Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau ' May 30,1992 111=1 Vol. 69, No.1 0 Huron's Philp Drain - A Question of Environment or Control? Farmers and landowners along the Philp more than maintenance of an existing drain drain in Huron County were fed up with that doesn't require permits, according to poor drainage and ditches that overflowed Rounds. onto their farmland every time there was a heavy rainfall. In 1988, landowners began The Huron County Circuit Court agreed the process for drainage improvement by with the county's interpretation of the law, submitting the necessary petitions for such blocking two unsuccessful attempts by the action to Huron County Drain Commis- DNR in 1991 to have the project halted. The sioner Vern Rounds. DNR appealed the first decision to the Court of Appeals, which upheld the Circuit Four years and $1.5 million dollars later in Court's decision. A second appeal regard- efforts to improve a drain originally estab- ing the need for permits under the Wetlands lished in 1896, Rounds says the project and Protection Act and the Inland Lakes and the wishes of landowners are threatened. Streams Act is pending. Michigan Farm The drain improvement has been locked in Bureau's board of directors approved the a bitter controversy between the Huron filing of a Amicus Curiae which would sup- County Drain Commission, the Department port the Circuit Court's ruling that the per- of Natural Resources (DNR) and now the mits were not needed. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "The State Court of Appeals will be ad- The controversy stems from an additional dressing the question of environmental pro- seven-mile extension of the Philp drain to tection versus the right to, and need for, improve gradient and flow of the drain. The agricultural drainage," explained MFB EPA and the DNR cQntend that under exist- President Jack Laurie. "The decision they This portion of the drain is part of the seven-mile extension of the Philp drain that ing regulations and their interpretation of put forth could have statewide implications is at the heart of the controversy and threatens a $1.5 million project and a 4-year the Clean Water Act and the Federal Inland for Michigan agriculture, and the. MFB process to improve the drain. . Lakes and Stream Act, the Huron County board felt it was imperative that the Circuit Drain Commission needed permits to do the Court's decision be upheld in the Court of favor, the project ,could continue as origi- county submit plans within 30 days "to extension. Appeals." nally planned, end of discussion. Not so! restore wetlands and the streambed to its original condition and contours." The county Drain Commission, on the other The Huron County Drain Commission as- Most recently, administrative orders issued hand, contends that under their interpreta- sumed that with three court rulings in their by the EP A, April 23, 1992, cite violations See "Philp Drain" page 9 tion of the law, the extension is nothing of the Clean Water Act and require that the Plastic Agricultural Pesticide Container Recycling in Michigan .. cycling program at 16 locations, in cooper- that no longer accepts empty pesticide con- by the MDA inspector, will be sent to the W hat do you do wIth those empty pestI- ation with MDA inspectors who will be on tainers. Grower Service grinder located on site for cide containers? That same question is site to verify the containers are clean grinding. Once the containers are ground asked repeatedly across Michigan, ~s pro- . enough to be allowed into the recycling "Some landfills are saying 'we'll take the and packaged, they will be transported to a ducers try to find a ~o~e for an. estImated program. Michigan is one of several states empty containers, but you have to sign a plant in S1.Louis Mo. for further refinement 600,000 empty pestICIde contaIners. Na- implementing the pilot program this year as piece of paper that says you deposited them and manufacturing of pellets. The pellets tionally, it's estimated .that 46 milli A THOROUGH CHECK? per hour): 177,231 Note: Walking up and down hills and/or with a Body parts exercised: legs and buttocks backpack increases intensity of workout. Visit the feI:Iity. Tour the club or gym during Equipment needed: stationary or outdoor bi- the hours you plan to use it. Notice whether cycle; helmet for outdoor bikers BEYOND AEROBICS there are long lines at the equipment; crowded Advantages: Less traumatic to joints than In addition to aerobic exercise, which areas and long waiting lines can add to the time running or aerobic dancing because bicycle seat confers the benefit of strengthening the heart it takes to complete a workout as well as take bears body weight; lends itself to family and muscle, a well-balanced program to improve' away from the pleasure of exercising. Note, too, group participation; helps maintain fitness when fitness should also include what is known as whether the equipment is well maintained, the recovering from ankle, foot, or certain thigh strength or resistance training; that is, an exer- showers and restroom facilities clean, and the injuries. cise routine that "over-Ioads" specific muscles exercise areas properly ventilated and comfort- Special considerations: Outdoor cycling that in various parts of the body, pushing them to able. involves frequent stops and starts as well as work harder than usual. Resistance training can alternating periodS of cycling and coasting inter- be carried out with the use of free weights Meet the stIIff, Are they helpful as well as feres with cardiovascular improvements; aero- (barbells) or other resistance equipment - for knowledgeable about the types of exercise bic activity must be continuous to confer benefits example, a machine that allows you to exercise machines available? Will they assist you in to the heart. Open roads and bike paths allow for your leg muscles by "challenging" you to push choosing exercises appropriate to your needs best chance of nonstop outdoor riding. your legs against a given amount of weight; the and abilities? Do they have college degrees in RO VlNG more weight you can push (the more" resistance" fields such as exercise physiology or physical Calories burned in 30 minutes: 163,237 you're working against) the stronger the muscles education? And do they provide an orientation Body parts exercised: abdomen and large become. Resistance machines, incidentally, are on using the equipment and working out safely? muscles of upper and lower body what people are referring to when they talk In addition, are instructors certified? Certifica- Equipment needed: indoor rowing machine or about Nautilus equipment. tion helps insure that the staff is able to provide boat or canoe Most resistance-training programs help proper guidance. Organizations that grant re- Advantages: Like cycling, easier on the joints improve not just muscle strength - the ability spectable "seals of approval" include the than running or aerobic dancing because the . of, say, the arm muscles to lift 20 pounds of American College of Sports Medicine, the Insti- seat bears the body's weight; can be performed groceries rather than 10 - but also muscle tute for Aerobics Research, the International with one leg if the other is injured. endurance - the ability to carry those 20 pounds Dance Exercise Association, and the Aerobics Special considerations: none for 15minutes instead offive. Resistancetraining and Fitness Association of America. RUIoINING also helps you perform aerobic exercises more Calories burned in 30 minutes: (at 9 miles per easily; the stronger and more enduring the Ask for information IIbout fitness ...... hour): 342, 447 muscles, the better able the body is to run, jump, mem. Find out if the club requires men at or Body parts exercised: legs row, ski, or dance. The American College of above age 40 andwomen 50 and olderto undergo Equipment needed: good pair of sneakers Sports Medicine advises performing a resistance- a fitness assessment before beginning an exer- Advantages: No special skills or equipment training workout two to three times a week. But cise program. The American College of Sports required; can be done any time, alone or with unless you want to look like a bodybuilder, two Medicine recommends that people who fall into -TAKE SHELTER, IF POSSIBLE, INSIDE others. times a week is sufficient. those categories see a physician before em- Increasing muscle strength requires lift- barking on a workout routine. Thus, a club or A BUILDING OR CAR, AND CLOSE THE Special considerations: High risk of injuries to feet, knees, and ankles, particularly among those ing (orpushing against) heavy weight; increasing gym that complies with that advice shows its WINDOWS AND DOORS. KEEP AWAY who try to run more than 35 miles per week and! muscular endurance involves lifting lighter policy is set with members' best interests in FROM WATER AND GAS PIPES, FIRE- or don't warm up properly; running or jogging on amounts of weight (or working against less mind. PLACES, STOVES, RADIATORS, ELEC- uneven surfaces such as grass or sand increases resistance) over and over. Thus, you can vary the intensity of a workout both by increasing or Rad the fine print. That is, before you sign on TRICALAPPLIANCES, AND TELEPHONES. difficulty of stepping, thereby adding to strain on muscles. decreasing the amount of weight lifted (or the the dotted line and layout any money, examine POSTPONE WASHING THE DISHES OR STAIR-CU~A61NG level of resistance) and by increasing or de- the club's membership agreement carefully. TAKING A SHOWER OR BATH. Calories burned in 30 minutes: 213,279 creasing the number of times you repeat the Make sure, for instance, that you understand the - IF OUTDOORS, DON'T TAKE REFUGE Body parts exercised: legs, buttocks exercise. length of membership (month-to-month, annual, You can obtain 70 to 80% as much multi-year). And check whether the policy gives UNDER ANY TALL, ISOLATED OBJECT Equipment needed: stairs or, preferably, a stair-climbing machine such as StairMaster or improvement by strength training twice weekly new members a "cooling of" periOd - three SUCH AS A TENT OR A TREE (ALTHOUGH Lifesteps. as three times a week. Each session should days or so after signing the membership agree- STANDING UNDER GROUP OF TREES Advantages: Exercising on a stair-climbing include about 10 exercises that use major muscle ment during which they may cancel without any SHORTER THAN OTHERS IN THE AREA machine, as opposed to running up and down groups (in the legs, arms, and abdomen, for penalties. example). And each exercise should be re- IS BETTER THAN BEING IN THE OPEN). stairs in, say, a stadium, reduces impact to joints as the machine bears the body's weight. peated eight to 12 times. Furthermore, each one PUT DOWN ANY OBJECT THAT MIGHT Special considerations: Locking arms on should leave the muscle being exercised near -Reprinted with permission, Tufts University CONDUCT ELECTRICITY: UMBRELLA, siderails of machine or leaning forward on equip- exhaustion. An entire session usually takes no Diet & Nutrition Letter, 53 Park Place, 8th floor, ment can significantly reduce calorie-burning more than 20 to 30 minutes. New York, NY 10007 V lRD 0 N Gardening care can be fun in war!ller weather. To make sure your pleasure doesn't lead to back pain, keep these tips from the Mayo Clinic in mind: Back strain may occur if you're gener- ally inactive and suddenly de~ide on a marathon session of yard work. Poorly conditioned muscles are more susceptible to injury. Start slowly with 20- to 30-minute periods of work and pace yourself. Don't overdo it. Whetheryou're in shape or not always startwith gentle arm and leg stretches. Proper storage for safe food Stretching warms up your muscles and increases flexibility. Take a break. Properly handled, food is safe and delicious, but when its left out in the open, food can be every 15 or 20 minutes to repeat the a problem in tfie making. Bacteria found in the air, on surfaces and even in the food itself muscle stretching. can cause off-flavors and odors and, at their worst, produce toxins that attack the human digestive system. If you're tired before you begin, don't Bacterial growth is kept in check by prope[ handling, which includes sanitation and start at all. If you get tired while work- recommended heating and cooling rates. In addition to temperature, acidity, sugar ing, stop and rest. Fatigue puts you at content, moisture content and other factors can also affect food quality. It is because greater risk of accident and injury, so bacteria grow best between 45 degrees Fahrenheit to 145 degr.ees Fahrenheit that food it's important to take an occasional should be cooled quickly. rest break during your work. "rhere is no 'safe' length of time for cooked or refrigerated to be left at room ~T H. E temperature," says Wendy Wellnitz, an independent food consultant. "This is why it's a good idea to cool leftovers properly soon after a meal is finished. Lightweight tools with long handles generally are best.They help you avoid "Basically~you want to cool food as fast as you can so it spends the shortest fatigue and bending motions that possible time in this temperature zone," explains Wellnitz. "The reverse is also encourage back strain. true. When thawing food, you want to thaw it in the refrigerator. If you thaw it at room temperature, the center may still be frozen while the surface has reached room temperature and is subject to bacterial growth." When raking, don't bend and twist your torso. Keep your back straight This table contains guidelines far proper storage of certain foods in your refrigerator. and use your arms and legs in a Similar and more complete information is available from county Cooperaf ens ion smooth, coordinated rocking motion. Service (CES)offices. Comprehensive cookbooks often contain such star RIFLE, BICYCLE, GOLF CLUB, CAR- As you move the rake forward for leaves or grass clippings, shift your BON-FIBER FISHING ROD, KITE, METAL Recommended guidelines for refrigerat BAT, OR THE LIKE. REMOVE. METAL body weight to your front foot. As you QR CONDUCTIVE ITEMS SUCH AS A The temperature should be set at 37 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Store pull the rake back, shift weight to your HELMET, A HEARING AID, GLASSES, with tight-fitting lids or in plastic bags. Remove foods from the refri back foot. JEWELRY, HAIRPINS OR BARRETTES, are ready to cook or serve them. Low back strain often occurs from OR METAL CLEATED SHOES. Foods excessive bending, stretching or - IF OUTDOORS IN AN OPEN AREA, DAIRY twisting abruptly. SEEK LOW GROUND. CURL UP ON Hard cheese YOUR SIDE, PREFERABLY IN A DITCH Sliced cheese. OR GULLY. LYING ON A RUBBER OR Cheese spread Don't bend from the waist to lift. In- PLASTIC RAINCOAT PROVIDES INSU- Yogurt stead, lift by using your legs to raise LATION. AVOID RAILROAD TRACKS, Milk (pasteurized)* the object and your body. ISOLATED MACHINERY, ELECTRICAL EGGS If the object is too heavy, don't lift it by FENCES, FLAG AND TELEPHONE FATS,OILS POLES AND BODIES OF WATER. yourself. A bag of leaves may be Butter heavier than you think. - IF SWIMMING, RETURN TO SHORE; Margarine IF BOATING, HEAD TOWARD SHORE, MEATS TAKE SHELTER UNDER A BRIDGE OR Chops/steaks/ro~sts STAY CLOSE TO A CLIFF. Ground or variety meats -IF PART OF A GROUP, SPREAD OUT. Luncheon meats (opened) Pushing a wheelbarrow carries a spe- POULTRY cial risk. With a heavy load, the wheel- SHOULD YOU FEEL THE HAIR ON YOUR FISHJSEAFOOD barrow may abruptly shift to one side, HEAD, NECK OR ARMS STAND ON jerking your arms and twisting your END, LIGHTNING MAY BE ABOUT TO Source: Cooperative Extension Service, Mlc niversjty back. STRIKE. IMMEDIATELY KNEEL DOWN, * Dairy products are labeled with "freshness, puJf or setl by" date. This date ti!fers to the Useawheelbarrow for light loads only. BENDING FORWARD WITH YOUR last day the food should be sold. The date allows 1.ora reasonablalength of t4me during For heavy loads, use a dolly and push HANDS ON YOUR KNEES, TO BECOME which the food should be used. the load. AS SMALL A TARGET AS POSSIBLE. A WOMAN'S ~me factors pose a major threat to both sexes, they affect women differ- ently and call for different health manage- ment. But women have a unique option - estrogen replacement therapy (ERn - that may help. First, let's take a look at these corrunon risk factors and their impact on heart disease in women . • HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE. Hypertension may be the most significant risk factor for heart disease in both sexes. But women appear to tolerate hypertension bet- ter than men. When researchers compared men and women with similar blood pres- sures, they found that the risk of stroke, coro- nary disease, congestive heart failure, and sudden death from heart stoppage was sig- nificantly lower among women . • HIGH CHOLESTEROL. An elevated total cholesterol level is often less worrisome in women than in men. That's because the female hormone estrogen tends to keep high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cho- lesterol, the "good" kind, higher in women than men until several years after menopause. And some evidence suggests that for women, unlike men, the risk of coronary disease is determined much more by HDL than by LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels . .. TRIGLYCERIDES. The role of these fats in coronary disease remains controversial. However, in women, some evidence does suggest that high trigly- ceride levels may indeed be a risk factor for the disease . These risks affect women only: .. SURGICALLY INDUCED MENOPAUSE • ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES. Removing the ovaries before the usual age of .0BESI1Y. Normal levels of estrogen appear to protect menopause raises the risk of coronary disease Research results indicate that obesity is an the heart by boosting HDL cholesterol, dilat- by as much as eight times. even more important coronary risk fador in ing blood vessels, and possibly removing fat women than in men. A recent health study of deposits from the artery walls. But the high more than 120,000 female nurses showed that estrogen levels in the birth-control pills used being even as little as five to fourteen percent in the 1970's increased blood pressure and For now the usual advice still applies to both overweight significantly raises the risk of heart made the blood more likely to clot. Those sexes: Avoidsmoking, eat a low-fatdiet, maintain attack. But the coronary hazards stemming pills raised the risk of coronary disease three- a healthy weight, and exercise regularly; if you from extra pounds may depend considerably fold, although that risk decreased once a have hypertension or diabetes, take steps to on how those pounds are distributed. Ab- woman went off the pill. control the disorder. dominal fat, which men are especially likely to gain, seems to pose a greater risk than fat on Today's lower dose pills are certainly safer, • ESTROGEN REPLACEMENTTIlERAPY OPTION the hips and legs. though there's not yet enough evidence to say In post menopausal women at high risk of they're entirely safe. Studies of the older pills coronary disease, estrogen therapy may cut • DIABETES. showed the greatest risk for women over 35, that risk by as much as 50 percent. But since High blood sugar leads to hardening of the especially smokers. Those women - as well hormone therapy has a number of possible arteries in both sexes. But diabetes is more as any others at high risk for coronary disease risks and benefits, a woman considering the common in women and seems to be worse - should probably not take oral contracep- treatment needs to discuss the pros and cons for a woman's heart. Diabetes increases the tives until more evidence is in. Those who do thoroughly with her physician. death rate from cardiovascular causes (such take the pill should have their blood pressure as stroke and heart attack) up to six times in as well as their cholesterol and triglyceride ."Women's Special Risks." copyrighl1992 by Consumers Union of U.S., Inc., Yonkers. NY 10703 - 1057. Reprinted by pennission women, compared with two times in men. levels checked regularly. from CONSUMER REPORTS ON HEALTII. March. 1992. Michigan Farm News -. May 30,1992 New Product Profile Farm Employers: Switch Between Beware of Conventional and No-till Planting With Your End Employee Payroll Wheel Drill or Drawn Deduction Planter Complications The Unverferth Gulti-Planter " from Unverferth is now available with a no- !fyou're a farm employer, with additional till option for end wheel drills and payroll deductions above and beyond the drawn planters. typical tax deductions, a recent Michigan Department of Labor interpretation of the The Gulti-Planter II no-till options fea- Wage and Fringe Benefits Act may change tures wavy coulter blades, which are the way you take care of wage items such located directly in front of drill open- as rent, utilities, security deposits, loan re- ers, for superior tracking and residue payments and other such deductions not penetration. Sizes and spacings are required by law. available to fit most drills and plant- ers. Straight or fluted coulters are op- In a recent court ruling (Gainey Transpor- tional. tation Services, Inc. v Duffy), the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that the Wages and Unverferth's direct down pressure Benefits Act requires a separate written linkage allows the operator to change consent by the employee for each paycheck coulter depth on-the-go without af- from which a deduction is made, instead of fecting the drill settings. Standard complete unit, or can be installed as an option on any Gulti-Planter " unit with just one consent form at the beginning of depth gauge allows operator to mon- no modification. For further information, contact Unverferth Manufactur- employment. The decision has been ap- itor coulter depth and setting. The No- ing Co., Inc., P. O. Box 357, Kalida, OH 45853 or phone 1-800-322-6301 pealed to the Michigan Supreme Court for Till Gulti-Planter " is available as a or FAX 419-532-2468. further action. The recent court decision stems from a case of an employee, Lonnie Duffy, who was employed by Gainey Transportation, start- ing in March of 1988 as an over the road truck driver. At the beginning of his em- ployment, Mr. Duffy signed a written con- sent form authorizing weekly paycheck de- ductions for future damage caused by his negligence .. Between May and July, 1988, Duffy was involved in four accidents, resulting in damages $1,235.06. to Gainey trucks totaling Following each accident, Michigan Farm Bureau's "This is another example of Mail Service Pharmacy Program bureaucratic, regulatory Offered by Feld Prescription Service 5023 Grover St. Omaha Nebraska 68106 overkill ... , " Howard Kelly, MFB labor specialist Most Commonly Prescribed Prescription Medications Gainey's safety committee met with Duffy Call 1-800-228-3353 if you don't see yours. and found that all four accidents were caused by driver negligence. According to court documents, Gainey. and Duffy agreed 80mg 100's 36.75 12.95 Micro-K Extencaps 8 mEq 100's 12.50 to a deduction plan of $50 per week from Duffy's paychecks. 120 mg 100's 49.50 15.95 10 mEq 100's 13.50 7.95 CHnoril Tabs 150 mg lOO's 73.50 49.95 Motrin Tabs 400 mg 100's 15.50 7.95 Following his discharge, Duffy filed a com- 200 mg 100's 89.25 59.95 600 mg 100's 20.25 10.95 plaint with the Michigan Department of Coumadin Tabs 2mg 100's 39.95 800 mg 100's 24.75 15.95 Labor, which determined that the written 2.5 mg 100's 41.25 Ortho-Novum Tabs 1-35 21 or 28 19.50 8.95 authorization was not valid and issued a ruling stating that Gainey had illegally de- 5 mg 100's 41.75 I-50 21 or 28 19.50 8.95 ducted the wages from Duffy's paycheck. 7.5 mg 100's 63.75 Persantine Tabs 25 mg 100'5 25.95 5.95 10mg 100's 65.75 50mg 100'5 39.25 7.95 According to MFB labor specialist Howard E.E.S. Tabs 400 mg 100's 19.95 15.25 75 mg 100'5 51.95 9.95 Kelly, Section 7 of the Wage and Benefits Entex LA Tabs 100'5 49.95 12.95 Premarin Tabs 0.3 mg 100's 20.25 10.95 Act provides that "a deduction for the ben- efit of the employer shall require the written Eryc Caps 250 mg 100's 28.50 16.95 0.625mg 100's 26.95 13.95 consent from the employee for each wage Flexeril Tabs 10 mg 100'5 74.25 50.95 1.25 mg 100's 35.75 15.95 payment subject to the deduction." Inderal Tabs 10 mg 100's 20.75 5.95 2.5 mg 100'5 61.95 29.95 20 mg 100's 28.25 6.95 Proventil Tabs 2 mg 100's 30.75 10.95 "The legal issue that isn't resolved, and will 40mg 100's 35.95 7.95 4mg 100's 43.25 15.95 cause, problems is: when is a deduction for the benefit of the employer and when is it 60mg 100's 47.75 9.95 Provera Tabs 10 mg 100's 46.75 16.95 for the benefit of the employee?" questions 80mg 100's 53.75 10.95 Slow-K Tabs 100's 16.75 8.95 Kelly. "The court has ruled that deductions Isoptin Tabs 80mg 100's 37.25 12.95 Synthroid Tabs 0.025 mglOO's 13.25 6.95 for the benefit of the employer may not be 120 mg 100's 48.75 15.95 0.05 mg 100'5 14.50 7.95 made without a signed consent form from Lanoxin Tabs 0.125mg 100's 9.75 0.1 mg 100's 2.95 16.25 3.95 the employee for each paycheck." 0.25mg 100's 9.75 2.95 0.15mg 100's 18.95 4.95 Kelly cautioned that an employer cannot Lasix Tabs 20mg 100'5 13.75 5.95 0.2 mg 100'5 21.75 5.50 force an employee to sign a consent form 40 mg 100's 17.75 6.95 0.3 mg 100's 28.50 5.95 for deductions, nor can an employee be 80mg 100'5 28.50 11.95 Tegretol Tabs 200 mg 100's 29.95 13.95 fired for refusing to sign a consent form for Maxzide Tabs 100's. 55.95 10.95 Theo-Dur SA Tabs 100 mg 100'5 14.50 . 8.95 deductions. 200 mg 100's 19.25 10.95 "The Michigan Migrant Legal Assistance All your non-prescription vitamin and pain relief products are also available at a savings! Program has indicated they feel most de- ductions are for the benefit of the employer, not the employee, including deductio~s such as loan repayments," said Kelly. "This ~-----------------------------------, I Michigan Farm Bureau : Michigan Farm Bureau I is another example of bureaucratic, regula- tory overkill that only serves as a disincen- I FREE HIe PEN I FREE CATALOG I tive to farmers for hiring employees, and is I Return this coupon with any order and receive I Simply call Feld at 1-800-228-3353 and receive I increasingly leading them to convert to I a Fr~e Bic Pen compliments of Fe.ld Pres~ription I your ,catalog detailing savings on over 5000 health I non-labor intensive crops or to find me- I Service. Call 1-800-22~-3353 for instructIOns on I care Items. Included will be a $3 coupon good on I chanical means of farming the same crop. L___________________________________ I how to order. Offer expires June 30, 1992. I your first prescription order. ~I Both the farmer and worker are losing when this happens." Michigan Farm News II. May 30,1992 Making Time For Farm Safety Do you have time for safety? Here are steps you can take: Farm Safety Amendment It takes time to read and heed the informa- Awaiting Senate Okay tion in operating manuals. It takes time to read the instructions on product labels. It o Make accident prevention a manage- ment goal. Unlike most other occupa- takes time to plan your work. It takes a few tions, farming doesn't provide for a Michigan Farm Bureau is hoping the state moments to replace that shielding, or to turn trained safety director to help you con- Senate Transportation Committee will soon the power off before you try to unclog a trol accident risks. You must be your approve a legislative amendment that permits machine. And, as the old saying goes, time own safety director. a farm truck to use a flashing yellow light to is money. warn motorists that the vehicle is towing a farm wagon or other implement of husbandry . But how long would it take you to recover o Know how to prevent farming inju- ries and illnesses. Read and follow in- Ron Nelson, legislative counsel for Michigan from an accident you could have avoided? structions in operator's manuals and Farm Bureau, said current state law does not How much time would you spend trying to on product labels. Read articles, book- allow the use of rotating, flashing or other compensate for the loss of a valued worker? lets, and other safety- and health-re- special lights, except four-way flashers, on How long would it take your family to lated materials to help reduce the risk From Farm Bureau Insurance most motor vehicles. "The amendment would recover from the loss of your life? What of injury and illness on your farm. legalize a practice that really creates safer motoring." would be the cost of time under those cir- cumstances? o Make it part of your routine to inspect o Be prepared for each activity. Know and respect your limitations. Stay fit all equipment and facilities for haz- and seek care for health problems. Nelson said Farm Bureau would like to have Remember that time you spend properly ards - and to correct hazards without Add balance to your life by taking the amendment added to a bill currently being training yourself and your workers will be delay. Avoid or learn to live safely time to do things you enjoy. considered in the Senate Transportation Com- returned to you - because you'll experience with hazards that can't be eliminated. mittee but that it will probably be fall before they can consider the measure," said Nelson. fewer errors, higher productivity, and re- duced accident risk. If you pre-act, rather o Train employees and family workers o Do what it takes to protect children, the elderly and others in your care. For than react, to danger, if you do the neces- to do things right and to take care of example, don't let kids ride on farm The Michigan State Police have no objection sary things ahead of time that can reduce or their safety and health - both on and equipment - and only give them work to the flashing yellow light amendment, ac- eliminate the risk of injury, you'll be mak- off the job. suitable for their age and development. cording to Nelson. ing a valuable investment in the well-being of your farming operation. Your Farm Can't Afford To Be Without It! MICHIGAN FARM RADIO NETWORK Successful farmers know they can't afford to miss market news that can make or break their operation. That's why you'll hear Michigan Farm Radio Network on radios in more farm vehicles, kitchens, and barns of Michigan's most successful farmers. Since 1971, Michigan Farm Radio Network's only objective has been to serve Michigan's farm families. Through local stations, Michigan Farm Radio Network provides the latest in market analy- sis, weather and news to Farm Bureau families daily including: o Chicago Board of Trade Analysis and Prices o Michigan Cash Grain Analysis o Grain Market News o 11 Major Market and Michigan Cash Livestock Reports o Chicago Mercantile Exchange Analysis and Prices D Livestock Market News D Michigan Ag Weather Forecasts o Daily Market Reports for Potatoes, Fruit, Dry Beans o State, Regional and National Agricultural News o Weekly and Daily Dairy Market Reports o Farm Classified Michigan Farm Radio Network 29 Michigan Radio Stations provide their loeallisteners with the latest in market analysis and news. Check with your local station for program times. Station •• City F,eq. Morning Noon Station •• City Freq. Morning Noon WABJ .. Adrian 1490 5:45 am 12:15pm WJIM ... Lansing 1250 5:05 am 12:15 pm A new update Valid ror SIO OFF association Wttkly rentals (5 days or time or renla!. "The state of Michigan has assumed the or any compact through premium ar atcgory only. more) on a rull size or luxury car only .• (In the U.S'> Valid rrom a compact ar or~. excluding luxury and • (In the United Kingdom) Valid ror £.5 OFF association weekly rentals on • (In the United Kingdom) Valid ror £.10OFF association Wttkly rentals on specialty can. Section 404 program for the Federal Clean any group B through group E car category only. any group B Ihrough group E car ategories only .• (In the United Kingdom) Valid rrom a group Bar category or above. Water Act. They run that program as an • Rcsnvations are subject 10 availability at time or booking. A 2i-hour • Rcsnvations an subject to availability at time or booking. A 2+-hour excluding group E cars and above. advantt reservation is required. advantt reservation is required. • OM ttrtifiate per rental accepted; must be prc:scnted atlhe Alamo equivalent of the federal wetlands program • • One certificate per rental acttpted; must be prc>nlted althe Alamo • One ccrtiflalte per rental accepted; must be presented lIlthe Alamo counter on amval. Once redttmed, the ccrtiflCllte is void. A 2i-hour Michigan is the only state in the nation that counttr on amval. Once redcaned. the ~ificate is void. counter on arrival. Once redeemed. the certificate is void. advana reservation is required . • This certiflate and the 011 rental pursuant to it arc subject to A1amo's • This cntifiate and the ar rental pursuant to it arc subject to Alamo's • This certiflOlle and the car rental pursuant to il are subjttlto Alamo's has done that. EPA has the responsibility of condilions atlhe time or rental. May be rcdccmcd rOI the basic rate or conditions at the time or rental. May be rcdttmed ror the '-sic rale of the conditions at the time or rental. AppIiablc toward BYassociation keeping an eye on the way that the state the Alamo ar rental which docs nOI include taxes and other Alamo ar rental which docs not include taxes and other optional items. rates only. optional itCl11S.• OlTer valid Ihrough 12/18192 (except 411(0"}2- 4118192).• Oller ,.. lid Ihrough 12/18192 (except 411(0"}2- 4118192). administers the federal wetlands programs . • OlTer..,lid Ihrough 12/18192 (except 411(0"}2• 4118192). For reservations in the U.s. or United Kingdom call your For reservations in the U.s. or United Kingdom call your . For reservations in the U.S. or United Kingdom call your Professional Travel Agent or call Professional Travel Agent or call "EPA retains the ability to comment on pro- Professional Travel Agent or 0111 Alamo at 1-800-327-9633 (U.s.) Alamo at 1-800-327-9633 (U.S.) POsals that are issued by the DNR under Alamo at 1-800-327-9633 (u.s.) or 1-800-522-9696 (U.K.). or 1-800-522-9696 (U.K.). ~.~ A • public notice. EP A also retains the ability to or 1-800-522-9696 (U.K.). You must mtuest Rate Code BYand You must request Rate Code BYand ~.~ _. You must request Rate Code BYand use your membership 10 number. use your membership [0 number. intervene in enforcement cases where the EPA finds that the state of Michigan is not use your I1Kmbership 10 number. Where~ r:,!Diles Where all r: miles Where~ r:,!DIles taking an appropriate and timely action in L I D10B I LO.#BY223212 ~ I 011B I I.0.#BY223212 are'" _L I U70B I LD.#BY223212 ------------ ~ an enforcement matter." ------------------- Michigan Farm News May 30,1992 Pesticide Container Recycling Dates and Locations Follow the proper rinsing procedure to en- Michigan Locations Aug.4 Ittner Bean & Grain Co. Bill Klein sure your containers will pass a thorough 301 Park Ave. 616-946-1510 July 8 Britton Elevator, Inc. inspection, both inside and out. Only abso- Box 4 128 N. Main St. Sept. 1 Lapeer Grain Co. lutely clean containers will be accepted. Auburn, MI 48611 Box 426 265 Howard Street Dennis Varner" Britton, MI 49229 Lapeer, MI 48446 Remove all paper labels, any aluminum foil 517 -662-4461 George Antqn Larry Hardenburg seals and container caps prior to bringing 517 -451-8001 Aug. 6 Ruth Farmers Elevator, Inc. 313-664-2987 your containers to the inspection site. These 4600 Ruth Rd. materials are incompatible with #2 HOPE July 16 Blonde's Farm Supply Sept. 3 Klein Fertilizers, Inc. Box 38 plastic and contaminate the recycled resin. 1090 Homer Road 277 S. Maple Ruth, MI 48470 Box 469 Grant, MI 49327 Ed Wicke Containers will be inspected for evidence of Litchfield, MI49252 Chuck Ransom . 517-864-3311 pressure or triple rinse, must have no visible Mark Blonde 616-834-5689 residue or staining and be reasonably dry. 517 -542-2996 Aug. 17 Bird Fertilizer & Grain Co. Store your clean containers in a secure, dry 311 Lewis Street Ohio Locations July 20 Klein Fertilizers, Inc. location until the collection date in your Edmore, MI 48829 320 Garden Lane July 14 & 15 area. If inside storage isn't available, try Dennis Straton Box 335 F & J Farm Supply large yard leaf bags. Separate clear or 517-427-5471 Fowlerville, MI 48836 Coldwater,OH opaque containers from colored if possible. Cynda Beach Aug. 19 Citizens Elevator Co., Inc. Floyd Winner 517 -223-9148 870 S. Main Street 419-678-2267 Michigan Department of Agriculture in- spectors will be on hand to examine every Vermontville, MI 49096 July 28 Berger & Co. Robert Mansfield July 22 & 23 container on the established collection day. 450 W. West Strykker Ag Center, Inc. Containers not passing inspection will be 517-726-0514 Henderson, MI 48841 Strykker, OH returned to the participant. Grower Service Dave Mose Aug. 25 Cheever's, Inc. Don Beck Corporation is providing the portable 517 -725-7933 37 W. 3rd. Street 419-682-4381 grinder at each site and is fulfilling the role Shelby, MI 49455 of industry contractor by coordinating this July 30 Mans Farm Supply August 10 & 11 Jack Cheever pilot project. 5476 136th Ave. Glenmore Farmers Grain 616-861-2526 Hamilton, MI 49419 Ohio City, OH These participating dealers have agreed to Curtis Mans Aug. 27 NW Hort Research Station Clair Dudgeon host one-day collections at their facility or 616-751-5856 6686 Center Highway 419-495-2548 at a designated local site. Traverse City, MI 49684 "Container Recycling" - continued ... an MDA inspector before it comes over to dissolvable packages will help resolve dis- the Grower Service grinder - if they don't posal concerns, but not to the degree some pass inspection, the farmer will be leaving would have you believe. with his containers," he said. "We're fol- lowing pilot projects that have occurred in "In the future, 10 percent of the chemicals Iowa and Minnesota, and the biggest first may be sold in dissolvable packages, an- year problem has been containers that don't other 20 percent may be sold in mini-bulk, pass inspection. " but the rest of the chemicals will be sold in dry flowable form in 1 or 2-1/2 gallon Clean, says Vicary, means no dirt, no chem- liquid containers," Vicary said. "We'll ical residue, and no water inside or outside never truly get away from the small pack- of the containers. At a minimum, Vicary age one gallon and 2-1/2 gallon jug." suggests the containers be triple rinsed, and/or cleaned with a high pressure washer. Themachine picture at right is a ver- sion of the grinder purchased by Vicary says the program is perhaps more Grower Service Corp. for grinding suited for Michigan than any other state, containers approved by MDA in- based on the state's diverse agricultural in- spectors. The portable unit will be dustry, and size of operations that may have mounted on a trailer along with a need for several specialty che~icals. New portable generator for use at all 16 packaging technology such as starch based locations listed above. Blossom Queen Farm Tour Southwest Michigan was filled with royalty on April 25 during the 9th annual Blossom Queen Farm Tour, sponsored by Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren county Farm Bureaus. The 25 Blossom Queens were given an opportunity to tour South- west Michigan and learn more about the agricultural industry in the region. This year's tour included stops at the Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center in Benton Harbor, Jim Miller Orchards in Coloma, Leducs Blueberry Farm in Paw Paw, and a stop at the Wayne High hog farm in Cassopolis. Below, Wendy Elsey, Cass County Promotion and Education Committee chairperson, takes time at Wayne High's hog farm to explain the elements of hog production. Triple Rinsing Pressure Rinsing To triple rinse a container: To pressure rinse a container: o Fill the container about 20 per- o Use a spe~ial nozzle attached to a cent full with water. water hose. o Replace the cap securely. D Puncture the side of the container with the poiDted nozzle. o Shake the contents to rinse all in- side surfaces. D Hold the container upside down over the spray tank with the cap re- o Pour rinse water into spray tank "moved. Pressurized water cleans and drain for at least 30 seconds. the inside while the rinsate flows into the tank. D Repeat the above process two more times. D Rinse for 30 seconds or longer while rotating the nozzle. Tripl~ .rinsing. and J?ressure r~nsing remove over 99 percent of the p~stlclde .r~sldues. In a contaln~r ..A properly rinsed container con- tains no VISible reSidues on the inSide or outside. Remember t.o rinse ~ontai~er i.m~ediately for best results. Always wear protective clothing while nnslng containers. Michigan Farm News May 30,1992 Widespread Discussion Topic For June 1992 -- "Election Reform" frustration over the length and expense of political campaigns proba- elected public officials having political ac- tion committees. Political incumbents have votes so that no presidential candidate gets a majority of the popular vote. III bly peaked during the 1988 presidential traditionally held a big advantage in most 2) Should restrictions be placed on na- race. In anticipation of President Reagan's , elections because they have name recogni- MFB policy supports limiting terms of all tional, state and local campaigns, or just retirement, dozens of hopeful Republican tion and a proven track record. Farm state and federal elected officials to two on the national level? and Democratic candidates began jockey- Bureau's proposals would help level the consecutive terms or 12 consecutive years ing for position as early as two years before playing field so worthy challengers would per office, whichever is greater. The policy 3) What can be done to put political the election. With constant media attention at least have a fighting chance. also suggests that a limitation on the terms campaigns on a "level playing field" for focused on the "front runner of the week," of federal elected officials be uniform both the incumbent and challenger? voters quickly grew weary of the entire Delegates to the 1991 MFB annual meeting across the nation. A term limitation proposal process. also recommended shortening the election will appear on the Michigan ballot Novem- 4) What do the members of your group year by combining national caucuses and ber 3. Voters in several other states have feel is the biggest problem With our cur- There has been much less pre-election primaries into a one-day National Primary already passed legislation which limits the rent political campaign structure? buildup four years later. The apparent lack Election. The policy also suggested that number of years elected officials can serve. of interest and enthusiasm, at least on the campaigns not begin more than two months 5) What can members of your group do part of the Democratic Party, was due in before the primary election. Election reform will probably remain an to become better informed about the large part to President Bush's sky-high pop- important issue beyond this election cam- candidates so they can cast an in- ularity ratings following the Persian Gulf American Farm Bureau Federation policy paign and into the future. Farm Bureau formed ballot in the election? War. Few prominent Democratic candi- opposes proposals to make the popular vote members have an important role to play in dates were willing to step forward and enter the sole determinant of presidential elec- shaping the debate and ensuring that cam- NOTE: Summer is an excellent time to what seemed to be a sure losing race. But as tions. The policy favors retaining the Elec- paign procedures are fair to both challenger get to know political candidates on a the recession dragged through into 1992, toral College for presidential elections, but and incumbent. one-to-one basis by invitin~ them to President Bush appeared much more vul- specifies that electorS should be required to your CAG meeting. And don t forget to nerable and challengers belatedly stepped vote for the candidates on the ballots to Invite the teens who participated in forward into battle. which they were pledged. This policy may Discussion Questions: Farm Bureau's Young People's Citizen- take on special interest this year if indepen- 1) Would your group members be in ship Seminar (YPCS). They can provide On the congressional level, the 1992 reap- dent candidate Ross Perot garners enough enthusiastic reports about their mock portionment and the House check-writing favor of restrictions on the time allowed for political campaigns? political experiences. scandal have led to unprecedented turnover in Congress. As a result, dozens of congres- sional candidates have filed for the primary and will begin vying for your attention and campaign contributions in the months to come. Michigan Farm Bureau is deeply commit- 8ffi~rld. Ortando, Aorida ted to improving our local, state and na- tional electoral processes. That's why the organization this month is conducting, for the 29th consecutive year, the Young People's Citizenship Seminar. This nation- ally-recognized program instructs high school juniors and seniors on the value of participating in public life. During the week-long seminar, the young people orga- nize and conduct mock political campaigns -- everything from filling out nominating petitions, to joining political parties, to vot- ing for the candidates of their choice. Because ... But Farm Bureau members, in their national Michigan Farm Bureau has added Universal Studios - Florida to our policy, have also addressed concerns about the expense, and fairness, of real political growing list of theme park discounts. campaigns. UnIversal Studios "FAN CLUB" Farm Bureau policy opposes the use of pub- offers 10% discount off admission plus additional lic funds and franking privileges in the fi- nancing of political campaigns, recom- discounts at: mends efforts to shorten political cam- paigns and limit spending, and opposes - Orlando ares hotels - Hertz Rent-A-Csr - Participating Spencer Gift Stores. Farm Bureau Continues Push for Tax Fairness, ••.............•.•..•..•. -- .....-- •..•....•.......•..•...•............•.•. ~ : Your membership entitles you to discounts at these theme parks: American farmers support the passage of several tax fairness measures, Farm Bureau recently told a Senate Finance subcommit- D Universaf Studios Fan Club . tee in Washington, D.C. D Disney landIDisney WorldIEpcot!MGM "One provision that would greatly benefit D Busch Gardens agriculture would allow a farmer or other self-employed taxpayer planning for retire- oSea WortdlCypress Gardens ment to invest proceeds from the sale of property and machinery in an individual retirement account, Keogh plan or similar o Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield ViUage retirement account -- and pay taxes only at ,To receive discounts for any of the above theme parks, check the boxes the time of withdrawal," said Al Almy, di- : next to those you're interested in,and mall to: Michigan Farm Bureau, rector of public affairs for Michigan Farm Membership ServlceslTheme Parks, P.O. Box 30960, Bureau. Lansing, MI48909-8460 Farm Bureau also supports a once-in-a-life- time exclusion of up to $125,000 in capital Name: Member 1.0.# gains on the sale of a primary residence by a taxpayer over 55, and changes in the law ,Address: ,, to allow portions of the resident farm (in- cluding land and buildings), other than the immediate farm residence, to be eligible for :City, State, Zip: the exclusion. L •• _._ ••••••••••••••••••• _. __ ••• _ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• _ ••••••••• j "Favorable capital gains treatment is also important for agriculture because of the beneficial effects on owners of farmland, livestock and timber," Almy said. "Farm Bureau supports a capital gains exclusion for insolvent farmers on liquidation of farm property, and exclusion for landowners who are forced to sell by condemnation and who do not wish to purchase new land to con- tinue agricultural operations." Michigan Farm News Food Guide Pyramid Replaces USDA's I'Basic Four" •• May 30,1992 The "basic four" food groups, which have been Madigan said the results showed the re- used as a dietary guide since the 1950s, have been vised pyramid most clearly helped people Food Guide Pyramid replaced by a new "food guide pyramid." understand the importance of eating differ- A Guide to Dally Food ChoIces ent amounts of food from the different food The pyramid was unveiled last week by U.S. Agri- groups, plus the need for moderation in the culture Secretary Edward Madigan. A year ago, a diet. Fats. Oils, & Sweets similar pyramid design generated controversy USE SPARINGLY when it was introduced and quickly withdrawn by "We need to be sure any message we put Madigan, who said he was "not convinced its mes- out can be understood clearly by everyone sage would be clear." who participates in our programs," Madi- gan said. Milk, Yogurt, Some commodity groups and nutritionists objected Meat, Poultry, Fish, & Cheese Dry Beans, Eggs, to the pyramid last year because they felt certain The food guide pyramid recotrlmends six to Group & Nuts Group products - particularly milk and meat - were unfa- II daily servings of breads, cereals, rice 2-3 SERVINGS 2-3 SERVINGS vorably portrayed. and pasta, which are shown at the base of the pyramid. The second tier is made up of This year, more controversy centered around the vegetables and fruits, with three to five Vegetable Fruit cost of additional studies Madigan ordered - ap- servings of vegetables and two to four serv- Group Group 3-5 SERVINGS proximately $855,000 - than on the placement of ings of fruits recommended. The next tier 2-4 SERVINGS the foods. But Madigan said that amount is only a is the milk, yogurt and cheese group, and fraction of the $320 million spent annually by the meat, poultry, fish, dry beans and peas, USDA on nutrition education. eggs and nuts group. USDA recommends two to three daily servings. The study presented several graphics, including the pyramid, to 26 focus groups in four cities through- The top tier is fats, oils and sweets, which out the country. Two graphics emerged as the should be consumed sparingly, according strongest from the testing - one was a revised to USDA. version of the pyramid and the other was a bowl. The "basic four" included the meat, milk, bread, and fruit and vegetable groups. Madigan said the new pyramid is not meant to create the impression of good and bad foods. "If the pyramid recommends fewer serv- . I ings of one type of food than of another, that doesn't mean one food is less important than another," Madigan said. "All foods provide important nutrients. The trick is making lower-fat choices." MSU Horticultural Research in Jeopardy The recent suspension of federal funding for agricultural research has put four long- term MSU research projects at risk, ac- cording to Wayne Loescher, MSU Depart- ment of Horticulture chairperson. • At risk is $39,000 for celery disease resis- tance research, $94,000 for asparagus yield decline, $94,000 for apple storage ~ quality, and another $283,000 for cherry aY~i4"'~ and peach yield decline research. O~M~ o .'It~" The immediate effects of this financial loss is that 20 MSU researchers and technicians risk not getting .paid for their work. Loescher predicts this will halt or fragment the research being conducted as techni- cians begin looking for work elsewhere. The funds are being withheld because of an order from President Bush to Congress to revote on several budget items that he considers "pork barrel" spending. The funds in question had been approved ear- lier in. previous budget packages, but they'll have to be approved again for the federal funds to be restored. Congress has roughly 40 in-session days In these tough economic times all business owners are looking for ways to improve their bottom line. to determine the fate of these research pro- jects. Loescher says that agricultural re- . Now Farm Bureau can help with a new money saving group Health Plan from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. ~ search projects should not be considered These neW plans are guaranteed issue no matter what your health history, locally serviced by our 69 county offices and 400 agents statewide, pork barrel spending projects because the consumer and the environment are the ul- and competitively priced to save farm Qwners and operators hundreds or even thousands of dollars off their health insurance bill. timate beneficiaries of the research. So, jf you're a sole proprietor or if you have one or more emRloyees, you shQul~ call Farm Bureau today for benefit and rate information. '# _ .. ""CH,GAN ~ , 'EIfIj FIiRItI BVREIIV FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION RATE QUOTE - Fill OUT THE COUPON BELOW OR CALL DIRECT 1-800-292-2680, EXT. 3239 OR 3240. Please mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau Membership Services Tailored Building~y.stems P.O. Box 30960 lansing, MI 48909 The Sign of Quality Please Print Since 1967 Name Current Health Insurance Address Number of Full Time Employees o Sale proprietor (1 person group) Phone o 2-4 0 5-9 County o 10-24 0 25 and over 1-800-955-7005 Type of Farm/Business MFN: