I • Michigan Farm News . ' 1-=1 October 15, 1992 Vol. 69, No. 17 Ethanol Compromise Good News for Agriculture President George Bush finally made the ing to USDA estimates. Between 1985 and long awaited announcement that U.S. com 1991, U.S. ethanol consumption has been producers across the country had been stable at roughly 750 to 800 million gallons waiting for. He granted ethanol the annually, or 300 million to about 400 mil- volatility waiver it needed to be included in lion bushels of com. the 1995 Clean Air Act, effectively revers- ing an earlier decision by the U.S. Environ- Bush said the administration also advocates mental Protection Agency to reduce other measures to increase the use of ethanol's role in the reformulated gasoline ethanol, including extending current tax program. breaks to ethyl tertiary butyl ether (ETBE), which is made from butane and ethanol. He Saying the initiative would help American also plans to push EP A to accelerate farmers while improving the environment, development of the "complex model" for Bush said it would also help increase the reformulated gasoline, which would allow use of a domestically produced renewable refiners more flexibility in meeting clean fuel and lessen dependence on oil imports. air standards. The waiver will apply to 30 percent of the total reformulated gasoline market in The Bush administration also pledged to several cities to reduce emissions. ensure that all 39 cities slated to begin burn- • The Clean Air Act requires nine of the most polluted U.S. cities, -- Baltimore, Chicago, ing high-oxygen content gasolines this winter are able to do so, and to limit the ability of states to discourage ethanol use by Los Angeles, Houston, Milwaukee, New capping levels of oxygenates. York, Philadelphia, Hartford, Conn., and San Diego -- to significantly reduce automobile emissions starting in 1995 by using reformulated gasoline with a mini- mum of 2 percent oxygen. Michigan's Dairy Super-Poo/tDebate Continues Efforts to resolve the Michigan dairy to distribute premiums received on fluid "There's not much time after the Novem- The EP A had claimed the volatility or sum- industry's debate over a Super Pool con- milk sales, proved successful and was even- ber election for the state legislature to act mer vapor level of ethanol blended fuels tinue, as both the Michigan House and tually adopted by producers in other states. on the pending legislation," said Kirk. "If it were too high, contributing to summertime Senate Agriculture Committees consider isn't approved before the end of this legis- smog problems. Under its proposed rules, legislative language calling for a state Milk Under the program, farmers received addi- lative session, the legislation has to start the one pound volatility waiver had been Marketing Order to replace the Super-Pool tional premiums on milk sold for fluid use, from square one in the next session." eliminated despite ethanol's proven track disbanded in May. because marketing cooperatives had agreed • record. Just a 10 percent blend of the ethanol and gasoline can lower carbon Legislation has been offered as an amend- ment to the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance to pool additional premiums in the same way that Federal Order prices are pooled. Unfortunately, Michigan dairy farmers have the mo~t to lose long-term if the cur- monoxide levels and provide an overall This allowed all producers to receive a por- rent stalemate isn't resolyed either legisla- reduction in emissions by 17 to 33 percent. (PMO), but neither the House nor the Senate tion of the premium regardless of the actual tively or independently between the milk have referred the measure to the full floor source of the milk that generated the "over marketing co-ops. Kirk said that MFB will Farm Bureau and the National Corn for a vote. The PMO is designed to move order premi um. " continue working as a mediator with all the Growers Association had pressed hard for Michigan's dairy quality standards in line co-ops and other handlers involved to find a fuel volatility waiver that would bring with federal standards and to include the Nearly 20 meetings have been held with a solution. \ .. '~~ ; ethanol in compliance with the reformu- dairy and beef quality assurance program members of Michigan's dairy industry lated gasoline standards. However, the that began in July. since January to develop ~ s~~te marketing "The over prder premiums a'ntl Super Pool U.S. Justice Department had ruled such a order agreement outside -the' legisJative have proven very ben'eficial for the. waiver would be illegal. The Super Pool concept, or over order arena, according to MFB Dairy Spec~alist: . -I\/Fc~igan dairy industry in the past," said premium, was pioneered by Michigan Milk Kevin Kirk. Despite.:-tho'se meetings,. 'the Kirk. "It has put additional dollars into the Bush's decision to grant corn-based Producers Association, Independent Super-Pool fell apart in May,' 'when tl).~ dairy prqducer~ po'?l5-etWithout any kind ethanol the one pound volatility waiver in Cooperative Milk Producers Association Producer Equalization Committee was dig'":.: .. ofa state order in pla'ce, ,the financial out- • the 1995 Clean Air Act, means that another 300 million bushels of U.S. com will be and other Michigan milk marketing cooperatives in 1956. The Super Pool, used ?lved, making the future of a state market- mg order unclear. t~k:f~~~ch~gan dairy farmer~.is definite- ly more-negative.:.'> used in ethanol production by 1997, nearly double the amount currently used, accord- The sight of a field of corn like this one may have been a rarity on many Michigan farms this year, with many parts of the state experiencing the first frost prior to \Jl> full crop maturity. The Michigan Agricul- Q\J , c: tural Statistics Service reports that nearly to 2: ~ n'~ all of the corn crop had dented, but only ~co 0'~ 15 percent was mature as of Oct. 6. m .0 sa. ;: Silage harvest was 30 percent complete, -..j to) -..j n' ::T with corn rated 60 percent good to excel- cO' to) =:Ill~ , lent overall statewide. ~~ • eg, 3 ~ toc: III ::riil Nearly 95 percent of the state's soybean crop had shed leaves with 35 percent ~ ~ rated mature. Harvest was just getting r III underway. Drybean harvest was 70 per- ~:i' cent complete and were rated 95 percent 'P mature, and 70 percent fair to good. ~ ~ CD co Cool night temperatures delayed potato g harvest, which requires temperatures of 50 degrees or higher for harvest. Sugar- beet harvest was 15 percent complete, but should accelerate with open harvest expected to begin by mid-October. Michigan Farm News Classified Ad Section - See Coupon Page 15 Michigan Farm News -. October 15, 1992 In Brief ... Milk Linked to Diabetes? - Where Does it End? MDA Hearing Held on Corn Marketing Proposal A group calling themselves the Physicians' Committee for Resp?nsible. Medicine is doing Nearly 30 people were on hand for a Sept. 24 Michigan Department of Agriculture hearing everything but being responsibl~. At recen.t pr~ss ~onferen~es 1.0 B~ltlJno.re and Boston, to provide comments about the need for a statewide corn check-off referendum which could the group alleged that consumption of c~w s mtlk ISa co~tnbutm~ fac~or 10 the develop- be scheduled Nov. 30 - Dec. 11, according to Michigan Corn Growers Association ment of juvenile diabetes and could pOSSiblycause allergies and digestive problems. Executive Director Tim Draeger. PCRM is a quack-vegetarian group. The American Medic(.~1Associ~ti.on has said that less "The hearing was held so that MDA Director Bill Schuette could determine if there's a than 10 percent of the committee's I.nember~ ~re bona fide physlcla~s. It~ head, Neal need or cause to go ahead with Michigan's Corn Marketing Program referendum," said Barnard, is a psychologist and animal ngh.ts actlvls~. Nevertheless, the~ did enlIst Dr. Spock Draeger. "Based on the amount of support shown at the hearing, I'm confident they (MDA) and the head of pediatrics at John Hopkms Hospital, Dr. Frank OSkl, to push the cause. will move ahead with the referendum." Oski wrote a 1977 book called "Don't Drink Your Milk." The hearing was the result of a petition received by MDA with over 200 signatures calling Dr. Terry Hatch, a member of the Ameri~an Ac~demy of Pediatrics Nu~rit~on Con~mit~ee, for the establishment of a corn marketing program. After receiving the petition, the MDA said his group would not recommend agall1st chtldren o~er a year old dr~nk1I1gcow s l!l1lk. appointed a producer committee to draft the corn marketing program proposal. In the Sept. 30, 1992 New Yo.rk Ti/11~s, Dr. RO~laldKI.e~nm~n,who chalrs.that comrmlt~e, said "The major problem With their (P~RM s) po~~t1on IS th.at they are unn~ces.sanly Ken Swanson, Gratiot County Farm Bureau member and chairman of the MFB Wheat and frightening parents who worry that they Willdo h.arm If they contl.nue.to allo~ their children Feed Grain Advisory Committee, spoke on behalf of MFB in support of th~ proposed to have dairy products. There is no single perfect food, but mtlk IS a major source of a referendum. If successful, it will collect I cent per bushel at the point of first purchase, with number of important nutrients." funds used to promote corn products, as well as research and market development. As forthe diabetes charge, which surfaced in the July 30 N~w England Journal ?fMe~icine, USDA Sets 50 Percent Advance Deficiency Payments which was reporting on a Finnish study, the research director of the Juvemle ~Iabetes Foundation, Sara King, said: "It is much too premature to make recommendations on USDA has announced that farmers who participate in 1993 farm programs for wheat, feed dietary restrictions." King said she was "un~omfortable" with urging young childr~n to grains, rice and upland cotton, may request 50 percent of their estimated deficiency refrain from dairy products. The most interestlI1g rebuttal came from the Center for SCience payments during the signup period, according to Knight Ridder News. in the Public Interest (a Ralph Nader offshoot that ain't usually on our side). Bonnie Liebman, CSPI's nutrition director, said, "I fear the committee's dietary advice is in- USDA has not yet announced details of the signup period, but a USDA official in~icated fluenced by its animal rights agenda." that it likely would begin in January. USDA also announced that farmers who applIed for the 40 percent advance deficiency payment for 1992 crop support programs would now receive up to 50 percent of the estimated payments. 1993 Corn Acreage Reduction Set at 10 Percent USDA has announced the acreage reduction program for corn in 1993 wi II be set at 10 USDA Considers Entering Corn in Reserve percent, up from 5 percent in 1992. USDA also set acreage reduction program I~vels for USDA officials say they are considering a number of options to help ease the impact on the grain sorghum at 5 percent in 1993, and barley and oats at zero. The ~o.rn set-aSide level market of this fall's expected large corn crop. The USDA estimates the 1992 crop will reach was raised because corn stocks for the 1993-94 are forecast about 745 mtilIon bushels larger 8.7 billion bushels, more than a billion higher than last year's 7.5 billion bushel output. than last year because of an expected larger crop this year, USDA said. One of those options would be to open the farmer-owned reserve to accept some of the com. USDA Secretary Edward Madigan used his discretionary authority under the General The National Corn Growers Association has asked that 600 to 900 million bushels be placed Agreements on Tariffs and Trade to waive a minimum 7.5 percent set-aside for grain immediately into the reserve; however, rules require that the grain must first be placed under sorghum and barley, keeping both at 5 percent. The action was necessary to ensure adequate the regular 9-month loan from the Commodity Credit Corporation before it can be rolled supplies of these grains and keep the U.S. competitive in world markets, he said. into the farmer-owned reserve for up to 27 months. A USDA official said the department would implement marketing loans for 1993 corn and other feed grains. However, no details on marketing loans were announced. Target prices U.S. Rejects Complaints on Wheat Subsidies and price support and purchase rates for the 1993 corn, sorghum, barley and oat crops and The U.S. is rejecting complaints from Australia and other wheat producing count~es against the loan level for rye are unchanged from 1992, USDA said. the increased subsidy of U.S. wheat exports. Rufus Yerxa, U.S. trade negotiator at the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, told reporters that there had, in fact, not been any September Farm Prices Unchanged from August rise in outlays on wheat subsidies. Rather, the U.S. administration had decided on "an annualization of piecemeal" subsidies and sales of subsidized wheat. U.S. subsidies were The index of prices received by U.S. farmers for their products in September was "much lower" than those of the E.C., he said. unchanged from the August level and was down 5.4 percent from Sept. 1991, according to a Knight Ridder News report. He noted that the U.S. share of the world market had dropped from 40 percent to 30 percent while the E.C. share has risen from 15 percent to 22 percent. In any event, Yerxa stated, the Lower prices in September from August for hogs, potatoes, broilers and onions were offset U.S. "has always said it will compete with the E.C. subsidies program. "The entire matter by increased prices for eggs, tobacco, wheat and tomatoes. USDA said in its monthly would be resolved, he noted, if the E.C. went along with radical subsidy cuts at the Uruguay Agricultural Prices report. USDA said the decline from a year ago was driven primarily by Round of world trade liberalization talks. the extreme change in orange prices from record high levels in 1991. Excluding orange prices, price increases from a year ago for cattle, milk, lettuce and wheat OSHA Regulations Could Soon Hit Farm Employers more than offset price decreases for hogs, cotton, corn and lemons. Without the influence of orange prices, the index would have been two points higher than a year ago. The rules of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have had little bearing on most farm operations, but that could end if the OSHA Reform Act of ~992 is ap~roved by Congress, warns an article in the October FARM JOURNAL magazme. The bill would Michigan Bean Commission Elects New Officers for eliminate the small farm employer exemption. The article, "OSHA Eyes Small Employers," Coming Year outlines how employers of 10 or fewer full-time workers, previously exemp~ from federal OSHA regulations, would be impacted if included under the onerous regulatlOns. Tom Schindler, a grower representative from Kawkawlin, has been elected chairman of the Michigan Bean Commission. Schindler represents Arenac, Bay, Mecosta and Midland "l Libby Whitley, labor specialist for the American Farm Bureau .. is quoted in ~he article, counties on the commission. saying "What it (the law) actually does is empower employees With broad new rIghts at the expense ofthe employer, who ends up being stuck with broad new responsibilities, liabilities Jack Sturm, a Huron County grower representative, was elected vice chair, and Gary Pruden, and penalties." Farm Bureau opposes the legislation, which would wipe o~t the small- a Charlotte grower, representing Eaton, Ingham, Clinton and Shiawassee counties, was employer exemption and add tough new safety and health standards and reqUIrements. selected treasurer. Schindler farms more than 1,000 acres in Kawkawlin Township of Bay County with his Upper Peninsula Potato Festival Oct. 28 son, Terry, and replaces Kendall English, a Gratiot County farmer, who served as chair of Potatoes, potatos ...no matter how your spell it, that's what the 63rd annual ~.P. Pota~o the commission for two years. Sturm was previously the treasurer of the Commission, and Show is all about. On Oct. 28, Michigan's Upper Peninsula Potato Growers will gather 10 farms about 2,500 acres in partnership with his brother, Terry, and Clare Swartzendruber Escanaba at the Ruth Butler Building located on the U.P. State Fairgrounds for this event. near Pigeon in Huron County. Program Chairperson Joanne, Stefl reports that several commercial exhi~its of the latest equipment and potato seed stock will be available as we~l as sever~l educatlO~al booths. In The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS (ISSN:0743-9962) is publisht:d semi-monthly except in the months of November, addition, the Michigan Potato Industry Commission Will be holdmg a meetmg nearby at December, June, and July when only one issue is printed, as a service to regular members, by Michigan Farm the Ramada Inn as will the U.P. Potato Growers Association. Bureau, 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, M148917. Member subscription price of $1.50 included in annual dues of Michigan Farm Bureau regular members. Additional subscription fees required for mailing Michigan Farm The festival will also include the popular pasty contest with two categories, one for business News to non-members and outside the continental U.S.A. Application to mail at Second-Class Postage rates is and another for organizations. Area students also have an ?pportunity to participate in a pending at Lansing, MI and additional mailing offices. Letters to the editor and statewide news articles should be poster contest sponsored by the U.P. Potato Growers AssoclatlOn. sent to: Editor, Michigan Farm News, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI48909-8460. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Michigan Farm News, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI 48909-8460. The schedule for the day's events: Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. Staff Contributors: Mike Rogers; Connie Turbin; Donna Wilber; Henry Huisjen. 8 - 11 a.m Potato and Exhibit Set-Up Officers: President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President, Wayne Wood, Marlette; Administrative Director, Chuck 8 - 12 a.m Michigan Potato Industry Commission Meeting - Ramada Inn Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. Directors: District 1, 10 - 12 noon U.P. Potato Growers Association Meeting - Ramada Inn Jim Miller, Coloma; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane Horning, Manchester; District 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; District 7, Larry Snider, Hart; (Luncheon sponsored by Michigan Potato Industry Commission) District 8, Richard Leach, Saginaw; Dislricl 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West 1 - 5 p.m U.P. Potato Show Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Douglas Darling, Maybee; Jack Laurie, Cass City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and Education, Leona Daniels, Sterling. Young Farmers, Steven 4 p.m U.P. Pasty Contest Registration and Judging Gonyea, Spruce. 5 - 6 p.m Social/Hospitality Hour . Michigan Farm News ITOL o -. October 15, 1992 o :D Z m :D The bill would require all producers of swine to test for pseudorabies and if the disease is found, the farm would be quarantined until eradication of the disease has oc- curred. Comminuted Meat MFB POSITION: Legislation sponsored by Rep. Randall (R-Elwell) to Farm Bureau is neutral on strengthen standards for comminuted meat, including the HB 5468. fat standards in hamburger, has passed both houses and is awaiting the governor's signature. It would provide cus- MFB CONTACT: tomers with a label to clearly indicate the fat content and Ron Nelson, Ext. 2043 also provide for new products and ingredients. One ex- ample of a new product is sausage that includes cherries. Under current law, this would not be allowed in Michigan. The bill would limit the fat content in hamburger by re- quiring accurate labeling of the product so consumers may purchase lean or extra lean hamburger. Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) MFB POSITION: House Bill 5990, sponsored by Rep. Harder (D-Owosso), Farm Bureau supports HB would adopt the federal PMO standards that milk must 5990. meet to be sold throughout the United States. The bill also includes more stringent standards for antibiotic and MFB CONTACT: temperature requirements, plus penalties for violations. Ron Nelson, Ext. 2043 These proposed standards are current practice for most of Michigan's dairy industry. Adoption of this bill is impor- tant to Michigan producers to pennit the export of milk from Michigan to other states. Limitation of Passengers in the Bed of a Truck Amendments to the Recreational Trespass Act MFB POSITION: ~e~. Keith (D~Garden City) i~ sponsoring legislation to Farm Bureau supports HB hmit transportmg passengers In the bed of a truck to work- Senate Bills 808 and 809, sponsored by Sen. Faust (D- 5044, which has been related a~t!vities only ~nd .~ould only ~llow this .work-re- M.F.B. POSITION: Westland), amend the Recreational Trespass Act to allow a reported out of a joint la~ed actIvlt~ to occur In CitIes, townshIps, and Villages Fanh Bureau offered lan- peace officer to seize property and enforce the act upon House-Senate Conference With populatIons less than 30,000. guage that ensures that no complaint of the landowner. Penalty provisions are cause of action shall arise Committee and sent to The bill would also prohibit riding in the back of a truck provided for a first time violater at 90 days in jailor $100 against the owner of the both houses for concur- on any freeway at any time, including those passing fine or both, and subsequent violations within 3 years in- property for an injury un- rence. through such cities, villages, and townships with popula- crease the fine to $1,000 and 90 days in jailor both. less there was an un- tions less than 30,000. An exemption has been included in reasonable risk of harm The courts may order the violater to pay the costs of MFB CONTACT: the bill to permit riding in the back of a truck for all fann If' that the owner was aware prosecution and also to make restitution for any damage to Ron Nelson, Ext. 2043 related activities for family members and employees. of and the owner failed to the property arising out of the violation. If the person exercise reasonable care trespasses while hunting or fishing, the court may revoke to make the condition the person's hunting or fishing license for up to three years. Milk Truck Spring Weight Restriction Exemption safe. House Bill 6142, sponsored by Rep. Gernaat (R-McBain), Posting of property is nQt required on farmlands, but the FB POSITION: bill changes the requirements for posting of signs on proper- MFB policy opposes HB has been reported out of committee to the House floor for M.F.B. CONTACT: further action. The bill would exempt milk hauling trucks Vicki Pontz, Ext. 2046 ty from a minimum of 2 inch letter height to a maximum of 6142, and supports main- 50 square inches for the posting sign. No one may post taining the current weight from the spring weight restrictions unless the County Road another's property without written consent of the owner. laws for trucks. An ex- Commission has detennined that irreparable damage is oc- Both pieces of legislation were reported out of the Senate curring to the roads, at which time a suspension of the ex- emption would establish Natural Resources Cpmmittee on Oct. 1 and are now before emption would occur. bad precedent and put the full Senate for a vote. roads at risk of deteriora- The suspension would not be effective until the milk tion, creating a burden on hauler has received 24-hour notification and the County all taxpayers. Road Commission has met with the milk hauler and made Michigan Farm Bureau reasonable effortS to designate an alternate route. The (517) 323-7000 MFBCONTACT: decision of the County Road Commission would be sub- Darcy Cypher, Ext. 2048 ject to review by a Circuit Court. Michi an Farm News _ October 15, 1992 3D-Day Outlook - A verage Temperatures and Wet 90-Day Outlook - Below A verage Temperatures and Wet $--1 September Weather Summary In contrast to earlier predictions of warm and dry conditions. September turned out 9/1/92 Mi~h/gan Weather Summsf}', Temperature Growing Degree Days to be cooler and wetter than normal across to 9130/92 Observed Dev. From Actual ,--~--_.: ~ much of the state. Two separate outbreaks Mean Normal Accum. of arctic air on Sept. 23-25 and again on Alpena 56.7 - 0.8 1632 Sept. 29-30, brought frost and freezing Bad Axe 62.9 - 3.8 1864 temperatures to all but extreme Detroit 62.4 -1.3 2435 southeastern Lower Michigan and areas Escanaba 56.4 - 0.8 1395 -J.__ .~ near the lakes. Unfortunately. this also brought a prema- Flint Grand Rapids Houghton 61.4 60.8 55.7 - 0.2 - 1.1 + 0.1 2272 2262 1451 ture end to a record cool growing season, Houghton Lake 58.0 - 0.3 1796 ending growth of some crops well before Jackson 60.8 - 3.0 2223 reaching full maturity, especially in north- Lansing 60.4 -1.3 2163 ~ ~ ern and central sections of the state. Marquette 54.1 +0.3 1372 Muskegon 60.5 -1.1 2049 Similar to the unusual frost events of the Pellston 56.8 +0.8 1675 past spring and early summer, the effect of Saginaw 64.2 -2.8 2159 ~ Sault Ste. Marie 55.0 - 0.2 1294 the recent cold temperatures was highly dependent upon typography and exposure, South Bend 63.2 - 0.5 2571 with the worst damage occurring in low- Traverse City 59.3 -1.5 2231 Vestaburg 58.7 -,3.2 2012 lying areas and to the outer rows of in- dividual fields. The latest 90-day National Weather Ser- vice outlook indicates some potential problems for completing fall harvest. 30 & 90 Day Outlook Both the 3D-day and the 90-day outlooks are calling for average rainfall amounts to be above normal. This would be particularly bad news for southern portions of the state where r Michigan and Major Commodity Area heavier than normal rainfall has persisted since July. I Extended Weather Outlook T - Temp. 10/15 10/30 10/15 12131 P - Precip. T P T E Temperatures during the remainder of October are expected to average near normal, while Tailored Building~}:stems Michigan N A A A temperatures for the 90-day forecast are expected to be below normal. If this outlook is W. Corn Belt N N B N accurate, it could mean heavier and earlier than normal snow cover for much of the state. The Sign of Quality E. Corn Belt B A B A especially in lake effect areas. Since 1967 Wint. Wheat Belt N N B A Spr. Wheat Belt N N B N Pac. NW Wheat B N N B Delta Southeast N A N A B N A A Midwest Crops Late - But San Joaquin A B A N Quality in-House Design. Delivery &: Construction Post Frame &: Steel Construction A-Above Average, B-Below Average, N-Nor- Majority Rated Excellent Shape mal, MA-Much Above, MB-Much Below, NP- 1-800-955-7005 No Precip. Source: National Weather Office Ohio Corn was 7 percent harvested, down from Little frost damage had been reported as of 60 percent in 1991, and 30 percent on Oct. 6, according to the Ohio Agricultural average. Harvest moisture was averaging Statistics Service. Only 45 percent of the 29 percent. corn crop was reported mature, compared to 100 percent a year ago, and the five-year Illinois average of 65 percent. Harvest was 5 per- Soybean harvest in Illinois had kicked into cent complete, down from 44 percent last high gear, according to the Illinois Agricul- year and the 20 percent five-year average. tural Statistics Service, although total har- vested acres were still behind. Little frost The corn crop was rated 23 percent excel- damage had been reported as of Oct. 6. lent, 50 percent good, 22 percent fair, 4 percent poor, and I percent very poor, con- The corn crop was rated 72 percent mature, siderably better than ratings for last year's compared with 100 percent last year, and corn crop. Moisture levels were averaging the 96 percent average. Corn harvest was 28.7 percent. most active in the southern two-thirds of the state, with only 6 percent reported har- For soybeans, 65 percent of the crop was vested, compared to the 46 percent average. reported mature, down from 100 percent in Overall, corn was rated 14 percent excel- Faced with a harvest season full of uncertainty, isn't it comforting 1991, but just short of the 70 percent five- lent, 81 percent good, and 5 percent fair. to know that there's a diesel fuel available to Michigan farmers year average. Nearly 16 percent of the soybean crop had been harvested, down Soybeans were rated 13 percent excellent, that can help take the risk out of your farm operation? At Farmers from 56 percent last year and 30 percent on 81 percent good, and 6 percent fair. Nearly Petroleum Cooperative, Inc., we know that your diesel equipment average. Average moisture levels in beans 97 percent of the soybeans had turned yel- is an expensive investment that you want to protect and count on. were running 14 percent. low, close to the 98 percent average. Michigan's finest premium diesel fuel is FPC's GOLD FLAME Soybean harvest was 34 percent complete Custom Diesel Fuel. An improved deterb~nt package continually Soybeans were rated 17 percent excellent, compared with 65 percent in 199 I, and the 46 percent good, 29 percent fair, 6 percent average of 50 percent. flushes injectors to prevent gum and lacquer deposits, increasing poor, and 2 percent very poor, which is injector life while increasing horsepower and reducing smoke reportedly well-above 1991 ratings at this Iowa emissions. time. Frost damage as of Oct. 6 had been minimal to Iowa crops, despite freezing tempera- GOLD FLAME Custom Diesel Fuel also offers a dispersing Indiana tures on Sept. 29, according to the Iowa agent that suspends water particles more effectively. GOLD The Indiana Agricultural Statistics Service Agricultural Statistics Service. Nearly 84 FLAME's low sulfur content and high lubricity help ensure even was predicting a rapid increase in harvest- percent of the corn crop had matured - safe operation. ing activity as crops reach maturity and from frost - down from 100 percent on Farmers Petroleum offers a limited satisfaction guarantee on moisture levels fall. Soybeans were 24 per- average. Overall, 99 percent of the crop was cent harvested, down from 54 percent in reported either in or past the dent, at which .. GOLD FlAME Custom Diesel Fuel. If for any reason you're not 1991, and the 68 percent average. All point frost damage to yields are minimal. completely satisfied, we will give you a complete refund on the soybean acreage had yellowed. unused portion of your last delivery .• Combines were out in full force the first GOLD FLAME Custom Diesel Fuel, available exclusively Soybeans were rated 7 percent excellent, week of October but, only 8 percent of the through FPC Retail Centers and authorized dealers. Ask for it by 75 percent good, 17 percent fair, and 1 corn acreage had been harvested, down name. Call 1-800-292-2680, ext. 3307 for the authorized dealer percent poor. The 82 percent good or better from 25 percent last year and 30 percent rating compares to 39 percent at the same average. Corn was reported 22 percent ex- nearest you. * Certain restrictions apply time in 1991. cellent, 70 percent good, and 8 percent fair. Corn was rated 72 percent mature, more Soybean harvest is well underway with 25 than three weeks behind last year and 12 percent of the acreage harvested, compared days behind the 86 percent average. Crop to 31 percent for 1991, and 48 percent on condition was rated as 12 percent excellent, average. Nearly 96 percent of the soybean 72 percent good, and 16 percent fair, very crop was shedding leaves up from 94 per- comparable to the 83 percent good or better cent a year ago. Soybeans were rated 20 average ratings, and the 16 percent good or percent excellent, 69 percent good, and 11 better rating last year. percent fair. Michigan Farm News October 15, 1992 cooperation Michigan Hay Sellers List Being Compiled The MIchIgan Hay and Forage CouncIl, in with the Michigan State mail information to MSU Extension Ser- vice, Osceola County Courthouse, P.O. ~- - U - U - - - - U U - - - - - U - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - U U - - U IIul U - - - U - University Extension Service, is compiling Box 208, Reed City, MI 49677 (see ~ Michigan Hay Seller Listing Counon a list of farms with hay for sale in the state of Michigan, according Lindquist, CES Director for Osceola Coun- to Gerald coupon), or phone the information direct to the office by calling (616) 832-6139. , I : Name: ,., I ty and statewide coordinator for the The information required to list the hay is : \ Michigan Hay List. name, address, phone number, county,: Address: l quantity of bales or tons, type of bale : l "We've gone through this process for three (round or square), type of hay (alfalfa, al- : l years as a way to help Michigan hay falfa mixed, etc.), which cutting (I st, 2nd,: City: Zip l producers market their hay," explains 3rd), weight of bale, hay test results (if : Lindquist. "Last year, we had 30 producers tested), whether or not trucking is avail-: Phone'( on the list and I'd guess we moved a mini- able, asking price (optional), and the best : . County: mum of 300 ton or more of hay. Last year, time of day to be reached. This listing ser- : a majority of the hay on this list was sold vice is provided free of charge. : 1st Cutting: 2nd Cutting: 3rd Cutting: by March." (indicate number of bales available) , I Although not required, Lindquist suggests I Lindquist reports that there is a wide dis- I producers who have had their hay tested parity of hay yields in the state this year, include the test results to help potential : Type of Bales: Big Round Bales Square Bales with much of central and southern I buyers identify sources of hay to meet their I Michigan receiving ample rainfall, while particular needs. : Type of Hay: most of northern Michigan was very dry. I The list will be used to help northern The list will be published in the Michigan I producers in need of hay to locate hay in the : Avg. Weight of Bale: Farm News, and the Hay and Forage , I rest of the state. Newsletter once completed. Lindquist said that the list should be complete by late : Tested: yes/no Trucking Available: yes/no The list will again be compiled by the Os- November and may be requested directly : j ceola County Extension office. Sellers from the Osceola County Extension office : Mail to: Osceola CES, P.O. Box 208, Reed City, MI 49677 j wanting to list their hay for sale may either at the above phone number. ~-----------------------------------------------__-- J Your Farm Can't Afford To Be Without It! AgriBank FCB Reports MICHIGAN FARM $16.9 Million Second Quarter Net Income AgriBank, FCB, created through the con- solidation of the Farm Credit Banks of St. Louis and St. Paul, and associations reported $] 6.9 million of combined net in- come for the quarter ended June 30, 1992, bringing year-to-date earnings to $65.5 mil- lion. This is compared to $39.7 million and $77.5 million, respectively, for the same period a year ago. The district's second quarter results were affected by expenses related to the May 1 merger of the Farm Credit Banks of St. Louis and St. Paul. To date, merger-related expenses totaled $27.6 million. However, this is an investment that is already begin- ning to payoff through reduced overhead and increased portfolio diversification, said C. T. Fredrickson, chief executive officer of AgriBank, FCB. District loan volume as of June 30, 1992, totaled $9.1 billion or $85.7 million more than the December 31, 1991 volume. For the same period in 1991, loan volume was also $9.1 billion. The increase in volume from March 31 is due to seasonal commer- cial volume. The credit quality of the loan portfolio, as measured by the loans acceptably clas- sified, continued to improve. Nonaccrual .. ..... MiChi~~~:::/farl1J, Radio Network ?,.~~» ~~ ' .. loans have declined 10 percent and 17 per- cent from December 31, 1991 and June 30, ."..~..29M?Chig~n Radio Stations provi4~.their locallist~ners with the la~est in market analysis and news. 1991, respectively . . Check with 'your local station for program times. ,. Stat/ori: •.',~~ . "City . Fieq. Morning Noon x Station •. City Freq. Morning Noon <, "Overall, I'm pleased by the financial per- .." WABJ ' .. :' Adrian "'1490 .. ~ 5:45 am 12:15 pm WJIM ... lansing 1250 5:05 am 12:15 pm formance of AgriBank and.district associa- WATZ ;" .. AIREJna .. 1450 5:30 am 12:15 pm ' WWGZ Lapeer 1530 12:15 pm tions," said Fredrickson. "Net interest in- WPZA .. Ann Arbor .1050 6:15 am 12:05 pm WNBY Newbeny 92.5 12:15 pm come during the second quarter was strong, WLEW .• Bad Axe ..• " "1340 • . 6:30 am 12:50 pm WOAP .. Owosso 1080 6:15 am 12:30 pm and it is these earnings that are building the WHFB .. "'Benton Harbor 1060. 12:30 pm WHAK .. Rogers City 960 7:10 am 12:15 pm < •• ,,12:45 pm 1580 6:15 am solid capital base that ensures agriculture WKYO ., Caro 1360 \ 6:15 am WSJ ... St. Joh~s 12:15 pm WTVB ,. Coldwater 1590 5:45am WMLM .. St. LOUIS 1540 6:06 am 12:20 pm will have a financially strong source of WDOW .. Dowagiac 1440 6:15 am 12:15 pm WSGW .. Saginaw 790 5:55 am 12:15 pm lending that understands American agricul- WACY .. , Fenton 1160 6:15 am 12:15 pm WMIC ... Sandusky 660 6:15 am 12:45 pm ture, now and in the future." WGHN .. Grand Haven 1370192.1 5:45 am 12:15 pm WKZC .. Scottville 95.9 5:45am 12:30 pm WPLB .. Greenville 1380 6:15 am 12:45 pm WCSY .. South Haven 940 12:15 pm AgriBank, FCB and district associations WBCH •. Hastings 1220 6:15 am 12:30 pm WKJC .. , Tawas City 104.7 12:45 pm provide credit and consulting services to WCSR .. Hillsdale 1340 6:45am 12:45 pm WLKM Three Rivers 1510/95.9 6:15 am 12:15 pm 12:15 Pm WTCM Travers!3 City 580 5:55 am 12:40 pm more than 175,000 farmers, ranchers and WHTC .. , Holland 1450 WKZO . : .KaOOmizoo ~590 12:15 pm rural home buyers in a seven-state area , , (Arkansas, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, , , Missouri, North Dakota and Wisconsin). ~ '< ., se:ri!1(Jg~M!chigi1n Farm Families'is Our Only Business ,y'» '" They are part of the nationwide Farm Credit System. . Michigan Farm News October 15, 1992 ...... •••••••• ••••••• .... •••••~.'I ••••••• .. r. . 1• Dr. Jim Hilker, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, MSU Corn Market Outlook Dairy Outlook E~RM ~ ......• .r••.••• .' "" ~ J..-;::;.. •••• •••••••• •••••••• Seasonal Commodity Larry Hamm, MSU Ag-Econ Dept. The USDA Sept. I Quarterly Stocks Report, released Sept. 30, showed U.S. corn stocks Price Trends The milk price increases normally seen in the fall are becoming as elusive as fields of BUSINESS at 1.1 billion bushels, very close to trade fully matured corn. Only renewed dairy expectations. This number is used as the official ending stocks figure for the 1991-92 Wheat TP1 product demand and unseasonable weather out West are preventing a major price drop. OUTLOOK corn marketing year and was very close to the ending stocks figure projected in the last Corn -1 The September Minnesota- Wisconsin (M- USDA Supply/Demand Balance Sheet W) price fell for the second month in a row. ter, are providing some relief for Midwest Report, which you saw in the last issue. The September's drop of26 cents per cwt. (3.5 butter-powder plants. A resumption of milk next update of the supply/demand report Soybeans i1 percent test), when combined with production patterns out West could, how- will be October 8, along with the crop August's 5 percent per cwt. drop, means ever, hurt Michigan milk prices. production report. Make sure you have seen Hogs 1 that farm milk prices will be falling over the these two reports, because we'll di scuss next few months. How far they will fall The markets are also being supported by them in the next issue. Cattle -.. depends on how far manufactured dairy improved dairy demand as measured by the product prices will fall. USDA's commercial disappearance statis- Looking to the future, two recent an- tics. For the first seven months of 1992, nouncements should help corn prices. One Index: i= Higher Prices; ~ = Lower Prices; After dropping for several weeks, both commercial disappearance of dairy is that ethanol will be allowed to be sold in = TP= Topping; BT Bottoming; ? Unsure= cheddar cheese and nonfat dry milk prices products was up 1.9 percent from the same half of the cities that will begin to sell clean have leveled off. The prices at the National period in 1991. burning auto fuels in 1995. Two points: one, [f the October crop report showed an in- Cheese Exchange dropped $.0475 cents a this discussion is long from over; and two, crease over the September report, we are pound in mid September and another I cent Only cottage cheese declined in consump- the decisions will definitely affect the price probably seeing our seasonal lows and I .a pound in the last week of September. tion from last year's levels. American of corn over the next several years. For would expect about the same levels Neither of these drops was fully incor- cheese, other cheeses, butter, nonfat dry example, ADM decided to continue con- through the heavy part of the harvest porated in September's M-W. Unless the milk powder, frozen desserts and fluid milk struction on an ethanol plant which they had season. milk supply and demand shifts, the all increased utilization. Without this in- halted last spring. October's M- W will drop again. creased demand, this summer's milk flush Consider delivering previously con- would have driven markets lower than the The other announcement was the prelimi- tracted corn during this period when Nonfat dry milk prices have strengthened recent 31 cent drop in the M-W. nary plans for the 1993 Feed Grains Pro- possible. The odds are on-farm storage over the past few weeks. The price of nonfat gram. Corn ARP was announced as 10 per- will pay, so it is also time to fill up your dry milk is being set by West Coast With a reasonable production trend in the cent versus the 1992 ARP of 5 percent. bins. Try to wait for rallies or late har- dairymen. West Coast powder plus West and continued dairy demand growth, Sorghum ARP was set at 5 percent, barley vested corn to sell for cash needs. If you transportation has been setting Midwest this fall's price decline will be orderly. This at 0 percent, and oats at 0 percent. Barley want to stay in the market with corn that prices. would help provide the market psychology and sorghum were 5 percent in 1992. The won't fit in on-farm storage, watch your needed to prevent the sharp drops and in- farm bill had mandated a 7.5 percent ARP local basis levels to determine whether Unseasonably hot weather this fall has cut creases that the industry has experienced set-aside for barley and sorghum, given the you should store commercially, use a milk production in this surplus region. The the past four years. Hopefully, the dairy stocks to use ratios, but Secretary Madigan basis contract, or use a minimum price resulting price strength, combined with markets are learning to live in the "new" invoked the "GATT trigger". contract. some higher, but temporary prices for but- open market environment. Soybeans Table Egg Market The soybean 1991-92 marketing year en- ending stocks figure in the 295-325 range. Allan Rahn and Henry Larzelere ding stocks were reported as 278 million If this is the case, then we are likely at our MSU Ag Economics Dept. August, were both I percent above a year bushels, very close to expectations and just seasonal lows for soybeans also. Table eggs in late September are already ago. In spite of the relatively depressed 7 bushels below the USDA September reflecting the typical October market weak- market conditions, spent hen plants have projection. As with corn, the stocks infor- My advice is the same as for corn, exc,ept ness and are trading in the low 70 cent per had trouble maintaining full operating mation will be combined with the October I am even more confident that there will dozen price range (New York, Grade A, schedules as slaughter during September soybean crop production estimate to create be returns to on-farm storage, unless the Large White, in cartons, to volume was 3 percent below 1991. Reductions in the latest supply/demand projections, 92-93 ending stocks projection came in retailers), around 5 cents below last year. flock size and egg production are under- which were released Oct. 8. On the demand over the above range. Again, your local way, with August hatch down 15 percent side, export sales and actual exports of basis is the key as to how you stay in the Breaking stock egg prices are soft and shell and the number of eggs in incubators on soybean continue to be strong. market. The one thing that is somewhat egg inventories are building as the move- Sept. I below a year ago by II percent. different this year is that interest rates ment of shell eggs into retail channels has My guess is that the October supp- are lower, so you need to adjust your declined from year ago levels. Lower feed It appears that egg prices may dip into the ly/demand estimate will show a projected opportunity costs of storage. ingredient prices have reduced production mid-60s in October before their traditional costs over 2 cents per dozen from last year. year-end seasonal advance. Prices maj climb into the upper 70 cent range in early Wheat The number of layers in the nation's layers December, but the last quarter average is flock on Sept. I and egg production during likely to be in the low 70 cent range. The Sept. I wheat stock number of 2.09 the USDA released October 8 to see their billion bushels came in as a surprise. The analysis of the situation. Hogs average trade guesstimate was 2.175 billion bushels. The wheat marketing year runs For those who still have wheat to price, the The Sept. 1USDA Quarterly Hogs and Pigs September-November farrowing intentions from June I - May 31, so this is a first question is: "will there be any incentive for Report on Sept. 30 showed that the pork are up 3 percent, which gives us an idea of quarter report and helps the market estimate the government to come up with more industry is still in the expansion phase and next spring's production. That level of use up to that point. demand stimulating export packages once we are unlikely to see any drop in pork production will probably bring us prices the election has passed?" Given the huge production before the fall of 1993. Total under $40 next spring. December-February There are several reasons why the report deficit the federal government faces, I inventory was up 4 percent, kept for breed- farrowings are expected to be up 3 percent was lower than expectations. One pos- seriously doubt it. ing was up 2 percent, and kept for market as well, making it hard to imagine a strong sibility is that feed use was heavier in the was up 4 percent, compared to 1991. market next summer. first quarter than previously thought. My suggestion is either price all of your Another reason may be that all of the not wheat by that point or at least get some Hogs over 180 pounds were up 6 percent, Michigan Hog Inventory Unchanged yet harvested spring wheat was not counted downside protection. It may be the next hogs between 120-179 pounds were up 3 in the stocks properly'. The third factor may quarterly stocks report to be released in percent, and hogs between 60-119 pounds Michigan's hog and pig inventory on Sept. be less wheat production than thought. early January before any more potential were up 5 percent. With September I was unchanged from a year ago at Look at the Wheat SupplylDemand Report major mover comes along. slaughter at around 9 percent, a lot of those 1,350,000 head, according to the Michigan heavy hogs may already be gone. Agricultural Statistics Service. Market hogs Record Dry Bean Stocks were unchanged at 1,175,000 head. The But it shows we will have a lot of hogs all under 60-pound and 60-119 pound Commercial elevators in Michigan held was the largest since the 1982 crop of fall. Here the futures and I disagreed as of categories were stable, while numbers for 2,000,000 hundredweight (cwt.) of dry 7,975,000 cwt. Carryover stocks account the beginning of October. My analysis the 120-179 pound weight group were down beans in storage as of Aug. 31, 1992, accord- for all beans in commercial off-farm would indicate a lot of hogs will be sold 10,000 head. Inventory of hogs weighing ing to the Federal/State Michigan Agricul- storages and include a small portion of non- under $40/cwt this fall and the October and 180 or more pounds totaled 185,000 head, tural Statistics Service. This year's car- Michigan grown products. An estimate of December futures were around $42/cwt. up 10,000 head from Sept. I, 1991. Breed- ryover is a record high for dry bean stocks the quantity of dry beans held on farms is The reason for the discrepancy is at least ing stock at 175,000 head was unchanged. since estimates started on Aug. 31, 1983, not included in this report. partially on the demand side. It has been when stocks were 1,600,000 cwt. The cur- quite strong lately and the market seems to Producers farrowed 74,000 sows during the rent quantity on hand includes 1,840,000 Dry bean stocks are not included in the feel this will continue. June-August quarter, 2,000 more than the cwt. of Navy beans and 160,000 cwt. of all USDA Agricultural Statistics Board system previous year. Average pigs per litter was other classes. of grain stocks reports. Dry bean stocks data June-August farrowings were up 2 percent, 7.9 pigs, up from 7.8 pigs per litter last year! included in this report were tabulated from but hogs under 60 pounds were up 4 percent Third quarter pig crop was up four percent Stocks on hand as of Aug. 31, 1991, totaled information supplied by elevator operators due to the record pigs per litter of 8.13 this from the previous year, totaling 585,000 660,000 cwt. and included 500,000 cwt. of on the Grain Dealers Daily Position Report summer. This level of production during pigs. Producers' farrowing intentions for the Navy beans and 160,000 cwt. of all other filed monthly with the Michigan Depart- winter will make it hard to go much above next quarter are 60,000 for the September- classes. Last year's crop of 6,210,000 cwt. ment of Agriculture. $40 this winter. November period. Michigan Farm News ,. ~ ....... October 15, 1992 By Roger Betz, DistrictFarm Management Which'Michigan Farms are Most Profitable? Agent and John Strong pork prices and relatively low feed costs helped the swine industry achieve strong economic returns. Profits on Saginaw ....... ••••••••,.. ••••••• .r••.•••. ••••• •••• •••• ~.rl rJ ••• ,j••• 1• ~:..- Jones, MSU Telfarm Director Michigan swi.ne farms and Saginaw Valley cash crop farms were the most profitable t~rough the business years 1987 - 1991, com- pared to other farms In terms of labor income and the rate earned ' Valley cash crop farms relied heavily on good sugar beet and dry bean prices during the period as well as traditionalgrain prices. The chart below shows the earnings of different types of farms. E~RM .'~ j~::.. •••• •••••••• •••••••• on investment, according to MSU Telfarm Program analysis. Labor income isthe return earned for the operator' s labor. All costs, including cash expenses. inventory adjustments, non-paid family BUSINESS Saginaw OUTLOOK Valley Cash Tree Items All Farms Dairy Cash Crop Grain Swine Potato Fruit labor, depreciation and interest on owner equity. are included in determining labor income. It is the return for the operator' s Labor Iricome labor and management, if the farm was financed 100 percent by debt, and all non- 1991 $20,188 $14,025 $18,995 $27,437 $24,651 $145 $50,527 operator labor was paid. 1990 Rate earned on investment isthe return (per- 28,671 30,943 55,426 4,958 75,141 16,947 4,206 centage) if the farm were debt free and all labor was paid including the operator's 1989 28,986 31,408 19,893 17,961 56,174 59,601 1,265 value of labor and management. It can be used to help evaluate the feasibility of ex- 1988 11,291 5,829 44,659 21,565 -13,170 28,761 22,285 pansion or investing capital into business. Generally, ifthe rate earned on investment is greater than the interest rate of borrowed 1987 6,654 11,365 26,229 5,469 17,464 -88,195 -11,432 funds, then the expansion will be profitable. ::::-::_~;Yf?AV",j.9.87..i99.l?:Y».' .. <>$19,198- <>$18,71.4 $33,040 $15,478 '1:32,052 $3,452 $13,370 As indicated by the rate earned on invest- ment chart, swine farms had the highest five-year rate of return on earnings at 10.7 percent, followed closely by Saginaw Val- ~tl~i~~r;g~~~~( .......................................... •• i•• ley cash crop farms with a 10.6 percent return on investment. Tree fruitfarms have had difficulty in recent 1991 7.1 5.4 7.1 9.5 8.6 3.9 22.7 years, but 1991 showed extraordinary strong returns at 22.7 percent. Tree fruit farms averaged 8.4 percent return on invest- 1990 9.7 9.6 12.8 5.8 16.3 6.8 4.2 ment over the five-year period of 1987 through 1991. Cash grain farms averaged 1989 10.0 9.7 8.4 9.3 15.8 17.1 3.5 8.3 percent, dairy farms averaged 7.3 per- cent and potato farms averaged 5.1 percent. 1988 6.8 5.3 14.1 10.3 3.4 11.1 13.3 Average income figures moderate the variability experienced from farm to farm. 1987 5.9 6.4 10.8 6.7 9.3 -13.5 -1.5 Risk management and business planning are important skills used by farm managers in ?:5~Yr. Av;1987;19 FARM BUREAU yields. Late-summer floods stunted other crops' growth. And overcast skies with FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION RATE QUOTE — FILL OUT THE COUPON BELOW OR CALL DIRECT 1-800-292-2680, EXT. 3239 OR 3240. cooler temperatures slowed most plants' Please mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau growth. The result is that most Ohio corn, Membership Services soybeans and vegetables will be harvested P.O. Box 30960 about two weeks later than normal. Throw Lansing, Ml 48909 in the threat of frost before Oct. 1, and you Please Print have a stressful situation for farmers Name Current Health Insurance hoping to make a profit. Address Number of Full Time Employees J Sole proprietor "I fully expect some people to push things (1 person group) too hard during this year's harvest," Bean • 2-4 • 5-9 says. "It's inevitable. What we have to do Phone is make them think about the risk and take County • 10-24 • 25 and over some steps to reduce it." Type of Farm/Business See "Risky Harvest" next page... ^—fiMFNJ Decision '92 AgriPac Election Guide for Farm Bureau Members MFB AgriPac Endorses Bush for President The Michigan Farm Bureau AgriPac announced Sept. 2 that it would endorse George Bush for re-election as president. The committee of nine farmers based their decision on the president's track record of support on issues affecting rural people, according to AI Almy, director of public affairs for Michigan Farm Bureau and secretary for AgriPac. 'The agricultural economy as a whole has gained during the Bush years," said Almy. "Inflation and interest rates are down. Exports of farm products have increased 14 percent since fiscal year 1988 and are forecast this year to reach the highest level in a decade. Net farm income increases from 1989-91 were the highest for any three year period in history," he said. Almy said AgriPac felt that President Bush represents the best hope for agricultural prosperity in the future. ROnissue after issue -- from opposing agricultural embargoes, to supporting ethanol and livestock agriculture, to fighting to protect private property rights -- President Bush has demonstrated support for a sound, market-based farm economy," according to Almy. AgriPac also noted the efforts of President Bush to provide full deductibility of the health insurance premiums of the self-employed, support for expansion of farm exports, development of industrial markets for agricultural commodities and support for the Conservation Reserve, said Almy. AGRIBUSINESS LEADERS FOR BUSH/QUA YLE '92 What's Inside The following is a list of key Michigan Agribusi- Dean Pridgeon, Chairman • Friends of Agriculture Listing ness Leaders who strongly support President MSU Board of Trustees Bush for re-election. These individuals make Tom Reed, CEO up the Michigan Bush/Quayle '92 Agriculture Michigan Livestock ~xchange • Proposal A Property Tax Cut Coalition that endorses President Bush for re- Bob Hetzler, CEO Description and Official election. Monitor Sugar Company Wayne Haverdink, President, Ballot Language Chairman Independent Co-op Governor John Engler Milk Producers Association Elwood Kirkpatrick, President • Proposal B Term Limitation Co-chairs Michigan Milk Producers Description and Official John Kronemeyer, Member, Bill Schuette, Director Ballot Language U.P. State Fair Board Michigan Department of Agriculture AgriPac Supports A YES Vote JoAnne Stefl, Member, U.P. State Fair Board Dave Camp, U.S. Congressman Delton Parks, President, Countryfresh Don Nugent, Chairman Elton Smith, Owner, Med-O-Bloom Farms Michigan Agriculture Commission Dave Crumbaugh, Member Senator Dick Posthumus, Farmer • Proposal C "Cut & Cap" Tax Cut Senator Harry Gast, Farmer Michigan Agriculture Commission Senator Nick Smith, Farmer Description and Official John Spero, Member Senator George McManus, Farmer Ballot Language Michigan Agriculture Commission Representative Robert Bender, Farmer Larry DeVuyst, Chairman Representative Bob Bobier, Farmer Natural Resources Commission Representative John Gernatt, Farmer Jordan Tatter, Member • Proposal D Insurance Reform Representative Carl Gnodtke, Farmer Natural Resources Commission Representative Tom Middleton, Farmer Description and Official Jack Laurie, President Representative Gary Randall, Farmer Ballot Language Michigan Farm Bureau Representative Don Van Singel, Farmer On July 7, the MFB AgriPac Committee members met in Lansing to review county candidate endorsement recommendations for the 1992 elections. The Committee also conducted interviews with several of the candidates. Following the review of county candidate endorsement recommendations and the interviews, the AgriPac Committee made endorsement decisions for the ~ugust 4 Primary Election. Those endorsed candidates who were successful in FRIENDS OF the primary elections are now designated as "Friends of Agriculture" for the General Election. AGRICUL TURE The following candidates, listed on the facing page, are designated as "Friends 1992 GENERAL of Agriculture ", by the Michigan Farm Bureau AgriPac Committee. Th.edesig- -ELECTION nation constitutes an election endorsement for the November 3, 1992 General Election. Proposal A Proposal C Proposal A limits the Increase In State Equalized Value (SEV), to 5% or the The state would be required to reimburse school districts rate of inflation, whichever is less. When the property is sold, it is then adjusted for the loss based on 1991 millage rates. Local school districts and voters to the current market value and assessed at 500/00f the value. will still face millage issues and may increase the rate although the reimbur- sement will be based on 1991 levels. The proposal applies to only residential and agricultural property, and is limited to the homestead which this proposal has not, as yet, defined. Generally, Assessment increases would be limited to 3% or the rate of inflation, "homestead includes the house and the acreage the house sets on. Under ll whichever is less, excluding new construction. The property will be adjusted the current homestead credit exemption, contiguous production agriculture to the market value whenever it is sold and assessed at 50% of that amount. land is included. The proposal would be funded by state revenue. Some estimates indicate it Proposal A is funded by eliminating the Capital Acquisition Deduction under the will take approximately one-half of revenue increases to fund the Cut & Cap Single Business Tax which will cost businesses approximately $700 million proposal. Concern has been expressed that if revenues do not increase by annually. Some observers believe the added cost to businesses will likely be approximately 5%, cuts will have to be made in existing state programs and passed on to the consumer through increased charges for goods and services. services to fund the mandated reimbursement for school operating purposes. Businesses would receive no tax relief under Proposal A as it is limited to Proposal C treats homeowners and businesses equally by providing a cap residential and agricultural classes. Industrial, commercial, timber cutover and on assessments and a 30% reduction of school operating millage phased in developmental properties will still be assessed based on market value. over 5 years. Michigan Farm Bureau has taken a neutral position on Proposal A and asks The net property tax reduction in 1997 is estimated to be approximately $2.2 that members review the proposal and decide for themselves. Following is the billion which would be reimbursed to the schools. If the state budget increases language which will appear on the November ballot: approximately 5% a year for the next five years, the state budget would approximate $10 billion and thus 20% of the state budget would be required PROPOSAL A Ballot Language to fund the Cut & Cap proposal. This would clearly shift a large portion of the A PROPOSAL TO LIMIT ANNUAL INCREASES IN HOMESTEAD PROPERTY burden of school finance from local property tax to state funds. TAX ASSESSMENTS AND PROVIOE SEPARATE TAX LIMITATIONS FOR DIFFERENT PROPERTY CLASSIFICATIONS. Michigan Farm Bureau has taken a neutral position on Proposal C and asks that members review the proposal and decide for themselves. Following is The proposed constitutional amendment would: the language which will appear on the November ballot: 1) Limit for each homestead property (excluding new construction) the annual assessment increase to 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is less, until the PROPOSAL C Ballot Language property is sold. Whenever property is sold, adjust assessments according to A PROPOSAL TO EXEMPT PROPERTY FROM A PORTION OF SCHOOL current market value of property. OPERATING PROPERTY TAXES AND LIMIT ANNUAL INCREASES IN 2) Create separate millage rollback calculations for determining the maximum ALL PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS. revenue increase allowable for two classes of property: residential/agricultural The proposed constitutional amendment would: and all other property classifications. 1) Exempt property from the following proportion of school operating property 3) Permit the use of the combined inflation rate for 1991 and 1992 to calculate taxes: 10% in 1993, 15% in 1994; 20% in 1995; 25% in 1996 and 30% in millage rollbacks for determining the maximum property tax revenue increase following years. allowable in 1993. 2) Require the state to reimburse school districts for the property tax Should this proposal be adopted? exemptions described in paragraph (1) above, up to the millage rate levied Proposal C, the second tax proposal, known as "Cut & Cap" also limits the in 1991. amount of increase in SEV. However, the detai~ is much different in that it 3) Limit for each parcel of property (excluding new construction) the annual provides for specific reductions in the property t~x and requires the state to assessment increase to 3% or the rate of inflation, whichever is less, until reimburse schools for revenues lost by the tax cut. the property is sold. Whenever property is sold, adjust assessment according to current market value of property. Proposal C is more complex ifl that it phases in the property tax exemption over Should this proposal be adopted? a five year period and applies to school operating millage only. School operating millage is the largest portion of most property tax bills ranging from 600/0 to 80%. o PRESIDENT 13 Robert Geake (A-Northville) 35 David Gubow (D-Huntington Woods) 57 Tim Walberg (R-Tipton) VICE PRESIDENT 15 Barbara Aose-Collins (D-Detroit) 36 Maxine Berman (D-Southfield) 58 Mike Nye (A-Utchfield) George Bush and Dan Quayle 16 John Dingell (D-Trenton) 59 Glenn Oxender (A-Sturgis) 37 Jan Dolan (A-Farmington Hills) o U.S. House of o Michigan House of 38 Willis Bullard, Jr. (A-Milford) 60 Jackie Morrison (R-Kalamazoo) Representatives Representatives 39 Barbara Dobb (A-Commerce) 61 Dale Shugars (A-Portage) (by District) (by District) 62 Bill Martin (R-Battle Creek) 40 John Jamian (A-Bloomfield Hills) 1 Phil Ruppe (R-Houghton) 2 Curtis Hertel (D-Detroit) 41 Shirley Johnson (A-Aoyal Oak) 63 Don Gilmer (A-Augusta) 2 Peter Hoekstra (R-Holland) 3 Joe Young, Sr. (D-Detroit) 43 Charles Harrison, Jr. (D-Pontiac) 64 Mike Griffin (D-Jackson) 3 Paul Henry (R-Grand Rapids) 4 Joe Young, Jr. (D-Detroit) 45 Penny Crissman (A-Aochester) 65 Phil Hoffman (A-Hort~n) 4 Dave Camp (R-Midland) 15 Douglas Thomas (A-Dearborn) 46 Tom Middleton (A-Ortonville) 66 Susan Munsell (A-Howell) 5 Keith Muxlow (R-Brown City) 17 William Keith (D-Garden City) 47 Sandra Hill (A-Montrose) 67 Eric Schertzing (D-Williamston) 6 Fred Upton (A-St. Joseph) 22 Gregory Pitoniak (D-Taylor) 48 Floyd Clack (D-Flint) 68 Dianne Byrum (D-Holt) 7 Nick Smith (R-Addison) 26 Tracey Yokich (D-St. Clair Shores) 50 Paula Zelenko (A-Burton) 70 Lynn Jondahl (D-Okemos) 8 Dick Chrysler (R-Brighton) 29 John Chmura (A-Warren) 51 David Aobertson (R-Swartz Creek) 71 Frank Fitzgerald (A-Grand Ledge) 9 Megan O'Neill (A-Clarkston) 31 Sharon Gire (D-Mt. Clemens) 54 Kirk Profit (D-Ypsilanti) 72 Walter Delange (R-Kentwood) 10 Doug Carl (A-Mt. Clemens) 33 Kenneth DeBeaussaert 55 Beverly Hammerstrom 73 Jack Horton (R-Belmont) 12 John Pappageorge (A-Troy) (D-New Baltimore) (A-Temperance) 74 Ken Sikkema (R-Grandville) 34 Michael McCullough (A-Aoyal Oak) 75 Aichard Bandstra (R-Grand Rapids) 76 Thomas Mathieu (D-Grand Rapids) 78 Carl Gnodtke (R-Sawyer) 79 Bob Brackenridge (A-St. Joseph) 80 James Middaugh (A-Paw Paw) 81 Terry london (A-Marysville) 82 John Strand (A-lapeer) 83 Kim Ahead (A-Sandusky) 85 Clark Harder (D-Owosso) 86 Alan Cropsey (A-DeWitt) 87 Bob Bender (R-Middleville) 88 Paul Hillegonds (R-Holland) 90 Jessie Dalman (A-Holland) 93 Gary Aandall (R-Elwell) 94 Lewis Dodak (D-Montrose) 95 Jim O'Neill (D-Saginaw) 96 Roland Jersevic (A-Saginaw) 97 Howard Wetters (D-Kawkawlin) 98 James McNutt (R-Midland) 99 Jim McBryde (R-Mt. Pleasant) 100 John Llewellyn (R-Fremont) 101 Bill Bobier (A-Hesperia) 102 John Gernaat (A-McBain) 104 Michelle McManus (A-Traverse City) VOTE 105 Allen Lowe (R-Grayling) 106 Beverly Bodem (A-Alpena) On NoveInber 3 107 Shannon Brower (A-Petoskey) 108 David Anthony (D-Escanaba) ELECT 110 Fayth Wolfe (A-Houghton) o Supreme Court Marilyn Jean Kelly (Bloomfield Hills) Dean Pridgeon Melanie Reinhold Michael Talbot (Grosse Pointe Farms) Dean o • Family farmer raising corn, soybeans and hogs on • President, Reinhold Vidosh, nationally award & PRIDGEON Board of Education Dorothy Beardmore (A-Aochester) 3,200 acres . Harry Greenleaf (A-Livonia) • Recipient, MSiJ Distin- winning tractor. landscape con- Melanie o MSU Board of Trustees • guished Service to Agri- culture Award, 1970. Michigan Natural Re- • Corporate sponsor of schol- arship fundraiser, raising over $100,000 scholarship REINHOLD Dean Pridgeon (R-Montgomery) Melanie Aeinhold (A-Bloomfield Hills) sources Commission, dollars for students of hor- 1974-78. ticulture and landscape ar- MICmGANSTATE • Director, Michigan De- chitecture at MSU . partment of Agriculture, • Appointed to MSU Board 1979-83 . of Trustees, 1991. UNIVERSITY • 8 years as MSU Trustee; • MSU Alumna, College of current Chairperson Agriculture and Natural BOARD OF TRUSTEES • MSU Alumnus, College of Resources . Agriculture and Natural Resources. don't have assets to protect. ~ ~ES- the rate of inflation. PRESENT LAW: ENT LAW: Regardless of need, re- Medical service payment guidelines quires that policyholders purchase don't exist. Medical payment guide- Residual Liability Coverage. lines are allowed for Medicare, Med- icaid and other types of insurance. Proposal D: Allows consumers a choice of medical benefit options Proposal 0: Requires coordination of must be objectively verifiable) and health and auto insurance medical ranging from a $250,000 (MINIMUM) Proposal D preventing drivers who are more than 500;0at fault in an accident from col- to $500,000, $750,000, $1 million, $2 benefits. This provision is expected to prevent drivers from carrying dupli- million, $3 million, $4 million, and $5 Insurance Reform lecting damages. PRESENT LAW: Allows at fault drivers to collect million. The $250,000 minimum med- cate protection and receiving pay- ical benefit provides Michigan drivers ment. PRESENT LAW: Coordination awards for non-economic "pain and Proposal 0 is expected to control the with the highest medical protection is allowed but not required. rapidly rising costs of auto accidents suffering" lawsuits. required by any state in the nation. cutting medical and legal costs. It re- Proposal 0: Allows insurance com- Under the no-fault system one's own PRESENT LAW: Requires that all quires insurance companies to pass panies to establish rates based on insurance company pays for medical drivers purchase unlimited medical cost savings on to consumers. Here, actual loss experience, so that low- expenses and wage loss, regardless coverage. briefly, is what is in the present law and risk drivers would not be required to of who caused the accident. The sys- what Proposal D would do: Proposal D: Allows insurance com- subsidize high-risk drivers. PRES- tem is intended to reduce delays and panies to provide good driver dis- ENT LAW: Restricts how companies costs (attorney fees) of court disputes Proposal D: Requires that on or be- counts to policyholders who have establish auto insurance rates, forcing fore April 1, 1993, auto insurance rates and return a larger percentage of pre- been claim free for five years. PRES- them to shift high-risk driver costs to. will be reduced by an average of 20%. mium dollars to injured persons. ENT LAW: Although the present law lower-risk drivers. Actual savings may be greater or Proposal 0: Allows policyholders to allows for some vehicle and driver lesser than 20% depending on the Proposal D: Requires that insurance waive residual bodily injury (RBI) cov- discounts, a "claim-free" discount is coverages an individual policyholder companies refund underwriting profits erage. This coverage protects the as- not allowed. selects. PRESENT LAW: Does not which exceed 5%.Allows the Michi- sets of policyholders if they are sued contain price controls. Proposal D: Establishes reasonable gan insurance commissioner to waive for non-economic "pain and suffer- and customary fees that health care a company's obligation if necessary to ing" damages. This provision is in- PROPOSAL D: Limits non-economic providers would be reimbursed. This ensure a fair rate of return. PRESENT tended to make auto insurance more "pain and suffering" lawsuits by setting provision is intended to control medi- LAW: Does not contain profit guide- affordable for low income drivers who higher standards for injuries (injuries cal costs which are rising four times lines. Generally, Proposal D is expected to reduce auto insurance premiums for the vast majority of Michigan drivers. The extent of reduction, of course, will Proposal B will be on the November Political posturing for election-year For example a person elected to an vary based on the coverages chosen 3 ballot as a result of a petition drive gains, unyielding positions by legisla- office covered by Proposal B could by individual drivers. by citizens supporting a restriction on tors engaged in negotiating these is- serve in that office for the maximum sues, and putting off consideration of time allowed and then become a can- A longtime advocate of meaningful the number of terms a person could didate for another office. If the person reform that would reduce auto insur- serve in specific state and national the issues until a later date were ev- were successful in each election, ance costs, MFB has supported many public offices. The proposal does not eryday practice. As a result private he/she could serve for a total of 40 of the reforms outlined in Proposal D. place term limits on persons holding organizations and citizens were re- years under the term limits for the However, MFB believes strongly in public offices at the township or quired to undertake massive and ex- pansive petition drives to put three public offices covered in Proposal B. economic free market principles and county level. Michigan Farm Bureau recommends thus does not favor the 20% rate man- separate ballot proposals before vot- Following are the term limits that ers to decide on November 3. This a YES vote on Proposal B. Following date the proposal provides for. MFB would apply if voters approve Pro- is the ballot language voters will de- has taken a neutral position on Pro- citizen action is the direct result of posal B: U.S. senators would be lim- cide: posal 0 and asks that members re- inaction by elected state legislators ited to two terms of six years each, or who could not, or would not, decide view the proposal and decide for PROPOSAL B Ballot Language 12 years total service, in a 24-year themselves. what to do on key issues affecting A PROPOSAL TO RESTRICT/LIMIT period.; U.S. representatives would every citizen. PROPOSAL D Ballot lAnguage THE NUMBER OF TIMES A PER- be limited to three terms of two years A PROPOSAL TO AMEND Opponents of Proposal B claim that SON CAN BE ELECTED TO CON- each, or six years total service, in a MICHIGAN'S AUTO INSURANCE experienced state and national public GRESSIONAL STATE EXECUTIVE 12-year period; state senators would LA WS. THE PROPOSED LEGISLA- officials will be forced out of office and AND STA TE LEGISLA TIVE OF- be limited to two terms of four years TIVE AMENDMENT WOULD: be replaced by inexperienced per- FICES. each, or eight years total service; state 1) Reduce auto insurance rates by sons. These critics should look at The proposed constitutional amend- representatives would be limited to 20% (average) for policyholders ac- what is already happening in the mentwould: three terms of two years each, or six cepting $250,000 in personal injury Michigan Legislature. Since 1988 Restrict the number of times a person years total service; The governor, It. protection. Extra coverage made there has been more than a 40% tu rn- could be elected to certain offices as governor, secretary of state, and attor- available at added cost. over in the House of Representatives described below: ney general would be limited to two 2) Require profit refunds when under- and nearly a 300;0turnover in the Sen- 1.U. S. senator: two times in any 24- terms each, or eight years total ser- writing profits exceed 5% .. ate. In this election year nearly 400;0 year period. vice. 3) Permit Insurance Commissioner to of the Michigan congressional dele- 2. U.S. representative: three times in any 12-year period. waive company's obligation to reduce Public polls taken earlier this year to gation will turnover as a result of re- 3. Governor, lieutenant governor, rates or refund profits, if needed, to determine voter support for limiting tirements, redistricting and primary secretary of state or attorney general: assure fair rate of return. the terms of state and national public election results. two times per office. 4) Allow policyholders to waive resid- officials revealed that two-thirds of Approval of Proposal B by voters will 4. State senator: two times. ualliability insurance. those surveyed favor term limitation. result in many new elected officials 5. State representative: three times. 5) Limit fees paid to health care pro- Delegates to the 1991 MFB Annual coming into office over time. Their Office terms beginning on or after viders. Meeting adopted policy which sup- new ideas; firsthand knowledge of the January 1, 1993, would count toward 6) Allow rate reduction for five consec- ports term limitation. challenges and opportunities facing the term restrictions. A person ap- utive claim-free years. The 1991-92 sessions of the Michigan local families, businesses and com- pointed or elected to an office va- 7) Require coordination of benefits Legislature are an example of why munities; and knowledge that their cancy for more than 1/2 of a term with health insurance. such strong citizen support exists for public service will be measured by would be considered elected once in 8) Limit right to sue by setting higher term limitation. Despite strong public what they can accomplish within the that office. standards for injuries and prevent . support for education reform, property limited time they can serve rather than drivers over 50% at fault from collect- tax reform, automobile insurance re- the number of times re-elected will Should this proposal be adopted? ing damages. form, and medical malpractice reform serve the public well. If a person de- the Michigan Legislature failed to re- Should this proposal be adopted? sires a career in public office he/she solve these important issues. can seek election to another office. Michigan Farm News •• October 15, 1992 Fresh Silage May -Contain a Deadly Threat to Health In low concentrations, silo gas damages the that anyone exposed to silo gas seek medi- Farmers who must enter the silo during or F.armers handling com for silage need to respiratory system when nitrogen dioxide cal attention, regardless of the degree of just after filling should follow these be mindful of the danger of nitrogen combines with moisture in the lungs to form these symptoms. Silo gas begins to form general procedures: dioxide - silo gas - which can accumulate nitric acid. This acid can severely and per- almost as soon as silo filling begins." in the silo. manently damage respiratory tract tissue. • Open a silo door above the silage level to "It is most likely to develop one to three allow any silo gas present to drain out of Exposure to silo gas can cause permanent The effects include severe irritation that days after the silage has been made," Doss the silo. injury or death. may lead to inflammation of the lungs, says. "If a mechanical breakdown occurs or though the victim may feel little pain or the filler pipe clogs, the problem should be • Run the blower at the base of the silo 15 "The highest concentrations of nitrogen discomfort. Exposure symptoms - short- corrected immediately. Waiting overnight to 30 minutes before entering to let fresh oxides usually occur 48 hours after the silo ness of breath, a faint feeling and flu-like to do the task adds the risk of silo gas air in above the silage. is filled, but no one should go into a silo hr illness - can frequently be delayed for buildup in the silo. four to six weeks after filling," says Howard several days. • Always wear a self-contained breathing J. Doss, Michigan State University Exten- "If there is a dire need to enter the silo, wear apparatus when entering the silo within sion agricultural safety specialist. "A person may inhale silo gas for a short a self-contained breathing apparatus," Doss four to six weeks after filling. time and notice no effects," Doss says. "But warns. "Wearing anything less could be Nitrogen dioxide is heavier than air, so it he or she may go to bed several hours later deadly to anyone inside the silo during the • When entering the silo after that recom- may form yellowish layers of mist above and die while sleeping because of the fluid first four to six weeks after silo filling." mended waiting period, be sure to ventilate the silage or drop down the silo chute. The that has collected in the lungs." the silo chute for 10 to 15 minutes strong silage odor can mask nitrogen To locate a suitable self-contained breath- beforehand and open several hatches to dioxide's bleach-like odor. It may be Frequently, a relapse with symptoms ing apparatus, work through the local fire move out any pockets of gas. present, even if you can't see or smell it, similar to those of flu or pneumonia occurs department or a safety equipment supplier. however. one to two weeks after initial recovery from • No one should ever work alone in a silo. the exposure .. "Locating a suitable unit may be frustrating Always work in pairs so someone can go When silo gas is highly concentrated, it can and may take some time, but it is far better for help in an emergency. Remember that kill a person in a matter of seconds, along "The majority of people who develop initial than losing a member of the family or employees must follow Michigan Depart- with anyone who attempts a rescue. silo gas exposure symptoms could also paying for impatience with permanent in- ment of Public Health regulations for develop secondary ailments," Doss says. jury," Doss says. entering a confined space. "For this reason, it is extremely important Risky Harvest (continued) Bean tells farmers to take breaks from long Michigan's Corn Marketing Program hours behind the combine's steering wheel. Even a short break refreshes the body and QuestionsandAnswe~ mind and reduces the risk of accident. He recommends stopping for at least 5 to 10 minutes every hour during peak harvest The development of industrial uses for agricultural commodities represents a strong growth opportunity for Michigan's farmers. Industrial Use of Com when fatigue is greatest. Com, Michigan's most abundant crop, leads the way in its ability Breaks are also a good time to grab a high- to meet America's needs for alternative agricultural uses. The energy snack - juice, nuts or trail mix are chart on the right shows the impact that new com uses has on good choices, Bean says. Turn off the com use. machine if you take your snack break in the combine cab. It will give your ears a rest and By passing the Michigan Com Marketing Program, Michigan's reduce the possibility of engaging the equip- com growers can help lead the fight to develop new uses, ment. promote their crop, and increase their profitability! Cabs on most modem combines give the operator some additional safety tools. Vary- ing the temperature in the cab will keep the To learn more about the Michigan driver more alert. A radio can break the monotony of long hours in the field as long Corn Marketing Program, read on! 1976 1979 1982 1965 1968 1991 ~(s)1 as it doesn't become a distraction, Bean says. ,/' What is a corn marketing program? Even with a harried harvest, Bean says A com marketing program is a program organized by com farmers to benefit com farmers. It places a small farmers shouldn't be too busy to think about assessment on the first sale of com and deposits these funds in a statewide pool. All funds collected go toward some basic safety rules during harvest. Too promotion, research and market development for com. There are currently 18 state com marketing programs in often, farmers get caught up in the activity the US. Michigan is the second largest corn growing state in the nation without a corn marketing program. and make simple mistakes. That could cost a life or limb. ,/' Will the corn I grow and feed on my farm be subject to assessment? No. Only com sold will be subject to assessment. Com you grow yourself and feed on your farm will not be Bean reminds farmers of some simple safety assessed. Seed com, popcorn, and com grown for silage are also exempt from the assessment. rules that affect harvest: ,/' What will the assessment rate be? • Keep guards in place. It's a simple rule that The Michigan Com Marketing Program will collect 1 cent per bushel at the first purchaser (usually the local every farmer breaks. The few minutes it elevator). On an average 100 bu. yield, that would mean $1.00 per acre of com grown for cash crop. takes to put the shield back over a moving part can save years of time lost to a debilitat- ,/' Who is eligible to vote on the Michigan Corn Marketing Program? ing injury. Any com grower that has sold over $800 of com in any marketing season within the last three (3) marketing seasons is eligible to vote. If you feed on-farm all the corn you produce, you are not subject to assessment and • No passengers on moving equipment. Even therefore are not eligible to vote. the newest farm machinery is designed for only one person: the operator. There are too ,/' What will my contributions be used for? many chances for a passenger to fall off, hit All funds collected will be used to promote com and corn products. This will be accomplished through research, a control lever or distract the operator market development, and public promotion of corn. For example, ethanol blended fuels remain a significant enough to cause an accident. market for com and are one way to clean our nation's air. In Michigan, ethanol blended fuels command an 18% market share. Com growers have been a major force behind the development of ethanol markets. • Stay out of grain bins. Moving grain can suck down and suffocate a person in ,/' Will most of the funds collected stay in Michigan? minutes. Yes. All funds will be controlled by a nine member board of com growers, each representing one district and appointed by the Governor. While some funds will go to national organizations (like the National Com Growers • Watch those grain augers. Moving g~ain Association and the US Feed Grains Council), most of the Michigan Com Marketing Program funds will be used means moving parts. A careless or tIred in the state. worker can easily get caught in the equip- ment. ,/' Will administrative costs of the marketing program be closely controlled? Yes. All budgets will be developed and approved by farmers. In addition, the program caps administrative • Keep kids away. Harvest is no time to be expenses at no more than 15% of funds collected. Typically, most state com marketing programs operate at baby-sitting. The many opportunitie~ for much less than 15% of funds collected. children to get hurt on a farm are magmfied by the hectic activity of harvest. Children old ,/' How can I vote "YES" on the Michigan Corn Marketing Program? enough to help during harvest should be You need to visit your county extension office or county ASCS office during the voting period, which is thoroughly instructed and not permitted to Monday, November 30, 1992 to Friday, December 11, 1992. Pick up a ballot, complete it according to the work extra-long shifts. instructions on the ballot, and return it via US Mail to the Michigan Department of Agriculture. • Look up and down and all around. ~ver- For More Information, Call the Michigan Corn Growers Association at (517)323-6600. head power lines and unexpected holes In the ground are two of the biggest causes of farm machinery accidents. Be aware of your sur- roundings. Remember, Vote YES in December for your future! () Michigan Farm News , - October 15, 1992 Southeast Michigan Farmers Participate in Tillage Demo Performance of various tillage imple- of corn residue. Farmers with ments were observed by Berrien, Cass and highly erodible land are en- ~ .. Van Buren county farmers attending a con- couraged to contact the con- servation tillage demonstration, sponsored servation district for their area by conservation districts in the three coun- to get information about this ties, on the Warren Strefling farm near and other demonstrations. Galien, Michigan earlier this month. Residue management, plant "The objective of the demonstration was to residue covering 30 percent of show farmers how they might achieve the the field surface after planting, 30 percent residue cover requirement for is an important practice in conservation tillage," said Jerry Grigar, programs to meet conservation conservation agronomist for the Soil Con- tillage requirements for con- servation Service in Michigan. servation compl iance, and to protect water quality. "It was one of several demonstrations being held across southern Michigan to help At right, Jerry Grigar, con- farmers meet conservation compliance re- servation agronomist for the quirements of the '85 and '90 farm bills," Soil Conservation Service Grigar added. in Michigan, shows how a wing on the off-set chisel Random checks last spring indicated that shank of a Tye para till lifts some farmers were having difficulty meet- and drops the soil to shatter ing the 30 percent minimum cover require- compacted layers. Unlike ment for conservation tillage and conserva- other deep-till chisels, the tion compl iance, according to Leslie paratill leaves residue on Hainey, district conservationist for the soil the surface relatively undis- conservation Service at St. Joseph. turbed for good erosion protection. The till age resi due-m anagemen t o demonstration event was held to correct this situation. Various tillage implements and combina- tions of implements were operated in a field of wheat residue, and the residue remaining on the surface after tillage was A~ measured to help farmers evaluate their tillage systems and to evaluate options available to them. Demonstrations began with the implement combination least likely to leave enough residue on the surface and continued through the best conservation tillage op- tion, no-till, which really is a planting sys- tem rather than a tillage system. Travel to England, European Adventure Tour Ireland, Scotland, visiting Austria, Residue cover in the various plots ranged from 24 to 38 percent after tillage. Residue & Wales Svvitzerland & Italy cover in the no-till plots ranged from 75 to July 8-23, 1993 August 14-25, 1993 95 percent after planting. One does not need the "Luck of the Irish" to enjoy the Our 12-day central European tour takes in the beautiful "Farmers could see how residue on the many attractions included in this deluxe package. This countryside of Austria, the mountains of Italy and the surface increased when we changed to nar- 16-day tour is full of many great attractions including lakes of northern Italy as we visit Fairy tale Bavaria, the row straight-shank chisel points, and as the such things as Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, the Blarney Passion play villageofOberammergau, the Italian resort depth and speed of tillage was reduced," Castle, Waterford Crystal factory, Dublin, Edinburgh of Stresa and Linderhof Castle. said Dr. Tim Harrigan, tillage engineer, Agricultural Engineering Department, Castle, an overnight stay in Ruthin Castle in Wales, Michigan State University. Harrigan was theatre tickets to a Royal Shakespeare Theatre produc- This European tour includes roundtrip airfare, transfer, one of the principal speakers at the event tion, a Medieval Banquet, a visit to Stonehenge, deluxe motorcoach transportation, first class and and led discussions for all demonstrations. Buckingham Palace, and a tour of London, as well as Tyrolean-style hotel accommodations, European-style The event also included demonstration of London Theatre tickets. O~r package includes roundtrip buffet breakfast daily, 1 dinner, and much more. The deep-tillage tools used in the fall to break airfare, deluxe hotel accommodations, 24 mealsand much Farm Bureau member price is $1,725. Non member price compacted soil layers that can restrict root more for $2,799 per person. is $1,755 per person. penetration. Most left the surface very rough and in need of additional tillage in the spring before planting. The Tye paratill, a deep-tillage chisel plow, left surface residue nearly undisturbed. Its offset design shattered the hard-pan by lifting and Heritage of Al11erica dropping the soil. September 25 - October 3, 1993 The beautiful colors of the fall foliagecombined with America's most historic areas makes this a most outstanding tour "Farmers were impressed. Several told me for Farm Bureau members. Our travels will include New York City, the city of Brot.herly love - Philadelphia, the it was an informative and educational event Amish country of Lancaster, as well as Gettysburg and the Shenandoah Valley. Our adventures will then take us to and that they gained knowledge needed to make objective decisions about their tillage Monticello, colonial Williamsburg, and then to our nation's capital, Washington, D.C. operations," said Warren Strefling, chair- man of the Galien River Soil Conservation This deluxe tour includes air transportation, first-class hotel accommodations, deluxe motorcoach transportation, 15 District. "They really liked the residue meals, and full sightseeing and admissions to all attractions. This 9-day tour is available for $1,299 per member. measuring contest after the demonstra- tions. They learned how easily they could check residue after their own operations," "... he continued. Tractors, tillage implements and other Copenhagen Plus items for demonstration were provided by October 9-16, 1993 the LaPort County Co-op, Klug Farm Scandinavia this fall could be the most refreshing, truly different vacation you have ever had. Scandinavia is different, Equipment, Ausra Farm Equipment, Walker Farm and Garden Equipment, Fin- but you will feelvery much at home. Our one-week vacation offers you the opportunity to enjoy Copenhagen, Denmark nerman Farm and Garden Equipment, Yet- - one of Europe's most exciting capital cities- known for its fun loving spirit! Copenhagen has many fine museums, ter Manufacturing, Rawson Coulter-Till Royal Palaces, and an old harbour district with colorful cafes and cosy restaurants. The Strogit is the famous and Reeman Farm Equipment. Monsanto pedestrian shopping center - Europe's largest - where you can fmd the finest of Scandinavian goods and crafts. and Dupont also had representatives at the event. Our package includes roundtrip airfare, accommodations at the4 star Sheraton-Copenhagen, a 2-night cruise to Oslo, Conservation districts in Kalamazoo, St. the capital of Norway, city sightseeing, Danish breakfast each morning, 2 dinners, and much, much more for the Joseph and Branch counties have unbelievable price of $1,235 for members, $1,255 for non-members. scheduled a tillage demonstration in a field Michigan Farm News October 15, 1992 USB Audit and Recommendations Presented to USDA the Act and the order which established the primary contractors, because it helps us On Sept. 11, the United Soybean Board national checkoff." more fully define the acceptable billing and (USB) presented to the USDA Agricultural cost allocation procedures that are allowed Marketing Service the results of an inde- pendent audit of its primary contractor for USDA has indicated that their full evalua- tion and comments on the report will require under the Act. Pilot Plant to , 1992 programs, the American Soybean As- sociation (ASA). This audit was conducted several months to complete. At that time, the full results of the audit will be made "The national checkoff program had to start quickly and proceed at full speed in order to Manufacture at the request of USDA. Prior to submission to USDA, the USB available to the general public. Sandy Ludeman, a soybean farmer from maintain continuity in important programs in research and marketing. During this start- up period, both USB and its primary con- New Soy- Executive Committee thoroughly reviewed the report. Included as a part of its submis- Tracey, Minnesota, and United Soybean Board Chairman, says, "The audit is an tractor, ASA, have worked diligently to match the requirements of the program to Based Product sion to USDA are the steps the USB Board important and necessary step in maintaining those of the Act. We feel that the audit Soybean farmers are providing financial deems necessary to bring the contract into credibility of the program to all soybean results, our recommendations, and the ac- assistance to manufacture a new line of full compliance with the provisions of the farmers who contribute to the checkoff. The tions already taken demonstrate that we environmental building materials, made Soybean Promotion Research Act and goals of USB, USDA and the contractor, have been moving in the right direction." from a combination of waste paper and Order, which established the national ASA, are the same: to assure farmers that soybean monolithic resin, with the recent soybean checkoff. In its report to USDA, their checkoff money is used properly. USB and ASA Executive Committee mem- commitment of the United Soybean Board the board notes that many of the items in the bers have held discussions about the report (USB) to back a research project. audit report have already been addressed by "While attaining these goals certainly starts and ASA is in possession of the report and USB and ASA. with strict compliance with the rules, it goes the USB recommendations. A $200,000 research grant provided by the beyond compliance to ensure that the effec- USB (a 63 farmer board of directors that "Detailed findings of the report will not be tiveness of every soybean dollar is maxi- "This report goes a long way toward helping oversees investment of national soybean made public until the USDA has had time mized," Ludeman says. "We don't see this USB better structure its contract language check-off funds in soybean research and to respond to the report and the USB recom- audit as a single, one-time step, but as a with all contractors," says Ludeman. "Com- promotion programs) will allow a new cor- mendations," says Jerry Slocum, chairman continuing program to help insure that prehensive audits such as this impact on all poration, Phenix Composites, Inc., to con- of the USB Audit and Evaluation Commit- checkoff dollars are wisely spent. commodity programs in that they tinue research and development of products tee. "We can say, however, that the report demonstrate the full accountability and using technology developed by a "think states that there have been no violations of "However," he continued, "this first major responsiveness of all parties concerned." tank" corporation known as Rho Delta, Inc. audit is certainly a big step for USB and its Phenix Composites, Inc. will manufacture the new product in a pilot plant using tech- nology developed at Rho Delta, Inc., lo- cated in Mankato, Minnesota. "0i;;Georgetovvn HOl11e Tour Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee Chairman, Kam Washburn from Elsie says us as we stroll the historic he is pleased to see the combination of ne!ghborhoods of Georgetown and visit several homes private enterprise and check-off invest- . and, experience the beauty and grandeur of these stately ment. Washburn and Barry Mumby of Ful- mansions. Spectacular decorating and colorful gar- ton are the two Michigan directors who serve on the United Soybean Board, repre- dens await us on each walking tour, to be followed by senting Michigan soybean farmers at the tea' and cookies. Our package includes roundtrip national level. ai.rCare, transfers, accommodations at the beautiful ana European styled Georgetown Inn, 7 meals, a city. "The start of this new venture is particular- ly exciting, because it represents a financial commitment of farmers to create a new Non-members: $694. market opportunity for U.S. soybean farmers," explained Washburn. "The investors have made a major commit- ment to manufacture the product. Our in- vestment will help promote the product and get the venture off to a fast start," he said. "The material has real potential because of its versatility and the environmental aspects. I'm delighted we can be involved in the development and now the promotion of getting the product to market." According to Phenix Composites Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Rodney Skillman, the new material called "New- Stone" has the look of natural granite or decorative colored stone with machinability similar to wood. NewStone can be milled, glued, sanded, fastened or shaped with conventional equipment used in traditional woodworking processes. The material also has the ability to be molded similar to plastic into various shapes and forms. Applications include furniture. flooring, wall panels, structural and decora- tive components and a host of other products. Our cruise includes airfare, transfers, all meals and entertaimnent, cocktail party, bottle of wine, as well as Phenix Vice President Mike Riebel said the prePaid gratuities to cruise staff. An optional two-night company is looking at a wide range of new products with world-wide market potential 00/\ '''bond on Showtime" package before or after the cruise in the building trade industries. is also available. Cabins begin at $4,036 per person. "The ability to potentially take all waste paper of the region and merge it with an agri-based material in a high technology Brochure Request Form processing facility to produce a material which will reduce the amount of timber that Please send, witllOut obligation, the detailed infonnation for the tOllrs uldicated below must be cut should be exciting to everyone," Riebel said. o o o o o o o o Panama Australia Georgetown Scandinavian England, Ireland European Heritage Copenhagen Plus Washburn noted that government and Canal Cruise New Zealand Home Tour Capitals & Scotland & Wales Adventure Tour of America educational agencies are also involved in . Russian Grandeur this project. Phenix Composites, Inc. has (Please Mail to) been approved by the Minnesota Office of (Please Print) Waste Management for a $100,000 grant to Name Member Trovel Services determine the range and process require- P.O. Box 30960 ments of waste paper wh.ich could be used Laming, MI 48909 in the new project. In addition, Phenix orcaU Composites will continue to work with the 1-800-292-2680 Department of Engineering at Mankato ext. 3067 State University for support in testing and electrical engineering. Michigan Farm News October 15, 1992 IB Deere Introduces Six New Tractor Models Since announcing its strategy last fall to introduce more families of tractors, more quickly, and base them on even more cus- tomer input, John Deere has introduced three 60-Series large row crop models, two mid-range models, and in January, three 40 60-hp 5000 Series tractors. Now, the company's strategy continues to unfold with the introduction of six completely new tractors from 66 to 145 hp. The six tractors are divided into three 6000 Series and three 7000 Series models. The 6200, 6300 and 6400 at 66, 76 and 86 hp, replace the 2555, 2755 and 2955 in the Deere tractor line. The 7600, 7700 and 7800 models are rated at 110, 125 and 145 hp and replace the 4055, 4255 and 4455 . .. The John Deere 7600, 7700, and 7800 tractors, rated at 110, 125, and 145 PTO hp, are new from the ground up. These 000 7. "These tractors are new from the ground up and the result of extensive input from John Series tractors feature a new 16F/12R PowrQuad transmission with power shifts within each of four ranges and synchrOnized Deere and competitive customers," says shifts between ranges. A new electronically-controlled 19F/7R power shift transmission is available as an option. The new Neil Christenson, Deere's vice president of ComfortGard cab establishes a new level of co,!,fort, operator convenience, and productivity. marketing for the U.S. and Canada. Shifts between ranges are fully Adjustable shift stops permit preselection ment. The cab is 40 percent larger and has The tractors feature a modular design with synchronized for smooth shifting on-the- of forward and reverse gears for added con- 29 percent more glass area than the 55 a full-length heavy-gauge steel frame that go. Forward-reverse shuttle shifts are fully venience when shuttle shifting. Series cab. Ergonomic placement and provides several performance and service- modulated and can be done without brak- shaping of color-coded controls contribute ability advantages. The frame has a high ing or clutching for faster loader opera- A positive park position is provided on the to operator convenience and productivity. payload capacity that permits mounting tions. The PowrQuad transmission is shift console with all three transmissions. heavy front and rear implement combina- standard on the 7000 Series tractors. The new easy-adjust Air Quality System tions. It also serves as a strong platform for All tractors equipped with a SynchroPlus or provides exceptional control of condi- mounting a loader and a front hitch. For vegetable and specialty crops, a fac- PowrQuad transmission feature a new tioned air to all key areas of the cab includ- tory-installed creeper option is available hydraulically actuated PermaClutch 2 wet ing behind the operator. An air-suspension The engine is isolation mounted inside the for both transmissions. The creeper clutch for durable, maintenance-free trans- seat (optional on 6000 Series tractors) with frame and is not a structural member of the provides an additional 9F/3R speeds with fer of engine power to the transmission. exclusive Ride Zone Protection features a tractor. This enhances ballasting flexibility the SynchroPlus transmission and an addi- comprehensive set of adjustments includ- because the engine is not required to sup- tional I2F/12R speeds with the PowrQuad A PTO module mounts to the rear of the ing 4-way attenuation control (fore/aft on port tractor weight. Also, isolating drive transmission. All creeper speed ranges are differential case. A 540 rpm PTO is stand- 6000 Series tractors) for comfort. train components from stress loads in- slower than those in the standard transmis- ard on the 6200 and 6300 models. The 6400 creases component life and reliability. sions. The slowest available ground speed and all 7000 Series tractors feature a stand- Ride Zone Protection prevents under or is .15 mph (13.5 ft. per minute). ard 540/1000 rpm PTO. A front-mounted overinflating the seat so it does not "bottom POWER TRAIN 1000 rpm PTO is optional on the 7000 or top out" and diminish operator comfort. The tractors are powered by John Deere An optional electronically-controlled Series tractors. Modulated PTO engage- Also, the seat retains the height adjustment diesel engines which are turbocharged for 19FnR power shift transmission is avail- ment builds shaft speed gradually to protect as the operator leaves the seat. increased power and fuel efficiency and able for 7000 Series tractors. All shifts into implement drivelines. lower emissions. They deliver high torque gear and between gears are modulated for The cab provides a 360-degree panoramic over a wide speed range for enhanced load smooth engagement and even power flow The PTO control knob functions with a view for the operator and exceptional starting and field performance. in both forward and reverse. pull-and-rotate motion to engage and a visibility to all critical vision paths to the simple tap on the top of the knob to dis- front tires, rear and sides. An electronic The 3.9-liter engine in the 6200 and 6300 The transmission design permits the engage. For added convenience, an instrumentation panel moves with the in- features a 35 percent (factory observed) operator to select any gear without clutch- operator presence system warns the finitely adjustable steering column and torque rise for ample reserve power to pull ing or waiting to manually shift through operator if he leaves the seat with the PTO enables the operator to quickly and easily through tough spots without shifting. The each preceding gear. The electronic trans- engaged. monitor tractor performance and systems. 4.5-liter in the 6400, 6.8-liter in the 7600, mission controller provides a smooth, On-board diagnostic features help to quick- and 7.6-liter in the 7700 and 7800, develop modulated shift directly to any of the first John Deere Caster/Action MFWD is avail- ly return the machine to the field should a 38 percent (factory observed) torque rise. 11 gears selected. Beyond 11th gear, the able for all models and features a 52-degree repairs ever by necessary. controller shifts the transmission sequen- turn angle for tighter turns and increased The engines' constant power output over a tially, with smooth modulation between maneuverability. In addition to increased A totally new open station with flat plat- 400-plus rpm range ensures full rated power each shift, until the preselected gear is productivity, the MFWD system provides form, side console controls and foldable for increased productivity at reduced en- achieved. four-wheel braking. On 7000 Series tractors ROPS is available for each tractor model. gine speed. the operator can also select a MFWD con- The transmission features a "come-home" trol setting that automatically disengages HYDRAULICS A I2-speed SynchroPlus fully mode that permits tractor operation in 7th the system above 9 mph to reduce front tire The new John Deere pressure and flow synchronized transmission is standard on gear forward and 4th reverse with full wear. The system still provides four-wheel" hydraulic system has more capacity, faster the 6000 Series tractors. It provides three modulation if a circuit malfunction should braking in this setting. cycle times, and increased efficiency for forward gears and one reverse gear in four ever occur. The controller also provides improved all-around performance. This ranges with clash-free, shift-on-the-go per- diagnostic assistance to maximize COMFORTGARD CAB variable-pressure-and-flow, closed-center formance. The shift pattern makes shuttling troubleshooting efficiency should repair The ComfortGard cab establishes a new system connects all high-pressure func- between forward and reverse smooth and work ever be necessary. level of comfort, operator convenience, and tions -- steering, brakes, hitch and SCV s -- easy for increased loader productivity. productivity for the industry. Low sound in parallel to ensure consistent power and An ergonomic shift pattern (push forward levels (75 dB(A) on 6000 Series and 72 smooth response. The steering and brake An optional 16F/12R PowrQuad transmis- to go forward, pull.back to go in reverse) dB(A) on 7000 Series (factory observed)) functions have priority in the system. sion features four power shiftable gears in promotes quick, easy shuttle shifts for combined with "tuned" sound quality four forward and three reverse ranges. loader work without clutching or braking. produce a quiet, comfortable work environ- The electrohydraulic hitch features in- The John Deere 6200, 6300, and 6400 tractors are powered by turbocharged John Deere diesel engines that are rated at 66, creased lift capacities -- up to 10,050 Ibs. 75, and 85 PTO horsepower, respectively. The engines deliver constant power over a wide rpm range for increased productivity. (factory observed) on MFWD 7000 Series The new standard 12F/4R SynchroPlus transmission is fully synchronized in all forward and reverse gears and ranges for tractors ..Lower-link sensors provide feed- shift-on-the-go convenience. A 16F/12R PowrQuad transmission and a creeper option are available. The John Deere Perma- back to the hitch controller for precise, Clut~h 2 wet clutch is standard equipment and provides reliable, f!1aintenance-free performance . responsive load and depth control. Er- . gonomic hitch controls permit a wide range of adjustments and are conveniently grouped'to enhance operator comfort and productivity. , • A remote-mounted switch permits the operator to slowly raise/lower the hitch for easier hook-up of mounted implements. Hitch movement stops automatically if the operator releases the switch at any time. A choice of up to four selective control valves with selectable detents and adjus- table flow control is available. Each valve automatically returns to neutral when the engine stops if the control lever is left in a dented raise or lower position. ISO breakaway couplers permit hoses to be coupled and uncoupled under pressure, without loss of oil. Michigan Farm News October 15, 1992 u.s. World Poultry Poultry production and consumption in the Production Seen Expanding According to USDA data, Chinese poultry grow to 220,000 by 1993 from 169,000 in unification has hampered production, U.S. and worldwide are expected to con- production has surged 39.0 percent since 1991. Exports from the Netherlands are ex- heightened demand for poultry products led tinue rising in 1992 and 1993, according to 1988 to 4.5 million tonnes and could grow pected to increase to 460,000 tonnes by to strong imports and a 4 percent increase in a USDA world poultry situation outlook 13.5 percent from 1992 to 1993. 1993 from 421,000 in 1991. broiler consumption in 1991, USDA said. report. China's per capita consumption of 3.4 The combination of a sharp rise in produc- As a result of increased demand in both According to a Knight Ridder News report, kilograms of poultry meat per person is one tion and slow domestic consumption is regions of Germany and the collapse of U.S. production, expected to hit 11,747,000 of the lowest rates in the world, but given fostering export growth of Chinese poultry production in eastern Europe, broiler meat tonnes in 1992, is forecast at 12,157,000 in the ongoing refinement of its marketing products. imports were up 17.1 percent in 1991, 1993. World production is seen at channels and growing incomes, the USDA said. 39,325,000 tonnes in 1992 and 40, 923,000 country's demand for broiler meat is likely Japan and Hong Kong are the leading im- in 1993. to continue to increase. porters of Chinese poultry products. USDA Japan's imports are expected to be furthered said China could begin to take market share by declining domestic production. Japanese Total poultry consumption in the U.S. is Although the U.S. is expected to remain the away from the U.S. in Japan, because inex- production fell 2.3 percent to 1.3 million expected to reach 11.1 million tonnes in largest exporter of poultry meat products in pensive labor and lower shipping costs tonnes in 1991. 1992, up 20 percent from 1988. Consump- 1992 and 1993, such countries as the make their boneless breasts and thighs cost- tion should rise to 11.6 million tonnes in Netherlands, China and Thailand should see competitive. That decline is forecast to continue in 1992 1993, USDA said. faster export growth. and 1993 as increasing production costs and China currently has a 9 percent share of weak domestic prices force Japanese broiler The U.S. is maintaining its position as the The U.S. is expected to export 645,000 ton- Japanese poultry imports, while the U.S. farms out of business. According to USDA, world's leading producer of poultry meat, nes of poultry in 1992 and 653,000 in 1993. holds a 33 percent share. USDA estimates the number of farms has dropped to 4,700 in accounting for about 30 percent of total The second largest exporter, France, is ex- the U.S. will lose some market share to 1991 from 7,000 in 1985. world production, USDA said. pected to export 600,000 tonnes in 1992 and China and Thailand in 1992. China, the second largest total poultry producer and third largest broiler chicken 1993, USDA said. Chinese poultry exports are seen swelling to Major import growth markets in the next two years are expected to be Japan and u.s. Meat Group producer, is experiencing growth in production and consumption. the greatest 170,000 tonnes by 1993 from 123,000 in 1991, while Thai exports are expected to Germany. Although East Germany's switch to a market economy under the German Predicts Pork Exports Will Grow to $1.8 Billion by 2001 U.S. pork exports could more than quad- ruple to a value of $1.8 billion annually by the year 2001, the U.S. Meat Export Federation (MEF) predicts, according to a Knight Ridder News report. The projection was based on a recent study of foreign export markets for U.S. pork, including Asia, Mexico, the Carib- bean and the Commonwealth of Inde- pendent States. The study will be used as a springboard for industry efforts to in- crease exports. Domestic consumption has been generally level for the past 7 years. With current U.S. pork exports at about $400 million annually, the MEF projec- tion could be considered ambitious. Mark Gustafson, an MEF vice president, said reaching the $1.8 billion goal will depend in part on several trade develop- ments that are not necessarily under con- trol of U.S. industry or government. For example: trade barriers in South and North Korea would have to be eliminated or reduced; Taiwan would have to scale back its government sub- sidies of pork products; and the EC would have to lift trade barriers against U.S. products. As for the cash-starved former USSR, Alamo features fine General Motors the only commodity purchases it is cars like this Buicll Regal. making are with the help of U.S. subsidy programs. Rumors and expectations are Which of these three Alamo offers is best for yOU? that pork will be a major player in the latest round of subsidy and credit pack- ages to the CIS. As a member of Alamo's Association Program, you can enjoy great benefits every time you rent fro~ Alam? :ou can st.art by using lhl' attached certificate for a free upgrade or $5 to $10 off your next association weekly rental. You'll also receive unllllltted free Illtlc~lg('_ on e~'ery re.mal Denmark, Netherlands, Canada and in the u.s. or U.K.. discounted daily and weekly rales and a $3000 maxi~~m responsibility for ~ar damage. loss of use or.lheft ~fCD\V IS dechned. Plus. you can earn Frequent Flyer miles with Alaska, Delta and United alrhnes. So you can see. It really does pay to assoCiate wnh Alamo. Taiwan historically have been success- ful in competing with U.S. pork products 34926AS -----$5-0FF--------r----$lO-OFF-----TI1is ''''lui . nr.- ~-~~..,- r= .. 10• 100• 20 '",711I • This <~nifical~ and th~ car r~ntal pursuant to il ar~ subj«1 to Alamo's • This c~nifical~ and th~ car ",ntal pursuant 10 it a", subj«t 10Alamo's • ThIS c~niflCOlc..nd Ih~ <';I' n'lltal'.u ......"'1 h' it "' •. ",hi.'(.t t.. t\LlII"" 10.,50.20 mnditions allh~ lim~ of r~ntal. May be r~~~ opliorul il~ms .• for Ih~ basic rale of Ih~ Alamo <.. , r~ntal which doo not includ~ tax~ and oth~r conditions allh~ tim~ of ",ntal. Ma)' be rnktm~ for Ih~ tx.sic ral~ of Ih~ Alamo ca' r~ntal which dlXS not includ~ ta,,~ and oth~r optiorul it~ms. OfT...... lid Ihrough 12118192(~x«pI ~/16.'92 - ~/18I92) .• ~onditions allh~ lim~ of n'nt ..1.Al'l'lll'ahk I..",."rd II\' rat~ onl)'. Off .. ';Jlid Ihwu!,:h 12I11W2 Crx....pl ~/lhN2 • ~/llWl)_ ,,,,,,,',U,,'" •• _ BUILD IT YOURSELF AND SAVE MONEY __ I,DOO _ -.-. - --" ~-.:IoI_ ..-. ..... -.-. We _ • OfT~, valid lhrough 12118192(~"~~pI4/16.'92 - 4/18192). For reservations in the U.S. or Uniled Kingdom call your For reservations fn th<" U.s. or Uniu."d Kin):dollll~11I your ...-.- ,.....1\ ............ -..._ ,.... c...- -c--. .. '-lltulldlnl .....- 20 _ ___ .- For reservations in the u.s. or United Kingdom call your Pro[essional Travel Agent or call Pro[l."SSional Travd Ag<"nl or call •• ~ rr.nt" .nt1......pelnted .......-. ...... Prle c:.I .. ........,. r. ....fOI__ fr_ eur • Professional Travel Agent or call Alamo at 1-800-327-9633 (U.s.) Alamo at 1-800-327-9633 (U.s.> ......... _ • .- Ol\ _ .. ...,-... Alamo at 1-800-327-9633 (U.s.) or 1-800-522-9696 (U.K.). or 1-800-522-9696 (U.K,). so • 100 , 1I- or 1-800-522-9696 (UK), You must request Rate Code BY and You must r<"quest Ral<" c..xk BY and ROOF SYSTET.' You mUst request Rale Code BY and use your membership ID number. use your memocrship ID numocr. ~OU'PT,lHH ,\ HAY STORAGE use your memocrship ID number. Where all the mUes Where all ~,!11Iles ~ Where all ~p1lles $10.985 I DIOB I I.D.#BY223212 arefreeN I DIIB II.D.#BY223212 are ~ I.D.# BY223212 are L ---------------------- --~-----------------------~------------------------ Michigan Farm News -. I October 15,1992 Discussion Topic for November, 1992 -- How Much Government Do We Want and Who Should Pay For It? Government expansion accelerated once By comparison, in 1948, a family of four or constitutional changes to give the presi- For most of human history, people had again during the 1960's "Great Society" with a median income of $3,200 paid al- dent line-item veto power and write-down little or no choice about the kind and crusade against social problems. And most no income taxes and only $60 in So- authority in appropriations bills. amount of government they had. They suf- despite the limited government philosophy cial Security taxes. fered under kings and dictators, and sub- of President Reagan (from 1982-87, the What does the future hold? Much depends mitted to the demands of their rulers. average annual rate of federal spending in- Government is also being financed by debt. on the outcome of the Nov. 3 election for creases was actually reduced), the scope of Gross federal debt as a percentage of gross president and Congress. But it would be The American Revolution signaled the end government involvement and spending in domestic product has steadily increased ironic to see Americans embrace an expan- of that kind of tyranny. The war was spurred our society has continued to increase. From since 1980. The national debt in the post sion of the government social-welfare state by a yearning for "Governments (that) are 1988 to 1992, the average annual rate of World War II period went to pay temporary at the same time that people in other nations instituted among Men, deriving their just increase of federal government spending war-related spending. But modem federal around the world are wrestling their lives Powers from the consent of the Governed, " doubled to almost $95 billion. After adjust- debt loads are being used to finance all sorts and freedom away from the heavy hand of and by a revulsion against "taxation without ing for inflation, federal spending increased of current consumption programs and inter- bureaucrats. representation. " from about $1 trillion in 1981 to almost $1.4 est payments. trillion in 1991 -- a 40 percent increase. Discussion Questions: For much of our U.S. history, we had What can be done? Farm Bureau policy limited government. But that was changed This huge jump in government spending calls for a freeze in total federal spending, 1. What does your group feel has been the by two cataclysmic events: the Great was partly financed by an increase in the tax including entitlement programs, at the pre- reason for the increase of government invol- Depression and World War II. The suffer- burden on the middle class. In 1989, a fami- vious fiscal year's level with the exception vement and spending in this country? ing of the Great Depression led to demands ly of four with a median income earned of interest payments on the national debt for greater government participation in the $34,200 a year. Half of the nation's and natural disasters. The organization sup- 2. Should taxes be increased to payoff the economy. The demands of total war households had incomes above this level ports fundamental reform in federal entitle- federal debt? If yes, which taxes should be production in the fight against Germany and half had incomes lower than this level. ment programs and cost-of-living adjust- increased? (income, luxury, capitol gains and Japan increased the breadth of This median family paid nearly 24 percent ments; a constitutional amendment to etc.) government's involvement in all aspects of of its income to the federal government in restrict the spending authority of the federal our social and economic life. taxes, including income taxes, Social government to no more than 19 percent of 3. If spending cuts are the answer, where Security and Medicare taxes. the gross national product; and legislative should spending cuts begin? INS Launches Campaign to Replace Old "Green Cards" ·chigan Farm The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) is requiring permanent resident aliens in the U.S. who carry a eau cription "green card" issued before 1978, to ob- tain new cards by July 31, 1993. FELD'S VITRUM The old cards, known officially as the COMPARE 1-151, Alien Registration Receipt Card, will expire on that date because the INS is replacing them with newer cards (1551 s) that may be read by machine, contain more identifying information gram TO CENTRUM AT $12.95 and are more resistant to counterfeiting. The new card will contain the '~ photograph, fingerprint, and signature of the person to whom it is issued. In announcing the card replacement pro- COMPARE gram, INS Commissioner Gene Mc- Nary said, "The new card has modem AND' security features that provide positive identification and will be an important SAVE! step toward eliminating discrimination FEla,. that may result from employers fearful of hiring an alien if they're unsure ofthe documents presented. " FElfi['DRUG An application form for the new card Acm"jAiLiTs '':ii'!m.'nopt\en 1 ablets may be obtained by calling a toll-free number (I -800-755-0777). When the Compare ,:.Q./r.:-Iree . ~. bsl pain relie! form is completed and two photographs to Regular , ~ . ~ 10IICh ...... .. llftnttItT ..... are obtained, they must be taken to the nearest INS, along with an application Tylenol ~ TABlETS • 325 MG. EAOl • fee of $70. Resident aliens who have been traveling abroad may also file a JELD'S completed application at a U.S. port of N~RAL entry upon their return .. VliGETABLE FElfj£'DRUG '.::~-=-.:' lAXATIVE POWDER COMRARE TOMETAMUCIL $599 • PRESCRIPTION SERVICE CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-228-3353 WATERSTOVE 's .~ ..."--- . .. .... ~ AT $9.89 ASK FOR FREE CATALOG! 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Michigan Farm News - Michigan Farm News Classifieds - •• October 15, 1992 "fIr_I .,.,.:.:" I ::::::::::::::::::::::::'::':'::::::::::::::::::::'::::::::::::::::'I• r------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1I1••• 'I'il MIXER Van Dale stationary Jllfrlllli WOODLOT MANAGEMENT Announcing A New Member Benefit , OMF3 170 cu ft mixing cap. Excellent condition. $4500. 616-345-7695, professional forestry advice, timber sale preparation, 135 ACRE DAIRY FARM Barn, Silos with electric, grain bins, dryer, feed bunker, Michigan Farm News Classified stewardship plan writing. 15 616-344-7555. years experience. Call Tom spring fed watering area. Two At Michigan Farm News, our commitment to serve Michigan Farm 1975 M.F. 750 diesel hydro,' Sta'dt, TREE TECH bedroom home. PRICE chopper, good Rice tires, 616-671;,4098. REDUCED! $140,000. Bureau readers is always a top priority. Beginning with the September 15 1163 cornhead, 15' grain OWNER FINANCING. F-599. issue, readers will be able to read and purchase statewide classified ad- table, finger reel, excellent Faust Realty, Adrian vertising at.a cost unmatch~d anywhere in M~chigan. ' .••~."III condition. 616-899-2479. 517-263-8666. 3 BEDROOM HOME'with 107 'acres, 40 woods, 32x48 pole .Michigan Farm News has contracted the services and skills of the KAIN AUCTION SERVICES barn, 2 car garage attached. Greenville Daily News, which also prints the Michigan Farm News, to oper- is Booking Auctions! Farm, First floor laundry, enclosed Real Estate, Household and porch. All for $114,000. ate the classified section. 'Experienced Greenville Classified Advertising . General Auctions. LARRY Muladore Real Estate staff will help place your ad, via: the 1-800 phone line dedicated exclusively SIX AMERICAN farrowing 517-799-7460, ask for Tom . crates with plastic coated. KAIN, Auctioneer in' Coral. to Michigan Farm News classified users, or through the mail if you prefer. 616-354-6532. All sales Schaffer. :' . decks, heat pads, waterers,. Ads can be paid for either by check or credit card if placed 'through the stainless steel feeders, fans handled in a personal, busi- and more. 616-627-2729. ness like. manner. , mail, or by credit card if plac~d over the phone. .,(,r. ' In the Michigan Farm News Classifieds, your ad will reach 45,000 real HORIZONTAL Steel fertilizer farm family households across the entire state of Michigan. That's, 45,000 tanks glass lined: 20,000 actual farm family members.of Michigan Farm- Bureau from the southern BARN 40'X10S',.2 sheds to gallon size $1900. 29,000 state line to the north~rn, reaches of the Uppe,r Peninsula .. BOARS AND GILTS Hamp ,be re,moved. Very reas,on-. gallon size $2900. Good for and Duroc, York and Chester: liquid fertilizer products. Call Downy Creek Farms, Farm- able.. Call 517-n7-1610. Jerry Bugin'sky, Lennon, , Dea~Uine_for next issue is October 19, 1992 land Ind. Call POLE BUILDINGS by All- Michigan 517-28876015. 1-317-468-6099. HAMP BOARS for sale. State Pole Structure Inc., Michigan's finest from 18' to 80' wide. All sizes and CUSTOM MANURE TION No job too big IRRIGA- or small. WSA Call 1~800-968-3129 • Service age. $200-$250. 616-754-6829 shapes, free estimates, resi- dential, commercial, agricul- Hourly or bid. Call best before 7 or anytime, after 5, to Place Your Classified Ad IOd.ay!. REGISTERED ANGUS tural, industrial. Also check 616-792-2854. BULLS September Yearlings our home packages. or use the coupon below and mail your classified ad to ready for service. Bred for 1-800-968-9205. NA-CHURS Uquid Fertilizer high growth and moderate Products. Foliar and starter Michigan Farm News a'-I birth weights. Average analysis along with liquid potash (0-0-30) and trace weights for weaning, 8041bs and yearling 1220. Sired by elements. Soil testing and delivery included. Dealer Classified Advertising by top A.1.Bulls. Winn Farms Joe 313-367-3183, Doug 313-367-6379. ANTRIM COUNTY: 10 beau- inquiries welcome. Contact JERRY'S AGRI-SALES P. O. Box 340, 109 N. Lafayette tifully Wood Acres. Ideal hunt- ing and camping spot. Near .....I •................................. Distributor for Gratiot, Genes- see, Livingston, Saginaw, Shiawassee and Tuscola Greenville, MI 48838 Jordan River and Lake l\lllliitl Bellaire. $9500, $300 down, $125/Mo. 11% land contract. Call Northern Land Company 1-800-968-3118. Counties. Call collect for - fur the r -i n for mat ion. 517-288-6015. NORTHERN MICHIGAN 1. Farm Machinery Classified Ad Codes 2. Livestock Equipment 'BIRD FERTILIZER SERVICES. 1100 N IrvinQ, MINI FARM HOME for sale. 4 Christmas trees 6' to 10', blue 3. Farm Commodities 4. Livestock Greenville. Fertilizer, chemI- bedroom, large barn, 10 and white spruce, Douglas fir, cals, seed, lime, feed. Soil minutes to town, blacktop superior quality, cut, baled 5. Help/Position Wanted 6. Agricultural Services testing, truck spreading and road. $25,000. No phone. and loaded on your truck. custom spraying. Call HCR01, Box 527, Wetmore, 616-271-3543 evenings and 7. Auctions 8. Building Materials 616-754-3684. Mich 49895. weekends. 9. Real Estate 10. Seeds 11. Wanted to Buy 12. General Name Phone ( Farmhand/Glencoe Introduces New Address Economical Soil Saver Coulter Chisel City State Zip Classified Ad Code Requested Number of Issues Desired Insertion Date(s): Method of Payment Check $ (payable to Michigan Farm News Classified) Visa Card Number Exp. Date Master Card Number Exp. Date Classified Rates $8 for up to 24 words 30 cents each additional word Write your ad here, including phone number and area code 234 5 6 7 8 A rugged, yet economical new primary Two hydraulic cylinders control depth in a mulch tillage implement has been intro- series-type lift system. Trash flow with the 9 10 11 12 duced by Farmhand, Inc. SS7200 is excellent, making it a great choice for residue management for the 90s. The Glencoe SS7200 Soil Saver is a coulter 13 14 15 16 chisel that cuts and incorporates crop resi- Three single-axle models of the SS7200 are due in single pass primary tillage. In the available: 5, 7, and 9-shank models with 17 18 19 20 process, soil is stirred and aerated to im- working widths from 6'3" to 11'3". Shank prove tilth and promote better root, water and shovel options allow selective residue 21 22 23 24 and air movement. Compliance require- incorporation in any crop, any soil type. ments are met and there's more potential for Manual depth control allows 1" increments 25 26 27 28 healthier crops and higher yields. in depth adjustments from 4" to 12". Attach- ments can be added to incorporate more 29 30 31 32 The SS7200 has a weighted main frame that residue or to leave a more level soil surface. delivers uniform shank penetration, opcrat- For more information, contact Farm- 33 34 35 36 ing strength and long life. hand, Inc., P.O. Box 1500, Excelsior, MN 55331 or call (515) 236-6571. Michigan Farm News Don't Overlook New Label Requirements for Atrazine Use •• October 15, 1992 On May 4, 1992, the U.S. Environmental 2. For soil applications on highly erodible prepared by the manufacturers of atrazine, Changes in the atrazine label are all addi- Protection Agency (EP A) adopted several land (as defined by SCS) with greater than which should help clarify this definition. tions to the current label. All restrictions changes in the atrazine label effective for 30 percent surface residue, the maximum Based on available information, it appears currently on the label will remain on the all atrazine-containing products produced single application rate will be 2.0 lbs. clear that any drainage route identified on new label. For example, atrazine will con- after Aug. 1, 1992. The rationale behind ai/acre. On highly erodible soils with less a U.S. Geological Survey map would fall tinue to be classified as a restricted use these label changes is primarily to reduce than 30 percent surface residue, the maxi- under this classification and sod waterways pesticide (RUP), fall applications will not the risk of atrazine reaching surface water. mum single application rate will be 1.6 lbs. in fields would not. be permitted, etc. ai/acre. The label changes fall into two general ~ 2. On highly erodible land, the 66' buffer Changes in the maximum atrazine applica- categories: (A) application rate and (B) 3. Atrazine use for non-selective weed con- zone from runoff entry points must be tion rate should not require significant buffer zones or set backs. Specific label trol on non-crop land will be deleted from seeded with a suitable cover crop. Where changes in atrazine use in Michigan, since changes, grouped by category, are as fol- the label (this includes uses around build- there are multiple runoff entry points, most atrazine is applied below the 1993 lows: ings, fuel tanks, fence rows, etc.). farmers may choose to place a 66' (or limits currently. The label change, which wider) strip of the field bordering per- will require the greatest change in current A. Application Rate B. Buffer Zones manent or intermittent river or streams into practices, is the requirement for buffer 1. The maximum application rate will be 1. The label will state that no atrazine ap- a government reserve program. zones from the point of entry of surface 2.5 Ibs. ai/acre/year c:ombined pre- and plication is allowed within 66' of points water into rivers and streams. post-applications. In addition, no more than. .where field surface water runoff enters 3. A 200' buffer zone is required around 2.0 Ibs. ailacre may be applied'ip anyone perennial or intermittent streams and riv'ers. natural or impounded lakes and reservoirs. The manufacturers, state regulatory agen- application. Previously, up to 3lbs. p~r acre Considerable confusion exists -regarding This will not include farm ponds, unless cies, USDA, and EPA are working on in- could be applied. the definition of a peremiial or intermittent they are used for human drinking water. terpretation of these label changes. stream or river. A 40cument is being one of the Protein st Power BuDders at 21 Century. A strong Htype" bull, too. Betcher Stanley Tess (grade) Standale Sissy Stanley VG-88 2-11 324d 20.527M 3.9 799F 3.3 67 I P 3-8 365d 24,860M 5.3 1315F 3.8 936P Owned by David Betcher, Goodhue, MN Owned by Andy Stanley, Barryton, M/ 21HI202 Will-Lo--Acres Mark Stanley USDA (7-92) 72daus. 50 herds PTA+2/6P$ +61P +.07% 83ReiP +199MF$ +81F +.14%F +1475M 21CG (7-92) HL987 LPR$ 155 HA(7-92) PTAT+1.78 74ReiT TPI+/IIO Rich Genetics If you're looking to power up the protein in your ligaments and tight fore udders. His daughters herd, don't miss Stanley. one of the few Mark are extremely dairy with wide rumps-the kind 911 West sons over 60 pounds of protein. And with + 1.78 that stay in the herd for years. PTAT,he's a real type powerhouse, too. If you need to punch up the protein in your Forester Road Stanley is known for siring good udders. great teat placement, very strong suspensory herd. rely on 21st Century Genetics-and Stanley-for performance that gets results! Sandusky, MI 48471 313/648~2373 21 ~CEN1URY GENETICS