MICHIGAN arana FARM NEW ureau 6-NO. 1 SERVING OVER 61,000 FARM BUREAU FAMILIES JANUARY, 1977 iding Resolutions legates Show Most Concern on SBT, Land Use Policies Voting delegates from In a recommendation throughout the state adopted regarding Michigan's "Single a comprehensive slate of Business Tax," delegates policies for the Michigan said the tax should be Farm Bureau during the repealed. If it is not repealed, o r g a n i z a t i o n ' s annual they said, certain major meeting in Grand Rapids, revisions should be made, November 30 through including assurance that December 3. Farmers small businesses will not be representing 69 county Farm required to pay a tax during Bureau units discussed, years when they net less than Glonn Preston, wlnnor of the debated, amended and finally Daryl Potorson, president of Mason County, receives his $10,000. Young Farmor discussion finals, adopted a total of 175 policies President's Trophy from MFB Administrative Director Robert Braden "While the Single Business shows his tochnlquo at tho last while President Smith roads praises of Peterson's outstanding work dealing with a wide range of Tax may help the industrial tost. Preston excelled on the during 1976. Tho Award was prosontod at tho Presidents' Banquot issues. These policies will climate, it harms the topic of land uso policy. Ho will during tho 57th MFB Annual Mooting. Bill Kissane, president of serve as a guide for the agricultural climate roprosont MFB at tho AFBF Clinton County, and Gordon Phlllbock, president of Monomlnoo state's largest farm with other states," they Annual mooting In Hawaii. County also received tho trophies. organization in the year concluded. ahead, with many of the same On the subject of land use, Hundreds Attend Annual; Resolutions Set volunteers who helped delegates supported develop the policies becoming legislation to create a Land active in their execution. Use Commission within the Department of Natural Policy recommendations Resources with the majority MFB Must Grow in dealing with national issues of the will be forwarded to the representing forestry and American Farm Bureau agricultural interests. They Federation for consideration called for Farm Bureau Commission Attitudes, Smith Says transportation, consumer of which to be proud and tell." and possible adoption at the members to actively par- Michigan Farm Bureau issues, land use planning, Once Farm Bureau national meeting scheduled ticipate in land use planning must continue to grow if it is education, and a host of members have learned to for January 9-11 in Hawaii. at the local level. to continue to serve others. We are currently speak up for agriculture, they agriculture, Elton Smith, going through a time in must do it in a unified voice, president of MFB, said in his history when it is the vogue to on the issues and challenges address at the organization's have symposiums, con- for the coming year, Smith 57 annual meeting. ferences, and meetings on emphasized. "By growth I mean we many subjects by many "The first is a farm must have a growth in at- groups. Many of these are program, Smith pointed out. titude," Smith explained. having input on issues upon In the months ahead, "We must get members which government action will concerned, willing to par- be taken. In fact, many of Congress new farm will be developing a program through ticipate and active in Farm these groups are demanding Bureau. We have the government action. Many of legislation. No one knows organization to meet the these decisions concern what this legislation will needs, to face the issues, and agriculture and are being contain. There will be strong to force the action. We must made without our input. We forces advocating a return to grow in our knowledge as how just can't let this happen." higher support price and to best use our structure." What it really means is that production restrictions." A part of this growth farmers will have to par- Farm Bureau members process is, as Farm Bureau ticipate in these events , the must also let their voices be members, learning to act as MFB leader said. This is not heard on land use policy and members of a minority easy but it is necessary. Each possible energy conservation group, the agricultural County Farm Bureau can measure, Smith added. community. build a nucleus of members "I honestly believe we must Congressmen Bob Bergland, from Minnesota's 7th district, par- "Let me give you some who will be available. work for state guidelines in ticipated In a press conference while at the FFB Annual Mooting to examples," Smith said. "We must talk up our in- land use planning. These outline somo of his views on what the 1977 Farm Act should bo like. "First, we must participate dustry", Smith continued. guidelines must provide for Bergland was rocontly namod by President-elect Carter as Secretary in outside groups dealing with "Agriculture is not sick, it is strong local involvement, for of Agriculture. energy, world food supply, not decaying. We have much (Continued on page 2) Special Annual Meeting Issue 1977 Resolutions Start on Page 7 PAGE 2 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1977 MFB Must Grow contd.frompage 1 this type of planning is must be involved in explained. "Let us look for basically a local respon- developing local guidelines. ways to do so", he stated. sibility. The guidelines must I'm convinced that if we "Let us explore new com- preserve private property don't, rules will be made in munication methods to rights and appeal procedures. Washington and ad- provide us better marketing They must have some ministered by bureaucrats. information and intelligence. flexibility with enforcement The demand for food in the Let us grow in our ability to at the level of governrnent future will make it happen." better communicate within closest to the individual. As The last challenge is to our organization. Let us grow Farm Bureau members, we adopt new technology; Smith so that we are recognized as a minority group with a mission -- serving the needs of DONNA I mankind." Smith also lauded challenges Michigan Farm the Push Button Security Bureau has already met and won over in 1976. He cited When members attend the tificate ... grasping for the estate tax reform, the Michigan Farm Bureau pages of script that have been refinement of P.A. 116 in annual meeting, they witness knocked to the floor ... get- regards to tax assessments, Time to "Play Ball" smooth-running sessions with all the various activities ting them back in order ... finding his place to announce and the successful defense of P .A. 344, the Michigan lilt's a brand-new ball game." listed in the program hap- the next winner ... and then Marketing and Bargaining That's how Paul Weller, National Council of Farmer pening when and where making that announcement Law. Cooperatives' vice president for public affa irs, recently they're supposed to, with few with ENTHUSIASM and Others were: described the upcoming four years in Washington. fluffs or missed cues. GUSTO! Hence ... the push - putting proposal A, the Weller told Michigan Association of Farmer Keeping things looking button prevailed for a couple legisla tion to ban the sale of Cooperatives annua I meeting participants that because good "out front" sometimes years. non-returnable beverage of the new administration, they must be more flexible in creates chaotic and This year, we returned to containers on the ballot and humorous (in retrospect) real, . live winners, sup- the resultant passage of the accepting compromise in reaching legislative and situations behind the scenes. plemented with slides. The bill during the November 2 regulatory solutions that effect agriculture. While in- Take the annual awards backs tage comedy was election. creasing their flexibility, Weller said, farm co-ops and program, for example. Any reserved (mainly) for the their members must be more assertive in relaying the time you have 7~plus winners practice session. A good time -- Amendment to the needs of fa rmers to Congress. to recognize in a short time Michigan Pesticide Control for practice, we thought, frame, you have a challenge. would be Tuesday night while Act, so that farmers can \1think this is a good point for all of us in agriculture to qualify to use restricted cClnsider. We cannot "take our ball home" and refuse to Giving each winner the everyone was downstairs recogni tion he or she enjoying the FBS-FPC buffet pesticide after October 21, participate simply because we believe those in quar- 1977. deserves, without boring dinner, and the auditorium terback positions will ca II plays that are contrary to our everyone except the award - - Defeat of legislation to was empty. We could set up philosophies. In fact, it's more vital than ever that winner's proud spouse, is our equipment, get zeroed in require farmers to pay farmers "play ball" with those who will be making almost mission impossible. so the "show" Thursday night overtime and increase the policy decisions in the next four years. would go without a hitch. agricultural minimum wage. The backstage (and oc- - An increase in allowable casionally on-stage) chaos Good idea, except. .. We do not need to compromise our beliefs to do this. The small room in the Civic credit against property taxes What we do need to do is take every possible opportunity created by this mission at under the Homestead Credit past annual awards Auditorium that serves as our to communicate with the consumer, environmental and annual meeting "press Act. programs inspired us, in - An increase in bond labor groups that will have an impad on the nation's room" also doubles as a "recent years, to go the slide requirements of grain agricultura I policies. We must not only supply direct storage place for audio-visual route in lieu of warm bodies. elevators and greater input to lawmakers, but a Iso ad as "expert con- Slides may be "colder" than equipment. Part of the equipment we needed for our protection for farmers sultants" to these groups. We must explain to those not the real thing, but they have practice had been placed in delivering under "Price involved in agriculture why market orientation is im- advantages. When the the bathroom - a good, safe Later Agreements." portant, why increased government regulation would be commentator announces catastrophic, and why a so-calied "cheap food" policy James Jones as the winner, spot, we figured. But, alas, would ultimately result in economic disaster. the door which had been MICHIGAN push a button and James is locked from the inside there on the screen. sometime during the day had FARM NEWS Let's face it! These non-agricultural people will have With real, live bodies, Suzy The Michigan FARM NEWS is an influence on the new administration in practically Smith could march up on remained locked when it was published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Information every facet of government. If we continue to participate stage when James Jones is closed from the outside. Well, Division. Publication and Editorial and educate - the very real possibility exists that our announced. It's obvious to we've faced bigger offices at 7373West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan 48904. Post Office efforts will be more fruitful than we ever thought everyone in the audience that challenges ... Box 960. Telephone. Lansing 485-8121, possible. she just couldn't be James. The ceiling, we could see, Extension 228. Subscription price. 6S cents per year. But nobody bothered to tell was one of those suspended Established January 13.1923.Second. class postagepaid at Lansing,Mi. and at For exa mple, here in Michigan, it looked like rough the script writer that James kinds with the plastic inserts additional mailing offices. times ahead when proposed MI S-OSHA standards were couldn't get anyone to do the which could be easily EDITORIAL: Charles Weirauch, Editor; Donna Wilber, Associate threatening the competitiveness of the state's farmers. chores so Suzy is accepting removed, allowing us to Editor; Staff Photographer: Marcia Through an intensive educational campaign, farmers the award for him. climb over the door frame Ditchie. OFFICERS: MiChigan Farm Bureau; Suzy takes her respon- into the bathroom to unlock tc-Idtheir story to the public. And from the results so far President, Elton R. Smith, Caledonia,R- sibilities as substitute ac- the door. A chair, on top of a 1; Vice President, Dean Pridgeon, -- the message was heard loud and clear. table, brought one of our Montgomery, R.1; Administrative cepter very seriously. When Director, Robert Braden, Lansing; A similar situation in California where a consuming she sees she has the wrong female staff members up to Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Max D. Dean; Secretary, William S. public helped soundly defeat Proposition 14, which certificate, she protests the the level where she could peer Wilkinson. fact - loudly - to the com- over the top. A long way to DIRECTORS: District 1, Arthur wou Id have a lIowed unions to orga nize farm workers on Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2, Dean mentator who is backstage drop, she decided; better put Pridgeon. Montgomery, R.1; District 3, the property of landowners. Voters there became more a chair over first to shorten Andrew Jackson.Howell, R.1; DistricU, with his script and Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R.l; District knOWledgeable through the efforts of thousands of the distance. Good idea, 5, William Spike. Owosso,R.3; District farmers and helped overcome the support of President- microphone. The com- 6. Jack Laurie. CassCity, R-3; District 7, mentator is already except. .. the chair got lodged Robert Rider, Hart, R.1; District B, elect Carter and Governor Jerry Brown for the in the wires that held the Larry DeVuyst. Ithaca. R.4; District 9, proposition. disconcerted because he Donald Nugent, Frankfort, R.1; District announced James and there suspended ceiling and 10. Richard Wieland, Ellsworth, R.1; District 11, Franklin Schwiderson, came Suzy (has he missed a refused to be budged either Dafter. The point is that when the public knows the facts, way. Better the chair than DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter there's a tendency to accept the word of the farmer. line?). Frahm, Frankenmuth; James L. Sayre, her, we supposed. Belleville; Lowell Eisenmann. Picture him now: at- A humiliating situation for Blissfield. Our word will not always be readily accepted, but we tempting to peer aroond Suzy WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. three liberated females to get Andrew Jackson, Howell, R.4. increase the chance for obstacles by not "playing ball," (who is standing in front of FARM BUREAU YOUNG FAR- caught in... especially when MERS: Robert Rottler, Fremont by not participating. We now have new opportunities to him protesting the wrong the man who catches them tell our story -- more new avenues of communication certificate) to see if the simply walks to the trusty POSTMASTER: In using form 3579. mail to: Michigan Farm News. 7373 accessible to the American farmer than ever before. winner he has just annwnced tool kit, picks out a screw Nest Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan 48904. is at least the right gender, if driver, inserts in latch and By accepting the challenge to explore these new not the right person ... opens door! avenues, the American farmer gives himself the op- portunity to assume a vital position of leadership and covering the mike to keep the 1200 people out front from Like I said, a smooth - running annual meeting FaRm~ responsibi lity . Elton R. Smith sharing the information that Suzy has the. wrong c~r- doesn't just happen. You BUreaU really. have to-work at it. JANUARY, 1977 FARM MEWS PAGE 3 1976 31FB '"Victories" Hailed at Annual In hi s A dm I n is tra t ive 3. The establishment of a. miand. for such purposes as : r-•.':••;• ,i:«-:• anises: ^r:-.v time in each of has comities to d e - . s e ' - - :v!.•<;:••• •••:- par* -A "WA A n s a . a ; Fares Ban-as h a n t i n g , f t s h i n g t . of the key administrative' assist volunteer leaders in the Michigan F a r m Bureau's affiliate in February, the ^a••'•'• S'aoaiaw :sai ..snsausse a a a a : - > a a a •••. t-r^ a;aaa p r o g r a m planning a n d "~:-.\ .nsswi d A n a a a A a Fa a A a a a s s As rsu Bara.ua off road vehicles. Violators during 1976, He pointed out execution/' d a a ' a s a s m wan: s a n a r s#o^t F i i p f ^ f | ^ a ; ; ; l * ^ s M •• ;.: ::-.: -v-.;:-una :.: s u - m i s a csae "A: -•[•• aa. tva.-*-.- ;.r. ay"-: d a - .... s.e:s aaaaa^aaaa/ a c c o m p l i s h m e n t s of M F B m-ia -as a w aa> sew :A- arrest on a complaint to any '"a.-- rsa.a: " a.a'a v d- ta aa goat formula mil also be r ,: : s a a a a :-: " duonAsm w aasaa- SanaacM a a n s s a o , cm m a u n m a u n aSFna • a^'ia--.- -< AfAa aard a> "-.v;. changed t o r I.977S E a c h Branen they were: •:r>:- sa~ a-v'ery srsarara baa Switching to MFB program members. county goal will be that A:;:i;( ; v-nv;;' a -n*.\T- Farm Bureau members only, prntra-a Assam ;a.a m.u s n 'Asa; aesas ; - 'r;aa :o a' is . - - •" . . . . .- ; • nw -y, avd-ror -an- s a n s - "ho msmsAs.; adore i n n : as' ur.- pnsarue. ussur fry; •-:•;.: m y as - a e a a t e s regardless of Its final 1.976 consecutive year, This was a s-uaMi Mssrsssp anas AF- a -- - • - v "' t-ata;- s' : ':S:i. ; FavesA-er a s s a - s n i i ; ^ e a s ' Brsaaa ma; a Co as pd Asa s:n si a F ^ u s A s a u s srarahera to vmAai a-.-?a. a- rasysaw A I976; Braden said. i4 Tbe a ; ea '.•:' a n A n n n d A due? u ' J v 5 aa- m a n Fan A A a a": a a a p ; :o rtynvrr ' a s •. . - . ; : • • - . -a-r • a,' :--:!•-?. n - n a n a pointed id a w a ^ s >.; a a s a F o S a i ma.a, m w -.-eii a s s A- adjusted and 12 regions \%*ere ' a-i> .- vaA. chii- aaas,- : a A ay .as HeaF'n caaaa•:•-;ap. aaa ; aa- Far eath :.: • Ai A :.u a h - a n s r s a s A m a s s n a a s a ? - ; prop.wed s . - ; a a ' ' i -:aa>aa^.:-- : ..a p^aaa,.;.- i r••%:••:-.- <•.•:•*- or '-.a-aaa^a* ^aar saadary^ aV; A a y s a a a a n Farrr. F-ureau a.aaaaa:'- aa* !euewt:- aaa a"": s s a s -; a",a ..a*- a-a'^r : a:a counties were cut from each ••:v s\-:a. iaa:ars^ra a.; F.aaa iA-sacnaa Assssi e n s s r a aaaa ma was-.:-, Taa-w '•• a a a a* as--- ia a', v:.aa- region. Regional represen- Bavaca; asaraaaa - a.; !>_• -v in St. Louts last January, ~aavaa-d- --wrs Si" scan- munities. P r o b l e m s r a n g e tatives will now serve bet- continue to have a strong, v. aa. s a - a panel u h c ; restrictive than the OSHA du-r.-. ;•>:.:.• ar-Fs.:Hnas- a a a -• . viable Farm Bureau A ussy a a dAwn Fsreas v...^ a . a n a n A . a r a m . . a n n u a . ;''r'ara,a aa: aa v aceesa -it - . . organization," Braden aomaa—a -a a", - a a a a a n 5, The enactment of Estate A.ae :di.'- s aaa.aaa-": c^.^r regional representative more concluded.. s t a t e for p r o g r a m a c - Tax Reform. country roads to information ; •smpc ' a c n " n e e u s -tars -'• • v a , : *os- Aaa:y:u- on county d r a i n c o d e s . " ••»••;••• —cv Ass :.-.•: u a u a e a • F a r m Bureau policy ob- d:.ass. Vi ••••! ••>-.' •.a-u:^>-, our membership goal, jective was accomplished at local zoning plans are in- Land Use Policy com modity a c t i v i t i e s , the November second elec- cluded frequently in the vvomer/s p r o g r a m , young tion - the passage of proposal request for assistance. .farmers and r a n c h e r s "A" will ban the me of "Also, a major effort in the Most Vital nonreturnable bottles a n d i ^ ^ i i ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ; i ^ ^ | i A AM Ad marketing (AAMAc cans m .Michigan. ifllll^^ 7 A state-wide trespass prevention of rural crime, proposal, important to F a r m been directed toward Miiliken says tiiis, Michigan received the Bureau members, passed the played a key role in the Michigan must act now to coveted golden eagle award Legislature just last week. i^^^^^^^Bi^fti^^^^^is protect t'anniands through for s e r v i c e to f a r m e r ii^ft'i^^l^il^^^^^^i^a Rural C r i m e Prevention land use planning legislation, m e m b e r s A»r rhe four!h persons ta have written Council d" si^M^Sftiis^f™! iiiiiji^^ ii^^liist^i^^^^iS^^ O v i s W .-.JKni N-. H "A r i> H I M * u Anrjiisl Meeting. A vmrni farm wife artd mother from Shiawassee County. Boiieeta (Brniny? Fematrs, was crowned ^^^KI^BS^^^SA^^ " M i c h i g a n F a ran B u r e a u much iongerd' Miliiken said. Queerd" for 1977 at the Civic "'Urban sprawl continues to Auditorium 3R Grand Rapids, Increase at a rapid rate. If W e «i n e s d a y e v e n i n g , Michigan is to remain a December i. The crowning leading farm state, a work- •. • - •/••'•''' •'•••:",;a • - - • 'd . , ; a able plan to save the best F a r m e r Banquet which is lands for agriculture should part of the farm. be put into effect as soon a s or ga m za ti on *s f o u r - d a y possibied' •?..:..!•' d-:V.,-i :•-::- 0.;' i ^ ^ SS- S'.S^ Annual Meeting activities, MiUiken explained that so nations that will help us The new Queen and her ; a' *r.--- — s a a e s " - d:a maintain a balance of trade. i^^^^^^p|y^K|^^^^A^^^^^^A^ v^s: a.a-a r:. w y aFaa'^a- Now, there is little control to 220-head dairy iarrn near visa's.:. •'•:•/.•••- ' y-.:- St a- a--- provide such a balanced' Ovid in partnership with his £jr."i 5s^cm. iy77 MPS C v * * - ftgs--?is is«*or9 tr^sr* ?non > 200 problem, A revision of Michigan's brother. "Its been one of the most tax structure is also needed, Runner-up in the contest •;-•.•:• ••:.iv-\- r a s a : a ^ ' '•--••:.^-, Miilikeri added. a 2 2 v ^ e r a da':'-* * c ^ ^ * a - Ov-^o Sv^-;v TW--^' - f l p - » ' e H * M; : S a* S-« "There must be an im- AfBF Annual Minting*mHcwoll. governor emphasized. 4A provement m the assessment of Bay CfHintv. i ; - ' ' / " : : — • •:, '•..,.• i ^ f ' a : ' - S a ^ of rural p r o p e r t y / * the F ^ i ^ ^ i ^ M i ; § i ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ y governor stressed, "'At the '^Outstanding ^ oung Farm I o n i a n " d^^^l^^i^^ii^^^^^pAly same time we must make r ^^i^§|^^^^^|t^^^^pi opera lea 1,460-acre dairy and ^^^^^d^^^dBd^^^fe • • s •• •••:•:.•.:• a F i > <> — • .....aa';". ':•' a : a i"a-..">--..> : taxes are not shifted on to 0^M i i i ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ i d ^ ^ p f i ^ ^ i i ?Id crops farm near named "''Outstanding Young leaders to provide in- agricultural areas. *' F a r m W o m a n " by the formation and suggestions to Or* thing that, has shown help resolve this question. that individuals and during the Organization's i y s i s f ^ i ^ ^ p ^ l ^ ^ p : ^ ^ ^ ; ^ atsa ...a..a:; -.ases:' e".o.:- Annual Meeting in Grand top agricultural stale so that can influence decisions on 'he .Rapids, November 30- we ran help keep peace in the state A problem areas, is the world through a balanced alJoda* Elms, wife of a yi^^^pi^'fti^^|d;^^^^i Smarts Creek dairy farmer p IjNfli&i. i ' l ^ : i i ^ l ^ ^ ^ ^ ' ^ ^ f t i nori-ratarnabla be'/eraga and mother of four children, yliiJlli^ conta m e r s in Michigan, ;^^A^^^^§iplfciii^^;di^^|;; act that is market oriented.'"' which was on the November 2 iiii^pi' :ia,^fig|^:i-a^^p^ Because of its trade value. Farmer Banquet held in the production daring 1*76 is ' T h i s law ^tM lead to a CI vie Aud.i toriu m, y i t i i i l f iii]#^tSdsS^^^iii^»f.' c l e aner and better Mrs- Blm% van picked from billion, Miltfken poiat«i o u t a field m nineteen con- eluded ' i t s pas-age will also iestiints, noiTanattd by their "Howe%Ter» this wealth of play a significant part in the i i ^ft^il|sii -ipM^tp^a^li^ * is:^^^^K^i^^^tti^fe;^i Bureau units. mean that Michigan ©f the nasi -returnable beverage A;a^^^^^pp^?i^y:.i^p^t:. !««?€» Bias s w s l f $ Oavdln* jack tan'* anffovmr*??**?** fs«f t*»* ftss country a s a whole can afford i^^^i^^||;^^^^i^^^^^i >as Airs, Kathryas. ASid-dleioo •;•»-•• :?••*;•.•'».-• ;•« a . • , ; - • : • ' • :•.:-••:; '•:••-•••_.; :C c -• a.;-:-.;.- '<:. V ; 5 .:" •:• •? to set itself up a s a provider ^'Md • s^fes; i ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ A ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ a^^^^^^^^^pA^^^P^i for i:sttiiiPFF''ifeaA^A : ^^pid ; Si^^^ w the rest m the world. : We legislation. ::l^ttl^^fe^^^^ttdf;^^^MIii '> ^rt^^Sttitt,;^^^^ %' 9& time at its disposal to further CAPITOL REPORT - I notify farmers and anyone Robert E. Smith else interested in the issue. Many farmers attended some of the hearings. Their The 78th Legislature has tax. These two features, risks rather than being burdened enterprise in Michigan and testimony was positive and adjourned for the year with a along with others, will reduce with the tax on interest. Farmers the fact that nearly all of helpful and will be considered nurry of activities lasting the actual impact. must borrow large amounts due them are completely dif- by the Task Force. until nearly 4 A.M. in the Dr. Gerald Miller, Director to a variety of reasons including f.erent and. cannot be .fitted The Task For-ce has crop failures caused by droUght. t I I th t morning of Friday, of th e B ureau 0f th e Bu d ge,t floods. frost, wind, hail, etc. In ~ a SIng e aw WI ou already written an interim December 17. Several outlined the theory of the SBT 2. Changes in the taxation of ' ?dJustments. So~e progress report. Some of the areas that comprehensive and con- and explain~ th.e fis~al crisis , depreciation. Unlike many IS already .being ~ade, need revision and have been troversial pieces of faced by MIchigan s under businesses, farmers must have a through the SIngle Busmess recognized by the Task Force legislation were before the the previous tax system. He large inventory of machinery and Tax. Task Force that was to date include relief for law makers for final con- said that over all, the SBT equipment most of which is used appol~ted for the purpose. of small business where there sideration. In an unusual will level out the income of only a few days a year. studymg the ~ct and makIng are low profits include: move, Governor Milliken was the state and eliminate the 3. Consideration of changes for recommendatIons to the 1977 . called at 1 A.M. to go to the previously high peaks and those w~o ha~e .heavy labor LegislatUre. Farm Bureau is 1. Increasing the small capitol to urge the Senate to extreme lows of revenue. It' ~osts. It IS malD~~llnedthat the represented on the Task business deduction which is take a final action on many of should also encourage the IDtent of the SBT.ls to .encourage Force. It consists of 44 preSoooentl$y35,000 to at least . employment. While thiS may be $50 these issues. Perhaps the exp.anslOn .?f many true for some industries, farmers members, 37 of whom ,. most important of them was busmesses WIthin the state. and other small businesses are represent a broad variety of 2. Permit small business to considera tion of leg isla tion to .Bob Smith, Farm Bureau more likely to be discouraged business enterprise in receive full credit on their per- make technical changes in Senior Legislative Counsel, from hiring people. Michigan ranging from the' sonal income tax. There would be the Single Business Tax Law. pointed out the fact that when 4. Assurance that small Iargest industries. 'down to a ceiling on such a credit. The Senate intended to jt became obvious that the businesses will not be required to small businesses such as 3. Provide alternative tax make major amendments to Single Business Tax would pay a ta.x during years when net restaurants, cleaning ser- mcthods and allow the tax payer the law in order to remove pass the Legislature Farm pro fit I I IS ow. ( e.g.: •1,0 000) vices, agriculutre, retailers, to choose the one most ad- vantageous. some of the inequities that Bureau made every ~ffort to 5. T?tal ex~mption of etc. effect small business, which . d d cooperatives orgamzed under the ' h k 4. Provide for exemptions or a Inclu e. s~veral amen ments Capper Volstead Act that qualify T eTas Force circulated better formula for small of course includes those to eh~Inate as .. many under. the I.R.S. Section 521 an information survey to businesses with high labor costs. farmers subject to the tax. fore~eeable ineqUItIes as exemption. more than 4000 businesses. 5. Permit investment writeoffs The fact that this controversy poSSIble. Farm Bureau also Be sure to read the entire The return was very disap- and tax credits to encourage arose at the last minute of the' supported the increase in policy in the "pull-out" pointing and the data increased employment. Legisla tive Session makes it property tax reba te resolutions section. collected was not sufficient to 6. ~emove the taxation of in- more clear than ever that the limitation to $1,200. There are other areas that help in making recom- terest' for small businesses Single.Business Tax issue will The Michigan Farm News also need revisions. For mendations. recognizing that this is unfair to be of priority nature in the has carried several articles example, the present act does TASK FORCE HEARINGS those who must borrow large coming Legislature that will on this issue including a not trea t partnerships The Task Force has had a amounts and take greater risks be convening in mid January. than those who are able to complete explanation in the equitably. The exemptions series of nine hearings finance without excessive The Single Business Tax September 1 issue along with for the partners should be throughout the entire state. borrowing. Some amendments to has been reported to Farm a form designed for farmers raised substantially. The act Farm Bureau notified County the act would be extremely costly Bureau members in several to determine whether the tax over all fails to recognize the Farm Bureaus of the and their revenue loss would issues of the Michigan Farm affects them. Many farmers broad variety of business hearings and used the radio require higher tax rates. News and in Minuteman took the time to cut the ~ ~ communications. Numerous survey form out, fill it in, and ~ ~ ~ meetings were held around return it to Farm Bureau .. ~~ ~ \\~, the state, including a special In addition, several hun- \~:~ ~ 0 panel discussion at the Farm dred survey forms were sent .p ~ . Bureau Annual Meeting. to a broad cross-section of t> At the Annual Meeting, Michigan agriculture in an Senator VanderLaan. (R, effort to accumulate accurate Grand Rapids) who was a data on the effect of the SBT member of the panel, stated on agriculture. Unfor- to the packed room that while tunately, the number of he voted for the Single returns was disappointing; Business Tax if he had an opportunity to withdraw any however, enough. received to make it clear that were A line of- credit vote that he has made in his long career as a Legislator it it is impossible to make sweeping statements on the is almost as good would be the vote on the SBT. The law is so comprehensive and complicated that at the tax's effects on any par- ticular agriculture. segment It varies con- of • money in the pocket. time of its passage, .it was siderably with individual A line of credit: It's like having many pre-~rranged loans, impossible to foresee the situations. just wai~ing for you. Then you tan take advantage of tax consequences tha t would planning purchases ...or unexpected price brellks on feeders result in its effect on many 1977 SBT RESOLUTION ...or big discounts on large-volume purchases. 0 We can small business including The policy resolution that help you deterinine how much ~rrowed capital your opera- affected farmers. was adopted by the voting tion needs and can support. You needn't borrow th~t much delegates at the Farm ...but you will have a better idea gf how far you c~n go, if TAX WON'T AFFECT Bureau Annual Meeting necessary. in your financial planning. 0 So come in soon! MOST FARMERS outlines very clearly the Talk with us about establishing your own line of credit. Dr. Kelsey, Agricultural major areas of inequities as Economist, MSU, pointed out they affect farmers. This to the audience that ac- resolution is printed as a part cording to their studies, most of the policy insert in this farmers will not be affected; issue. It states very clearly however, many farmers that Farm Bureau's policy will be are affected may have to support the repeal of the considerable additional tax SBT. It points out that the burden. He also pointed out several taxes that were that it should be remembered 'repealed at the time of its that a campanion bill was enactment did not apply to passed with the SBT which farmers and, therefore, the increases the property tax SBT is a completely new tax. rebate from the present $500 If the act cannot be repealed, to a maximum of $1200. the resolution mentions Pra~tically all. farn1'ers will several major revisions that qu~hfy for thIS full r.eba~e should be mage including the WhIChcuts many tax bIlls 10 following: h~ or more. He furth~r' 1. Elimination of the interest pom~ out that the tax IS component. Many young deductible on the federal businessmen and young farmers . income tax and there is also a depend heavily upon borrowed provision for a deduction capital. They should be (through a sliding percentage congratulated for their !C8l~ on the state income wUlin,g."!SS to take suc~ high JA'N t1AAT, 1977 FARM NEWS PA'GE 5 Buschlen to Retire as MASA Head Merrill J. Buschlen, IIATIIIAL lITES the Federal OSHA standards. During 1972 Congress o "General"- pesticides will be certified: manager of the Michigan Buschlen feels certain that passed legislation which those considered generally safe 0 -I. Self-study and examiDati_; Agricultural Services the state Department of made substantial changes in to the environment when used 2. Classroom training aDd Association (MASA) since Labor will soon adopt the the regulation of pesticides. according" to label instructions. examination ; 1966, will retire on January 4. federal standards for the Among the changes are "Restricted" pesticides will be 3. An oral fact fmdial in- Don Shepard will assume the state. those considered potentially terview administered by an provisions which will affect 0 nlanagerial position on that harmful to the environmeat or authorized persoo if UDabie to Shepard joined the Farm most farmers who apply applicator even when used in date. demonstrate competeDce by Bureau family in 1963, when pesticides on their own accordance with label in- examination or dassroom "Busch" joined Farm farms. These provisions structions. Bureau Services as a retail he was hired as sales training. manager of Farm Bureau include: 2. Private applicators, which store manager in 1953. He 1. A requirement for the includes farmers whO desire to A special study manual has then progressed-to manager Services Feed Department. Environmental Protection apply "restrictedH pesticides been prepared by the of fertilizer sales, manager of In June 1973,Shepard became Agency (EPA) to classify all after October 21, 1977,must be Cooperative Extension the Farm Supplies Division of manager of the FBS Feed pesticides iBto "general" and certified. Service for use by farmers in FBS; and then became .Department. ~'restricted" categories. Currently EP A has not obtaining the information director of distribution in pub_lished an official list of the necessary to pass the charge of sales. In this "restricted" pesticides' to examination. Copies of the position he assisted the chief guide farmers in determining manual may be obtained at 75 labor negotiator of FBS with whether or not they will need cents per copy from County union labor negotiations. oHis to become certified. Cooperative Extension next position was director of However, it is reported by Offices. The Extension MASA, when that persons close to the Service will also be .holding organization was formed. classification program that meetings this winter to Prior to 1953, Buschlen had pesticides bearing the skull- discuss the information that been employed by the sugar and-crossbones symbol on the farmers must know to pass industry for eighteen y~s . label will probably be on the the examination. He had graduated from . "restricted" list. Examinations will be given Michigan State University The Michigan Legislature at various times and locations (then Michigan State has amended the Michigan this winter. Dates and College) in 1935with a B.S. in - Pesticide Control Act to locations of the examinations Agriculture. He then obtained conform with the Federal may be obtained from County ,. an M.S. degree from the mandate that each State Cooperative Extension University of Idaho in plant designate an agency to ad- Offices. A fee of $10.00will be psysiology and plant Merrill J. Busch'en minister the certification charged. The certification chemistry. program. The Legislature must be renewed every three While heading MASA designated this responsibility years. Farmers who do not operations, "Busch" was to the Michigan Department pass or are unable to take the responsible for many "vic- of Agriculture. first scheduled examination tories" for farmers in the Farmers desiring to be will have an opportunity to state. These "victories" certified in order to apply take another examination at consisted, of testimonial efforts by MASA and Farm Bureau members leading Don Shepard, New MASA Operations Manager ~1ffT "restricted" pesticides after October 21, 1977,are required to _demonstrate their com- a later date. All Farm Bureau members .ar~ encourage4 to contact in the opposition of state and petency by passing a test 0 their County Cooperative na tional legisla tion tha t which will be administer~d by Extension Office soon, and would adversely affect the state's producers, providing advice to many members so that they could successfully handle complex MASA ~j the Department Agriculture. Farmers choose amon~ the following alternatives to may become of obtain further information on the certification program which has been mandated by federal law. laws dealing with migrant labor laws and becoming a nationally recognized expert on farm labor laws and migrant workers .. This .. NOW~! recognition led to his serving on the Federal Regional Council Migrant Task Force, Freddie' Computer' a member Occupational of Safety Stan- dards Commission advisory the can help you- committee for agriculture, a member of the Board of Directors of the National Council of Agricultural save Time and Money Employers, a member of the National Institute of Farm Safety a consultant to the t\ ~\ At the Tax Office-:-Atthe Michigan Agricultural Labor Commission. , -. Bank-On the Farm-At -Home One of Buschlen's most Good Farm Records make tax repor- Stop by. and se. us at the Freddie Farm Record. recent successes was his ting a lot easier - and save you both tax Display Booth during the product -.how at th.o Annual work in organizing efforts to dollars and time. Farm Bureau Meeting at Grand Rapids Nov. 30 • Dee. oppose tractor and farm 2. equipment safety proposals Good Farm Records help you get the set up by the Michigan loans you need, keep interest costs Interested in signing up for Freddie Computer? Tben Department of Labor that down, and help you make more money Send for an enrollment application. Fill out the were much more restrictive on your operation. than federal OSHA ~tandards following form and Send to: Gerald Nyberg, Michigan already in effect. Nearly 200 What is your return per dollar in- Farm Bureau P.OBox 30960 Lansing, Michigan 48909 I---------------------- agricultural representatives vested? What enterprise best fits your protested the state standards situation? How Can you improve your ei ther by wri ting or by Name testimony at the September net farm income? 13, 1976Department of Labor I Address hearing on the proposals. Save time with Freddie Computer - I Their testimony led the Just write down your income and ex- I Michigan Agricultural Labor penses and send them in. Also - if you I Commission to reject the want - get complete family record~ too. I state proposals and accept PAGE 6 FARM-NEWS - - - JANUAR}(, wn Annual Commodity Session Single Business Tax Debated Covers SBT, Farm Policy Not All Bad For Farmers Michigan Single Business "The adoption of the SBT tax may not have as adverse also meant the dropping of affect on the state's corporate income taxes," agriculture as once thought,. Kelsey said. "This tax it was reported at the Com- removal eliminates the modity Session panel negative impact we have had discussion on that subject. in Michigan for fanners to The Commodity session was a form a corporation." , part of the 57th Annual With these benefits from_ Meeting of the Michigan the single Business tax, Farm Bureau. . Kelsey feels that Michigan Dr. Myron Kelsey, one of agriculture is in a net positive the four participants on the . position in relation to the total panel, made the statement as tax package. He feels that an part of his segment, less .than 10 per cent of the dealing with how the Single state's farmers will wind up Business Tax will affect paying more tax than they agriculture. Dr. Kelsey is a receive rebates for . . Michigan State Agricultural "It's important to look at economist who has worked the single business tax in closely with Michigan Farm complete perspective," Bureau and the Michigan Kelsey emphasized. "This State Legislature to assess tax is presently undergoing the tax structure. Other panel heavy scrutiny and most members were Sena tor certainly will be modified. Robert VanderLaan of However, some of the Michigan's 37th District, Dr. changes that have been Dr. Richard .11 lob Bergland. ..... Gerald Miller, Director of .the proposed could possibly put Department of Management the farmer in a worse Bell, Bergland Differ on Farm Policy and Budget for the State of position. I urge those who are Michigan, and. Bob Smith, in a position to influence these The highlight of the loan ra tes concerns the legisla tive counsel for the changes be careful to Bergland's plan goes too far. Michigan Farm Bureau. evaluate their impact on the Commidity session of the marketing of wheat Bell MFB 57th Annual Meeting . ' pomts out. He believes. that Bell feels that the target "As long as farmers are whole of the agricultural price concept is needed to expanding their businesses, community.' , was a panel discussion on wheat is the only commodity provide income deficiency National Farm Legislation. that could be in trouble as far they're really.not going to be However, the tax is certain payments if they are needed. paying any tax," Kelsey to be changed, Vander Laan Featured were Dr. Richard as international marketing Bell, Assistant Secretary of ~oes. The 1976 marketing "Agriculture must end the explai~. "Once farmers stop emphasized. Agriculture for International year has shown a large net "boom and bust" - the wild expanding, then they're going Vander Laan feels that: Affairs and Secretary oi increase in wheat production swings of commodity prices," to start-paying." a. the tax should be far Agriculture Bob Bergland. throughout the world. t~e Congressman empha- Under the SBT, businesses more related to income. Both made speculations on "If market prices remain ~lZed. "We must do this can write off first year ex- how Congress might change through the end of target penses for capital in- b. interest on income should low, producers may want to not be added to the income the 1973 Agriculture and use wheat as feed. I'm afraid price policies, an increase in vestments costs of expansion, the basic loan rate and the Kelsey said. Farmers can base on which the tax rate is Consumer Protection Act, that higher loan rates would encouragement of an on-farm continue this write-off if they based. which expires in 1977. This discourage this practice. In Act must be renewed by late other words, raising loan grain reserve program. continue to expand. c. Income from unem- March or early April 1977. ra tes would produce the Whatever the decisions, Another SBT clause, placed ployment and workman's Bergland and Bell offered opposite effect for which it Congress will need the kind of through the work of Michigan compensation, Social their suggestions on how the was intended." advice Farm Bureau has Farm Bureau and other Securi ty and similar bill might be changed. Because surpluses can traditionally provided to agricultural organizations, programs should not be in- The two differed on a exist when conditions occur make the proper decisions." increases the amount of cluded in the tax base. number of points, the most as they did in 1976, Bergland "The loan rate is basically rebate on the homestead ntable concerning the basic feels that the law needs to be a tool to encourage orderly property tax credit from the d. labor intensive in- loan rate to farmers. marketing of farm produce, original $500 to $1,200. dustries, such as agriculture changed in regards to the "I predict that we will see to prevent distress selling," "Farmers are going to be need a bigger break. ' management of grain an end of the so-called target reserves. Bell said. "The loan rates in the biggest beneficiaries of "legislators are convinced price concept," Bergland this country are the 00- this clause," Kelsey ex- that there must be major "The questions is not said. "If will be replaced by a derpining of the entire world plained. "Most fanners are changes in the single business whether we're going to have system that will embody an grain reserves or not" economy. How they go going to be getting money tax," the senator concluded. increase in the basic loan Bergland saId. . "Rather, it's ' depends on world trade in back on their taxes because of "Now we must make sure ra te. This increase will grain." it." that they are the right ones." how these reserves can best enable farmers to market be managed." their grains in a more orderly The Minnesota fashion. The increase will Congressman advocated a also allow producers enougtt new alternative as to how credit so that they can pay grains can be managed. operating expenses that are "Now you can sell the grain due in the fall. Grain would in the fall or feed it as the not have to be marketed at market demands, or put it harvest time but could be under price support loan and kept off the market until a delay the sale until next more advantageous time spring, ~' he explained. "A when there were higher third alternative, which has prices." n~ver been tried, is to provide Bergland deplores the for a five year resale contract oor.rent target pric.e. ~gncepl 8Uthori'!y. This wpqld mean He:feels. ltiaF under' the tliat wtieat could be sthrett.oo'.- ,c current law, if market priceS farms for five years and be drop to the loan rates, the sold only if the market price Secretary . of Agriculture rose above a certain level. would wind up owning all the This program would be grain stocks. Under the sensitive to the market. If we Highlight. 01 th. Commodity Session of th. MFa M/(;heol Kelsey. Michigan State University target price program, if were to put excess grain Annual Me.tlng w.... panel discussIons on th. agricultural economic prolessor. Senator Rob.1f prices are below target levels under this program, we would Slngl. Bus/n.ss Tax and Notional Farm Policy. Paul Vander Laan. Dr. Gerald MIII.r. director established by law, then be bale to increase wheat Klnd/nger, dlr.ctor 01 MFa Marlc.t Development Depalfment 01 Management and Budg.t lor th. payments are made prices. " d/yls/on and Dean Pridgeon, m.mb.r 01 th. MFa State al Michigan and Robert Smith. MFa .en/or representing the differences, Bell feels that there should Board 01Directors led the .ess/on •• Participant. In legislative counsel. between the market prices be grain reserves, but that the S8T pan.I discussion, p/ctur.d h.re. w.,.. Dr. JANUAR¥;'> 1977 FARM NEWS RAGE 7 • 1977 MFB Resolutions This special section is a complete text of resolutions on property tax rebate from $500 to. $1200and clarifies its While we believe that much progress has been made in state affairs and Farm Bureau as approved by the application to farms; changes in local revenue sharing Michigan toward a balanced tax system, these additional delegate body representing Farm Bureau members formulas, various assessment reforms, exemptions of reforms will result in every citizen paying his fair share through county delegations at the annual meeting in household repairs from assessment, important amend- toward the support of his schools and other local and state G~and Rapids, Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 2, 3. ments to the Single Business Tax. government services. Every Farm Bureau member has an opportunity to take - Retention of the sales tax exemption on agricultural part in policy development. This is done through com- production inputs .. AGRICULTURAL LAND TAXATION munity groups, county committees, county annual -Continued changes in school finance including im- The Farmland and Open Space Preservation. Act meetings, district meetings, etc. provement of the "equal yield" concept. . provides a voluntary method of preserving farmland This year policy recommendations were also in - Amendments to various commodity promotion through a contractual arrangement with the state and record number by the counties to the State Policy programs including: Beef Commission, Bean Com- thereby limits property tax to a percentage of household Development Committee made up of farmers from mission, and Potato Commission etc. income. ]t also provides. relief from certain special throughout the state. Several state commodity advisory -Marketing legislation: P .A. 155extends the Marketing assessments. We are pleased with the excellent support committees. also made up of farmers from throughout the and Bargaining Act; P .A. 135,provides for marketing fee that farmers are giving this program throughout the state, provided ~ecommendations to the committee. collections, etc. entire state. More than 130,000 acres in 49 or more Many of the following resolutions can be carried out -- Several public health measures including, counties in both Peninsulas have qualified, with ap-. through legislation and many others in other ways and at malpractice legislation .. plications coming in at an accelerated rate. the local level. Recommendations on national and in- - Several livestock, dairy and crop measures including The Act has been amended to remove one objectionable ternational issues as passed by the delegates will assist modernization of Michigan's fertilizer laws; feed laws; feature, that of the mandatory appraisal by. the Tax Michigan's voting delegates in helping to determine Fluid Milk Act; Weights and Measures Act; grain dealers Commission. Other amendments may be needed as ex- policies on national and internatiQnal affairs at the AFBF licensing and "price later" regulation; certification of perien~ is ..pined ... Convention, January ~12, 1977.. "animal technicians" to work with veterinarians. The administrat()rs of P .A. 116are to be complimented - Several transportation measures including, P .A. 74, for the efficient manner in which the pJ'OII'am bas been PURPOSE OF FARM BUREAU establishing special-registration provisions for farm handled. Farm Bureau is a free, independent, nODlovernmental, trucks used to haul commodities from the field to the Another tax relief program that is ~ to many voluntary organization of farm and ranch families united storage; special consideration for farm trucks on farmers is the passage of the "circuit-breaker" concept in for the purpose of analyzing their problems and for- covering requirements, providing for matching of federal 1972,providing relief for homestead and agricultural land mulating action to achieve education imptovement, funds to retain essential railroads not included in based on household income. The refund limit has been economic opportunity, and social advancement and, CONRAIL, bicycle regulations, traffic law changes etc. increased froin $500 to $1,200. thereby, to promote the national well-being. Farm Bureau -- Appropriations for the Extension Service, We believe that these reforms will continue to prove to is local, statewide, national, and international in its scope Agricultural Experiment Station, FFA and 4-H. Also, be wise legislation and will be effective methods of and influence and is nonpartisan, nonsectarian, and progress toward a new plant science building and animal preserving farmland for future food needs and open nonsecret in character. health diagnostic laboratory. space. This will also be an effective tool to conserve --Amendment to Michigan's Pesticide Control Act to water, help purify polluted air, and provide for aesthetic RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY mE comply with FIFRA to allow farmers continued access to and recreational values. Open farmland creates no cost, MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU BOARD OF DELEGATES essential pesticides. traffic jams, or parking problems. It requires no services 57th Annual Meeting - Passage of a new Trespass Act providing stronger such as sewers, water, schools, etc. It actually helps Grand Rapids - November 30, December 1, 2, and 3, protec~ion for farmlands and legislation to control moderate the service load to the community. We continue 1976 animals at large, a new "hunter access" program; to support these concepts fully, and will continually work FOREWORD progress on a new fence law proposal, maintenance of to maintain and improve them. As the United States of America enters its Third Cen- drainage rights, etc. tury, it is appropriate that we, as farmers, should con- We commend the Governor and the Legislature on RETIREE TAX EQUITY . sider the role we will play in insuring a bright future for enactment of these and several other measures we have Presently, retirement and pension beqefits from a the nation our farmer forefathers were instrumental in supported which are important to agriculture and to the public retirement system or from any other retirement or building .. economy of the State of Michigan. We also appreciate the pension system are exempt from income tax. Farmen There will be challenges in Century III; of that we can fact that much proposed legislation not in the best interest and other self-employed persons do not have this benefit. be certain. Some of those challenges are unknown. Others of agriculture was not adopted. They must provide their own program, often by setting will be a continuation of those we have faced in recent aside monies to use t.he interest, rent, dividends, etc., as years - the need for sufficient energy and land, over- regulation of our industry by government, maintaining the freedom to market what we produce, and meeting the Taxation retirement income only to find it taxable under the income tax statute. We believe that any person retiring within the requirements of the social security system should qualify increased world-wide demand for food. MICHIGAN'S TAXATION SYSTEM for exemption of such income from the income tax, the In the face of challenges, known .or unknown, farmers A recent nationwide study by the Advisory Commission same as any other retiree. still look to the future as a time of "opportunities on Intergovernmental Relations shows that, in relation to unlimited" for our industry. Whether we will be able to other states, Michigan is the "highest ranking state in take advantage of these opportunities - for the benefit of terms of revenue equity." States were rated on the basis SINGLE BUSINESS TAX mankind -. will depend a great deal on our awareness that of a "balanced use" of income taxes, sales taxes, and The Single Business Tax (SBT) became effective a healthy, prosperous agriculture is the key to world property taxes. January, 1976.The SBT was meant to be a "single tax" on peace, and our willingness to strive aggressively and Even though Michigan is a leader in tax reform, the a "single base" designed to improve the business climate knowledgeably toward that goal. study showed that there is a small degree of "under of Michigan. It has no exemptions; every business en- Turning the challenges involved in feeding a hungry utilization" of the personal income tax and general sales terprise is subject to the tax. Several taxes were repealed world into opportunities will require looking beyond the tax, and a significant degree of "over utilization" of the at the timei>f its enactment. Many businesses benefited horizons of their own farms to scientific researchers in property tax. This means that to achieve a truly balanced from the repeal of other business taxes. However, many laboratories and fields to agricultural educators in tax system, continued reforms are necessary in the business enterprises including farmers, were suddenly college classrooms ... to young men and women eager property tax system. saddled with a new tax system - one that is difficult to and well-equipped to take .their place in an exciting, ex- Michigan's flat rate income tax was declared to be understand and unlike any other tax system in any other panding industry. We must work consistently to develop a "progressive" in nature due to the system of exemptions. state. It is a controversial tax even though it was designed better-informed general public and legislators regar4ing Michigan was also rated in the top five states for to provide more stability in Michigan's tax system. Under agricultural matters so that the goal of a healthy, assessment quality .and uniformity of assessments. the old system there WClS--& "revenue roller coaster effect" prosperous agriculture becomes a common goal, reached A few of Michigan's recent major tax reforms include under which the state experienced large surpluses in cooperatively. adoption of the "circuit-breaker" concept which bases some years and fiscal crisis in others. Farmers of today and tomorrow must be prepared to property taxes on household income with provision for a We believe the SBT is inequitable for many types of meet both the challenges and the opportunities ahead, and rebate of up to $1,200(previously $5(0). The Farmland and businesses including affected farmers. The shift in tax the organization which serves them must be equipped to Open Space Preservation Act (P .A. 116) also provides burden is apparently much higher than was anticipated. A help prepare them. It is fitting that our motto for the property tax relief based on household income and survey conducted by the Single Business Tax Task Force coming 'year is "Farm Bureau - United to Serve exemptions from certain special assessments. indicated that two-thirds of those responding disagree Agriculture." The strength of farm families, united to The creation of the Tax Tribunal has helped to ensure with the SBT concept. Over 80 percent disagree with the serve agriculture, can assure that we can meet the individual taxpayers of an impartial appeals procedure. formula used; 75 percent feel there are features that challenges and the opportunities ahead with confidence. We believe that these and other major changes have led should be changed; nearly half favor a return to the The task which lies ahead of us ... developing and later to a better balance of Michigan's total tax system. profits tax or return to the old system; 25 percent see executing the policies for our Farm Bureau ... also However, recognizing the findings of the Commission, features worth r:etaining and a third of those agreed that contains 'challenges and opportunities. We meet those additional reforms are needed. Such reforms should in- the tax simplifies tax preparation and filing; and 80 challenges and opportunities with confidence, too, that clude: percent feel that some industries have been over- our decisions and our actions will result in a more 1. Revision of the Michigan inheritance tax law. burdened. prosperous agriculture, a stronger organization, and a 2. Continued improvement of assessment and We believe that the tax should be repealed. If not, better America in the future. equalization procedures. certain major revisions should be made including COD- Dean Pridgeon, Chairman 3. Maintaining and extending limitations on property sideration of the following: MFB Policy Development Committee taxes for educational purposes. 1. Elimination of the interest component. Many young 4. New sources of revenue for schools and local units businessmen and young farmers depend heavily upon APPRECIATION ' with coqpieration for the possible use of the income tax. borrowed capital. They should be congratulated for their During the 73th Legislature, mUch legislation consistent 5. Prev~ntion of inequities arising from special willingness to take such high risks rather than being with Farm BureaU policies was passed or implemented assessments on property which receives no benefit from burdened with the tax on interest. Farmers must borrow including: the project. large amounts due to a variety of reasons including crop - Amendments to the Farmland an4 Open Space 6. Limitation on state spending by the use of new con- failures caused by drought, floodS, frost, wind, hail, etc. Preservation Act (P.A. 116), eliminating the requirement cepts such as "sunset, laws" and-or a "Budget 2..Changes in the taxation of depreciation. Unlike many for State Tax Commission appraisals. Stabilization Fund." busmesses, farmers must have a large inventory of - Amendments to various tax laws including: 7. Revision of the Single Business Tax becauSe of built- machinery and equipment most of which is used only a Homestead Tax Exemption Act (P.A. 20) increases. 9 in inequities. few days a year. PAG'E 8 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 19n 3. Consideration of changes for those who have heavy - Constitutional clarification of the relationship bet- Where necessary, state minimum wage and child labor labor costs. It is maintained that the int~nt of the SBT is to ween school district (local and intermediate) and the laws should be revised to permit the greatest possible encourage employment. While this may be true for some State Board of Education. opportunity for individuals to become trained for the industries, farmers and other small businesses are more - Statewide testing and assessment of student progress world of work. likely to be discouraged from hiring people. and total evaluation of education should be continued and Citizen involvement is an important part of vocational 4. Assurance that small businesses will not be required expanded, with the goal of advisory educational ac- education programs. Presently, a separate local to pay a tax during years when net profit is low (e.g.: countability standards. Vocational Education Advisory Council for each program $10,000). - - - Reorganization of K-12 districts, intermediate is a requirement for state reimbursement. 5. Total exemption of cooperatives organized under the districts, and community college districts should continue The Legislature should adequately finance the con- Capper Volstead Act "that qualify under the I.R.S. Section to be voluntary. However, if reorganized, the policy struction of vocational education centers, the operation of 521 exemption.' making board should be representative of all local boards all such programs, and also the transportation of There are perhaps other revisions that can be made of education and-or all areas of the districts. students. Local property cannot be expected to assume after study. It must be noted that farmers are truly the - Cooperative programs among small K-12 school the total additional burden. The control of the center victims of iDOation. Increased prices affect their families districts to help provide a broader curriculum. should remain in the hands of the local intermediate the same as anyone else, but in addition, they are subject - The use of program budgeting should be encouraged school district. to an increasing "cost-price squeeze" resulting from at the local level as a means to equate program costs to UNIVERSITY BOARDS OF CONTROL spiraling production costs. They are the victims of the student needs. Michigan's three major state-supported universities "pass on" but they cannot "pass on" increasing costs in - Guaranteed local control of schools- including have boards of control nominated and elected through the the prices they receive. In fact, they are' presently facing curricula, personnel, etc. in order to meet the particular political system. We believe this system could be im- a major decline in the prices they receive. This decline needs of the community. proved. Too often, the nominations at political con- has cantinued for several months. While the SBT may help - In-service training for teachers be encouraged. ventions for these positions are based on political reasons the iDdusbial climate, it harms the agricultural climate _ - Local school facilities be used to their fullest potential rather than ability or dedication . • and places it in an even greater competitive disadv,antage for educational purposes for both youths and adults. Year- We believe- the State Constitution should be with other states .. round school would be feasible in many areas. amended to provide that the boards of control of Michigan - Vocational-technical programs for both youth and State University, University of Michigan, and Wayne ESrATE SE1TLEMENT AND INHERITANCE TAXES adults be made availableio all areas of the state. Existing State University be appointed by the Governor and con- Past experience has proven that the Settlement of educational facilities should be used wherever possible. firmed by the Senate. We believe this system has worked estates in Michigan can be a time-consuming, costly, and The "World of Work" demands salable skills. well for other colleges in the state. demoraliziDg process. We recommend that:~ - Building a.ccountability into the educational system. 1. The Legislature give a priority position to legislation _School boards, administrators, teachers, students and TEACHER TENURE cha~ the prnbate code to provide for a uniform, parents must work together to set goals and objectives to __ The inflexibility of the' present teacher tenure law prompt aDd equitable method of estate settlement, which improve student learning and performance. makes it unreasonably difficult for school boards to would require the services of an attorney only in 7"" Evaluation of teacher education programs in the discharge incompetent personnel. School boards are often situations of litigation. colleges. forced to sit in hearings for unreasonable periods of time. 2. Legislation be passed to update Michigan's - High school adaptation of MSU program, PROJECT We believe the tenure act should be streamlined to include inberitanc:e tax laws. Present exemptions are unrealistic PROF, a program of human development for the ex- the use of -outside hearing officers, removal of ad-. and should be increased to $250,000 consistent with in- perienced professor. The emphasis is on the individual, ministrators from the act Unless specifically included by flationary pressures. We believe that joint accounts, in- his interrelationship and interactions with students, board action, require a single approach to removal ~aadjoinUy-owned property should continue to be colleagues, and administration. - procedure either through the employee contract, tenure exempt. In tile case of jointly-owned property, the wife - Full implementation and funding of special education act or court system. should not have to prove a monetary contribution. The programs for handicapped children. It has been proven The probationary period should be increased only with period of time in which transfers of property are held to be beyond a doubt that these children can be educated to lead several reforms to assure a more workable and equitable in cantemplatioo of death should not exceed two years. productive lives with dignity and contribute to society. legal document. • FannJaDd should be appraised only at its value for - New and innovative instructional methods be MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY AGRICULTURAL agricultural production. These and other reforms shoUld researched and used whenever possible. EXPERIMENT STATION proride an equitable and uniform system of estate set- - Full funding of all special programs mandated by the The Agricultural Experiment Stations ~ve played a tlelDelll. Legislature or the courts. Such legislative actions should valuable role in our society. 1974 marked the centennial not have the effect of mandating the raising of property year. Historically, researcll done in these facilities has TAXA110N OF MOBILE HOMES taxes above the IS-mill constitutional limit. helped to increase efficiency in food production. Both PresenUy. mobile homes in trailer parks pay, in lieu of - Educational programs be constantly re-evaluated to farmers and consumers have benefited from develop- JII C¥=a 1.7taxes, a fee of $3 per month. ,Two dollars of this determine the priorities and needs of our economy and ments by this system. amGlllll goes to the school, 50cents to the township, and 50 work force. Education at all levels must meet the con- As we look to future 'world needs with its increasing ceDIs 10 Ole c:aunty. This fee system, enacted in 1959,is no stantly changing needs of society. demands for more and more food and fiber, it is obvious ..... reaIistic:. The increased value of trailer homes is tha t expanded research is needed if the demand is to be not refIeded. nor do they contribute a proper share of the SCHOOL BOARDS' COOPERATION met. New techniques must be applied to fanning to aid in cost af schools and local government. . We believe that it is imperative that school boards work solving environmental concerns and conservation of We 5IIppOI't legislation to tax mobile homes on the same together in all areas in an effort to effectively deal with energy and natural resow:..ces, and also to meet future basis as otber property. the increasing problems of school districts including the production needs. Such research aids all people, both rising cost of education, teacher and employee contract farm and nonfarm. negotiations, curriculum, etc .. Education We commend the Michigan Association of School Boards in its effort to correlate the attitudes and positions The Agricultural Experiment Station at Michigan State University is one of the finest in the country. It serves eight colleges, including Agriculture and Natural EDUCATIONAL FINANCE of all school boards. Resources, Engineering, Human Ecology, Human Majar changes in the fmancing of education have been We urge Farm Bureau members to take an active in- Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, Social Science, and made ~ in a "new equity in Michigan school terest in seeking out and electing capable and responsible Veterinary Medicine. There are more than 400 research fUJaolCe.. .. Reforms included the initiation of the "equal people to school boards. projects with over 250 scientists. yield" CGDa!pt guaranteeing a specific dollar yield for . We are proud of the work done by the Experiment each miD fIf taxation, a new formula for funding in- SCHOOL CURRICULUM Station. However, we are concerned over the fact that termediate districts, and a formula for assistance for School curriculum is primarily the responsibility of the appropriations have not kept pace with rising costs. The bondiDg millage. local school board. Parents and teachers should work with station has no other source of income. We are shocked to While these and other changes are highly com- the local school board members in developing curriculum learn that 'Zl or more top faculty and research persoimel meDdable. the pl'Uperty tax remains the major source of that upgrades the educational opportunities in our have resigned. Such talent cannot be easily replaced. local sdIoaI fiDaDce. However, the "circuit breaker" schools. This is especially important as career and This, at a time when many states are increasing similar concept aDd otber reforms have aided in relieving the ,vocational education become more established. research programs by as much as 40-60 percent. Good property tax burden. Continued voter rejection of millage Curriculum should be continually updated. For example, research is a continuing process and cannot be turned on pnIpII5aIs tbrougbout the state clearly indicates the need the metric system of measurement should become a part or off. While Michigan faces a serious fiscal situation, we for ....... :••-4 study and further efforts on school fmance' of the curriculum, good nutrjtion could be taught along believe that Agricultural research has proven to be an and edlK:atioaal reforms. with making nutritious foods available in school vending investment that has returned great dividends to all We r....--nnuond: machines. There should.be programs for the especially citizens for over a century. We urge the Legislature to - ()nnI:._~ efforts to maintain or reduce property tax gifted or talented child. Other exceptional children are continue to recognize the need for sufficient funds to carry limits ,. sdJooI purposes. already provided educational opportunities. School on research projects, such as: -1Dueased use of the income tax as a major source of boards. should not ignore the teaching of pabiotism, - Optimizing energy, land and water. funds. inr~ the possible- use of the income tax by a concern for one's fellowman and instruction in our - Improving food and feed crop production .. local sdIoaI district or intermediate district. economic system and government. - Dairy systems. ' - SMf"".. ~.t fuDdc; appropriated to pay in full all state - Livestock and poultry. aid farmulas. - CAREER AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION - Improving food quality. - Legislation to require each taxpayer to identify his Occupational education ~bould be an integral part of the. - Housing for non-urban communities. sc:hIaI district 011 his income tax form. total education process. Constnictive attitudes and - Environmental monitoring network for agricultural - ~ IeYeJ of state funding af no less than 60 concepts involving the dignity of all kinds of work should production. peIftIII 01 the total state-local dollars for K-12 schools. be woven into existing curriculum especially in the Research is vital t~ Michigan's highly diversified -FIaIiug for K-12 schools on a multi-year basis. beginning grades. An integrated program can develop agriculture. Michigan must not fall further behind and - Full f1DIiDg by the state for all state mandated positive attitudes toward work, create awareness of the become even less competitive with other states. ~~I programs. vast occupational opportunities, and provide knowledge We beIiewe it is possible to achieve further educational and skills to meet the demands of a constantly changing MSU PLANT SCIENCE BUILDING .m..ce refonn without eroding the fundamental right of society . The basis for an agriculture is in the ability to ef- the IaraI community to detennine educational goals Vocational centers are rapidly developing, many ficiently produce crops for food and fiber. Michigan State witllia ...... geoeraI guidelines provided by law. through existing local educational units including com- University is well known for outstanding research work in munity colleges, intermediate school disbicts, and high the area of plant science..Presently, the Plant Science and EDUCATIONAL REFORMS school districts. We fully support these programs and Horticultural divisions are scattered in several locations. We beIiewe that additional reforms should be made in believe that the ultimate goal should be to develop and There is a serious need for a Plant Science Building for cur ~tiaP system. We recommend: implement effective occupational programs in all areas of greater efficiency. - 1'IIe pft5eDt state Board of Education should be the state. Such training should, whenever feasible, include Legislation was passed three years ago appropriating •~ by a bipartisan, odd-numbered Education "on the job" training in cooperation with local businesses . monies to plan a new Plant Science Building at Michigan C - - appointed by the Governor with the advice Skilled people should be permitted to become instructors State University. We are shocked that the planning money ..... ~., the Senate. The Commission shOuld employ even though they may not meet the present certification has not been released. This project must be treated more 0. Di... k_ ... i:ducatiOll. requirements. urg~l!J JANUARY, 19n FARM NEWS PAGE 9 We will support further appropriations to complete the University School of Veterinary Medicine to consider -- Multiple use of highway rights-of-way for pipelines Plant Science Building. these facts and increase the proportion of students en- and other utilities. tering the large animal practice. Good local roads are essential if rural areas are to be EXTENSION SERVICE developed to their fullest potential and if transportation The Cooperative Extension Service has played a vital- SPECIALIZED EXTENSION AGENTS costs are to be kept to a minimum. and successful role in the development of American Due to the transition from general farming to more agriculture. With the help of the Extension Service's in- specialized agriculture, we feel the movement in the TRUCK LICENSING formation and education programs, American farmers Cooperative Extension Service to specialized multi- Farm trucks are often used only for a short time and for have developed their operations into the most efficient county Extension Agents will provide better service to all short hauls. Pr:esent license laws do not allow farmers to industry in the world. This development has definitely farmers. purchase short-term license plates that wiJI cover the been a financial benefit to individual farmers, but also has We support this concept and urge the Cooperative .harvest time operation of their trucks. We recommend a helped make it possible for the American consumer to Extension Service to continue to create these positions six-month license with the farmer allowed to pick the six spend a lower percent of his net income for food than any whenever feasible. months of his choice. other consumer in the world. We encourage County Boards of Commissioners to We, within agriculture, believe that every effort should c;ooperate with the Extension Sef;Vice in providing funds HIGHWA Y SAFETY be made to use successful Extension Service methods for for these agents. : Highway accidents take many lives each year; many all people in our society who desire them;- however, at the people are injured, and much property damage occurs. To same time we are concerned that this will be at the ex- I help reduce auto accidents, we recommend that: pense of the Agricultural Extension Service and research 1. Motorcycles be required to operate with headlight programs. In light of these considerations, we recommend: Roads and Highways and identifying light on, even during the daylight hours, making them 'clearly visible to oncoming vehicles on all 1. Appropriations for nonagricultural programs be in public roads. addition to, not in place of, adequate appropriations for COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONS 2. Hard-top roads should be marked with center, lines agricultural programs. The Board of County Road Commissioners is a unit of , and side lines as an aid to safer nighttime driving. 2. Requirement for special reports put upon the local government responsible "for maintenance and 3. STOP AHEAD signs should be placed an appropriate Extension Service be financed by the necessary ap-" construction of most roads within a county. The three- distance from-every STOP sign where a particular hazard propriations, not by siphoning off a part of the already member Boards have six-year staggered terms and are, exists. overtaxed budget. in most cases, appointed by the County Board of Com- 4. County Road Commissions clear roadsides and in- 3. Efforts be made to develop Extension-type programs missioners. They are elected 1n 12 counties. tersections of hazards within road rights-of-way that for urban people where they are needed under the We believe this system has insulated the jurisdiction of obstruct the view of motorists. jurisdiction of the Extension Service with special ap- our county road systems from direct politics and has 5. Signs within the traveled lanes of any highway be the propriations being made fQr these programs. resulted in efficierlt highway management throughout the flexible or breakaway type. 4. Extension continue its traditional educational role of years. We continue to support the Road Commission 6. Red and amber reflectors be banned as mailbox and supplying unbiased factual information, but avoid taking concept and oppose any effort to shift control of county driveway markers and only blue or green markers be positions pro or con on public issu~. roads to some other agency. However, we will support used. 5. The Cooperative Extension program continue to be legislation to reduce the term "of office from six years to 7. Slow~moving vehicle signs be used only on vehicles as administered through the Director within the College of four years. We believe the shorter term will encourage" a intended by law, with stricter enforcement and penalties Agriculture"and Natural Resources. more responsive commission. for violators. 6. We recognize Michigan's monetary crisis. However, 8. The state maKe greater effort to remove intoxicated we believe that the Extension Service is so valuable in the HIGHWAYS drivers from our highways .. supplying of food both here and abroad that the service be Michigan' has been known as a good roads state. 9. Bumpers on cars should be a standard distance from restored. However, spiraling inflation and the cost of maintenance the ground. and construction of highways along with reduced 10. The checklane system be continued, instead of the AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION revenues for decreasing gasoline use has resulted in a proposed mandatory annual vehicle inspection. The Institute of Agricultural Techn~logy, MSU, reports more severe financial problem. According to one study 11. Roads not be used as headlands, because it is a constantly increasing enrollment and demand in many (TRIP) 36 percent of the state's country roads are con- dangerous to farmers and hazardous to traffic. occupational fields for employees with agricultural sidered "intolerable" by federal and state engineering 12. All rural roads be marked with a name or number. background and training. The Federal Vocational Act of standards. Nearly 34,000 miles of these roads need to be Houses should be numbered, and the number clearly 1963,and 1968amendments, finally recognized the urgent improved because of ruts, lack.of paving, narrowness, visible from the road. This information is essential during need for technical training in agriculture. Since that time, dangerous curves, and obsolete bridges. It is estimated emergencies. _ the number of students involved in technical training in that over $40billion would be needed over the next 20years 13.The 55 mile per hour speed limit be maintained and agriculture has quintupled. A study by the National for Michigan roads. More than 90 percent of our roads enforced as a safety measure and to conserve energy. Academy of Science indicates that three technicians are cannot accommodate modern farm produce trucks. 14. Stop or yield signs be placed at all unmarked road needed for every college gradllate in the agricultural- Hundreds of miles of rail lines have been abandoned. As intersections so that traffic on at least one of the roads related fields. Presently, the ratio is only 1-1. these lines are taken out of service, additional freight will must stop or yield. The demand for more teachers of vocational and have to move by truck over the state's rural roads. 15. Place mail and paper boxes on same side of road to technical agriculture continues with the advent of "career Neglect of local roads due to the almost total lack of make travel with wide machinery safer and easier. education" and specialized programs on both secondary. M.V.H.F. funding adds to the cost of agricultural products 16. Present laws dealing with stopping for school buses and post-secondary levels in vocational centers and - increased production costs to the farmer and increased are not uniform in all areas and lead to confusion. A community colleges. It is estimated that Michigan could food costs to the consumer - everyone loses. uniform state law should be adopted for~the safety of both need as many as 2000 teachers by 1980. We urge capable While the interstate system in Michigan is near com- the children and the motorist. students to consider this career opportunity. pletion, counties have- the additional costly job of fitting 17. Shoulders on new construction or repairs of state There are 7 areas of training available including: county roads into that system to accommodate the in- highways should be unobstructed to a width of 12 feet by agricultural production; ornamental horticulture; creased traffic on local roads caused by small industry, road signs, bridge abuttments, mail boxes, etc. This agricultural mechanics; natural resources; agricultural recreational users, etc., which create added stress on would permit farm equipment to travel out of the line of supplies, service, and products; I soil, chemicals, and such roads and structures ..Proper development of rural traffic. electrical technology. _ areas including agriculnn:al transportation needs and We strongly urge that teachers of vocational agriculture industrial expansion is dependent on an adequate road BICYCLE SAFETY AND LICENSING continue to be employed on a 12-month basis. Summer system. For instance, Class A, or frost-free highway The number of bicycles being used on Michigan streets months provide the opportunity fo~ students to put into system, permits trucks to carry the same weight the year and roads has increased greatly in the past few years. practice much of the vocational agricultural instruction around; but to service county areas, they must often Unfortunately in too many instances, misfortune has provided during the school year. Providing this on-the- reload. struck owners and operators of bicycles. Fatal accidents farm instruction of students is an important part of the We recommend: involving bicycles have increased and bicycle theft has vocational agriculture teacher's responsibility. - Any needed increase in revenues be met through reached epidemic proportions. It is evident that action is Vocational agriculture and FFA are unmatched in "user taxes" or other revenue sources, rather than a needed to curb these happenings. The general public teaching "individual enterprise" through practical ap- return to the old system of taxing farmland to build roads. ,needs to understand that bicycles have the same rights to plication of classroom training. - No further diversion of motor vehicle funds for any the road as motor vehicles. Riders need to practice better We continue to support these programs and the nonhighway use, including law enforcement. - riding habits. Safety devices need to be installed on bikes necessary appropriations, and urge that greater em- - Opposition to any diversion of highway funds and a means of identifying bikes for reporting of unsafe phasis be given to the increasing opportunities in (M.V.H.FJ for other modes of transportation. Separate operation and the' prevention of theft is needed. technical agriculture and agribusiness. funds should be provided. We will support legislation which establishes realistic - Opposition to any increase in or additional motor safety equipment on bicycles including. flags and 4-8 vehicle taxes for nonhighway use. reflectors. We commend the Michigan Cooperative Extension - Matching requirements for local roads should be Service for its role in the development of the 4-H Program. decreased. (Most local units of government are finan- RAILROAD CAR REFLECTORS This program has proven valuable by providing cially unable to increase their contributions.) Many serious traffic accidents resulting in death, in- educational opportunities to both rural and urban youth. - Local matching funds for bridge replacement and juries, and great monetary loss are occurring at un- We note that 250,000 youth and 25,000 adult leaders par- reconstruction should be eliminated as bridges represent protected railroad crossings. Many of these accidents ticipated in the current year's program, of which 53 a specific problem and are extremely costly. Michigan's happen during hours of darkness. We believe that percent are from rural areas. More than 18 hours of share of federal funds for this purpose are not com- luminous paint or reflectors should be required on the volUnteer time is contributed for each hour of salaried mensurate with other states. sides of new or repainted railroad cars as a safety personnel. - The counties share of the motor vehicle fund should be measure. We further recommend that reflectors be We urge that competition be an integral part of the increased. Present formula is 44.5"percent for the state placed on both sides of the railroad crossing. While a great program. Society demands competition every day of one's with 8 percent of the mileage (9,322miles), 35.7percent to deal of progFeSs' has been made in the use of reflectors on life. the counties with 75.9 percent of the mileage (88,048miles) cars and crossings, there is still much to be done in the We also commend the 4-H leadership for the new and and 19.8 percent to the cities. interest of maximum safety. exciting projects developed to gain interest and par- - ConsideratioI:1 be given to counties with large areas of ticipation on the part of Michigan youth. We will continue to strongly support adequate appropriations for this public recreation lands, not only because of the heavy financial burden placed on such counties, but adequate Natural Resources worthwhile youth program. roads can also be a part of an effective safety program. NUCLEAR ENERGY - There should be no further increases in gross weight, The growing demand for electrical energy at l\1.S.U. SCHOOL OF VETERINARIAN MEDICINE width, and length limitation of trucks using any road reasonable costs warrants expanded use of nuclear power The economics of Michigan is greatly dependent upon system in the near future. Most systems are inadequate to in view of limited fossil fuel resources and uncertain agriculture and the livestock industry makes a major carry even the existing loads. political and economic factors in petroleum-producing contribution. Large animals are important to agriculture - Routes should be chosen to avoid diagonal highways areas of the world. We support the use of nuclear fueled and the state economy. We urge the Michigan State ' and the use of productive agricultural lands .. , ..... l power plants, but we must assure reasooable safeguards PAGE 10 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1977 to the public. Nuclear wastes should not be disposed of in We sUPP9rt legislation to create a Land Use Com- Because boundaries included in. the eZM planning Michigan or any other state unless proper safeguards and mission within the Department of Natural Resources. The process w.ill include Great Lakes and certain other monitoring of disposal areas are assured. Whenever majority of the Commission should represent forestry and shorelands used for general agriculture or speciality possible, areas of low population should be selected for agricultural interests. The Commission should have crops, we urge affected members to participate in public nuclear waste disposal sites. responsibility for coordinating the development and hearings on the final plan which will be held this winter by implementation of broad statewide land use guidelines for the Department of Natural Resources. PUBLIC UTILITIES use by local government in identifying such areas as LAND DISPOSAL OF WASTEWATER OR SLUDGE Activities of power and utility companies take them essential agricultural land, urban development, The use of land to dispose. of industrial and municipal across much of Michigan's farmlands. They often damage recreational land, unique areas, forest lands, utility and wastewater or sludge is receiving much attention due to underground tile in farmlands when installing new transportation corridors. Our state ranks 5th or higher national water pollution abatement goals established by facilities. Farm owners should be notified 30 days prior to among the 50 states in the production of 22 food crops installation of such new facilities so the farmer can the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The supply of grown on a wide range of soils. Essential farmland should identify the location-of tile and prevent damages. nutrients in these wastes could be beneficial to not be based solely on soil capability for one or two major Electric and telephone utility transmission lines, gas agriculture. There are also several potential problem crops. The state should also provide necessary guidelines lines and oil'right-of-way agreements are often confusing areas of concern to farmers. We believe any proposal to _to assist local governments in implementing adequate. to property owners. Many are based on different statutes. use productive farmland for disposal of such wastes land use programs. Such land use programs should in-. We believe that the acquiring of rights-of-way for these should: elude the retention of essential farmland .. The state 1. Permit private enterprise agricUlture with voluntary. purposes should be standardized as nearly as possible guidelines should provide for strong local involvement in participation ... with contracts or other legal instruments in~luding as both the land use planning and implementation process 2. Provide flexibility in amount and timing of ap- many protections to the owner as possible. We further and i.nelude the following principles: '. plication of the wastes according to agricultural needs. believe that consideration should be given to the leasing, 1. Private property rights and the right of individual rather than sale, of rights-of-way. 3. Provide indemnity payments for unsaleable crops appeal must be preserved. We support legislation to require that a utility give due to Food and Drug Administration regulations or crop 2. Planning for land resources which are essentially present landowners utility corridors crossing their lands losses caused by components in the wastes. local in character must be a responsibility of local when no longer needed by the utility. government. _ 4. Provide indemnity for land should it become ~it for We support private ownership of electric companies in use because of components in the wastes. 3. Enforcement of land use regulations and the set- the state and nation. We strongly oppose state or federal tlement of conflicts must be a function of the level of We support the efforts of a Task Force now working to governments becoming involved in the. production of government closest to the people affected. develop guidelines for use by municipalities and farmers electrical power. 4. Planning for local land resources must be permitted that will assist in adapting disposal of these wastes to The size of farm machinery today is growing not only in some flexibility to allow local planning bodies to adopt private agriculture. width but in height. We recommend that all telephone and plans that reflect local goals. AIR POLLUTION electric wires, specifically thOse strung across the road, 5. A partnership approach in implementing sound land We support an amendment to the Air Pollution Act that should be not less than 14 feet above the ground at any use programs should be d~veloped between all levels of will exclude from the definition of air pollution, dust and . point. government and the private sector. natural odors associated with agricultural operations State land use plans or programs should be instituted exercising recommended management practices. ELECTRICAL RATES only if those developed by local government cannot meet Producers need this amendment to prevent legal The cost of t:lectrical power has traditionally been on a established guidelines. We urge Farm Bureau members harassment in the name of env.ironmental quality. "declining scale", as usage increased the cost per unit to take an active part in land use planning at all levels of decreased. Recent Public Service Commission orders government. If local land use control is to be maintained, CERTIFICATION OF PRIVATE PESTICIDE AP. have required some utility companies to adopt an "in- if is imperative that local people accept the responsibility PLICATORS verted" rate structure whereby the cost per unit increases to plan the use of their land resources. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act as the usage increases. We are concerned with the in- Funds available to a state should not be withheld as a of 1972requires that after October 21, 1977, farmers and verted rate trend. This concept is especially detrimental weapon to enforce compliance with a federal land use other private pesticide applicators must be certified to farmers who have limited control over the amount of program. before using "restricted" pesticides. The Michigan energy and time frame in which it is used. We urge Department of Agriculture is responsible for ad- reconsideration of placing farmers on an inverted rate WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ministering the program in Michigan. The Cooperative schedule. The Water Resources Commission has made rapid Extension Service will conduct meetings to help farmers progress in water pollution control and is now authorized meet test standards required for certification. We urge ENVIRONMENT to administer the federally required NPDES permit the Environmental Protection Agency to publish the list of Public concern for the environment continues to be a program. The WRC has developed a good program to "restricted" pesticides at the earliest date possible. All powerful force. This concern poses serious implications to protect and improve our abundant water resources. potential private applicators of "restricted" pesticides agriculture. The future of agriculture is dependent on air, We appreciate the continued efforts of WRe personnel should make plans to become certified to insure their water and land as natural tools of production. Agriculture to work with agriculture in advising and informing far- continu~d access to such pesticides. has an important responsibility to improve the quality of mers on water pollution issues. We will continue efforts to our environment. maintain this working relationship. AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS AND DRUGS All persons engaged in agriculture should become in- We support continued authority for water pollutior. Modern agriculture cannot continue to provide suf- formed of pollution sources. and discipline themselves so control in Michigan by the WRC, and will work to protect ficient quantities of high quality food and fiber to meet the as not to add to the problem. Good housekeeping and a such authority. nation's needs without the use of agricultural chemicals good neighbor policy can do much to prevent en- We oppose federal programs that threaten to reduce and drugs. Any undue curtailment of the safe and ap- vironmental problems from occurring. We urge that state water pollution control to a custodial level. propriate usage of these products will result in lower agricultural representatives be consulted _during the The Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972, quality food and fiber at higher costs to consumers. development of pollution regulations and that such establishes a goal of zero water pollution by 1985. We We believe governmental agencies, research . regulations, when implemented, be realistic and believe the zero water pollution goal is impractical and organizations and manufacturers of chemical products consistent with good production practices. unattainable. The dates established in the Act to meet must continue comprehensive research studies about the Continued research is necessary to find adequate an- such a goal should be extended five years. During this toxicity to humans, disease causing effect, and the life swers to agricultural waste disposal problems. Continued .additional time, the Act should be substantially modified. dura tion of the chemical. emphasis should be placed on developing recycling We urge that responsible agencies not issue scare systems for agricultural waste. AREAWIDE WASTE MANAGEMENT PLANNING warnings until they are certain a problem exists. This has We recommend that whenever an .environmental im- Section 208 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, happened on numerous occasions in the past and in every pact study is required, an economic study should also be requires each state to designate appropriate agencies to instance has harmed the market for some products of required to inform the public of the probable con- study area water quality problems and prepare and American agriculture. sequences of the proposals. implement plans to control pollution sources. Plans In any evaluation of chemicals and drugs, the possible Agriculture should continue to be a voting member of prepared under Section 208 must identify, if appropriate, detrimental effects must be considered in relation to the the Air Pollution Control Commission and Water agriculturally related nonpoint sources of pollution, in- benefits derived. Only through a complete evaluation can Resources Commission. cluding runoff from manure disposal areas and from land a balance between environmental control and chemical used for livestock and crop production. The plan must also control be effectively attained. Unless conclusive LAND USE set forth procedures and methods including land. use evidence exists to prove that a threat to public health Land is an essential resource to those who' make their requirements, to control to the extent feasible such exists, government agencies should not impose a zero living from the soil. It is also an essential resource to the sources. tolerance upon any chemical or drug. economy of Michigan and to the well-being of all citizens. Each of the 14 Regional Planning Commissions in Less than one-third of Michigan's 36.3 million acres is Michigan have been designated and funded to prepare MINERAL RIGHTS . farmland. 1'he production of food and fiber on this far- Section 208 plans for their respective geographic 'In many areas of the state, mineral rights were either mland contributes over $1.7 billion annually to the jurisdictions. Public participation.is required. We urge sold or retained by original owners throughout the years economy, making agriculture our second largest and Farm Bureau members to participate in discussions and resulting in the fact that many present day owners do not most stable industry. Although less than one out of every public hearings and to exert influence to whatever extent own the mineral rights to their property. Farming 100 Michigan citizens operates a farm; 'Z1 percent derive possible regarding this planning process which can operations are disturbed when the owners of mineral some part of their income (rom agriculture. greatly affect agriculture. rights exercise their right to develop the mineral Michigan produces approximately 50 percent of the food COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT resources. While compensation is due the owner of the needed within the state. However, urban sprawl and The Coastal Zone Management Act (CZM) was passed surface rights, often there are other losses incurred for unplanned development are moving steadily across much by Congress in 1972.The law provides federal funding to . which no compensation is received. We believe that the of our most productive farmland. It is imperative to the assist states in planning coastal areas. Michigan is par- owner of the surface rights should receive some portion of future well-being' of every Michigan citizen that our ticipating in the planning process and is eligible for the royalties to compensate him for these losses and the essential farmlands be protected for food production. reimbursement of a portion of the cost from the federal fact that he has paid taxes on the property over the years. We support the formation of the Land Resources CZM Agency if certain requirements are met. Presently. there are laws permitting oil and gas Program Division within the Department of Natural Under the CZM Act the state must decide what land uses mineral rights to revert to the owner of the property. We Resources and we urge that it continue to provide have a direct and significant effect on coastaf waters and believe this principle should be extended to other kinds of assistance to local units of government in solving land use show how it plans to manage these major uses within the mineral rights. However, we believe that the present 20 problems. We commend the Division for its appointment coastal zone. The coastal zone boundary has been ten- year claim period should be reduced to ten years. of an Agricultural Land Committee to provide advice on tatively set at 1,000 feet inland along most of the Great land use programs affecting farmland. We are pleased Lakes coast. The boundary would bulge further inland DEVELOPMENT OF MINERAL RESOURCES that the Division worJ.:ed closely with agricultural in- around special areas that are directly related to the Great Data gathered from highly sophisticated exploratory terests in developir J a manual to help local people Lakes such as river mouths, wetlands, flood areas, sand techniques indicates Michigan has large amounts of develop effectivr _oning programs to retain essential dunes, wildlife areas, coastal lakes and public beaches. A untapped gas and oil beneath state-owned lands. These agricultuI ...~ lands. We support legislation to assign land secondary boundary for planning purposes would follow energy supplies represent important resources to keep use responsibilities within state government to the the inland boundary of local townships bordering the agriculture and otht:.r segments of the economy operating Department of Natural Resources. shores of the Great Lakes. while alternate energy sources are being developed. We JANUARY, . 1977 support the development of these vast oil and gas supplies FARM NEWS 4. Require hunters to stop at the farmstead and obtain We support efforts of the Department of Natural PAGE 11 beneath state-owned lands providing strict environmental permission before entering the property. Resources to develop more trails for these machines on controls are assured. 5. Provide distinctive program signs to participating public lands. A portion of the sales of oil and gas from sta te and landowners and require them to post the signs in a LAND ACQUISITION federally-owned property should be returned to the county manner to clearly define the property boundaries. Private ownership and operation of land resources is in in which the property is located. 6. Automatic penalty to hunters who trespass on the best interest of our nation. Acquisition of fee title or WILDLIFE PRESERVATION property of participating landowners. interest in land by government for a public use should 7. Relieve participating landowners of liability for in- require individual state legislation or congressional ap- Wildlife is important to the economy of Michigan and its public recreational opportunities. Federal and state jury to complying hunters unless cause by deliberate proval following clear demonstration of the need for such action of the landowner. use. In these cases, every effort should be made to select wildlife areas contribute much to the preservation of wildlife and migratory waterfowl. less valuable land. We urge that state and federal NA TURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION government consider leasing of needed land or taking Establishing new and expanding existing wildlife areas often causes serious problems. These include acquisition The Department of Naturai Resources- administers 'easements rather than outright purchases. many programs affecting agriculture. We are pleased of good farmlands, increased crop damage to surrounding farmlands, and loss of local tax base. that a farmer now serves on the Natural Resources RIGHTS-OF-WAY We urge that practical safeguards including advance Commission. This appointment has created a balance on In the exercise of eminent domain and obtaining rights- the Commission and resulted in a better overall un- of-way for utilities, highways, and other uses, we urge notification to landowners in the affected and surrounding derstanding of environmental issues. We will continue to that proCedures be as uniform as possible. This would areas be established to provide equitable protection to support appointment of a farmer to the Commission. enable property owners to better understand and use the farmers againSt unreasonable land acquisition for federal and state wildlife areas. Alternate site locations, I;on- provisions to obtain fair and equitable settlements. AGRICULTURAL ENVrnONMENTAL COMMITTEE sideration for continued fanning of wildlife areas, and an SUBDIVISION CONTROL The Agricultural Environmental Committee, composed assessment of the impact upon surrounding agricultural The' present Subdivision Control Act permits a tract of of producers representing major commodity interests and land should be considered when establishing new or ex- land to be divided into not more than four parcels of ten panding present wildlife areas. agricultural groups, has conducted many activities to assist Michigan agriculture in meeting some of its en- acres or less without platting. However, many instances An effective weed control program should be carried of circumventing the platting of land have been observed vironmental challenges. We commend the members of out within a strip inside the wildlife area boundaries to through the selling of land in parcels of 10.1 acres or this committee for their involvement in environmental minimize weed infestation on adjacent farmland. greater. This practice has led to several areas of un- issues important to Michigan agriculture and support DEER HERD their activities. planned developments which can be coStly to the com- We support the deer habitat improvement program of munity. the Department of Natural Resources. The Department SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICTS We will support legislation to eliminate the should continue to consider the opinion of farmers when The Soil Conservation Districts, now organized in every inadequacies of the present Act and require the platting of establishing its policy regarding the shooting of antlerless Michigan county, are operated by elected directors all subdivisions. deer in the overall deer management program. Farm serving without salary and are effective units of soil- Local zoning laws should continue to control strip Bureau should work with the Department of Natural saving activity. We pledge our support to work with Soil building . along highways on agricultural land as Resources in the development of hunters choice permit Conservation Districts to conserve soil and water through authorized under present zoning laws. regula tions which will recognize increasing crop damage sound conservation practices. We believe Soil Con- caused by deer and establish priority to agricultural producers in the issuance of hunters choice permits. servation Districts should remain within the Michigan Department of Agriculture. We support legislation to Agriculture Attempts to ban the shining of deer have been declared provide the Department of Agriculture with adequate STATE AND FEDERAL MARKETING unconstitutional. In view of this legal barrier, we will funds to conduct an inventory of the soil resources of the ORDERS support legislation to: state over a ten year period. Marketing orders, at both the State and Federal levels, 1. Ban any shining in fields where livestock is kept or have provided tor the orderly marketing of several pastured. SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION commodities. Both producers and consumers have 2. Ban shining whenever a bow or firearm is in the Good soil conservation practices, minimizing erosion benefited because one of the objectives of a marketing possession of the individual unless otherwise permitted by and conserving water, are one of agriculture's most order is to provide a constant supply of product. Two law. important contributions to a clean environment. examples of federal marketing orders are: 3. Prohibit allowing the rays of an artificial light to be However, responsibility for the use and improvement of 1. The federal red tart cherry marketing order which cast upon occupied buildings except when necessary by land and water resources rests on all citizens, urban as has been successful in removing cherries from the market persons working within the scope of their employment. well as rural. The unprecedented world and domestic during surplus crop years. This management of supply demand for food, places a tremendous responsibility on has benefited producers, processors and consumers. GAME LAWS all segments of society to safeguard our land resources 2. The federal milk marketing order which covers- a Portions of the present game laws are causing problems from soil erosion. ' highly perishable commodity with a relatively constant to landowners and hunters in specific areas of the state. The Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Act of 1972 consumer demand. The milk marketing order has helped We request the Department of Natural Resources to provides for a locally administered permit program to provide a daily supply of fresh milk. examine present game laws with special consideration to control soil erosion. Under the Act prescribed earth By supplying the market with a relatively constant a summer season on woodchucks, possibility of a fall changes must be conducted in accordance with an ap- supply of product, prices to both consumer and producers turkey hunt in Northern Michigan with landowners proved soil erosion control plan. In 1974 the Legislature tend to fluctuate less. allowed to purchase permits and return of the October 20 exempted from the Act plowing or tilling of land for the Marketing orders should not be used to control opening date for squirrel season in Zone 3. purpose of crop production. Regional Planning Com- production directly, establish closed markets, maintain missions are preparing Section 208plans to control land artifically high prices, or collect funds for the purchase of Farmers should be aware that local Conservatior. runoff and the Water Resources Commission has agricultural products for diversion purposes. Officers may be called upon to assess damage to crops proposed water quality rules which would control the use Any marketing order should meet the following from wildlife such as raccoons, muskrats" etc. IT the of plant nutrients to protect surface waters. We believe an criteria: damage warrants, a permit can be issued for the lan- amendment to the Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control 1. Be, producer oriented. downer to conduct appropriate control measures or the Act can provide an acceptable way for agriculture to 2. Be market oriented and used to maintain and e~pand Conservation Officer may choose to conduct a control avoid tl!ese potentially harsh controls. markets. program. 3. Provide opportunity for new producers to enter the We support an amendment to bring currently exempted industry .. DESTRUCTIVE WILDLIFE AND PESTS agricultural practices back under the Soil Erosion and 4. Contain, pr~vision for periodic review through Blackbirds, crows, and starlings are causing serious Sedimentation Control Act. The amendment should referenda to determine if the producers covered by a damage to crops and property in many farming areas.- provide that after a specified date of not earlier than 1982 marketing order favor its continuation. They are also a potential carrier of disease to humans and such agricultural practices would continue to be exempt if 5. Allow a minority of producers to petition for livestock. We recommend that intensive research efforts carried out in accordance with an approved conservation rehearings or a new referendum. be conVnued by state and federal agencies to find an ef- plan prepared by a Soil Conserva tion District. 6. Cover commodities which are produced for the same fective method of control and eradication. Federal general market irrespective of the production area. compensation for proven crop damage should be provided DRAINAGE AND IRRIGATION 7. Provide that rejection of a prQposed amendment shall where there are concentrations of bird pests and wildlife Many acres- of productive farmland would be lost not result in termination of the entire order. such as the Sandhill Crane. without adequate drainage systems to handle excess 8. Provide for- termination of an existing order only by We recommend that farmers experiencing crop losses water. We are opposed to legislation and regulations that producer referendum. from bird pests and wildlife call upon United States would restrict agricultural drainage. Bureau of Fisheries and Wildlife personnel headquartered The use of irrigation for crop production continues to AGRICULTURAL MARKETING AND BARGAINING in the Michigan Department of Agriculture for assistance grow annually. We are opposed to efforts that would ACT in minimizing these serious crop losses. restrict traditional riparian rights of farmers. We support The Michigan Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining The Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act has resulted in the formation of a Task Force to study present water Act (P.A. 344 as amended) has proven to be a fair and protection for crows by establishing a closed season. In laws, identify potential riparian problems which might equitable procedure through which accredited bargaining view of the increasing crop damage caused by crows, affect agriculture and develop equitable recom- associations and processors negotiate fruit and vegetable farmers should be aware that regulations permit lan- mendati!>ns to solve such riparian problems. prices and other terms of trade. We commend the downers to harvest crows in the act of, or about to, Michigan Legislature and Governor Milliken for commit acts of depredation. PRESCRIBED BURNING removing the expiration date originally in the Act. We The present policy of some federal agencies allowing urge the Michigan Supreme Court and several lower HUNTER ACCESS PROGRAM fires to burn uncontrolled in wilderness areas should be courts to quickly resolve the backlog of litigation on this Michigan Farm. Bureau supports legislation to increase reevaluated. We believe that prescribed burning is a Act. We support amendments to the Act which would hunting license fees to finance a statewide program of beneficial forest management practice and should be clarify provisions to make it more workable. All efforts of providing hunter access to farmland if accompanied by continued. the opponents of P .A. 344 which would weaken the Act or adequate safeguards to the landowner. Funds obtained cripple its implementation shall continue to be opposed. from the license fees shall be earmarked for ad- SNOWMOBILES AND ATV'S We continue to support P .A. 344 and its enacbnent in other ministration of the program and to provide payments to Many property owners report that the rapidly in- states to eventually have it become nationwide in scope. participating landowners. The safeguards must include creasing number of snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles the following: are causing damage to crops, young trees, and fences on BUYER BONDING 1. Provide fot: voluntary participation by landowners. private property. We should be awar~ that Trespass Law Agricultural producers have little assurance of 2. Ensure landowners control over hunter access now includes these vehicles. payment for their commodities other than the past regarding unharvested crops and number of hunters Snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, trail bikes, and reputation of a buyer. Many producers sell large quan- allowed at any given time. similar machines should be covered by mandatory tities of a given commodity to one buyer. If that buyer 3. Opportunity to cancel the agreement if hunter access liability and property damage insurance when operating defaults in making payment, the producers face economic proves to be unsatisfactory. on property other than that of the owner. ruin. We support legislation to require contract buyers of PAGE 12 FARM NEWS - farm commodities to post adequate performance bonds ANIMAL HEAL TIt DIAGNOSIS AND - this insect pest by the Michigan Department of for the f~nancial protection of producers on their FEED ANALYSIS Agriculture, MSU Entomology Department and Canadian marketing operations. We commend the Governor and Legislature for funding and Wisconsin regulatory agencies. the Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory at the College of MOISTURE TESTING STANDARDS Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University. The GYPSY MOTH All farmers who wish to sell crops at local elevators laboratory will protect our animal industries and food The gypsy moth is a growing problem for Michigan must rely on the accuracy of the scales and moisture supply through rapid and 'accurate diagnosis of agriculture. The moth has been identified in several testing equipment at the elevators. There currently are. nonregulated disease or toxic substance contamination. counties. Damage caused. by the moth does not present a regulations concerning the scales. While the grain buyers We also support the creation of a feed analysis favorable atmosphere for tourists Control.measures must who trade under U.S. grain standards must meet U.S.D.A. laboratory for Michigan that will provide technical in- be taken to halt the spread and eliminate the gypsy moth. criteria, there is no enforceable inspection of all grain formation to farmers. This laboratory ....should work in We support the Michigan Department of~Agriculture in dealers. We feel that the farmer should have the ad- cohjunction with the Animal Health Diagnostic . its efforts to eradicate the gypsy moth, using the most ditional safeguard of state-inspection on moisture testing Laboratory at Michigan State University. economical, scientific methods available. equipment. We support the necessary funding for full im- QUARANTINE OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS plementation of this disaster prevention program. RESEARCH AND PROMOTION In trying to meet the growing need for food, farmers are FOR MICHIGAN PLUMS doing all they can to increase food production. This often ANIMAL HEAL TIt RESEARCH The Michigan purple plum industry has experienced a calls for new methods, produetion techniques and often The income from livestock and livestock products production growth pattern from less than 10percent of the use of chemicals. represents the largest segment of Michigan agriculture. national crop to its present 25 percent. At the same time, While great care must be taken to use precaution in We are concerned about the increasing incidence of the amount of the plum crop which is being processed has handling these chemicals, we recognize that sometimes diseases such as fatal disease of newborn calves, IBR, gone from approximatley 25 percent to over 70 percent accidents may occur. This may lead to quarantine of BVD, P13, and shipping fever in beef and dairy cattle. without any significant increase in demand. The balance farms and possible disposal of products. We support research at the MSU Agricultural is consumed through fresh market outlets. These factors We believe that for all products the quarantine period Experiment Station on these diseases and ask the have placed pressure on the market price for plums and should not exceed thirty (30) days. By the end of that Legislature to continue appropriations for this needed resulted in low prices to growers. period, the governmental agency imposing the quarantine research .. It Q.asbecome obvious to many Farm Bureau members must take one of three actions: and the Michigan Plum Growers Marketing Committee 1. Revoke the quarantine. POSTING OF DRYING AND SHRINKAGE TABLES that an investment into research projects and promotion- 2. Continue the quarantine for an additional thirty (30) We believe. that elevators and drying facilities in publicity programs for plums must be considered and days. Total quarantine should not exceed sixty (50) Michigan should adopt standardized tables for grain and implemented to provide a profitable and viable future. consecutive days. bean shrinkage. Furthermore, we believe all elevators New handling techniques, new products for plums and 3. Condemn the product and dispose of it within (to) and drying facilities should be required to Post the new marketing systems will be important to the future of days. In the case of poultry, the total quarantine should standardized table plus schedules showing drying and the plum industry. not exceed thiW (30) days. shrink charges. We support the Michigan Plum Growers in the con- PROMOTION OF AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES sideration and implementation of a Plum Industry The Michigan Agricultural Commodities Marketing SOYBEAN RESEARCH AND MARKET DEVELOP- Research and Promotion Program under Public Act 232. Act, P .A. 232,passed in 1965,provides unif~rm procedures MENT permitting producers of any commodity to establish a Soybean acreage is increasing in our state. 'I11is crop is .program for product promotion, market development, an important part of Michigan's farm income. We believe CALFHOOD VACCINATION and information, research, product standards and in- the research on this crop should be intensified at Michigan Michigan presently requires calfhood vaccination for spectfon, determination of surplus and producers State University. Monies collected from the Michigan brucellosis of female beef and dairy breeding stock im- assessments. The producers of apples, cherries and Soybean Promotion and Development Program could also ported into the state or sold from one farm to another soybeans have adopted programs using one or more of the be used to promote overseas and domestic sales of within the state. permitted provisions. We continue to support the right of soybeans. Major emphasis however, should be the testing Since Michigan is brucellosis free, and one of only three producers by petition of 200 or 25 percent, whichever is of new varieties adaptable to Michigan soils and climatic states with this strict regulation, we believe we should less, to initiate a referendum for adoption, amendment or conditions and for soybean disease, weed, and insect. maintain our present calfhood vaccination program. To termination of a program and the right of individual control researcti. aid in maintaining this law, we believe the indemnity producers to vote in a referendum on initiation, amend- should be paid only to owners of calfhood vaccinated ment or termination of any promotion program for a mANSPORTATION AND GRAIN HANDLING animals. commodity which they produce. We will support There is a serious need for a comprehensive study of the legislation to amend the Act to require: transporta tion, physical handling and delivery system for PROCESSED MILK TEMPERATURE 1. That in order for a referendum or .any proposal to be field crops in Michigan and the U.S. Given the tremendous The school milk program is important to .Mi~gan approved, it must receive consent from a simple majority scope and cost of such a project, we reaUze that DO single dairy producers ~nd the nutritio~ of Mich!@n's youth .• by number of those prooucers voting and by a simple organization or institution can carry out this study alone. High quality milk must be kept refrigerated. Processed majority by volume of those producers voting. Therefore, we urge Michigan Farm Bureau to work milk should be moved directly from cooler to cooler and 2. Review and referenda during each fifth year to closely with other agencies, organizations or institutions" not be allowed to sit. The current processed milk tem- determine whether the program should be continued, studying these important areas. perature requirement of 45 degrees Fahrenheit should be amended or terminated, or at any time upon petition of strictly enforced for the benefit of the consumer. the producers with voting requirements the same as those "'X-DISEASE" IN FRUIT We ask County Farm Bureaus to work with their County required for initiation of the program. The State of Michigan is in danger of losing a portion of Health Departments and school boards to enforce the 3. That if producers, through a referendum, enact a its fruit industry to a rapidly-spreading microplasm temperature requirements of processed milk in school program, all producers must abide by the majority and all referred to as "X-Disease." Very little is known about this milk programs. contribute to the program. organism except that it lives a part of its life cycle in We believe that producers of any commodity wishing to choke-cherry and is carried by several -species .of MILK HAULING promote their product should do so within the broad and leafhoppers from the infected choke-cherry to peach and We urge the Michigan Public Service Commission to uniform provisions of the Act. tart cherry trees. Once infected, the fruit trees decline. review its position which requires MPSC regulations of We will work with the Michigan Department of over several years (14) until they eventually die. During certain milk hauling operations in the State. Since that Agriculture to assure that this enabling legislation con- . the period of decline, these trees serve as an additional position means that some farm-ta-market milk hauling is tinues to be available to producers wishing to establish source of infection in the orchards .. regulated while other farm-to-market milk hauling is not, such programs. This disease has destroyed the once viable peach in- the result is an inequitable situation both for dairy far- Any commission or body created under an agricultural dustries in several areas, including the Romeo area of mers and milk haulers. commodity promotion program must provide complete Eastern Michigan in the 1940's and in the Hudson Valley We firmly.believe that the intent of the current law was accountability of the expenditure of funds collected from Area of New York in the 1930's. During this industry crisis to exempt from regulation the hauling of milk from farm producers. Funds released to any agricultural in New York some research was done regarding X- to market, since all other agricultural commodities are organization, public agency or private firm for promotion Disease. Little has been learned about it since that time. exempt in this.fashion. Thus, we believe the MPSC's in- or research purposes should be on a contractual basis with Industry researchers know very little about the disease terpretation of that law to require regulations in some complete accountability required. and growers have had little guidance in controlling the instances is contrary to what clearly was intended to be a disease. Until very recently it was believed that the .general farm-to-market exemption for milk tran-. WHITE WHEAT FUTURE CONTRACT DELIVERY disease could not be passed directly from one fruit tree to sportation. Soft ~hite wheat is the major class of wheat produced in another in the orchard. Based on this assumption, many We also pl~ge our support to any effort designed to Michigan. It is the only class of wheat for which there are growers have left infected trees in their orchards so that remedy this current inequitable situation. no provisions for delivering against a future contract. now the disease has spread throughout the many acres of We urge the Chicago Board of Trade to develop peach and cherry plantings. provisions for actual physical delivery of soft white wheat MICHIGAN STATE FAIR Being a microplasm, there is no known treatment for We recognize the need to create a better understanding against the Chicago Board of Trade Wheat Futures . this disease. The only known way of limiting its spread is and appreciation between the agricultural and industrial contract. Such delivery points should be the same as for to remove the choke-cherry and infected fruit trees, and to .producer and the user or consumer through the Michigan soft red wheat - namely Toledo and-()r Chicago. reduce the population of leaf-hoppers in peach and cherry State Fair. Because of its location, the Michigan State PROMPT PAYMENT FOR PRODUCE production areas. Fair is within relatively easy access to the majority of We deplore the practice by some fruit and vegetable .. We urge that the MDA and MSU Agricultural Michigan residents and offers the unique opportunity to processors and handlers of operating on grower's money Experiment Station vigorously pursue a research bring the producers and processors of food and consumers due to delayed payment for produce delivered. Sometimes program directed toward finding more effective means of . together. We further recognize the need to make the fair this period extends for as long as a year or more. Growers controlling this disease. program more youth oriented. must pay farm workers immediately after work is per- Also, in the meantime, when inspectors from the MDA We urge the Michigan legislature and the Governor of formed and are required to pay for other costs of Plant Industry Division make their annual peach virus the state of Michigan to fund the necessary improvements production within a set period of time in accordance with inspections, they should be trained to recognize choke- to bring the various buildings, facilities and systems of the normal business practices. cherry plants and X-Disease infected peach and cherry Michigan State Fair up to acceptable Michigan standards. We, therefore, urge fruit and vegetable producers to trees and should mark these wherever they are found. develop firm business policies concerning contracts and This will help growers to better understand the extent of INSPECTOR INTRODUCTION AND IDENTIFICATION overdue accounts. Farmers should add an appropriate the infection on their property and make it possible for We recognize the vital role that food inspectors play in interest charge to any account not paid in full after 30 them to remove sources of infection. assuring the public wholesome food. However we are days. concerned with unknown visitors on our farms. We urge We support legislation that would require processors EUROPEAN SKIPPER INSECT that all inspectors present themselves to the farm owner, and handlers, purchasing fruits and vegetables from The European Skipper has caused severe losses to hay manager.or someone in charge, presenting identification growers, to make full payment within 30 days of the date growers in the Eastern U.P. and Northeastern Lower which clearly identifies who the inspector represents and of purchase unless other provisions are made by written Peninsula. We encourage greater inter-agency the reason for inspecting the premises. We urge that in- contract. cooperation, a~d an all-iXlt effort to fIght the advance of spectors introduce themselves prior to the inspection. JANUARY, 1977 FARM NEWS PAGE 13 J the members shall be persons who devote a major portion We commend Farm Bureau Insurance Group for Labor of their time to agricultural operations. The Occupational Safety Standards Commission shall consult with the providing the leadership to reduce premiums by reclassification and division of payroll for agricultural LABOR MANAGEMENT RELATIONS advisory committee before a safety standard is made employers and urge Farm Bureau to conti~ue to develop Farm employees are concerned over the lack of laws applicable to agricultural operations. ways and means to further reduce premium costs. and procedures to deal effectively with the problems We will oppose, proposed MI-OSHAstandards which are EMPLOYMENT OF YOUTH IN AGRICULTURE associated with farm-labor unionization. more stringent than federal standards. We believe that minors should be encouraged to con- :I'he unbridled use of violence and coercion in the field of We recommend that Farm Bureau develop an economic tinue their education. However, during school vacation labor relations in agriculture has reached such a serious impact statement, including a detailed cost benefit study, time we believe it is desirable that minors be allowed to .level in several states that action must be taken by state relating to the continuation of MI-OSHA as compared to work at productive and gainful employment. We oppose legislatures and the U.S. Congress to restore order and repealing Public Act 154 permitting Federal OSHA to any further restrictions upon the employment of youths in bring about orderly procedures that will protect the rights assume jurisdiction in Michigan. agriculture. of workers, farmer-employers, and the consuming public. We oppose any attempt to bring agriculture under the We continue to prefer that farm labor relations be EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROGRAMS Michigan Juvenile Employment Act. governed by a separate act and a-separate administrative There are still some crops which have not yielded to board, since we feel that the National Labor Relations Act was not written with agriculture in mind and was not mechanization, until mechanization can be adapted to all crops, there will be a need for hand labor if production of Law designed to handle the unusual problems involved in these non-mechanized crops are to be continued. RURAL HEALTH CARE producing crops and livestock. We urge that legislation be enacted to legalize the Many communities are faced with a shortage of Both farmers and consumers need some protection temporary imPortation of unskilled laborers for crop physicians to provide needed medical services. Rural against strikes and boycotts during critical growing and harvest and other field work. This would provide for the communities are especially affected by the shortage of harvesting periods, since they can destroy an entire employment of foreign workers to supplement available physicians. Ample financial support must be given to year's income for farmers and result in the loss of needed farm labor in order to maintain full production of crops. training programs at our teaching hospitals to encourage food and excessive prices for consumers. Michigan medical students to take their internship and However, we would support the inclusion of agriculture EMPLOYMENT OF ILLEGAL ALIENS residencies in Michigan. under the National Labor Relations Act with amendments Farm employers do not have access to thE!scientific We commend the Michigan Health Council for its efforts to recognize the unique characteristics of agricultural technology necessary to determine the validity of to place medical physicians into sernce in our state. We employment with these major guidelines: passports, work permits, or other evidence often also urge that the Michigan Health Council develop a 1. Prohibit secondary boycotts presented as proof of legal entry. Therefore, agricultural system which would assure Michigan rural youth the 2. Preserve the right of states to enact laws relating to employers should not be held liable or responsible for the opportunity to ENTER Michigan medical and dental compulsory unionism burden of proof of the legal status of their employees. schools, and to remain in rural Michigan. 3. Include workable provisions on bargaining units We deplore the harassment of migrant workers by We encourage that medical facilities be strategically 4. Prohibit strikes by workers during critical periods of government agencies' which without warning demand located and staffed to assure rural residents adequate growing and harvesting. immediate proof of age and citizenship of many migrants medical coverage. who are in fact citizens. We support legislation to expand.the use of physicians UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE assistants in Michigan. SEASONAL LABOR HOUSING _ Unemployment insurance is a social insurance program ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN SCHOOLS We recommend that all migrant labor camps be in- to compensate employees for their loss of earnings at Alcohol-related traffic accidents involving 18-20 year spected by trained. employees of the State Health times of involuntary unemployment. olds has increased 170percent between 1971and 1975.The Department, so that all camps will be licensed according However the original intent has been so defiled by lower drinking age has brought the alcohol problem to our to the same interpretation of the rules and regulations as regulation and interpretation to allow the act to become high schools in disasterous proportions, not only in school provided by Public Act 289. an enrichment program. sports and social events, but in the classroom. The At the present time, Public Act 289 places the full . Unemployment ins~ance should be used only to "trickle down" effect, meaning that 18-year-olds are responsibility of maintaining a migrant labor camp upon purchasing liquor for younger teenagers, has created a compensate employees who are .involuntarily unem- the employer. We urge that Public Act 289 be amended to ployed. serious problem. We therefore recommend. legislation to require the occupants of a farm labor camp to assume the Unemployment insurance payments should not be paid raise the legal drinking age to 20. responsibility for the misuse of a housing unit during their to persons on strike or who voluntarily retire. occupancy .. The present extended period during which benefit WELFARE We favor faster tax write-off of investments in farm Welfare is a necessary part of our system for those who payments can be paid (65 weeks) discourages many from labor housing. Obsolete, unused, and abandoned farm seeking gainful employment. The period of payment cannot sustain life without assistance. Welfare is the labor housing should be removed from sight. largest part of the state budget and the amount is rising should be reduced to a more realistic period. We recommend that regulations be adopted which Michigan farmers must compete in U.S. and world yearly. This program has been spiraling in scope and cost, would require workers to leave a camp within a and suffering from abuse, fraud, and mismanagement. markets. THerefore we would'op~ a state program for reasonable time (one week~ after the work on the farm is agricUltural '~mp16yers and employees Which provide We support welfare for those who need it. However, many completed .. reforms are needed. We recommend: more extensive coverage than that provided in the federal We recommend that the provisions of Public Act 289 be unemployment insurance act. : 1. Able welfare recipients be required to enroll in an adopted as the safety standard for farm labor housing by educational program and/or engage in some type of public Farm employers who will not qualify under the federal guidelines should continue to be allowed to voluntarily OSHA and/or MIOSHA. service work as a criteria to receive welfare funds. We oppose the application of Public Act 230 to seasonal, 2. Educational programs to help many welfare provide unemployment insurance for their employees. agricultural labor housing. , recipients become aware of nutritional and health needs, We would support a program whereby an overdraft in the Michigan fund due to agricultural employment be paid WORKER'S COMPENSATION along with basic economics. from Federal unemployment insurance funds. It is recognized that worker's compensation is 3. Continual evaluation of welfare programs to be sure necessary in today's society. that only those in need receive aid, and that .existing MINIMUM WAGE (STATE> However, agricultural employers are concerned about regulations ar.e carried out. Minimum wages should not be increased during a time the misuse and abuses which have crept into the ad- We believe that granting of welfare to strikers is not in of high unemployment. Increasing wages discourages ministration and benefit schedules of the worker's keeping with the basic philosophy of any welfare those employers who have work available from hiring compensation program. We strongly urge that steps be program. employees. taken to reduce those practices which increase the cost of We urge legislation to reform the welfare system to Piece rates as a method of payment allows for the many providing worker's compensation. eliminate abuse, prevent fraud, and correct variable situations found in agricultural employment and Providing worker's compensation imposes a financial mismanagement to prevent waste of tax dollars. are essential to provide employment opportunities for burden upon farm employers who must meet competition family groups, vacation time jobs for students, retirees from producers in other states where such coverage is not NO-FAULT AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE and certain types of handicapped persons. required. We support the general principles inherent in We oppose any change in the present minimum wage The nature and makeup of the work environment and Michigan's No-Fault Insurance law, which became ef- law affecting the payment of piece rates for agriculture. the types of employees employed in agriculture present a fective October 1, 1973, in that persons injured in Agricultural crop and livestock production is dependent special problem. Farmers employ many workers who are automobile accidents now receive economic com- on biological processes which are not controllable by unemployable in industry. pensation more. quickly and equitably. agricultural employers. Overtime wage payments for The predominance of part-time help on farms, the There remains, however, aspects of the law which: 1) agriculture and many other industries are not geographical dispersion and the fact that most seasonal Restrict rights and responsibilities of the individual and 2) economically feasible or practical. We oppose any at- farm workers work for many different employers during Unnecessarily increase claims costs of No-Fault and, tempt to impose overtime wage payments upon the course of the year present difficulties in reporting, ultimately the insurance premiums paid by motorists. agriculture by amendments to the present minimum rating, medical care, rehabilitation and auditing. For these reasons, we recommend legislative action to wage laws. Short term employments. which generate low, total amend certain provisions of the law: At no time should the State Minimum Wage rates ex- yearly payrolls, under the present system, require ex- 1. Presently, the law provides that Unlimited Medical ceed the Federal Wage in order to prevent Michigan cessive minimum premiums to provide coverage. and Rehabilitation benefits be paid to accident victims. farmers from being put at an uncompetitive wage We recommend that the present minimum premium be We support establishment of a maximum benefit amount disadvantage. replaced with a uniform low, reasonable, constant fee, per victim, such as $100,000, for the purpose of better sufficient to cover the cost of issuing the yearly policy plus controlling high claim costs. , MI-OSHA the rate times the payroll as a means of determining the 2. We believe the "At-fault" driver in an accident should We believe that health and safety hazards do exist on total cost of providing worker's compensation. be made responsible for all damage caused to the farms. We encourage all farmers to become aware of the We believe benefits should be related to the wages of the property of others. occupational hazards and voluntarily adopt safety employee on the job where the injury occurred. 3. We believe that car accident victims should be programs on their farms. We believe the basic premise of We suggest that a separate state annual average weekly compensated for. medical expense through their auto the Occupational Safety and Health Act that all employers wage for agricultural employment be established as a insurance policy; not their Health & Accident policy (such know what is required by OSHA is a faulty .p~mise. basis for benefit payments to agricultural employees. as Blue Cross-Blue Shield). Health & Accident insurance Therefore, we favor safety educational programs and no- Minimum benefit payments for short term, low paid premium could then be reduced. penalty first time inspections. employees, if not related to the earnings of the job where 4. Application of the No-fault law to motorcycles should We believe that the employee also has a responsibility and when the injury occurred, will become an enrichment be redefined. At present, motorcyclists are not required to and should be subject to penalty for failure to observe the program, contrary to the theory of worker's com- purchase mandatory No-fault insurance, but are eligible safety standards. pensation which is earning replacement and will cause to receive No-fault benefits if they collide with an It is imperative that judgment be exercised, par- severe hardship for employers of part-time employees. automobile. If motorcyclists are to benefit from the law, ticularly in those instances where capital expenditures In addition we recommend that no person shall be they should pay their fair share 9f the cost. are required to abate violations. considered an employee of an agricultural employer if the 5. We urge the State Legislature to redefine parts of the We commend the members of the Michigan legislature person is a spouse, child, or other member of the em- law which, because of ambiguity, are in danger of being for recognizing the unique problems of agriculture by player's family who is dependent upon the agricultural interpreted by the Courts far more liberally than the law's providing an advisor'y committee of which at least half of ., employer for more than half of his ... suppor,t. original intent. PAGE 14 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1977 RESPECT FOR LAW DIVORCE COSTS with the owner's driver's license number, and is being If we are to preserve the concept that our government is Parties in divorce cases pay only a portion of the total developed specifically for Farm Bureau members. We one of laws, not of men, we must insist on adherence to costs incurred during the proceedings. The remaining support this program and urge that the Rural Crime those laws and respect for properly constituted authority. costs are paid by the county in which the case is heard. We Prevention Program be made available to members as We do not condone the flaunting of laws in the search for believe the cost paid by the parties involved should reflect soon as possible. solutions to social or economic problems. We support our the true cost of the action and that the rate be uniform Currently many law enforcement agencies are local police and will work to keep them independent and statewide. developing crime prevention units. These units are staffed on a local basis. We support central communications by competent law enforcement officers. We strongly urge systems to assure faster and more efficient service from AGRICULTURAL LEGAL ADVICE that only law enforcement officers be used in crime our police departments. Today, more frequently than ever before, farmers are prevention units. A law officer has more credibility with While lawlessness becomes more prevalent in the U.S., becoming involved in situations where legal advice is the public and has the benefit of experience in in- some court decisions provide greater protection to the required. It would be helpful if attorneys could be listed vestigating crimes, making him qualified to assist accused than to society. Some judges and parole boards with an indication of their agricultural experience. Farm citizens with crime prevention programs. allow criminals to be turned loose to prey on society, thus Bureau, in cooperation with MSU, could conduct seminars We appreciate the cooperation of the Farm Bureau making the task of law enforcement more difficult. We to acquaint attorneys with farm problems so the attorneys Insurance Group in developing a reward program to help are opposed to an automatic early parole. could better serve farmers. prevent rural crime. We urge that this program be in- We believe that punishment is a deterrent to crime. We CASINO GAMBLING corporated in a total rural crime prevention package, and favor reinstatement of capital punishment for the crime While legalized casino gambling may raise revenue for that it be revised with the reward increased to assist in of first degree murder. We urge judges to fit the punish- the state, we do not believe this is a stable, dependable or deterring crime. We encourage Farm Bureau Insurance ment to the crime, incarceration is not always the answer. proper source of revenue. Group to continue to promote rural crime prevention We urge use of prisoners to accomplish community im- We oppose the legalization of casino gambling in programs and possibly offer economic benefits to in- provement projects. Whatever the punishment it should Michigan. sureds to reduce the opportunity for crime. be handed out immediately. We favor a more positive emphasis on educational JUVENILE CRIME SUNSET LAWS rehabilitation of inmates confined to penal institutions Currently, if a minor living at home destroys or van- Michigan Legislators should be encouraged to-follow the that will afford them a better opportunity to assume a dalizes property of another, the parents of the minor can Colorado Sunset Law which terminates state regulatory constructive role in society and assist in preventing their be held liable for damages. The maximum that can be agencies unless those agencies can justify their continued future confinement. recovered' is limited to $1500. existence. Each administrator must re-justify every We propose more strict enforcement of laws protecting We urge that the dollar maximum be eliminated so that proposed expenditure, every clerk, and every agency private and public property, both rural and urban, from full recovery can be obtained. activity for each new year. The result is that many losses due to riots, vandalism, and looting and urge governmental appropriations which had been simply prosecution of offenders. Early action to quell such ac- NARCOTICS AND HARMFUL DRUGS renewed year after year with hardly a look, now are tivities is essential. The rapidly growing use of narcotics and harmful drugs forced to run a critical budget to earn renewal. We urge citizens to carry out their responsibility to help must be stopped. We encourage massive, direCt, and law enforcement officers by offering pertinent in- realistic education efforts to inform youth, parents, and NO-SUNDAY HUNTING formation and assistance. Such citizens should be given others concerning the harmful effects of drug abuse. We Local units of government in several areas of the state protection by law. oppose legalization of marijuana. have adopted ordinances prohibiting Sunday hunting. We also urge support and expressions of confidence to Courts. should continue to strengthen penalties imposed These ordinances have been maintained with the support our law enforcement officers and urge that they be given on drug pushers. of local citizens and until recently applied to both private protection from liability when performing their duties. Rehabilitation centers and drug information programs and state owned lands. However, the Attorney General . We urge passage of state and federal legislation to . are now available to drug users in most parts of Michigan. has now ruled that such ordinances do not apply to state provide that any person who, while out on bail waiting We. support enforcement of laws to tighten the im- owned lands. Private landowners living in areas where trial in a felony case, is arrested as a suspect in another portation, manufacture, and distribution of narcotics and. Sunday hunting is prohibited have observed increasing felony case shall have his bail revoked and be returned to harmful drugs. trespass problems on their lands located adjacent to state custody. owned lands where such hunting is now allowed. We will We believe that penalty for taking a hostage should be FENCE LAW support legislation to allow local governmental units to, the same as for kidnapping. The current Fence Law was adopted in 1846 with only specifically include state owned lands in ordinances Many believe the alarming increase in crime and minor revisiQns since that time. Larger and highly prohibiting Sunday hunting. violence can be linked to excessive exposure given by the specialized farm operations have changed the need for news media to such acts. We urge those responsible for line fences between farms in many counties. We will handling of reporting and presentation of entertainment support amendments to the Fence Law requiring the Farm Bureau which involves crime and violence to exercise restraint owners of livestock be responsible for the cost of fences Our Farm Bureau is a farm organization. It must be an and good judgment. separating livestock from adjacent farms where livestock aggressive organization geared to serving commercial are not kept. farmers with bold and imaginative programs. The If a non-livestock owner or his successors subsequently building and maintaining of a bold and aggressive farm returns livestock to his side of the fence, he then would be organization depends heavily on attracting the best in COURT REFORM liable for his equal share of the value of the fence as farmer leadership. This leadership must be active at all There have been several comprehensive studies of the determined by the fence viewers. levels of the organization, from community groups judicial system in Michigan containing recommendations All proper~y being sold should have the line fence through state officers. The organization must maintain on the selection of judges, financing of courts, functions of division agreement included on the abstract or deed. the best type of employees to carry out the wishes of the courts, tenure of judges and establishment of new courts. members. Some reports have contained a version of a Supreme GUN CONTROL The prim-ary purpose of Farm Bureau should be to Court Justice selection system known as a variation of the We believe our laws should place more emphasis on the serve the needs of active, producing farmers. However, in Missouri Nonpartisan Court Plan. More than 28 other. crime and the criminal rather than on the gun. We oppose serving these needs, we will undoubtedly develop policies states pave adopted various versions of the plan in the last further expansion of registration of the firearms. We and establish many programs and services which will 15 years. support mandatory imprisonment of any person convicted attract some non-farm people to our organization. Presently Michigan's Supreme Court is called "Non- of a felony involving use of firearms. We should welcome the support of non-farm people who partisan," but the' method of nominating candidates at wish to join our farm organization and support the policies political conventions is far from nonpartisan. Presently STATE INSTITUTIONS which are set forth by our farmer-members. candidates, with the exception of incumbents, must Michigan has 6 major penal institutiQns, 19 mental The authority and responsibility for determining who depend on political bosses and parties for nomination. institutions, and numerous other correctional institutions shall be a member and the classification of membership This can l~ad to political commitments to special interest and camps. Crimes committed at those institutions should remain with the county Farm Bureau boards. groups contrary to the publi~ interests. Such a system require local officials, such as the Prosecuting Attorney, The right to vote in Farm Bureau should continue to be does not provide for high standards of ability and ex- judges, law enforcement agencies, and others to in- limited to regular members. We further endorse the perience. - vestigate and prosecute such crimes. This results in an policy of determining the number of voting delegates to We recommend: unfair burden on local officials and the local budget. All the state annual meeting based on Regular member -- Appointment of Supreme Court Justices and Court of citizens should share these costs equally. We urge that count, and urge this policy be extended to the American Appeals' Judges through a merit selection system that legislation be adopted which allows local units the op- Farm Bureau Federation. would preserve the right of the people to have a voice in portunity to collect funds from the State to reimburse the MEMBER RESPONSIBILITY the selection of judges. County for costs incurred in investigating and prosecuting We are proud of our organization. As members, it is our - Judges should, "run on their record" and be subject to crimes committed within the State Institutions. responsibility to uphold and promote a positive attitude a periodic regular vote for the designated term of office, toward the. programs and policies we adopt. thus giving the voter the opportunity to determine RURAL CRIME PREVENTION Farm Bureau is a democratic organization with every whether the judge should be retained. Rural crime is rising at an alarming rate. Both the member having the right to participate in making -Continued nonpartisan elections of circuit court number and severity of incidents are increasing. Crime is recommendations and decisions. The opportunity to judges. spreading to the rural areas for several reasons. The participate is available to members by attending Com- - Opposition to total funding and control of local courts increased mobility of the public, the vulnerability of the munity Group Meetings, County Annual Meetings, and the by the State. agricultural community and the increased awareness of State Annual Meeting. We are pleased that our members - Consideration of limited state funding of election crime prevention programs in the city have all tended to take this responsibility seriously. expenses for judges to help inform the voters and prevent drive crime to the rural areas. However the right to participate carries with it the commitments to any group. Adequate police service in rural areas can be an im- responsibility to support the decisions of the majority. These and other reforms should help lead to a better portant deterrent to rural crime. We urge both state and This requires a sense of organization discipline which can court system resulting in prompt and equitable justice to local officials to develop long range crime prevention only be self-imposed by the member. the citizens of Michigan. programs to better assist citizens in the rural areas to We encourage our members to study, discuss, and reduce crime. While we are concerned about crime in the recommend changes in policy when appropriate. WE cities, we are very concerned that the assignment of ALSO REQUEST THAT MEMBERS GIVE EN- LEGAL COUNSEL-PROBATE additional police to city areas seriously reduces police THUSIASTIC SUPPORT TO ALL MATTERS OF FARM The cost of legal counsel can be very costly. Proper protection in rural areas. We urge adequate fundi~g of BUREAU POLICY AFTER THEY HAVE BEEN estate planning promotes the smooth transition of police services in order that sufficient manpower can be PROPERLY APPROVED. ownership and minimizes the need for costly legal allocated to rural areas. counsel. Wisconsin' has adopted a system of allowing an We are pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau is currently FARM BUREAU-LEGISLATURE individual the opportunity of working either with or developing a Rural Crime Prevention Program in The November 2 election resulted in many new people without representation of legal counsel. This system has cooperation with established law enforcement agencies being elected to the Michigan Legislature and the U.S. been used in Wisconsin for several years. and other interested groups. The program is patterned Congress. Many of those elected have no background in We urge Michigan Farm Bureau to study this concept of after "Operation Identification" which involves the agricul ture. "Do it Yourself Probate." marking of farm equipment, tools, and personal items, We urge the Michigan Farm BWeaJ,lBoard otDirectors, JANUA-RY, 1977 FARM NEWS PAGE 15 and County Farm Bureau Boards of Directors, Women's creased "involvement and close coordination with the MICHIGAN AGRICUI:.TURAL SERVICES Committees, Young Farmer Committees, Legislative Future Farmers of America and Michigan State ASSOCIATION Committees, other state and county committees and in- University Institute for Agricultural Technology. MASA has established itself as the primary source of dividual members to become acquainted with their state Activities in this area include a meeting with FF A ad- information for MASA members regarding the complex legislators and congressmen to assist them in every way visors on a state level by the state young farmer chairman rules and regulations which dictate employment possible to understand the importance of Michigan and the Young Farmer Department manager. Several requirements on the farm. We strongly .urge the con- agriculture, its problems, and F-arm Bureau policies meetings with local FF A chapters were also held by tinuance of MASA's activities with adequate finances to passed by the delegates at this annual meeting. County Young Farmer Committees. A meeting was also provide staffing at the same efficient level it is currently held with second year ag-tech students at Farm Bureau operating. MEMBERSHIP GOAL. Cente~. - We commend MASA for its recognized leadership in As a result of dedicated work on the part of hundreds of Young farmers are eager for meaningful involvement moderating the development of realistic OSHA safety Farm Bureau members, membership in Michigan Farm . in the vital issues confronting agriculture. We must seek standards. MASA consistently offers strong factual Bureau has increased for nine consecutive yars. Growth to satisfy that d~ire through involvement of qualified testimony at public hearings relative to proposed MI- in membership is fundamental to the strength and well- young farmers in all Farm Bureau activities. OSHA and OSHA standards, Farm Labor Housing, Work- being of our organization, even though the responsibility A Young Farmer Program can only .be succesSful if er's Compensation and other labor related subjects. for membership growth lies primarily with County Farm .given the strong and active support of county leaders. Several members of the state legislature and legislative Bureaus. We encourage Farm Bureau leadership at all This support can best be shown by taking an active in- committees depend upon MASA to provide factual in- levels to keep the importance of membership work on a. terest in the appointing and guiding of a Young Farmer formation relative to proposed agricultural labor first priority basis. Committee which is advisory and responsible to the legislation. We approve the 1977membership goal of a one member County Farm Bureau Board. Steps should be taken to MASA is acknowledged for its leadership in developing increase over 1976 goal for each County Farm Bureau, provide young farmers easy access to participation in a positive and effective attitude toward Farm Labor and a one member increase over 1976final membership ALL Farm Bureau programs. Management on the part of farm employers, farm em- for Michigan Farm Bureau . ployees and government regulatory agencies. . LOCAL AFF AIRS Farm labor information is important to all Farm LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND GOOD CITIZENSHIP Farm Bureau is widely recognized for"its strong State Bureau members who employ farm labor. MASA supplies There is a growing movement toward regional govern- and National Affairs Program. Members are proud to be this information in an understandable manner and ment. We strongly oppose any shift of local control from associated with an organization that takes a strong stand organized into a notebook that is continually updated as township, city, and county levels to a regional type on national, state, and local issues, and follows thr9ugh . new information becomes available. We are pleased that government. Farm Bureau members gave enthusiastic with effective action on problems which affect them at all MASA membership more than doubled in 1976. We urge observance to our great nation's bicentennial. We urge all levels. A strong effective Local Affairs Program builds all Farm Bureau members who employ any farm labor to of our members to move into the future displaying this County Farm Bureaus. join MASA in 1977. same bicentennial spirit, national pride, and support for We commend the numerous County Farm Bureaus MEMBER-TO-MEMBER MARKETING our form of government. However, good citizenship which have worked on local issues, thus, providing a . The sale of Michigan fresh and frozen fruits, Florida means more than voting, oratory, and displaying patriotic valuable service to their members. We urge all County citrus, HiDensity Orange and Grapefruit juice, and other symbols. It involves being informed on issues, willingness Farm Bureaus to actively pursue local issues, thus, products has pioneered a new member-to-member to defend and to explain our system of government, and building a str.onger, more viable organization which is marketing concept. These programs have received ex- courage to act within our political system. The apathy serving members. cellent support from Farm Bureau members throughout developing in our country enforces the truism that "all the state and nation. that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for gOod men to We appreciate the MACMA efforts to expand the direct do nothing." . MFB GROUP PURCHASING, INC. sale of top quality products to Farm Bureau members A good citizen. is willing to become involved. A newest Michigan Farm Bureau affiliate company, through its new Direct Markets Division. Involvement may include personal sacrifice, such as time Michigan Farm Bureau Group Purchasing, Inc., was We urge this new MACMA Direct Markets Division to away from family and job. We feel it is an honor and incorporated In February of 1976.The purpose of this new give priority attention to a sales program for Michigan privilege to serve as a juror in our local judicial system. affiliate company is to administer a "Safemark" Group products to Farm Bureau members in other states. The obligation extends to all eligible citizens. Purchasing Program for Farm Bureau members in Member-to-Member marketing holds a great future Good laws begin where good lawmakers are elected. We conjunction with the American Farm Bureau Service potential as a market for our products and as a service to urge all members to actively endorse and support Company. our members, but we must never forget that strict quality political candidates of their choice or consider seeking This action was taken by our Michigan Farm Bureau control is vital to success. public office themselves. Board of Directors after a strong recommendation for this action by the 1974-75State Study Committee, approval by FARM BUREAU MARKETING PROGRAMS COUNTY NEWSLETTER SERVICE the delegates at the .special delegate meeting in June of We continue to recognize agricultural marketing as a The County Newsletter Service, initiated in July, 1975, 1975,and thorough study by a research committee of the major concern of farmers. We urge Farm Bureau at the by the Michigan Farm Bureau, has grown from five pilot board. county, state and national level to actively support sound counties to 36 county Farm Bureaus currently par- Success of the Safemark program in other states over marketing programs and marketing legislation on a top ticipating in the program. the last decade is phenomenal. In its current fiscal year priority basis. We believe the purpose of County Farm Bureau the American Farm Bureau Service Company will have We are proud of our marketing affiliate, MACMA, and Newsletters - to inform, educate, encourage involvement sales in excess of $45 million in tires. continue to support its involvement in marketing products and action, stimulate pride and gain support of members - . By thoroughly studying the operation of Safemark for the betterment of producer members. - is being fulfilled in most cases. We commend those programs in several other states, the Board of Directors We commend MACMA for aggressively seeking and County Newsletter Editors who have given of their time was able to develop a program that will assure maximum obtaining accreditation as ~e marketing agency for and efforts toward developing effective communications economic benefits to Farm Bureau members in Michigan. several commodities under the Michigan Marketing and with their county Farm Bureau members. County Farm This program is a County Farm Bureau program! Bargaining Act, P .A. 344. We are gratified that the Bureaus participating in the service have found that County Farm Bureaus decide if they wish to participate in provisions of the Act have proven to be a practical means providing regular information to members about their the program. County Group Purchasing Committees of arriving at fair market prices. organizations has resulted in increased interest and appointed by County Farm Bureau Boards playa key role We also urge MACMA memebers to continue to improve participation. in selecting and supervising Safemark Dealers and in the financial position of their marketing association by We urge county Farm Bureau boards of participating promotion of the program among the county membership. investing in additional shares of MACMA capital stock. counties to give support and direction to County Editors and their committees, and encourage other county Farm We are gratified that the Safemark pr~am bas moved GRAIN AND BEAN MARKETING Bureau committees to use their Newsletters to promote smoothly into an operational stage. Forty-six County We commend the Michigan Elevator Exchange Division county activities and projects. Farm Bureaus have signed participation agreements with of Farm Bureau Services for maintaining aggressive COMMUNITY GROUPS Michigan Farm Bureau Group Purchasing, .Inc. Tbe first leadership in the state in grain and bean marketing. We Our predecessors, the architects of the Michigan Farm dealers were supplied with tires and batteries in early especially note their effective efforts in the development Bureau, built the Community Group program as a September. During the first two months of operation,"17 of a container terminal at Saginaw. Increased use of structure to maintain the organization's grass roots ef- dealers were approved and stocked with inventory. unit trains' has enabled them to better keep pace with fectiveness. For many years, it was recognized as the We commend the MFB Board of Directors for making today's farm harvest. "backbone" of the organization, providing Farm Bureau this si'gnificant economic service to member program The new MEE "hot line" which permits any farmer to with a two-way communications system between the available to all Michigan Farm Bureau members on a call this number and receive up-to-the-minute market members and county and state leaders and staff. Com- "for members only" basis. We challenge all County Farm reports is a valuable service to farmers. munity Groups were a main source of policy recom- Bureaus participating in this program to maintain strong mendations and were vital contributors to policy active Safemark committees. The county committees are SERVICE TO MEMBERS execution. They offered an opportunity for leadership a very vital factor in the ongoing success of this program. Valuable economic services are a prerequisite to development of our members for active involvement in continued membership growth. We recommend that the organization and in their communities. ORIENTATION OF EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS Michigan Farm Bureau and its affiliate companies We believe that the strength of the organization still lies The employed representatives of Michigan Farm continue to develop additional economic services for at the grass roots level and that the Community Group Bureau and all of its affiliated companies represent Farm members only that will benefit the organization and its system is the best means of determining members' in- Bureau 4t general when contacting members around the members. terests and needs. Recent changes in economy and in state and the public at large. We commend Farm Bureau Services and Farmers attitudes toward home and family living provide a healthy Uninformed or misinformed emp~oyees or agents may Petroleum Cooperative for developing and financing the climate for Community Group growth. contribute to a poor or weak image of Farm Bureau, $5.00 member certificates which will be issued again this We commend the Board of Directors of Michigan Farm either in answers given to questions or statements made year with every 1977 membership. We urge every Bureau for establishing a Community Group Advisory to other people when the information involves companies member to take advantage of this certificate and redeem Committee with expanded responsibilities for making other than their own or when they have not had an op- it at their local FBS-FPC outlet. program recommendations. We also commend the board portunity to be oriented as to the policies of their own for initiating a program to revitalize the Community company. SPECIAL STUDIES Group program. We believe strong emphasis should be We recognize that efforts are made to inform employees The primary responsibility of Michigan Farm Bureau placed on implementation of this program. about the programs of Farm Bureau and all affiliates staff is service to members. Many activities, including through a regular liaison program. In addition, employee research of various descriptions, fall under the heading of F ARM BUREAU YOUNG F:ARMER PROGRAM orientation seminars have been conducted regularly since service to members. Several requests for special studies We commend the state and county Young Farmer 1972by the Farm Bureau Liaison Committee to create and research have been made. These include: Committees for their new and innovative programs. An among employees an understanding of the objectives and 1. Plum Industry - During the past few years, many example of this is the new Outstanding Young Farm philosophies of our Farm Bureau family. To date, over 800 Michigan plum producers have experienced difficulty in Woman Award given in cooperation with the Farm employees and agents have attended the seminars. Due to marketing their plums. Therefore, we ask that the Market Bureau Women's Committee. Twenty-one counties have the turnover of personnel, the seminars should be a Development Division of Michigan Farm Bureau un- selected a county outstanding young farm woman in this continuing effort. We request that they continue to receive dertake an intensive study concerning development of first year of the program. Another example is the in- high priority attention. plum markets. PAGE 16 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1977 2. Dairy Pricing - Many requests have been received PUBLIC RELATIONS FOR AGRICULTURE The American Farm Bureau Federation has initiated a from dairy producers for a new milk pricing system. We are pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau continues two-phase structure to institute the CDA concept. Under Several in~ndent inyestigations regarding possible to lead in presenting the story of agriculture to our non- Phase 1:, commodity advisory committees were alternative pricing formulas have been conducted. We ask farm population. The understanding and support of urban established. Michigan is proud to have appointed the Market Development Division of Michigan Farm people on issues which affect our industry is vitally im- representatives on eight of these important committees. Bureau to investigate and report on the feasibility of these - portant. We believe that this understanding and support, Phase II of the CDA calls for commodity divisions to be alternative milk pricing plans. and a growing appreciation for an efficient, productive activated. The Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors 3. Sweet Cherry Brining - The brining sweet cherry agriculture, has increased because of an aggressive, has adopted the second phase for soybeans. Twenty industry has suff~red severe setbacks with the banning by effectiv~ information program on both the state and county Farm Bureaus in the major soybean-producing FDA of Red Dyes No.2 and No.4. Therefore, we urge the county levels of our organization. areas of Michigan have established county soybean Market Development Division of Michigan Farm Bureau We are proud that Farm Bureau has a reputation as a divisions, with action committees at the state and county to work closely with the sweet cherry industry to either reliable, credible news source and the fact that our levels. The primary purposes of a commodity division are restore the use of Red Dye No.4 or develop new methods organization is recognized as the spokesman for to provide for special staff assistance for programs such for sweet cherry growers to market their produce. agriculture in our state. The "Agricultural Backgroun- as special newsletters, commodity tours and 'meetings. Major results of these studies should be reported to the ders" held jointly by the Information and Public Relations They are organized within the Farm Bureau structure and Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors and also to the Division and county Farrp Bureau leaders and their local do not conduct marketing - bargaining functions. The delegate body at the 1977 annual meeting. news media are especially effective in establishing a commodity divisions are financed by an assessment of working relationship with members of the press on the divi,sion members. in addition to their regular Farm COORDINATION OF AFFILIATE COMPANIES local level. . Bureau dues. Michigan Farm Bureau and affiliate companies share a Daily and weekly information regarding agriculture We believe that the CDA is an effective. organizational common goal - to serve farmers .... We continually strive to and Farm Bureau, through radio programming, a weekly method to serve the specialized needs of members. The have all affiliate company patronS members of Michigan editorial column, and news releases have continued to CDA approach should be extended to other commodities Farm Bureau, and to have all Michigan Farm Bureau receive widespread acceptance. We are proud that where a need to serve the specialized interest of members members patronize their affiliate companies. We must television stations turn to Farm Bureau when they desire is not fulfilled. We recommend studies be made to in- continue this effort. information on agriculture. We are p!eased that our vestigate the feasibility of commodity divisions in the In the meantime, we have many Farm Bureau mem- leaders and members have appeared on news programs, coming year, to be reported at the next annual meeting. bers who are excellent potential customers or in documentaries, and as guests on other types of Michigan Farm: Bureau should also strive to work policyholders for affiliates. We also have affiliate patrons television shows. closely with other organiza tions or groups of growers who and policyholders who are excellent prospects for The most effective public relations for agriculture, express an interest in working with Farm Bureau. Michigan Farm Bureau membership. however, is done by farmers themselves. We are proud of We urge County Farm Bureau Membership Committees the Farm Bureau Women Speakers' Bureau project. We WE COMMEND FOR UNSELFISH SERVICE and local Affiliate Company personnel to work closely congratulate many counties for carrying on activities Many of our fellow farmers are serving agriculture and together in sharing prospect lists. , such as Rural-Urban meetings, farm visits, working with our State as members of boards, commissions, com- Agreements signed between county Farm Bureaus and schools, mall displays and county fair booths. mittees, and advisory groups on which agricultural Farm Bureau affiliate companies have been used ef- We salute the Farm Bureau members who participated representation is important. to all of us. fectively to clearly define the responsibilities of the in the Michigan State Fair project. By volunteering their Often this service is rendered without any reim- parties involved. It is of utmost importance that every time and effort, these members were able to meet with bursement for time and expenses involved. county Farm Bureau Board review their affiliate com- consumers and tell about agriculture on a one-t~ne We commend these people and recognize them for their pany agreements annually. The review will help to create basis. Farm Bureau members statewide appreciate the unselfish service to agriculture. ,a better understanding of the duties of both parties and job done by the per~ons who carried on the project. We especially commend our dedicated County Farm lessen the chance of misunderstanding. We encourage Farm Bureau at the state, county, and Bureau leaders and dedicated staff members for their local levels to continue to stress a positive program of efforts, many times beyond the call of duty. Their, HEALTH & SAFETY improving the image and public understanding of assistance and guidance has helped make Michigan Because of our concern for the welfare of our families agriculture and asking all members to avail themselves of Farm Bureau the effective voice of agriculture. and employees, we encourage Farm Bureau Women to all opportunities to promote agriculture. conduct action projects regarding safety and health. We F ARM BUREAU WOMEN believe the. efforts of Farm Bureau Women in preparing LEADERSHIP TRAINING Farm Bureau women have developed and conducted farm families to meet emergency situations through first The success of every united Farm Bureau effort effective "action-type" projects that are of concern to aid training, farm first aid kits on every farm, their goals depends upon the dedication and effectiveness of its farmers. We encourage their continued efforts, especially of safety on the farm, in the home, and on the highways, as volunteer leadership. Our organization has a respon- in such activities as legislation, political education, public well as preventive health care, with special emphasis on sibility to provide its members with the training needed to relations, consumer understanding, leadership cancer detection, deserve the full support of all members. assume leadership roles, information to broaden their development, safety and health, and local affairs. We also We commend Farm Bureau Women and Community understanding of the Farm Bureau family, and op- encourage Farm Bureau women to work closely 'with Groups for the promotion of a Fire Safety Program, in- portunities to realize their leadership potential. county Farm Bureau boards of directors in expanding our cluding smoke detectors and fire escape plans, and urge No other organization off~rs such broad opportunities communication efforts with consumers and within Farm continued support of this project. for the leadership development of its members as Farm Bureau and in developing the participation of more We commend Farm Bureau Women for the fact that Bureau does, and every effort should be made to maintain' women in the total Farm Bureau program, thereby many Farm Bureau Women leaders are now serving on and expand this intangible, but vitally important, building a strong farm family organization. We believe various state, regional and local commissions and membership benefit. that every effort should be put forth to institute programs committees regarding health and safety, and we urge We are pleased tha~ Michigan Farm Bureau has an that interest and involve young farm women. continued participation in these efforts. aggressive program in leadership training and recom- We urge Farm Bureau women's continued cooperation mend that this program be a continuing program at all STATUS OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS with the Michigan Agricultural Services Association to levels of Farm Bureau. The policies. adopted at the four previous annual inform and assist members to meet the requirements of meetings are hereby reaffirmed except insofar as they the Occupational Safety and Health Act. CONSUMER UNDERSTANDING have been modified or supplemented by later policies, HEALTH CARE Farm Bureau memqers constitute one of the largest including those :adopted at this annual meeting. All other \\e recognize rising health care costs are a major consumer groups in tije state. Farm Bureau members policies shall be deemed to have lapsed except insofar as concern of Farm Bureau members. For the over 35,000 probably have more at ~stake in the consumer movement the Board of Directors may specifically find that such a families enrolled in the Michigan Farm Bureau Member than any other group. We buy great -quantities of steel, prior policy provides the only basis for actioh on a current Group, these costs are out~f-pocket costs. They have no rubber, and many other,products for our farm businesses problem. employer to pick up the cost as a fringe benefit. In some and are most concerned ;Nith the quality of these products. cases, the cost of our present coverage is becoming nearly Farm Bureau Women have made progress in creating a prohibitive. The "Econo-Plan H offered this year as an better understanding of agricultural problems among alternative to our comprehensive plan is worthy of con- their urban counterparts. We urge that the state and . sidera lion .. county Farm Bureau Consumer Committees continue to We commend the MFB Board of Directors for be active in working on consumer issues. establishing a Health Care Study Committee. This Committee is ma~~ up of representatives from each Farm ESTATE PLANNING Bureau district and IS charged to: Estimates are that ~ore than 60 percent of the 1. Study the current Blue Cross-Blue Shield contract and population has not even taken the basic step of preparing evaluate the coverages offered and services rendered. a will for the transfer of their property at death. State and 2. Review alternative health care plans. federal laws are such that a large percentage of the estate 3. Analyze the cost to Michigan Farm Bureau of ser- will be devoured by taxes without proper planning. We vicing present or prospective health care programs. recommend that Michigan Farm Bureau continue its 4. Report recommendations to the MFB Board. program of information to the'members on estate plan- ning problems and point out the many techniques of F ARM BUREAU COMMUNICATIONS , transferring property to heirs with the least possible tax As more and more decisions, directly or indirectly obligation. This program is especially important since the affecting agriculture, are being made by those with little passage of major changes in the federal estate tax laws. or no knowledge of farming, the need increases for un- derstanding and support of our industry by the non-farm LOCAL COMMODITY PROMOTION public. We are pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau County Farm Bureaus have done an excellent job of and most county Farm Bureaus have recognized this need commodity promotion on a local level. We commend and have worked diligently to meet the challenge through County Farm Bureaus, and particularly Farm Bureau effective communications. Women, for conducting effective promotion of Michigan We are proud that Farm Bureau at the state and agricultural commodities through shopping malls, fair national levels, and especially at the local level, is displays and other local efforts. We urge continued and Lawrenc. Iog.r, Pro"ost, MIchigan StoI. Un"'.n.fy, recognized as the "voice of agriculture" by the news expanded efforts by County Farm Bureaus in this told County farm Bureau "resldents that he adYOcat•• media and the general public. This recognition is the promotion, since it results in more member involvement the d."e'opment of a prlc. policy that will support good result of consistent efforts by Farm Bureau leaders to as well as promotion of our commodities. prices, while not creating 'arg. amounls of surp'us. H. establish themselves as reliable sources of timely and was guesl .pealeer at Ihe County Pres/d.nt'. Banqu.t, pertinent information. pori of the Michigan Farm Sureau's 571h Annual Me.tlng. We recommend that Michigan Farm Bureau and county COMMODITY DIVISION APPROACH Boger a'so disputed the supposition fhat American Farm Bureaus continue .to use all possible avenues of The Commodity Division Approach (CDA) is one way agriculture Is the most .Hlden' In the world. 80ger communication to sha:e the story of agriculture with all Farm Bureau members can address commodity issues challenged Farm Bureau leaders to provide a new lelnd of ci titetIS'. with we united vorce within Fann Bureau. leadership to R{u, probl.nu_vf~"he h4f1lm. ftARM NEWS- PAGE 17 MSU's Hoefler gays at Annual More Research Funds Needed to Increase _Michigan Yields Application of university . '\'ariE:ties to Michigan soil." the enthusiasm of the- ex- research is the only way to Research is needed to adopt periment station researchers, get Michigan crop yield in- these varieties to Michigan, Hoeffer said. Instead of ~reases up to a par with those Hoeffer said. Yet now, when keeping an initiative for new m the rest of the country, the the research is needed the developments for the state's acting dean of Michigan State most, the state legislature agriculture, 27 faculty Uni!ersity's College of continues to cut back funds members have resigned to AgrIculture and Natural for the University Research take better positions with Resources told delgates at- Experiment Station. other states. The funds are '" tending the 57th Michigan "Michigan is 40th in the needed to keep top resear- Farm Bureau Annual suppOrt of education totally chers attracted to Michigan Meeting. and 49th in funding of higher States just haven't been "Michigan's yields are not education," Hoffer pointed provided. keeping pace because of a out. This leaves the main It is such.a shame that MSU higher percentage of small source of agricultural has to be at such a disad- farms in the state and resource for the state, the vantage when the state funds because of less irrigation," Michigan State University allocated to have the ex- Sister Thomas MON Ie"e's. nofed spealcer on agrlcultura' fIIIaIrs. Dr. J.A. Hoeffer pointed out. agricultural experiment periment station operating at spolce before botft tlte Annual Meeting membership campaign "However, the primary station, at a big disad- best efficiency would make managers banquet and tlte MFa Women's Annua' mee"ns. She ~eason is the failure to adopt vantage." _ up no more than four-tenths advocates tlte formation of a natlona' food polley. mGnOfled b, the most successful varieties Budget reductions for the of one percent of the total members of tlte food Industry. - of high producing corp past five years have killed oft state budget," Hoeffer said. . C-ounty 'FB s Must T ak e Strong Stan s d'" ::erterhasf~::a~of~ Never has the need been H CountY Farm Bureaus organizations are not merely strong." This power base provide such ~rection so that research been so uncertam .. take aggressive stands OIl key collectives of people and must exist both at the top and the desires of the agricultural Hoeffer feels that there IS agricultural issues, they will programs grouped together the bottom. County members community are understood no other place where the have no trwble in recruiting for financial gain only. These of an organizatiOl) must not and i~orporated in such ~onsumer gets. a greater new members, a nationally organizations are really rely on just leadership from policy." ~nves~ent for his dollar than renowned speaker on designed to protect the the top of the state m,~gncultural research. agricultural affairs told producer and to develop organization. They must have Far m 0 r g ani z a t ion But ev~n when advances participants in a membership power for the individual the commitment to face gut members must also be the are made In the labo~atory, c amp a i g n man age r s producer." issues at the county level and ones to defend those grwps they ~ve no value until these banquet. The banquet was However, the strength of carry their decisio& thrwgh during times of criticism. technIques are .used by held as part .of the 57th the power depends on the to the state level." Th ey mus t a Iso f.ght I producers. PuttIng techniques into practical new Annual meetIng of the ability of the organization's misinforma tion about the ... Michigan Farm Bureau. ~ members to mobilize its This power and commit- issues they are involved in, apphcatI0!l IS what ~he "Farmers will be attracted "people power," she said. ment is ~ential, because Sister Bentels emphasized. Coo~er~tIve Extenslo~ to an organization that shows "Agriculture has to have an agricultural organizations Service IS all about. But, It it can take a strong stand that , ora~ni'7edbase of power, and must be the ,ones to provide "When the agricultural fjnleedscl.entlmy ~ney to operate ef- • -6 a e--..... the managen.al gut.dance to structure is under attack, it's will let the true feelin,gs. \A that's what agricultural easy to J.oin in the criticism. Any. expense for producers be known,' SIS~r organizations a~ all about," develop national land and agriculture is justified for Thomas Moore Bertels saId. Sister Bertels continued. food policies, Sister Bertels Instead of following this mass what agriculture does for the "We must s~ow f~ers "Everyone has to ge~ in and emphasized. instinct, members must stay country, Hoeffer said. He t hat a g r I cuI t u r ~ I work to make agnculture within the organization to feels that the main force that MSU's Whlettwer Gets "The management of such policies must come from keep it strong. It's the only has kept tb~ country's way farmers can work to economystable IS the balance hed MFB DISt. e e e within the food industry keep an organized base of of trade of agricultural IDgulS system. It's the responsibility power working for products to counter the cost of Service Award The assistant dean of Michigan State University's ~D:di~~;dto As a part of it's mem- D:;=~:P;::ed nn;tAnnual Known as the "Dedicated Burkett, director of MFB college of agriCulture and bership campaign mangers' Dozen," these managers field operations said. "Once natural resources, Dr. Sylvan banquet, Michigan Farm were presented awards by again, counties accepted the Wittwer, was honored for Bureau honored the mem- MFB president Elton Smith. challenge with. typical "distinguished service to bership campaign mangers "The 1976 membership determination and turned agriculture" by the Michipn whose c?unties r~ached campaign offered the biggest that challenge intQ op- Farm Bureau Thursday membership goal earlier than challenge Farm Burea~ bas portunity." evening (December 2) at the other county Farm Bureaus. faced in many yeat:S," Chuck The most honored manager Civic Auditorium in Grand was Fran Motz, Clinton Rapids. Dr. Wittwer was County,whowas a memberm presented the award at the .. the Dedicated Dozen for the anriual banquet of the farm sixth straight year. Clinton organization's four:'day •• placed first in membership in convention, which began on the 1,301 member and over Tuesday and ends Friday. conserva tion, mechanical category. In presenting the award, harvesting, and other areas Elton R. Smith, president of of agriculture." Other dedica ted Dozen the Michigan Farm Bureau, Wittwer, who received award winners were: cited Dr. Wittwer, who also degrees at Utah state College Gerhardt Kernstock, (Bay- serves as director of MSU's and the University of - 2nd - 1,301 and over); Tom agricultural experiment Missouri, served in the Atherton (Genesee - 3rd - station, "for leadership in Missouri Horticulture 1,301and over); Jim Vantine, science to aid American Department for five years Sr. wltt aril Reef Dye m, 4 corn prices turn around to a g ^ ^ ^ ^ A ^ ^ ^ ^ S A ^ ^ ^ f ^ ^ made to processors m more positive basis.. In ad- r ;ttrf:-l#tt tti5ii^ tjjll^^ under a three year : ° p l ^ i i f e ^ ^ i ^ l t i'St^MMytit i- agreement. The latest U.S. crop tiilliji^^ X-DBEASg IN; .PEACHES a nev/ market psychology: lh^A^#Ii^^feytfl^^^^^ ; : ; i ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ d ^ i g f c ^ ; : ^ ^ i^:? s^^^^^^t^^^S^fen^^^^te^^^^ planted in 1977 t^^^^^^t^t^if^^^^^t ^Ill^hSiiihftp^ :-;#i^t.^ri^illi^; , i ^ | i i » i Demrmiem of Agriculture tiilitjl^^ fi^^t^i^s^^^^^^t^t^pt i'lMli: :al^l^f;i^^a^Utrs't:u.':v UhUr price ralci'RS r§l|l§|^^ x-d'iseasi:.. This is a new : 4, Larger hog nuir.ber thus. lffil|i^^ ;.d :ff^pU^^^*'P .:ttif #V i^-Afci' February showed that a program for 1977 and. while : ;i§8^1^ ^^i8»^ iBffei^Bf i l ^ ^ i 0 ;iili|rtllyt r^ : v-lM: s^^fpliifc, 5. -General support from i f t f # i | ? | ^ ^ ;s^^^^^^p^p^;e^^^P§^^^^^^^^^^p soy bean n\a rkets t^^ijil^^f^i^^^ppy ohj|||i§f^^ :^t:;|§tei^# : i!^h§ti It does not appear that any ; | t e ^ a | I ^ S - h ^ ^ | y ;hA^h:;:^tf ^ c4iRMiapfH&*^ft-; c _;-: |E^fes(ih[|ilc^^M0*i- Ur-sfentih -o< rftiq^Bt^' i tj|il^ foodo as ice cream, candv. ;;:'!pC^||0$^^h-;s^ ;? i^lfcMt^^^i^^i^^ fft^^t^^^teht^^^A^U^^^^^;:,!^^^^:^ i^^^i^^it^llilit^ iiiff#^ioi^||t; riiiii^^ ij§|§^^ contemplated down the road, iillillM A Food and Drug Trie Pnghiest spots hi the i l l l i f ^ pllltli^^ ? i^^pl|l^sl^^y^^^pp^ ifififllflft iiif§d|^^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ a ^ S i l i ^ rB r it Us ItifUPgi^ -WHEAT u ; - - ' -• ' ; m . illiiplti^ illiill^^ i^^ i j g l l l ^ ||f§sflt^^ If|li|§; iill§§lii^ d llidjli|j^^ fplllfrl^^ > ^W^io^5l:ff^iPt^^c,i|« kj? %Jr %JL H i C h JL JLJ1 1 f M. JL v.'.* JL A^im^ c%JS.A IMTEiEST OM DEBENTURES 5-ii-is p i r maturity y | p | ^ g | i | i h -;tht#Aiu^p|||#i' JBifiiU^ 8% 5 v e 3 f Vl,nufttv .-' S dt ,;§lii©.itl ;Mi«f mii»:i^#tWis#, : t^iiill^ t ^ i ^ ^ ^ S f i f t t ; -!§§; t ^ ^ ^ ^ , ; ; sm% 1© Y*«r Maturity $t©©.0© Minimym Purcttis* ^tp^^ttllu 10>f^flSt*^|.; h ip I'^ilfc;;; Dto:cmUer ;».r^ averaged oih : W k lena%iand:o^rSi Your Farm Bureau dealer can worn out a Ask the Farm Bureau supported this move by people today... and be rri a k i n g numer ou s soil conditions. You can order and take ready this Spring! your fertilizer now, to be sure you have the } ^^^^0^n^^b^;i§§^^^y proper type and amount when you need it "^^^^^^^^^^^IW^'^^^y this Spring, Yen save dollars per ton be- ;,^^i|^^^^^^^^cffbftbAbb cause of our Winter discounts .. . You -"Piece rate"" metric?*:! of save time with fewe" planting ^^iiHIc^^^i^^^^rtit^PA delays. ii^^tl^^ttpt^tei|i^^fA date, bfAfjIl^^ tli^pffi^^^ft^^ff^^^^^fi i|i^^^:^i^P^^?i^l^^y i^tl^^;>Ap:tt^^tfl^ttt^|^tf : SS§^iift7f e st;i^|§;,b;C}cy • : 'lillie i-lffii^ f Mbs-v ::; ^^m::^^'M^9^Msbab'ys;: ^ jpt^iltef diiir f ;^^S^ttf: tiliyb FARM W/m&B BBMCBBJHC ;:^i^tt r ;ti^^^^ , i71r ii^^^^fct: ri^|g§||iii§i;7f l i ^ ^ t i i ' B i i A i fllpl^ tl|j|^ t^^^^^^lisl^^^^plMKb PAGE 22 ~A'RM NEWS. JAN UARY I 1977 medical and-agricultural related fields. Farm Bureau women placed top priority on working towards a goal of a first aid kit on every farm and in every farm home in Michigan. They also sponsored first aid training so that one person. in each farm by KEN WILES family will be equipped to handle emergency TUVIC Manager. Member Relations situations. Farm Bureau women were in- strumental in getting the SMV legislation passedand sold thousandsof the emblems to farmers". Their concernfor health reachesfar beyond program. -The voting delegates agreed and th4pirown homes and communities, as for as It has been said many times that "behind they have never been sorry for this decision. India and South .Africa. Through the every great !TIanis a women." This may be At first, other State FarmBureauscould not Associated Country Women of the World, of . true in some situations, but in Farm Bureau it imagine how women could have any part in a which Farm Bureau women are members, is not. farmer's organization. Women should be women in jungle villages are_ taught child- In Farm Bureau, the women are not behind. content to stay home and do the chores in- care, nutrition, and hygiene. They are in leadership positions, making stead of having an active part in building a That Farm Bureau women are involved for things happen for their organization. Here in strong Form.Bureau. beyond the boundariesof their own farms can Michigan.,it has become a tradition to call on Michigan explained that without men and best be illustrated by listing the outstanding members of the women's committee when a women working together as a family unit in achievement in activities which won four job needs to be done. building and maintaining a strong farm County.Women's Committees recognition at Farm Bureauwomen are concernedcitizens organizaton, the job could be only partially the recent Michigan Form Bureau Annual of their communities, knowledgeable about the issues which affect their world and their done. Meeting. Michigan was a leader, setting the pattern . Chippewa County _.: The Farm Bureau way of life. They are confident in 1heir ability of successwhich was followed by other State women in Chippewa County have made a to protect the good things in their life, Clndin Farm Bureaus and the AFBF. later, this. special effort to work with local organizations their power to bring about changes for the women power would help Michigan gain the and businessesand include these leaders as better. coveted Golden Eagle Award for outstanding resource people. In cooperation with the While the women's liberation movement programs. County Board, they conducted a Meet the gained momentum in the 70's, most farm With the challenges of a changing Candidote Meeting. Many Chippewa women women were ahead of their times. "Liberated agriculture in the early 70's, farm women wrot~ letters to Congressmenand Legislators from what?" most would ask. If liberated found they, themselves, had to change. When on the estate tax legislation, as well as OSHA means being free to "do your own thing" and their farm organization said, "we need a new regulations and land use. They conducted a able to function as a first class citizen within you," Farm Bureau women answered the neighborhood watch program, participated in their world - these rights are already theirs. challenge. The "new you" included a more the membership campaign, worked on Farm Bureau women have no identity positive, stronger voice in the public arena. petitions for the bottle bill, and held a self- problems. Theyknow who they are - full-time They were proud to be a part of the fan- protection program for women. partners in a business enterprise where there tastically productive agriculture and realized Mason County -- The goal of the Mason .isno discrimination against a women driving the need to tell others about it. Women's Committee was to strengthen Farm a tractor or helping to deliver a calf. - Thenew you told the farmer's side of,the Bureau by involving more women to Farm And off the farm, the women take no back food price story in an eyeball-eyeball contacts Bureau activities. They did this through an row seat in public affairs and in their farm with consumers in supermarkets. agricultural disptay at a county fair and a float organization's activities. Well versed on -- The new you developed outstanding for the July 4th parade. They sponsored an current affairs which"affect their chosen way commodity promotions in urban shopping open information meeting on farm labor, of life, they are wherever the action is. They malls and at fairs to spread the good word regulations and conducted farm. tours for' are a legislative leader travel ing to the about a productive, effective agriculture. school children. Several women participated Nation's Capitol or Lansing to discus_sissues - The new you ioined in the consumer in local radio programs, discussing of importance' with their Legislator. They movement of the 70's. Farm Bureau women agriculture. A cancer detection program was attend their County Annual Meeting and promoted understanding by becoming active held for all women in the county. The women serve as delegates at State and National in the consumer movement. also wrote many letters to Congressmen on Conventionsto take on active role in deciding - The new you formed a positive image of key legislative issues. what the policies of their farm organization agriculture -- of farmers who are proud of Jackson County --' Several women in should be. They are at local stores promoting their profession. JacksonCounty serve on various committees the products produced on their farms. When - The new you actively engaged in of the County Farm Bureau.They sponsored a their urban counterpart took up picket signs leadership training. Annual training seminars women for the Washington legislative and marched to the marketplace with the give-hundreds of women the "know how" to Seminar, assisted with an agricultural float demand for food price role back, Farm Bureau corry out effective projects on the County for the Rose Parade in June, and a booth at women went to action. Because they knew level. the Jackson County Fair. They presented two that boycotts and price controls could mean Farm Bureau women believe that surfacing nurses scholarships, studied their county food scarcity and higher prices, they took and training leaders is vital to their farm government, wrote many letters to their own "weapon" -- truth - to the arena of organization. They know that Farm Bureau is Legislators on important issues, and con- public opinion. people. ducted projects on safety, commo~:jjty In the supermarkets, at shopping malls, in promotion, and rural urban understanding. The Washington Legislative Seminar, Sanilac County -- The Sanilac Women's the schools... they told the amazing st ?v,?.:~ io: Macomb's was for in- annual meeting held years while a i r farm exports December 8 at the Hilton in the top county star award membership, policy formation. should keep right on rolling.*' during the 57th Annual development, commodity and One Star winners for Lansing, Paul WeDer, vice preisient Michigan F a r m Bureau women. reaching membership goal B. Dale Ball, director of the for public affairs of the Annual meeting Awards Winning three stars were were: Allegan, Areaac, Bay, Michigan Department of National Council of Farmer banquet Star awards are Newaygo and Oceana Benzie, Clare, Copper Agriculture, was the lun- Cooperatives, also addressed gi¥en to counties with top Counties, Newaygo, w i t h Country, Eaton, Genesee, cheon speaker. He outlined the group. He said that no programs in their mem- John Patin as president, Gratiot, Hiawathaland, progress made in the ex- group has a greater stake bership categories. Chip- excelled in membership, Huron, Ingham, Iosco, Iron pansion of foreign markets in the choice of a new pewa's six stars were information and commodity. Range, Isabella, Kalkaska, for Michigan-grown c r o p . He cabinet and adoption of presented for membership, With Adrian Hammerle at the Livingston, Menominee, also defended the export legislation in 1977 by the young farmer, women, helm, Oceana County earned Midland, Monroe, Mont- philosophy. Carter administration than community groups, com- star§ for membership, in- morency, Ogemaw, Osceola, "When people get up-tight farmer cooperati¥©s and modity, and information, St, Clair, Washtenaw, and formation and cwnmotiity. about selling a i r rood to ©tier their milieus of individual John Kronemeyer was Eight counties received* Wayne. countries, we need to remind farmer members. Chippewa's president during two-star awards. Each them that food is a totally Some of the moves that 1978. recei¥ed one star for mem- renewable resource," Ball Welter sees the new ad- said. "We can produce new ministration taking are - Mason and Sanilac bership. Cheboygan and Don't Forget — c r o p each year, I f s in- Massi¥e government Counties were the state's Saginaw got their second teresting to note, that farm reorganization, with a four-star winners, Mason, stars for commodity, Clinton Renew Your exports will bring in about $22 reduction of the number of with Daryl Peterson as and Oakland scored their billon to the United State governmental agencies. president, received stars for second points for commodity, Farm Bureau this year - almost exactly the USDA might shift more to a membership, p o l i c y Kalamazoo and Tuscola same amount that oil exports food and welfare department, de¥elopmeot f community received theirs for young Membership will bring in for the country of Weller explained. groups and women. Sanilac,. farmers. Jacksoi second star Sf»eCIAt R A T E T O F A R M i t J R E A U MEMBERS: One f r « t 2 5 word ad p » m o n t h per mwmtommMpr addition*! words, 10 cents «ach. Figures such m 12 or $ 1 2 . 5 0 count m «n« w o r d NOM- B I C M B E R fdtfflrtitart: 15 ewits p t r w o r d o n * edition, t w o or mm® editions, I S cents p t r we wf. Copy dBadtiiHu 13tti of M o n t h , Mail ctaaatfiBd acts t o : Michigan Farm N e w t , P. O. i o x 9 6 0 , Laming, M i . 48S04 Publisher rBBBW** right t o reject any mtmrtmtt§ cop? s u b m i t t a l . FARM E Q y i P M E N T LIVESTOCK LIVESTOCK MISCELLANEOUS MISCELLANEOUS MABL.EY ROCK PICKERS, BocK Wifl SAUSAOE M A K K « $ , O t i A T R 1 C I P 6 S ! 6 R 6 A T SAUSAOB R 1 C » S S AM© M B A T STBAWtetRY BLAMTS ~ M i c h l e a n FOU S A L i j New 3 point snow w«tes» drawers Picks 1 to 16" dla. The World* .= B o l o g n a , F r a n M u r t a r s . Head Ch#««» CURtaiO. This 1TO p a s t b « * covara a i l Cartifiad V i r u s - P r t e StoeB. Hardy northern wt»ol«sale. i different sizes in stock, Best, Phone 313-376-4791. Estrt F. Balnetr. S««»»««r» 8 l « r t and P>orR 5»us»§t. fl.00. phases ©I «t»$a#e makWig, curino « « ^ grown plants: Guardian, Midway, E x a m p l e : S y p w t ' OWO tt».) sSAS p i t » lax. Hamilton's. B«x 452-131, New Ulm* Min- smoktrifl I r e * and gama maata. Over av Earfldawn, Omrk Beauty, Ounlap, 4445 f?eineff, Oeckerviile, Mich. 4842?, (S- tf • Slelft«r F a r m Sqwtpmenf. P h o n * Grand nasota 5«»73, p o p u l a r recipes includiiHl d r v c u r i n g Robtcwom, O s a l l i l a , 75 o t h w variatlaa In- •ap)'- : '; ... ", , . , - '• - "'.- :" ' '. • Blanc 313-#4-S3i4. Cl-IMip) R I C I S T E R E O Corriedale Sheep for sale. N Y 14207 or aand !3c st»n^j for fraa * f « | } « r t W A M T e e - j&trn Oeere O or Gf» Tractor, Rams, Ram iamte, ewes, oood bloocMln*s. (t-u-aop) FOR S A L E : 1,000 Bt»hel C r a f « for •;-- •-. - > - F o r s a l t : DeSsval 210 Gallon ttuiK Tank, Also Hampshire Rams, Leo ficcies, Mtwtfwt or appiaa at *1.00 aacn, Gmorge Sa^-twr, Wheat »nd Oat Straw. Leftey Ke»o#th, B No. 49Q71, Ph«n«*16-4967AS0. f?ff-«p> E m p l r * , Mich. Blwnaa1»-275.rdM. (W-tf-Up) C O L O W A T S R O H . L f * t C K L S S i Can In T O U C H B O T OOM'T S A T i Unlqua 4, V»ss«r, Michig»n 517-aS2-23Bt. m i n u t t a ! Wo hot princ. Oaticiaua. Crisp. r © « SALE • New Zealand White Rabbits, PoHwnaua Plant Chart l i t i s botanical names «H-ff.24pJ Factory Secrets! Racipa $1,06. Mamiitm'% and symptoms. Makaa axcattant gift Itam. bred for top meat production. " R a b b i t s i r e A F R I C A N VIOLETS - s t a r t plants f r o m our w i l y business." D*tfmers Bynny Patch, Sox 452-131, Naw «iro» Minnesota S«73. $3.80 pp4., B.O.5., ttox 3M, Acme, M l c h l f a n leaves, ewer 80 variatias. Descriptive prim 0RAIN ORYIWG A W STORAGE J Aaaiia yoor own! Coropiet*, easy in- « A T S , » i C M » M U L B S , OOf»HEB:S • ability lor cattle, conformation for stw*»- WATCM B f i B A I t - Any maKa claanao, StrectiWHS. FACTORY SECRET R E C I P E S ! problam? 0 * » ERGOM «l«etrtcal enlt w i l l R e a » « » b i e prices. Customer satisfaction • rapalrad, internal parts, crystals, crowns, « . » . Hamilton's, Box *$2-131, N « * U l m , claan and maintain • 5 »cr» araa. 3(Mlay "Calf Bvmf" Som*tt>sng mm, Indivldmtf p r i o r i t y . Visitor* welcome. Walton f a r m s , included. No casa or dial raBBhr. Thraa-day Wi»«e*0t» 56073. tatisfaction t « » r a n * e - Electrical unit 3- mm for n t w b o m caivas. W r i t * for pam- Rostewsh. Phone 517-433-2925. f3-tf-?4p) $h^> service. Wrist watchaa Bl.00, iwrttat U-lUOp) yaar guarantee. Write er call Jotw Buaait, phlet, Atvin F r a h m , 1Q3» Holland Road ( « • $ » . » . No aiaetrics. Elgin - t r a l f t t t l craft- ItCNit* No. I, M a m l f f w , Anicti. * * l f - «1«-?S1- sman, M a l l w d w rapair Mm* l f 5 2 . Frm 4*) FrankanmutB 4»34. Phone 517-4SMWJ. an. ererle, 7285 Textile R A , Saline, Mich. A S P A f t A d U S ft t M U f t A M f t - S latest unci best Asparagus variatlaa in l-yr. aaadllnas. howr or by the (ob. Tom T a f * . Eagle, Fr«« literatwrt. 0 « « l « r » » * i ^ »vaJI»fel«. St»rr «1?#. Phww C3W) 4».?874, O-tf-Wp) Mich»8an«t22- P N » e S I ? - # » - « ? ? . CS-tt-lip) National, Jl» M a i n , Co»ch«ter» ! L . 4J32*. J-yr. roott, S-yr. jumbe c r « w » ; 4 baat FOB S A L 1 : 3,8» balaa choiet and a> 3rd Cl-».»p) * « t . K » « 0 SMORTMORMS - Young txrlis, R h v b a r b variatlaa; Horseradish; othar cutting alfalfa, s»rl¥ a i t . G«wpe R e t * . F a w i a r v i l l * , Plwna 517-m-BMS. AtlCTIOMEfRIMC • ABBKAISALS yeariir^gs awl csl¥t$ far sale, W r i t e or visit i p t c l a l i i l n g In F a r m P A « R ^ I H # STALLS • Compt«t*9M.S0.1" Stanley M. Powell artd F a m i l y , lngftsW# Oyr taflth yaar. D E A N FOSTER NOR- (1-lt-tab) tubular s t t t i e«»»tr«ction. 0«alershtps S E R I E S , Box FBN-2), Hartford, Mlchioan Antlquas. Sptcial for f a r m Bureau F a r m , R.R.2, Sox238, «onla, M i c h . 4«46. members. James B. Erakine, F r « i a n d , availabte. fr«« ilt«r#t«r#. STAIIR LOO CABIN) OdildinB i w t r u c t t o w . 304 p a « M N A T I O N A L , 2 » M « ( a Colelwstw, Illinois fl-SMlb) MSch. 517-a9S-*1S3. FOR SALE - YORKSHIRE s e r v i « « S » b « r s . . , i i l u s t r a l a d l l Satisfaction s « « r » n ^ ^ . $S.*S p w t p a i d , Gl«w» Smith EnttrprUwa, . test station. All registered atock. Richard F a r m * Herswadlsh P « r p l # R i s p b « r r j e $ ; T h o r n l r t e Black- |1-ft-l!p} C « * » *'* mHe*a»» MuttiKan, M-43. P t w « 5 W - aatars. 100 p t r e w t Adds t i p a w l flavor l*Oft S A L E : C » « r ^ y fattf bin - t » » * 7-Vi fctrrlesj Thorn»#»» Bdyaaneerrlas; (3-w-aap) Ymm^atrt'm; DawOarriaa; GoaaaBarrlas; to beaf, ham & p«*k. L k for t h t Mel stuff in ton*, w w ws«l, i f C i s c N i r i * awg*r> «}»»• FOB S A L S ; Country Wtasfe • Hotmar P«s*« Le#aiib«rr»ts, E t * r b « r r l « » . W r i t * for fraa Grocer's D a i r y Case, b r f ^ S r i f l bottom. RaatMinabla. D«» Ciartt. FOR S A L E : 2 yaartlng P o l i w l S t w t t w n Pull Accordian l i t e naw, 2 raw buttona. catalog and prices. Our 140ftt y « r . OEAW ataal raeds on plata*. In G-C- imtrwetion 014*250) halfars, 4 - H callbar. Come sae them. Ray P e t w s , 3 mi$«s S.E. of Eisia on Riley Road, F O S T E R N y R S E R l E S , Sox F 1 M - 2 1 , oook. $75.00, Wrlta: M r s , A n n Klowski, 10a M a r t f w d , Michigan «»$?, (»W) 01-43W, WAWTCO: G»«in«- cemt»lna t 19* («.3t.Mpl {1.SI-34W mwm St., Plmmmlm aaaSd. R E A L ESTATE p r e l w r r t . C.A. Allls-Chafmers t r a c t w , « 6 9 t $ T € f « © A»»ALOOiA$ P©« M i l • (Mt-2Sp) dafactiva angina accaptattfa. Small batch Statllen » r ¥ f « • Nat*l Champion A I ^ I ^ M B L U C B C B R Y P i A H T S - H s r d y rwrthern flraln Atse pickup h«yh»*d fa* J.D. W«. 4 C h ^ ^ w . F O B S A L S : R«t«»t*"«l Hol«t»in v « r t l r ^ tell*, O r » airaa by F « ^ ^ w n o r v from 4W5?. M M ) #21-4»?. Ch«ri«s « e w t , M W M, Wise Rd., R Mo. 1, (i-sr-33b> B « > K •- W E I G H T ! A a S T T E f t WAV TO W I L L T R A D E c o m m t r c i a l prtv«»**v In Colaman, MicH. « 6 l » . P » w » S W - 4 « . i « j . 11,124 16. d i m , » J § 1 lb. 9 T » n * « m . Offttr* sir«tf by Tri-Stiir aon, Mapia. S«>r9« ftutoto, LOSE IB»bt» Formtito) l a patfas, $l.SB plus T n « m b Ar«a tor land or Dome In Kalamazoo Fowlarvtlla, Phona 81?-2»-»^2. C E B T I B I E D i i « A P e V l N B S - Niagara, 15c postaoa. frmn: B. C a m p b d l , P.O. 8«x Araa, w r i t e P.O. Bo* » ? , Unieavttt*, or call Concord, Oel#w»r«, l o l w l a k e n Saadlaas, 444, Waterfowl, Mlcft. ^0>5. {U-lf-24p> 5W-#?4-2311, W A N T I O SAW M I L L - to cur 20 foot loss. Mimrod Saadlaas, » othar variatlaa. idaal ti§-4t-»<|} Call 3U>a27.}*5$, or sand pictwr* and write for ]ama, jellies, luica, mim making. Wrlta to. ft. P e p t r a , IBM Croup Road, Orfortvlllt mm for fraa cafaioe and p r i c « . €Hir taQth yaar, D E A N FOSTER N y R S E S l E S , Bm f SN-21, F B W t T T R € « $ - Appiaa. P^achiB, Plums, Baars, NactBrinaa, Apricota, Sw«et F O « SALE- 1 * aoraa • can be d l v M ^ - f ( I It-Mp) H a r t f o r d , Aalehigan #0$?, » t « « l - 4 3 f l . Charrias. Montmorancy Charry. BoB» Dwarf m i l t s to M S y , 11 mltas to Uanains. B«nar f O B S A L l : Er*B»l»f» S » « * W « Puppiaa. (l.St-aaBI and Standard s i t * »r«e». w r l f a for fraa than » « r a g # BuildinBS • h ^ h praductlvlly. © ^ ttxKK * c a w a . tfo9» i . p * H . Oaoraa catalog and pricaa. 0 « r 140th yaar, D E A N Rwnsori for aalllnQ - daam in f a m i l y , f o r FOR S A L S ; Ftetfins K i u i p m t f l f lor ^ 1 Bobb, PwWtcwfMt, P h « w SU-333-*4a}. appd(ntmantcBilSl7-a41att advancad J A f C O Stt» Whaala and Tr»v«| Traftaral y a a r D E A N FOSTER NURSERIES, S«W E*caiiant cwrtifion. Two mm% l i f t t«p for blacktop road. B> acraa f a r m S«nd with ftof, 2&J M,P. imotors - 90MI cantflNon. $5W, T w i n v a i l a y Saktt '••» mite aast or ax it 32 off f F G N - J I , Hartford. W»€W«*« «§5?. («la) *2i- aaay daaning. Call mi-m-mn - au N w o ^ « d a l i i , axcatlant DutldinQ sltaa t r w n d f SIM51-i?4l. 43W. Creyfs B d „ L«mif»s * » U , trtrttninfii. sldaa, six mtlaa f r a m C B B U I B C B N » » dla- P-IMSel m. mamtmU, Mich. *i«-H1-?3M ( I It-I4»} F75-W3. »>2-Jl*Ce; Pi\GE 24 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1977 a lot Of ey uncler one roof All the mach inery you used for planting, cultivating and harvesting is stored out of the weather ... probably all under one roof. Feed inventory, livestock or stored grain may also be protected under one roof or in a building complex. A real danger to all that personal property exists. Should disaster like fire or wind strike, much of your stored personal property could be damaged or destroyed. But you have a hedge against disaster ... properly updated farm personal property insurance. Take a pencil and paper. Jot down the value of personal property you have stored or protected for the winter. Then call your Farm Bureau Insurance Agent to find out the reasonable cost for effectively insuring .your farm personal property. Jar greatest riSk is noW! FMMBUREAU INSURANCE GROUPTM Farm Bureau Mutual • Farm Bureau Life • Community Service Insurance Supplement to Farm Bureau News .~ PASSENGER CAR TIRES! TUBELESS RADIAL & BIAS PLY • Co-op , • . \ MARK X $35. Ii ~ ~I \$;'1 ~R78 x 13 (plus $2.11 FEl) Total steel armored. protection. • 2 Steel belts Co-op' ~ j • 2 Radial body plies • Superior ride and control MARK V RADIAL \ 12 • Longer.1 ife \ ~ Better all-around tire perfor- $28 .• BR78 x 13' (plus $2.03 FEl) mance Belted radial construction at popular SIZE PRICE FET prices. A 'great buy! • 2 Fi berg lass belts BR78 x 13 35.22 2.11 FR78 x 14 40.83 2.69 -. 2 Radial Polyester carcass plies _.I ~,JJ. - GR78 x 14 42.10 2.89 • Longer wear at turnpike speeds ...1;¥~'"tt ~ • High damage resistance HR78 x.14 45.32 3.07 GR78 x 15 42.97 2.97 • Flexible sidewalls HR78.x 15 46.51 .3.15 SIZE PRICE FET . LR78 x 15 49.64 3.47 BR78 x 13 28.12 2.03 i ER78 x 14 31.66 2.45 FR78 x 14 32.81 2.63 ~ GR78 x 14 34.35 2.80 .~ GR78 x 15 35.22 2.88 HR78 x 15 37.41 3.07 Co-op JR78 x 15 38.44 3.19 SPDPOLY CO":-Op $20. ~~,X$~374 FEll DIRECTOR A safe, long mileage tire at a price 120 878 x 13 that fits any budget! (plus $1 .82 FEl) • Polyester cord resists "thump- V ! ing" • Resistance to bruises at high speeds ", $23.59 , Long life, all purpose .' Lateral grippil')g power on turns tire . • Safe stopping power • 2 Polyester plies ~A • Tire wear indicators ~-~ • 2 Fiberglass belts SIZE PRICE FET '. Increased stability A78 x 13 • Soft, comfortable ride 20.71 1.74 878 x 13 21.22 1.84 - • Excellent st~ering C78 x 13 control 21.86 1.98 C78 x 14 22.34 2.04 SIZE PRICE FET E78 x 14 22.84 2.25 878 x 13 23.59 1.82 F78 x'14 24.60 2.39 878 x 14 24.07 1.98 G78 x 14 25.64 2.55 E78 x 14 26.97 2.27 H78 x 14 26.84 2.75 F78 x 14 28.84 2.43 J78 x 14 28.07 2.96 G78 x 14 29.09 2.60 , F78 x 15 24.73 2.43 H78 x 14 31.61 2.83 G78 x 15 25.67 2.58 G78 x 15 30.50 2.65 H78 x 15 27.13 2.80 H78 x 15 32.09 2.87 J78 x 15 28.91 3.00 J78 x 15 33.57 3.03 L78 x 15 29.52 3.08 L78 x 15 34.63 3.14 . LOW, CASH AND CARRY PRICES FO~ MOUNTING AND • TOUGH, DEPENDABLE TRUCK TIRES TUBE TYPE AND TUBELESS RADIAL AND BIAS PLY o-op MEMBERS ~ClNG EXTRA & NON-MEMBERS All prices are suggested TRACTOR & FARM IMPLEMENT TIRES . Co-op BATTERIES & CHARGERS , BIG T BATTERY ENGINE STARTER/CHARGER Dependable all-weather starting This quick engine starter and power for tractors and farm ma- charger can turn over engines with discharged batteries. Uses 1&- ~ chinery. Over twice the overcharge resistance required by industry ordinary house current for starts standards. Heavy duty construc- and rapid charging of 6,8 or 12- tion, specially reinforced corners volt batteries. 20-100 amperes. and walls. Uses heavy-duty transformer and has new style very high den- sity Selenium rectifiers. Model 600205A