M.ICHIGAN FARM NEWS SERVING OVER 61,000 FARM BUREAu FAMILIES Aeg t L 1~1976 Farmers wanted change Ford alters ag policy group President Gerald Ford has announced a reorganization of the Administration's agricultural policy-making machinery in line with policy established by votiJ:lg delegates at ~he American Farm Bureau Federation's 1976 annual meeting. Official Farm Bureau policy for 1976 states: "Decisions Milliken/MFB leaders meet affecting agricultural exports should be made with full participation by the Secretary of Agriculture. We deplore such decisions being made by labor leaders and government agencies such as the Department of State." Accordingly, a new Agricultural Policy Committee is being formed with Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz as Chair- man, the White House reports. This new Committee is being formed to' consolidate agricultural policy making into one group which will report directly to the President and will advise him on the for- mulation, coordination and implemenation of all agricultural policy. The scope of the Committee will include both domestic and international issues. The new Committee replaces the IntematiolU!1 Food Review Group, chaired by the Department of State, and the EPB-NSC Food Committee, co-chaired by the Departments of State and the Treasury. Milk support goes up on April 1 Beginning April 1, the support maintain production to meet price for manufacturing milk . anticipated future needs. was increased to 80 percent of The support price has. been parity. 80 percent of parity', tilted in favor of milk going into Farm Bureau leaders met with Gov. William .sportation, environment, land use program, elec- according to a U.S.D.A. news cheese and butter production by Milliken to present him with the official Farm trical energy problems, and. rural development release. is $8.13 per hundred increasing the Commodity Credit Bureau policies for 1976 and to-discuss with him issues and .various budget matters of importance to weight. . Corpora tion . purchase prices of those areas of concern to farmers throughout the farmers. - The law requires tha t milk be cheese and butter while leaving state of Michigan. SOme of the broad areas Shown with the Governor are (from lef*> Ronald supported at a level, between 75 the purchase price of nonfat dry discussed included taxation, especially the new Nelson, MFB Local. Affairs Specialist; Robert percent and 90 percent of parity, milk at previous levels. The study on property tax that Gov. Milliken has Smith,' MFB Legislative Counsel; Dean Pridgeon, determined by the Secretary of purpose of the tilting action was initiated; Single Business Tax; inheritance tax and MFB Vice President; Elton Smith, MFB President; Agriculture as necessary to to discourage production of other tax matters. Numerous labor issues were Robert Braden, MFB Administrative Director; assure an adequate supply of nonfat dry milk and prevent discussed, as were issues on marketing, tr~n- Albert Almy, MFB Public Affairs Director. milk to meet current needs, further decli.nes in its con- (Photo by Marcia Ditchie) reflect changes in the cost of sumption. The CCC has over 400 production and to assure a level million pounds of nonfat dry milk of farm income adequate to in storage holdings. In elevator .explosion Clyde Springer named member FBS will contest of National Egg Board by Butz labor Dept. fines • Secretary of Agriculture Earl L. Butz has appointed Clyde 1. Springer of Farm Bureau Ser- adopting rules and regulations to govern its operations, will initiate projects covering promotion, Farm Bureau Services, Inc., mitted in this matter. The vices, Inc. to serve on the .Egg research, and consumer has filed its formal Petition for Michigan Department of Labor Board which will administer the education on the use of eggs, egg Dismissal of the citations filed has exceeded its statutory recently approved Egg Research products, and spent fowl (non- against it by the Michigan authority under the Michigan and Promotion Order. The order productive laying hens). Department of Labor regarding Occupational Safety and Health is authorized under provisions of Operations of the board, and its the grain elevator explosion at Act is issuing these citations. the Egg Research and Consumer plans, are under the general Zilwaukee, Michigan on January Farm Bureau Services, Inc., Information Act of 1974 and was supervision of the Agricultural 22, 1976. These citations allege has always been genuinely. approved by egg producers Marketing Service of the U.S. violations of the Michigan concerned with the s,afety of its voting in a referendum conducted Department of Agriculture. Occupational Safety and Health employees and has taken great last November (press release Members of this first board will Act. pains to insure the safe 3655-75). serve staggered terms, with one- operations of the Zilwaukee The board members and half the members serving for a It is the position of Farm facilities. Farm Bureau Services, alternates were selected from two-year term and the remainder Bureau Services, Inc., that the Inc., is proud of its record of nommations made by certified serving for a three-year term.' charges filed by the Michigan deligence and care. Accordingly, egg producer organizations. Subsequent appointments to the Department of Labor are vague, Farm Bureau Services, Inc., The egg research and board will be for two-year terms. general, unsubstantiated and will intends to vigorously contest promotion program is designed Springer is vice president in be found to have no basis in fact these citations with all of its to develop markets for eggs. The charge of FBS's Egg Marketing once all of the proofs are sub- energy and resources. board, after organizing and Division. Clyde I. springer PAGE 2 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS APRI L 1, 1976 A call to action Estate tax reform needed - An issue of great concern and importance to farmers widowers, and if, at the same time, we are to maintain throughout the land has finally come to the forefront after open spaces in urban areas ... growing more serious year by year. I speak of the out- It is now time for action. At the March meeting of the dated federal estate tax laws. / . AFBF Board of Directors we determined to set estate tax Laws which increasingly cause hardship and heart- reform as the organization's priority national affairs break as heirs are forced to sell part or all of long-held activity at this time. family farms in order to payoff estate taxes. Over 100 Senators and Representatives have already For several years Farm Bureau has been calling for sponsored new estate tax legislation with the -Farm estate tax reform. Current Farm Bureau policy says: Bureau's proposals contained in the Burleson - Curtis bill. Laws covering the taxation'of estates and gifts have The right time is here for passage of this vital not been changed materially since 1942. legislation. It will only pass however, if Farm Bureau We place a high priority on major amendments to members take decisive action. The battle is underway but the estate and gift tax provisions of the Internal victory is-not assured. It will take real effort on the part of Revenue Code. At a minimum, these amendments all Farm Bureau people at the national, state and county should include (1) an increase in the standard estate level. tax exemption to reflect the effects of inflation since the present $60,000exemption was set in 1942; (2) a All Farm Bureau members in Michigan, as well as our substantial increase in the marital deduction to Farm Bureau Women, Young Farmers and Community minimize the problem of the so-called "widows' tax"; Groups should get letters off now to their Representatives and (3) provisions for basing the value of farmland _ and Senators in Washington calling for passage of the and open spaces at levels reflecting their current use Burleson - Curtis estate tax bill. rather than their highest possible use. What better way for Farm Bureau people to "build Immediate passage of such legislation is necessary horizons on our heritag~" in the bicentennial year than to if we are to allow farms and small businesses to be secure legislation that would insure that family farmers passed from one generation to another, if we are to can pass their farms on to their heirs without fear that.the relieve unnecessary hardships on widows and homestead might have to be broken up. I STATE STATUS 3-~8w76 13ylAR 7~GO DONNA MICHIGAN In Spring, while a young man's head stand on your dresser while you're giving a party. This is an fancy turns to thoughts of love - FARM NEWS .GOAL : 61,586 .61,098 the fancy of women, young or old, open invitation for those life of turns to thoughts of fashion and the party characters to make New: 3,196 3,563 house-cleaning. In our inflation - with the Big IJilarious Scene. It's The Michigan FARM NEWS is publiShed monthly, on the first day, by ridden economy, the latter two a traumatic experience to the Michigan Farm Bureau Information are often closely related in many discover that I look good on one of Division. Publication and Editorial offices at 7313 West Saginaw Highway, Renewals: 56,031 56,774 households. A garage sale can be them. Lansing, Michigan 48904. Post Office the answer to overloaded closets, 3. Don't let flattery swell your Box 960. Telephone, Lansing 485.8121, 59,227 60,337 attics and cupboards, and to head. This will cause un- Extension cents per year. 228. Subscription price, 65 TOTAL: undernourished budgets. The comfortable pressure from the Established January 13, 1923. Second- class postage paid at Lansing, Mi. and at . new Spring outfits that emerge skull cap and relief will come additional mailing offices. % of Goal: 96. 16% 98.75% this year after a long, cold winter only when someone says, "My EDtTORtAL: Editor: Jim Phillips; Associate Editor: Donna Wilber; Staff could well be the result of the dear, it mak~s you look so much . Photographer: Marcia Ditchie. theory that "one man's junk is older." Most wigs are flattering, OFFICERS: MiChigan Farm Bureau; Needed for another's treasure." and there's no doubt you'II President, Ellon R_ Smith, Caledonia, R- Goa-l: 2,359 761 receive lots of compliments. Just 1; Vice President, Dean Pridgeon, In my determined efforts to Montgomery, R-l; Administrative greet spring properly attired, I take them graciously because a Director, Robert Braden, Lansing; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, had to put some items up for sale swelled head under a wig is Max D. Dean; Secretary, William S. that had too much sentimental terribly painful! Wilkinson. D'-RECTORS: District 1. Arthur value attached to be classified as 4. Beware of pump-handle Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2, Dean DEDICATED DOZEN CLUB "junk." One was my wig, which dancers. Nothing looks funnier Pridgeon, Montgomery, R-l; District 3, Andrew Jackson, Howell, R-l; District 4, ten years ago was responsible for than a wig dancing across the Ellon R. Smith, Caledonia, R-l; District a temporary transformation -- room on some guy's elbow - 5, William Spike, Owosso, R-3; District 6, Jack Laurie, Cass City, R-3; District 7, 1-300 301-800 until I became convinced that it except you standing there in your Robert Rider, Hart, R-l; District 8, wasn't the "real me." It didn't slicked-back, flattened down hair Larry DeVuyst, Ithaca, R-4; District 9, seem right, somehow, to transfer looking like a female Yul Donald Nugent, Frankfort, 10, Richard Wieland, R-l; District Ellsworth, R-l; 1. Kalkaska 1. Mason Brynner. ownership of that which had been District 11. Franklin Schwiderson, such a part of me, without in- 5. In case of accident, keep Dafter. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter 2. Iron Range 2. Hiawatha1and cluding some of the helpful hints your cool! For example, if you Frahm, Frankenmuth; James L. Sayre, I'd learned about wigs. So, with a get me caught on the broom Belleville; Lowell Eisenmann, Blissfield. pin stuck in its styrofoam head, I handle while doing the Limbo, or WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. 3. Benzie 3. if someone gives me a playful tug Andrew Jackson, Howell, R-4. attached these instructions, FARM BUREAU YOUNG FAR- based on my personal ex- to see if I'm real, just keep your MERS: Tom Atherton, Gaines. periences: composure, put me back on and POSTMASTER: In using form 3579, say something witty like, "Lost 1. Don't feel guilty about my head there for a minute." mail to: Michigan West Saginaw Farm Highway, News, 7373 Lansing, 801-1300 1301-0ver wearing me. It's difficult to look Michigan 48904. Wnen JIlY wig's buyer walked guilty and chic at the same time. out of the garage with het 1. 1. C1 inton If you look guilty, people will "treasure," I realized the new FaRm~ 2• 2 . Bay begin to wonder what you're hiding under that lovely coiffure - blouse I would buy from the proceeds would never provide me BUreaU - a goofed-up dye job that turned your hair green instead of with the adventures that it had. Even thought it had spent several 3. 3. Genesee champagne beige? -- a shaved years on the closet shelf, it was head for penance? - a home still reassuring to 'have an extra permanent that made you look head -- just in case. like Phyllis Diller? Maybe that garage sale down 2. Don't leave me sitting on my the street. .. MOVING? Planning to move? Let us know 8 print new address in space weeks in advance so you won't miss a single issue of the Michigan Farm News. Attach old label .and provided. Mail to: Michigan Farm News, P.O. Box 960, Lansing, Michigan 48904. Today--It Pays Name Address Don't Forget -- Renew Your City State Zip Code Farm Bureau Membership County of Membership A P R ILl, 1~76 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 3 $200 to Benzie farmer II Feeder of the year" IIReward Program" pays off A $1000 prize awaits the winner of Farm Bureau Services' Feeder of the Year , Farm Bureau Services to recognize agricultural feeding excellence, expert farm One of the newer benefit vandalism to the property of the incidence of rural crime. "If Award program, according to management and outstanding programs available to Michigan Farm Bureau Members. enough members participate the Donald Shepard, manager of agricultural leadership, " says Farm Bureau members proved Putney, who owns and operates program can be a real deterrent the FBS Feed Department. Shepard. . its worth last month with the a fruit farm near Arcadia, to crime," Evans commented . Also there will be $35 Farm Winner- of the first annual payment of a $200 reward to provided information which led Putney is a member of the Bureau memberships "Feeder of the Year Award" Kenneth Putney, of Benzie to the conviction of two in- Benzie County Farm Bureau award~ to county winners was Allan Shepard, a dairy County. ' dividuals for unarmed robbery. Board of Directors and $100 prizes given to fC!rmer from Calhoun County. The payment was made' the two, escaped convicts from Window decals and-or !igns district winners. Shepard was pres.entE~d his through the Farm Bureau the Benzie ~ounty Jail, had must be displayed on the subject Any feeder who is a full time award by FBS -Executive Vice Member Reward Program, broken into the home of Putney's premises or property at the time farmer and a Farm Bureau President Donald R. Arm- sponsored jointly by Michigan neighbor, Duane Evans, and of loss to quality for the reward member who uses Farm strong during Michigan Farm Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau stolen some clothing. program. Decals and signs are Bureau Feed is eligible to Bureau's annual meeting Insurance Group. The plan Putney and Evans, both available for purchase through enter. Applicants must be kickoff luncheon this past provides a $200 reward for in- members of Benzie County Farm all Michigan Farm Bureau nominated by either a ~arm December in Grand Rapids. formation, which leads to the Bureau, feel the Farm Bureau County Service Offices. A Bureau Community Group or Applications are available arrest and conviction of persons Member Reward Program can Reward Program kit, containing a County Farm Bureau. at County Farm Bureau of- committing theft, arson gr be quite instrumental in reducing two building signs, four window " 'The Feeder of the Year' fices apd should be turned in decals for the home and four ,competition is sponsored by to those offices by June 1. window decals for vehicles may ) be purchased for $3.00. Information regarding theft, Mich. farm receipts down in 1975 ,arson or vandalism to the property of Farm Bureau Cash receipts from farm 56 percent of farm receipts were members should be immediately marketings in Michigan from crop items. However, cash reported to local law en- decreased to about 1.70 billion receipts for crops were off 9 forcement authorities. dollars in 1975 reports the percent from a year earlier, After information has been Michigan Crop Reporting Ser- farmers sales of crops totaled reported to authorities, the in- vice, Michigan Department of $950 million, compared with dividual should make ap- Agriculture. This 4 percent $1,050million in 1974.April, May, plication for the $200 reward by decline from the 1974record high and November were ..the only completing a Reward Claim of almost 1.75 billion dollars months with receipts that ex- form. This form, available at all ended a six year period of rising ceeded those reported in 1974.. Michigan Farm Bureau County receipts to Michigan farmers. In 1975,livestock and livestock Offices and Farm Bureau Only three months in 1975 (May, product marketings amo~nted to Kenneth Putney (right>, receives a '200 reward check from Insurance Group Area Service September, and November) $732 million, 4 percent above the Mike Tousley, Farm' Bureau Insurance Group Agency Offices, should be forwarded to: showed income above those 1974total of $707million. Receipts Manager for Benzie, Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties, Claim Manager reported in the preceeding year. during the year started out below while Duane Evans ~' ..... -',-, ~,-,r-\\ \\~..... ,,0'" - 'm'frn :." ,0 ".e\\ ., 3:.. SO ~~ 0 0 ~ farmers of the week Cash flow planning QUALITY FARMING OPERATIONS • AGRICULTURAL/COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT can actually help you a t make more money. You probably have times when you need a lot of cash ...and times when you have lots of cash coming in. But the two just never seem to come together at the right time! 0 But when you "know your farm's cash .flo\\", you have a better idea of when you "lI.need a loan and how mllch you'll need to borr~w. And you"1l get the money in hand when you can do the most with it...which might even include taking some discolll,ltS that'll help cover the interest. 0 Cash flow plan- ning is important. See us ...and we"ll help you start. Kenneth Bull Thomas Atherton 900 acre Muskegon County 130 head Genessee County Typical fann's When you hare extra cash: fruit farm + Chairman of dairy partnership + cashflow ' Cash flow planning lets you board of Grant Community Chairman, MFB Young get the earliest possible start When your cash is short: Hospital + Former board Farmers Committee. + Cash flow planning lets in earning interest from short- term investments such as member of MFB + Mich. Pres. of County Holstein you p~ecisely time your $$$$$$$ savings accounts. bonds. or State Cherry Commission. Assoc. + Ten years service borrowmg ...not too early commercial paper. as 4-H leader. and not too late ..so you can get \'o/"me-p"rchase prices and take prompt payment discounts-sometimes more ~ ~.,C!O than enough to pay the \: ,;;.~ ' illleresl on your loan. \ ~.t,o~ When you have exira cash: ... •••:-:~8ES When you;.cash is short: Cash fluw planning lets you pay up loans at earlie,f/ Cash flow planning lets you Karl & Norman Ewald accurately predict when and possible date to help keep 1000 acres Tuscola County interest to a minimulII, hOIl' the situation will change Mike Bowman cash crop farm + Active in ... so you can confidently 630acre Kent County dairy civil affairs + On local negotiate payment terms to fit your anticipated cash flow. farm + 1975 MFB school board + Involved in ~Distinguished Young Farm Bureau and other Farmer+ agricultural organizations. sponsored by MICHIGAN FARM RADIO NETWORK AND FARM BUREAU INSURANCE GROUP TM PAGE 4 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS 'APRIL 1, 1976 CAPITOL REPORT Robert E. Smith Transportation, labor, milk hauling I TRANSPORTATION state cities. Dial-a-ride bus be called the Michigan Tran- maintenance 'and construction., Governor Milliken's special. services presently serve 28 small sportation Fund be created and As rural population grows, local. message on transportation called and medium-size cities and also be used to finance all overall roads become more important in .above that line. But agricultural attention to several tran- some rural areas, carrying more "state and local future tran- order to accommodate additional would be equally protected sportation problems facing than 1lh million passengers sportation requiremehts". This traffic including transportation throughout the state .. Michigan. He called for a annually, one-third of whom are would mean that the present of farm commodities, school and FARMLAND AND OPENSPACE balanced transportation system over age 61. There are three new Motor Vehicle Fund would be special education transportation, PRESERVATION (PA 116) including roads, railroads, air- sta te. - supported intercity eliminated. Presently those recerational use, etc., etc. More than 100,000 acres are ports, ports, mass transit, bus passenger trains. Fourteen cities revenues are earmarked for Inadequate state funds for local now approved for contracts systems, etc. Some points of state-wide are serviced by county, municipal and state high- highways may result in a return under this legislation. informa tion - in the message Amtrac trains. In 1975, the way purposes. Present revenues to the old system of funding local . Applications are from nearly, 50 were: The rail systems have long Legislature approved the and new revenues from various roads by property taxes. counties. It is estimated that the been neglected to the point where Transportation Preservation Act, sources would be put into the fund , LABOR average property tax rebate to many freight systems have fallen P A 196, which empowers the and distributed to all tran- Negotiations within the those farmers that were in the into bankruptcy. This is equally state to continue and improve sportation modes to meet the Legislature are in progress on program for 1975will be $2,000 - true for urban transportation freight rail service on nearly one most pressing requirements at proposals for a ,new Worker's $3,000. H.B. 6003, which removes systems which have thousand miles of bankrupt but any given time. Compensation bill. Substitute S. from the law the requirement deteriorated. He said PA 327, essential rail lines. There will be The Governor proposed a 181,now on the Senate floor, does that the State Tax Commission- passed in 1972, was landmark $23 million of federal par- constitutional amendment to little to solve some of the absues appraise the farmland before it is legislation. It raised the gas tax ticipation in an 18-month Rail change the name of the State that occur under Worker's approved for a contract, has now by $86 million per year and at the Preservation Program. More Highway Commission to the State Compensation. Under this passed the House. This is now same time increased the coun- than $60 million in federal Transportation Commission and proposal, there would be no before the Senate and would ties' share of total revenues from . matching grants for intercity. to increase the size from the exemptions except to those who eliminate a very objectionable 34 percent to 35.7 percent of the equipment has been secured p,resent four bi-partisan mem- have less than a $250 payroll per part of the law. Motor Vehicle Fund. For the first since 1973. bers to five bi-partisan members quarter. It is also estimated it" MILKHAULING time, it provided limited The Governor's message and reduce the term of office would increase premiums to H.B. 5855has now passed in the revenues (lhc a gal. of the gas recommended several major from four years to three years. farmers as much as 2lh times. House of Representatives -and is tax) for other transportation changes. He pointed out that He proposed that beginning in The Worker's Compensation in the. Sena te. It clarifies the modes. The Legislature passed revenues from gas taxes have 1978, the registra tion fees for issue is extremely complicated. present law to assure the PA 195in 1975to provide General either stabilized or declined due vehicles, presently based on Farm Bureau is attempting to exemption of milk haulers from Fund appropriations 10 finance to low~r fuel usage, and at the weight, be changed to a "value include a special section in the MPSC regulations and restric- operating assistance programs. sam'e time, inflation has tax". It would. apply only to cars law, recognizing the special tions. This is the same as the PubliC" transportation has been drastically increased highway and would be a percentage of the problems of agriculture. For exemption presently in effect for improved in nine metropolitan maintenance costs and con- value of the" automobile. It is example, farm premiums have other agricultural commodities. areas. Public transportation has struction costs. He proposed that estimated that an additional $80 increased as' a result of a court SPECIAL FARM TRUCKS double~ or tripled in five out- a "total transportation fund", to million would be raised, $10 case which increased minimum H.B. 4795, which carries out million of which would go to local payments under Worker's another Farm Bureau policy, units of government. - Compensation often times would exempt certain farm A portion of the transportation providing a much higher income trucks from the regular revenues would support bonding from benefits than the individual registration fees, replacing them programs. There are presently earned. Another serious problem with a $15 flat rate permit. Thi~ $288 million in highway bonds is the high minimum premiums would be only for those farm outstanding and the present for farmers who have a rather trucks that are used for only very bonding authority permits an small payroll. In some cases, limited periods during the year additional $988 million. In ad- premiums have been as high as for "transporting farm crops dition to that, over the next three the total payroll. Another im- from the fields where produced to years, $150million in bonds would portant point is that actual farm place of storage". for example, be authorized for public tran- wages should be used to deter- producers of fruits, vegetables, sportation. $75million would also mine farm benefits rather than sugar beets, etc., may have extra be authorized f, chief sponsor of Farm Bureau's estate tax of 2,505,258families in 49 states Estate and Gift Taxes was relatively minor source offederal proposals, at the opening March 15 hearings on the subject by the and Puerto Rico. It is a volun- summarized in a policy revenue. In the fiscal year 1975 House Ways and Means Committee in Washington, D.C. As leadoff tary. nongovernmental, resolution, which was adopted by (the last year for which final witness at the hearings, Grant urged increases in the specific estate organization representing far- the voting delegates of the figures are available) federal tax exemption and the marital deduction, plus an option for an mers and ranchers who produce Member State Farm Bureaus at revenues from Estate and Gift executor of an estate with farming, woodland, or scenic open spau:e virtually every' ~gricu1tural the 1976 Annual meeting of the Taxes amounted to only $4.6 land to have' it assessed on the basis of its current use rather than commodity that is produced on a American Farm Bureau billion, or 2.5 percent of the $187.5 higher potential uses. "These changes are needed," Grant said, "to commercial basis in this country. Federation in St. Louis, Missouri billion the federal government lift the burden of high federal estate taxes which are forcing some As a consequence, we have a last January, as follows: received in general revenues families to sell their farm or ranch regardless of their desire to keep it deep interest in all federal taxes, "Laws covering the taxation of (that is, federal revenues from in the .family.". including estate taxes, that affect estates and gifts have not been all sources except trust funds). our farmers and ranchers. changed materially since 1942. The fact of the matter is that the Estate taxes have been a '~We place a high priority on basic purpose of the Federal matter of increasing concern to major amendments to the Estate Estate Tax is to redistribute . Farm Bureau members for and Gift" Tax provisions of the wealth rather than to raise several years. ranching Farming. and are predominantly family enterprises, and farmers and ranchers are deeply in- Internal Revenue Code. At a minimum, these amendme!1ts should include (1) an increase in the standard Estate Tax revenue. Our proposal with respect to the specific Estate Tax exemp- tion would apply to all estates. If NOW terested in the orderly transfer of their businesses to, succeeding generations. The Federal Estate '"'Tax is exemption to reflect the effects of a specific Estate Tax exemption inflation since the present $60,000 of $60,000was justified in 1942,an exemption was set in 1942; (2) A increase in this exemption to substantial increase in the $200,000is fully justified to adjust AVAILABLE essentially the same today as it marital deduction to minimize for the inflation that has occurred was in the 1940's. The last the problem of the so-called since 1942. significant change, the addition 'widow's Tax'; and (3) provisions for basing the value of farmland Our proposal with respect to the marital deduction also would MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU'S of the marital deduction, was made in 1948. The present rates and schedules were adopted in and open spaces reflecting at levels their current use apply to all estates. This deduction is essentially a device BICENTENNIAL PUBLICATIONI 1941 ar.d the present specific rather than their highest possible for deferring estate taxes until exemption went into effect in use .... the death of a surviving spouse. • Proud to Be an American? 1942.Since the basic provisions of "Immediate pas~age of such As a matter of equity, we do not the present Estate Tax were legisla tion is necessary if we are think tha t a tax should be levied • Proud to Be a Farmer? adopted, the purchasing power of to allow farms and small on the transfer of property bet- the dollar has been eroded by businesses to be passed from one ween spous~s on the death of a Proud to Be a Fa~m Bureau Member? inflation, and the size and the generation to another, if we are to • husband or wife' however we Then you'll want "200 Years of American Agriculture" with value of an economic farming relieve unnecessary hardships on are not recom:nding a ' 100- beautiful color photos as a Bicentennial keepsake. unit have undergone drastic widows and widowers, and if, at percent marital deduction. The changes. In 1942the U.S. average the same time, we are to main- increase which we are proposing fncludes the 1975 County Award Winners, t~o! value of land and buildings per tain open sp.a_cesiIJurban areas." is designed to provide a measure On sale following the MFB Annual Banquet Thursc'~'" evening operating farm unit was only To offset the cumulative effect or relief for the estates that most December 11 in Grand Rapids and all day Friday, December 12. $6,100, and very few farmers of more than 30 years of innation need it. were affected by the F.ederal and to help check the adverse Our proposal with respect to Only $1.50 each. Or order by mail (add 50c for postage and Estate Tax. In March 1975 the effects of Estate Taxes on the valuation of farmland handling).- average value of land and congestion and urban sprawl in woodland and open space would buildings per operating farm unit populous areas, Farm Bureau. apply only to estates that own LIMITED EDITION! DON'T MIS S YOU ReO p y ! was $143,000,and the amount of recommends three changes in the such land; however, we believe present Federal Estate Tax law tpat it would serve the public Send to: Information and Public Relations Division machinery and equipment as follows: interest by helping to maintain Michigan Farm Bureau required to operate a farm was (1) Raise the specific Estate open space in urban areas P.O. Box 960 Lansing, Michigan 48904 much greater than in 1942. As a result, estate taxes have become Tax exemtpion' from $60,000 to without extensive public ex- pies of "200 Years of American Agriculture" to. a matter of deep concern to a $200,000. This would adjust the penditures for land acquisition great many farmers. estate exemption for the inflation and maintenance. We would like Name The impact of the Estate Tax which has occurred since 1942, to stress the fact that this on farmers is greatest on the when the $60,000exemption went proposal would be optional rather ddress estates that consist primarily of into effect. (The consumer price than mandatory. If an executor efficient, productive commercial index 0967 equals 100)was 48.8 in elected to have an estate farming operations and~thus do 1942and 161.2in 1975.This means assessed at its value for farming Make Checks payable to Michigan Farm Bureau not have large amounts of liquid the purchasing power of $1.00 in purposes, the land in the estate MICHIGAN FARM NEWS APRIL 1, 1976 Cherry order renewed In .a referendum conducted March 1-10 by the U.S. Depart- ment of Agriculture (USDAf, red tart cherry growers and handlers in eight states voted to continue the federal marketing order covering the handling of tl1eir crop. George Dever, fruit and vegetable official with USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), said that more than two- . thirds of the producers voting favored continuation of the order. They account for more than 70 percent of the . production represented in the voting. Similarly, half of the processors who handled more than 60 per- cent of the 1975processed volume represented favored con- tinuation. The states covered under the marketing order, Mr. Dever said, THE AFBF BOARD OF DIRECTORS for 1976consists of --- <' :::; ..... •• :', ;.~ .: .. .prpgral11 For - . 1111CHtga~1 At Farm Bureau Services we offer a total feed service able to assist Michigan farmers in determining proper and . profitable feeding programs, as well as solving individual problems. The Farm Bureau feed team, backed by a staff veterinarian and nutritionist, provides you with the most up-to-date feed information. In cooperation with other farm co-ops, Farm Bureau Services operates 10 research f~rms where new feeds, feeding techniques and heil:lth practices are tested. Recently we installed a Scidata mini-computer, to assist our feed nutritionist in determining the most effective feed formulations for desired production goals. In addition to these services, Farm Bureau offers a wide variety of excellent feeds, including liquid Protein Supplement (lPS) which has been widely accepted as a versatile liquid supplement for all types of feeding operations. Talk to your Farm Bureau feedman now. He'll work up a feed program to fit your particular needs. It's service you can depend on ... from the Farm Bureau people. ASKTH£ FARM BVR£IUJ PEOPLE PAGE 8 MICHIGAN.FARM NEWS APR ILl, 1976 The March • ice storm .-' . .. . ""Nature's power was incredible during the ice' storm. Dairymen Gratiot County Farm Bureau President Eric Bailey found his C.B. Check for mastitis radio a vital communications link. Dairymen whose operations were curtailed by the ice . storm which swept central Michigan should check their cows for possible mastitis flareups. "There is a chance that under those harsh conditions, some cattle did not receive the usual good care given during normal milking routines," says Dr. Roger Mellenberger, Michigan State University dairy specialist. Producers detecting problems ~hould consult their veterinarian. "It is also possible that some cows may show a 5 to 10 percent decrease in normal production due to ~e abnormal milking and watering conditions during the storm's af- termath. But they should regain their production level in the next lactation period," Mellenberger says. First lactation cows and cows that were lactating for more than five months may show a greater decrease in production because of the uneven milkings. Mastitis may appear in two forms -- clinical and subclinical. Clinical mastitis is characterized by abnormal milk appearance. Sub-Clinica~ mastitis is present when the milk appears normal but there is a drop in a cow's milk- production level during peak - production and there is an increase in the Leucoyte (white blood cell) count of her milk ... Melienberger reminds producers that mastitis control Ithaca was typical of towns across the ice storm belt. There was includes: _ -- Keeping cows healthy and avoiding unnecessary stress. plenty of clean up work to do. -- Proper milking system installation and maintenance. Some of the millions of trees pany. All hanging limbs should be -- A good milking routine followed daily. damaged by the ice storm which removed and the wounds sealed -- Use of an effective teat dip. struck central and southeastern from the standpoint of liability -- A good dry cow treatment program. Michigan may be salvaged. and disease prevention. Culturing milk samples or using DHIA's CMT program can "Attempts to save a tree should "Assuming there is something help identify infected cows. Consult your veterinarian on be made only if a substantial part left to salvage on severely antibiotic use; sone products are better than others for a of the tree remains intact and if it damaged trees, they should be particular strain of bacteria. has high value - to the property judiciously pruned all the way Withhold all milk of any cow treated with antibiotics for the. owner. Persons having doubts around to present a balanced proper time prescribed. Treated cows ~a! are prope~ly should consult their local nur- appearance. This will reduce the identified will help other people who are mIlkmg know whIch seryman or tree surgeon," says size, but it will encourage a more cows have been treated. Reculturing two or three weeks after Dr. Mel Koelling, Michigan State rapid regrowth and recovery," treatment will identify unresponsive cows that may have to University Extension forestry Koelling says. be culled. specialist. This first-aid measure should If a limb is badly split or be followed by a good fertilizer broken, remove it by making a program . this spring to help clean, fresh cut with a fine- overcome injury and infection of toothed sa w . as close to the damaged areas. Property owners branch as possible. Cuts two should consult Extension bulletin inches or more in diameter 786 for the proper fertilizer should be coated with orange program. The publications are shellac which, upon drying, is available in county Extension followed by a coat of pine tar or offices or the MSU Bulletin pruning paint to reduce the Office, P.O. Box 231, East Lan- likelihood of disease and insect sing, MI .48824. infestation. Similarly all broken Generally, soft woods, such as branch stubs should be removed silver maple, Chinese elm, are back to the main trunk or next more prone to ice damage larger branch and the wound because of their branching treated. pattern. Some forks which are merely Property owners needing to split can be pulled t()gether, replace trees should consider bolted, and cables installed on species such as white oak, branches above the split. This English oak, white ash, and Thousands of utility poles were snaped off at the base by the weight may require the services of a linden, which have a more sturdy of ice on power lines. professional tree service com- branching system. APR ILl, 1976 MlCHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 9 Doug Carpenter is looking for ways to solve problems. Dale Norton wants decision making in a partnership to be less complicated. Bill Pridgeon doesn't plan on terminating the In Farm Bureau 'seminar learning process even though he has his college degree. For these and other reasons these men and other members of family farm partnerships in Brancl,1 County got together recently in Coldwater and went back to college for a day. They were participating in Michigan Farm Bureau's new Farmers earn college credit college credit seminar program. The seminars are being held wherever 15 or 20farmers chOQseto gather with a desire to strengthen their management skills. Under the direction and instruction of MFB's training. director Jesse Taggart, the college seminars are currently a vailable in three subjects; meeting techniques, com-. munication techniques and problem-solving - decision - . making. The Branch County seminar was on problem-solving - decision-making. Eighteen farmers representing partnerships in _hog,dairy and cash crop operations attended the Coldwater seminar. The participants spent a full day of intensive training in order to earn their college credit. The earned credit was only of secondary importance to Roland Norton however. "We learned to look beyond the obvious in solving management problems'" says Norton. "Basing judgements on facts and not assumptions was an important concept taught today," he added. "We are teaching a decision - making system that gets farmers to ask questions and look at all sides of a problem," comments training director Taggart. , "We are taking these seminars to the country because farm people haven't had the same opportunity city folks have' -.---. had in taking advantage of continued adult education," Taggart adds. / -,r The cost of each seminar is $8.50 for Farm Bureau mem- bers with non'-members welcome at a cost of $25per seminar. These costs cover instruction, materials and credit. Dairyman Stanly Preston feels communication has been a College students for a day. Branch County far- real challenge in his partnership with sons Keith and Glenn. mers solve typical management problems during "This seminar has given us some good direction on how to MFB sponsored college credit seminar on "problem smooth out some of .those problems," claims Preston. solving and decision-making." - FBS markets new egg product 1975 a bad year for Farm Bureau Services, Inc. Farm Bureau Services is a cooperative is affiliated with has developed and released Country Queen Hard Cooked farmer-owned supply cooperative marketing an'd based in Michigan Farm Bureau, which represents over 60,000 Michigan property-casualty f.irms Chopped Frozen Eggs .. Lansing, Michigan .. The Farmers. Last year was a double disaster inflation may be effective in 1976. The announcement was made for the Property - Casualty Economic setbacks dominated by Egg Marketing Division Vice Industry, according to the the Property - Casualty business President Clyde Springer. Insurance Information Institut~ throughout 1975. In fact, 30 Springer" says the new egg (I.I.I.)' companies failed during the first product, manufactured in the In 1975 the industry ex- 11 months last year. Farm Bureau Egg Distribution perienced the heaviest un- Skyrocketing prices and the and Product Research Center derwriting ~osses in its history; increasing frequency of mam- near Grand Rapids, has the and to make matters worse, moth jury awards were blamed highly desirable benefits of in- investm~nt gains were not high f and House Minority Leader Dennis Cawthorne, R-Manistee, discuss issues with Mrs. Florence Anderson, Manistee County Farm Bureau president. District 5 Farm Bureau Women's chairman Jan McMichael and husband Harold explain the detail of dairy farming to U.S. Representative Robert Carr, D-East Lansing, at a major mall promotion near Lansing. Heritage of 76 Tours ~ - July 24 - August 1, 1976 MACMA's annual meeting in Grand Rapids drew a good press turn- August 14-22,1976 out Feb. 27. WZZM TV interviews MFB President Elton Smith after September 11-18,1976 the business meeting. (Depart and return from Detroit) TOUR ITINERARY Saturday - Fly American Airlines non-stop from Detroit to Boston. Sunday - Tour of Boston, Bunkerhill, Frigate Constitution, Lexington and Concord. ' Monday - Tour to Plymouth, Plymouth Rock, library of John Q. Adams and birthplace of John Hancock. Tuesday - Fly to Philadelphia to visit the restored buildings and sights of America's birthplace of liberty and freedom. Tour Valley Forge enroute to Arlington, Virginia. ' Wednesday - Sightseeing to include government buildings with stop at the Whitehouse and Mt. Vernon. Thursday - Entire day at leisure for you to visit Smitsonian Institute, Library of Congress, etc. Friday - Special buses to Williamsburg, Va. Tickets provided for visit to attractions. ' Saturday - Devoted to visiting new Busch Gardens outside William- Soybean growers belonging to MFB's Soybean Division listened to a sburg. wide range of speakers at the Division's annual Soybean nay ac- tivities in Lansing, March 16. Marketing ideas and current research "Friday - 'No plans for morning. Depart'in afternoon for Washington, were among topics covered at the meeting. D.C. and flight to Detroit. - COST OF TOUR $440.24per person from Detroit: - Cost includes air transportation as outlined based on minimum group 10rates in effect November 15, 1975,possibly subject to slight change; all transfers; sightseeing; ~aggage handling for one suitcase per person for entire trip; tips to sightseeing drivers; hotels based on two people sharing twin bedded room. Single room higher. Not included is meals, items oC a personal nature such as room service, telephone calls, laundry, etc. - RESERVATION REQUEST Please enter my reserva tion for the 1976 Michigan Farm Bureau Bicentennial Tour. Enclosed is my check made out to Hoosier Travel Service, Inc., in the amount of $75.00deposit for each reservation. I understand I will be billed for the balance of the tour according to the schedule contained in this. NAME _ ADDRESS _ These city folks enjoyed learning about life on the farm at the Maple Zip code Telephone _ ....--------------------- .. Hill Mall promotion sponsored by the Kalamazoo County Women's committee . APR ILl, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 11 Distinguished Service Awards MSU names inventor, farmer, baJlker An inventor, a beef producer arid an - by a rotating panel of three MSU depart- beef cattle per year. he is past president of which he is now president. Under his Upper Peninsula bank official received ment chairman .. the Michigan Livestock Exchange and leadership, it has developed an image as Michigan State University's College of Past awardees have included served as a member of the National the agricultural bank of Menominee Agriculture and Natural Resources agricultural producers, farm newspaper Livestock Producers Association Board of County, supporting the fishing, timber and Distinguished Service Awards. and magazine editors, radio personalities, Directors. He was a member of the USDA livestock industries of that area. The awards, a highlight of MSU's 61st agribusinessmen and a legislator. Cattle Advisory Committee from 1970-71 Corey has a reputation of getting many annual Farmers' Week, went to David Friday is well known for his inventions and was an agricultural representative to producers started in their operations and Friday, president, Friday Tractor Co., and manufacture of fruit harvesting the Federal Engergy Commission during is a staunch supporter of MSU Extension Hartford; Milton J. Brown, beef producer, equipment used by growers throughout the 1973-74. programs througliout the U.P. Mt. Pleasant and Herbert W. Corey, nation and overseas. He is probably best Currently, he serves as a member of the president, Bank of Stephenson .. known for development of the mechanical He has been mayor of Stephenson 36 board of directors of the National years, secretary to the local board of The presentations were made by Dr. cherry picker which has had a decided Livestock Feeders Association and as a Jacob A. Hoefer, acting dean, College of impact upon the cherry industry. education 38 years, life member of the member of the executive committee of the Stephenson Methodist Church, serving as Agriculture and Natural Resources, Other significant contributions to the Michigan Cattle Feeders Associaton. He during the 'President's Luncheon at industry include the Friday tractor, a low trustee for more than 40 years. also is the chairman of the Michigan Beef Kellogg Center, Wednesday (March 24). silhouette unit allowing movement Industry Commission, a position held since He is a 1952'graduate of the Central The honor is bestowed to persons who through orchards without damaging fruit the establishment of the commission in States School of Banking at the University have made outstanding contributions to trees; the strawberry wiggle hoe, 1973. of Wisconsin. He was presented the 1970 their state and community. More than 70 mechanical pruning aids and pruning In 1974, he was presented the "Man of the' Year" a\7ard by the persons have been accorded the award buckets for tree fruit, bulk fruit handling "Minuteman Award" by Governor Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce since the program began in 1954. equipment and his latest - the mechanical Milliken for his service to Michigan and and received the Distinguished Service Candidates are recommended by COlinty apple harvester. agricul ture. Award from WAGN Radio Station in 1970. Cooperative Extension Service agents Brown and his brother, Chester, co-own Corey started as a high school graduate He is a 1974 recipient of the FFA throughout Michigan. 'Finalists are c~os~n ,a 900-acre farm which produces up to 1,300 with the Bank of Steph~nson in 1929, of Distinguished Service Award. Watch for the dogs! FBIG risk engineer .helps farm owners .feel safe They're sometimes mistaken for tax assessors and they building is overinsured or underinsured. get attacked by dogs, but each year Farm Bureau against dogs," Francis said. "I'm never sure when a dog "I often make recommendations that more insurance may come charging at me. In fact, I have a little crack in Insurance Group's risk engineers make thousands of be added if I believe it necessary,;' Bust said. "And by the Michigan farmers and homeowners feel a little .bit more my clipboard from the time I was forced to hit a beagle same token, I'll recommend less insurance if I see that a with it." . safe. structure is overinsured." "You might call us the eyes of the company," says FBIG's six risk engineers cover the entire state, a task Although newly written business is given top priority, .. that keeps. them constantly on the move. Francis Bust, one of the company's six Personal Lines property insured under older policies is re-surveyed every risk engineers. "We make safety surveys of buildings and Bust, who has been with FBIG longer than any other few years. These periodic checks not only help eliminate employee, joined FBIG when the company first started in ,homes insure~ by the company and help eliminate any safety hazards, but also keep the company abreast of any hazards." 1949.Before that, he was an employee of Michigan Farm changes in a building's value that might require ad- Bureau. The Risk Engineering Section was formed in 1964with justments in insurance coverage. the philosophy that much loss of life and property could be "For example," Bust said, "I've run into cases of in- prevented if safety hazards were removed from an in- surance being carried on buildings that have been tom sured's property. down." Famous Seed Smugglers "In a way, we have as much interest in an insured's Sometimes, at the first introduction, the owner m~v farm building as the owner does," Bust explained. "We let mistake the risk engineer for a tax assessor. But being the ent Home New Crops the insured know we're looking after him and that we care professional he is, the risk engineer knows how to deal about him." - with people .. A risk engineer makes about 2,000 calls a year, most of "Once the insured knows we're there for his benefit, them to farms. Insured buildings are surveyed for a there's never any problem," explains Bust, whose variety of potential hazards, from faulty wiring to rickety territory covers the counties of Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, steps. Shiawassee, Hillsdale, Jackson, Livingston and Gratiot. And while he keeps his trained eyes open for hazards, Although a risk engineer is diplomatic .at handling the risk engineer also figures the approximate value of the people, it's a different story with dogs. structure. With this information, he can determine if the "I've learned how to use my clipboard as a weapon Robert G. Reed joins FBIG When early stateSmen were smuggling planting was done by hand broadcast. seeds back home, Hidden away in the nooks practices could be on display. as V.P. of Marketing Corp. and crannies of history are unique ways in which early statesmen worked to improve American agriculture. But each attempt feated. So. Webster was de- into ..his own pocket. crea such a fann and left it dip Here are just a few such future New England fanners. Effective March 22, Robert G. A 28-year veteran of the iri- Development, Advertising and instances. Benjamin Franklin. durin Reed has assumed respon- surance industry, Reed brings Sales Promotion, Agency his many foreign travels George Washington, the sibilities as Vice President of th~ with him extensive experience in Administration and Product drum up support for the Father of His Country. could Farm Bureau Marketing Cor- the insurance business, including Development. In his I!ew just as easily been called the. American cause in the Revolu- poration and a member of exposure to all phases of the position, Reed will have many of Father of American Agricul- tion. started the practice of FBIG's executive staff. Reed's Marketing function. For the past the same responsibilities. ture. A constant champion of secretly sending new seeds appointment, announced by 11 years, he has been with Con- Prior to 1967Reed had entered hisJirst profession of farming. back home for American far- tinental Assurance Company. His the insurance business as a he personally used the best of mers t~ try. Robert F.J. Wiseman, FBIG's last eight years were spent as multiple - line agent, then joined his stylish coach mares at Mt. - This practice was followed Executive Vice President, fills a Vernon and "royal jacks" re- by the federal government for position vacated on January I, Vice President - Marketing Staff Minnesota Mutual Life insurance ived from foreign dignitaries many years and President 1976, when Howard Brown was Division, where his respon- Company, finally moving into to breed a stronger strain of John Adams. before sending a appointed to his present position sibilities included Market their home office where he mule to lessen the manu a! new consul off to a foreign as Insurance Counsel. Research, Manpower worked with recruiting and urden of the Colonial fanner. land. reminded each of his training, and subsequently, all Scientist-statesman Thomas duty to send home new seeds sales development. Jefferson. using mathematical and plants. A graduate of Kalamazoo principles. wrote a treati~e on But likely the best of these College with a B.A. in Political the fonn of the mold-board. seed-smuggling statesmen Science and' Economics, Reed calculating the exact shape was Jefferson. An aristocrat has been extremely active in the and size and especially the to the core and impeccable curvature to lessen friction in dresser. he'd fill his coat pock- Life Insurance Marketing and ets with new seeds that for- plowing. His goal was to try Research Association, serving on and design an ideal shape that eign governments so jealously many of that organization's would work in all soils. guarded for their own agri- committees. cultural interests. Another plow designer was Reed is married and has two Daniel Webster. He even went In Northern Italy. he risked children - a married daughter so far as to build a rather the death penalty to smuggle who is a law student, and a son crude. cumbersome model of a seeds of upland rice back to majoring in Pre-Law at plow. South Carolina. Columbia University. We're sure Webster's interest in agri- He summed up his actions _ J / in this way: that a real Farm Bureau culture went much farther. Robert G. Reed (right>, newly appointed Vice President - Marketing, welcome is waiting for both he Many efforts were tried in "The greatest service which chats with Rpbert E.J. Wiseman, FBIG's, Executive Vice President. and his wife Lory who will be Massachusetts to get the can be rendered to any count. moving to Lansing in the near state to sponsor a model farm ry is to add a useful plant to A veteran insurance'. executiVe, Reed will direct the operations of its culture ... where the latest agricultural nearly 400 agents and outstate employes. future. - PAGE 12 MICH~GAN FARM NEWS APRI L 1, 1'176 Check your tiling Good drainage is crutial Good yea.r for Mich. ~~~ ~ES E~ery Michigan farmer knows that in spite of a fairly long good root depth, and food -- that may not be available when a field Live Stock Exchange ' organizational prereqisites In the published testimony he institutional changes and new noted, "We already have hun- approaches for funding. dreds of bills relating to "There is an urgent need for agriculture, food and nutrition. establishing national goals and Most of them will never see policies in agriculture, food and daylight. What is needed is ac- nutrition research and for an tion, somewhere by somebody, to improved institutional get some resources into these framework for reporting, ob- critical research areas." serving and managing the wide Wittwer didn't place all the range of U.S. research activities blame for low national relating to food," Wittwer said. agricultural research priorities at the feet of Congress, however. Capitol Report He noted lack of, or improperly (Continued from page 4) placed, emphasis on agricultural bonds or otlier evidence of in- research in the National Science debtedness as authorized in other Foundation, the National Science sections of the Constitution. No Board and the National Academy of Sciences. state has such a requirement. A ·Give your calves the kind of comfortable living conditions similar but more restriCtive they need. He also pointed out that the 1977 amendment failed to pass in The new CALF LODGE portable nursery building is a executive budget recom- California .. mendations included funding of clean, dry, draft-free environment that's ideal for The Michigan Farm Bureau replacements and veal calves. With the CALF LOD~E, you $9.5 billion for national defense, Board of Directors did not take a can almost eliminate calf losses, and at the same time, $3 billion for energy studies, $3.5 position pro or con on this issue you'll be cutting labor requirements. billion for space programs, and but did take action to provide the $2.5 billion for health, education The LODGE is delivered complete with stalls, buckets, petitions to Community Groups, and welfare, but allocated only county Farm Bureau offices and heat, plumbing, ventilation, and even a manure pit. The half a billion dollars for research to those attending the many Provides a sturdy bo>t-Iike construction me..ans you can exp~ct many on our food supply. protected years of dependable service. The CALF LODGE IS ready for meetings that are held by Farm your carves just as soon as you hook it up to water and The Agricultural Committee Bureau around the State. In the enllilOllment electricity. It's that easy. See us now for complete was considering House Bills 11743 meantime, there will be further and 11744 which would reorder study of the implications of such for your information and prices on the CALF LODGE portable the current system of funding and a Constitutional limitation. One baby calves calf nursery .. - administering agricultural question that some raise is research and give higher whether such a limitation might priorities to research and result in more dependence on SEND IN THIS COUPON FOR MORE INFORMATION: development in agricultural property taxes at the local level II MAil TO: 0 Hog Lodge 0 ~alf Lodge II science areas . in the event costs continue to rise Speaking in favor of the new and revenues returned to local . John Youngs, Mgr .. 0 Farrowing 0 Nursery II legislation, Wittwer said, "Food is now being recognized as a the same. governments and schools remain II Hardware Dept., Farm Bureau Services II :~::ox 960, Lansing,Michigan 0 F' . h' InIS 1n9 FaRmri II major asset and resource for the Any person wishing copies of nation. It is a possible instrument the petition along with additional II Address BUreaU II for peace in international diplomacy. Never has one nation had such a monopoly on food!" Wittwer urged even greater attention to national agricultur~l information, can secure them at their county Farm Bureau office or write: Public Affairs Division, Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. .Box 960, Lansing, MI 48904. ~---_._._-_ II Telephone ~-::~ ~ II PAGE 14 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS APR ILl, 1976 An issue for the 170'8 land use plann,ing FEDERAL LAND USE LEGISLATURE Federal land use legislation has been an active issue before Congress since 1970.In general, various bills would have provided federal grants to states for land use planning. While acceptance of the grants would have been required to follow federal cri~eria in their land use plans. Because of this requirement, Farm. Bureau has vigoriously opposed federal land use legislation. In 1974,the House refused to consider a federal land use bill by a narrow 204-211vote. The most recent action on federal land use legislation occured in July, 1975,when the House Interior Committee defeated a bill by a 19-23vote. With the presidential election dominating" 1976 political activity, there is little, if any, chance that federal land use legislation will receive further consideration until 1977. STATE LAND USE LEGISLATION State land use legislation has been before the Michigan Legislature since 1972.In 1974,the bill was reported by the House Towl.ls and Counties C~mmittee. However, the House, by a narrow I-vote margin, sent the bill to the Appropriations Committee' where it died. " In 1975, a substantially revised state land use bill