1QHHQA JO. 5 SERVING OVER 61,000 F A R M BUREAU F A M I L I E S M A Y , 1977 DA To Start •mer Owned Grain serve Program ubUA Secretary Bob bushel per year for wheat and Bergland has announced 65 cents per hundredweight plans he said would per year for rice. strengthen the marketing Farmers will be permitted position of grain farmers and to repay the loan, sell the increase the effectiveness of commodity, and retain the commodity loan program. earned storage under the Commenting on the USDA extended loan program when announcement, AFBF the national average market President Allan Grant said, price reaches 140 percent of "We are pleased that the the current loan rate. Secretary is taking actions If the contract is broken by designed to improve the a farmer selling the com- market positions of farmers modity before the market without interfering with the prices reach the 140 percent operations of the market l e v e l , t h e loan r e p a y m e n t Will -Load Umit 4 Tons- r9ads the warnlng sign before this 1897 bridge on one of Michigan's secondary county system." also i n c l u d e a l l S t o r a g e rood$. 3t721 road bridges In the state hove been declared Inadequate by county road commissions. 50,475 The Secretary announced: p a y m e n t s m a d e , plus in- m / / e s Q f roads have also been placed in this category. With limited revenue in the Motor Vehicle Fund for Establishment of farmer- terest. road improvement, attempts are being made to divert these fund's for other transportation uses. owned food grain reserve for USDA will call in all loans 1976 wheat and rice crops. when the market price Three-year extended loans will be available on these commodities, and the reaches 175 percent of the current national loan rate. However, no farmer would be Mich. Roads Inadequate, Commodity Credit Cor- poration (CCC) will pay annual storage in advance to farmers participating in this forced to market his com- modity, since he would have the option of repaying his CCC loan and holding out for County Roads Hit Worst Virtually all of Michigan's by far in the worst shape. Under Public Act 51, county reseal program. Storage a possible higher price. roads are deteriorating According to the Michigan road commissions are rates will be 20 cents per (See National Notes) rapidly, but county roads are Department of Highways and required to provide the state Transportation's 25th annual highway department with report, 50,475 of the 116,298 annual evaluations on the MFB Makes Membership miles of state roads have been declared inadequate. Approximately 7,670 of the conditions of roads within their jurisdiction. Each year, the percentage of Goal, 45 Counties Pass It For the tenth consecutive Those counties and their WainoRajala, chairman; and Nearly 35 per cent, or 8,958 of state's 9,389 miles of trunk lines, or 81 per cent, fall into the inadequate category. inadequately maintained and constructed roads has been increasing. These conditions exist with year, Michigan Farm Bureau campaign chairmen repor- Otsego County - Gene the state's 25,708 miles of today's traffic alone. Traffic has surpassed membership ting goal since March 17 are: Fleming and Tom Thieson, primary county roads are experts are predicting that goal. With goal of 61,589 In the 1-350 member co-chairmen. also considered inadequate, these same roads will have to member - families, MFB category: Hiawathaland- (Continued on page 2) as well as 29,153 of the 62,462 handle a 30 to 50 per cent joins 18 other state Farm miles of the local county road increase in traffic in the next Bureaus over 1977 mem- system, or 46.7 per cent. 15 to 20 years. bership quota, reporting goal The report also shows that "We feel that the county on March 24th. A total of 45 3,721 of the state's 10,365 road commission evaluations counties and four regions bridges, or 35.9 per cent, also are on the conservative side have surpassed their quota. have been declared also," say Gary McCarthy, In addition, Districts VI inadequate. Approximately local government engineer and V, respectively, have all 2,700 of these bridges are on for the State Department of counties over goal. The county primary or local Highways and Tran- Thumb and Central Regions roads. (Contlnued on Page 7) join Saginaw Valley in having all counties in the region over goal, also. Speaking of the ac- complishment, President MFB Center has Elton R. Smith stated, "Membership is the lifeblood New Phone Number of our organization, giving us the united strength needed to meet the many challenges that lie ahead for farmers. AFBF President Allan Grant aids Michigan Farm Bureau President The new number 'Farm Bureau - United To Elton R. Smith remove his jacket In preparation for switching to the Serve Agriculture' is more than just a slogan, it's a time- "Pigskin locket" held by MFB Administrative Director Robert Braden. The switching ceremony marked the Michigan Farm Bureau reaching is (517) 321-5661. tested fact." Its quota of 61,589 member families. PAGE 2 FARM NEWS MAY, 1977 pretty good from what I've D6NNA observed in Saginaw County). And the "education im- provement" could be in- terpreted as Farm Bureau's Time to Say Thanks vast opportunity leadership development (Mr. for Algernon Charles Swin- other day. It's called "Two Brown and the Board of burne, a writer (what else Can Play This Game." Commissioners were no could you be with a name like A farmer shopped around doubt impressed with vice- that?) once penned: "Sleep, for a new car and finally president and chairman of and if life was bitter to thee, decided on optional equip- local affairs Ed Hebeler's pardon. If sweet, give thanks; ment, extras, etc. A few days manner of conducting the thou has no more to live; And later, the dealer who had sold meeting). The "social ad- to give thanks is good, and to him the car arrived at the vancement" achievement is forgive." farm to buy a cow. The far- due to the achievement of the The wisdom of that advice mer quickly scribbled the first two goals, I would was brought back during a itemized bill: surmise. Saginaw County Basic cow $300.00 Farm Bureau is certainly 7~e 'P'te.tietea conversation with Marsha Kennedy, an articula te, Two-toneexterior Extra Stomach 45.00 75.00 socially advanced; it's looked upon as a reSPected force in. vivacious young farm wife Product storage A time to Reflect and mother who served as Sanilac County's legislative compartment Dispensing Device (4 spigots 60.00 the community. I don't think it's listed in This is an exciting time of the year for everyone, but leader during the recent their by-laws, but I'm certain particu'ar'y for farmers. As the snow me'ts and tem- Washington Legisla tive at $10each 40.00 one of the reasons for this is peratures rise, activities In the fle'ds Increase rapld'y. Seminar. Marsha and I found Genuine Cowhide that no matter what they do- This noticeab'e Increase In farm-re'ated work seems to we had some things in upholstery 125.00 host the Board of Com- trigger a fresh newness to every facet of our lives. common during our visit to Automatic flyswatter 35.00 missioners, hold a dairy Whi'e it is important to p'an for the upcoming months, the nation's capitol: we walk Dual horns 15.00 banquet, or fight to preserve it Is a'so vital for us to reflect on the past winter and fast, talk fast, and are strong Total (exclusive of tax and their agricultural land - they believers in saying "thanks." delivery) $695.00 enjoy doing it! A good policy. eva'uate some of the activities we participated In as individuals and as an organization. It Is through In the concisely - written Remember the hassle you "Purpose of Farm Bureau," retrospect, I think, that we can reaHlrm some of the farm women gave Marlo Membership it mentions achieving (Continued from page 1) concepts which make our organization so eHectlve. I fee' Thomas when she honored education improvement, we can 'ook back on the past six months and rea"st'cally the mea t boycott leader in her economic opportunity and In the 131-650 member say that we 'earned a great dea' about ourse'ves, our McCall's Patterns article? social advancement. Most of category is Arenac County - Marvin Schwab, chairman; organization, and about others. You really socked it to her - us probably skim over those The most basic concept of our Farm Bureau Is Its and so did farm and ranch words without much attention and 651-1200members; Ionia structure. That is, our organization Is bul't from the women throughout the nation. to their meaning. It takes County - Jerry Binder, "bottom up." Its policies are formu'ated and Im- Marlo was a big enough someone else, sometimes, to chairman; Oceana County - p'emented at the grass-roots 'eve'. Its course Is not person to recognize her error point out that those are more Herman DeRuiter, chair- directed from an oHlce In Lansing or Park Ridge or and she did a good job of than just words - that Farm man; and Hillsdale County - Washington, D.C. -- but from the farms of members -- rectifying it. When she made Bureau has and is fulfilling its Eugene Baker. chairman. an effort to do so, I wonder purpose as outlined. Allegan County - Jack members who have the power to make their how many of the women who County Extension Director Sipple, chairman; Lapeer organization anything they want It to be. The few and County Daryl Hunt, far-between experiments In "top-down" programs In our wrote those searing protests Norm Brown did just that remembered that "to give recently when the Saginaw chairman: and Shiawassee organization's hlsfory resulted In member-apathy or County - Allan Dutcher, thanks is good, and to County Farm Bureau board downright failure, but they served as reinforcement for chairman, have reported forgive?" I'll wager not of directors hosted the Board Farm Bureau's basic grassroots phl'osophy. The ef- many! goal in the 1201-1500division; fectiveness of this philosophy In action was Illustrated of Commissioners at a "get- Marsha was one who did. acquainted" dinner and in the 1501 and over often this past winter. classification: Sanilac For example, a recent series of Cabinet meetings And for her thoughtfulness, meeting. Norm praised Farm she received a personal letter Bureau for its Successful County Ken Fierke, involving county Farm Bureau leaders were used to get efforts in educating the farm chairman. from Marlo thanking her for f.eedback on the current consumer-confidence situation. her understanding and ex- population. "It was not very Farmers expressed concern, asked questions -- but most MICHIGAN pressing relief that Marsha long ago that farmers were important'y, they provided direction for constructive understood her concern for not capable of conducting a FARM NEWS action. the error she made. business meeting," he said, The Michigan FARM NEWS is As we become a smaller minority of the popu'atlon, Which goes to prove that no "and just as recently, one published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Information influencing public opinion becomes Increaslng'y Im- matter what your station in could tell the difference Division. Publication and Editorial offices at 7373West Saginaw Highway. portant. Members -- farm 'eaders at the 'ocal 'eve' -- did life is, you never outgrow the between farm and city boys LanSing. MiChigan 48904. Post Office an outstanding job In this area this past winter. At need to be appreciated. by the way they looked and Box 960. Telephone. Lansing 485.8121. Extension 228. Subscription price. 65 meetings with the news media, they erased the "blg smelled." cents per year.. Established January 13.1923.Second. cong'omerate" label with which some press had tagged Something so clever I The "economic op- class postagepaid at Lansing. Mi. and at Farm Bureau and rep'aced It with PEOPLE, peop'e In couldn't resist "stealing" to portunity" portion of the additional mailing offices. EDITOR IAL: Charles Weirauch. their own local area working together to so've their share with you came in with purpose probably had some Editor; Donna Wilber. Associate problems through an organization of farmers. Members Osceola County Farm influence on their look and Editor; Staff Photographer: Marcia Ditchie. also worked eHectlvely to gain public appreciation of Bureau's Newsletter the smell (both of which are OFFICERS: MiChigan Farm Bureau; President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia.R. the agricultura' Industry through appearances before 1; Vice President. Jack Laurie. Cass urban groups, mall promotions and In classrooms. Our legislative seminars In Lansing and Washington, PBB Still a Problem City; Administrative Director. Robert Braden. Lansing; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Max D. Dean; Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. D.C. had the grass-roots Invo'vement of members that "PBB is still a problem in level PBB contamination. DIRECTORS: District 1. Arthur makes our P.D.-P.X. process so eHectlve. When mem- Michigan -- not in our food One of his visits in Bailey. Schoolcraft; District 2. Lowell Eisenmann. Blissfield. R.l; District 3. bers work to execute the po"cles they deve'oped, the supply, but in the minds of Washington was with Rep. Andrew Jackson. Howell. R.l; District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia. R.l; result Is positive action for agrlcu'ture. consumers who have been Brodhead who has in- District 5. William Spike. Owosso.R-3; These are just a few of our Important recent ac- frightened by media troduced legislation at the District 6. Jack Laurie. CassCity. R-3; Distirct 7. Robert Rider. Hart. R-l; complishments, but we need to a'ways recognize that coverage of the sensational federal level to lower PBB District 8. Larry DeVuyst. Ithaca. R-4; they wou'd not have been posslb'e without a strong and emotional rather than tolerance levels. The young District 9. Donald Nugent. Frankfort. R- 1; District 10. Richard Wieland. membership. I sa'ute those members who Invested their scientific facts -- and kept dairy farmer, along with Ellsworth. R-l; District 11. Franklin Schwiderson. Dafter. time and eHort to put Michigan farm Bureau over alive by politicians who have others who had been involved DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter membership goa' for the 10th consecutive year. It Is this decided it's a profitable in the PBB problem, told Frahm. Frankenmuth; Bruce Lelp. prandt. Pigeon; Michael Pridgeon. united strength that makes It posslb'e to reach the bandwagon for their own Brodhead and also Senator Montgomery. legislative, economic and education a' goa's of our personal gains." Riegle's staff, that they - as WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. organization. It Is membership that keeps Farm Bureau a That's the opinion of Robert farmers and consumers - Andrew Jackson. Howell. R.4. FARM BUREAU YOUNG FAR- Rottier, Newaygo County were confident that the MERS: Robert Rottler. Fremont dynamic and aggressive farm organization to serve FDA's tolerance level of .3 farmer, an opinion shared by POSTMASTER: In using form 3579. agrlcu'ture. other Michigan farmers who ppm contains a more than mail to: Michigan Farm News. 7373 So much for reflection. '''s now time to accomplish the were in Washington, D.C. to adequate safety factor. West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Michigan 48904. work that needs to be done this spring and the meet with Congressmen remainder of the year. With the new season upon us, we regarding issues ofconcern to Spokesmen for the 123 must assume our Important role In the wor'd. As Danle' Webster put If, "When tillage begins, other arts follow. agriculture. Rottier was one of the first Michigan farmer-delegation met with Washington, D.C. FaRm~ The farmers, therefore, are the founders of human farmers in the state to have news people on the last morning of their 4-day visit to BUreaU clv"'zatlon. " his herd quarantined and Elton R. Smith destroyed because of high- the nation's capitol. MAY, :9^7 FAR\< NEWS PAGE 3 1st Labor Conference Highlights Problems <>p.vtes n ' u v realize :hat as '.o hoc they cor: face labor o n o o e e cozens or Pik-s in^ri op- dry* of Ore eoefrrpoor! of legislation,. copy, o o f o r e o - a^ncies u g o e u O u r a i employer? from 'Fwooero can either Kruoor >coi c o e r c e w e h ' h e owp c r e e k • WO nroP. c o n r c m n i c a ^ - :'ver. OSOP iafpr r o p e r r> •he P A o n e a c c e p t our '.•••-eh 0 0 0 ^ c p e F e '0 00 Were A.iprpl or r h e F o w Annua; reiiM-:'.:^, c r r a n g r a c c p p o e -• ' " OP O - F< I - o! o o o g o o Ogrcopppwi < F F w . OPOC - o e Ore c e o jr.n P O P - C O rcC o S S ; p o ^5 r e o ' p : -a e x e c u t i v e vice p r e s i d e n t of labor legislation is written s o a g r i c u l t u r e , we should m a k e t h e N a t i o n a l C o u n c i l of Mil t h a t the s p e c i a l a s p e c t s of p . .-•"•• ,o:'-vc p. h o n g ooou" \ C C " O C , H - ; C H - o w o - w o sac,:. f a r m labor a r e c o n s i d e r e d in t h e s e cha n g e s , *' G"^--' it.'i.-ij h . j ^ppij-i-a-r-* ; " t a W - ; ••'::?• »."* W ASA . i p c - s c . - * c P O P S P - . - c e r e -Fn he o r a r e t h e new r a l e s , T h e r e a l p r o b l e m s do not lie * ; ^--;'^?,:-tj C 5 0 ' Cs.-•*??•• 2-tc^ :;<" Ap.W J^ O r r ; s s c ^ re- pa-- •-•.m p e w pF: ? u : v : e . woi ! ! ; ' ' Ji""- f i ' - •>--..-i C--S7 cr---..-i3: vu-":* s ••'«:%;» ;;^ ?>« ^."pa: o^ .^-^ « .-r c 0 •" " I t is a m i s t a k e t o c l a i m laws c h a n g e d t h a t will affect row -WPOOOPP PA.,.,P y-i ' V." .'' P-COOO";- :>yj f ^ O O O P O A^rictflftr* so-rf labor .feicrflons," exempt from such officials t h a t w r i t e the r u l e s , " future, Lo f;,::-:r-: it deeply d i s t u r b i n g that these " S o m e p l a c e a l o n g t h e line. p e r s o n s do not h a v e a good C o n g r e s s will h a v e to p a y off associate director of comprehension of the its d e b t s to l a b o r / ' E l l s w o r t h 'Michigan S t a t e University's problems unique to :••<.•••;::-.: 0 0 T h e c-.v. P O P ; . M a n p o w e r P r o g r a m Service. agricultural employment. •'Farmers should promote Another factor helping to r a t h e r soon will b e c o n c e r n e d legislation t h a t is In the public w i t h u n e m p i o y m. er* t c o m - interest, 1 * is t h a t none of t h e " a r m y " of pe ns a ti 0n ; w o r k m e n' s Kruger said that growers regula tors communicate compensation, t h e m i n i m u m r e a l l y have onlv four choices within t h e m s e l v e s a s thev 'Continued en psga 11) t KW "To Be Aeti\e in .Michigan MSU- Oisflngitithtd Servic* fe ^Weulfure AwonJj from Or. J, A, Ct-' ; /"j £P r--^ o f PpiO s :P;P;:7-J -P Ac-'cc-O•_..-,? :;.•»..? Oc:'.."s' Soon . AFBF's Grant Y^'arns «o=^.o;- J?«£ovrc«$, during furmors" IV*ek, *1o?c,% 2I-2S. Froftm Is an "At- e<-::r.^-- : o - e c ;:;Cvcc- •;• COO P- CO"' JOOA :C0 0 0 COO^O. ' c e c , ; r- e r e .oweoeon.ee<;- p o w e r of o r g a n i z e d laiior a n d -':-,CCC^ CO; ;. ~\\t-i VdYf'- t h e c r u s h i n g of individual Worker m o v e m e n t, o r e o o c 'h,^ [ •..:'.u--e.s Grant congratulated the will soon he a c t i v e in t h e * C;0OC'-W rC:rCO IPO'-'CU r;f:0 w o o Wlr.v \wc:oc p:----.i>'-?--' M\>\ ?r.:-Aw ?eoir'00:-')c •^,-o,ed' : ; c p p c^elrr-rnc 1 .- .or:-:; oo- p a r o . - . ^ j - ^ s •=* C:-o ;o r Ar.nua! P O O P ; OOP 0,0. ,: P e C P r e r h r MASA Labor Conference. T h e a w a r e n e s s of t h e i m p o r t a n c e :0-';:0:.C ". :;v n e e )P. L w o O W of labor i s s u e s . April 14, '"^•rcofO;. J -rro=?:£ 0'iro.o H-:r:.-a,i-' '< r<-:••<-> r^oP -oner- p p e c ! -«. H i POOP-, A line of credit for unionization is on its w a y OOCCWOI. - 0,-co or Ore- ar• c;o in C'-v :!:.;->- ••>• fo»o: ore- ;.ooo «#r'• Big: '4iscmmi$. i>tt..Jirgt*?cJliiiiie ; ;pwctiases, - Q;. 'We cait. ;, - o ^ .w- Co- c v o ono-oo-'c • ••-•.-•: c; p a — ••-.: r re or o r nation. situs'" legislation. The ;Ol^lS^JiS|rr'teili''^p^^ "Yet, some farm leaders p a s s a g e of this bill would IKe ^•^^^•^^^^^^^^ Farming is everybody's bread & by iter F PAGE-4 FARM NEWS'" MAY," 1977 CAPITOL REPORT --_ Robert E. Smith PBB Legislation Mter 10 days of Easter replaced them and are back before contamination. This Se;a~~~eJ?o?~a~:~nllieI~~~geSom introduced including a $31 million from highways to recess, the Legislature in business. It is possible that incentive would prevent such ~onstitutional amendment to the State Police for highway returned on Tuesday, April farmers faced with such a low animals from entering the carry out Governor Milliken's patrols. The present Motor 19.First and foremost issue to level as encompassed in H.B. food chain. program to change the Vehicle Fund does not have be considered by the Senate 4109, could again be faced 5. Allow owners to the Department of Highways sufficient revenues to Agriculture Committee will with the same nightmare. contaminat~d animals to Commission to a Tran- presently maintain state and be the subsitute H.B. 4109, The Board also recognized resume normal operations sportation Commission with local roads. Spaniola Bill which has that no animal containing any while reserving their right to control ov~r ~ll forms of Two bills that passed last - passed the House. The bill PBB should be sold through pursue further legal action \ transportatIon In the s~te. year, P .A. 295 and P:-A. 297 lowers the PBB tolerance in the market system, and against the responsible The present Motor Vehicle are now before the Supreme Michigan to two-one hun- therefore Passed a resolution parties. F.und would becom~ part of a Court for an advisory opinion dreds ppm (.02) from the which reads in part- These provisions would Smgle TransportatIon Fund as to their constitutionality. officially established FDA "Michigan Farm .Bureau eliminate all contaminated 'with the revenues which One of the bills permits the level of three-tenths ppm continues to unalter.ably animals from the market presently come from gasoline use of the Motor Vehicle Fund (.03). This is in spite of the oppose Substitute H.B. 4109as with the least disruption to tax and registration fees for bonding purposes to help fact that expert witnesses passed by the House of farmers." allocated among such finance public transportation, from universities, USDA, Representatives. However, From a practical transportation modes as the other defines tran- MDA, FDA, etc. have all Michigan Farm Bureau will regulatory procedure, such' airwa~s, highways, non- sportation and continues the testified in public hearings support Substitute H.B. 4109 animals left on the farm motorIzed transportation present diversion of 1h cent of that there is no scientific or any other legislation if it would be identified, probably (bicycles,. etc.), public the gas tax which is presently reason for lowering the does not lower the PBB by branding to assure that transportatIon (buses, mass used to subsidize bus tran- tolerance, and that present tolerance below the they would n~t become part of transit, etc.> , r~ilroads and sportation. Presently the testing methods are not apropriate level established the food chain. While waterways. ThiS means a cOQstitution earmarks user reliable at .02 ppm. The by FDA and contains the testimony from eminent m~ssive div~rsion of monies taxes for highway purposes, chances of error are 50 following points: scientists from all over the raised by highway users to but it also provides that high- percent or more. The eXPerts 1. Authority to test all ani- country has consistantly other forms of transpo~tatio~. way purposes can be "as testified that Michigan's food mals in all heards suspected maintained that FDA levels Farm Bureau polIcy IS defined by law". P.A. 297 supply is completely safe. of PBB contamination. Such are safe the Health strongly opposed to diversion defines highway purposes as The real problem is authority does not now exist. Education' and Welfare of earmarked highway funds meaning "the movement of emotionalism created by a 2. Destroy all animals DePartment in Washington is to non-highway uses in- (Continued on Page IS) hi~ly inacc~ate ne~ ~iliqa~wtheFDAPBB ooreq~nre~al~ti~the ---------------------~ media reporting. The Senate Agriculture tolerance level. 3. Permits owners of present federal leveL The members of the Senate S.109lB. e USlness Tax Committee will hold a public animals testing below the Agriculture Committee are; It is expected that the that time however, Gov~rnor hearing on the issue on FDA PBB tolerance level to John C. Hertel (D-Harper Senate Finance Committee Milliken has recommended Thursday, April 21 at 10:00 have their animals removed Woods), Chairman; John R. a.m. in the Law Building if they believe such levels of OUerbacher (D-Grand will begin consideration of that such an exemption only Auditorium just west of the contamination are causing Rapids); James DeSana (D- various approaches to be $15,000.2.) The Task Force Capitol in Lansing. The herd problems, pose a health Wyandotte); Richard J. Allen revision of the S.B.T. The recommended that paYroll Committee has indicated that hazard or any other reason. (R-Alma); "Robert D. Young chairman of that committee taxes, such as Worker's it again intends to request This provision would be (R-SaginawL has declared thatthe S.B.T. Compensation and unem- expert witnesses to discuss discretionary with each It is interesting to note that has been "a disaster" and ployment premiums, be the issue from a factual point herdowner. a telephone survey in Grand that he presently favors removed from the tax base. of view. 4. Provides indemnification Rapids interviewing 100 repeal of the tax and rein- 3.> Another recommendation The Michigan Farm at the appraised value of the women with children at statement of the seven or was that the profit portion of Bureau Board of Directors' animal before contamination home. All were aware of the eight taxes that were the tax base could be weighed r A'l mee Ing on pn 13, stu .ed di h h h w et er t ey test above or b PBB pro lem. When asked if repealed when the S.B.T. was passed. A set of bills to do this more heavily than other components. 4.) It was fur- H.B. 4109 as passed by the below the FDA PBB they had cut down on the use House and recognized that in tolerance. No animal with low of milk, 95 said no and 5 said was introduced by Senate ther recommended that the its present form this level contamination would yes. On dairy products 97 said Minority Leader Robert reporting process be sim- legislation would create a need to be sold at the lower no, and 3 said yes. 100percent Davis earlier this year. Most plified by some type of short - great hardship for many salvage prices because the of them, however, said they observors agree that repeal is form. farmers who have lost their owner would be Paid the full had not cut out milk entirely unlikely. The S.B.T. is a major herds to PBB, but have since appraised value of the animal (Continued on Page 15) The S.B.T. Task Force has political issue. It is not likely --------------------------------_ comp~eted its work an~ made that any real change will certain recommendations to happen before the fall portion Scientists, LegislatorTel1 the Governor. Farm Bureau was represented on that Task Force. During the of this year's legislative session. However there will be considerable work on the deliberations a motion was issue. Farm Bureau policy Riegle M~chigan Meat Safe m~de to repeal the S.B.T., but supports failed by a vote of 11 to 13. program and if that is not repeal of the Once again, federal and tolerance guidelines for PBB Michigan House Agriculture Some, m.embers of the Task possible, major revisions in state officials testified that is not now necessary for the Committee, and the sponsor Force did not vote. Recom:- the act, especially those the present Food and Drug protection of public health," of H.B. 4109, testified that he mendations that may affect. affecting labor cost, Administration tolerance Albert Kolbye, associate proposed his bill to offer an farmers that were made depreciation and interest levels for PBB are more than director for sciences of the alternative to lowering the would; 1. ) allow small cost.. adequate to protect public FDA's Bureau of Foods. FDA PBB guideline. Porter businesses with low profits to health and that there is no "FDA also opp"Oses said that he was concerned use an alternate based on ability to pay. This method Lottery Revenue , appreciable amount of PBB lowering the tolerance level because lowering of the in the Michigan food supply. to the proposed .02 parts per guideline could result in a would be based on a gross H.B. 4139 has passed the million because of the 50 per large number of healthy profit which is defined as net House and is now in the This time the evidence cent margin of error that productive animals whose profit plus income that the Senate. The bill puts all of the supporting these conclusions owner may pay himself. The state lottery eaniings into the exists when testing for the products are safe for human was presented at the fourth residue at that level," Alan consumption being destroyed owner could deduct $20,000 school aid fund (ap- public hearing of the U.S. Hoeting, director of the with an unnecessary cost to and also an equal amount for proximately $130 million). Subcommittee on Science, the state. each partner with the The sponsors admit that the FDA's Detroit office testified. Technology and Space in- remainder subject to a tax legislation will not provide Dr. George Whi tehead, vestigating the PBB incident. Robert Braden, deputy director of the rate of 5 percent. There would one penny more for schools The hearing was held in Michigan Department of Administrative Director for ,be a phase-out of this alter- because school aid from the Lansing, March 31. Senators Agriculture in charge of the the Michigan Farm Bureau, nate. This method eliminates general fund has been many Donald Riegle and Robert Bureau of Consumer testified that it is extremely any tax on labor cost, interest times higher than the amount Griffen conducted the Protection, also expressed important for the ultimate or depreciation, etc. also of the lottery revenue. Michigan hearings. concern about the con- decision regarding the eliminates the present The bill was passed Additional hearings will be sequences of lowering the tolerance level for PBB or exemption for new in- because the public does not continued in Washington D.C. present FDA guideline level any other chemical to be vestments. An effort was understand where the state's "While consumer safety is for PBB. made on the basis of scientific made to make the exemption 45percent share of the lottery our main concern, we believe Representative Paul evidence rather than political $25,000 rather than the goes, and has assumed it was that furtl}~ re9ucJiol\ 01, ~e P,-qrJ~r•. chajrJI)a)D, .Qf tQ~. involvement. re£.9.ffilIlended. t2Q,~: •SiA.c~_ in the school aid fund. MAY; 1977 FAR"M' NEWS-' PAGES provide PBB indemnities, IATIOIAL IOTES New Farm Legislation 2. A two-month extension, amendments to the minimum House-Senate .4lbert A. Almy Conference there does not appear to be a need for similar federal legislation to deal solely with the PBB incident. expiring May 31, 1977, for wage law. The bill- H.R. 3744 The Sub~ommittee was Committee. Farm Bureau urged, however, to seriously Senate hearings on new farmers to participate in the - provides for a new Process support played a key role in loan program for 1976wheat of using an index to deter- the passage of this consider broad legislation farm program legislation - S. which would assist producers 275 - have ended. Witnesses and rice crops; mine the minimum wage legislation. 3. Increased price support every January 1in the future. in dealing with future representing over 130 dif- chemical and drug con- ferent groups testified during loan rates for the 1977 feed The index to be used is one PBB grains and soybean crops; published by the Department tamination incidents caused the hearings. Many of these groups were not related to 4. Reduction of interest ofLabor, and is essentially an Four hearings on PBB were through no fault of their own. agriculture .. The Senate rates, effective April 1, 1977, index of the wages paid to held in Michigan March 28-31 The legislation should cover livestock, poultry, crops and Agriculture Committee is on commodity loans from 71k non-supervisory workers in by a Senate .Commerce percent to 6 percent, and on manufacturing, not including Subcommittee. Senator orchards. It should provide now marking-up S. 275 and indemnities when products hopes to have the final bill storage facility and drying overtime. On January 1, 1978 Donald Riegle (D-Flint) through the Senate by May 15. equipment loans from 7¥.zto 7 the minimum wage for both served as Chairman and are impounded, farms are However, many observors percent; and non-agricultural and Senator Robert Griffin (R- quarantined, or movement or feel this time frame is 5. Increased amounts and agricultural workers would Traverse City) attended the sales are restricted in the unrealistic in view of the broadened coverage for farm be 60 percent of the index hearings as a member of the public interest as a result of storage and drying equip- figure, now estimated to be Subcommittee. Persons contamination by drugs or comprehensive nature of chemicals through no fault of farm program legislation. - ment loans, and reduced between $3.05 and $3.25 per representing a wide range of down payment provisions. hour. The bill does not the interests testified at the Producers should affected producers. House hearings on new not be farm program' legislation propose to change the hearings. agricultural exemption in the Michigan Farm Bureau indemnified for losses have also been completed. OSHA resulting from. con- The hearings were held on " act. Farm Bureau opposes was invited to testify at the demnations due to negligence provisions of the current Last year Congressman any increase in the minimum Lansing hearing and a on their part. It was also farm progrmn rather than a Skubitz (R-Kansas) suc- wage at this time and the use statement was presented by suggested that the legislation new farm bill. House cessfully amended the OSHA of an index in determining Administrative Director Agriculture Subcommittees app~op.riationsbill for the FY future minimum wage in- Robert Braden. The government to takefor legal include authority the are now meeting to report begInnIng October 1, 1976 - creases. statement included the action against the responsible specific provisions within September 30!1977to exempt following points: parties to recover funds paid their jurisdiction. employers WIth 10 or fewer Dredge and Fill 1. The federal government Recommendations from employees from all OSHA out. in indemnities. the subcommittees must be requirements. The amend- On Apri16the House passed utilize results of food survey Following the final h~aring samples to reassure the in Lansing, Senator Riegle approved by the full me~t ~so prohib!ts i~uance H.R. 3199which would limit public that their food is safe announced .additional Agriculture Committee and a of CItatIOnsand fInes If 10 or the U.S. Army Crops of from PBB contamination; sessions might be held in final bill reported before fewe~ non-serious violations Engineers permit program 2. The federal government Washington at a later date. consideration of an omnibus are discovered. Congressman over activities affecting navigable waters. Under utilize scientific evidence Meanwhile, the Department farm Dill takes place on the Skubitz and 103 others have House floor. now introduced legislation to existing law the Corps permit compiled by the appropriate of Health, Education and agencies (FDA) as the basis Welfare is reviewing with the While the Senate and House make permanent the current program includes all Agriculture Committees were one ye~r limitat~ons of OS~ navigable waters and ad- for chemical tolerances; FDA the current medical and 3. Given the strong scientific information considering new farm aut~on~y. Hearmgs on this jacent wetlands. Aspassed by likelihood that state relative to the guidelines for program legislation, legislatIon have not been the House on a strong 361-43 legislation will be enacted to PBB established by the FDA. Secretary Bergland an- scheduled .. Fa~m ~ureau vote the permit program will nounced a five part program supports thiS legislatIon. be limited to waters used to under existing authority. The transport interstate and program includes: Minimum Wage foreign commerce and ad- jacent wetlands. This would Systeln for ChelDi.cal 1. Establishment of a and eliminate Corps jurisdiction farmer-owned grain reserve for the 1976wheat and rice A House Labor Education Subcommittee has from most agricultural ac- Checks Told crops; completed hearings on tivities. The bill now goes to a AFBF Calls for Modification At PBB Hearing Testimony presented at the contamina tion investigation, of Delaney Amendment u.s .. Subcommittee Science, Technology and on none was provided. We continued to do the best we The president of the drugs. Any undue cur- amendment it was possible to Space public hearing on PBB could with MDAfacilities and American Farm Bureau tailment of the safe and measure in terms of parts per in Lansing, March 31 was manpower, but we feel that Federation is urging congress appropriate usage of these million. Now science can unanimously in favor of the conclusions we arrived at to take prompt action to products will result in lower measure in terms of parts per setting up a comprehensive, could have been made much modify the Delaney amend- quality and-or quantities of trillion - a million fold in- federally funded system for sooner with outside help." ment to the Federal Food, food and fiber at higher costs crease in less than 20 years. taking immediate action Such help was provided by Drug and Cosmetic Act. to consumers. "We urge members of your should chemical con- the U.S. Department of The Delaney Amendment, "We recommend that the subcommittee to recommend taminants be suspected of Agriculture in January 1975, adopted in 1958,forbids the Delaney amendment be that the appropriate com- entering the human food when that agency agreed to use of any additive found to modified to permit establish- mittees of the Congress un- chain. have their labora tories assist induce cancer when ingested ment of safe tolerances for dertake legislative hearings The hearing, fourth of a the MDA in running monthly by man or animal. It is additives and chemical to consider bills which would series held in Michigan by "survey" samples on tissues currently under attack residues in foods. Such modify the Delaney amend- U.S. Senators Donald Riegle collected at slaughterhouses following a notice in which tolerances must be based ment :and permit the Food and Robert Griffin, brought by MDA meat inspectors, the food and drug ad- upon thorough and competent and Drug Administration to federal, state Michigan Farm Whitehead added. The ministration announced plans scientific research." follow the rule of reason in Bureau and Farm Bureau Federal Food and Drug to ban saccharin on the basis The letter continued, carrying out its respon- Services officials as wit- Administration also provided of canadian tests which " Mod ern s c i en t i fie sibilitles. nesses to determine ways to ex~rt technical laboratory showed that rats, when fed technology has made it "wnen such hearings are prevent disasters such as the and investiga tive as- massive doses of the artificial possible to detect residues of held, iFarm Bureau will be Michigan PBB incident from sistance throughout the sweetener, developed bladder additives and chemicals prepared to present con- occuring again. entire PBB episode. Still, the cancer. which are literally in- structive proposals for "At the time when we MDA had to strain its In a letter ~6representative finitesimal. At the time of needed legislation," con- despera tely needed resources to the limit during Paul G. Rogers, Chairman of passage of the Delaney eluded the letter. assistance for veterinary and the worst of the disaster, the Subcommittee on Health laboratory research work, on Whitehead pointed out. and Environment House Committee on Inter- of the Fruit Handbook Available PBB samples, it was not available," said Dr. George To help reduce possibility of assistance the state and Foreign commerce, The urn Fruit Pesticide make it easier for the grower Whitehead, deputy director of shortages and minimize food AFBF president, Allan Handbook is now available to single out the specific in- the Michigan Department of contamination disasters in Grant, said "Modern from the Michigan State formation sought for a par- Agriculture in charge of the the future, Whitehead agriculture cannot continue Uni versity Cooperative ticular fruit. Bureau of Consumer suggested that a cooperative to provide sufficient quan- Extension Service. Cost of the handbook is Protection. "Although my State-Federal agreement tities of high quality food and As for the format of the 84- $1.00 with copies available division made many requests should be set up to investigate fiber to meet the nation's page handbook, index sec- from offices of the MSU for federal manpower suspected contamination of needs without the use ot tions have been added for Cooperative Extension assistance during 1974, the livestock, much as such agricultural chemicals and each commodity. This should Service. most critical year of the PBB (Continued on Pog. 6) --FARM NEWS :::- --- - - - - MAY, 1977 BlUTY County Kicks off Rural ~;)l. Crime Preve~tion Project - : Barry CoWlty has been number mixed throughout the developed to be placea on selected as a site for a pilot grain. farm equipment. ~es( are program in Rural Crime paid for in part by the Farm Preve~tion. The county was Barry County Farm Bureau Insurance GrouP. I ted bee use f the extent Bureau lias coordinated the .. se ec .. a 0 d effort in the county. The purpose of the program of cn.m.e m th e county, an is to reduce the opportimity Jhe willingness on the par~ of Representatives from each of for expansion of crime in the law enforcement agencies the townships were selected rural areas. The important and the County Farm Bureau and are responsible for the .. to become Involved m so I'vmg program in their specific part of the program is to raise the problem The program township. Their duties in- a level of awareness of Farm . ' .. f . Bureau members. = Thus, if consists ?f Idenh Yln,g elude locating and marking they are more aware of their Members of the Barry County form aureau try out a new pr?perty ~~ the _owner s equipment on farms in their potential for loss, they will be marking de "'ce as a part of the pilot ,program In Rural Crime drIvers lIcense number area. They are workipg in more conscious of whatlhey Pre"ent/on. The program was deve'oped by the Michigan Farm pr.oc~eded by MI for cooperation with the local can do to minimize the op- Bureau Incooperation with law enforcement .encle.ln the state. M higa The program has FF A Chapter and the County ~n de~~loped by Michigan Farm Bureau in cooperation Extension Office. Support is also available from the portunities for the loss. ~ Upon successful completion AFBF calls for_ with law enforcement agencies in Michigan. The Michigan Hastings State Team, and the Police, of the pilot program in Barry County, a decis~on will be Better Corn Grades scope of the program involves Barry County Sheriff's made on a.stateWide program Additional research and demands, competition from marking all equipment in- Department. Supplies are to be consIdered l~te sum~er coordination of effort on other sellers and price cluding personal items. A available through the Barry or late fall. More inform~tion proposed revisions of corn comparisons. method of marking grain has County Farm .Bureau Office. on the program can be ob- grade standards have been also been developed that Training information and tained through the Barry requested by the board of When additional in- consists of confetti or small materials have been provided County Farm Bureau, or the directors of the American formation about specific strips of paper .wjth the through .the Michigan Farm P':lbl~c Affairs Division, Farm Bureau Federation. proposals for corn standard owner's dri vers license ~ureau. Stickers have been MIchIgan Farm Bureau. Acting on this and other charges are available, a recommendations of its Feed conference of Farm Bureau Grain Advisory Committee, leaders will be convened to MSU Scientists Testify that the board has called for evaluation of the economic discuss the issue in depth. The board adopted also a impact on producers of these committee recommendation Michigan's Beef is Safe proposals relating to heat damage, screen sizes, broken corn and small kernels. Other that foreign material should be classified as dockage and Michigan State. University Agriculture and' Natural well, cannot. adopt as a not be a factor for deter- scientists, testifying March 30 Resources, and Dr. Ted general polIcy ~ ze~o areas for study include user mining grades. before U.S. Senate sub- Brody, MSU pharmacologist, - tolerance for chemicals m cO!llmittee hearings on PBB held by Senators Don Riegle proposed the development of human food stuffs without a new facility to cope with hB:ving to pay a hi~h cost. If MSU Profs Now Assistant and Robert -Griffin main- tained that there is' nothing future problems like that caused by the PBB pollution. thIS happens, the Impact on agriculture would be unac- Secs of Agriculture wrong with Michigan's - ceptable." Two former Michigan State Agricultural Economics at _ present food supply, and that ~e proposed Cent.er for On the basis of his studies University faculty members MSU from 1969 to 1972 and- th t f d I .d Ii EnVironmental TOXicology with dairy cows he termed e presen e era gw e ne would concentrate the ex- .' .. have been approved for- top directed MSU's Center for of 0.3 parts per million (ppm) f f . f ts f any lowermg of the gwdebnes positions in the United States Rural Manpower and Public in animals is safe. per Ise 0 sCI~n IS. r?m "tragic," saying that to do so Department of Agricqlture. Affairs from 1970 to 1972. . many MSU umts mcluding would establish a precedent T~ey also discounted any the .C~lleges of ~uman that' would extend to every Approved were Dr. M. Dr. Cutler has a Ph.D. in serI?us threat. of PBBs Me~I~lne, Yeterlnary chemical. "If this happened, Rupert Cutler as Assistant Resource Development from causing cancer In humans Medicme, Agriculture and regulatory agencies would be Secretary for Conservation, MSU. He has a wide an~ .proposed. a new s~te Nat~~l Resources and the faced with a situation they Research and Education; and background in government, faCIlIty t? r~pIdly cope ~th PestiCide Research Center. could not manage," he added. Dr. Dale E. Hathaway, education and environment. any SImIlar. pollutI~n On the subject of FDA A report on similar Assistant Secretary for He has served as an adviser problems that might occur In tolerance levels, Dr. Robert exhaustive studies by MSU International Affairs and to the Office of Environment Commodity Programs. and Urban Systems of the the future. Cook, MSU dairy physiologist poultry scientists was also Dr. Cutler will leave his U.S. Department of Tran- Dr. J. A. Hoefer, acting said, "The people of submitted to the sub- post as assistant professor in sportation, was Assistant dean of ~lhe College of Michigan, and the U.S. as committee. ' the Department of Resource Executive Director of the l"FB Testimony on PBB (Continued from Page 5) available program to provide Development at MSU. Dr. Wilderness Society, and has Hathaway was Chairman of written for and edited several agreements were established tamination problem." indemnities to livestock and the Department of conservation publications. to eradicate livestock The gathering of such crop producers in incidents brucellosis and TB. He also suggestions are really the involving chemical con- suggested that Michigan major intent of the public tamination," Braden pointed Halbert Named State University establish a hearings, Senator Riegle out. "Such indemnities should Center for Environmental Toxicology, staffed' with pointed out. be provided when products "We need. to fi~d out how are impounded, farms are Dairyman of the Year Frederick . P. Halbert, He is currently a member qualified personnel that could we can InvestIgate all quarantined, or movement or Calhoun County Farm of the Michigan Milk conduct research and provide a venues. of the. human food sale are restricted in the Bureau member, was named Producers' Association rapid diagnoses should supply Immediately .sh~d public interest as a result of Dairyman of the Year during Board of Directors, has another contamination another food contamInation contamination by drugs or Michigan State University's served as member and past problem occur. problem be suspected," chemicals through no fault of Farmers' Week activities president of the MSU Dairy "I also feel that the com- Riegle said. "No one should the affected producers." March 21-25. Advisory Council and as a munication between state and have been willing to settle The legislation providing Halbert was one of 11 of the member of the Project 80 & 5 federal agriculture depart- wi~ insufficie!lt. resources the indemni ty program state's dairy producers MSU Advisory Board. ments as well as with other dunng the Michigan PBB should also include authority honored for having made Halbert is also a member of public' and animal health investigation. The federal for the government to take outstanding contributions to the National Milk Producers' agencies should be improved. government should ~ve the legal action against the the dairy industry or whose Federation Board and the "Such communication has emergency capacity to. responsible parties to recover herds have set new Animal Health Advisory deteriorated since the respond at once to any such funds paid out in in- production records. The Committee. 1960's," Whitehead em- thr ea t to hu man h ea lth". demnities." awards were part of the MSU Dr. Harold Hafs, chairman phasized. Also, funding for R ~~e r ~ B. r ad en, Don Armstrong, Executive Dairy Breeds Luncheon at of the MSU dairy science animal health and associated Admlmstrative DIrector for vice president of Farm Kellogg Center, March 21. department, in making the areas has been reduced to a the Michigan Farm Bureau, Bureau Services, Inc., feels Halbert, his wife Esther presentation cited Halbert's dangerous level. Michigan testified that the fede~al that a low-interest loan and two sons, Rick and Mark, managerial ability in the agriculture has been placed gov.ernment should prOVIde program for producers af- operate on 2,000 acres and farm's business growth, his in jeopardy because there assIStance to farmers af- fected by chemical con- have a herd of 500producing a being asked to lecture at MSU was no such mechanism to fected by such chemical tamination should be a rolling herd average of 15,460 and his numerous articles cope effectively with a contamination incidents. primary consideration. pounds of milk and 577pounds appearing in the national significant livestock con- "There is no readily (Continued on page 10) of butterfat. farm press. MAY,' '1977 FARM NEWS 4 ~ " -, PAG....E7 Grant objectives. " eluded. "The lack of union .Ammonia Fertilizer (Continued from Page 3) shut down an entire con- Then membership this compulsory begins membership will involvement be revealed for the struction site, he said. dehumanizing process when weakness it represents. Can Cause Blindness "The blockage of this major decisions are made by Strong arm union leadership legislation was a surprise to a handful of labor leaders, he must added. But then be replaced." organized labor is not Anhydrous ammonia is a In stressing the need for organize labor, but merely potent fertilizer - its ability to proper eye protection for because this force feels that "However, there are going to give up easily, Grant increase crop production is everyone handling or ap- its unprecedented economic hopeful signs of growing warned. Farmers must be well known. Not so ,well plying anhydrous ammonia and pOliticalpower can carry public awareness and ready to oppose mandatory known is that splashed in the as well as those working through any measures resistance to union decrees union membership from now eyes, it can cause total nearby, the Society cited without strong opposition," and demands," Grant con- on. blindness in a matter of accident data. "Reports from Grant emphasized. minutes. the National Safety Council AFBF opposes the strong- The National Society for the show that only 60 percent of arm strategies of organized Prevention of Blindness those accident victims had labor because such policies urges that appropriate safety eyewear available to include boycotts and strikes chemical type safety goggles them," said Jim O'Neil, tha t can destroy markets, with hooded vents and a rim Safety Specialist for the crops and even farms. that fits snugly around the Society. "Even more "We simply can't leave eye area be worn at all times disturbing," he said, "is the farmers in their fields un- when working with small amount of these in- defended against the anhydrous ammonia to dividuals, only 22 percent, predatory actions of labor prevent eye damage from who were wearing any kind of unions," the national farm this potentially hazardous eye protection." group leader said. substance. (Continued on page 10) But mostly, the AFBF opposes the loss of individual freedoms that union tactics AFBF Opposes cause, Grant said. Genesee County Farm Bureau president Tom Atherton and MfB board member Andy Jacleson try to convince Waterford Time, "It is impossible to have reporter Carol Teegardin that she and other c,onsumers have good Wheat Loan Increase individual freedom when reason to be confident In MIchigan', food supply. The exchange toole people have to pay a union for place during an "Agricultural Baclegrounder" In Pontiac on April 14, Opposition to any increase loan levels for the 1978crop. the privilege of earning a hosted by Oaleland, Lapeer, Macomb, Genesee, St. Clair and Wayne in wheat loan rates above the Other committee recom- living," Grant said. "As free county Farm Bureaus. In the bacleground are Lloyd Stoyer of the current $2.25per bushel level mendations approved for citizens, most union members Lapeer County Press and Mr. and Mrs. Tony Noriega of the Imlay Clfy for the 1977 crop has been action by the Board include: would not knowingly condone Times. The Detroit free Press, Detroit New" Michigan Catholic, and voiced by the Board of Wheat Allotment: or support union actions that WPON, Pontiac radio, were also represented at the baclegrounder. Directors of the American State Farm Bureaus will be were consistantly contrary to Farm Bureau Federation. urged to review wheat their best interests, or those allotments to determine if tha t would restrict their Acting on a recom- changes are needed. personal freedoms. Unfor- mendation of its wheat ad- CCC Credit: tunately, in many instances, visory committee, the Board AFBF will urge the union members have no has said that the AFBF also Secretary of Agriculture to choice. The monopoly power will oppose a 1978loan level adjust Commodity Credit of organized labor, through which would either interfere Corporation credit to grain occasional use of in- with export markets or lead buying countries to assure timida tion, coercion, or to government ownership of that U.S. interest rates are downright force funnels wheat stocks. The competitive with other workers into memberships, organization will review the countries. He also will be whether they wish to join a wheat supply and demand asked to adjust interest and union or not. Once enrolled, situation following the 1977 repayment periods on CCC members are taxed and crop before making any Credit as the international pressured to support union Every fanner candidates and political recommendations on specific money market dictates. should oVln Motor Vehicle Fund Inadequate a bank (Continued from page I) Michigan Farm Bureau. The the shift of funding to high- sportation. "The county American Farm Bureau way users was the Horton Act of his oVin. engineers ha ve learned to Federation is currently of 1938. MFB fought make their appraisals on fighting efforts to divert vigorously for the passage of what can be tolerated, rather monies from the National this act, for it mandated than what could be had with Highway users trust fund, he funding for. county roads unlimited resources." added. through highway user taxes. The resources are money. MFB helped influence the Because of this law, only 2 per State and local officials are shift from the taxing of cent offunds appropriated for recognizing tha t the revenue property owners for the roads county road improvements in Like all ag cooperatives, the Farm Credit Banks of St. Paul are owned by the people they serve ...farmers, ranchers and collected in the state Motor tha t were near their 1938 were from property their cooperatives in Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota and Vehicle Fund is not enough to properties to the highway taxes. Wisconsin. And no matter how much you borrow, you get the maintain and construct all user fund concept because "The Michigan Farm very same voting strength as others. classes of roads to meet farmers were suffering Bureau policy firmly support Your vote helps elect fellow farmers to the board of directors present demands, let alone serious financial dif- the funding of highways of your Production Credit Association, Federal Land Bank those of the future. ficulties," Smith says. "Some through user taxes because Association and cooperatives. These boards, in turn, elect a The Michigan Farm farmers in the 1930'sactually the only a 1terna ti ve is board for the Farm Credit Banks of St. Paul. And every farmer- through property taxes," member has a voice on the national level through a represen- Bureau is also aware of the lost their lands because they tative on the Federal Farm Credit Board. current State Motor Vehicle could not pay the additional Smith says. "A shift back to property taxes would be Cooperatives have been a part of rural America for a long Fund problems. The property taxes," pointed out. time ...helping individual farmers and ranchers compete suc- organization is a member of The first legislation passed devastating to agriculture." cessfully in a highly-organized business world. the helped organize the newly to initiate the property owner When the Federal Road Aid The cooperative Farm Credit System has helped in that formed Forum for Balanced tax for roads concept was the Act went into effect in 1916,it effort. It's like giving every farmer the key to America's ag- Transportation, a consortum Covert Act of 1915, Smith established a partnership ricultural banking system. of Michigan groups that explains. The shift to highway with the states for the im- opposes any attempts to user taxes started with the provement of all roads. The divert monies from the fund initiation of the gasoline tax relationship at first permitted for other transportation purposes. The Michigan in 1925. Still, in 1933, ap- proxima tely 98per cent of the Farm funds for county road im- federal monies to be used for almost any rural road, but diversified demand and COOPERA~~~ FAIIM Bureau, long a staunch ad- provement were raised by vocate of goods roads, was property taxes. This was in limi ted funds reduced fun- ding to a designated system CIEIIT influential in setting up the spite of the McNitt Act of 1931 State Motor Vehicle Fund that removed the burden of concept through its support of the trunk highways from the of important interstate routes in 1921. "Once the interstate IIIKI OF ST. PAUL Federal Intermediate Credit Bank (for your PCA) legislation of development of townships and allocated a system is complete, we are Federal Land Bank (for your FLBA) roads with highway user portion of the gasoline tax calling for federal funds for Bank for Cooperatives (for your cooperatives) taxes, says Bob Smith, senior funds to the counties. county roads," says Earl 375 Jackson St., St. Paul, MN 55101/Phone: (612) 725-7722 le~islative counsel fOl; the The real breakthroogh in (Continued on page r 1) PAGE 8 FARM NEWS M A Y , 1977 Farm Leaders "Tell it Like It is" Visit Congressmen on Issues of Concern Speaking out on current Legislative leaders added a issues of concern to the new dimension to their agricultural industry, 123 responsibilities this year, Farm Bureau leaders from visiting with urban throughout the state par- Congressmen who have no ticipated in the 17th annual Ifarm constituents. Elton R. Washington Legislative Smith, president of the Seminar held in the nation's Michigan Farm Bureau, who capitol March 28-31. headed the delegation to Of this group, 58 were Washington, saluted the designated "Legislative legislative leaders for their Leaders" representing 50 efforts. county Farm Bureaus and the , The four-day seminar Michigan Farm Bureau. provided Michigan Farm Their agenda included break- Bureau members with the fast meetings with opportunity to meet with their Democratic and Republican Congressional representa- Congressmen and individual tives on a personal basis to visits to legislators' offices. discuss issues which are of Selected issues affecting importance to farmers at the agriculture, pending in the grass-roots level and allowed 95th Congress, that were them to be actively involved given top-priority attention in the organization's policy by the group were: the new execution process. farm program, provisions of the federal estate tax The seminar is sponsored legislation, federal use tax, each year by the Michigan Washington, D.C. was decked out In her beautiful spring garb to greet the 123 Michigan Farm divestiture of oil companies, Farm Bureau Women to Bureau members who participated In the 17th annual Washington Legislative Seminar, March 28- deregulation of natural gas make possible this contact 31. This legislative activity Is sponsored by Farm Bureau Women to give members an opportunity to prices, and minimum wage between Michigan farmers discuss Issues of concern with their Congressmen and learn more about our nation's legislative laws as they affect and their elected represen- process. agricultural labor. tatives. A County Legislative Leader Reports (Editor's note: Deni the farm program presented Sawyer of the 5th District The secretary also spoke at Hooper served as the last week by new Secretary (Grand Rapids) spoke of the a Senate Agriculture sub- Legislative Leader Bob Bergland he would have immense power of the hand- committee meeting in an old, representing Northwest been run off the hill. written letter. He had small, packed hearing room Michigan County Farm Traxler fielded a vigorous received 1,000 such letters, all in the Russell Building. He Bureau. Here is her account flow of questions ranging but 12 of which were against had almost finished asking of the seminar, reported in from minimum wage (he the bill. for a large addition to the her local newspaper, The predicted a compromise Sawyer said the late night budget (loans) when Senator Traverse City Record- between labor and vote on the bill, heavily Hubert Humphrey, silent for Eagle.) Presidential recommenda- favored to pass, was as ex- a hour and a half and looking By DENI HOOPER tions), capital gains amend- citing as the last seconds of a much older and grayer than The Capitol building in ment to the Estate Tax laws basketball game as the house his photographs, came to life. Washington, D.C. is a (a bill he had sponsored to computer scoreboard flashed rescind would probably not be the rapidly changing vote Humphrey said such loans magnificent sight in spring, added to the budget made the floating on a sea of flowering acted on this year), whether which sent the bill to defeat. or not normal farm practices After the breakfasts, the government look bad, con- cherry, magnolia, forsythia tinuing much louder and and tulip blossoms in full will be exempted from the $5 group split to cover various billion Water Pollution hearings, the Supreme Court ending by shouting "By God, bloom. if a man ran his business the This beauty was ap- Control Act to many more. or to speak at greater length Breakfasters in the up- with their Congressmen. way the government did he'd preciated by 123 Michigan be put in the nut house." people who spent four days stairs dining room of the One group found itself in exploring the legislative Capitol Hill club the next day the wrong Agriculture A house Agriculture sub- activity, judicial procedures fared a little better on very building, late for a speech by committee proved equally Secretary of Agriculture and historical sites as part of sticky buns and the usual Secretary Bob Bergland, interesting as 11 Represen- Robert Bergland addressed the the Washington Legislative scrambled eggs. when a nice gray-haired tatives struggled to evolve a Michigan delegation during their Seminar. Of the eight Michigan g e n t l e m a n introduced definition of the financial visit to the US. Department of Republican representatives, himself and all followed needs test as they worked to Agriculture In Washington, D.C. We spent what time our congressmen could spare all were present or had one or Secretary Bergland to the idemnify agriculture against floral greenhouses (no discussing farm problems two staff members in at- right auditorium. catastrophe and loss. samples allowed) to see the with the lawmakers or his tendance. Freshman Bergland began speaking Some of the group covered virus experiments. The aides. Congressman David Stock- with hardly a pause for the Easter Show in the heated interior temperature Fifty-eight farm leaders, man of the St. Joseph area breath, outlining the farm National Arboretum, a and humidity caused us all headed by Michigan Farm had two very active men who program with a goal of get- breath-taking display of to be grateful for the "cool" Bureau President Elton passed out copies of a deeply ting rid of allotments and massed white lilies, and 85-degree conditions outside. Smith, attended a researched statement the removing the government purple azaleas, bordered by One group had a grand tour Democratic breakfast in the congressmen had made on from the grain business. yellow daffodils and red of Washington, Georgetown Rayburn Building. the development, extent and Bergland advocated food aid tulips. and the best restaurants with Two of the 11 Michigan handling of the state PBB used as a developmental tool Others journeyed to their Congressman's staffs. representatives joined us - problem. in third world countires - Beltsville Agricultural Some toured McDonalds. Rep. Robert Traxler of the Rep. Guy Vander Jagt instead of dollars - as he Research Station which Actress Liv Ullman was 8th District in the Thumb spoke of a public survey described the sorry plight of covers 5,000 acres of Prince worth the trip all by herself as area, and Rep. David Bonior showing opinion so in favor of fields in some other parts of George County, Md., for a Anna in "Anna Christie." of the 12th. Congressman the President that the great the world. three-hour tour of the While the Farm Bureau Lucien Nedzi sent a young majority approved the He identified himself as an facilities, watching con- members in Washington woman to represent him. energy program which has author of the grain inspection tinuing research on such hopefully contributed to the Rep. Traxler was ex- not yet been offered. standards after he found diverse subjects as solar Congressional understanding tremely vocal in describing In describing the defeat of seashells being added to corn heating, cows, fruit trees and of agricultural problems they house agricultural activities. the labor-sponsored common for overseas shipment, bees. all returned home with one He said that if Agricultural situs or secondary boycott causing a loss of world Part of the tour was thing in common - very sore Secretary Butz had offered bill, Congressman Hall confidence and business. through some of the extensive feet. MAY, 1977 FARM NEWS • q~ - " rJi 'f II Congressman Robert Traxler (0-8th District) talks with MFS President Elton Smith and Lapeer County legislative leader Edwin Martus about proposed EPA \r~ .. ~.. AII airport press conference prior to departure for Washington, D.C. attracted dust emission standards which would Increase costs to the farmer and could . Chonnel 6, Lansing and Channel 7, Detroit. Facing the cameras and fielding possibly put some smaller elevators out of business because they could not aHord questions from the press were MFS Legislative Leaders E'tonR. Smith, Arthur to Install equipment needed to meet the standard. - ,Bailey, Mike Pridgeon, Jan Stoner, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Jackson, Jack Laurie, Bob Rottler and Sill Spike •. .. ...l.. Congressmen David 8onlor (D-J2th District) chats with legislative 'eaders at the Democratic breakfast. Congressmen who did not attend the breakfasts were 'ater "tracked down" by serious 'eglslatlve leaders who were determined to get C~ressman Garry Brown (R-3rd District) told legislative 'eaders at the their message across while In Washington, D.C. lepvblfcan breakfast that attempts will probably be made by consumer groups to ~I"O". kav. SOMe kind of standby authority for President Carter to Impose export He warned this cou'd "raise hf!'voc"with the free market system and InIIII flte American farmer •. ~ Discussing the "other side" of the PBS Issue with Congressman WIlliam Srodhead (O-Detrolt)and his aide, John Sche'be, are West Michigan farmers ('e" to right) Bob RoHler,Newaygo County; Janet Sail, Mecosta County; Sill Edbrooke, Newaygo County,and Pete and Marcia Korwln, Manistee County. Present but not shown was Lyle Sail, Mecosta County. Srodhead has Introduced 'egls'atlon at the federa' 'eve' to 'ower PSS to'eronce 'evels. _--'~ c:P~ _ , /' \lfslUng with Congressman Guy VanderJagt (R-9th District) at the I I Republican breakfast, Bethe' Larabee, Kalkaska County; Uledene Merrill, Benzie, and Ethel Fu'ton, Saginaw County ('e" to right), listen affenflvely as he makes a point. ROBERT ROTTlER LYLE SALL MFS YOUNG FARMERS MECOSTA COUNTY 0.: What do you 'ee' was your MARSHA KENNEDY Q.: Do you think the Washington malor contribution while In SANILAC COUNTY Legls'atlve Seminar Is a wore Washington, D.C.? Q.: Do you think Congressmen thwhl'e activity? are responsive to the concerns of A.: Defimtely! This is the A.: When we talked to people "back home"? Congressman Brodhead on most effective Farm Bureau the PBB issue, we at least A.: Absolutely! They want to members have to let thei told him another side of the know what their constituents legisla tors know tha t we'r story - a side of which I'm think. They make decisions "out there" and let them sure he was completely which directly affect our know our views on issues tha unaware. Meeting with farms, our very livelihood. effect us. It puts us in contac legislators from urban areas When we participate in with people who set the MIchigan Farm Sureau Women's Committee Chairman C'audlne Jackson tells TomOchlltree of Panax Newspape,., about some Issues farmers discussed with their 'egls'ators during the Uay 0' the was valuable because they have no farmer constituents legislative activities such as this, we can let them know nation's policies. It's also a fantastic opportunity to ge whocan tell them how certain where we stand on issues, and ideas from Congressmen on seminar In the nation's capitol. The exchange took place at a pre .. how we can be of more briefing at the Natlona' Press C'ub between MFB'egls'atlve 'eaders legisla tion will affect they know where they should artd Washington correspondents. agriculture. stand to best represent us. assistance to them. PAGE Yo FARM NEWS MAY: 1977 Migrant Worker Ammonia Fertilizer Causes Blindness (Continued from page 7) After this emergency Following first aid the victim measure is completed, he should be quickly moved to a Education Advocated Ammonia's dangerous property is its most should seek immediate larger water supply for more A better system of utilizing accept less than this quality. tremendous affinity for medical attention from a copious flushing 'of the eyes, seasonal migrant farm labor Unskilled seasonal laborers water. Upon contact with the physician or hospital followed by immediate should be implemented in do not consistently provide eye, composed of 80 percent emergency room. Waiting for medical attention. Michigan to help fruit and this quality of produce for the water, the ammonia treatment increases the vegetable workers be assured penetrates almost at the chances for sight loss," Most accidents occur grower, Leaver said. during transfer of of trained, productive Therefore the grower's profit instant of contact, and within O'Neil cautioned. Salves or 30 seconds, cell and tissue ointments should never be pressurized anhydrous workers when they are margins could be hurt by not ammonia from the bulk needed the most, a having trained workers in his destruction begins. "Once in applied as they tend to seal spokesman for the processing fields. the eyes, immediate flushing the fertilizer in and may only supply to smaller tanks, a industry told participants of "If a stable supply of with water, continuously for add to the damage. process often repea ted the Seasonal Farm Labor trained migrant workers 15 minutes is the recom- several times between fac- mended emergency first aid It is up to farmers to be tory and actual farm ap- Issues Conference held in were available, growers sure that a 5 gallon tank of plication. Lansing April 6. would be willing to pay them procedure," O'Neil said. fresh water is attached to the The conference was wages that would be com- "If the victim is near a applicator and nurse tank There are only three ways sponsored by the Michigan petitive with other in- pond or other body of water, vehicles. The Society also to safeguard your sight Commission on Agricultural dustries," Leaver explained. he should jump right in, urges a plastic squeeze bottle against anhydrous ammonia: Labor in cooperation with the "The extra expense would be immersing himself com- of water be carried in a shirt regular use of chemical Michigan Department of well worth the knowledge that pletely, holding his eyelids pocket to flush the eyes im- safety goggles, good main- Labor's Bureau of the workers knew how to open so the ammonia can be mediately, should contact tenance of equipment, and Employment and Tax harvest crops in the best diluted and washed away. with anhydrous occur. very careful application. Training. manner." "The present system forces The key elements of system the fruit or vegetable grower to provide better trained each must be handled in a to hire unproductive, un- skilled migrant workers who seasonal migrant workers would be to provide a different way to provide a consistent high quality Armstrong Outlines have little incentive to in- guaranteed minimum harvest. The educational crease their output," Jack amount of wages for migrant program would provide the Residue Protection Plan Leaver, director of workers, providing a training worker and his family with an (Continued from poge 6) Agricultural Operations for program for each specific upward mobility and skills or risk adverse health im- "It makes little sense to plications pending the out- Gerber Foods, Inc., pointed crop to be picked, and to have that would class him as a provide disaster funds to out. "If such manpower growers make their work semi-professional in his come of such tests." flood or weather victims and Armstrong also called for remains all that is available need requirements well in fieldwork. Writing, reading to deny such aid to chemical to the grower, he could be advance of the season, and an interpersonal communica- an objective, well, defined contamination victims," he and clearly understood basis forced to make the choice of educational program that tions and other areas would testified. "However, this switching to less labor- migrant workers would be be focused on." for establishing acceptable federally - funded and chemical residue tolerance intensive crops." required to participate in, Along with a better quality supervised low-interest loan Many elements of society Leaver explained. harvest, the migrant worker levels. State legislatures program for the victims should be required to would be hurt by the loss of "The guaranteed income would have an improved should be implemented by any of Michigan's fruit and standard of living, Leaver establish a sufficient concept would be an asset non-local scientists to make scientific basis for deviating vegetable producers, Leaver when recruiting seasonal continued. The consumer sure that only actual victims farm workers," the would have a more depen- from federal tolerance levels. emphasized. However, benefit from the program." This system would be processors are going to be agricultural labor expert dable source of top grade Armstrong also suggested produce to buy and the designed to a void the purchasing only produce that pointed out. "The training that: possibility of producers is "U.S. Fancy" grade programs would be essential processor a better product to offer through this program. a. Chemical companies having to adhere to differing because consul1)ers will not for the various crops, because should be required to package standards because of local all food grade material in a political considera tions. pre-printed container of a The lack of a com- R ural Health Rural Health Hints specified color and with a readable label setting forth prehensive federal program to take immediate action Day to the chemical name of the when chemical food con- Help Prevent Choking product contained in the tamination is suspected is package. also a major concern for Dr. Encourage Accidental choking on food Press your fist into the b. Chemical companies Maurice Riezen, director of has become the sixth major victim's abdomen with a should be required to conduct the Michigan Department of Country Doctors States. cause of death in the United It often occurs in quick upward thrust. Repeat several times if necessary. acute or chronic toxicity studies upon all of their Public Health and Dr. Francis Mulhern, former To help call attention to the restaurants after a few drinks If the victim has collapsed, products regardless of administrator of the U.S. acute shortage of family may have dulled the gag turn him onto his back. Then: whether they are intended for Department of Agriculture's physicians in rural areas and reflex, and spontaneous Facing victim, kneel food uses or other products. Animal and Plant Health inform communities in ways laughter and uncontrolled astride his hips. c. Chemical companies Inspection Service. to obtain such professionals, inhalation, added to a sub- With one of your hands on should be required to notify "Throughout this episode, the Michigan Health Council stantial chunk of food, top of the other, place the heel their food grade customers of it has been apparent that is sponsoring a Rural Health triggers tragedy. of your bottom hand on the the trade names and toxic there is a lack of physical, Day. The. "bear hug" is a abdomen slightly above the characteristics of all their financial and personnel The event will be held May relatively new technique to navel and below the rib cage. products at the time any food resources at the state and 19, in conjunction with stop choking. Press into the victim's grade product is sold. federal levels to meet Education Day of Michigan Howdo you recognize that a abdomen with a quick up- d. Regulatory agencies, emergency situations of this Week. The Physicians Center person is choking on food ward thrust. both federal and state, should type," Riezen pointed out at in Hastings, next to Pennock rather than having a heart Repeat several times if be provided with adequate the hearing. "There is still no Hospital, will be the site of the attack? necessary. staff and testing equipment to effective mechanism meeting. (1) The victim will not be Be prepared to remove any test feed and animals on an established to control these Doctors who are now in able to speak. (2) In a short morsel of food from the indi vidual basis when residue problems although training in family medicine, time, he or she will turn blue, mouth of the victim if it is not chemical contamination is there is no question that such along with other primary and (3) In a few minutes completely ejected. suspected. situa tions will develop in the health care specialists, have more, the victim will The theory behind the "It's simply not fair to future. It will take a long been invited to attend. collapse. Death occurs in four Heimlich technique is that quarantine an entire term commitment from all Representatives of com- minutes from the time air is placing pressure to the vic- opera tion which is engaged in levels of government to munities that are in need of first cut off. tim's abdomen forces the the manufacture of develop a program of physicians are also urged to Here's how to administer diaphragm upward and the perishable goods just on the research investiga tion, attend. the Heimlich technique to a compressed air outward. The basis of a few tests," Arm- regula tion and training that Hastings has been chosen person choking on food if the rush of air expels the stuck strong emphasized. "This will be able to cope with all for the meeting because this victim is standing or sitting: object (and the victim could problem requires legislators these problems." community has been suc- Stand behind the victim and just as well be a child whohas to squarely face the question Mulhern agreed wilh . cessful in obtaining several wrap your arms around his ingested coins or other of whether they are willing to Riezen on the need for such a family physicians to the area waist. foreign matter), much like commit public funds to pay cross-governmental com- within a.short period of time. Grasp your fist with your the cork from a child's pop the salaries of additional mitment. He also encouraged A key to attracting these other hand and place the fist gun or a champagne bottle. scientific personnel, pay the establishment of a. health personnel was the against the victim's ab- It's a simple technique, but farmers for losses sustained national feed monitoring- construction of the domen, slightly above the its application could save a because of delays sustained system for chemical corr. Physician's Center. navel and below the rib cage. life. in obtaining such test results, taminants. i M A v , 1977 FARiV NEWS PAGE M watem : of the ioca; roaa •mareve rrunty roads enough- probicrn is that. •Q^nshaps are Mo -Aay ;" u set up now oeeonuna inereaoingM ' I*he ore- of maektoppme a for Major Road Improvement unable to provide enough wuo ha- on-re than deubied -a-' •" , • - with the 'county share, 'he o v a ;r are : asMhvc>earse Roger? "The cos' oi road 'C-3fi*;nfj&abdtanoai road oro- a a-: asca!a r ed. while the Rogers, director of f hc o d d a r a i a n d increasing :M7 percent is returned to Me provenient program vqinp;uv-nt ;n use today County Roads asscaradori c: trafac w d condnae to cause eeundles to maintain the M e M o r t a n a t e i y n s o m e cofitiiii'e- ?.<•> \sear out." he Michigan. " T h e o v e r s t a t e additional deterioration to be c-urd> r^Xid oysteo; end 19 5 too no hips a r e u e a b i e ?e points out. system a abouc 93 pec cent rep,ared at added expense. pee eent hi provided to ee- idrwate even enoagh ia;nney T- er--'vrd»- ;o-oro ::\on»y to complete. h u : no one can give 'iot'porated eitiee and ; an amuraM idea as to Idioagh Mocoaedes stayed uvea the Mst see* ion? of Meso m o a n the 1975 tdmds villages. theo road'-, let aarne inajor f-aoioi :t.o Bcoanned Tran- amds v/di be done. Some of aaaaea.i M then- rrom the Though 'tie percentage to anpivv.'e!TOUOs. Mch'arvh>- spi-if teon.ee ;s re-ay.e "The problem >s reatn- ioaoipa iii !h-.- 'root tend > true tier, das men abandonee there.- oa : . ;« fard'ier increase -cern h/,v. »he r e a r ioae not acute- iii the ee-rrhere part oi a-uooorm- formau:? for the a; the armaria noaru -aaeeC in d o high percentage a: coaso ao nuicd prnhie-.Ti :'or Vie v a r a voiore Mere -ire muvu.> 'i "os:-e- c roahs Tne eamaqoM- county a m i s Ma- •'-.i+ eroap o-- ;C doe.- *> e-r the rhiaey te^e.sb.'ps ma- do rot- :v..,-- i?ron.:rtan" par: m ih:r The U'maty Roads Tenia o d a a of Michigan a v-ar Ku-gers - a y e TheonOr nignAct;-' cepart~v;r): heve •:rough c: a popidahiih rnr -irr'NCihae-i'; t:> Mat a Tanao ;or 'Balarced Trarr end '.. -00000;. ' MoC-. u aeveihp a:o e : nd of a 'a>, m m p-ov.-rmgr vf me - n o ene w trte .r>r gear-iters of iiioh^ v--:.>e:. ; ire rdeoaien r-oo amrmdu'; o r - ^ o an increase aoyc There latter u^> have based* he points out. ore Toman tor Balanced loom porta mm in nee perrer-opo of Motor :af ad ^.•.-aouni -aonut ee^-ers Mmmo >jy> di.id eourdtee county roads. dMaamau: me -nortag^ VOioao Fann names the n- provide fund- for caul- a? u-e ;vcv a e o i r e on-mm rn-t-ney :-' .--em-" oi>-re a- a iUioyrr r 1wmi..aa' ama nrauuveuwrt n o n e road somen; receives tr.e ee.e.-s er;d 'vifaa-.^ -.iu ' irc-io d>; ',-enor Veh'.eiv Trus • •m.-: r • . -;:-,r.-i-;: v r r t m e m o a •••-.peclaid- wwte Too •<•• a d u oav f r r >nnve of diem Tee :•}•:•.[•; v. ay ieeai U:\ Tumi "o provide their mmium of revenue there is in the Roaa •-aao-;renvoi HoTr.ai> user :nc>rey e a r .e p-^oo^.'ea ;vr of the 50-50 percentagetoall .;.•'••:• --d h ' C-- di;:cr ir:- odter r ;, SMaaami moty Commissions spent $11.9 3m— maud he e s a m a e a M o-aiO;. r o.ih oiaao-o,on;o i- the townships within their m ea ns of t ra ns porta ti on - : million in 1975 for "stop gap fii'io dar n e - apparaaaravo throa^n t!e.- *e-.wi>Uipo UM- boundaries. Scene of this diversion has o o-urmu-.:. ' a-.no-•oca- tro revenue. local g o v e r n m e n t a l unit "Just about all of already been made through most critical of the county Under P u b i k Act 51,provides r e v e n u e for t h e Michigan's townships a r e • he e s t a b l i s h m e n t of a .' .-.M m m - o . o a n o - o o . o no' revenue collected t h r o u g h roads within its boundaries being forced to provide 100 O e n e r a! T r a n s p o r t. a Hon Rogers says that this is by no highway user gasoline and through local propriy taxes. per cent of the money needed Fund. Thus fund was first means enough to counteract licensing weight taxes a r e put To get money from the county co improve secondary roads established in 1072 through the massive deterioration of info the state Motor Vehicle in which it .is located for in their areasd* Rogers says. P.A- 327. At the same More, county roads. Routine Fund. The Act also sets the specific road improvements, If there were enough money the state gas mK was raised maintenance cost $84 million p e r c e n t a g e s that are the township must allocate in the state Motor Vehicle by two rente. Three fourths of spent thai year or. rural roads allocated for construction and some of its revenue for such Fund the eyste.ni could the revenue from the in- went tor traffic services, maintenance of aii classes m projects. In theory, t h e coneeiveabiy do its job. But creased tax was to go hack equipment expenses, ad- reads. Under this system. 44.5 eountv will then maf.eh this Rogers feels that the funding (Ctsr.imved on page 12} Ay Labor CO-O -.. e .; :-.-:-'t a ^ e it confronting a l l Michigan' e/age and the employment of employers, Yet the state's illegal aliensd' a g r i c u l t u r a l element h a s E11 s w o r t h c o n s i d e r s communication of t h e " F a r m e r s have to be just as interested in Michigan's F R E E SERVICE U ' t XfTVM hTo labor conditions trie biggest w o r k m a n e o m p e n s a t i o n challenge that will -be posed to legislation as members of the ^^^^i^^^f : ^i^i^^f auto industry ared* Welborn the legislation concerning emphasized these issues. " M i c h i g a n ' s system, is \our ihesiocfc machinery The second most important rated. 45th in cost ef- thing is for farm labor cm- feeticeuess out of the 48 i^^^^id^d§^pie^;:d^^^ mainland s t a t e s / ' he said. >4It ?hf ; MUt;Mi RadiM TudMi Clvl^tMt'Um!e accurate records possible, also is the only state that E Us worth sand. More and allows retirees to receive U.=MM.-5 :*•* " t e t j M M t e l -M-. T d , , e - more rules uall be im-Op^§^tti^dM|^^^^^^^|; plemented, with oi ore ttllll^^ regulator)' officials coming in to revise this legislation." and Indiana to inspect these records. Good Complete this form artcf mail to the address listed below. Because of the inefficiency ; M ^ ^ t ; ^ ^ ! : ^ f c i ^ ^ t ^ M § a ^ l of M i c h i g a n ' s W o r k m e n ' s t^^^httiMiai^^o^^^^^^if^K^f Compensation program., been complying with the s e v e r a l industries have wmm CLASStFIEOS this area. moved to other states, the - .-.:.•••• ;• v - a M a a .mrvm- A--V, O O - . - m U O i p O 'Ellsworth also warned that can't move, they must stay although there is no National and fight the problem. !i^iil^i|^^^:i^fiifi^^ Growers a r e especially regulation concerning t h e hurt by t h e w o r k m e n ' s compensation system 0.;"-:i not 'wast for the passage of rn i n i m u nt w o r k m e ir s such rales. c om pe nsa t ion insura rice .-area "Michigan farms will be premium even though most rhe target of union such p r o d u c e r s o n l y use Phonei organizers, so farmers should f ' ^ P ^ ^ ^ ^ f ^ : ; ; i h ^ ^ ^ h ^ ^ f be working for t h e im- ; • - a . v - , a 'a '}':::•••'" -.-:.• T r plementation of this national i ;^^^&| :; ^tof^^rt^^^^f^t totally unfair. pointed out. " i l there istobe Welhorn alee said that the ; S ^ l d * S i rtilier , ; l | a ; i ^ ^ M d ^ state legislature in currently ore form throughout the considering on an annual \U( HIGAy FARM country. It would limit the ;^|ttl'^^^^^,^p^^!^§i tern-era of agricultural labor agricultural enipioyers This t»i«ist as mm as grant tte» " ift^ph:^^^'i;tfcf" ^^^ft^ : i : RADIO XETUVRK 11352 DenrHSon RcJ... MU^o, Mich 48160 Michigan Senator John t^^tttt*ff^i# f:^iso^if^^fe ^fe*_ ^^Ssl! ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ B r h ^ ^ t t c f :^^tac"M4i • h;3iift<0il^- } f i l i i r i i , ^ » ; - Phcne: r313i 43S-1610 ^f^irt^wit' PAGE 12 FARM NEWS'" -MAY, 1977 Michigan Marketing Outlook / - Market Intelligence--Q&A Fruits and Vegetahles Question: Could you please formation perhaps the Wall Michigan Elevator Exchange The 1977 prospective cullage. Michigan's crop of provide me with a list of Street Journal or your local has a producer hotline contracted planted acreage of 500 million pounds was a publications and radio station would provide available (517) 321-4411which the nation's major processing decline of 2:1 percent from a organizations that have you with a good daily update. you can call anytime day or vegetables is estimated "at year earlier. marketing information and On a weekly basis there are night. They quote market 1.63million acres. This is only The U.S. season average price projections for corn, such publications as the prices and provide a brief a fraction below the 1.64 price to growers for all wheat, soybeans and cattle? Kiplinger Agriculture Letter, explanation of market ac- million acres last yar. Snap purposes has been estimated - Marty Lewis Doane's Agricultural Report, tivity. The only cost for the beans and green lima beans at 8.8 cents per pound. Total Jeddo, Michigan Pro Farmer, Great Plains MEE Hotline is your are showing the largest in- value of the crop is estimated Answer: There are a large Wheat, Weekly Weather and telephone call. Your local crease while sweet corn and at $549million compared with number of publications Crop Bulletin published by elevator is often a good green pea acreages ~re down. $454 million in 1975. _ available that offer some sort the USDA and U.S. Depart- source of information con- Here in Michigan con- With remaining supplies of of market analysis or in- ment of Commerce. The list cerning local prices. Thus, tracted snap bean acreage fresh apples substantially formation and price forecast. of monthly publications is there is a wide array of in- will be up 19 percent while smaller this season, com- They range all the way from just overwhelm~g. formation available. A lot will cucumbers for pickles and bined with reduced supplies free government publications There are of course- the depend on what you want the tomatoes for processing are of citrus fruits and continued to Market News Services Market News Services which information for. down 14 and 22 percent strong foreign demand, apple costing $500.00 or more. The provide up-to-date market respectively. prices are expected to remain problem is choosing the ones information on a minute-by- Dr. Paul E. Kindinger, With only a small high in the near future. most suited to your needs and minute or hour-by-hour basis. Director processing market left some that you feel you can afford. Grain Instant News, Reuters, Market Development growers have turned more to PEARS If you just want market in- etc. are available for a fee. Division the fresh market. We feel that A record 826,700 tons of there is a good market for pears were utilized in 1976,an Wheat, Corn and Soybeans fresh pears if the growers will use proper cultural practices increase of 11 percent from last year's record crop. The Exports are the key to however, is still forecast at situation develop, we could to attain size, grade and western states accounted for wheat prices in the months nearly 1.2 billion bushels. In see further softening in corn finish needed for this market. 98 percent 'Ofthe U.S. crop. In ahead. And frankly the all likelihood this would mean prices through the summer. view of this large supply, outlook isn't very bright: fewer carryover stocks than It would be unlikely that corn APPLES prices have been averaging 6 Facts are, that with the once forecast, but still sub- prices for the remainder of National utilized apple percent lower than 1975for all present supply and utilization stantially more wheat than 1977 would rise above first production was 6.2 billion uses in the U.S. rates, there's just too much we need in the shortrun. quarter levels. Obviously a pounds, 12 percent below last With the combined wheat. Most of the large Thus, prices will remain great deal still depends on the year's record. Virtually all of problems of fire blight, insect wheat stocks in the U.S. are a sluggish and will probably not weather when the crop is the short 1976 crop was Pests, lack of size and a result of severe cutbacks in go much above current being planted and throughout utilized, whereas in 1975 limited processing market international wheat trade. levels. the summer; how much is fed nearly 6 percent of the crop here in Michigan, many Generally, as a rule of thumb, to livestock before this fall was lost due to economic orchards have been neglected the U.S. exports about 2/3 of CORN and what happens in other abandonment and excess or taken out entirely. its annual wheat crop. This The forecasters are calling parts of the world. year however, because of for 81 to 83 million acres SOYBEANS manner, that is if the cmrent soybean acreage. favorable growing conditions planted in the U.S. this Tight supplies and strong prices are any indication. 2. More sales of soybeans to nearly worldwide, other spring. This compares with prices still prevail for Significant price increases in countries like the P.R.C. exporting countries also have 84.1 million acres last year. soybean markets. In all old crop beans have taken 3. The Peruvian fish catch. wheat .to sell and many Thus, if yields are anywhere liklihood these .8eneral con- place. However, new crop 4. Substitute products - like countries who normally buy near last year's average of 88 ditions will continue through nm-78) have not reacted wheat in the U.S. and a new wheat don't need as much. bushels per acre we could still the remainder of 1977.at least. quite so violently. high Yielding sunflower in Some countries like Argen- have another record crop. Despite some slowdowns in There are still a few key Russia. tina have undercut the U.S. One forecaster is predicting a domestic crushing, the export things to keep track of as the Obviously there are other price all winter long. corn crop totaling nearly markets are still red hot. This new crop year progresses: factors like dry weather, Because of the sad price 6,240 million bushels. Thus, means that carryovers this 1. How much corn is livestock feeding, prices of situation it is likely that some we could be looking at sub- fall are likely to be extremely planted in the Midwest and competing products, etc. winter wheat will be plowed stantially increased corn low. E~dently some others in how much cotton is planted in which will also have an effect. down and less spring wheat stocks this fall. the market place also assess the South. These crops are the Overall however, the outlook planted. The 1977 production Should this large supply the situation in a similar major competitors for for soys is quite bullish for 77. Motor Vehicle Fund Inadequate revenue available to the (Continued from page into the motor Vehicle Fund, J J) 1977 resolution on Roads and Highways, opposes any ac- state's roads at a time when the road system desperately "needs more money, not less, Safemark National while one-fourth was to go tion that would take funds into the General sportation Tran- fund. Currently, away from the Motor Vehicle Fund. for improvements," he said. By action of the Board of Directors, The Michigan in Scope this amounts to about $22 The Forum for Balanced Farm Bureau will join with Some Community Group present time in Michigan, million. Transporta tion is also other groups to enter the case members have indicated a there are 34 Safemark Monies from the General disputing the con- before the Supreme Court as concern about the ability to dealers in operation. Transporta tion Fund go to stitutionality of two laws Amisus Curiae, or friend of have Safemark service in There has also been quite a fund mass transportation in passed in 1976 that could the court, to file legal briefs particular states while concern by Community urban areas, airports, affect the further diversion of disputing the con- traveling south for vacations. Group members that they railroads, dial-a-ride systems revenue from the Motor stitutionality of P .A. 295 and The Safemark Program is have seen no advertising of in rural areas and other uses. Vehicle Fund. P.A. 297. very well established Safemark products in the- Now Governor William Farm Bureau members throughout the nation, as it is publications they receive. In Milliken has proposed that a "The Michigan Supreme who oppose the diversion of effective in 42 states. In any the course of the last several Single Transporta tion Fund Court is currently deciding monies from the Motor of these 42 states, Safemark months, many of the county be established. All revenue the constitutionality of P.A. Vehicle Fund should contact tire service is provided and committees have had at- collected for transportation 295 and P .A. 297," Smith their legisla tors in Lansing, there is an interstate tractive advertisements in purposes would be collected points out. "P.A. 295 provides Smith says. agreement to service the the counties which maintain a and disbursed on a per- the authority for the State to In the June edition, Farm Bureau members of regular newsletter service. centages basis to pay for road bond against the revenue Michigan Farm News will these participating states. Other advertising ~has been development, airports, state going to the Motor Vehicle take an in-depth look at The service that is required provided by the county police service, mass tran- Fund, while P .A. 'l!¥l defines on the local level is controlled what a "highway purpose" is. Governor Milliken's Single commi ttees through local sportation systems and other Transportation Fund con- by the members. They in- shoppers' guides. As the transportation projects. Potentially the state cept, -along with Michigan dicate the need for service to program continues to grow The governor's proposal legislature, through these two Farm Bureau policy and the their Group Purchasing and expand, our members would mean the abolishment acts, now has the power to recommenda tions of the county committees and then will be more aware (of the of the state Motor Vehicle divert Motor Vehicle Fund to Forum for Balanced Tran- the county committees continued success of the Fund, as well as the state just about any ~e that sporta tion to increase establish the service that the program through use of these Aeronautics Fund. The they wish, Smith emphasizes. revenue for Michigan's local dealer must provide to first quality premium Michigan Farm Bureau, in its ''This power threatens the roads. the county members. At the products. ~MAY,' 1977 FARM. NEWS- 'PA1i""E" 13 already extended lead times shown to be a better piece of and diesel fuel accounts are for delivery of some steel taking a spurt as farmers Supply materials. Pressure treated lwnber is . readily available. However, equipment and lower in price than other brands. LIQUID FUELS As we go into the spring look to reliable sources of supply. With the weather breaking, the deluge in Report -because of the PCP, pen- tachloraphenol, question, we are recommending that it not with its heavy demands for liquid fuel, the effectiveness of our planning and demand was already felt. However, our Energy- Cooperative Refinery stands be used in areas where distribution arrangements us in good stead. GENERAL animals are confined. has been paying off for far- TIRES Farm Bureau Services CO-OP Water Softeners mer patrons. Liquid fuel Increases in tire sales have dealers are doing a brisk :;ave soap, improve health, supplies have been adequate dominated retail stores with business in farm supplies. make life easier. You can get in spite of the heavy demand. farmers appreciating the The large planting intentions, your water tested free at Gasoline and diesel fuel tanks vastly increased inventory, many days of favorable participating Farm Bureau on farms continue to be filled. supply and price picture. A weather, and improved farm dealers. There will also be a In anticipation of summer big burst of spring activity set product prices in prospect all promotion soon offering a demand, prices of gasoline sales records in excess of 25 contribute to the large year's supply of soap when have gone up a bit, and there percent. Both Cash & Carry demand. Farm Bureau you buy a softener. CO-OP may be other boosts during savings and the Spring Ahead Services dealers are well Water Softeners have been the summer. New gasoline Sale contributed. stocked. FERTILIZER March and April turned out to be the biggest month ever in the sale of fertilizer for Farm Bureau Services. With the large planting intentions, as warned previously, there is now some trouble, in replacing supplies as they are rapidly delivered to farmers. Urea, eSPecially, has been very short in supply. But, Farm Bureau Services dealers are still your best bet for both supply and com- petitive prices of quality fertilizer. Now, while there's still time, make arrangements for .. your anhydrous ammonia side-dressing with a Farm Bureau dealer. He can help you with application equip- ment, too, if you need it. PESTICIDES Farmers were pleased to have the.benefits of a large selection of quality Farm Bureau herbicides, in- secticides, and fungicides. More pesticides have been sold by Farm Bureau in the last two months than ever before. Forward buying, careful analyses of dealer needs and knowledge of the best, most-adequate pesticides for farmers, again put our farmer patrons in the -best buying position. Stocks are still adequate and pric~s are good. FEEDS NU PRO Dairy Feed Sales are gaining excellent ac- ceptance. Results have been more than outstanding. Increases in milk production Progressive, Profitable Feeding Programs are being experienced by more than 98 percent of the Begin With The Farm Bureau People dairy farmers using NU PRO Dairy Feed. These increases The Farm Bureau people are cooperative Bureau Services dealerS also offer liquid feeds ... are in addition to, and topping people - dedicated to helping you make Liquid Protein Supplement (LPS) and Liquid increases, already thought to Silage Additive (LSA) to increase the profit- be the maximum from high your feed dollar go further. Farm Bureau producing herds. NU PRO dealers are backed by years of cooperative ability of your beef or dairy herd. And now Dairy Feed is only available research, the most modem feed manufac- the Farm Bureau people offer a new Farm from Farm Bureau Services turing facilities, and an expert staff includ- Bureau mineral program with products and is a result of CRF, ing a qualified animal nutritionist. These designed to meet the special needs of Cooperati ve Research things help your dealer tailor a feeding modern livestock. Progressive, profitable Farms, patented research program to meet your needs. Wt.eMu-F8rmeon-Rm feeding programs results. HARDWARE The new Vigilante Smoke Alarm is now available to Modern, progressive Farm Bureau tech- niques bring Michigan farmers profitable new feeds. Recently introduced Nu Pro 1M FaRm BUreaU t;;I are yours for the L1 asking. Ask the Farm Bureau people. protect your property. The dairy feed is a new feed concept developed FARM 8UREAU SBMCES.INC - Hardware Department made by Farm Bureau Services i~ Cooperation an excellent purchase on this with Cooperative Research Farms. Farm UL listed alarm that meets all National Fire Protection Association standards. Put smoke alarms on your 659 shopping list. Millions are now being sold due to local Fire Department and Insurance recommendations ... PAGE 14 FARM NEWS MAY, 1977 their members may make the necessary contracts to accomplish the first two per- missible