MICHIGAN FARM NEWS ..». .. ~ III> I!J= MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU October 15, 1997 Vol. 74, No. 17 ~r;ol~1 ICMPA and MMPA join forces in push for state milk order I,..j ith two large users of fluid milk now ViVj officially out of the voluntary state over-order premium superpool, the state's two largest milk cooperatives have teamed up to push for legislation that would require all han- dlers of milk to participate in a state milk order. In a statement to the Michigan Ag Commission on Oct. 7, MMPAPresident Elwood Kirkpatrick explained the importance of requirement for pooling the over-order premiums. "The prob- lem in the superpool is that it is voluntary in nature," he explained. "It does not have the enforcement of the Federal Order as far as par- ticipation and pooling. Recently, two bottling plants announced withdrawal from the super- pool. Dairymen who ship to plants that are not part of the superpool- but which have a very high Class I use - have a marked advantage. "Dairy farmers in Michigan produce about 5 billion pounds of Grape A milk annually," Kirk- patrick added. "Consumers in Michigan drink in fluid form about 2 1/4 billion pounds each year- someone then must handle and process the milk in excess of the fluid requirements and must maintain More than 180 FFAmembers recently attended the Michigan Association of FFA'sMade For Excellence workshop, sponsored by the where with all to balance the needs of the Class Detroit Edison. At the conference, the Michigan FFAFoundation announced it had successfully matched a $500,000 grant from I markets from day to day. the State of Michigan, therefore raising more than $1 million to fund the foundation's Vision2000 campaign. Vision2000 will "During this past year, MMPAdelivered fund FFAprograms and bring agriscience and natural resources education to all of Michigan's schools. 700,000 pounds of milk to one of our bottling customers on many days, to meet that plant's needs for Class I milk. On other days, like Muskegon County looks-to CDIER SIORY Fund-raising drive weekends and holidays during the year, no shipments were ordered by the same plant. squeezeprofits from gives FFA a million- The milk that was not needed on those days had to be diverted to a manufacturing plant," Kirkpatrick continued. ''The dairy farmers who cranberry production do/lar boost ision2000 is no longer a vision ... it is County commissioners support further from other areas of the county. The water that aaually reality, thanks in no small part to the produced the milk that was diverted still must meet the Grade A requirements and the milk must be available for the Class I market on other days. Thus, it is only equitable that the Class I premium be shared among all farmers F . investigation into a large-scale cranberry- growing and processing operation ittingly, a creek running through southern Muskegon County is named Cranberry would be used to replenish the reservoirs would not even come from water that came off those fields." Economic development possibilities "We got looking at the site and realized there state of Michigan and the generous sup- port of Michigan industry and individuals. In a historical move, the Michigan FFAfoun- dation raised enough money in its Vision 2000 cam- Creek. was an opportunity to do economic development paign to match a special $500,000 grant issued to rath~r than being paid to those farmers whose Why? Because it runs through the site where a for Muskegon County, while maintaining produc- them from the Michigan Department of Agriculture milk physically gets into the bottle." team of experts have formulated a plan to produce tive farmland, Skjaerlund added, even to add value (MDA) The spectacular part about the $1 million ICMPAPresident Bob Naerebout added his 1,000 acres of cranberries and eventually construct to that land from the standpoint of the county- raised is the final $147,000 was raised completely OIganization'ssupport by explaining their actions a processing plant on property located at the as an alternative to an industrial park that during the month of September. over the CO\IDie of the last two months. "At our Sep- Muskegon Wastewater Treatment facility. would've wiped out probably the best site in Mich- "Vision2000 has been an initiative of Gov. tember board meeting, we moved to withdraw from As part of its long range plan to add further igan for cranberry production. '0 Engler and MDA,"explains Bob Craig, MDA'sOffice the pool, but at that time we didn't have enough profitability to the land base surrounding its waste- "The site has very sandy soils that are naturally of Agriculture Development director. "When we informatio~ to make a final decision and had to water treatment facilities, the Muskegon County low in pH with a high water table," explained Skjaer- found there were going to be dollars in the agricul- quickly submit our withdrawal in case the pool col- Commissioners began searching for a suitable use lund. "These are ideal conditions for growing cran- ture and equine development fund that were going lapsed We no boger consider ourselves with~ for the more than 1,800 acres months ago. berries - a flat topography that's currently being to lapse, we quickly began to put things into motion from the pool," Naerebout added. "We're in as long "This one site was being proposed as part of farmed, which m~ns that there's zero state or fed- for use in Vision2000. as the voluntary superpool is together." an industrial park," explained Dr. David Skjaerlund, eral wetland permits needed." . "It was exciting to have a total of $500,000 What the cooperatives propose: "We are executive director of the Rural Development Coun- At the Sept. 25 meeting of the county commis- offered up from the public," he adds. "But the re- suggesting an initial dass I price of $1.00/cwt. cil of Michigan. "The Muskegon County commis- sioner's Community Development and Strategic quirement was that there had to be a one.to-one over the Federal Order Price," explained Kirk- sioners wanted to increase jobs and to look at in- Planning Committee, they enthusiastically endorsed match in total pledges." Continued on page 5 dustrial processing. Phase three of that industrial the idea of proceeding with the further research 'The money from MDAwas secured at the park would've taken this 1,800-acre site." into the site and its feasibility for cranberry produc- beginning of September," explains Jack Laurie, pres- "It does have certain complications that would tion. Eventually, planners would like erect a pro- ident of the Michigan FFAFoundation, when we have to be overcome before we'd actually do it," cessing plant on the site to handle the estimated were sure that $500,000 could come within this explained Tim Westmann, Muskegon Wastewater 1,000 acres of cranberry production. budget year - giving us our 3O-day September chal- facilities manager. "But it doesn't mean there will be According to Skjaerlund, the initialreport by the lenge to match it." application of wastewater to grow cranberries." steering committee is just the beginning of a decision "We were pleased to see that the state of According to Skjaerlund, there is sufficient water to bring cranberries to Muskegon County. Before the Michigan found a way to make public dollars avail- through the county drain system for use in the cranber- firstspade of dirt is moved for the cranberry beds, able to help us do the things we do for young peo- ry beds. "We're not using any water that comes out of derailed analysisof the site needs to be done. ple through the FFA,"explained recently retired the wastewater facility- this is allsurface water from "We put together an initial feasibility proposal state FFAadvisor Rich Karelse, now volunteers with other ditches, drainage ditches in the area that come Continued on page 4 Continued on page 4 News in Brief 2 Market Outlook 6 Weed Strategies 14 Capitol Corner 3 Neighbors unite in time of need 8 Equipment leasing offers advantages 20 Muskegon County looks to squeeze Business Strategies 10 Hunter, landowner cooperation and profits from cranberry production ..... 4 coordination crucial components for Weather Outlook 12 MMPA President Emeritus Lake passes sucessful whitetail hunt 16 Precision Agriculture 13 Discussion Topic 17 away at age 82 5 Sell products and services in the Michigan Farm News classifieds-Page 18 Ilffitt:I~~I~'13~ October 15, 1997 Nevus Foods Regulation, which assesses the safely of new rypes of food and requires those significantlydifferent from conventional foodsruffs to be dearly labeled. F Reagan's ranch may become park Ormer President Ronald Reagan's ranch in agan) loved this. It's beautiful up here," Wilson in Brief Commission spokesman Jochen Kubosch £old a news briefing that beginning Nov. 1 the Novel Foods Regulation would also apply £0 products that were on the market before the Rancho del Cielo, Calif., which was put on the market more than a year ago, may be sold for $5 million lO the Interior Depanment, which would then give the property £0 the state of California for said while lOuring the ranch. "It would be a shame if this weren't made available lo the pub. lic because it does say a hell of a lot about Ronald Reagan." regulation existed. The heated debate in Europe use as a state park. "I can't envision any opposition," said EU mandates biotech about the porential health risks of biorech food Under the proposal, California would op- House Appropriations Interior Subcommittee labeling products has caused tension with the United erate and maintain the ranch with $4 million in Chairman Ralph Regula (R.Ohio), whose panel T he European Commission said recently that foodsruffs produced from genetically modified soybeans or com would have to be labeled as such States, a major exporter of genetically modified corn and soybeans £0 Europe. Austria, Luxem- private money being raised by the state's Gov. Pete Wilson (R). is expected to approve a grant for the purchase soon. "I think President Clinton and the Con- bourg and Iraly earlier banned the imporl of "This is a great place ... .I can see why (Re- gress will be very supportive.". beginning Nov. 1. The commission said it was bringing genetically modified corn in defiance of a com. these produClSunder the European Union's Novel mission ruling that they were safe .• White powder anchors farmland soil Fed-up seed companies begin cracking down on I rrigationwater coursing down farmland furrows takes little ifany topsoil with it if farmers careful- that just one ounce of PAManchors up £0 1,000 pounds of lOpsoil. Sojka and Lentz say water-soluble 'brownbagging' operations Iyadd a white powder known as a polyacrylamide- agricultural polyacrylamides are a safe, convenient or PAM-to the water. weapon for fighting erosion. 5 eed ~ompanies t~at invest mi~lio~sof dol~ lars mto developmg greater Yleldmghybnds or seeds with traits that combat pests are fed up with a " "Our strategy is lOget people £0 understand the law, said Wayne Hoerner, Asgrow sales director. "A seed company has to get a return on its investment The idea is nor new, but extensive outdoor tests by scientists with USDA'sAgricultural Research The prescribed rate lOapply PAMis 10 pans per million. That is a tablespoon of the compound cus£Omknown as brown bagging - saving seed from Without rules, there would always be a temptation £0 Service (ARS)were instrumental in garnering regu- for every 750 gallons of irrigation water until the the previous harvest and reselling under generic go back lO the tradition of brown bagging soybeans." latory approval for PAM.Within the past three years, first of this water reaches the end of the furrow. The titles. The companies are targeting farmers and dis. One rumor circulating in the Midwest is that 13 western states have okayed on-farm use of water. scientists' new assay for measuring PAMresidues in tribulOrs who sell federally protected varieties with- second generation Roundup Readysoybeans - a vari. soluble, negatively charged polyacrylamides. runoff water shows that more than 99 percent of our permission from the seed manufacturer. ety resistant lOthe herbidde Roundup - rum black if Tests by ARSscientists Robert E. Sojka and the compound, when properly applied, remains on A case in federal COUrl,Asgrow Seed Co. vs. allowed lOmarure. Monsanto, the maker of Roundup Rodrick D. Lentz at Kimberly, Idaho, have shown the treated field and biodegrades .• Neimeyer Trac£Orand Farm Supply Inc., is proof and the developer of the resistant beans, denies the that the seed companies are serious about cracking claim, but skeptics say it could be a way for MonsanlO Enviro groups challenge genetically altered crops down on brown bagging. FDA pushed on beef irradiation to identify producers using brownbagged seeds .• issue L ed ~y the Sierra Club and G~eenpeace Inter na-uonal, a group of 31 environmental groups has asked the U.S. Environmental Protec. impact statement in 1995 when it approved the use of the altered plants. AI Heier of the EPAsays the agency wasn't required £0 provide such a tion Agency to withdraw the approvals of corn, document. He says the EPAwas only required to I owaRepublican Rep. Greg Ganske recently introduced a bill that would force the Food and Drug Administration to approve the use of irradiation "There is ample evidence that it kills patho. gens and promotes health," Ganske said. FDAhas already approved irradiation for use cotton and potato plants that are genetically altered £0 resist pests. determine whether the plants presented an un- reasonable risk. He also said the EPAworked technology to control pathogens and other harmful on poultry, pork, spices and seasonings and food The groups said the EPAwas guilty of "gross closely with the Agriculture Department and the contaminants like E coli in the nation's beef supply. manufacturers see irradiation for beef as a plus. negligence" in approving the genetically altered Food and Drug Administration before approving FDAhas balked at approving the safe technique since Under the Ganske proposal, irradiation use would crops. The groups also threatened to seek relief the crops. it was first proposed in 1994. be voluntary .• from the courts if the EPAdoesn't comply. The Clinton administration is a strong pro- The EPAdidn't provide an environmental ponent of genetically altered crops .• The age of driverless tractors? Farm Bureau to support fast-track legislation A band of res~archers at Stanford University are developIng a method to steer a John Deere trac£Or with the help of Global Position lite-steered trac£Orsis that they can drive straighter than humans. They also daim the automated vehicle can do its job at times when mere mortals can't - at T he American Farm Bureau Federation board of directors has thrown its suppon behind legisla. track authority centered on the proposed phase.out of the soil fumigant methyl bromide System satellites. While satellites are widely used night, in the fog, and during dust Storms. GPS signals, tion authorizing fast-track trade negotiations. "Weare and the need for additional personnel for both for location devices, like mapping systems in they say, can reach the tractor through fog and night. satisfied that both the administration and the key com. the Foreign Agricultural Service and the Ani- rental cars, so far the technology has not been fall,and thus make farms more efficient. minees in Congress have improved the fast-track legis- mal and Plant Health Inspection Service here applied £0 steer any consumer vehicles. The col. "Farmers are very heavily involved in GPS !ation by addressing specific concerns we have raised," and abroad to ensure that trade conflicts, laboracion of Deere, che world's largesc farm technology," one researcher explained. "They 31- said AFBFPresident Dean Kleckner. mostly involving health standards, are resolved equipment maker, and the Stanford researchers, ready use GPS lOplot contour maps of their fields Those concerns, he said, include the more quickly. could create the first such application. and £0 do imaging of the growth pauerns of their need to reduce foreign competitors' tariffs and Kleckner said that agriculture's trade is. Researchers, who apparently aren't concerned fields." Despite the possibilily of being replaced in subsidies prevent barriers to biotechnology; to sues have been recognized in the pending fast. about alienating farmers who rake pride in their trac. the tractor seat, researchers say farmers appear reform state-trading enterprises; to eliminate track legislation but emphasized that some cur- tor-operating prowess, sayone selling point for satel. receptive to the idea of a remote-driven trac£Or.• unjustified sanitary and phytosanitary restric- rent trade disputes are due to enforcement tions; and to improve dispute settlement pro- difficulties with existing agreements. cedures, especially as they relate to perishable "Our trading partners are carefully watch- Countrymark announces new president and CEO commodities. ing this process and we must not allow our C ountrymark Cooperative, Inc., recently an- nounced that David H. Swanson, president and chief executive officer, has resigned effective large on the Countrymark Co-op board of direc. tors. Stroburg is also active in the National Coop. erative Business Association, the American Egg "The legislation being considered by committees in both houses is not perfect but farmers and ranchers to again be subject lo unfair practices that may result in adverse eco- improvements have been made since its intro- nomic consequences," the farm leader said. immediately in order to pursue orher interests. Board, the Avian Disease Task Force, and has been duction and we will keep working with mem- "Farm Bureau has always been a strong Countrymark Co-op appointed Jeff Stroburg as involved with the Michigan Allied Poultry Indus. bers of Congress to ensure they are aware of supporter of free trade. We are urging Con- president and chief executive officer. tries. He received his bachelor's degree from Iowa agriculture's concerns," Kleckner asserted. gress to keep agriculture in mind as it consid- Urban Mescher, Chairman of the Board of State University. Additional concerns discussed by the ers fast-track so that we maintain our position Countrymark Co-op, said, "We regret the loss of Countrymark Cq-op markets food production AFBF board before it voted to support fast- as the world's largest agricultural exporter." • the services of David Swanson, but we are confi. supplies and services through 140 member co-ops dent that Jeff Stroburg can provide effective lead- in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. Countrymark Co-op ership for the company." provides 140,000 farmer owners with products and Stroburg has served the co.op system for 16 marketing alternatives in the areas of livestock pro- AGRO-CULTURE years, most recently as Member co-op manager of Hamilton Farm Bureau Co.op, and as direc£Or-at. Minnesota goes to year-round duction and nutrition, crops, energy, and grain marketing .• ethanol UIIIII. Puts the Go in Growl FERTILIZERS M innesotawillbecome the firststate to reo quire that gas stations dispense erhanol-blend. ed fuel year-round, not JUStin winter when carbon monoxide emissions are the highest. State officials there say the move will significantlyhelp the state's air qualily and give the local economy a boost. • Call for your FREE CATALOG AND RESEARCH BOOKLET "96" Missouri's St. Louis stockyard faces end O m.cials at ~ational St?ckyar~s, i~ NatiO~al City, outSide St. LOUIS,say lime IS running and other terminal markets thrived in the age of smalllivesrock farms. 800.678.9029 out for the facility and it will close at the end of Huge meatpacking houses that deal directly the year because of declining volume. The stock. with hog farmers have eliminated the need for the Machinery yards used £0 be big business, processing up to stockyards, and the National facilily has seen its Land Cost 15,000 hogs a day at times. But the srockyards numbers drop to 800 to 900 hogs a day.• \ / The Michigan Farm News (ISSN:0743-9962) Is published twice per month except In the months of November. December. ,, Best Seed \ / / Best Return AGRO.CULTURE June and July when only one Issue Is printed. 8S a service to regular members. by Michigan Farm Bureau. 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Michigan 48917. Member subscription price of $1.50 Is included in annual dues of Michigan Farm Bureau regular members. Additional subscription fees required for mailing Michigan Farm News to nonmembers and outside the continental U.S.A. Periodical postage paid at lansing. Michigan. and additional mailing offices. Best Weed Control , \ \ / / / Letters to the editor and statewide news articles should be sent to: Editor. Michigan Farm News, Post Offke Box '- / / 30960. lansing. Michigan 48909-8460. POSTMASTER - Send address changes to: Michigan Farm Bureau Post Office Box 30960, Lansing. Michigan 48909-8460. ' / Editorial: Dennis Rudat. Editor and Business Manager; Thomas Nugent, Associate Editor. / Design and Production: Dan Stiles. Contributor: Sue Stuever Batte!. AdvertisIng Sales Representative: Joshua Merchant. Offlc~rs: ~sldent, Jack Laurie. (us City; Vice President, Wayne Wood. Marlette; Third Member. Jan Vosburg. Oimax; Administrative Director, Chuck Burkett Treasurer and Chief financial Officer. Tom Parker; Secretary. David VanderHaagen. Agro-Culture Directors: District 1. Jim Miller, Coloma; District 2. Blaine VanSlcJcle. MarsMlI; DIstrict 3, Michael fusilier. Manchester: Liquid Fertilizers District 4. Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5. Alan Gamer, Mason; District 6. Wayne Wood. Marlette; District 7, RicJcJohnson: Leroy; District 8. Don Sutto, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch. Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes. West Branch; P.O. Box 150 DIstrict 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At.Large: Jack laurie, Cess City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jan Vosburg, Olmex; Judy 51. Johns, MI 48879 Emmons. Sheridan. Promotion and Education, Merlann Keinath, Deckerville; Young Farmers. Jeff Horning. Manchester. .1~'JI~~~r~!lfJ October 15, 1997 Capitol For more information legislative topics in the on the Department of Labor from proposing any er- gonomics regulation in fiscal year 1997-98. Since both the House and Senate are in agreement on reaching a compromise on other differences be- tween the bills. Farm Bureau supported the ban on OSHA Corner Michigan Farm News, call 800-292-2680. the matter, it should be retained by the Confer- ence Committee, which will be responsible for NATIONAL issuing an ergonomics standard. MFB contact: AIAlmy, ext. 2040. Production expenses Animal Agriculture Reform Act A bill known as the Animal Agriculture Re- form Act is being introduced by Sen. Tom nure may be applied to land only if nitrogen or phosphorus levels in the soil following the appli- T he Internal Revenue Service has proposed changes in the uniform capitalization (UNICAP)rules that apply to the tax treatment by costs of clearing, leveling and grading land; drill- ing and equipping wells or acquiring irrigation systems; seeds; seedlings and budding trees; and Harkin (D-Iowa). The bill is designed to set min- cation of the animal waste would not be in ex- farmers of preproduction expenses. The rules de- acquiring animals. imum national environmental standards for the cess of the levels necessary to obtain optimum termine if preproduction expenses can be deducted IRS is now proposing that affected farmers also handling of animal waste from livestock feeding yields for the crop or cover grown on the land. immediately or whether the expenses must be de- capitalize developmental expenses which include operations. Major provisions of the bill are as All sources of nutrients, including commercial preciated over the life of the plant or animal. the costs of irrigating, fertilizing, spraying, cultivat- follows: fertilizers, must be taken into account when de- UNICAP rules apply to farmers who grow ing, pruning, feeding, providing veterinary services, Require animal waste management plan termining the maximum amount of animal waste plants with a preproduction cycle of more than rent on land, and depreciation allowances on irriga- The requirement for a plan applies to all that may be applied. two years and to producers of plants and animals tion systems or structures. operations that produce 3,200 market hogs an- Hold animal owners responsible for waste who are required to use accrual accounting. Un- The comment period on the proposed rule nually or comparable amount of other types of Animal owners and operators of livestock der current IRS rules, affected farmers must capi- changes ends Nov. 20. livestock or poultry. These livestock and poultry and poultry operations over the bill's threshold talize prepatory expenses which include the MFB contact: AI Almy, ext. 2040 .• operations must operate under a plan submitted to USDA for approval. The management plan will are responsible for compliance with the manage- ment plan. An animal owner whose animals are t-.,;~,.=t include: raised in multiple openltions is also covered by Reduction of truck weights • Specified methods of minimizing soil loss, the program if the total number of animals is water pollution and odors • Practices for operation, monitoring, mainte- above the threshold. In addition, contracting or similar arrangements will not exempt animal R ep. Burton Leland (D-Detroit) has spon- sored H.B. 4613, which would reduce truck weights from the current truck weight stantially increase production costs to farmers. In addition, research from such groups as the University of Michigan Transportation Research nance and inspection of animal waste storage owners from the requirements of the bill. standard of 164,000 pounds to 80,000 pounds Institute indicates that heavier trucks do not facilities Require treatment of excess waste. gross vehicle weight. Rep. Leland recently cause more damage than 80,000-pound trucks. • Procedures for the handling, transportation, Animal waste that cannot be applied to completed statewide hearings on this bill and No research to support a reduction in truck application and treatment of animal waste cropland in accordance with the bill's environ- could attempt to move the bill from the House weights has been presented. • Technical specifications for the design and mental requirements, or otherwise productively Transportation Committee. MFB position: MFB opposes H.B. 4613. construction of containment systems used in an approved manner, must be treated in Any reduction in truck weights would sub- MFB contact: Tim Goodrich, ext. 2048.• • Contingency measures to contain accidental accordance with federal and state human waste waste spills. treatment standards. ~ "'i j ':'1. ~- ~ Require strict standards for earthen Farm Bureau opposes the bill because it manure lagoons would add another layer of federal bureaucracy Passengers in the back of a pickup All new lagoons must meet strict technical standards to prevent leaks and spillage of animal to existing federal/state water regulations, would place Congress in the business of managing farm R ep. Deb Cherry (D-Burton) has introduced H.B. 4255, which would ban riding in the back of pickups except for military, to be transported in the back of a pickup. Currently, H.B. 4255 is in the Senate Transpor- tation Committee. waste. Existing earthen manure lagoons would production practices, and would redirect valu- be given a phase-in period to meet appropriate able USDA resources away from providing techni- parades and emergencies. Further House amend. MFB position: Farm Bureau does not oppose. standards. cal expertise to policing environmental stan- ments prohibited anyone under the age of 16, Action needed: None Prohibit nutrient overloading of soils dards. but did allow farmers and construction workers MFB contact: Ron Nelson, ext. 2043.• Under an approved management plan, ma- MFB contact: AI Almy, ext. 2040 .• Petoskey bypass Ergonomics issue S en.Harry Gast (R-St.]oseph) has sponsored S.B.251 ($02)which, as substituted, would pre- Petoskey, Reson Township, and Bear Creek Township. MFB position: MFB policy states: "Every L ast year efforts by the House of Represen- tatives failed to continue a ban on the be sufficient to trigger the draft standard's requirements to identify an ergonomic hazard, vent any monies from being appropriated for the pro- posed Petoskey bypass until the MichiganDepartment effort be made to select alignments which preserve productive farmland." Occupational Safety and Health Administration require efforts at remediation and impose an (OSHA) proposal to govern workplace practic- obligation to make constant efforts at identifi- of Transportation (MOOT) and all affected localgov- Status: The bill passed the Senate 20-16. It is es that may lead to "ergonomic injuries." Ergo- cation and remediation. ernments have agreed on the final location. This bill now in the House. nomics, refers to any workplace factor relating Medical experts who treat and study ergonomic would require agreement between MOOT,the Cityof MFB contact: Tim Goodrich, ext. 2048.• to repetitive motion, working in hot or cold injuries such as the National Institute of Arthritis, conditions, exerting force, gripping objects, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, and the American lifting objects, climbing, stooping or bending, working in awkward positions, use of vibrating tools or any number of other conditions that might be encountered in farm workplaces. The ergonomics standard partially drafted by OSHA in 1995 and 1996 was very vague in Society for Surgery of the Hand admit that medical and scientific knowledge have not advanced to a point where a comprehensive workplace rule can be issued. The consequences for farmers are obvious. Both the House and Senate have now passed separate appropriations bills for the Labor Depart- (f MFiiNJ RADIO NETWORK Serving Michigan farm families is our only business what it would regulate and enforce against employers. For example, lifting a 35-pound weight once during an eight-hour shift would ment and Human Health and Services Department for the 1997-98 fiscal year that began Oct. 1. Both bills contain identical language, which prevents 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 in Michigan. 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WKJC FM Tawas City 104.7 12:40 pm Youwork hard for your moneyso make WLKM Three Rivers 1510 5:45 am 12:15pm your next investment work for you. WTCM Traverse City 5:45 am 11:10am K.A. HElM ENTERPRISES 580 WedgCorbuildingsystemsbecauseyou deservethe best. (810) 798-8337 Visit our web site at: www.mfrn.com LD I[~: I C!YJ:fi!) [;lillRjJ ~ October 15, 1997 W:'ll-~ Muskegon County looks to squeeze profits from Drain Code correction cranberry production T he following is a synopsis of Drain Code amendmems and Farm Bureau positions: 1) Requires an evaluation of natural resource im- ral resources benefits lO each landowner in order to assess them their fair share. 3) Clearly defines and distinguishes between main- Continued from page 1 that basically concluded that it's a great site," he adds. "There's 500 jobs that can be created, 20-plus million nesses and suppliers that would come into the area." "The bottom line will be revenue," adds Jo- hanson. "Economic development has a generous pacts that idemifies appropriate practical mea- tenance and improvements. dollars in income to the county, but in order to bring payback at times, but it's usually long-term. We have sures to minimize adverse impacts. Farm Bureau supports and considers this this to the stage where we can get investors, we need always felt that as the communities which we serve Farm Bureau will support this change. to be one of the most important issues. Main- to do a more detailed feasibility study specific to that develop and grow more prosperous, more busi- Farm Bureau policy suppons reducing adverse tenance of drains must continue lO be a simple site and develop an investor prospectus. We're asking nesses come in and that will generate certainly kind impacts on natural resources. process in order lO solve problems quickly and the county to put up the money to do that, the sec- of an economic development multiplier factor that 2) Allow for a petition lO enhance or improve natu- economically. Improvements to drains must only ondary feasibility study, and hopefully through this will bring more people in, more suppliers, more ral resources which may include additional as- include clear expansions of drains. fallwe will have an investor strategy." periphery businesses. Batlom line is there's going sessments by the drain commissioner. 4) Establishment of a comprehensive watershed 'The 500 jobs are just associated with the pro- to be more electricity sold to this vast audience." Farm Bureau will oppose. The Drain management program. duction and the processing solely," explains BillJohan- According to Skjaerlund, the cranberry mar- Code gives drain commissioners the powerful Farm Bureau supports the concept of son, lake shore area manager for Consumers Energy. ket has exponentially increased during the last 20 authority to assess landowners based on use of watershed management. However, the current 'That doesn't include the multiplier effect of new busi- years, outpacing domestic supply. "While the pro- the drain which is very important and is the very Chapter 22 amendments pose many complicated duction of cranberries reason why Michigan's Drain Code works. How- questions and challenges especially with funding. has double since 1975, ever, having the ability lO assess landowners in Farm Bureau recommends Chapter 22 be dropped (he price of cranberries order lO enhance natural resources along a drain and taken up as a separate issue following passage has increased more should never be a role given lO a drain commis- of the Olher Drain Code amendments. One option than four-fold," he adds. sioner. Il begs the question of how would the may be lO establish a watershed management pro- "The industry is cur- drain commissioner actually determine the natu- gram through the conservation districts .• rently 40 million I.. 2m pounds short and has sent prices as high as 50 Drain Code public hearings percent more than growers were paid two T he House Agriculture Commitlee will hold a serit:s of public hearings around the state lO take testimony on proposed revisions lO the • 6 p.m., Thursday, October 16, Vienna Township Hall, 3400 W. Vienna, Clio • 6:30 p.m., Monday, OClOber 20, FrenchlOwn years ago." Skjaerlund adds Drain Code (H.B. 4337). Agricultural interests, Township Hall, 2744 Vivian Road, Monroe (hat the cranberry in- county drain commissioners, state officials and • Noon, Friday, October 24, Sanilac County Confer- dustry estimates anOlh- others have been working lO update the code, ence Room, 37 Austin, Sandusky er 6,000 acres are need- which establishes rules for drainage districts and • Noon, Friday, November 7, County Commission- ed through the year construction and maintenance of drains, sewers, During the Sept. 25 meeting of the Muskegon County 2000 to meet current ers Chambers, 201 W. Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo Commissioner's Community Development and Strategic Planning demand alone. pumping equipment, bridges, culverts, fords and .6 p.m., Monday, November 10, Masonic Hall, 514 other drain structures. N. New Street, Stanton. Committee, county Administrator Frank Bednarke explains the pro- "Cranberry pro- The hearings are scheduled for: posed site's topography. Consumers Energy Economic Development duction is a very viable MFB contact: Scou Evereu, ext. 2046.• Director, Doug Buikema (right) and the first person to advocate and profitable industry," cranberry production at the site Prein and Newhof, Engineer Bruce Skjaerlund adds. "But $1 million raised for Michigan FFA Foundation Kadzban (center) look on. it's also very capital- Continued from page 1 c1ude funding and creating financial security for the intensive - even the Michigan FFAFoundation and Michigan FFA Michigan FFA," adds Laurie. "Now we can work to though you can get $12,000 to $15,000 an acre in alumni. "Once they made the challenge, the only provide K-12 agricultural education experiences to income, you need about $25,000 to start for each slight twist was that we needed to match it." young people throughout the state." acre of cranberries. The payout is great, but it 'Tm just so amazed and impressed that the According to Laurie, Vision2000 is based on the takes money and investment to do it up front." private seClOr nOl only rose to the challenge," adds belief that every citizen should have a minimum level The 13-member steering committee outlined Craig. "But came up with dollars and actually ex- of knowledge of the food and fiber segment of Michi- three important steps for the county commission- ceeded the tOlal of $500,000, which is great news gan's economy. A second, and equally imponant goal ers to take in order to move ahead with the cran- and in such a shorr time - that's just incredible lO is anracting and educating the human resources berry project, including: be able lOdo rhar. needed to assure the continued growth and vitalit)' of 1. Establish a cranberry steering commiuee of "It shows rhe strong suppon from the agricul- the agricultural and natural resources industries. commissioners to work on the project. tural community for the FFAFoundation and all the "The S1 million will be used in terms of com- 2. Participate in a two-day Wisconsin cranberry programs and services that are going to be funded," municating with the young people about the impor- tour to visit production beds and processing he adds. "Il's an endowment fund, as opposed lO the tance of the food and ag industry," Craig adds. plants during harvest this month. annual operating dollars, it's really an endowment "There needs to be leadership development for FFA 3. Request for proposals to complete a second fund to provide security for the financial future." students, and we hope also it will increase the un- phase feasibility study, site design and layout "When we needed lO make that final push of derstanding of agriscience. There are a lot of jobs in for presentation as a proposal to potential about $150,000," explains Karelse. "We sat down the future, that people need to have the right train- investors. and looked at the names of people that I've rubbed ing and skills to be employed in the food, ag, and "I think we're pretty optimistic as a team, shoulders with in my tenure as state advisor, par- natural resource industry." says Johanson, "This is probably one of the best ents of former state officers, American Farmer can- The continuing challenge production sites in the state of Michigan for didates, people that I've worked with in communi- "We're not done raising money by a large-scale production; it looks like all the pre- ties that we've worked together to maintain agri- long shot ... liminary soil conditions with the production science programs. These folks have seen the benefit According to Karelse, the fundraising isn't criteria are there in place. We want to reconfirm of FFAand what it does for young people." finished with the $1 million goal being met. "We that and develop an investor prospectus. That's How Vision2000 began need to look at what to do to continue to raise the reason why we've spent all the work and we Two years ago, the 17-member Michigan FFA funds to do the ongoing FFAawards. felt confident to go to the county commission- Foundation board of directors expanded their idea of '~l the leadership contests, the skills activi- Currently, the Muskegon wastewater fa- ers that this is a viable project. But you're look- agriscience education beyond just the high school ties," he adds, "those awards need to continue to be cility uses its treated water to irrigate ing at a $25 million investment for a thousand FFAprograms and the idea ofVision2000 began. funded, we're going to continue to need some con- hundreds of acres of alfalfa, soybeans acres of cranberries. That's not a small amount "The directors expanded their vision to in- tributions to that operating fund as well." • and corn. of investment." • Introducing tile Weldy Family of Products Welcome to the Weldy family of and mud - all the things that products. Find out what we challenge farmers and equip- stand for: sturdy, well-built ment alike. Our prOduct lines are equipment that lasts. No fair comfort hutches are an excellent all manufactured with this phi- weathered friends these. but choice for raising and saving losophy In mind: dedication to Instead products that quietly healthy calves. Practically Inde- details that make a difference. perform, season In and season structible and maintenance-free. products backed up by depend- out. Indiana-based. we know these hutches feature Q. thermo- able people and parts Inventory about sleet and heat. manure molded opaque material which to keep you operating. maintains the most desirable natural temperature available. They Weldy products 'are available are lightweight. so they can easily through your local dealer be moved for cleaning and they do (dealer inquiries also welcome) not freeze to the ground like wooden or fiberglass hutches. 1111 1~'JI[~~IL'I::t~ October 15, 1997 MMPA President Emeritus Lake passes away at age 82 O ne of America's most influential lead- ers in the dairy industr~ died Sept: 25, 1997. Glenn Lake, presIdent emeritus of Michigan Milk Producers Association, suc- ...... Lake received numerous recognitions during his life for his contributions to the agriculture and dairy community. Among one of his top honors was being appointed by President John F. Kennedy to cumbed to congestive heart failure at the age of the National Agricultural Advisory Commission, 82. As a dairy farmer in Michigan, Lake served his representing the nation's dairy farmers. He also was fellow farmers on several state and national awarded an honorary doctor of agriculture degree boards. His leadership, insight and determina- by Michigan State University in December 1973 for tion earned him the respect of many including his accomplishments in the dairy industry. state governors and presidents. His recognitions include: Michigan State Uni- In Michigan, Lake served as president of versity's Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award the Michigan Milk Producers Association from (1961) and Dairy Farmer of the Year (1965), Michi- 1955 until 1981. During his tenure he devel- ,,,," •.. <.,. gan State Grange Outstanding Service to Agriculture oped Great Lakes-Southern Milk, Inc, the first ~r .. Award (1961), the American Dairy Science Associa- of its kind to emphasize the now familiar role of tion's Distinguished Service Award (1969), and the regional milk marketing to incre~se dairy farm- Michigan Minuteman Award for Distinguished Ser- ers bargaining power. vice to the State of Michigan (1970). During his time as MMPA president he faced obstacles such as milk strikes, acquisi- tions and mergers, member unrest and a grow- - Lake was born Dec. 10, 1915 at North Branch, Michigan. He and his brother, Clare, operated a dairy farm in North Branch. ing and changing dairy industry. From the late Lake is survived by his daughter, Arlene 1950s to the early 1970s the Michigan dairy The late MMPA President Emeritus Glen Lake (right) worked closely with Michigan Farm Bureau Lake Ogden; son-in-law James Ogden: brother AI industry was enduring great growing pains. As during his tenure as MMPA president. In this 1969 photo, he congratulated MFB President Elton Lake, sister-in-law Imogene Lake and sister.in-law the diversified small farm grew to a more spe- Smith on Michigan Farm Bureau's 50 years of dedicated service to Michigan Farm Bureau members. Sandra Lake. cialized dairy farm, the membership needs and industry as a whole. dairy policy and milk marketing. Lake was preceded in death by his wife, concerns also grew. Lake was able to success- Lake served as president of the National Lake was also instrumental in the formation Anne; and brothers, Charles, Jack and Clare. fully lead the cooperative members through Milk Producers Federation from 1960-1976. Serv- of the United Dairy Industry Association, a na. Memorial contributions can be made in Glenn these changing times. It was his combined ing as president of MMPAand NMPF simulta. tional organization providing nutritional informa. Lake's name to: the Michigan Dairy Memorial and sense empathy for the small farmer and his neously gave Lake a broad view of the dairy in- tion regarding dairy products to consumers. He Scholarship Foundation; Michigan 4-H Foundation; realistic view of the future that garnered reo dustry. Through his leadership both organiza- was the first president of this organization and the Lion's Club, the Leader Dog for the Blind Pro- spect from the MMPA members and the dairy tions were able to set precedents in terms of served in this position for 13 years. gram and St.Bedes Church .• MDA director presents Hart with infrastructure ICMPAand MMPApush for state milk order grant to assist Gray & Company innovation Continued from page 1 have the partidpation of all fluid milk handlers in the R ecently, Dan Wyant, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) presented a S735,000 economic development infrastructure electrodialysis, will help pave the way as the agricultur- alindustry moves into the 21st century." said Wyant. "MDAis privileged to pannerwith the MichiganJobs patrick. "The $1.00 premium has been the average value of the voluntary superpool. It has been as high as $1.75 and as low as $.80/cwt. over the past State,"he added, "we will support enabling legislation to establish a State Milk Order, lending stability to the mar. ket and equalizing returns to all Michigan dairy farmers." grant to the city of Hart, Michigan, on behalf of Commission, MBIInternational, Gray & Company and five years. We are not suggesting levels which will "Without a state order - either voluntary or 1egis- the Michigan Jobs Commission, to assist Gray & the dty of Hart in this cutting edge process." increase the consumer price," he added. 'The lated - the entire industry Inses," added MFBlivestock Company's funding of a new process for rinsing The total cost of the project is $2.3 million. In store price of milk will be unaffected by this order and Dairy Specialist Kevin Kirk. "Milk sold out of the cherries. addition to the state grant, the city of Hart will be as compared to (he voluntary superpool that had state also reaJlS the benefit of an m'er"rder premium Gray & Company is one of the world's largest contributing $80,000 and Gray & Company will be operated from December 1992 to August 1997." since it must compete with prices paid in Michigan." producer of cherry products. The company pro- expending $1,500,000 over tne next two years on Ron Nelson, MFBlegislativecounsel, related that Naerebout agrees, "We truly feel this helps cesses over 30 million pounds of sweet cherries capital improvements. This project is expected to "Farm Bureau policystrongly supports the concept all dairy producers in Michigan. We can't pay any annually and currently serves 80 percent of the top create 75 new jobs. that all Class I saIes in Michigan be subject to the over. more than what the competition is paying." The grocery wholesalers and retailers. "This is a project that was first brought to our order premium as established by the voluntary super. Michigan Ag Commission did not vote on the issue The grant, funded through the Michigan attention by representatives from the Michigan pool. But given that the voluntary superpool does not at its October meeting .• Renaissance Fund, will be used to implement elec- Department of Agriculture. We have worked exten- trodialysis in its rinsing process. Electrodialysis is a sively with the department and representatives way of rinsing cherries with electricity instead of water, and it offers the company several benefits. By using this new process, developed by Michigan Biotechnology Institute (MBI) International of from the city of Hart and Gray & Company. We are pleased to be able to help support this innovative technology which will result in job opportunities for Michigan residents," said Doug Rothwell, Chief r---------------------------. Proven performance I I Lansing, the processing plant will not discharge as Executive Officer and Department Director of the in the field I much wastewater into the city of Hart's wastewa- Michigan Jobs Commission. I ter treatment system. The electrodialysis will also The Michigan Jobs Commission, which ad. I allow for more recovery of the natural sugars that ministers the Michigan Renaissance Fund, works Since 1990 DSR soybeans have generated over 600 top ten I are lost when the cherries are rinsed with water in partnership with local communities and Michi. finishes in University trials. In 1996, Dairyland's DSR/STS I prior to processing. Because Gray & Company will gan businesses to retain and expand job opportu- herbicide tolerant varieties had 21 top ten finishes alone. I recover more of the cherry's natural sugars, the nities and improve Michigan's overall business Whether you're looking for STS tolerance, Roundup Ready I company will not have to purchase as much corn climate. For more information on the Michigan soybeans, or just plain old fashioned high yielding genetics, sweetener as it does now. Renaissance Fund, call the Michigan Jobs Commis. the DSR lineup delivers. "Innovation and technological advances, such as sion at 517-335-4590 .• Contact your local Dairyland representative to learn how you can obtain top yields with Dairyland soybeans. Adrian, MI Ft. Wayne, IN Mason, MI Dave Dickerson, D.S.M. Gary Freiburger, R.S.M. Hoskins Farms 517/265-2255 219/639-6927 517/589-8822 Applegate, MI Grandville, MI Mt. Pleasant, MI Dan Babcock, D.S.M. John Pater Randall Recker 810/648-3612 616/896-9387 517 f773-5488 Byron, MI Hudsonville, MI Perry, MI Garry Adams Jerry Poortenga Claude Benjamin Lester knows every farmer wants standard, is pre-engineered from top 810/266-4170 616/896-9119 517/625-7542 buildings that look good, provide long quality materials and backed by the term reliability, and are affordable. Uni- industry's leading warranty. Carson City, MI Lachine, MI St. Johns, MI Framea3lagricultural buildings from For handsome, functional agricultural Lowell Litwiller Larry Sumerix, D.S.M. Paul Buehler, D.S.M. Lester meet the highest standards for buildings, visit your local independent 517/584-3675 517/379-4073 800/232-2424 appearance, durability and value. Lester Builder or call 1-800-826-4439. Every structure, custom designed or Erie, MI Mason, MI Webberville, MI ~ESTE~ Ralph Nartker Wayne Every Robert Benjamin LESTER BUILDING SYSTEMS 313/856-4985 517/676-2162 517/521-3183 A DivtsIon 01 Butler Manuf8Ctullng eomp.ny Shermak Bldg. & Land Development Keystone Builders Miller Construction & Equipment, Inc. Brighton Harbor Springs West Branch 810-227-8298 616-347-2010 517-345-2499 Dairyland Seed -- A Growing Force 800-390-5892 1-800-236-0163 Cole Construction Co. Coldwater 517-278-6867 NOVA Construction Newport 313-586-8528 Deloof Construction Kalamazoo 616-375-5942 T&W Construction Almont 810-798-8331 ._--------------------------~ riYJ1 [tl: I @JJlJ ~ ~ October 15, 1997 Market Seasonal Commodity Price Trends Corn - t Soybean SupplylDemand Balance Sheet (Table 3) suggests that the futures markets are in the range (al- beit, the high side) that fundamentals would suggest; However, I would search around for both good buys on Michigan calves as well as feed. The late maturing corn crop may be an opportunity for feeders. Outlook Soybeans (explosive) Wheat Hogs Cattle t ~ - - - 7 t ~ however, there are some grand assumptions. Aone- bushel swing in yield either way would really jolt the market. That makes the soybean yield estimate in the October 10 USDACrop Production Reporl critical. Y es, hog expansion is underway at a rapid pace in both the U.S. and in Michigan. The quarter- Index: - .. stable prices; t = higher pricps,' 1 = lower ly September 1 USDA Hogs and Pigs Reporl, re- prices; TP .. topping; BT = bottoming; 7 = unsure The other issue comes back to use estimates. The USDAhas already raised their estimates of leased September 26, showed all hogs and pigs up 4 els versus the 2.025 billion bushels estimated in my 1997-98 soybean use sharply compared to the al. percent, kept for breeding up 3 percent, and kept Corn Balance Sheet I feel it is a front-end versus ready strong use figures in 1996-97. However, world for market up 4 percent. The report indicates rear-end demand question. Even though sales to demand has been growing rapidly, and some would slaughter this fall will only be up 2-3 percent, but by date are slow, my analysis of world demand sug- argue that they should even be higher, given the December we are likely to see year-to-year increases by Dr. Jim Hilker, gests exports will pick up as we go through the year. perceived China demand. Then we look at the closer to 6-7 percent. These numbers come from Department of However, if the 1.8 billion is correct, taday's futures South American potential. They are getting ready to the weight breakdowns of market hogs. Agricultural Econom- prices and the fundamentals fit together. plant and all indications are they will increase plant- Summer farrowings were up 5 percent and ics, Michigan State University At this point, the market is telling us it's okay ings significantly over last year. the pig crop up 7 percent, as pigs per litter grew to use on.farm slOrage, if we think prices are going Spreads between futures contracts indicate the another 2 percent. U.S. farrowing intentions for the CORN up. We can tell this from the spreads between fu- market is not willing to pay even on-farm storage. fall quarter are up 7 percent, and for the winter tures contracts being large enough to pay for the 2 This does not mean you have to get completely out quarter up 8 percent You may wonder how farrow- T he fundamentals shown in the SupplylDemand Balance Sheet for corn (Table 1) would indi- cate that the U.S. average weighted cash corn price cents per month on-farm slOrage costs. If you need to pay commercial storage, consider a basis con. of the market. What it is saying is, deliver your beans and lock in your basis. Any increase in the markets ing intemions can be up so much more than breed- ing numbers. The answer is probably due to a com- tract, versus storage, if you are bullish. Given all of will come from the futures. There is enough possible bination of last year's breeding stock being a little for the 1997-98 marketing year should be around the above information, consider staying in the mar- positive information to use a basis contract on a por. smaller than reported and gains in efficiency. My $2.70. This would indicate a December 1997 harvest ket on at least part of your corn crop; however, have tion of the beans you harvest this fall. There is also feeling is farrowing numbers are probably correct future price around $2.75. As of OClOber 3, Decem- enough priced, either previously or sold at harvest, considerable downside risks. Make sure you have whether breeding numbers are right or wrong. ber 1997 futures were trading around $2.62. Why to give you some downside protection. considerable downside protection in the form of Michigan numbers showed a dip last year the difference? Can 1outsmart the marker? No. Let's either cash sales on a significant potion of you pro- which surprised some people given the new build- look at the different possible assumptions. duction andlor the use of options. If you choose to ings they were seeing. Well, over the last few One possiblc reason for the difference is the ichigan, as a whole this year, had a good months, due to some combination of fewer depar- }~e1dforecast I use 127 bushels, 2 bushels higher (han the September USDAestimate, due lO the im. M yield with decem quality. Prices are another story. At this point, most of Michigan's wheat has use options, consider selling cash and buying calls. ~"':'l.i~_ tures and more systems coming on line, breeding numbers were up 12 percent in Michigan. And, if pron:mcm in (hc weekly crop conditions. Traders been sold and the decision is, how much wheat do I he September USDACattle-On-Feed Reporl we look at farrowing intemions, the growth even may be expec(ing a 128-130 bushel };eld. Check out (he October 10 release of the USDACrop Production plant this year, and many are even past that. If you have wheat slOred in quality on-farm storage, and T continued to show large numbers on-feed. On- feed numbers were up 16 percent compared to a looks larger. Michigan fall farrowing intentions are up 22 percent and winter farrowing imentions are Refx)l1 (0 see their OClOber 1 estimate of corn yields. you also have room to store all of the corn you want year ago. This number was helped along by a 7 per- up 30 percent, both compared lO last year. The other difference in assumptions may be the to, then consider holding on to your wheat into the cent increase in year-to-year August placements. 1997.1998 corn use figures. I am more bullish on feed new year. Downside risks are not great, and the The positive news was that August marketings were use (han the LJSDASeptember estimate due lO the market indicates it will pay on-farm storage. up 5 percent and that means we were probably Larry G: Hamm Stocks Report showing lower 1996-97 ending stocks. ilk prices cominue to show seasonal This indic3(es higher than pre\;ously thought feeding rates. which indicates higher than previously thought Keep an eye on new crop wheat futures. If September 1998 wheat futures break $4, check out forward contract prices for harvest delivery. The fairly current. While placements were still up year- lO-year, they were up less than they had been in previous months. I expect year-to year placements M strength, assuring that farm level prices will be increasing this fall. The wholesale cheese mar- feed use for 1997-98. The latest /logs a1ld Pigs $3.10-30 prices we are seeing today do not provide to start decreasing in October or November due to kets have leveled off suggesting that most of the Repol1, discussed below, also indica(es an even faster a very good return. However, $3.60-$4 cash prices there being fewer calves lO place. milk price increases are already in the market. hog expansion than previously thought work pretty well with a decent yield. The large on-feed numbers indicate a fallrallywill Building on strong wholesale cheese prices as The other number up for grabs is the 1997-98 take place later than previously thought. Instead of monitored by the USDA's National Agricultural Sta- SOYBEANS tistics Service (NASS) Cheddar Cheese Price survey, corn export estimate. At this poim, exports and prices sraning to increase in November, it may not start export commitments are running at a rate that ftredicting where soybean prices are going until late December. At this point, I do not see any the September Basic Formula Price (BFP) posted would indica(e U.S. exports around 1.8 billion bush- r scares me a little. The scenario I show in the golden forward pricing opportunities on fed catue. another significant gain. The September BFP was $12.79 (3.5 percent test), an increase of $.72 more COMMODITY PRICE TRENDS than the August 1997 BFP.The August BFP had increased $1.21 over July. Over the past two ....... :mo ............................. 4700 months, the BFP which is the Basic Formula Price used in Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMOs) ........ 7000 has increased by $1.93. Because the FMMOs set Class I and Class II prices on a lagged basis from the current momh (September) BFP, the full effect of the $1.93 in the BFP will not be seen in producer checks until November. September's $12.79 BFP is the highest BFP for r.ooo ............................. 3lD" 1997. The recent increase in the BFP is driven pri- Corn • ~~ .'9~ ?2l)O : :~~pe~n~~~o.".•.'~~ . : . : : : : : : :: SIK)O : : ~~~t. ~ ~C •. ~9.1.. : : : : : : : : : : :: ]100 marily by increases in the wholesale cheese market. Over the last several weeks, the cheese markets have been holding steady. Fortunately, during this .................. 248.00 7&.00 same time period, wholesale butter markets have 74.00 shown considerable seasonal strength with most 72.00 ~ grades of butter increasing close to 25~ per pound. ~ Continued strength in the butter market should ~ help hold the BFP at around its currem levels. Un- .................. 6f..OO i less there is renewed strength in the cheese mar- -'= kets, however, the current $12.79 BFP may be close ....... 64.50 1'JZ.00 . .. 64.00 E to the peak for the year . :.L,~"#~s. 62.00 ~ Milk production nationwide is generally fol- &3.50 : . Soy Meal • Oct. '91 lfM.OO ~ ~. ~9.7. : : : : : : : : :: 60.00 ~ lowing seasonal patterns which normally slow milk IlIc .un Fell liar .. I\q Ju Jig ~ Se, Ikt Dee J.. IIIu Ja. J IU ~ s., Fell liar flpr Ikt production declining throughout most of the U.S. Inventories of manufactured dairy products, panic- COMMODITY SUPPLY/DEMAND BALANCE SHEETS ularly processed cheese invemories, still over-hang Table 1- Corn Table 2 - Wheat Table 3 - Soybeans dairy markets. Dairy markets may be in a holding Estimmd Projected EstiIlYted Projected Estimated Projected pattern umil the price levels and availability of feed (Million aaes) 1995-1996 1996-1997 1997-1998 (Million acres) 1995-1996 1996-1997 1997-1998 (Million acres) 1995-1996 1996-1997 1997-1998 supplies become more apparent. During this peri. Acres set-aside/diverted 6.2 0.0 0.0 Acres set.aside & diverted 5.2 0.0 0.0 Acres planted 62.6 64.2 70.9 ad, however, some welcome farm level milk price Acres planted 71.2 79.5 80.2 Acres planted 69.1 75.6 70.8 Acres harvested 61.6 63.4 69.8 Acres harvested 65.0 73.1 74.0 Acres harvested 60.9 62.9 63.5 BuJharvested acre 35.3 37.6 39.3 relief is on its way. BuJharvested acre 113.5 127.1 127.0 BuJharvested acre 35.8 36.3 39.5 Stocks (million bushels) Stocks (million bushels) Stocks (million bushels) Beginning stocks 335 183 132 Beginning stocks Production Imports 1,558 7,374 16 426 9,293 12 884 9,398 10 Beginning stocks Production Imports 507 2,182 68 2,282 376 92 444 2,507 95 Production Imports 2,177 4 2,383 10 2,746 5 I Henry Larzelere n September, egg prices averaged about 8 cents a dozen less than last year. Feed ingredient costs Total supply 2,516 2,576 2,866 Total supply 8,948 9,731 10,292 Total supply 2,757 2,750 3,046 Use: for the same period were about 4 cents per dozen Use: Use: Crushings 1,370 1,435 1,495 eggs below September 1996. Feed and residual 4,696 5,357 5,575 Food 883 892 900 Exports 851 880 950 New York wholesale prices for Grade A white Food/seed & Ind. uses 1,598 1,690 1,780 Seed 104 103 100 Seed, feed & residuals 112 129 135 eggs in cartons will likely average in the upper 70s or Total domestic 6,294 7047 7,355 Feed 153 310 300 Total use 2,333 2,444 2,580 80s during the last three momhs of 1997. November Exports 2,228 1,800 2,025 Total domestic 1,140 1,305 1,300 Ending stocks 183 132 303 will probably be the highest of the three momhs. Total use 8,522 8,847 9,380 Exports 1,241 1001 1,100 Ending stocks, % of use 7.8 4.8 11.7 ~t Hens and pullets on farms September 1,and egg :I: Ending stocks 426 884 912 Regular loan rate $4.92 $4.97 $5.26 E production in August, were up slightly from a year ago. Total use 2,381 2,306 2,400 :=; Ending stocks, % of use 5.0 10.0 9.7 Ending stocks 376 444 646 u.s. season everage Regular loan rate $1.89 $1.89 $1.89 Ending stocks, % of use 15.8 193 26.9 Farm price, $/bu. $6.72 $7.38 $6.15 "c: This refleers the higher egg-type chick hatch in early III < 1997. This relationship is comparable to the most re- o U.s. season average Regular loan rate $2.58 $2.58 $2.58 VI ::J cem market repoIlS which showed that eggs sold to Farm price, $/bu. $3.24 $2.70 $2.70 u.s. season average Ci ~0 relailers were up percentage.wise from last year more v Farm price, $/bu. $4.55 $4.30 $330 VI than eggs sold by producers to egg dealers .• Weput a lot of ene" into farming 1 Each day we light the way for We're proud to serve 20,000 farms- you and other farmers across the more farms'than any other utility in state - providing the power that the state - and we're committed to help- keeps you in business. But our ing you succeed every step of the way. commitment to you doesn't stop there. For questions about animal contact We have a 24-hour, toll-free current, call1-BOO-252-B65B. number to answer your energy service questions. Plus, we've For other service questions, call established a dedicated, toll-free 1-BOO-477-5050. number so we can respond to your questions about ~nimal contact current. And, with 39 Customer Service Centers state-wide, we're ready to serve you. We're also working with key . agricultural organizations like Consumers Energy> Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan FFA Count on Us on issues that impact your produc- tivity and profitability. Rmtl(:I~~ 1~'I::t'l~ October 15, 1997 Neighbors unite in time of need ince a farming accident in early Augusl, It took neighbors a little more S Clinton County dairy farmer Mel Pohl and his wife Pam have had lOface many challeng- es. Thanks lO lhe generosity of nearly 2S Fowler-area than two days to fill Mel Poh!'s 12' x 60' x 100' bunker silo. It took two packing tractors (left) farmers, however, harvesling lheir corn silage wasn'l to keep up with the constant one of them. A fleel of lraclors and dump wagons, flow of dump wagons and corn and two self-propelled forage harveslers pur away silage harvested with self-pro- nearly 2,100 lOns of corn silage in Mel's bunker silo in pelled forage harvesters (lower jusl 20 hours. In addilian lOvolunteers providing left). Two different crews worked lime and equipment, a local fuel vendor supplied all each day to complete the job in of lhe necessary fuel la keep everything running. The record time. There was also time event was organized by neighboring dairy farmers for a little comradery between Ken Halfman and CliffThelen. neighbors (below) at the end of Pahl, who was injured auempling la slart a the job. As one farmer put traclOr from lhe ground when il was in gear, spent it, "This is what community is all lWOweeks al the Detroil Medical Center lO repair about!" lhe damage lO his pelvic area. Allhaugh he has re- turned home, Pahl now gels around wilh lhe aid of a walker, while he continues another six months of rehabililalian al home. The modesl volunteers received a greal deal of media atlention for helping their neighbor in time of need, including a front-page slory in lhe Laming Slalejournal, and a slOry on WLNSlV-6, which named lhe entire work crew lheir "Unsung Heroes" during lheir evening news program .• et onne(te on aye S.5( per minute for all in-state calls, II. 9( per minute for all calls anywhere else in the United States, 24 hours a day SM Charges are based on six-second increments; if you talk for one minute and six seconds, you pay for one minute and six seconds, not for two minutes as Cash in on long-distance savings with The you would with some other companies Farm Bureau Connection Dial-one service with easy access Free calling cards Personal SOD-numbers are available low monthly access fee of $1.50 r---------------------------, LETTER OF AGENCY I choose The Fann Bureau~ ConneaionSo\las my primary long-distance provider for the service(s) and telephone number(s) indicat- ed below and I authorize The Fann Bureau. Connection5.14to act as my agent by notifying my local telephone company of this choice. I certify that I am legaIlyresponsible for the payment of chatges incurred on the telephone number(s) listed below and that I have the au- thority to change the prescribed 1+ long-distance carner currently providing service to these telephone numbers. Further, I recognize that I can have only one primary long-distance company for a given telephone number, that I will no longer be pre-subscribed to my current long-distance carner's services and that my local telephone company may impose a charge for this and any later change. I also understand that The Fann Bureau~ Connection'sSMname willappear on my long-distance bill as a result of this switch and that this only affects my 1+ long-distance services. I understand that my signature willresult in my intraIATA(where available), interIATAlong-distance telecommunications service, interstate and intrastate being provided by The Fann Bureau~ ConnectionSM• Signature: Print Name: Date: Telephone(s): ( Street Address: Mailing Address (if different from above): CitylStateflip: County Name: Farm Bureau Membership #: For Office Use Only Signature of Authorized Rep: Print ~ame: Allenrollccs in the Farm Bureau Conncaion progtdm \\;11be charged a S 1.50 mOnlhly billing fee. Members are also responsible for anyone- Where Belongina Makes a DiBerem. time sv.;tchovcr fee (average S5) that may be charged by their local telephone company. Michigan Farm Bureau ... MICHIGAN THE STATE'S LARGEST Membership Services Department ••• FARM BIlRFAIl GENERAL FARM ORGANIZATION L PO Box 30960 • Lansing, HI 48909-9934 ~ RIGHT NoW; PERENNIAL WEEDS ARE PREPARING FOR WINTER. HERE'S How You CAN INTERRUPT THEIR PLANS. It's simple: use Roundup shutting down Ultra™ herbicide. Perennial the plant weeds like quackgrass, Canada completely; thistle, field bindweed, hemp So you can - dogbane, orchardgrass and look for- johnsongrass are now loading ward to up on nutrients to make it clean fields through the long winter instead of months ahead. It's also the perennials . perfect time for weeds to take next sprIng. in Roundup Ultra. Thanks to its Trans 5orb ™ technology, Don't let oppor- ~ Roundup Ultra quickly tunity pass you by; translocates within the Use Roundup Ultra plant, moving to after harvest. It's the perfect the roots, and time for the best control. Always read and follow lh~ labd. Roundup Ulna" and TransSorb- ar~ lrad~marks of MonsaOlo Company. 01997 MonsaOlo Company [520-496J jIIO/97] RUP.76016 tn, Business Financial measures vary Electric deregulation could mean lower . strategies on Michigan swine farms classified as safely liquid. Table 1 indicates that at and less favorable numbers for low profit hog farms. prices for consumers D eregulation of the electric power industry could have users paying significantly reduced Sherrill 8. Nott the end of 1996, the hog farms in this group had Low profit farms need to determine the causes of rates. Michigan Farm Bureau, the state's largest Department of Agricultural Economics current debt commitments that were barely cov- their lower income if improvements are desired. farm organization, warns however, that careful prep- Michigan State University ered by cash, crops and feeder pig inventories. Repayment capacity measures the ability of aration is necessary before a phase-in of the pro- F inancial statement analysis using ratio mea- The solvency criteria measures the amount borrowers to repay debt from income. The term debt gram. Regulatory approvals and the passage of state surements and trend analysis assists farm of borrowed capital used by a business relative to coverage ratio is a measure of the ability of the busi- legislation are now in the works. If completed by managers to make informed judgments and the amount of owner's equity. Three ratios showing ness to cover all shon term debt payments. A number the end of the year as expected, electric deregula- decisions about the entity's financial condition and the relationship of debts, assets and equity to each greater than 100 indicates the business generated tion could soon be a reality. results of operations. The financial measures in this other and measuring the financial position of the enough cash to pay all term debt payments. For exam- Rather than pay one price for power and its article are split into five sections -liquidity, solven- business and the creditors' and owners' claims ple, a coverage ratio of 200 shows that the firm gener- delivery, consumers would be able to buy elec- cy, profitability, repayment capacity and efficiency. against the assets are given in the table. The average ated twice the cash needed to make debt payments. tricity from an alternative supplier and receive it For each section, financial measures and ratios pro- hog farm had 52 percent debt and 48 percent equi- The capital replacement margin shows how much cash from their existing company. While the power vide meaningful relationships between individual ty at the end of 1996. The average for all farms is avaiIableabove the amount needed to pay operating generation would be largely unregulated, the values in the financial statements. throughout the U.S. is about 28 percent debt and 32 expenses, taxes, familylivingcosts, and scheduled debt delivery and related services would continue to This article defines the fmancial criteria and ratios percent equity. The lower income farms had a bet- payments. The high profit farms were in a strong posi- be regulated. and provides values for 17 Michigan hog farms for the ter debt to asset ratio than did the high income tion to service debt commitments and finance growth "Power lines as we know them - either the 1996 calender year. Previous articles have given similar farms. Did these six farmers deliberately choose from cash flows during 1996. It appears some of che six large towers or the ones that come into our data for cash grain and for dairy farms; both had bigger lower income for a better percent equity position? arms in the low income group were unable to make homes - will stay the same," said Ron Nelson, sample sizes. The source of the financial data is records Profitability measures the extent to which a the all the shon term debt payments they committed Michigan Farm Bureau legislative counsel. "They analyzed for swine farmers by the Telfarm record pro- business generates a profit from che use ofland, themselves to at the stan of 1996. They also averaged will remain regulated. gram through Michigan State University Extension. labor, capital and management. The rate of return on negative capital replacement margins. "The whole concept here is to allow the Additional data about these swine farms, broken into assets and equity applies all of the residual income to Effidency ratios measure the degree of effec- user to shop for the best price," Nelson said. But size groups, can be found in Agricultural Economics capital after charges are made for family labor and tiveness in the use of land, labor and capital. The asset with separate companies generating the power Staff Paper No. 97-30. This is available from county management. The operating profit margin is a ratio of turnover ratio measures how effidently assets are be- and delivering it, and the fact that electricity Extension offices, or from me, or at my home page at profit before interest charges are made for family ing used to generate revenue. A high number says that cannot be stored, the whole process could be http://www.msu.edu/user/nottl. The data provides labor and management. The operating profit margin less capital is needed to generate a dollar of sales, while tricky. According to Nelson, that's especially true managers of hog farms of comparable size with indus- is a ratio of profit before interest charges to revenue. a low number indicates farms require more capital to for agriculture. try standards to compare the results from their busi- The average hog farm returned 9.1 percent on assets raise a dollar of revenue. In most cases, a business is "We have to be concerned that the usage ness. Your local Extension livestock agent can arrange and 11.5 percent on equity. High profit farms had a more profitable if it can generate more revenue from may vary considerably throughout the day," he for your farm to do an analysis using the same fonnat rate of return on assets of 12.8 percent during 1996. fewer dollars invested in machinery, inventory, land said of farmers and their use of electricity. "For to ensure the comparability of your individual ratios. Low income farms made better returns than pass- and other assets. The other effidency ratios are a com- instance, the dairy farmer who milks two or The data in Table 1 summarizes the measures for book savings rate. Since the high and low profit farms parison of expenses, depreciation or interest expense three times a day is probably going to see a spike 17swine farms and the average for the high and low 36 are soned by net farm income, the ocher profitability to revenue. Lower expense ratios should result in more in the electric usage." percent of the operations based on net farm income. factors show very positive values for high profit farms residual income to the business .• That means power companies will need to In addition to the five financial sections, farm size mea- have enough capacity to service those peak sures describe the operations. Nearly 87 percent of the times, but there will be excess capacity at other cash sales on these farms came from raised hogs and times. A question of who will pay for that Average for all Farms Average for low 36% Average for high 36% feeder pigs. Another 6 percent came from cull boar "stranded cost" is yet to be answered. "With agri- and sow sales. Familylabor provided about one third NUMBER OF FARMS 17 6 6 culture's demand peaks from day to day and of the labor hours for the 17 farm average. SIZE throughout the season, it does complicate the liquidity measures the ability of a business to Cash Farm Sales $864,971 $605,785 $1,390,660 issue somewhat," Nelson said. Total Farm Assets $1,526,194 $1,295,499 $2,374,938 meet financial obligations as they come due in the No. of Sows 549 nla 844 Other concerns include who will pay for the ordinary course of business, without disrupting the Pi Weaned er Sow 14.4 nla 14.2 costs of the transition from a regulated to dereg- normal opemtions of che business. The current mtio UQUlDfTY Current Ratio 1.02 ulated electric industry and how companies will 1.49 0.88 indicates the extent current assets cover current Workin Ca ital $S 491 $75496 $-86236 secure their costs .• liabilities. Working capital is che amount of funds SOlVENCY available to purchase inputs and inventory items, or Farm Debt to Asset Ratio Farm Equity to Asset Ratio 52% 45% 48% 55% 107% 83% North Korea on brink make advance payments on debts. The current ratio on the high income farms was negative compared to Farm Debt to E u' Ratio PRORTABIUTY 50% 50% 100% of "massive mortality" S75,496 on low income farms on the last day of 1996. Despite having lower net income, the average low Rate of Return on Farm Assets Rate of Return on Farm Equity Operating Profit Margin 9.1% 11.5% 24.1% 5.3% 3.6% 18.9% 12.8% 19.3% 30.5% A United Nations September that repon a risk ofwarned in mid- "massive monality" exists in Nonh Korea following a sample testing that income farms were in a better defensive position to Net Farm Income 11 237 64005 241142 finance operations in the early months of 1997. The REPAYMENT CAPAOTY showed about 17 percent of young children are generally poor liquidity ratios likely result from the Term Debt Coverage Ratio 15% 79% 214% seriously undernourished. Ca ital Re lacement Mar in $39,861 $-12,218 $130,890 Catherine Bertini, head of the United Na- feed situation that existed a year ago. EFROENCY Many of the ratios, such as the current ratio, 37.9% 28.0% tions' World Food Program, said the study con- Asset Turnover Rate (market) 41.9% were calculated with values from the average bal- Operating Expense Ratio 80.6% 82.7% 18.8% firms her program's greatest fear: That the com- Depreciation Expense Ratio 5.4% 13.0% 2.7% munist nation is starving and drastic measures ance sheet at the end of 1996. A rule of thumb is Interest Expense Ratio 5.4% 6.5% 4.4% that the current ratio should be 2.0 or higher to be Net Farm Income Ratio 8.6% -2.2% 14.1% are needed. "Without adequate assistance, we can ex- pect massive mortality in the coming winter," Buying weaned beef calves said Bertini. "Nutritionally, North Koreans are already pressed to the limit. M any cow-calf weaning timeproducers with little sell their or no calves at pre-condi- with mineral and vitamin supplementation will work best to stimulate calves to eat. • Handling facilities are vital if you are to detect will be made to fight disease. Remember, reduced stress will pay you back in heavier and healthier cattle in your operations. "Because of the severe winter that will set in soon, people will need additional food to combat the cold." . tioning program. The health of the calves is general- ly noc in jeopardy prior to weaning. Problems occur sickness and treat as needed. Consult your local veterinarian abom the North Korea, which has been hesitant to after calves are weaned, shipped and purchased by Calves not eating or eating only marginal proper vaccination program for your management accept outside help, faces a grain shortage of the new owner. amounts of their dry matter requirement are losing needs. Other reliable sources of information in- 1.9 million tons over the next year. Reports say Weaning and exposure to the local sale ground. Their immune system is alreadyoverload- clude pharmaceutical companies, feed dealers and between 500,000 and 2 million North Koreans barn is arguably the most stressful time in the ed, and without adequate nutrition, little progress your MSU Extension livestock agent. • have starved to death .• life of a beef calf. Removal from his mother, possible exposure to disease, and being intro- Grain officials call for duced to a new home with new feed and water sources are all contributors to a possible bad river repair experience. Losing calves is bound to happen in the above scenario. G rain west producers and shippers are expressing concern in condition of the Mississippi River's lock and dam the Mid- about the What can you do as a beef backgrounder or system. In 1995, 82 percent of the corn, 77 per- feedlot owner to ensure your calf morbidity and cent of the soybeans and 32 percent of the wheat monality are minimized? Here are a few general rules: grown in the 10 Midwest states bordering the Illinois, Mississippi and Ohio rivers moved by • Try to buy pre-conditioned calves (vaccinated, barge, and almost all that grain went to the ex- dehorned, castrated, staned on hay and grain port market, according to the Midwest Area River prior to weaning) and be sure to develop your Coalition 2000. own vaccination program with your local veteri- Coalition President Christopher Brecia says narian before you buy calves. Pre-conditioned calves are wonh $3 to $4 cwt. at a minimum. 85 percent of the river system is more than 50 years old and needs upgrading and repairs, • Keep stress to a minimum when shipping and which would cost $750 million to $1 billion. AI receiving new calves. Weaned calves will often Anderson of Harvest States Cooperative says refuse feed for several days, circling the perime- without the barges to move the grain, farmers ter of the pen looking for a way out. would have to pay $I billion in extra freight • Develop a feeding program to stimulate calves to costs. One barge carries as much grain as 15 rail begin eating as soon as possible. Good-quality, cars or 60 semi-trailers .• free-choice grass hay and limited feeding of grain Hey MOIDI Look what I brought home from school! " ,, ,, ~ Common contagious infections and form yellow crusts. and how to deal with them Causes: Direct contact with the moist dis- C reepy,crawly things - enough to send a shudder through any parent. Add to that skin inflammations and eye infections. Your child frequently is at risk from them while at a place charge of the lesions. Treatment: The infection, if mild, may usually be controlled successfully with topical antibiotic ointment, which your physician can you normally consider safe: the day-care center or appears on the skin of exposed areas such as the that lives on the host's blood. The lice hatch prescribe. Keep the skin around the lesions clean elementary school. Insect infestations like head lice face, upper extremities and trunk as reddish eggs (nits) that anach to the shafts of hair on the and expose the skin to the air to encourage dry- and ringwonn, contagious infectious diseases like patches, often scaly or blistered. Ringworm on head, eyebrows and even lashes. Lice are hard to ing. If the infection is widespread, severe or near impetigo and pink eye - all are commonly found the scalp can cause destruction of the hair shaft, notice unless you look closely. If your child the mouth where the antibiotic cream could be in environments where they can be easily transmitted resulting in bald patches. seems to be scratching his head vigorously, make licked off, an oral antibiotic will be prescribed. by direct contact among children. Causes: Most often transmined by skin-to- an inspection. Return to day care/school: Usually 24 These diseases also tend to carry a bit of social skin contact, or the sharing of combs, brushes, Causes: Transmitted by sharing of combs, hours after treatment has begun. stigma. Parents typically react with horror when towels, etc.; animals also transmit ringworm, brushes, hats, ponytail holders, barrettes, etc. lice Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye) they realize their child is infected: "How could my though rarely. can also live for one to two days on a couch or chair. What it is: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation child have head lice? We keep her so clean!" Treatment: Prolonged use of an antifungal Treatment: To get rid of the lice, the eggs of the transparent mucous membrane (the con- Parents needn't worry about their children's cream is usually completely effective. (nits) must be removed. There are a number of junctiva) lining the eyelids and eyeballs. It is either cleanliness, according to Kathy Trczinski, RN, Some of these creams are over the counter, over-the-counter shampoo treatments that work a viral or bacterial infection, an allergic reaction or MSN, CRNP, a nurse practitioner at the duPont others by prescription. Your doctor or pharmacist can well. Ask your pharmacist for a recommendation. - in newborns - caused by tear ducts that don't Hospital for Children. These diseases are quite advise you. The cream will not produce immediate Most kits also contain a fine-tooth comb used to completely open. When it's bacterial or viral, it's common among all socioeconomic groups and results; treat for up to three continuous weeks. Make comb the dead nits out of the hair after sham- dubbed "pinkeye" and may be highly contagious. are transmined simply because children are to- sure the child bathes thoroughly with soap and water pooing. In reading the package information, be The infection results in red, watery, often itchy gether in close quarters, which increases the and dries off completely since fungus thrives in moist sure the shampoo kills both eggs and lice. eyes, which omit secretions that crust and can exchange of germs. If your child becomes infect- areas. If the scalp is affected, oral medication will be Return to day care/school: After treat- cause the eyelids to stick together. ed, don't worry about how or from whom she required - and treatment is rather prolonged - ment, the child can go to school the next day. Causes: Colds and poor hand washing got it. Concentrate on gening her well. Here many weeks, in fact. Your physician can prescribe an Impetigo habits, sharing of eye makeup in adolescents. Trczinski gives you the scoop on some unpleas- appropriate antifungal medication. What it is: A contagious skin inflammation Treatment: Your physician can prescribe ant (but curable!) infections your child may bring Return to day care/school: 24 hours caused by streptococcal or staphylococcal infec- antibiotic drops or ointment. home from school or daycare. after treatment begins. tion. Impetigo usually results when the skin is Return to day care/school: Once the Ringworm (Tin •• corporis) IIelHllice broken by a bite, scrape, burn or scratch. It is infection has subsided, usually after a day or two, What it is: A fungal infection that usually What it is: A grayish, wingless, flat parasite marked by blisters that become pus-filled, erupt the child can return to school. • ---------r:.--------- _____________ H_EA_L;_:T_H_H_AR_Y_E_S_T __ ---------I A better WIY to check your weight I( nowing what you weigh is one thing, bur gelling a reason- able idea of how much of your weight is body fat ranks as a better gauge of your risk of health problems. One body fat measure frequently lfsed by researchers is the body mass index (BMI). This number is an estimate of whether your body fat is high enough ro pur you at risk for such chronic conditions as heart disease and diabetes. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. Bur to save you the trouble of gelling out your calcularor, the following chart allows you to find your BMI at a glance. Scientists differ in their opinions of what makes the exact cur-off point for an unhealthfully high BMI. In general, most agree that a BMI of 19 to 25 is fine. From 26 to 27 is pushing the envelope, while BMIs greater than 27 indicate that a person is overweight. To be sure, BMI is just one measure, and some people with high BMIs may not be "fat." A bodybuilder whose weight is mostly muscle may score high on BMI chartS even though his proportion of actual body fat is low. In addition, where on the body a person carries fat plays a role in health risks. Fat deposited around the abdomen, creat- ing an "apple" body shape, is more detrimental ro health than fat carried around the hips and thighs, making a "pear" shape .• 8MI 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 35 40 4'10 11 91 96 100 105 110 115 119 124 129 134 138 143 167 191 4'11 94 99 104 109 114 119 124 128 133 138 143 148 173 198 51 97 102 107 112 118 123 128 133 138 143 148 153 179 204 5'111 100 . I " 106 111 116 122 127 132 137 143 148 153 158 185 211 5'211 104 109 115 120 126 131 136 142 147 153 158 164 191 218 5'311 107 113 118 124 130 135 141 146 152 158 163 169 197 225 5'411 110 116 122 128 134 140 145 151 157 163 169 174 204 232 5'511 114 120 126 132 138 144 150 156 162 168 174 180 210 240 5'611 118 124 130 136 142 148 155 161 167 173 179 186 216 247 5'711 121 127 134 140 146 153 159 166 172 178 185 191 223 255 5'811 125 131 138 144 151 158 164 171 177 184 190 197 230 262 5'911 128 135 142 149 155 162 169 176 182 189 196 203 236 270 5'1011 132 139 146 153 160 167 174 181 188 195 202 207 243 278 5 1111 1 136 143 150 157 165 172 179 186 193 200 208 215 250 286 6 1 140 147 154 162 169 177 184 191 199 206 213 221 258 294 6'111 144 151 159 166 174 182 189 197 204 212 219 227 265 302 6'2" 148 155 163 171 179 186 194 202 210 218 225 233 272 311 6'311 152 160 168 176 184 192 200 208 216 224 232 240 279 319 6'411 156 164 172 180 189 197 205 213 221 230 238 246 287 328 -. Source: Tufts University Health and Nutrition Letter I H_EA_~_:T_H_H_AR_V_E_S_T _=____----- ..".~--=-~I Use antibiotics wisely Misusing antibiotics promotes the development of drug-resistant bacteria, which pose a danger to both the user and the public. To minimize the risk: • Don't take antibiotics for a viral infection such as a cold, flu, or minor respiratory illness; antibiot- ics don't work against viruses. • When your doctor diagnoses a bacterial infection Low-fat common sense Lifting weights lifts ask for an antibiotic that specifically targets the In a nutrition study, when people were told depression likely strain, rather than a "broad-spectrum" that the lunch they were eating was "low-fat," they A new study has shown that strength drug. Taking a bacterial culture of the infected consumed training can reduce depression in older people. tissue or fluid can further improve the match more calo- Unlike between the drug and the bug. ries the rest antidepres- • Take the full course of antibiotics that your doc- of the day sant drugs, tor prescribes, since stopping prematurely can than they which encourage the development of resistant bacteria. would nor- some older But overly long treatment can also promote resis- mally. But people tance; so ask your doctor whether a briefer when they cannot course might eradicate the infection. were told Spinach and tolerate, that their strength strawberries - lunch was a "normal training has an antioxidant recipe ISIT essentially Eating certain fruits and vegetables can lunch," they no side be just as effective as taking a large dose of vitamin ate less during the rest of the day. (In reality, the effects, and C in helping the human body defuse oxygen radi- nutritional content of the lunches was the same.) provides ONLY cals that can cause cell damage. Conclusion: The amount of food people eat numerous That's the latest finding from researchers is partly determined by their knowledge of the additional with USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS), food, not simply by their body's regulation of hun- benefits. These include increased vitality, strength, based at the USDA Human Nutrition Research ger and satiety. mobility, and balance; improved weight control; Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston. HEARrBURN? Prevent athlete's foot Keep your feet clean and dry, especially in hot weather. Snug, poorly ventilated shoes and damp, stronger bones; lower cholesterol levels; and im- proved bowel function. Did Cinderella have Last year, strawberries and spinach scored high- est in total antioxidant capacity among 40 common fruits and vegetables, sweaty socks bunions? based on a provide an ideal highly sensi- Women are breeding ground tive chemical four times for the fungus assay devel- more prone to that cause ath- oped by ARS foot problems lete's foot. Daily scientists. than men, due to washing with Next, the their lighter bone soap and water is scientists structure, the a good idea, but wanted to effects of pregnan- be sure you dry find om cy, and hormonal thoroughly, espe- whether changes. High ciallybetween the those protec- heels and tight shoes greatly exacerbate this toes (you can use a hair dryer on low heat). When you tive com- tendency. H eartburn, that uncomfortable burning can, go barefoot. Next best thing is to wear sandals. pounds could be absorbed by the human body • Many women accept sore feet as "a fact of life." sensation behind the breastbone that When you wear shoes, wear clean socks, preferably through diet in sufficient amounts to boost the • 56 percent of women believe that having bun- most commonly occurs after a meal, ones that "wick"away moisture. Air your shoes be- blood's antioxidant profile. ions is "normal." affects almost everyone at one time or another . tween wearings - don't wear the same pair day in, day The researchers analyzed the blood of eight • 88 percent of women squeeze their feet into But when heartburn occursfrequently, it could out. Powder or even a spray antiperspirant, can help women in their 60s and 70s before and after eating shoes that are too small by a "significant degree." signal a bigger problem known as Gastroesoph- keep feet dry; if you already have athlete's foot, try an five test meals. Each woman first ate a control meal ageal Reflux Disease (GERD) , which is a backflow over-the-counter antifungal product. with a lo\\; antioxidant content. Then, over the of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. In course of two months, the researchers added either some individuals this reflux is frequent or severe Injecting insulin through clothing . a straWberry extract, a spinach extract, red wine or enough to cause significant problems, ranging People with diabetes who use the "rogue" give themselves 10 weeks of injections through 1,250 milligrams of vitamin C to the control meal. from ruining tooth enamel to much more serious practice of injecting insulin through their clothes a single layer of clothing with no skin prepara- The strawberry and spinach extracts - drinks damage to the esophagus, vocal cords, and lungs. are not necessarily risking safety, according to a tion. There were no reports of infection or any that were the equivalent of 8 to 10 ounces of the • Heartburn (uncomfortable, rising, burning study in Diabetes Care. other significant problems with the through- produce - boosted the ability of the women's sensation behind the breastbone). Michigan researchers asked 42 diabetics to clothing method, and patients noted that it blood to defuse the oxygen radicals another 20 • Regurgitation of gastric acid or sour contents saved them time and spared them the need for percent over the effect of the meal itself. That's as into the mouth. privacy. much protection as the women got from taking • Difficult and/or painful swallowing. the vitamin C. Red wine boosted antioxidant ca- • Chest pain. pacity by 15 percent above the comrollevel. If you suspect that you have GERD or have been diagnosed by a doctor as having the condi- . tion here are some tips that could alleviate some Is it true that of your distress: s • Keep track of foods that seem to trigger your peop'/e reall; symptoms and avoid those that give you the most problems. should eat • Avoid milk and milk products. Many GERD sufferers report that their symptoms are often breakfast? brought on by the lactose in dairy products. Nutritionists might disagree What might surprise you is that dietitians mance, but eating breakfast 20 minutes before Opt for non.lactose varieties of milk and cheese on a'lo! of things, but this isn't one of them. don't insist on toast or cereal as the ultimate the test did. While one study doesn't prove that can commonly be found at various health \M've hdrd that breakfast is the most important breakfast foods. While those are fine choices, a anything, it's good advice for your children to food stores. meal of the day, and you'd be hard pressed to find a slice of leftover pizza would do just as well. It's crack the books as well as the eggs to do well in • Avoid lying down right after a meal. dietitian who disagrees with that. a good idea to consume some sort of fruit in school. • • Tight-fitting clothing, especially around the Why? Because people generally don't eat the morning, too - a small banana or a 6-ounce waist/stomach area, can cause problems for when they're fast asleep. It may not seem this glass of orange or grapefruit juice first thing in some people. Such clothing may limit the di- way when you get late-afternoon hunger pangs, the morning will help you meet your goal of gestive process. Choose your wardrobe accord. but the longest period between any two meals eating five fruits and vegetables a day, and sup- ingly. is from dinner to breakfast. By the time you ply you with vitamins and minerals you might • Certain activities, such as bending over or lift- wake up, your blood sugar is low. It should be not otherwise get. ing things, seem to trigger GERD symptoms. restored to give you the energy you need for One thing breakfast won't do is make your • Take note of any over-the-counter or prescrip- your mind and body to get moving. child into a genius. While research suggests that tion drugs that bring on acid reflux. Talk to If you don't eat breakfast on a regular basis, children who eat breakfast tend to have better your doctor about alternatives. your body tends to use the fuel it has in storage test scores, a study published in the October Unfortunately, GERD, in general, cannot be much more efficiently. In this case, being that 1996 issue of Archives of Pediatrics and Adoles- cured at present. However, it can be managed with efficient isn't necessarily a good thing. It means cent Medicine suggests that this only may be medications, lifestyle changes and, in some cases, your metabolism slows down, and your body gets true when the meal is eaten just before an surgery. If you suspect that you have GERD, consult a lot better at storing fat. Many nutritionists be- exam. The Israeli study included 569 children with a doctor who can evaluate the condition and lieve that skipping breakfast is a sure-fire way to aged 11 to 13, and found that eating breakfast advise on an appropriate treatment plan .• thwart any diet plans you might have. two hours before a test did not improve perfor- II. 1 1 I\&~cdf::aL1Fo~u~ Cardiologists develop new laser surgery for angina F or people disabled by the crushing chest which requires stopping the heart and relying pain of angina despite repeated angioplasty on a heart-lung machine to pump the patient's Blood from the heart travels to the or bypass surgery, drilling a series of tiny blood during the procedure, TMR is performed lungs to receive oxygen holes into the heart with a laser may bring surpris- with the heart still beating. In addition in TMR, ing relief. The procedure, called transmyocardial surgeons reach the heart through a four-inch ~ revascularization or TMR, is still considered experi- incision between the patient's ribs, rather than mental, but several reports presented at the Ameri- by splitting the breastbone as in so-called Oxygenated blood from the lungs can Cardiology meeting in March suggest that it "open-heart" procedures. This means that re- entors the heart may provide a promising new alternative for pa- covery time is quicker, and the surgery costs tients who have exhausted other treatment options. about a third as much as bypass. ~ Angina occurs when the hard-working In one study of 160 patients presented at heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen- the cardiology meeting, researchers from 12 US rich blood. Most often, this reduced blood flow, medical centers compared treatment with the called ischemia, results from cholesterol-laden laser to treatment with traditional medications plaque narrowing the coronary arteries. The for angina. All of the patients had previously pain of angina usually comes on during exercise undergone angioplasty or bypass. Mter six or as a result of emotional stress, although it months, 71 percent of those who underwent can also occur with routine activity. TMR saw improvement in their angina, com- Left ventricle In TMR, a surgeon uses a computer-con- pared with none of the patients on medication. trolled laser to drill 20 to 40 channels in the For now, no one knows exactly why TMR wall of the heart's main pumping chamber, the works, and it is still considered investigational left ventricle (see illustration). The computer by the Food and Drug Administration. But when synchronizes the laser's pulses to fire between more hospitals begin buying the lasers, which heartbeats, hitting the left ventricle when it is are anticipated to receive FDA approval later engorged with blood. The holes, about a milli. this year, this procedure is sure to gain wider meter in diameter (about the size of a tooth- attention. pick), allow blood to flow into the channels, The physician's perspective bringing oxygen to the tissues. The holes on Currently, the treatment options available the heart's surface seal shut with clotted blood to people suffering from angina include medica- in minutes and heal within days, but research- tion, angioplasty, and bypass surgery. While ers speculate that the interior channels remain medication primarily works by reducing the open so that blood continues to flow into the heart's need for oxygen, angioplasty and by- heart's muscular wall with each contraction. pass surgery create new pathways for blood to Left atrium TMR has been referred to as the "snake heart" be delivered to the heart by going through or procedure, because the original idea for the around the clogged coronary arteries. surgery was based on the physiology of reptile Unfortunately, none of these treatments is hearts, which have similar - but natural - Right ventricle channels to carry blood from the ventricle chamber to the tissues. TMR offers several advantages over con- ventional treatments. Unlike bypass surgery, Right atrium perfect. People who undergo angioplasty fre. And some research suggests that TMR may be quently need repeat procedures to keep blood most useful as an adjunct to traditional bypass vessels open. Bypass surgery is limited by its surgery, particularly in areas of the heart where greater risk of complications, longer recovery the arteries are too small for the surgeon to sew period and higher cost. In addition, some peo- in a bypass graft. ple have other health problems that make them Cardiologists have several concerns about poor candidates for bypass. Physicians usually the widespread use of TMR, however. Some of the recommend that patients start with medication, short-term benefits seen so far may be due to a and then move on to angioplasty or surgery if placebo effect rather than the laser channels symptoms persist. themselves. That is, people may feel better simply The different tactic offered by transmyocar- because they have had some sort of treatment, dial laser revascularization might sound like an regardless of whether it actually works. In addi- ideal alternative for improving blood flow to the tion, no studies have followed patients for more heart, based on research results to date. But many than one year after surgery, so no one knows how cardiologists are wary because the mechanism by long the angina relief may last. And unlike bypass which it works is not at all clear. surgery, which has been carefully studied in thou- Animal studies and some human studies sands of patients over decades, the effect of this now show that most of the laser-drilled chan. technique on life expectancy is unknown. Lastly, nels in the heart muscle wall actually close soon lasers are sexy, and many hospitals are taking ad- after surgery. So how does the procedure help vantage of this to market themselves aggressively blood to move from inside the ventricle to the to their communities. nllI.~".rlIt;)t heart muscle? One possible explanation is that What should you do if you continue to the short-lived flow of blood through the chan- suffer from angina despite treatment with medi. 1Jf~\]1 nels, or perhaps the laser energy itself, may cation? First, consult your doctor about your stimulate the growth of tiny new blood vessels, suitability for angioplasty or bypass surgery. If capable of carrying oxygen-rich blood to the you are not a good candidate for these proven In transmyocardial revascularization (TMR), a computer-controlled laser drills tiny channels deficient areas of the heart. In fact, several re- therapies, or your angina persists despite treat- through the wall of the left ventricle while the chamber is filled with oxygen-rich blood. In cent studies have demonstrated that blood flow ment, TMR may be an option. For now, the pro- theory, this allows blood to flow through the channels to the oxygen-starved tissue, reliev- to the heart does improve after TMR, despite cedure is available only through clinical trials at ing angina. The openings on the heart's surface scar over quickly, but it's not yet known how closure of the laser.induced channels. FDA-approved sites. And you should keep in _______________ r:. long the channels stay open. As shown by this latest study, TMR does mind that TMR is experimental and that the seem to relieve angina better than medication. long-term benefits are still unknown .• Reprinted with permission from Mayo Clinic Health letter, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, R_Och_este_r.M_inn. _ Using wheat to enhance Michigan crop rotations A great deal of research both in controlled cause of the early buildup of leafhoppers, aphids, or trials and farmers' fields has shown the other insects, ladybird beetles build up in the wheat many advantages of wheat in maintain- because of the suitable habitat it provides. They are ing optimum yields when used in field crop rota- then available to move into corn, soybeans and tions, especially following soybeans and before other summer crops to control emerging pest pop- corn. If good farmers use suitable hybrids, good ulations. fertility and other cultural practices, nothing else Buffer strips/physical barriers to pollut- will increase corn yields as much as wheat in the ants and erosion rotation. just rotting corn with wheat can increase Wheat also serves as a buffer and a physi- corn yields by at least 10 percent. When wheat is cal barrier against problems with chemical pol- followed by a cover crop, increased yields in Mich- lutants, particularly in the late spring. That is igan have never been less than 15 percent, and the period of greatest danger from herbicide usually average 17-18 percent. contamination in streams and rivers. This is the This increase in corn yields occurs as low as time of greatest herbicide use and, with heavy the 100-bushel level and as high as 180-190 bushel spring rains, a time of herbicide spiking of per acre. The reasons for such yield increases aren't streams and runoff water. Wheat in the land- yet entirely clear. However, one reason is that wheat scape is especially valuable in preventing con- is usually preceded by soybeans, which have a ma- tamination of lakes and streams from sloping jor effect by contributing carryover nitrogen for at land or from municipal watershed areas and least one year. This usually increases yields by about provides an excellent buffer against contamina- 10 percent. The impact during the second year is tion. It is almost impossible for water to run somewhat less. So the total impact of wheat is due across wheat, which acts as a "sponge" for po- not only to the effect of wheat alone, but also the tential contaminants. Thus, it provides a very effect of the soybean crop that preceded it. There effective physical barrier. are added benefits from wheat beyond that due to Eventually, the guidelines for sustainability in the nitrogen it receives. Winter is ordinarily the time when the greatest begins to break down in the fall. Only about 15 lb. agriculture will require the containment of produc- Breaking the interrupted yield decline destruction to soil quality occurs, primarily because per acre is lost in the fall from wheat. However, tion inputs on farms within soil boundaries and in Recently, an article was published in the Agron- of poor soil cover during seven months or more. from April, May,june, andjuly, wheat takes up both the upper layers of the soil. Wheat is an ideal crop omyJournal, which cited the "interrupted yield Soil coming out of soybeans and left fallow for sev- nitrogen and the water, allowing very little to be to achieve this because it protects from such losses decline" of monocultures of both grasses and le- en months of cold wet winter weather risks signifi- lost. About 30 to 50 Ibs. per acres is lost from corn- during the most vulnerable periods. gumes. Other scientific literature shows that both cant potential destruction. Although some negative soybeans during the winter, then about 15-20 lb. Wheat also provides a green butTer strip that soybeans and wheat can break this cycle of yield deterioration occurs, with reasonable fall growth, during the growing season, giving a total loss of 70 protects soil from wind erosion during the winter. decline associated with monocultures. On the posi- wheat provides both excellent physical cover and lb. per acre per year into the groundwater. By add- Some farmers routinely plow ahead of crops such as tive side, the yield enhancement, at least on sandier actively growing roots, which provide a good habi- ing up the total loss or by actuallysimeter measure- sugarbeets. That is when wheat buffer strips become soils, appears to last only one year. But can such yield tat for soil flora and fauna. These active roots are ments, an average annual loss of 25 to 30 Ib./acre especially valuable, whereas, on land without wheat, enhancements last up to two years? Based on evi- present continuously from field establishment until occurs from the corn-soybean-wheat rotation, half brown snow banks appear during the winter. The dence to date, the answer is not clear because the the followingjuly when they senesce. Thus, the of that from corn-soybean rotations. erosion control is not just for the land wheat is occu- basis for the yield response isn't completely under- roots growing in the soil provides "active soil man- Of the two benefits, preserving the ground- pying, but the surrounding land around as well. stood. agement" which helps improve the soil quality. water is probably more important than the savings Breakup of weed cycles Nutrient replenishment or nutrient Thus wheat roots and its residue survive. Even in nitrogen. Reducing the loss of 30-35 lb. per acre Wheat also helps break up the weed cycle. A availability more residue can accumulate if a cover is either of nitrogen is wonh $5 to $7 on the basis of sav- corn-soybean rotation ultimately results in signifi- Some agronomists have expressed this re- frost seeded or seeded after the wheat until the ings of 20Mb. But the effect of the nitrates saved cant weed pressure from summer type annual sponse in terms of nutrient replenishment, imply- next spring when corn is planted. This provides a from loss into the groundwater is more valuable. weeds. Very little weed pressure occurs foJlowing ing that the wheat is contributing something back total of 22 with active rooting in the soil. Nitrates are building up in Michigan ground water. summer crops during wheat production; thus, to the soil. However, it more likely involves the Opportunity for cover crops About 15 percent of the rural Michigan wells are wheat helps break the cycle of warm-season crops mobilization of nutrients in the soil following Wheat production also gives the biggest "win- above the 10 ppm level, which is World Health with a cool-season crop. wheat. Thus, pan of yield increase may be due to dow of opportunity" for cover cropping. This allows Organization's recommended upper limit. Eventu- Protection against insects the release of nutrients, which become available to another species, typically another cool-season crop ally, the problem with groundwater contamination About a third of all corn-on corn must be the next crop. Thus, part of the value of wheat is such as clover in the rotation. Although red clover is has to be addressed. sprayed with an insecticide for control of corn root- in the improvement of corn yield over soybeans one of the best ones, a range of options could be Nitrogen pulsing worm. Wheat'prevents this need by breaking up alone. A wealth of scientific evidence shows that used. This window occurs from the end of)uly until Wheat is very effective in holding nitrogen and lengthening the rotation for rootwOrm. corn following wheat gives a 6-11 percent in- the next spring during which a cover crop can be loss down during the winter. Afterwards it pulls Wheat as a conditioner crop crease, whereas corn following soybeans and grown. Corn and soybeans alone do not provide nitrate levels down and holds nitrogen in the wheat Wheat and soybeans act as conditioner crops wheat gives 10 percent increase at the lower end enough time to get a cover crop in. stubble. This is often referred to as "pulsing" when for the soil and for the recipient crops that follow and up to 18 percent at the higher end. Wheat is the rotation provides a window for a the available nitrogen is pulled down to levels, (e.g., sugarbeets, vegetable crops). Thus, a rotation Passive soil management cover crop, allowing corn yields to be maximized by which permits very little loss. Then the soil, condi- with wheat and a cover crop can help to maximize Wheat in the rotation provides a type of "pas- a complete rotation of soybeans, wheat, cover crop, tioned by the wheat roots and the clover which the value of a subsequent high value crop. sive soil management" over a seven-month period and corn. This rotation almost always results in an follows, gives a "pulsing" of the nitrogen into the Reduced traffic of root deterioration in the winter following wheat 18 percent increase in corn yield over continuous corn crop. The system is suppressed, then pulsed, Fmally wheat does an excellent job of reduc- harvest. This provides an excellent supply of soil corn. In addition it provides at lease 40-60 Ib./acre then suppressed again with available soluble nitro- ing the traffic on the field which further helps pre- residue that protects the soil from being "beat on." nitrogen credit to the following corn crop and re- gen. This is an effective and sophisticated system, vent soil compaction. Consequently, less horsepow- Increased soil quality duces the need for nitrogen application by this which directly benefits the following corn crop. er is expended in the entire rotation. Some of the improvement appears to be due amount depending on the kind of clover used. The However, the same could be true for other crops Spreading out the workload to the increased soil quality that comes from the reduced corn expenses (for fenilizer) offset the cost such as potatoes or sugarbeets. Wheat also spreads out the workload and the duration of rooting, though there is not enough of clover seeding. Increased com yield is a bonus. Favorable habitat for insect predators use of equipment in the rotation, plus providing a data to prove it. However, the physical and nutri- However, the greatest long-term beneficiary is the Another benefit from wheat is that it provides cash crop that can be sold early during the year. tional soil quality really does govern the yield p0- improvement in soil quality, which produces higher a green crop in the field during the winter and early Summary tential for corn. At least two or three factors help long-term yields. spring. If all other cropland is in summer crops With all these benefits that have been dis- with soil quality. First, the presence of wheat pre- Preventing groundwater contamination (com, soybeans or sugarbeets), little land in the cussed, no more than about one-third of Michigan vents the soil from being "beat to death" during the Few other crops are as effective as wheat in winter will be suitable for predator habitat. Fields, crop rotations include wheat. Wheat is not being year. Although this is a complex picture, some as- keeping nitrogen out of the groundwater. More which are green and lush during the summer, be- utilized to its greatest advantage in Michigan. pects are obvious. Production of wheat following nitrogen is lost.into the groundwater from field come brown or bare during the fall and winter. But While it is important to try to achieve high yields, soybeans or dry beans requires minimal tillage. The crops on sandy soils over the winter (from October wheat provides a green oasis during the winter, and wheat can be used as a tool in the rotation to keep fields seldom need plowing; thus minimal tillage is to April than during any other time. An average of especially during the early spring. This provides inputs contained. Thus, wheat is one of the tools necessary, allowing a quick turn-around time before 25, 30, or 40 Ibs. per acre of nitrogen is lost from excellent habitat for the buildup of predators; espe- we have for both high productivity and maintain- planting wheat in the fall. Once wheat has been fallow compared with 30 to 50 Ibs. per acre from cially ladybird beetles that thrive in wheat which ing the environment. All of these benefits provide planted, minimal subsequent field operations are soybeans. Soybeans do not take up as much nitro- may be the only green plants growing on the land- ample reason why wheat is such an important needed. The sod is usually dry at harvest. gen, so some loss occurs from the residue, which scape when there isn't alfalfa acreage nearby. Be- crop to Michigan's agriculture .• Thumb Oilseed Producer's Cooperative moving forward A t their September 9 meeting, the Thumb Oil-seed Producer's Cooperative (TO PC) start-up Board voted to move forward with a how capital costs might be reduced while maintaining quality end products. The site selection committee will begin to draw up a pressure to extract the oil from the raw soy- bean. Due to this "natural" process, opportuni- ties in processing organic soybeans, producing other uses are being explored, and the TOPC Board hopes to have markets identified in the near future. project to establish an 800,000-bushel soybean bid sheet in which communities can respond. a natural cooking oil and a high energy soybean The TOPC board plans to develop an add- extrusion plant to produce oil and meal in Among the items to be considered are electri- meal exist." ed-value cooperative that allows the farmer Michigan's Thumb area. The TOPC board has cal supply, roads, minimum acreage, site de- The soybean meal is desirable for dairy stockholders to produce, process and market looked over the feasibility study prepared by velopment costs, taxes and markets. cattle as it has a higher by-pass protein than their soybeans as meal and oil products. The Konnex Cousulting, Ossining, NY, and has met Over the next few months, three other com- traditional 48% meal and contains some ener- goal is to take it all the way through the pro- with Konrad Biedermann personally to review mittees will be meeting to address concerns in the gy. A feeding trial is underway with a large lot cess, thereby adding value to farmers' basic details. After careful consideration, the TOPC finance, building and equipment, and crop procure- of hogs to provide local data on the use of commodity. Board decided to proceed. In the next few ment areas. the extruded/expelled meal in hog produc- For more information, contact Jim Le- months, a detailed business plan wilI be devel- Jim LeCureux, Extension agricultural agent tion. Cureux, Extension agricultural agent and start- oped with several scenarios based on volume and TOPC start-up manager stated that, "The It is the goal of the TOPC board to also up manager for the TOPC Project, at the MSU of soybean meal sold and soy oil sales. TOPC board has chosen to go with the extru- develop end markets for the oil. Crop oil, cut- Extension-Project Office in Bad Axe at (S 17)269- The TOPC Board will also be looking at sion/expelling process, which relies on heat and ting oil, food grade oils, industrial solvents and 6099 .• AS FARMERS MONITOR THEIR SUCCESS IN CORN, ONE NUMBER KEEPS COMING UP. RX601 beat the best from DeKalb, N.ovartis and. Pioneer - for three years straight.* It does it with strong emergence and early vigor, good leaf disease and stress tolerance, and good stalks a'nd roots to support its top yield. On top of all that, RX601 is a unique, great-looking plant that turns heads all season long. All of which is why it's become a very important hybrid for a whole lot of growers. Fifteen years ago, Asgrow made a commitment to build a corn line on par with anyone's. Today, proprietary hybrids like RX601 .are the result. So put Asgrow corn in your lineup. Then watch your yield numbers start going up. * For proof of Asgrow corn success, call 1.800.815.4545. Asgrow Seed Company, Des Moines, Iowa. www.asgrow.com , III 1~'JI~~I~'I::t'lli October 15, 1997 Probc:lbility ot Abo~ Probc:lbiUty of Above Hich.r Probc:lbilit.y of Abov. Hich.r Probo.bihty of Abov. Probc:lbilit.y ot S.low Probability of Below H~h.r Probability ot ~low Hicher Probabilit.y of Delow Probc:lbUay of NormCll Pro~btlity of Norm~l HiChtor Probc:lbilit.y of NormCll Hich.r Probc:lbilit.y of Norm~l ~l Ch~no.s Equ~l Ch~nc.s Sault Ste. Marie 57.7 2.6 1592 1616 2.92 Grand Rapids 61.8 -0.1 2322 2723 4.24 3.26 ~~ Michigan 3.55 Weather --W;; LJ Weather 5ummary lempermn Growing Degrte 0iy5(') Precipitation Lake City Pellston Alpena Houghton lake 56.1 58.1 58.6 58.0 -2.0 2.2 1.0 -0.3 1715 1773 1815 1822 2109 2109 2035 2035 2.69 2.01 2.87 3.46 3.66 3.66 3.47 3.47 South Bend Coldwater Lansing Detroit 63.2 -0.5 60.9 -3.0 60.7 -1.0 63.3 -0.4 2557 2723 2312 2653 2160 2653 2517 2673 2.84 3.26 3.68 2.79 2.93 2.79 3.42 2.43 Outlook 9/1rJ7-9f3fl197 Houghton Marquette OIls. Dew. from ActwI Normal mean normal 57.7 2.2 56.9 3.1 NL Aa.. 1683 1845 1593 1845 Actual Normal [Inch) [Inch) 4.40 3.58 1.25 3.58 Muskegon Vestaburg Bad Axe Saginaw 61.5 58.1 60.2 61.4 -0.1 -3.8 -1.6 -0.8 2144 1999 1964 2335 2338 2414 2454 2454 3.09 2.54 4.43 5.80 3.19 3.09 2.70 2.70 flint Toledo 60.7 -0.6 62.9 -1.1 2190 2673 2493 2673 4.32 2.48 3.10 2.43 * Growing degree day accumulations are calculated with the 86150 .com- method and are summed beginning April 1, 1997. The Penny Check-Off: A Great Investment for Michigan's Corn Producers by Dr. Jeff Andresen, Agricultural Meteorologist, Dept. of Geography, "The One Penny Corn Check-off Michigan State University Is Probably One Of The Best D Uring late September, jet stream steering currenlS in me upper atmosphere shifted to a more wnal west-to-east configuration. This resulted in Pennies I've Spent In The Year!" some late-summer like warmm and much-needed growing degree day accumulations in many areas of the state.While killing freeze conditions ended the growing season for much of me Upper and interior northern Lower Peninsulas, crops continued to devel- op in central and soumern sections of me state and greatly benefitted from me recent warm temperatures. For September, mean temperatures ranged from 1-3 ° F above nor mal in me Upper Peninsula to 1-3 ° F below nor mal in central and southern lower Michigan. For some southern sections of the state, it was the sixth consecutive month of below normal temperatures (since April). Base 50°F growing de- gree day seasonal accumulations at the end of the month generally ranged from 10 to as much as 20 percent below normal, with largest departures from normal occurring in central and southern sections of the state. Precipitation for the month was variable, but generally ranged from below normal in nonhern areas of the state to above normal in the south. With a strong EI Nino event in full swing across the equatorial Pacific Ocean, NOM/Climate Predic- tion Center outlooks are calling for near equal proba- bilities ofbelow-, near-, and above-normal tempera- tures forecast for the month of October and for the 9O-day October-December period. Warmer-than- . normal temperatures are favored for western and central sections of the Upper Peninsula for the 9O-day period. The outlook calls for increased odds of above-normal precipitation in me October-December T he penny per bushel corn check-off has Developments like that not only benefit period, with near equal probabilites of all three sce- been a wonderful investment for the farmers. but society as well. narios indicated for the monm of October" Michigan corn grower. Who says so? The penny check-off has also provided money Democrats still viewed Michigan corn growers! for developing new strains of disease-resistant as the Ilgreen partyll Pooling our monies has meant that collectively corn and new farming techniques that will we have been able to invest in the research further increase quality yields. A recent survey of registered voters revealed that 51 percent of Americans believe the Democratic party would do a beuer job of protect- efforts of some of the finest scientific minds in the country. Efforts have led to new product The Corn Marketing Program of Michigan. when everyone contributes just one penny. the results ing the environment than would the Republicans. developments such as biodegradable plastics. really add up. Only 12 percent viewed the Republican party as guardians of the environment. Nineteen percent said both parties would perform about the same. Another 11 percent selected neither party. The 39-point margin is wider than the 28- point advantage Democrats enjoyed in May 1996. With the economy in apparently good health, environmental issues could take center stage in Corn Marketing next year's off-year election, according to expens. Program of Michigan "Environmental groups ... are telling politicians, that with economic issues off the table, such causes For more information. contact the Com Marketing Program of Michigan: as dean air, water and ozone protection gain promi- Call 888-323-6601, fax 517.323-6601 or wrile 10: 6206 W. Saginaw Highway, Lansing, MI48917-2467 nence," according to the WlII SJreerjournal. Precision Site-specific agriculture: field sizes, GPS technology may ultimately be the only realistic way to manage environmentally sensitive areas in a responsible manner. • Agriculture environmental friend or foe? If you have any topic suggestions for his high phosphorus soils will receive none. will undoubtedly compete more effectively with the Precision Agriculture column, by Neil R. Miller This strategy is far more environmemally smaller scale operations. please ~ite to Michigan Farm News. I high-tech s agriculture destroying our environ- friendly than applying a uniform 250 Ibs. on all his However, in a global grain market, the small PO Box 30960. lansing, MI48909, mem? In recem momhs I've heard several ground. But at the same time, he informs me that farmer's competition comes as much from Argentina or e-mail usatmfbinfoOaoI.com! people refer (0 a tension between the environ- where he has used variable-rate fertilizer applica- or Australia as it does from the 2,DOO-acreproducer memal activislS and those promOling GPS and Olher tions his crops are much more uniform. More down the road. Unless our political environmem cuning-edge technologies. At a fundamemallevel, environmemal often than nOl, site-specific crop managemem also serves our environmemal intereslS. swings back (Oward protectionist trade policies (nOl likely!)small farmers will best survive by producing l\~~\~ stewardship and site-specific managemem have So why the talk of a conflict? I am con- specialty crops and seeking niche markelS. ~~~\\\~~~ much in common. I recemly prepared variable rate fenilizer prescriptions for a wheat grower vinced that the sociological implications of high-tech agriculture cause more comroversy If one accepts the premise that grain farming will remain the realm of larger,more efficient producers, \'Q\\~~\\~\\\~~\\\.. whose soil phosphorus levels varied from 16 (0 than its environmental impacts. Technologies the environmental implications of site-specific manage- Specialists in Crop 218Ibs/acre. Using a variable rate spreader with Production and Protection such as yield monitoring are clearly more suited ment take on added importance. Asmall-scale produc- Neil R. Miller Phone: 517-624-6019 GPS, the low-testing areas of his fields will re- to larger farming operations. As they enable er may be able to change fenilizer blends or rates for E-mail: 73072.1314@compuserve.com ceive over 450 Ibs. of pre-plant fenilizer, while these producers (0 farm more efficiemly they each 10-15acre field. In larger operations, with larger Member of the Year avvard presented at round-up Are irradiation labels alarming consumers? ~e Michigan Cattlemen's Association (MCA) MCA immediate past president. with the MCA. I bestowed its 1997 Member of the Year hon- or to Bill and Linda Hinga, of Climax, in June at "We are are proud members of the MCA. This organization and any like it is what every For more information on the MCA's mem- ber awards or any MCA program, please con- l radiation labels are placed on items to assure consumers that the produclS are safe. The food industry, however, fears the prominent labels may the Association's Summer Round-Up in Colum- cattleman in Michigan needs (0 be involved in." tact the MCA office at (517) 336-6780 or write bus, Ohio. This award, which is typically given Linda Hinga explained about their involvement P.O. Box 24041, Lansing, MI 48909 .• be scaring people from buying certain produclS. to one outstanding MCA member each year, was The industry is seeking legislation requesting to presented to both Bill and Linda because of the limit the size of the disclosure labels to help ease time and dedication the couple devotes to the fears among consumers. MCA every year. "We believe you can inform consumers, but MCA Pres idem Gary Voogt, who presemed we don't believe it should be a warning label that the award, described the two as unsung heros. people should be concerned about what they are "This award is symbolic this year because it is eating," said John Cady of the Nationa! Food Pro- not only for the Hingas, but for all the MCA cessors Association. members who work hard for the Association Irradiation is used to kill microorganisms in food and do not always get the recognition that they such as salmonella and E. coli. It also destroys fungus, deserve. " mold and parasites. The Food and Drug Administration The Hingas have put in a lot of hours helping requires processors to prominently and conspicuously the association. Bill is a past member of the Board display a label on packages of irradiated products. of Directors and bOlh he and Linda are present at Michael Colby of the Food and \'(~ter, Ine. group, nearly every MCA event, doing whatever needs to vows to fight the food industry's attempt at changing be done. "You can depend on them even for less the labels. 'This is very deceitful because for the last 12 desirable tasks. They are the kind of members you Michigan Cattlemen's Association President Gary Voogt presents the 1997 Member of the years, irradiated food labeling had to be prominently wam as good friends." said Quentin Harwood, Year award to Bill and Linda Hinga. The Hingas farm near Climax. displayed and the public avoided it," said Colby.• New \tVaysto Save You Time & Money You can always rely on this powerful family of products from JCB TRAVERSE CITY (616) 267-5060 GRAND RAPIDS (616) 538-2400 LANSING • 1.2 yd3 to 3.4 yd3 capacity (517) 321-8000 • Forks and grapple buckets .~ • Full suspension SAGINAW (517) 777-0090 • Road speeds of 40 mph - even WEST DETROIT while pulling a 14-ton trailer (248) 437-8121 NORTHEAST DETROIT (810) 727-7502 After-hours Pagerl Message Center: 1-800-AIS-NITE .~ • Full range of JCB Loadalls .16' to 44' reach height • Built with safety in mind • 4,400 Ib to 10,000 Ib lift • 2- or 4-wheel drive • The only skid steer loader capacities • Models with 5,200 Ib to with a door you step through • 1 yd3 to 3 yd3 bucket 8,000 Ib lift capacities capacity Weed strategies Grower Service makes Farm TEe a reality Winter weed control meetings by Tonia Koppenaal mation and research on applied technology in the nAugust, over 500 Saginaw area growers that will be held in January and February 1998. The meetings will be located throughout southern and I participated in Grower Service Corporation's Farm TEC (Technology Education Center). Corn Belt states," he continued. A lot of work went into making Farm TEC, but the combination of efforts is really what made (he central Michigan and will be publicized across a Farmers were able to see technology in action, event a success. Under the direction of Benkert and multi-county area. The major weed control topics as researchers and specialists walked them Borowski, over 22 different companies were involved that we plan to present are: through the 32-acre plot located in Birch Run, in the labor and organization of the plot. Farmers by Dr. Jim Kells and • Predicting yield losses from weeds Mich. In eight stops, farmers saw variable rate made note of the joint efforts (00. One farmer com- Karen Renner, • Managing weeds with herbicide resistant crops and infrared technology, seed technologies, mented (hat "it was great to see the chemical compa- Department of • Herbicide recommendations update. herbicide trials, fertility comparisons and appli- nies and researchers working side-by-side. I was Crop and Soil Science, The following table lists the meeting dates, loca- cation, effects of soil compaction and narrow amazed to see how well (hey worked together." Michigan State tions, and speakers at each meeting. Detailed agendas row research. Plans ..... ...., moving tow... University will be developed by the hosting County Extension Last July, Ed Benkert and Jim Borowski, of • FM'III TEe 1998 T he tentative schedule for the Michigan State University winter weed control meetings has been set. We are planning a total of 14 meetings offices later this fall. For more infonnation on the meetings, please contact the Michigan State University Grower Service - Birch Run, decided there was an absence of hands-on research available to farmers in To wrap up this year's plot, yield data will be collected and compiled on all applicable trials. Any Extension office in the county hosting the meeting .• Michigan. The purpose for having Farm TEC was to farmer who attended the event can receive this "provide examples of pesticides and seed technolo- end-of-season summary. Others who would like test gies to the farmer on their own soil in their own plot information and yield data should contact Ben- Meeting Date County(ies) Speaker environment," said Benkert. "There is a ton of infor- kert or Borwoski at (517) 624-9321.. January 22 Saginaw, Shiawassee* Jim Kells January 23 Sanilac Jim Kells February 3 Tuscola Karen Renner February 6 lonia*, Eaton, Barry Karen Renner February 17 Bay, Arenac* Jim Kells February 17 Berrien*, Cass, VanBuren Karen Renner February 18' Lenawee*, Monroe Jim Kells February 18 Ingham Karen Renner February 19 Huron Karen Renner February 20 Gratiot, Clinton* Jim Kells February 20 Calhoun*, Branch, Hillsdale, Jackson Karen Renner February 24 Kalamazoo, St. Joseph* Jim Kells February 25 Lapeer*, Oakland, Genesee, St. Clair Karen Renner February 27 Midland, Clare, Isabella*, Gladwin Jim Kells .Hosting county New voluntary wildlife habitat plan announced by USDA Agriculture Secrerary Dan Glickman re- "WHIP will help the nation's landowners volun- ~cently announced a new program that will help tarily develop habitat for wildlife on private lands that farmers and other landowners protect critically impor- comprise over 70 percent of the land in this country," tant wildlife habitat. USDXs Wildlife Habitat Incentives Glickman said. "WHIP also offers farmers and ranch- Program (WHIP) is a land management - rather than ers an opportunity to meet their production needs in a land retirement - program. ways that are compatible with providing fish and WHIP provides both technical assistance and wildlife habitat." Under the 1996 farm bill, WHIP cost-share payments to landowners to help estab- provides cost-share assistance up to 75 percent of the lish and improve fish and wildlife habitat. In addi- cost of installing wildlife habitat practices. Cost-share tion, if the landowner agrees, cooperating state payments may be used to establish new practices or wildlife agencies and nonprofit or private organiza- replace practices that fail for reasons beyond the tions may provide expertise or additional funding landowner's control. The total cost-share amount to help landowners complete a project. cannot exceed SlO,OOO per agreement .• Science fair project illustrates public hysteria N athanZahner may only be a high school freshman, but he's already found out firsthand how easily people's opinions are swayed by alarmists There were plenty of good reasons: • It can cause excessive sweating and vomiting. • It is a major component in acid rain. spreading fear of everything in our environment .• It can cause severe burns in its gaseous state. Increase Yield Potential with ACA@Plus Zahner, a student at Eagle Rock Junior High in • Accidental inhalation can kill you. Idaho, won first prize at the Greater Idaho FaJls • It has been found in tumors of cancer patients. ACA@PIUS can be impregnated on dry or blended into liquid starter Science fair this spring. For his project, he asked 50 Of the 50 respondents, 43 said dihydrogen mon- fertilizers, placed in furrow or on the side at planting, broadcast fellow freshmen to sign a petition demanding strict oxide should be banned, six were undecided and only pre-plant, or top-dressed on a wide variety of crops to help boost yields. control or total elimination of the chemical "dihy- one knew that the chemical is more commonly called drogen monoxide." He circulated a factual flyer that "water." The ti~e of Zahner's prize-winning project was See the difference in yield with outlined why the chemical should be banned. "How Gullible Are We?"The condusion is obvious .• quality, user-friendly products Better Root Systems, More Vigorous Plants, Easier Harvesting, Increased Profits from Increased Yield Potential -- Proven Performance! IJv MICHIGAN F A R M MEWS October 15, 1997 Equipment leasing offers advantages While thefirstlease payment is usually due also vary depending on what equipment was tirement, but with plans to pass the farm on to the at closing, the same as a down payment would be, leased. For example, tillage equipment is likely to next generation, can lease a piece of equipment. Farm Credit Services has developed several pay- have a lower residual value than a tractor. At the end of the lease, whoever is taking over the A few years ago, when a farmer made the ment plans for farmers. For example, the Harvest Another reason both Gettel and Smith gave farm can exercise the purchase option on the decision to acquire a bigger tractor or Lease Plan allows a grower to lease a combine in for increased leasing is the desire of farmers to equipment with the lessee's approval. In this sce- piece of machinery, in addition to the September, and not make thefirstlease payment keep up with new technology. It is more inex- nario, the equipment can be passed on to the next price tag, there were only two main questions to until December after a partial payment of 10 per- pensive and easier to keep up with new technol- generation, but at a low cost that doesn't have any consider, "What brand? and New or used?" With the cent of the asset cost, Smith said. Many times, ogy when a lease only lasts three to five years. implications to the retiring farmer's estate. dawn of the new millennium almost upon them, leases are also available on used equipment, mak- When a lease comes to an end, the farmer These men admit that leasing isn't for ev- most farmers are now adding at least one more ing them an even lower cost option. doesn't have to purchase the equipment, instead eryone. But they emphasize it is a management consideration to the mix, "Buy or lease?" Leasing can also afford farmers several tax he is free to go on to lease a brand new piece of option that should be considered by all farmers Recently, leasing has become an attractive advantages over traditional purchases, said equipment built with the latest technology. before they decide to acquire any more new or option offered to farmers by both equipment Kelly Tobin, director, Financial Management "With a lease, the farmer only pays for the used equipment.^ dealers and ag lenders. Farmers are deciding to Services for Farm Credit Services. Payments on use of the equipment," Smith added. "The cost lease equipment for several reasons, Tom true operating leases are totally tax deductible of the lease can be easily broken down into a Smith, Farm Credit Services' leasing specialist expenses, Tobin said. The tax deductibility of per-hour or per-acre cost for the farmer," Gettel $>Farm Credit Services explained. One reason leasing is an attractive lease payments is not affected by the time of said, "allowing the farmer to assign a fixed vVAl the heart of a gpowing America. option is the up front cost. "The first lease pay- year the contract was entered in to. However, amount to the equipment costs." ment is almost always less than the standard 25 percent down payment required when a farmer purchases made in October through December, are not eligible for a full year's depreciation, "Leases can also be used as an estate plan- ning tool," Smith explained. A farmer nearing re- 1-800-444-FARM purchases equipment," Smith said. and in certain instances only one-eighth of a Mark Gettel of Gettel and Company, a four- year's depreciation can be taken on an item store John Deere dealership serving the north- purchased in the last quarter of the year. ern Saginaw Bay area, agrees with Smith. "As Equipment leases should be used only as a farmers strive to grow their operation in size and tool for tax management, not for tax avoidance, profit," Gettel explained, "They need more capi- Tobin and Smith agreed. They both said that tal sooner than what their profits normally can farmers should always consult their tax special- provide. Farmers need the efficiency provided by ist so they can have all the facts before deciding the quality and capacity of the latest technology. to lease or purchase. The challenge is in determining how much capi- Farmers need to be especially careful that a tal should be spent on an appreciable asset such lease meets the requirements of a true operating as land and how much capital should be spent on lease before they use the lease payment(s) as an more efficient, productive equipment, which is a expense deduction on their taxes. True operating depreciable asset." leases have a purchase option at the end of the "Many farmers lease equipment with the contract, which should be exactly that, an option. plan to purchase the item at the end of the True operating leases also don't spell out an inter- lease," explained Jason Koehler, another FCS est rate in the contract, and they shouldn't have a leasing specialist. "In a lot of cases, the farmer's really low cost purchase option. One test to deter- total out of pocket cost is within a few dollars mine if the lease is a true operating lease is if the of the cost for conventional financing over the residual value or purchase option price is the same time period as the lease. Leasing is no same as the equipment's true market value, Tobin longer high cost financing," said Koehler. said. Residual values on leased farm equipment The Wheat Team... Genesis Ag Ltd. Red Wheat: Mendon, Genesis 9511, Brandy, Casey, Wakefield Whether it is wheat Your# 1 stop for the best in soft White Wheat: Ramrod, Diana, A.C. Ron, Harus P.O. Box 21085 Lansing MI 48909 (517) 887-1684 or soybeans, LSI, red and white wheat lines LSI A TRADEMARK OF LAKESIDE STATES, INC. your regional seed company, has what you need! Harrington Seeds, Inc. A consistent supply - We'll meet your needs this planting season ted Wheat: Mendon, Emily, Foster, Elkhart, Freedom Wakefield fhite Wheat: Ramrod, Diana, A.C. Ron, Harus, Lowell 2586 BradleyviUe Rd. Reese MI 48757 (517) 868-4750 LSI is owned and Ivan Farms, Inc. Red Wheat: Mendon, Wakefield, Freedom Cardinal, Patterson managed by: MENDON Growers and Conditioners of Michigan White Wheat: Ramrod 6500 Downing Rd. Britton MI (517) 451-8358 High yielding with superior Certified Seed Genesis Ag Ltd. winter hardiness developed Lansing, MI by MSU. (517)887-1684 Woods Seed Farm, Inc. ted Wheat: Mendon, Brandy, Freedom, Wakefield, Cardinal Quality seed for over 40 years CF Braun Farm 62450 Hoagland Rd. Deerfield MI 49238 (517) 447- Ann Arbor, MI CASEY (313)663-2717 High yielding, excellent winter hardiness and CF Braun Farm Red Wheat: Mendon, Brandy, Wakefield LSI Soybeans Woods Seed Farm, Inc. lodging resistance. Quality wheat and soybean seed Deerfield, MI 796 Warren Rd. Ann Arbor MI (313) 663-2717 (517)447-3701 BRANDY A&K Seed Farm Ann Arbor, MI (313)662-8992 High yielding, high test Plant RAMROD!! weight and superior winter Ivan Farms, Inc. hardiness. RAMROD Yields! Bavaria is a region in Germany. Britton, MI (517)451-8358 BIN BUSTING BEANS RAMROD Yields! Bavaria is tall-strawed. Callfor more Gries Seed Farm Lakeside States 1900, RAMROD Yields! Pioneer has nice bags. information... Lakeside States 2400, Lakeside Fremont, OH *Genesis Ag Ltd. (517) 887-1684 States 2900, Genesis 9630 (800) 472-4799 Plant RAMROD!! ^Grower Service Corporation (517) 333-8788 ^Harrington Seeds Inc (517) 868-4750 Rm3:I~~I~r:t','t3 October 15, 1997 Hunter; landowner cooperation and coordination crucial components for successful whitetail hunt I sportSmen f and farmers hope to maximize the According to K.L. Cool, director of MDNR, the potential of several new deer herd manage- new management strategies are the result of grow- ment strategies approved by the ~atural Re- ing public concern, as evidenced by increased dis- ~ources Commission (NRC) this past summer, they cussions about car-deer accidents, winter-starvation need to stan talking with one another now." That when deer populations exceed carrying capacity of was the ad\;ce offered by Michigan Farm Bureau local areas, and agricultural crop damage. President Jack Laurie during a joint news confer- "By working together, we believe we have ence in late September with the Michigan Depan- developed a strategy to address each of these criti- ment of Natural Resources (MDNR), Michigan Unit- cal areas in the upcoming season," Cool said. ed Conservation Clubs (MUCC) and the Michigan "Department of Natural Resources' wildlife biolo- Depanment of Agriculture (MDA). gists have identified the Deer Management Units Laurie commended the NRC and the MDNR where white-tailed populations are above specific pop- for the creation of a special antlerless season, Dec. ulation objectives and have determined how many 20 through Jan. 4, and the stand-alone antlerless antlerless deer need to be removed," Cool explained. permits, which he says should help alleviate exces- In addition to helping reduce crop damage and sive crop damage in years to come. the number of car-deer accidents, Dan Wyant, direc- Agriculture and natural resources leaders answered questions at a recent news conference. "The ball is now in the court olthe land- tor of the Michigan Department of Agriculture ex- Pictured are Rick Jameson, MUCC; Dan Wyant, MDA; K.L. Cook, DNR; and Jack Laurie, MFB. owners and the sportsmen," Laurie said. "These pects the anticipated reduction in the deer popula- management strategies give us new tools to to be willing to take antlerless deer." 750,000 firearm deer hunters will take to the tion to improve overall deer herd quality and health. help reduce the deer herd. The crucial link Rick Jameson, executive director of the Mich- woods and fields this fall during the firearm deer ''I'm very pleased with the special hunting oppor- rests between farmers providing access if and igan United Conservation Clubs, agreed, adding season. "How hunters pursue their sport is more tunities and innovative deer management tools that when possible, and sportsmen taking the initia- that hunters need to be aware of and respect tres- important than how many deer they bag," Jame- were passed by the NRC,"Wyant said. "This effon will tive to seek access now, not the day before the pass and poaching laws as well as honor specific son said. "We should all practice and demand zero maximize the antlerless deer harvest this season, which start of these new seasons. Hunters also need landowner requests. He predicts that more than tolerance on poaching and trespassing." is crucial to reducing our state's deer herd.". Hunter access - tips to ensure success this season I t'sfallin Michigan and soon more than 750,000 bright orange-dad hunters willdot tree lines throughout the state in their quest to bring home one which fields cannot be hunted. No one wants a newly seeded wheat field to be trampled by a group of hunt- ers working their way to their blinds. hunters back for the special antlerless season Dee. 20 through Jan. 4, 1998. For the hunter • If permission is only for you to hunt, don't show up with additional friends or relatives looking to hunt. • Ask for specific directions to fields available to be hunt- of Michigan's nearly two million white-tailed deer. • Note which gates are used for access to the permitted • Ask for permission well in advance of the hunting season . ed. Be sure to find out if there are any crop fields that However, improper planning and/or poor com- hunting areas. Plan your visit to the farm right after lunch or early in the should not be hunted. munication between property owners and hunters • Explain which species can be harvested during the ap- evening when the farmer most likely is less busy . • Be sure to leave gates the way you found them. If the often results in hunters bagging more frustration propriate hunting seasons. Do you only want antlerless • Offer to take antlerless deer only, and offer to hunt the gate is open, it is open for a reason, either for livestock than wild game, according to Michigan Farm Bureau deer taken from your fields? Can geese only be hunted special antlerless~nly seasons . or machinery access. Associate Legislative Counsel Scott Everen. He says in areas outside of land adjacent to the farm? This is • Ask for permission even if the land isn't posted against • Maintain a minimum distance of 450 feet from buildings. planning early, and lining up the places they want to your opportunity to set the parameters for use of your hunting or trespassing. • Be sure to obtain written permission from the landowner. hunt well ahead of opening day, is key to avoiding farmland during the hunting season. • When asking for permission, be polite and don't be of. • Do not set up hunting stands or bait on the landowner's problems. • Decide if you want them to stop by the farm after they fended if a farmer does not grant permission to hunt on property without specifically getting permission for it. Tips for making it a successful hunt hunt to let you know they are gone. his property. Remember, he or she may already have • leave the area you hunt as you left it - that means pick- For the Landowner • Decide where you want permitted hunters to park. Be others who have asked to hunt there. Get their opinion ing up any litter, especially spent shells, from the property. • Make sure you know who you grant permission to. Get sure to request license plate numbers of those vehicles on other farmers or landowners to request access . • After the hunt, be sure to thank the landowner for the name and address of everyone who has permission to ensure only permitted hunters park there. • When asking permission, ask for yourself or with one the use of their property. Offer the farmer a portion to hunt your property. • If there is not enough room for granting hunter access other person. Don't take a large group up to the door of the game you harvested on his property - that • Explain in detail which fields can and, more importantly, during the regular archery and firearm seasons, invite and do not take your gun with you when asking. opens doors for next year's hunt.. 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I I I STATE ZIP ~ I i I Where Belonaina Makes d DiUeren(e. 1111 F. ~---------------~ COUNTY 1~'11[1Ij:1~ ~1~ll::t'~ October 15, 1997 Extension Area of Expertise teams designed to reach out to farmers with specialized knowledge In agriculture, the teams are made up of formalize it." 1995 and was hired in as a field crops Area of Extension specialists, agents, researchers and According to Wylie, having AoE teams can Expertise agent. stakeholders centered around a particular com- better serve the needs of farmers. "It's still hard to know everything about modity. AoE teams help farmers with more spe- "There's a need for some specialization - field crops because Michigan is so diverse," November 1997 . cialized expertise in specific fields, such as to be on the cutting edge of a certain field," A monthly resource Andrich said. "Up here, we cover six or seven dairy, field crops or swine. Wylie said. "There's also a need to have some crops, so it's not necessarily about knowing all for the Community Paul Wylie, Allegan County Extension general knowledge so farmers and agribusi- Action Groups the answers, but finding the resources farmers agriculture agent, devotes about 50 percent of ness people can call with almost any kind of need." • of Michigan Farm his time to Area of Expertise responsibilities. question. Bureau He is the field crops AoE agent in Allegan, "There's at least somebody in each coun- Ottawa and Barry counties. He. spends the ty that has an agricultural assignment," Wylie Discussion Questions other half of his time serving as a general ag said. And for assistance with specific areas, 1. How is your county's agricultural Extension office hree years ago, MSU Extension staff mem- T agent in Allegan County. farmers can find resources without looking all organized? Do you have a general ag agent? bers took a look at what Michigan citizens "The Area of Expertise teams evolved from the way coward the Michigan State University Does a district livestock agent or an AoE agent in needed from the organization and decided field staffs - coumy agents. They saw changes campus. "There's somebody within a county or a specific commodity cover your area? to make an important change. The change came in in the needs of farmers," Wylie said. "They twO away that has cutting-edge knowledge," 2. Has anyone in your group had contact with an the form of Area of Expertise (AoE) teams. wanted to talk to someone on a local basis that he continued. Area of Expertise team member? Did that person had a higher level of expertise. The farmers that Carrie Andrich, Huron County Extension provide you with the specialized service you are left tend to be pretty sophisticated and, in agriculture agent, said having an area to focus needed? many cases, knew more about what they were on helps her provide better service to farmers. 3. Is this a step in the right direction for Extension? doing than the county ag agents did." "I think it allows the person in the position to Why or why not? How might your county's agri- Thus the Area of Expertise idea was born. be more effective in their job," she said. culture industry be better served by Extension? Beginning in the summer of 1994, agems were Andrich began her Extension career in allowed to choose their areas of expertise. Some agents, who were used to covering general agriculture in just one county, were New waste management video available: asked to cover a specific commodity in a few Farm Waste Management Makes $ense video, Farm WasteManage- counties. Some Extension agents have no AoE responsibilities at all. Dairy agents, on the other hand, are required to spend all their time cover- A nine-minute ment Makes Sense, provides an overview of serious economic questions surrounding agri- long-term collateral value. Seeing deeper awareness of waste manage- ment issues as a key to the financial success of ing dairy, often over more than one county. The cultural waste disposal and offers suggestions for farms in New York and across the country, the Cor- Animal Industry Iniciative added another kind effective waste management. nell Waste Management Institute produced Farm of agent - district livestock agents. Farmers have traditionally disposed of farm WasteManagement Makes Sense for agricultural "Most county ag agents had developed and household waste by maintaining small dumps audiences in a variety of settings. Carrie Andrich, Huron County Extension an area of expertise - something they were and by burning combustible materials on-site. Waste Farm Waste Management Makes Sense, agriculture agent, addresses a group during proficient in and could speak authoritatively oil, pesticides, used batteries, and other potential NRAES-111,is available for S20 per copy (plus ship- a plot tour. on," Wylie said. "Extension just wanted to contaminants, as well as containers, plastics, and ping and handling) from NRAES,Cooperative Exten- cast-off equipment have been disposed of in these _ sion, 152 Riley-Robb Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853-5701. Report shows wetlands decline slowing ways. Under the pressures of greater numbers of The shipping and handling charge is S3.50 for a report by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, nonfarm neighbors, wider use of plastics that add to single copy within the continental United States. A (USFWS) shows the rate of declining wet- lands has slowed. The report said between 1985 peared at a rate of 485,000 acres per year. "The good news is that wetland loss is signifi- cantly lower than what we lost in the past," said the problem of agricultural wastes, and stricter envi- ronmenta! regulation, continued on-site burning Major credit cards are accepted, and checks should be made payable to NRAES'For additional informa- and 1995, the net loss of wetlands averaged 117,000 Jamie Clark, USFWSdirector. Clark also said "we and dumping may jeopardize the viability of some tion, or for a free publications catalog, contact acres per year, which is down from the previous believe we are very much on the road," toward farms. In addition, farm lenders are concerned NRAESby phone at (607) 255-7654, by fax at (607) decade's average of 290,000 acres lost per year. The reaching a "no-net-loss" goal for U.S. wetlands. about the impact of environmental degradation on 254-8770, or bye-mail at nraes@cornell.edu .• numbers look even more dramatic when compared The report said there are 100.9 million acres to the decade of 1965 to 1975 when wetlands disap- of wetlands in the comiguous 48 states .• Americans' concerns about food safety growing ccording to a survey conducted by the Caution should be exercised in analyzing the A CMF&Zpublic relations firm in Des Moines, Iowa, food safety concerns are increasing. Recem consumer portion of the survey since the sample size was only 150 individuals. food safety scares are cited for the growing concern. "The survey confirmed some things we had About 67 percent of editors who cover food suspected based on comparing our results from issues and 52 percent of consumers believe food previo~s years," said Carol Bodensteiner of CMF&Z. safety is a more important consumer issue than it "The public is generally more aware of food safety was a year ago. While 32 percem of consumers say issues and more concerned about a broad range of they believe less than half of the news reportS con- food safety topics than the media perceives." cerning food safety issues, more than 75 percent Members of the media said in the survey that surveyed said they would take action in response fat coment was among the most important food safe- to a negative story concerning safe drinking water, ty issues ..Among the public response, fat content bacteria in food and food re aration. ranked seventh on a list of food safe concerns. 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