MICHIGAN FARM NEWS -= ItIICHIGAN FARItI BUREAU February 28, 1997 Vol. 74, No.4 Clinton administration announces final CRP rules A griculture Secretary Dan Glickman an- nounced final regulations for USDA'sCon- servation Reserve Program (CRP) Feb. 12, fulfilling a Clinton administration commitment to redesign the program to target the most environ- mentally sensitive croplands. "Under the new CRP,we will protect about 36 million acres of our most environmentally sensitive lands," Glickman said. "The days of enrolling vast amounts of productive farmland are over. We will select the acreage to enter the program after reviewing each of the offers sub- mitted from the pool of eligible land. We will enroll only the most environmentally sensitive lands to ensure "that we get the most environ- mental benefits using the fewest dollars possible. "Unfortunately, there have been some erro- neous reports that imply we were about to enroll all the cropland in America into the CRP.We are not. There are a couple of basic things we need .to remember to keep this debate in focus. One, we are limited to enrolling 36.4 million acres. We could not enroll all the cropland if we wanted to. And two, there is a fundamental difference be- tween land that is eligible for the CRP and land that gets into the CRP." What's becoming a common sight around Michigan is the parceling off of farmland to make way for development. The passage of The three primary goals of the CRP are the Land Division Act was an attempt to remove the 10.01 acre requirement and replace it with a number of exempt divisions erosion reduction, improvement of water quality based on acreage. _ -.MId the enhancement of wildlife habitat. There are millions of acres of cropland that could pro- Tuberculosis in Northeastern Michigan deer vide outstanding water quality or wildlife bene- fits, yet would not be eligible for enrollment based solely on their erodibility. sparks major concern for livestock producers Survey reveals chance of livestock infection USDAepidemiologist Dr. Colleen Bruning- COVER New act STORY needs changing "We firmly believe that changes made in the T he ongoing, intensified testing of the deer Fann explains one frightening result of the survey, final rule, which have increased the size of the herd in northeastern Michigan for bovine "We've determined the cumulative risk that one or to address needs of pool of eligible acres, make it more possible to Tuberculosis (TB) has netted results that more cattle in the infected area or buffer zone will Michigan agriculture achieve the three primary goals of the CRP by have alarmed cattle producers and challenged the contract TB in the next 25 years to be 12.3 percent he issues raised by the passage of Public enrolling the country's most environmentally Department of Natural Resources and the state vet- if things continue without intervention." Act 591, the Land Division Act, common- important cropland," Glickman said. erinarian to develop a plan to correct the situation. "If there is any place where there's close inter- ly referred to as Senate Bill 112, may USDAwill rank all eligible CRP offers using The alarm sounded earlier this month when a action between the livestock and the deer, that's the seem extremely complex to many Michigan land- an Environmental Benefits Index (EBI). The EBI TB-positive deer was found in Presque Isle County, a first place I would look to reduce contact between owners, but for Ingham County Farm Bureau mem- is used to evaluate and rank offers based on the new county outside the original four - Montmoren- any livestock and deer," says Kevin Small, an Alcona ber Gary Haynes the issue at hand is very simple - potential environmental benefits of enrolling the cy, Alcona, Alpena and Oscoda - who have been County farmer who sits on the statewide Committee he's losing good farmland to development and can't land in the CRP.This will ensure that only the under intense scrutiny and testing since bovine TB on Managing Bovine TB in Wild Michigan Deer. "We do anything about it. most environmentally sensitive lands are select- was discovered in the wild deer herd there in 1994. tested one time here. There have been some produc- "We recently got notice that one of our land- ed. The criteria used to determine the EBI rank- "We looked at 3,665 head of deer and, in those, ers, of course, tested twice in the last couple of years." owners whom we've rented from for 11 years has ings include benefits to wildlife habitat, erosion we had 48 positive for TB and two that are suspects "Akey recommendation at the committee is sold a 100-acre parcel that had four splits taken out of control, water quality, air quality and cost. USDA's or still pending," stated State Veterinarian Michael the need to definitely eliminate winter feeding and it already," explains Haynes. "He's now sold it toa goal is to enroll those acres into the program Chaddock. '1\11 of those, with the exception of one deer baiting in that area," cites Kirk, another mem- development company, and they're going to proceed where the benefits to the nation from land retire- animal, were found in Montmorency, Oscoda, Alpe- ber of the statewide committee. "I feel optimistic . to split it at least 25 more times, or whatever is legal." ment outweigh the benefits of keeping the land na and Alcona. Allbut three were found in'one deer that the deer hunt clubs are recognizing animal The passage of Senate Bill 112, and its ena.ct- in agricultural production. management unit, right at the intersection of those agriculture's consideration and the potential of ment into law by Gov. Engler, gave property owners. Today, some 32.9 million acres are enrolled four counties. We have three TB-positive animals, two losing Michigan's TB-free status." the opportunity, once the law goes into effect on in the CRP.The program protects millions of acres of them in the nonhern part of Montmorency County, Early in February an adult female coyote from April 1, to divide their propeny into numerous exempt of topsoil from erosion, and, by reducing water and one in the southern part of Presque Isle County." northwestern Alcona County tested positive for land divisions, foregoing the platting process that runoff and sedimentation, it protects groundwater "The incident rate has not increased even bovine TB and it is speculated the predator con. includes review by local government, drain commis- and helps improve countless lakes, rivers, ponds though they sampled a larger population," states tracted it after eating a TB-infected deer carcass. sion, road commission and the public health department. Continued on page 10 MFB Commodity Specialist Kevin Kirk. "The big Chaddock explains, "The possibility of a trap- "S.B. 112 may minimize the rural fragmentation concern is what will be the incident rate next year. per or hunter getting bovine TB from a TB-infected offarmland into 10.01 parcels by removing the 10- They will continue to do testing of deer during the coyote is extremely rare, and the risk of domestic acre size requirement for parcels to be exempt from year and a five-county test this fall." animals catching TB from a coyote is very small." platting," explains MFBAssociate Legislative Counsel Speaking at Farm Bureau's Council of Presi- "It isn't something that's spreading from Alpe- Scott Everett. "Ho~ever, S.B. 112 may now accelerate dents' Conference, Michigan Department of Agricul- na County into Presque Isle County in the last three the creation of a large number of building sites with- ture Director Dan Wyant explained that the TB- weeks. It took 20 years to do that," adds Small. "It out an opportunity to consider the full public and infected deer problem "is a management situation isn't going to be cured in three weeks or three community impact of that development." we're going to have to face for some time." He cited years. I guess I don't use the word spreading - it And that is just what Haynes, a cash crop farm- a recent USDAstudy that determined the TB infec- doesn't spread," Small adds .• er from Mason, is witnessing, "The trend is not to tion will be around for at least 25 years without a even consider agriculture when property is sold," dramatic change in practices. Continued on page 8 INSIDE THIS ISSUE OF THE MICHIGAN FARM NEWS News in Brief 2 Business Strategies 7 Fuel petroleum storage news Capitol Corner 3 Thumb oilseed producers to consider you should know 13 Michigan no-till innovator honored at added-value cooperative 10 Bontekoe elected to national national conference 4 Precision Agriculture: Winter months leadership 14 Fact sheets on common soybean are ideal for data analysis 11 Alfalfa varieties for Michigan 15 problems in Michigan available 5 Cheney Named Pork All-American .. 12 Weather Outlook 20 Market Outlook 6 Norton named Master Pork Producer 12 Special pesticide supplement - second of four in the Right-to-Farm series RJ I(~: I[~ ~ :~L 'J II~, I:t',' t.::i February 28, 1997 France bans cultivation of New type of alfalfa to be used to generate genetically altered corn electrIcity and feed cattle F rance banned the cultivation of genetically altered corn Wednesday, despite European Union approval of its sale, saying the com's long- A new type of alfalfa in the works in Minnesota holds promise as both a high-protein feed source for dairy cattle and an environm~ntally nesota farmers' cooperative that also plans to build a generating unit and sell electricity. "First and fore- most, the new alfalfa type provides a large new mar- Cheeseexchange on way term effects haven't been determined. France friendly energy source to generate electricity for ket for alfalfa," says AIRSdairy scientist Hans Jug, permits the import of genetically altered corn but Minnesota consumers. coordinator for the ARS portion of the energy out - of town, that is requires special labeling to inform consumers. Scientists with the U.S. Department of Agricul- project. "It won't compete with existing alfalfa mar- T he National Cheese Exchange, the target of much criticism lately for its role in keeping milk prices paid to dairy farmers down, may be France's Com Producers Organization wel- comed the ban on cultivating the corn, calling it a ture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) here have teamed with researchers at the University of Minne- kets because it isn't being produced strictly as ani- mal feed," victory not only for corn producers, bur also for sota to develop the new alfalfa. The first generation A feasibility study shows it would be profitable ready to pack up and pull our of Green Bay, Wis. fowl and pork producers. "Acrisis on the level of of the new type is taller, stronger and has thicker to market the stems for energy production and the Some of the exchange's members have expressed mad cow was to be feared," the organization said in stems than alfalfa typically fed to canle. The re- leaves for meal. Whole plant alfalfa brings about an interest in sening up shop elsewhere - possibly a statement searchers say the leaves can be stripped off, ground noo per ton on the open market in Minnesota. New York or Chicago. The genetically altered corn was developed by into meal and fed to cattle, while the stems can fuel Selling the alfalfa leaves as a value-added product Several Wisconsin state legislators have threat- the Swiss group Ciba-Geigy, now part of the Swiss electric generating plants. could bring additional profits to growers. ened to pass a bill regulating the trading center and company Novartis, and is grown in the United States. The project is funded by the U.S. Department "We believe there is a good market for the leaf the exchange says it may move if such legislation is Prime Minister Alain Juppe said France will of Energy. The new alfalfa will be grown and market- meal in many areas of the livestock industry, espe- passed .• continue research on the corn .• ed by local farmers, including a southwestern Min- cially dairy cattle," says Jung .• Beef. It's what's for dinner in Michigan restaurants EPA administrator calls for tighter air standards S teakhOuses in Michigan and across the country have become more popular in recent years, were served in commercial restaurants in 1995. "Because they're often associated with some E PAAdministrator Carol Browner is calling for tougher air quality standards. Appearing be- EPAleave the ozone standard alone and hold off on setting standards for soot until the next five-year according to current studies conducted by research of the finest cuts, steakhouses are a good place to fore a congressional hearing, Browner said scientific review after more research on its health impact. firm NPDICREST.National traffic in casual and upscale enjoy great tasting beef, " said Maggie Nelson, pro- research has shown that current allowable limits on Chafee's criticism carried particular weight because steakhouses has soared, increasing more than 26.4 motion manager for the Michigan Beef Industry smog-causing ozone and soot fail to protect public of his solid reputation among environmentalists. percent from 1993-95,following an overall upward Commission. "Whether it's a thick, juicy steak or a health. The senator said he feared the EPAproposals could trend in beef servings in all restaurants. Beef saw a 2.8 delicious hamburger, people know that beef has the A number of critics have said the proposed prompt "a revolt" in states and in the Congress and percent increase in away-from-home servings during ability to create a satisfying meal experience." standards would lead to lifestyle changes, including pressure lawmakers to re-examine the 1990 Clean that time, with 9 of 10 restaurants serving beer One steakhouse that has exhibited leadership possible bans on backyard barbecuing, as local offi- Air Act. More than 75 percent of the beef meals eaten in beef menuing and merchandising is Big Buck ciaIs try to find ways to curb air pollution under the Sen. James M. Inhofe (R-Okla.) also warned away from home in 1995 were hamburgers and Brewery and Steakhouse in Gaylord, the winner of proposed federal mandate. Browner denied that EPAnot to rush into tougher standards because cheeseburgers, the research indicates. But another the beef industry's 1996 Michigan Beef Backer would happen. "You are fr~e to barbecue, mow they could be burdening industry with billions of increasingly popular beef meal in commercial res- Award. The steakhouse is known for its 28-0unce your lawn and enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks," dollars in additional pollution control costs. taurants in 1995 was roast beef and prime rib, "Big Buck" Top Sirloin cooked over natural wood she said. Other senators suggested that Browner was on served 220 million times. That's a 7 percent in- charcoal. Steaks are seasoned with Big Buck's signa- But some senators, nevertheless, were skepti- the right track and had a responsibility under the law crease over 1994. A total of 6.9 billion beef meals ture blend of spices and char-broiled to perfection .• cal about the scientific underpinning of the EPA to establish a health standard without regard to cost. proposal, which would reduce the maximum The EPAplans to impose the new standard as What do women care about? Try the environment healthy levels of ozone to 0.08 parts per billion and a final regulation this summer. It will take several M uch was discussed during November's election regarding why women voted the way they did. While conventional wisdom usually has gone too far, compared to 23 percent of the men. . "We tend to think of the gender gap as having to do mostly with women's rights kinds of con- begin to regulate microscopic particles, or fine soot, from combustion down to as little as 2.5 microns, or less than 1!28th the width of a human hair. years to accumulate monitoring data to establish what pans of the country will have to develop new plans to reduce air emissions. It could take 15 years believes women care mostly about such social is- cerns," said Kevin Coyle, the foundation's president. "It is possible to push too far, too fast," said or more before many of the areas will be expected sues as abortion, family leave, health care and edu- "But here, it is showing up as an environmental Sen. John Chafee (R-R.I.). He suggested that the to meet the new standards, EPAofficials said .• cation, environmental concerns actually shadow concern. Men also are pro-environment ... but those issues among women. women are more so. Policy makers ought to under- Livestock may pollute less with feed additive According to a study conducted by the National Environmental Education and Training Foundation, women tend to believe that the government hasn't stand that fact if they want to close the gender gap." Among the survey's findings: 75 percent of the women said they would pay for more expensive, A n enzyme called phytase can be added to soybean meal feeds to reduce water poilu- tion around swine, poultry and fIsh farms, but the two problems at once by finding a desert fungus that naturally produces an inexpensive heat-tolerant phytase. One promising candidate: a fungus called gone far enough to protect the environment Just pollution-reducing gasoline; 58 percent agreed fed- trick is making it inexpensive to use, U.S. Depart- Aspergillus terreus. Mullaney works with Ullah at the over half of the women surveyed believe that govern- eral government spending should be shifted to envi- ment of Agriculture scientists say. ARSSouthern Regional Research Center in New ment regulation of the environment hasn't gone far ronmental programs from other areas; and 63 per- "Experiments show phytase allows pigs, chick- Orleans to find the genetic basis for heat stability. enough, compared to 38 percent of men. Only 14 cent said when compromise is impossible, the envi- ens and fish to digest the phytic acid in soybean "We have already identified several fungal percent of the women said government regulation ronment should be favored over development .• meal, converting it to the nutrient phosphate. With- genes that produce a more heat-stable or highly out this enzyme all the phosphate in the phytic acid active phytase," said Mullaney. "To lower costs fur- Fruit growers take ad dispute to Supreme Court ends up in the animals' waste," said chemistJaffor ther, we are also exploring whether genes coding A group of California fruit growers asked the Supreme Court to free them from having to pay for industry advertising. Fruit growers, as well requirements go back as far as the Depression. The 29 federally authorized programs will spend more than $300 million this year on advertis- Ullah with USDA'sAgricultural Research Service. "This high level of phosphate in animal waste then for heat tolerant phytase could be incorporated into soybean plants." ends up feeding polluring soil microorganisms or Phytase is now used extensively in central Eu- as dairy farmers, canle ranchers and other growers, ing research and other activities. Some other pro- stream-choking algae. The phytic acid in animal rope, where farmers pay a tax based on the amount are often required to help pay for generic advertis- grams are state.authorized. feeds also binds nutrients such as minerals and pro- of phosphate their livestock release into the environ- ing and other research and promotional activities. The advertising funded by these requirements teins so the animals don't benefit from them either." ment. In fact, these ARSscientists have already An attorney for the fruit growers argued the re- is aimed at getting people to buy specific kinds of Although phytase could help some livestock helped other nations' researchers develop the po- quirement is unconstitutional because it forces food, rather than specific brands. The California make the most of their soybean meal, it is too ex- tential of this commercial phytase feed additive. growers to help their competition. Raisins' "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" cam- pensive to produce synthetically. And natural Mullaney said that as more U.S. farms find The programs are especially important in Cali- paign was among those generic advertisements. phytase degrades under the temperatures required themselves next to suburban communities unaccus- . fornia, where more than half of agricultural produc- "Pork, the Other White Meat" was another such to make feed pellets, especially the heat needed to tomed to animal waste odors, demand should in- tion is covered by these requirements. Some of the campaign .• ensure fIsh meal that won't dissolve in ponds. crease for an effective, yet inexpensive, way to in- ARSgeneticist Edward Mullaney hopes to solve elude phytase in commercial feeds .• Clinton wants balanced budget, but no amendment Senators propose Bee supply also victim C onceding that the time to balance the federal budget has arrived, President Clinton made "Balancing the budget requires only your vote and my signature. It does not require us to rewrite action against EU of blizzards, floods his stance toward a balanced budget amendment to t11eConstitution very clear during his State of the Union address. Clinton told the joint session of our Constitution," Clinton said. "I believe it is both unnecessary (and) unwise to adopt a balanced bud- get amendment that could cripple our country in A bipartisan group of senators has intro- duced legislation that would force action against Europe if the European Union does not S ometimes the media do something right. Witness a recent front page story in the Wall Streetjournal on the travails of an itinerant beekeep- Congress that a balanced budget amendment is time of economic crisis and force unwanted results recognize U.S. meat inspection and safety standards er. Focusing on a little-knovm and appreciated aspect "unwise and unnecessary." such as judges halting Social Security checks or and open its markets to U.S. beef and pork. of agriculture, the article points out that a chunk of the The fight over a balanced budget amendment increasing taxes." The bill would require the Clinton administra- bee supply has been washed away by floods in Califor- promises to be a bloody one, with congressional The American Farm Bureau Federation, un- tion to review certification of European meat pro- nia and blizzards in the northern Plains. Republicans adamant about its passage, and the convinced that Congress or the president have the cessing facilities. It will also require a formal deter- The expected short supply of bees will mean White House trying to prevent Democrats in Con- discipline to balance the federal budget on their mination of whether European countries have vio- • higher costs for California almond growers - the gress from going along with it own, has made passage of the balanced budget lated their trade agreement with the United States. price of renting a hive is up over 60 percent from amendment one of its top priorities this year.• The White House warned the European Union last year. For the migrant beekeeper who has most that unless it recognized U.S.meat inspection and safety of his hives, it will be a bullish year. The beekeeper The Mlchlg.n F.rm News (ISSN:0743-9962) Is published twice per month except In the months of Novembe~ December, standards, European meat not processed in facilities spotlighted in thejourna/ article expects to make a June and July when only one Issue Is printed. as a service to regulJir members. by Michigan Fann Bureau, 7313 West s.glnaw Highway, lM1slng. Michigan 48911. Member subscription price of S1.50 Is Included In annual dues of meeting U.S.standards could be kept out of the coun- $150,000 profit; most years he just breaks even .• Michigan Farm Bureau regular members. Additional subscriptJon fees required for mailing Michigan Farm NfIWS to try. The White House set an April 1 deadline .• nonmembers and outside the continental U.S.A. Periodical postage paid at Lansing. MIchJvan, and additional mailing offlces. letters to the editor and statewide news artkIts should be sent to: Editor, Mlchl~n F~ NfIWS. Post OffIce Box 30960. Lansing. Michigan 48909-8460. POSTMASTER - Send address changes to: Michigan Farm Bureau, Post OffIce USDAseeking public comment on poultry regulations Box 30960, lansing, Michigan 48909-8460. Editorial: DeMIs Rudat, Editor and Buslntss Manager; Thomas Nugent. Associate Editor. Design and Production: Sue Stuever Battel. Advertising s.Its Representative: Joshua Merchant. U SDA said it is seeking public comment on whether new regulations were needed to address concerns by contract poultry growers about Specifically, USDAis seeking comments on the practice of grower payments tied to the perf or- mance of other growers; the accuracy of feed Officers: President, Jack laurie, Cass CIty; Vice PresIdent. W~ Wood, Marlette: third Membe~ Jan Vosburg. Olrnax: Administrative Director, Chuck Burkett; 'hasurer and Chief financial Offlctr. Tom 'arker; Secretary, David VandtrHaagen. payment and other industry practices. weights, and feed delivery and pickup procedures; Directors: District 1. Jim Miller. COIotN; District 2. BlJilne VanSickle. Marshall: District 3. Michael fusilier, Manchester; District 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Alan Gamer, Mason; District 6, Wayne Wood. Marlette; District 1, Rick Johnson, ''The department has heard repeated concerns and procedures for weighing live birds .. Leroy; District 8, Don Sutto, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, 'navtl'H City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; from poultry growers, who say that they are treated The department published an advance notice District 11. Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Jack Laurie, tass City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jan Vosburg, Olmax; Judy Emmons, Sheridan. Promotion and Education. MeriaM Keinath, Deckerville; Young Fanners, Jeff Homing. Manchester. unfairly by the poultry companies with whom they of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register. contract," Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman said. Comments are due by May 12.• February 28, 1997 Capitol For more information on legislative topics in the Calrner Michigan Farm News, call 800-292-2680. Balanced Budget Amendment E ffortS to pass a balanced budget amendment, H.]. Res. 1, in the House have been temporari- during recessions or other national crisis. During the regular budgeting process Congress could still ly blocked by opponents who claim it would ad- decide how to balance the budget and whether or versely affect Social Security. The HouseJudiciary not Social Security would be affected. Committee postponed action on H.]. Res. 1 because The full Senate has not yet voted on its bal- of fears of losing a key vote on the measure. This anced budget amendment, S.]. Res. 1, following means the House plans to have a floor vote on the approval by the Senate Judiciary Committee Jan. 30. amendment Feb. 26 will be delayed. This would be a good time for Farm Bureau Farm Bureau policy calls for a balanced bud- members to talk to their senators and representa- get amendment without exemptions for any spend- tives to show support for a balanced budget ing programs irycluding Social Security. Under the amendment. proposed amendment, Congress could decide by a MFB Contact: AIAlmy, ext. 2040.• Rep. Gerald La\lv, left, and Rep. Don Gilmer, right, accept the honor from MFB President Jack Laurie. 3/5 vote to waive the balanced budget requirement Silver Plow Award recognizes ag-friendly legislators Representatives honored for supporting ag research funding and auto insurance reform National Cheese Exchange T he recent drop in milk prices has caused much attention to focus on whether price data from Also, The Milk Price Discovery Improvement Act, S. 258, has been introduced to reduce the ef- T wo Michigan representatives were recognized for their significant contributions and legisla- "Rep. Law's legislation will have a favorable impact on insurance rates for most rural drivers," tive support of Michigan agriculture. Rep. Don AImy said. "As a result, insurance rates will more the National Cheese Exchange in Green Bay, Wis., fect of the National Cheese Exchange on the basic Gilmer (R-Augusta) and Rep. Gerald Law (R-Ply- accurately reflect risks associated with an individu- should be used in establishing milk prices. milk formula price established under milk market- mouth) were named recipients of Michigan Farm ai's driving record and location. Prior to the new The National Cheese Exchange Oversight and ing orders. Specific provisions include: Bureau's 1997 Silver Plow Awards, during the orga- law, insurance rates paid by drivers in high-risk Improvement Act, S. 256, has been introduced to • Require the secretary of agriculture to delink the nization's annual legislative seminar in Lansing. areas were often being subsidized by lower-risk, amend the Commodity Exchange Act. The bill National Cheese Exchange price from the USDA Rep. Don Gilmer was recognized for his leader- rural drivers." would require the Commodity Futures Trading basic milk formula price used under milk market- ship, as chair of the 1995-96 House Appropriations "It is exciting to be one of the first recipients Commission (CFTC) to regulate certain cash mar- ing orders within 60 days of enactment of S. 258. Committee, in securing adequate funding for the of this award, but the work I have done in the state kets, such as the National Cheese Exchange, until • Prohibit USDAfrom using National Cheese Ex- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Michigan Legislature is not about me," said Law."The old the commission determine's that the market does change prices in any future revisions or replace- State University. According to Michigan Farm Bureau system of territorial insurance ratings created an not establish reference points for other transac- ment of the basic milk formula price. Public Affairs Director AIAlmy,that funding was cru- artificial market that cost smaller communities dear- tions. Specific provisions of S. 256 include: • Require the secretary of agriculture to take steps cial for all of Michigan, not just Gilmer's constituents. Iy in an effort to compensate bigger cities. The • Require the CFTC to regulate the National to improve price discovery in order to reduce "Funding for these two entities is important Michigan Farm Bureau and its members represent Cheese Exchange, in consultation with USDA, the influence of the National Cheese Exchange because of the services they each provide in terms the backbone of Michigan's success, as did their until the exchange is no longer used as a refer- on producer milk prices. of food safety, milk inspection, animal health, and families before them. Rural communities and their ence price for commercial cheese sales off the • Require the secretary of agriculture to prohibit pesticide and plant pest management, to name just residents are overlooked too often as valuable re- exchange. noncompetitive practices on any cash market a few," Almy explained. 'i\l1 of these services provide sources for continuing that success." • • Require the National Cheese Exchange to submit to the CFTC for approval a set of rules of opera- that may affect or influence the price of milk regulated under milk marketing orders. significant direc~,and indirect benefits to agriculture i-':) ; .:., • ::Im!l]. and consumers. tion, an9 to enforce the rules. Farm Bureau is in the wocess of analyzing • Give the CFTC authority to regulate other cash both bills and has not indicated support or opposi- "I am honored to be recognized by the Michi- Riders in pickup trucks gan Farm Bureau as one of the first recipients of the markets if the conditions similar to those on the National Cheese Exchange were to occur on tion at this time. MFB Contact: AIAlmy, ext. 2040.• Silver Plow Award," said Gilmer. "As one who came from an agricultural background, I am keenly aware H ouse Bill 4255, sponsored by Rep. Deborah Cherry (R-Burton), was introduced the week of Feb. 10 and referred to the Transportation Com- another cash market. of the importance agriculture plays in our daily lives mittee. and the economy of our great state. Through the Content: The bill would restrin passengers appropriations process, I have fought to provide from riding in the back of pickup trucks. The bill TaxReform adequate funding to ensure that our food is safe would provide specific penalty for violation in an and that our agricultural industry can compete in S enate Republicans and Democrats have intro- duced tax reform legislation that is of interest to agriculture. ance premium for families earning up to twice the poverty level, about 532,000, as long as the family did not have access to either Medicare or the world marketplace." Rep. Gerald Law was recognized for his effortS attempt to protect occupants in the back of the truck from injuries. Similar bills have been introduced in the past. The Republican plan contains the following: an employer-subsidized health program. to enact legislation that eliminates mandatory auto H.B. 4255 may provide for some limited exemption • A family tax credit that would allow single par- • An educational tax cut that would include a no-fault insurance territory rating. Almy said the for work-related transport . ents with adjusted incomes of less than $75,000 a $1,500 credit for the first two years of college or legislation stopped effortS to equalize auto insur- MFB position: The bill is under review. year and couples with incomes less than a deduction of up to $10,000 per year for educa- ance rates throughout Michigan. MFB contact: Ron Nelson, ext. 2043.• $100,000 to receive a $500-per-child tax credit for tion expenses. Families with incomes up to each child under the age of 18. The tax credit $80,000 and single taxpayers up to 550,000 would "phase down" for higher-income parents, would receive full credit with a phase-out for Appropriations for MDA with single paren~s and couples receiving a small- higher incomes. Taxpayers could choose only er credit for incomes up to $95,000 and 5130,000, respectively. one of the two incentives. • Capital gains reductions would be increased by M ichigan Department of Agriculture appro- priations billsare S.B. 164,sponsored by Sen. George McManus (R-TraverseCity)and H.B.4311, the governor's recommendations for funding. Funding is reduced for the department from last year because a number of items in last year's • Capital gains tax reduction from the current 28 allowing a family farmer to roll up to 5400,000 of sponsored by Rep. MarkJansen (R-Grand Rapids). budget were one-time, nonrecurring expenses. percent capital gains rate to a maximum of 19.8 the capital gain on the sale of a farm into an IRA Status: The bills were introduced the week Special note: The two bills introduced are percent. Indexing future sales by the rate of infla- or other qualified pension program, with a few of Feb. 10 and referred to the Appropriations Sub- identical and each year the House and the Senate tion would be allowed for assets purchased be- restrictions. In addition, the president has advo- committee on Agriculture. The Senate bill hearings divide the appropriation bills. This year the Senate ginning in 1997 and held for at least three years. cated that the first 5500,000 (per couple) in prof- were scheduled to begin Feb. 25. has the lead on the MDAappropriations (last year Corporate capital gains tax rates would also be its on the sale of a home would be capital gains Content: The bill contains the appropriation the House had the lead). reduced from 35 percent to 28 percent and -": exempt. This exemption could be used every ~vo for the Department of Agriculture with the state gen- MFB position: The staff is reviewing the small-business stocks would be exempt from.<~ years and would replace the current one-time eral fund appropriation just over 533 million; includ- appropriations. capital gains for businesses with gross assets less exclusion of $125,000. ing restricted funds and federal, the funding totals MFB contact: Ron Nelson. ext. 2043 .• than $100 million. • Other specific taxes would be reduced as well by over 570 million. The bill, as introduced, carries out • An increase in the amount of an estate that the Democrats, including estate and gift taxes for would be exempt from taxation from 5600,000 in family-owned businesses and farms. The presi- ;r-;-!.a: U ~'\: I~ current law to $1 million. Family-owned busi- dent suggests an increase to 52.5 million on the nesses would receive an exemption of $1.5 mil- amount of inherited property exempted from the Single Business Tax - Personal Property Tax Co-op Exempt lion and a 50 percent exemption on any excess value. estate tax. Income limits would be doubled for T he Subcommittee of the House Taxation Com- mittee was fonned to review personal property tax. • Expanded lRAs.Currently, married taxpayers with adjusted gross incomes greater than tax-deferred lRAsand penalty-free withdrawals would be allowed for education, health care and the purchase of a first home. S enate Bill 116, sponsored by Sen. Joel Gougeon (R-BayCity), was introduced the week of Feb. 10 and referred to the Senate Finance Committee. Content: Several bills have been introduced dealing with personal property tax to either reduce, $50,000 cannot save in tax deferred lRAs.This The Democratic reductions would run in the Content: The bill would clarify what has eliminate or phase out the tax. The personal prop- income limit would be increased to $150,000 in vicinity of $100 billion over the next five years, or been the common practice of applying single busi- erty tax is a major cost to businesses, and concern the bill, allowing extensive use of lRAsonce roughly $20 billion per year. This is about one-half ness tax liability against co-ops. Co-ops are exempt has been expressed regarding the depreciation again. the reduction amount being advocated by the Re. from the SBT to the extent they are doing business schedules and allowances for equipment. • Education tax cuts would be provided by allow- publican plan . with their members. However, any nonbusiness Equaling the discussion is the loss of revenue, ing a deduction for the first $2,500 in interest on The two parties appear to share enough <;om- would be liable for the SBT. primarily to local units of government from the student loans. A Sl,OOO-per-yearsavings account mon ground to be able to reach a tax compromis~ The bill, as introduced, would clarify that ex- potential loss of personal property. It is generally would be allowed from which parents can with- in the coming months. If Congress and the presi- emption to ensure that co-ops would continue the agreed that all or a portion of the revenue would draw money tax free for tuition, books, or room dent decide to work together this session, tax exemption, which is implied but not clearly have to be replaced. It is uncertain where that reve- and board. significant tax reductions. coupled with a continued stated in current law. This bill would impact farmer- nue could be generated. The Democratic plan contains the following: move to balance the federal budget, can occur. owned co-ops only. MFB contact: Ron Nelson, ext. 2043.• • A health insurance tax incentive that would pro- MFB Contact: AIAImy,ext. 2040.• MFB position: Farm Bureau supports the bill. vide a tax credit of 90 percent of any health insur- MFB contact: Ron Nelson, ext. 2043.• Il'llr~~w~ February 28, 1997 I Michigan no-till innovator Agronomists will discuss the worth of honored at national conference narrow-row crop production March 6 'I lhumbarea Extension agent earns top award I thes increasing hype about narrow-row crop production likely to stampede a grower into equipment purchases that exceed the value of per-acre yield increases? , for no-till efforts Growers who might be harboring that con- W innersof the first annual No- Till Innovator Awards, cern may find some definitive answers (or more to argue about) at the Narrow Row Symposium, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 6, at the Plant and Soil Sciences Building Auditorium at Michigan State University. I I sponsored by Zeneca Ag The program will focus on 15-, 20- and 22-inch Products and No-Till row production for corn, soybeans and other crops. Clinton County FarmBureau member Dave Motz I Farmer publication, Steve Poindexter, MSU Extension agricultural addresseda group of farmers lastsummer about were recognized at the agent in Saginaw County, says narrow-row crop the narrow-row harvester he's building. I National No-Tillage Con- production on average increases yield from 7 to 10 ference in Des Moines, percent. Information will be provided on the current Iowa, Jan. 16-18. All sev- "Producers who become more efficient in availability of commercially made narrow-row en winners demonstrat- their per-acre yield before they buy additional land planting and harvesting equipment and narrow-row ed commitment to find- 1996 No- Till Innovators recognized at the National No-Tillage Confer- minimize yield risk, whereas if they buy more land retrofit kits for existing machinery. ing ways to no-till more ence in Des Moines, Iowa, were, left to right: Jim LeCureux, Mich., before they become more efficient, they tend to Several mid-Michigan growers will also reo effectively, more eco- Howard Martin, Ky., Mike Plumer, III., John Bradley, Tenn.,John McLarty, increase yield risk," he says. "Moreover, debt risk count their experience with narrow-row production nomically, and with low- Ont., and Marion Calmer, III. Missing from photo: Dave Swaim, Ind. associated with converting to narrow-row produc- in the past several years. er environmental im- tion is far less than the debt risk associated with Registration for the program will be $10. The pact. acquiring more land." registration deadline is March 3. Make checks pay- Winners were determined by the contribu- Environmental Stewardship - Jim LeCureux of Among the program topics will be a review of able to MSU Extension and mail to Steve Poindexter, tions they have made to the advancement of no-till Bad Axe, Mich., established the Huron County Inno- research conducted on narrow-row crop produc- MSU Extension, 705 Adams St., Saginaw, MI 48602- farming and not by the number of nominations cast vative Farmers Association. The group has grown to tion by several Midwest universities and private 2192. for them. more than 80 members and receives grant suPPOrt industry, and a detailed look at six years of narrow- More information can be obtained from Poin- The panel of judges for the 1996 contest in- from both the USDAand the Michigan Department row corn production in Ontario. dexter by calling (517) 799-2233 .• cluded Jim Peters, corn herbicides marketing lead of Agriculture. for Zeneca; Frank Lessiter, editor of No-Till Farmer; Public Image of Agriculture - Marion Calmer, Dan Towery of the Conservation Technology Infor- a farmer and researcher from Alpha, 111.,gives nu- mation Center (CTIC) in West Lafayette, Indiana; Dr. merous no-till presentations, runs a research farm Mark Loux of Ohio State's Department of Agrono- studying the effects of tillage, and invents planting PERFORMANCE IN my; Stanley Smock, a corn and soybean grower from Edinburgh, Ind.; and Bill Richards, former SCS equipment to further his research. Research - John Bradley of Milan, Tenn., has THE EXTREMES Chief, of Circleville, Ohio. contributed to no-till as superintendent of the Milan The 1996 No-Till Innovator winners are: Experiment Station at the University of Tennessee Crop Management - John Mclarty, a corn and Institute of Agriculture. The Experiment Station has soybean grower from London, Ontario, manages gained national and international recognition for its two farm sites 90 miles apart, one in London and no-till research and annual field day. one in Kincardine. Mclarty is currently pursuing Consulting - Dave Swaim, an independent interests in precision agriculture on his farms. crop consultant from Crawfordsville, Ind., is in- Equipment Design - Howard Martin of Elk- volved in various conservation tillage organizations. ton, Ky.,invented the Martin row cleaners and row These include the Integrated Agriculture Systems closers, attachments thar aid in no-till planting. Team at Purdue University, the USDANorth Central Education - Mike Plumer of Marion, III., estab- Region Sustainable Agriculture in Education Re- lished the Sourhern Illinois No-Till Association. He search Council, the Indiana Conservation Tillage also runs a no-rill equipment business and manages Association, and the mid-Wabash Valley Ridge-Tillers his own farm. Association .• [(f MFiiN; Serving Michigan farm families is our only business http://www.cyanamid.com RADIO NETWORK 'f" Trademarks, American Cyanamid Company C>1997. Restricted Use Pesticide. Always follow label directions. S ince its beginning in 1971, Michigan Farm Radio Network's only objective has been to serve Michigan's farm families. This dedication to serve agriculture is shared by 27 local radio stations "'Indicates uniquely shaped container trademark. in Michigan. Through these stations, Michigan Farm Radio Network provides the latest in market analysis, weather and news to Farm Bureau members daily on the following stations: Station City Frequency Morning Report Noon Report Technology,Quality, and Value-That's Morton Buildings WABJ Adrian 1490 5:45 am 11 :05-12:00 pm 11 :30 am 824,195 WATZ Alpena 1450 5:30 am WTKA Ann Arbor 1050 6:05 am 12:00-1 :00 pm WLEW Bad Axe 1340 6:30 am 12:50 pm WHFB Benton Harbor 1060 12:15 pm • 27' x 14'6" Double End Door • I-White Walk-In Door (no glass) r WKJF Cadillac 1370 5:45 am 11:10 am • Heavy Gauge Commercial • 50-year Snow Load Warranty WKYO Caro 1360 6:15 am 12:10-1:00 pm Quality Steel (no weight limit) Basic Machine Stopane WTVB Coldwater 1590 5:45 am 12:00-1 :00 pm • G-90 Galvanizing • 5-year Wind Warranty 54' x 13' x 90' with 1"0" • White Polyester Paint Finish (no MPH limit) WDOW Dowagiac 1440 6:05 am 12:15pm • KYNAR 500'/HYLAR 5 South Africa with Vice President AI Gore. "USDA Farm price, S1bu. $3.24 $2.65 $2.35 u.s. season average ~:; estimates that this agreement is worth about 134 Farm price, $lbu. $4.50 $4.20 $3.40 million to U.S. wheat farmers." • ~ Basi.lI~ssComgarispnpf e~tate transfer strategl~es cost by dIstributIon method" $600,000. The survivor's estate is transferred to the though the federal estate tax allows two estate ex- administrative expenses and $687,500 for the feder- by Ralph E. Hepp, Agricultural Economist, children through the probate process. emptions for Hank and Wilma's estates, only one aI and Michigan estate tax or 26 percent of the value Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Michigan Model V _ this case is the same as model exemption was used because all the propeny at the of the original estate. Since it is assumed that each State University III, except the real estate is valued at use value rath- first spouse's death was transferred to the surviving estate is identical in value, the cost to transfer each A n estate of a person that is projected to er than market value. The property is owned sepa- spouse under the marital deduction and the survi- estate is one half of the above values. exceed the available deductions and rately by Hank and Wilma or co-owned in tenancy vor had a large estate to be taxed at their death. The The transfer cost for Model III is identical to unified credit equivalent of $600,000 in common. At death, the decedent's property is cost to transfer a $3 million estate under this model Model II, although different transfer methods are faces a federal estate tax ranging from 37 to 55 per- transferred to the children. In addition to. the above is $90,000 for the estate administrative expenses used. Since the model separates the estate into equal cent of the taxable estate. There are many options terms, the estate applies for the alternative valua- and $1,049,500 for the federal and Michigan estate portions under each spouse's name, and disinherits for the reduction of the death tax if estate planning tion of real estate according to the property's value tax or 38 percent of the value of the original estate. their spouse with their share of the propeny, the is completed. A hit-or-miss sort of tax plan will not as a farm or closely held business rather than its fair Model II lowers the transfer cost by separating federal and Michigan estate taxes are the same. In stop tax erosion, and most plans need many years market value. The model assumes that the estate the propeny ownership into a partial interest for Model II, the estate administration expenses are of implementation in order to achieve the maxi- qualifies for the alternative valuation and the pro- Hank and Wilma and each individual disinheriting estimated at 3 percent of the estate or $90,000 for a mum tax savings. cess reduces the value of the propeny for tax pur- their spouse by transferring their share of the prop- $3 million estate. In Model III, the estates are trans- Society will not be the primary beneficiary of poses up to $750,000 for each estate. eny directly to the heirs at their death. This model ferred according to the terms of a trust agreement, the estate if tax planning is a conscious and continu- Estate transfer costs assumes that the surviving spouse has adequate so there are no probate expenses, but there is a trust ing effort. Nor should the primary objective of the The estate transfer costs include the adminis- property in their own name, and does not need the fee. In this case, the trust fee at 1 percent per year of estate planning effort be tax avoidance. The purpose trative expenses to settle a probate estate, federal property from the spouse for their care, mainte- the first spouse's estate, managed for six years is of estate planning is security for the family,which estate tax, Michigan estate tax, and trust fee. Since nance and support. The cost to transfer a $3 million $90,000. Different assumptions about the rate of the keeps taxes at a minimum, leaving as much as possi- the Michigan estate tax is equal to the state death estate under this model is $90,000 for the estate Continued on page 9 ble for the family.Taxsavings is not an end in itself, tax credit under the federal estate tax, there is no but a means of optimizing resources for family. additional cost for the Michigan death tax. The ad- Whenever property is transferred, it is subject ministrative costs are budgeted at 3 percent of the to a tax. A tax may not be paid, but the transfer of probate estate. Trust fees are budgeted at 1 percent property, regardless of how it is made, is subject to per year of the assets managed. The examples as- "I've used THIMEr since a tax. Basically, there are only three ways propeny sume six years of property management by the trust can be transferred, either by sale, gift, or inherit- for propeny managed for the heirs. During their 1990 and LOCK'n LOAD- ance. Yes, there may be many variations to the basic lifetime, Hank and Wilma manage their own proper- , transfer methods, but transfers are classified for tax ty. If gifts are made, they are limited to the annual since 1993. I like not being purposes into the basic three. exclusion of $10,000 per donee per year for Hank or Ifbusiness or personal investment propeny is Wilma and $20,000 per donee per year for gifts from exposed to the chemical. I don't sold, it is subject to the capital gains 00ss) provisions both. The estate transfer cost as a percent of the of the federal income tax. If gifts are made prior to estate value for each model by varying estate size is death, the transfer is subject to the federal gift tax. If presented in Table 1. have to WOrTY about it when the a death occurs, the property transfer is subject to the The transfer cost under Model I is very high federal estate tax. Michigan has an estate tax and an for large estates because the rate of tax after the wind blows. It works well controlling income tax, but does not have a gift tax. exemption starts at 37 percent and increases to 55 The estate owner, during his or her lifetime, percent for estates more than $3 million. Even white grubs - my major insect can achieve tax savings by reducing the size of the taxable estate at death or reducing the number of Dble .,- Estate transfer cost as pel"Ceftt'of estate value problem. THIMET gives me times taxing authorities can tax business or personal Estate Size Model investment property. The purpose of this article is (Sl,Ooo) III IV V to review the various methods for reducing tax 600 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 the most value for the -' erosion of an estate and thereby optimizing re- 800 11.2 3.0 3.0 2.3 3.0 w"'(/ 1,000 17.1 3.0 3.0 1.8 3.0 ~ , sources for the family. money of any Insecticide." . Comparison of estate transfer costs by 1,200 21.4 3.0 3.0 1.5 3.0 1,400 24.6 7.2 7.2 1.3 3.0 distribution model 1,600 27.2 11.2 11.2 1.1 3.0 The major factor impacting the cost of trans- 1,800 29.3 14.5 14.5 1.0 3.0 ferring property to heirs is the estate size and distri- 2,000 31.1 17.1 17.1 .9 3.0 bution methods used. These variables are evaluated 2,200 32.7 19.4 19.4 .8 3.0 2,400 34.2 21.4 21.4 .8 3.0 for five transfer methods and estates varying in size .7 3.0 2,600 35.5 23.0 23.0 Resnicted Use from $600,000 to $3 million. It is assumed that the 2,800 36.8 24.6 24.6 1.2 4.3 'W indicates uni estate value remains constant in real terms during 3,000 38.0 25.9 25.9 3.9 6.7 the planning time period with propeny earnings used for family living. The 1995 federal estate and gift tax rates and rules are followed. The case examples assume a married couple whose ages are 65 years for Hank, the male, with a Timing is everything. •• All you add life expectancy of 15 years, and 62 years for Wilma, the female, with a life expectancy of 21 years. The couple has three married children and gifts are made to six heirs, to the children and their spouses, Well almost! The TS Sprayer from Application Systems provides not only timely but also accurate applica- is the tractor. Simply mount to the 3-point of your tion of pesticide and herbicide for models assuming gift transfers. A brief descrip- tractor, and prepare for extremely at a price you'll love. accurate field application tion of the models follows: Never again wait for a ... from a convenient, com- Model I - all property is owned jointly by custom application. pact sprayer. The unique the couple and transferred to the survivor of the close-couple design first to die. The surviving spouse transfers the prop- enables you to load erty to the heirs through probate. • Unique tank shape up to 300 gallons Modell! - the property is owned separately provides excellent visibility. of solution, and by Hank and Wilma or the property is owned to- • Select from 30' to 60' boom widths. spray crops much gether in a tenancy-in-common, in equal shares . • Available in single or tandem axle configurations. later into the growing season Hank transfers his share of the property at death to • Available in 750 or 1000 gallon sizes. with a minimum of tracks. the children and disinherits Wilma. Wilma transfers • Available in 200 or 300 gallon capacities. her share of the property at death to the children • Select from 30' to 60' boom widths. I.! and disinherits Hank. ICATION • Features big sprayer convenience features in compact Model III - the property is owned separate- ~STEMS 3-point design. • by Great PlaIns ly, but in equal shares by Hank and Wilma in their !l own living trust. Hank transfers his share of the PLICAnON property at death (assuming first to die) to the chilo ~STEMS by Great PIalns dren, but it is held in trust during Wilma's lifetime for her use of the earnings. Or, Wilma transfers her share of the property at death (assuming first to die) to the children, but it is held in trust during Hank's lifetime for his use of the earnings. The property of the surviving spouse is transferred to the children by the terms of the trust agreement. Model IV - all property is owned jointly by Hank and Wilma. Gifts are made by Hank and Wil- ma during their lifetime to the heirs until the estate Hofferbert Sales Inc. East Michigan Equipment Schettenhelm's Inc. is reduced to $600,000. All property is transferred at 1877 S. Sandusky Road 12000 Stony Creek Rd. Contact your local 200 N. Fourth St. the death of the first spouse to the survivor through Milan, MI48160 dealer nearest you: Bannister, MI48807 Sandusky,MI48471 joint tenancy. If the survivor's estate is greater than 517 -862-5300 810-648-4780 313-439-1829 $600,000, gifts are made to the heirs to reduce it to h'lI [~: I ~ ~:~ ~'dh'l ::t','~i February 28, 1997 The subdividing of Michigan's farmland: New act needs Lapeer County teacher earns national award changing to address needs of Michigan agriculture sive young teachers with an exceptional profession- Continued from page 1 he explains. "There's too Some positives about P.A. 591 According to Evereu, the entire proposal had T amara Belavek of Lapeer County Vocational Technical Center, AUica, Mich., was one of six teachers who received the Outstanding Young Mem- al record in their early effons in teaching, including panicipation in NVATA.NVATAmembers who 'have much demand for even some good things to offer agriculture including a completed at least three, but nm more than five ber Award on Dec. 4 at a special awards dinner at the the larger tracks. We Right-ta-Farm deed statement, which indicates (Q years of teaching are eligible for this award. National Vocational Agricultural Teachers' Association used (0 see 10- and 40- the purchaser of the property that the land is located "Agriculture education is continually faced (NVATA)annual conference held in Cincinnati. acre parcels, but now in an area where farming takes place and falls under with a shortage of qualified teachers," says NVATA Belavek restructured the Lapeer program (0 we're seeing 500 acres at the prmection of Michigan's Right-to-Farm Act President Tom Heffernan. "College enrollment in an agriscience-based curriculum with problem- a time geuing eaten up "We would like (0 see that deed statement agricultural education training programs is decreas- solving applications, cooperative learning and peer by developers." applied to the plauing process," Evereu adds. "The ing, and unless those trained enter and remain in teaching. The Great Teachers Foundation awarded The largest con- second positive of the new law is that it does nm the profession for several years, a shonage will con- her $10,000 (0 develop an after-school course cern that we have with require the 1O.01-acre minimum and iJ moves the tinue to exist. The program is designed (0 encour- where students could earn high school credit in P.A.591 is that we have a requirements of building sire permits up to the age young teachers (0 continue in the teaching Haynes testifying Feb. applied biology and chemistry. huge amount of divi- front of the process for review by the local unit of profession." 20 before the House She co-designed a $360,000 proposal to the sions exempt from the government when the land is divided." Each of the six regional winners received Ag Committee on the W.K.Kellogg Foundation (0 establish the local Agri- plauing process available According (0 Evereu, there are several im- transportation, lodging and complimentary registra- Land Division Act. science and Natural Resources Teaching and Learning to land owners. The law provements needed (0 be made (0 P.A.591: tion (0 auend the annual conference in Cincinnati. Center complete with a high-tech lab, six computer- allows for funher exemptions from plauing after 10 _ Exempt division formula needs (0 be balanced. The NVATAOutstanding Young Member Award is ized stations, laser disc system, video microscopes, years, which co~plic~tes the issue even funher for In order (0 allow reasonable development while sponsored by John Deere as a special project of the flow hood for tissue cultures and mher lab equip- la~downers and ISgomg (0 be challenging for (Own- encouraging plauing. National FFAFoundation. ment. She wrote the curriculum text, Plant Science: shIp ~,ffi~ialsto admi~ister. _ Allowance for four additional exempt divisions NVATAis the professional association for agri- Michigan and Natural Resources Education. Cur- It ISextremely Imponant that exempt divi- every 10 years. cultural education teachers and provides opponuni- rently, she serves as board member and chair for sions remain low density," Evereu adds. "Plauing _ A 4: 1 depth-to-width ratio up to 40 acres and a ties, services and advocacy for the agricultural edu- the Michigan Association of Agriscience Educators. must be encouraged because that is the proper way 2.5-acre maximum 1m size, unless mherwise cation of society. The NVATAoffice is located in The Outstanding Young Member Award pro- (0 crel~t~d~velopments." . provided for by a local unit of government. gram is designed (0 recognize innovative, aggres- Alexandria, Va., near the nation's capital.. . MIchIgan Farm Bureau believes that the origi- _ Ability to add-on land between contiguous parcels. ~al mtent of.P.A:59.1was on t~e right ~rack," he adds. (These divisions don't count as exempt district) . It took a pomt m tlme and said on thISdate, depend- _ Right-(O-Farm deed statement (0 apply (0 all MSU Extension's CAT Alerts increase to 20 issues 109 on how many contiguous acres you own here is how many exempt divisions belong in that acreage." plaued parcels .• A ~ter more tha.n a ~ec;ade of pubJic~ti~n, Mich- 19anState Umverslty s CATAlerts wdl Increase from about 18 ~o20 issues a year per subscription. Forestry, Fisheries and Wildlife, and the MSU Exten- sion agricultural weather office. Each CATAlert is a 12- to 18-page digest of J,oy LandiS, CAT ~ert edi~o~ and publication weather, insect and disease forecasts, weed manage- ~oordl~a.(Or,says the Increase m the number of ment and fenilizer recomm.endations, pesticide Issues ISmtended (0 keep subscribers current with regulations and registrations, ~nd mher information new develo~ments in agriculture that occur outside growers need to better ~anage their crops. The of the growmg season. information is based on telephone conference calls Ingham County Farm The first issue of the CATAlerts will come out with MSU Extension agents in the field. Bureau member Gary ~nMarch. With .the advent of the growing season, CAT Alerts can be delivered to subscribers by Haynes stands in Issues are pubhshed weekly until late summer or mail, fax or e-mail. Mailed subscriptions are sent 24 front of the 100 early fall, depending on problems encountered with hours after each CATsession and cost $40. CAT acres of land outside the crops covered by the publication. issues will be faxed or e-mailed the same day of the of Mason, which he CATstands for Crop Advisory Team. Each CATsession. The cost for these is $70. has rented for over team consists of specialists and researchers from For more information about the Alen services 11 years, that will the depanments of Entomology, Botany and Plant and the activity of the Crop Advisory Teams, contact soon become houses. Pathology, Crop and Soil Sciences, Horticulture, Landis at (517) 353-4951. • Member sion Care Pia from Michigan Farm Bureau The Importance of Eyecare uVision was founded on the principle that great eyewear starts with professional eye~~e.That's why you'll find,an independ~nt !icensed Doctor of Optometry in every NuV~ ComprehenSive eye examinations and contact lens fittings are easily arranged. ead for an appointment. On e been examined by a Doctor of Optometry at NuVision, your VISIOn recor wiH be maintained on file for your convenience. We Invite you to compare our service. You'll find that what others call special care NuVision provides as standard procedure. ~ Family Plan B _ 20% to 50% off fr s _ 20% off lenses and lens _ 10% off contact lenses _ I 5% off non-prescription items _ FREE UV protection on plastic lenses Don't forget to use Don't forget Member your Farm Bureau Dental or Blue Cross VISA at NuVision Blue Shield for more Optical centers health care savings . nationwide. ... ItI,CIfIGAN , •• ~ UU Comparison of estate transfer cost by distribution method Continued from page 7 estate taxes or 6.7 percent of the original estate size. The majority of the work in estate administra. trust distribution of property in an estate may result trust fee, amount of estate administrative expenses, Some conclusions tion is the inventory of assets, filing of reports, in about the same costs as probate, but administra~ or length of time property is managed by the trust The models presented in Table 1 incorporate keeping records, payment of debts and expenses, tion expenses in Model III may not be high enough would result in a different trust charge. Therefore, estate planning tools to reduce the federal and division of assets for distribution, oversight manage- to perform those tasks for the estate if the trust will Model II and III would not always have identical Michigan estate tax for larger estates. Each model ment of property, preparation of state and federal not perform administration duties as part of its fee fees, but the two transfer methods will result in illustrated the use of one tax minimization method estate tax returns, income tax planning and prepara. structure. approximately the same costs. for reducing the estate transfer costs for a married tion of returns, and communication with the benefi- Estate transfer methods or techniques not Model N transfer method reduces the costs to couple. The transfer costs and applicable tax reduc- ciaries. These tasks are necessary whether or not considered in the above models which may have a less than 3 percent for most estate sizes that are tion strategies would be different for a single the estate is probated. role for some closely-held family businesses are the illustrated. The $2.8 and $3 million estates have a person's estate. If property in an estate is not probated, but is use of life insurance in conserving the estate and slightly higher cost since the federal and Michigan The models also assume the owners Df the distributed by the terms of a trust agreement, who funding the payment of taxes, a discount in the estate taxes are paid because the examples assume estate spend the earnings and the value of the performs and pays for the estate administration valuation of partnership, company, or corporation jointly held property and the amount of gifts are property appreciation each year. In other words, the duties? Will the trustee of the trust perform those interests due to minority status or lack of market- limited to the annual exclusion. No estate taxes are value of the estate remains the same over the 21 duties? W~l there be additional costs to perform ability of the instrument, generation skipping paid for smaller estates because the gifts during years, or it starts at a lower amount and appreciates these duties? Or will the trustee hire professionals transfers, and installment payment of the federal Hank and Wilma's lifetime of $120,000 each year for to the values shown at the time of the transfer. With to perform these duties and charge the estate for estate taxes. fifteen years, and the $60,000 of gifts each year for large estates, modest returns of 5 to 6 percent each the work done? Before detailed cost comparisons In 1993, the Michigan inheritance tax law was six years for the survivor results in up to $2.16 mil- year could generate funds above spending levels for are made for a transfer by probate or trust adminis- eliminated and replaced by the Michigan estate tax. lion of property given to the heirs through the tax- many rural families and result in the estate appreci- tration, these questions must be answered by the The last time any major cnange was done on the free annual exclusion under the federal gift tax law. ating in value. For example, a couple with a $3 mil. trust company that will administer your estate, or federal estate tax deduction and exemption was Neither party used their lifetime estate exemp- lion estate in their early sixties, probably will have a the individual chosen to be the trustee. effective for 1987. Based on prior legislative actions, tion for the gifts. In this model, the cost to transfer much larger estate then $3 million to transfer to The benefit of avoiding probate is not as sub- the federal estate tax law in the future will allow the remaining part of a $3 million estate is $25,200 their heirs over their lifetime. stantial as it once was because provisions in probate larger tax-free transfers and the estate tax exemp- for estate administrative expenses, and S9O,6OOfor If models are developed that use a combina. codes provide some form of independent adminis- tions will be indexed for inflation like other tax federal and Michigan estate taxes. Under model N tion of more than one tax minimization strategy. tration. Under independent administration, probate matters. It is not prudent to plan for an endless assumptions, and the splitting of the estates into most estate transfer costs could be eliminated, es- consists of a brief appearance in court to open the increase in estate values during a person's lifetime two parts and disinheriting of the surviving spouse pecially the estate taxes, in modest sized estates. In estate, an equally brief appearance to close the without factoring in a change in the tax laws. Make with $600,000 of property, the estate taxes could be many cases, however, the family situation does not estate when administration is complete, and a mini- estate plans for the next five years, and then evalu. eliminated for an estate up to $3.36 million of value allow the use of one or more of the tools to reduce mal amount of time preparing the papers related to ate alternatives and implement tax reduction strate- if the estate utilized the two federal estate tax ex- estate transfer costs, and other transfer methods or the appearances. These costs are minor compared gies at that point for the changes in the estate size, emptions and the annual gift tax exclusions. Be- tools must be used. to the administration duties listed above. Therefore, family situation, and tax laws.• cause it was assumed in the above examples that the property was held jointly, the estate of the first to die could not utilize the unified credit. Therefore the S2.8 and $3 million estates have federal estate taxes. Model V assumes no distribution of property to heirs prior to the death of Hank or Wilma, and probate is used to transfer property, but the estate qualifies for and utilizes the alternative valuation of farm land. The alternative valuation cannot reduce the value of the estate subject to federal estate taxes by more than $750,000. But since two estates, Hank and W~ma, are being transferred, the potential reduction in estate value is $1.5 million if most of the estate is real property. Adding the $1.2 million of estate exemption for the two estates, $2.7 million of agricultural property could be transferred with- out a tax. In this example, the cost to transfer a $3 DOES FINDING million estate is $90,000 for estate administrative expenses, and $111,000 for federal and Michigan USDA issues final rule A GREAT DEAL on fresh, frozen poultry requirements SDApublished its revised final rule HAVE YOU U about labeling fresh and frozen poultry, elimi. nating the "hard chilled" and "previously hard chilled" terms. The final rule instead permits processors to GOING use descriptive terms for products that have been stored at temperatures of 0 to 26'T, as long as the terms cannot be construed as misbranding, USDA said. IN CIRCLES? Poultry that has been below 0 degrees should be labeled "frozen" under the revised rule. Under direction of Congress, USDA has delet- ed the terms "hard chilled" or "previously hard chilled" for poultry that had been between 0 and 26 JUST ASK ALAMQSM degrees, USDAsaid. When you travel with Alamo, you'll always get great rates, quality cars, and friendly service However, a statement issued today said the at any of over 270 locations throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. So, if you've been USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service "will looking for the perfect way to explore some new surroundings, Just Ask Alamo. For reservations, encourage" processors to use those terms for poul- call your travel agent, access us at http://www.goalamo.com or call Alamo Rent A Car. Be sure to request I.D . Number Z 23 212 and Rate Code BY. try between 0 and 26 degrees. Processors can label poultry as fresh if it has never been below 26 degrees. 1-800-354-2322 According to a law Congress passed last sum- c /996 • ..u-Rmr-A-~Inr. Alamoftaturesfine Gennal Motors cars like the Chevy Cavalier. 1186-2-796 mer, USDAwill allow a I-degree variance from the -------------------------------------------------T------------------------------------------------- 26-degree rule at processing plants, and a 2-degree variance for product in distribution. $10 OFF WEEKEND RENTAL 50% TOWARDS AN UPGRADE USDAwill permit the variances if the average Certificate is valid for S10 Off Alamo's low basic rate on a weekend rental of 3 to 4 days. Certificate is valid for 500/0Off upgrade charges to any higher car category. Just reserve Just reserve a compact through a fullsize car in the U.S.A. or Canada .• Car must be picked a compact car or above in the U.S.A. or Canada.Valid on rentals of up to 14 days.• Only temperature for the entire lot of poultry labeled up after 9:00AM on Thursday and returned before 12:00 midnight on Monday. • Only one certificate per rental; not to be used in conjunction with any other discounted or fresh is 26 degrees or higher, USDAsaid. one certificate per rental; not to 1k used in conjunction with any other discounted or promotional rates, or an Alamo Express PluslM or Quicksilver>' rental .• Please make your promotional rates, or an Alamo Express PlusY"or Quicksilver>' rental .• Please make your reservation at least 24 hours before arrival. Upgrade is subject to availability at time of The final rule will take effect in December reservation at least 24 hours before arrival. • Travel Agents: Please include /SI-C-DH6B rental .• Travel Agents: Please include /SI-C-U24B in the car sell.• You must present this 1997, giving processors time to use up existing in the car sell.• You must present this certificate at the Alamo counter on arrival. It is void certificate at the Alamo counter on arrival. It.is void once redeemed .• Certificate has no once redeemed. • Certificate may only be applied toward the basic rate which does not cash value and does not include tlXes, govenunental surcharges, fuel, optional items, or labels and print new ones. include taxes, govenunental surcharges, fuel, optional items, or airport access fees, if any. airport access fees. if any.• Any unused portion is non-refundable. Reproductions will USDAsaid that the rule is not a consumer. • Certificate has no cash value and any unused portion is non-refundable. Reproductions not be accepted, and expired or lost certificates cannot be replaced. • Subject to Alamo's will not be accepted, and expired or lost certificates cannot be replaced .• Subject to standard rental conditions at the time of rental .• Offer valid through December 15,1997. safety regulation, but instead applies to truth in Alamo's conditions at the time of rental. • Offer valid through December 15, 1997. labeling. Most bacteria cannot multiply at normal For reservations, call your travel agent, access us at refrigerator temperatures, USDAsaid. For reservations, c:ill your travel agent, access us at The rule is the result of consumer and indus- a hnp://www.goalamo.com or call AlamSl R~n,t Car at 1-800-354-2322. hnp://www.goalamo.com or call Alamq.,.&c;(lt,h. Car at 1-800-354-2322. Be sure to request lD. Number Z LJL 1 Z and Rate Code BY. Be sure to request lD. Number ZLJ'L 1 Z and Rate Code BY. try reaction to a 1989 USDA policy' that permitted poultry with internal temperatures of more than 0, but less than 40 degrees, to be labeled as "fresh." USDAsaid that ice crystals begin to form and the 1186-2-796 C /996,AJ.oo 1lah4.~'" 1186-2-796 poultry meat ~ll begin to harden at 24 degrees .• ~~I~'I~.w February 28, 1997 Thumb oilseed producers plan meeting Farm Bureau will fight for ethanol incentives to consider added-value cooperative T he American Farm Bureau Federation stands beside the nation's farmers in "strongly and "Lost in the budget cutting discussion is the fact that the entire (USDA) budget for 1997 F armers in the Thumb and Saginaw Valley oil into products like crop oil, hydraulic oil, industri- vocally" supporting the continued use of tax credits wouldn't keep the government in business for a area are invited to attend a special meeting al solvents, greases and cooking oil. Jim Lohmeyer for the U.S. ethanol industry, AFBFPresident Dean month," he said. "Still, farm spending is considered Tuesday, March 4, at the Colony House near and David Davis, from AgriVisions in Bloomington, Kleckner said during a national conference on etha- a top candidate for cutting." . Cass City. The Thumb Oilseed Producers' Coopera- 111.,will address these ideas. nol policy and marketing. To some budget cutters, Kleckner said, etha- tive (TOPC) Steering Committee will be conducting The group's legal advisor, Mark Hanson of Delivering the keynote address at the confer- nol incentives "stand out like a sore thumb." Among a membership meeting to seek venture capital that Doherty, Rumble & Butler in St. Paul, Minn., will be ence hosted by the Renewable Fuels Association, the leading proponents of ending the tax credit, will help cover the cost of a feasibility study, some on hand to answer questions about joining the Kleckner, said that "protecting the future of (etha- according to Kleckner, is Rep. Bill Archer (R-Texas), test marketing activities and other start-up expens- cooperative and other legal questions related to nol) incentives" should keep both organizations chairman of the House VVaysand Means Committee. es. The meeting will start at 10 a.m. and conclude starting a new cooperative. busy in the coming weeks. Congressional leaders The AFBF president vowed to "continue the fight" by 3 p.m. Insta-Pro, a company that manufactures soy- have publicly stated the ethanol measure will come to save the tax credit. With the changing Farm Program rules, farmers bean extruding and expelling equipment, will have under increased scrutiny. VVhilethe excise tax exemption for ethanol is need to be looking at alternative marketing opportu- representatives at the meeting to talk about their Ethanol receives a 5.4-cent reduction from the set to expire in 2000, Kleckner told the group that, nities. The Thumb Oilseed Producers' Cooperative equipment and purchasing options. 18.3-cent-per-gallon fuel excise tax, an incentive "in reality, it might not even be here next summer" Steering Committee is exploring added-value oppor- At the end of the meeting, prospective mem- aimed at encouraging its production. Ethanol blend- unless ethanol supporters work together to contin- tunities through second generation cooperatives. bers will be given the opportunity to join the ers also receive a per gallon tax credit. Kleckner said ue education efforts on the benefits of a stable and Several speakers will be reviewing and outlin- Thumb Oilseed Producers' Cooperative. Agreement Farm Bureau policy supports the retention of all strong renewable fuels industry. ing specific marketing opportunities. Bob Leader, a forms will be available. state and federal tax credits providing incentives for Kleckner said that perhaps the best way to farmer from Indiana, is organizing and leading a There is a $10 registration fee for the March 4 the use of ethanol and ethanol-based fuel additives. safeguard ethanol production incentives would be group that will network several small soybean pro- program. The registration fee does not obligate Kleckner said Farm Bureau views ethanol as a "to successfully attain other reforms that bolster not cessing plants that refine and process the oil. This participants to join or back the proposed venture. valuable alternative energy source that enhances only agriculture but our entire economy." possibility will be discussed in detail. There are several added-value cooperatives in octane and reduces emissions. The amount of orga- 'J\strong economy that provides more revenue There will be a discussion on how the TOPC the fruit and vegetable industries in Michigan, but nizational policy devoted to ethanol "illustrates how will lessen budget-cutting pressures," he insisted. has the opportunity to refine and process their own the Thumb Oilseed Producers' Cooperative is the important farmers believe ethanol to be, and to "There are many economic policy reforms that could first in the traditional row crop production area to what extent Farm Bureau will go to assure its con- be enacted that would benefit our country greatly. Get the latest information on the Web! be organized as a second generation, added-value tinued production and availability," he said. "The government continues to spend more than cooperative. Kleckner told the group federal agricultural it takes in, and it takes in plenty. The tax code is too For more information and registration, please spending is "under constant scrutiny as a source of complex, too full ofloopholes, too confusing. Our tax call the MSU Extension-Project Office at (517) 269- budget savings." That would exclude, however, farm code penalizes savings and investment, the bedrock of 6099 in Bad Axe. The registration deadline is program payments that are stipulated through progress and job creation. Under this tax system, the VVednesday, Feb. 26." seven-year contracts. grasshoppers come out ahead of the ants." .. Clinton administration announces final CRPRIles Continued from page 1 and streams. All of these acres are planted to vege- tative cover or other forms of wildlife habitat. To ensure that only the most environmentally sensitive croplands are enrolled in the program, the final rule defines eligible cropland as land that has been planted or considered planted to an agricultur- al commodity two of the five most recent crop years and must be capable of being planted to an agricul- tural commodity. Also, the final rule makes marginal pasture land eligible ifjt is either currently enrolled / in the VVaterBank Program or will be devoted to a riparian buffer to be planted to trees. Cropland must also meet one of the following: • Have an Erosion Index (EI) of 8 or higher or be considered highly erodible land according to the conservation compliance provision (redefined fields must have an EI of 8 or higher) • Be considered a cropped wetland • Be devoted to any of a number of highly beneficial environmental practices, such as filter strips, ripari- an buffers, grass waterways, shelter belts, wellhead protection areas, and other similar practices • Be subject to scour erosion • Be in a national or state conservation priority area • Be cropland associated with or surrounding non- cropped wetlands "VVe made the erosion eligibility threshold for CRP consistent with the definition of highly erod- ible land for the conservation compliance program," Glickman said. "If land is sensitive enough to be regulated, it should be sensitive enough to be eligi- ble for enrollment in the CRP.Farmers should not get mixed signals." Four national conservation priority areas have been designated: Chesapeake Bay, Long Island Sound, Great Lakes, and the Prairie Pothole Region. Conservation priority area designations are based on a judgment that retiring agricultural lands in these specific areas offers the potential for significant im- provement of water quality or wildlife habitat. In addition, Farm Service Agency state committees, with advice from state technical committees and local individuals and organizations, may recommend that up to 10 percent of cropland within a state be designated as state conservation priority areas. Over the course of the CRP,Congress has di- rected that rental rates not exceed local market val- ues. CRP payments will be determined based on county average dryland cash or cash rent equivalent ORMS. WIREWORMS. WHITE GRUBS. AND A LIST AS LONG rental rates adjusted for site-specific, soil.based pro- ONE PRODUCT CONTROLS A BROADER SPECTRUM ductivity factors. CRP payments can include an addi. tional amount, not to exceed $5 per acre per year, as an incentive to perform certain maintenance obliga- tions. Cost -share assistance will be provided to estab- lish cover on land for enrollment in the CRP. Producers with contracts expiring Sept. 30 may offer their acreage for re-enrollment during the next sign-up period if the land meets the basic eligibility criteria. In addition to land eligible for enrollment under the continuous CRPsign-up provisions, eligi- ble landowners will be able to sign up for the CRP March 3-28.• -= Precisi;oD Il'J I [-I: l@'illl Winter months are ideal for data analysis ~II~' February 28, 1997 I ::t'~ Agli.cullu.re by Perry M. Petersen prescriptions designed to maximize production and precisely manage crop inputs for a field. The starting point in this process is the geo- referenced data gathered during the growing sea- correlate yield results to soil type, chemical! fertilizer application rates, topography, W hile snow still covers his fields, the son. Generally, the data consists of (1) yield infor- plant population, Midwestern farmer who has adopted mation compiled during harvest using a combine weed!insect pressures precision agriculture technologies is equipped with a yield monitor and a global posi- and any other produc- busy analyzing detailed yield and soil data he col- tioning system (GPS) receiver and (2) detailed soil tion variables repre- lected last year. His goal for the spring: implement a sampling data collected from 2.5-acre grids across sented in the GIS data- site-specific crop management program based on an entire field and georeferenced with a GPS receiv- base. computerized, georeferenced information about his er mounted on an all-terrain vehicle .. Long before the land and the crops he grows. The yield and soil information, captured in first spring thaw, the Precision agriculture technologies allow a farm- digital form, become part of a database that helps farmer and his crop- er to collect huge amounts of data about his crop the farmer and his cropping systems adviser identify ping systems adviser production system. Allthis information gives him the and quantify variability in the f,!rmer's crop produc- have addressed the power to identify and take control of variables he tion system. The yield data links yield variations to yield variations docu- faces in his operation: yields, soil type and chemistry, specific locations in the field. The soil data docu- mented by data collect- fertilizer and chemical application, planting popula- ments variations in nutrient level, soil type and pH ed in the fall. They A personal computer and geographic information,system (GIS) soft- tions, weed and insect pressures. The farmer's chal- across an entire field and ties the information to have cooperated on ware allow a farmer to analyze georeferenced yield and soil data col- lenge is to analyze the information and use it to ben- specific areas of the field. preparation of crop- lected during the previous growing season. efit his operation agronomically and economically. Ageographic il)formation system (GIS) soft- ping prescriptions that During the winter months, Terra's cropping ware program pulls together all the georeferenced will use GPS technology to precisely guide applica- systems advisers - such as Pat Trail in Marshall, Mich. - work closely with their precision agriculture cus- data and helps the farmer and his cropping systems adviser make sense of the huge amounts of informa- tions of fertilizer; lime, micronutrients, seeding rates, pesticides, etc. ~Terra' tomers to make that important link between the PRECISION IN AGRlCUL'TU tion. The software processes this data to create de- This is the payoff for the farmer who uses massive quantity of data collected from a farmer's tailed maps (or graphs and reports) that allow the GPS/GIS technology: He is able to implement his Perry M. Petersen, c.P. Ag.-CCA, cropping system and the farmer's need to put that farmer to see - in a way he never could before - all own site-specific management program based on Corporate Manager, Precision Agriculture information to work in his fields in the spring. The Terra Industries Inc. the variables affecting yield in a particular field or in detailed information about his land and the crops Phone: (800) 831-1002 & (712) 277-1340 cropping systems adviser and the farmer create site- specific areas of the field. The farmer and Terra's he grows. Not a bad result for a few months work Fax: (712) 277-7383 specific management plans with tailored cropping cropping systems adviser use GIS to analyze and during the dead of winter .• Training sessions for high-tech farming equipment draw capacity crowds C apacity crowds of farmers eager to adopt the latest in precision farming technology are expected to attend this year's AFS Circle seminars hosted by Case Corporation. While high-tech, satellite-driven technology is fairly new to the agricultural industry, according to Case's Kelly Kravig, marketing manager, crop har- vesSiQgand Ad..vanced Farming Systems, the comQ.a- ny is doing all it can to help farmers make its adop- tion quick, easy and profitable. The efforts, he said, have paid off. "The response to Case IH AFS Circle seminars last year was nearly overwhelming, and attendance this year will likely be even greater," Kravig said. "Farmers are excited about this new technology and want to learn how they can put it to use quickly and effectively. " Six of the two-day, site-specific technology seminars are planned from January through March in Uncoln, Neb.; Fargo, N.D.; Cincinnati; and Hamilton, Ontario; and two are scheduled in Davenport, Iowa. The seminars this year feature breakout ses- sions by Pioneer Seed, Dow Elanco and Midwest Consulting Service on seed variety, agronomics and crop analysis. Kravig said Case has partnered with these respected agricultural companies to help attendees put precision farming and AFS to use in practical applications. AFS is Case's site-specific farming technology that develops site-specific harvest -yield data and other crop and soil information to give farmers more control over their crop-production opera- tions. The system uses U.S. government global posi- tioning satellite signals to pinpoint information as the combine moves through the field. The data is used to produce detailed maps that help farmers make informed business decisions for future inputs. Hands-on experience The AFS Circle seminars guide farmers through steps on how to optimize their AFS system, from programming the yield monitor - the com- bine's on board computer - to making maps on a personal computer. "Both first-time and veteran users benefit from the seminars," said Kravig. "The hardware and soft- ware are user friendly and also have many powerful functions that allow farmers to grow into as they gain experience." He added that the seminars are hands-on. "A yield monitor and personal computer are provided for each pair of attendees to practice the lessons on, and there is a good ratio of Case lH AFS techni- cians to attendees," he said. "It's also a comfortable, relaxed environment, so we deal directly with indi- viduals' specific concerns and answer any questions they may have." Since AFStechnology is still relatively new, Kravig said Case is taking every step it can to ensure that farmers can make the shift to precision farming as easily as possible .• I~~ February 28, 1997 Cheney named Pork All-American Norton named Master Pork Producer H onored recemly at the Michigan Pork Produc- ers Association's (MPPA) Michigan Pork Expo as Michigan's 1997 Pork All-American was Ingham B ranch County Farm Bureau member Dale Norton received the Michigan Pork Producer's Association's highest honor for a member at the Coumy Farm Bureau member David Cheney. annual Michigan Pork Expo for his outstanding Cheney Farms, a cemennial farm located just leadership in the pork industry and proficiency he outside Mason, raises hogs farrow-ta-finish with 230 has demonstrated on his home farm in Bronson. sows as well as 1,200 acres of corn, soybeans and Kendale Farm recemly had an opportunity to wheat. A year ago, Cheney assumed all the decision- work out a program with a local co-op (0 produce making duties on the operation from his parents, segregated early weaning pigs on a contractual basis Richard and Sydney, to expand their operation. "We decided to go ahead Since the farm is close to the city of Mason, with it because we felt we needed to expand to stay Cheney admits that odor and environmental imer- American. "We were one of the first herds to certify competitive in the future. This arrangement is a way acres of hay and pasture for 50 crossbred beef cows. ests are key, "Houses have been built around our at Level III," said Cheney. "It has helped us with to expand and specialize in one portion of the oper- The additional sows and switching to an entire- operation and we haven't had any problems yet," vaccination schedules, awareness of feed medica- ation," explains Norton. ly closed operation will require the Nortons to ex- Cheney told the MPPA. "We try to be a good neigh- tions and withdrawal times and to do a better job Norton's operation is expanding from a 175 pand their facilities. They recently purchased a large bor, but unless a cure is found for the odor prob- with feed processing and overall quality control." sow farrow-ta-finish (0 a 950-sow segregated early gestation and farrow-ta-finish barn and began to lem, we aren't going to be able to expand due (0 The Pork All-American designation began in weaning facility. The currem herd has been phased renovate the facility. The goal of the new facility is to our location," 1970 by the National Pork Producers Council to out and completely repopulated. farrow 40 sows each week. Pigs will be weaned at 11 "I've tried to set attainable goals for production recognize young farmers under the age of 40 that "We decided to stan over with upgraded ge- to 18 days and sold to the local co-op on a window on the farm because that way it's easier to see the have established themselves in the pork industry as netics to better ensure the quality and health of our contract. Norton and his wife, Bobbi, have one son, results," added Cheney. And last year, he did just that dedicated and involved business owners and lead- product," he explains. The farm also raises 1,700 Michael.. marketing 4,500 hogs to IBP last year, shattering the ers in their communities. For winning the award, acres of corn, soybeans and wheat, as well as 100 goal of 4,000 he had set for the operation. Cheney will represem Michigan at the Pork Expo The Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) program next June in Indianapolis .• Facilities and lameness in dairy cattle was also essential for Cheney's success as a Pork A11- by Bill Bickert, Dept. of Agricultural Adding texture to alley surfaces reduces slip- Engineering, Michigan State University ping as well. But concrete surfaces may have a tex- Michigan's top fair volunteers named M ore than 21,000 volumeers annually con- tribute to the success of Michigan's 90 fairs . • Zone 5: Donna Kaski, Presque Isle County Fair • Zone 6: John Bishop, Houghton County Fair L ameness in dairy cattle is a complex problem and significant economic issue. Facility design and management play an important pan in preventing it. ture that is too aggressive. Jagged edges, sharp points and protruding aggregate from improper finishing and texturing all may be injurious to the This represents $4.3 million in donated labor. In The 1996 Volunteer of the Year is Don Van- Cows in a freestall barn, responding to social underside of claws. Dragging a heavy concrete block addition, $2.4 million of in-kind services are donat- Zuilen of the St. Joseph County Grange Fair. In addi- hierarchy, use the space allocated to them very or a weighted steelblade scraper over a concrete ed to fairs annually. To recognize the outstanding tion to his duties as President of the Fair Board, he competitively. Housing layout, particularly the spa- surface, after the concrete is cured, will chip off some comributions these volumeers make to the fair, the volunteers many extra hours to ensure the success tial arrangement of alleys, circulation areas around sharp points, lessening their damaging effect. Equal- Michigan Department of Agriculture and the Michi- of all phases of the fair. Key projects in 1996 includ- mangers, drinkers, freestalls and the holding area ly injurious are broken or highly eroded concrete gan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (MAFE) ed the garden, the Amazing Maze and petting zoo can help to reduce competitive encounters. The surfaces that present very rough and irregular surfac- presented the 1996 Volunteer of the Year award at exhibits. A primary emphasis of the exhibits was to impact of grouping strategies on aggressive interac- es to the claw. These areas should be repaired. the MAFE Annual Convention. use an educational approach to help fair patrons tions is less understood. Such encounters often When cows are lying down, stress on leg mem- lWenty-one outstanding individuals were better understand Michigan's Agriculture and appre- result in sudden actions of avoidance that cause bers and joints is reduced and hoof exposure to ma- nominated from across the state. An individual was ciate the contributions agriculture makes to a "bet- animals to slip on manure-covered surfaces and fall. nure and wetness in minimized. Free stalls which honored from each of the six wnes in the state, and ter way of life." Removing the lubricating manure layer from alley accommodate the cows natural lying and rising be- an overall Volunteer of the Year was named. Volunteers are an important part of Michigan surfaces helps to reduce slipping. In addition, frequent havior and have well bedded dry surfaces encourage • Zone 1: Ross Byers, Branch County Fair fairs. Ifyou would like more information on how you removal of manure reduces exposure of the hoof horn resting. Cows prefer to lie down 10-14 hours per day. • Zone 2: Stan Diroff, Monroe County Fair can recognize fair volunteers in 1997, contact Marilyn to manure and wetness. Hoof material softened by Well designed, natural ventilation may result • Zon~ 3: Victor Pederson, Newaygo County Fair Thelen, agricultural fair coordinator for the Michigan prolonged contact with manure.will be more subject to also reduces poten~.ial for slipping .• • Zone\~: Margaret Wegner, Midland County Fair Department of Agriculture at (517) 373-9760 .• abrasion and possibly other forms of lameness. Memb tal Insuran from n Farm Bureau mber dental insurance is the affordable way to assure that you and your family receive the dental care services you re" n when sudden and costly needs arise. Measu against your annual dental care bills and consider the advantage! Single: $18.90 per month • Two-person: $33.60 • "Iy:$43.05 Fuel petroleum storage news you should know F uel petroleum storage on farms was the Consider aboveground storage If you don't use it. remove it Ci st- .. ommon sense suggfl IOns f~us ?f two region~l.meetings held earlier Aboveground tanks are easier to maintain and There are several ~easons fo~remo~l~g an for on--f.rm petroleum storage thISwmter and particIpants came away with monitor than underground tanks, and leaks are unused tank. The most Important ISthat It ISthe best clear indications of what they need to know - keep easier to discover and clean up. way to find out ifthe tank has leaked. The amount of • Use aboveground storage. tanks under 1,100 gallons to avoid further regula- Storing fuel aboveground does have some damage can be determined and, ifnecessary, the • Keep individual tank size less than 1,100 gal- tion and if you have an underground storage tank disadvantages, such as the risk of accidents and dam- damage cleaned up. The earlier cleanup begins, the lons, no more than three tanks per site, and over 1,100 gallons then it needs to be upgraded by age to the tank and increased loss to evaporation. easier and cheaper it is. Iffuel is unknowingly left in separated by a minimum distance of 3 feet. December 1998 to meet new standards. Aboveground tanks must be installed in accordance the ground, it will spread through the soil. • Place the tank(s) on some kind of imperme- "More thim likely most of the farmers current-with Michigan's flammable and combustible liquid Ifa tank is under a building or installed in such able surface and a minimum of 1 foot off the ly and in the future will be falling under the NFPA rules. For example, these regulations specify that the a way that removing it would weaken a building's ground. #395," explains Bill Clifford, an engineer with the tank must be at least 40 feet from any building, prop- foundation, you may want to leave it in place. Empty • Keep tank(s) downslope more than 300 feet Michigan Department of State Police's Fire Marshal erly vented, constructed of approved materials and the tank and remove all vapors, then fillit with an from drinking water well, minimum of 40 feet Division. "Tanks have to be under 1,100 gallons. supported at least 6 inches above the ground. Resi- inert material such as sand, pea gravel or concrete. from buildings, and at least 25 feet from prop- Our rules were amended to allow a farmer to have dential and farm tanks built aboveground may not be Hire qualified help if you want to erty lines. three tanks. Basically, he could have up to 3,300 greater than 1,100 gallons in capacity. In Michigan, all remove your tank • Utilize some kind of barrier to prevent traffic gallons of fuel on his farm. Anytime they go over aboveground tanks greater than 1,000 gallons (1,100 You must remove any unused or abandoned from impacting tanks. 1,100 gallons - if they need a 2,000 or 3 or 5 or gallons for farm tanks) that are not for residential or underground fuel storage tanks regulated under Act • Utilize some kind of metering or monitoring even a 1O,000-gallon tank - then they would fall farm use must have a site plan approved by the Mich- 207 or Act 423 (which includes nearly all tanks). You system to ascertain fuel loss or leaking. under NFPA#38. Farmers who fall under 38, the igan State Police Fire Marshal Division. can remove your own tank, but the job entails a • Maintain appearance and integrity of tank with rules get a lot more strict." Even with the disadvantages of aboveground significant risk of explosion and environmental corrosion-resistant paint. '1\t farms ifthe tank is greater than 1,100 gal- storage, it is often a better alternative than risking contamination. Qualified excavators can often com- • If you have an unused underground storage Ions and all they do is farming they will fall under the pollution from an underground storage tank. plete the job more safely and efficiently. In addition, tank, have it properly removed or filled with rules of NFPA#38," says Andrea Zajac, chief of tacti- Regularly monitor the tank insurance may not cover damage costs if you do it inert material. cal review unit in the underground storage tank Keep detailed records of deliveries and usage. yourself. Make sure the contractor you hire is bond- • Do not use old underground storage tanks for division for Michigan's Department of Environmental It is often the only way you can tell ifa tank is leaking. ed and insured and has experience with under- above ground fuel storage. Quality (DEQ). "The federal government, 10 years Tofind the amount of fuel in your tank, use a ground storage tanks. To find excavators in your • If you have an existing underground storage ago, passed interim amendments that want all tanks to dipstick, marked in inches, with a tank chart. You area, look under "Tanks" in the Yellow Pages. tank, don't wait until 1998! be upgraded by Dec. 22, 1998 -and that's only two should also use water indicator paste (it changes color If you do remove an underground storage years from now, and so we've been doing a lot of out- to indicate the presence of water) on the end of the tank yourself, u~e great care. Remove as much of Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program, Petroleum reach, but we're intensifying that right now to make dipstick. Information about this equipment and how the remaining fuel in the tank as possible and notify Storage on Farms Workshop, January 1997 people aware of what they need to do so they don't get to use it should be available from your fuel supplier. local fire officials before beginning .• caught by the '98 deadline and be shut down." Attended by many farmers, petroleum dealers and health officials, the meetings were sponsored in part by Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Michigan Farm Bureau's Commodity and Environmental Divi- sion, Farm Credit Services, Clawson Container Cor- poration, The Oscar W. Larsen Co., Michigan Ground- water Stewardship Program and MSUExtension. "I've been using Prowl on According to MSU Extension Bulletin WQ37, underground storage tank regulations under P.A. 423 of 198q have been tightened significantly in the past few years in an effort to help reduce pollution corn since about the time it problems, primarily from larger, commercial tanks. Residential tanks that hold less than 1,100 gallons and are used for storing motor fuel for non-com- mercial purposes are exempted from registration came out, and I still under Act 423, as are home heating fuel tanks. Tanks holding less than 1,100 gallons that are used in farm operations are also exempt. It is a common belief that these "small" tanks haven't found anything else are not regulated at all and pose little risk to the envi- ronment. That is not true. These tanks are regulated by Michigan law (Michigan's flammable and combus- that can do the job better:' tible liquid rules, as required by P.A.207 of 1941) and have potential to cause significant groundwater con- tamination. Ifgroundwater is polluted by fuel from Duane storage tanks, Michigan laws regulating water pollu- tion and cleanup of contaminated sites apply. Hemminger Determine location, size, age and contents This is the first step in proper management. Allen, Many tanks have been installed over the years by Michigan farmers and homeowners who didn't record their locations or contents. Talking to previous owners and fuel suppliers is a good way to find out ifyour property has any unrecorded tanks or you can use a metal detector to find the general location of a tank. Sometimes it is necessary to dig up at least a portion of a tank to estimate its age and condition. Ifyou know the size and shape of the tank, your fuel suppli- er may be able to help you determine its volume. Tanks larger than 1,100 gallons must be registered with the State Police Fire Marshal Division. "To put in his 10 or 12 or 15,000-gallon diesel tank," explains Clifford. "I would have no problems recommending that to him - go with your concrete dike, have all your lines enter the top of the tank, have your overfill devices, and I wouldn't have any problem recommending that to a farmer, even though it's very expensive to go. If that's what it's going to take to do his business, then he's going to have to do it. Because I would still recommend an • aboveground tank as opposed to an underground tank. If he needs a little bit of gasoline, then he can put it in a regular tank that falls under NFPA395, because he might not need that much gasoline." Determine need for on-site fuel storage Ask yourself these questions: • How much liability are you willing to incur? The risk of groundwater contamination from an un- derground tank usually causes higher insurance rates on properties with tanks than on properties without on-site fuel storage . • Is there a service station within a reasonable distance? Try to estimate increased insurance and liability costs - they may be more than the cost of driving for fuel. I ~'ll(~:I(~~'1~' February 28, 1997 I ::\'ill ~- - ANR Week programs to focus Bontekoe elected to onMkh~an~wamr~sou~es national leadership S everal workshops focusing on practices tion, call (810) 853-9580. M intended to protect or improve lakes, _ The eighth conference on the Great Lakes will ichigan has a new representative Pam and her husband, Pete, own two family streams and other surface waters will be be 9 a.m. to 4 p.~, March 6 in the Kellogg Cen. elected to the Operating Committee farms. The Bontekoe family manages a 340-acre held during Agriculture and Natural Resources ter Lincoln Room. The program is free but ad- of the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion feedlot in Marion, as well as a 400-acre dairy opera- (ANR)Week, March 1-9 at Michigan State University. vance registration is requested. To register, call and Research Board (CBB). Pam Bontekoe of tion in Greenville. In addition to Bontekoe's _ How farmers can better manage land application Lois Wolfson at (517) 353-9222. Greenville, is one of 10 members elected by the responsibilities on the Operating Committee, she of livestock manure to prevent surface water Discussion topics will include risk assessment checkoff division of the National Cattlemen's Beef has been appointed chairperson of the National contamination and using municipal wastewater of toxics to fisheries, recent lamprey control effortS, Association to represent the federation of state beef Cattlemen's Beef Association's Public Relations Sub- treatment plant sludge as a crop nutrient supple- possible ways to remove exotics from lake waters, councils on the Beef Board's Operating Committee. committee. ment will be outlined from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the decline of some of the state's native frog This committee serves to bring together state Other actions taking place at the National March 7 at the MSU Kellogg Center. species. and national checkoff programs into a coordinated Cattlemen's Beef Association convention included: The morning session will be on livestock ma- _ The Michigan Lakes and Streams Association promotion and research effort. The Operating Com- _ The board of directors voted to continue using nure management. The afternoon discussion will be workshop will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 6 mittee is responsible for approving projects and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association name on alternative uses for sludge. at the Kellogg Center. The program will focus on funding to carry out checkoff programs. The Beef but change the logo to reflect a consumer focus The cost will be $20. Make checks payable to correcting current and preventing future prob- Board and Operating Committee contract with for the new organization .. the Soil and Water Conservation Society and mail lems in the state's inland lakes, rivers and established national, nonprofit, industry-governed _ Michigan Cattle PACraised almost $1,000 toward to: Department of Environmental Quality, Environ- streams. Details are available from Don Winne at organizations to implement programs of promo- their NCBA PAC1997 goal with creative items mental Assistance Division, 10650 Bennett Dr., Mor. (616) 273-8200. tion, research, consumer information, foreign mar- donated to the silent auction. rice, MI 48857-9792. For more information, contact _ People who would like to become Master Com- keting and producer communications. _ Janice Rumph, MSUstudent and communica- Terri Novak at (517) 625-4611. posters can attend a training session from 9 a.m. Bontekoe believes that individuals can make a tions specialist for the Michigan Cattlemen's _ Practices and trends that are putting Michigan's to noon March 6 at the Kellogg Center. difference and together we can do more than any Association, received an Honorable Mention in streams, lakes and groundwater at risk will be The session will train participants to start Mas- one individual. In 1986, as executive vice president the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Scholarship reviewed and discussed from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 ter Com poster programs in their communities. of the Michigan Cattlemen's Association, she coordi- Contest. Rumph competed against a field of 80 p.m. March 4 at the Kellogg Center at the annual Training guides will be provided to each participant. nated the successful statewide beef industry cam- student candidates. meeting of the Michigan section of the American The registration is $25. More information can paign, assisting in the passing of the National Beef Individuals representing Michigan's beef indus- Water Resources Association (AWRA). be obtained by calling Terry Gibb at (810) 469-5180 Check-Off with an 85 percent yes vote in Michigan. try leadership at the NCBAmeeting included: Check- Registration is $45 for association members, or Julie Pioch at (616) 657-7745, ext. 3- "Quality and consistency of beef and beef off Division - Pam Bontekoe, Greenville (beef); Bob $55 for nonmembers and $30 for students. Checks Information about these and other ANRWeek products are the major challenges our industry Cooper, Rothbury (veal); BillSheridan, Mason (MBIC should be made payable to AWRA,Michigan State activities is contained in a free guidebook available faces," according to Bontekoe. "Consumers need to Chair); Kathleen Hawkins, Okemos (MBIC Executive Section, and mailed to David Hamilton, Land and from the county MSUExtension office. Free copies can be able to depend on the beef they buy. Our pro- Director); Dues Division - GaryVoogt, Marne (MCA Water Management Division, Michigan DEQ, Box also be ordered from the MSU Bulletin Office, lOB ducers can, and want to, produce the kind of beef Chair); Chuck Markley, Byron (Region I Nominating 30458, Lansing, Michigan 48909. For more informa- Agriculture Hall, MSU,East Lansing, MI48824-1039.• the U.S. consumer wants. It is important that we Committee); Cindy Reisig, DeWitt (MCAExecutive develop new products to entice consumers to buy Vice President); Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and more beef" Research Board -Jack Knirt, Quincy (Vice Chairman Modern wheat draws mildew For the past seven years, Bontekoe has served as a director of the Michigan Beef Industry Commis- of the New Product Initiative Subcommittee and Grading Privatization Task Force). resistance from the wild sion, representing the feedlot segment of the industry. The commission administers the state's For more information, contact the MCAoffice (noncheckoff) at (517) 669-8589 or write P.O. Box beef checkoff program, which is designed to im- 387, DeWitt, MI 48820 or contact the Michigan Beef W eeds with old family ties to today's varieties came to the U.S. collections through Japa- wheat could help save U.S. farmers as nese researchers traveling in the Middle East. prove profitability by strengthening beef's position Industry Commission office (checkoff) at (517) 347- much as $20 million now lost every Hard red winter wheat, grown mainly in Mid- in the marketplace and by expanding consumer 0911 or write to 2145 University Park Dr., Suite 300, year to a crop disease called powdery mildew, a U.S. western states, is the principal ingredient in com- demand for beef Okemos, MI 48864 .• Department of Agriculture scientist says. mercially-made bread. Soft red winter wheat, grown Certain weeds that grow wild in Armenia and in the Southeast, is used in cookies, cakes and other lran can be crossed with modern wheat to produce snack foods. All-purpose flour is usually made from Equipment maintenance schedule saves time, money O hybrids with stronger disease resistance, according a combination of both. ne problem for many equipment owners might use it to create your chart. to plant pathologist Steven Leath, with USD~s Agri. Powdery mildew can strike in the Midwest, is developing and staying on a main. _ Post your schedule where it's easily visible, to cultural Research Service. but prefers the humid climate of the Southeast, so tenance schedule. Regular maintenance remind yourself when to perform service. If you "Iran, Iraq and Armenia are part of the epicenter of the soft red winter wheat crop is especially vulnera- is easy to put off, so it's important to work up a have a big hanging wall calendar, mark the days wheat evolution," Leath said. "Wheat isactually a combi- ble. Powdery mildew claims 1 to 3 percent of the schedule and stick to it. service is due. If you use a computer-based calen- nation of three plant ancestors. Byborrowing the right southeastern wheat crop every year, translating to Keeping your machinery running in prime dar system or a personal planner, note your genes from some of them, we're giving red winter wheat losses of $6.5 million to $20 million. condition means following factory-recommended maintenance there, as well. added protection against powdery mildew." Breeding for resistance makes sense, Leath maintenance schedules. Regularly checking fluids, It's all right to perform service early, if it's Leath and Paul Murphy, a North Carolina State said, because growers often find chemical treat- filters and fittings can increase the performance of convenient for you to do so. For instance, if one University plant breeder, have already developed ments for powdery mildew too costly at an average your machinery and extend its life. It also helps tractor is due for an oil change and another tractor three new hybrids-NC96BGfD-1, 2, and 3-that are of $20 per acre. prevent downtime during critical periods. is six hours away from one, it won't hurt to service available to scientists and plant breeders seeking to To create the new hybrids, Leath and his col- Following are some strategies on making both tractors at once. However, don't let service boost the disease resistance of commercial wheat leagues at Raleigh, N.C., pollinated domestic female maintenance as easy as possible. slide past the recommended service interval. lines. In three years of field tests, the new hybrids plants with wild males. The plants were so genetically _ Use your operator's manual. The operator's _ Give your machinery a checkup. Perform a com- demonstrated consistent resistance to all strains of different that the resulting embryo couldn't survive manual is your best resource for periodic routine plete examination every 50 hours of service. powdery mildew, even the most exotic strains. and develop inside the female, and instead had to be maintenance. All regular procedures and timeta- Look for things that you might miss during rou- "Domestic wheat has genes to fight powdery grown in a tissue culture solution. The resultant bles can be found there. tine maintenance, such as loose/missing nuts or mildew, but over time they became less and less offspring must be bred with another wild male. When you receive your equipment, read bolts, burned out light bulbs, tire wear, and the effective against this microbial pest," Leath said. "By using this method, we can retain many of through the manual. Familiarize yourself with main- like. Make it a point to fix these things as soon as "The genetic reserves of U.S. wheat began to run the traits the growers want in their wheat," said tenance procedures and schedules. Know which you can -little things can turn into big hassles if out, so we turned to germ plasm collections at ARS Leath. "With traditional crosses, the genetic ex- lubricants, belts, filters and other items you need. left unattended. and the Wheat Genetic Resource Center at Kansas change is roughly 50/50, but with this method we _ Chart your progress. Create a checklist, chart or _ Talk to your farm equipment dealer. If you have a State University to enhance resistance." The wild only alter one-third of the genetic make-up." • other means by which to visually keep track of question about servicing your equipment or when maintenance should be (and has been) need parts or advice, call your dealer. They're performed. If you've got a personal computer there to help you maximize the use of your New STEElM Herbicide with a spreadsheet program and a printer, you equipment .• KEEPS WEEDS Extension on-farm field demonstration FROM GETTING results available ...-.,e results of more than 50 on-farm field trials Growers interested in reviewing parts or all of ) THROUGH • conducted in 1996 by Michigan State University the trial resullS should contact their county MSU Extension agents and research agronomists in 17 extension office to locate their area Field Crops M Introducing STEEL herbicide for soybeans. counties from Marquette to Blissfield are available. Team member or contact Dan Rossman, MSU Exten- It keeps weeds from getting through. Just soil- The results of the trials are summarized in the sion agricultural agent in Gratiot County, by calling apply it for maximum early-season control of MSU Field Crops Team report titled "On-Farm Re- (517) 875-5233. more than 50 weeds, including yield robbers like cocklebur, nightshade, ragweed, and search and Demonstration." The project was sup- The MSU Field Crops Team consists of MSU foxtail. And with its solid residual control, ported by the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Extension agricultural agents and county direclors, M STEEL frustrates weeds all season long. Station (MAES)and MSU Extension. Extension specialists and MAESagronomic re- The trials included nitrate, fertilizer, narrow. searchers. For more Inlonnatlon row; Bt, European corn borer, cover crop, weed, Joining in the project, along with the host farm- silage and twin. versus single-row comparisons in ers, were the Michigan Corn Marketing Program, the call 800-942-0500. corn. In soybeans, the trials focused on weed con. Michigan Crop Improvement Association, the Michi- trol, row width, seeding rates, fungicide treatments, gan Soybean Promotion Committee, the Michigan no-till, seed inoculation and STS variety compari- Agricultural Stewardship Association, seed and agri- sons. The report also contains the results of growth chemical companies and local agribusinesses .• trials for wheat, canola, potatoes, barley, forage and AIweys ,<>low label donK:toona -r Trademerka. Amencan Cyanemod Compeny CI996 pasture establishment. 1~.11[~~1~~ February 28, 1997 Sub-irrigation: The underground NRCS chief intends to keep a wave of the future? by Steve Tomac ~MO~~:!ew2~seeo!:ep/*:ha2~le!!J!he!~~~ Dr. Belcher said that the primary purpose of W heels spin. The building groans. Slowly, the barn closes as the rain begins to in- crease. The crops beneath are sheltered from the the site is to provide comparisons of crop growth under differing treatments. Sometimes, he said, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has a 22-year history of team building and focusing on helping farmland owners better man- ways to provide the solution," Hardisty says. Because of budget constraints and other fac- tors, Hardisty begins her tenure in Michigan with a "comparisons are more important than results." The rain. They haven't gotten a drop in many days. size of the plots allow for easy measurement of age their soil and water resources. reduced staff, which in turn will affect how the op- It sounds strange to hear about crops not plant growth and development. Items such as leaf Jane E. Hardisty was raised on a livestock and eration is run. getting rain when they need it, but this happens width, length, and plant height can be measured to cash grain farm in southwestern Indiana and is a "In the past three to four years, we've lost regularly at a research site just east of Saginaw, obtain data. Rather than getting absolute results, graduate of Ball State University. Her bachelor's between 20 and 30 people, and that means we can- Mich. The site is run by Harold Belcher of MSU's the information is processed so that it can be deter- degree is in natural resources, geography and biola- not conduct business now as we did," she relates. Agricultural Engineering school. There, under in- mined which treatment is better. gy. She began her duties in Michigan Jan. 5. "However, we are going to look at what we can tense scrutiny, sub-irrigation is studied. The site is expected to be in operation for "The thing I've enjoyed the most during my afford with our budget and with the number of Sub-irrigation provides moisture via under- four more years, but year-ta-year funding is incon- career is working directly with our field people to employees we have and put as many people as we ground water table management. When the water sistent. Belcher said that he hopes to continue the deliver conservation assistance to the landowner," can closer to the field, that is, the people we serve." table is too low, water is pumped in to raise the research as long as possible, but 10 years should Hardisty says. "Nonetheless, we are maintaining our out- available water supply to the crops. When it is too give conclusive results. The NRCS has undergone a number of chang- reach to recruits, and when we are in a position to high, the process is reversed, allowing water to flow According to Dr. Belcher, a 15 to 20 percent es recently - personnel reductions, job assignment begin hiring, we're going to continue to place em- from the field, back to the irrigation trench. increase in yield is seen compared to fields that are changes and a shift in the way business will be con- phasis on diversity among people who have a scien- There are two zones at the site. The first is the drained or tiled, but not irrigated. Soybeans have ducted. Watershed teams will replace the traditional tific and technical background and at least a bache- small plots. This area is divided into 15 by 20 feet shown an average increase of 16 bushels per acre, administrative areas. This means that NRCS person- lor of science degree," Hardisty says. plots. Most of these are able to be sheltered from corn has increased 35 bushels per acre, and sugar- nel in individual watersheds will largely set manage- She also says that she intends to increase the the rain by a barn that splits in half. Sensors, at- beets increased 3 tons per acre. ment priorities. collaboration between state agencies such as the tached to motors, determine when too much rain "We have limited data," said Dr. Belcher, "that "Our employees will be pretty much self-di- Michigan Department of Agriculture, the Depart- has precipitated and start the two halves rolling suggests sub-irrigation is about equal in yield bene- rected teams because they know best what the ment of Environmental Quality, Michigan State Uni- toward each other. The amount of rain the crops fit to overhead irrigation." He said that the advan- people need, and they know best how to get the versity Extension, Michigan Farm Bureau and others receive can be closely monitored. This information tage of sub-irrigation over standard overhead irriga- job done," Hardisty says. "We are going to continue in the management of Michigan's natural resources. is useful in preparing reportS on the crop. tion is the economic costs. "Sub-irrigation systems managing and providing the leadership here [in the "There are all kinds of things in the field that The other zone is three large field plots, com- cost less because much of the cost is necessary for state office], but we're going to really emphasize are working and that aren't working, and when it prised of lO-acre parcels to provide "real life" data. drainage." The sub-irrigation system uses water the local input so that things will get accomplished comes to the latter, it is usually the result of person- Now in itssixth year of operation, the site was table management, meaning that most of the work as quickly as possible. ality conflicts," Hardisty says. "We're going to have begun as a way to answer farmers' questions about is done by nature, rather than pumping vast "We're going to ask the districts to really beef to get that kind of problem behind us because all of experimenting with sub-irrigation. The site originally amounts of water up and over the field. up their planning skills and to pull together local the agencies we work with have a tremendous studied field crops such as soybeans and corn, but has Both systems lose about 10 percent of the wa- people to recognize what their needs are on a long- amount to offer and we're going to need everyone's expanded to carrots, potatoes, cucumbers, and onions. ter during the course of irrigation. Overhead irriga- range plan," Hardisty says. talents to adequately cope with the pressures that Also at the research site is a large underground tion loses its water to wind and evaporation, while Based on the local district's planning process are being placed on our soil and water resources. tunnel. This tunnel runs alongside the barn, and is sub-irrigation loses that amount to deep seepage. and according to the needs identified, the NRCS "We can get the job done, but we've got to situated between the sheltered and the unsheltered Belcher is convinced that this system is the will provide the tools - the Conservation Reserve work together to continue the good efforts made to plots. It provides access to the sub-irrigation trench- way of the future. "Anygrower contemplating up- Program (CRP), the Wetland Preserve Program date and enhance them," Hardisty adds. "I think es, as well as viewports for a root camera. grading their subsurface drainage should certainly (WPP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Pro- Michigan is going to find that there isn't anything The camera takes pictures of root develop- consider sub-irrigation," he added. Sub-irrigation is gram (EQIP), etc. - to accomplish the district's we collectively can't overcome to help the local ment and can be set up for time-delay photography. growing in Michigan, but not very fast. resource management objectives. landowner make sure our natural resources are Dr. Alvin Smucker, of MSU's plant and soil science Studies have shown that up to 500,000 acres "In that respect, we are going to be encouraging maintained and put in good health for the future. It department, monitors the growth of roots in rela- in the Thumb region alone could benefit from sub- and providing support for the local people to keep can happen!" • tion to the water table. irrigation .• things at the grass-roots level because they know best N I~'ll~~~ 1~'I::t'~ February 28, 1997 Alfalfa varieties for Michigan in 1997 by.R.H. Leep and J.J. Paling Five cuttings per ye ..r shon-term stands, except for one variety in dor- S everal alfalfa varieties are available to Mich- igan farmers. Selection should be based on more than one characteristic. Producers should select a high-yielding variety with multiple- Michigan State University research indicates five cuttings will produce similar yields to four cuttings in the first year, but lower yields than four cuttings in following years. Fivecuttings will result in higher mancy group 5 (see table), which has yielded and persisted well at East Lansing in short-term stands. Important diseases in Michigan An alfalfa variety consists of plants thaT are not Table 2 - ChatIYm average hay yields. tons per aae Average hay yields (12% moisture) and the disease resistance. quality alfalfa.A five-cut system, however, is usually genetically uniform. Thus, even in a "resistant" vari- number of trials entered and percent Ver- Good management practices are imponant. not recommended because of increased weed inva- ety, only a portion of the plants will be resistant. nal for the alfalfa varieties seeded at Even the best alfalfa variety will not perform well sion (and possible lower forage quality), shon-lived Moderate resistance, for example, means that 15 to Chatham in the Upper Peninsula between under poor management conditions. Establish good stands, and decreased yield after the first year. 30 percent of the plants are resistant but 70 to 85 1989 and 1993. stands on adequately drained soils. Adjust soil pH Selection of an .. If..lf.. variety percent are susceptible. Even a variety classified as 3-year 3-year 5-year 4-year 3-year % prior to seeding. Fertilize before seeding and broad- Short-term stands resistant may suffer damage from a disease. Moder- Variety 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 II Vernal Asset 5.74* - 1 109 cast annually as recommended by soil tests. The Most alfalfa stands in Michigan are left for ate resistance is generally considered adequate for Callahan501 - 4.31 1 J 16 appropriate cutting management system depends three or four years. Varieties selected should be: good alfalfa production. Even resistant varieties, Centurion 5.53 1 105 on the location, yield goal and desired stand life. - At least moderately winterhardy however, are susceptible to PRRor pyrhium diseas- Chief 5.47 1 104 Three cuttings per year _ High yielding es in the seedling stage. CG 545 4.34 1 119 Three cuts per year is the best cutting system in - Resistant to bacterial wilt (BW) and anthracnose (AN) Bacterial Wilt (BW). BW is present in all of Cfipper 4.00 r 108 Echo 4.29 1 116 Michigan for long-term stands with good yields if Resistance to Phyrophthora root rot (PRR) is Michigan but all of the named varieties sold in Michi- Excalibur 5.50 1 104 fertilized adequately with potassium. Alfalfagrown in desirable when alfalfa is grown on fine-textured gan are adequately resistant to BW."Common" alfalfa G 2841 5.25 1 108 nonhern lower Michigan should not be cut more soils prone to waterlogging. varieties sold by some seed companies are not recom- ICI630 5.43 1 112 than three times per year. Third cutting may be made Allof the varieties in the following table are mended since the seed may be from susceptible plants. 10636 4.93 1 102 Iroquois 5.33 5.42 3.99 4.18 4 107 from late August to mid-October. Cutting schedules resistant to BWand are adequately winterhardy for Phytophthora Root Rot (PRR). This fun- Multiplier 5.76 4.23' 3.99 3 109 and approximate stages of maturity for southern and three- to five-year stands in Michigan. gus disease, first found in Michigan in 1972, is now OIds 2980 4.58 5.22* 3.99* - 3 99 nonhern Michigan with three cuttings are: Pasture or long-term stands one of the state's most important alfalfa diseases. Oneida 5.16 1 107 Southern Lower Michigan Winterhardiness is of primary imponance for PRRoccurs on heavy or poorly drained soils. Any Pioneer5246 - 4.10* 4.28 4.32 3 114 1st Cutting - June 1-5 Oate bud to early bloom) long-lived stands. Winterhardy varieties may be soil, however, when saturated during a rainy period Pioneer5262 - 5.74 4.34 4.16 3 112 Pioneer5364 - 4.26 1 117 2nd Cutting - July 10-20 (1110 bloom) slower to recover than moderately hardy varieties of seven to 10 days may result in severe injury, es- Pioneer5373 4.94* 5.23 4.20 4.19 4 107 3rd Cutting - August 25-0ctober 15 (1110 after a mid-September cutting. Compared to moder- pecially to one- to two-month-old seedlings. Pioneer5432 - 5.51 1 105 bloom to full bloom) ately hardy varieties, winterhardy varieties may flow- Anthracnose (AN). This disease, first found Pioneer5454 - 4.48 4.43 2 t 121 Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula er three to five days later in the first cutting. Winter- in Michigan in 1976, is becoming more severe each Saranac 5.63 4.02 4.02 4.21 4 109 :.lernaI (check) 4.84 5.27 3.83 3.71 3.64 5426H 1st Cutting - June 10-20 (late bud to early bloom) hardy varieties may be lower in yield than moder- year. It occurs during hot, moist summers and is Webfoot 5.15 1 106 2nd Cutting -July 25-August 15 (1110to 1/5bloom) ately hardy varieties in three- to five-year stands but most common in the southern third oflower Michi- Wl225 5.38 1 102 3rd Cutting - September 20 - October 15 (1110 are usually higher yielding after about five years, gan. The fungus infects stems and crowns and may WI. 317 5.'14 1 103 to full bloom) especially in nonhern Michigan. killsome plants. It is now recommended that only Varieties 9 14 Fow cuttings per ,... Select high-yielding winterhardy varieties anthracnose-resistant varieties be planted in Michigan. ~vgyieJd 5.07 5.49 Four cuttings per year is recommended for resistant to PRRfor long-lived stands (see table). Verticillium Wilt (VW). First detected in "Yield of this variety in this trial was obtained using experimental seed that may not give performance identical to the commercially the highest yields of high-quality alfalfa for three- to Varieties in dormancy groups 1 and 2 are more Michigan in 1982, VWhas not increased in severity availableseed. five-year stands in southern lower Michigan. Four likely than moderately hardy varieties (dormancy as expected. It is generally introduced with infected U Average yield of Vernal (tons hay per acre)for the five variety trials seededfrom 1989 to 1993. cuttings will usually produce 15 percent higher groups 3 and 4) to establish "permanent" cover. seed. It usually is not a problem until the third year, yields than the standard three-cut system and with Varieties with asterisks in groups 3 and 4 have yield- and then primarily in the first cutting. higher forage quality. Best results are achieved with ed higher than Vernal with similar persistence in the The following three tables contain the average excellent drainage and high fenility of phosphorous three- to six-year trials at Lake City or Chatham in hay yields for alfalfa varieties seeded at East Lansing, T4IIIIe 3 - Lah City avvrage IYy yields. and especially potassium as recommended by a soil northern Michigan. They are considered winterhar- Chatham and Lake City. Table 1 contains the yield tansperaae test. The cutting schedule for four cuts per year in dy enough for long-term stands because of good data from East Lansing in southern lower Michigan. Average hay yields (12% moisture) and the Southern lower Michigan is: survival at these nonhern locations. Short-term (three years) and long-term yields number of trials entered and percent Ver- 1st Cutting-late May toJune 5 (late bud to W...W'h..&.~"'falldonnancyratings (more than four years) are listed in Table 2 for nal for the alfalfa varieties seeded at Lake very early bloom) Fall dormancy ratings are determined by the Chatham in the Upper Peninsula and in Table 3 for City in northern lower Michigan between 2nd Cutting - July 5-15 (early bloom to 1110 amount of regrowth after a mid-September cutting. Lake City in northern lower Michigan. Individual 1989 and 1993. 3-year 6-year 5-year 4-year 3-year % bloom) The higher the rating, the more regrowth and, in trials are identified by the seeding year and yields Variety 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 No.VernaI 3rd cutting - August 15-25 (early to 1/10 bloom) general, the less winterhardiness. Non-hardy variet- are in tons of hay per acre (12 percent moisture). Action 5.63 1 101 4th Cutting - mid- to late October (1110 to full ies used in the West have ratings of 5,6 or 7. They Yield comparisons among varieties should be made Achieva 4.20* • 1 103 bloom; with little or no regrowth after cutting) are usually not hardy enough for Michigan, even for within the same seeding or trial.. .A1fagraze 4.68 1 102 .Asset 4.99* - 1 98 TItbIe 1- East LMIsing awrage IYy yields" tons per aav Belmont 4.50 1 98 Average yields in tons of hay per acre (12 percent moisture) for alfalfa varieties seeded in variety trials at East Lansing between 1989 and BreaK-Thru 5.40 1 97 Centurion 5.41 5.01 2 108 1994. Hay yields listed for trials seeded in 1989, 1990, 1991 and 1993 are three-year averages. Yields from the 1992 seeding are four-year CG 545 4.15 1 100 averages (1993-1996). Two-year averages (1995-1996) are listed for varieties seeded in 1994. Chief 5.02 1 99 CimarronVR - 4.71 1 103 3-year 3-year 3-year 4-year 3-year 2-year 3-year 3-year 3-y'ear 4-year 3-year 2-year 3-year 3-year 3-year 4-year 3-year 2-year Clipper 4.26 1 105~ Variety 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 Variety 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 Variety 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 Crown II 3.93 1 97 3324 6.93* ~orerunner 6.48* Pioneer5432 - 7.23 Dart 5.11 4.48 2 104 9323 7.85* - G 2841 8.47 6.76 7.72 - Prism 8.36* • Dawn 4.99 1 109 A29S 6.99* • G 2852 8.09 6.50 Promise 7.07 Defiant 4.77* 1 115 Action 8.00 G 2833 7.14 7.88 7.13 6.67 Proof 6.75* • OK 122 5.15 5.02 3.91 4.70 4 105 Accolade 7.69* - Genesis 7.94* - Quantum 5.94 OK 125 4.95 5.21 2 106 Achieva 7.69* 6.59* - GH7S5 7.55* - Quest 6.74 OK 133 4.08 4.33 2 102 AF 21 7.56 GH 777 8.04 6.99 6.44 Ramrod 7.78 - Dominator 3.98 1 98 Aggressor 6.91 7.88 - 6.92 GH 787 7.05* - Recovery 7.06 Enhancer 4.86* 1 117 Allegiance 8.17 6.90 GH 794 6.41* 5.83 RFV2000 7.85* - EVdlutlbi'i 4.87 1 117. Allegro 8.30* - GreenField 6.19 Rushmore 7.03 6.27 Excalibur 4.94 1 9~ AlPHA 2001 - 7.04* - Haymark 7.74 salUte G2841 5.77 1 103 Apollo Supreme7.81 7.16 7.87 - 6.05 Homestead 8.08* - Shield 8.08 G 2852 5.59 1 100 Applause 7.25* - HYGain 7.80* - Sterling 1C1630 5.58 1 100 Arrr1N 7.80 7.30 Hyland 7.74* - Stine9227 7.81* - let 631 4.92 1 118 Attainer 8.30* - 10620 6.70 Sure 8.06 - GH 747 5.23 1 94 Asset 7.95* 7.24* • 1C1630 8.50 7.75 8.69 7.53 7.30 6.67 SuperCuts Iroquois 5.67 5.28 5.18 3 106 Benchmark 6.82 1C1631 7.72 6.18 TargetII 8.91 laser 4.69* 1 113 Big Horn 7.11* 1C1636 7.92 Terminator 7.60 Magnum III 5.85 5.37 2 111 BH330 6.90 1C1645 7.41* 7.89 7.33 6.98 6.45 Thrive 7.17 Mag. D1WET - 4.19 1.03 Bolt Ml 7.84* - Innovator 6.42* Total 5.68* MagnumW • 4.76* 1 114 Callanan 501 - 6.74 6.90 Iroquois 6.34 6.30 6.88 - TridentII 8.11 Multipfser 4.86 4.94 3.95 3 100 Centurion 7.74 7.23 laser 7.93* • Ultimate 8.13 Oneida 5.64 5.16 2 101 Chief 7.73 7.48 legacy 6.85*- U1traleaf 87 • 6.94* • Pioneer5246 - 5.32* 4.23 4.68 3 111 Cimarron VR 7.64 7.fIJ - legenDairy 6.78* - Vector 7.48 Pioneer5262 - 5.60 5.29 4.83 3 114 CG 545 6.92 Magnum III 8.98 7.98 8.56 7.92 Venture 7.01* 7.94 • Pioneer5373 5.51* 4.99 4.78 4.37 4 102 Class 7.86* • MagnCim rv .. 1.45 - 6.76 Vernal 6.17 5.75 6.45 6.04 5.28 6.01 Pioneer5454 - 4.00 4.79 2 107 Clipper 6.63 Majestic 7.72 Viking 1 8.41* 7.00 6.24 Pioneer5432 - 4.99 1 98 Crown II 7.25 Medallioo 7.69 VIP 7.94 Pioneer5472 5.66* - 1 101 Dart 7.94 7.95 6.73 6.86 Milkmaker 7.01 Voyager II 8.83* - QUantum 3.94- - 1 97 Dawn 7.14 8.21 7.09 6.99 Multi Gem 6.01 Warnpr 7.35 Royalty 5.53* - 1 99 Demand 6.21* Multi King I. 7.57* 6.94 Webfoot 7.33 6.97 7.83 - Thrive 4.63 1 91 OK 122 7.33 8.42 7.07 6.91 6.05 MultiQueen - 6.76* - Webfoot MPR - 8.04* • 6.45 Ultimate 5.74 1 103 OK 125 6.ry} 8.20 • Multipfier 8.22* 1.58 8.29 7.22 6.88 'M. 225 7.49 Vernal (check) 5.59 5.08 4.57 4.07 4.16 54.69** OK 127 6.33* Multistar 7.ry} - Wl252 HQ • 7.10* - 6.08 VIP 4.99 1 89 OK 133 7.86* 7.02 6.75 6.35 Nordic 7.25* • Wl317 7.69 717 7.81 Webfoot 5.74 5.09 2 101 Dividend 6.57* • am 2980 7.70 - Wl320 7.69 7.24 Webfoot MPR • 4.71* 4.00* - 2 101 Dominator 7.77* 7.34* - 7.01 6.88 Oneida 7.43 6.50 Wl322 HQ 7.57* - 6.62 Wl225 5.14 t 92 Echo 8.00 6.86 7.89 6.70 Ovation 7.35* • 6.33 Wl323 7.48* - 6.68 - Wl317 5.32 4.85 2 95 Encc:R 8.04* - Pacesetter 7.93* - Zenith 8.16 6.57 6.53 Number ofVarietiest8 17 15 13 15 Enhancer 7.75* - Paramount 8.85* - varietieS 40 41 50 34 34 23 Average yiekf553 4.06 4.95 4.06 4.62 Err.y 7.73 • Pioneer 5246 • 8.15* 6.92 7.01 Avgyield 7.n 1.16 8.00 6.98 6.84 626 Evdutioo 6.75 6.20 Pioneer 5262. 7.97 8.26 - 7.04. "Yield of this variety in this trial was obtained using experimental ExcaIibur 6.83 Pioneer5364 - *Yield of this variety in this trial was obtained using experimental seed that may not give performance identical to the commercially seed that may not give performanceidentical to the commercially availableseed. Flagship 75 7.47* • Pioneer5373 7.84* 7.05 8.07 - 6.76 * *Average yield of Vernal (tons hay per acre)for the five variety availableseed. Rilt 7.30 7.20 Pioneer5454 - 7.58 6.93 - trials seeded from 1989 to 1993. 1~'ll[tt~~I~ll~ February 28, 1997 Michigan Farm News Classified Oats For Sale: You Can Save Big ProSoy@ ~vestock Oats Cleaned & Bagged PS 161, PS 181, PS 185 Bucks on QualiIV -tho-t VI ELD ANGUS & GElSVIEH: Breeding stock. Free delivery! $3.50 per bu .. Raymond Oates Allah Seedl A~ DDn.~rr1J@ { l\V ~C.Lj Inc. Border Collie Stock Dogs. Call today. 517 -286-6871 We didn' raise our prices when the price of Bordner Sturgis, Farms MI milk went up like manv of the other seed 1-616-651-8353 PROBLEM companies. Find out how we can sell superior ANGUS Bulls, heifers BEEF: and ~Mftl1C varieties and premium seed at low prices. CO'NS with cc:.lves Perforrmance test- . /& ANSWER: ProSoy@ ed, semen tested. Geerslon Seed FarRIS HAY AND STRAW FOR SALE: AuSa- Free delivery! anytime. Call ~eRa.5[[D ~A~PSMYRON EM GROUP II 1-800-843-oagO Youcan pav more1ir an adila seed, WANTED: Keegan Contact Hay Com- ble seed oats, test weight, purity and SHAGBARK FARMS ~ rRO.5[[O,~. -. pany, Emmett, MI germination tested. Alto, Michigan but vou will not get a bener aUallal 1-810-384-6620. Call Duane at Basel 1-616-868-6040 1-517 -734-3694. LLAMAS ARE THUST LIQUID GREAT, and now FERTILIZER, $2.60 they're affordable! PROBLEM a gallon, 8-20-4, These docile, intelli- ask about Somerset folzar feed for For Sale: gent animals wonderful make pets for ~vestock alfalfa, potatoes, hiking, packing, pic- JOHN DEERE 4250, small grains, vege- Ear Corn nicking, pulling tables and lawns. carts, or to just plain PUREBRED BOER TOP QUALITY HOL- C.H.A. Dyno-140hp, Call Paul, 8am- STEIN breeding age 4100 hours, very enjoy. Their wool is GOATS. MichFlock. 1pm. valuable and they Stud Service availa- bulls, from high pro- good, $27,750. 1-517-479.9356. ducing cow family. 1-616-979-2171. also make out- ble. standing guard ani- 612 North Madison, Top AI sires, $800- mals. Call for a visit Lapeer, MI48446. $900. START SOD FARM: 5' WHEAT STRAW: Brillion seeder, 5' today! 1-810-667-0169 Pasch F8I'mS Clean round bales. any time. 1-517-644-3519 gang Blitzerd mow- 1-616-677 -3309. $20 each. ers, Brouwer sod Ron & Nancy Laferriere. 1-517 -463-2846. harvester on a 3600 Laferriere LLamas Ford . diesel. Raymond Oates Marne, Michigan 517-286-6871 ~SYSTEMII Retiring. (Just northwest of 1-810-949-3111. Grand Rapids) JOIINSON INC. SUMMIT 34' steel LLAMAS: 12 ROW ORTHMAN GLEANER L-M 630, dump trailer, 4 axle, MICHIGAN CERTIFIED North American Sit- ,rw."UIIIIIW nauilil flat fold cultivator, low profile corn- one lift. Tubeless SEED: Bowers bar- ting Bull and Essex tunnel shields, beat head. Only used on Complete Grain System tires, air tailgate. ley, Newdak, Prairie bloodlines. Pet disc, large guide a total of 65 acres Excellent condition! oats, Felix soy males and weanling • Grain Bins • Hopper Bins coulter, down pres- since complete re- Call Pinconning, BAYSIDE SEED beans. females. Reasona- • Bucket Elevators • Dryer Service sure springs, high build. Excellent con- 1-517-879-2903. corn. All maturities! B & M SEED bly priced! clearance Danish dition $2000 or B.O. • Millwright Service • Crane Service Dairybrand alfalfa. 1-517-463-2846 Call for more infor- tine, with long tree. M F 1155 tractor, TWO 1000 BUSHEL • Airstream Auto Dryers • GSI Top Dry Bayside 169 soy mation and visit. Uke new! fully .e.quipped in ex- hopper tanks with beans. 1-517-645-2719. • Leg Towers/Catwalk Specialists Call Pinconning, cellent condition, ladders, bindaca- 1-517 -879-2903. B & M SEED Miller's UamaIand $8500. Tillage and tors, roller door on Potterville, MI trailer set up for 1-517-463-2846 bottom, 200' of 8" GEHL 1260 Auto- above tractor: Tri- NORTH COUNTRY spouting, 2-way Max chopper. Three axle equipment trail- CHEVIOT SHEEP. valves. Assortment years old, new kni- er, 24' steel deck The breed that of adjust-a-joint, 45 Michigan Certified Bow- FOR CURRENT LIST ves, 3-row 30" corn used to haul hay, thrives where oth- and 22 1/2 degrees, ers Barley Seed, of available Angus head, 7' hay head $2500. White 20' 30'x12" U- Trough 98% germ, de- ers survive. Large with water tank. field cult. hyd. fold- Cattle, write: Secre- meaty white face Good shape! Geil up wings and Mid- with drive and mo- bearded, excellent tary, West Michigan sheep, rams, ewes, Johnson System, Inc. tor, 56' leg, com- quality 1250 chopper. west leveler. $2000. plete with Harrington Seeds Inc., Angus Breeders, lambs. Marshall, III 49068 GMC truck, 350 585 36th Street 4-H projects, great Oliver 5-16 Hyd. re- distributor. All used Reese, M148757. Cummins air axle engine, with live set moldboard $1500. MF 21' fold- plow, equipment. Call Pinconning, 1-517 -868-4 750. SW, Grand Rapids, M149509. crossbreeding. 1-810-796-3533. 1-800-962-1495 tandem, 24' box up disk, $2000. Will 1-517-879-2903. with hoist and hay- give 20% discount age, tail gate with tarp, milker 20hp pump, U- Tile 275 on any tillage trailer tractor. bought 1 -517 -834- with or ALFALFA 70 pound bales. High HAY: 60- square mois- Alfalfa, Grasses and • CFM with stand. 2576. ture corn barley. Clover Seeds. Having discontinued farming and rented our larms, the following wiDbe sold at public auction on the 1-616-984-6378 or 1-517 -733-2782. farm located 2 mi. east 01 St. louis, MI on M-46, then take Bagley Rd. 3 mi. north across the Pine 1-616-984-2685. INTERNATIONAL Voyeager II Alfalfa $3.00 lib. River.Turn right (ne) on Pine River Rd., lollow the river's N bank 5 mi. to farm or from Breckenridge, 175 C crawler load- Idaho Gold $2.85 lib. MI take McClelland Rd. 5 mi. north then west on Redstone Rd., 3}1 mi. turn right (NE) on Pine River 300 GALLON Walsh er with 4 in one Rd. Follow the road 3 mi. to sale site. Follow auction signs. (Midland Co.) sprayer, 35' boom. bucket, cab, ripper. CaUFor Vernal $1.80 lib. Saturday, March B, "1997 Call 1-517-349- Excellent condition! 4379 after 6pm. Classifieds Call for prices on our other seeds 10:00 S.ITl. Call Pinconning, Raymond Oates Tractors: 1990JD 4455 MFWDTractor, cab, air, 18.4x42Raxle ciJals, 14.9x3Ofront tires, 2050 hrs.l 4000 BALES OF 1-517 -879-2903. 1-800-968-3129 517-286.6871 3 outlets, powershift,front weights., sharp; 1989JD 3155 MFWDTractor,caD,air,front fenders, good WHEAT STRAW: JD 146 LOADER, cond.!; JD 4520 cIsI. Tractor,year-round cab, 18.4x38axle duals, 3 outlets; JD 2020 dsl.Tractor,w/JD 16' Vandale silo 48 hyd.loader and mat. bucket (tractor & loader senas a package); 1981Case 4490 4x4Tractor, 3 pI. complete, $1800. unloader, Model 1000 PTO,23.1x30 single tires, c;uickcoupler,4 outlets. 1w/variflow, 4200 hrs.; Case 1030 Comlort 4020 fender mount- 1230 DA. 20' Mag- ing brackets, $100. FARM AUCTION King dsl.Tractor,WF,3 pt. 540 PTO; Ford 4000 dsl.Tractor, 3 pt., PS, PTO; IH 460 dsl. Utility Tractor, num silo unloader. Due to the death of my husband Vemon Starr, the following items will be sold to the highest T/A, WF, PS, fast hitch Combine: 1981 White 8900 dsl. 4x4 Combine, hydrostat, new 28x26 over- Power washer, 600 sized tires; White 706 6-row N com head; White 16' floating grain platform; JD 220 20' flex head wI 1-517 -269-8843 be- P.S.I., $125. Deer- bidder on the farm located 3 mi. east of Cedar Springs, MI on 17 Mile Rd., then 1Y.z mi. north on Myers Lake Ave. to farm (Kent Co.) white adaptor plate, header cart Machinery: JD 7000 8-row plateless planter, dry fert., cross auger, tween 6-1 Opm. field. insecticides, Irame mtd. no-till; Donahue 30' transport trailer; JD 8300 21-hoe grain drill, dbl. disc 1-517 -44 7 -3897. Saturday, March 15, 1997 openers, press wheels, w/seeder unit; JD 2800 6 bottom van-width plow, on land hitch, spring reset; BUTLER STORAGE 10:00 a.m. bins. 15' diameter JD 220 20 bi-fold wheel disc; JD 7-leg V-ripper, 3 pI.; Glenco 7-shank soil saver, trailer type; G1enco JD 1710 MULCH Tractors & Combine: MF 1105 Dsi. Tractor, cab, 20.8x38 tires, 3271 hrs., SN 74503; AC 18'soil finisher,hyd. lold, 5-bar spike leveler; Century 500 gal. go between cart, hyd. pump; CasellH with full floor, big tiller. 11 or 13 185 dsl. Tractor, 2 outlets, 3028 hrs., SN 17158; Case 885 dsl. Tractor w/Swartz hyd. 60 6-row stalk chopper, 30 acres on reconditioning!; Hardi 500 gal. tandem trailer sprayer w/4'l entrance doors, un- shank. Excellent loader (sells as package); JD 3300 Gas Combine, SN 798; JD 244 com head Machinery: boom, ag chem foamer; JD RM 4-row cultivator; White 378 8-row hyd. lold cultivator w/rolling shields; load auger, disman- shape! $3500 or New Holland 200 20' rigid hd. disc; (2) 1000gal. NH3wagons on Kilbros gear; (2) KB 200 bu. gravity CasellH 3440 round baler 4x5'; Gehl 2170 haybine; New Holland 892 forage chopper w/2- tled. make offer. row com & hay pickup heads; New Holland 790 tandem axle manure spreader; New Hoi- boxes wlhyd. lert. augers; (2) kb 200 bu. gravity boxes on JD 953 gears; (2) 12' field drags; BriDion14' Call Pinconning, 1-517 -662-6390 or cultipacker Hay & Forage Equipment New Holland 890 chopper wf3.row com head, T hay pickup, land 25 silo blower; Hesston pI. 10 stacker w/mover; GOOI 970 tandem self-unloading 1-517 -879-2903. 1-517-798-1581. elec. ctrt, NH3 cold flow attach.; New Idea 484 round hay baler (4 seasons old); JD 640 5-bar hay forage box; IH 400 4-row planter; Gehl125 grinder/mixer hyd. drive; Case 17 hoe grain drill LIQUID MANURE w/seeder; MF 5 bar hay rake; JD 1350-1450 5x16" semi mtd. plows; White 256 15' tandem rake: Hesston 1091 9' haybine; Kidd round hay tub grinder, 540 PTO; Hinniker leed cart w/scales FORD, NEW HOLLAND SPREADERS: wheel disc; JD gear w/J&M gravity box; JD gear wlflat rack; JD gear w/Parker 200 bu. box; Potato Equipment FMC 2-row PTO potato harvestor, pull type; lockwood 4.row potato planter w/ tractors and equip- dry lert., Admire applicator; lockwood 40' grader spand bin piler w/elec. drive; Ben PyIer 40' tele- New and used. 125 bu. gravity box w/gear; 150 bu. gravity box w/gear; JD 12' cultipacker; 4-row cultivator; ment from Symon's scoping bin or truck loader; Harrison 4-row potato cultivator; lockwood 48. sizer; lockwood sorting Balzer, Better-Bilt wheel drag; JD 3 pI. field cultivator woods 6'3 pI. blade; George White 3 pI. snow blower; table; Dilts Wetzel seed cutter; 2-head bagger; Rschbin bag sewer; 2 balance scales; 16' flat con- in Gaines. For 43 parts. UPS daily. 18' feeder wagon; feed wagon; 3 pI. snow blower, as-is; Grain Bins & Dryer. GSI6800 years your best veyor; false floor lor 42' van trailer Trucks & Trailers: 1983 IH 9670 Truck Tractor, tandem, 400 Also, grain dryers bu. grain bin w/unloader, aeration floor, fan, bin sweep; Brock 5-ton bin w/scales & unload- Cumm., 13spd., wet kit 1983 Chevy Co70dsl. SingleAxle Truck w/14' lockwood potato box w/grain deal for the long and handling equip- ing auger; GT 370 bu. grain dryer; GT 6x42' transport auger; Rotary screener w/motor pan,Allison auto.; 19721H 180 loadstar UveTandemTruck w/14' Lockwood potato box wIg rain pan, run! ment. Dairy & Feed Equipment: Quantity of round bale straw - (40) 1st cut 1000# round bales, 5x4 spd.; REO 8x8ArmyTruck w116'potato box w/grain pan; 6x6 GMCArmyTruck w/16' potato box Symon's HamIIDn Distrbding (15) 2nd cut 700# bales; Sunset 600 gal. s. steel bulk tank w/comp.; Surge pipeline milker w/grain pan; 1978 4'l Trailmobile Tandem Reeler Trailer wfThennal King dsL reeler; 1970 City 29' 1-517-271-8445, system w/4 claws & approx. 120' of 2" s. steel line; Patz 14' & 16' ring drive silo unloaders; alum. Tandem Dump Trailer w/extra 3rd axle & tarp Dozer, Skid Steer, Fork Uft: IH TO 20 dsl. Gaines 1-~~a?8070 Patz gutter cleaner w/340' chain, right drive; Surge alamo vacuum pump; Patz 30' belt Dozer, 13' blade, rops. ripper teeth; 5th wheel 15-ton dozertrailer 10'x26' w/ramps; Ford Cl-30 lP conveyor; Patz feed conveyor system; 50 gal. elec. water heater; round bale feeder; 4' calf Gas Skid Steer w/wide bucket; AC 3000# Fork lift pneumatic tires Grsln Setup: (2) Butler 20,000 feeder; 25 stall mats; 16 drinking cups; 18 freestalls; misc. metal gates; power washer; bu. bins, aerationlloor & fan; Butler 2000 vertical wet bin; Kansun continuous flow LP gas grain dfyer, water tanks; water fountains; ear tage & pliers; cattle trimmers; dehomers; castrators; elec. 3 ph. bin sweep; 6"x50' transport auger, 3 ph.; 8"x50' transport auger, PTO; 6"x40' transport auger; fencer; other items Misc. Farm Items: Pincor 16 kw PTO generator wlhookup; Murry 18 8"x4O'transportauger; 6"x6O'transportauger,5 hp, 1ph.; Grain setup located at comer of Magruder hp riding mower w/4S. deck; Sears rear tine rototiller; platform scales; FM radios include. 3 & River Rds., Midland Co. - will be sold at the conclusion of fann tools Mise. Farm Items: (5) Motorola MaxarFM radios, 1 base,2 handhekls, to be sold as pkg.l; 100 gal. pickup fuel tankw/elec. Motorola Moxy Mobiles, 2 hand helds, FM tower antenna; 3 pI. digger; 3 pt. sprayer; 5th pump; There will be a small jewelry wagon, so plan to attend on timeI wheel hitch for pickup Tenns: Cash or good check day of sale. Tenns: Cash or good check day of sale. No property removed from premises unsettled for. Doris (Vernon) Starr. Prop_ Not responsible for accidents. lunch & restrooms avallablel 15224 Myers Lake Rd., Cedar Springs, MI 49319 Pine River Farms For Information, Call 616.696-1858 For Information, Call 517-681-5184 YK RA AU TI NERVI Jim & Scott Sykora, Auctioneers, Clare, Michigan E, INC. ck1SYKORJ~ ~H£1~2~,~~i~nY~~E, ~ Oare, MichiQan INC. 517/386-2252 or 9694 - Fax 517/386-2246 ~ 517/386-2252 or 9694 -'Fax 517/386-2246 • ~~ll'I:::t'~ • February 28, 1997 Michigan Farm News Classified FARMER BANKRUPTCY Farm Auction ., Due to ill health and retiring from farming, the following 'Hill be I am reducing farming operations and wiNsell the following at public auction on the farm located 1 IMMIGRADON lAW sold at public auction on the farm located 11 mi. N. of Auburn, mi. west of Merritt, MI on M-46 then 4 mi. north to 4460 N. Fenmore Rd. (Saginaw Co.) Throughout MI on Garfield Rd. to Crump, MI, then 2 mi. W. onAnderson Rd. VVednesday, March 12, 1997 Piedmontese Cattle: and N. 1 ~ mi. to 1249 N. Carter Rd. (Bay Co.) 10:00 a_lTl_ Lean, tender, dou- Michigan and Ohio Saturday, March 22, 1997 Trucks & Trailers: 1962IH Loadstar 1600 tandem truck w/18' box & hoist; 1970 Ford LT9000 truck ble muscled, good 10:00 a.m_ tractor, 15 spd., 238 hp, as-is engine; Feteri 32' 2o-ton Lowboy trailer w/winch, folding tall Pickle calving ease. Quali- ty registered breed- lawrence G.Reinhold Tractors: IH 1086 0sI. Tractor; IH 1066 Osl. Tractor, Wilde Harvestors: Custom bllilt 4x4 6-row selt-propelled pickle harvestor, Siler Mfg. w/new JD 6 cyl. dsl. hyd. drive, Wilde concept; Wilde 3-row tractor mtd. pickle harvestor Beet Harvesting Equipment: ing stock. Also avail- able, embryos and Anornev at law mtd. 3-row pickle harvestor w/std. elevator and rear dump cart (tractor and pickle harvestor offered sseparate, then as a pack- 1994 Red River 630 N 6-row beet harvestor; 1980 Podgomik 12-row band sprayer, hyd. fold, 3 pI.; 1989 Alloway Topmaster 6-row beet defoliator Machinery: JD 12' dozer blade, will fit Cat Chal- semen. Redbird Farms 810-350-2250 age, whichever brings most); IH 756 Gas Tractor; JD 3010 Osl. Tractor,new paint, sharp!; MF 180 Dsl.Tractor; Oliver 1850 Dsl. lenger 75 series; JD 2810 6 bottom semi mtd. plow, vari-width; Haybuster H 106 Rock Eze rock picker; Westgo 6 row S-tine cultivator w/rolling shields; Hardi #1300 500 gal. tandem sprayer w/45' Lapeer, Michigan Tractor; JD 55 EB Square Back Combine Trucks-Excavator- boom; Shopbuin tool trailer; 1992 JD 1018 10' rotary mower; 3 flat rack farm wagons; Donahue 1-810-667-7389 Dozer-Trailers: Hydra Unit H 201 C Excavator;IHTD 18Dozer; 28'x9' transport trailer; Underferther 33' rolling harrow hyd. wing fold; set of 500 gal. saddle tanks for I• 1966IH 4070 Truck Tractor; 1970 Fruhauf 32' Alum. Tub Dump Magnum tractor; front mtd. 500 gal. tank; White 378 12 rowvert. hyd. fold cultivator; 1993 Sunflower REGISTERED POLLED Trailer,tight tri-axle; 1970 GMC 6500 DeadTandemTruck w/18' 421118'15 shank chisel ploww/leveling tines; JD 331 27' hyd. wing fold disc dual wheels; JD 3 pI. Hereford Herd Dis- Help Wanted steel boxand twin post hoist; 1962IH R-190 DeadTandemTruck 6' snowblower; (3) 1500 gal. poly tanks; 2 transfer pump; 1995 Orthman Tracer Guidance System; persal Sale: In- w/16'.wood box and twin post hoist; Fruhauf 42' Rat Bed Semi 1995 Navigator II Guidance System; older Clark 4000# forklift; 10,000 gal. fuel tank above ground; cludes some Rocky Trailer, ~ spread; 18 Too Tri-axle Low Boy Trailer, 20' Ma- Lockwood 835 6-row center delivery bean windrower green; 8 Holland transplanter units, each DAIRY FARM look- chinery: WMe 543 6-row Planter,dry fert.; IH 7204x18'Toggie Banner and Opti- 120 ACRE FARM: separate ing for experienced Trip Plows; Oliver565 4x1fj Plows; IH ConserTill1 o-toothTrailer mum breeding. To- NewaygoCounty. 4- • The following consigned by Larry, Brian, scon Reming: 1991 Case IH 7140 MFWD dsl. help, starting at Chisel PlOW; JD 400 6-row Rotary Hoe; Oliver 18' Spring Fold tal 34 animals. bedroom home with $625 per hour. Wheel Disc; KKK 18' 3 p!. S-tine Field Cultivator; Oliver 3x16. tractor, 14.9x28 front tires w/duals, 18.4x42" rear tires w/axle duals, 4 outlets, low gear reduction, Rye Hereford pool. Excellent soil, Semi Mtd. Plow; JD Spring Tooth Cultivator; KKK 6-row S-tine 6131 hrs.; 1974 JD 4230 dsl. tractor, cab air, quad range, 18.4x38 tires & axle duals; 1985 White Greenville area. Farm 95% tillable. Build- Cultivator; MF 13-hoe Grain Drill; JD 16' Transport ORA; 9' truck tractor, wet kit, 9 spd., Cat dsl.; 1978Thumb 32' steel dump trailer, tandem wl9' spread; 1-616-984-6378. Rogers City ings in A-1 condi- Cultipacker w/pup; (4) Flat Rack Wagons; JD Gear 2/125 bu. 1991 Thumb 28' steel dump trailer tight triaxle; 1992 Richardton dump cart #960; Allis Chalmers 1-616-984-2685. 1-517-734-3005 tion! $169,900. Call gravity box and hyd. fert. auger Beet Equipment: 1992A1loway 1500 13' chisel plow trailer type; Brillon 37' crowfoot hyd. fold-up cultipacker; 1992 JD 960 36' INDIVIDUALS for Mark Wentland, 2040 6-row Cultivator w/S-tine, Tunnell shields, beet discs; hyd. fold field cullivator walking tandem; 12-row modified cultivator; White 3712-row hyd. flat fold REGISTERED SCOT- BIG RAPIDS REALTY cultivator S-tine beet equipped; 1956 in!. flatbed truck; (2) Wilmar 600 s. steel big tire fert. custom harvesting Speedy 4-row Beet Defoliator; Farm Hand 808A 2-row Bee! TISH HIGHLAND CAT- 1-616-796-7856 Harvestor w/new chain; Farm Hand Beet Cart; 6-row Band spreaders; (2) Wilmar 600 steel big tire fert. spreaders TLE, breeding stock operation. Texas through Montana, Sprayer Pickle Equipment and Irrigation: AG Rain 90 TG ~ • Equipment owned by Telmark Inc.: Truck & Trailer: 1986 Ford LTL 9000 Truck Tractor, and semen for sale. mi. Hard Hose Traveler; 26 pes. 6"x30' Alum. Ring Lock Pipe; Visitors welcome! 1997 season. Must 400 Cumm, 10 spd., wet kit, 18F,44R; 1980 Dorsey 32' alum. Dump Trailer, tandem w/9' spread FEED AND GRAIN 25 pes. 2"x30' Alum. Pipe w/risers; Deutz 6 cyI. Osl. Engine wI Call evenings or be clean, honest, air lift Grain Setup. Grain setup installed in 1993 New: 1992 Beard Ind. Superb SO 750 LP store for sale in Berkley 6x6 pump; Pipe Wagon; Hardi 300 gal. Single Axle weekends. hard working with gas continuous flow grain dryer, 3 ph., 40 HP,fan; (2) GSI3700 bu. upright grain bins 15'x8 ring northern Michigan. Sprayerwl36' selt-Ieveling boom, manual control; JD 4-row farm background. Pickle Planter, 40" row; Holland 4-row Mechanical Trans- 45", ladders w/1 HP aeration fans; GS13700 bu. upright grain bin, 15'x8 ring, 45" w/ladder; 1-517 -543-7979. Includes inventory Westfield 10"x61' transport auger, 25HP, 3 ph.; Westfield 8"x71'lransport auger, 20 HP,3 ph.; Charlotte, Michigan 1-401-364-2468. planter w/canopy, 40" rows, dry fen. and equipment. Westfield 8"x41' transport auger, 7¥.z HP,;3 ph.; (2) 8"x16' augers w/5 HP, 3 ph.; 8.x32' auger, wI 5135,000. Lots of Miscellaneous Farm Items 7~ HP,3 ph.; Roto Phase HD 40 230V converter; Roto Phase HD 25, 230V converter; Motomco REGISTERED TEXAS LONGHORNS: Top 1-517-356-6317. Tenns: Cash or good check day of sale. 919 grain tester; scale thermometer; misc. elec. boxes; All above equipment sales subject to Kuehnemund Fanns Telmark Inc. approval quality and selec- Vaughn and Dave Kuehnemund, Props . tion! Breeding age GORGEOUS REMOD- • Consigned by Fred Siler 517.543-7085: IH 856 gas tractor, 4505 hrs., w/duals, 16x38, PTO. For infonnation. call 517-879-2233 or 3245 bulls, guaranteed ELED FARM HOUSE 2 outlets; IH 303 gas combine, bean special, 10ft. grain head, Martin Bean head; IH 4 row 100% calving ease. with acreage. Just (C::) SYKORA AUCTION SERVICE, INC. cultivator to fit H tractors, weed controls; IH 4 row bean puller to fit H tractors; H 2-14" bottom FARM DRAINAGE AND outside Bid Rapids. ~ Jim & Scott Sykora, Cows, heifers and trailer plow; JD 18 ft. drag; Innes 4 row w/conveyor; (2) 9" cultipackers; New Holland 56 rake EARTHWORK: ~ Auctioneers, Clare, Michigan calves available. Al- laser Construction. Fireplace, outbuild- ~ 517/386-2252 or 9694 ~ Fax 517/386-2246 Terms: Cash or good check day of sale. No property removed from premises until senled so, lean beef and ings, much more. for. Not responsible for accidents. Loader tractor available on site. Surface drainage, $189,900. skulls. Lunch & restroom available. farm lagoons, water Call Mark Went- 1-616-945-2153., VVm_Fleming, Prop_ i retention basins, land, TEXAS LONGHORNS building pads, ac- For Info, call 517-643~5879, 517-643-5870 or 517-835-5397 BIG RAPIDS REALTY BULLS: Three old, solid black and a yearling, year black cess roads, ways. Todd Haynes drive- 1-616-796-7856 General ck1SYKO~~ tH£1~2~,~~i~Y~~E, INC. ~ Clare, Michigan and white. Carson City y-- 517/386-2252 or 9694 - Fax 517/386-2246 Also, several bred 517-584-3265 FARMS AND LAND ARTHRITIS: heifers. throughout Michi- Call 1-888-556- Diamond 6 Ranch gan, agricultural 2017 toll free. Ask 1-616-642-9042 and recreational. for a free copy of Large parcels pre- the "Arthritis Formu- BUYING FARM LAND ferred. We have la". Learn how to and recreational buyers! treat the condition, property throughout Call Dan VanVal- not just the pain. northwest Michigan. EXPERIENCED Call Ron McGregor kenburg, Rural HYDRAULIC CYLIN- Michigan agribusi- at 1-616-943-7709 Property Specialist. CASH NOT OPINION GORGEOUS MALE DER and hydraulic STOCK-UP: TRAILERS: ness attorneys with for details. Faust Real Estate pump repair. Seal Sheepskin mittens, for quality tractors, BORDER COLLIE: Adrian Complete line of farm backgrounds. kits and chrome hats, gloves, slip- combines, heads One year, needs 1-517-263-8666 Avenger enclosed Knowledge and ex- work, all makes. pers, woolen gar- and round balers. herding or obedi- cargo units availa- perience in all farm Strawchoppers bal- ments, yarn. Cata- 1-517-439-2440 ence work. Pedi- ble at low prices. areas; restructure, Wanted: anced and rebuilt. log available! Preseason specials evenings. gree from quality stray voltage, bank- breeder, strong nat- Three serious Venture Tool & Bellalr's Hillside on snowmobile and ruptcy, estate plan- Metal' . Farms STANDING TIMBER ural instincts, pro- archers with ATVmodels. ning. EAST SIDE: Sebewa~MI AND VENEER: tective and loving. 75+ yrs. and TAG-A-LONG Thomas J. Budzyn- 1-517-883-9121 The Sheep Shed TRAILERS Black River Hat"d- $400 or best. ski, 43777 Grose- cumulative woods Inc. 8351 Big Lake 1-517-684-4314. beck Highway, Clemens, 48036. Michigan. Mt. hunting experience jAuctiOnS Mineral Gas/Oil: interested Owners Investor in pur- Road, Clarkston. 1-810-625-2665. 1-800-515-6846 517-659-3478 Munger, Michigan 1-810-657-9151 ,days. Call 1-517-845-3345 evenings. Visa/Master Card 1-810-463-5253. seeking highest chasing, producing WESTSIDE: quality hunting royalty income for Robert A. Stanina, habitat for lease. immediate cash. STRAW CHOPPERS: FREE HOME DElIV- 40 West Sheridan, Please Call SYKORA Prefer Antrim gas. We rebuild and bal- Fremont, Michigan, AUCTION SERVICE Other formations ERY!Simply the Tony Horvath ance. Some ex- 49412. considered. best! Complete changes. We stock Horse Feed. ELITE 1-616-924-3760. 313-847-7039 Call Jay, 1-800-968- chopper parts. ~ 7645. +, 10% or 12%. METAL ROOF COAT. ENGINE REBUILDING Dealer inquiries INGS: Heavy fibered ~ SAVE 75% ON our specialty. welcome! For infor- or white roof coat- Jim & Scott Sykora WORK CLOTHES! Auto- Truck- Tractor- mation or delivery, ings. H.J. Butzin. WANTED: 80-120 Good, clean, recy- Antique-Continental- acre farm, Ionia Auctioneers cled in very best Kohler-Onan-Wis- Mathie Energy Supply Call anytime, early or late. area. Young couple 6028 E. C%n ville quality. Money back consin engine deal- 1~~7340 1-517-777-9815. relocating due to off guarantee. Free er. farm employment Clare, Michigan 48617 70 years of service! brochure and urban sprawl 517/386-2252 or Suntex Recycling HART'S AUTO pressure at present Toll Free PARTS location. Contact 386-9694 1-800-909-9025 Cecil, OHIO Steve, 1-517-675- Fax 517/386-2246 24 hours-7 days. 1-419--399-4777 Main Dairy Holstein Dispersal 5472. 170 Head Having decided to discontinue dairy farming, the com- Conveniently located plete herd will be sold at public auction on the farm located 3 mi. W. of Winn, MI on Blanchard Rd., then * K AV to a1laruactions: Lease financing mi. S. on Woodruff Rd. and tum E. on Ward to end of AGRILAND S( ., Pigeon Forge &: Gatlinburg road to farm (Isabella Co.) Thursday, March 20, 1997 -- EXCHANGE t1P-- ~ • Kitchens. Fireplaces • Hot Tubs -Large Pool for equipment Service Agricultural 11 :30 SHARPI A Full No small items .. Attend on time" Starting with Dairy Cows Real Estate & Auction Company LOG CABINS IN THE Open Year Round Call Toll Free vehicles & Holstein Dairy Cattle Real Estate Auctions 120 Holstein Dairy Cows - 85 milking - 35 dry and due Montcalm County, Maple Valley & Winfield Twps. SMOKIES 1-888-200-0625 buildings soon - in all stages of lactation - bred for year-round for. FREE color brochure freshening - 21 fresh in last month - this IS a young 1000 acres tot. nSA of highly' productive potato • 100% tax deductible herd with many cows producing 85# plus - herd avg. 50# - most cows are calfhood vaccinated - milked in parlor and freestall housed - vet checked by Dr. Pohl DVM, Mt. Pleasant, MI - breeding info given sale day! Open Holstein Heifers ground wlirrigation. 200A pOSSible building parcels wlwoods & lake access/frontage, age & potato storage bldgs. Hunting/recreation parcels ~ Thurs 3/13/97, 1:01 pm 3 homes w/acre- r-----------, FARMERS I Livestock" commodity prices too law? I • fixed payments • min advance payment (20) Deacon to 300# Open Holstein Heifers I ·Cash flow too slow? I (30) 300# to Breeding Age Open Heifers Coral Comm Ctr, Coral, MI ·Mortgage payments and bills overwhelming? I ~ Note: Open heifers will be sold after dairy cows. Bay County, Garfield, Fraser & Pinconning Twps. I • Want someone who understands lenders? Cattle truckers will be on sne. Terms: Cash or good check day of sale. SOOA, 359 tillable offered in parcels. Highly pro- ductive farm ground, tiled. I ·Want someone to talk to your lender? • Do you understand your options with P.A. 116? I TElMARKINc. www.telmark.com Main Dairy"lnc. ~Tues3/18/97, 6:31 pm I· Do you need to restructure your farming business? I Lewis and Chad Main, Props. Charbonneau Hall, Pinconning, MI I • Do you need to consider changing your vacation? Wecan, we hwe and we do all of the above. I 800-451-3322 For info, call 517-561-5255, 517-561-2966 or 517-866-2166 (C) SYKORA AUCTION SERVICE, INC. Call today for a detailed sale packet! I Let us help turn your life around. I 517-336-1570 ~Jim 0--"'"' & Scott Sykora, Auctioneers, Clare, Michigan 517fJ8&-2252 or 9694 - Fax 517/386-2246 h ://www.arilandexchane.com L _C~I.!.. !:8~ct4~!t!!1~ _ .J OVERSEAS CANCELLATIONS Let Michiganls INVENTORY MUST BE SOLD! For Display Advertising Information largest agricultural HERITAGE STEEL BUILDINGS publication Call Josh Merchant. WE HAVE 5 MUL TI.USE BUILDINGS, work for you . 800-292-2680. ext. 6543 .... BUILDING SYSTEMS 800-643-5555 51 x 100, THAT WE SELL FOR $2.32/50. FT. Reach 9 out of 10 BUILD IT YOURSELF AND SAVE QUONSET ROUND STEEL ARCH farmers with us. 30 x 40 x 1O S4.189 50 x 75 x 12 $9.979 American Steel Arch Inc. ~" 40 x 60 x 12... $7,487 60 x 90 x 12 $13.198 Here are a few 60 x 60 x 12 $9.380 120 x 200 x 14-m2 S47.913 ""'" Commercial steel buildings featuring easy boll up assembly from _"USA. I I •~ ~ reasons ... I 'I' , • I ." • America's largest distributor. We have over 10.000 standard - • I I' " ./ Michigan's urgest sizes of shop. farm. industria1. commercial and mini-warehouse buildings. All are complete with engineer stamped pennit Ag Publication drawings. 20 year roof and wall rust warranty. Call us for a free information package and a quote on our component parts. ./ Circulation: :\ lini \\'ardlOlISl' Salr $9.999 Over 47,000 ./ Audited: Audit Bureau MICHIGAN FARM NEWS 111' , 1111' \\ Ilh 1~ IIllil' l'lllllpll.tl' \\ ith partilillm hI 1(1;lIlIIl'l.llhld;:.ll'i.IIl't of Circulations ./ Michigan Based Michigan Farm News HOMEOWNERS! 1995 DODGE SLT: Editorial has joined USAgnet, your one-stop Internet 4x4. 8800 GVW. V- ./ Michigan's Best Cost 10 engine, 4-speed per 1000 Ad Rates address showcasing ag c1assifieds! G living overdrive, automat- • from ic transmission. _.~£-. " ~:::: ...,:.::~~ 4'~ •••• ~#" ••• r~ Power everything, :..":f!H~~~~.Your classified line ads in ioaYCheCk • diff-Ioc, chrome "'W~~' wheels. Nice! We Buy WANTED STANDINGTIMBER: LOANS BY PHONE paycheck $19,000. Michigan Farm News Damaged Grain Buyers of timber of all types. Cash in advance! SAME DAY APPROVAL Call Pinconning, 1-517-879-2903. Placeyouf ~'-X"~". ~:;{""'''':->' A~~&r can now appear on the 1-517-875-4565 advertising with Internet! Buverand ask for Tim. Maple Rapids ' - Statewide Service - When contacting us and see the Ask our classified personnel - Call Toll Free - advertisers, $ellerol: Lumber Mill, Inc. St. Johns, MI resultsl for more information .Csshgratns 1-800-718-3738 tell them yOU. 800-292-2680, • Feed Ingredients " WANTED: saw their ad in ext. 6543 or visit our site at http://www.usagnet.com Old motorcycles, AAA MORTGAGE • MIRing quality snowmobile and off Michigan & FINANCIAL grains road vehicles. 1965 Farm News! lIceased ami bomlell WIllIover 20VIIn and older. Call JD at 1-517-676-0583. CORPORATION !!! loans by phone !!! For Display r---------------------------------, WANTED: Patz IIexperience Deadline for next issue is March 7. 1997 gutter Complete cleaner. or for Advertisi ng parts. Call 1-517- PROBLEMS WITH Information 800-818-8900 471-2614 YOUR LAND CON- TRACT? Call 1-800-968-3129 to Place Your .. Michigan WANTED: Agricultural Used irrigation Late payments? Call: Classified Ad Today! Back taxes? Prop- equipment, alumi- Commodities, num tubing, PTO erty damage? 9 of Josh Merchant or use the coupon below and mail or fax your Inc. 10 qualify for pur- pumps, hard hose and soft hose trav- chase. We- can 800-292-2680 classified ad to Michigan Farm News 445 North Canal help. Lansing, MI 48917 elers. Buy, Sell or 1st NATIONAL Ext: 6543 Open 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Trade! Call 1-800-879-2324. Buy Line/Daily News FAX: Mon.-Fri. Rain Control 1-800-339-9350 P.O. Box 6. Stanton, MI 48888 1-517-831-5063 /RIIIII~ Hay Place your ad for 6 months, get phone Classified A d Codes WANTED TO BUY: number or name in red. Front end loader with 2 way bucket Wanted Place your ad for 1 year, 1. Farm Machinery 10. Work W:1ntcd 20. Wanted To Duy for 8N Ford. Please get phone number or 2. Livestock Equipment 11. Agrtcultural Setvlces 21. Special Events call and leave mes- sage. ~ name in red and also :I. Farm Commodilles 12. Duslness Setvlces 22. RecreaUon 1-616-684-7257. save $1.00 per ad. 4. Seeds 13. Duslness Oppot1unlUes 2:1.FInancing ~ WANTED TO BUY: Standing timber. Call: Call 5. Livestock 14. Real Estale 24. Investors Wanted. G. Poultry 15.1\eal Est:lIle Wanled 25. Dull ding 1-313-429-4322. Raymond 1-800.968-3129 7. Dogs and Puppies 16. Eslate Sales 26. Lawn And G:uden WANTED TO BUY: WWII German and Oates for details 8. PonlesIHorses 17. Aucllons 27. Announcements US War relics, uni- 517-286-6871 9. Help Wanted 18. Anl1quesiCollectibles 28. To Give Away forms, flags, hel-. mets, knives, med- 19. General 29. Vehicles als, equipment, etc. Bernal Tolan, Name Phone ( ) _ 1-517-287-5183. R~aching over 47,000 farmers Address WANTED: Old gas station items. Gas each and every issue. City State Zip pump, globes, old signs. oil bottles For Display Advertising Information and cans, old air Call Josh Merchant, 800-292-2680, ext. 6543 Classified A~ Code Requested Number of Issues pumps. Call 1-616- 984-5183. Desired Insertion Date(s): Method of Payment Check $ (payable 10 MIchigan Farm News Classified) Visa Card Number Exp. Date _ Master Card Number Exp. Date Classified Rates - $8 for up to 24 words. 30 cents each additional word Write your ad here. Including phone numDer :md area code 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Wick Colllmns Are 9 10 11 12 Guaranteed For 50 Years. 13 14 15 16 WIck pressure-treated columns Integrity. And these colored panels 17 18 19 20 are backed for 50 years against are tough, full-hard base steel. decay and Insect damage. That That's why we sell WIck buildings. 21 22 23 24 gives you an Idea of how WIck To learn more about strong buildings are made. WIck buildings. contact us today. 25 26 27 28 They're constructed with roof and wall steel screw-fastened for added strength and structural @WiCk Buildings. 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 L Clrculatlon.over 47.700 In State Of Michigan ~ (illl-t: I~~:~ ~'J~llTr~ February 28, 1997 WeaJthJe'J ~ Michigan Weather Summary Escanaba Sault Ste. Marie lake City Pellston 14.8 11.6 18.6 15.2 -1.4 -1.8 0.9 0.5 1.70 2.35 4.29 3.14 1.77 1.77 1.77 1.77 Saginaw Grand Rapids South Bend Coldwater 21.8 22.8 24.2 22.6 0.4 0.7 0.6 -1.2 1.80 1.44 1.51 2.14 1.66 2.14 1.36 1.63 k Alpena lansing 0.11 17.0 -0.8 2.30 1.61 22.1 0.7 0.88 1.63 "..ai. 1 ~='dj •• !dd.i .J 1/16/96-2/15/97 Houghton Marquette Temperature Obs. Dev. from mean normal 13.6 12.9 0.2 1.1 A':1r::, [Inch) 2.40 3.21 [Inch) 1.85 1.85 Houghton lake Muskegon Vestaburg Bad Axe 17.0 23.8 20.2 19.3 -0.8 1.1 -1.0 -1.9 1.57 1.45 1.46 1.80 1.61 2.19 1.57 1.44 Detroit Flint Toledo 24.7 22.0 25.7 1.7 0.7 1.6 1.76 1.64 0.88 1.64 .2.20 1.64 Observed tOLlIsaccumulated from April!. Normals are based on distnct averages by Dr. Jeff Andresen, Agricultural Meteorologist, Dept. of Geography, Michigan State University C late January and early February across old much andofsnowy weather Michigan) continued including monthly total snowfall records at some northern se.veralduring new and western locations .. A return of strong low-level southwesterly flow led to much-above-normal temperatures and a major thaw by mid-February, however, which re- duced much of the snowcover that had accumulat- ed in southern sections of the state. Mean average temperatures for the previous 30-day period were generally near normal, with precipitation amounts varying from below to much above normal. New NOAA long-lead outlooks for March and for March to May both indicate an elevated risk of below-normal temperatures and for near equal prob- abilities ofbelow-, near., and above-normal precipita- tion. These outlooks are based primarily on a statisti- cal methodology that compares the evolution of the upper air jet stream configiration during the past four seasons with past historical temperature and precipitation patterns on the surface. In essence, the outlooks suggest that an up- per air troughing pattern may persist into the spring season across the Great Lakes and New England regions, possibly leading to a later-than-normal spring season, but also potentially keeping overwin- tering crops in dormancy longer and thus safer from any subsequent cold outbreaks. Before buying into the outlook above, it is important to remember that long-lead forecast skill ~\ .~:'¥.f~~@"<"<.:~>,~4ti1;ZlfX"~;~ <:, moving into the spring season drops off significant- ly, so forecaster confidence should be considered Farm tax laws are";~~prex~ .. -i~h is wh,&1EYoU need to tum low at best. • to specialists who woik~~!¥~!y' ~~:~gilcultural producers. Sheep center announces Our 80 years of experienceN~nas~helpedus understand the officers, hearings latest farm tax laws better than anyone. Our services include T ter's board ofSheep he National directors held Improvement Industry its initial orienta- tion meeting last week, elected officers and Cen- tax planning and tax return preparation, retirement and social announced public hearings to gather public input to help chart the center's future course to assist the security analysis and much more. Call us today. And let us sheep and goat industries. The center was established by the Agriculture begin saving you time and money. Department as a requirement of the 1996 farm bill and will operate a revolving fund that will finance projects such as new product development and processing facilities. The center will be initially 1-800-444-FARM .~.Farm funded with $20 million and an additional $30 mil- lion may be appropriated over the next 10 years, but beyond that, the center will have to become entirely supported by the sheep and goat industry. Credit ~~At the heart of a growing America... Services The center announced it will hold hearings in Columbus, Ohio, on March 27; in San Angelo, Texas, on May 6; and Salt Lake, Utah, on May 7.•