum potential speed of 25 miles an hour, implement of husbandry, farm tractor, or special mobile equipment, shall be identified with a reflec- tive device as follows ... " At this point, the law describes the familiar emblem, and then tells how it shall be placed: "The device shall be mounted on the rear of the vehicle, broad base down, not less than 3 feet nor more than 5 feet above the ground and as near the center of the vehicle as possible .. ." The law adds: "The use of this reflective device is restricted to use on slow moving vehicle specific in this section, and use of such reflective device on any other type of vehicle or stationary object on the highway is prohibited ... " « <:::r- .: Although the safety-conscious attitude of all users is to be commended, wrongful use weakens the purpose of the emblem, which is meant to become an automatic signal to motorists of a specific type of hazard ahead. STOP ACCIDENTS Never content to rest when it comes to farm and highway safety, Farm Bureau \-Vomen are now helping distribute a new farm-accident prevention poster, prepared by the Farm Bureau Insurance Croup and available to farm operators and others through the Underwriting Division, Farm Bureau Insurance Group: Attention, John Leary .. - MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1, 1968 NINE "NOW IS THE TIME TO PLAN AHEADm. ." Blue Ribbon Group Is Named by Board Members of a top-drawer State Farm Bureau study commit- tee met June 6 in Lansing, to begin the important job of analyz- ing the membership make-up, programs and finances, of the Michigan Farm Bureau. Appointed by the board of directors in response to a resolu- tion passed at the last annual meeting, the work to be done by the 17-member group was outlined by Elton Smith, Michi- gan Farm Bureau president. He reminded them that it is traditional within Farm Bureau for members to playa vital role in making key decisions, and that some such decisions lie ahead. He raised the question of more income for agriculture and said that although some econ- omists suggest a minimum yearly return on a farm investment SPECIAL STATE STUDY COMMITTEE - has held two meetings in lansing, with sub-committees should be six percent, others are calling for 10 percent. actively at work analyzing Farm Bureau finances and programs. The group will report their Labelling the' group a «tremendously important committee" findings to the Michigan Farm Bureau Board. he challenged them to find new methods to serve members, to scrutinize all present programs, and to make recommendations capable of keeping Farm Bureau abreast of a fast-moving agri- cultural industry. "Remember, we live in an economy geared to inflation," Smith Noted Farm Leader Succumbs said. He told the new state-wide committee that the kind of organization farmers need must speak for the good, actual farm- Allan Kline ers, and must be effective enough to be recognized as the or- ganization deserving their support. Dies in Iowa Named to the committee are: James Sparks, Cass county; A great fann leader is dead- Remus Riggs, :Branch; James Sayre, ,,yayne; Robert Buist, Ot- and the world is that much poorer tawa; Robert Braid, Shiawassee; Loren Gettel, Huron; Francis because of it. Hawley, Oceana; 'Vm. Gosen, Saginaw, and Loy Putney, Benzie. Allan B. Kline, 73, the Iowa Others on the committee include: Beverly Veliquette, Antrim; hog farmer who, in the years from Franklin Schwiderson, Chippewa. Representing Farm Bureau 1947 to 1954, led the American Farm Bureau Federation through Women is Mrs. Harold Mc~1ichael, Ingham. Members at large some of the most trying and most are Robert Zeeb, Clinton and Stanley Fay, Ingham. Represent- successful years of its history, died ing the Michigan Farm Bureau board are Dean Pridgeon, and suddenly while visiting the farm Michael Satchell. that he loved near Vinton, Iowa. Named Chairman of the committee is Arthur Gibbs, of Branch He was accompanied on his visit county. by Mrs. Kline. Earlier in the day he had en- joyed relaxing with his son, Rob- Resolution ert, and looking over the livestock "Our Fann Bureau is a sound The time to look ahead is before and crops. financial operation." wrote dele- the need of additional finance «I don't know much about some gates to the last Michigan Farm has become severe." things," - Kline used to say- Bureau annual meeting. They The delegates concluded: "\Ve ''but I do know hogs. There is added: "In looking ahead, we rec- Jherefore request the Michigan very little about a pig that I don't ognize that added programs wiII Fann Bureau board of directors know, and you can't get them to require additional competent staff. to appoint a special study com- AllAN KLINE- in a typical pose, as he appeared at the mid- put that special curl in their tail Labor and other operating costs mittee to study programs needed April liaison Rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A dynamic by telling them it should be there. wiII continue to rise as long as and possible alternative methods lecturer, Kline was in constant demand during all of his re- Instead, there are some things we are in this inflationary period. of finance." tirement years. you have to do, to help them get it there .. ." and with this. Kline would go on to illustrate complex economic and political structures as they related to agriculture, do- ing so in concise terms which often left opponents with little Call ahead ground on which to stand . . .. so they'll expect you I 'Vhile AFBF president, and after his voluntary retirement from that post in 1954 "to catch up on my thinking," he made many trips to Michigan. Kline appeared at Camp Kett in Febmarv of 1965. and in Grand Rapids i~ mid-April of this year where he spoke to members of combined ~fichigan Farm Bureau and affiliate-<:;llll- pany staffs at a state-wide Li.li- son Rally. A noted orator and form('r de- bating champion, he was 5('h('<1- uled to be a major speaker ;il the- Then keep in touch forthcoming triennial conferen('(.' of Associated Countrv ". ol\1en of with home by phone! the 'Vorld in East' Lansing. in September. His series of essavs on Freedom first carried in colu~m form in th~ ~fiehigan FARM NE'VS. was later widely reprinted o\'er the @ lTnited States. As is tme of nmdl of what he has done. the series will continue to sen'e as a monu- Michigan Bell ment to the public understand in!! of complex issues and what thest.' Part of the Nationwide Bell System issues mean to farmers and to America. TEN July 1, 1968 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS o Member Farms A.m.ong 2 3 4 rOWlER ROAD r-- I I • Scale 01 Miles I I '" HANDytR US 127 HANOY! R ROAD Those on Tour VISit! US 12 Success in operation will be viewed on eight southern Nlich- igan farms in the vicinity of Hillsdale at the 20th annual State Farm Management tour Thursday, August 1. The extension MICHIGAN TOUR STOP LOCATIONS CD BARTON'S SWINE FARM 8888 Fowler Road, Horton service of Michigan State university annually organizes this event to stress the advantages of good management for efficient and profitable fanning. and records FARMERS CD HAWKES' SHEEP FARM 1076 Anderson Road, RR# I, litchfield Albert Hall, Hillsdale county extension agricultural general chairman of the event, has assembled agent, a professional Will, 11-49 @WALGUS' TREE FARM @AMES' 935 Brown Road, Jonesville DAIRY FARM 471 Squires Road, US 127 staff of county and state extension workers to assist. Eight VIEW EIGHT RR# I, Ouincy different types of farming will be on display in the morning. G) GRUIl'S ORCHARD 666 US.12, RR:tl, Allen At noon, all the visitors are expected at the Hillsdale county fairgrounds, for the lunch, entertainment Dr. Lawrence L. Boger, chair- and brief program. ' man of the MSU agricultural eco- income of $812 per cow in 1967. DIFFERENT • CARO ROAD @HAYWARD'S CROP FARM 223 Milnes Road. RR# I, Hillsdale (2) FAIRGROUNDS M.J4 nomics department, will discuss: Expansion to 140 cows is con- "The AGE in ManAGEment." templated. TelFarm records show SUCCESSFUL @lEILU'S City 01 Hillsdale POULTRY FARM 305 W, Card Road, RR#2, Hillsdale Grain handling and drying the Ames are producing milk at equipment will be exhibited at a cost of $4.66 per hundred- the fairgrounds. Eight different weight. Most tillable acreage is, FARM @LAKE MERRY RECREATIONFARM 444 E. Territorial Road, RR# I, Camden @ HILLSDALE AGR'L CENTtR meetings, each on a type of farm- used for production of corn and ing shown at the farms in the alfalfa for green chop, silage, hay- morning, will include discussion lage, high-moisture corn, grain, OPERATIONS " TERRITORIAL ROAO 1M 1201 337 Beck Rd., Hillsdale 11-120 and question periods. J and hay. A new, 1,000-ton ca- There will be a special after- pacity silo for com silage is being noon program at the fairgrounds built on this Farm Bureau mem- AUG.l. • for homemakers. Family manage- ber'~ farm. ment, foods and clothing special- ists from the MSU extension 5. FRANK GREEN'S FRUIT family living staff will speak. FARM, Allen. This 200-acre The map shows the location of orchard of apples, plums, peaches, the farms with numbers keyed to nectarines, pears and sweet cher- the list in the right lower comer. ries depends on retail sales at Operators of six of the eight roadside farm markets for much of fanns are active Farm Bureau its income. Green, active in the members. Farm Bureau, pioneered in semi- Programs will begin at each dwarf trees to simplify picking of farm at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m., al- fruit. He has 77 acres of semi- lowing visitors to see two farms dwarf apple trees, 27 acres plant- and hear complete stories. ed in 1954. Excellent cost records Here is a brief background on help improve farm management the tour 'farms: on this fruit farm. Mrs. Green supervises the roadside market. 1. MIKE BARTON'S SWINE FARM, Horton. In 10 years this 6. \VILLIAM HAY\VARD progressive young MSU graduate CROP FARM, Hillsdale. Com is built a $3,000 ('ash investment "king" on this 377 -tillable acre and 36 sows into a 387 -acre spe- cash crop farm which features ;'~i~".. ".... l,'~'.-_~ ~t~ j. cialized commercial pork-produc- minimum tillage, fertilizing ac- DAIRY RATIONS - is the theme of this discus- LATE MAY FROSTS - damaged apples on the tion unit, now marketing nearly cording to soil test results, and sion between Charles Ames, left, and Albert 200-'acre orchard of Frank Green, Allen. Green 2,500 head annually. This Farm chemical weed control. Com dry- Hall, Hillsdale county agricultural agent. pioneered the semi-dwarf plantings. Bureau member's goal is farrowing ing, elevating and storage facili- and feeding out 6,000 head by ties, to handle more than 26,000 1970 or 1971. A slatted-floor bushels, are part of this low cost, farrowing house and feed grind- efficient specialized operation ing-mixing plant are new farm that uses a minimum of hired features. Mrs. Barton keeps ex- labor. Hayward is an active Farm cellent records. (This fann is in Bureau member. Jackson County.) 8. CHARLES ZEILER'S 2. HA\VKES' SHEEP FARM, POULTRY FARM, Hillsdale. This Litchfield. Mrs. Ophelia Hawkes efficient 11,000-hen laying flock, and two sons, James and Randy, which averaged 249 eggs per bird raised 165 lambs from their flock in 1967, is fed chiefly from corn of 100 Columbia ewes in 1967. grown, dried, ground and mixed Lam bs were marketed at a $9 on the 600-acre fann. The Zeilers feed cost per head, including raise their own pullets from day- home grown feed. They sell select old chicks at a savings of 35 cents ram lambs for breeding purposes or more for each bird put in the and choose 25 top ewe lambs for laying house. This family oper- flock replacement and herd ex- ation (Charles, wife and four GRAND CHAMPION LAMB- at the 1967 De- pansion. Com and hay for flocks boys) has good records. Doubling troit livestock show was claimed by Randy CASH CROP FARMER- William Hayward, Jr. are raised on the 160-acre rolling the size of the laying flock is be- Hawkes, shown with a Columbian ram from has installed an efficient low-cost corn drying Farm Bureau member's farm. ing contemplated. Zeiler has been the flock. facility on his specialized farm. Quality production with economy on the county Farm Bureau board makes this unit an example of and markets his eggs through the good management. egg marketing division of Farm 3. WALGUS CHRISTMAS Bureau Services. TREE FARM, Jonesville. Syste- 9. MERRY LAKE RECRE- matic marketing of 20,000 to ATION FARM, Camden. This 25,000 mostly Scotch Pine trees fonner 632-acre dairy farm has yearly makes this 450-acre fann a been converted to a boating, typical Michigan commercial swimming, fishing and recreation Christmas tree plantation. Grow- area with an expanded 180-acre ing quality trees that bring repeat lake at the site of an old mill pond wholesale orders requires great built more than a century ago. I attention to every management l Bob and Mary Cooper converted detail. "Records are the most im- an old barn into a new but rustic portant part of this business," restaurant seating 210 people in says Fred Huspen, general man- the loft. The lower part of the ager. Glen Wonders is resident old barn has a grill and short- manager. order food area and the kitchen. SWINE PRODUCER - Mike Barton, will market 4. CHARLES AMES' DAIRY Lots for year-around homes near 11,000 BIRDS- on the Charles Zeiler farm, nearly 3,000 hogs this year with a goal of FARM, Quincy. This 524-acre, the lake are being sold and a produce eggs marketed through Farm Bureau 6,000 by 1971. A new slatted-floor farrowing 106-cow Holstein fann produced complete $350,000 sewage dis- Services Egg Division. With Zeiler, left, is MSU house and feed grinding unit will be reviewed 13,000 pounds of milk for a dairy posal system is planned. poultry specialist, Charles Sheppard. on tour. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1, 1968 ELEVEN "what our flag means to me" "Springboard"to Problem Solving First place in a Freedoms Foun- dation essay contest sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance group has been awarded to Marcie Baldwin, 14, eighth-grade student at Lan- "Spring Board" is both the title of an unusual meet- sing's C. W. Otto Junior High ing between directors of the Michigan Farm Bureau School. and affiliate companies, and a description of much of Her reward was a three-day all- what takes place at the annual two-day meeting. expense paid trip to Mackinac Island with her teacher, Mrs. Bev- For a number of years the cross-company get-to- erly Crossnoe. Late in June the gether has served as an actual springboard to new pair was flown by jet to Pellston, programs, ideas and directions. rvfind-stretching topics then transported by limousine and used at the meetings have bearing on Farm Bureau ferry to the Grand Hotel on activities but usually lie well outside the current main- Mackinac Island. The month-long essay contest stream of the organization. \Vithout pressure for im- entitled, "What the U. S. Flag mediate solution, complex topics vital to agriculture Means to Me," was conducted may be approached in an informal setting, usually among Lansing eighth grade pu- at some distance from the Michigan Farm Bureau pils. Winners of their individual headquarters at Lansing. school contests were: Barbara Bailey, West Junior high, who FIRST PLACE- Freedoms Foundation Essay Contest award was "Production versus Price Freedom and Profits" was placed second in final competition; presented to Marcie Baldwin by Jim Gallagher, lansing-Waverly the subject used by Dr. Eggert, former Ford rvlotor Michael S. Forman, Pattengill agency manager for Farm Bureau Insurance group, sponsoring Company market research executive. He asked Junior high, third place winner; organization. left to right are Vern O. Chapman, principal, Otto Junior high school; Mr. Gallagher; Mrs. Beverly Crossnoe, whether farmers were willing to trade some of their Sally Bolton and Ricky Pickett. Serving as final essay judges the winner's junior high teacher; and Marcie. production freedom for increased profits, drawing a were: Gerald R. Ford, congress- parallel between the automobile industry's problems man for Michigan's fifth district by Jim Gallagher, manager of under which Francis Scott Key and acceptance of market discipline - to that of agri- and House Minority leader; Char- Farm Bureau Insurance's Lansing- wrote "The Star Spangled Ban- culture. les E. Chamberlain, congressman 'Vaverly agency. ner." from the sixth district; John R. The three top essays will be A series of questions empha- Eggert, who has a sizeable farm operation of his Dethmers, chief justice, Michigan forwarded to the Freedoms Foun- sizes current issues: "Whatever own near Ann Arbor, Michigan, recognized that farm- supreme court; and D. Hale Brake, dation at Valley Forge for place- happened to all our dreams and ers would like to have total production freedom but director of the education division, ment in national competition. Re- hopes? ... If anyone does re- questioned whether it might not be wise to trade some Michigan State Association of Su- sllits of this November contest will member, why all the civil rights be annollnced next February. problems? Why all the assassina- of this freedom for increased profits. pervisors. Marcie's school received a large The winning essay was written tions? \Vhy all the government After a discussion, Eggert presented the topic "Brain stand-up display flag, and ap- "as seen through the eyes of the problems? Power versus Muscle Power - in the Market Place." propriately engraved flag sets flag." After describing the flag's The essav concludes: "All In this, he stressed the need for top quality manage- were awarded to the second and birth, when the United States was YOllng peopl~, please help! Help ment in the farming business. Use of speGialists on a third place winners and to their only a collection of 13 colonies, the United States be what its schools. Awards were presentcd the essay relates the circumstances dream was meant to be." consultant basis was suggested as one alternative in management problems. popular tours offered A new "\Vestern Circle" tonr, leaving by rail July 23, will take This was followed by Dr. Hood's discussion of farm bargaining and marketing "AAJ\lA Style". He pointed out that Farm Bureau has been in the marketing field since the early 1920s - describing the various pro- Farm Bureau members to major national park areas of our HERITAGE grams of n~arketing and bargaining now being carried great \Vest. Special busses will be used to tour such scenic SUMMER TOURS on through Farnl Bureau. places as Estes Park, Colorado; Rocky Mountain National Park, The "Performing Arts Company" of the Information and the cities of Denver and Salt Lake City. Hawaii Division presented a hilarious but thought-provoking Also included are side-tours of Zion, Grand Canyon, Bryce, 2 departures _ Aug. 3 and Oct. 26. evening program, beginning with a skit illustrating the Yellowstone and Grant Teton National Parks. The group returns 2 week tours visiting Oahu, Kauai, many nlethods by which people communicate, or fail August 7. For more details of this or any of the other tours listed Maui and Hawaii. to communicate - verbally, with words and without nearby, call or write the Information Department of the i\1ich- Complete Sightseeing and many words, by music, attitudes and gestures. igan Farm Bureau. meals -------------------------- Cost from Lansing $800.89 The "Buck Passer:' the person who fails to get the message, the person who gets the message but European Vacation fails to interpret it as intended, the character who Leaves July 22, returns August 12 "marches to a different drum," were all portrayed. In- Visit Spain, Majorca, France, Italy Austria, Lichtenstein, Switzerland, volved in the skit were Melvin Woell, Charles Bailey, Germany, Holland, England and Roger Brown, Margaret McCall and Carl Kentner, Ireland. A truly wonderful and un- usual itinerary conducted by Mrs. all of the Information Division. A fihned presentation Mary Catherine Sample. was followed by an illustration of classic "bloopers" Cost from Detroit Metro $907.50 which have occurred because of misunderstanding and Hemisfair '68 misinterpretation. At one stage in the program the 2 departures - July 15 and Aug. 17 problems of rivalry were dramatically highlighted. by Fly to Houston for full week Texas two of the performers shouting at each other - each Tour visiting Houston, Dallas, Aus- saying the same things but in a different manner, in tin, Sam Houston Home, and Hemisfair '68 at San Antonio. a gradually darkening room. A fast "ball game" con- cluded the program, with the game pinpointing phases Canadian Rockies of group dynamics. Leaves Aug. 9, returns Aug. 21. Discussion questions included: \Vhat do you see Visit Jasper, Columbia Icefields, Lake Louise, Banff and Glacier National as the type of business organization of the faml in Park. 1973? In 1983? \\That types of farm organization activity will produce the best net income for the faIm Alaska operator of today? of 1983? Can successful bargain- Leave July 27, return August 11 Air to Vancouver. Cruise Inside Pas- ing exist in fann comnl0dities concurrently with the sage to Skagway. Rail and bus to present government price support programs? Whitehorse, Fairbanks, McKinley Park and Anchorage. Perhaps the most sticky question of all was ... Cost from Lansing, $1,000.94 "When will farmers be ready to accept the disciplines Many additional tours are being necessary to bargain effectively?" planned and will be announced at a later date. Attending the "Springboard" session were members Write or call now for a free descrip- of the boards of directors of the ~Iichigan Farm Bu- tive brochure giving all details of reau, Farm Bureau Services, Inc., Farmers Petroleum the tours. Cooperative, Inc., the Farm Bureau Insurance Group, Information Division Michigan Agricultural Cooperative ~'Iarketing Asso- MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU ciation (MACMA), ~1ichigan Agricultural Sen. ices 4000 N. Grand River Association (MASA) and managers of the affiliate lansing, Michigan 48904 companies. Ph.: 485-8121 - Ext. 318 TWELVE July 1, 1968 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS lEST WE FORGET (How farming used to be ... ) AGRICULTURE II ACTION - - PICTORIAL REPORT -- ---~ FARMING WITH A SIX HORSE HITCH THIS CORN PLANTER - a two-row model of 100 years ago, was considered a vast improvement over the previous two person hoe and drop-in operation. AMISH FARMER - uses old-fashioned horse power to draw an ancient disk rig, complete with stones for added weight. While rejecting a modern tractor and implements, he has installed a tractor seat, the Bostrom Model-K - in its day a major innovation, with the original now on d.isplay in the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. EARLY TRACTOR MUCH OF THE WORLD - continues to harvest by sickle and scythe and back-breaking labor. These ancient methods of Bible days were also used in pioneer America. Note child in improvised hammock. TREADMILL THRESHER - of 1837, was first prac- BATES \\STEEl MULE" - 1918 vintage tractor, tical threshing machine using ox power. Com- boasted 12 to 20 horsepower, tracks for driving monly called "growlers" - this one is on and wide-spaced steel wheels for steering at display at Harold Warp Pioneer Village, Min- the reckless speed of about 3 miles per hour. den, Nebraska. HURON PIONEERS A LOOK AHEAD THE PIONEER GROUP - of Huron county has celebrated its STUDY GROUP CHAIRMAN - Arthur Gibbs, visits with MFB 30th anniversary. Two county presidents, five board mem- President, Elton Smith, following the first meeting of the THE FIRST THRESHER - a hand-swung hinged club, or \\f1ail" bers, two county Women's chairmen and one District Women's new, state-wide Study Committee. The 17-member group is is still used in many areas of the world. Grain knocked from chairmen have come from this group. Eleven of 21 persons charged with analyzing all present Form Bureau programs and projects and to report to the Boord of Directors. Gibbs the straw is \\winnowed" from pan to bucket to remove the present have been members 30 years; Mrs. Bruce Crumback, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McCarty, Mr. and Mrs. George Southworth, operates 0 450-acre form in Branch county, devoted to beef chaff. In the United States, about 100 years separated the Mr. and Mrs. Roy English and Mr. and Mrs. Carl Ritter. and corn production. (See story on page 9) flail from modern combines. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1,1968 THIRTEEN FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE SPECIAL RATE TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS: 25 words for $2.00 each edition. Additional words, 10 cents each. Figures such as 12 or $12.50 count as one word. NON-MEMBER advertisers: 15 cents per word one edition, two or more editions, 10 cents per word. Copy deadline: 20th of the month. /' !--~- 6 DOGS 20 LIVESTOCK FARM PROPERTY 26 POULTRY 36 MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE - 30 Holstein heifers. large, FOR SALE: ENGLISH SHEPHERD vaccinated. due base months. 30 open FOR SALE: CLARKSVILLE - 143 acres. OVERSEAS JOBS - Australia, Europe. PUPS. $20. Some are nicely started. Con- 20 miles east of Grand Rapids. Clay KLAGER'S DEKALB PROFIT PULLETS South America, Far East, etc. Openings hl'ifers, 4.'50 Ihs. From good herd. All de- - Order your started pullets that have tact Ferris Bradley, Route # I. Springport. horned. Edward Tanis. Routl' # I, Jenison. loam. 2 family house, 2 hams, silo, room in all trades and professions. S tOO. to Michigan 492H4. (i -2t-2.5p) 6 for .'50 head feeder cattle. 20 acres heen raised on a proven growing program. $2.500 monthly, free information write: Michigan. (6-3t-26h) 26 The growing birds are inspected weekly alfalfa. about 100 acres workable, 20 acres :\'ational Employment Service (Foreign Di- timher, flowing well. S2i,,'J00 terms - will by trained staff, vaccinated, debeaked and vision) Box 2235 A.~f.F. Miami. Florida consider trade. Edward Tanis, Route #1, delivered by us in clean crates. If you 33159. (4-lt-33p) 36 HEREFORD BULLS-pure bred herd Jenison. Michigan keep records. you will keep KLAGER DE- KALBS. KLAGER HATCHERIES. Bridge- 14 FOR SALE sires. Ready for service .. Also. registered (Ottawa County) (2-tf-45b) water, Michigan. Telephones: 313 429- heifers and calfs. Egypt Valley Hereford Farm, 6611 Knapp St., Ada. Michigan. i08i and 313 428-3034. Phone OR 6-1090. (Kent County) (Washtenaw County) (9-tf-50b) 26 "ZIPCODE DIRECTORY" - (All 35,000 FOR SALE: Used 2 inlh hlalk pip' r. .1 postoffices): S1.00 MAILMART, Carroll- (1l-tf-25b) ~O condition. with or without ~('rt .•\\ In,. ton i2, Kentucky 41008. (3-t£-1I b) 14 FOR SALE: 1.'58.8.'5 acres of Brooklin nominal 20 foot lenl!th,. AI,o 2 ' loam. all tillahle with 1 % miles of front- DAY OLD OR STARTED PULLETS- 360 degre~s U-bends. " • '.!I d 22 NURSERY STOCK al!e. Barn, silo and two steel sheds. Eight The QeKaib profit pullet. Accepted by flanged. Price 5.1.'5 Pl'r f ,'I I. rt room house. hath. hasement. huilt-in cup- the smart poultryman for high egg pro- igan. Minimum quantit l{)() f. ~IGHTCRA WLERS AND RED WIG- hoards and hardwood floors. One mile i'\. duction, superior egg quality, greater feed Cold Storal!t' Companv. Ill.... I GLERS. "B & W" Worm Ranch, Route BEAUTIFY YOUR GARDEi'\ with plants of Oakley and two miles west. 18054 efficiency. If you keep records, you'll ~Iichigan 49420. Tl.I"l'holl' x7 j .:; I. Steele. Missouri 638ii. Phone 695- and trees from "~Iichil!an's Fastest Grow- ing :\'ursery". Strawberry plants, fmit South Raucholz Road, Oakley. Michigan keep DeKalbs. Write for prices and ,6-2t-1 4984. Area Code 314 . .18649. (i-lt-45p) 10 catalog. KLAGER HATCHERIES, Bridge- (2-2t-14p) tn'es. bramhles. asparagus crowns. Send for a free price list. Fmit Haven Nursery. water, Michigan. Telephones: Saline HAzel Kaleva, Michigan 49645. 9-7087, Manchester GArden 8-3034 (2-12t-30p) (Washtenaw County) (tf-46b) 26 19 HORSES 26 POULTRY NATURAL BUlLDI~G STO"\E- Limestone (Bedford "t IIll for FARM PROPERTY Churches, Schools, COTll"lt r< 1.11 a"". FOR SALE: Three fl'gistt'red quarter horse SHAVER STARCROSS 288 - Started pul- 36 MISCELLANEOUS trial Buildings. Send 10' 01lT il'. r f.d fillies. One-two years old and two year- lets availahle most every month. Get wise .catalog showing a lan!t' \ arict~ 0 .1 'Itf' lings. Also rel!istered quarter horse at stud FAR~I FOR SALE: 109 acres. is aCfl'S and try these top profit makers as your veneer patterns. patio ~t"llt' and" 1(0 k. for outside mares. Kay Lonl!, Box 81 i. good cropland. S 1.'5.000 down. Harvey next flock. MacPherson Hatch('ry. Route WANTED: ALLIS ROUXD BALER. Send Victor Oolitic Stone COI1lI'\I1Y. Df'l't \q. Big Rapids, ~fichil!an 4930i. Xl.iman. 4 miles west of Sandish, ~fichigan #3, Ionia, Michigan. Phone 527-0860. price, description. Alfred Roeder. Seneca. P. O. Box 668, Bloou'ington. 1mb, II (6-2t-31p) 19 on M-61. (7-lt-2Sp) 10 (6-3t-28b) 26 Kansas. (7-It-l0p) 8 4i401. (.1-5t-I'1l ~6 you are ,a success FARM NEWS WANT-ADS GET RESULTS! -because you plan (Special Mel1zber Rate) You're a success in the world's toughest business because secutive weeks, he is entitled to you're a planner ... you have to be. Besides buildings and Farm Bureau's total \Vorkmen's Compensation at a lower cost. 25 Words for $2.00 machinery, agribusiness involves crops, animals, weather and This coverage includes Unlimited open-end employee hazards. Medical Benefits, $100,000 Em- Employee accidents can be as detrimental to farming opera- ployer Liability Coverage and Send to: l\rIichigan Farm News tions as wind, fire or disease. However, most :Michigan agri- protection for any obligation to businessmen have protected themselves against employee lia- which he is liable under the Box 960 hility suits hy obtaining 'Vorkmen's Compensation insurance. ~1ichigan \Vorkmen's Compensa- In fact, more than two-thirds of these planners have decided tion Act. Lansing, in favor of 'Vorkmen's Compensation from Farm Bureau In- A special program for smaller farms is available to all agricul- Michiga1z 48904 surance group ... Michigan's largest writer of Farmowncrs tural employers hiring employees policies and agricultural "Vorkmen's Compensation. On the first of July, Michigan's Fann Workmen's Compensa- tion Act will be one year old. For the next few months, Work- for less than five consecutive weeks. This program is available at a minimum cost of $30. A flat ALERT U.~ MEMBER FLAGS merts Compensation policies will be renewed for another year rate is applied to the annual pay- and auditing of labor records will begin. RENEWAL PROCEDURES roll figure to determine the final premium, and the employer is still perience a good safety record will entitled to full protection of Un- THREATENING LEGISLATION A bill which received very little attention during the early Farm Bureau \Vorkmen's Com- receive a dividend. limited Medical Benefits, $100,- part of the legislative sessions in Lansing, and which had pensation policyholders can ex- 000 Employer Liability and pro- passed the House by a very wide margin, suddenly became a pect a direct and simple series of THREE COVERAGE PLANS tection for any obligation under maior issue in the Senate Commerce Committee. events which will renew their Farm Bureau Insurance group Michigan's Workmen's Compensa- According to Legislative Counsels for the Michigan Farm coverage for another year and is the only Michigan-based finn tion Act. This program is perfect Bureau, the Bill- H.3515, in its original form would have given determine their experience for to offer three \Vorkmen's Com- for farmers who rely on exchange pensation programs tailored to fit labor or occasional hired help. far-reaching authority to mining companies in the Upper Penin- last year. Farm Bureau Insur- ance group's modem Data Proc- small, medium and large farming BENEFITS TOTAL $43,500 sula to condemn private property for a variety of reasons. essing system will efficiently tab- operations. For the larger opera- Farm Bureau's full farm pro- Included would be roads, pipelines, power lines, "settling ulate and mail renewal invoices tions, farmers employing three or tection programs and benefits do basins", waterways and otbers in a long list of reasons which for current Workmen's Compen- more employees for 13 or more not stop at Farmowners or \Vork- would have been considered sufficient cause for condemnation. sation policies expiring after June consecutive weeks during a ,52- men's Compensation coverages. But an alert member of the l\farquette-Alger Farm Bureau, 30 this year. The 1968-69 \Vork- week period are required to pro- From April 1, 1967, to March 31, Ernest Hammel of Champion, l\fichigan, telephoned the ~fic"- men's Compensation policies re- vide full Workmen's Compen- 1968, 48 families have received igan Fann Bureau to point out that many fanns in the area newal policy will be enclosed with sation benefits. Farm Bureau $43,500 in Group Accidental could be threatened by the granting of condemnation authority invoices. Insurance group \Vorkmen's Com- Death and Dismemberment bene- pensation policies provide larger fits. This Community Service to private interests. Approximatelv 15 davs after Farm Bureau attached an amendment to the bill to protect agribusinesses with: group program, which initially the 1967 policy expirati~n date, agricultural property to the same degree that homes were already vohmtarv audit forms will be a) Un'limited Medical Benefits enrolled 44,573 members, now for all employees, including totals approximately 50,000 in all protected in the bill. After a public hearing, other changes were mailed t~ the policyholder. After exchange labor, beginning but two Michigan counties. Tus- made and the bill was passed by the Senate. followin~ simple instructions, the audit form should be immediately on the first day of employ- cola county Farm Bureau families The biU teas then recalled and completely retv1"itten. In its returned in the self-addressed en- ment. alone received $4,250 in Acci- final form, the condemnation authority was denied to the min- velope which accompanied it. b) $100,000 Employer Liabil- dental Death and Dismember- ing companies. Provisions were made, however, that in the event Based on the audit form, premium ity Coverage. ment benefits. condemnation was necessary, companies would be required to adjustments will be made on the Farm Bureau's job is to protect request the Deparhnent of Cons-ervation to condemn the prop- c) Wage Loss and Rehabilita- farmers. That's why research and 1967-68 Workmen's Compensa- tion Expense. erty under powers which it already has. This can only he done tion policies. Farm Bureau spe- development specialists are con- stantly searching for the best after the companies have acquired at least three-quarters of the cialists will provide personal audit If an employer operating a methods to fully guarantee con- needed property through purchase or other negotiation. assistance for larger farmin~ op- medium-sized farm does not re- quire the above plan, but hires tinuous success in the world's Fann Bureau's amendment re{!ardinl! agricultural property ('rations. Policyholders (with pre- employees for more than five con- toughest business. remains in the final version. miums cx('pcding $500) who ex- FOURTEEN July 1, 1968 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS ; O'ISCUSSION CROP REPORTS Over 700 differelzt Crop Reports are released ~, . TOPIC yearly by Here is a a1zd what the U. S. Departnzelzt of Agriculture. close look at hotv they are cOl1zpiled they are designed to do ... By: Charles H. Bailey Their Preparation and Meaning Director, Education and Research Information from the reporters is examined for Michigan Farm Bureau obvious error at the state office of the reporting service and is placed on electronic data system cards - LAST MONTH- for summation and evaluation. Here it is combined Youth labor, Opportunities and Restrictions THE NEED IS OLD Groups reporting 670. with information from other sources and a tenta- Even though the traders in the market in the early tive estimate of the state data is prepared and sub- history of the United States had somewhat better QUESTIONS: mitted to the Crop Reporting Board at the USDA. market information than farmers, they were still 1. How many of the 580 agricultural opportunities ore At the USDA, data sheets for a given crop from present in your community? handicapped by inadequate data. The best of their all the producing states are combined and evaluated Groups averaged reporting 9 jobs per community. information was vague and its extent depended to by a group of specialists. All the data submitted 2. Does your high school or community provide: a great degree on the ingenuity of the individual by the farmer is treated as highly confidential and Agricultural job training? trader. is carefully protected all along the line in processing. 350 groups YES. 238 groups NO. Economists tell us the market cannot adequately The security of this information at the USDA is Farm experience for non-farm youths? 175 groups YES. 435 groups NO. perform its price-setting function unless there is a highly guarded, because advance knowledge of the Post high school agricultural training? free flow of accurate market information to all con- estimate could often make fortunes for speculators 175 groups YES. 426 groups NO. cerned, both buyers and sellers. They go further to in some of the futures markets. Agricultural_opportunities information? say there must be complete knowledge of the mar- 387 groups YES. 210 groups NO. Area vocational center or shared-time program in ket so that no trader has infonnation about market WHAT ABOUT ACCURACY? agriculture for high school students? conditions unknown to the other traders. ('''e inter- There have been times when the reports have ap- 178 groups YES. 414 groups NO. pret traders here to mean both buyers and farmers.) peared to be somewhat in error, but there are ways To be of any practical use in the market, the sta- to revise or correct some of these estimates. One Some of the early studies reported informally by tistics must have a reputation for accuracy and ob- of these methods is the use of the Census of Agri- the National Aeronautics and Space Administration jectivity. 'Vithout these characteristics they are of culture, which comes every five years, to make a officials indicate the feasibility of this process. doubtful value to either buyers or sellers. comparison with the estimates. Sometimes the esti- EFFECTS OF CROP REPORTS mates are in error, but they generally are not over FIRST CROP REPORTS There have been complaints hy farmers that the 2 or 3 percent out of agreement with the census Three of the most important pieces of agricul- figures. market over-reacts to a high crop report and that tural legislation in history were passed in 1862. The Were more money available, it's very probable it under-reacts to a low report. acts set up the USDA, the Land Grant college sys- that more accurate reports might be produced. Can Studies have been made by several agricultural tem and the Homestead system. we afford the extra millions they would cost nation- experiment stations and they report that they can Starting in 1863, the new Commissioner of Agri- wide? Then, too, could we risk the elimination of find no concrete evidence of this. One of the prob- culture began publishing once-a-year estimates of the farmers' judgment from the basic estimate ma- lems confusing the issue is that a given percentage crop production and monthly crop conditions based terials? '''ould a professional estimator be more increase or decrease in a crop may not necessarily on the reports of a corps of volunteers. The concept accurate? give the same amount of price change from one of the volunteer reporter has continued to this day report to the next. :\ although the system is much more elaborate than I~fPROVEMENTS The problem boils down to the fact that prices it was in the early days. In recent years the pressure for improved tech- and supplies do not react in a rigid, unvarying pat- Today the crop reporting services of the USDA niques has increased. One of the newer techniques tern. Agricultural economists at Michigan State U ni- and cooperating states jointly produce over 700 dif- is the use of part-time farmer-enumerators. They versity report that one of their unpuhlished studies ferent reports each year. Some are on an annual interview groups of farmers which the reporting serv- of some of the factors failed to give an indication basis, others are monthly or quarterly. ice determines to be a representative sampling of that huyers were either over or under reacting to a particular crop or livestock producing area. There changes in crop estimates from month to month. HOW CROP REPORTS ARE !\1ADE The proces-s of marketing in America is so deli- are 350 of these sample areas in Michigan encom- Crop and livestock reports depend primarily on passing about 2,000 fanns. cately balanced that any buyer who got very far two sources of information: regular farmer-reporters They not only interview the farmer, but they also out of line with his prices would soon be forced back and part-time enumerators. About 1,400 cooperat- make accurate crop condition records on selected into line hy competition for the crop. ing farmers are on the monthly reporter list in ~Iichi- plots of the sample farms. These enumerators report gan. Some reports also use the data from periodic CAN REPORTS HELP? their data to the state crop reporting offices where mail reports which are distributed to most farmers it is combined with the regular mail reports and in- U ndouhtedly American farmers are utilizin!!, crop by rural mail carriers. To this farmer-supplied data formation from other sources. and livestock reports in planning their business, al- is added information from other sources such as co- though the federal control and support programs operatives, educational institutions, and businesses WHAT ABOUT THE FUTURE? may interfere with maximum" effective use of them. dealing in farm products and services. As the world becomes progressively smaller with Report use has also heen most apparent where there The farmer-reporters submit on schedule certain faster travel and electronic communications, better is little vertical integration of farming. information and estimates of their own enterprises knowledge of world production of crops and live- As we move into more contract farming, crop re- and estimates of crop and weather conditions in stock products becomes even more important to the ports may be less useful "for a short term outlook but their localities. The accuracy of the crop and live- American farmer. Techniques being studied under they undoubtedly will be useful in long term plan- stock reports depends almost totally on the care contract by the University of ~1ichigan hold promise ning by both the farmer and the buyer. with which these reporters file their answers to the of a means to estimate the world food and feed sup- \Ve prohahly will continue to dehate crop and survey questions. ply using photos produced by high-flying satellites. livestock reports in the future hut, except in very specialized fields, they are the only source of ac- curate, timely market information available to most farmers. Most of the so-called uinside price sheets" are not readily availahle to farmers and the information thev contain is largely aimed at trade groups, sllch ;s grocers or meat packers. They would have to he expertly evaluated for fanner use. If we don't us(~ crop and livestock reporting, what can we use for planning? There are three alterna- tives open to us: 1. No public reporting service for agriculture 2. Private, farmer-financed reports 3. Continue and improve the present crop and livestock reports \VHAT DOES YOUR GROUP THINK? NEXT MONTH: Imitation Food Products and their possible effects CROP REPORTRESEARCHERUSESSAMPLING FRAME FOR "OBJECTIVE YIELD SURVEY" on farmers ... MICHIGAN FARM NEWS July 1, 1968 FIFTEEN Farm Bureau's Hog Program is like .Money in the Bank The Byrum farm (left) has gone 100 % for the Farm Bureau Services hog feeding program. Richard Byrum (upper right) is one who believes that Farm Bureau's hog program is like money in the bank and he feeds 400 hogs. In the lower photo, Phil Haines, FBSFeed Field Representative discussesthe hedging program with l. D. Marquedant, of leslie, a long time Farm Bureau Services hog feeder. IMPROVED PRACTICES CAN INCREASE PORK PRODUCTION BY 50 PER CENT! To meet the needs of today's farmer, Farm Bureau Services once again leads the way ... offering you the most complete hog program ever devised. You get everything you need for profitable hog production: guaranteed building, equip- ment, hogs, feed and medications, all of which can be financed and insured; you have a guaranteed market through our hedging program and Farm Bureau Services' trained experts are always on hand to get you started in business and to help keep you in business. Decades of experience and service, research farms across the country and modern quality-controlled feed mills all combine to give you the greatest opportunity ever offered to hog raisers. The package is yours ... open it today and have profits tomorrow! * The FBS hedging program is one of the most significant developments in hog marketing ... Get the facts today! 4000 N. GRAND RIVER LANSING, MICHIGAN • • SIXTEEN July 1, 1968 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS I, I,~~ y .~ ......... EMPLOYEE ACCIDENTS! A SUMMERTIME HAZARD Even though you're safety-conscious, accidents can still occur. As a success in the world's toughest business ... you're a good planner. You have to be. And planning for those open-end employee hazards in- cludes a Farm Bureau Insurance Group Workmen's Compensation Policy ... no matter how big or small your farming operation. Large farms, medium-sized farms and smaller agribusinesses can be protected with total Farm Bureau Workmen's Compensation cov- erage, suited to specific needs. Y I WOULD LIKEMORE INFORMATION For more information about Farm Bureau's unique Workmen's about Farm Bureau Workmen's Compensa- tion Program. Especially for: Compensation programs, fill out the form on the right and find out o large Farming Operations about ... o Medium-Sized Farms o Smaller Agribusinesses WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION ... A Name _ STEP BEYOND FULL PROTECTION Address _ Phone No. _ City Zip Code _ Please FARM BUREAU cut out COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT ---INSURANCE and Farm Bureau Insurance Group Mail 4000 N. Grand River Avenue Farm Bureau Mutual. GROUP Farm Bureau Life. Community Service. LANSING to: lansing, Michigan 48904 ---------------------------