Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau April 15, 1992 Farmers Target Issues During Washington, D.C. Legislative Tour 1-=1 Vol. 69, No.7 Over 100 Michigan farmers from 46 coun- ties were in the nation's capital March 24 -27 seeking congressional action on six pri- Political Atmosphere Making ority issues, according to Michigan Farm it Difficult to Resolve Issues Bureau President Jack Laurie. The most highly partisan political atmo- Laurie said that during Farm Bureau's 32nd sphere in memory is making it difficult for annual Washington Legislative Seminar, Congress to address issues important to ag- the organization focused its efforts on a 100 riculture, according to the retiring executive percent tax deduction for health insurance director of the American Farm Bureau premiums for the self-employed; a capital Federation's Washington, D.C. office. gains tax cut; animal welfare legislation to protect biomedical, agricultural research John Datt is stepping down May 1 after 41 and farm facilities; limiting of pesticide reg- years of service with Farm Bureau. He told ulation solely to state and federal govern- Michigan Farm Bureau members that sev- ments; negotiations toward an. expanded eral factors combine to make political com- and more open trade agreement between the promise a rare commodity this year. U.S., Mexico and Canada; and a federal wetlands policy that balances wetland and "President Bush's political popularity has private property rights protection. dropped dramatically in the last year, and the Democrats realize they have a good "To farmers, a 100 percent deduction for the opportunity to elect a new. president," he MFB President Jack Laurie, MFB Board member Tom Guthrie, and Kent County health insurance premiums of the self-em- said. "So, both the Democrats and Republi- ployed is a very simple issue," said Laurie. legislative leader Michelle Francisco received a great deal of attention from Michigan-based TV stations. Interviews were sent to Channel 13 and Channel 3 cans have adopted a very strident political "It's a matter of equity. But the issue to partisan stance. And you can see that show in the Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo market, and Channel 12, ChannelS, and Channel congressmen is how to recover the tax dol- up on the budget, tax, and wetland issues." lars that would be lost by granting this de- 2S.in the Flint-Saginaw-Bay City area. Above, Michelle Francisco answers ques- tions during one of her interviews. Laurie, Guthrie, and Osceola County member duction." The House banking scandal is also a factor, Fred Prichard, also participated in live TV satellite interviews. Datt said. "That has' become the over- Farm Bureau supports including a capital extreme differences that complicate trade GAIT Future Questionable whelming issue in the House," he said. In' gains tax cut in any tax reform or economic discussions," he said. "However, it's not a American Farm Bureau President Dean addition, an election year significantly re- recovery package voted on by Congress. question of creating new trade. The trade Kleckner is cautiously optimistic about the duces the number of legislative days avail- "The capital gains tax rate should not exceed between our countries is taking place now. progress of the GATT (General Agreement able for Congress to work on issues. 15 percent," Laurie said. "We will be insist- It's simply a question of creating an agree- on Trade and Tariffs) world trade talks. "I ing that any economic recovery program ment that allows us to manage that trade don't think the United States, the European Datt noted that FB enjoys tremendous include this tax relief. This is a major eco- better." Community, or the rest of the world, are repect and integrity in the nation's capital nomic issue for farmers across the country. " willing to say it's a bust yet," he said during because of the consistency and integrity of Farm Bureau urged action on legislation a meeting with the Michigan farmers. "We its member-developed policy positions. In A North American Free Trade Agreement that would make it a federal crime to dis- may come to that point in 1993, but for 1992 Datt's opinion, the best and most effective (NAFT A) is unlikely to be concluded before rupt, destroy property, or steal animals from we will continue to talk even though our congressman he worked with during his 41 the November election, according to Laurie. a biomedical facility, agricultual research election process is muddying the waters to years in Washington was Gerald Ford. "After the election, I believe the negotia- facility or farm. "We need this to send a some degree and other countries are expe- tions will speed up and we'll see some strong signal to these groups that do this riencing political upheaval as well." Washington Legislative Seminar agreement in 1993, at least between the U.S. kind of damage that we're not going to parcipants heard from Sen. Don Riegle at and Mexico." tolerate terrorism," Laurie said. Kleckner, who served as an advisor to U.S. the Thursday morning breakfast. He ex- agricultural trade negotiators, said success- pressed his continuing support for a 100 Laurie said an agreement that covers all of Members met with members of the state's ful completion of NAFTA wouldn't be percent tax deduction for the health insur- North America will involve sensitive and House and Senate delegation and their counter-productive to GATT negotiations. ance premiums of the self-employed. difficult negotiations, in part because of the staffs. They were also briefed on livestock, In fact, Kleckner said, a NAFf A would be vast differences between the U.S., Canada dairy, and world trade issues by representa- a good fit when an acceptable GATT pack- See Additional Photos on Page 8. and Mexico. "Canada has a total population tives of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. age is agreed to. of around 25 million people. The U.S. has one state, California, with a population of 25 million. And Mexico has one city with 25 million people living in it. These are Engler Vetoes "Sham" Auto Insurance Bill Saying there is no question that real rate reductions are possible, Engler said Michigan drivers deserve a real cut in their premiums, not the sham pack- age passed by legislators. Farm Bu- reau supported Engler's claim that S.B. 691 actually increased costs, created confusion and more bureaucratic red tape. "The bottom line is that this bill is bad for the citizens of Michigan, " Engler said. "This bill isn't reform. It's political .", rhetoric designed to fool the public in an election year that I can't support." At right, Insurance Commissioner Dave Dykhouse (center) addresses ques- tions on the governor's veto. Also pic- tured are Rusty Hill (left), communica- tions director for the governor, and Chief of Staff Dan Pero. For more in- formation and to see how your legis- lator voted, turn to page 10. Capitol Corner - Michigan Farm Weather - Farm Business Outlook - Michigan Farm News . •• April 15, 1992 In Brief... Michigan Bean Producers Pass Assessment Increase Michigan dry bean producers voted to approve an increase in assessment rates levied by Another 1. 1 Billion Dollars In New Farm Export the Michigan Bean Commission, from the present level of 5 cents per hundredweight (cwt.) Credits For CIS to 10 cents per cwt. of edible dry beans sold, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture. President George Bush announced that the U.S. will provide $600 million in new farm export credit guarantees to Russia, and $500 million in credits for Ukraine and the other The referendum, conducted by MDA March 2 - 13, involved growers who produced dry republics of the Commonwealth of Independent States. edible beans for sale in 1990 and 1991. In total 1,528 ballots were cast, with 153 disqualified because they were incompletely or improperly filled out or were not mailed in time. The new credits are in addition to $3.75 billion worth already granted to the CIS republics. Russian officials have said that they want the $600 million in new credits primarily to buy Of the 1,375 valid votes cast, 691 (50.25 percent) bean growers representing 62.5 percent wheat and com in May and June. Bush said failing to help the CIS now could "carry a far of the production, voted for the increase in assessment rates. A total of 684 (49.75 percent) higher price" in the future if economic and democratic reforms there fail. bean growers representing 37.5 percent of the production, voted to reject the proposal. In order for the proposal to pass, it had to be approved by over 50 percent of those voting, In addition to the credits, Bush said the U.S. would participate in an international $6 billion representing more than 50 percent of the total production. ruble stabilization fund and an $18 billion international effort to stabilize the Russian economy through the International Monetary Fund. He asked Congress to approve a $12 Gasper Named Dairy Farmer of the Year billion capital increase for the IMF. The manager of one of the top 20 dairy herds in Michigan was named the 1992 Dairy Farmer Bush did not provide any details on how the commodity credits would be allocated. When of the Year. Kenneth L. Gasper, of Lew-Max Holsteins, near Belding, was chosen for the the U.S. pledged $1.25 billion in credits to CIS in November, those credits were issued in award by the faculty of the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University. four separate allocations. The award was presented to Gasper, his wife Jane, and children Nikki, Aaron, Maddie and Ethanol Producer Backing Down Jamie, during the Dairy Awards Luncheon March 23, during Agriculture and Natural Resources week. The Gaspers' farm operation consists of 690 acres, a herd of 140 milking One of the nation's largest ethanol producers dealt a blow to growth in the alternative fuel cows and 160 replacement heifers. In 1990, the herd had the highest dollar value of all dairy industry when it scrapped plans for a $118 million expansion at three of its four plants in herds in Ionia County. It currently has a rolling herd average of24,214 pounds of milk, 889 Illinois and Iowa, according to United Press International. pounds of butterfat, and 73 pounds of protein per cow per year. Archer Daniels Midland, Inc., based in Decatur, Ill, said its decision was based on proposed As a result of their herd management and performance, Gasper and his family have received changes to the federal Clean Air Act, which it believes would diminish the corn-based broad recognition, including selection as the District 6 Young Farmers in 1980 by the alcohol's value as a fuel additive. One company official said he was confident there would Michigan Milk Producers' Association and as the recipients of the Progressive Genetics continue to be a market for current production capacity, but the future market did not warrant Award from the Michigan Holstein Association in 1991. expansion on the scale that ADM had planned. Earlier this month, Farm Bureau sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency urging Swartz Creek Farmers Receive- Top DHIA Award it to implement the Clean Air Act with volatility tolerances favoring ethanol use. A portion of the act that goes into effect this fall does not include a waiver allowing ethanol to have The 1992 Progressive Dairyman of the Year Award went to George Bush and his sons a higher vapor pressure than other gasoline mixtures, the UPI story said. If not amended, Gary and George, managers of Gold Medal Breeders Farm near Swartz Creek in Genesee ADM officials say ethanol would effectively be "locked out" of the alternative fuels market. County, for having the most improved herd in the state. Currently, eight percent of all gasoline sold is blended with ethanol. More than 400 million bushels of com were converted to ethanol in 1990. The family manages a 212-cow herd of Holsteins that increased milk production by an average of 7,889 pounds per cow over the last five years, raising the value of each cow by EPA to Take Another Look at Ethanol an average of$932. According to DHIA records, the herd currently averages 20,662 pounds of milk per cow per year with a three-times a day milking schedule. Clayton Yeutter, chief domestic policy adviser to the White House, said the EP A has agreed to delay, at least temporarily, its plan to ban the use of ethanol in reformulated gasoline, "This award is based on herd performance, so it means that management and improvement according to Knight-Ridder News. had to be persistent," says Al Thelen, manager of Michigan DHIA. "They made good use of their DHIA records, using them as guidelines to support their management decisions. Yeutter said the agency would, in the coming weeks, submit two proposals for reformulated In short, they have done a tremendous job with their herd. " gasoline, one to exclude ethanol, the other to include it. The subject of reformulated gasoline to comply with clean air laws will be heard by a House Agriculture subcommittee April 29. Testimony will be received from EPA an DRIll Rll changes are needed to meet the federal keted in 1994 and 1995. regulations." said American Sheep Indus- The Unverferth Drill Fill FiJI also helps you make the try Association President Jim Magagna. e enables vour .ID 750 Drill to most of bulk seed delivery. The regulations also spell out what consti- tutes a "person" eligible for a wool incentive plant more acreage before Call our toll-free numl;er The incentive rate changes based on a for- p.ayment, and producers must carefully con- refilling. Plus, you fill your today for more infonnation. mula set by USDA every Jan. 1, which is SIder ~e regulations when structuring their the official start of the wool marketing -'lv~r f erth U drill easier by taking operatIon. fewer steps. (No more year under the program. Values are placed .. dnnblllg on the dnll to fi II with seed.) ' U • Manufacturing Company, Inc. P.O.Box357eKalida,Ohlo45853 (419) 532-3121 e FAX (419) 532-2468 on other components of the incentive for- mula in the months between January and You must file for your wool incentive from 1991 and before during 1992 to be eligible. March, with the final figures usually an- All outstanding receipts must be submitted, The Ullverfcrth Drill 1-800-322-6301 nounced by USDA in April. and cannot be held over. The incentive level will be announced in April, and is expected Most changes will amount to some record to be 250 percent with unshorn lamb pay- keeping adjustments and h6w much a sin- ments estimated at $5.45 per hundred- gle operation can receive in government weight. Michigan Farm News II. April 15, 1992 Researchers See Benefits In Mixing Captan With Sterol Inhibitors Researchers used Nova, Rubigan and two Data from independent experiment station brands expected to be on the market soon-- tests shows that combining low rates of the Elite and NuStar -- to test sterol inhibitors. sterol-inhibiting fungicides and reduced rates of Cap tan protectant fungicide can The results supported what many research- result in significantly better control of apple ers had been saying all along: combining scab than using either product alone at its two fungicides with different modes of ac- labeled rate. 'tion gives better results. Using such a mix can also lower the poten- "Captan normally provides protection by tial for resistance and save money on fungi- killing the spore or preventing its germina- cide expenses. That's good news for apple tion," says Dr. Keith Yoder, fruit patholo- growers nationwide who regularly use ste- gist with the Virginia Agricultural Experi- rol inhibitors for scab control -- many who ment Station, Winchester. "The sterol in- have to treat every week from bud break hibitors prohibit growth, but not necessarily until after petal fall. germination. " "The reason apple scab is such a problem is According to Yoder, the sterol inhibitors that every year we have weather that is work by preventing the fungus from synthe- favorable for infection," says Dr. Al Jones, sizing ergosterol, a compound essential for plant pathologist at Michigan State Univer- growth. sity. "If orchardists aren't spraying, they're not going to have a commercial crop." In tests conducted on McIntosh trees in Michigan, untreated fruit had a 96.5 percent Tests were conducted in some of the states incidence of apple scab. On trees treated where apple scab traditionally causes the with the maximum label rate of Rubigan -- most damage -- Michigan, New Yark, Ohio 12 ounces per acre, the incidence of scab MSU plant pathologist, AI Jones notes that a two-pronged attack on fungus im- and Virginia. In all of the tests, trees were dropped to 20.8 percent. When the rate of proves control. "The main reason we like to use mixtures of other fungicides with either treated with Captan alone, one of four Rubigan was reduced to six ounces per acre sterol inhibitors is that we get better protection -- particularly on the fruit -- than with different brands of sterol inhibitors alone, and combined with four pounds of Captan sterol inhibitors alone, " says Jones. The data definitely supports that opinion. or reduced-rate mixtures of Captan and a 50WP -- two-thirds the normal rate -- the sterol inhibitor. amount of apple scab fell again, this time to Fulfill Complementary Functions ness. "The sterol inhibitors are very effec- 3.8 percent. Besides improyed scab control and reduced tive, but they need something to go with potential for resistance, combining sterol them because of their short residual effec- inhibitors with Captan can bring growers tiveness," he says."With the uncertain fu- Michigan 1992 Corn Acreage Increase Expected additional benefits. ture of the EBDCs, Captan becomes one of the best products available to fulfill that Michigan farmers expect to plant more corn acres in 1992, according to the Michigan "With Captan, we get some control of sum- role," Hickey adds. Agricultural Statistics Service. Anticipated planting for oats, barley, and dry beans are down, mer diseases like black rot, fly speck and however. Actual planted acreage may vary from intention because of weather, availability sooty blotch," says Jones. "On the other A final benefit from using the tankmix is of production inputs, and changes in market conditions. hand, sterol inhibitors helped to control lower fungicide expenses. Captan costs powdery mildew, which Cap tan does not one-third as much per pound of active in- Michigan com growers intend to plant 2.7 million acres, up 10,000 acres from 1991, the control alone." gredient as the sterol inhibitors do per highest level since 1986. Soybean planting intentions, at 1.4 million acres, are unchanged ounce, making the reduced-rate mixture from a year ago. Dry bean plantings are expected to decrease 70,000 acres for a total of According to Ken Hickey, Pennsylvania very attractive. Orchardists who use a mix- 280,000 acres. Sugarbeet intended acreage at 172,000 is only 1,000 acres above 1991 planted State University plant pathologist, a ture of Captan and a sterol inhibitor can acreage. compound's effective residual period can be save roughly four dollars per acre per appli- an important factor in its overall effective- cation versus using sterol inhibitors alone .. Growers intend to seed only 120,000 acres of oats, down 20 percent from 1991. Farmers intend to harvest 1.4 million acres of all hay, unchanged from 1991' s acres. Barley seedings, at 25,000 acres, are expected to decrease 10,000 acres from last year. Winter wheat seedings last fall rose 11 percent to 630,000 acres. Nationally, com growers intend to plant 79 million acres of com, up four percent from last year, and the largest since 1985. Soybean plantings are projected at 57.4 million acres, three percent below a year ago, and the lowest since 1976. National drybean acreage is pegged at 1.50 million acres, down 22 percent from 1991, and down 31 percent from 1990. Warmer Weather Brings "Con Artists" to SEETHE DIFFERENCE ON CORN Michigan Farms INCREASE CORN YIELDS ~ Last summer a farmer trusted first im- o He's extremely smooth, knows all"the jar- pressions and a handshake that a $4,400 gon and how to deal with farmers. Could Now is the time to treat your corn ~ down payment would get him a barn paint- sell ice cubes to eskimos! with ACA to gain your advantage. ing and roof coating job he badly needed for one of his barns. Unfortunately, all he got o The "Drop Game" - the favorite of all con Use ACA at planting or as a side- artists. He'll start with a price of $1,000, dress to enhance your plant growth. was an empty promise and a $4,400 with- then drop to $750, then $500 and, finally, drawal from his checking account. he'll tell you that he happens to have just enough paint to do your job, if you let him Three of his neighbors also got a visit from do it now, for $4501 MICHIGAN TESTPLOTS the "con artist" who said he could give them a great deal since he was "in the neighbor- o Check those license plates. Generally the ACA-treated corn plots had hood. " They also made down payments for con salesman will have Michigan plates (the smarter ones, that is), but if they do an average increase of 6.87 work that was never delivered, according to Larry Esckilsen, a general contractor from the work, the ladder and crew truck will bushels per acre in 1991. the Freeland area (1-800-582-2720). have out-of-state plates. Esckilsen, in business for over 40 years, o Requires a large down payment without SEE THE BENEFITS OF ACA material. Contractors may require a down claims that another favorite con artist scam payment, but only when materials are is the use of diesel fuel or gas to cut the actually delivered and the job started. Better root systems paint. "If the paint starts to turn smoky or Healthier Plants black in a relatively short period of time, it o Bargain basement deals on materials. means there's fuel oil in the paint," ex- They can vary between reputable con- Easier Harvesting tractors, but not to the degree that con plained Esckilsen. "Roof coating diluted artists generally offer. Aluminum asphalt Increased Profits with fuel oil can also look real good when roofing typically runs about $20 to $30 per Increased Yields it's first applied, but it'll wash right off with gallon, compared to $3 to $5 per gallon of the first good rain." the con artist's coating. Proven Performance So how do you protect yourself against o Avoid the nflat costn per gallon bid. Ask for these con artists? Esckilsen offers these pointers of what to watch for: the exact cost of the job. This is a rela- tively new scam that carries a compara- To see the difference BEA WINNER WITH ACA. ble price tag per gallon. The difference? apply ACA with D Watch for the over-friendly salesman. They'll be carrying 10 or possibly more anhydrous. liquid He'll act as though he has known you and your neighbors for a lifetime. empty 1-gallon paint cans when they pull into your driveway, telling you the paint was actually used on your barn. 28% N. Liquid Starter. impregnated on dry or sprayed. p~~~1.800.292-2701 -~ -~ OR YOUR NEAREST DEALER CALL D Has a number of references whom you know, and claims he's done work for be- o Get it in writing. Make sure you get exactly fore. Ask if he cares if you call them; that's what you thought you'd get at the agreed usually enough to call his bluff. upon price, such as one coat or two. Michigan Farm News April 15, 1992 Market Outlook ..... •••••••• ...... ... ••••••• r• ••••••• ••••'l••• •••• ~.', ~ ,j ••• 1• Dr. Jim Hilker, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Michigan State University Corn Seasonal Commodity Price Trends (long term) Soybeans R~RM • ' J~:;. •••••••• ~ •••••••• .r•••••• •••• With good U.S. planting weather, near term corn prices will stay in their current range Quarterly soybean stocks reports were near expectations, as were prospective plant- BUSINESS Wheat ? with new crop prices likely to drop. Poor U.S. planting weather and corn prices will increase. You might say how is this differ- Corn t ? ings. Farmers indicated they would plant 1.7 million less acres of soybeans in 1992, compared to 1991, as shown in Table 3. OUTLOOK ent from any other year? In general, it is not, but there is a difference in the potential size of the price moves due to the relatively tight Soybeans t ? Exports have been averaging 16 million bushels per week year-to-date and need to els, likely lowering 1992-93 U.S. exports projected 1991-92 ending stocks shown in average 8 million per week through August 50-65 million bushels as shown on Table 3. Table I. Ending stocks are tight enough that Hogs l to meet the 1991-92 USDA projection of it will only take a weather scare versus truly poor conditions to give producers good pricing opportunities. The key is to assess Cattle -- 665. With Brazilian harvest delays and re- cent sales improving, exports may end up 10-20 million bushels higher. With the projected 1992-93 soybean sup- ply/demand situation, prices next fall will likely be below $5.50. While the ending your risk ability and set pricing goals on given amounts. The second key is to follow t Index: = Higher Prices; 1 = Lower Prices; Last year, the Brazil and Argentina soybean stock situation is not as tight for soys as your plan when the opportunities occur. TP= Topping; BT= Bottoming; ? = Unsure corn and wheat, soys will likely follow crop was down 159 million bushels, which them up in a weather scare. Remember, was a big factor in U.S. exports being up around $6 a bushel for soybeans on a The quarterly USDA March I Corn Stocks The USDA also released its Prospective this year 105-120 million. Their 1992 crop Report showed about 100 million more Plantings Report, March 31, showing fann- portion of your projected crop is not too is expected to be up about 82 million bush- shabby. bushels on hand than the trade expected. ers intend to plant 79 million acres of corn This indicates that feed use was a little in 1992 compared to lasts year's 75.9 mil- lower than expected, perhaps due to the lion. This was just a little below trade ex- Hogs fairly mild winter. It's likely that the USDA pectations. Part of the increase is due to the will lower the 1991-92 feed use number to lower set-aside requirements and a likely The March I Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Re- were up 7-8 percent from 1991 bringing 5000 million as shown in Table 1. shift back to corn from soys. The higher port showed all hogs were up 6 percent, prices into the mid $40' s before dropping acreage with a trend yield will be more than kept for market were up 7 percent, and kept off towards the end of the summer. Corn exports have, for the most part, con- enough to cover use in 1992-93. for breeding were up 3 percent, compared tinued their lethargic pace. Weekly exports to 1991. For Michigan, the same three num- March-May farrowing intentions are up I to this point have averaged 29 million bush- A higher than average yield could send bers were even with a year ago. Based on percent. This gives us an idea of next fall's els per week and will need to continue that harvest prices to $2, last year's yield farrowing intentions, it appears the expan- production and indicates prices in the pace to meet the USDA projection in Table would put us in the $2.60-$3 range, and sion may be over by the spring of 1993. upper $30's and low $40's this fall. June- I of 1525 million. The $1.1 billion CIS a 1988 drought type yield would put us August farrowing intentions aren't pro- credit announcement may help com exports over $3.50. The extremely wide spread is Hogs in the 120 pound and up range were jected to be up, which means prices meet the projection. No allocation was an- due to the combination of plenty of acres, 5-7 percent higher than a year ago. That should be back in the low to mid $40's nounced, but given the low stocks of wheat, but relatively tight beginning stocks. H a level of production will likely keep prices next winter. If you see forward pricing especially soft wheat, we may see just a bit weather scare puts new crop prices on below $40 through April before inching up opportunities above these forecasts, con- more go towards corn. the upswing, have a plan. past $40 in May. Hogs under 120 pounds sider them. Wheat Cattle Near term weather is even more critical for The Wheat Stocks Report was close to ex- wheat than for corn. Wheat did not have pectations. But the spring wheat planting The March Monthly 7-State Cattle-on- The strong feed prices we have been seeing ideal planting conditions last fall in much intentions reported in the Prospective Plant- Feed Report showed for the first time in six should last into May before dropping off of the hard red winter areas due to dryness, ings Report were a little below expectations months that placements increased from through the summer with a low in August but winter moisture was good. Now there and Durum plantings were projected down 1991, with February placements up 1 per- around $70. While we may see some recov- are some reports of damage due to cold and 23 percent. Winter wheat plantings were cent. Total on-feed numbers for March 1 ery through the fall, it probably will not be excess moisture. Subsoil moisture in much reported at 50.3 million acres, down from were down 8 percent and February market- strong. At this point, there aren't good of the spring wheat areas of both the U.S. 51 last year. All totaled, wheat plantings this ing were down 2 percent, compared to last forward pricing opportunities past June, and Canada is low. The potential of nonnal year will about equal last year as shown in year. Placements should continue to be up but if we see a rally, be ready. The biggest yields is still there, but it will take better Table 2. This is despite the fact that set- each of the next few months as feeders are factor is to stay current, so we don't get than normal weather conditions during the aside requirements went from 15 percent to plentiful and we are not far from break- into the serious problem we had with fat growing season to realize them. 5 percent. evens for yearlings. cattle in the second half of 1991. Table 1 Table 2 ,.q-able 3 SUPPL YIDEMAND SUPPL YIOEMAND SUPPLYIDEMAND BALANCE SHEET FOR BALANCE SHEET FOR BALANCE SHEET FOR CORN WHEAT Hilker's Hilker's SOYBEANS Proj. Guess Proj. Guess Hilker's 1990 ..91 91-92 92-93 1990-91 91-92 92-93 Proj. Guess Corn Acreage (Million Acres) Wheat Acreage (Million Acres) 1990-91 91-92 92-93 Acres Set-Aside and Acres Set-Aside and Soybean Acreage (Million Acres) Diverted 6.3 4.7 3.5 Diverted 3.2 10.0 3.5 Acres Planted 57.8 59.1 57.4 Acres Planted 74.2 75.9 79.0 Acres Planted n.3 69.9 70.0 Acres Harvested 56.5 + 58.0 56.2 Acres Harvested 67.0 68.7 71.7 Acres Harvested 69.4 58.1 61.0 BulHarvested Acre 34.1 34.3 34.0 BulA. Harvested 118.5 108.8 119.5 BulA. Harvested 39.5 34.1 37.0 Stocks (Million Bushels) Stocks (Million Bushels) Beg. Stocks 1344 1521 1091 Beg. Stocks 536 866 390 Production 7934 7474 8568 Production 2736 1981 2257 Imports 3 20 5 Imports 37 35 33 Total Supply 9282 9016 9665 Total Supply 3309 2882 2680 Use: Use: Feed 4669 5000 5100 Food 796 n5 800 Food/Seed 1367 1400 1435 Seed 90 92 95 Total Domestic 6036 6400 6535 Feed 489 350 165 Exports 1725 1525 1650 Total Domestic 1375 1217 1060 Total Use n61 7925 8185 Exports 1068 1275 1125 Ending Stocks 1521 1091 1480 Total Use 2444' 2492 2185 Ending Stocks Ending Stocks 866 390 495 Percent of Use 19.6% 13.8% 18.1% Ending Stocks Regular Loan Rate $1.57 $1.62 $1.72 Percent of Use 35.4% 15.6% 22.6% Regular Loan Rate $1.95 $2.04 $2.21 u.S. Season Average $2.30- $2.10- Farm Price. SlBu. 12.28 $2.50 12.50 U.S. Season Average $3.00- $3.10- Source: USDA $3.10 $3.80 Farm pri~U DA Source: SlBu. $2.61 Michigan Farm News BS April 15,1992 Dairy Price Turn- Around Possible Save Time, Reduce Seed Damage With The Unverterth Drill Fill New Product Profile Q by Mid-Summer Unverferth Manufacturing Company, Inc., intro- duces a time, labor and seed saver for produc- ers who use the John Deere 750 Grain Drill. Larry Ha mm, MSU Ag-Econ. Dept. The March Minnesota-Wisconsin (M-W) The new Unverferth DrillFillis an easily attached price fell 23 cents lower to $10.98, bringing add-on auger that moves the seed from the load- the total decline of the M-W to $1.52 since ing position to a capacity expanded seed hop- its high of $12.50 in October 1991. The per. The hopper extension features a horizontal March M-W drop, combined with those of center-fill auger which distributes seed evenly January and February, guarantee that farm throughout the grain tank, minimizing seed milk prices will continue going down. The travel, and handling damage. final March farm price will likely be in the $12.30-$12.50(for3.5 percent milk)range. The hopper extension also increases seed-hold- April and May prices are also going to ing capacity by up to 20 percent and is primed continue to go down. However, if the March and painted to match the drill. M-W is the low point for the year, then the end to rapidly falling milk prices is visible. The Drill Fill's spring assisted vertical lift auger stores conveniently in the front of the drill while The possibility that this spring's M-W is planting or in transport. Auger controls are going to bottom out 96 cents higher than last mounted for easy operation from either the March's disastrous $10.02 is the result of ground or drill platform. the interaction of supply and demand. Milk supply continues to drop. February milk Producers have the option of steel or the gentler production dropped about 1 percent, mark- seed-handling brush flighting for both the verti- ing the ninth consecutive month of year-to- cal auger and the hopper's horizontal grain-fill For further information contact: Unverferth Manufacturing Company, year production decreases. Even though auger. Inc., P.O. Box 357, Kalida, OH 45853. Phone: (800) 322-6301, (419) milk product demand has been weakened 532-3121, or FAX (419) 532-2468. by the recession, it has held even. Declining production in the face of level demand has tightened the dairy product markets. The middle three weeks in March saw wholesale cheese prices as measured at the A FEW SMALL REASONS National Cheese Exchange increase slightly. Prices for nonfat dry milk have also risen recently and are now about 10 cents per pound above the government sup- port price. Government CCC purchases have been virtually nonexistent for cheddar cheese and nonfat dry milk since spring of 1991. Last year, the CCC had around 232 million pounds of uncommitted nonfat dry milk powder inventories. This year that fig- ure stands at 40 million pounds. The lack of government inventories, com- bined with the Secretary of Agriculture's announcement not to sell CCC inventories back into commercial markets, means that product prices can rise significantly if sup- ply and demand conditions warrant. It is not clear whether the new aid to Russia will impact the U.S. dairy industry. Should some of the loan guarantees be used to buy milk powder, the U.S. dairy markets could tighten and milk prices could rise rapidly. On the other side, if milk production starts rising rapidly this summer, milk price in- creases will be tempered. The current market conditions point to the possibility of another volatile dairy market year. Because of the low price support level and the lack of government inventories, market prices are riding free from govern- ment bounds. How significant the dairy price volatility becomes depends on the weather and market factors that affect other commodity sectors. Tuberculosis in Cattle Worries Producers After decades of decline, the threat of bo- vine tuberculosis is once again haunting the nation's cattle producers, according to For over forty years, Farm Bureau and Blue Cross Blue Shield a recent AFBF release. have teamed up to provide quality health care at competitive group rates Even though the incidence rate has been with the personalized service you would expect from a Farm Bureau family membership. pushed down to 0.02 percent today, from 4.9 percent in 1917, a number of new cases No matter what your needs... have been reported recently. USDA con- firmed three infected herds in both 1988 small business, sole proprietor, or individual coverage for you or your family — and 1989, 13 in 1990 and 10 last year. we have the right plan at the right price. There have been two new cases so far this year. Currently, there are a total of 11 con- firmed infected herds; two each in Califor- Blue Cross Blue Shield quality and Farm Bureau's personalized service nia and New Mexico, six in Texas and one provide an unbeatable combination that you can't afford to be without when protecting in New York. Nebraska has one exposed herd. the "small" things in life that are of big importance to you. The presence of an infected herd can affect For information, call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your local Farm Bureau agent. the free movement of cattle out of an entire state, officials say. All producers in a state could lose export markets if foreign buyers » MICHIGAN insist on beef from a TB-free state. I FARM BUREAU Michigan Farm News April 15, 1992 A void Tragedy In Manure Storage Areas Tragic deaths--often multiple deaths--con- tinue to occur when people breathe lethal amounts of gases in pits or tanks or other confined spaces that contain decomposing animal manure. Hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, carbon diox- ide, methane, and many other gases are generated when manure decomposes in the absence of oxygen under so-called anaero- bic conditions. Such decomposition occurs From Farm Bureau Insurance in all non-aerated manure storages, and the gases can be hazardous when they reach confined spaces associated with manure sufficient concentrations--which happens tanks OR ... During the annual Washington, D. C. Legislative Seminar, farmers had a chance in manure storage that involves a confined, to talk one-an-one with U. S. Representatives, addressing key agricultural issues. unventilated, or poorly ventilated space. - Testing the air (with reliable and depend- Above, Ingham County Farm Bureau members Gerry Salow and Gary Wilcox able equipment) for hydrogen sulfide, share their thoughts with 6th District U.S. Rep. Bob Carr (D-Lansing). Below, What kinds of storage can become danger- methane or other combustible gases, and Chester and lona Ilene Bartels of Ottawa County and 14 other Farm Bureau ous? Manure storage under a slotted floor, oxygen, AND ... members met with 9th District U.S. Rep. Guy Vander Jagt at his office. for example, covered outdoor manure stor- age tanks, manure sumps for transfer - Constant and adequate ventilation of fresh pumps, junction boxes, and barns above air, AND .•. manure storage. The greatest danger is pres- ent during and after agitation of manure. - An approved harness or lifeline on the - II The extent of the hazard can be deceiving, person entering persons outside the person out the tank--with at least two the tank capable of pulling of the tank. if necessary, - because dangerous circumstances don't al- ways exist in such spaces. Individuals may AND ... occasionally enter such an area without ex- periencing problems. - An approved pulley and tripod or other suitable strong system that will make it Here, briefly, is what the Cooperative Ex- possible to remove a limp body from the tension Service at Michigan State Univer- tank opening. sity advises: Do Not Enter Any Confined Manure Remember: You have only six minutes Tank Without Either ... after a person stops breathing to begin - A self-contained air supply such as fire- mouth-to-mouth breathing before brain fighters use. Dust masks or other cartridge death occurs. Being prepared will greatly respirators will not filter out the toxic gases reduce the risk of panic, ill-advised action, or provide the oxygen required to work in and needless death or injury. Canadian Rockies! 1 Please Brochure Request Form " I' • Calgary Stampede send, witll,out obligation, the detailed information for thetou;s indicated:b~~o~ July 1-12, 1992 00' This unforgettable. 12-day tOllr of the Canadian Rockies will not only visit the Canadian Rock'''' AI•• ka great and growing cities of the northwest and majestic beauty of the Rockies, Calgary Stampede but also includes unique features designed to give it special appeal. Special (P..... Prlntl attractions include the Calgary Stampede Celebration -- rodeo. chuckwagon Name races, state show spectacular, a ride on a giant snowmobile on Atbaballco Glacier, a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, and overnight sta).s at P.O. Box 4577 the beautiful Lake Louise Chateau and Banff Springs Hotel. Our package includes round trip jet transportation from Chicago, first class or Em' lAnsintc, MI 48826 deluxe hotel accommodations. 20 meals, all sightseeing and admissions, and a or caU Phone County professional guide. Member price is $2,449 and nonmember price is $2.469. 1-800.. 748'()289 ------------------------------------------------------------------- Michigan Farm News April 15, 1992 MMPA Annual Meeting Policy Discussion Focuses on "Volume Incentive" Nobis and his brother, Larry, own and operate a Delegate policy debate, director elections, award 400-cow dairy farm near St. Johns, claiming top presentations, and administrative reports highlighted honors the past two years for herd production, in Michigan Milk Producers 76th annual meeting. This addition to farming 1,300 acres. marked the last MMP A annual on the Michigan State University campus because of the university's semes- Policy discussion focused on opposing a national ter switch this fall. health insurance program, development of alternative funding for agriculture education programs, and con- During his comments to the 288 registered delegates, siderable discussion on a "volume incentive" resolu- MMPA President Elwood Kirkpatrick predicted there tion that called upon the MMP A board to study a dues would be little, if any, dairy program policy changes program according to the volume of milk produced. in the next 12 months, while the budget and the GAIT debate goes on in Washington, D.C. Kirkpatrick did Several delegates expressed concern that a volume say, however, that USDA Secretary Madigan had incentive dues program would pit small producers expressed an interest in "enhancing exports," using against larger producers, while others said that such producer assessments to fund such efforts. a program is needed to keep the larger producers with MMP A. It was pointed out that just 11 percent of the On the state level, Kirkpatrick said the Super Pool producers generate over 33 percent of MMP A's pro- premiums meant an additional $14 million to MMP A duction, while 50 percent of the producers generate members last year. He vowed that the cooperative 18 percent of the cooperative's total production. would see to it that legislation is passed requiring equal participation from all parties, eliminating unfair The motion eventually passed as proposed, allowing advantages for privately held companies. the board and staff to research a "dues/pay program that will reflect efficiencies realized according to Theron VanRhee, MMP A director from District 11, various volumes of milk marketed by members." Kirkpatrick (left) presents Gene and Barb Fleming with their 35-year Holland, presented Charles and Larry Comis of Fre- According to the resolution, if such a program is plaque. Gene is past president of Otsego County Farm Bureau mont with the highest quality milk production award deemed appropriate, the board will call a special while Barb is currently the county Farm Bureau secretary. A total for obtaining the best quality measurements in 1991 meeting of the members prior to implementation. of 35 MMPA members were presented a 35-year member plaque. of the 3,000 farms belonging to MMP A. Eight other producers were also recognized with honorable mention awards for high quality production. The 1991 District Outstanding Young Dairy Couples (OYDC) were also recog- nized at the meeting, including comments from Greg and Kathy Dorman, Sandusky, who were officially recognized as the state Can Our Annuity Save Your OYDC. Clinton County dairy farmer Kenneth Nobis was elected to serve a three-year term on the organization's board of directors as .. Retirement? an at-large director, replacing Carl Kline of White Pigeon. 1992 Young Farmer Discussion Meet In his autobiograph~ Groucho Marx Topics Announced tells how an annuity helped him at a crucial If you're between the ages of 18 and 30, and point in his career. The annui~ he said, YOU would like a shot at some fabulous prizes, gave him such a feeling of security that he including a Honda Four- TRAX for the state winner, then you'll want to start becoming was able to pursue his career with a lighter familiar with the 1992 Young Farmer Dis- heart and more confidence. cussion Meet topics. The topics for this year's contest have been An annuity from FBAnnuity Company announced. At each of the 11 district con- may not save your career, but it can save BET tests, the topic will be: 1) How does our public's environmental your retirement. Our IRA annuity concerns affect U.S. agriculture? guarantees you a lifetime retirement How do these concerns affect government legislation and regulations? income - a check every month for as long ,... How can agriculture improve public aware- ness of environmental issues? as you live. That topic plus three others will be used Consider the tax advantages, too. You throughout the preliminary, semi-final and may qualify to deduct up to $2,000in final levels of the state discussion meet held in Grand Rapids on Dec. 2. The other topics are: 2) What should be the role of U.S. agri- culture regarding foreign aid? Is there a moral obligation? Do we offer food, technology, or money? deposits each year from your federal inc9me tax. And your interest earnings are tax deferred, protected from taxes until you take your money out. YOUR An IRA from FB Annuity Company LIFE 3) Term limitation -- should terms of of- fice be limited in the American govern- currently earns mental system? What is best for agriculture and the American people? What would be the impact on political parties? 7.25% Effective Annual Yield Would voters be better represented? And Guaranteed to never 'all below 4% 4) Can agriculture be assured of a reliable labor supply? Should immigration laws be changed? How do we educate an adequate supply of agricultural workers and managers? For more information about the Young You can't replace the secure feeling of an IRA. Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent today. MAKING YOUR FUTURE FARM BUREAU -= Farmer Discussion Meet contest, contact your County Farm Bureau office, your INSURANCE ..... , County Young Farmer Committee Chair- MORE PREDICTABLE FARM BUREAU MUTUAL • FARM BUREAU LIFE FARM BUREAU GENERAL • FB ANNUITY man, or the Michigan Farm Bureau at 1-800-292-2680, ext. 3234. Michigan Farm News April 15, 1992 Michigan Auto Insurance Reform- Election Year Politics at its Finest Michigan Legislators Pass HeI'e's How They Voted S.B. 691, Ignoring True The Michigan Legislature's voting record is listed below for final passage of S.B. 691 to Auto Insurance Reform amend Michigan's No-Fault Auto Insurance Law. Despite a threatened veto from Gov. Engler, 24 senators and 94 representatives voted yea on the legislation that would have Measures, and Setting subsidized urban drivers, increased costs for rural drivers, forced insurance companies to Dangerous Precedent open offices in urban areas and increased government involvement in private business. Michig~n Farm Bureau had urged a nay (N) vote. (Y = Yea, A= Abstain) To the great frustration of drivers everywhere in the state, Michigan lawmakers have again failed in their duty to enact genuine auto insurance reform. As this goes Legislative Directory 110 R Dresch, Stephen Y to press, Gov. Engler very appropriately vetoed the Legislature's latest wreck: S.B. 81 D Emerson, Robert Y 691, a proposal that arbitrarily mandated a 15 percent rollback in auto premiums, Slate Senatots 56 R Fitzgerald, Frank N calling it a "sham auto insurance bill. " District/Party /Senator/ Vote 107 D Gagliardi, PaL Y 33 R Arthurhultz, Philip Y 18 R Gernaat, John Y 34 D Barcia, James A. Y 48 R Gilmer, Donald N By our analysis, the legislation contained provisions which would have subsidized 11 D Berryman, James : Y 72 D Gire, Sharon Y the auto insurance costs of urban drivers and unfairly increased costs for rural and 16 R Bouchard, Michael J N 43 R Gnodtke, Carl N suburban drivers. In addition, the bill set a bad precedent of government involve- 9 R Carl, Doug Y 36 R Goss, Georgina Y 29 D Cherry, John Y 50 D Griffin, Michael.. Y ment in private business operations by inappropriately dictating what private indus- 14 R Cisky, John N 67 D Gubow, David Y try can charge for its products. Michigan citizens have been looking to state 25 D Conroy, Joeseph Y 87 D Harder, Clark Y government to decrease its interference in the marketplace. But this measure took 28 R DeGrow, Dan L. N 62 D Harrison, Charlie Y 30 R Dillingham, Frederick Y 12 D Hertel, Curtis Y us in the opposite direction through provisions that mandated higher insurance 26 D DiNeno, Gilbert Y 101 D Hickner, Thomas Y company costs and, ultimately, consumer premiums. 7 D Dingell, Christopher Y 54 R Hillegonds, Paul... N 8 R Dunaskiss, Mat Y 95 R HoeKman, Alvin N S. B. 691 also required insurance companies to open sales offices in urban areas 32 R Ehlers, Vernon J N 23 R Hoffman, Philip Y 35 R Emmons, Joanne N 57 D Hollister, David Y even though some companies, like Farm Bureau Insurance, have very successfully 12 D Faust, William Y 6 D Hood, Morris Y focused their efforts toward serving the specific needs of rural and suburban 15 D Faxon, Jack Y 90 R Horton, Jack Y consumers. 22 R Gast, Harry N 108 D Jacobetti, Dominic Y 6 R Geake, R. Robert N 65 R Jamian, John Y 10 D Hart, George Y 26 R Jaye, David Y Finally, it's important to point out, once again, that there is no such thing as a free 4 D Holmes, David S Y 68 R Johnson, Shirley Y lunch. Despite the claims of proponents, the bill did not enact Personal Injury 17 R Honigman, David Y 59 D Johdahl, Lynn Y Protection limits which were low enough to result in the promised 15 percent 1 D Kelly, John Y 79 D Jonker, Nate Y premium cost savings. 38 D Koivisto, Donald Y 33 D Keith, William Y 37 R McManus, George N 8 D Kilpatrick, Carolyn Y 27 D Miller, Arthur J Y 96 R Knight, Mickey Y Farm Bureau continues to support real reforms which will genuinely reduce the cost 5 D O'Brien, Michael J Y 37 D Kosteva, James Y of automobile insurance. We stand firmly opposed to rate subsidies and premium 18 D Pollack, lana Y 2 D leland, Burton Y 31 R Posthumus, Dick N 76 R london, Terry N rollbacks. Farm Bureau members believe insurance consumers will benefit most 36 R Pridnia, John N 49 R Martin, Williams N from a free and open market place where insurer competition controls prices. 20 R Schwarz, John, M.D N 92 D Mathieu, Thomas Y Premium rollbacks are an ineffective, temporary band-aid approach to the problem. 19 R Smith, Nick N 99 R McBryde, James Y 2 D Smith, Virgil Y 102 R McNutt, James Y 24 D Stabenow, Debbie Y 45 R Middaugh, James Y If Michigan consumers are to receive genuine instead of phony reform of our auto 23 R Van Regenmorter, 61 R Middleton, Thomas Y insurance system, the following improvements to the no-fault law need to be William N 51 R Munsell, Susan N adopted: 3 D Vaughn, Jackie 1I1... Y 17 D Murphy, Raymond Y 21 R Wartner, Paul N 78 R Muxlow, Keith N 13 R Welborn, Jack Y 100 D Niederstadt, Roland Y - Drivers should be allowed to select medical coverage limits they need and can 41 R Ny,e,Michael. A afford. Under present law, all drivers are required to carry unlimited medical 52 R 0 Connor, Margaret.. Y coverage on each insured vehicle. This mandated coverage has proven to be very S!aIe Representatives 25 D Olshove, DenniS Y costly and is not always needed. Many drivers have their own health care protection District/Party/Rep Vote 85 D O'Neill, James Y 77 R Allen, Dick Y 103 R Ostling, Ralph Y which supplements their auto medical protection. Other drivers simply cannot afford 21 DOwen, Lynn Y 105 D Alley, Thomas Y this unlimited protection. There is evidence that these drivers are, in many cases, 109 D Anthony, David Y 42 R Oxender, Glenn Y driving without any insurance coverage. 97 D Baade, Pau Y 30 D Palamara, Joseph Y 93 R Bandstra, Richard Y 29 D Pitoniak, Gregory Y 35 R Bankes, lyn Y 27 D Porreca, Vincent.. Y - Reverse the DiFranco court decision to allow a judge, not a jury, to determine 38 D Barns, Justine ..' ~ Y 104 R Power, Thomas N whether a case is serious enough to require a lawsuit. 39 D Bartnick, Jerry Y 22 D Profit, Kirk Y 88 R Bender, Robert Y 89 R . Randall, Gary Y - Adopt a modified comparative negligence law, which disallows the at-fault driver 1 D Bennane Michael Y 83 R Robertson1 David Y 34 D Bennet, John Y 71 D Rocca, Sal Y from pursuing a lawsuit. 64 D Berman, Maxine Y 7 D Saunders, Nelson Y 98 R Bobier, William Y 82 D Scott, Thomas Y - Adopt cost containment measures which would control medical expenses. Today, 106 R Bodem, Beverly Y 47 R Shugars, Dale N auto insurers pay more for the same medical service than is paid by Medicare, 44 R Brackenridge, Robert Y 94 R Sikkema, Ken Y 46 D Brown, Mary C Y 63 R Sparks, Gordon Y Medicaid and health insurers. 13 R Bryant, Wm. R., Jr Y 4 D Stallworth, Alma A 53 D Bullard, Perry Y 11 D Stopczynski, Stanley Y We support Gov. Engler's strong and mature leadership on the auto insurance 60 R Bullard, Willis, Jr Y 84 R Strand, John Y issue. Farm Bureau members across the state need to express positive reinforce- 58 D Byrum, Dianne Y 20 R Trim;. Claude Y 73 D Ciaramitaro, Nick Y 19 R Van\:>ingel,Donald Y ment to both the governor and the legislators who are courageously defying the 80 D Clack, Floyd Y 3 D Varga, nona Y rollback demagogues (see voting record). At the same time, our lawmakers need to be reminded that true insurance reform requires authentic improvements in the 16 D Clarke, Hansen 55 75 R Dalman, Jessie D DeBeaussaert, Ken Y N Y 40 10 66 R Walberg, Timothy D Wallace, Ted D Webb, Wilfred Y Y Y • no-fault law, not empty election year political promises. 91 R Delange, Walter Y 70 D Weeks, Lloyd Y 28 D DeMars, Robert Y 9 D Wozniak, Chester Y ~clu!=nt 24 R Dobb,Barbara Y 74 D Yokich, Tracey Y 31 D Dobronski, Agnes Y 15 D Young, Joseph Jr Y 86 D Dodak, lewis Y 14 D Young, Joseph Sr A 69 R Dolan, Jan Y 32 D Young, Richard A Y Michigan Farm Bureau 5th District Vacant .. State Mandated Coverage Increases $107 Per Vehicle Since 1978 The controversial Michigan Catastrophic higher premiums. Many companies show By the end of 1990, MCCA had paid out which health care providers may charge for Claims Association (MCCA), an organiza- the MCCA assessment as a separate charge about $320 million for 1,189 claims. What specific services rendered, similar to the tion in existence since July 1978, reim- on the billing notice sent to customers. isn't included, however, is the future costs workers compensation program already in burses insurance companies for injury of those injuries. It's estimated that at the effect. ~ losses in excess of $250,000 under Since its creation, costs to fund the state end of 1991, there were 1,700 additional Michigan's unlimited medical benefits pro- mandated program have skyrocketed from catastrophic losses which MCCA will have 2. Permit motorists to purchase a specific vision of the no-fault law. a mere $3 per insured vehicle in 1978, to to pay for in the future, ultimately costing maximum amount of PIP coverage, for a $44 in 1989, to $67 in 1990, to $110 in Michigan motorists an additional $12 bil- reduced premium instead of requiring insur- Each insurance company selling auto insur- 1992! lion. ers to purchase unlimited coverage. ance in Michigan is required to be a mem- ber of this organization to share the costs of Simply stated, the actual costs of cata- Future liabilities of MCCA are increasing 3. Permit insurers to establish contractual catastrophic traffic injuries. It is, in essence, strophic injury claims were grossly under- so fast that at the end of 1990, the organiza- agreements with health care providers a reinsurance company established strictly estimated in earlier years because of lack tion was $900 million under-funded, ac- which agree to provide services at a dis- for Michigan's unlimited Personal Injury of loss experience for unlimited coverage. cording to the Michigan Association of In- counted price. Protection coverage (PIP). It's estimated that 91 percent of such claims surance Companies, meaning future involve injury to the brain and/or spinal MCCA assessments will grow faster still. 4. Establish a case management system for Insurance companies are assessed on a reg- cord, which commonly results in serious monitoring claim handling of the member ular basis to pay for MCCA' s present and and permanent disability, ie., paralysis, Several ideas have surfaced in an attempt to insurers. This approach is designed to assure future liabilities. Those costs are passed on coma, loss of speech, memory, etc. bring costs under control including: ~h~tstatutory benefits are being provided to to individual policyholders in the form of 1. Establish a limitation on the amount Injured persons as efficiently as possible. Michigan Farm News April 15, 1992 Young People's Citizenship Seminar Student Search is On leaders or those who participate well in The selection process varies from county to Outstanding high school students eligible large group settings; articulate and willing county, according to program manager, to attend the Michigan Farm Bureau Young to speak to groups after the seminar; and Julie Chamberlain. "Some students may be People's Citizenship Seminar, June 15-19 from either a farm or non-farm back- asked to prepare a written essay or take part at Olivet College, will be participating in ground. in a personal interview." one of the finest programs offered for HERITAGE young people in Michigan. YPCS "gradu- During the conference, over 200 young County Farm Bureaus pay registration fees BUILDING SYSTEMS ates" return to their communities with the men and women will participate in mock with the support of local businesses, leaving 30.50. 10 800-643-5555 $04_ 40.50.12 u"M knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm voter registration, political party conven- only transportation costs to be covered by 50. 10lh 14 '11,185 1lO.100.20 .'1.785 for participating in the democratic process. tions, campaigns, and voting. Dynamic the students themselves. 10.,50.20 P7'- Eligible students are: high school juniors speakers, recognized as experts in the fields of economics, world cultures and For application and program informa- do _ II,...... _ .... _'.IargeaI_ ..._ BUILD IT YOURSELF AND SAVE MONEY c:-cloI 5.000 _...-.. -.I _ ~ 01 ...... -. .., _ ..-. .. __ lor .. _ __ ~ AI .. .,..,... _ ...... -.- and seniors in the 1992-93 school year; governments, and personal growth will tion, contact your county Farm Bureau penn" dr •• Ing. 10 _ an local buUdlng codea, 20 pet rool interested in government, social and eco- background the students on their role as office. But burry! Registration deadline •• rr.nty, and ,.'n'.d •• na. IIWIUIiocIumg planta _ -,.Ior .... __ ,.,'c •• ar. f08 Iro. our I Cell .. nomic issues, and/or politics; potential citizens of the United States and the world. is May 1, 1992. ....... - • ...- ... - lop qo.-.,-.. 50 .• 100 • 16 ROOF 5Y51Er.\ EOUIPMErH & HAY SlORAGE S10.985 Don't Miss 4-H Exploration Days June 24 - 26 Your local CES office is looking for kids over 12 to attend the three-day youth con- ference, 4-H Exploration Days, at Michigan State University June 24-26. The safes~ mosl efficient "During 4-H Exploration Days, you'll have wood heat system on the marke~ the TAYLOR a chance to develop valuable skills, make waterstove sits outside new friends, watch top-notch entertainers and heats your home and much more," Assistant Director of Ex- and 100% of household tension for 4- H Youth Programs Michael hot water. Tate said. "You can choose from 177 action- • ULlisted I packed sessions from your interest areas!" • Thermostatic control : • 12 to 24 hour burn time -".'l,~ to:;;., •• The program's sessions, held on and off the TAYLOR MANUFACTURING, INC. MSU campus, are designed by 4-H staff and PO Box 518. Elizabethtown. NC 28337 committee members with the help of MSU Call 1-800.545-2293 for more details. specialists. These people then serve as ses- sion instructors and helpers, giving 4-H members and leaders a higher quality of training than what is usually available in CENTRAL their local community, explained Tate. MICHIGAN Exploration Days Objectives TRACTOR D To teach new ideas, techniques and PARTS skills that can be used in individual 4-H clubs and communities. Almost 3, 000 youths, from al/83 Michigan counties, attended the program last year. Parts For Tractors Above, participants receive pointers on proper showing techniques during one of and D Offer in-depth "action learning" in the approximately 177 sessions offered. Self-Propelled Combines special interest areas. Program books and registration forms are available through your CES office. The last o Leadership/Citizenship Bob Baumgras D Give access to Michigan State Univer- sity campus and its wealth of day to register, however, is May 1. Classes o Leisure Education 2713 NORTH U.S. 27 ST. JOHNS. MI 48879 resources. fill up quickly so register with your county CES office as early as possible. o Lifestyle Issues D Provide youth development experi- o Livestock (517) 224-6802 ences above and beyond what is avail- Topic Areas Offered o Natural Resources and 1-800-248-9263 (U.s. & CNO.) able at the county or regional level. o Aerospace Environmental Education D Develop leadership abilities and en- o Animal Science o Performing Arts/Clowning hance personal growth. o Bicycling o Personal Appearance D Offer a variety of leisure activities and o Careers o Photography Belarus the opportunity to meet new people. o Challenge o Poultry and Pocket Pets Tractors D Create a better understanding of Michi- o Communications o Rabbits gan 4-H Youth Programs, Cooperative Extension Service and Michigan State o Crop and Soil Science o Shooting Sports 31 HP 2wd _.$5995.00 University. o Dairy Cattle o Spaces 35 HP 4wd 65 HP _.._.$8999.00 10.985.00 The total cost is $98 a participant. This fee o Dogs o Technology 81 HP 4wd w/cab 16,555.00 100 HP 4wd w/cab '19.999.00 covers meals from Wednesday lunch o Horses o Teen Development through Friday lunch and overnight housing at MSU residence halls, Wednesday and o Horticulture o Veterinary Science Thursday. Some scholarships are available through the CES. o Human/Family Development o Visual Arts And Crafts o International Programs o Adult Seminars SAVE UP TO 50% OF YOUR LliDNG DOLLARS * with MICRO-CAL@ Mld:Mlcbigaa's Revolutionary Liming Product! • Custom application by • No "Har spars" e~rienced operators with modern equlpment. • No dust loss. • Small particle size for FAST soil reactlon • Ideal for: -rented ground • Qualifies for ASCS -established Alfalfa programs. -No till Iaaeue 'Vie"" Lowu Costal Call Mark Miller or Bill Goetsch at (517) 669-8395 GREAT LAKES/ENVIROLAND P.O. Box' 39. Dewlll. Michigan 48820 • •Actual savings may vary depending on your location Michigan Farm News •• April 15, 1992 DiBiaggio - MSU/CES to Focus on Priority State Issues Speaking during the College of Agriculture and Natural Re- Distinguished Service Below, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dean and Vice sources President's Luncheon, MSU President John DiBiaggio to Agriculture Awards Provost Dr. Fred Poston (left) presents Barbara Radewald and her announced a major university effort to inventory current re- husband, Stanley, with a plaque in honor of her DSA award. search projects, identify trends and future scenarios for Michi- Robert D. DeBruyn of Zeeland, Barbara M. gan agriculture, and then develop programs based on those Radewald, of Niles, and Richard G. Krafft, Jr., findings. of Frankenmuth, shared the spotlight during the President's Luncheon, honored with the Distin- Calling 1992 a year of change in defining the university's role guished Service to Agriculture Award. with the government to meet the needs of the general public, DiBiaggio said the project will utilize CES field staff to develop A graduate of MSU and the Harvard Business more focused outreach priorities. "Over the next year, we will School, DeBruyn is the major owner and man- undertake a massive statewide process to identify the most ager of DeBruyn Produce Company, growing pressing issues confronting our state and its communities," he and packaging celery, carrots, onions and cab- said bage in four Michigan locations, and in nine other states. DeBruyn has served on 15 govern- DiBiaggio cautioned that tighter budgets means the university mental commissions, and was instrumental in desperately needs the input of Michigan residents in identifying establishing pesticide standards in Texas and the needs of the entire state, not just particular commodity California that became a national model. interests or localities. "Because our resources are finite, the university - including the CES and the Ag Experiment Station - Barbara Radewald, is the successful co-man- must focus on priority issues," he said. ager of the 4th generation 600-acre Radewald Farms, producing fruit and vegetables. Consid- ,.. DiBiaggio acknowledged that education costs at the land grant ered a trailblazer for women's role in agricul- university will continue to increase, saying that he'd like nothing ture, Radewald has been an effective advocate more than to announce a tuition freeze, but that he could not, for education and research in Michigan agricul- Richard Kraft, president and general manager of Star of the West although specific increases were not announced. "Our commit- ture. She was the first woman president of the Milling Company, has been a leading spokesman for wheat research ment to quality goes hand in hand with our commitment to Michigan Vegetable Council and also served as and product standards. Kraft has served as president of the Michigan access," he said. "However, it takes dollars from tuition as well a member of the Michigan Association of Ag- Millers Association, Michigan Bean Shippers Association, and as state appropriations to support quality education and service. " riculture. Michigan Grain and Agri-Dealers Association. Visit With One of These Northrup King Dealers Today! Seamon Farms Eugene Briolat Saginaw Minden City (517) 777-2054 (517) 658-8330 Con-Agra/Berger Farmers Elevator Merrill Richmond (517) 643-7293 (313) 727-3025 Con-Agra/Berger John Ferkowicz Birch Run Silverwood (517) 624-9321 (517) 761-7217 Con-Agra/Berger Bruce Leipprandt Freeland Pigeon (517) 695-2521 (517) 453-2455 Clyde Me/osley B& WCo-op Breckenridge .. Corunna (517) 842-3104 (517) 743-3633 (313) 638-5281 Mich. Ag. Commodities Middleton Frank Trierweiler (517) 236-7263 PortIa nd/Westpha Iia (517) 587-6540 McClintic Farms Alma Blondes Farm Supply (517) 463-1140 Litchfield (517) 542-2996 Alto Farm Services, Inc. John Oakley Alto (616) 868-6030 .• DiamondaIe 819-90 A premier soybean with outstanding yield and (517) 646-0629 Mueller Bean Co. Sunfield (517) 566-8031 James Borgert Burr Oak (616) 432-3865 Jerry Gallagher Belding Tri-County Agra Service (616) 761-3243 stanqability Homer When you're going all out • Excellent stand ability for (517) 542-3196 Ronald Porter Rockford for yield, you want a soybean easy harvest David LaBar (616) 874-8196 that's proven itself a win- • Very shatter resistant Union City ner. And we have the right (517) 741-3204 Joe VanTuy/e • • Thlerance to brown stem Dowagiac one. This high-potential rot Dick Heffelfinger (616) 782-8275 Northrup King bean has • Best suited for narrow Reading won big in fIeld trials and (517) 283-2444 Lakeside Farms rows (30" or less) Coral has been a yield contest Strieter Bros. (616) 354-6601 winner. It'll come through Excellent choice for White Ann Arbor (313) 995-2497 Zeeland Farm Services for you, too. Ask for it. Mold problem areas Zeeland Calvin Smith (616) 772-9042 Monroe (313) 269-2710 Ronald Weston Because you're in business to grOW.~ Constantine (616) 435-8219