~Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau August 30, 1991 Bush Proclaims National Farm 1-=1 Safety Week 1991 Montcalm, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, St. President Bush has proclaimed the week of around-the-clock part of everyday farm life Joseph, VanBuren, Washtenaw, Wayne, Sept. 15-21, 1991, National Farm Safety for the whole family. Parents must protect and Wexford. Week. This the 48th annual observance. children from hazards that are never a con- cern for those in other occupations . .ft. "Though we are making progress, accidents and fires along with occupational illnesses Farm workers range in age from eight to 80, still result in severe economic losses to farm unlike the usual 16 to 65 range in most other and ranch families," said T.e. Gilchrest, lines of work. Children often begin helping president of the Chicago-based National with farm work at an early age, even operat- Safety Council. "But much can be done to ing machinery meant for adult capabilities. help prevent these losses of life and family Likewise, many people continue to farm resources, and to limit the havoc of acci- well into old age, increasing the risk that dents if they occur." they will die or become infirm from work- related injuries or illnesses they could have According to Council estimates, agricul- rec,overed from when younger. tural work accidents resulted in 1,300 deaths and 120,000 disabling injuries in According to council estimates, the average 1990. The accident death rate in agriculture disabling work injury costs about $18,000, was 42 per 100,000 workers, among the (including wage loss, medical expense, in- highest compared with the composite rate surance administration cost and uninsured for all industries of 9 per 100,000 workers. costs, but excludes property damage). An average work death costs over $600,000, In addition, thousands of farm and ranch mostly lost earnings, though the intrinsic residents were injured or killed by home, value of life is beyond dollar figures. highway and recreation accidents last year, most of which were preventable. Many also suffered occupational illnesses that resulted "Farm Safety for Kids" Workshop - A Model Program! from excessive exposure to farm workplace Approximately 40 Mecosta County farm kids hazards such as dust, toxic gases, chemicals, received hands-on safety instruction, thanks to noise, temperature extremes and the sun. the efforts of Mecosta County Farm Bureau's Promotion and Education Committee. Com- "On the farm, families live and work at the mittee members held a farm safety seminar to same place and all members are subjected educate youngsters on ways to work and play to workplace hazards," said Jack Burke, I safely on the farm. Host site for the event was agricultural safety specialist at the Council. I the Bob and Sandy Persons' farm in Rodney, "Therefore, it's important that safety be an Michigan. •• In This Issue ... Michigan Farm News welcomes the addi- "With the increased number of children helping out on family farms comes the risk of accidents to these children," said Chris and Larry Hat- tion of MSU's Agricultural Economics Department "Market Outlook" in our ex- field, Mecosta County members who helped panded Farm Business Outlook section. conduct the four hour safety session. You'll find individual commodity market Topics discussed with the children included analysis and recommendations, a general chemical, machine safety, and animal safety market summary of events affecting the and first-on-the-scene accident procedures. markets in this and future issues, as well Parents attending the event participated in a as major USDA crop reports. Specical separate workshop to discuss farm safety for thanks to Dr. Jim Hilker who coordinates kids. the market information, and other Ag. Econ. staff members for their contribu- Youngsters also received a goody bag contain- ing pesticide emergency information, emergen- tions. cy telephone numbers, hazardous equipment stickers, coloring books and activity books. Recent studies reported by Successful Farming magazine cite the following statistics on ac- cidental death of farm youth: 42 percent killed by grain augers; 25 percent by tractors; II percent by power take-off; 6 percent by con- veyor belts and 16 percent by other machinery. In a Michigan-Ohio study of accidents involv- ing farm youth, it was found that young people under 14 who operated tractors were involved in more than nine times as many accidents per hour of machinery operation as operators be- tween the ages of 25 and 44. The Mecosta "Farm Safety for Kids" seminar was sponsored by the Mecosta County Farm Bureau with the cooperation and support of local businesses, agribusinesses, 4-H, and com- modity groups. See additional safety features starting on page 8 . Capitol Comer -+ Michigan Farm Weather -+ Farm Business Outlook -+ Michigan Farm NelMs ' •• August 30, 1991 In Brief ... Almost 80 Percent of Cropland in Farm Program The USDA reports that 169.4 million acres of feed grains, wheat, cotton, and rice are June Trade Deficit Lowest In 8 Years enrolled in 1991 government crop programs, 1.9 million more acres than originally estimated in May and up 2 percent from 1990 levels. The U.S. trade defici t shrank in June to $4.02 billion, the narrowest in eight years, according to a Commerce Department report. A 3 percent decline in imports for the month over- The department said the enrollment figures represent 76.7 percent of the U.S. com acreage, balanced the 1.2 percent drop in exports leading to the deficit reduction. 85.2 percent of the wheat. Of total feed grain acreage, 74.3 percent is enrolled, while 77.2 Economists took little comfort in the figures for long-term benefit to the economy, saying it indicates the sluggish U.S. economy has deadened the demand for imports. They say the percent of the sorghum acreage, and 75.9 percent of the barley acreage are enrolled in the program. Farmers have also enrolled 17.1 million acres in the Conservation Reserve Program under which they can divert a portion of their land to soil conserving purposes • deficit will not remain as small if import demand picks up as expected, reports the Wall and still collect crop subsidy payments. Street Journal. Economists say the export demand is not expected to keep pace with imports over the next Farmland Values Remain Flat This Summer few months because foreign economies are hitting downturns and the stronger U.S. dollar Midwest farmland values held steady in the three-month period ending with June and most makes U.S. goods high relative to foreign produce. bankers in the Seventh Federal Reserve District believe that trend will continue through the summer, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago's Agricultural Letter. Legal Services Abuses Being Debated With declines in some states offsetting modest increases in others, the district's average When Congress returns from their August recess, the House will consider House Resolution farmland values rose two-tenths of a percent for the quarter. Lackluster performance both 1345, sponsored by Reps. Bill McCollum of Florida and Charlie Stenholm of Texas, which last fall and this spring held the rise in farmland values during the year ending with June, seeks to end the harassment of farmers by Rural Legal Services. AFBF notes 20 states where 1991, to 2 percent, according to Agricultural Letter Editor Gary Benjamin. farmers are being abused by taxpayer-funded Rural Legal Services activist-attorneys. Under the proposal, day-to-day legal services to the poor would continue, but it would also: Animal Terrorists Developing an Odor of Their Own help prevent inappropriate client solicitation by Legal Services attorneys; eliminate "fishing The recent incident of pie throwing at the 1991 Pork Expo in Des Moines won the People expeditions" in which Legal Services attorneys target a farm, then seek to build a case during for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PET A) a well deserved jolt of bad press. They followed discovery proceedings; impose a standard of accountability so that inappropriate activities that stunt up with an editorial of uniquely bad taste in the Des Moines Register likening the can be identified, analyzed and prevented; and eliminate unreasonable demands for slaughter of animals to the recent mass murders in Milwaukee by Jeffery Dahmer. That attorneys' fees when the plaintiff might prevail on minor claims. brought PET A another round of epithets and the group is now stating it will run another ad and stage a protest at the Iowa State Fair, targeted at 4-H livestock projects. Farmers wanting additional information should contact MFB labor specialist, Howard Kelly, at extension 2044. Kelly says Legal Services have been active in Michigan, citing a Members of PET A were in Grand Rapids recently during the National Livestock and Meat case where a farmer has been hit with a class-action lawsuit for charging migrant workers Board's "Demand Strategies '91" meeting, picketing in front of the Amway Hotel and rent in a housing facility built with FmHA funds. attempting to gain entry into some of the meetings. The Grand Rapids Press refused to publish PETA's Dahmer-ad. The Kent County Farm Bureau applauded the paper for Plum Product Development and Market Research considering the poor taste and sensationalism of the ad and its impact on area farmers. Grant Approved A grant te fund the development of new products and market research for Michigan plums Putman New Secretary of American Soybean at Michigan State University has beeen approved and funded by the USDA, the Michigan Association Department of Agriculture, and the Michigan Plum Advisory Board. Grant Putman of Williamston was elected as secretary of the American Soybean Associa- The grant will support development of plum and refined puree to strenghten demand for tion at the group's annual meeting in Nashville, TN, on July 31. Putman has been a director Michigan plums, according to MDA director Bill Schuette. The Michigan Plum Advisory on Michigan's Soybean Promotion Committee and has served as director and president on Board has asked MDA to apply for funding available through the USDA Market Improv- the Michigan Soybean Association. He farms with his son, Dan, on a cash crop/dairy farm ment Program. The USDA responded with a $40,000 grant to fund the project. With operation just south of Williamston in Ingham County. addtional funds from the MDA and the Michigan Plum Advisory Board, a total of $90,000 of resources are now available for the project. Putman will serve on the ASA Executive Committee with Chairman Merle McCann of. Virginia; President Gary Riedel of Missouri; First Vice President Steve Yoder of Florida; In other plum related news, the USDA also announced the purchase of 74,000 cases of Vice Presidents Dick Gallagheroflowa, Ed Hester of Mississippi, Craig Weir of Minnesota canned purple plums, with an estimated 77 percent of the purchase coming from Michigan and Emmett Sefton of Illinois; and Treasurer John Long of South Carolina. processors and growers. The plums will be used in domestic feeding and child nutrition programs. Nearly 1,100 Michigan soybean producers are members of the Michigan Soybean Associa- tion and the American Soybean Association. ASA represents more than 30,000 soybean Michigan Asparagus to Supplement Feeding Program producers nationwide. The USDA will purchase processed asparagus for domestic feeding and child nutrition USDA Proposes Scrapie Certification Plan programs for the first time ever. Much of the 3 million pounds of surplus asparagus will be supplied by Michigan canners and freezers from their surplus stocks. The USDA is proposing to adopt a voluntary scrapie certification program for sheep and goat flocks as part of a new approach for controlling the disease. USDA also is proposing MDA's Bill Schuette, Congressmen Guy VanderJagt, Fred Upton, and Dave Camp all sent to require highly visible identification marks on sheep and goats if they are moved letters to USDA Secretary Edward Madigan, emphasizing the nutritional value of asparagus interstate from flocks that pose a risk of spreading scrapie. as well as the need to utilize the surplus stocks. Scrapie is a degenerative disease of the central nervouc; system of sheep and goats with an In a separate purchase, the U.S. military recently completed purchase of another 532,000 extremely long incubation period--up to 42 months or longer. Infected animals may show pounds of frozen asparagus, primarily from Michigan. According to Harry Foster, executive signs of nervousness, lack of coordination, significant weight loss, and persistent itching. director of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board, the purchases will help remove surplus All infected animals eventually die from the disease. stock and position the Michigan asparagus industry for healthier prices next year. Under the proposal, the industry would, over time, develop flocks certified free of scrapie. Participation would be voluntary. Participating flocks would furnish a source of uninfected animals and would establish a basis for eventually eradicating the disease. Participating flocks would progressively move through three intermediate classes (Class .. C, Cl~ss B and Class A) .until they reach the scrapie-free certified class. The process would be gUIded b~ a set of Umform Methods and Rules. The rules would require owners to keep comprehenSIve health records and remove from their flocks any animals determined to be a high risk for scrapie. F!smd 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; 'oistrict 6, Wayne Manager Ernie Birchmeier, Amy Stroven, Corena Mills, Kelly Jo Siemen, Jennifer Wood, M~tte, ~~ 7, Larry Snider, Hart; District 8, Richard Leach, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Deller, MFB's Mike Kovacic (middle row 1.- r.j Sara Persons, Heather Combs, Traverse ~; District 10,. Margaret ~es, W~ Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Doug~ Darlmg, Maybee, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Faye Adam,Snover;Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and Melissa Memmer, Casey Kuchar, Ken Schapman (top row 1.-r.j Charles Snyder, Education, Holly Porter, Manchester. Young Farmers, Steven Gonyea, Spruce. Mike Smego, Troy Crowe, Eric Salsbury, Chad Bellville. Michigan Farm Ne1Ns ITOL o -. August 30, 1991 o:II Z m :II Wetlands Update No-Fault Auto Insurance Reform Efforts continue to obtain cosponsors of H.R. 1330 to provide effective protection to Senate Bill 154, introduced by Sen. Wartner (R-Portage), to control rising costs of auto wetlands while relieving farmers and others of the current confiscatory wetland regulations insurance, contains measures to control medical expenses, limit lawsuits, and premium administered by the Soil Conservation Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Corps rollbacks. The bill is currently under review by a House and Senate conference committee. of Army Engineers, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Current regulations have been Another version of the legislation is expected to be voted on early this fall. implemented with little coordination among the agencies, and infringe upon private property rights without compensation. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau continues to support meaningful reform measures, but remains opposed to any legislation containing premium rollback measures. There are currently 160 cosponsors of H.R. 1330 and 24 cosponsors of an identical Senate Farm Bureau Contact: Darcy Cypher, extension 2048 bill, S~ 1463. Michigan Reps. Dave Camp (R-Midland), Guy Vander Jagt (R-Luther), William Broomfield (R-Birmingham) and Bob Carr (D-East Lansing) are cosponsors of H.R. 1330. Neither U.S. Senator Don Riegle nor Carl Levin have cosponsored S. 1463. MIOSHA/Fieid Sanitation Standards Michigan Farm Bureau met in Washington, D.C. on July 30-31 with several Michigan Senate Bill 459 has been introduced to retain MIOSHA in Michigan and includes adoption Congressmen to again request they cosponsor H.R. 1330 and S. 1463. Specific examples of of federal field sanitation standards that are considered more favorable to agriculture than unreasonable wetland designations on farms in their Congressional districts were shown to the older, more stringent, Michigan field sanitation standards. Included with the bill is a demonstrate the need for Congress to enact the legislation and provide a clear, consistent seven-fold increase in fines as a part of the federal standards adoption process. wetlands policy for federal agencies to follow. The Senate Labor Committee is scheduled to consider the proposal on Sept. 12 before Wetlands Delineation Manual Revisions sending it to the Senate and the House for final action with only two weeks remaining before On Aug. 9, President Bush announced major proposed revisions would be forthcoming in the present law expires on Oct. 1, 1991. If this proposal is not passed prior to Oct. 1, the wetlands delineation manual which has guided the federal agencies in their controversial MIOSHA could be dissolved and the entire program reverted to federal OSHA. regulatory efforts. A major revision is the definition of a wetland. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau supports retaining MIOSHA. only if the federal field The current manual considers occasionally wet areas to be wetlands. T.he new proposed sanitation standards are adopted with the proposaL and if an agricultural representative is manual considers only those areas that are saturated with water for 21 consecutive days or appointed to the Occupational Health Standards Commission, considered essential since hold standing water for 15 consecuti ve days to be wetlands. Other important changes include agriculture is the second largest industry in the state. ... classification of wetlands by type and recognition that plants which grow in both wetlands and upland areas will not be considered aquatic plants . Farm Bureau Contact: Howard Kelly, extension 2044 Dairy - continued ... The new proposed wetland delineation manual was published in the Federal Register on H.R.2837 August 14.1)1e public has 60 days to review the manual and submit comments. AFBF will On July 9, House Resolution 2837 was introduced to provide the dairy industry with relief make a detailed analysis of the manual to assist state Farm Bureaus in filing comments. from rapidly dropping milk prices. Shortly thereafter, the House Agriculture Committee Michigan Farm Bureau will submit comments and provide information and encouragement approved the bill, sending it to the House of Representatives for consideration. As approved to members to file similar comments. by committee, the bill contains the following provisions: Despite the improvements in the proposed delineation manual, there is still a need for o Increases the current $10.10 per cwt. D Assesses dairy producers to pay for in- Congress tQ enact H.R. 1330 or S. 1463. Without the legislation being enacted, there will milk price support to $12.60 in 1992 and creased costs of dairy products incurred be no permanent and effective wetlands policy to guide the federal regulatory agencies. At 1993, $12.10 in 1994 and $11.60 in by the food and nutrition programs and any time in the future, the delineation manual can be change.d resulting in further intrusion 1995. Women, Infant and Child Program by federal agencies on private property rights. operated by government agencies as a Farm Bureau Contact: Al A Imy, extension 2040 o Authorizes a mandatory inventory result of the provisions in H.R. 2837. management program using a two-tier price system when annual CCC pur- D Assesses dairy producers to compensate Dairy chases of dairy products exceed 7 bil- livestock producers for adverse price lion pounds. The two-tier system would impacts on red meat caused by in- H.R.3131 require quotas or bases be assigned to creased slaughter of dairy cows result- Congress failed to reach agreement on H.R. 2837 prior to its August recess and is expected individual producers. Milk produced ing from the inventory management to resume consideration when it returns September 10. A new bill is expected to be offered within their respective quotas or bases program. as an alternative. The alternative bill, H.R. 3131, contains the following provisions: would receive a higher price, while milk produced above quota or base would Note: The above assessments are es- o Maintains current $10.10 dairy price o Requires diversion contracts to be stag- receive a lower price to discourage over-production. timated to total 75 cents to $1 per cwt. support. gered to minimize adverse effects on livestock producers by dairy cattle o Establishes o Allows producers who do not increase o Requires a milk diversion program to be being slaughtered. a National Dairy Inventory Management Board to administer the milk production from the previous year to obtain a refund of assessments paid. implemented when CCC purchases of dairy products exceed 8 billion pounds. o producers Requires an assessment of dairy to pay for the diversion pro- inventory management program and disposal of CCC purchases exceeding 5 o Increases the solids-not-fat standards The diversion would be used to reduce purchases to' not more than 4.5 billion gram. (Note: Most reports on H .R. 3131 billion pounds. The board would consist for fluid milk. pounds by entering into 12-24 month indicate no assessment would be made of seven members appointed by the contracts with producers to reduce the to fund the diversion program. The bill Secretary of Agriculture. o Provides security trust provisions to quantity of milk marketed by not less specifically requires an assessment, but dairy producers who have not received than 5 percent or more than 30 percent. USDA has said no assessment is ex- o Exempts producers who produce milk payment for milk received by a handler. pected because money saved by CCC in in regions where Class I utilization ex- Payments to producers entering into a reducing purchases to 4.5 billion ceeds 80 percent from the inventory management program and assessments. o Provides for a dairy heifer export pro- contract would be made quarterly at a pounds from 8 billion pounds will offset gram. price per cwt. determined by the the cost of the diversion program.) Secretary of Agriculture or a bid sub- o Assesses dairy producers to pay the full Farm Bureau cannot support H.R. 2837 mitted by the producer and accepted by o Establishes a National Dairy Inventory cost of CCC purchases exceeding 5 bil- because of the price support increase, man- Management Board of 14 members ap- lion pounds but less than 7 billion datory quotas and bases, and unprecedented the secretary. pointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. pounds. series of assessments. o Provides security trust provisions to The board would consist of a USDA representative, seven dairy producers Comprehensive OSHA Reform Act dairy producers who have not been paid for milk received by a handler. and six milk processors. The board would advise the secretary on operation Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-MA), Sen. Howard Metzenbaum (D-OH) and Rep. Bill Ford o Includes a dairy heifer export program. of the diversion program. (D-MI), have introduced the Comprehensive OSHA Reform Act of 1991, the first major revisions to the Occupational Safety and Health Act since its creation in 1970. o Provides for a dairy product export pro- 0 Increases the solids-not-fat standards gram and authorizes assessment of for fluid milk. Under the proposal, farm employers would be required to establish written safety and health dairy producers to pay the cost of the programs tailored to each worksite (such as individual fields, packing sheds or orchards), export program. train and educate all employees annually regarding safety and health hazards and rights. Employers would also be required to establish a safety and health committee with worker Farm Bureau Position: USDA has indicated a positive attitude towar?s H.R. 31 ~ 1. The and employer representatives to conduct inspections, interviews with workers, and to legislation is closer to Farm Bureau policy than H.R. 2837, ~caus~ It does not Impose monitor safety and health risk exposures. mandatory quotas or bases on producers, retains the current dairy pnce support and may result in no or relatively small assessments. Special enforcement emphasis would be placed on agriculture. If OSHA believes that Farm Bureau Contact: Al A/my, extension 2040 unsafe conditions exist, workers must be removed immediately, with fines to the employer of $10,000 to $50,000 per day possible for each day the condition exists. MFB's Public Affiars Division, (517) 323-7000 Farm Bureau Position: Strongly opposed to excessive penalties and training requirements. AFBF's Toll Free Capitol Hotline Service 1-800-245-4630 Farm Bureau Contact: Howard Kelly, extension 2044 Michigan Farln NelNs ' •• Summary and 3D-Day Forecast August 30,1991 Rainfall finally returned to southern Michigan during early August, with many areas reporting 1 - 2 inches of rain for the Alpena period. The rain helped reverse nearly 2 Michigan and Major Commodity Area" Bad Axe months of abnormally hot, dry weather. Extended Weather Outlook Escanaba Below normal temperatures accompanied T - Temp. 9/1..... 9/15 9/1 .... 10/31 Grand Rapids the rainfall, slowing the growth and P - Precip. T P T.. e Imlay City development of most crops. Crop develop- Michigan A N A N lansing W. Corn Belt A N N A Ludington ment, however, still ranges from 1 to 4 E. Corn Belt A BIN A1N A weeks ahead of normal for mid-August. Mnt. Wheat Belt N N N N Spr.Wheat Belt A N N A In contrast, northern areas of the state were Pac. NW Wheat N A B N generally drier and slightly warmer than Delta N N A A A N normal. The latest Palmer drought index Southeast N N West Texas B N N A chart for the U.S. indicates that long term San Joaquin N B B A drought conditions continue across northwestern sections of the lower penin- A-Above Average, B-Below Average, N-Nor- sula, while mild drought lingers across mal, MA-Much Above, MB-Much Below, NP- southern lower Michigan. At the current No Preclp. Source: National Weather Office Dry Bean Yield Outlook Good - Prices Slip time, about 5 additional inches of rain would be needed to bring northwestern USDA estimates there are 1.87 million acres of dry beans available for harvest this year, lower Michigan back to normal index down about 10 per~ent from 1990. However, with yields projected to reach a record high levels, while approximately 1 to 2 inches of 16.6 hundredweIght (cwt.) per acre, total U.S. production will be close to 31 million cwt just 4 percent below 1990 levels. ' would be needed in the south. Total dry bean production in Michigan is expected to be 5.1 million cwt., 7 percent below The latest 30-day outlook calls for a return 1990's harvest, according to the Michigan Ag Statistics Service. This estimate, based on to warmer than normal temperatures for total planted acreage of 350,000 acres, is the same as 1990. Acreage expected to be nearly all of Michigan. Normal precipita- tion for the period is forecast statewide. harvested shoul~ reach ~40,000 acre.s at a proj~cted yield o~ 15 cwt. per acre. With crop prospects good In practIcally all major productIon areas, pnces for most major varieties Jeff Andresen, Ag Meteorologist, MSU have declined over the last 30 days. FARM BUREAU MEMBER SERVICE TRAVEL SPECIALS Toronto, Canada's most Tour tile Grand meals, entertainment. Airfare and port taxes are additional. exciting city. Take a two day package starting August 1st Call Y 0ns of North America Regular Rate: $1143. pp* . by Rail. See America by train - this Farm Bureau Member Price: through October 2, 1991, rail from 12 day package will take you $1098.pp* East Lansing round trip, and hotel through Grand Canyon, Oak Creek accommodations at the Royal Canyon,CopperCanyonand York. This hotel is located in the heart of the city where you are Chihuahua. The two departure Go Chicago, it is Your CROP PROGRESS REPORT dates are Kind of Town. Leave Friday on the surrounded by theatre, Train from your favorite midwest Week Ending 8/18/91 October 16, shopping. sports city and return Sunday. This 3 day/ This Last 5-Year 1991 and events and all the city 2 night package includes round trip November 2, Week Year AvO. has to offer. This 1991. The train rail, two nights at the Palmer percent package is based on House and based on double eaves from Chicago and 5% double occupancy and occupancy. The Palmer House is Corn in Dent 10% 0% includes recliner coach seats with the departure city can be located close to the Art Institute Dry Beans Turning Ie rests, seven nights at first changed for a small fee. and the famous Marshall Fields 15% 10% 5% Regular Rate: 5200. pp* ~ class hotels, :~~ seven meals Department Store. The Palmer 70% 80% Farm Bureau Member Oats Harvested Soys Turning 90% 2% 1% 2% Price: $161. pp* - 'Ii. 1'J and f~1I escort service. House is a deluxe property and offers a continental breakfast daily. (Savings of S39. pp*1 Hay Second Cut. 90% 80% 75% Private sleepers Regular Price: $147. pp* Hay Third Cut. 20% 15% 10% on the train are Farm Bureau Member Price: Wheat Harvested 99% 95% 95% Star Clil!Per available for an 5140.pp* Dinner Train extra fee) Also, on Walled Lake Area, Mi. departure can be Caribbean - Michigan Crop Condition - This is a wonderful day trip that arranged from the train are avail- Crw.se. Percent of Acreage able for an extra fee) Also, depar- includes dinner, show, optional Good ture can be arranged from other Carnival Cruise hotel at Novi Wyndham. (Hotel midwest cities based on availabil- Lines is Excellent IFair Poor rate is $49.00 for 2 people) The ity. * Form of payment must be offering a very Corn 20% 70% 10% trip runs August through Novem- check only. special 7 day ber 91. (This trip fills up qUICkly Soybeans 20% 75% 5% Regular Rate for Oct. 16th: cruise aboard and you should call us early) Dry Beans 35% 60% 5% S1135. pp* their FESTIVAL Farm Bureau Member Oats 5% 75% 20% Farm Bureau Member Price: SHIP. The departure Price: 565. pp* S1112. pp* dates are November 10, 1991 All Hay 25% 65% 10% Regular Rate for Nov. 2nd: and November 17, 1991. The S1095. pp* ship departs from San Juan and Farm Bureau Member Price: stops at St. Thomas, S1. Maarten. S1073. pp* Dominica, Martinique and Barba- dos. The price includes round trip Cruise Hawaii, airfare from Detroit, cabin. meals Where the Only Limit is Time and and entertainment. (Port taxes are the Regret is SaYing Goodbye. On additional) On this cruise you will The safest. most efficient wood heat system on the Saturday, you'll toss streamers as experience the breathtaking aqua market, the TAYLOR well-wishers bid you Bon Voyage waters of the caribbean to the lush waterstove sits outside and you begin your fabulous island mountains. and heats your home and 100% of household journey. This Cruise special starts Regular Rate, inside cabin: hot water . September 21 st through Decem 51369. pp* • ULlisted ber 14, 1991. The ship's ports of F B Member Price:$1056. pp* • Thermostatic control , call start with Oahu and stop at Regular Rate, outside cabin: • 12 to 24 hour burn time • ...:t Kauai, Hawaii, and Maui. this 51429. pp* TAYLOR MANUFACTURING, INC. (jay cruise includes cabin, all F B Member Price: $1161. pp* PO Box 518. Ehzabethtown.NC 28337 .Per Person Call 1-800-545-2293 for more details. Note: AII.packages are subject to availability. Prices are subject to change or variation. J Michigan Farln News -. August 30, 1991 More Farmers Finding Canola a Viable Crop Growing canol a is rapidly gaining popularity among Michigan fanners, with 1991 acreage reaching 13,000 acres, up drastically from the 100 acres planted in 1988. Larry Copeland, MSU Extension agronomist, expects Canola Environmental Quality Study 1990/1991-- Yield or 13 Winter Varieties canola production to reach between 15,000 and 20,000 Grown in Six Different Locations in Michigan. acres in 1992 . • oj Fanners wanting to plant canol a have little time to waste Yield Ib/acre because the optimum planting dates range from Aug. 20 to Sept. lOin southern Michigan, to no later than Sept. 1 in Entries E. Lansing Berrien Montcalm Deerfield Clarksville Mt. Pleasant Mean northern Michigan. 1. CXW03 2326.9 2705.9 1640.6 3060.4 2619.2 2786.1 2524.9 Planting too early or applying over 20 pounds of nitrogen 2.CXW02 2623.6 2278.8 1212.1 3195.0 2679.8 2981.2 2495.1 per acre in the fall can reduce winter hardiness. In addition, 3137.6 2488.0 3. CC349 2m.8 22693 1673.4 2201.8 2868.3 the only herbicide approved forcanola in the U.S. is tretlan, a pre-emergence recommended for spring planted canola. 4. Touchdown 2781.3 1757.9 2390.2 2667.9 2568.6 2717.7 2480.6 It doesn't control ~ ild mustard, unfortunately,. since canola 5. Ceres 2451.6 2225.9 1851.6 2826.0 1636.8 2992.6 2330.8 containing more than 5 percent wild mustard seed can't be 6. Capricorn 2685.5 19353 1499.9 3123.9 2189.8 2544.4 2329.8 processed. Fields that have a wild mustard problem should 7. Cobra 2769.2 2303.4 13543 30993 2136.6 2299.6 2327.1 not be planted to canola, advises Copeland. 8.AWR 238 2599.2 1941.7 1734.7 2501.9 2216.1 2880.9 2312.4 9. Winfield 2268.3 2038.1 'll'IYJ.7 26243 2142.1 2604.1 2281.1 Copeland expects another herbicide, Poast, to be approved 10. Corvette 2708.8 1612.0 1482.3 2815.7 2120.9 T!m.2 2174.5 by September for post emergence control of small grains in canola. He also advises planting canola in a four-year 11. Liborius 2746.7 2370.6 1529.6 2499.6 1810.1 1965.5 2153.7 rotation to reduce potential disease and insect problems. 12. Diadem 2431.5 1531.9 1691.4 2900.4 1947.1 1711.0 2035.4 13. Cascade 2066.5 1638.8 1848.0 2248.5 1715.7 2007.4 1920.8 Recommended Production Practices Location Mean: 2557.7 2046.9 1686.0 2751.1 2204.7 2533.5 1296.7 for Winter Canala D Land preparation: same as for small grains, and cultipack. D o Planting time: August 25 to Sept. 10. Planting rate and depth: 4-6Ib/acre, deep. 1/4" to 1/2" FREE RX CATALOG o Planting ment. method: drill, with small seed attach- SAVE UP TO 500/0" D Fall fertilization: P and K per soil test, 20-251bs D of N/acre. Spring nitrogen: 125Ibs/acre. Michigan Farm Bureau's D Harvest: when seed reaches 9 to 1a percent with ordinary combine, cylinder speed at 400 - 600 rpm., 1/2" - 5/8" concave setting. Mail Service Pharmacy Program Offered by Feld Prescription Service 5023 Grover St. Omaha Nebraska 68106 Most Commonly Prescribed Prescription Medications First-Ever Soybean Varieties Released From MSU Call 1-800-228-3353 if you don't see yours. Called a milestone in the state's soybean industry, the first soybean variety developed specifically for Michigan soybean growers was released from the breeding program Calan Tabs 80mg 100's 36.75 12.95 Micro-K Extencaps 8 mEq 100's 12.50 .~ at Michigan State University. Dimon, named in honor of 120 mg 100's 49.50 15.95 10mEq 100's 13.50 7.95 Dimon Wolfe, a retired soybean and oat research technician Clinoril Tabs 100's 73.50 49.95 Motrin Tabs 400mg 100's 15.50 7.95 150 mg in the MSU Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, is a 59.95 200 mg 100's 89.25 600mg 100's 20.25 10.95 Group II variety developed by Dr. Thomas Isleib. Coumadin Tabs 2 mg 100's 39.95 800 mg 100's 24.75 15.95 Dimon, evaluated at seven Michigan plots from 1987 - 2.5 mg 100's 41.25 Ortho-Novum Tabs 1-35 21 or 28 19.50 8.95 1990, averaged 4.4 bushels/acre better than the mean of 32 5 mg 100's 41.75 I-50 21 or 28 19.50 8.95 statewide tests, according to research reports. Dimon also 7.5 mg 100's 63.75 Persantine Tabs 25 mg 100's 25.95 5.95 exhibits improved lodging resistance and oil content com- 100's 65.75 10 mg 50 mg 100's 39.25 7.95 pared to standard Michigan-grown varieties. Certified seed of Dimon should be available for the 1992 planting season. E.E.S. Tabs 400 mg 100's 19.95 15.25 75 mg 100's 51.95 9.95 Entex LA Tabs 100's 49.95 12.95 Premarin Tabs 0.3 mg 100's 20.25 10.95 Another variety, E86237, is a Group I variety scheduled for Eryc Caps 250 mg 100's 28.50 16.95 0.625mg 100's 26.95 13.95 release during the fall of 1991, with certified seed expected Flexeril Tabs 74.25 50.95 1.25 mg 100's 35.75 15.95 IOmg 100's in 1993. According to research data, E86237 averaged 2 5.95 Inderal Tabs 10 mg 100's 20.75 2.5 mg 100's 61.95 29.95 bushel/acre better than the mean of 32 statewide test plots 20 mg 100's 28.25 6.95 Proventil Tabs 2 mg 100's 30.75 10.95 from 1987 to 1990. 40 mg 100's 35.95 7.95 4 mg 100's 43.25 15.95 Test data indicates that E86237 has excellent yield potential 60 mg 100's 47.75 9.95 Provera Tabs 10 mg 100's 46.75 16.95 for its maturity and may prove to be a good alternative for 80 mg 100's 53.75 10.95 Siow-K Tabs 100's 16.75 8.95 producers who want high yield, wi.th.early harve.st, so that 37.25 12.95 Isoprin Tabs 80 mg 100's Synthroid Tabs 0.025 mg 100's 13.25 6.95 wheat can be planted earlier to optImI.ze wh~at YIelds. The 120 mg 100's 48.75 15.95 0.05 mg 100's 14.50 7.95 variety has also shown excellent lo~gmg reSIstance, above average height, above average protel~ c?ntent, and average Lanoxin Tabs 0.125mg 100's 9.75 2.95 0.1 mg 100's 16.25 3.95 oil content compared to standard varietIes. 0.25mg 100's 9.75 2.95 0.15 mg 100's 18.95 4.95 Dimon Wolfe, pictured with the newly released soybean, Lasix Tabs 20 mg 100's 13.75 5.95 0.2mg 100's 21.75 5.50 variety bearing his name. Photo: Outreach Communications 40 mg 100's 17.75 6.95 0.3 mg 100's 28.50 5.95 80mg 100's 28.50 11.95 Tegretol Tabs 200 mg 100's 29.95 13.95 Maxzide Tabs 100's 55.95 10.95 Theo-Qur SA Tabs 100 mg 100's 14.50 . 8.95 200 mg 100's 19.25 10.95 All your non-prescription vitamin and pain relief products are also available at a savings! ~-----------------------------------, I Michigan Farm Bureau : Michigan Farm Bureau I : FREE BIe PEN I FREE CATALOG : I aReturn this coupon with any order and receive Free Hic Pen compliments of Feld Prescription I I Simply call Feld at 1-800-228-3353 and receive your catalog detailing savings on over 5000 health I I Service. Call 1-800-228-3353 for instructions on I care items. Included will be a $3 coupon good on I I how to order. Offer expires June 30, 1992. I your first prescription order. I L ~ Michigan Far", News . II. August 30, 1991 Market Outlook .......... ...... •••••••• ••••••• ••••• ~.rl 1. , The Value of Forecasting FCS Reports Strong Second Quarter .r•....... •••• 'l•••~~ •••• ,j ••• E~RM •••••••• Dr. Jim Hilker, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University .'~ J..:::.. •••• The value of Market Outlook is to help Farm Credit Bank of St. Paul and Seventh Seasonal Commodity develop a farm marketing plan which con- siders the producer's goals and ability to District Associations reponed $27.2 mil- lion of combined net income for the second •••••••• handle risk. Forecasting helps develop an Price Trends (long term) understanding of the factors and the risk surrounding markets. By knowing factors quarter of 1991, compared to $26.8 million for 1990, according to a Farm Credit Ser- vices quarterly earning repon. BUSINESS that go into a forecast, one can adjust their Wheat i? marketing plan for changes. The improvement is attributed to a $10.7 million improvement in net interest income OUTLOOK There is continuous risk in the markets, resulting from older higher-cost term debt pegged at $5.7 billion, slightly less than the Corn t such as weather and politics. Last month, being replaced with lower cost debt and Dec. 31, 1990, volume. Short-term produc- the uncertainty was weather; this month, lower borrowing cost for the bank. Con- tion lending has increased $92 million since Soybeans t ? it's politics. The situation in the Soviet Union threw the markets in both directions. tinued improved performance on restruc- Dec. 31, 1990, reflecting a combination of tured loans are also credited. seasonal lending activities and the genera- Hogs ~ Fear of export credits to the Soviet Union tion of new business. Mortgage loan Loan volume as of June 30, 1991, was volume continues to show a decline. I being cut off for a period of time was quite .Cattle t negative to the markets. On the other hand, news of Mikhail Gorbachev's return to Market Gyrations Underline Value Of USSR Stability i Index: = Higher Prices; ~ = Lower Prices; power propelled the markets, with com and soybeans futures prices trading limit-up at Futures prices on the Chicago Board of Trade .crashed in the days following news ~f the TP= Topping; BT = Bottoming; ? = Unsure attempted coup in the USSR, but skyrocketed Just as fast when the coup collapsed. Th~t the Chicago Board of Trade. underlines the fact that, more than ever before, America's agricultural e.conom~ h~s a ~Ig Corn stake in the stability of the Soviet Union," said Bob Boehm, commodIty specIahst wIth Michigan Farm Bureau. "Because the USSR ~ssuch a big c~s~omer for ou~ farm product~: The August I USDA Crop Production The USDA is projecting an annual com futures prices for com, wheat, and soybeans WIll be very sensItIve to events m that country. Report, given August 12, confirmed the price of $2.30 - $2.70 per bushel; mx expected. U.S. com yields and production projections are in the same ballpark. ThiS News of the coup raised serious questions about the future of V.S. export credits an? other will be down significantly this year (see means harvest prices in the $2.10 - $2.30 food aid to the Soviet Union. But Boehm said it's clear the Soviet Union will contmue to accompanying table). On top of this, most range. However, price increases ?ver t~e import food from foreign suppliers, and he expects th~t the United States will. conti~ue ~o of the trade feels the production numbers year are not likely to be even. Pnces Will be a major supplier. Under the 1991 Long-Term Gram ~greeme.nt, the Soviet Umon IS will be lowered 100-300 million bushels likely make some recovery late fall and then obligated to buy a minimum of 10 million tons of V.S. gram and Ollseeds. due to the continued dry weather the first adjust, depending on the spring weather and week of August. The August rains will help how much is being fed. Boehm said farmers will have to continue paying close attention to more than just supply fill some kernels, but the bulk of the damage and demand factors when they're making market decisions. "World events, as we've seen is irreversible. What does this mean for marketing? While with the attemtped coup, have a major impact on m~kets. The So~i.ets are important each farm's marketing plan will vary, there customers and anything the United States can do to contnbute to the stabIlIty of that country, USDA's monthly Supply/Demand Report are some recommendations to think about. will contribute to the stability of our own markets," he said. for com, released on August 12, shows For com, that you'll need to store commer- decreased feed use for 1990-91, ending cially and isn't already priced, consider August 31. This increases expecte~ begin- pricing on short-term rallies. For corn Kellogg Foundation Grant to Fight Waste and Hunger ning stocks for the 1991-92 marketmg year. stored on-farm, consider waiting for larger The Food Bank Council of Michigan has been awarded a $97,000 grant from the W:K. However, expected use for 1991-92 will rallies. Even with depressed export Kellogg Foundation to enhance and expand its Agricultural ~urplus. Sys~em. The fundmg total 7,725 million bushels versus the 7,418 demand, there is more potential for the will be used to develop a computer data base, and establIsh lastmg lInkages between million production, decreasing ending market increasing than decreasing. Don't growers, processors and the food bank network. stocks from the 1,530 million of 1990-91 to regret making sales to limit your downside 1 225 for 1991-92. This gives a fairly tight risk; you can al ways get back into the "The mechanisms created will enable us to leverage significant volumes of food which stocks to use ratio of 16 percent, especially market with call options. would otherwise waste or remain unutilized," stated Executive Director Karen Uhlich. The if the production number is lowered or if we Food Bank Council of Michigan is a statewide non-profit organization comprised of 15 have a weather scare next summer. food bank warehouses. In 1990, over 20 million pounds of food were distributed through the network, supplying 1,150 community feeding agencies across the state. Over 20 percent of the food items distributed in 1990 were through the Agricultural Surplus System. Soybeans almost a 16 percent stocks to use ratio, is an The Crop Production Report also showed adequate supply. This projection depends lower soybean production than normal. on a 9 percent increase in exports, which is Dairy However, mid-August rains will help soys, possible given the smaller South American crop, but isn't cenain. Dairy herds in Michigan produced 458 mil- Milk in the 21 major states totaled 10.5 keeping production numbers from being lion pounds of milk during July, 1 million billion pounds, 2 percent less than produc- lowered in the September report. The USDA is projecting the annual pounds less than a year ago, according to tion in these same states in July 1990. soybean price for the 1991-92 marketing the Federal/State Michigan Ag. Statistics Production averaged 1,254 pounds for July, The August 12 Soybean Supply/Demand year to fall between $4.85 - $6.85,just a bit Service. Production rates averaged 1,340 6 pounds less than July 1990. The number Report shows that supplies this next year are close to last year's due to a larger carry- of a range. I would project something closer pounds,. 10 pounds higher than last year. of cows on farms was 8.38 million head, to $5.30 - $5.80, with a harvest price of The Michigan dairy herd was estimated at 14,000 head less than June 1991 and in making up for the lower production. The $5.10- $5.40. My recommendations are the 342,000 head, 3,000 fewer than last July. 112,000 head less than July 1990. USDA expects use to be a little higher than last year, lowering expected ending stocks same as with com, but I am less confident in a marketing upswing that will help cover The preliminary value of milk sold Dairy manufacturing plants in Michigan somewhat. However, 300 million bushels storage. averaged $11.50 per hundredweight (cwt.) produced 1.31 million pounds of butter in of ending stocks, which translates into in July, $2.80 less than last year. July mid- June, 16 percent less than a year ago. Ice month slaughter cow prices averaged cream output totaled 2.8 million gallons, 10 $54.00 per cwt., $1.10 more than 1990. percent more than last June. Wheat The August Wheat Production Report was The USDA is projecting an annual price of changed only slightly from last month's $2.60 - $3.00. I think this is a reasonable Hogs projections, but is considerably below last projection. If you haven 't sol~ much wheat, 6 percent and the fourth quarter is expected year's production. However, the Wh~at consider pricing most of it If the market Hog slaughter will continue to increase to follow suit. This means prices will get Supply/Demand Report showed a sig- moves above the midpoint of this range. each week into the October - November into the mid to low $40 range at the peak nificant increase in wheat fed from last Then be prepared to move the rest if t.he period, with prices expected to go in the slaughter periods. At this point, there aren't month's projection. While wheat fed will market moves up another 10-20 cents with opposite direction. Production in the July - any forward pricing opportunities. Keep as not be as high as last year's, this summer's the idea to have it all moved by the end of September period is expected to be up over current and as efficient as possible. com to wheat price ratio meant a lot more the year. If you really want to be in the wheat was fed than previously expected. wheat market, use a call. This means a considerable drop in ending Cattle stocks, and a stocks to use ratio of 24.3 13 percent from late July. This, combined The August 1 seven-state Cattle on Feed with light placements in June and apparent- percent which is moderately tight for wheat. Report showed cattle on feed 5 percent ly light August placements should help the greater than at the same time a year earlier. markets this winter. Unfortunately for USDA August 1, 1991 Crop Report This increase indicates heavy supplies into stockers, it means there will be more feeders Harvested Yield Production September. In addition, marketings in July coming off grass this fall. Acres (millions) Bushels! Acre Million Bushels were down over 1 percent, meaning 1990 1991 1990 1991 1990 1991 marketings aren't current either, as If demand can make a bit of a comeback, Corn evidenced by the heavy cattle coming to fed cattle prices should gradually work their U.S. 66.95 68.79 118.5 107.8 7933.07 7417.53 market. While indications are that this may way back into the $73 to $75 range by late Mich. 2.07 2.30 115.0 105.0 238.05 241.50 clear up by the end of September, it fall. While this will help yearly feeder Soybeans depends on how quickly feedlots become demand, we will be doing well to keep in U.S. 56.50 58.73 34.0 31.8 1921.79 1868.83 current. If your cattle are ready, don't try to the mid-$80s this fall. While feeder calves Mich. 1.14 1.39 38.0 35.0 43.32 48.65 wait it out. may not match the high prices of last year, Wheat they will still return profits. At this point, U.S. 69.35 58.14 39.5 35.0 ~2738.59 2032.98 On the positive side for future fed cattle there doesn't appear to be any good pricing Mich. .75 .56 55.0 46.0 41.25 25.20 prices, placements in July were down over opportunities. Michigan FarlTl NelNs Cargill Entering -. August 30, 1991 The Penetrator primary tillage tool from Into Ethanol Market Unverferth Manufacturing Company, New Product Profile Inc., Kalida, OH, shatters soil up to a true 12" working depth, resulting in a more Cargill has announced its intention to con- productive seed bed that retains mois- struct an ethanol production facility at its ture, allows deeper fertilizer penetration com wet milling facility in Eddyville, Iowa, and resists erosion. and also expand production of industrial and food grade starches at its Cedar Rapids, Features like a beefy edge-bent shank Iowa, plant, according to a Cargill spokesperson. design, adjustable 800 lb. to 1,200 lb. shank spring pressure settings and 15 to 40 feet of solid steel frame ''gets you The ethanol production facility is expected in the ground and keeps you there. " to utilize 11 million bushels a year when in full scale production. Construction of the The rugged shanks, together with plant is expected to begin in September and choice of shovels, shatter and crumble is expected to be completed by late 1992. the soil while mixing and incorporating as much residue as required to meet The expansion of the starch production individual SCS program guidelines. The facilities is in response to the continuing coulters provide complete cutting in growth in demand for corn starch, par- heavy trash and rough terrain. Each ticularly by the paper-making industry, and spring-loaded, pivoting coulter gang in the biodegradable plastics market. walks over and around obstructions, fol- Modified corn starches are used in the lowing high contours independently for production of high-quality papers for the more effective trash cutting and reduced printing industry. breakage. flow. Coulter gangs are hydraulically raised and lowered from a solid-steel rock The expansion of the starch production shaft. Other features include adjustable hitch and screw-type jack. An easy-mount The Penetrator's extended frame, S-tine leveler is optional. The Penetrator is available with 7, 9, 11 or 13 shanks with facilities is expected to utilize an additional generous 20" underframe clearance, 15" spacing and in working widths from ~' 9" to 16' 3". For more informtjltion or 2.4 million bushels annually. According to top mounted lift cylinders and extra wide literature, contact Unverferth Manufactunng Co., Inc., P.O. Box 357, KalIda, OH National Corn Growers Association es- coulter scrapers, ensure superior trash 45853, telephone 1-800-322-6301, or 419-532-3132. Fax 419-532-2468. timates, each additional 100 million bushels of com used in the market adds five cents a bushel to com prices. More than 500,000 agricul- tural workers have physi- cal disabilities that limit their ability to do their jobs. Each year, more than 100,000 disabling injuries happen on farms, many of which are far removed from urban-based sources of help. Source: National Safety Council Corn Ethanol Can Remove Sulfur From Coal Ethanol, derived from com, may be a way to make coal that has high sulfur content _ environmentally acceptable, according to the Ethanol Desulfurization Project (EDSP) team. The team, which consisted of people from Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS), Ohio University and the University of North Dakota Energy and Environmental Research Center, discovered two methods for extricating sulfur from coal. While you're busy farming, In the halls of Congress and in The first method, known as the 3-step Farm Bureau is on the job in the Michigan Legislature, Farm process, heats ground-up coal, then tr~ats it Lansing and Washington, D.G Bureau is respected as the voice with carbon monoxide. Pyrite, a mmeral protecting your'interests. of agriculture. It's a grass roots sulfide in the coal, is converted to a sub- Our experienced and highly organization with responsible stance called trolite. In the final stage, the respected team of lobbyists are legislative clout, powered by coal is treated with ethanol while trolite acts there working for you. its members and guided by its as a catalyst to remove organic sulfur. farmer-developed policies. With the thousands of bills With over seven decades of The second method, called the I-step process, is based on a different chemical introduced on the state and experience in the legislative and procedure. Ground coal is heated and federal level, Farm Bureau regulatory arenas, you can count treated with ethanol in the presence of a lobbyists work full-time on Farm Bureau to get results! reaction accelerator, which is a gas to speed aggressively supporting desulfurization. This process removes or- legislation that benefits farm Farm Bureau member benefits ganic and mineral sulfur in a single step. families while seeking to defeat include: measures detrimental to • Educational and leadershiP According to Lawrence Wu, ISGS, the 1- agriculture. opportunities step process has great potential and usin~ it • Health care insurance could save jobs in the high-sulfur coal 10- Farm Bureau - always there and proven effective ... , dustry, along with creating greater needs for • Travel program com and ethanol production . • Discount prescription drugs Wu said because of Clean Air Act require- • Nofee VISA card ments, usage of high-sulfur coal has tx: en • Farm. auto and life insurance greatly reduced. In Illinois alone, reducmg the amount of high-sulfur coal used would cut coal production by an estimated 38 mil- What concerns you lion tons annually by the year 2000, a concerns us. decrease of over 60 percent from 1988 to- tals and would cost 22,000 jobs. As yet, For your nearest Farm Bureau the;e . are no commercial applications of office call 1(800) 292-2680 .EDSP because its desulfurization processes extension 3237 are still experimental. . Michigan Farm News . -. August 30, 1991 Your Pickup Truck: Use and Maintain it With Care D Keep your vehicle in safe operating D Traffic signs at rural intersections may condition. Pay special attention to the be hidden, damaged, or missing. Al- tires, brakes, lights, steering alignment, ways slow down and be prepared to stop Your hard-working pickup truck is a use- wipers, shocks, exhaust system, and at all intersections, narrow bridges, and ful and versatile tool. But remember that defroster. all railroad crossings. rural traffic accidents, many involving pickups, kill more farm people than any of o Don't overload your truck. Exceeding o Be alert for slow-moving vehicles. the other well-known hazards associated weight limits can cause loss of control. Watch for SMV signs and flashing with agriculture. lights. When ap- proaching another From Farm Bureau Insurance Here are some truck safety trips to remem- o If you tow with Rural traffic accidents, farm veh icle, ber: your truck, make reduce your speed sure both the load many involving pick- and be prepared to o Use and maintain the safety belts. No and the hitch are secure. ups, kill more farm stop. Pass with care. matter how short the trip, buckle up. Most traffic accidents happen close to people than any of the home. o On the road, obey traffic laws -- in- other well-known o farm Watch for loose or wild o Don't allow riders in the back of pick- cluding posted hazards associated animals. Be espe- ups. Far too many tragic deaths and injuries occur when passengers are speed limits -- and slow down when with agriculture. cially alert to deer crossing warn- Persons Injured thrown from the pickup beds. road and weather ings. 9 conditions become unsafe. Rural roads 1 o Don't drink and drive. Alcohol is in- are often rough, narrow, winding, and o Allow only trained and licensed drivers o volved in 50 to 75 percent of all fatal hilly. Dust and snow can also make safe motor vehicle accidents. travel difficult. to operate your truck. 4 1 2 • cce. 1 2 3 3 In 1 2 o 1 o 7 1 1 o 1 6 o 2 4 o 2 1 o o 9 o 8 8 o 1 6 1 2 1 o o 4 o 1 5 o 2 7 o 3 14 1 8 6 o 1 1 o 1 5 1 o 3 o 7 10 1 3 Alamo features Jlne General Motor cars Wee this Buick Park Avenue. 1 o o 3 1 1 2 o o 6 o 1 2 o 1 As a member, you can get a certificate good for either a Free Upgrade or 10 o 4 25 % Off your association's daily rate. See certificate for terms and conditions. 6 1 1 Alamo features a fine fleet of General Motors cars, all with unlimitedfree mileage 5 o 3 nationwide. Special weekend rates are available by requesting Rate Code AI. 3 o o For reservations, call your Professional Travel Agent or call Alamo at 10 o o 1-800-327-9633. Be sure to request Rate Code BY and use your Membership LD. Where all the miles 3 o 2 number :23212 are free- 1 o o 1 o 1 o 3 FREE UPGRADE NATIONWIDE 1. Certificate gOO' l --"-: .. ~~~ "'I- ~ ~ ~ ~ 'l' I'-\--~~~' '-J r~J Michigan Farm Bureau Fall Package -- -~---,r-,i \ Includes: -2 nights lodging; -Complimentary Speed It Up - Clenching your list, Slow It Down - Extend erm straight Raise Equipment - Pomt upward continental breakfast each morning; - Dinner one bend your arm shoulder level. straight up and so your hand is at Thrust arm rapidly down several limes. out to the side, palm down. Keeping arm straight, move it up and down with forefinger, while making a circle at head level with your hand. evening for two in the beautiful Point Dining Room (casual elegance); - Daily guest activities $279' and planned children's activities; - Use of inclusive S'(b1F~~ @ all facilities, Le., outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, ::l\:'~ fitness center, etc.; - Applicable tax and gratuities included. ;f1f'-i\ liLT r~ Available August 25 - October 12,1991. cJ:) 1-800-833-7711 This For To Go - Put hands in Iront Stop - Raise arm straight up, palm Please identify yourself with the Fann Bureau Package. Lower Equipment - Point toward the ground with the lorelinger 01 one of lace, palms lacing each other. to the lront. °AdditiolUd lIdu/ts IIdd S25 pa lIdult, p" packAgt. Childrtn 6-12 I1.dd$15 pa child, p" packAgt. hand, while moving the hand in a Move hands together or farther aport Childrtll 5 and undtr no additional clulrgt. Alcoholic bnJc-ag~ NOT includtd with dinntr. circl~. to indicate how lar to go. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- / On Sale Now thru September 14th .• It! ",1' ," To Write It Right - You Gatta FEEL r~ ~ I I I I • • • IIIIIl I II I : I I I I I I I I I I • I /,~ ~--~Tffij--~ ~ ~ I I~ h ~ ,.--- 00000000 :JDDDDDDD o ~DDDDDDD ~DDDDDDO - Erb's ALL WOOD -- Cadillac News reporter Matt Seward thinks his adopted cow, Oreo, must be empty POST FRAMED STORAGE BUILDING because he can't squeeze out any milk. Not so! He simply needed a little more Our 24'x 24'x 8' building includes 4t1x 6" treated posts, 24" O.c. trusses, practice before he entered the celebrity milking contest at the Marion fair. 8' sidewalls, fiberglass shingle roof, T1-11 plywood siding, 12" boxed eave overhang, 16'x 7' garage door, steel service door, all hardware When Cadillac News reporter Matt and a helpful blueprint HPF301. As low as $2299 Seward decided to do an article on milk Readers are getting a very personal view- ...j Also available HPF302 - 24'x 32'x 8' ' $2699 prices, he did what any smart but agricul- point of Oreo' s pregnancy cycle and milk All our packages are designed to meet the requirer:nents of the B.O.C.A. ture-illiterate reporter would do -- turn to production averages, what she eats and Nat. Building Code the nearest county Farm Bureau president what it costs to feed her, and what the STATEWIDE DELIVERY for information and guidance. But, when Gingrich family gets paid for the milk she FINANCING AVAILABLE AVAilABLE TO ANY Larry and Elaine Gingrich agreed to help, produces. Non-farm readers are learning We offer several credit options SITE IN THE Matt got far more than he bargained for .... about the originator of the dairy products to help you finance your building lOWER PENINSULA they enjoy and fanner-readers are asking project .... Ask Us! What Matt had in mind was more than just "When can Matt come to my farm to pick a single article explaining a very complex stones?" ~ ~?- topic. The picturesque Gingrich Meadows "'-?-?- """r---, ............. .............. family-owned and operated dairy farm near The project has been a "real learning ex- ~ .............. Leroy was the perfect place to find the perience," according to Matt, but the high- /'i' "more" that Matt wanted. As president of light has been getting to know the four / ~ \ the Osceola County Farm Bureau, Larry was familiar with Michigan Farm Bureau's generations of the Gingrich family farm operation: Larry and Elaine, Larry's / I ~\~-'-,\: ~ , 11111 \ T , "Adopt-An-Acre" program that offers news media the opportunity to follow a com- modity from planting through harvest and "retired" Dad, DeVere; son Shawn, daughter Amy Martin (Matt's tough milk- ing tutor) and her husband Craig and 21- ,. DODD r- marketing, and share that information with their audiences. Elaine, who chairs the month-old son Brandon (another daughter, Melissa, operates a store in Cadillac). ~~~~ county's Promotion and Education Com- "They all work together. If there's a job to o mittee, remembered an Agriculture Under- do, they all pitch in and get it done, even DOOD standing Week project suggestion to Larry's Dad who goes to Florida in the OODO "Adopt-A-Reporter." The perfect solution: Matt would "adopt" one of their cows; the winter but can't stay away from fanning. Nobody waits until they're told to do some- Gingrich family would "adopt" him! thing. They just do it," said Matt. ALL WOOD POST. FRAMED 24'x 24' GAMBREL ROOF STORAGE BUILDING What Matt didn't bargain for was a A part of Matt's learning experience was a Includes: 5/a" thick T1-11 plywood siding, second floor with stairs, philosophy Larry had from the beginning trip to MSU's Ag Expo and MFB's Sum- fiberglass asphalt shingles, easy truss and rafter assembly, 2 - g'x 7' of the project -- "To write it right, you gotta merfest with the Gingrich family. garage doors, flush steel service door, 12" boxed eave overhang, FEEL it!" Consequently, Matt has been subjected to a taste of what members of a Other topics covered in the "Adopt-A- all hardware as low as PF503 $3999 farm family regularly do as part of their Cow" series included a livestock auction Also available 24'x 32'x 8' ' PF504 $4799 profession. Since the adoption proceedings, sale and all the inspections involved in that ~ he's gotten sunburned hair, aching muscles activity; the use of ag chemicals and why and calloused hands from picking stones in fanners use such great care in their applica- a field; suffered through painful allergies tion; and who knows what other subjects , ~ r l' , , r~ : while baling hay; witnessed his adopted may surface. cow give birth to a calf; spent a day with the • -1' ~ ~~, \ veterinarian "on the back side of the cows" doing pregnancy tests and vaccinations; "We may string out this series for the next six years," said Larry. Matt, who told his \~'~:)'" , any Erb ~ location \ //" .....::; - I I I I "l:I - ---'-' ---- l.- and learned how to prep and milk cows. Both the adopted cow, named Oreo (better than her original name, No. 194) in a "name the cow" contest, and the adopted reporter have become celebrities in the community. readers he swears there are stones out in the fields reproducing, looked at his still-cal- loused hands and sighed, thinking longing- ly ahead to his vacation at a Virginia fishing spot called, ironically, Cowpasture River. FREE \\ One per ~ , customer ' , WITH THIS Gingrich Meadows, located across the road from the Osceola County Park, captures 10'x 10' GABLE STYLE , COUPON ".sHIRT , the attention of campers and picnickers with this "Milk puts you in a good MOOO-D" ~ , Erb '1 , HANDI-BARN Our popular handi-barn includes: Pre-built roof & message. , . f rmation on our , floor trusses, 6' high sidewalls, double doors, \ Just askb~rd;~~Sor home pkgs. , plywood floor, siding, shingles, hardware, nails and storage Sept 14 1991.... instructions 5579 ' '---- Valid thru_---,;..--- 10'x 12' .8649 10'x 14' .. 5729 10'x 16' .. 5779 DETROIT GRAND RAPIDS BIRMINGHAM LUMBER MT. CLEMEHS GRANO RAPIDS LOWEU (313) 644-3636 (313) 792-7770 (616) 241-6641 (616i 8\:17-9291 FAX' (313) 644.3942 FAX: (313) 792-3430 FAX: (616) 241-2167 FAX: (616) 897-5892 BRIGHTON PONTIAC (313) 227-1831 FAX: (313) 227-4799 (313) 334-1511 FAX: (313) 334-1857 MIDSTATE JACKSON LANSING OWOSSO FENTON REDFORD (517) 787-9100 (517) 393-2550 (517) 723-8911 (313) 629-3300 (313) 937-9111 FAX' (517) 787.1552 FAX: (517) 393-5231 FAX: (517) 72!>-9102 FAX: (313) 750-9645 FAX: (313) 937-2005 MIDLAND MT. PLEASANT HAGGERTY LUMBER . ROYAL OAK (517) 631-4290 (517) 772-2988 (313) 624-4551 (313) 548-2153 FAX: (517) 835-3498 FAX: (517) 772-4898 FAX: (313) 624-6819 FAX: (313) 548-5629 HOWELL WARREN (517) 548-5410 (313) 775-7000 NORTH FAX: (517) 548-5392 FAX: (313) 775-6980 ALPENA KALKASKA REED CITY UVONIA WATERfORD (517) 354-3154 (616) 258-9189 (616) 832-2242 £~.~ (313) 261-5110 (313) 66&-2450 FAX: (517) 356-0328 FAX: (616) 258-5014 FAX: (616) 832-"425 FAX: (313) 261.9780 FAX: (313) 66&-3855 HILLMAN MANTON ST. HELEN ~.IIiiiiM iII~ ,=== YPSILANTI (517) 742-4518 (616) 824-6451 (517) 389-4912 ~-- (313) 481-1500 FAX: (517) 742-3635 FAX: (616) 824-3302 FAX: (517) 389-3621 . -- .... FAX: (517) 481-8992 CASH & CARRY PRICES GOOD THRU 9-14-91 Delivery Available - Ask For D.etails --' -- ....: WE ACCEPT CREDIT!