Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau Block Permits Providing Excess Deer Relief I.=~ July 15, 1991 Writtenby: Cindy Bellinger Photo: Courtesy of DNR T he 1990 deer hunting season resulted in a 10 - 20 percent decrease in deer popula- Landowners are encouraged to use the regular antlerless permits if less than 12 "The plan is to allow farmers to indicate tions, the first decrease in Michigan since deer need to be removed. But if severe crop whether or not they 1982. damage has been documented and there are w 0 u Id Ii k e h un t e r s 12 or more nuisance deer on the land, then referred to their property Of the 322,890 antlerless licenses issued farmers may find block permits useful. and if so, their names last season, 26,263 were block permits. wi II be gi ven to the These block permits were issued to 1,463 To be eligible for block permits, land- county CES office." landowners or approximately 2 percent of owners must have had significant crop the Michigan agricultural producers. damage in at least one year out of the last If approved for block Farmers and hunters using these permits four and severe damage during the current permits by District were responsible for 8.5 percent ofthe total year. Crop damage must be documented by Wildlife Supervisors, deer harvest. a DNR biologist, who determines the landowners will receive severity of damage, eligibility for block their permits through the According to DNR Big Game Specialist, permits and the amount of nuisance deer to mail by Sept. 15, 1991. Ed Langenau, the crop damage block per- be removed. These permits are good mit system is a three year program to trim from Oct. 1, 1991 to Jan. the deer population on private lands where Applications for block permits must be in 1, 1992. Hunters using severe crop damage has occurred. "We've by Aug. 15, 1991 and, in extreme cases, the block permits need to been pleased with it, we've helped some DNR will accept applications up to Oct. 15, have a valid hunting farmers control problems that they haven't 1991.1f approved, the landowner must pur- license for the season been able to before," he said. chase at least ten block permits, at a cost of they plan to hunt in. $3.00 a piece. However, Langenau says the crop damage A landowner can give as block permit system is not the answer for A major change in the block permit system, many block permits to everyone. "In many places, block permits recently approved by the DNR Commis- one hunter as he wishes are not needed," he said. "There are cases sion, is a referral system between land- and may reissue them if where the regular application process is owners and hunters, according to Vicki the permits have not well suited to the farmers needs, and I have Pontz, associate legislative counsel at been filled by earlier some concern that we're pushing the block Michigan Farm Bureau. sportsmen. It is illegal permit statewide as a solution to crop for the landowner to sell damage when there is another option. The "The important thing this year is that land- these permits. However, regular permit drawing is extremely effec- owners will be told that their name and in the past, farmers have tive and easy for a landowner to use, while address can be made available upon request charged for parking or the block permit is the extreme case when through the Freedom of Information Act," for the use of their land. the regular system hasn't worked." she said. Block permits can also be valid on private Another goal ofthis program is to maximize lands adjoining the farmers land in which the use of block permits while minimizing the permits were issued, if the neighboring the use of summer kill permits, but there is ._ ."0 •••• _:/ ••• landowner gives permission. still a need for them. "There are situations Marquette Regional where taking additional deer in the fall just Headquart~rs . According to Pontz, when the hunting won't solve the problem," Pontz explained. season is over, landowners must complete "Block permits do not solve the problem Baraga District < the "Report of Hunters Issued Crop during the summer when a crop is there and Crystal Falls District Damage Block Permits" form. "The form is it is being damaged." Escanaba District important because it provides information Sault Ste. Marie Dist. needed to justify the program and help the Langenau said that' much more can be ac- Newberry District DNR with the count," she said. complished on the local level than can be achieved by the DNR. "You can have a Lansing Regional This form must be returned to the DNR by perfect regulatory system at the state level Headquarters (517) 322 ..1300 Jan. 15, 1992. If the landowner fails to meet that provides all kinds of flexibility, but Grand Rapids (616) 456-5071 the deadline, they'll be ineligible for the unless you have local participation and un- Imlay City District (313) 724-2015 program next year. Last year, 128 farmers derstanding, nothing is going to happen," he Plainwell District (616) 685-6851 did not return their paperwork and are not said. Jackson District (517) 784-3188 eligible this year for permits, but they may See "Block" - continued on page 7 reapply next year, according to the DNR. Pesticide Ruling Could Cause Chaos In This Issue ... The American Farm Bureau Federation federal law does not bar states from enact- has blasted the Supreme Court ruling allow- You'll find an extra eight pages ing laws more stringent than those of the ing local governments to adopt their own federal government, that right also extends devoted to management tips and pesticide regulations. "The Supreme to local units of government that are stra tegies for dairy operators, Court's ruling in favor of the Township of delegated regulatory powers by the state. and notice of an MSU Coopera- Casey, Wisconsin, is a bad decision which tive Extension Service series of could result in regulatory chaos among the "Under the rulil1g, one fann could fall under meetings across Michigan various legal jurisdictions," said AFBF several different pesticide laws, if that farm called, appropriately, "Farming President Dean Kleckner. spans several political jurisdictions," Presi- Through the Dairy Situation. " dent Dean Kleckner said. Farm Bureau filed a Friend of the Court Special thanks to the MSU brief in the case opposing Casey's efforts to According to Kleckner, the ruling will es- Departments of: Agricultural place exclusive control of pesticide-use sentially undennine FIFRA. "It will create Economics; Animal Science; decisions in the hands of its township board, a patchwork of different restrictions on the enabling it to bypass the Federal Insecicide, use of pesticides, unless local government Agricultural Engineering; Crops Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). units can be made to understand that federal and Soil Sciences; and the MSU regulations are adequate. Separate regula- Outreach Communication staff The Supreme Court ruled that since the tions are unnecessary," he said. for their talented,hard work. Capitol Comer - Michigan Fann Weather - Farm Business Outlook - Michigan Farln Nevvs -. July 15, 1991 Membership - In Brief ... Thanks to You, Dry Bean Industry Research Monies to Continue It Works for Congressional approval to continue funding of two scientists at MSU in dry bean research has been granted. This approval comes on the heels of a threat to discontinue Agricultural Everybody Research Service (ARS) funding to MSU after the death ofMSU scientist Dr. Fred Saettler. According to Michigan Bean Commission Chairman Kendall English, the funding ap- proval will mean the commitment toward new variety development will continue. Funding for the Saginaw Valley Dry Bean and Sugar Beet Research farm was continued also to the Every Farm Bureau member this month can note with pride the achievement of our 1991 tune of $189,000. statewide membership goal. Surpassing 114,500 family members gives your organization an all-time membership high and recognition as one of the fastest growing state Farm June Farm Price Index Up 2 Percent Bureaus in the nation. The index of prices received by U.S. farmers for their products in June was up 2 percent Many people were part of this membership success. The insurance company personnel -- from May levels, and was up 2 percent from June 1990 levels, according to Knight Ridder indeed, staff from the entire Farm Bureau family of companies -- played a crucial role in News. surfacing and signing new member prospects. County Farm Bureau office managers and other support staff also made outstanding contributions to the membership drive. Higher prices in June for oranges, most sold fresh rather than for juice, were responsible for most of the gain, USDA said in its monthly agricultural price report. The price reflects County Farm Bureau volunteers formed the heart of our campaign to sign-up farmer the short crop in California due to last winter's freeze. members. Nothing is more effective in convincing a farmer to join the organization than to have fellow farmers go right out to the farm for a persuasive sales talk. It's hard to resist when USDA said wheat prices were slightly higher than May, while feedgrain, oilseed and hay you hear your neighbors enthusiastically describe the economic, educational and social prices were all lower compared to May. Other major contributors to the 2 percent increase benefits of the organization. included tomatoes, lemons, and cotton. Lower prices for milk, hogs, corn and wheat were partially offsetting. Frequently, our most active and innovative leaders are also our most successful membership volunteers. That's because those county Farm Bureau leaders recognize the ultimate value July 7 Storm Damage Varies Across Michigan of new regular members. They know that new members are much more than just additional names on the membership roster. New members also represent potential leaders for the Consider yourself foronate if you experienced no major losses as a result of the] uly 7 stonn. future, as well as a source of fresh perspectives on policy issues and concerns. According to Farm Bureau Insurance's Grand Rapids claims office, portions of Kent and Ionia counties experienced severe losses. An area located five miles south of Belding I would strongly encourage you to get involved in your county membership campaign each suffered the heaviest damage, with 17 barns destroyed and 10 to 12 homes also damaged. year. Not only will you help your organization, you will help develop your own leadership skills. Active county Farm Bureau members recognize that their organization offers unlimited "We estimate that our total claims losses from the soonn will range from $1.5 to $2 million," opportunities for effecting positive change in their industry through many exciting projects said Bill Monville, property claims manager for Farm Bureau Insurance. As of press time, like Agriculture in the Classroom, legislative seminars, mall and fair displays, Media 1,000 stonn re~ted claims had been fIled, with more being reported daily. Response Teams, and Community Action Groups. They recognize that in uncertain times, it's comforting to have an organization like Farm Bureau at your side. Canadian Pork Products Off-Duty Agriculture faces many challenges in the year to come. Wetland regulations and other The United States formally lifted its countervailing duty on Canadian pork products July environmental concerns will influence farmers' production decisions. Tax reform and revision 1. Duties that have been collected will be returned to Canadian producers, according to a of P.A. 116 will influence financial planning. And building and maintaining support for Commerce Department report. Michigan State University will influence the future growth of our industry. These challenges and many more can be successfully met through the unified membership strength of Farm - The duty was removed after a U.S.-Canadian panel denied a request by the U.S. pork Bureau. Thanks to continued membership growth, our organization is assured a place of industry for a reversal of a lower panel's ruling that the duty violated current trade stature and influence in the years to come. agreements. The duty on fresh, chilled and frozen pork was imposed in 1989. A separate countervailing duty on live hogs, in effect since 1985, remains in effect against Canadian Producers. ~~La~~nt Michigan Farm Bureau 17 Michigan Counties Seeking Disaster Declaration New Agriculture Dean Recommended at MSU Gov. Engler is expected to approve a letter to USDA Secretary Edward Madigan requesting disaster declaration for 17 counties. The designation would allow farmers in those areas to Fred L. Poston of Washington State University is receive low-interest FHA loans, if approved by Madigan, according to Michigan Depart- slated to become vice provost and dean of the Col- ment of Agriculture officials. A decision is expected soon. lege of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University in September. Poston is The counties included on the list are: Allegan, Benzie, Berrien, Cass, Grand Traverse, Ionia, to succeed Dr. James H. Anderson, who is retiring Iosco, Kent, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Monroe, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa, after 14 years as dean and seven as vice provost. and Wayne counties. The three eastern counties are seeking disaster declaration due to excessive spring rains and the subsequent loss of small grains. A majority of the remaining The 44-year old director of Washington State's counties are requesting disaster declaration due to early spring high temperatures and frost Cooperative Extension Service and Associate Dean that devastated a majority of the fruit and vegetable crop in western Michigan. of Agriculture and Home Economics will be recom- mended to the MSU Board of Trustees at its regular- Animal Rights Terrorists Strike In Oregon ly scheduled meeting on July 26, Provost David Scott announced Monday, June 24. An animal rights activist organization not only burned and vandalized an Oregon State University animal research facility, they also admitted guilt of the crime and provided "He has experience in a state that, like Michigan, has videotaped evidence. The publicity hungry group known as the Animal Liberation Front extensive water and forest resources in addition to ("ALF"), burned a mink breeding barn and trashed a research laboratory de'stroying records agricultural industries that are highly diversified -- and spray painting walls and equipment, according to the Corvallis Gazette-Times. spanning fruit, field-crop and animal farming as well as forestry and fisheries," said MSU President John In a second incident, a fire was set at the Northwest Farm Foods Cooperative, which DiBiaggio. furnishes feed and bedding to local fur farms. ALF delivered notes to Washington media taking credit for setting the fire with incendiary devices. The terrorist group, which vowed Poston, who has been at WSU since 1987, has been cited for decentralization of administra- it would continue similar activities until "the last mink farm is burnt to the ground," may tion as well as a major investment in computers and a television network of 45 satellite have shot itself in the foot with its acts of trespass, arson and vandalism. Legislation moving dishes linking all 39 Washington counties. Poston received a B.S. degree in biology at West through the Oregon Legislature would make interfering with animal research or stealing, Texas State University and a M.S. and Ph.D. degree in entomology at Iowa State University. injuring or removing animals from research facilities a crime punishable by imprisonment. Federal legislation also is pending to increase penalties for attacks on animal facilities. Great Lakes Corn Destined for the USSR? There are strong indications that U.S. com sold to the U.S.S.R over the last week of June and first week of July has started to be loaded from Great Lakes ports, according to Knight Michigan Farm News is Published 20 times annually: By the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Ridder Financial News. A vessel currently being loaded from the Andersons facility in Relations Division. Publication and editorial. offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan 48917, Post Office Box 30960 (zip 48909); phone 1-517-323-7000 .. Maumee, Ohio, is said to be destined for the Soviet Union, trading officials say. Michigan Farm News is provided as a service to regular members as part of their annual dues. Publication According to a recent Chicago Board of Trade, receipts/shipments report for Toledo, Ohio, No. 345040. Established Jan. 13, 1923, as Michigan Farm News, reestablished October 15,1990. Third- dass postage paid at Lansing, Michigan and at additional mailing offlCE!s. 514,975 bushels of corn were loaded at the Andersons on July 1, rumored to be the first part of a Soviet-bound cargo. Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. OffICers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President Wayne Wood Marlette' Sources would not confirm that any Great Lakes corn was destined for the U.S.S.R, but did Administrative Director. Charles Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary: say that corn recently traded for shipment from Toledo had met Soviet quality and grade William S. Wilkinson. specifications. Comparative freight costs between Toledo and Milwaukee have also given Directors: District 1, Marlin Outman, Constantine; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane rise to speculation of shipments from Milwaukee, Great Lakes trading sources say. Homing, Manchester; Districl4, Tom Guthrie, De~on; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; District 7, Larry Snider. Hart; District 8, Richard Leach, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch. Since a new rolJnd of export credit guarantees was offered to the Soviet Union, USDA has Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; Districl11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Douglas Darling, Maybee; Jack Laurie, Cass City; Faye Adam,Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and reported sales of U.S. corn to the U.S.S.R totaling 741,000 tonnes. There are now $171 Education, Holly Porter. Manchester. Young Farmers, Steven Gonyea, Spruce. million remaining of the original feed grain credit line of $285 million offered to the U.S.S.R. Of the $75 million dollars allocated for freight, $45 million remain, USDA said. Michigan Farm Ne\Ns ITOL 1':= July 15, 1991 o o :D Z m :D Private Property Rights Act Right-to-Farm Procedures and Guidelines Status: Senator Symms (R-Idaho) offered S. 50 as an amendment to the Surface Transpor- Status: The Department of Agriculture has released draft proposals of Right-to-Farm tation Efficiency Act approved by the Senate in June. The amendment was approved. guidelines for nutrient manage!TIent and pesticide management practices. The amendment would require federal agencies to determine if their activities will have an The drafts contain both general and specific recommendations, which, if followed, would impact-on private property rights. If private property rights would be impacted, the agency provide farmers protection in Right-to-Farm civil challenges. Procedures spelled out in the must then consider alternatives to reduce and/or eliminate the adverse impact, including guidelines include: management and method of application; minimizing impact on non- compensation to the property owner. target areas; and emphasizes following label directions, soil testing and recognizing weather factors. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau strongly supports the amendment. However, during debate, a motion was introduced to table the amendment, which was defeated by a vote of Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau is evaluating each of the draft proposals and is seeking 44 to 55. Interestingly enough, Michigan Senators Don Riegle and Carl Levin voted for comments from members regarding areas of concern for presentation to MDA. the motion to table the amendment, considered by many to be a vote against private property Farm Bureau Contact: Ron Nelson, extension 2043. rights. Farm Bureau. Contact: AIAlmy, extension 2040. Disaster Assistance Status: Rep. Gubow (D-Huntington Woods), has introduced, H.B. 4489, which would require posting and notification of areas receiving pesticide application and a written or Status: The' House Agriculture (]ommittee re~entlyheld hearings regarding losses of . oral contract between the applicator and the landowner. The bill also requires commercial agricultural crops resulting from Disastrous weather conditions. Four Farm Bureau wit- applicators to notify property owners with a one-page summary of the pesticides being nesses presented testimony on crRP lo~ses in 1990 and 1991 and the need for disaster used. assis,tance.' ,., "'... MDA is currently negotiating rules pursuant to the Pesticide Control Act to do the same Following the heanngs, the"committee directed staff to explore methods to fund the as the proposed legislation. The bill allows for a continuation of negotiations on the rules, ~stimated $2billioIlP.rogram to provide'payments to producers along with other forms of but if there is no final proposal within 90 days of the effective date, emergency rules can reli~f.Urider the "pay as you go" provisions imposed by Congress, the cost of the program be implemented. must be offset With spending cuts. in,other program areas, or tax increases. The Michigan Department of Agriculture is speeding up the process of developing regulation 637 rules on pesticide use to comply with Rep. Gubow's proposed legislation. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau provided amendments to ensure that posting and notification requirements and the written contract requirement will not apply to agricultural pesticide application. Farm Bureau continues to work with MDA on the regulations. Farm Bureau Contact: Vicki Pontz, extension 2046. Off-Road Vehicles Status: The Senate has passed legislation, sponsored by Rep. Tom Alley (D-West Branch), establishing an official off-road vehicle (OR Y) trail plan. Michigan now has, according to the Department of Natural Resources, the second largest statewide ORY system in the nation, second only to California. The resolution changes the previous "open-unless-posted-closed" policy to "closed-unless- posted-open" policy for state forest roads, and requires the DNR to notify all registered OR V owners in the state of the changes. The notification will include mailing a one-page summary of the act and information on obtaining detailed copies of the system. An ORY Trail Advisory Committee is also encouraged to conduct a minimum of three public hearings on the ORY trail system between June 1 and Aug. 31, 1991. The DNR will provide information and warnings rather than fines or citations this summer to allow ORV owners to become familiar with the designated trails and new rules. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau supports the legislation creating the ORY policy and the plan to implement the regulations. Farm Bureau Contact: Vicki Pontz, extension 2046. '\ pestlclae Applicator RegUlations Status: Regulations regarding pesticide applicator testing and certification have been passed by the IointCommittee on Administrative Rules. As a result, several new categories of pesticide application for commercial applicators have been established such as field crops, fruit crops, and right-of-way pest management. Private applicators (farmers) are not required to be certified by category unless they are applying pesticides by aircraft for structural fumigation, soil fumigation, greenhouse • - State Issues - fumigation, or chemigation. In those situations that apply, the applicator must demonstrate a practical knowledge of the additional standards specifically identified by category. (;orn utilization Commission The rules provide an opportunity for an applicator to be "registered" to apply restricted use Status: House Bil14868, sponsored by Rep. Muxlow (R-Brown City), requir~s a ~eg~sla- pesticides if under the direct supervision of a certified applicator. Once a registered tive-mandated check-off of 1/4 of one cent on the net value of com produced 10 MIchIgan applicator has acquired a specific number of hours applying a restricted use pesticide, the to fund promotional and informational programs. certified applicator may request an exclusion to the testing requirements. This exclusion may be useful to private applicators who wish to have their employees registered to apply An agreement has been reached between House ~g Committee C.haiJl!l.~ Rep. Hickner restricted use pesticides. (D-Bay City), Rep. Muxlow and MDA to work WIth com growers m uttllzmg P.A. 232 to develop a program and to conduct the referendum. Under the new rules, an applicator's certification will be renewable on December 31 of every third year following issuance. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau opposes H.B. 4868, but does support any commodity group which is organized to utilizeP.A. 232 to determine if a referendum and check-off Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau supported the rules. Farm Bureau Contact: Vicki Pontz, extension 2046. should be levied for promotional purposes. Farm Bureau Contact: Ron Nelson, extension 2043. American Farm Bureau's Toll Free Capitol Hotline Service From MFB's Public Affairs Division, (517) 323-7000 1-800-245-4630 Michigan Farln NelNs -. Summary and 30 & 90-Day Forecast July 15,1991 Wanner than nonnal temperatures con- For 611/91 Accum. Dev. Precipitation to 6/30/91 Temperature Grow. From Dev. From' tinued throughout June, although depar- Observed Dev. From Degree Norm. Actual Norm tures from nonnal were not as large as those Mean Normal Days* GDD* (inch.) (Inch.) recorded during May. Drier than nonnal Alpena 65.6 +4.4 509 +120 .20 .;..2.96 weather caused some drought stress in Michigan and Major Commodity Area Bad Axe 67.8 +0.4 540 +10 1.72 -1.64 Extended Weather OuJIook western and southern Michigan, while the Escanaba 64.5 +5.4 446 +159 2.82 -3.04 T - Temp. 7/15 7/31 7/15 ......9/30 Grand Rapids 71.2 +4.1 dryness allowed for planting completion in 652 +119 1.76 -.34 P - Preclp T P T e Imlay City 68.4 + 1.0 565 +35 1.n -.90 the eastern portions of the state. Michigan A N A N lansing 69.3 +2.5 604 +79 2.60 -.90 W. Corn Belt A N A N Ludington 68.1 +3.2 553 +100 1.24 -1.70 The shortage of rainfall may have been E. Corn Belt A N A B Marquette 62.9 +3.3 431 +92 3.06 -.80 compensated for during the 4th of July Wint. Wheat Belt N N N N Sault Ste. Marie 63.0 +4.6 364 +n 1.09 -2.17 Spr.Wheat Belt N N N A holiday with widespread rainfall totals Standish 67.2 +1.3 527 +43 2.10 -.98 Pac. NW Wheat B N B N ranging from 2 to 3 inches with the heaviest Tipton 69.4 +2.0 588 +58 1.97 -.90 Delta B B A B Traverse City 70.5 +7.6 622 +222 .80 -2.23 amouts recorded in central Michigan. Southeast B B A N Watervliet 70.6 +3.0 625 +92 1.58 -1.97 West Texas N N N N The latest 30 and 90-day outlook call for a San Joaquin B B N N * Growing Degree Days are based on B.E. Base 50F method and are accumu- continuation of the mid-continent ridging lated from June 1, through June 301991. jet stream pattern that covered Michigan A-Above Average, B-Below Average, N-Nor- mal, MA-Much Above, MB-Much Below, NP- during May and June. Above normal No Precip.: Source: National Weather Office Wheat Harvest Ahead of Schedule temperatures are expected to continue all across the state. The winter wheat harvest continues to progress well ahead of nonnal throughout the U.S. Midwest and Ohio Valley amid dry, hot weather, according to Knight Ridder News. Harvest Precipitation is forecast to be near nonnal activity has been frenzied in the Ohio Valley with the Ohio harvest advancing 48 percentage for the remainder of July. For August points during the week of July I, while Indiana advanced 40 percentage points and Illinois through September, precipitation is ex- advanced to 29 percent. pected to range from slightly above nonnal in the western Upper Penninusla to near Locally, Michigan harvest is 10 to 15 days ahead of schedule by some estimates. Michigan nonnal over northern and central sections Ag Commodities reported active harvest in Clinton county and western areas, adding that of lower Michigan, and below nonnal over yields and test weight were somewhat disappointing, with 54 - 55 pound test weights. The the southeastern Lower Penninsula. lower test weights are being blamed on the wet spring that resulted in mold, scab and disease problems. Heav winds have downed some wheat, but is re ortedl still harvestable. Crop Progress Ahead of Schedule Com is generally in good condition with some leaf rolling from dry weather. Com growth is above nonnal in most areas, with some com silking in the Lower Peninsula and average heights ranging from 45 to 60 inches. Some deer damage is being reported in the Upper Peninsula. Dry bean planting was reported nearly complete with some outbreaks of leafbop- per and Mexican bean beetle infestation reported. Winter wheat is rated 68 percent good to excellent. Isolated orchard areas in Van Buren, Kent, Montcalm and surrounding counties were damaged by wind and hail from the July 7 severe storm. Peach growers are also reported to be concerned about the spread of fire blight bacteria as a result. Soil moisture is rated 50 percent short, 45 percent adequate, and 5 percent surplus. CROP PROGRESS REPORT Week Ending 7n191 This Last S-Year Week Year Avg. Inches Corn Height 55 17 22 percent Corn Sliked 18% 1% 2% Hay First Cut. 96% 90% 90% Hay Second Cut. 15% 10% 5% Oats Headed 95% 90% 85% Oats Turned Yellow 50% 10% 15% Soys Blooming 30% 0% 3% Wheat Ripe Wheat Harvested 50% 25% 5% 0% 15% 5% ... FARM BIJREAIJ Source: Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service ••• FARM IUtIAU @ INSIJRANCE MUTUAL • FARM BUREAU LIFE • FARM BUREAU GENERAL • Fe ANNUITY Michigan Farm News Dairy Extra ----~----=:-~-=:::~II:=I July 15, 1991 Seven Ways to Squeeze More out of The Farm's Cash Flow There are few dairy operations in Michigan that are not having a difficult time trying to maintain an adequate cash 2) Cost Control flow. However, there is a strong likelihood a) Since feed is approximately 50% of your for survival if the dairy manager enlists the costs, test feeds and use a nutritionist to help of the support crew. keep the rations balanced. Make sure the expensive additions in your rations are still Ben Bartlett, MSU Extension dairy and cost effective with cheaper milk. livestock specialist in the Upper Peninsula, says the crew, of course, includes the fami- b) Many farmers have found grazing to cut ly and employees and folks off the farm. costs by $1 OO/head or more with a payback on investment in months, not years. "They are the local veterinarian, feed and fertilizer suppliers, equipment dealers, c) Review and rejustify your cropping pro- lenders and the Extension agents," Bartlett gram - are your grain crops (com, oats, says. "These people all have a vested inter- barley) really cheaper to grow than to buy? est in the farm's success and can be of Is the back "20" with deer damage worth the substantial value as the manager plans a fertilizer, seed, etc.? Maybe you can still strategy to ride out the low milk prices grow some grains, but limit it to those fields during 1991." you can manure and that have a history of consistently good yields. He says that it is important to plan well and d) Soil test to get the most mileage from be sure to tap other people for ideas when your fertilizer dollar and to check your fer- considering the following ways to bolster tility bank account. This may be the year to cash flow. draw upon yo,:!r past deposits. 1) Determine where you are now e) Make harvesting high quality forage a 4) Maximize Producton Potential be sure to cost out the ideas and make sure What did it cost you to produce a cwt of a) Maintain the maximum milk sales your priority this summer. A 10% increase in they won't detract from your main busi- milk last year? Are your feed costs about facilities and forage supply will allow. ness, milk production. forage protein decreases next year's average for the area? You can get help from Keep milking cows as long as they cover soybean meal purchases by $23/cow. your county agent, lender or accountant. feed costs, then replace with fresh animals. Think of this activity as an exercise to iden- 6) Planning t) What's your next biggest cost after feed? Put together a cash flow plan for the com- tify hidden opportunities in your operation. b) Almost all herds have the genetics to What can you do to more effectively control ing year using these ideas, other sources of that cost item? produce 20,000 Ibs. plus, but are limited by assistance and, most importantly, your nutrition. Feed best forages to fresh cows knowledge of your operation and your and balance the ration. goals. 3) Price of Milk a) You can't change the base price, but MSU Sch~c;1u/~s make sure you are getting a reasonable but- ter fat level. If not, get the feed dealer or c) Keep cows pregnant, even if it means using a bull. Dry cows and empty stalls 7) Communication Besides using and reviewing your plan, Special Dairy nutritionist to check the ration and your feeding management. aren't profitable even with $14.00 milk. there is one important point to remember. The success of your dairy business will Workshops b) Are you getting all available quality 5) Consider Income Alternatives - Woodlot harvest - Milk 3 x/day never be as important as your health and family relationships. Don't let things get premiums? Often only one or two cows will - Cash crop - Dairy steers out of perspective. A lot of people want to Dairy producers can' learn more put you over the SCC limit. Find these cows The potential is unlimited. Review your help, so give your feed dealer, vet, lender, about. management options and the because they're costing you money regard- resources for any additional income that other suppliers, or extension agent a call. outlook for market pnces during six less of milk production. may be appropriate for your situation. But, regional workshops that will start during July .. The series will be.conducted by MSU Cooperative Extension Service Seeking a Long- Term Dairy Solution specIalists in dairy management and A ny federal dairy inventory management - Not include manadatory bases or quotas; support price. An increase in the dairy sup- agricultural economics. program should boost the income of dairy - Not increase cost of dairy program above port price, he said, would send false signals producers, allow market-responsive prices baseline level (budget nuetral); to the industry and have a negative impact The series, "Farming Through the. and assure an adequate milk supply. And it - Be adaptable to possible trade agree- on dairy consumption. Such a plan would Dairy Situation," will be held at the should be more than a short-term price fix, ments; also have serious impact on the budget and following locations: the American Farm Bureau Federation told - Minimize the impact of excess supply on could run counter to future international o July 23, 1 p.m.- 3 p.m., Sanilac Congress recently. dairy producer income; - Allow industry and individual producers trade agreements. County Extension offIce, 37 Austin St.. Sandusky. "We should not mortgage the long-term to adjust to new technology and changing "We recognize the immediate need for ad- o July 24, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Grand viability of the industry for a short-term price fix," AFBF President Dean Kleckner conditions; - Minimize the impact of the program on ditional income by producers, but suggest that this goal could be achieved by con- Rapids Township Hall, 1836 East told the House Agriculture Dairy subcom- other commodities; sideration of a target price or diversion BeltUne Ave.,'NE, Grand Rapids. mittee and the Senate Agriculture Commit- - Involve a producer board in conduct of payment for producers who reduce produc- o July 30, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Wolverine tee in separate hearings. programs; and tion," he said. "This would provide imme- Electric Cooperative, 4 miles east - Minimize any negative impact on con- diate relief for participants and provide a of Cadillac on M-55. Kleckner was one of several hundred people sumption. dampening effect on supply. Coupled with o July 31, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. COT (8 who packed the two hearings, as well as overflow areas. The session lasted from In addition to those criteria, Kleckner said the use of higher solids standards for fluid milk, we have the potential to help all p.m.EDT), North Central Area morning to early evening without a break in "AFBF supports a milk pricing program, producers without the problems associated School, US 2 and 41, near order to give witnesses a chance to present established on a base/excess concept, tied with a support price increase." Powers. testimony on various management directly to the current commercial utiliza- o Aug. 2, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Kellogg programs. tion and market reserve. The price of excess Kleckner challenged Congress to ensure Biological Station Dairy Center, milk should be at the market-clearing level. that the U.S. dairy industry is in a position 10641 North 40th St., Hickory Kleckner said that Farm Bureau has spent to enter world markets. "We are certain that Corners. Guided tours of the time evaluating various alternatives, and the "This program should be designed to allow the U.S. dairy industry can be competitive facility will be offered beginning at AFBF board adopted criteria that should be a profitable relationship between supply with that of virtually aT' ation. We want 11 a.m. used in crafting a legislative response to the and demand. An industry-controlled board to be able increase producer income by o Aug. 7, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Livingston current dairy situation. would initiate this program on an annual basis, only if industry-controlled purchases making these markets available to them." County Extension Office, 820 East Grand River, Howell. "These criteria will allow the evaluation of are estimated to exceed a prescribed trigger Farm Bureau agreed with the recent USDA any program or combination of programs level. The industry-controlled board should dairy study emphasizing the importance of More information about the that may be presented," Kleckner ex- consist of dairy farmer milk producers." a market-oriented dairy industry; however, workshops can be obtained from ~he plained. Farm Bureau, he said, supports pro- KleckT'~r said that Farm Bureau also sees county. Extension office or by calling gram changes that must, to the greatest de- Kleckner warned against proposals that the need to make changes to help the cur- Shemll Nott or Ann Eure at 517-353- gree possible, accomplish the following: would include a significant increase in the rent situation. 4522. Michigan Farm News Dairy Extra July 15, 1991 Dairy Farm Financial Management in 1991 Options Checklist The list below includes some possible ac- Many dairy farmers will find that the cash tions that might be used to ease the cash available in 1991 is going to be insufficient flow crunch, along with a place to check to pay all fann expenses, provide for fam.ily whether each might be applicable to your living. and make debt payments to whIch farm. they are committed. o Borrow more money (this makes Among the first things a fanner needs to do sense only if you expect the is assure a good working relationship with profitability of your business to in- their lenders. If you know that you will not crease in the future). be able to make all the debt payments to which you have agreed, see your lender. D Restructure debt: Put more on long term and less on short term to lower This may not be a welcome task, but in the total payments. long run will be better than just not making payments to which you have agreed. Take D Put part or all of loans on an interest- your 1990 farm income statement, an up- only payment. to-date balance sheet and cash flow projec- D Increase cash receipts (more than tions to your lenders and explain the situa- cash expenses). tion. Don't necessarily expect the lenders to automatically agree to adjust your payment o Decrease cash expenses (more than schedule to meet the cash flow that you cash receipts). expect will be available. But ifboth you and your lenders understand the situation, there D Participate in the Feed Grain or Wheat is a greater chance that a solution to the programs. problem can be found. D Cut capital purchases. the payments much on a relatively new If it becomes clear that a payment schedule If possible, do not allow a substantial build- long-term level payment loan (such as 25 which you are likely to be able to meet can't o Cut family living expenses. up in accounts payable for f~ed and oth~r items. If your bills are not bemg fully paId or 30 years) because the payment is ~ostly be found, more drastic action must be taken. interest anyway. However, on an mter- This could include actions such as selling D Sell nonessential capital assets. at the end of each month, you probably are mediate-term loan or a 25-year mortgage some or all of your cows and heifers and headed for trouble. Try to convince your that is half paid off, interest only would D Keep inventory low (sell unneeded lender to provide the money to keep your perhaps the equipment and farm, or a write- crop, buy feed only as needed, etc.) appreciably reduce the payment. . down of debt by the lender. Reducing or accounts reasonably current. If those ac- discontinuing the farm operation may not be o Seek off-farm work for the operator or counts payable become too large, you will be in danger of having your suppliers refuse Refinancing your current loans' could result a pleasant prospect, but it may be the best family members. in lower payments if the loan terms can be solution, particularly if the profitability of to continue to provide what you need. lengthened and the interest rate ~o.e~ not dairy farming is not likely to increase ap- o Sell assets and lease them back. Many feed dealers will be reluctant to take on accounts when a check with other increase. There may also be a posSIbIlIty of preciably for several years. consolidating, for example, individual D Sell the assets to an investor and work dealers shows that you have substantial un- loans on each of several pieces of equip- The last two years (1989 and 1990) were as the manager. paid accounts. A large unpaid electric bill ment into one loan with a longer term and could lead to a shut-off of your power. quite favorable for dairy farmers in terms of perhaps a lower interest rate. The greatest the relationship between milk prices and: gain may come from switching inter- input prices. If you did not make a Capital expenditures for new equipment mediate loans with terms such as five years may need to be cut drastically. Even reasonable return for your labor, manage- to real estate loans with much longer terms. ment and equity capital in those two years, machines in dire need of replacement may Whether this can be done depends on you need to seriously consider whether you have to be kept running another year or two. having enough equity in the real estate to should remain in dairy farming because that Hiring custom work may be I~ss expen~ive entice your lender to be willing to loan than paying the cost of owmng machmes general level of profitability in dairy farm- more on the real estate. ing is not likely to return for severa~ yero:s. CENTRAL DAIRY SUPPL Y, Inc and could have the additional advantage that the operator comes with the machine. If a satisfactory return was not attamed m A monthly amortization table for interest those two years, the next year or two at least Central Dairy Supply is your total This might make it possible to not hire other rates of 9 to 12 percent and terms of 3 to 7 may be extremely difficult unless you can livestock equipment and supply labor. Trading work with neighbors to and 10,20,25 and 30 years is shown below. make almost revolutionary changes to in- avoid the need for each to own all the center. Whether your needs are for Note that the gain in tefl'Dsof lowered pay- crease profitability. machines may be a possibility. ments is much less when going from, say, Dairy - Hogs - Beef - Horse - 20 to 25 years than when going from 5 to There are other ways of increasing cash If you are having, or anticipate having, a Sheep or Goats, we can meet your 10 years. cash flow crunch, be sure to talk to your flow in the short run. Equipment not crucial needs, including: to the fann operation could be sold. Per- lenders right away. If you need to increase One danger of refinancing ~verything into the profitability of your business, see your o Supplies from our Route haps a building lot or land a long way from the home base that is not contributing much the longest possible terms is that you have Cooperati ve Extension agent or specialist or Delivery System used up all your flexibility and will not be other consultants on whom you depend. to the profitability of the business could be able to refinance to lower your payments o Milking systems sold. Off-farm work by you or other family members may be a possibility. again in the near future. On the other hand, (The above was developed from informa- if refinancing is the only way to survive the o Custom designed current financial crisis, losing the tion obtained from Michigan State Univer- sity and Cornell University.) fencing systems Your lender might be willing to put some flexibility is of relatively minor impor- or all of your loans on an interest-only basis o Custom feeding systems for a period of time. This would not reduce tance. We want to serve your needs. Give Central Dairy a try - Monthly payment per $1,000 of loan You won't be sorry! Repayment Annual Interest Rate on Loan centrai .Dairy .Suppiy; inc.---..- Period 9 10 11 12 281 0 South Canal 3 yrs 31.80 32.27 32.74 33.22 Lansing, MI 48917 - 9551 4 yrs 24.89 25.36 25.85 26.33 (517) 322-2083 or 5 yrs 20.76 21.25 21.74 22.25 6 yrs 18.03 18.53 19.04 19.55 (517) 322-2100 7 yrs 16.09 16.60 17.12 17.65 10 yrs 12.67 13.22 13.78 14.35 SAVE THOUSANDS! 20 yrs 8.85 9.65 10.32 11.01 BRUTE@ STEELARCH '00 25 yrs 8.39 9.09 9.80 10.53 Price Indudee one Huvy Duty Door System. Additional Doors, Vents, Skylights & Mandoors extra. 30 yrs 8.05 8.78 9.52 10.29 ~ll-~~ll~~~545 50' x 100' 25lU17WL Qnc11-24' x 14' Door) ~~~499 50' x 200' 25UJ17WL SALE $5,699 I .• _~ !~) Example: Ned Farmer owns $200,000 worth of real estate and $200,000 worth of cattle and equipment. He owe~ about $56,000 on the real estate for a debt-to-asset ratl~ of 28 percent. He owes $120,000 on the cattle and equipment Equity in the real estate is 72 percent, which should allow the mortgage to be increased. If $50,000 of the $120,000 intermediate-term loan could be switched to the real estate, the total mortgage would be $1 06,000. Payments on a new I , ! _ for a debt-to-asset ratio of 60 percent. A five-year pay- 25-year mortgage at 11 percent would be $1,039 per QncI1-24'x 14' Door) Retail $40,451 SALE $19,999 ment schedule at 11 percent interest on the cattle and month. Payments on the remaining $70,000 on the cattle eFeatures Straighter Sides - Perfect Machine & Grain Storage equipment would result in payments of $2,609 per mon~h. and equipment (5 years, 11 percent) would be $1,522 and Bullding.eActuai door clearances may vary slightly.eHeavy 22 The original mortgage on the real estate was $60,000 With total payments would be $2,561 or $636 per month less than Ga. Double lap 7 11'Z' Deep-Rib Corrugation.eldeal for live- stock, Machinery, Grain & Shop. a 25-year term. The payments on the mortgage at 11 the current payments. Switching more of the intermediate SocM additionaf dlaeoum. percent are $588 per month. There are about 20 years left debt to long term would lower the payments more. on unclaimed bulldlnga when anllaiblel Call for 303-757 -31 07 on the mortgage. Total monthly payments are $3,197. Information. Drawer 8 e Louviere, CO 80131 Michigan Farm News 1991 Dairy Extra •• July 15, 1991 FINANCIAL HEAL TH AND PRACTICES TEST Part 1. Business Financial Health With lower milk prices and higher input Debt to Asset Ratio (debt divided by assets) costs, 1991 will be a difficult year for dairy farmers. The following tests will determine 1. Percent Equity (net worth) in my business is if your business financial health and finan- cial management practices are as strong as (1) .20 or less (4) greater than .60 possible to survi ve 1991. (2) .21 to .40 (5) not known (3) .41 to .60 The first part of the test measures business financial health and the second part finan- 2. In the past three years, my debt to asset ratio has cial management practices. Place the num- ber of your response in the' blank for each (1) decreased (3) increased question. Your score is the total of the num- Some Standard Models in Inventory (2) stayed the same (4) don't know bers of the response for each question. 2S 130 35 x 70 40 X 100 30 x 40 Some 0"" 40 I 80 50 1200 30 x 60 45 x '10 ",0tHI •• ".".~ 3. Debt payments (principal plus interest) are 20 percent of my My Score (Part 1) • 20 Year Warranty • IITll1'ledial8 Delivery cash receipts. 8 to 12 points: Your business financial 1-800-338-8457 (1) less than (3) more than health is excellent. Atlas Steel Buildings (2) about equal to (4) don't know 13 to 20 points: Prioritize areas where 4. My farm bills are financial health can be improved. (1) paid on time (2) paid, but some are past due 21 to 31 points: your business finan- FREE CA TALOG (3) increasrngly hard to pay and some are rolled into scheduled payments Dairy & Farm Supplies cial health is in serious condition; seek (4) don't know the status of all my bills 5. My net farm income (operating receipts minus expenses, including deprecia- professional counselling from your financi~1 advisor, lender or Coopera- 1hiii._ SPECIAlIST IN DAIRY AND FARJA SUPPUES tive Extension agent immediately. tion) has over the last three years. We offer the most complete (1) been increasing (3) been decreasing My Score (Part 2) selection of custom made (2) been consistent (4) don't know 8 to 12 points: Your financial manage- inflations available ment activities are excellent. Call Toll Free 6. The operating costs of producing milk (not including value of operator and 1-800-253-3093 family labor and management, and return on equity capital) is per 13 to 16 points: Prioritize areas to MICH. 1-800-275-MAES (6237) hundredweight. work on and start to improve your FAX 1-800-878-MAES (6237) (1) less than $10 (4) over $12 skills. (2) between $10 and $11 (5) don't know DE LA VAL 17 to 22 points: You've indicated Dairymen Special (3) between $11.50 and $12 many areas that need improvement. Two new inflations available with 7. Within the last year, my lender has rejected my loan request. Take immediate action and seek the more natural rubber added. (1) no portion of ' (2) part of . (3) all of advice of a financial counselor. Inquire for ~ealer nearest youl 8. I increased borrowing to cover not only capital purchases, but family living expenses and taxes as well. (1) have (2) have not Total the numbers of the responses selected for each question in this section of the test and match your score with the following guidelines. "Not known" and "don't know" responses indicate areas for better record keeping. Conservation tillage Part 2. Financial Management Practices 1. I've prepared 1991 cashflow projections for my farm business. (1) a detailed monthly (3) a quick or rough (2) a yearly (4) no 2. I've discussed my current financial condition and 1991 operating capital needs with (1) my creditor and financial advisor (2) my creditor (3) no one 3. I've secured my operating capital needs for 1991. (1) yes (2) no Brent" CPC 2000: everything adjusts to deliver the exact results you need. 4. I've prepared a complete listing of all assets and financial obligations (struc- Every farmer has a different problem 4, 5 or 7 deep till shanks can be set to with SCS compliance. Criteria can vary penetrate just deep enough to shatter tured debt, dealer credit, and open accounts) from field-to-field. So we created the the plowsole. Finally gangs of angled (1) once a year (every year) (2) when my creditor requests it (3) never flexible, adjustable CPC to let you leave disks with both adjustable angle and the desired amount of residue on the depth cover ridges and valleys and surface. Angled disk gangs in front cut leave the precise percentage of crop 5.1 participate in an organized farm business analysis and planning the fall residue to permit passage of the residue on top to meet your specific shanks to follow. A V-configured row of compliance requirements. program . .....u) .b1b1fo iM'n-lW'n1&l (1) do (2) sometimes (3) never *ptIl ..... 6. I do a detailed potential profitability and cashflow analysis of capi- tal purchases before buying. (1) always (2) sometimes (3) never Aftlllc bottle. -- Goad tbnI SepL JQ 1991 I-------------- • I: purchase GcJo.l tbnI Sept. JQ 199/ c: a guide when remodeling or building new facilities. Michigan Farm News 1991 Dairy Extra •• July 15, 1991 Herd Feeding Program Affords The Most Flexibility For Profit The herd feeding program is one of the Make sure the ration is balanced. Re- best areas where cost can be reduced while balance the ration frequently. What was maintaining milk production. balanced three months ago probably isn't now. That's because there will be as much "About 50 to 60 percent of the cost of variability in the forage coming from fields running the dairy farm is associated with as there is variability between the fields the feeding program," says Herb Bucholtz, themselves, Bucholtz says. MSU Extension dairy nutrition specialist. "It's probably the largest single area in Variability is also caused by the time of day which cost control can result in savings and the forage was harvested because forage increased profit. moisture and, subsequently, the dry matter (OM) will change. That alone can alter the The cow must be fed to meet its nutritional ration and milk production. requirements but the aim should be feed only the essential ingredients that will "It is more important to know the moisture maintain production. That means looking content of the ration than its nutrient com- carefully at possible hidden costs that can position because moisture will change be avoided. more often," Bucholtz says. "Make sure the OM recommended by the nutritionist is ac- "If you are buying a feed ingredient, is it tually getting into the cow." really resulting in increased productivity either in milk production, growth or A 5 percent difference in the forage OM can health?" Bucholtz asks. equate to 8 Ibs. of milk. Haylage is prone to the most variability in moisture followed by One producer he is working with needed 6 corn for silage and then high moisture grams of niacin per cow in the ration but grain, but they all need to be constantly The use of a mixer, portable or stationary, with weigh scales, can help tremen- was feeding a package of nutrients that checked in the feeding program. dously in perfecting your total mixed ration. contained the niacin. To reduce OM variability, Bucholtz recom- "In the high-producing herds I work with, I "It was a matter of about 5 cents for the mends using a moisture tester to monitor forage. It is available through the county find that the manager checks the dry matter Extension office. niacin as opposed to about 17 cents per cow the forage as it is being made in the field or content of all ensiled feeds every few days," that he was paying for the package," he as it is being ensiled. As the moisture chan- Bucholtz says. Bucholtz's other recommendations: says. "By feed reviewing the ration and ges, adjust the harvest according to the feeding only the required amount of niacin, moisture changes to make the forage as Take a look at com for silage program. D Record what happens to each cow's he was able to save about $10,000 per year consistent in moisture as possible. Grow a single variety so that there is con- milk production each time the ration is on the 250-cow herd. The point is, buy and sistency throughout the silo. Having several rebalanced. Using the bulk tank as a feed only what is essential." Follow through with the moisture testing varieties for com silage means variability barometer is not a firm indicator as to practice as the forage comes out of the silo. in the ration which is hard to compensate But don't summarily alter feeding costs as Monitor the quality to determine how good what is actually happening to each cow. for with supplements. Consistency enables To more closely calculate, select a few that will result in a change in the cow's the digestibility is. the producer to take definite steps to com- cows that are high producers and are 30 body condition. pensate for the lack of quality. to 60 days into the lactation. Check their Forages have variation in nutrient composition due to a variety of factors includ- production level with a milk meter ing the time of cutting, the variety grown, and the type of growing season. Store forages based on the quality. before and a few days after the ration. is Segregate forages according to each cut- changed or a major ingredient is added. ting. Store grass type hay separate for pure alfalfa. D Pay close attention to body condition each time the ration is changed or a "Producers can make some real savings by major ingredient is added. Make sure feeding forage quality according to the the cow is milking off the ration and not cow's ability to produce milk," says off body reserves. Bucholtz. "As much as possible, maintain a traditional forage program." D Look at the cost of the feed ingredients being purchased and the milk produc- Monitor the OM intake. Know how much tion response -- fats, protein supple- cows are eating according to their produc- ments, additives, etc. Make a careful tion group. Know how much OM each cow evaluation of each item added to the is consuming. The higher the OM intake, ration. Make sure each contributes to the higher the milk production. increased milk production. What hap- pens if it is withdrawn from the ration? Any time that the farmer sees that the cow's Ingredients can be moved around in the OM (NOT wet matter) intake is going ration. down, it immediately signals that a problem is at hand. The amount the cow eats will be D Don't be afraid to challenge the cow reflected three days later in the bulk tank. (they're pretty resilient), the feed ad- visor and your own practices. Ask a lot The MSU Department of Animal Science of questions and do a lot thinking about staff paper "Practical Implications of Dry doing the job a little better for less cost. Matter Intake," will provide more informa- tion about the importance of OM in the Production Records are Essential for Monitoring Milk Quality A key to survival in today's dairy industry "Simply adding on more cows to make up Among the culprits that hinder quality milk mates is provided each month by the is to be able to make decisions based on well for reduced income is not necessarily the production is mastitis which, Thelen says, Michigan DHIA information system. maintained records. Among the records that answer," says AI Thelen, DHIA manager. costs farmers on the average of $225 per need to be maintained are those which track "Making more milk with the herd you al- cow. The severity of mastitis infections is - Evaluate the heifer raising and calving herd performance, individual cow produc- ready have or milking even fewer but more determined by the somatic cell count (SeC) tion and the quality of milk it produces. program, making sure heifers are freshen- profitable cows may be the solution." one of the programs offered by DHIA. ing with uninfected udders. That management tool is available through An example is the recent report in Hoard's Research at Clemson University shows that the Michigan Dairy Herd Improvement As- Dairyman which cited a Vermont farmer - Evaluate the effectiveness of the herd's the higher producing herds tend to have sociation which has been operating in who added more cows to boost milk volume dry period making sure that second lacta- lower sce scores. The researchers suggest Michigan since 1905. from the farm, but both production per cow tion and older cows are freshening with that for the entire herd, 85 percent or more uninfected udders. and overall profit dropped. of the cows should have scores of 4 or below Regardless whether DHIA or some other and no more than 3 percent in the 7 to 9 professional record keeping system is used, Using a good set of records, the producer range. - Evaluate the milking environment to accurate, up-to-date records are the only eliminated low producers and cows with make sure mid to late-lactation cows have a low SCe. sure way to tell where the farm is headed. mastitis and other problems which brought Thelen recommends that farmers: an immediate boost in production. With less - Evaluate mastitis in the herd to find out Thelen says that farmers who have a crowding at the feed bunks, all cows had a how much milk is being lost because of a - ~evelop usable mastitis control program thorough testing plan, particularly those better chance to eat, and none had to lay in high sec. With the local veterinarian, using the SCC using DHIA, often earn upwards of $310 alleys because of lack of stall space. to help monitor a monthly herd health pro- more per cow per year than those who do not gram. - Determine action for infected cows, milk- use a testing program. The cost of Michigan "Good records enable these kinds of ing them last or culling them. DHIA testing is about one-half a pound of management decisions and will pave the Information about the range of services milk per cow. DHIA has 17 programs avail- way for a more profitable expansion when - Identify underproducing cows that are available through DHIA can be obtained able for monitoring and planning for effi- the current market cycle improves," Thelen producing less milk because of a high SCC. from Thelen by calling him at: cient milk production. says. The cow's production deviation from herd 517 -355-5033. Michigan Farm News Dairy Extra July 15,1991 Managed Well, Controlled Grazing May Help Boost Cash Flow spen.t in barn cleaning, manure spreading, Among the other findings by MSU Exten- There are, however, precautions that need There are a number of dairy producers feedmg, crop harvesting, and repairing, ac- sion staff: to be taken, such as the possibility for around Michigan who are using controlled cording to MSU Extension workers. - There is evidence to suggest that cows bloat, grass tetany, Iyme ticks, etc. Good grazing to provide flexibility for their busi- actuall y consumed more dry matter per acre walkways -- sand or gravel -- between the ness management and trim costs, according The site selected for controlled grazing can than in conventional feeding systems. paddock and barn are needed as are sup- to a recent Extension study. be any area not normally used for crop plemental rations, and minor adjustments production, that is not shaded and is - On four of six dairy farms studied, milk in total mixed rations. Controlled grazing requires easily movable preferably fairly level. production per cow increased about 5 lightweight fencing that is used to divide a pounds per day. In the two herds that did not The concept also requires some getting given area into a series of paddocks in The best feed quality is generally found on see increases, the rolling herd average was used to. That can range from a few months which dairy cattle graze for a given period. sites that are densely populated with rapidly nearly 20,000 pounds and the two herds saw to several years to perfect the practice. A rule of thumb is to provide an acre a day growing plants of naturally occurring gras- major reductions in feed cost. for each 40 dairy cows. ses and legumes. MSU Extension recom- Sums up Ben Bartlett, district Extension mends that the paddock to be grazed con- - Outside of broadcast fertilizers and labor dairy and livestock agent in the U.P.: Typically, a complete fencing system ran- tains grasses between 8 and 12 inches tall. to move fencing, controlled grazing has ges from about $40 to $80 per cow and has The forage should be grazed to about 2 to 4 virtually no other costs. It's estimated that "Don't plan on doing it 'right.' Every an average life of 5 to 20 years. One of the inches. from $80 to $120 per acre is saved on the producer I've worked with tells me how systems studied by MSU Extension cost for conventional harvesting. they are going to do a better job or dif- specialists cost $2,000 for 40 cows and Equally important is the provision of ample, ferently next year. It's not that the producer covered 21 acres. clean water to each paddock grazed. The - The system tends to be environmentally is dissatisfied but that controlled grazing water source should be located within 600 compatible. Expensive crop rotations orex- takes time and experience to learn. It is a A well-designed, controlled grazing sys- feet of the area grazed. If animals must challenge that producers enjoy." tem will require about 30 minutes a day to cessive herbicide use to eliminate weeds for travel much further, they will either go pure stands is avoided. Old meadows seem move. Among the merits of the system is without water or spend too much time and to be perfect for the density and grasses More information about controlled graz- that 30 minutes of fence moving is a sub- ~nergy travelling which reduces feed intake needed for controlled grazing. ing can be obtained from the county Exten- stitute for about 2 hours a day otherwise and productivity. sion office. Your County Steel Coordinators .... Allegan, Jack Sipple Alpena, Stev.e Gonyea Wolf Creek Farm Supply Barry, Guthrie & Sons Bay, Harlan Eisenmann (616) 672-7615 (517) 471-5391 (517) 727-2391 (616) 623-2261 (517) 684-0424 -= Group RrChaSing ANNOUNCING ,. Group RrChaSing Branch, Easterday Sales (517) 278-4109 Calhoun, Dennis Anderson (517) 568-3345 Cass, Carl Sparks (616) 445-3195 1991 SUMMER STEEL SALE or (616) 445-3706 Charlevoix, Thomas Wieland Cheyboygan, (616) 547-2744 July 8- August 10 Cheboygan Co-op (616) 627-4605 Clare, Donald Armentrout (517) 386-7448 These Summer Sale Prices ~ Clinton, Alan Moore (517) 862-5608 Eaton, Jack Smith (517) 566-8172 Pocket the Savines, enjoy the Emmett, John Sterly (616) 526-5157 Genesee, F.D. Bloss (313) 635-3069 Quality and experience that Farm Bureau difference. Hiawathaland, Michael J. Iho (906) 446-3445 Hillsdale, Gene Baker Huron, Robert Duncanson Ingham, Mel Stofer (517) 283-2617 (517) 479-6428 (517) 589-8416 g~ Ionia, Craig Harder (616) 527-2677 Roller Chain Cutting Parts losco, Terry A. Bellville (517) 756-3432 BU21SA guard (). 94 140 1.40/ft. Iron Range, Charles Carey (906) 542-9083 ISO 1.84/ft. BU24S guard 6.74 Isabella, David Bourns (517) 544-2719 160 2.49/ft. Jackson, Tom Betz (517) 857-2166 C~IS'comb~ 146.45 fiO 4.44/ft. Kalamazoo, Larry Leach (616) 746-4648 m IS' combine 134.54 Kalkaska, Martin Woodhams (616) 258-8312 AC IS' combine 129, 78 Kent, John Finkbeiner (616) 891-8257 NH 7' mower/condo 52 .72 Lapeer, Steve Jarvis (313) 664-8785 . 11.. - • NH 9' mower/condo 60 )05 ~ or (313) 664-7645 Anlable In p&.ln. notched. Lenawee, Robert Bush (517) 423-2049 .t center end cone. WVVVVVVVvW~ ~ Mac-Luce, Rich Pershinske (906) 477-6001 Macomb, Joe Malburg, Jr (313) 752-9714 Manistee, Charles Schoedel (616) 723-6885 18" 8.06 or (616) 723-5585 22" 17.22 Mecosta, Robert Anderson (616) 796-9321 24" 24.37 Menominee, Roy Erickson (906) 863-4013 Midland, Don Terwillegar (517) 835-6133 Missaukee, Phillip Brunink (616) 825-2977 Monroe,Tom Woelmer (313) 269-6257 Montcalm, Carlton Puffpaff (517) 831-4038 Montmorency, James Yoder (517) 848-2223 Newaygo, John Patin (616) 636-5200 N.W. Mich., Terry Lautner (616) 946-4623 or (616) 947-6391 Oceana, Gary Beggs (616) 873-4638 Ogemaw, Robert Kartes (517) 345-4992 Osceola, L.D. Hesselink (616) 825-2057 Otsego, Estelle Farms (517) 732-4284 Ottawa, Roland Fahling (616) 887-9506 Presque Isle, Ron Hopp (517) 734-3803 Saginaw, Reinbold Sales & Service (517) 755-0612 St. Clair, Mike Lauwers (313) 395-7270 or (313) 395-4968 St. Joseph, Stephen Pianoski (616) 279-5532 Sanilac, Gerald Keinath (313) 376-4836 or (313) 376-8418 Shiawassee, Duane Dysinger (517) 625-3402 ID, OL &. m 17" 12.54 Tuscola, LeRoy Schluckebier (517) 652-6715 Van Buren, Bodtke Farms (616) 434-6422 THE FARM BUREAU MARGIN: QUALITY. SERVICE • DEPENDABIUTY • ECONOMY Washtenaw, Luther Schaible (313) 428-9120 Michigan Farm News Dairy Extra July 15, 1991 Make the Best Silage Possible to Maximize Milk Production W hen it comes time to harvest com for Minnesota researchers suggest that the silage, make sure the plants have reached milk line may be a useful visual indicator physiological maturity before chopping. of kernel maturity. That's how to get the most feeding value out If the ear of com is broken, the tip portion of the crop, according to researchers at of the ear will show the face of the kernels. Michigan State University. It is here that the milk line can be observed. Excessively wet silage (moisture greater As the plant develops and the kernels ma- than 70 percent) usually results in un- ture to the full dent stage, a distinct line can desirable fermentation, loss of nutrients be seen progressing from the crown of the through seepage and poor animal perfor- kernel to the base. mance due to low consumption. The milk line separates the solid from the Overly dry silage will be difficult to pack liquid portion of the kernel. When the milk (especially in horizontal silos) and will line is half way between the crown and the result in spoilage. The ideal moisture con- tip (half milk stage), kernel moisture is centration is in a range of 65 to 70 percent. about 40 percent. Proper Maturltv Critical At the half milk stage, more than 90 percent One way to tell wnen com is physiological- of the "normal" yield of grain can be ex- ly mature is when the black layer has formed pected. When the milk line has reached the at the top of the com kernels. The moisture kernel base and becomes indistinct, the content of the kernels is about 65 percent by kernel base can be probed with a knife then and the ears will be dented. point to see if any milk remains. Most of the leaves of the plant will still be Kernels containing no milk are physiologi- green but the lower leaves will be in various cally mature and should contain a Lenath of Cut Boosting Protein stages of drying. No further grain develop- developed black layer. The Tength of the silage cut can be manipu- Adding nonprotein silage (NPN) at ensiling ment occu'rs once the plant reaches lated through machine adjustments involv- is an economical way to provide sup- physiological maturity ing the knives and shear bar on the silage plemental protein for silage. harvester. Knives should be kept sharp during harvest. According to Jim Linn, dairy researcher at Bird Scare - Capitalizing on a Natural A cut 1/4" to 3/8" long is near ideal for the University of Minnesota, com without NPN will contain about 8 percent crude A new device known as the Bird Scare According to Tepoorten, the idea minimizing storage losses. Extremely fine protein on a dry matter basis. Adding NPN Predator Eye, uses the eyes of predator originated thirty years ago with Japanese I chopped com silage (l/8" or less) such as products can raise the crude protein level to birds, such as hawks, eagle, and falcons, to rice farmers, who used the theory that the I that produced by a recutter .screen, is un- 12 percent. Adding anhydrous' ammonia at scare off birds. The device, introduced in eyes of predator birds portrayed on the desirable. the rate of 7 pounds per ton of wet silage or' 1986 by Jack and Mary Tepoorten, is now wings of butterflies could also protect their adding urea at 10 pounds per ton of wet helping farmers to keep cleaner and safer rice paddies. The farmers designed a stur- Material that is chopped too fine will reduce silage can bring the crude protein level of machine sheds and grain storage facilities. dy, weather resistant device with the eyes milk fat test with dairy cows due to a the silage up to 12 percent. of predator birds silkscreened on its sides. decrease of "effective" fiber in the ration. \~ Hung at intervals in the rice paddies, the More information about making the best device scared away the pest birds and in- I A practical rule of thumb is that most of the silage possible is available from the county creased production, without the use of ; silage particles should be about 112" long CES office. Ask for bulletins: chemicals, nets or other costly controls. with 15 to 20 percent of the particles 1" long. NCH-49 "Corn Silage Harvest If the silage is too dry (below 60 percent Techniques, " Tepoorten brought the .idea to the United I moisture) the chop length should be reduced NCH-59 "Silage Preservatives & States, where the bird scare has found to near 1/4" long so the silage can be ade- Additives for Corn," and widespread use in machine sheds, airport quately packed. NCH-46 "Plant Analysis, a Diagnostic hangers, marinas, gardens, orchards, and Tool." grape arbors. The device is made of wear- resistant .22mm thick poly-vinyl, and is adorned with six predator eyes. STEP INTO- THE FUTURE According to Tepoorten, the simplicity of WITH WESTFALIA STIMOPULS the device is a benefit and curse. "The product is non-toxic and relatively inex- .,..... .~ .... .~ pensive, making it difficult for the buyer to believe in the product," he said. ... 1 CUSTOM CONVEYING SYSTEMS j I Wa.llalla'. Matatron alactronlc milk The Matatron's control unit display. aach matar conlllins a bullt.ln .. nsor to mea. cow's production as It Is baing racorded sura milk flow. by the milk meter. THE G Olanges Dairymen • L~ MU1tenance • Ou'abIe PoIycatbonate Cost Housing Wehave a program Phases • 45.000 + Hcu Balast to meet your Vacuum HeIght appro 20 kPa (6 In. Hg) PulsatIOn ratio 61.33 ') • 10.000 + Hcu l.NT1> Ute needs .... WESTFALIA Sales Centers ... FOR HELP WITH YOUR UGHTING Northern Westfalla Sales Shurlow Agrl Enterprises Ogemaw Farm and Dairy OR CONVEYOR NEEDS, CAll Contact: Sears, MI 49679 Custer, MI49405 West Branch, MI 48661 WARREN FLAGG (616) 734-2917 (616) 757-2009 (517) 345-2499 . MM*.ting~' DHIA , , L1l1l ~ 1098 RIG ST, P.O. Box 23158 Thumb Dairy Supplies Beck Sales & Service West Dairy Equipment ~ . WALLED LAKE. MI. 48390 ~ PRODUCTS (313) 624.9100 Lansing, MI48909 Brown City, M148416 Morenci, MI49256 Lansing, MI4891 0 FAX (313) 624.5360 Phone (517)355-5033 (313) 346-2163 (517) 458-6645 (517) 322-9544 Michigan Farm News SummerAg W', •• July 15, 1991 1992 Young Farmer Discussion Topics Announced Institute a Hit! Four challenging agricultural topics have been chosen for the Michigan Farm Bureau's and American Farm. Bureau's 1992 Young Farmer Discussion Meet Contest, according to MFB Young Farmer Department Manager, Ernest Birchmeier. Regional contests are scheduled to begin in late August, with regional winners continuing on to state level competition at the MFB annual meeting on Dec. II, 1991. One state winner will advance to national competition during the AFBF annual meet- ing at Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 12-16, 1992. Competition is open to all Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 30. Eligible members wanting more information should contact their county Farm Bureau office and/or their Ingham County Farm Bureau member local Young Farmer Committee chairman. Kathy Lott, (at right) explains feed rations, manure management and the com- Birchmeier said prospective contestants will want to ~. plexities of producing milk on the Loft familiarize themselves with the following topics: dairy farm, to 25 educators participating - What is the future role of land grant universities for in the Summer Institute for Educators. meeting the needs of commercial farmers? The Lott operation was one of three stops of a tour recently conducted as part of the - How can American farmers and others in rural areas Summer Institute, which allows teachers continue to receive adequate health care at reasonable prices? Among other prizes, the state Discussion Meet winner will to gain continuing education credits while learning how to integrate agriculture in receive a Honda all-terrain vehicle, along with a safety helmet their curriculums. The Institute is a joint - Conservation - how does it affect a farm's future? and glasses donated by Honda. Mark Doherty of Traverse City effort of the Michigan Farm Bureau, talked his way through four levels of competition in MFB's MSU's Department of Agriculture and Ex- - What is the role of agriculture in reducing the United 1991 Young Farmer Discussion Meet contest and won a tension Education, Michigan Economic State's dependence on foreign oil? Honda Four Trax 300 A TV for his efforts. Education Coucil, and the Michigan Association of Agriscience Educators. Chemical Use Rates Studied In 1990, com and soybean chemical use was 8ffi~rld. Orlando, Florida surveyed as part of the President's Water Quality Initiative by the Federal/State Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service. The Water Quality Initiative is a multi-agen- cy program designed to provide the knowledge and technical means for farmers, ranchers and foresters to address the com- plex environmental issues of the 1990s. There were 2.4 million acres of com planted in Michigan in 1990. Of these, 97 percent had nitrogen applied, 91 percent had phospate applied, and 96 percent had potash Because [fl!I I • ,I, applied. In addition, 93 percent of Michigan's com acreage had an herbicide application and 29 percent had an insec- ticide application. The three most widely used herbicides were Atrazine, Metolachlor Your Michigan Farm Bureau membership and Alachlor. Atrazine was applied to 79 percent of the acreage, Matolachlor to 32 entitles you to discounts at the following percent, and Alachlor to 22 percent. major theme parks in the Midwest and Florida: In 1990, 1.15 million acres of soybeans were planted in Michigan. Of these, 67 percent had nitrogen applied, 70 percent had phos- D Universal Studios phate applied, and 78 percent had potash applied. Michigan had the highest use of D Disney World/Epcot/MGM nitrogen of all states surveyed. In addition, 98 percent of Michigan's soybean acreage D Disney Land had herbicide applied. The three most wide- D Busch Gardens ly used herbicides were Metribuzin, Linuron and Metolachlor. Metribuzin was applied to D Sea World 39 percent of the planted acreage, Linuron to 29 percent, and Metolachlor to 27 percent. D Cypress Gardens D Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village MDA Director Bill Schuette recently held a news conference on MFB Board member D Cedar Point Dick Leach's Saginaw County farm to up- date news media about Gov. Engler's D Kings Island progress on agricultural issues. Others in attendance included U.S. Rep. Dave Camp, D Detroit Zoo Sen. John Cisky, Jack Laurie, Ag Commis- D Pleasure Island sion members Don Nugent, John Spero,and Dave Crumbaugh, several newspapers and D Opryland two T.V.stations. Pictured below, left to right are Paul Leach, Bill Schuette, Sharon and Dick Leach. To take advantage of these discounts, call or write your county Farm Bureau office TODA Y! ll\ings lsland. ~ ~ .. t:5<7 ~" Michigan Farm Ne\Ns •• July 15, 1991 ••••••••r• MARKETS ....... ••••••• •••••~.'I ••••••• 1. .' . ..:~ Corn and Soybean •••• r •••• Stocks Up •••• .r•••••• ,j ••• .....::::.. Seasonal Commodity Price Trends (long term) Cattle Live cattle futures are showing signs the Michigan's stocks of com and soybeans and wheat in storage facilities on June I, were higher than the previous year. Oat stocks are below year ago levels according FARM ~ •••••••• •••••••• Wheat ! market is near the seasonal cash price low. Don't fight the market though because the to Michigan's Ag Statistics Service. BUSINESS cash trend may soon reverse. USDA recent- Com stocks in Michigan, estimated at 97 ly announced that it is ready to initiate beef purchases for the school lunch program for million bushels, were up 46 percent from a year ago. Soybeans in Michigan storage OUTLOOK Corn 1 this fall. This is a normal procedure for this time of year, but it should offer support to totaled 9.9 million bushels, 53 percent above 1990 figures. Wheat stored in the market. Michigan facilities totaled 8.8 million bushels, 92 percent above June 1990 levels. As of Soybeans ! Cattle On Feed At 18-year High Cattle and calves on feed as of June I, 1991 June 1, total oat stocks in Michigan amounted to 4.5 million bushels, compared to 6.1 million bushels last year. Nationally, Com stocks on June I, were up 5 percent from the for the top seven producing states totaled previous year, while soybeans on hand were up 21 percent and wheat stocks are also up 61 percent. Barley stocks were down 16 percent from 1990 levels for the same period. Hogs 1 8.59 million head, up 9 percent from a year ago and 10 percent above June I, 1989, according to the USDA inventory report. Michigan Corn and Soybean Acreage. Jump Cattle 1 The largest number of cattle on feed since 1973 was accompanied by May marketings Planted acreage for com and soybeans is above last season, in spite of the wet spring across most of Michigan, according to the Michigan Ag Statistics Service calculations. Index: 1= Higher Prices; ! = Lower Prices; TP= Topping; BT= Bottoming; ? = Unsure of 1.7 million, down 5 percent from a year ago and 3 percent lower than May 1989, the Com planted acreage is estimated at 2.6 million acres, up 8 percent from 1990. Com report said. expected to be harvested for grain is at 2.3 million acres. Soybean planted acreage increased 22 percent to 1.4 million acres. Sugarbeet planted and harvested acreage is up 6 percent Cattle placed on feed in the seven states totaled 1.75 million, 8 percent higher than in May from last year at 170,000 and 167,000 acres, respectively. If estimates are realized they will of each of the last two years. set a record for acres planted and harvested. Dry bean planted acreage is estimated at 340,000 -Hogs As a result of the USDA Hog and Pig Report released June 28, weak cash markets will acres, down 3 percent from 1990. Planting began, as usual, toward the end of May and has continued at an above normal pace. Acreage planted to summer potatoes is estimated at 12,000 acres, matching 1990 figures. Winter wheat planted acreage is now estimated at 570,000 acres, down 26 percent from last likely persist for a short while. The drop in cash prices has put some cushion back in the year. Harvested acreage is expected to total 560,000 acres. Oat acreage is down to an all packers margins. Retailers probably will be conservative buyers, keeping the wholesale time low of 150,000 acres, down 40 percent from year earlier figures. Barley planted acreage market on the defensive. Overall scenerio is the market will probably settle in the low $50's. is estimated at 35,000 acres, down 10,000 from 1990. Rye acreage intended to be harvested is down 2,000 acres from last year at 18,000 acres: Acreage to be cut for all hay, at 1.45 Hog and Pig Inventory Shows Expansion million acres is equal to last summer. Alfalfa hay is down 50,000 acres from last year to 1.2 The inventory report showed a total of 56.29 million head, up 5 percent from June 1990. million acres while other hay acreage is up 50,000 acres from last season to 250,000 acres. Breeding hog inventory rose 6 percent from last year and market hogs are up 4 percent. Market hogs at the lighter weights, under 60 Ibs. and 60 to 119 Ibs., were at 105 percent of Nationally, com planted for all purposes is estimated at 75.9 million acres, up 2 percent the June 1, 1990 figure. from last year. Soybean growers planted or intended to plant 59.8 million acres in 1991, 3 percent above 1990 plantings. The 1991 spring planting season got off to a slow start in Michigan's inventory fell 8 percent from a year ago, down 100,000 at 1.2 million head. Iowa, M.innesot~, Missouri, and most of the South due to extremely wet conditions. Dry 'Market hogs were down 8 percent at 1.04 million head, although nearby market hogs were bean planted acreage is expected to drop 11 percent below a year ago to 1.94 million acres. up 5,000 head compared to a year earlier. Michigan breeding stock, at 160,000 head is down 6 percent, with producer farrowing intentions for the June-August quarter at 68,000 and 55,000 for the September-November quarter. Feed Safety and Quality Assurance Meetings Planned The Michigan Department of Agriculture is conducting a series of seminars on feed safety and quality assurances July 30, 31, and August 1, to inform feed manufacturers and farmers Wlieit about proper mixing and current problems with improper use of medicated mixed feeds, according to Steve Martin, the feed coordinator for Pesticide and Plant Pest Management For the first time in several years, the U.S. supply/demand picture for wheat, projected by at MDA. Topics will include human and livestock health concerns, economic considera- USDA to be 26 percent below last years level does not mirror that of other major world tions and regulatory concerns. exporters. Canada, Australia and Argentina, all project carryover to rise to record levels in 1991-92. These countries do not have a comparable market withholding program like the "A few concerns that continue to arise are the possibilities of feeds being cross-con- U.S. reserve program so their oversupply will be dumped on the market. This export picture taminated, mixed improperly or, that some feeds can be mislabeled for one livestock species combined with the continued harvest selling pressure have caused wheat prices to collapse when it was intended for another species for example," said Kevin Kirk, commodity even with the disastrous soft red winter wheat harvest. Wheat prices will continue to be specialist at Michigan Farm Bureau. "Of course, the big concern is the fact that when we pressured unless adverse weather reverses the decline in the com and soybean markets. use a medicated feed, that the proper amount is mixed into feed and that, there is sufficient withdrawal time." The seminars will last approximately half a day at three different locations. The seminars will be held on: July 30, County Center Building at the Kalamazoo fairgrounds; July 31, The com market has dropped reflecting the USDA stocks and planted acreage reports. June Harrison, county building; and Aug. 1, Adrian, also at the county building. stocks were estimated at 2.99 billion bushels compared to trade expectations of 2.11 billion bushels. Feed use for the March through May period was not as strong as expected. There The July 30 and August 1 seminar will be from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. while the July 31 has been a shift to wheat from com by western cattle feeders faced with poor quality wheat seminar will be from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and low prices relative to com. For further program information, contact Steve Martin at (517) 373-1087. Planted acreage of75.9 million is down from March intentions but not as much as expected. -Deutz A7TlSlntroduces New AGeO Allis Tractor Line Acreage cuts in Iowa, Minnesota and Missouri due to wet. weather were nearly offset by increases in Illinois, Nebraska and Texas. The export bUSIness has helped hold old crop A new line of AGCO Allis Tractors -- 12 relative to new. However, with the level of stocks and planted acreage, adverse weather new models in five distinct series -- was will be the key market mover. introduced by Deutz-Allis, wholly owned by the Allis Gleaner Company (AGCO). Designed after extensive market research, Soybeans the new machines ranging from 40 through 130 PTO horsepower "meet virtually every The concern over an acreage shift to soybeans from com due to extreme wet spring planting tractor buyer's needs," according to Robert conditions was confirmed by USDA and quickly reflected in the market. The trade was McIlrath, product manager. All AGCO Allis expecting an increase 'of about a half ~illion acres fro~ March intentions. !he report came tractors will be painted in the orange sheet in more than five times that amount. Price movement wIll now be charactenzed by concerns metal and black body of tractors previously over weather as this crop develops. However, June 1 stocks at 724 million bushels (128 produced by Deutz-Allis predecessor, Allis- million above last year) coupled with the increased plantings say "plenty of beans." Export Chalmers. activity has been slow. Soviet credit for the purchase of beans and meal has been bogged down. Small sales are made as commerical bank credit arrangements are finalized. Deutz Alli~ recently completed ,?urchase of the White tractor product line from White-New Idea, previOusly owned by Allied Products Corporation. The purchase included tractor tec~nology, trademarks, patents, production capability of tractors, parts inventories, and the bry Beans aSSIgnment of all dealer contracts for the more than 600 White dealers. According to AGCO, the White tractor and identity will be maintained. To provide farmers and industry representatives an accurate. and complete pictu~e of the dry bean situation in Michigan, ~ special dry be~ surv~y wIll be conducted d~nng July. ~GC:0 al.so completed .purcha~ing the Hesston Corporation, a major manufacturer and Trained enumerators will take theu maps and questiOnnaIres to selected farmers In 200 area dl~tnbutor of.forage eqUipment In ~heNort~ American market. These combined acquisitions segments in the 16 major dry bean producing counties. Their efforts will reveal whether b~ng the Allis Gleaner Company s potentIal annual sales to more than $400 million. planted acreage had changed from the March Intentions survey, which indicated an 11 percent drop from the 1990 planted acreage estimate in Michigan. The ~ata f~o"? this survey Pic~ured is the Model 8630, one of two top-of-the-line AGCO Allis tractors in the 8600 will be combined to produce estimates of the dry bean acreag~ planted m ~lc~lgan and the Senes. Mode!s 861~ at 10? PTO ~p and 8630 at 120 PTO hp are all-wheel-drive tractors, nation. These estimates will be released by the USDA Agncultural StatIStiCS Board on powered by SIx-cylinder air ~d Oil-cooled diesel engines, which are naturally aspirated in August 12. the 8610 and turbo-charged III the 8630. Michigan Farn1 Nevvs •• July 15, 1991 August 1991 Discussion Topic: You Make The Difference Others like to be out front doing demonstra- V olunteer efforts are the bedrock of suc- from the local Cooperative Extension of- tions and working with the public. If you cessful county Farm Bureau programs. fice. want to make the most efficient use of your Farmers freely give of their time, energy resources, get to know the strengths of your and creativity in order to benefit their or- There are also blank sheets that you can use volunteers. Then find a way to fit those The safest, most efficient ganization and community. to contribute your ideas for future editions strengths to the jobs that need to be done. wood heat system on the of the Network. That will make for happier volunteers and market, the TAYLOR The vitality and enthusiasm of Farm Bureau a more successful project," she said. waterstove sits outside volunteers generates a wide variety of in- The County Committee Idea Network has and heats your home novative projects. Now those ideas are the recipes, but quality ingredients must be and 100% of household Community Action Groups can be the available to other Farm Bureau members provided by county Farm Bureau leaders, hot water. dynamos of county Farm Bureau volunteer • UL listed across the state, in the form of a loose-leaf according to Becky Jeppesen, manager of I activities, Jeppesen said. "Recent CAG • Thermostatic control : binder called "The County Committee Idea the Community Activities Department for projects included a successful effort in • 12 to 24 hour burn time • ..'l.~ t.;;.. Network." Michigan Farm Bureau. "There are several southeast Michigan that energized the en- important elements to building a successful TAYLOR MANUFACTURING, INC. tire community to fight a low-level radioac- The County Committee Idea Network is volunteer project that helps develop PO Box 518. Elizabethtown. NC 28337 tive waste disposal facility. Another group one of the most valuable resources avail- stronger programs and meets the needs of Call 1-800-545-2293 for more details. in Saginaw county has been fighting a spe- able for county Farm Bureau volunteers. members," she said. "One key is planning cial property tax assessment. Because you This award-winning training tool, recently and organization. A goal of any project is to regularly meet together, you have a good "Block" - continued from page 1 distributed to county Farm Bureau offices, convince an audience, not confuse them. If feel for the interests and abilities of your is designed as kind of a "recipe book" to your information and activities are con- Pontz agreed saying, "A tool is needed to fellow Group members. So, it should be an help solve the problem of educating the provide a wide variety of proven projects to ducted in a logical manner, then you im- easy task to find projects that benefit your public and sportsmen about the severity of county Farm Bureau boards of directors and prove your chances of convincing others of industry while also meeting the needs and the crop damage farmers are experiencing. county Farm Bureau committees. the value and relevance of your goals." A concerns of your Group. " In addition, farmers could also be an asset well organized event or project also permits Projects and activities are outlined by the flexibility needed to deal with un- to solving the problem by enhancing com- At your meeting this month, review a copy category and activity name, and include a planned emergencies or unanticipated op- munication with those groups and allowing of the Idea Network notebook and consider access on their property." description of the objectives and steps to portunities, she said. conducting a project or event. Or, if you success. To further assist county volunteers have an activity you'd like to share with and committees in selecting and im- Generating a spirit of enthusiasm about a Using crop damage block permits is the others, write down the details and send it to most cost effective and socially acceptable plementing successful local programs, a project is also vital for motivating volun- the Community Activities Department. "resources and helpful hints" section is also teers, Jeppesen said. "People are eager to way to trim the deer population, according provided for most project ideas. participate in what they perceive to be an to Langenau. "After everything we've exciting and dynamic activity. If you as a looked at to control deer populations, we've The ideas are arranged by categories that leader can project that enthusiasm to others, Discussion questions: come back to the best solution, the cheapest include Communicating for Agriculture, you will have no problem attracting par- most effective way is to use recreational ticipants. And once you have them in- I) How many members of your group are hunting and take those deer during the Education, Leadership Activities, Legisla- volved, help make them feel like it is their currently involved in county Farm Bureau regular season by licensed hunters," he said. tive, Membership, and Safety and Health. project too," she said. "Give them a sense volunteer projects? Each category contains a number of idea/activity sheets. For example, the Com- of ownership in the success of the event or After the 1991 hunting season ends, the activity." 2) What ideas do you have for projects your DNR will be hard at work. "We'll be municating for Agriculture section has an group could get involved in? evaluating the effectiveness, and determin- idea sheet on county fair displays. The sheet ,has six steps for success ranging from con- Finally, Jeppesen notes that it is important ing if you can real Iy control a deer herd wi th to match tasks with volunteer interests and 3) Do you have project ideas to contribute recreational hunting and block permits," firming the booth space to arranging for abilities. "Some people enjoy planning, or- to future editions of the County Committee Langenau said. "I believe we are showing signs and banners. A "resources" section ganizing and working behind the scenes. Idea Network? (please list) that we can." suggests obtaining commodity information Ride the Rails to Chicago Cost: From $85.50 per person, IxiSeJ on double occupancy Museums, dining, theater, nigh~ife and beOcllfrorioom for your enjoyment. Price indudes roundtrip train ride from ci~ of your Ehoice, one night hotel accommodation, Illinois and Chicago hotel taxes. Additional ~t rates ore available. SCliedule your time 10 also enjoy the Untouchable ifour of Famous Gangland Spoh, $17 per person ($12 child) - a 2 hour bus tour escorted by a driver and guide in era costume and character! Weekend tours slop at Tommy Gun's Garage for dinner and Roaring Twen~es entertainment. ($28.95 per person for dinner, musical show and police raid!) SEPTEMBER TOURS Opryland USA Cost: $329 per person, based on double occupancy- September 19-22, 26-29, 1991 Get in the swing for four days and three nights of lively entertainment! Tour includes roundtrip transportation via deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach, hotel accommodations in Nashville, dinner cruise aboard "The General Jackson" showboat, sight-seeing, see~ng for the "Grand Ole Opry," services of an experienced travel escort and all taxes, ~ps and baggage handling. Full payment due 30 days prior 10 departure. Mississippi Riverboat Casino From $145 per person, baUd on double occupancy. Cost: $199 per person, based on double occuponcy- September 13-15,27-29, 1991 Feel at home in this fabulous "foreign city.n Toronto has it all: theater, shoppirg, dining, Take your chances on the Mississippi aboard the President Riverboat Casino! Package museums,~e park, harbor and city tours, Rrofessional sports. Package indudes train includes roundtrip molorcoach transportation, two nights hotel accomoda~ons overlooking from WindsOr,J}twoweekend nights accommodations, hotel taxes, bellman's tips. One night the river, one dinner, two continental breakfosts, hours of gambling aboard the world's and midweek rates available. Choice of other departure cities year round. largest Roa~ng casino and all taxes and tips. Full payment due 30 days prior to deporture. Note: All packoges are subject to availability. Prices are subject to change or variation for 1991. Airport/pier transfers not included in New Orleans. For mO(fl information on how to booIc your GETAWA Y CAll 1-800-354-4272 __ ._,CH,GAN 1111. FARM BUREAU Michigan Farm News July 15,1991 0 A TVs: Summertime Fun & Danger AH -terrain vehicles are a source of enjoy Take a training course Use helmets ment for thousands of people each summer. Inexperienced drivers in their first month They save lives. A survey by the Consumer But along with the fun comes danger. ATVs continue to be involved in far too many serious accidents as their popularity grows. of ATV use have a much higher-than- average risk of injury. Beginners should take a training course from a certified in- structor. Figures have shown that half of Product Safety Commission found that three-quarters of ATV drivers with head injuries were not wearing approved hel- mets, and that more than half of injured 1 JgSSHf They pose a particularly severe problem in injured ATV drivers had less than a year's persons wore no protective equipment - Michigan, which ranks third - behind only experience, and a quarter had less than one helmets, gloves, and heavy boots - at all. California and New York -- in the number month's experience. n of deaths from ATV accidents. A void paved roads No passengers Figures show that almost 10 percent of ATV Most injuries to ATV riders result from Don't ride double on a machine designed injuries and more than 25 percent of deaths overturns when a vehicle hits a terrain ir- for only a driver. The presence of a pas- occur on paved roads. The accidents most regularity or obstacle, or the ATV is rode senger seriously impairs the driver's ability often result from collisions with other or turned on a slope.Here are safety to shift weight in order to steer and control. vehicles and frequently happen because reminders for ATV users: ATVs are difficult to control on pavement. Four-wheelers are more stable CO-OP Merger Approved ATVs are not toys All newer models have four wheels, but No alcohol The member cooperatives of both Children under age 12 should not operate three-wheeled ATVs are still in use — and In 30 percent of all fatal ATV accidents, Countrymark, Inc., and the Indiana Farm any ATV — because they typically lack the risk of an accident on a three-wheeler some alcohol use has been reported. Bureau Cooperative Association, Inc., have adequate physical size and strength, cogni- is substantially greater. approved a merger of the two organizations, tive abilities, motor skills, and the percep- Be responsible effective Sept. 1, 1991. tion they need to operate a motor vehicle Age limits Accident studies published in the Journal of safely. ATVs are difficult to ride and re- Don't let children under 16 ride adult-size the American Medical Association point to TheFrom newlyFarm merged Bureau companyInsurance will be known quire constant attention to avoid accidents. (greater than 90cc) ATVs. The risk of in- rider attitude as a major factor in ATV Children account for about 40 percent of as Countrymark Cooperative, Inc., and will jury to children between ages 12 and 15 safety. Enjoy your vehicle — but remember serve Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. ATV-related deaths and injuries — and kids who drive adult-size vehicles is twice the that reckless ATV use is dangerous to both under age 12 account for almost 20 percent. average risk of injury on ATVs. people and the environment. In a joint statement, the cooperatives said, "The support of our member cooperatives during joint management and the merger process has helped focus our efforts and our decisions on what's best for the farmer." The Bi iggestSale of MICHIGAN FROZEN FRU/T PPUI and the Best Selection You « See AH Year! LOOK FOR The difference between of over 3.5 million farming SAVINGS ON: apples and oranges can be spotted at a glance. Unfor- families and other independent businesses. The result: top Blueberries tunately, it's not quite as easy to tell the difference between notch health care insurance at down-to-earth prices. U-Bake Croissants health insurance policies. Orange Juice That's why we recommend As a Farm Bureau member that you take a moment to read you can choose from three the fine print if you're offered traditional Blue Cross Blue health insurance for less than Shield Comprehensive Major Farm Bureau rates. Chances are you're being asked to compare, Medical plans starting as low as $60.12 a month. (The higher Order by well... apples and oranges. the deductible, the lower the WEDNESDAY premium.) Regardless of the What you'll find is that dollar plan you choose, you'll get the August 14 for dollar, Farm Bureau same Blue Cross Blue Shield (One week earlier insurance is the better value. comprehensive major medical That's because Farm Bureau coverage. than last year) offers you the buying strength So go ahead—compare. Just make sure you know what As sure as apples aren't oranges. you're comparing. When the decision's in, we think you'll choose a Farm Bureau health care insurance plan for its affordability, the services it offers, and the protection it For more details and a full list of items, provides against unscheduled contact your county Farm Bureau time off. marketing coordinator, or call What matters to you 800-292-2680 matters to us. For further information call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your miCHiGans local Farm Bureau agent. WHERE F8Rm BeST BELONGING BkaOm MAKES A #9im BU.SM.M MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU DIFFERENCE. m FAMILY OF COMPANIES