Michigan Farm News ------------ 1 ".1 .-. ::::::::::::::::::::::::-----------V.O.I October 15, 1993 •.•7.0,.N.O •.-15 Seed Corn and Soybean Seed Supply Good for Michigan In This Issue Michigan corn and soybean growers Agricultural Worker Protection should have little to worry about in securing Reform Act: ample supplies of corn and soybean seed for New legislation sponsored by the 1994 season, although several company Michigan Congressman William representatives suggest that the sooner Ford (0- Ypsilanti) calls for radical growers place their orders the better, espe- changes page 3 cially for soybeans. Weather: Michigan Farm News spoke with seed com- Make every day count, forecast pany representatives from Northrup King, calls for wet and cool page 4 Cargill, ICI Seeds, and Great Lakes Market Outlook: Hybrids about seed availability in light of this past summer's flooding in the Midwest. Few rallies expected, take ad- and frosts this fall on immature crops. What vantage when you can. Dairy follows are comments from each. price trend is up page 6 Michigan's New Estate Tax: Northrup King This new tax, which replaced According to Northrup King Soybean Michigan's inheritance tax, took Product Manager Tom Morgan, supplies of soybeans from group 2.0 maturities and effect Oct. 1. An example calcula- later should be adequate, while earlier tion is included from MSU's Ag maturities could be facing a somewhat Econ. Dept. page 7 tighter supply situation, mostly due to frost Harvest Safety Hazards: damage. Quick tips you can follow to avoid becoming a harvest hazard vic "Most of the Midwest is predominantly Bob Moore guides this 6-row harvester through a stand of seed corn in southern later than a 2.0 maturity," Morgan said. Gratiot County as the farm was wrapping up its 1993 seed corn harvest. The 1,300 tim page 8 "Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin acre operation, now owned and operated by Bob's son, AI Moore, grows 600 acres School Finance Reform: would plant something earlier than that. So of various seed corn varieties, and- 400 acres of soybean seed for Great Lakes Learn what's in the new Engler I wouldn't say there's going to be a Hybrids, in addition to raising wheat and rye. finance plan and the impact to shortage. but I think there' s going to be a Seed corn averages 35 to 40 bushels per acre, and is picked on the ear with agriculture page 9 tight supply and people are going to have to the husk intact by a machine originally developed for sweet corn harvesting, at get their material ordered to make sure moisture levels of approximately 40 percent. Once delivered to the drying site, the J Michigan AG for NAFT A: they're getti ng the variety they want." husks are removed over husking beds, hand sorted and gently dried for four days New ag-based group formed to with 95 degree air, before bagging at Great Lake Hybrid's plant in nearby Ovid. showag industry support for Northrup's seed corn supplies, on the other NAFTA : page 10 hand, are pretty much normal according to your order in early to protect the inventory producers, according to Becky Greenwalt, Lonn Stuckwish. regional sales manager of the seed you want. With some of the ICI corn products manager. NAFTA and U.S. Sugar Trade: for the Great Lakes Region, although he •weather that's been out there in the last Get an indepth analysis from two suggests farmers get their orders in early. week or two, there's probably going to be "We're in a good position and should have MSU ag economists on NAFTA's some definite concerns on some plenty of seed for Michigan," said Green- impact to sugar trade between "We've got the bulk of our corn crop al- maturities. " walt. "In some cases, there may not be a U.S. and Mexico page 10 ready in the dryers and things look real good particular variety available, but basically at this point," said Stuckwish. "There's still leI Seeds we're in a good situation." Clinton Health Care: the concern that if you've got a particular Thanks to scattered growing areas and Clinton's plan good news/bad variety, especially some of the newer ones, planting dates, ICI Seeds doesn't foresee Continued on page 8 see news for agriculture page 12 or specific grade size needs, that you get seed corn shortages for Michigan "Seed Supply ... " Grain Storage Tips: Last minute reminders for storing quality grain page 16 Enough Pumpkin Pie for Everyone! AT PRESS TIME: A new state record was set in The squash division, with a 447-1/2 pound entry grown by David Wheeler, of Osseo. World Pumpkin Federation Weigh-Off The large pumpkins are more watery than your standard sized pumpkins, but Winter wheat crop insurance Todosciuk said they're still good eating. In case you're wondering, Todosciuk estimates held recently in Sf. Johns at Andy T's application deadline extended from Farm Market. The 692-pound pumpkin, the average pumpkin pie uses 2-1/2 pounds of pumpkin. That's a lot of pie! Sept. 30 to Oct. 31 for all growers. grown by Armada farmer Don VanHoutte, Contact your insurance agent today! broke the old state record by a whopping 127 pounds, according to Andy Todos- ~~( ,... ~~ ~ /~. ciuk, owner of Andy T's, host site of the Michigan Weigh-Off. The weigh-off, started in 1982, at- tracted 30 Michigan growers who com- peted in attempting to grow the state's :~ largest pumpkin. Weigh-offs were held elsewhere across the country on the same day. All weigh-off statistics were faxed to New York from all of the locations so that a world winner could be determined. A new world record was established with an Ontario, Canada, farmer growing an 836 pounder, breaking the old world record by nine pounds.So what's the secret to growing these monsters? "You've got to have the right kind of seed, and start early," Todosciuk said. "We start growing them in early April in a greenhouse, and then transfer them out- side in the middle of May under these little hot tents until the end of May. " Squash lovers will be happy to know that a new state record was also set in the Michigan Farm News Classifieds - Page 14 " ~ Michigan Farm News . October 15, 1993 In Brief ... Food Industry Wants More Time on Labeling New EPA Chemical Fees Would Raise Red Flag Food industry group~ have filed suit against the Department of Agriculture to block the agency from requiring safe handling labels on uncooked meat and poultry products by Oct. New fees the Environmental Protection Agency proposes to impose on chemical companies 15. The groups, the National Grocers Association, the National-American Wholesale to pay for accelerating its pesticide review program would add insult to injury for pesticide Grocers' Association and the Texas Food Industry, say the department did not give them users. Chemical companies are already dropping chemicals from registration because of timely notice of the labeling requirement, depriving affected groups an opportunity to the expense of maintaining the data needed for approval. Adding another fee on top of that comment on a requirement that will have a serious economic impact. would only compound the problem. They say the new packaging requirement will force them to develop new packaging and EPA says it is behind on the process of reassessment of all pesticides required by the 1988 new labels and to discard present inventories of packages and labels. The new labels are Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act governing the farm use of pesticides. being required by the USDA in response to an earlier lawsuit by Jeremy Rifkin's Beyond The agency is proposing to assess chemical companies' special fees totaling $20 million Beef campaign and victims of food poisoning incidents in the Pacific Northwest last in a one-time charge to pay for speeding up the process. summer. Corn Set-Aside at 5 Percent for '94 Rifkin's group also is unhappy with the labeling order, claiming the labels in the present form are worded too weakly to conform to the terms of the May 5 court settlement, according The USDA will require corn farmers to idle 5 percent of their corn base acres to remain to an Associated Press report. eligible for farm program benefits next year. The set-aside was set at zero for grain sorghum and barley, meaning farmers can plant all acres designated for those crops and still qualify Small Businesses Express Concerns Over Clinton for program payments. Health Care Plan AFB F had recommended zero set-aside for all three crops, while the National Corn Growers Association had urged the USDA to call for 7.5 percent of the corn acres to be idled next Small businesses seem to be speaking out the loudest against the new Clinton health care year. The announcement did not include price support loan rates for the 1994 crop. Ag proposal. The federal government estimates there are 5 million small businesses -- firms Secretary Mike Espy said other provisions of the 1994 feed grain program would be that employ fewer than 500 employees, the majority employing fewer than 25. More than announced later. a third do not provide health insurance for any of their workers. First Hearing Held on USDA Reorganization The small business operators say they are not being cold-hearted in not extending health care benefits; they simply can't afford the added expense. Many business owners say they can't even afford insurance for themselves, much less for their employees, according to Following the Senate Agriculture Committee's cancellation of its planned hearing on reports in the Chicago Tribune. USDA reorganization, the House Agriculture Committee took the first shot at examining proposed changes. At $60 billion, USDA has the fourth largest budget of any federal agency. The Tribune article cites a previous employer mandate in Hawaii where, in 1974, the state It operates 14,000 offices worldwide (11,000 field offices) with more than 112,000 required health insurance coverage for employees. The article reports no wholesale business employees, according to a report in the Washington Post. closures, but reports significant shifts in employer practices. Employers began hiring a greater number of part-time workers, who did not have to be covered. Small firms relied Agriculture Secretary Mike Espy was the lead witness at the hearing. He described the more on family members or selectively hired individuals, who had spouses already covered Department's plan to reduce its agencies from 43 to 30 and administrative service functions by health insurance. from 14 to six. Cuts in agencies, field offices and personnel will result in overall savings of $2.3 bi~lion over the next five years, according to Espy. Among the biggest changes would be a plan to combine the Soil Conservation Service with the conservation programs September Farm Prices Up 2. 1 Percent from August of ASCS. Boosted by a surge in orange prices, the index of prices received by U.S. farmers for their During the House hearing, Espy was put on the spot regarding his stance on food inspection products in September was up 2.1 percent from the August level and up 4.3 percent from services. He was an initial critic of Vice President Gore's plan to transfer all food inspection a year earlier, USDA said. Price gains in September for oranges, lettuce, wheat and apples responsibilities to FDA. When asked where he stands now, Espy said he was in an more than offset price declines for soybeans, eggs, cattle and corn. admittedly awkward position. He said he wants to be a "team" player, and the issue now is being discussed with a "higher authority." Regarding the closure of field offices, Espy said, Most of the index change was attributed to a 93 percent upward bounce in orange prices, "We need to be sensitive to the local community, but we are not running a jobs program." USDA said. Without that increase, the index would have been unchanged. The year-to-year increase for oranges, hogs, soybeans and broilers more than offset price decreases for milk, MFB Membership Bills on Their Way apples, tobacco and wheat. ~,_..{r You may have noticed that you haven't yet received your 1994 membership renewal notice USDA Researcher's Find Clues in Search for Fatal in the mail. That's because MFB's membership billing system has been converted to an Pig Disease Cure "anniversary date system," according to MFB Member Services Dept. Manager Doug Fleming. A USDA researcher has genetically altered and weakened a virus that causes pseudorabies, a fatal disease in young pigs, according to Knight Ridder News. The development, by "Renewing members will get their annual dues notice in December and January under the Andrew Cheung, a microbiologist with USDA's Agricultural Research Service, brings new system as opposed to October under the old system," Fleming explained. "Members scientists closer to a discovery of a new vaccine against a disease that costs U.S. pork will now be making payments directly to Michigan Farm Bureau, which will allow for better producers about $60 million each year, according to USDA. efficiencies throughout the system in terms of processing, service and costs." In pig trials at the National Animal Disease Center in Ames, Iowa, the recombinant virus Fleming said that MFB will then reimburse the local county Farm Bureau for the county did not re-activate after being injected into animals, the department added. Pseudorabies dues portion. The county will continue to send new membership identification cards and is fatal to young pigs and causes reproductive failure in pregnant cows. Humans are not additional member service information to members within two to three weeks after their susceptible to the disease. Several states, including Iowa, the nation's leading producer of dues are paid. Members have 21 days to renew their membership without loss of service. hogs, have regulations that prohibit the movement of pigs infected with the pseudorabies. Under the new system, new memberships will be billed for renewal at the end of a l2-month Hog Breeding Herd Takes a Dip cycle as opposed to annual billings in October for everyone. "This means a new member will get a full 12 months of membership privileges before receiving another dues notice," Tighter profit margins and the prospect of higher feed costs prompted the nation's hog Fleming said. "This automated billing system will reduce costs while ultimately improving farmers to ship some gilts that may have been earmarked earlier for the breeding herd, service to the member." analysts said after the release of the Sept. I hog inventory report. Second Annual Michigan Crop In its quarterly survey, the USDA pegged the total hog herd at 96 percent of year-ago levels, while hogs kept for breeding were down 5 percent from the same period a year earlier. Wet Management Conference Set weather in the Midwest and the extreme heat and drought in the Southeast cut into average litter size, said Dale Durcholz, analyst with AgriVisor Services, Inc., an affiliate of the Reserve the dates of Dec. 15 and 16 on about his experiences dealing with environ- Illinois Farm Bureau. your calendar for the second annual mental issues. Michigan Crop Management Conference. That should mean fewer hogs coming to market in the second and third quarters of next This conference is sponsored jointly by Four concurrent sessions will round out the year, analysts said. The report could mean seasonal lows will now be $44 to $45 per cwt., Michigan State University Extension con~erence program. Topic areas for these rather than the earlier forecasts of $42 to $43, said John Lawrence, Iowa Extension (Crop and Soil Sciences Department) and sessIons are: economist. See page 6 for MSU Ag Economist Jim Hilker's interpretation of the report. the Michigan Agri-Business Association A) Applicator Training and will be held at the Holiday Inn South, B) Fruit and Vegetable Management The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS (ISSN:0743-9962) is published semi-monthly except in the months of November, Lansing. C) Pest Management in Field Crops December, June, and July when only one issue is printed, as a service to regular members, by Michigan Farm D) Current Technologies for Agribusiness Bureau, 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, M148917. Member subscription price of $1.50 included in annual On Wednesday, the general session will and Farm Operations (Soil Nitrate Testing dues of Michigan Farm Bureau regular members. Additional subscription fees required for mailing Michigan Farm address regulatory issues associated with and Site Specific Management). Ne~~ to non~~embers and outside the continental U.S.A. Second-Class Postage paid at Lansing, MI and additional mailing offices. Letters to the editor and statewide news articles should be sent to: Editor, Michigan maintaining environmental quality, worker Farm News, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI 48909-8460. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Michigan protection and bulk storage. An overview At the Michigan Crop Management Con- Farm News, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI48909-8460. and update on the Certified Crop Advisory ference, new crop management information and technology of interest to the entire Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. Staff Contributors: Mike Rogers; Connie Lawson; Donna program will also be presented. Wilber; Henry Huisjen. agricultural sector (farmers, agribusinesses, During Wednesday afternoon, there will be consultants and employees of governmen- Officers: President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President, Wayne Wood, Marlette; Administrative Director, Chuck tal agencies) will be presented. B.urke~t; Treasurer an? C.hief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. Directors: District 1, three concurrent sessions: Jim M.lller, Colom~; ~Istnct 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane Horning, Manchester; District 4, Tom A) Field Crop Management G.uth.ne, De~ton; Dlstnct 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; District 7, Larry Snider, Hart; B) Record Keeping For additional meeting information Dlstnct 8, ~Ic.hard Leach, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West C) Pest Management in Field Crops. and/or registration details, contact the Branch; Dlstnct 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Douglas Darling, Maybee; Jack Laurie, Cass City; Faye Michigan Agri-Business Association at Adam, Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and Education, Paul Swartzendruber, Pigeon; Young Farmers, Kurt Inman, Sturgis. The Thursday morning program will begin (517) 485-8580. with a general session speaker talking Michigan Farm News II. October 15, 1993 ITOL o o :D Z m :D North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) MFB POSITION The U.S. House of Representatives took a first step on Strongly favors action by Sept. 30 towards giving approval to NAFf A. The House Congress to ratify Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade agreed to adopt NAFT A. It's estimated a proposed draft bill to implement NAFT A. that NAFrA will generate $20 - $40 million of addi- Amendments were adopted by the subcommittee to tional income to Michigan strengthen NAFT A rules regarding enforcement measures. farmers when fully imple- The bill now goes to the full \Vays and Means Committee mented. Farmers should for further consideration. consider this carefully as President Clinton will consider the views of lawmakers there is no other single before formally submitting final legislation to approve event likely to happen in NAFf A. It is expected that the final legislation will be sub- the next 10 years, that mitted to Congress about Nov. 1. could generate this much additional income. Support for NAFT A is increasing. Recent public polls indi- cate more people are favoring NAFT A as they learn more ACTION NEEDED about the benefits it will bring to the economy. It is becom- Members are urged to con- ing more likely Congress will ratify NAFf A. although the tact their congressman and vote will be close. recommend support for On Sept. 21, the Michigan House of Representatives Over- NAFTA. sight and Ethics Committee considered a resolution ex- pressing strong opposition to NAFT A. Strong testimony in MFBCONTACT opposition to the resolution and in support NAFf A was Al Almy, Ext. 2040 given by Farm Bureau. Following the testimony. the resolu- tion was put on hold and is not expected to win approval. Senate Votes to Eliminate Wool Act Funding The U.S. Senate voted to eliminate the Wool Act during voting on appropriations. dealing a serious blow to U.S. sheep industry efforts to stabilize their industry. The loss of the Wool Act incentive payments will financially devastate the industry. which already is staggering under three years of record low lamb and wool prices, according to American Sheep Industry Association President Gene Brune. He estimates that 25 to 30 percent of the sheep producers (approximately 25,000) will be forced out of business within a year. According to MFB Livestock Specialist Kevin Kirk, if the Wool Act is not reinstated. imports of lamb into the U.S. will only increase. "With less financial incentive for sheep producers, you can expect the number of producers and U.S. produced lambs to decrease." Kirk said. "Lamb imports into the U.S. over the last three years have grown steadily, and they will accelerate without the Wool Act." The U.S. House voted to restore the funding for fiscal year 1993, meaning if the Senate ,!grees. payments could be received in 1994 only, but then discontinue thereafter. Funding for the honey program has already been elminated. MFBCONTACT Howard Kelly, Ext. 2044 o The bill has been referred to the subcommittee on Labor Standards, Occupational Health and Safety of the House Education and Labor Committee. The subcommittee has held one public hearing on this bill in California with more expected to be held in January of 1994. MFB and the Governor's Interagency Committee on Migrant Affairs re- quested one of the hearings be held in Michigan, since the state has the fourth largest utilization of migrant labor. Morton Buildin~ is leading the industry with: Land Application of Fruit and Vegetable Residue > New stmctliraL designs V 50-year columnand snow-load protection > New stmctllral capabilities (with no weight limit) MFB POSITION Public Act 102 of 1993, passed by the Legislature and > New color combinations V 2o-year protection against red rust Farm Bureau supported signed by the governor, allows the land application of food > New bui/ding styles (Includingacid rain) the passage of this act. by-products at agronomic rates consistent with practices > New eXlenor applical10ns outlined in the Right to Farm Act. V lO-year wlnd-load protection on > New interior options MFBCONTACT > New sliding door teclmology AlumaSteeP sOdingdoors (with no By-products are limited to fruit. vegetable or sugar beet weight Dmit) Ron Nelson, Ext. 2043 > New guner systems processing; typically peelings, pits, pulp and the residue V 5-year wiml-Ioad protection on complete > New infonnative video tapes from processing of the fruits and vegetables. building (with no weight limit) > New cOlTosion protection Prior to the act, in some cases, the DNR had required a for- ClII yow Iota alllc81oday1 mal written plan for disposal or simply prohibited food processors from land application of the by-products. Adrian, MI (517) 263-0541 800-447-7436 Brown City, MI (313) 346-2702 Kalkaska, MI (616) 258-2580 ~T~ MORTON Michigan Farm Bureau (517) 323-7000 Rockford, MI (616)874-6400 Three Rivers, MI (616) 279-5271 i~. BUILDINGS Michigan Farm News 3D-Day and 90-Day Forecast - Cooler and WetterThan September weather averaged significant- •• Normal October 15, 1993 ly cooler and wetter than normal across most Michigan Weather Summary sections of the state, causing harvest delays 9/1/93 Temperature Growing Degree Days Precipitation for a wide variety of crops. The cause of the $ to 9/30/93 Observed Dev. From Actual Normal Actual Normal unseasonable weather was a persistent jet I stream troughing pattern across much of the midwestern and eastern states, which is fur- Alpena Bad Axe Mean 53.8 55.8 Normal - 3.7 - 6.1 Accum. 1926 2237 Accum. 2039 2465 (inch.) 1.51 4.55 (inch) 3.47 2.70 ther south than normal for this time of year. Detroit 61.5 - 2.2 2966 2693 4.26 2.43 Fortunately. a combination of clouds and Escanaba 54.8 - 2.4 1725 1616 3.36 3.55 ~ : wind prevented freezing temperatures from Flint 57.2 - 4.1 2527 2693 4.66 2.43 materializing except across the Upper and Grand Rapids 57.7 - 4.2 2530 2748 8.10 3.26 northern lower Peninsula, where first freeze Houghton 51.9 -3.7 1578 1846 2.69 3.58 normaIly occurs by the end of the month. On Houghton Lake 54.5 - 3.8 2113 2039 2.62 3.47 ~ the negative side. this pattern is expected to Jackson 57.7 - 6.1 2524 2677 5.62 2.79 2516 2677 4.78 2.79 -J persist for the rest of the harvest season. Lansing 57.7 - 4.0 ~ The National Weather Service 30-day Marquette 51.9 - 2.6 1599 1846 4.91 3.58 and 90-day (for October through December) Muskegon 58.4 - 3.2 2502 2349 4.63 3.19 outlooks both call for a continuation of cooler Pellston 54.0 - 2.0 1892 2113 4.09 3.66 t: ~ ~ and wetter than normal weather across the state. The type of pattern would likely lead to Saginaw Sault Ste. Marie 52.0 57.5 - 4.7 -3.2 2467 1465 2862 2465 1616 2748 4.25 3.70 7.75 2.70 3.55 3.26 heavier than normal lake-effect snowfall in South Bend 60.3 - 3.4 affected areas and also suggests further Traverse City 56.7 - 4.1 2203 2113 4.80 3.66 problems with harvest and faIl field work. Vestaburg 54.2 -7.6 2141 2424 3.46 3.09 ~ It goes without saying that any periods of favorable weather, however short, should be Observed and growing degree day totals are accumulated from March 1 - August 31 used as efficiently as possible. Normals are based on district averages. Jeff Andresen, Ag Meteorologist, MSU A Cold Wet September Hinders Harvest Activity Persistent rain showers have brought soil respectively. Condition was rated 75 per- fall planting 20 percent below normal and moisture levels to 35 percent adequate and cent good to excellent. continues to hamper progress. 65 percent surplus, according to Michigan Michigan and Major Commodity Area Agricultural Statistics Service. The first Dry beans harvest was reportedly close to Fruit Extended Weather Outlook week of October finally brought some wel- wrapping up in many parts of the state, Jonathan, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious T - Temp. 10/15 10/31 10/15 12131 comed sun and drying weather for many while others were just getting started, ac- and Empire apple harvests were also P - Precip. T P T P Michigan fields. cording to Michigan Bean Commission Ex- hampered by the cool, damp conditions. Michigan B A B A ecutive Secretary Dale Kuenzli. "Tuscola The harvest, as of Oct. 5, was about one W. Corn Belt B B B A The corn crop had progressed to 35 percent and Huron counties are nearing 90 percent week behind schedule, but quality con- E. Corn Belt B A N A mature as of Oct. 5, compared to 15 percent complete while Gratiot, Montcalm and tinued to be rated excellent. Concord grape Wint. Wheat Belt N N B A Ionia are just getting started, he said. Spr. Wheat Belt N B B NlA last year. Seventy-five percent of the crop II harvest had also just gotten underway. Pac. NW Wheat N N A N was rated good to excellent. Com silage Overall the crop was reported 45 percent Delta A N A N harvest continued despite wet field condi- harvested. Vegetables Southeast N N N N tion. Harvest was reported 40 percent com- Muddy fields slowed efforts to harvest car- San Joaquin N N A N plete, 20 percent behind normal. Kuenzli said that white mold was showing rots, although quality remained good and up in several fields, and that Montcalm and size was picking up due to recent cool A-Above Average, B-Below Average, N-Nor- Ionia were seeing significant damage be- temperatures. Cabbage and cauliflower mal, MA-Much Above, MB-Much Below, NP- Soybeans advanced to 95 percent shedding No Precip. Source: National Weather Office leaves and 35 percent mature, compared to cause of heavy foliage and excess moisture. harvests continued as well. a normal of 80 percent and 40 percent The condition of Michigan's cranberry beans were quickly deteriorating. Pumpkin harvest had started, but produc- tion was reported low for some varieties. Heavy Rainfall? Be Sure to Test for Potato harvest was 60 percent complete, unchanged from a year ago. Sugar beet Onion harvest was delayed by the rains, with over half the crop still waiting to be Sulfur this Fall harvest had made little progress, with 6 percent reported harvested compared to 10 harvested. Squash harvest was complete with yields and quality both reported good. Growers who've experienced a lot of wet "But if there has been a lot of rain, a large percent last year. Processing tomato harvest was complete in weather this year may want to take a closer percentage of the nitrogen and sulfur has most areas. look at their soil's sulfur supply. probably leached deep into the soil. Then Winter wheat seeding was 30 percent com- there is likely to be a shortage of nutrients plete statewide. Soggy fields have put the This essential nutrient may have been available in the shallow root zone of small washed below the root zone by all the rain. cover crops and new winter wheat. Unless And that could leave winter crops, and/or next year's spring-planted crops, short on what they need for optimum growth and these shortages are corrected, yield and quality will be affected." ROOTS TO PROFITABILITY yields. Split Sulfur A pplica Nons for Best Coverage ~,\" "1'1 What's more, even fields that have benefitted from all the rain and produced If soil testing reveals sulfur deficiency, bumper crops may have lost more than the Below recommends top-dressing and split- usual amount of sulfur since higher yields ting sulfur fertilizer into fall and spring tend to take more nutrients from the soil. applications to make sure there will always be adequate sulfur where it is needed, in the root zone. Sulfur Moves When It's Wet Sulfur, like nitrogen, is a mobile nutrient. "You could also see benefits from sulfur in The two other major nutrients, phosphorus a starter fertilizer in the spring, especiaIly and potassium, stay put under wet condi- on the soils that have been responsive to tions. But nitrogen and sulfur tend to move sulfur applications in the past," says deeper into the soil when rains are heavy. Below. "But regardless of the soil:s sulfur And while nitrogen may be the first element levels before, if you are in an area where growers think of, sulfur is also important; it there has been a lot of rainfall, you are Early Results Are In! ranks fourth among the 16 essential likely to have inadequate sulfur levels now. 1993 Michigan grower test plots yielded an average of nutrients necessary for proper plant growth And if the sulfur has leached out, you can 5.2 more bushels of wheat per acre and development. be assured nitrogen has as well." where ACA was used. Thehighest yield "Growers in wet areas are probably already Below points out that the form of sulfur increase was 8.5 bushels per acre! planning to make up for any nitrogen fertilizer used may be particularly impor- Now is the time to treat your wheat with ACA to gain your deficiencies," notes University of Illinois tant on wet fields this year. Agronomist Dr. Fred Below. "But they may advantage. ACA can be added to, or impregnated, on not have looked closely at sulfur." "Nitrogen in the ammonium form moves your fall starter fertilizer to boost your yields. more slowly through the soil than in the Soil Test After Harvest nitrate form. Therefore, a fertilizer like am- GET THEACA ADVANTAGE! monium sulfate is a good choice to supply "Soil testing after harvest is probably the • Better plant stand establishment sulfur as well as nitrogen in a form that is best idea if you're in an area that received a lot of rain this year," says Below. "In some cases, damp conditions may in- less likely to leach," he says. "Using a nitrate nitrogen fertilizer is not a • • • • Stronger more fibrous root system Increased winter survival Plants are more vigorous and productive Easy and convenient to apply Dill Contact your local good idea on very wet fields. And par- • Enhanced fall and early spring root growth Clean Crop Dealer crease breakdown of soil organic matter ticularly if we're going to have a wet • Enhanced drought tolerance or call 1-800-292.2701 from rotting crops, so nitrogen and sulfur winter, using the ammonium form in a • Affordable and effective for addmonallnfonnatton on are being made available as long as the fertilizer is likely to be of greatest benefit." • Increased yields THEACA ADVANTAGEI weather is still warm. -. Michigan Farm News October 15, 1993 . Michigan Farm News October 15, 1993 ....... Market Outlook ... ...... •••••••• ••••••• ••••• ~.'I ,.1.. . DAIRY MARKET ~~ •••• •••• 'l ••• ,j ••• SITUA TION AND .r•••••• Dr. Jim Hilker, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, MSU CORN Seasonal Commodity Price Trends OUTLOOK Dr. Larry G. Hamm, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, MSU E~RM .' ~=-•••• ~ •••••••• •••••••• BUSINESS The Sept. 1 USDA Grain Stocks Report released Sept. 30 showed corn stocks on hand in the U.S. were 2.113 billion bushels. Wheat -. As Michigan dairy producers struggle with equipment axles sinking in wet fields, higher milk prices should help raise spirits. OUTLOOK The stocks figure confirms the 1992-93 Corn ? After three consecutive months of decline, record feed use. the Minnesota-Wisconsin (M- W) price is on the rise. The stronger producer prices has been changing the "butter-powder tilt" Soybeans ? reflect stronger dairy product prices. for a number of years since USDA has This is the number that will be used as been buying surplus butter because com- ending stocks for the 1992-93 corn market- ing year and was very close to trade expec- Hogs ? After a high of $12.52 per cwt. in May, the mercial and DEIP sales of non-fat dry milk tations. However, it was 37 million bushels lower than the September USDA Supp- ly/Demand Report projected. This means there was a downward adjustment in the Cattle - M- W dropped to $11.17 (3.5 percent test) in August. Since the middle of August, cheddar cheese prices on the National Cheese Exchange have exploded. (NFDM) have kept powder prices above support levels. With the July 1 "tilt," most industry analysts October Supply/Demand estimate released Index: i = Higher prices;! = Lower Prices; thought butter prices would drop to support TP= Topping; BT = Bottoming; ?:: Unsure Block cheese increased 13.5 cents per again and the CCC wouldn't buy powder. Oct. 12. pound. Barrel cheese increased 16.5 cents This hasn't happened. NFDM powder during the same period. Since these cheese prices on the West Coast have continued to The latest 1993 U.S. corn production num- The basis looks on the wide side for new prices increased in late August and early hover around $1.04 per pound and powder ber was released Oct. 12 based on Oct. 1 crop corn. If you do forward price some September. they had not yet been reflected sales have resumed to the CCC after years conditions. If you have not studied it. do so. more, consider using a hedge-to-arrive ver- in the August M-W. The September M-W of inactivity. While cold weather and freezes after that sus a forward contract hoping for some point may have affected local areas sig- basis improvement. (to be announced Oct. 5) will reflect these dramatic cheese price increases. More surprising, however, is that butter nificantly, nationally the potential was less prices on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange than the possible error in the report. The demand picture does not look real It appears that the M- W will likely increase have stayed up and are currently holding at bright. As discussed below, it appears there around $1 over the next two months. The around $.74 per pound. This is good news Stategy: If the report was positive towards will be lower hog numbers which will cut only question seems to be how much of the for butterfat differentials for producers and prices and if we are now in a rally, consider this year's feed use. It's hard to put together $1 increase will be in September's M-W the CCC. pricing additional portions of your produc- a realistic scenario that shows corn prices tion. If the report was negative towards increasing enough to pay storage into the and how much in October's M-W. Many dairy market observers believe that Under the price support program, the CCC prices, there will probably be more pricing spring. September's M-W will show a $.40-.60 per can sell surplus butter from government opportunities this fall. But be ready to pull cwt. increase. All this suggests that farm warehouses when open market butter prices the trigger on rallies. level milk prices should increase get above $.72 per pound. This has hap- pened for the past two months. Since Aug. WHEAT moderately this fall (through December). I, 1993, the CCC has sold about 28 million The shockwaves sent by the National pounds of butter from its holdings back into The U.S. wheat stocks, as of Sept. 1, were expected to continue as the former Soviet Cheese Exchange activities overshadowed the commercial market. very near trade expectations at 2.156 billion Union countries are having better wheat bushels. The wheat marketing year begins crops than a year ago. a quieter market revolution in the butter markets. On July 1, the USDA changed the So it is not only the strength in the cheese June 1, so this is the first quarterly stocks markets that is providing market support, estimate since then. The USDA's opinion of this year's exports butter and nonfat dry milk powder (NFDM) purchase prices for CCC price support pur- but also strength in the butter market. Butter were released in the Oct. 12 Wheat Supp- chases. prices will weaken seasonally later this fall, It seems to confirm expected wheat feed use lylDemand Report. Make sure you see those but for the time being, the need for con- in the first quarter, which is when most of numbers, along with the updated spring Butter purchase prices were dropped from tinued "butter-powder tilt" adjustments is the wheat is fed. A possible problem with wheat production figure. $.7625 per pound to $.65 per pound. Nonfat not there. Hopefully, this market strength the wheat stocks figure is that the USDA dry milk prices increased from $.973 per and rising milk prices will buoy producer tries to calculate the unharvested spring Strategy: Watch for rallies to continue pric- pound to $1.0340 per pound. The USDA spirits this fall. wheat as part of stocks. This is easier said ing remaining wheat. Again, it is hard to than done. build a scenario to carry a lot of wheat into the new year. Planting conditions this fall EGGS At this point, wheat exports are running may give us more information. slightly above a year ago. But that is not Henry Larzelere, Dept. of Agricultural Economics, MSU SOYBEANS Total layers in the U.S. on Sept. 1 were Egg prices at the end of September were 2 nearly 3 percent above Sept. I, 1992. How- The stocks showed 292 million bushels of Crop Report and SupplylDemand Report. or 3 cents a dozen above last year. This ever, egg production was up only I percent soybeans in the bins as of Sept. 1. This was While we will discuss them in the next small gain was partially offset by feed in- from last year. almost exactly at trade expectations and the issue, it is important that you react if needed gredient costs which were up about 1 cent August USDA estimate of 290 million sooner. The advice is much the same as per dozen from year ago levels. The egg-type chick hatches have been bushels. This number confirms the other corn. If a combination of further damage above year earl ier levels for several months. previously forecast use numbers. and a bullish report has the market in a rally, Prices at wholesale in New York for Grade The August hatch was up 19 percent from make more sales, especially if you have not A large eggs in cartons are likely to average August 1992. These figures indicate that Strategy: Exports continue to run behind already priced a large portion of your crop. in the low 70's for the October-December flock size and egg production will continue last year's rate. Look at the Oct. 12 Soybean quarter of 1993. October prices will be to be above last year well into 1994. How- below the average with November and ever, the rate of slaughter bf spent hens has been running above last year's levels. HOGS December in the mid to upper 70's. The Sept. 1 quarterly USDA Hogs and Pigs down 2 percent, revised to down 4 percent. CATTLE Report released Sept. 30 was quite bullish. The spring pig crop was also revised down. All of the numbers were below expecta- It appears liquidation started to occur ear- Well, it looks like we will have plenty of bearish for futures. It showed August place- tions by a couple of percentage points. All lier than previously thought. beef through the fall. The latest Sept. I, ments up 12 percent. hogs and pigs were 96 percent of a year ago, monthly 7-state Cattle-On-Feed Report, kept for breeding was only 95 percent of September-November farrowings are released Sept. 17, showed cattle-on- feed 11 Strategy: At this point, the market has al- last year, and hogs kept for market were 96 projected to be down 3 percent. This gives percent higher than a year ago. ready adjusted so there aren't any good percent of a year ago. us an indication of next spring's production. forward pricing opportunities. Consider The December-February projection of far- Cattle marketed in August was 5 percent keeping current. There is some chance for While the last few Hogs and Pigs Reports rowings is said to be up 2 percent. This above the previous year. This shows we improvement in cash prices later in the fall. have not been very good indicators of what seems a bit high for the breeding number, were probably current going into Septem- But it depends to some degree on how cur- would happen in the next quarter, this but last winter farrowings were small. ber. The August placement number was rent the market stays. report seems to be off on the right track. These are the pigs we expect to see next Hogs over 180 pounds on Sept. 1 were summer. Iowa/Minnesota 0/92 Acreage Enrollment Up Sharply listed as down 3 percent, which is close to what the weekly slaughter reports showed Strategy: I suspect the report will drive Immediately Prior to Sept. 17 Deadline for September. Market hogs in the weight prices to profitable levels for most classes from 60-179 pounds were also producers for much of next year. However, Iowa farmers enroll~d 437,200 acres of corn, or about 3.64 percent of its total 12 million found to be 3 percent below the figure last whether you should forward price a portion plant~d to the crop, m the. 0(92 program, according to state officials. Most of the acreage Sept. I. This is an indication that slaughter of your expected production is a risk was Signed up after the ongmal June deadline. This year's large enrollment compares to a management question versus a beat the 1992 sign-up of34,000 acres and the June 15, 1993 total of only 46,285. Most ofthe enlarged will be off about that much through the fall market question. enrollment was f~om acres not planted or washed out, but frost also hit parts of northern and early winter. Iowa Sept. 14, which may have encouraged some more farmers to enroll late maturing fields. Market hogs under 60 pounds are listed as There is probably a decent chance prices down 6 percent. These are the market hogs could go higher, but the question is, should Min~esota's enrollment represente? 14 percent of the state's corn acreage. Traders are I lock some of my production in at a profit keepmg a watchful eye on the 0/92 sign-up because heavy participation which occurred just we will see in this winter. This is just one just in case the market drops? Fundamen- before the extended Sept. 17 deadline could reduce the 1993 com harvest below the USDA of several revisions that had to be made on tally, the futures market seem to be in line estimate of 7.2 billion bushels. the previous reports. Other revisions made were the June 1 breeding herd, listed at with expected supply and de~and. Michigan Farm News .. •• ...... October •••••••• 15, 1993 IIUnderstanding Michigan's New Estate Tax ••••••• r• ••••••• •••••~.'I ••••'l••• ,1 ~ ... FARM . •••• ,j ••• The death tax law in Michigan has been changed from an inheritance tax to an estate tax, thanks to legislation .r . passed by the Legislature as Act No. 54, Public Acts of 1993, and took effect on Oct. 1, 1993. The inheritance tax .'~ j..:::::.. •••• will be applicable for resident or nonresident decedent estates before Oct. 1, 1993. •••••••• •••••••• Ralph E. Hepp and Myron P. Kelsey deductions, and other allowable exemp- $160,000 ($800,000 less $640.000) or Department of Agricultural Economics Michigan State University tions reduce the adjusted gross estate to under $600.000 (the law allows a unified $7,680. plus $18,000 is $25.680. BUSINESS tax credit of $ I92,800 against the tentative This amount is taken as a credit against the Estate Tax Provisions There are two fundamental changes in the tax for the lifetime gifts and death time transfers rather than a $600,000 exemp- $98.400 of federal estate tax, which is deter- mined from the federal estate and gift tax OUTLOOK way the state of Michigan applies the death tion). rate schedule. and paid to the Michigan tax. First, the basis for the taxation of Department of Treasury. The remainder due at the time of filing the Federal Estate property from a decedent has been changed If the estate has adequate value to pay a I amount of the federal tax. $72.720 ($98.400 Tax return and payment of the federal tax. from a tax on the inheritance that an heir federal estate tax after the uni fied credit. the - $25.680) is sent to the Internal Revenue recei ves to a tax on the total estate of the adjusted taxable estate for the state tax Service for the federal tax. Unless extensions are obtained to delay the decedent. credit is calculated by subtracting $60,000 filing and paying of the tax. federal law from the taxable estate and that value is Filing Requirements requires the return to be filed within nine Second, the rules for the tax are not defined used to determine the state death tax credit months after the decedent's death. according to the rates given in Table I. The personal representative of the estate is in state legislation, but are detailed in the required to file a copy of the Federal Estate Federal Estate and Gift Tax law. Michigan, If the decedent's taxable estate does not Tax return with Michigan and pay the tax like most other states. is taxing estates at the maximum allowable federal credit for state exceed $40,000, the credit for the state death taxes under the Federal Estate and death taxes is zero. If the decedent's taxable Gift Tax law. Therefore, to understand the estate does exceed $40,000, the credit for Table 1. Maximum Credit for State Death Taxes Michigan estate tax, the Federal Estate Tax state death taxes is taxed at the rate of 8/ 10 law must be explained. of I percent for the next $50.000 and rates (A) (B) (C) (D) increasing to 16 percent for adjusted tax- Rates of able estates over $10 million. credit on Credit For State Death Taxes Taxable estate Credit on escess over The credit for state death taxes is applicable equal to or Taxable estate Amount in amount in An Example more than-- less than-- Column (A) column (A) if the decedent's estate is required to pay a federal estate tax. There is no obligation to The decedent died on Jan. 10, 1994, leaving Percent file a Federal Estate Tax return (no tax a taxable estate of $860,000. To arrive at would be due) unless the gross estate is over the adjusted taxable estate, $60,000 is sub- $ 40,000 $ 90,000 ....... .8 $600,000. tracted from the taxable estate to obtain 90,000 140,000 $ 400 1.6 140,000 240,000 1,200 2.4 $800,000. 240,000 440,000 3,600 3.2 Even if the estate is required to file a return, 440,000 640,000 10,000 4.0 there may not be a taxable estate under the Based on Table 1, the state tax credit for an Federal Estate Tax law if debts, expenses, $800,000 estate is 4.8 percent times 640,000 840,000 18,000 4.8 840,000 1,040,000 27,600 5.6 1,040,000 1,540,000 38,800 6.4 Large Cotton Crop Should be Good 1,540,000 2,040,000 2,040,000 2,540,000 70,800 106,800 7.2 8.0 News for Livestock Producers 2,540,000 3,040,000 146,800 8.8 The USDA's August estimate has pegged this year's cotton crop at 18.5 million 3,040,000 3,540,000 190,800 9.6 bales. A crop of this size could result in 7.2 million tons of cottonseed, 15 percent 3,540,000 4,040,000 238,800 10.4 over last year's crop, and cottonseed meal production of 1.78 million tons, a 10 4,040,000 5,040,000 290,800 11. 2 5,040,000 6,040,000 402,800 12.0 percent increase over 1992. 6,040,000 7,040,000 522,800 12.8 7,040,000 8,040,000 650,800 13.6 8,040,000 9,040,000 786,800 14.4 9,040,000 10,040,000 930,800 15.2 10,040,000 .......... 1,082,800 16.0 Stationary Patz@Offers Open-Top Mixers Four notched, 24-inch augers mix fast-even square-baled dry alfalfa in limited amounts. Self-aligning auger bearings mounted outside. Flanged auger tubes for easy removal. Roller-chain reduction with sealed oil bath and planetary gear drive for the augers. The 1993 cotton crop is estimated to be the feeds, the excellent roughage action of hulls second largest on record. The size of this stimulates the rumen and regulates the pas- On trailer models, the feed discharge features a hydraulically powered year's crop may prompt livestock producers sage of feed through the digestive tract." door and augers. to consider cottonseed products for use in Electronic scales precisely weigh total mixed rations. their rations. The recent USDA estimate puts whole cot- tonseed consumption for the coming year at For trailer models: 540 R.P.M. PTO. Availability and protein value on a price per 2.6 million tons, 11 percent more than last For stationary models: electric motors. unit of protein basis are two reasons to year. Many dairymen and feedlot operators Capacities of 190, 240 and 290 cubic feet (bigger models available consider using cottonseed meal, according are familiar with the value of cottonseed soon). to the National Cottonseed Products As- due to the unique ability of the seed to sociation (NCPA). Cottonseed meal's provide protein, energy, and fiber in one Stainless steel bottom liner available. natural protein fits into most rations and has package. Ask us about Patz financing with affordable rates and 24, 36 or approximately 40 percent bypass protein that works well for dairy cows in mid-lac- "It's important to whole seed feeders to 48-month terms. tation. realize the value of buying properly stored seed. By winter and on into late spring, you Turkey rations where the protein is can begin to see the value in seed that has provided by a 50/50 cottonseed been stored under strict conditions at a cot- Copeland Surge Sales & Service, Inc. Wylie Implements, Inc. meal/soybean meal mix have been shown ton oil mill," says Jones. Fowlerville - (517) 223-9833 Kent City - (616) 678-7732 to perform as well as rations with 100 per- cent soybean meal, according to research at The National Cottonseed Products Associa- Miner Construction & Equipment, Inc. Westphalia Electric, Inc. Texas A&M. tion has information about feeding cotton- seed products and a directory of cottonseed West Branch - (517) 345-2499 Westphalia - (517) 587-3983 Dr. Lynn Jones of the NCPA points out that product supplies throughout the United "hulls are very palatable and contain from 40-45 percent TON, which is equivalent to good grass hay. In highly concentrated States. Write for these free materials at Dept. FD, P.O. Box 172267, Memphis, TN 38187-2267 or call (901) 682-0800. Gene Stambaugh Equipment Ubly - (517) 658-8817 Pillz Michigan Farm News Don't Become a Vicitm of Harvest Safety Hazards •• October 15, 1993 same time. Make sure to inspect cables and There are numerous types of plugs and muffs Fall harvest and grain storage facilities support legs frequently for wear and rust. available in prices ranging from a few cents present a host of risks if a farmer fails to A running auger can quickly entangle an to $20. carefully look at the potential hazards in the operator's hand or foot unless precautions are Quality ear plugs and muffs have a noise workplace. Take a moment to analyze these I taken to avoid these incidents. Namely. keep reduction rating (NRR) which indicates how common hazards on your farm. shields in place and be sure to warn workers many decibels of noise they are capable of to stay alert around augers at unloading time. reducing. Ear plugs have an NRR ranging Augers Never use your foot or hand to dislodge from 26 to 31, while ear muffs have an NRR ''The types of hazards include electrocu- grain that may be plugging or bridging up an of 23 or more. tion from contacting overhead powerlines, en- auger. Use a stick or rod instead. Keep tools tanglements in augers. entrapment in flowing I picked up to prevent someone accidently trip- Farm Kid Safety grain and other health and safety risks." said I ping and falling into an auger. Children are naturally attracted to an area Howard' Doss. Extension agricultural safety where there's a lot of activity. says Doss. specialist at MSU. Hearing Protection Children should never be allowed in grain From Farm Bureau Insurance Electrocution from an auger touching Grain drying and handling equipment may processing and handling areas or around overhead powerlines has claimed the lives of produce enough noise to damage the hearing equipment. ing children. Riding on grain wagons or any several Michigan farmers during the past of an individual working in the area. Typically other piece of farm equipment places the rider Accident reports show that Michigan decade. These accidents generally occur when a long dull ringing sensation in your ears after children have been killed or maimed in at risk for an injury. Children are especially at the operator fails to lower the auger before a long day of working with noisy equipment risk for falling off a wagon as the wheels hit augers. or have suffocated in gravity wagons moving it. creating a situation for disaster. as the grain flows out. trapping and suffocat- bumps or drop into a rut. is an indication that you have exceeded a safe Doss said that lowering the auger not only sound level. removes the risks of electrocution. but it also adds stability to the auger. making it less likely This ear ringing is frequently accom- panied with a slight loss of hearing where it "Seed Supply Outlook Good" continued from page 1 to tip over. may be difficult to hear faint sounds that you Cable or winch failures are another hazard could normally hear. Doss said. Overnight According to Greenwalt, ICI concern Like others, ICI's soybean seed sup- with augers. Never attempt to stop a rest will generally restore hearing. but over an early frost prompted early harvest- plies of group I s and early 2s could be a bit freewheeling crank handle with your hand or repeated. prolonged exposure to noise of this ing of seed corn and shifting of production tight. due to reduced yields and early frost, foot. Some augers are equipped with a clutch intensity can result in permanent hearing loss. around to various facilities. "We really according to Greenwalt. "Anything before to prevent such cases of freewheeling. Proper To avoid hearing loss. wear ear plugs or stepped up our production and moved mid-group 2, in general. might be a little maintenance and storage increases the ear muffs whenever exposed to noisy equip- lifespan of the auger and reduces risks at the things around to different plants to process tighter this year, and frost might make ment that causes any hearing loss symptoms. seed," she said. soybean seed a little bit smaller," she said. Cargill Shorter season varieties of corn more apt to be planted in Michigan will be in ample supply from Cargill, says Northern Michigan territory sales manager Keith Clark. "We feel we're in pretty good shape at this point since our seed acres are widely spread out," he said. "Smaller companies with production concentrated in the corn belt could be in a different situation, how- ever." Clark said it's really too early to tell what the availability of longer season varieties will be like, adding that the final outcome won't be known until seed harvest is complete, and the frost damage actually determined in the midwest seed growing areas. He doesn't expect prices to make much of a move either way, but just in case, Cargill is offering producers a chance to lock in prices. "If producers book and pay for seed now, they can get an early pay discount and lock in the price," Clark said. "If the price goes up, they're guaranteed a price. If it goes down, we give the producer a rebate." Overall, Cargill has made minor adjust- ments on most varieties and actually dropped prices by $2 to $3 on a number of varieties, according to Clark. "As a whole, I don't know what kind of adjustment the seed industry will be making, but our prices have been out for a month and they'll be good until we see what harvest looks like," Clark said. "Of course, that means that those prices could be pulled While you're busy farming, In the halls of Congress and in at anytime." . Farm Bureau is on the job in the Michigan Legislature, Farm Great Lakes Hybrids Lansing and Washington, D.C. Bureau is respected as the voice Ideal growing conditions and a nearly protecting your'interests. of agriculture. Ir's a grass roots completed harvest as of early October Our experienced and highly organization with responsible means Great Lakes Hybrids will have a respected team of lobbyists are legislative clout, powered by good inventory of high-quality seed avail- there working for you. its members and guided by its able, according to Allen Moore, seed corn farmer-developed policies. producer from Ovid, Mich. With the thousands of bills With over seven decades of "There are areas in Iowa damaged from introduced on the state and experience in the legislative and the flood, but that's limited acreage," said federal level, Farm Bureau regulatory arenas, you can count Moore. "There's probably a bigger concern lobbyists work full-time on Farm Bureau to get results! for companies with seed acreage in Min- aggressively supporting nesota and Wisconsin where there's a lot of legislation that benefits farm Farm Bureau member benefits acreage that could be susceptible to frost families while seeking to defeat include: damage yet. A frost can bust the cell walls measures detrimental to • Educational and leadership in kernels, causing reduced germination." agriculture. opportunities In regard to soybean seed availability, • Health care insurance Moore expects there will be some lower Farm Bureau - always there and proven effective ..... • Travel program yields, but he doesn't expect any supply problems in general. "Soybeans are more • Discount prescription drugs local, so there could be some short supplies • Nofee VISA card and poor-quality stuff out there," he said . "But I think there's enough good quality • Farm. auto and life insurance seed to supply the market." Pricewise, Moore said Great Lakes is What concerns you planning to hold corn prices at last year's concerns us. levels. In spite of some minor increases from other companies, he doesn't expect For your nearest Farm Bureau anything too drastic overall. office call 1(800) 292-2680 On the other hand, Moore thinks soybean seed, which depends more on the extension 3237 Chicago market, could be seeing higher prices, although it's too early to tell just yet. Michigan Farm News -. October 15, 1993 Engler's School Finance Reform Plan a Starting Point Gov. John Engler has delivered his ver- The financial reform portion of the Engler There would be a funding schedule adopted education. which could range from arts to sion of school finance reform as a follow plan to replace the $6.4 billion cut in so that students receiving from $4.500 to technology." Pontz said. "Thus individuals up to the Legislature's property tax reform property taxes would include a 1/2 percent $5,500 would get an annual 2 percent in- with gifted children. or children with spe- package approved earlier in the year. The increase in the Small Business Tax, a 4 crease; those from $5,500 to $6,500 would cial needs. could select a school which comprehensive proposal should make a percent homestead transfer tax, a 50 cent get a I percent annual increase in available provides and meets their needs in the most good starting point for the debate over the hike in taxes on a pack of cigarettes and funds. Nelson said this feature would efficient manner." future of school finance and education tobacco products, a 16 mill property tax on eliminate the substantial spread which cur- reform, according to MFB Legislative businesses, second homes, and non-resi- rently exists between low cost and high cost In addition. there would be a report card on Counsels Ron Nelson and Vicki Pontz. dent property which would be constitution- districts. each school. that could be used to evaluate ally limited at 16 mills, and a proposed 2 I schools on a building by building basis. "The financial elements of this plan are so cent hike in the state's sales tax which The proposal also contained a number of Teachers would receive more support complex that we'll need to do some further would be capped in the constitution and significant school reform elements includ- through strict laws dealing with student be- analysis to determine the precise impact on requires a vote of the people. ing: improving the quality and availability havior. Schools would assume some of the Michigan farmers," Nelson said. "In our of education. allowing school of choice and costs of health care. pensions. the coordina- initial review, it appears that we'd have In addition, there would be funds available funding. and providing teachers an atmos- tion of purchasi ng. contracts and ad- some questions about exactly which real from the elimination of the Homestead phere in which to teach. ministrative reform. estate transactions would fall under the Property Tax Credit and city income tax proposed 4 percent transfer tax. We also credits. Oetai Is of the plan inc Iude allowing "While there is significant detail yet to be need further definition as to which busi- families to choose the school which they worked out. the concept wi II shape the nesses and properties would be subject to Under the Engler proposal, a foundation will attend. The governor characterized the debate in Lansing for the next several the 16 mill property tax." grant would actually follow students to the current public education system as a weeks." Pontz said. "Farm Bureau will con- school that they selected to attend. A mini- monopoly, saying that schools of choice tinue to evaluate and provide information as mum foundation grant of $4,500 would be I would allow individuals to select the school the details become available. in anticipation Storing Sprayers established. If the school costs were actual- ly less than $4,500, the reserve or I of their choice. which could include a charter public school. of the proposed Feb. 8. 1994 ballot. so that Michigan citizens can vote on the constitu- Over Winter remainder, would be put into a student bank account, for that student to possibly use "Charter schools could be described as an tional provisions of the proposal. during the early years of college or further organization which obtains a charter from Sprayers are used only a few weeks in a the state to allow for somewhat specialized educational training after high school. year. When not in use, protect them against the harmful effects of snow, rain, sun, and strong winds. Moisture in the air, whether from snow, rain, or soil rusts metal parts of unprotected equipment. I C I 8700 AND 8543. The sun helps reduce moisture in the air, but it also causes damage. Ultraviolet light sof- tens and weakens rubber materials such as BECAUSE THEY PAY hoses and tires and degrades some tank THE BILLS. materials. The best protection is to store sprayers in a dry building. If storing in a building is not possible, pro- vide some sort of cover. Remove the hoses, wipe them clean of oil, and store them in a building. Do not hang them over a nail or sharp object. This causes a permanent crease that reduces flow through the hose. Coil hoses around a basket or other large round object to prevent sharp bends. When storing trailer-type sprayers, put blocks under the frame or axle and reduce tire pressure during storage. A few other things have to be taken care of when it's time to store the sprayer: I. Add a small amount of light weight oil, depending on the size of the tank, to the rinsing water before the final flushing. As water is pumped from the sprayer, the oil leaves a protective coating inside the tank, pump, hoses and other parts. 2. To prevent corrosion, remove nozzle tips and strainers, dry them and store them in a can of light oil such as diesel fuel or kerosene. 3. Drain all cleaning water from all parts to prevent freezing. future from the success of the past. 4. Pumps require special care. After drain- I n today's complex environment high-performance hybrids, ICI is provid- ing solutions. As you consider your seed of 8700 Top yielder. terrific early vigor. Starts strong with Rnishes the job with ing the water, add a small amount of oil, and for next spring, take a good look at what very fast dry down. rotate the pump four or five rotations by happened this fall. You'll find ICI seed 8543 Bin-busting yields, even under hand to completely coat interior surfaces. consistently outperformed the others less than ideal conditions. Plus dries (Make sure that this oil is not going to from start to finish. ICI, building for the down super fast. damage rubber rollers in a roller pump or rubber parts in a diaphragm pump.) Check the operator's manual. If oil is not recommended, pouring one tablespoon of radiator rust inhibitor in the inlet and outlet part of the pump also keeps the pump from corroding. Another alternative is to put BECAUSE YOU automotive antifreeze with rust inhibitor in the pump and other sprayer parts. This also FARM WITH YOUR BRAIN. protects against corrosion and prevents freezing in case all the water is not drained. 5. Cover all openings so that insects, dirt, and other foreign material cannot get into the system. Seeds 6. Finally, check the sprayer for scratched 6945 Vista Drive Des Moines. IA 50266 spots. Touch up these areas with paint to ~1993 ICI Seeds ICIA0063 2 C MFN eliminate corrosion. Reprinted from MSU Field Crop Allvisory Team Alert Michigan Farm News 1m Michigan AG for NAFTA Formed and Growing -. October 15, 1993 Comments from Michigan efforts Farm Bureau is coordinating to form "Michigan AG fo~ Michigan AG for NAFfA." in response to the intense public debate on the trade agreement which has NAFTA Members been put in jeopardy. thanks in large part to several Michigan politicians. ' Michigan Corn Growers Debate on NAFf A has fallen off recently Association with the media focused on Clinton's health "The Michigan Corn Growers Associa- care proposaL but is expected to intensify tion is supporting NAFT A. Our associa- again as Congress considers ratification of tion realizes the importance of trade with the trade agreement later this year. Mexico and the potential for vast markets as their economy improves. According to MFB President Jack Laurie, The U.S. can and does produce the Michigan AG for NAFf A will be an infor- most and cheapest food in the world. We mal communication, coordination and in- need new markets. " formation vehicle of agriculture to show the broad spectrum of s~pport in Michigan Michigan Cattlemen's for NAFfA. Association "We simply cannot afford to stand by and "The Michigan Cattlemen's Association let Michigan's agricultural future slip supports NAFTA because expanding through our fingers because of miscom- export markets will put extra money in munication and the misguided political the wallets of producers. An agreement agendas of a select few politicians," said which contains strong regulatory enfor- Laurie. "By working together to support cement for animal health, environmental ratification of NAFf A, we can ensure the and food safety standards will be good benefits from free trade with Mexico will for the U.S. cattle industry." be realized for Michigan agriculture." For more information about NAFTA, or Michigan Pork Producers information about joining "Michigan Association AG for NAFTA, contact Bob Boehm at "Michigan Pork Producers and the Na- 1-800-292-2680, extension 2023. tional Pork Producers Council are strong supporters of NAFTA. For pork producers, the agreement will lower, and eventually eliminate tariffs while reducing other barriers to trade, provid- NAFTA and U.S. Sugar Trade with Mexico ing greater access to the Mexican Dr. David B. Schweikhardt and market. It's just as important to note that Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella as the Mexican population and economy Department of Agricultural Economics grow, combined with the reduction of Michigan State University trade barriers and tariffs, a significant increase in the demand of pork is ex- Negotiations on NAFf A are complete and pected." awaiting Congressional action before year end. This agreement would phase out tariffs Independent Cooperative and import quotas between the U.S. and Mexico over a IS-year period. This article Milk Producers summarizes the current status of sugar tarde Association between the U.S. and Mexico and examines "The Independent Cooperative Milk the potential impact of NAFf A on the sugar Producers Association Board of Direc- industry. tors goes on record as supporting NAFTA. We believe the long-term Mexico has been an importer of sugar since benefits outweigh short-term and 1986. with the U.S exporting an average of regional concerns. The eventual gains 140,000 tons of sugar annually during the to farmers and dairymen through ex- past five years to Mexico. Mexico exported panded marketing opportunities can be an average of 8,700 tons of sugar annually significant. The improved living stand- to the U.S. during that same period. repre- ards of the Mexican people will include senting less than I percent of total U.S. high-quality food products from U. S. sugar imports. farms. " Existing Trade Barriers and NJfFTA Provisions Michigan Blueberry Both the U.S. and Mexico use trade barriers 150,000 tons of sugar to the U.S. if its Potential Impact of NAFTA on Growers Association to limit sugar imports. Mexico uses a tariff domestic production is greater than its U.S.- MeXICO Sugar Trade "NAFT A, as it pertains to opening trade domestic consumption. This amount to maintain a price of 18.7 cents per pound with Mexico, is anticipated to be benefi- would increase 10 percent each year The impact of NAFTA on sugar trade for their sugar producers. during years 8 to 15 of this agreement. cial to the blueberry industry. Today, depends on 'several factors. Mexico is now very few blueberries are grown in The U.S. uses a combination of import • Beginning in year seven, Mexico a net importer of sugar and does not cur- Mexico or exported to Mexico. Blueber- quotas and tariffs to limit sugar imports into would be permitted to ship its entire rently meet the requirements specified ries enjoy excellent demand in this country and to maintain its price sup- surplus to the U.S. if it was a net under NAFf A to increase its sugar exports developed economies. It's our belief that port program for sugar. surplus producer the previous two to the U.S. Mexico's sugar production has as Mexico's economy is stimulated, marketing years, or if it was a net been less than its consumption since 1987, growth occurs and incomes rise that the The program is designed to maintain the surplus producer during the previous with consumption reaching 4.5 million tons prospects are excellent for blueberry ex- U.S. price support program with loan rates year and is projected to be a net in 1992, while production was only 3.6 ports. Michigan Blueberry Growers As- of 18 cents per pound for raw cane sugar, surplus producer during the coming million tons. sociation supports the passage of year. and 23.33 cents per pound for beet sugar. NAFTA." U.S. Mexico sugar trade is not expected to Import quotas are assigned to each country By the end of year six, Mexico would change significantly during the first half of match its tariffs on imported sugar to those the agreement period. Mexico's exports of Michigan Allied Poultry exporting sugar into the U.S. Shipments of the U.S., on sugar imported from the rest sugar to the U.S. are limited to 25,000 tons above and beyond this quota are assessed a Industries Inc. tariff of 16 cents per pound. Mexico is of the world. during the first six years. Since the U.S. "Michigan Allied Poultry Industries permitted to ship 7,258 of the 1.6 million consumes 9 million tons of sugar annually, strongly supports NAFT A. We expect tons of sugar imported into the U.S. each Each country would then phase out its this increase in imports would not affect the agriculture in the U.S. and Michigan's tariffs on sugar shipped between the two U.S. sugar market. year. poultry industry to benefit from NAFT A. " countries by year 15. Mexico would also Under terms of NAFfA, Mexico will be phase out its 15 percent tariff on high fruc- In the long run, Mexico's status as a sugar tose corn sweetener over a IO-year period. exporter will be determined by three major Michigan Agri-Business permitted to export sugar to the U.S. under factors. First, growth in demand for sugar the following conditions: Association The agreement also includes rules of origin will be a big determinant of Mexico's • During the first six years of the agree- that specify product requirements for sugar export status. If income growth in "The Michigan Agri-Business ment, Mexico would be permitted to products trade under the terms of NAFf A. Mexico continues at a high rate, then its Association's Board of Directors sup- export up to 25,000 tons of sugar to Raw sugar from nations outside NAFf A consumption of sugar would increase faster ports NAFT A. Although the association the U.S. if its domestic production is cannot be used to produce refined sugar or than its production, preventing it from be- realizes some segments of U. S. agricul- greater than its domestic consumption. molasses for shipment to other members of coming a major sugar exporter. ture will be impaired by NAFT A, an over- NAFfA. all view of the agreement would en- • Beginning in year seven, Mexico Continued ...see nextpage hance U. S. agriculture. " would be permitted to export up to "NAFTA and U.S.sugar" -. Michigan Farm News October 15, 1993 III Gallup Poll Shows Changes in Michigan Farming Practices ENVIRONMENTAL ,~VkSTEWARDSHIP . :-'_4' Marshall area farmer Doug Myers (right), pictured with his father Grant below exemplifies the findings of the poll. Last year, in his search for "greener" alternatives, he agreed to participate in government-sanctioned tests of an experimental her- bicide on part of his 21DO-acre cash crop operation. "Farmers are looking for safer herbicides because they live in the environment, too, and they are concerned with protecting everyone's health," Myers said. "Since I live in the Great Lakes area, ~ water quality is a major concern as water is linked to everything we do. " .J~ __ proving due to positive media coverage and • Ninety-two percent of U.S. farmers say they are very or somewhat likely to use better informed consumers. safer pesticides in the future. According to the poll. Midwest farmers are even more "The majority of farmers believe consumers likely to use safer pesticides in the future. are more concerned about environmental issues because they are more aware of en- • Sixty-six percent of U.S. farmers favor vironmental issues. not because the tougher enforcement of penalties for problems are getting worse," said Dr. Max misapplication of pesticides. Forty-one Larsen, executive vice president with The percent favor mandatory education and Gallup Organization. "Four of five farmers certification for those who apply pes- believe current safeguards are sufficient to ticides. However. less than half of all protect people and the environment. but al- farmers say that pesticides are knowingly most as many think the public doesn't un- misapplied. derstand these safeguards." • Thirty-nine percent of U.S. farmers Overwhelmingly. farmers believe the key to believe they should have primary respon- reducing public concerns about farm-re- sibility for fixing environmental problems lated environmental issues is education. associated with agriculture. This is almost Most feel they share responsibility for that education with government, teachers. A national poll conducted by the Gallup said Dale Miller, CEO of Sandoz Agro, the three times the percentage of farmers plac- ing responsibility with government and al- manufacturers and others. More than one- Organization reveals that farmers in agricultural company that commissioned third of U.S. farmers say they have per- most five times the percentage placing Michigan and other midwestern states see the study. "This poll indicates U.S. farmers sonally participated in efforts to educate the responsibility with agrichemical manufac- water quality as the top farm-related en- are embracing positive changes in their turers. non-farm public. vironmental problem and "safer" pesticides farming practices. as part of the solution. The 1993 Sandoz National Agricultural • While most U.S. farmers think they are Among the findings: viewed as responsible stewards by their Poll included a cross-section of grain, cot- According to the results of the 1993 Sandoz • The majority of U.S. farmers say they ton and vegetable growers. The study has a urban neighbors, 43 percent think their National Agricultural Poll, three out of five already have made some changes in their margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percent. farmers say they are more concerned about image has slipped. farming practices as a result of public farm-related environmental problems opinion about the environment, mostly in In the Midwest, only 39 percent say the Sandoz Agro. Inc .. headquartered in Des today than five years ago. the areas of pesticide use and conservation image of the farmer has gotten worse. How- Plaines, Ill., produces chemical and biologi- tillage. Midwestern farmers are slightly ever. 28 percent believe their image is im- cal plant protection products for agriculture "It's clear that farmers everywhere share more likely to be practicing conservation and horticulture markets worldwide. the public's concern for the environment," tillage. "NAFTA and U.S. Sugar Trade with Mexico" continued from previous page If, however, income and demand growth produce 3.8 million tons of sugar and con- then have an export potential of 800,000 Mexico's sugar imports would actually in- are slower, Mexico is more likely to be able sume 4.5 million tons of sugar in 1993. In tons of sugar. crease duri ng the first 10 years of the agree- to increase its exports of sugar. total, Mexico is expected to import 700,000 ment and its sugar exports would decrease tons of sugar in 1993. U.S. exports of high These projections assume modest growth in during the next five years of the agreement. Second, the Mexican soft drink industry fructose corn sweetener to Mexico are ex- Mexico's sugar consumption (2.1 percent uses sugar as its sweetener. If this industry pected to be less than 10,000 tons in 1993. annual growth for 1994 to 2008 compared If Mexico does convert to the use of corn converts to the use of corn sweetener (a to 3 percent growth in the past decade) and sweeteners, then U.S. exports of corn or possibility since NAFT A reduces the price By the year 2000, Mexico's sugar produc- higher growth in sugar production than corn sweeteners would have to increase to of corn in Mexico in the long run), up to 1.3 tion is expected to reach 4.5 million tons, Mexico has achieved in recent years (2.5 meet this demand. Assuming that Mexico million tons of sugar now used in soft drinks while consumption will have reached 4.7 percent annual growth for 1994 to 2008. uses the 500.000 tons of corn sweetener could be released for other uses. million tons. This projection assumes that compared to 1.7 percent annual growth projected for the year 2000, then U.S. corn roughly 16 percent of Mexico's soft drink during the past decade). exports would have to increase 840.000 If this conversion takes place, Mexico industry will convert to the use of corn tons to meet this demand. would have to increase its imports of U.S sweeteners by the year 2000. Given these assumptions and a partial con- corn or corn sweetener and it would also version of Mexico's soft drink industry to With Mexico's use of corn sweeteners have to invest in new transportation, storage Transportation costs, the high cost of corn corn sweeteners, Mexico is unlikely to in- reaching the 2.4 million tons projected by and processing systems. in Mexico and Mexico's tariff on imported crease it exports of sugar to the U.S. before the year 2008, U.S. corn exports to Mexico corn sweetener are expected to prevent soft the year 2000. would have to increase by 4 million tons to Third, the Mexican sugar processing in- drink bottlers in the southern regions of meet this demand. That's in addition to the dustry, a government-owned monopoly for Mexico from converting to corn sweeteners If Mexico's consumption growth exceeds anticipated 2.5 million ton increase in corn many years, has been sold to private inves- during the first half of the agreement. Under this projection or its production growth exports under NAFTA. tors. If privatization improves the efficien- this scenario, Mexico would continue to fails to achieve this projection, then cy of this industry, Mexico's sugar industry import 200,000 tons of sugar in the year could become more competitive and its ex- 2000. port potential could improve. So What's the Bottom Line to the Mexico's sugar production is expected to The importance of these factors can be il- reach 4.8 million tons in the year 2008. NAFTA - Sugar Trade Question? Mexico's consumption of sugar is expected lustrated by considering long run projec- to decline to 4 million tons as the remainder Msu Economist Dr. David Schweikhardt ulations, if they get the projected income tions for Mexico's sugar industry (see said Mexico's export potential of 800,000 growth, their demand is likely to increase Table I below). Mexico is expected to of Mexico's soft drink industry converts to faster than their supply can." tons in 15 years will have an impact, but that the use of corn sweeteners. Mexico would U.S. sugar producers must also remember that it's IS years from now and then ask According to MFB Commodity Specialist Table 1: Projections of Mexico's Sugar Production, some very important questions. Bob Boehm, the impact of Mexico's Consumption and Trade 1993-2008 (thousand tons) 800,000 ton export potential on the U.S. "There are a couple of ways that you can market, even at current U.S. consumption 1993 2000 2008 look at NAFTA and sugar," Schweikhardt levels, would account for less than 10 per- Sugar Production 3,800 4,500 4,800 suggested. "First, will Mexico be a threat to cent of the total U.S. sugar consumption. U.S. producers and when? And if so, how Sweetener Consumption much of a threat? They're not producing "If the trend in U.S. sugar consumption for Sugar 4,500 4,700 4,000 enough sugar right now to even keep up the past several years is extended out IS High Fructose Corn Sweetener 0 500 2,400 with their own demand, much less have a years to the year 2008, 800,000 tons would lot to export. be a much smaller part of the total U.S. Trade Status 1 Imports 700 Imports 200 Exports 800 sugar consumption picture," Boehm said. "So the answer of whether they will be a "The U.S. can also adjust sugar import 1Trade status is calculated as sugar production minus sugar consumption threat, 'is not for the first 10 years.' Their quotas from other nations, so that the total Source: Kessel, Buzzanell and Lord, USDA demand (Mexico's) is going to grow fast net change in U.S. sugar imports is mini- too. With one of the fastest growing pop- mal." Michigan Farm News -. October 15, 1993 IfJ Clinton Health Plan Benefits Offset by Negatives Although President Clinton's health care reform plan con- In addition, Laurie said. "We oppose the federal minimum "What Farm Bureau Wants in Health Care Plan" a tains some provisions long sought by farmers and other self- benefit plan and the increase in the number of federal and state employed i ndi viduals, those benefits are offset by the regulations that will be imposed on health care providers." proposal's reliance on employer mandates, increased state and Laurie said the benefits of Clinton's health care plan would federal regulations and new taxes, according to MFB President I likely be wiped out for many Michigan farmers and other Jack Laurie. self-employed business owners who hire employees. "The "We commend President Clinton for providing a 100 per- plan's cap for smaller employers, which limits their health care cent tax deduction for health insurance premiums paid by costs to 3.5 percent of their total payrolL will still be too costly self-employed persons," said Laurie. "The self-employed have for many small businesses." he said. "This cap will eventually sought this deduction for years as a matter of equity." be raised to 7.9 percent meaning many small businesses may Laurie also lauded Clinton for addressing the special needs forego hiring additional help." of rural America. "While the provisions for rural residents are A better approach, Laurie said. would be to provide tax praiseworthy, they don't alleviate our basic concerns about the incentives for individuals to purchase health coverage and to package." he said. "We oppose requiring employers to pay for establish "medical savings accounts" to pay for less-than their employees' health insurance, and we oppose the new taxes I catastrophic health care needs. itA 'Medi-Save' account would that purportedly will finance this plan." allow people to assume greater responsibility for cost-savings decisions," Laurie concluded. What's Included in the Clinton Health Care Plan? Health Care Alliances I employers with 50 or fewer employees would be capped ac- States would be required to establish alliances by Jan. I. cording to a sliding scale ranging from 3.5 to 7.9 percent, 1997. These could be non-profit corporations, an independent depending on the firm's average wages. Employers would be state agency. or an agency of the state' s executi ve branch. The required to make pro-rated contributions to a regional alliance alliance would publish information on the cost of health care for its part-time workers. services and list the doctors and hospitals participating. Allian- Smaller companies would be alIowed to pay a smaller ces would offer consumers a choice of health care plans, portion of the employee cost. For example, if the smaII including fee for service plans. employer's average full-time wage is less than $12,000, the employer's contribution would be capped at 3.5 percent of the Self-Employed payroll. All premium payments made by self-employed individuals If the average payroll is greater than $24,000, the employer will be 100 percent tax deductible. The self-employed will pay cap would be 7.9 percent of the total payroll. The lower cap of the employer share and the individual share of the total 3.5 percent wiII be phased up to 7.9 percent over a number of premium. The total amount paid would be capped as a percent- years. age of self-employed income, using the percentage caps ap- plied to small businesses. Rural Areas If the self-employed individual also works for another Health services would be expanded for rural residents employer, any amount contributed by that employer, prior to through incentives such as steps to give physicians and health any employer subsidies, reduces the premium of the self- care assistants who locate in rural areas a modest tax credit employed. during the first five years of practice. Medical workers would be alIowed to deduct up to $5,000 Employer Participation in annual student loan interest when performing under service Every employer would be required to pay on behalf of its agreements with rural areas. workers at least 80 percent of the average premium. Employees Alliances would be required to serve rural areas. Incentives would pay the remaining 20 percent if they choose a plan would be established to expand rural community health net- costing the average amount. works. Cooperative relationships between rural and urban Employees would pay extra for a plan costing more than providers would be established. Rural.areas would be offered the average amount. The federal government would offer as- long-term contracts. sistance to low-income and unemployed people as weII as Technical assistance would become available to support small, low-wage businesses. development of primary care systems in rural areas as weII as No company would be required to pay more than 7.9 telecommunications links between rural providers and urban percent of its payroII for health care costs. Contributions for health care centers and institutions. ...................................................... ~ 1993 Fall Beef Cattle Sales & Events in Michigan Serving Michigan Oct. 16 Oct. 16 Oct. 16 Oct. 16 Oct. 16 Oct. 16 Good Associates Show Calf Sale. Eaton Couty Fairgrounds, Charlotte, 1 p.m. Michigan Livestock Exchange Feeder Sale, Battle Creek, 1 p.m. ABS Club Claf Sale, Country View Farms, Mason, 7 p.m. Polled Hereford Classic Beef Cattle Sale, Marlette Stock Yards, noon AII Breed Beef Classic Sale, Marlette Stock Yards, 1 p.m. Tobacco River Farm Club Calf & Cattle Sale, Clare, 11 a.m. ~ rijlMF~ RADIO NETWORK Farm Families is Our Only Business Oct. 17 Kaercher's Club Calf Sale, Kalamazoo, 2 p.m. Since its beginning in 1971, Michigan Farm Radio Network's only objective Oct. 17 Maumee Valley Polled Hereford Sale, Hillsdale Co, Fairgrounds, 2 p.m. has been to seNe Michigan's farm families. This dedication to seNe agricul- Oct. 18 Thunder Bay Beef Producers Feeder Sale, Alpena, 6:30 p.m. ture is shared by 29 local radio stations in Michigan. Through these sta- Oct. 19 West Branch Feeder Cattle Sale, West Branch, noon tions, Michigan Farm Radio Network provides the latest in market analysis, Oct. 21 Owosso Livestock Sales Co. Feeder Cattle Sale, Owosso, 3 p.m. Oct. 22 Michigan Livestock Exchange Feeder Sale, Cass City, 1 p.m. weather and news to Farm Bureau members daily on the following stations: Oct. 23 Kitty Kurtis Club Calf Sale, Ridgeway, 10 a.m. Station City Frequency Morning Farm Noon Farm Oct. 23 Marlette Stock Yards All Breed Club Calf Classic Sale, Marlette, 7 p.m. WABJ Adrian 1490 5:45 am 12:15 pm Oct. 23 Simmental Cow-Calf and Club Calf Sale, Marion, noon Oct. 25 Northern Mich. Livestock Assoc. Associate Feeder Sale, Gaylord, 2:30 p.m. WATZ Alpena 1450 5:30 am 12:15 pm Oct. 27 Northern Mich. Livestock Assoc. Feeder Sale, Gaylord, 2:30 p.m. WPZA Ann Arbor 1050 6:15 am 12:05 pm Oct. 30 Harwood Farms Club Calf Sale, Ionia, 1 p.m. WLEW Bad Axe 1340 6:30 am 12:50 pm Oct. 30 International Angus Sale, Gustafson Farms, Mason, 7 p.m. WHFB Benton Harbor 1060 * 12:30 pm Oct. 30 Octoberfest '93 Polled Hereford Sale, Bar B Cattle Co., Rockford, noon WKYO Caro 1360 6:15 am 12:45 pm Oct. 31 Triple K Ranch Club Calf, Cow & Equipment Sale, Durand, 11 a.m. Nov. 4 Lake Odessa Feeder Sale, Lake Odessa Livestock Auction, 6 p.m. WTVe Coldwater 1590 5:45 am *** Nov. 4 Heart of Michigan Feeder Sale, Clare, 1 p.m. WDOW Dowagiac 1440 6:15 am 12:15 pm Nov. 5 Michigan Livestock Exchange Feeder Sale, St. Louis, 1 p.m. WACY Fenton 1160 6:15am 12:15pm Nov. 6 Michigan Livestock Exchange Feeder Sale, Marion, 1 p.m. WGHN Grand Haven 1370/92.1 5:45 am 12:15 pm Nov. 6 Michigan Polled Hereford Assoc. Baldy Select Sale, Coldwater, 1 p.m. WPLB Greenville 1380 6:15 am 12:45 pm Nov. 6 Michigan Shorthorn Association Club Calf & Heifer Calf Sale, WBCH Hastings 1220 6:15 am 12:30 pm Hillsdale Co. Fairgrounds, 1 p.m. Nov. 6 Limousin Club Calf and Female Sale, Marlett Dairy Sale Barn, 1 p.m. WCSR Hillsdale 1340 6:45 am 12:45 pm Nov. 6 Mich. Beefalo Breeders Assoc. Sale, Ravenna, 1 p.m. WHTC Holland 1450 12:15 pm Nov. 7 Peterson Farm Club Calf Sale, Niles, 2 p.m. WKZO Kalamazoo 590 ** 12:15 pm Nov. 10 Northern Mich. Livestock Assoc. Feeder Sale, Gaylord, 2:30 p.m. WJIM Lansing 1250 5:05 am 12:15 pm Nov. 18 Owosso Livestock Sales Co. Feeder Cattle Sale, Owosso, 3 p.m. Nov. 24 Northern Mich. Livestock Assoc. Feeder Sale, Gaylord, 2:30 p.m. WWGZ Lapeer 1530 * 12:15 pm Nov. 26 All-Breed Calf Sale, Lake Odessa Livestock Auction, 1 p.m. WNBY Newberry 92.5 12:15 pm Nov. 26 Lake Odessa Feeder Sale, Lake Odessa Livestock Auction, 6 p.m. WOAP Owosso 1080 6:15 am 12:30 pm Dec. 3-4 West Michigan Livestock Show & Market Sale, Lake Odessa WHAK Rogers City 960 7:10 am 12:15 pm Dec. 3 Michigan Livestock Exchange Feeder Sale, St. Louis, 1 p.m. WSJ St. Johns 1580 6:15 am 12:15 pm Dec. 4 Michigan Livestock Exchange Feeder Sale, Battle Creek, 1 p.m. Dec. 8 Northern Mich. Livestock Assoc. Feeder Sale, Gaylord, 2:30 p.m. WMLM St. Louis 1540 6:06 am 12:20 pm Dec 11-12 Michigan Winter Beef Show, MSU Livestock Pavilion, East Lansing WSGW Saginaw 790 5:55 am 12:15 pm Dec. 16 Owosso Livestock Sales Co. Feeder Sale, Owosso, 3 p.m. WMIC Sandusky 660 6:15 am 12:45 pm WKZC Scottville 95.9 5:45 am 12:30 pm 1994 Spring Beef Cattle Sales & Events in Michigan WCSY South Haven 940 12:15 pm Jan 8 Michigan Cattlemen's Convention, MSU, East Lansing WKJC Tawas City 104.7 12:45 pm March 12 Gustafson Farms Open House and Bull Sale, Mason, 1 p.m. WLKM Three Rivers 1510/95.9 6:15 am 12:15 pm March 19 6th Annual MCA Bull Test Sale, Breckenridge, noon WTCM Traverse City 580 5:55 am 12:40 pm March 26 13th Annual Michigan Limousin Association Sale, • Station signs on at different times during the year. Morning farm times change with Hillsdale Co. Fairgrounds, Show 9:30 a.m., Sale 1 p.m. sign-on times. April 8-10 Michigan Beef Expo, Mason April 16 Southwest Michigan Polled Hereford Association Sale, Allegan, noon ... Station airs various farm reports between 5:50 and 6:20 pm. April 23 West Branch Bull Sale, noon • .... Station airs various farm reports between 12:00 and 1:00 pm. April 30 4th Annual Key to Profit Sale, Escanaba, 1 p.m. ~ Clip and Save! • Some stations carry additional market reports throughout the market day. • .".. ••••• lit •••• •• ,. IP' ,. • ----------------------------...---------------------------- ,. ,. .......... Michigan Farm News -. October 15, 1993 Some of the hidden causes of stray voltage are in plain sight. What makes stray voltage such an exasperating problem? One major reason is that it can be caused by so many different \ conditions. And many of them are in plain sight! Here are some of the most common conditions that can reduce the safety level of your electric system and make stray voltage a serious problelu. • Broken or disconnected electrical conduits, missing covers on electrical panels and boxes, badly rlisted conduits or electrical boxes. • Cables and extension cords in contact with metal pipes, stalls or equipment and cables or wires entering boxes without cable fittings. • Ilnproper grounding, including missing connections to ground rods at electrical panels in locations such as at a lueter pole, barn, Inilking area or feeding system. • Electric fences that are grounded to stalls or water pipes rather than to their own individual ground rod. The next step ... If you think you have a stray voltage problelu, call our stray voltage specialists at 1.... 800 .... VOLT or your 252 .... local ConSUluers Po\ver office at 1-800-477-5050. Consumers Power I'IIWEIIINIi IIUCIIlIiAII"5 "'&I/#.6C, Michigan Farm News . • ~ October 15,1993 - Michigan Farm News Classifieds - •• 1988 FIELDBOSS WIIIi.'lllt, 1IiI_ ~ farm FREE CATALOG: Whole- FOR SALE: 60 HEAD RECYCLE YOUR DIESEL air __ 13,000 GALLON BULK stor- .ilrAil STRAW CHOPPERS: We tractor with all equip- sale Veterinary Supplies. 750-800# pre-conditionedl filters. Recycle Now, Inc. a age tank for LP or amonia, rebuild and balance. Some mentLess than 500 hours. All Vaccines, wormers, supple- prime colored steers. Holland, Michigan based $7,500. 616-874-7319. exchanges. We stock chop- attachments, $10,000. Call ments, medications, insecti- Northland Farms Call company, committed to recyl- per parts. 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Good beef starters. tion, call 1-616-396-7724 or COMPUTER SOFT WARE 419-399-4m FOR SALE: GLEANER F fax 1-616-396-8102. by Harvest Computer Combine, 13' grain head, 4 Priced right. Call 313-428-9247. systems. Accounting pack- PRESSURE TREATED row narrow, 430 com head. IItll811 ages, field management fence posts, hi-tensile fence $4,800. Call 517-875-3736. PUREBRED Yorkshire and packa~es, and more. For supplies. MASSEY FERGUSON #33 Hampshire Boars and open more Information call David Nevill Supply three row com head. Call Gills. Also F-1 York X Hamps, Dankenbring, 517-543-1588. 517-386-3517 1-517-235-6237. ALFALFA MIXED HAY and Back fat and Loineye. Test 517-386-2382 grass, 4x5 round bales. data. Also, days to 230 CYLINDER HEADS: Block MF 1135 TRACTOR, duals Stored insidel Delivered semi pounds. Marvin Cook, 174 ACRE FARM: Branch and transmission case repair. and cab. Bean puller, 6 row loads. Gene Wager, 1-517-649-8988. County. Good soil, excellent Cast iron repair specialists. John Deere rotary hoe. Call 1-517-967-3361 days. cow/call farm. Hi-Tensil fenc- All work guaranteed. Kin~- 1-517-649-8884. QUALITY ANGUS ing, 14 year old energy effi- 1-517-772-7031 evening~. BREEDING STOCK Perfor- man Engineering 703 Curtis IRRIGAnON PIPE for sale. cient 4-bedroom, 2-bath Street, Mason, MI mance tested, Bulls semen home. New 3-car garage 4" and 2". Two irrigation tested. Free delivery. Also 517-676-1417. pumps and motors. Silage SCOTCH PINE Christmas w/openings. Insulated shop, BLACK MULE MARES: 16 Border Collie Stock Dogs. barn. $256,000. DON'T THROW THOSE wagon $300. Farmhand feed trees. Freshly cut, painted, Call today. BORDNER H.H. Well broke to ride and grinder $700. Allis Chalmbers baled and loaded on your 1-517-639-4046. Alkaline batteries awayl drive. Will also sell wagon ANGUS FARMS Sturgis, MI Combine $400. Call vehicle for only $5 per tree. 616-651-8353. GRADE A DAIRY FARM: Recharge them with the with hydraulic brakes and 616-874-7708 after 6pm. Contact Richard Bradley 190 acres in the thumb of Super Charger. Get the harness. Perkins, MI Tree Farms, 5360 South REGISTERED POLLED Michigan. Partly tiled, 2 facts, order yours today, 1-906-359-4826. NEW AND USED irrigation Dickerson Road, Lake City, Herfords. Breeding age bulls, houses, 3 wells. 52 stall barn, Products Plus Inc., and manure spreading equip- MI 49651. heifers and bred heifers. MSU pipeline milking system. Take 1-800-801-8355 (24 hours). ment. Pumps, travelers, Call 1-616-825-2895. e.erformance tested. Robert over lease on 1 blue silo. agitators, PVC and aluminum Rye, 1-517-734-3005. Asking $187,000. FOR SALE: 6.9 DIESEL pips. Call for listing. We 1-517-635-3413. Engine, .030 over, fresh. deliverl Plummer Supply, WILLING TO SELL: 1992 517-467-2687 or Inc. 1-800-632-7731. High Moisture Com, stored in 517-467-6888. IONIA ANTIQUE AND NEW IDEA 323 one row com glass lined Havestore Silos. COLLECTIBLE MARKET picker. Fair condition, $800. Omega Farms, Williamston, FOR SALE: Three bams full of 1993hay of various grades. Sunday Oct. 24th, Ionia Fair- Call 1-517-637-4717. MI Call 517-468-3366. BIRD FERTILIZER grounds, South M66, Ionia Clover and Timothy. Call SERVICES. 1100 N Irvin!=J, 1-906-478-3421. Charles Michigan 8am-4:30pm. Greenville. Fertilizer, chemi- BUYERS OF STANDING Wallis, Box 949, Route 2, AdmiSSion$2. Rain or shine. ,--------------------------, cals, seed, lime, feed. Soil timber and veneer logs. Rudyard, MI. ! I Buy 2 Issues : I testing, truck spreading and custom spraying. 616-754-3684. Call Devereaux Sawmill, Inc. Pewamo, 1-517-593-2552. MI. Call FREE GUIDE: Fence. Strong, Tensile economical! Also, portable lasting, INTERNAnONAL #9 and #7 : I of : I EXPERIENCED Michigan agribusiness attorneys with farm backgrounds. Know- silo fillers. Com binders, grain binder. Rosensaw 40 com huskers. Paypack Model L electric fence. Phone order supplies, 1-800-KENCQVE. 1-412-459-8991. GUN SHOW Mount Pleasant, ledge and experience in all gale C-40 silo filler. New Idea i Michigan Farm News i October 23 and 24. Pickard farm areas; restructure, stray #10, #12, #14,617 A manure HA VESTORE SILOS: two Place Show Hall, 1 mile west voltage, bankruptcy, estate spreader. 1-313-628-4147. newer, 2Ox60, A.D. Smith of Meijers on North M-20. planning. EAST SIDE: WANTED: Com, soy beans. Havestores with 1 Goliath Saturday 9-5, Sunday 9-4. 22 I • I Thomas J. Budzynski, 43777 unloader, good conditon, best rifle Door Prize. J&J Sport I Get the Third Issue i I Groesbeck Clemens, Hwy., MI 48036, I 313-463-5253; WEST SIDE: Mt. Top prices paid, fastl Don't speculate, our expertise can eliminate price risk through sound marketing. Call Michi- offer or will trade. Call 616-834-5896. Shows, 1-800-968-5016. I I Robert A. Stariha, 40 W. INTRODUCTORY OFFER: ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW gan Experts, The Smith FREE! Sheridan, Fremont, MI $60/per ton animal bedding Saturday, November 13, Brothers, 1-800-878-2767. made from recycled news- 49412, 616-924-3760. 9am-4pm, Montcalm County iI iI WHEAT, STRAW: Square bales. Call 1-616-623-2261. paper, chopped not shred- ded. More absorbent-less flies-less odor. Clean Future 517-876-6051 Turner MI. Les Armory, Greenville. booths. Free Admission. Door Prizes. Sponsored by the Greenville Daily News. 50 : Deadline for next issue is October 22, 1993 : Keely, 517-654-2208 I : I :m! Call 1-800-968-3129 to Place Your Classified Ad Today! = : I I Place your ad for 6 517-873-6089. LIVESTOCK Photography: Experienced professional bovine photographer will I I or use the coupon belo.", and mail your c1assllied ad to Michigan Farm News I I months, get phone provide quality photographs at your show and at your : Buy Line/Daily News : number or name in red location. Proofs overnight! I Po. Box 6 I Picture mailed 7 days. Bill I Stanton, MI48888 I Place your ad for 1 Day, P.O. Box 3826, Center- I I line, MI 48015. Call I Classified Ad Codes I year, get phone number 1-313-759-2099. Fax I 1. Farm Machinery 6. Agricultural Services , t. Wanted to Buy I 1-313-754-8171. I 2. livestock Equipment 3. Farm Commodities 7. Auctions 8. Building Materials '2 General 13: PonieslHorses I I or name in red and also I 4. Uveslock 9. Real Eslate 14. AnliqueslConectibles I 5. Help/Posilion Wanted 10. Seeds 15. Special Events I save $1.00 per ad. Why I I Name Address Phone ( I I Call i City State __ Zip 1-800-968-3129 Pay More? I Classified Ad Code Requested Number of Issues I Desired Insertion Date(s): I I for details Method of Payment I Check S (payable 10 Michigan Farm News Classified) I Visa Card Number Master Card Number Exp. Date __ Exp. Date II I Cut Your Prescription Costs Classified Rates I , Enjoy substantial savings on over 5.000 of the most popular name brand prescriptions, non-prescriptions, I $8 for up to 24 words 30 cents each additional word I I For vitamins, and medical supplies. Plus, save even I I more when you order generic equivalents! Write your ad here. including phone number and area code I I I 1 3 I I I Display Ad HcartlandiFeld Drug has been serving Rural I 5 I Americans for over 30 years. 11 16 I I I Information To get your FREE Discount Pharmacy Catalog 13 15 I 17 19 23 20 24 I I Call Call Toll-Free 1-800- 228-3353 21 I I 1-800-292-2680 26 27 28 25 I ~H EAR T LAN D FELf[£ORUG 29 30 .31 32 I ~ PRESCRIPTION SERVICE & MEDICAl SUPPliES I 5023 Grover SUcci. Omaha. Ne 68106 u ~ ~ ~ I L --------------~ Ext. 3201 HEARTlANOIFELO IS A MEMBER BENEFIT PROVIOER FOR FAA'" BUREAU MEMBERS Circulation over 46,000 in State of Michigan. Michigan Farm News . Discussion Topic for November, 1993 Funding Michigan's -. Schools October 15, 1993 Until it was eliminated by the Legisla- The $9 billion total for public schools and job expansion. Individual personal ture, the property tax was the major source of averaged out to $5,600 per student. But the and farm personal property is currently come up with a school funding plan before the school funding. Statewide, property taxes funding per individual districts ranged from exempt. next school year. Legislators need to hear raised $9 billion, of which about 60 percent $2,600 to over $8,500 for each child. from Farm Bureau members this fall and ($6 billion) was funding for K-12 education. Wiping out the property tax cleaned the The Legislature-~y opt to combine any num- winter to get the proper guidance on this In addition, schools received about $3 billion slate for consideration of alternate methods ber of these revenue sources together with in state general funds. important issue. for financing schools. Among the options are: budget reductions in order to replace the property tax monies. Rupprecht Earns Dairy D Increasing the Michigan income tax. It On the other hand, many thoughtful ob- Discussion Questions: now stands at 4.6 percent and generates servers of the school finance system point out Shrine/UDIA Milk about $4.6 billion a year. that there is considerable potential for cutting 1. What has been the reaction in your Marketing Scholarship D Increasing the current 4 percent sales costs instead of simply replacing revenue. school district to the elimination of property taxes? tax. Under the state Constitution, this Some of those cost containment options are: would require a vote of the people. Al- ternatively, the sales tax base could be o Limiting salary increases for teachers 2. What action(s) has your school taken in broadened by taxing services or remov- and staff to the rate of inflation. response to the cut in funding? ing exemptions. The sales tax currently raises approximately $3.8 billion a year. o costs Requiring students to pay for specific such as pay-to-play sports and 3. Review the proposed school funding op- o Increasing so-called "sin taxes" on other extra curricular actiVIties. tions listed in the discussion leader guide. tobacco, alcohol and other products. Right now these taxes generate about o Requiring faculty and staff to cost-share Which ones do your group members feel are the most advantageous for both your or co-pay deductibles on fringe benefits $376 million a year. such as health care and retirement funds. local school district and agriculture? D Other revenue sources could include fees and charges for state services. Fees o Initiating cross-district "school of 4. Which of the proposed options does your choice". Advocates assert that in a free group feel would be the most detrimental for could include licenses and permits to marketplace of educational options, operate. Increased penalties and fines your local school district and agriculture? schools will be forced to become more are also an option. efficient and less costly. 5. Should a new form of school revenue be o Boosting the personal property tax. But Eliminating the property tax was a bold put in place by the Legislature or should the personal property tax is difficult to cutting costs be the focus for school financ- collect and may discourage investment and controversial action by lawmakers. At the very least, it holds their "feet to the fire" to ing? Why? Dairy Shrine and the United Dairy Industry Association (UDIA) have selected Sarah Rupprecht, originally of Vassar, as one of three recipients of their 1993 Milk Marketing Scholarships. The Dairy Shrine/UDIA milk marketing scholarships are awarded to stu- dents excelling in academics, leadership, extra-curricular and marketing activities. Rupprecht received a bachelors degree in agricultural and natural resources com- munications from Michigan State University in May of 1993, and currently works as a Michigan Farm Bureau regional repre- sentative. Raised on a registered Holstein and Jersey farm, she gained marketing experience by serving in leadership positions with the Na- tional Agri-Marketing Association, as a teaching assistant for the Purebred Live- stock Marketing Course, and as a market- ing/promotional intern for MABC/Select Sires. Rupprecht was also a dis- patcher/cashier for the MSU Dairy Store. Rupprecht was also named the "1992-93 Outstanding Senior Leader" in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Calendar of Events Nov. 3 - Potato Grower Family of the Year Banquet, 6:30 p.m., Maxfield"s Restaurant, Wyman. Nov. 8-10 - MFB Policy Development Committee Farm Bureau Center, Lans- ing. Nov. 28-Dec. 1- MFB Annual Meeting Westin Hotel. Detroit. " Jan. 9-13 -- AFBF 75th Anniversary In these tough economic times all business owners are looking for ways to improve their bottom line. Annual Meeting Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Now Fa:m.~ure~u can help with a new money ~aving gr~up Health P~anfrom Blue Cross Blue Shield~of Michigan. Jan. 27 - "The Difference Is You" Thase new plans are guaranteed is~~~ ntrmatter what your health history, locally seNice~ by our 69 county offices and 400 agents s~atewide, Workshop Holiday Inn-Lansing Conf. , and competitively priced to save' farm QWners and operators'hundreds or even thousands otdollars off their health insurance bilL Center, Lansing. So, if you're a sole 'proprietor or if you have one or more employees, you should call Farm Bureau today for benefit and rate information. I _ l' ~ ,,_ . Feb. 1 - "The Difference Is You" "_"'ItIICHICAN ·' Workshop Holiday Inn, Grayling. , .... fll"ltI BUREAU Feb. 16-17 - MFB Political Campaign FOR A FREE, NO OBUGATION RATE QUOTE - ALL OUT THE COUPON BELOW OR CAll DIRECT 1-800-292-2680, EXT. 3239 OR 3240. Management Workshop. Please mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau March 3-5 - Young Farmer Leaders' Membership Services P.O. Box 30960 Conference Midland. Lansing, MI 48909 Please Print Send or FAX your meeting infomlation at least three weeks in advance and be Name Current Health Insurance sure to include a contact name and phone number for more information. Sen~ your Address Number of Full Time Employees o Sole proprietor meeting details to: (1 person group) Michigan Farm News Phone o 2-4 0 5-9 P.O. Box 30960 Lansing, MI 48909-8460 County o 10-24 0 25 and over FAX: (517)323-6793 Type of Farm/Business MFN . Michigan Farm News October 15, 1993 1m Last Minute Grain Storage Reminders Roger Brook, Agricultural Engineering, Grain that is 30 degrees to 40 degrees F can Grain should be uniformly MSU be held successfully into early summer dried to 15 percent mois- without warming. Conventional wisdom ture. Immature and The most important topics to remember says to warm grain to be held through the sprouted or moldy grain when managing grain in storage are summer months to 45 degrees - 50 degrees should be dried one per- temperature management and continuing F. centage point less. inspection. Grain temperature can be estimated by • LOOK at how well the Grain should be uniformly dry. Corn should holding a good thermometer in the exhaust grain is supporting you and be dried to 15 percent moisture. Soybeans airflow. The temperature change will be for moisture condensation and small grains should be 14 percent at complete when the exhaust temperature is on the roof. harvest. Immature and sprouted or moldy nearly equal to the outside temperature. grain should be dried one percentage point For upward airflow, check grain tempera- • FEEL the grain for in- less in moisture than good condition grain. ture about 6 inches down from the top crease in moisture and surface of the grain. For downward temperature. Grain Temperature airflow, check the air temperature as it leaves the fan. Be sure to check around the Grain temperature in storage should be be- • SMELL for any off- outside edge of the fan, and not near the tween 30 degrees F and 50 degrees F to odors, but be aware the center. development of odors sug- maintain quality. Temperatures colder than 30 degrees F are not desirable because of gests that earlier inspec- the likelihood of warm spells during the Continuing Inspection tions missed something. winter. These warm spells may lead to Continuing inspection is important to moisture migration and a moisture build-up detect any moisture build-up problems Safety tip. Never enter a in the surface layers of grain. Temperatures what wi II lead to a decrease in grain bin of flowing grain. An higher than 50 degrees F will promote con- quality. These problems most often appear adult can be hopelessly tinuing germination, insect growth and in the top three feet of the storage. The trapped in five seconds and mold development. keywords for action are look, feel, and completely covered after smell. 22 seconds. Use a lock-out to prevent bin unloading while you are in ,. \. the bin doing an inspection. Safety tip ..Wear a good fitting dust mask TAKE'THE.BITE OUT OF DENTAL CARE' COSTS when working in or around moldy grain; moldy grain can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. For more information: see Extension bul- letin E-1431 Stored Grain Management. Reprinted from MSU Field Crop Advisory Team Alert Japan's Decision to Open Market to U.S. Apples Good for Michigan The Japanese decision to move quickly in opening its apple market to the U.S. will be good news for Michigan apple producers, according to Tom Butler, manager of M ich igan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Association's Processing Apple Division. "J apan has the potential for being the largest export market for the U.S. apple business today," Butler said. "For years and . , years, they had an artificial trade barrier in place to prohibit U.S. apples because they were supposedly concerned about coddling moth problems in the U.S." A letter from Japan's vice minister of agriculture to U.S. Trade Representative Mickey Kantor said the country intends to move "expeditiously" to open its markets Member dental insurance is the affordable way to assure that you and your family to 1994 crop Gold and Red Delicious ap- ples from Washington and Oregon. receive the dental care services you require - even'when sudden and costly needs arise. If remaining technical difficulties are Measure the rates against your annual dental care bills and consider the advantage! resolved, U.S. apples could begin to enter Single $18 per month • Couple $32 per month Japan by early 1995. Member/C.hild $32 per month • Family $41 per month U.S. apple exports to Japan could reach $15 TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION '!J" .... /tI.C".GAN ~ARItl BVREAV AND A BROCHURE/APPLICATION, . PLEASE FILL OUT THE COUPON BELOW to $20 billion in the first year that markets are opened. Annual sales could eventually reach $75 million in the next four to five years, which ultimately means good news OR CALL DIRECT '-800-292-2680 EXT - 323& for Michigan, as well as Oregon and Washington. Butler said. Please Print "The direct benefit to Michigan is that Please mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau Name anytime West Coast states can move addi- Membership Services tional apples into the export markets P.O. Box 30960 Address around the world, Michigan producers Lansing, MI 48909 don't have to compete with those apples on City State ZIP the domestic market," Butler said. "The Japanese are primarily interested in Red Phone Delicious and a Japanese variety being produced in Washington called Fuji." County