Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau • • February 15, 1991 A New Era - MSU's Veterinary Clinical Center "These veterinary professionals will emerge ready to serve the people of Michigan and meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. " Animal owners throughout Michigan MSU President John A. DiBiaggio, who and the Midwest will reap the benefits of a addressed the capacity crowd during newly expanded, $47 million Veterinary dedication ceremonies, called the com- Clinical Center (VCC), which just went pleted 72,000 square foot expansion through grand opening ceremonies. project a magnet that will draw the finest teachers, researchers and students. Vet Clinic Fact Sheet "When this university first opened its doors * The three story, 72,000-square-foot in 1855, vet-med classes were among the addition enlarges MSU's Vet Clinic Center to 350,000 square-feet. first offered," said DiBiaggio. "Not only the state, but the nation, has looked to 'I * Ground-breaking ceremonies took Michigan State University for leadership in this field of study. I'm convinced that this f: '. - .,I place June 1988, after a 1986 ap- facility will restore us to our appropriate propriation of the nearly $47 million place as the leader in the field of veterinary for the project. medicine in our country." Dr. Emmet Braselton (left), Governor John Engler and President DiBiaggio veiwing toxicology * Features of the addition include: The VCC, a teaching and research facility, testing equipment is Michigan's primary referral center for - A lecture hall with 116 desks, each animal care. The expanded facility will equipped with its own inlaid also enhance the College of Veterinary Governor John Engler, also in attendance ease, tubercullosis and the lab plays a cru- computer monitor. Medicine ~s research capabilities. for opening ceremonies, called it ap- cial role in safeguarding Michigan's - A large and small animal student propriate that his first ribbon-cutting animal agriculture industries," said Engler. surgery area with up to 32 tables. The entire renovation and expansion price ceremony as governor was at an education- "I look forward to adding to the research - Twenty-eight laboratories, including tag of $47 million came from a state of al facility. capabilities of MSU in the years ahead as 10 for investigating animal disease Michigan appropriation in 1986, and also we move forward with our production and toxic contamination. allowed for remodeling of approximately "The specialists here at MSU have been agriculture initiative, an important compli- - Improved animal care facilities 29,000 square feet of the old facility and instrumental in providing information on ment to agriculture and our new research $14 million worth of new equipment. transmitable diseases like rabies, lime dis- facilities. " such as dog runs and stalls. - A gross anatomy-pathology suite with coolers, walk-in freezer and rooms for storage and radiographic anatomy. Dave Conklin Appointed Michigan ASCS Director - A library and learning laboratory since 1980 and was third member on the with 27 interactive videodisc units. Dave Conklin has been appointed direc- Executive Committee, as well as chairman - Administrative and faculty offices, tor of Michigan's Agriculture Stabilization of the MFB AgriPac Committee. including a dean's suite and and Conservation Service, according to conference rooms. U.S. Rep. Dave Camp (R-Midland), "Dave Conklin is a good friend and will be Michigan's only member of the House an outstanding administrator for Michigan * Another 29,000 square feet of exist- Agriculture Committee. farmers," says Camp. "As a farmer, he has ing facility is being remodeled to im- a broad knowledge of the agricultural in- prove clinical facilities for large and With his new appointment, which takes ef- dustry and has a unique understanding of small animals, including new emer- fect Feb. 1, 1991, Conklin will administer the needs of Michigan farm families." gency and intensive care units and federal farm programs for the state of Michigan. Conklin, owner-operator of a Conklin also served on MFB's Policy larger surgery, radiology, pharmacy Development Committee, and the 600 acre dairy and feedcrops farm in and clinical pathology areas. , .. Shiawassee County, has been active in a number of farm organizations. Most recent- American Farm Bureau Dairy Advisory Committee and~is past president of the 1y, he served as an at-large director on the Shiawassee County Dairy Herd Improve- Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors ment Association. Madigan New USDA Secretary Illinois congressman Edward Madigan became President Bush's nomineefor the post of Secretary of Agriculture to replace outgoing USDA Secretary Clayton Yeutter. Madigan, 55, has won high praise from the American and Illinois Farm Bureaus and many ofhis colleagues in Congress. An 18-yearcongressman, Madigan served 16 years on the House Agriculture Committee and for the last 8 years was that committee's ranking minority leader. House Ag Committee Chairman Kika de la Garza praised the selection of Madigan, giving him credit for sponsoring the amendment to the 1990 farm bill which maintained the market-orientation that characterized the 1985 farm bill. According to a USDA spokesman, Yeutter will remain as Agriculture Secretary until March 1. That is the congressional deadline for the completion of the Uruguay Round of international trade negotiations in which Yeutter has been a key player. Capitol Comer -+ Michigan Fann Weather -+ Farm Business Outlook -+ Michigan Farm Ne\Ns •• FebrU8ty 15, 1991 In Brief ... Japan's Defense Offensive To Some Japanese farmers are fearful of losing some of their monopolized rice market to foreign competition, so fearful that Zenchu, the large Japanese union of agricultural cooperatives, Farm Program Signup Dates Announced has launched an advertising attack in the United States to defend their closed markets. The USDA has announced the signup period for its acreage reduction program is March 4 to April 26, 1991, and bids for the conservation reserve program (CRP) must be submitted The Japanese co-op's choice of CNN as its vehicle for the advertisement may have been between March 4 and March 15. due to the cable network's initial popularity surge for its war coverage. At any rate, American rice producers and farmers in general see the ads as inappropriate and untimely Agriculture Secretary Clayton Yeutter said farmers should be aware of competition for this during the final days of the multilateral GAIT negotiations which are still in progress and program and that different conditions prevail this year than in previous sign-up periods. could set a precedent for other commodities. New enrollments in the CRP will expand land eligibility requirements beyond highly According to Don Parrish, director of AFBF's Rice and Sugar Department, U.S. rice erodible land to include cropland acres that would otherwise impair water quality and acres producers are very concerned about the health of their industry. "They are seeing rice prices that improve wetland protection. The USDA will have 30 days to evaluate and accept bids continue to go down despite declining production in this country. That apparent contradic- for additions to the CRP. tion to normal marketing trends is the direct result of protectionist policies in other rice producing countries," he said. EEC Ready To Say Give? The Well-Defined Farmer-Employer The European Economic Community's apparent acceptance of some reforms in its trade Generally, you are considered an employer of farm workers if you employ work~rs who: policies now have GAIT negotiations on the "verge of a major breakthrough," according - raise or harvest agricultural or horticultural products on a farm, to current U.S. Agriculture Secretary Clayton Yeutter. - care for your farm and equipment, when most of the care is done on a farm, - handle, process or package any agricultural or horticultural commodity and you produced EC's trade commissioner said the group has not asked the United States Congress to extend over half of the commodity, the "fast track" provisions of its trade laws because they hope to conclude an acceptable - do housework in your private home if it is on a farm that is operated for profit. trade agreement before the March 1, 1991 deadline. Yeutter said there would be no point in a fast track extension unless there's substantial progress soon. Crew leaders are also considered employers of farm workers. A crew leader furnishes and pays workers who do farm work for the farm operator. This can be done on hisfher own Gaillmig Named New CES Director behalf or on behalf of the farm operator. You are a crew leader if there is no written agreement between you and the farm operator stating that you are his/her employee and if Gail Imig, Cooperative Extension director Imig was assistant director of Extension at you pay the workers. at the University of Missouri, has been Kansas State University from 1976 to 1979, named director of Michigan State and prior to that, worked in Michigan as an Publication 51 (Circular A), Agricultural Employer's Tax Guide, has more details and can University's Cooperative Extension Ser- Extension home economist, as an Extension . be ordered by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM. Source, 1991 IRS Tax Supplement. vice, effective July 1. specialist, as a district supervisor and as program leader with the Michigan Coopera- Hospital Expenses Outdistance Medicaid Calling Imig a "highly qualified individual," tive Extension Service. MFB President Jack Laurie, praised the ap- The American Hospital Association reports that Medicaid payments were $4.3 billion short pointment, adding that Imig comes to MSU Imig, who holds three degrees from MSU -- of full reimbursement to hospitals for care of indigent persons in 1989. According to a recent with 25 years experience in Extension. "I've a bachelor's in home economics, a masters Wall Street Journal report, that record shortfall caused 9 out of 10 hospitals to lose money had the opportunity to visit with Dr. Imig in family studies and a doctorate in family in providing service to the poor. and she is very aware ofthe needs of agricul- ecology, was praised by Dr. James Ander- ture and rural Michigan," Laurie said. son, MSU's vice provost and dean for On average, Medicaid payments covered 78 percent of treatment costs in 1989, compared agriculture and natural resources. to 90 percent between 1980 and 1985, according to the report. In 1984,39.1 percent of all Since 1988, she has served as associate vice hospi~als received total reimbursement for treating Medicaid patients. president for academic affairs-university "I think she'll do a super job and will work extension at Missouri-Columbia, where she previously held posts as professor of home effectively with the agricultural and natural resources industries, as well as with other Professional Cattle Feeding/Marketing Shortcourse economics and associate dean and program areas that interface with the Extension Ser- "Beef Safety and Quality Assurance: Creating a Positive Image in the 1990s" is a course director for home economics extension. vice," said Anderson. where beef pr?duce~s can obtain inform3:tion on !actors influencing the quality of product they produce m their feedlots. Two seSSiOns of m-depth training for cattle feeders in the Says Imig, ''I'm looking forward to working 1991 Professional Cattle Feeding and Marketing Shortcourse, sponsored by MSU's Dept. with the team at MSU in the process of of Animal Science, is planned. redefining the role of the landgrant univer- sity in contemporary society. I think MSU Producers can choose from one of three locations including: Kalamazoo, Holiday Inn, is far ahead of other universities in this February 28 and March 12; Mt Pleasant, Ember's Restaurant February 27 and March 13' effort, and I welcome a chance to be a part Cass City, Colony House, February 26 and March 14. ' , of that." Acc~)fding to MSU's Dr. Harlan Ritchie, there will be a $15 pre-registration fee for each Imig says she willfocus her efforts infive areas: seSSion or $25 for both sessions. Participants who complete both sessions will be awarded - Target programs to meet critical needs and a certificate indicating 12 hours of training on management practices that maintain a safe concerns of Michigan's citizens, and wholesome beef supply. For complete program information, contact Dr. Harlan Ritchie - Encourage teamwork among Extension or Dr. Steven Rust at (517) 355-8401. faculty, staff and local advisory committees to create and achieve ambitious goals, - Explore new relationships for Extension with Sweet Corn Schooling! colleges and other university units, Sweet com producers from Michigan and surrounding states will have an opportunity to - Provide support for a major Michigan initia- learn more about production and m~ke~ing techniques on March 2, 1991 at Domino Farms tive to help the animal industry, near ~nn Arbor. The ~ou~heast Michigan Sweet Com School, part of the Professional - Enhance opportunities for collaboration with Farmmg Program at Michigan State University, will tackle items such as insect control appropriate state agencies and organizations. managing ~aryest labor, controlling production costs and a review of a statewide 1990 co~ borer momtonng study results. _= Keyno~e sI;>eakersin?lude Gary S~eet and Don~ld.Ahrens! sweet com producers from Ohio and Ill.mOls resp~~tively, who w1l1 share their mnovatIve management and marketing strategies. In additiOn, a panel of s~e~t co"! buyer~ will be on hand to help participants evaluate a number of sweet com vaneties shipped directly from Florida for this school. FARItIEBS PETROI-EIlItI COOPERATIVE, INC. Contac~ the ~as.htenaw <;ounty Extension office at (313) 971-0079 for complete program Spring Open Houses and Oil Sales and registratiOn mformatiOn. Save Dollars On All Coop Oils & Greases Michi~an F~"!1.News is ~ubl~shed 20 ti~es, annu.ally: By the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations DIVISion. Publication and edltonal offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway Lansing Michigan 48917, Post Office Box 30960 (zip 48909); phone 1-517-323-7000. " Michigan Farm New~ is provided as a service t,o ~egular members as part of their annual dues, Publication .-- No. 345040. Est~bllshed J.an. 1~, 1~23, as Mlchlga.~ Farm News, reestablished October 15.1990. Third- ,oJ class postage paid at LanSing, Michigan and at additional mailing offices . ... Ed~orial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. Offi~~s: M!chig~n Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie. Cass City; Vice President Wayne Wood. Marlette' Superol, 75 Fluid, 8660 Grease, Morel Ad~lmstratlVe .Dlrector. Charles Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Tom Parker' Secretary' Wilham S. Wilkinson .•• Beginning Late February and Continuing Dir~ors: District 1, M~r1i~ Outman, Constantine; District 2. Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3. Diane Through Mid-April Homing, Man~e~ter.; Dlstnct 4. T~m Guthrie •.De.~on; D!strict 5. Mark Smuts. Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood. M~tte, ~I~tnct 7. Larry Snider, Hart; District 8. Richard Leach, Saginaw; District 9. Joshua Wunsch Traverse CI~; District 10. Margaret ~artes, W~st Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff. Baraga. At-Large~ Contact Your Nearest FPC Outlet or Dougl~ Darling. Maybee; Jack Laune. Cass City; Faye Adarn.Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and EducatIOn, Holly Porter. Manchester. Young Farmers, Steven Gonyea. Spruce. Member Cooperative for Details Today Michigan Farm Ne\Ns • ITOL o •• February 15, 1991 o ::D Z m ::D Bush's 1992 Budget - An Agricultural Perspective INHERITANCE TAX 1991 Export Bonus Increase Proposed Status: Senator Nick Smith has reintroduced S.B. 1 to provide Michigan residents with a more equitable inheritance tax structure, as he has for several past legislative sessions. In The Bush administration has proposed that the $425 million cap on the export bonus the 1989-90 legislative session, S.B. 1 passed in both the Senate and the House but died program for fiscal 1991, which began Oct. 1, 1990, be eliminated, and USDA be allowed with a veto by the governor. Efforts to override the veto were successful in the Senate, but to spend $900 million to subsidize U.S. farm exports; otherwise, the U.S. could lose out failed in the House. on additional sales. Program spending rose sharply this year because of a large world wheat crop, which has required larger subsidies to promote U.S. exports. All U.S. residents are subject to the federal inheritance tax. However, Michigan residents are also charged a state inheritance tax. To date, 29 states have abandoned a state 1992 Budget For Farm Program Spending Pegged at $10.66 Billion inheritance tax. The Bush administration has forecast farm program costs at $10.66 billion dollars for fiscal 1992, which begins Oct. 1, 1991, down from original estimates of $11.79 billion. Direct Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau supports the repeal of the Michigan inheritance tax. payments to producers of feedgrains, wheat, rice, cotton and milk make up more than half Farm Bureau contact: Ron Nelson, extension 2043. of the forecast outlays. Federal Crop Insurance Program MI-OSHA In a continuing effort to cut losses of the Federal Crop Insurance Program in fiscal 1992, the Bush administration has proposed that the government be required to pay only 15 Status: In early January, the governor's office discussed elimination of the MI-OSHA percent of producer's premium subsidies in 1992 as opposed to the current 30 percent. In program as part of the administration's budget-cutting plans. In a meeting with a liaison of addition to dropping rates, the farm law also allows Federal Crop Insurance Corp. to raise the governor's office, Farm Bureau reviewed MFB MI- OSHA policy and stated opposition fees by up to 20 percent depending on the crop. to funding alternatives based on increased fines for rules violations. While an agreement may have been reached to fund MI-OSHA from the Safety, Education 13-Cent "User's Fee" on Futures and Options Contracts and Training (S .E.T.) fund for the remainder of the current fiscal year, increased fines could Bush's 1992 budget proposal also calls for a 13-cent fee on each contract traded on be favored as the future funding mechanism of choice, should the program be continued. commodity futures and options exchanges. The suggested "user fee" could raise $48 million Farm Bureau strongly opposes this alternative as it might encourage inspectors to look for in 1992 and would have to be approved by Congress to take effect. The administration areas where fines could be levied to increase revenue. proposed the fee to cover the costs of activities regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. While addressing the need for better representation on the MI-OSHA health and safety commissions, the administration agreed to review the commission's composition regarding Means Test Would Tie Farm Subsidy Levels to Non-Farm Income agricultural representation. (Currently, there is no required position for agricultural repre- U.S. farmers would be eligible for fewer federal subsidies if their non-farm income rose sentati~:m.) The administration also stated its support for Farm Bureau policy favoring above $125,000 a year, according to a proposal in Bush's budget plan for fiscal 1992. Such educatIOnal programs and no penalty first-time inspections, in addition to opposing a cut in eligibility for commodity subsidies could save the government $36 million in fiscal MI-OSHA regulations that are more strict than existing federal OSHA standards. 1992 and $90 million each year for fiscal 1993 through 1996. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau policy does not call for the dismantling ofMI-OSHA Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau continues to analyze and monitor the budget proposal and returning its enforcement to the federal government. However, Fann Bureau would as of this writing. However, AFBF President Dean Kleckner has already sent a letter to not oppose such efforts. President Bush voicing opposition to the means test portion of the proposal. Farm Bureau contact: Howard Kelly, extension 2044. Farm Bureau contact: Al Almy, extension 2040. NO-FAULT AUTO INSURANCE REFORM CAPITAL GAINS Stat'!s: Legislation relating to auto insurance rollback is expected in the 1990-91 legislative sessIOn. House Speaker Lew Dodak (D-Montrose) has formed a Democratic Task Force Status: A couple of enterprising congressional members will not say die when it comes to on Auto Insurance Rates to address the "high prices" of coverage in Michigan. The task reducing the capital gains tax. Sen. Malcom Wallop (R-Wyo.) and Rep. Tom Delay force will conduct hearings on rates in developing a rate rollback proposal. The task force, (R- Tex.) are trying again to salvage the capital gains tax rate reduction by introducing the chaired by House Insurance Committee Chair, Rep. Mary Brown (D-Kalamazoo), in- "Economic Growth and Jobs Creation Act of 1991." cludes: House Consumers Committee Chair Ken DeBeaussaert (D-Chesterfield Twp.); Reps. Nick Ciaramitarp (D-Roseville), Dave Anthony (D-Escanaba) and Clark Harder (D- The legislators say the measure is intended to encourage economic growth, create jobs and Owosso). increase government revenue. Wallop says he is prepared to battle for the legislation in what he terms an uphill fight. ''I'm sure some will try to resurrect the class issue," said Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau remains firm in the position of supporting "Refonn, Wallop, referring to the argument that capital gains tax cuts benefit only the wealthy. Not Rollbacks," and strongly opposes mandated auto insurance rate rollback legislation to reduce auto insurance costs. Draft legislation reflecting Michigan Farm Bureau policy has Another provision in the legislation would reduce the Social Security payroll tax from the been developed to counteract rollback legislation. current 12.4 percent to 10.6 percent. The payroll tax cut would generate new revenues to Farm Bureau contact: Darcy Cypher, extension 2048. help pay for the capital gains tax cut and other provisions, according to Delay. In his State of the Union Address, President Bush also proposed a capital gains tax cut. MICHIGAN LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS Details of the Bush proposal are expected to be similar to last year's proposal that would have reduced the capital gains rate from 28 to 19.6 percent for assets held over three years. Listed below are the new committee appointments of particular interest to agriculture. These important committees will often times draft and/or.'make recommendations on new The administration is not expected to push as hard for the cut as it did during last year's legislation, as well as hold hearings on key agricultural issues. budget debate. Democratic leaders have already made it clear that they will bring up the surtax on millionaires proposed last year. The administration isn't expected to want another HOUSE COMMITTEES public debate on taxing the rich after losing in the last round. Agriculture, Forestry and Minerals: Hickner, Anthony, Alley, Byrum, DeBeaussaert, Gagliardi, Harder, Niederstadt, Gnodtke, Bobier, London, Mc~ryde, Ouwinga, Randall, Walberg Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau supports the reinstatement of capital gains treatment but has taken no position on new legislation at this time. Appropriations: Jacobetti, R.A. Young, Bennan, Ciaramitaro, Emerson, Harrison, Hollister, Hood, Farm Bureau contact: Al Almy, extension 2040. Kilpatrick, Mathieu, O'Neill, Owen, Porreca, Scott, Webb, J. Young Sr., Ostling, Allen, Bender, Gilmer, Johnson, Knight, Ox ender, Sparks r----------------------------------------------------, : American Farm Bureau News Subscriptions Conservation, Recreation and Environment: Alley, Yokich, Anthony, Bartnik, Brown, I Byrum, DeBeaussaert, Hickner, Hunter, Kosteva, Varga, Middaugh, Bodem, Dolan, Gnodtke, Nye, : Receive the latest national news from the American Farm Bureau every week. Get status Sikkema, Trim, VanSingel Ireports on legIslative and regulatory news. farm program updates. national and International Itrade news. Read what's happening In other states, and learn If It could happen here. I Taxation: Jondahl, Kosteva, Bennane, Brown, P. Bullard, Clarke, Gubow, Hickner, Jonker, Profit, I I Wallace, Bryant, Brachenridge, W. Bullard, Dobb, Munsell, Shugars, Strand, VanSingel IName: Address: I I (PI.... Print) SENATE COMMITTEES I Agriculture and Forestry: N. Smith, McManus, Van Regenmorter, Koivisto, Barcia I I City: State: Zip: I Appropriations: Gast, Geake, DeGrow, Ehlers, Schwarz, Cisky, McManus, Arthurhultz, Holmes, I Complete and clip coupon, enclose a $10 check payable to American Farm Bureau. and mail to: Conroy, Faxon, Vaughn, Pollack : American Farm Bureau Federation : Attn: Fran Ryan Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs: Wartner, Ehlers, Gast, Barcia, Dingell : 600 Maryland Ave., S. W., Suite 800 L I Washin~on,D.C.20024 _ Finance: N. Smith, Carl, Emmons, V. Smith, Stabenow From MFB's Public Affairs Division (517) 323-7000 Michigan Farm NelNs -. February 15, 1991 January was generally warmer and drier 25.7" Approximate than normal across much of Michigan, with the exception of western sections of the SnowFall western Upper Peninsula, where Amounts For predominant northwesterly winds led to Outlooks For Major Commodity Areas above normal amounts oflake effect snow- January fall and near normal temperatures. T - Temp. 2/15 - 2/30 2115 - 4/30 P - Preclp. T P T e 22.6" W. Corn Belt A N N N The latest ex tended outlook for the E. Corn Belt A N N N remainder of February calls for above nor- Wint. Wheat Belt A B N N mal temperatures and near normal Spr.Wheat Belt A B N N precipitation. The warmer than normal Pac. NW Wheat A N N A temperatures are most likely early in the Delta A B B N Southeast N B N N month. Normal daily highs in February West Texas A N N N range from the mid 20s in the Upper Penin- San Joaquin A N A A sula to the mid 30s in the southern Lower Peninsula. Normal lows range from near 0 A-Above Average, B-Below Average, in the western U.P. to the upper teens in the N-Normal, MA-Much Above, MB-Much For January Temperature Dev. Precipitation southern Lower Peninsula. Normal Below, NP-No Preclp. 1991 Avg. Avg. From Actual Dev. From February precipitation generally ranges Max. Min. Normal (inch,) normal from I to 2 inches across the state. Alpena 25 12 +1.0 0.96 -0.69 Detroit 31 20 +2.5 1.38 -0.48 Flint 28 16 +0.5 1.49 -0.10 Looking further ahead, the latest 90-day Lansing 28 16 +0.5 1.24 -0.50 extended outlook for February through Grand Rapids 28 18 +1.0 1.35 -0.56 April is calling for near normal tempera- Houghton Lake 25 10 0.0 1.23 -0.26 tures and precipitation for nearly all of the Pellston 24 11 +1.5 0.78 -1.50 Great Lakes States. Sault Ste. Marie 20 7.0 0.0 1.23 -0.97 Traverse City 27 16 +1.5 1.52 -0.34 Marquette 18 4 0.0 0.88 -1.23 Jeff Andresen = High Temp. 46 at Grand Rapids on 1/20/91 Agricultural Meteorologist Low Temp. = -25 at Marquette on 1/30/91 Michigan State University AFBF Commodity Committee Appointments Thirty Michigan farmers were appointed to 15 AFBF Commodity Advisory Commit- tees. The committees are designed to allow producer input regarding policy issues af- fecting their respective commodity. Em- phasis is placed on solving productio~ and The difference between of over 3.5 million farming marketing problems and research projects. apples and oranges can be families and other independent Appointments include: spotted at a glance. Unfor- businesses. The result: top Committee Delegate/City Alternate/City tunately, it's not quite as easy notch health care insurance Nursery & James Ackron Gerald Raker to tell the difference between at down-to-earth prices. Greenhouse Belleville Litchfield health insurance policies. That's why we recommend As a Farm Bureau member Aquaculture Bob Baldwin Steve Ouwinga that you take a moment to read you can choose from three Big Rapids Grant the fine print if you're offered traditional Blue Cross Blue Dairy Diane Horning Wayne Wood health insurance for less than Shield Comprehensive Major Manchester Marlette Farm Bureau rates. Chances are Medical plans starting as low you're being asked to compare, . as $60.12 a month. (The higher Egg Jerry Heck Dave Eichler well ... apples and oranges. the deductible, the lower the Monroe Pigeon premium.) Regardless of the ,.. What you'll find is that dollar plan you choose, you'll get the Feed Grains Mark Smuts Marlin Outman Constantine for dollar, Farm Bureau same Blue Cross Blue Shield Charlotte insurance is the better value. comprehensive major medical Forestry Stanley Johns David Dyer That's because Farm Bureau coverage. Barga LeRoy offers you the buying strength So go ahead--<;ompare. Fruit & Nut Joshua Wunsch Les Dowd Traverse City Lawrence As sure as apples aren't oranges, .. Just make sure you know what you're comparing. When the Honeybee Ray Buell Donald Reimer decision's in, we think you'll Milford Hemlock choose a Farm Bureau health care insurance plan for its Poultry Meat Harold Walcott Dale Grabill affordability, the services it Allendale Grant offers, and the protection it provides against unscheduled Sheep Soybean Mark Chapman South Rockwood Richard Leach Duane Tirrell Charlotte Gary Albright time off. What matters to you • Saginaw Bronson matters to us. Sugar Denis Netzley John Knoerr St Louis Sandusky For further information call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your Swine Blaine VanSickle Larry Snider WHERE local Farm Bureau agent. Marshall Hart BELONGING Vegetable & James Sayre BelleVille Arthur Duyck Essexville MAKES A +~~= Potato Wheat Tom Guthrie Terry Bellville DIFFERENCE. '.II. ,.. MICHIGAN F4RM BIJRE41J FAMILY OF COltfP4NIES Delton Whittemore Michigan Farm News -. February 15, 1991 Management Strategies Headline Young Farmers' Conference Michigan Farm Bureau's Young Farmer Committee is once again conducting their annual "Young Farmer Leaders' Con- ference," March 7-9, 1991, at the Midland Valley Plaza Inn, according to MFB Young Farmer Dept. Manager Vic Verchereau. "The state Young Farmer Committee has put together an outstanding 2 1/2 day pro- ~ gram for young farmers from across Michigan, 18 to 30 years of age," says HERITAGE BUILDING SYSTEMS Verchereau. 1-800-643-5555 FREE INFORMATION PACKAGE Workshop sessions will include: Estate 30 x 40 x 10 •........•.•......•.......... $3,785 Planning; Ground Water and Farmer 40 x 60 x 12 .................•...•....... $6,870 50 x 75 x 14 .•••.....•....•..•..•.•....• $10,590 Liability, with MFB's Vicki Pontz; Aiming Your Farm at Success with Mike Salisbury of Salisbury Management; Solving the Tax CormwdII-=~~~.~~ 60 x 100 x 16 •.........•.......•........ r.;,;'ilh~mnd8rd.u.. IIId..r PWIla. c.II ~ ....... FOB~, lor prtclng on BuIIlInga. ~, ~OI $17,750 111m, Question, with Mike Kelsey of Michigan ~F~end~ State University's Ag Economics Dept.; Congressional Insight with Brad Eckart of the American Farm Bureau; and Building Better Working Relationships in Farm Families, with Dr. Ron Hanson, professor Participants will have time for relaxation of Farm Management and Ag Finance at the and meeting other young farmers from University of Nebraska. GROW HUGE JUICY TOMATOES IN 90 DAYS! across the state. A bowling tournament is planned for the first evening, with a dance BURGESS GIANT Verchereau noted that several other and casino planned for the second night. workshops are also available that deal with CLIMBING TOMATOES the food safety issue and leadership Total conference costs are $150.00 per per- only $1.00 BUYS A development. The conference kicks off son, which many county Farm Bureaus will .with registration at 5 :00 p.m. on Thursday, help pay. For complete program and JUMBO PKT • March 7, and concludes on Saturday, registration information, contact your A Full Season'S Supply Of Seed and March 9, with wrap-up speaker Dr. Ron county Farm Bureau office or call a $1.65 savings from our catalog price. Hanson who will present "The Unspoken 1-800-292-2680, ext. 3234 . Words in Family Farming." .BIG . SWEET . JUICY THE TOMATO THAT MADE BURGESS FAMOUS Agricultural "Summer Institute For This amazing Burgess climbing tomato will give you Educators" juicy, red tomatoes up to 5" across-3" deep, and weighing up to 2 Ibs. each. Plump, round and smooth. these super tomatoes have a wonderful no-acid flavor. You'" be amazed at how fast your climbing structor, Dr. Eddie Moore, Professor, Dept. tomato vines will grow ... up to 18' or more if trained of Agriculture and Extension Education, at on a stoke or trellis. One seed can produce up to two (517) 355-6580. Chamberlain adds that en- bushels or more for just pennies each! ORDER rollments should be made by April 15 to NOW ... Plant seeds ... wait just 90 days ... then pluck. fresh juicy tomatoes doily for your dinner table. ensure a spot in the class. ,'i~ SORRY LIMIT OF 1 PACKAGE PER CUSTOMER. FREE Chamberlain also urges farmers to play an \h.A~ 'I I I SEEDCATALOG INCLUDED WITH YOUR ORDER. active role in promoting the institute and recruiting 'teachers from their local school system. "Farmers agree there is a tremen- FULL GUARANTEE. I---------------------~--- BURGESS • Dept. 8702-53 SEED C& PLANT 905 Four Seasons Road CO. I dous need to educate young people about If not completely satisfied I Bloomington. IJ/inois 61701 • with growing progress of • Enclosed is $1.00 for one S6702 Jumbo Pkt. of Climbing • agriculture," says Chamberlain. "Now we your Climbing Tomatoes in 90 I Tomato Seeds. POSTAGE PREPAID. Illinois Residents please. have a proven way to put agriculture infor- days, RETURNTHEORIGINAL • add 61f4% Sales Tax .• mation back into the school system on a SEEDPACKETONLY, for your free replocement or purchase I NAME • year-around basis, but teacher awareness is I I price refund. your choice. ADDRESS • crucial and farmers themselves are key to the succe~,s of this program by getting the CITY STATE ZIP • Michigan'S agricultural industry has a unique opportunity to teach teachers how to word out. -------------------------~ implement agriculture into their existing curriculum for kindergarten through the 12th grade. The second annual "Summer Institute For Educators" will be held June 19-28, 1991, at Kinawa Middle School in Okemos, near the Michigan State Univer- Membership With Style. sity campus. At Alamo, we are dedicated to providing you with great rates and exceptional seIVice at all our locations. with even lower rates in Florida and Hawaii. Now you can ride in style Twelve urban and rural K-12 teachers at- in anyone of our fine General Motors cars including the 1991 Cadillac Seville, all with tended the first institute, piloted in 1990, from Lansing, Gaylord, Kalamazoo, unlimited..free mileage nationwide. Special 1991 weekend rates are also available by Saginaw, and other schools. requesting Rate Code AI. According to MFB Promotion and Educa- For reselVations, call your Professional Travel Agent or call Alamo at 1-800-327-9633. tion Dept. Manager Julie Chamberlain, Be sure to request Rate Code BY and use your Membership J.D. number BY 223212 educators who attend the institute learn how to use real life examples from the food and fiber system to teach science, social studies, economics, math, language arts and a host of other subjects. "The institute, offered by Michigan State Where all the miles University, is a three credit course that can are free'" be counted as undergraduate, graduate or continuing education credits for teachers," says Chamberlain. "All lessons correspond to science and social studies M.E.A.P. (Michigan Educational Assessment Pro- gram) objectives." Interested teachers need to get an enroll- , ment form from Julie Chamberlain at Michigan Farm Bureau by calling 1-800- 292-2680 ext. 3213, or by calling the in- Alamo features.fine General Motors cars like this Cadillac Seville. 32558AS Michigan Farm NelMs -. February 15, 1991 MARKETS ...... •••••••• ••••••• ••••• ~.,J ••••••• .r.'•••••••• •••• •••• rl••• rj ••• r. 1• .. ~:.. .. FARM •••••••• Cattle Dry Beans Seasonal Commodity ~ .:::;.. Cattle feeders face market supplies about Price Trends (long term) the same as last year and even tighter profits Michigan's dry bean production estimate was reduced three percent from December in 1991, according to Texas A&M ag 1990. Class estimates were also revised to Wheat t economist Ernie Davis. better align class breakdowns with current check data, according to the Federal/State BUSINESS Davis says feedlot placements and market- Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service. ings in late 1990 indicate higher marketings of fed cattle in this quarter. Scarce feeder The change was based on the availability of new data. End of season survey data was OUTLOOK Corn calves for the first quarter of 1991 mean analyzed along with information from the continued high prices for feeders while Michigan Department of Agricultures's market prices of fed cattle for the year could "Grain Dealers Daily Position Reporting Form" and inspection data from the Michigan average $2 to $3 per cwt. lower than 1990 Soybeans t figures. Bean Shippers Association. A report of dry beans stocks on hand as of December 31, 1990 was released January 29 showing 3,150,000 cwt. in commercial storage compared to 2,500,000 cwt. the previous year. Imports from Australia, Canada and Mexico were up more than 40 percent in the Nationally, dry bean production is estimated at 32.4 million cwt., up 37 percent from last Hogs first eight months of 1990 while exports to year and 68 percent above two years ago. Harvested acreage was up 26 percent from last those countries were down 38 percent and year while the average yield gained 8 percent. sales to Japan dropped 19 percent. Cattle 1 Davis says per capita beef consumption MICHIGAN 1990 DRY BEAN PRODUCTION ~ i Index: = Higher Prices; 1 = Lower Prices; dropped to 67.8 pounds last year, while chicken grew to 71.8 pounds per person, Commercial Planted Harvested Yield Production TP= Topping; BT= Bottoming; ? = Unsure Class Acres Acres Lbs./Acre 000 Cwt and expects that trend to continue this year. - Hogs Navy Lt. Red Kidney Ok. Red Kidney 234,000 11,000 9,000 223,000 10,000 8,000 1,590 1,600 1,880 3,545 160 150 Typically, market-ready hog numbers are at their low point in early February. After that Cranberry 18,000 17,000 1,880 320 time, the increase in numbers and the passing of winter weather conditions usually bring Black Turtle 54,000 51,000 1,780 910 pressure to bear on cash prices. With the increase in competing meat supplies this spring, that is likely to be the case again this year. Small White 9,000 8,000 1,880 150 Pinto 10,000 . 9,000 1,670 150 Pork has enjoyed a good burst of demand from retailers during January. Its wholesale price Other 4.000 4.000 1.500 60 was the most attractive of the three major meats. However, since the early part of the month, All Classes 350,000 330,000 1,650 5,445 the price of both beef and poultry has slid and is likely to attract retail interest in those items during February. Source: Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service ~ Still, the picture for pork is not all bad. Although the odds of a dip into the mid-$40's are good this spring, the late-year recovery should be good in light of the experience of the Soybeans war's impact on markets. The break in energy prices is especially important. That, coupled Many analysts believe that the Persian War is bearish for soybeans and other agricultural with declining interest rates and "war production," may bring the economy out of recession markets. Run-a-way petroleum prices were also expected which fortunately has not in the second or third quarter of 1991. occurred (as of this writing). The Bush administration's successful handling of the war - Dairy along with calling for energy conservation, use of alternative fuels such as ethanol and tapping the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve all have caused crude oil prices to plummet. "Higher crude oil prices mean fewer dollars left to spend for other import" was the logic Milk production in the U.S. totalled 148.6 billion pounds during 1990. This represents a 3 us~d by many analysts, however the opposite has occurred giving a slight boost to soybean percent increase from 1989's drought-reduced milk production level and a 2.3 perrcent pnces. increase from milk production during 1988. Weather in South America is a key fundamental factor affecting U.S. soybean prices. Many USDA has reported that the nation's milking herd averaged 10.14 million head during 1990, are watching to see if recent rains erase the fear of drought. a 17,000 head increase over 1989 average number of milk cows. Production per cow during 1990 was reported at 14,646 pounds, up 402 pounds from the previous year's average. Dairy farmers will find 1991 price trends similar to 1990 although somewhat lower ($2-$3 Export Credit Sales Lagging annual average). The large increases in milk production during the last half of 1990 appear Exporters have.sold only $.529 million worth of farm commodities under the government's to be headed into 1991. The mail box price will bottom out in February and gradually move short term credIt program 10 the first quarter of fiscal 1991 , beginning Oct. 1, 1990. That's higher toward spring. Look for prices to decrease in mid-summer and then rise into fall. down 60 percent from a year earlier, with estimates that there is still about $800 million in credit available. Not included in that report, however, is the $716 million worth of fann The March M-W price dropped 3 cents to settle at $10.16 goo~s.purc~ased ,?y the Soviet Union ,~nthe first ~O days of January. Since the USSR didn't partlclpat~ 10 the GSM-102 ~ogram last year, Its purchases are not reflected in the report. Reasons CIted for the slump mclude cheaper commodity prices, allowing countries to buy Wheat and Feed Grains the sam~ amount for less, the trade embargo against Iraq and credit problems with Egypt and PakIstan. The USDA reports on 1990 crop production, winter wheat seedings and grain stocks that were released in January (see table) combined to give a much needed boost to the grain markets. The Persian Gulf war has improved agricultural exports, along with "new" Sheep Producers Told To Focus On Key Issues thinking by the European Community to restart GATT negotiations. A panel. of exp~rts spoke. to sheep p~oducers recently at the American Sheep Industry conv.en~IOn dunng a sessIOn called Concentrating on the Lamb Market." Marketing Instead of an early February low with March com futures in the $2.20-$2.25 area, prices speclal!st Roy ~ee~ wa~ed producers that lack of consistency is a big problem in lamb should hold in the $2.30-$2.35 area. Technically, the winter lows should now be in place. marketmg, callIng It an mdustry problem, not just a packer problem. Meek also warned There will be corrections but recent lows should hold. producers about overfed lambs, adding that producers need to be aware of consumer demands for a lean product. u.s. Crop Production Report (in billions of bushels) Econ~mist Dr. ~ayne Purcell told producers that additional data is needed to conduct effectIve economIC research and to take ad~antage of price signals that are often missed by Pre-report Sept. USDA pro.duc~rs due to .lamb packer concentratIOn. Purcell presented statistics revealing that USDA Average Estimate whIl~ hv.e l~mb pnces ~e the san:'e as in. 1977, retail prices have doubled. What this means, Soybeans 1.922 1.907 1.904 he saId, IS eIther the mIddleman IS makmg the profit or production is much less efficient. Corn 7.933 7.924 7.935 Wheat 2.739 na (Nov)2.744 "Xou have to .be well informe~," Purcell sa~~. "} don't see as much research and analysis bemg d~n~ WIth your .commodlty ~s others. He also suggested that the nation's decrease u.s. Grain, Soybean Stocks of 25 mIllIon sheep smce 1960 WIll cause sheep producers to determine if they want to become a hobby industry or maintain a bulk industry status. (in billions of bushels) 1.684 1.67 3.239 Packer Phil Cohn of Ellensburg, Washington, said, "Producers need to figure out a way to Soybeans hav~ lamb distributed to grocery stores more evenly throughout the year," telling the Corn 6.940 7.100 1.344 audience that 68 percent of all lambs reach the feedlot between August 15 and November Wheat 1.909 1.857 2.402 15. He also encouraged producers to examine what the consumer wants and figure out ways to prepare a product th~t mee~s .those needs. Cohn concluded by saying, As a packer, } It Winter Wheat Seedings want to tell you that I thmk thIS mdustry can be fixed." (in millions of acres) Indiana cattleman Sam Wash~urn advise~ sheep producers to concentrate on the special Pre-report 1990 bene~ts of la~b and look for nIche marketmg opportunities. "Capitalize on your strengths USDA Average Production lamb IS a specIal~y product. Don't apologize for it - capitalize on it. You can become a pric~ Total Wheat 51.018 50.95 56.99 maker - not a pnce taker." From MFB's Commodity Activities and Research Division (517) 323-7000 Michigan Farm Nevvs -. February 15, 1991 DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: DISCUSSION TOPIC: UNDERSTANDING 1. What percentage of your group's mem- COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE bers have a CDL? 4. What is the biggest hazard farmers face REQUIREMENTS 2. What percentage of your groupts mem- when transporting farm products, bers have a hazardous material endorse- machinery and supplies? ment for their driver license? costly delays during the busy trucking Farmers have gone through a fall hauling 5. What percentage of your group's mem- season. "Make sure your brakes are in 3. Does your group feel loads of farm com- season under Michigan ts Commercial bers have had a safety inspection on their proper working ordert and check the condi- modities should be covered? Drivers License (CDL) law. But as we ap- truck within the last year? tion of alllightst turn signals and glass on proach spring many questions remain. your rigs/'he said. r-------------------------------------------------------------, Now Accepting Bids For Yearly Rentals/ How to avoid hassles before you hit the • Newly Remodeled Building • Prima Locations - Who exactly is exempt? road? "The Motor Carrier Division of the • Additional Outside Space on Wednesdays and Fridays for Farm Grown Produce You're exempt from the CDL law if you Michigan State Police has been very help- transport farm productst farm machinery or ful in assisting farmers to identify defective Name: Phone:( farm supplies using a vehicle under 26tOO1 equipment and possible violations. In some pounds GVWRt with a trailer over 10,000 cases, they'll even come out to your farm before the trucking season to inspect your Address: pounds GVWR. And you must operate the vehicle within 150 miles of home. vehicles." City: MI Zip Another option to consider is to have your To Receive a BId Package, Call or Clip and Mall Coupon to: - Are there other restrictions? Community Action Group sponsor a "truck inspectiont" Nelson said. "This could in- Pre-Bid Information Meeting The vehicle must be controlled and volve a number of farmers driving their . LANS~G CITY MARKETI Tues., Feb. 19. 1991. at operated by a farmer (includes an equipment to a central location where a 10:00 a.m. Will include employee or family member). The vehicle Motor Carrier Division officer could do all 333 N. CEDAR STREET. LANSING, MI 48912 (517) 483-4300 facilities tour and bid cannot be used in the operation of a com- the inspections at once." package review. mon or contract motor carrier. - Are any vehicles completely exempt from the law? The vehicle is exempt if ifs less than 26,001 pounds GVWR, even if pulling a NOW Even More Reasons to Use 11=Member trailer of any size. Ort it's exempt if it is a Travel Services single truck of any GVWR (unless hauling hazardous material or hauling a trailer). - What if I'm hauling hazardous material? DIce Capades - Wednesday, March 13, 1991 Then you need to get a CDL with a hazard- Cost $59 per person ous material endorsement, but only if you're carrying hazardous materials in We have planned a lovely downtown dinner evening before our coach drives you to the door of the Joe amounts requiring placarding. Lewis Arena. Then we have a great evening of entertainment ahead of us as we enjoy lavish costumes and spectacular production numbers perfonned on ice by world class skaters. Clowns, special ice dancing and - How do I get ~h endorsement? the music provide a night to remember! You must pass a written test about the D Shipshewana - Saturday, April 13, 1991 hazardous materials transportation rules. Cost $69 per person To pass the testt you must know how to Mter a pleasant and relaxing drive, we'll arrive at the Dutchman Essenhause in Middlebury, Indiana. Here recognize shipments of hazardous materialst safely load shipments, correctly we will be treated to a marvelous Amish-style lunch. Bring your appetite and save room for homemade placard your vehicle and safely transport pie! Mter lunch, we will take a short drive to the famous Shipshewana outdoor flea market where you can shipments. fmd many treasures, new or antique~ - What else should I know for D Holland Tulip Festival- Thursday, May 16, 1991 Cost $69 per person the hazardous materials test? The festival will be in full swing today as we visit Windmill Island and Dutch Village. We will view the parade from comfortable lawn chairst enjoy our included dinner at the Old School House and much more. Plenty. The Commercial Driver License Manual available from the Secretary of 1991 WINTER/SPRING MFB GROUP TOURS State has detailed information. D MARCH -- Caribbean Cruising, from $1145 per person, based on double - What other circumstances occupancy, plus port charges require an endorsement? 8 days and 7 nights aboard the "Fun Ship" Celebration • Roundtrip air from Lansing or Detroit • On-board - If you tre traveling more than 150 miles accommodations • All meals, entertainment and activities while on board • Airport/pier transfers, baggage from home. handling - If you tre driving a combination vehicle (truck over 26tOOI pounds GVWR) or D APRIL -- Waikiki Holiday, $779 per person, based on semi. double occupancy, mid week rates - If you tre hauling for hire. 9 days, 7 nights of sunshine in paradise • Round trip air from Detroit • Hotel accommodations at the Minding your "p's and qts" on the CDL is Waikiki Hobron. Airport/pier transfers, baggage handling. Fresh flower lei greeting upon arrival just part of having a safe, and legalt truck- ing season, according to Ron Nelsont legis- D APRIL -- Las Vegas Weekend, from $339 per person, based on double occupancy lative counsel for Michigan Farm Bureau. 4 days and 3 nights in the fast lane! • Rountrip air charter from Detroit • Hotel accommodations • Air- "Make sure you have the correct plates on port/hoteVairport transfers, baggage handling • Taxes and Vegas Discount Book. your vehiclest" he said. "Regular farm plates (74 cents per hundredweight of the empty truck) are sufficient for use in a D JUNE -- Mackinaw Island Lilac Festival, June 12-14, $279 per person farmerts farming operations. But Farm Experience the magic of Mackinaw Island, surrounded by the dazzling blue waters of Lake Michigan and Crop Transportation plates ($15 per plate) Lake HUron • Spectacular accommodations at Mission Point, the largest resort property located on the must be used for transportation of farm Island's southeastern shore. Millions of fragrant lilac flowers will be in bloom • Enjoy a host of interest- crops from field to storage." ing stops, lakeview accommodations, daily breakfasts, a dinner with a full choice menu, carriage tours and much more! Farmers should be aware of the provisions of Michigants Covered Load Law. "Loads must be coveredt unless they are agricul- tural commodities," Nelson said. "But the tricky part is that even though your load of onions or beets or whatever isn tt required Call 1-800-354-4272 or check the box by tour(s) of interest to to be covered, you are in violation if you you; clip this page and send to MFB Travel Service, 1000 Victors Way, spill any of the product." Ann ~bor, Michigan 48108, to receive more information by return Finally, Nelson said that equipment on mail. your vehicles must be in good shape to avoid not just a ticket, but also potentially Michigan Farln Ne\Ns ,.,;. •• February 15, 1991 Don't Let Farm Noise Ruin Your Hearing begin to deteriorate. The result over a properly designed hearing protec- Modem agriculture is a noisy business. period of years will be substantial per- tion. Mechanization has brought tractors, har- manent hearing loss. vesters, grinders, choppers, blowers, con- - Regard quiet operation as an veyors, chain saws, power mowers and asset when you shop for tractors, other tools of the trade that disrupt the Studies show that machinery and other equipment. legendary peace and quiet of the country. farmers suffer permanent Consult the Nebraska tractor tests, which include sound level Along with all the noise comes the poten- tial for serious damage to your hearing. hearing loss at a higher- measurements. Studies show that farmers suffer pennanent than-average rate. From Farm Bureau Insurance hearing loss at a higher-than-average rate. - Keep equipment well-lubricated Those losses could have been minimized or How do you know if you need ear protec- and well-maintained. prevented with proper protection. tion? If noise drowns out nonnal speech, if or heavy partitions. Stay away your ears ring or you hear a rushing water - Add acoustic insulation to unin- from the noise when you can. Damage varies with the extent and nature sound in your head after you shut down sulated tractor and combine cabs. of exposure to noise. Exposure to too much equipment, or if your speech or the speech noise for long will dull your hearing. The - Limit the length of your ex- of others seems muffled when you talk after effect of excessive noise is nerve deafness, - Promptly replace defective muf- posure to noise if you are without work, you need to take preventive steps. which occurs when cilia -- the tiny hair- flers and exhaust system parts. ear protection. capped cells that act as sensors within your Don't use a straight pipe; you'll get RECOMMENDA TIONS ear-damaging sound and no sig- inner ear -- become damaged. - Stay as far away from noise - Use ear protection -- either ear nificant power increase. sources as possible. Doubling If the sound is not too loud or too inserts or acoustic muffs -- when- your distance from the source will prolonged, the fatigued cells may recover ever you will be exposed to high - Quiet noisy stationary equip- reduce the sound pressure level to in a few hours. As the hair cells are noise levels. Cotton is ineffective ment by erecting acoustic barriers one-fourth. repeatedly overstimulated, however, they and shouldn't be substituted for 1990 Fruit Harvest A Lifetime Down Overall output of Michigan's seven Retirement major fruit crops in 1990 declined sharply from 1989's harvest. Total production of apples, grapes, peaches, pears, plums, sweet cherries, and tart cherries dropped 20 per- cent in 1990 to 548,000 tons. The grape harvest showed the only gain. Production Income and decreases are attributed to a week of warm weather in March of 1990 which ac- celerated fruit development but was stunned by a frost in early May. Most crops suffered damage to bloom as a result, while cold, wet, windy weather resulted in poor pollina- Lower Taxes tion which is largely to blame for the reduced harvest. • Apples Production in the state, at 750 million pounds, was down 21 percent, ranking Michigan third in apple production behind Just Two of the Benefits Washington and New York. The national crop totaled 9.5 billion pounds, down 5 percent from 1989. Tart Cherries of Our IRA Production, estimated at 160 million pounds, was 11 percent below last year. Michigan production accounted for 77 per- cent of U.S. production which was placed at 209 million pounds, down 21 percent from 1989 . ...... . If you are not covered by a company protected from taxes until you take your . pension plan-and most farmers aren't-you money out. Sweet Cherries especially need an Individual Retirement Production, down 36 percent from 1989 Our IRA guarantees you a lifetime retirement levels, totaled 160,000 tons and ranked Account from FB Annuity Company. income-a check every month for as long as Michigan fourth in the nation behind You can deposit up to $2,000 a year into you live. That's the kind of security that will Washington, Oregon, and California. Na- your IRA and deduct the entire amount from make your retirement the best of times. tionally, 1990's crop of 157,000 tons was your taxable income. Not everybody can do Find out more about our high interest rates down 19 percent from 1989 levels. that under the new tax laws, so take full and how they will compound year after year advantage of this opportunity. into a huge retirement fund for you. Peaches Not only are your deposits tax-deductible, Production was estimated at 45 million Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent today. pounds, down 18 percent from the previous but your interest earnings are tax-deferred, season. Nationally, the crop reached 2.21 billion pounds. Grapes 1990 output increased 7 percent from 1989 levels to 46,000 tons, while the U.S. crop Making you r futu re ... FARM BUREAU output dropped 6 percent from the previous year . more predictable ••• @ INSURANCE FARM BUREAU MUTUAL • FARM BUREAU LIFE • FARM BUREAU GENERAL • FB ANNUITY Prunes and Plums Production for both prunes and plums, at 6,000 tons, was off 54 percent from 1989 figures, while pear production, at 2,500 tons, was down 69 percent from 1989.