Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau I " September 30, 1991 1 •• 1 Parathion Users Face Dec. 31, 1991 Cancellation Date The u.s. Environmental Protection Service, it's likely that growers may be able Michigan Impact According to MSU Entomologist Doug Agency's strict restriction on parathion to return unopened containers of parathion Landis, the parathion cancellation will have Pr('duct Trade Names (ethyl parathion) will prohibit use of the to their local dealers for a credit or refund. little impact to Michigan field crop Cheminova of Denmark is the only product on 81 of 90 previously registered "Generally, EP A will allow you to use up operators, specifically com, soybean, alfal- manufacturer of technical parathion crops effective Dec. 31, 1991, creating a the product that you have so you don't have fa, and wheat. "I don't think the impact in used in the U.S. An additional eight dilemma of where and how to dispose of unused product. a hazardous waste sitting around on the field crops is going to be nearly as great as companies formulate registered farm," said Van Arkel. "We haven't really it is in vegetable crops and potatoes and parathion products under trade formulated a company policy as to how fruit," he said. names which include: The EP A is also preparing to issue a notice to cancel registration on the nine remaining we're going to actually handle returns, but Alkron Paramar crops, effective possibly within the next 12 there is talk that some of the basic manufac- The product is used extensively by Michigan potato growers in combatting the Aileron Paraphos months. Only aerial application of turers, along with the distributors, have Aphamite Parathene parathion is allowed on alfalfa, barley, agreed that we will be taking product back." Colorado Potato Beetle. The effectiveness of parathion, combined with its relatively Corothion Parawet canola, com, cotton, sorghum, soybeans, Ethyl Parathion Phoskil MDA's Wade expressed concern that this inexpensive price tag, made it popular sunflowers and wheat, until further notice. Fosferno50 Rhodiatox short cutoff not become a normal strategy among growers of minor crops, said Wade. Niran Soprathion EP A estimates that up to six million pounds by EP A for future chemical cancellation, Orthophos Stathion pointing out that it creates serious questions Parathion will also be particularly missed of parathion, an organophosphate pesticide Panthlon Thiophos about disposal and disposal costs, and by Michigan grape growers, as it was the registered since 1948, is used extensively in whether the farmer, the chemical company most commonly used insecticide on (source EPA) fruit and vegetables and, to a limited degree, Michigan's 12,000 acres of grapes, accord- '. in field crops. USDA estimates suggest that or the government will ultimately pay. more than 37 percent of the parathion is ing to Thomas. The product is used in ap- ples, plums and, to a smaller degree, in become extremely difficult for growers to used on wheat -- about 5.3 million acres. "EP A, in the past, has said they'd be more continue to cope with insect pests without flexible and a little gentler on easing pes- peaches. Imidan and Lorsban are the major alternatives for growers, although they're the additional tools. The long-term impact According to Dave Wade, MDA ticides out of circulation, but this sort of of this kind of deal-cutting with chemical toxicologist in the Pesticide and Plant flies in the face of what they had been telling not as effective, and will cost more to use, says Thomas. companies by the EP A will put growers at Management Division, the Dec. 31 cancel- us," said Wade. "Thankfully, the dealer and greater risks for outbreaks and resistance lation'date will prohibit parathion, labelled the manufacturers have indicated a willing- build-up due to the smaller number of for crops other than those current nine, from ness to take back unopened product, but "It's another one of those situations where we've lost another tool for use in minor chemicals that can be used." being used. that's out of the kindness of their hearts quite frankly." ' , crops that is replaced by a higher priced alternative," said Thomas. "It's going to See "Parathion" cont. on page 8 "In the past, when EP A has stopped sale of a product, they've generally allowed time for any purchased material in the hands of the growers to be used," said Wade. "What American Soybean Promotion Efforts Underway in Russia is distressing is how they handled the con- Adh~ring to the principle th.at there's no "Many of these collective farms are well U.S. soybean exports to Russia from the tinued use part of this cancellation. The fact tIme h~e .the present, the A~encan Soybean aware of the benefits of using soybean meal current 10 percent is endless. they stopped use of this product by Dec. 31 ASSOCIatIOn(ASA~, workmg through t~e as a protein supplement for finishing hogs," is a little absurd -- it will cause problems." newly ~reated Umted Soybean B<;>ard,IS Reinholt said. "We think by creating this "The southern most point in Russia is about attemptmg to accumulate approxImately proper rapport now, that when things get equal to Southern Minnesota," says Rein- Mike Thomas, CES district horticultural $1~0,0~0 to op~n an Amen~a~ soybean straightened out overthere, they're going to holt. "When they fully realize soybean meal agent in Southwest Michigan, concurs with promotIOn offic~ m Mosco~ wlt~m the next look to the U.S. for soybean products such as a protein source, they won't even begin Wade's outlook on the cutoff date, adding 60 ~ays, ~ccordmg to Ke~th .Remholt, ex- as meal, instead of South America." to produce enough soybeans to meet their that many growers won't realize the impact ecutIve dIrector of the MIchIgan Soybean own needs." of this decision until they try to purchase Promotion Committee. Seventeen Russian collective farm product next winter and early spring. managers are currently spending time at Don't expect the European Community to Michigan producers may be contributing Texas A&M to study soybeans, soybean get a piece of the action either, since they "The fact that it's an end of the year deal as between $5,000 to $10,000 toward the processing, and soybean use, so they can account for approximately 25 percent of the opposed to 'a go ahead and use up your cause from a contingency fund, with final eventually build and operate their own U.S.' s current soybean exports, explained stocks' situation, will be a problem," said figures and approval expected from the crushing facilities. However, Reinholt Reinholt. Thomas. "December 31 doesn't help in Michigan promotion board within the next predicts that the potential of expanding using the product up. We're not spraying it two weeks. Once the Moscow office be- on at this point." comes a viable operation, the Foreign ASA hopes a Moscow-based office will ultimately mean more soybean exports. Agricultural Service has indicated a will- According to Bob Van Arkel, technical ingness to contribute matching funds for marketing representative with Grower's promotion efforts. "The concept of working with the Soviet Union to encourage their use of our soybeans has been an ongoing effort since 1986," says Reinholt. "With the recent political changes, the ASA saw a real op- portunity and a real need to accelerate the program." According to Reinholt, American soybean promotion in Russia had been conducted via a Vienna, Austria, office, which was in- itiated with a feed trial of soybean meal in swine rations. Typi~al swine rations used no ." protein supplement whatsoever, doubling required feedlot times for hogs. The results were surprising to the Russian farm managers, says Reinholt, and since that time, personnel from the Vienna office and further feed trials have been highly sought commodities themselves. Capitol Comer ~ Michigan Farm Weather ~ Farm Business Outlook ~ Michigan FarlR1NelNs •• September 30, 1991 B In Brief ... Low Corn Carryout Could Mean Reduced ARP in 1992 KBS to Host Woodlot Management Shortcourse There were no major surprises in the USDA crop production or supply/demand reports, but Woodlot owners who want to learn to manage their properties for profit or recreational low corn carryout for 1991-92 will increase the pressure on USDA to reduce the 1992 feed purposes are invited to attend a five-part shortcourse at Michigan State University's grain set-aside requirements, according to Knight Ridder News. Kellogg Biological Station, located near Hickory Comers, Michigan. USDA pegged U.S. corn stocks for 1991-92 at 1.102 billion bushels, down 123 million Titled "Woodlands, Wildlife & You." the program will be held Oct. 8, 10. IS, 17 and 19. bushels from the August forecast, and down from 1.530 billion bushels in 1990-91. The first four sessions will take place at the KBS Education Center, while the fifth session will be held at the nearby Kellogg Experimental Forest. According to MFB Commodity Specialist Bob Boehm, there were numerous requests from commercial grain firms for USDA to announce an ARP level of 0 to 5 percent before Sept. Participants can expect to learn the fundamentals of forestry and wildlife management, 30, arguing that 0 percent ARP would help re-establish a buffer for demand, plus ensure including identifying and measuring trees, common forestry terminology and ecology. profitable livestock feeding business and protect U.S. export markets. Participants will also learn various management practices for improving woodlot quality, managing wildlife. tree planting and harvesting methods, trail and road making, and "Commercial grain firms have been lobbying for as Iowan ARP as possible, but have met management skills. opposition from farmers concerned that planting "fence row to fence row" could seriously erode prices," said Boehm. "USDA was leaning toward a feedgrain set-aside in 1992 of 10 Each session builds on the information presented in the previous lesson, so participants are to 12.5 percent before the crop report on Sept. 12. But given the recent turn of events in encouraged to attend all five sessions. Registration for the woodlot management shortcourse Russia, combined with drought stricken yields and expanded ethanol production, USDA is $20, which includes resource materials and refreshments for all five sessions. will be forced to reconsider." Russia to Become a Food Exporter? For more information, contact the Kellogg Biological Station Extension office by calling (616) 671-2412 as soon as possible. ... The Russian Republic should continue to be a good customer for U.S. farm products in the Michigan Onion Growers Approve Referendum short term, but the export outlook is less certain a few years down the road, according to a Michigan onion growers have approved a proposal for an increase in assessments ad- Hillsdale College economics professor who was in Moscow during the attempted coup. ministered by the Michigan Onion Committee, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Richard Ebeling, a leading expert on free markets, spoke at a recent American Farm Bureau Federation Economics Seminar in Indianapolis. "If Russia and the Ukraine privatize The additional funds levied by the producers for commodities sold will be used by the collective farms and free prices, and are able to operate in an economy that becomes freer committee to promote the onion industry. The increase in assessments rates from "not to and freer over the next couple of years, I expect that the demand for American agricultural exceed two (2) cents per bag (4 cents per hundredweight)" to "not to exceed three (3) cents goods will fall because the Russians and Ukrainians will be satisfying their own food per bag (6 cents per hundredweight)" for each bag of onions shipped was approved. needs," he said. "Historically, areas like the Ukraine have been viewed as the bread basket Twenty-four growers (7 I percent), representing 594,364 hundredweight (74 percent) voted of Europe. In fact, Ukrainian and Russian farmers could just a few years down the road yes. Ten growers (29 percent) representing 204,984 hundredweight (26 percent) voted no. even be major world competitors with U.S. farmers." A total of 36 ballots were cast in the referendum which was conducted by MDA from Aug. Ebeling, who will soon be returning to Russia to advise the mayor of Moscow on privatizing 5 through Aug. 16, 199 1. Two ballots were disqualified because they were postmarked late. city services, said there is nothing inherent in the Russian agricultural situation that requires The law requires that more than 50 percent of the voting producers, representing more than them to be permanent food importers. "It was the socialist planning institutions that created 50 percent of the volume of onions produced by those voting, must approve the referendum the lack of incentives and institutional structures for a successful private sector farming for it to pass. industry," he said. "It remains to be seen whether the Russian people really do become self-sufficient in food Money for Ag Research Well Spent any time soon," said Bob Boehm, commodity specialist for MFB. "Furthermore, if Russia Money spent on agricultural research yields several times as much in terms of benefits as becomes more prosperous, they could become better customers for value-added farm is returned from conventional investments, according to an American Farm Bureau Federa- exports from the U.S. That's been the pattern with other developing economies like South Korea and Taiwan." tion study. "The average U.S. family received $46 worth of benefits from each $17 of taxes used to support agricultural research," said Ken Nye, director of Commodity Activities and Research for MFB. "That's an average cost-benefit ratio of 2.7 to one." Roland Harmes New DNR Director Nye said the larger benefit ratio went to the lowest income category of families. "Benefit Roland Harmes Jr., was named director of ratios ranged from 6.4 for families earning less than $10,000 a year, to 2.2 for families the Michigan Department of Natural earning over $40,000 a year." Resources (DNR) by the Natural Resources Commission during its September meeting. Michigan Fall Fruit Harvest Early "We have a great deal of confidence in Roland," said Commission Chairman Ray Harvesting of the state's fruit crops is three to four weeks ahead of normal. The plum and Poupre. "We're very pleased to have some- pear crops are up in quantity from last year while the grape crop remains the same, according one with his experience head the DNR. He to the Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service. Plum size was rated as good, while pears is definitely the right person for the job." had excellent size this year. Grape sugar content was at one of the highest levels in years. Harmes, who was chief of the Real Estate The grape crop is placed at 46,000 tons, the same as last year's crop, 2 percent below the Division since 1980, began his new posi- five year average. Nationally, the crop is estimated at 5.3 million tons, down 7 percent from tion Sept. 16. Originally from Davisburg, the previous season's harvest. Pear production in Michigan is forecast at 5,000 tons, double Michigan, Harmes joined the DNR in 1965 the 1990 crop, while 21 percent below the five year average. U.S. output is expected to be after leaving the South Dakota Department 882,100 tons, double the 1990 crop, while 21 percent below the five year average. U.S. of Game, Fish and Parks and holds a output is expected to be 882,100 tons, down 8 percent from the 1990 crop. The state's Prune bachelor's degree in forestry from and plum crop is expected to total 9,000 tons, up 50 percent from last year's production, Michigan Technological University. but 18 percent below the 5 year average. National output is forecast at 26,800 tons, down 44 percent from last season. Apple production is forecast at 750 million pounds, equal to Harmes said he is anxious to met with the 1990 levels, while national production is expected to be up 4 percent over last year. agencies and organizations that the DNR interacts with, to address issues such as crop damage, wetlands and county drains, Australia's Wheat Crop Smallest Since 1982 adding that he had already talked with MDA director Bill Schuette. ''I'd like to see a Australia's 1991-92 wheat crop will be the smallest since 1982, according to John Lawren- partnership formed between the DNR, MDA and the Department of Commerce to promote son, managing director of the Australian Wheat Board (A WB). He estimates that no more agriculture in Michigan and tie it in with improving our overall economy and and having than 10.6 million ton of wheat will be harvested, down from 15.5 million in 1990-91. The people come here to enjoy Michigan's outdoors, as well," he said. AWB, the nation's sole wheat exporter, will concentrate on serving its long-term traditional customers, said .Lawrenson. The small crop is blamed on a number of factors including the According to Harmes, the budget crunch means the DNR will have to learn to do with less. worst drought SInce 1982, predator damage from kangaroos, drying winds, and frost. "We have to better manage the dollars that we have and set some priorities," he said. "We're going to have to continue to look at how we can streamline, and become more efficient." Michigan Farm News is Published 20 times annually: By the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and ed~orial offICeS at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan Three Congressmen Oppose EPA's Negligible Risk 48917, Post Off~ce Box 30960 (zip 48909); phone 1-517-323-7000. Michigan Farm News is provided as a service to regular members as part of their annual dues. Publication Three members of congress, Henry Waxman, Cat.; Mike Synar, Okla.; and Ted Weisse, No. 345040. Established Jan. 13, 1923, as Michigan Farm News, reestablished October 15,1990. Third. N. Y., all Democrats, have filed a friend of the court brief in a lawsuit challenging the dass postage paid at Lansing, Michigan and at additional mailing offices. Environmental Protection Agency's authority to enforce its negligible risk pesticide policy. Ed~orial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. The lawsuit, filed originally by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), would Off~: M~ig~n Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President Wayne Wood, Marlette; Adr~lIn1strative Director, Charles Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary, force the EPA to immediately apply the zero risk Delaney Clause to pesticides suspected Wilham S. Wilkinson. of being carcinogenic. Directors: District 1, Marlin Outman, Constantine; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane Homing, Manche~te~; District 4, T?m Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne If this lawsuit is decided against EPA, it would be very detrimental to agriculture and would . Wood, Marl.ette; ~1S.tricl7, Larry Snider, Hart; District 8, Richard Leach, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, strengthen the case of repressive food safety legislation sponsored by Rep. Waxman and Traverse CiIX; DIStrict 10. Margaret ~artes, West Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Sen. Ted Kennedy, said Mark Maslyn, assistant director of national affairs for the American Douglas Darllllg, Maybee; Jack Laune, Cass City; Faye Adam.Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and Education, Holly Porter, Manchester. Young Farmers, Steven Gonyea, Spruce. Farm Bureau Federation. Farm Bureau opposes the WaxmanlKennedy bill as well as a bill by Rep. Synar which prohibits export of pesticides not registered in this country . - September 30, 1991 ITOL o o JJ Z m JJ Federal Disaster Assistance Michigan Affordable Health Care Plan Legislation pending in the House Appropriations Committee (H.R. 2893) would provide A package of bills has been developed by Michigan Senate republicans to assure that all disaster payments to farmers experiencing crop losses in 1990 and 1991, according to working Michigan citizens are able to purchase affordable health insurance. The bill also formulas that are similartb those used in the 198Rand 1989 disaster bills. The estimated seeks to: assure that Michigan children, regardless of their financial circumstances, have cost of the assistance would be $1.5 to $3 billion. access to basic health care; that Michigan employers are given the practical opportunity to provide health insurance to their employees; that health care dollars go to the delivery of health care services instead of to extraneous areas such as litigation and needless ad- ministrative costs or equipment; and that private health insurance services are delivered quickly and efficiently. Medical liability in Michigan is reaching crisis proportions as evidenced by climbing malpractice insurance costs, routing patients through unnecessary tests due to defensive medicine, increasing access problems and the continuing abuses permitted by the current tort system. The nine point proposal includes: 1. Affordable Health Insurance Coverage - Establishes $100 per month basic health insurance policies ($75 per month for indi viduals). - Provides a Small Business Tax Credit for employers providing policies. - Provides income tax credits for persons buying their own policies. 2. Access to Basic Health Services for Children - Extension of the Michigan Child Care Program to guarantee all eligible Michigan children basic health coverage. 3. Professional Malpractice Reform - Reforms Michigan's tort system to reduce the high cost of litigation, medical malpractice insurance, and defensive medicine. - Establish a new dispute resolution board. 4. Good Samaritan ProtectionlEmergency Care - Extends Good Samaritan liability protection to emergency room nurses and doctors. S. Physician Risk Management Standards - Establishes specific standards of care for specialty areas of medical practice in order to ensure quality care and enhance the defense against malpractice claims. 6. Health 'Provider Discipline - Strengthen professional licensing board authority to discipline professional members who commit malpractice. 7. Health Care Facility Certificate of Need (CON) Reform - Reforms the CON program in order to maximize access to health care, streamline the application process and achieve cost containment. 8. Medical Coverage for Workers Leaving Public Assistance - Establishes statutory, guarantee to one year of medical coverage when recipients go to work, thereby encouraging those on public assistance to .seek employment. 9. Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan Reform - Administrative reform of Blue Cross/Blue Shield to make the insurer more responsive to patients and providers. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau supports the direction suggested by this package of bills, but does not support including such items as mandatory health insurance or a national health plan. Hearings before a Senate committee are scheduled Oct. 8, and a final position will be decided when the final package has been submitted to the full Senate. The Micliigan Departrilentof Agriculture'dhas submitted rules regarding pesticide use Farm Bureau COIitact: Howard Kelly, Extension 2044 pursu(;lnt to theJ>esticid~ Control Act to theA~tomey General'~ office for analysis. Public hearings. on the rules. are scheduled to follow. Much of the proposed rules pertain to commercial applicators only .. MIOSHA The rules that impact private applicators (farmers) are as follows: The state Senate passed and sent to the House S.B. 459, which makes substantial changes 1. Pesticide applications shall be made in a manner that prevents off target direct to the MIOSHA program, and clears the way for continuing Michigan's OSHA (MIOSHA) discharge of pesticides. Drift may not occur unless prior authorization and consent program. Farm Bureau has supported the continuance of MIOSHA and the good relation- is received from the owner or resident of the adjacent land. If drift does occur, the ships with the regulators in the Departments of Labor and Public Health. However, field applicator shall notify the affected area. sanitation was singled out by both the business and labor community as an exception to the federal rules. When pesticide off target drift may occur due to the nature of the application, a drift management plan shall be utilized to minimize the adverse effects. The drift Sen. Harry Gast (R-St. Joseph) introduced an amendment to strike the word "agricultural" management plan should be in writing and will be taken into consideration by MDA employer from the bill to make these same rules apply to all businesses and labor if a complaint is received. A drift plan may include the following examples: organizations. The amendment, which was defeated, would have been consistent with Farm - The use of the largest spray droplets. Bureau policy, which opposes field sanitation standards that are more stringent than worker - The use of specialized equipment. sanitation standards in other industries. - Near surface spray application. - Lowest effective rates of application. Compromise language, developed by Sen. Gast and Sen. James Berryman (D-Adrian) was - Identification of wind speed and direction prior to application. included in the bill. This will include agricultural employers with less than 11 employees, - A no spray buffer zone that could be treated with non-powered equipment. and dropped several of the specific requirements, such as the kind of water container, and - Wind shields to protect sensitive areas such as schools, picnic areas, water more importantly, dropped the educational requirements for employers with one to ten bodies. workers. Those employers will not be at risk for failing to instruct workers on personal hygiene. The language merely says that employers must provide, at no cost, water at a 2. The rules allow the application of pesticide containing materials such as soils, location that is available to all employees and that a toilet and handwashing facility is either debris, dilutents, and left over pesticide (if registration has not been suspended), as provided or available. long as you can measure the amount of active ingredient and it's applied at a rate not exceeding label directions. The more positive benefits of the legislation include making it more difficult for state rules to be more stringent than federal rules. It also provides for early processing of standards 3. Pesticide application equipment shall be in sound mechanical condition, properly handed down by OSHA. Michigan will not regulate what federal OSHA doesn't regulate calibrated, and have properly functioning shut-off valves to prevent off t~rg~t unless there is a clear and convincing reason to do so. Voting by the MIOSHA commissions discharge. Equipment designed to draw water must have a properly functlOmng will now take at least a four member vote rather than just a majority present at a meeting, anti-siphoning device. and one of the votes must be from a labor representative and another from business. Farm Bureau Position: Farm Bureau's position on the working group involved in the Assuming the legislation clears the House by Sept. 30 MIOSHA will continue. If not, the drafting of the rules has ensured ~hatposting notificatio~ and written contrac,t requirements entire program could revert to federal OSHA. do not apply to agricultural applicatIOns. Farm Bureau IS generally ,sU,pportlve but has not Farm Bureau Contact: Howard Kelly, Extension 2044 taken an official position until the Attorney General's office analYSISIScomplete. Farm Bureau Contact:V;ck; Pontz, Extension 2046. Michigan Farm NelMs •• 3D-Day Forecasts September 30,1991 For 9/1/91 Accum. Dev. Precipitation year in the Upper Peninsula to slightly dry to 9/15/91 Temperature Grow. From Dev. From Observed Dev. From Degree Norm. Actual Norm in the northern and central Lower Peninsula Mean Normal Days. GOO. (inch,) (Inch.) to abnormally dry in sections of the Alpena 62.9 +1.6 2336 +258 1.89 +0.27 southeastern Lower Peninsula. Michigan and Major Commodity Area Bad Axe 65.5 +1.3 2542 +90 .49 -0.68 Extended Weather Outlook Escanaba 64.5 +5.8 2016 +578 4.28 +2.57 Transitional weather is normally the rule in T - Temp. 9/30... 10/15 9/30 .... 11/30 Grand Rapids 68.8 +2.4 2970 +518 2.37 +1.00 P - Preclp T P T f autumn across the Great Lakes area and the Imlay City 66.8 +0.9 2708 +291 0.08 -(l.97 Michigan N N N N Lansing 67.3 +1.4 2826 0.68 -0.47 outlook for the next 3D days is no excep- +448 W. Corn Belt N N N N Ludington 66.1 +2.9 2532 +330 2.23 +0.73 tion. According to the latest Climate E. Corn Belt N N N A Marquette 61.1 +1.9 2010 +404 2.38 +0.46 Analysis Center 3D-day outlook, tempera- Wlnt. Wheat Belt N N N N Sault Ste. Marie 61.5 +2.8 1977 +117 3.85 +2.14 tures are expected to range from below Spr.Wheat Belt N N N N Standish 63.3 -(l.9 2370 +168 0.67 -0.50 normal in the western Upper Peninsula to Pac. NW Wheat A B B N Tipton 66.7 +0.8 2787 +370 1.27 +0.22 near normal elsewhere. Delta N N N N Traverse City 67.1 +5.4 2710 +888 2.99 +1.31 Southeast N N A N Watervliet 68.2 -2.4 2873 +4~1 2.58 +1'.21 West Texas N N N N Precipitation is expected to be near normal San Joaquin N A B A • Growing Degree Days are based on B.E. Base 50F method and are statewide. Normal weatherthis time of year accumulated from April 1 through September 15,1991. ' is usually characterized by large swings in A-Above Average, B-Below Average, N-Nor- temperatures, including the first freezing mal, MA-Much Above, MB-Much Below, NP- temperatures of the season in most spots. No Preclp. Source: National Weather Office Where Did Summer Go? Early September was characterized by highly variable weather with temperatures ranging The normal first freeze date in Michigan from much above normal in the north to near or slightly below normal in sections of the east ranges from the second week in sections of and south. the Upper and northern lower Peninsula to the first week in October in southern lower Precipitation was heavy in sections of the Upper and northern Lower Peninsulas, while only Michigan. Lakeshore areas in lower scattered, mostly light amounts fell in the south. The drier than normal weather in the south Michigan normally don't see freezing dates favored early harvest activity while the precipitation in persistently dry sections of until the second or even third week of Oc- northwestern Lower Peninsula eased abnormally low soil moisture levels. tober, especially in the extreme southeast and southwest. According to the latest USDA/NOAA Joint Agricultural Weather Facility Crop Moisture Index, moisture in the top 5 feet of the soil profile range from near normal for this time of Jeff Andresen, Ag Meteorologist, MSU CROP PROGRESS REPORT Week Ending 9/22/91 This Last 5-Year Week Year Ava. Corn Silage Harvested 70% 15% 30% Orybeans Harvested 50% 30% 15% Hay Third Cut. 80% 65% 60% Soys Harvested 5% 0% 1% Corn Harvested 7% 0% 2% Wheat Planted 20% 20% 10% AlaTTWfeatures fine General Motor cars like this Buick Park Avenue ...... u' •. ' < •• ~ ;"_. ,_, ~. - Michigan Crop Condition - Percent of Acreage Choose and save with Alamo. Good! As a member, you can get a certificate good for either a Free Upgrade or 25% Off your association's daily rate. See certificate for terms and conditions. Excellent Fair Poor Alamo features a fine fleet of General Motors cars, all with unlimitedfree mileage Corn 23% 70% 7% nationwide. Special weekend rates are available by requesting Rate Code AI. 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I U48B II.D. /i)Y223212 I I Where all the miles are free" I POIB II.D. #BY223212I Michigan FarlYl News September 30, 1991 FFA Alumni/Administrators Kansas City Field Trip Turning Heads and Attitudes • . I ' Thanks in large part to the Michigan FFA Alumni and local Alumni chapters, approximately 100 high school administrators have witnessed the impressive National FFA Convention in Kansas City over the last four years. The Michigan FFA Alumni work with local FFA chap- ters, the Michigan Farm Bureau and the Department of r~~ij ~ '~ ~ ,........--~flg\7'-""" -;..,,, GOLDEN 90'S -' Agricultural and Extension Education at MSU to get ~ Expositions important people, such as principals, superintendents, OAKLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE counselors and board of education members to the con- 2900 Featherstone Road vention. As originally hoped, once administrators have Auburn Hills, Michigan been a part ofthe National FFA Convention, attitudes and OCTOBER 11 &: 12 and support for their local "programs improve. Friday - 4 to 9 Saturday - 10 to 5 One administrator commented after the trip that, "Stu- SHERIDAN COMMUNITY CENTER dents get a better education out here (in Kansas City) than 121 1 1 Pardee they do spending a week back home in the classrooms." Taylor, Michigan OCTOBER 18, 19 Be 20 Another administrator suggested that, "Schools should Friday - 4 to 9 not focus on sending the lower group of students to ag Saturday & Sunday - 10 to 5 classes. FF A and agricultural education should have an GOURMET FOODS - COUNTRY FOLK ART opportunity to enlist the school's finest students and ag GIITS - FESTIVE DECOR classes should not be used simply as a dumping ground." Charges for the trip are generally paid either by the local FF A Alumni and/or the local FF A chapter. While in Kansas City, administrators will stop at the National FFA Alumni banquet and auction, the National Agricultural .~. .. _ 4 .. • \:7.:-1~. oM _ ... _ 4"~ .. M Career Show and several of the convention sessions. If you know of an administrator that would benefit from this experience and be willing to spend Nov. 13, 14, and 15 at the convention, contact your local FFA Advisor or Ernie Birchmeier at Michigan Farm Bureau at FREE RX CATALOG 1-800-292-2680, ext. 3234, no later than Oct. 8. The program is limited to the first 30 reservations. SAVE UP TO 500/0'. Corn Belt Harvest Progress Fast-Paced Michigan Farm Bureau's Illinois Illinois com harvest progress was at a record pace during September, with 21 percent of the crop reported har- Mail Service Pharmacy Program vested, compared to 8 percent on average for this time of year. Ninety-five percent of the crop is reported mature OtTer.;d by Feld Prescription Service 5023 Grover St. Omaha Nebraska 68106 compared to 65 percent average. The com crop is rated 4 Most Commonly Prescribed Prescription Medications percent excellent, 21 percent good, 49 percent fair, 17 percent poor, and 9 percent very poor. Call 1-800-228-3353 if you don't see yours. Illinois soybean harvesting was reported 9 percent com- plete, compared to 7 percent on average. Roughly 59 percent of the crop had shed leaves, compared to a 44 80mg 100's 36.75 12.95 Micro-K Extencaps 8 mEq 100's 12.50 percent average. Soybeans in Illinois are rated 5 percent 120 mg 100's 49.50 10mEq 100's 13.50 7.95 15.95 excellent, 25 percent good, 54 percent fair, 14 percent Clinoril Tabs 150 mg 100's 73.50 49.95 Motrin Tabs 400 mg 100's 15.50 7.95 poor and 2 percent very poor. 200 mg 100's 89.25 59.95 600 mg 100's 20.25 10.95 Iowa Coumadin Tabs 2 mg 100's 39.95 800 mg 100's 24.75 15.95 Iowa's com harvest got underway mid-September in 2.5 mg 100's 41.25 Ortho-Novum Tabs 1-35 21 or 28 19.50 8.95 southeastern portions of the state, while com in northern 5 mg 100's 41.75 I-50 21 or 28 19.50 8.95 portions of the state were still in the dough stage. Late 7.5 mg 100's 63.75 Persantine Tabs 25 mg 100's 25.95 5.95 rains failed to help drought stressed com, but did boost the condition of late planted soybeans. 10 mg 100's 65.75 50 mg 100's 39.25 7.95 E.E.S. Tabs 400 mg 100's 19.95 15.25 75 mg 100's 51.95 9.95 Statewide, 88 percent of Iowa's com crop was reported Entex LA Tabs 100's 49.95 12.95 Premarin Tabs 0.3 mg 100's 20.25 10.95 in or past the dent stage, compared to a 97 percent Eryc Caps 250 mg 100's 28.50 0.625mg 100's 26.95 13.95 16.95 average, with harvest 5 percent complete. Com was rated F1exeril Tabs 10 mg 100's 74.25 50.95 1.25 mg 100's 35.75 15.95 6 percent excellent, 52 percent good, 39 percent fair, and 3 percent poor. Inderal Tabs 10mg 100's 20.75 5.95 2.5 mg 100's 61.95 29.95 20 mg 100's 28.25 6.95 Proventil Tabs 2 mg 100's 30.75 10.95 Iowa's soybean harvest was reported 1 percent complete, 40 mg 100's 35.95 7.95 4 mg 100's 43.25 15.95 with the crop rated 7 percent excellent, 58 percent good, 60 mg 100's 47.75 Provera Tabs 10 mg 100's 46.75 16.95 9.95 33 percent fair, and 2 percent fair. 80 mg 100's 53.75 10.95 Siow-K Tabs 100's 16.75 8.95 Ohio Isoptin Tabs 80 mg 100's 37.25 12.95 Synthroid Tabs 0.025 mg I00' s 13.25 6.95 Both com and soybean harvesting was 6 percent com- 120 mg 100's 48.75 15.95 0.05 mg 100's 14.50 7.95 plete by mid-September in Ohio, compared to a 0 percent Lanoxin Tabs 0.125mg 100's 9.75 2.95 0.1 mg 100's 16.25 3.95 average. The com crop was rated 3 percent excellent, 23 0.25mg 100's 9.75 0.15 mg 100's 18.95 4.95 2.95 percent good, 39 percent fair, 24 percent poor, 11 percent Lasix Tabs 20 mg 100's 13.75 5.95 0.2mg 100's 21.75 5.50 very poor. 40 mg 100's 17.75 6.95 0.3 mg 100's 28.50 5.95 The soybean crop was rated 30 percent mature, compared 80 mg 100's 28.50 11.95 Tegretol Tabs 200 mg 100's 29.95 13.95 to a 0 percent average. About 83 percent of the cr~p was Maxzide Tabs 100's 55.95 10.95 Theo-Dur SA Tabs 100 mg 100's 14.50 8.95 shedding leaves compared with a 37 percent average. 200 mg 100's 19.25 10.95 Indiana All your non-prescription vitamin and pain relief products are also available at a savings! Com and soybean harvesting was reported mid-Septem- ber, with lodging and ear droppage reported to be a problem in many areas of the state. Com harvest was 13 percent complete, compared with 5 percent on average. r-----------------------------------, I Michigan Farm Bureau : Michigan Farm Bureau I Com was rated 6 percent good, 46 percent fair, 38 percent poor and 10 percent very poor. I FREE BIC PEN I FREE CATALOG I I Return this coupon with any order and receive I Simply call Feld at 1-800-228-3353 and receive I Soybean harvest was 10 percent complete, compared to I a Free Bic Pen compliments of Feld Prescription I your catalog detailing savings on over 5000 health I 7 percent on average. Roughly 70 percent of the crop was I Service. Call I-800-228-3353 for instructions on I care items. Included will be a $3 coupon good on I L I how to order. Offer expires June 30, 1992. ~I ,- reported shedding, compared to 43 percent on average. Indiana soys were rated 17 percent good, 60 percent fair, 18 percent poor and 5 percent very poor. I your first prescription order. - Michigan Farm NelNs September 30, 1991 m Market Outlook 1991 U.S. Farm Income ......... ...... ••••••••r•,. ••••••• ••••• ~.'I . ~ to Remain Below 1990 •••• '1••• Dr. Jim Hilker, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University Soybeans The USDA lowered 1991 projected U.S. Record Levels USDA is predicting net cash farm income for 1991 will be down 5 percent from the E~RM •••••••• .' •••• .r •••••• ~ ~:;.. •••••••• rj ••• soybean production. The expected average 1990 record of nearly $60 billion, while net Seasonal Commodity yield was lowered .8 bushels, which Price Trends (long term) lowered estimated production 51 million bushels. Michigan estimates for September farm income is expected to be down about 10 percent from $60 billion. Unlike net c~sh income, net farm income includes depreCIa- BUSINESS remained at their August levels. These Wheat t numbers could be lowered again if there was a frost in the latter part of September. tion costs for farm buildings, equipment and machinery. OUTLOOK Com i The USDA September SupplylDemand USDA blamed the dip in farm earnings on lower cash grain receipts for farmers in Com and soybean production forecasts are Report lowered projected 1991-92 ending well below earlier projections, due to drought-stricken areas and on slumping Soybeans i stocks 50 million bushels to 250. This dairy prices. Dairy receipts are expected to drought in many parts of the Com Belt. would make the ending stocks-to-use ratio be down 12 percent, according to USDA. Hogs I •? 13.2 percent. This should support a $6 market. The USDA is projecting an average Com prices have jumped, the department The forecast for government support pay- said, and should compensate for yield los- Cattle 1? annual price of $5.75 to $6.75 for this marketing year. Like com, stocks are close ments remains at $8 billion to $9 billion, ses. Wheat cash receipts, however, are ex- pected to fall 16 percent from a year earlier. while total crop receipts are forecast at 3 to being tight. Watch for the Sept. 30 percent above the 1990 record. i Index: = Higher Prices;! = Lower Prices; Soybean Stocks Report. Led by labor expenses, short-term interest TP= Topping; BT = Bottoming; ? = Unsure U.S grain supplies have tightened consider- expenses and seed costs, this year's produc- ably from earlier forecasts, USDA said. tion expenses are forecast to be up 1percent. Corn This means if supply estimates are dropped Madigan Expects West to Meet USSR Food Needs As expected, the Sept. I USDA Crop further or use increases, the markets could increase significantly. Madigan said USDA is still reviewing what specific commodities might be included in a Report, released Sept. 12, showed less com U.S. food aid package to meet Soviet food needs. B~t he .said,~~ expec.ts the ~.S., as w~1I would be harvested in the U.S. than The Sept. 1 Com Stocks Report will be as other Western nations, "to be engaged for the entIre w10ter 10 meet10g SOVIet food aid projected by the Aug. I report. This was due released Sept. 30. This report tells us the needs and providing technical assistance. Asked directly- if he thought the U.S. and other to the worse than normal weather condi- amount of com that was carried into the Western nations could meet Soviet food needs, Madigan said: "On the basis of the reports tions in August over much of the Com Belt. 1991-92 marketing year from 1990-91. It - we currently have, I would say that is certainly a probability." The new estimates and a comparison to last year can be seen in the table. The projection could increase or decrease the expected available supply of com for this year. The Madigan said he could not estimate how much food aid the U.S. might ultimately give, but for 1991 com production in the U.S. was other number that will really bear watching said it would involve more than one initiative. "This will be an ongoing effort. We will be lowered 123 million bushels from last is the export projectiQn. At this point, the closely in touch with the Soviet people throughout the winter," he said. In addition to food month as the expected yield was lowered USDA has the U.S. exporting 75 million aid, a number of other ideas are under consideration, including stationing technicians within 1.7 bushels per acre. Michigan's estimate bushels less than last year. Yet, the USSR the USSR this winter to help with distribution problems, Ma~igan said. for September was the same as in August. grain crop is expected to be down from 235 The USDA also updated their Supp- million metric tons to 190 MMT. Dry Bean Prices Burdened with Excellent Crop lylDemand Balance Sheet Report on Sept. The USDA raised its 1991-92 annual U.S. This year's dry bean crop is projected to yield just under 32 million cwt. nearly identical to 12. They left projected use in the 1991-92 average com price projection range 10' Jast year's crop and in line with industry projections, according to the USDA's Sept. 1 crop marketing year the same as their August cents to $2.40 to $2.80. I am in general estimate rep9rt. The Michigan crop was pegged at 5.44 million cwt. based on a YIeld of 16 estimate, which meant the total decrease in agreement, however, an average number cwt./acre and 340,000 harvested acres. Attention continues to focus on weather conditions production was reflected in smaller does not reflect the potential in the spring and harvest progress to ensure this year's crop gets in the bin. Harvest is weighing on prices, projected ending stocks. The projected en- of a drought scare. Check the basis in your as some areas such as the Red River Valley are running out of storage space due to high ding stocks of only 1.1 billion bushels is the local area to determine whether cash or yields and an earlier harvest. lowest since 1983-84. The ending stocks- to-use ratio of 14.3 percent is just a little futures (or options) is the best way to stay in the market with some of your production. North Dakota's harvest is nearly complete, with southern Minnesota close behind. In more than what would be considered tight. Michigan, harvest is also running ahead oflast year's pace. Quality is ranging from good to excellent and yields are strong. Navies are running in the 17-19 cwt./acre range. Wheat Pintos are steady with dealer sales of$17 to $17.50. Navies were 50 cents lower in Michigan The u.s. 1991 wheat production estimate The September quarterly Stocks Report is from $29 to $31 at the dealer level, with grower bids ranging $14 to $15. Dark red kidneys was lowered 20 million bushels; also important for wheat. The wheat are ranging $29 to $31 at the dealer level with $22 to $24 grower bids in Michigan. Grower Michigan's was left unchanged. This marketing year began June 1 and most of bids for Light Red Kidneys are running $25 to $26. change was reflected in lower stocks. The the wheat fed disappears in t~e summer. If stocks-to-use ratio for the 1991-92 wheat marketing year is projected to be 23.4 per- that report is positive, consider stepping up Commodity Specific Land Values Vary marketings on the resulting rally. If it's cent. These are fairly tight stocks for wheat. negative, consider waiting for some addi- Michigan farmland can vary as much as $2,300 per acre depending on the quality and Consider pricing remaining wheat on tional recovery. commodities grown, according to an MSU Dept. of Ag Economics Survey. Members of market rallies this fall. the Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers Association, as well as participants in the annual Michigan Farm Credit Conference, and loan officers from banks with over $5 million in USDA September 1, 1991 Crop Report agricultural loans were surveyed, according to Steve Hanson, assistant agricultural Harvested Acres Yield Production economics professor at MSU. Millions Bushels/Acre Million Bushels 1990 1991 1990 1991 "We focused in on the difference between land that's suitable for com, soybeans, and hay 1990 1991 versus land that's suitable for sugar beets," said Hanson. "What you'd see from normal land Corn surveys would combine land values for com, soybean and hay ground with sugar beet land U.S. 66.95 68.74 118.5 106.1 7933.07 7295.07 as well as fruit and vegetable ground." Mich. 2.07 2.30 115.0 105.0 238.05 241.50 Soybeans Com, soybeal1 and hay ground was divided into higher quality (above average production) U.S. 56.50 58.65 34.0 31.0 1921.79 1817.44 and lower quality (below average production) land. The average price per acre for higher Mich. 1.14 1.39 38.0 35.0 43.32 48.65 quality com, soybean and hay ground was $975, compared to $615 average for lower quality Wheat ground. Sugar beet ground had an average value of $1 ,362 per acre. U.S. 69.35 58.14 39.5 34.6 2738.59 2012.53 Mich. .75 .56 55.0 45.0 41.25 25.20 In terms of a longer range outlook, Hanson suggests that realism playa large role in land purchase decision. "Farmers should buy land based on it productive capabilities and its cash flow capabilities, not to just acquire additional pieces of property," he said. Cattle means feeders will be more plentiful than previously expected this fall. Hanson expects that land price increases will continue to shadow the rate of inflation in the The Sept. I monthly Seven-State Cattle- foreseeable future, but hopes to reaffirm that suspicion with an expanded and more indepth On-Feed Report, released Sept. 18, was Cattle marketed in August were 3 percent survey this next January. "Future goals are to improve and expand the sample size to allow considered bullish. Cattle placed in August over last year and I percent above the reporting of land values for different regions in the state," said Hanson. were down 17 percent compared to a year average trade guess. This led to overall ago. Iowa cut back August placements 32 cattle on feed being the same as a year ago, State Average Survey Results ~ percent, from 150,000 to 65,000. The trade 2 percent lower than previous estimates. Avg. High Low Change Expected Change expected placements to be down 5-13 per- However, the continued heavy weights and price price price in price change in in land cent. September placements seem to be run- the mediocre demand will likely keep a lid per per per last price next supply ning below last year as well. Given the July on prices. Watch for fall and winter pricing acre acre acre 12 mo. 12 mo. last 12 Cattle Inventory Report, this probably opportunities on the expected rally. (5) (S) (S) (%) (%) mo. l%) High Quality Hogs corn, soybean if it is bullish, and there is a resulting rally. and hay ground 975 2,200 310 +5 +1 +3 The Hogs and Pigs Report was released Year-to-year weekly pork production has Low Quality Sept. 27 and is expected to show continued been increasing and is likely to continue for corn, soybean expansion. While it will be discussed in the at least the next year. While we will still see and hay ground 618 1,500 200 +3 +1 +6 next issue, immediately consider the for- ward pricing opportunities for the next year seasonal price movement, the year-to-year price trend will be negative. .~ Sugar Beet 1,362 2,500 600 +9 +4 -2 . Michigan Farm Ne\IVs •• September 30, 1991 USDA Says New Cardinal conveyors, with PVC belt that New Product Profile Soviet Central has two inch, hi{}h-bonded cleats spaced six inches apart, mmimize damage to grain, ap- Government Grain ples, potatoes and other crops, and can be used to move fertilizer and other materials as Buying Plunges well. , This Year Developed by Cardinal Columbia City, Ind., designed with 16 gauge Grain Systems, Inc., the conveyors are galvanized steel con- The USSR's grain harvest is nearing com- pletion, but the amount of produce procured struction and 10 gauge galvanized head and by the Soviet central government has boot section to provide a long, rust resistant plunged compared with last year, according service life. to USDA estimates. The versatile conveyors can be top or bottom That means that Soviet farmers are either driven, allowing material flow to be reversed, keeping the grain for their own purposes or and come in 11' base units equipped with finding alternative marketing sources, weather covers, flooring and electric hydraulic USDA said in its World Grain Situation or gas drive. They move material horizontally Outlook and Summary report. USDA, or up to a 45 degree angle with chassis at rates citing recent press reports, also said up to 125 cubic feet per minute. republics are letting little grain cross their borders and many have banned grain ex- Cardinal conveyors are available in 6", 10", .... ports. 16" and 24" widths, and handle material up to 2-3/4" high. With the addition of an available The Soviet grain harvest excluding com is raised cover, Cardinal conveyors will handle The flexible conveyors can be tailored to fit current needs and upgraded as around 70 percent complete. As of Sept. 2, higher material. Conveyors equipped with a y,?ur needs chang~. Equipment availC!ble inc'/udes chassis for portability, 129.3 million metric tonnes (mmt.) of grain chassis are available in lengths up to 67'. Con- dlsch~rge spout, mlet hopper, tow-hItch, raIsed cover to convey higher not including com had been threshed from veyors without chassis are available in lengths matenal, and 8 foot add-on sections. For free literature or more information 71.1 million hectares. up to 163'. contact Cardinal Grain Systems, at (219) 244-4654. ' Total grain production in the USSR in 1991-92 is forecast at 190 million tonnes, USDA forecast., But Soviet central govern- ment grain procurements have reached only 29.1 mmt. as of Sept. 2, compared with 46.3 mmt. by the same time last year. Usually the republic of Kazahkstan has a '. grain surplus, but not this year, because of poor weather. Also, parts of the Russian Republic may have excess supplies. But 'the newly independent Baltic countries, as well as Belorussia, Central Asia, the Transcaucasus region and most of the Rus- sian Republic usually have grain deficits. MSU Research Finding to Aid Hunger Battle Compare the interest rates. The interest rate on the r-.lemberLine VISA Researchers at MSU have discovered a and Gold r-.lasterCard is just 15.9 % A.P.R. -one of the lowest interest rates simple, low-cost and low-tech solution to available. In addition, you pay no inures/on new credit card purchases when dry bean weevil storage damage that will your full balance is paid by the due date. benefit hundreds of million of people in Third World countries facing starvation. Compare the fees. The ~temberLine VISA has no annual fees, no mem- bership fees and no application fee. The annual fee for the Gold ~lasterCard Tanzania graduate student Martha Quentin is $20 - far lower than the fee charged for most gold cards. For added savings, the $20 fee is rebated every year that you make $3,000 or more in in the MSU Pesticide Research Center and net purchases. James R. Miller, professor in the Depart- ment of Entomology, discovered that brief- Compare the premiums. Both the ~lemberLine VISA and the Gold ly tumbling dried beans two times a day The Farm Bureau MemberLinesM VISA & ~lasterCard offer a wide array of complimentary features and options for virtually eliminates bean-weevil losses. Gold MasterCard. Two good reasons your protection and peace of mind. And when you carry a Gold ~lasterCard, you'll enjoy the added advantages of a higher credit line, executive travel Beans are the major source of high-quality why it pays to compare before you privileges, emergency road assistance, purchase protection insurance and a protein in many developing nations since apply for a credit card ... warranty extcnsion program - valuable "extras" you and your family can they can be readily dried and stored without depend on. refrigeration. Unfortunately, drying doesn't kill bean weevil which can bore into the Easy to apply for. Simply remove this page from the magazine and fill out bean and eventually leave only the shell of the application on the reverse side. Leuerfold and staple the form with the the bean. mailing addrcss on the outsidc. No postage necessary! In the United States and other advanced ... /tIICHIGAN countries, processors fumigate beans to kill the weevils, an option not always available ... FAR/tl BUREAU o FIRSrDf AMUICA.Bank to those in Third World countries. Quentin learned that it takes about one day to scrape holes through the hard surface of the bean with their mouths, but first the weevils must brace themselves against a No Postage Necessary hard surface, such as a neighboring bean or If Mailed Within the wall of a container holding the beans. The United States Armed with this understanding, the MSU Business Reply Mail group hit on the idea of occasionally tum- First Class Permit No. 2334 Kalamazoo, MI bling stored beans in order to dislodge weevil larvae before they could finish Postage will be paid by addressee scraping their holes. Experiments have proven them right, with tumbled containers having 97 to 98 percent fewer weevils than in stationary containers. After two or three FIRST OF AMERICA BANK days, the larvae either starve or are crushed REVOLVING CREDIT DIVISION by the tumbling. ATTN: FARM BUREAU MEMBER SERVICES The researchers say the new control method P.O. BOX 2349 can be put into practice as quickly as the KALAMAZOO, M I 49003-9917 information can be disseminated, and ex- pect that the method could be scaled up to tumbling or rolling sacks, sealed baskets and drums of beans. 1.1"11.1 •• 11••• 11••••• 11.1.1 •• 1.1 ••••• 111,"11 •• 1.1 Michigan Farm Ne\Ns . September 30, 1991 Take Time to Prepare for Potential Problems During the Fall Harvest Michigan's fall weather can create all or other dangerous areas. Part of the the harvester at points specifically intended kinds of exasperating harvesting conditions preparation to reduce the potential for in- for towing. within a matter of hours. Muddy fields. jury should include designating specific stuck or clogged equipment and break- responsibilities to workers when equip- Wipe Your Feet! downs, combined with cold and wet ment becomes stuck. Make sure that the people involved in the weather can take their toll in human fatigue harvest do their part in keeping their boots and frayed nerves. Downtime and mistakes can be consider- and equipment steps, platforms and ably reduced if each person designated to operator positions free of mud and debris. Unless dealt with properly. these condi- perform a certain The most common tions can set the stage for substantial risk of aspect of a job knows types of disabl ing how to do it effective- Falling headers have killed or farm accidents are From Farm Bureau Insurance accidents and injuries. Making plans now to handle trouble when it shows up can ly and safely. maimed Michigan farmers and due to slips and falls. reduce that risk. employees each harvest Michigan farmers and employees each har- Don't Get Stuck season during the past several Shut It Down! vest season during the past several years. "Being prepared to meet harvest dismption Without Safety! years. Instmct all operators can make everybody feel better about the Use only heavy chain. to be sure to turn off Take Five tasks ahead." says Howard Doss, Michigan matched to the pulling all power when Regardless of how smoothly the harvest State University Extension agricultural capacity of the tractor, to tow broken equip- equipment plugs. Use nothing softer than may be going, no one should remain on the safety leader. ment or pull stuck machinery. Do not use wood or metal to remove the pi ug. job continuously for more than eight hours nylon ropes, nylon straps or fiber ropes at a time. Beyond that time, mental alertness Worker Preparation because of the propensity to stretch, break Don't Trust Hydraulics and physical cap~bility drop notably, in- Instmct employees and family workers on and recoil dangerously. Never trust the equipment's hydraulic sys- creasing the chance for an injury or acci- the proper ways to do their jobs. Recognize tem when doing any repair or maintenance. dent. their abilities and limitations when assign- When pulling, make sure the hitch is as low If the combine header breaks or plugs, block ing work. Do not allow children on as possible between the two units. Attach or lock out the header before doing work. Break up the tedium of the job with frequent machinery or grain wagons, around augers the chain to the tractor drawbar only and to Falling headers have killed or maimed rest breaks - 5 to 10 minutes every two hours accompanied by nutritious, high- energy snacks - to help keep everyone as- APPLY NOW sociated with the harvest alert. for a Farm Bureau MemberLinEf VISA or Gold MasterCard Fatigue Patrol Someone associated with, but not involved FARM BUREAU MEIIBERUNE- APPLICATION in, the harvest routine should be designated fISt Name MOle IMial Last Name Social 5ecurily Nunar to watch for worker fatigue. Sudden clum- siness, slow responsiveness when spoken Date of Ilir1h Mas. to, irritability and lethargic movements are City, Slate Home Telephone Nunar some of the signs of increasing fatigue. (Incble Area Code) ) LL Previous Adlhss Cd less than IWIl years at present cdhss) Slate ...J When these signs are evident, it's time to ~ Present E/Illklyer Income from alimony, chid support. or mai1tenance payments r-' not be rewaIed call it a day. Rest up and go at it again m:: d you do not wish to have l as a basis for repaying this obIigalion. tomorrow. That will be better in the long run =» ~ ~sTeIephoneNlrier Poslion Tme at Present ~ o MonIhIy for the fann business and family relation- ( ) YIS. Mas. Gross Income from ~ 0 Yearly ships. Cily, Slate, ~ Code o Monthly Olher Income o Yearly Source of Olher Income Previous E/Illklyer Cd less than IWIl years at pesent employer) Tme at Previous Employer YIS. Mos. Parathion - continued from Nearest ReIaM (not IMng with you) page 1 Frs! Name MidcIe Initial Last Name Thomas feels that parathion's track record c in the state of Michigan had been quite 6 Present Street Adlhss Date 01 Bir1h u u Mos. good, admitting that there had been some ca City, Slate instances of over exposure to applicators .. Home Telephone NIInber C (Include Area Code) ) and some field workers. ~ Previous Adlhss Cd less than IWIl years at present adlhss) City Slate Income from alimony, chid support. or maiIlenanc:e payments '-' not be rewaIed Parathion, one of the most toxic or- d you do not wish to have l as a basis for repaying this obligation. ganophosphates, is absorbed readily ~s ( Telephone Number ) Poslion Tme at Present Employment 0 UonlhIy through the skin, according to MDA's YIS. Mos. Gross Income from Employment 0 Yearty Wade. EPA records show a total of 52 ac- City, Slate, ~ Code o MonlhIy cidental fatalities across the United States Olher Income 0 Yearly Source 01 Olher Income Previous E/Illklyer Cd less than IWIl years at pesent employer) Tme at Previous Employer during the period from 1965 to 1980 due to Yrs. Mos. parathion exposure. EPA records of Nearest ReIaIiYe (notlMng with you) parathion poisoning ranked among the (/) Creal ReIerenc:es highest at 1.5 per 1,000 in California be- Monthly Payments Balance Due Monthly Payment w o~ Home 0 Olher 0 Rent $ tween 1980 and 1986. Michigan data o z w Mor1gage Holder or Ulndbd Mortgage Balance regarding parathion poisonings were not m:: w $ available. LL W o Chec:kilg Account (B.ri Name) Estimated S Vabt m:: Restricti ve prOVISIOns on permitted ~ Q o Savings Account (Bank Name) Have You Ever 0 Yes parathion uses include: w Declared 0 No m:: o BankrupIcy? o Parathion may only be applied aerially Optional Group Credit Insurance Please check your card preference L'lle hereby cer1iIy lhaI eacn of !he iWISWllfS on 1his 8RlficaIion is InJe by a certified commercial applicator ~ CXlrred, ~ is made for !he IlIJ'IlOS8 ~ obtining a loan Of aecIt from The lXlSllD you, !he Prinary Aa:oIn holder (choose one design only) !he Sri. L'we certify lhaI all debts owed whether incivQlaI, joint or and only if winds don't exceed 10 miles w (appIicalt), is $.60 per $100 for each monlh's o SCENIC VISA alI1IingenI have been lIsdosed above ~ lhaI none ~ my/ru debts are per hour. o average daily baIne. The I1sInnce will be- ~ or IIdeIcUI. except as L'we have Ilcicated above. L'we hereby z iIIAhorize 1tIe Bri10 irMlSligaIe mylfM aecIt recortllD!he eXlllnlI deems 4( m:: =» come e1Iedive when your ad begins. You must be less f1an age 7110 be eligible lor aN- erage. A cet1iIicate wtidl more IuIy desaibes necessary ~ 10 verify mylfM a8lil, ~ ~ ilame relerences. L'we Mlher authorize and instruct any person or COIISlIIl8f reporti1g o A closed system must be used for trans- (/) agency 10 Unish 10 !he Bank any information 1haI it may have or obtain in ferring parathion products from the con- ~ the insurance wit be sent when your ad appicalion is approved. lXdefwritlen by The response to such aecIt inquiries. VIII II.Ilher lV88 1haI1his application tainer to the airplane. t:: shaI bealme lie property ~ !he Bank. wheIher or notl is apprlMld. c Prudential Company of America, Newn. New OR Apply for a Gold MasterCard L'lle iIl1lle !hall this application is acx:epted and a card or cards are - o All applications w .leisey, ~ Prudential Property and Ca5uaIly issued lhaI any use 01 !he c:ard(s) wi be governed by !he terms ~ m:: Insurance Company, Holmdel, New Jmey. o anilions of !he SaM's VISNMaslerCard Agreement ~ Disdosure must adhere to a 100 o Those choosilg 10 enrol wi be mailed a cer. YES, rd Ike !he extra Ireelbn ~ lIexilily provided before or wi1h deivery of !he c:ard(s). L'lle as5l.me, d more Ihar1 Q. ~ a Gold Mast8ICad instead ~ !he VISA Of~ iabiIily for aI charges Ila.ned II any use 01 foot buffer zone around water, public =» tiflcat8 01 inslr.n::e explaining benefi1s, imila- one joinlIy and ~, o m:: lions ~ prtMsions and indicaIing !he e1Iec. card. II I do not qualily lor the Gold MasleICard, alIlSider my application for !he !he c:ard(s). roadways, buildings, and property lines. IiYe dale of coverage. C) Farm Btnau VISA card. ~ ...J ~ 0 YES, PIIIIIIlW'OIIIllIIn the x AppIicaR's 5qIatIn o All parathion treated crops must be har- o Group Crd Nnnc:e Propn. vested mechanically (hand harvesting is X prohibited). Ii: o o ADOIOONAl CARD FOR AUTHORIZED USER Co-~s S9latln Date o Early reentry into treated fields is only permitted for scouting and irrigation a-I l'WcenI ........ 15.9% Average (exduclng -.....c. ....... e........ Dally BaIanc:e new purchases) None for scenic or standard VISA S20 lor Gold MasterCard (rebated every year net amual car.c. ..._. .... -...-. Pw~L ... I .. ... .... Cash Advance Fee - none Transaction Fee - none Late Fee - $10.00 and then for not more than one hour in any 24 hour period, and only with addi- tional protective clothing and other restrictions. purchases 8XCI88d 13,000) 25 Days, starting with !he biIing OYer L.init Fee - $10.00 date on saatement° Mnmum F"1IlanC8 Charge - none [:J A requirement to report any exposure PI.asel.tt.rfold and stapl. this fonn with the mailing acldnt_ on the outside (rev..... side) incidents involving workers, spray drift, and death of birds or other wildlife in- volving parathion. Michigan Farm News Transport Crops And Equipment Safely •• September 30, 1991 Farmers at this time of the year need to be careful when moving both machinery and o Look up for overhead power lines. hour before sunrise. - VVhen you approach newly harvested crops on public roads. Keep these safety tips in mind: o must Remember that on public roads, vehicles use lights from a half hour after the crest of a grade or on a curve when your view sunset to a half hour before sunrise, or is obstructed within a dis- o If you're towing, make sure the towing when visibility is reduced to less than tance as to create a hazard vehicle is large enough to handle the 500 feet. in -the event a vehicle load safely up and down hills alld can might approach from the provide adequate braking. o visible, Make sure SMV emblems and unfaded. are clean, opposite direction. - VVhen your view is o Remember that by law, a farm tractor obstructed as you ap- may haul up to two wagons or trailers - but not more. Other vehicles (cars, o Keep windows and mirrors clean, and be proach within 100 feet of sure lights and wipers are working. a bridge, viaduct or tun- trucks, or pickups) may not haul more nel. than one farin wagon or trailer. o Make sure drivers are trained and - Any time visibility is capable. substantially diminished o Use a sturdy locking hitchpin and safety due to weather condi- chains when towing wagons. o Obey all traffic laws and be aware of tions. faster-moving vehicles. Avoid sudden, o Check tires for proper inflation and erratic, or unexpected maneuvers. o Keep children and other soundness. bystanders away from o Don't allow riders on wagons. o The law says you may operate an imple- transport vehicles during ment of husbandry of any width on a loading and unloading. highway as required for normal farming Far too many entrap- o Distribute the load evenly. Don't over- operations - but you must not operate or ments and suffocations You can die in seconds load. move an implement to the left of the occur each year when in flowing grain center of the roadway under these cir- people are buried in grain o Transport at a speed reasonable for load cumstances: while loading or are grain during unloading. The victims of such accidents, and equipment conditions. - From a half hour after sunset to a half drawn into the flow of studies show, are usually under age 16. Accurate Corn Silage Nutrient Analysis Necessary for Ration Balancing Com silage quality can vary, depending on vertical plane (five horizontal layers with five samples "Using NIR is cheaper and faster than wet chemistry," says Allen. "But, time the moisture levels, population density, the taken from 'each layer), advises Allen. should not be a big factor if the silage quality is consistent and the difference hybrid, field location and soil types, accord- in price is negligible compared to the value of an accurate analysis." The ing to Mike Allen, MSU dairy nutritionist, Don't shake the handfuls of silage to be sampled before following laboratories analyze feed samples: Litchfield Analytical Lab in necessitating the need for a nutrient analysis putting it into a container for sub-sampling. This loses fine Michigan at (517) 542-2915 and Midwest Feed Test, also in Michigan, (ill) to balance rations properly. particles, causing the analysis to be inaccurate. Samples 386-2726. Allen also suggests that farmers contact their local CES office for should consist of at least enough material to fill a five-gal- additional sampling information. For the sample to produce accurate results, lon bucket over half-full. it must be dried immediately after sampling. The sample should not be dried at tempera- It's best to dump the sample onto a piece of plastic sheet SAVE UP TO 50 % OF YOUR tures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If a for sub-sampling. Separate the pile into quarters and then I microwave is used to dry the sample, place. remove two of the opposite piles, and make four new piles. LIMING DOLLARS * a glass of water in with the sample to prevent Repeat this process until a two pound sub-sample is left. with MICRO-CAL@ it from exceeding 140 degrees. Mid:Michigaa' 5 Revolutionary Liming Product! If samples are taken from an upright silo after fermentation occurs, Allen suggests tuming on the silo unloader for one • Custom application by • No "HOf spars" Allen cautions farmers against freezing ex~erienced operators fresh cut com silage samples because it in- to two minutes before collecting a sample. Fill a five-gal- with modern equipment. lon bucket over half full by passing it under the silo chute • No dust loss. creases the fiber content. • Small particle size several times for a representative sample is taken. for FAST soil reaction • Ideal for: The ideal time to take a sample of silage -rented ground stored in a bunker is after fermentation is Allen recommends wet chemistry for analysis, rather than • Qualifies for ASCS -established Alfalfa near infra-red (NIR) analysis. NIR analysis should not be programs. -No till complete. Samples should be taken at loca- tions that are four feet apart. For example, a used for fresh-cut forage, unless specific equations have lIlerease 'Yleldsl Lower Costsl bunker that is 12' high and 20' wide should been developed and also should not be used for mineral have a total of 15 samples taken along a analysis. Call Mark Miller or Bill Goetsch at (517) 669-8395 GREAT LAKES/ENVIROLAND • P.O. ~ox 139. Dewitt. Michigan 48820 •Actual savings may vary depending on your location Farmers Petroleum Gold Flame Custom Diesel Fuel Expected in October Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Inc., with more additives, and renamed it Gold Michigan Farm Bureau Fall Package (FPC) Michigan's only regional farm supp- Flame Custom Diesel Fuel. Those addi- ly cooperative, is expected to introduce their new premium diesel fuel, Gold Flame tives include an enhanced detergent pack- age, and a dispersing agent to suspend Includes: .2 nights lodging; .Complimentary continental breakfast each morning; • Dinner one evening for two in the beautiful Point Dining $279 * Custom Diesel Fuel, in early October, ac- water particles for smoother burning. Room (casual elegance); • Daily guest activities cording to Executive Vice President John Feland. The additives and gold color will be ex- and planned children's activities; • Use of inclusive all facilities, i.e., outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, clusive to FPC and its authorized dealers. fitness center, etc.; • Applicable tax and gratuities included. Environmental Protection Agency According to Feland, FPC is seeking both regulatory changes now require diesel fuel a state and national trademark registration Available August 25 - October 12, 1991. with a sulfur content of 1/2 of one percent to increase product integrity. or greater to be dyed blue for identification purposes. Low-sulfur fuels such as FPC's FPC is a major supplier of liquid fuels, 1-800-833-7711 Custom Diesel Fuel cannot be dyed blue or heating oil, propane, Co-op tires and bat- Please identify yourself with the Fann Bureau Package. be blue based. teries, lubricants and many farm supplies. 'Additional adults add $25 p" adult, p" packaS~. Childr~n 6-12 add $15 p" child, p" packaS/'. It serves thousands of Michigan farmers Childr~n 5 and under no additional chars/'. Alcoholic ~ragts NOT includtd with dinn". , .. As a result, FPC seized the opportunity to through local co-ops and dealerships. improve their Custom Diesel fuel product Michigan Farm News September 30, 1991 ,,, Over 80,000 Michigan Acres Bid for CRP During Signup Michigan farmers submitted bids on 80,865 acres during additional concerns for water quality prompted USDA to County CRP Bid Figures the eleventh Conservation Reserve Program signup period revise their system of determining acceptable bids. County Number Number Acres Acres July 8 - 19. Approximately 51.384 acres were accepted. of Bids Tent. Bid Tent. bringing the total CRP acreage in Michigan to 275,000 acres, "Each bid is now evaluated on its own merit," said Payne. Accepted Accepted according to Bob Payne. conservation program specialist "We plug in soil types, productivity indexes and water Alcona 3 o 138 o with the state ASCS. quality data and those sorts of things to come up with an Allegan 13 6 592 217 environmental benefit index factor for that individual bid. I Alpena 8 2 273 69 Accepted bids and notices have been returned to county think it's a better system that evaluates the land on its own Antrim 10 4 202 54 ASCS offices and farmers. According to Payne, conserva- merit." Arenae 39 34 1,547 1,164 tion plans are now being drafted at the local level with the Barry 61 46 3,765 3,264 Soil Conservation Service, before final approval is granted. As earlier CRP contracts near the end of their 10-year Bay 18 16 548 534 contract period, speculation has developed that those con- Berrien 16 13 514 433 Payne said that with USDA's stated goal of 40 million acres, tracts may be extended if so desired. However, Payne cau- Branch 90 56 3,791 2,131 and the January 1995 conservation compliance require- tions that it's not a specific option at this time and that Calhoun 46 34 2,496 1,648 ments, Michigan farmers should expect further signup farmers should start to consider other alternatives. Cass 10 3 726 97 Charlevoix 3 o 124 o periods in 1992, 1993, and 1994. National estimates suggest "From a conservation standpoint, the first option would be Cheboygan 1 o 18 o there are 75 million to 100 million acres of highly erodible land that could qualify for CRP. to retain the CRP land in its vegetative cover or tree cover Chippewa 6 1 487 19 Clare 19 11 995 685 status," said Payne. "The second option would be to return Clinton 43 28 2,027 1,276 "We have about 670,000 acres of highly erodible land in the land to agricultural production with an approved conser- Delta 3 1 133 35 Michigan, so we're probably looking at nearly 300,000 acres vation plan that meets compliance requirements. Some acres Dickinson 2 o 44 o or more by 1995," said Payne. "On a national basis, we're just should not go back into production, however, because Eaton 39 20 2,196 1,449 reserving about I million acres for the 1994 signup period they're simply too erodible." Emmet 2 1 121 91 for farmers who may have difficulty in reaching their con- Genesee 5 o 584 o servation compliance requirements on highly erodible Nationally, USDA accepted 1.12 million acres into the CRP Gladwin 35 30 1,604 1,311 cropland." during the eleventh round of bids, bringing 35.6 million Grand Traverse .. 2 1 53 11 acres into the program. The accepted bids averaged $59.14 Gratiot 55 49 2,354 2,085 Previous CRP bids in Michigan were considered within per acre. The next signup period will be June 15 - 26, 1992, Hillsdale 127 106 3,996 3,181 three subgroups across the state of Michigan, however, according to USDA. Houghton 2 o 295 o Huron 93 83 5,874 5,458 Ingham 2 2 133 133 Farmers Form Stewardship Association Ionia 64 48 5,238 3,522 loseo 25 2 1,194 233 A group of Michigan farmers interested in non-traditional Guthrie, Isabella 48 28 3,185 2,249 production practices, and willing to play an active role in who also Jackson 38 29 2,636 1,962 research to identify viable alternatives, formed a new or- serves on Kalamazoo 2 2 42 42 ganization this spring. The Michigan Agricultural the MFB Kalkaska 2 o 118 o Stewardship Association (MASA) plans to work closely board of Kent 5 4 236 164 with Michigan State University's Cooperative Extension directors, Lake 9 6 1,023 858 Service and the Soil and Water Conservation Districts said the im- Lapeer 10 7 n5 441 (SWCDs), according to spokesperson Tom Guthrie, Barry pact of Leelanau 1 1 8 8 County cash crop farmer who serves on the organization's budget cuts Lenawee 118 87 6,942 5,380 ad hoc executive committee. on MSU's Livingston. 1 o 197 o research ef- Mason 3 o 153 o At a recent meeting, the committee adopted a mission state- forts was a Mecosta 24 14 1,819 743 ment for MASA and bylaws are being written, Guthrie Menominee 5 3 474 factor in 352 said. "Our mission will be the development of a process to Midland 16 12 708 586 recognizing research and disseminate information about agricultural sys- the need for Missaukee 13 11 6n 571 tems through reliable, practical, timely, farmer-driven re- far mer s Barry County farmer Tom Guthrie guides Monroe 7 7 189 189 search; and we want to be sure that these systems are themselves a conservation tour held at his farm. Montcalm 95 28 4,867 839 economically feasible, agronomically sound, and environ- to get involved in agricultural research. Montmorency 7 3 405 92 mentally safe," he said. Muskegon 2 1 90 37 "We appreciate the fine efforts of Dr. Oran Hesterman, Newaygo 9 5 234 106 In 1991, some of the farmers involved in MASA, including Oceana 15 9 1,000 726 associate professor and Extension specialist, and John Durl- Guthrie, had 15 demonstration plots on their farms to com- ing, coordinator of leadership training, in getting our group Ogemaw 3 o 230 o pare various tillage systems, weed and pest control off the ground," Guthrie said. "We also appreciate the sup- Ontonagon 1 o 141 o programs, and fertilizer management practices. The port from the C.S. Mott Foundation for our initial activities." Osceola 25 12 824 433 American Farmland Trust, a non-profit organization that Oscoda 2 o 372 o works to preserve farmland and promote land stewardship, Otsego 4 o 308 o will identify cooperators and develop and manage Michigan is not the first state to form an organization like Ottawa 17 8 640 219 MASA. The Illinois, Missouri and Indiana Sustainable demonstrations. The CES and SWCDs will provide techni- Agriculture Societies; the Minnesota Land Stewardship Presque Isle 5 3 154 115 cal assistance to the cooperators in managing established Project, Wisconsin Rural Development Center, and the Saginaw 21 19 564 505 demonstration projects. The MDA will support the projects St. Clair 1 o 122 o through its regulatory role. Practical Farmers of Iowa are structured and have goals St. Joseph 13 10 328 207 similar to MASA, Guthrie said. Sanilac 62 44 4,056 3,054 Shlawassee 3 1 88 29 "We have traditionally looked to our land-grant university Other members of MAS A 's ad hoc executive committee are: Tuscola 53 36 2,611 1,880 for research and information, and will continue to do so, but Russ LaRowe, Kalkaska; Jerry Wirbel, Chairman, Hope; Van Buren 27 23 1,585 1,205 something that may work in a university field test may not Gary Hoyt, Vice Chairman, St. Louis; Christopher Lufkin, Washtenaw 10 8 362 287 always work on the farm. We believe the on-farm research Tresaurer, Novi; Roger French, Kalamazoo; and Jim Wexford 7 1 274 31 plots will provide us with some valid test results that will be Gleason, Three Rivers. For further information, contact: State Totals 1,526 1,019 80,865 51,384 helpful not only to the individuals involved, but to our entire Tom Guthrie, Delton, Mich. (616) 623-2261 (home) or industry," Guthrie said. (616) 623-2255 (farm) Good Residue Management Begins With no Fall Tillage No fall plowing may be the best thing Soil particles and associated plant nutrients farmers can do for their land, their wallet cause environmental problems when and the environment, according to the Soil removed from farms by wind and water Conservation Service, which is conducting erosion. Nutrients that could be producing a "DO NOT DISTURB" crop residue cam- good crops contribute to algae and weed paign to protect soil and water resources. growth, and eutrophication when in lakes and streams. Soil particles bury fish spawn- Residue management is recognized by ing beds and often have to be dredged from most conservationists as the most effective channels and ditches to restore adequate and least expensive thing farmers can do to drainage or prevent flooding. prevent soil erosion and protect water .~ quality. Residue cover of 30 percent or Poor soil structure restricts infiltration of more after planting is sufficient to keep water and plant roots and can limit crop wind and water erosion at or below accept- production. Experienced no-till farmers, able levels and meet USDA conservation who follow the "DO NOT DISTURB" con- compliance requirements, according to cept, claim that good soil structure and tilth Homer Hilner, state conservationist for the return when worm holes and root channels U.S. Soil Conservation Service in are no longer destroyed by tillage. Michigan. "It just doesn't make sense to bury Hilner went on to explain that fall plowing the best erosion control material we converts an erosion resistant situation to an can have by fall plowing, " says erosion-vulnerable situation. Hi/ner. Michigan Farm News •• September 30, 1991 October Discussion Topic - Coping With Health Care Costs "There is now no doubt of the growing length. The problems, however, are as High-Priced Technology wave of popular sentiment in favor of an 4. What percent of your group has served diverse and complicated as the health care Experts blame nearly 50 percent of the on a county or state related board or com- efficient public health care program. The system itself. increases in health care costs on advances only question before the country now is mittee (Le., hospital board, county health in medical technology. how soon?" committee, public health commission etc.) Lack of Understanding With over 60 percent of the population It's no wonder that the public approval and Comments like these can be found on 5. List two suggestions or activities that your covered by employer provided health in- outcry for a national health program has pages of almost any publication today. state or county Farm Bureau can do to help I' surance plans that carry low or zero deduct- grown over 20 percent since 1982 to a level your group become more informed on However, this passage appeared in a 1939 ibles for tax benefits, this group has little of 65 percent in 1989. However this seem- health care issues. issue of Consumer's Report. So while the incentive to change utilization levels or ingly simple system in Canada is struggling reasons for the problems in our U.S. health health buying habits. with many of the same issues that our sys- care delivery may have changed over the tem is (see related article this page). years, the American public's displeasure Underpayment has remained unchanged for over 40 years. Government expenditures on health care So what are the solutions to our present day BORKHOLDER now represent over 40 percent of the health care crisis? Become informed about BUILDINGS The largest area of concern today is the country's annual health care bill. Health the issues affecting health care. Farm seemingly out-of-control increases in health providers claim that government payments Bureau will be taking an in-depth look at care costs. National expenditures on health fall 30 to 40 percent short of actual costs, the problems listed above, and will be seek- care now represent almost 12 percent of our resulting in higher charges to the private ing member input in developing solutions. country's Gross National Product (GNP), insurance companies to make up for lost with annual spending in excess of $650 revenue. billion. Since 1940, health care costs have Discussion Questions increased 17,400 percent. Defensive Medicine Some studies suggest that 25 percent of 1. What are the top two concerns your group Aside from creating a financial burden on procedures performed by doctors are done foresees in the health care industry? the country, high health care costs have also for defensive reasons in fear of malpractice For quality Livestock Buildings, developed into a leading social issue, as 33 suits. 2. What percent of your group currently to 40 million people are now estimated to Machinery Storage, and Shops call: carries some form of health insurance? be without basic health care coverage. State Mandated Coverage 1-800-552-2772 The number of mandated coverage have 3. What percent of your group has made a Rapidly increasing costs have prompted grown from 30 in 1970 to over 800 in 1990 direct contact to an elected official on a health care providers, elected governmental adding costs to every plan they affect. Man- health related issue in the last 12 months? officials, and citizens to discuss the issue at dates range from hairpieces to acupuncture. Canadian Health Care System: ALL IS NOT WELL! Editors Note: The following article was The Technical Dilemma Restrictions lead to disagreements among politically impossible. As a practical matter, compiled and written by John K. The Canadian system is biased against competing health care sectors. no government can afford to make it a na- Hosemann, an American Farm Bureau modem technology. Since the government tional policy that 9,000 people will die Federation economist. only spends a certain percent of its GNP on When all the problems are added up - long every year because they will be denied health care, it must divide its health care waiting lines, chronic shortages of equip- dialysis treatment for kidney failure. With more and more middle-income among the greatest number of voters. ment and services in many regions, tensions Americans losing faith in the U.S. health among health care providers and limited Summary care system due to rising costs and higher While some complain that in the United available technology - it is easier to under- The reason national health insurance health insurance premiums, the Canadian States there is "too much" modem medical stand why Canadians who live close to the "works" in Canada or other countries,and health care system is receiving more technology, the Canadian system is almost U.S. border and who can afford to do so, opt the reason it remains popular, is precisely favorable reviews from the U.S. media and completely the opposite. As noted earlier, for health care in the United States. because it does not function the way that politicians. But is all well in Canada? modem medical technology provides health care benefits to that relatively small number Q Why are low-income and elderly advocates of national health care believe it should function. According to Murray Turner, a Toronto of patients (read voters) who need critical patients so frequently discriminated against consultant, "The cost squeeze is up here, treatment. The U.S. ranks first among eight in the rationing of acute care under any National health insurance "works" in other too." Currently, the rate at which costs are developed nations in heart pacemakers per national health insurance? countries for three reasons: rising in Canada is actually a little higher 100,000 people, CAT scanners and kidney 1) The wealthy, the powerful, the most than in the United States. The problem of dialysis and/or transplants per million A. Because national health insurance is, at sophisticated, and those who are most health care "cost containment" in both the people. Canada ranks eighth, fifth and fifth, all times and places, a middle-class skilled at articulating their complaints find .1 United States and Canada points not to the respectively. For people with critical health phenomenon. Prior to the introduction of ways to maneuver to the front of the ration- differences but the similarities of both sys- care needs, the difference is a matter of life national health care, every country had ing lines. tems; each has violated basic economics. and death. some government-funded program to meet 2) Those pushed to the end of the rationing the health-care needs of the poor. In the lines are generally unaware of medical tech- To Canadians, health care is essentially a U.S., this program is Medicare/Medicaid. "free good." When anything is "free," con- Real Issues/Real Problems nologies they are being denied. Aside from the major problems of political 3) There are no contingency fees, no sumers take unlimited quantities of it. The middle-class working population not generally recognized right of due process, health care rationing and unavailable Health care is no exception. The "price" of only has to pay for its own health care, but and no cadre of lawyers willing to represent modem technology, it is useful to focus on health care is not allowed to serve its ration- also must pay taxes to fund health care for those who are systematically discriminated some of the "real life" problems one en- ing function, since government is the sole the poor and elderly. National health in- against. counters living under the Canadian health buyer. surance extends the "free ride" to those who care system. pay taxes to support it. Average Waiting nme In 1988 As one Canadian put it, "The system is Such systems are created in response to the political demands of the middles-class A sampling of the "waiting" periods for good if you do not get sick. " working population, and they are designed Canadians who needed cntical treat- to serve the interest of this population. This ments in 1988. In the United States, health care is perceived Most people can get through life without is exactly where we are in the U.S. today. as a "free" good to health users who either critical health care problems, so most voters The middle class is growing more and more Procedure Average Wait have their health care paid by "third party" are happy with the Canadian system that weary and is demanding "something." Mammogram 2-1/2 months payers (employers) or those who are supplies them items like over-the-counter Those who really understand the issue covered by the federal Medicare/Medicaid drugs and eye-glass exams that U.S. citizens warned that Medicare would ultimately program. This amounts to about 75 percent pay for out-of-pocket for the most part. lead to full-scale socialized medicine. Bone Scan 1-1/2 months of all U.S. health care users. The problem with this political allocation O. Why do national health insurance Myelogram 3-4 months With governments on both sides of the bor- process is that the resources are spread over s"'ttiemesskimp on expensive services to the der steadily expanding the demand for a large number of voters and simply aren't seriously ill while providing a multitude of Brain Shunt 5 months health care services, "something has to available to the small number of voters who inexpensive services free of charge to those give." In the United States, that "something" need critical care from time to time. As one who are only marginally ill? Hip Replacement 6-10 months is the price of the services to those who have Canadian put it, "The system is good if you private care payment plans. Their costs con- do not get sick." The Canadian government A. Because numerous services provided to Cataract Surgery 2 months • tinue to escalate. strategy of tightly controlling physician and hospital costs also means tension between the marginally ill create benefits for mil- lions of people (read: million of voters), CAT Scan 2 months In Canada, the "something that has to give" health care providers and the government. while acute and intensive care services con- is various critical services that are rationed centrate on a handful of patients (read: small by health service bureaucrats. People are This leads to work stoppages and, given the number of voters). Political pressures in this Pap Smear 2-5 months told to wait. The health care services that we nature of the monopoly, complete shut- case dictate the redistribution of sources have come to take for granted - open-heart downs can occur in provincial health sys- from the few to the many. Urgent Pap Smear 2 months surgery, kidney dialysis, pap tests - all re- tems. In 1988, nurses shut down the entire quire waiting periods of various lengths. So system in Alberta province. O. Why are sensitive rationing decisions Source: Based on physician surveys by the time replaces price as a rationing factor. The ~ other aspects of hospital management Fraser Institute, Michael Walker, "From ' •. net result is that less care is demanded be- cause some patients do not live long enough to qualify. The reason for internal conflict is simple. With only one buyer - the government - medical services are always restricted. left to the hospital bureaucracies? A. Because no matter how indefensible the results of this practices, the alternative is Canada: A Different Viewpoint," Health Management Quarterly, Vol XI, No.1, 1989, p.12. Dormans Selected MMPA's 1991 Outstanding Young Dairy Couple -= • ............. J ~ ---= 0000000 DDDDDDD o 0000000 000000 ALL WOOD POST FRAMED STORAGE BUILDINGS Our 24'x 24'x 8' building includes: 4"x 6" treated posts, 24" o.c. trusses, fiberglass shingles, pre-built trusses, roof, T1-11 plywood siding, 12" boxed eave ov~rhang, 16'x 7' garage door, steel service door, all hardware and a helpful blueprint. Greg and Kathy Dorman, Michigan Milk Producers 1991 Outstanding Young Dairy As low as .... $2199. Also available 24'x 32'x 8' #PF302 .... $2599 Couple, pause for a moment on their Sanilac County dairy farm with their family ... All our packages are designed to meet the requirements of the B.O.C.A. National Pictured (front row, left to right) Andrea, 9; Mike 8; (back row, left to right) Marcy, 16; Building Code Greg, Kathy, and Carl, 13. Photo: Courtesy MMPA 5100.51000.510,000 WE WANT TO GIVE YOU CREDIT! Greg and Kathy Dorman of Snover, We have several options to help you finance the Handi-Barn Michigan, have recently been selected as MMPA 's 1991 District or Storage Building of your choice ... Ask Us! the state winning 1991 Outstanding Young Outstanding Young Dairy Dairy Couple (OYDC). They represented Michigan Milk Producers Association Couples (MMP A) and the Sandusky Local in the District annual OYDC conference held in August. 1 David and Lori Ruhlig, Dexter, Ann Arbor Local The Dormans were selected earlier in the year by fellow dairy farmers in MMP A's 2 Michael and Susan Martin, District 8, which covers Sanilac County, to Wakarusa, Ind., Constantine Loc. participate in the program. As the state win- ning couple, the Dormans will represent MMPA at various industry activities. 4 Kevin and Jacalyn Cavanaugh, Leslie, Stockbridge Local • Scott and Julie Quick from Bay Port were 5 Calvin and Sharon Ellens, selected as the runner-up couple. They rep- McBain, Evart Local resented MMPA' s District 9 and the Sebewaing Local in the contest. 8' X 32' STEEL STORAGE ADDITION TO BUILDING 6 Robert and Monty Jo Simpson, An economical 8' wide storage space cover attaches to existing 10ft. high Saranac, Saranac Local or higher post framed buildings. Package includes: Posts, painted 29 gauge Selection of the OYDC is based on the steel, all framing lumber and nails $469. couple's farming operations, farm-related 7 Mark and Robin Falker, Romeo, Also available 8'x 40' #PF602 $589 and comm uni ty acti vi ties and Richmond-Romeo Local demonstrated leadership abilities. CHOOSE FROM 72 STYLES AND SIZES OF HANOI-BARNS AND STORAGE BUILDINGS 10 Matthew and Barbara Wardin, All 11 of MMP A's district Outstanding Hemlock, Saginaw Local Young Dairy Couples will be officially recognized at the 1992 Annual State 11 Del and Martha Wedeven, STATEWIDE DELIVERY AVAILABLE! Delegate meeting to be held next March. Zeeland, West Michigan Local MMPA is Michigan's largest dairy 12 Brian and Kerrie Keranen, ~ cooperative, owned and controlled by ap- Pelkie, Lake Superior Local proximately 3,900 dairy farmers. Dealing with the Pros and Cons in a North American Trade Pact are Critical A North American Free Trade Agreement compete with Mexican and Canadian I has the potential to boost the economies of farmers. , WARM the United States, Canada and Mexico. But 28' X 32' ,WINTER the extent of that potential depends on what "We would not support an agreement that , SKI CAP a negotiated agreement would look like, removes U.S. trade protection but does not 3 CAR DELUXE GARAGE Bright Blue according to MFB President Jack Laurie. similarly address Mexican or Canadian im- Package includes: Treated bottom plate, pre-cut I' & Yellow port restrictions. We would not support an 2"x 4" 's, 16" o.c. for full 8' high widewalls, T1-11 GOOd at "U.S. agriculture mayor may not approve agreement that deals with border measures .... wood siding, pre-built roof trusses, 7116" O.S.B. roof I any Erb of what is brought away from the bargaining sheathing, 12" boxed eave overhang, all necessary I WITH THIS location I but allows certain domestic practices to con- table," said Laurie, speaking at the Interna- tinue to provide an unfair competitive edge nails and hardware, 16'x 7' garage door, steel I COUPON One per I tional Trade Seminar in Sarnia, Ontario. to foreign producers," he said. service door with lockset, window and a blueprint. I Just ask for inf C~stomer I For the garage that stores all your OUr storage bUi~!'lat'on on "But the stakes are high enough and poten- automotive needs. I ea~kages ... Ask 'G~~ or home I tial for gain great enough to at least begin Laurie said it is uncertain what an agreement As low as .... $3299 I the negotiations." could mean to the current U.S. - Canada -------' L_~~~O-19-91 . Free Trade Agreement. "Perhaps it would Mexico is the third largest single-country substitute for or enhance the agreement we market for U.S. farm exports, Laurie said. currently have," he said. "Certainly one Reducing trade barriers to a market of that point to ponder is that Mexico right now is size could offer opportunities and challen- basically a U.S. agricultural market. Under DETROIT GRAND RAPIDS ges for U.S. farmers. a North American Free Trade Agreement, BIRMINGHAM LUMBER MT. CLEMENS GRANO RAPIDS LOWELL 13131644.3636 13131792.7770 (616) 241.6641 (616) 897.9291 Canada could sell more wheat to Mexico. FAX' 1313} 644.3942 FAX: (313) 792.3430 FAX; (616} 241.2167 FAX: (616) 897.5892 "Some U.S. commodity interests like grains So, Canadian and U.S. farmers would have BRIGHTON PONTIAC (313) 227.1831 (313) 334.1511 MIDSTATE and oil seeds are looking forward to in- to share a piece of a bigger trading pie." ~ FAX (313) 227-4799 FAX: (313) 334.1857 JACKSON LANSING OWOSSO creased marketing opportunities under a FENTON REDFORD (313) 629-3300 (313) 937.9111 (517) 787.9100 FAX: (517) 787.1552 (517) 393-2550 FAX: (517) 393-5231 (517) 723-8911 FAX: (517) 72~9102 North American Free Trade Agreement," he The American Farm Bureau Federation FAX. (313) 750-9645 FAX' (313) 937.2005 HAGGERTY LUMBER ROYAL OAK MIDLAND MT. PLEASANT said. "Other agricultural commodities, par- recently approved a study to be commis- (517) 631.4290 (517) 772.2988 13131624-4551 (313) 54&-2153 FAX. (517) 835-3498 FAX: (517) 772-4898 ticularly fruits and vegetables, have serious sioned on the North American Free Trade FAX (313) 624.6819 FAX: 131'.,548.5629 HOWELL WARREN questions about the potential negative ef- Agreement. The study will be done by 15171548-5410 (313) 77~7000 NORTH fects that an agreement would have on their scientists from land grant universities or in FAX (517) 548-5392 FAX (313) 77~6980 ALPENA KALKASKA REED CITY LIVONIA WATERFORD (517) 354-3154 (616) 258-9189 (616) 832.2242 industries. Fruits and vegetables can be private practice with special expertise in (3131 261.5110 FAX (313) 261.9780 (313) 666-2450 FAX' (313) 666-3855 FAX . (517) 356-0328 FAX: (6161 258-501. FAX' (616) 832-4425 labor intensive crops where Mexico would specific issue areas. One of the issues to be HILLMAN MANTON ST. HELEN YPSILANTI (517) 742-4518 (6161 824-6451 (517) 389-4912 clearly have a labor-cost advantage." analyzed will be the view of Canadian ~, • VISA_ [i:i~ .' '''=.''::::::; --.,- (313) 481.1500 FAX' (517) 481-89"J2 FAX: (5171 742.3635 FAX 1616) 824.3302 FAX (517) 389.3621 agriculture regarding the potential benefits Laurie said that Farm Bureau believes that and concerns surrounding passage of the ~'~'J~~ CASH & CARRY PRICES GOOD THRU 10-19-91 on a level playing field, U.S. farmers can agreement. _ Delivery Available - Ask For Details ~\ WEWANTTO \ ~ GIVE YOU CREDIT!