FROM THE PRESIDENT .. ~ . capital investment, as fanners pay fanning" boosts crop yields and reduces waste by using satel- anywhere from $97,000 for an average lite maps and computers to match seed, fertilizer and crop 160horsepower tractor to $170,000 for protector applications to local soil conditions. a four-wheel-drive model. • Fanners are the first environmentalists, maintaining and • As the amount of mechanization and improving the soil and natural resources to pass on to future horsepower in fann machinery has generations. Fanners maintain over 1.3 million acres of grass increased, the time needed to com- waterways, allowing water to flow naturally from crops with- plete tasks has decreased. Combines, out eroding soil. Contour fanning - planting crops around huge machines used to harvest grains hillsides instead of up and down - keeps soil from washing such as com, soybeans and wheat, away on more than 26 million acres in the United States. have dramatically changed agricul- • Newer recycling practices have evolyed, including recycling ture. In the 19305,before the ma- chemical containers, feed bags and food by-products. Product Agriculture chines were available, a fanner could concentrates and mixable powders are also reducing the harvest an average of 100 bushels of quantity of plastic jugs that must be disposed. and technology com by hand in a nine-hour day. • Wastepaper sent by municipal governments to landfills may - What's in it Today's combines can harvest 900 soon find its way to the fann. U.S.Department of Agriculture for you? bushels of com per hour - or 100 researchers are testing the benefits of spreading pelleted bushels of com in under seven min- wastepaper on fann ground to act as an artificial mulch, W ith the onset of spring, fann- utes! In the 19605one fanner sup- reducing wind and water erosion, enhancing water retention ers across Michigan are plied food for 25.8 persons in the U.S. and building organic matter. gearing up for another plant- and abroad. In 1994, one fanner Fanners are proud of their contribution to America and will ing, growing and, hopefully, successful supplied food for 129 people in the continue to work and care for the land, water and air resources harvest season. While the final outcome U.S. and abroad. that provides for our bountiful harvest. They understand that of this year's growing season rests in the • The efficiency of U.S. fanners benefits technology and agriculture go hand in hand to accomplish that hands of a higher power, fanners will the United States consumer in the task. Just as you work to leave the world a better place for your once again integrate new technology pocketbook. U.S. consumers spend children, today's fanners are doing everything they can to pro- and management practices to better the approximately 9 percent of their in- tect, preserve and improve the land they plan to hand down to odds of a successful 1998 growing come on food compared with 11 their children and grandchildren. R L season. percent in the United Kingdom, 17 Sincerely, Many of us take that for granted - that the wholesome, affordable food supply we all enjoy three times a day percent in Japan, 27 percent in South Africa and 53 percent in India. The truly amazing aspect of all that g~;!~ will always be there. We don 't necessar- efficiency?Advances in equipment, bio- Jack Laurie, President ily appreciate all of the hard work of technology and genetics are allowing Michigan Fann Bureau dedicated individuals that goes into fanners to produce more with less inputs. providing us that daily luxury. But con- Through the use of crop rotation, natural New sales representa- sider for a moment how today's farmers predators and new disease resistant vari- tive joins MFB and the rest of the food processing in- eties, fanners continue to reduce their dustry is working to meet your needs: • Fanners are producing meat lower in reliance on crop protection material. Fanners supported passage of the R ich McWilliams has joined the Michigan Farm Bureau staff as advertising sales representative. In this role, Rich is responsible for administering the external ad- fat and cholesterol. This has resulted 1996 Food Quality Protection Actand vertising sales program for the regular member publication :, in retail cuts that are 15 percent look forward to working with the Envi- Michigan Farm News and leaner, giving consumers better value ronmental Protection Agencyin imple- the associate member maga- I',,;," for their dollar. For example, a pork menting science-based recommenda- zine Rural Living. tenderloin now has only one more tions that serve the needs of both Most recently, Rich worked gram of fat than a skinless chicken producers and consumers in providing a as distribution supervisor for . ,., breast, one of the true fat "light- safe and wholesome food supply. That's the Detroit Newspaper Agency, Af weights." Also, much leaner beef cuts precisely why continued agricultural where he recruited, trained ," are being produced than 20 years research is vital ifwe are to continue and supervised independent " .. , I ago, resulting in 27 percent less fat reaching the retail case than in 1985. doing the following: • Advancements in biotechnology are agents. Rich also brings a \9 ..J; strong farm background to • Fann equipment has evolved dramati- now in the marketplace in the fonn of this position, having grown cally from the team of horses used in tastier fruits and vegetables that stay up Rich McWilliams the early 1900s.Today's four-wheel- fresh longer and are not damaged by on a cash crop operation near Britton, Mich. He earned a drive tractors have the power of 40 to insects. bachelor of science degree in food systems economics and 300 horses. This makes for a large • Anew technique called "precision management and a degree in agricultural engineering technology from MSU.RL 2-RuRALLIVING-SPRING 1998 • Photo credit: Thomas A. Schneider SPRI NG 1998 FE A T U RES }Dung Fanner Achievement Award Winner focuses on family 4 Rather than talk about his accomplishments as the 1997 Young Fanner Achievement Award winner, the topics Montcalm County Fann Bureau member Jack Jeppesen would rather show pride for are his family and his cows. Seller beware: Stop timber fraud before it strikes you 6 District forester and Barry County Fann Bureau member Jim Bruce cringed at the sight of a de- cades-old woodlot clear cut right underneath the nose of the landowner. Lawn care: Picking out your new /awn mower 8 Is it time to replace this year? Here are some tips for buying your new mower, from Billy Lowe of Snapper. Also, mower care and safety tips. Students sought to attend l'oung People's Citizenship Seminar 15 The 34th annual Young People's Citizenship Seminar, sponsored by Michigan Fann Bureau, will be held June 15-19 at Calvin College in Grand Rapids. Students who will be juniors and seniors next school year are invited to take part in this exciting program. The Rural Living, Vol. 18, No. 1 (ISSN:0743.9962) is published quarterly in the months of January, April, July and October, as a service to associate members, by Michigan Form Bureau, 7373 West Saginaw Highway, lansing, Michigan 48917. Member subscription price of $1.50 is included in annual dues of Michigan Form Bureau associate members. Additional subscription fees required for moiling Rural Living to non-members and outside the continentol U.S.A. Periodical postage paid at lansing, Michigan, and additional moiling offices. lel'ers to the editor and statewide news orticles should be sent to: Editor, Rural living, Post Office Box 30960, lansing, Michigan 48909-8460. POSTMASTER- Send address changes to: Michigan Form Bureau, Post Office Box 30960, lonsing, Michigan 48909-8460. Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager; Thomas Nugent, Associate Editor; Design and Production: Stephanie Goeckel; Stoff Contributor: Sue Stuever Bottel; Sales Representative: Rich McWilliams Officers: President, Jock lourie, Cass City; Vice President, Wayne Wood, Mariel'e; Executive Committee, Alan Gorner, Mason; Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; Jon Vosburg, Climax; Chief Operating Officer, John Vander Molen; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Porker; Secretory, David VanderHoogen. Directors: District I, Jim Miller, Coloma; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Michael Fusilier, Manchester; District 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Alan Gomer, Mason; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; District 7, RickJohnson, leroy; District 8, Dan Sulto, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District II, Robert Wahmhoff, Borago. AH.arge: jock lourie, Coss City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jon Vosburg, Climax; Judy Emmons, Sheridan. Promotion and Education, Terry Bellville, Whittemore; Young Formers, Amy Martin, leroy. MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU. 3 17CDOJCCQ] (Ja;I1l1l'@17 m@ltL'c;cr@IIC~rrn EL'l!7~UCJ G~IIIT@1f G(D@C!J@OO Q;CD CDI7CDatl18J[b[[ OL~ ~ITCO Ga:IItLIJr7 pulls out newspaper clippings of her ping and dump trucks to be more eco- husband's achievements. "I may not be nomical. actively fanning every day with my hus- "These smaller fanns are going to band, but I like to act as a sounding be challenged in the future," he said. board for his ideas. It's really great to "They may not be milking cows any Family is a great source ofpride for Jack Jeppesen. see him get excited about a new idea he more; they may go into custom heifer Pictured above are his wife, Mary, and their two raising, because there are a lot of people is going to try on the fann." children, Kyle and Kaleigh. That's just howJeppesen would around that have facilities that could rather portray himself, not as one of the raise heifers for a bigger operation." best young fanners in the state, but Active in the community by Tom Nugent rather as a family man who wants to do . Jeppesen hasn't slowed down either, ather than talk about his ac- everything right on his fann. when it comes to volunteering for TI complishment as the 1997 Young Fanner Achievement Awardwinner, the topics Montcalm Jeppesen has been fanning in part- nership with his brother, Tom, for al- most seven years. "Back when Dad re- things he believes in. He serves as a trustee for his township and is a mem- ber of his county's Wildlife Rehabilita- County Fann Bureau member Jack tired, we had about 80 cows with a tion Management Team and a parent Jeppesen would rather show his pride for 12,000 to 13,OOO-poundherd average. advisory committee for the First Step are his family and his cows. Now,seven years later, we are up to 175 preschool. He also hosted a fann tour "Kyle, my seven-year-old son, was cows, with a 24,000-pound herd for local elementary and developmen- named Student of the Month and we average." tally challenged students. had to get chores done early so my wife One of the biggest reasons Jeppesen Educating the public about where and I could get to school in time to see says his herd took a major upswing was their food comes from prompts Jeppesen him receive his award," the 33-year-old the construction of a new heifer facility. to reach out to his urban counterparts. third-generation fanner said. "You've "When we built the heifer facility here "That's one area where rural America got to see the marks my nine-year-old in '95, the bull went down the road and needs to focus on - the city," he ex- daughter, Kaleigh, gets in school. We're now we're buying the top bulls with plained. "Because a lot of them just real proud of them both." milk. We're not into the show cows; we think that food comes from the grocery And his wife, Mary,who works at a just want the milk out of the cows." store. They don't realize where it really local health care facility, also isn't The brothers have grown to 660 comes from." afraid to show her pride for her family. acres of com, alfalfa and oats. On His Fann Bureau involvement dates "We're real proud of them all," as she ground unsuitable for crops, Jeppesen back many years, as well, serving as raises Christmas trees and pheasants. county Fann Bureau president and on "Myweakest point, I think, would be the state Young Fanner Committee and that I didn't go to college," Jeppesen numerous local Fann Bureau commit- I!J= Member Profile explained. "I don't know all of the ins and outs on how the business should run tees. He also volunteers for his local Michigan Milk Producers Association, and I think that might be my weak point. selling dairy products as a fundraiser. JACK JEPPESEN But if I can't stay profitable here, all the What about the future? Home: Montcalm County awards in the world don't mean any- Satisfied with where he's at today, n Wife: Mary thing to me either." Jeppesen still wonders about the future. n Children: Kaleigh, 9 and Kyle, 7 Future proiects "We want to be more economical and • Farming Operation: 175 dairy cows, corn, alfalfa, oats and The achievement award winner isn't stay there," he said. "Once Kylecomes Christmas trees. slowing down just yet as he looks ahead to along, if he wants to go bigger, then n Farm Bureau Involvement: State Young Farmer Committee, new ways to increase profitability. "We're we'll have to see what happens then. county president and numerous county FB committees. going to try to streamline more and get a Maybe down the road 500 cows may not dump box system with our forage chop- be out of the question." RL 4. RURAL LIVING. SPRING 1998 et onne(te on aye SM Cash in on 10ng-distanGe savings with The Farm Bureau Connection • 8.5( per minute for all in-state calls, 11.9( per minute for all calls anywhere else in the United States, 24 hours a day • 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 you would with some other companies • Dial-one service with easy access • Free calling cards • Personal 800-numbers are available • low monthly access fee of $1.50 r---------------------------, I lETTER OF A(iENCY I I choose The Farm Bureau~ ConnectionSM as my primary long-distance provider for the service(s) and telephone number(s) I I indicated below and I authorize The Farm Bureau~ ConnectionSM to act as my agent by notifying my local telephone I company of this choice. I certify that I am legally responsible for the payment of charges incurred on the telephone I number(s) listed below and that I have the authority to change the prescribed I + long-distance carrier currently providing ~ I service to these telephone numbers. I Further, I recognize that I can have only one primary long-distance company for a given telephone number, that I will no I longer be pre-subscribed to my current long-distance carrier's services and that my local telephone company may impose a charge for this and any later change. I also understand thatThe Farm Bureau~ Connection'sSM name will appear on my long- I distance bill as a result of this switch and that this only affects my I + long-distance services. I I understand that my signature will result in my intraLATA (where available), interLATA long-distance telecommunications service, interstate and intrastate being provided by The Farm Bureau~ ConnectionSM. 1 I I Signature: Telephone(,): ( Street Address: Print Name: Date: I I MailingAddress (if different from above): I THE STATE'S LARGEST r City/StatelZip: GENERAL FARM ORGANIZATION County Name: Farm Bureau Membership #: I I _ :':~~!<:' issue a personal 800 number (14.7~ per minute, no extra fees). I _ Please indicate the number of Farm Bureau Connection calling cards you want delivered (22.5~ per minute, no surcharges). I For Office Use Only , Signature of Authorized Re : Print Name: I FARM BUREAlP andTHE FARM BUREAlP CONNECTlON5H are service marks owned byAmerican Farm Bureau Federation. 7/96 I All enrollees in the Farm Bureau Connection program will be charged a $1.50 monthly billing fee. Members are also I responsible for anyone-time switchover fee (average $5) that may be charged by their local telephone company. Michigan Farm Bureau I Member Services Deparhnent I ________ ~~~~~~g,M~~.~ ~ Seller bevuare= Stop timber fraud before it strikes you into a nightmare that has landed their way in detennining what your wood lot fight in district court. is worth to protect yourself. Many times "The logger will say, 'You've got 11 the services of a private-consulting for- nice trees in your wood lot, and I'll offer ester can save more than his cost of their you $4,500 for them if you just sign this assistance. Bruce suggests contacting contract,'" Bruce said. "Then they sign your local conservation district, Exten- this contract and it has a statement on sion, DNR or a USDA-certified consulting there, 'cut all trees 16 inches on the forester. "Ask for some help; get some stump.' On the stump is not typically professional help in there," he said. where we measure trees, the nornl for "Most counties have conservation district measl}ring trees is at the diameter at and foresters who will be glad to come As a district foreste1; Jim Bruce assists landowners in breast height (DBH), at 4.5 feet. And out and look at a woodlot; it won't cost measuring and selecting trees for hanlest. Bruce these guys are measuring on the stump." them anything." recommends measuring all trees for hanlest by the According to Bruce, 16 inches at the "This issue is no different than any diameter at breast height. stump is a virtual clear-cut as it is the other buy-sell transaction," explained widest portion of the tree. MFB Legislative Counsel Ron Nelson. "If Your woodlot may be worth "Owners can expect up to a dollar a I'm the seller, I ought to make sure that more than you think board-foot for nice sugar maple and the check is going to cash and I get the black cherry," Bruce explained. "Prices price I want. And I sell what I want. If by Tom Nugent are probably averaging more like 60 to I'm selling a commodity, I ought to I istrict forester and Barry County 75 cents, because when we mark the select the commodity. When I sell a Fann Bureau member Jim Bruce woods, we don't mark the best. We save bushel of com or a cow, I select the one I cringed at the sight of a decades- the best and take out the undesirables want to sell." old woodlot clear cut right underneath and mature trees, which upsets the log- Unlike other, more perishable com- the nose of the landowner under the gers and they'll often ask me who modities, another point to consider when guise of a signed contract that afforded marked this stand. And I'll say the deciding to sell a portion of your woodlot the logging company the right to take landowner's interested in making money is that if you decide not to sell in a given virtually every tree. off those nice trees that are still growing year, the trees will still be there for future Besides an aggressive replanting well. They're not ready for harvest yet." speculation. "Your trees are not going to plan and helping the older couple fight According to Bruce, well-maintained go anywhere," Bruce said. "It's not any- the logging company in court, there's trees can average 200 board feet, but thing that you have to sell today, and nothing Bruce can do for this woodlot, many can yield upwards of 500 square many times just holding onto the trees but what he's trying to do is stop what feet per log. The most valuable timber lets them increase their value. That tim- he's dubbed "timber fraud" from hap- goes into household products like maple ber you've got may be worth a whole lot pening to other landowners. cabinets, red oak flooring and black of money." RL "Because of the intense values of cherry cabinets. They are also used for timber right now, especially sugar veneer surfaces for fine furniture and Tips to protect your- maple, black cherry and red oak," Bruce flooring. "One boardfoot equals approxi- self from timber fraud explained, "we've got unscrupulous mately 6 or 7 square feet of face veneer," • Get morc than onc (tuotc loggers going door to door and preying he added. • Mcasurc thc diametcr of particularly on older people who aren't What can landowners do to trecs at 4.5 fcet from the really aware of what their wood lot is protect themselves? ground worth." Above all else, be sure to get more • Don't feel as if you must That was the case of one unlucky than one bid for the trees in your wood scll yom' trces couple whose woodlot was in their fam- lot, according to Bruce. "Don't sell to the • Get some proft~ssional hclp ily for generations and a source of first logger that comes along. Get a sec- from a ccrtiflcd forester or beauty and pride to pass on to their ond bid, at least." MSl1 Extension children - until one day when, what Finding free assistance from other • Know what YOllr trecs are seemed like an agreeable deal with a foresters like Bruce, who covers Barry worth logger to take 160 marked trees, turned and Calhoun counties, can go a long • Mark only the trces you want han'cstcd • Don't rush to sign a contract 6. RURAL LIVING. SPRING 1998 for )'our wood lot: ha\'e a professional look at it f!r~~[jro~ C!.c9~~~[}OOi!7@ @~[jJ)[jCO[l[l caCi'Cl~ [bfj[J @JQ)Wlt] M ore than 330 fanners were on hand Feb. 11 for the annual Lansing Legislative Seminar held by Michigan Fann Bureau. One hundred senators, representatives and legislative aides joined them for an evening reception. Rep. Paul Baade (D-Muskegon), top left, looks over the Lansing Legislative Seminar program with Muskegon County Farm Bureau members Joe Slater, county president, and Harris Knudson. Baade sits on the House Agriculture Committee. Sen. Water North (R-St. Ignace), middle left, talks with members of the Presque Isle County Farm Bureau. DIABETICS WITH MEDICARE OR INSURANCE. GET YOUR DIABETIC SUPPLIES AT NO COST. (INSULIN DEPENDENT ONLY) CALL 1-800-337-4144 CHllRCI-I PE\V PADDI~G - Add comfort and beauty to your church pews - On-site installation - I5-year warranty - Stays in place ... will not slip or slide like a loose cushion During the 1998 Lansing Legislative Seminar, MFB President Jack Laurie presented Rep. Clark Harder (D-Owosso), pictured, and Sen. Joel Gougeon (R-Bay City) with MFB's prestigious Silver Plow award for their sen/ice to agriculture in the state legislature. MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU-7 Lawn Care want to use their machine for more than just mowing, a tractor might be the best answer Do you recycle, bag or mulch your grass? Laws concerning pick-up of bagged grass vaJY from commu- nity to community, so be aware of your local regulations, Lowe . cautions. While mulching recycles finely cut grass back into your lawn, it does not create the fmely manicured look of a bagged lawn. Some grasses lend themselves to mulching while heavy grasses or grasses in very wet areas tend to clump on top of the yard and should be bagged. Weeds reseed themselves when mulched, so . a bagger might be best. Many Snapper mowers are easily converted from mulching, to bagging, to side discharge - an important fea- ture since many owners will vaJY their use during the season. Mowers come with a variety of features and accessories and in many price ranges. Knowing your needs will make your mower Picking out your shopping easier and assure greater satisfaction over the life of your mower. RL new lawn mower s it time to replace your mower this year? Here are some Watering tips for buying your new mower, from Billy Lowe, of Why do I need to water? ~ Snapper. Lowe suggests asking yourself the following questions before you head out the door to look at equipment Grass phlllts hare to takc in almost all of their nutrients dissolred in water. Without enough wa- Who will operate your mower? ter in thc soil. illilwn can't get the nutrient., it When you buy, bring the person who will be using the machine the most so he or she can try the equipment out. nceds for food production. growth~ strt.'ngth ilIHl Where an adult may be able to push a mower, young adults reproduction. m.lking it susceptible to dis{'ase may have more difficulty pushing, especially with a grass ilnd insccts. Do I need to water year-round? bag, for any distance. Handle heights, ease of start and cut- TIIC soil is gt'nerally moist {'nough in {'.1fly ting width are important factors to match to the user of a walk-behind mower. On a riding mower, make sure the op- spring .md doesn't need regular watering. To- erator can reach the pedals and steering mechanisms com- ward the end of spring .md throughout the SUIll- fortably. mer. the sun's searing heat will dry out your lawn unless you gi\'c it regular mtention. How long does it take you to mow JOUr What time of day should I water? existing yard? "Most homeowners want to average about an hour to an If possible. water \'ery early in the mOnling so hour-and-a-half cutting their grass no matter what their the grass blades dry off by nightfall. Grass blades yard size," Lowe says. "So once you determine what time you left wet overnight are susceptible to fungus are willing to spend, your lawn equipment dealer can help diseases. you figure out just what size mower, cutting blade and speed How much water does my lawn need? it will take to get you in your mowing time comfort zone." Of Your lawn needs about one inch of W.lter per course, if you want to mow and get your workout at the same week. Sandy soils need morc water while rich time, a narrow, 21-inch cut, walk-behind mower will give organic soils generally need less. Eraporation. you all the benefits of a treadmill and spruce up your yard at heat. length of grilSS blade. shade and wind all the same time. affect your lawn's watering needs. How can I measure the amount of rain my What is the ~ of your yard? Lowe usually recommends a walk-behind mower for lawn gets? steeply sloped lots. Heavily wooded lots do best with a rear- You (illl measure the amount of I,lin it re- engine rider that gives you better visibility and is easier to ceivcs by lIsing a ri.in gauge. a cup with a ruler maneuver in tight spots than a tractor. But for those who that fills with ri.i nfall. 8. RURAL LIVING. SPRING 1998 Mowing Safety What should I do before mowing to ensure my safety and my family's safety? • Reviewthe operator's manual. • Walk the lawn to remove any sticks, toys or yard debris that are MowerCai-e potential mowing hazards . • Dressproperly. Where can I find infonnation about mower • Make sure children and pets are out of the mowing area and maintenance? under adult supervision. Your equipment's operator's manual is the best place to look • Never assume that children have stayed away.When backing up, for maintenance information specific for your model. always look behind you to make sure children and pets are not What are some basic maintenance tips in hann's way. to keep in mind? What should I wear when I mow? • Keep the mower blades sharp. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction soles and long slacks, and • Keep the oil clean and full. keep your shirttails tucked in. Also avoid dangling jewelry or any- • Keepmower spindles and wheel axles lubricated. thing that could get in your way or caught on the controls . • Keep the air filter clean. Should I mow across or up-and-down slopes? • Keep gaskets and fittin~ tight. That depends on what type of mower you have. With a walk- behind mower, mow across slopes; if you trip and fall, the mO\veris • Examine your mower for any loose hardware - be sure all less likely to fallon top of you. With a riding mower or lawn tractor, safety systems are in place and working. mow up and down slopes for better stability. Why do I need to sharpen the blades? May my children ride with me on the mower? Dull blades can shred grass tips, causing the tips to turn NEVERtake passengers of any age on your riding mower or brown and unsightly and opening enb'yWaysfor fungal diseases. tractor. If your children beg for a free ride, exercise tough love and How do I sharpen my mower blades? train them to respect mowers as powerful cutting tools, not amuse- Since only a small portion at the side of the blade actually ment rides. cuts the grass, blades are generally easy to sharpen at home. What should I do if my mower gets a clog? Sharpen the edge of the blade with a file or grindstone, making No matter what, when the mower is running, keep your hands sure to even out rough spots. Be sure to check the balance of the and feet away from the mower blades. With a riding mower or lawn cutting blade before remounting. An unbalanced blade can tractor, turn the ignition key to "off" before dislodging a clog. With damage your mower. a walk-behind mower, turn the machine off and disconnect the How sharp does my blade need to be? spark plug wire. This will keep the engine from restarting if you Don't sharpen your blade to razor's edge. Leave a thickness accidentally turn the blade. Never use your hands or feet to clear a of about one 64th inch for strength. clog. Alwaysuse a stick or tool to dislodge debris. What about the oil? Why should I read the operator's manual? Keep the oil clean and the reservoir full. Put in fresh oil at The operator's manual provides information about safety that the beginning of the mowing season and change it about every can protect you and your family. It also cont.1ins infomlation about 25 hours of mowing, or just follow the holidays and change oil maintenance that can prolong the life of your mower. RL on Memorial Day,Fourth ofJuly and Labor Day weekends. And check your oil each time you mow - never let it get too low. Why is it necessary to lubricate mower spindles and wheel axles? The lubrication reduces wear caused by friction and prolon~ HERITAGE the life of your machine. Remember this mechanic's motto: Oil BUILDING SYSTEMS x () () - (i -1- :~ - ;. ;. ;. ;. is cheaper than parts. :IC' , =-e, , I c, ~:-..:!x~t ~'o, "U" 10 SH.:'''h How do I clean the air filter? 4(' " tiC' , I:! ...•......•...••........•.......... :;,C, , "et , I C) .••••.•••..••.............•.•...... SX •. I:!.! S I.'.C'~.' Cit. " 7:; , Ie •.......•........................... s 1.1 •••.•• , Most air filters can be cleaned with an air hose or brush. If I CH, " :!CH) " I ~"•.'Il s:;o.ox:.! (~Ulnlllt.rC'i.11 ~1t','1 huileling' uurill~ C',I"" IHII1-III' Iullh the filter gets clogged with dirt, it will allow dirt to get into the Iru .. t .\IIU'rie •• ':"00 I.lr~.'!'oo' ~1.1U11,lrtl !'ooi,. .... of ,hop. 1.lnli. cU ....uihutur. "c' inch ....ui.lI. h.l\c' CI"" C ollll1l('rt IU.tHM) i.11 ,11141 engine and contaminate your mower's internal parts. Clogged IIlini'''.lu'luUI'''C' ItlliI,lill~!'oo .. \11 .Ut- • IIllIpkll' ,I,IIIIIH'II pt'nlli. Ih.l\\ in~ .... .!U \ c',n rnol ,11111 "ith c'l1J.:iluTr \\,111 UI"" ".u- r.IIII\. ('0111 U... I.Hltl~ lur .1 Irt'" in'Urln.lliuli 1'.1t I~.- 141 .1 air filters can also cause starting problems and poor engine tilluit- IltUI,. UII ullr lUll '11 ... lil~ hllil,lill~!". ur hllil.lill~ IIIIH UI performance. RL l'1i n i '-Vareh( H.ISe.' Sa Ie.' I H. I ~!"i u'" I .... ""lIh 1M .. nlt~ .ftnl,tle.". ,,'1111 ,,- ,,- '''" ... 1 , c.'" •• , II» I ( I J..t .. c. - c »., 1 MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU-9 re ou reo some un e Pump up the value _.----- of vacation dollars and have more fun with Farm Bureau's theme park discount program. How does Walt Disney World, SeaWorld or Cedar Point sound? How about Kings Island or the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village? With your membership, you can receive discounts on admission for all these parks and many more. For more information, contact your county Farm Bureau or call 888-805-4864. ~------------------, TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 888-805-4864, OR MAIL THE COUPON BELOW TO: MFB MEMBER SERVICES, P.O. BOX 30960, LANSING, MI 48909 NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP TELEPHONE ... MICHIGAN LCOUNTY ~ II•• FARM BUREAU FARM BUREAU INSURANCE ann Bureau Insurance is teaming up with the Great Lakes Division of F American Cancer Society again this year to offer you great golf and great fun for a great cause. COUNTY/AREATOURNEY SITE DATE CAll Allegan Men's Lake Doster August 19 616-722-7407 We're proud to be sponsoring 29 local golf toumanlents across Michigan Bay Combined Bay City CC July 20 517-895-1730 during the spring and summer to raise funds for the battle against cancer- Calhoun Combined Marywood July 20 616-962-5129 and we'll also be sponsoring the Cancer Society'sstate golf finals toumament Cheboygan Combined The Mackinaw Club June 18 616-436-5572 this September at Treetops Sylvan Resort in Gaylord. Clinton Combined The Emerald July 17 517-224-6990 The local county toumaments and the state finals offer men and women Detroit Combined Meadow Brook June 29 248-483-4304 golfers of all abilities the opportunity to compete, have a great time, and help Eaton Men's Centennial Acres June 16 517-351-0430 Genesee Men's Sugarbush May 18 810-733-3702 support cancer research here in Michigan. Hillsdale Men's Hillsdale Golf & June 6 517-787-0382 Weinvite you to join us as a player, volunteer, or spectator. Country Club Hillsdale Women's Mill Race July 11 517-787-0382 Ionia Combined TBA August 6 616-364-6121 -INtIS. 1In. Jackson Women's Hills' Heart O' the Lakes June 22 517-787-0382 _~IIII.s.y Kent Lapeer Combined Combined Silver Lake CC Sugarbush May 18 June 1 616-364-6121 810-733-3702 willi fa,. Bureau Leelanau Combined Men's Sugar Loaf Resort Oak Pointe June 8 June 15 616-228-5152 313-971-4300 Livingston! IlISUnlIIM Washtenaw Midland Combined Saw Mill August 5 517-259-3017 ur Accident-Free, Continuous Coverage Credit is a discount O we offer when a customer's auto insurance policy has been in force continuously for at least three years and no eligible driver has been involved in an at-fault accident. MonUnorency Muskegon Osceola Otsego Combined Combined Combined Combined ElkRidge GrandView Spring Hill Marsh Ridge May 24 June 12 June 14 June 24 517-785-3148 616-722-7407 616-832-5493 517-732-2626 The credit discounts the price of mandatory coverages by 5 Ottawa Men's Grand Haven GC May 15 616-722-7407 percent and collision coverage by 10 percent. Ottawa! Women's Clearbrook August 4 616-722-7407 Wehope to be able to offer this discount to you. It's one way Allegan for us to thank you for being a loyal customer, driving safely, and Saginaw Men's Kimberly Oaks May 7 517-895-1.730 Saginaw Women's Gennania Town CC June 15 517-895-1730 working with us to make your future more predictable. Shiawassee Men's OwossoCC July 27 810-733-3702 Shiawassee Women's OwossoCC July 27 810-733-3702 'fuscola Combined Vassar GC Club June 19 517-673-4155 Washtenaw Women's Travis Pointe June 8 313-971-4300 State Finals Treetops Sylvan September 517-371-2920 Resort 19-20 This schedule of tournaments is updated periodically. If you have any questions, or if you want more infoffilation about how you can become involved, call the Great Lakes Divi- sion of the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. M Ie H I G A N FARM BUREAU-tt FARM BUREAU INSURANCE INSIGHTS I I 24 students earn $1,000 scholarships arm Bureau Insurance has honored 24 Michigan Anti-theft devices are important- F high school seniors who excelled in both academics and athletics during their high school careers. icycles have provided transporta- B tion and recreation since the early even though they're not always effective. An accomplished thief who really wants The students earned the Michigan High School Ath- letic Association Scholar-Athlete award, underwritten by 19th century-and their popularity remains strong as \ve near the end of the your bike can disable a Farm Bureau Insurance. Each student will receive a $1,000 20th century. What has changed is their U-lock, cable, or chain in a matter of college scholarship. seconds. But here are steps you can take The annual scholarships honor students who excel in cost. With bikes costing anywhere from to lower your risk: the classroom, in sports, and in community involvement. $100 for simpler models to $5,000 for Nearly 3,000 students from more than 5()() Michigan sophisticated ones, they have become • Lock your bike. Unlocked bicycles high schools applied for the 24 scholarships last year. Ap- popular targets for thieves. are an open invitation for thieves. plications for the 1998-99 scholarships will be available Bicycle theft is a big business. The Whenever you aren't riding your from Michigan high school principals next fall. National Bike Registry reports that The 24 Scholar-Athlete Award scholarship winners for about 9 million bikes, with an esti- bike, lock it up-even when it's in your garage. 1997-98 are ... mated total value of $600 million, are Fall sports: stolen each year. And while bicycles are • Don't skimp when buying a lock; • Megan Leigh Adams, Litchfield, girls basketball. covered under your homeowners or get the best one you can afford. • RobertJ. Sullivan, Ravenna, boys cross country. renters insurance, remember that your Most cable locks are easy to cut. • Kasey Lynn Culp, Mendon, girls cross country . deductible will apply. It's a good idea to • Lock your bike correctly. Lock • Ronald D. Keller, Carson City Crystal, football. check with your Fann Bureau Insur- both wheels and the frame to a • Christopher E. Goggin, Alma, boys golf. ance agent if you have particular con- post, pole, or bike rack. • Patrick Tetreault, Jackson, boys soccer . cerns about insurance protection for an • Register your bike with local • Nicole Marie Mosseau, Saginaw Heritage, girls authorities. The police are better swimming and diving. expensive bicycle . able to recover bikes that are reg- • Alexzandra Nicole Shade, Farmington Hills Mercy, istered in advance with appropri- girls tennis. ate information such as make, Winter sports: model, color, and serial number . • Will A. Tegel, Elk Rapids, boys basketball. • Stephanie Cleland, Madison Heights Bishop Foley, You can also register your bike girls competitive cheer. with the National Bike Registry, a • Jennifer Carlson, Royal Oak Dondero, girls nationwide database that helps gymnastics. recover stolen bikes. And be sure • Korey Henson, Portage Northern, ice hockey. to keep the purchase receipt • Christopher Knute Paulson, Rockford, boys and store it along with photos of skiing. your bike . • Jennifer Edgar, Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern, girls skiing . • Jonathan Trenkle, Riverview, boys swimming and diving . • Rebecca Kolar, Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port, girls .?!.Jj SJJJ:;.iJJ ...iJlJsJJJ~SS !.J~~JJ~jSj volleyball. '?:;Jj JJJ ijlJj ~:;JlJ .!JJ~~S ~JJ1J;; ~~ • Daniel J. Kauffman, Central Montcalm, wrestling. Spring sports: j ~!Jj ~JJJ~JJ.! J.JJ:;JJJ [J Brandon Krieter, Madison Heights Lamphere, ith Fann Bureau Life's SIMPLE (Savings Incentive W Match Plan for Employees) IRA, small-business owners can offer their baseball. • Stephanie Bezilla, Grandville, girls golf. • Jessica Lee Berryman, Jenison, girls soccer. employees easy and affordable retirement plans . Like Fann Bureau Life's other retirement plans, it has no set-up fees or • Anne E. Bibler, Detroit Country Day, softball. yearly administrative fees . • Ryan C. Steinman, Haslett, boys tennis. To find out how the SIMPLE plan may work for you, contact your Fann • Tom Blostica, Fowlerville, boys track and field. • Katherine A. Damm, Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port, girls Bureau Insurance agent. track and field. 12. RURAL LIVING. SPRING 1998 FARM BUREAU INSURANCE INSIGHTS Why moms need life insurance fyou're a mom, you know that nothing is more important I than caring for your family, especially if you have young children. Before a storm: Think how hard it would be for your family if something • Develop a safety plan for you and your family to follow at home, at should happen to you. That's why moms need life insurance work. at school, and outdoors. just as much as their spouses. • Keep a highway map available to follow storm movement as reported "When my wife died, the money from her life insurance by weather bulletins. • Listen to radio and television or tune to NOAA weather radio for the policy made all the difference in helping to hold the family latest weather information. Don't disregard cautions about possible se- together," one father said. "It enabled me to take time off work vere weather. to help the kids deal with their grief, it helped pay for a house- keeper to run the household, and it helped me set up college If a warning is issued or threatening weather approaches: funds for the kids." • In a home or building, move to a predesignated shelter such as a While husbands are often adequately insured, their wives basement aren't. • If underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or "If a woman has young children, she needs life insurance hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture . whether or not she works outside the home," Fann Bureau Life • Stay away from windows. Insurance planners say. "Think how expensive it would be to • Do not try to outrun a tornado in your automobile. • Do not stay in a mobile home. Even if tied down, mobile homes offer replace all the services of a stay-at-home mom." little protection from tornadoes. How much life insurance does a mom need? Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent will help you determine Who's most at risk? that. Your agent will analyze your family's situation, your fu- • People in automobiles. ture income needs, and your hopes and dreams for your kids . • The elderly. very young, and the physically or mentally impaired. One young father says he has a basic piece of advice for • People in mobile homes. families with young children: Make sure both the husband and • People who may not understand a warning due to a language barrier. wife are adequately insured. Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent for a review of your family's life insurance needs. o 0 000 '-he Ke, to Success The new Rolli IRA ••• Starts with You! Your new way to cui taxes '-he Door to Opportunity Starts with Us! 1-800- 292- 2680 ext. 2737 Unlock ..Your Future wilh Farm Bureau Insurance M I CHI G A N FAR M BUR E AU. 13 FARM BUREAU INSURANCE INSIGHTS At your service. Your Fann Bureau Insurance alent, quality products Free for you our Farm Bureau Insurance agent takes the time to get to know you and your • Early Indians of Michigan, a Y insurance needs-so that your insurance will be a perfect fit. You can count on your agent to do the best possible job for you and your family. popular Fann Bureau Insur- Call for a confidential review of your insurance needs and answers to your insurance ance publication used each questions. year by teachers, students, li- To protect your family, home, life, business, retirement, possessions, and every- braries and civic groups all thing else you value, talk to your agent about ... across the state. • Homeowners insurance .• Term insurance . • Our Homeowners Inventory brochure, • Non-smoker's discount. • IRAs. which will help you list, room by room, the • Protective devices discount. • Tax-deferred annuities. items you own, their value and their • 25% discount for ages 55 and older .• Mortgage insurance. replacement cost. • Auto insurance .• College funds . • Wood Heat: The Safe Way - a guide to the • Safe driver discount. • Self-employed pension plans. safe and efficient installation and operation • Business insurance .• Pension maximization . of wood heating appliances . • Recreational vehicle insurance .• Alternatives to certificates of deposit. • Scheduled personal articles coverage .• Health insurance. To order any of these publications, check • Workers' compensation insurance. the response fonn below and return it to us. • Disability insurance . • Whole Life insurance . • Universal Life insurance. We hope you enioyed this issue of II. Finding out more IV. Your name and address Insights. We would like to hear from Please let us know if you'd like an agent to Name _ you. Use this coupon to suggest story contact you about: topics, request more information, or D Free Insurance Review Address _ to order free items. D Homeowners Insurance City _ D Life Insurance State Zip I. Reader interest D Annuities What insurance topics would you like to see D Auto Insurance County _ covered in upcoming issues? D Other: Phone _ V. Mail to... INSIGHTS Communications Department Farm Bureau Insurance P.O. Box 30400 Lansing, MI 48909-7900 Fax: (517) 323-6615 III. Free Check the free material you would like mailed to you: D Early Indians of Michigan booklet D Homeowners Inventory brochure D Wood Heat: The Safe Way ~-------------------------------------~ 14. RURAL LIVING. SPRING 1998 counr:y.in whidi [fie student lives. Stu- r:aents may ~ asked to prepare a written essay. or take part in a personal interview. In some cases, student selection is based T he 34th annual Young People's on recommendations of school adminis- Citizenship Seminar (YPCS) , trators. In others, counties select students sponsored by Michigan Farm Bu- from Fann Bureau families who meet reau, will be held June 15-19 at Calvin the age criteria. To learn about your The Young People's Citizenship Seminar, held June 15-19, focuses on informing young people about the political process and involving them College in Grand Rapids. Students who county's selection process, please contact in important decisions that affect their state and nation. will be juniors and seniors next school your local county Farm Bureau from the year are invited to take part in this excit- list at Ieft. ing program. Many times the $195 cost of the Last year, more than 200 students seminar is picked up by the county County Farm Bureaus attended the seminar from every comer of Michigan and participated in the event Farm Bureau sponsoring organizations and students may only be asked for a Kalkaska 616-369-2256 which featured speakers like Detroit Lion small commitment fee. For more infor- Allegan 616-673-6651 Antrim .616-547-2043 Kent 616-784-1092 David Sloan, motivational speakers mation, contact your county Farm Arenac 517-<>54-3270 Lapeer 810-664-4551 Maxine Hankins-Cain, Vie Verchereau Bureau or Nugent at (800) 292-2680, Barry 616-945-3443 Lenawee 517-265-5255 and Ema Blitzer Gorman, a holocaust ext. 6585. RL Bay 517-684-2772 livingston 517 -546-4920 survivor. Benzie 616-352-4940 Mac-Luce- Berrien 616-473-4791 Schoolcraft 9f:h-4 77-9929 During the five-day seminar, HEATMOR students will hear workshop Branch 517-279-8091 Macomb 810-752-3554 Outdoor Wood Furnaces Calhoun 616-781-2849 Manistee 616-889-4472 speakers, hold mock political Cess 616-445-3849 Mason 616-757-3833 rallies and elect their own offi- Quality -. Charlevoix 616-547-2043 Mecosta 616-796-1119 cials. YPCS emphasizes the need Workmanship •• Cheboygan 616-627-4676 Menominee 9f:h-753-4616 Warranty for young people to be informed Chippewa 906-478-3808 Midland 517-631-6222 Great Performance Clare 517-386-4424 Mlssaukee 616-775-0126 and involved in the decisions that Clinton 517-224-3255 Monroe 313-269-3275 affect Americans in their commu- HEATS MULTIPLE BUILDINGS Copper Country 906-353-6106 Montcalm 517-831-4094 nities, state and nation. Montmorency 517-742-2042 175SSE :1.000 St). FT. HEATING AREA (Baraga. Gogebic. According to YPCS Coordina- ~OOCSS 5.000 SQ. IT HEATING AREA Houghton. Keweenaw Muskegon 616-737-Q535 tor Tom Nugent, 97 percent of lasl 400CSS 10.000 SQ. FT. HEATING AREA and Ontonagon) Newaygo 616-652-6923 Eaton 517-543-5565 NWMlchlgan 616-947-2941 year's participants indicated that WMll Ellterprises, lllc. Emmet 616-347-7252 (Grand Traverse they understood the political Teculllseh. /11/ Ph: (SO(}) 303-/776 Genesee 810-732-3770 and Leelanau) process better now than before the Gladwin 517-426-1929 Oakland 248-628-7710 seminar and 73 percent indicated Gratiot 517-875-4626 Oceana 616-873-4654 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY that they would be more inclined Hiawatholand 906-446-3508 Ogemaw 517-345-1447 Osceola 616-832-9093 to seek an elected position. (Delta. East Portion of Marquette. and Alger) Otsego 517-732-7444 "We're hoping to educate the "WATKINS" Hillsdale 517-437-2458 Ottawa 616-895-4381 next generation of voters about SINCE 1868 Huron 517-269-W11 Presque Isle 517-734-3610 the importance of their vote in Huron Shores 517-358-0050 Saginaw 517-792-9687 Ranked Top 10 Home Businesses. today's democracy," Nugent (A1cona and Alpena) St. Clair 810-984-5200 375 home products everyone uses. 616-467 -6308 added. "During our five days Ingham 517-676-5578 St.Joseph 100% Guaranteed! Start under $40. Ionia 616-527 -3960 Sanilac 810-648-2800 together we learn a lot about loseo 517-362-4327 Shlawassee 517-725-5174 ourselves and all of us, even the FANTASTIC Iron Range 906-542-3111 Tuscola 517-673-4155 20 staff counselors, come away (Iron. Dickinson. and Van Buren 616-657-5561 COMMISSIONS!!! better people because ofYPCS." West Portion of Marquette) Washtenaw 313-663-3141 Wayne 313-981-6922 Student selection Free Packet 1-800-514-5437 Isabella 517-772-fm6 Jackson 517-784-9166 Wexford 616-775-0126 The selection process varies Independent/Director Kalamazoo 616-342-D212 across the state, depending on the M I CHI G A N FAR M BUR E AU. 15 jQJ ~~t?\DJJJTJ~j)1D~]Y7UfiU:BJJl)JSJ ~2~ UUJ~~ O)j~ GJ)~l)oIT'J]~~D]~JJ[}Il At a ceremony marking the opening gan, which sponsored the event, pointed of the E85 pump in Lansing on March 3, out the comparisons between the new representatives from the state Legisla- E85 to everyday gasoline. "Ethanol is ture, Michigan Department of Agricul- becoming an accepted fuel across the ture, Chrysler Corporation and the Com nation. This is a big boost to us, because Marketing Program of Michigan out- it's 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent lined the benefits of using the new fuel. gasoline. For years we've seen fuel sold In early March, the Com Marketing Program of "This is a win-win situation for that's 90 percent gasoline and 10 percent Michigan and the Michigan Department of Agriculture Michigan," said Senate Majority Leader ethanol." opened the second £85 fueling station in the state. The Richard Posthumus, (R-A1to)."It's a win Atthe pump, E85 is priced approxi- latest fuel is comprised of 85 percent ethanol and J 5 for agriculture, because it's certainly a mately the same as mid-grade gasoline, percent conventional gasoline and can be bumed in significant boost for the com growers of he added. "There are about 10 percent new flex fuel vehicles produced by Chrysler. the state, but at the same time, for every- fewer BTUsin ethanol compared to gaso- body in the state, it's a win, because it line," he added. "But it burns cleaner, Corn growers to benefit from means cleaner air." cuts down on carbon monoxide and increased used of ethanol- "It sharply reduces tailpipe emis- ozone pollution, and it's gaining a big based fuel sions, especially the 'greenhouse gas- part of the gasoline market in major ses,'" said MDADirector Dan Wyant. "It cities across the U.S." by Tom Nugent is Michigan's future to add value to the Muxlow also pointed out no hannful f you haven't heard of E85 yet, take commodities that we grow in this state. aspects of E85 use on the vehicle. "Both note - the com you're growing this Let's recognize com is our number one gasoline and ethanol will treat the engine spring could verywell end up in the crop with respect to the amount of acres well, but ethanol treats the environment car passing you on the highway. Next planted and the value of the total crop better." . time you're at the state Capitol, stop by once it's produced. This is an opportu- What about the future? Ball Park Mobil or in Detroit at the De- nity to add value and promote new mar- "Chrysler is going to produce 180,000 troit Mobil at the comer of Trumbull kets for Michigan com as the foundation of these vehicles for this year," said Bruce and Fort to see the fuel-efficient, envi- and fundamentally a big part of making Lackey,owner of Lansing's Capitol ronmentally friendly 85 percent etha- Michigan agriculture successful." Chrysler. "With more to come in the fu- nol-based fuel being used today in ve- State of Michigan to purchase ture, this is just a start of a long way to go hicles designed to use E85 or regular 50 flex-fuel vehicles in becoming totally independent for our gasoline. Wyant also relayed to the group as- own fuel. The price of the vehicle is no sembled Gov.Engler's earlier announce- more money. And with the E85, you can ment of the purchase of 50 more flex- use regular gas or E85 and it's not going Ethanol is an alcohol fuel made from com. E85 is a blend of 85 percent fuel vehicles for use in the state fleet. "In to cost you any more money to do that." denatured ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. It is a clean-burning, domesti- order to support the whole concept of cally produced, renewable fuel that contributes to a decreased dependence on "Wetargeted to open two or three imported oil. E-85 and more ethanol use, the governor more (ethanol stations) within the next • One bushel of com (approximately 56 pounds) produces 2.7 gallons of recognizes the value of ethanol as a year," Muxlow said. "It depends on how ethanol. clean, environmentally friendly fuel and people react to the E85 that's available. • The production of ethanol directly accounts for over 195,000 jobs, result- the opportunity it has for Michigan agri- With Chrysler Corporation and Ford Tau- ing in over $7 billion to the economy. culture." rus, and Ford's coming out with a Ranger • Over 20,000 vehicles on the road operate on E85 and 37 public fueling "The government fleets were man- that will use E85 fuel, we'll see how the stations sell E85 fuel. dated," explains Allegan County fanner public reacts to this. If it reacts well, we're and president of the Com Marketing in the position to open several more sta- Program of Michigan Earl Collier. "The tions someplace along the corridors, the Federal, state and local governments, as well as utilities and agricultural public's got to pick up on it, because of businesses have been using ethanol in thousands of cars for several years. Its main corridors in the state of Michigan. availability is highly regional and concentrated mainly in the upper Midwest, its environmental friendliness and it ''I'd like to see a lot more E-85 sta- Washington, D.C., and California. According to the Department of Energy, there helps keep the money in the United tions," Lackey added. "We have two in are about 42 public ethanol refueling stations in the United States, along with States; we don't have to depend on for- Michigan and we're looking to put one dozens of private refueling stations serving government fleets. eign oil. It helps everybody." probably on the other side of Lansing Source: Ford Motor Company and the National Ethanol Keith Muxlow,executive director of somewhere in the future." RL Vehicle Coalition. the Com Marketing Program of Michi- 16. RURAL LIVING. SPRING 1998 nood Facts __ --n-d What is a flood and when do most occur? Aflood is the inundation of a normally dry area, lllreal •• lIIe rise caused by an increased water level in an established water- course, such as a river, stream or drainage ditch or i•• icllil_ ponding of water at or near the point where the rain fell. Flooding can occur anytime during the year. Howeve~ U nfortunately, Michigan did not one of those participating communities. many occur seasonally after winter snow melts or heavy escape the ravages of flooding Coverage can be obtained through most spring rains. last year. According to the Michi- licensed property/casualty insurance What are flash floods? gan Committee for Severe Weather agents. To determine if flood insurance Flash floods occur suddenly and result from heavy Awareness, Michigan experienced 72 is available in a community, call NFIP localized rainfall. Flash floods can begin before the rain flood events during 1997 that resulted in at (800) 638-6620. stops. Water levels on small streams may rise quickly in $2.2 million of damages in southern Under the NFIp' a flood is defined, in heavy rainstorms, especially near the headwaters of river Michigan. part, as "a general and temporary con- basins. Heavy rains can also cause flash flooding in areas dition of partial or complete inundation To focus attention on flood safety where the floodplain has been urbanized. of normally dry land areas from over- planning, Gov.John Engler has declared What are other causes of flooding in March 29 - April 4, as Severe Weather flow of inland or tidal waters or from Michigan? the unusual and rapid accumulation or AwarenessWeek in Michigan. Residents Ice jams and dam failures can also cause both flood- runoff of surface waters from any are encouraged to familiarize them- ing and flash flooding. source." In the standard flood insurance selves with flood safety procedures. Are people killed as a result of floods? policy, direct physical losses by "flood" At this time of year, the combination Many people are killed by flash floods when driving or are covered. Alsocovered are losses re- of rapidly melting snow and heavy walking on roads and bridges that are covered by water. sulting from erosion caused by waves or spring rains can cause dramatic rises in Even though the water might only look inches deep, it currents of water exceeding anticipated streams and rivers, significantly increas- could be much deeper and the current might be strong. It cyclical levels or erosion accompanied ing the threat of flooding. As the warm only takes two feet of water to carry away many of today's by a severe storm, flash flood, abnormal season progresses, heavy thunderstorm automobiles. If you are in a car and water starts rising, get rains become more dominant, posing tidal surge, or the like. Damage caused out and move to higher ground. the additional threat of flash flooding by mudslides (Le., mudflows), as spe- What is a flood watch? for urban areas and small streams. cifically defined in the policy, are cov- Flood watch means that heavy rains occurring or ex- "Michigan can experience flooding any ered. peeled to occur may soon cause flooding in certain areas. time of the year," George Hosek, a mem- Losses from water seepage, sewer It is issued to inform the public and cooperating agencies ber of the committee, said. "The most backup or hydrostatic pressure are cov- that current and developing weather conditions are such recent severe flooding event occurred ered only when they occur in conjunc- that there is a threat of flooding, but the occurrence is last June in Allegan and Ottawa counties tion with a general condition of neither certain or imminent. and it found many people unprepared to flooding. What is a flash flood watch? face the consequences." Flash flood watch means that heavy rains occurring or Residents should be aware In addition to obtaining ad- expected to occur may soon cause flash flooding in certain that regular homeowners in- equate insurance protection, resi- areas. It alerts residents to the pnssibility of a flood emer- surance policies do not cover dents should take the following gency, which will require immediate action. When a flash damages that result from precautions in anticipation of flood watch is issued, be prepared to move out of danger flooding. flooding: with little notice. If you are on the road, watch for flooding Coverage is available through a fed- • Learn the best route from your at highway dips, bridges, and low areas. Distan~ heavy eral program; however, in Michigan only home or place of business to rain may not be visible to you, but may be indicated by about 10 percent of structures subject to high, safe ground in case you thunder and lightning on the horizon. flooding are actually insured against have to evacuate in a hurry. What is a flash flood warning? the risk. • Prepare and maintain a list of Flash flood warnings mean that flash flooding is al- Currently there are approximately personal property to substantiate ready occurring or imminent on certain streams or desig- 750 Michigan communities participat- losses covered by insurance. nated areas. Immediate precautions should be taken by ing in the National Flood Insurance • Familiarize household mem- those in threatened areas. When a flash flood warning is Program (NFIP) and 25,000 policies in bers with turn-off procedures for issued for your area - act quickly. Get out of areas subject force. To purchase flood insurance un- gas and electricity. RL to flooding and avoid areas where flooding has already der the program, residents must live in occurred. RL M I CHI G A N FAR M 8 U REA U • 17 • • Member Health Insurance from Michigan Farm Bureau ~~;;;~~~~~~~~~~---, 800-292-2680, EXT. 3239 & 3240, OR MAIL THIS COUPON TO: MFB HEALTH SERVICES,P.O. BOX 30960, LANSING, HI 48909 [J Individual/family coverage - for people who don't have employment-based coverage. D Small group coverage - for farm and small business owners. o Medicare supplemental coverage - for seniors over 65. NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP TELEPHONE S • LCOUNTY ~ \:J ~ .... MICHIGAN THE STATE'S LARGEST •• - FARM BUREAU GENERAL FARM ORGANIZATION MSU's Ce118.8 el A.IiDallur. and Natural Resources Isnl' lust allGut lallDln. by Kristy Elliott housing and preventing disease in ani- Food Science E verwondered why Michigan State University's College of mals raised for food and fiber. Call (517) Focuses on food quality, through the Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR)has such a 353-9227. disciplines of chemistry, biology, nutri- great reputation? Sure. It's because MSUis a fann school, Biosystems Engineering (BE) tion, mathematics and physics. Food right? Well, that is where it started, but now MSU'sCollege of Offered jointly by the College of Engi- science teaches students how to evaluate Agriculture and Natural Resources has many more fields of neering and College of Agricultural Engi- food quality and technology. Call study. Traditional agriculture is still an integral part of the col- neering, it is the study of how land, water (517) 355-8474. lege, but no longer the only option for students. and air systems interact to produce and Forestry Michigan State's College of Agriculture and Natural Re- support life on this planet. BE trains Consists of managing natural re- sources is constantly growing and changing, and no longer just engineers to solve problems and ensure a sources that occur on and in association teaches students how to grow crops and raise animals. CANR safe and sustainable food and water sup- with forestlands. Students learn about now contains programs like biosystems engineering, teaching ply. Call (517) 355-4722. timber production, recreation, wildlife students how to preserve our biosystems and solve complex Building Construction habitats, forage regulation and water problems; and food industry management, teaching students Management regulation. Call (517) 355-0091. the proper way to grow and process food. Provides students with background in Homculture "I don't know whether I'm going to practice law,work for a the economic, social, environmental, The science and art concerned with company or be a consultant with my environmental and natu- technical and managerial aspects of culture, marketing and utilization of ral resources policy studies degree, but I never thought I'd be residential and light commercial con- high-value, intensively cultivated plants. able to study environmental law in college," said Krista Fritz, struction. Call (517) 355-4722. Specialized areas of horticulture include environmental and natural resources policy studies senior. Crop and Soil Science floriculture (flowers), landscape horti- Here is a list of the different four-year majors that the Col- Teaches students how to produce culture (trees and shrubs), olericulture lege of Agriculture and Natural Resources has to offer,and the high-quality food and fiber on a regular (vegetables) and pomology (fruits). Call phone numbers to find out more information: basis. CSSstudents complete courses in (517) 355-8411. Agriculture and Natural Resources - No Pref. one of four specialties: crops and soils, Packaging Allowsfreshmen and sophomores to take classes in CANR turfgrass management, environmental Trains students to develop packages and delay their major choice until a later date. Call (517) soil science or advanced study. For more that protect products, convey informa- 355-0283. information, please call (517) 355-0271. tion, attract attention and are convenient Agribusiness Management Environmental and Natural Re- to use. Completion of specific courses For students interested in careers with agricultural input source Policy Studies with a minimum grade point average is supply, production, commodity assembly and agricultural mar- Prepares students for careers in envi- required for acceptance into this pro- keting. Agribusiness opportunities range from international ronmental protection, land and water gram. Call (517) 353-4439. business management to local sales. Other agribusiness oppor- assessment, site assessment regulation Park, Recreation and tunities include biotechnology and futures trading. Call Chris and risk communication. Many ENRPS Tourism Resources Stiles at (517) 355-4563. students go on to law school after com- Prepares students for positions in Agriculture and Natural Resources pleting their undergraduate degree. Call park, recreation, tourism and leisure Communications (517) 353-1914. services. Seven emphasis areas are avail- Aprogram offered jointly through the Collegeof Agriculture Fisheries and Wildlife able: commercial recreation and tourism and Natural Resources and the College of Communication Arts For students interested in becoming enterprises; planning and designing and Sciences. ANRcommunications prepares students for careers ecologists, fishery and wildlife biologists, recreation areas; natural resource-based in journalism, advertising, public relations and telecommunica- naturalists, environmental educators tourism management; recreation pro- tions, by integrating knowledge of agriculture with that of com- or conservation officers. Call (517) gram management; therapeutic recre- munication arts. Call Dr.David Krueger at (517) 355-6580. 355-4477. ation; and park interpretation and Agriscience Food Industry Management visitor information services. Call (517) Provides a foundation for students seeking careers in agri- Focuses on students interested in food 353-5190. culture or natural resource industries. Agriscience graduates plant management, wholesaling and Public Resource Management work in governmental agencies, farm organizations and private retailing management, and marketing. Provides an integral perspective of agribusinesses, and plan seminars and workshops in agricul- FIM is offered jointly through the Eli public finance, community and regional ture and natural resources industries. Call Dr. Randy Shower- Broad College of Business and the Col- studies, social services, social ecology man at (517) 355-6580. lege of Agriculture and Natural Re- and use of the natural environment. Call Animal Science sources. For more information, please (517) 355-1692. RL Trains students to develop improved practices for breeding, call (517) 355-4563. M I CHI G A N FAR M BUR E AU. 19 • Remove tags and labels . • Do not stake unless the tree has a large crown, or if the planting is situ- ated on a site where wind or people may push the tree over. Stake for a maximum of one year. • Prune only the damaged branches . • Soak the soil well, making sure no air pockets form between roots. Wait until next year to fertilize. • Spread two to three inches of mulch over the planting area, but do not place it up against the trunk . • Be sure the tree has plenty of water throughout the year. Anyone with questions about choos- ing the right tree or proper planting and maintenance is advised to contact an ISA Certified Arborist. According to a recent survey of U.S.consumers, eight out of 10 believe it is important to hire ISACertified Arborists. ISACertified Arborists have completed an experience requirement tor Arbor Day and rigorous testing to ensure their knowledge on the latest techniques in tree care. They are required to maintain their knowledge through a continuing educa- tion requirement. H old on a second, advises Al • Container-grown trees should have Cherry, president of the Interna- the plastic or metal containers com- For additional information on plant- tional Society of Arboriculture. pletely removed. Carefully cut ing and other tree care topics, the Inter- "How a tree is planted and initially through any circling roots. Remove national Society of Arboriculture (ISA) maintained makes all the difference in the top half of pressed peat/paper has a complete line of free consumer the world," he says. "Too many people containers. education brochures. These can be ob- are content to simply plant a tree, but • Balled and burlapped (8&B) trees tained by writing to ISA,P.O.Box 3129, ensuring that the tree can go on to live should have all of the ropes cut. Pull Champaign, IL 61821-3129 or from the for many years is just as important." the burlap at least one-third of the ISAhome page at www.ag.uiuc.eduJ - isa/ Tree planting tip. way down; slit remaining burlap to According to Cherry, there are a few encourage root growth. If in a wire simple tips to remember when planting basket, cut away the top of the your tree this spring: basket. 1. Prepare the perfect hole for 2. Plant the tree planting • • Gently place the tree in the • Dig the hole two to three times the hole. Partially backfill with the width of the root ball. Do NOTdig soil from the hole, water to deeper than root ball depth. Make settle the soil, then finish back- the sides of the hole slant gradually filling the hole. Tamp the soil ~ ~.~ outward. It is also important to re- gently, but do not step on the • Perfed as a shop, boat and vehicle member how the tree was purchased. root ball. storage as a single or multiple-tar • For bareroot trees, neatly cut away A few pointer. garage any broken or damaged roots. Soak While you may have finished • Remarkably affordable • AII-steel-20 year MODELS INCLUDED the roots for a few hours prior to planting, Arbor Day aficionados warranty 16x24 20130 25x40 planting to allow them to absorb should remember these final 30x40 30160 40x70 water. touches: 800/734-9450 Other sizes available 20 • R U R ALL I VI NG • 5 P R I N G 1 9 9 8 .r ~' ,;' - . .-: .... Seven How to do bridge grafting steps to tbe snow has melted, and I notice that mice or rabbits have chewed the bark down to .the heartwood, right around the stem, on several of my apple trees. Should Ipaint the planting • wounds or what? right A Painting tree wounds is no longer recommended; when the tree trunk has been "girdled," or d~troyed around the circumference of the tree, painting the wound will not H ere's a condensed version of some of the most important factors to consider when tree planting. , .replace the vital but now missing living layers of cells just beneath the bark. Unless the damage is repaired quickly, the tree will not live more than a year or two. Fortunately, rodent damage can usually be repaired by a technique called "bridge grafting," that • Select a location suitable to the eventual literally bridges the gap in the living tissues so they can continue the tree's growth as well as trans- mature size of the tree being planted. port needed nutrients to and from the tree's leaves and roots. • Create a root establishment transition To use the bridge grafting on your tree's wound, use a sharp knife and remove all frayed or loose zone by combining the natural soil of bark around the wound. Next, remove a slender, long branch let from the tree and cut into lengths your property with soil high in organic just a bit longer than the wound, measured from top to bottom. Sharpen these sticks into wedges at material. The planting hole should be both ends and insert them under the bark at the top and bottom of the wound. Several of these twice the diameter of the planting ball. "bridges" will be needed, spaced at intervals around the tree. This zone will allow for quicker establish- Finally, protect the wound by covering the entire area with grafting wax. In a few years, the ment and better tree stability. wound will be healed and the tree will grow normally. RL • Don't add fertilizer to the planting mix as this may cause root burn (small amounts 1. Remove dead or damaged bark of specially formulated very slow release from the trunk, using a sharp knife, creating a nokhed pattern like shown. fertilizers are OK). 2. Cut a slender branch into segments • Stake a new tree only if necessary, and just longer than the wound, with then only for as long as necessary. wedge-like points on each end • • Keepthe top of the soil ball slightly above 3. Wedge the segments beneath the the planting hole in heavy or clay soil and bark to facilitate new growth over the even with the surrounding soil in loose or wound. Cover the twigs and entire sandy soils. wound with grafting wax. • Build two 4- to 5-inch dikes of soil to direct and contain water, one a little smaller than the root ball and the other about 30 inches in diameter. Painful Joints' • Water the planting ball every one to three days for the first three or four weeks until Weight Gain? the roots have moved into the transition zone. RL Cholesterol? Get Apple Cider Vinegar Tablets! Since the dawn of time, apple cider vinegar has been a part of r - - - - - - - - - -- helping people to healthier lives. I Indiana Botanic Gardens, Inc., I Wet Apple cider vinegar is nutrient dense, Ie with over 93 different compounds. I p.o. Box S, Dept. MRPW ammond, IN 4632S-OOOS I I Basement? I~'s ri~h in pectin, which can help I Yes! Please RUSH me fight high cholesterol levels. Apple Cider Vinegar Tablets. Check one. 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"i ~ _~;i .asea County"'arm --.. faMily sends casll BELLYILL eraps araundi ACRES tile .arld SI1..JtS6'" 3432 .. ~tloy~.1811J1iA About 1,100 different canola varieties full time with her husband. The two Bellville children, 24-year- were planted on their land near the crossroads of M-55 and M-65 in losco old Chad and 30-year-old jana, have County. "People from all over the U.S. moved away from the farm. Chad repre- Joyce and Ten)' Bel/ville stand near the homestead sents Midwest states for a food service and even some from Europe were here to they hm'e ownedfor 25 years. The couplefarms 1,000 company andJana is a licensed archi- see them," Terry said. acres of cash crops near Whittemore in the southwest Later, the seed company approached tect. Their proud parents say the chil- comer of /osco County. Terry sen'es on the MFB Terry and Joyce about becoming seed dren like to visit and are eager to hop on board of directors as Promotion and Education representative. producers. "Right now, we're raising the a tractor whenever it's needed. "They canol a for certified foundation seed, as can operate any piece of equipment," well as part of the oats and wheat," Terry said. by Sue Stuever Battel Terry said. Key issues in agriculture The canola seed, contracted by a Though urban sprawl has yet to hit erry Bellville's crops are more well Reno Township, Terry knows that sound Georgia company, has been planted in traveled than he is. One of just zoning ordinances can make the differ- California and Canada in years past. . three canol a seed producers in ence. Residents of rural Reno, 575 in This year, Bellville seed will turn into Michigan, Terry and his wife, Joyce, see number, have recently started working 8,000-10,000 acres of winter canola in their rapeseed off to the Deep South on a master zoning plan. Their situation " Georgia. every fall. They also bid their beans is unique in that theirs is the only town- Growing the foundation seed re- farewell and ship them to Japan by way ship in loseo County that does not have quires intensive management. "The of Pinconning. government land - only what the agronomist from the company is here Terry and Joyce own and rent about township hall and cemetery sit on. every two weeks during the summer," 1,000 acres for cash crops - com, soy- Letting farmers' voices be heard according to Terry. beans, wheat, oats, canol a and a little shouldn't be a problem in the munici- The Bellvilles also grow specialty hay. pality. "All but one of the township board beans that turn up as tofu injapan. For A Michigan State University research members are Farm Bureau members," making the soy-based foodstuff,japanese project five years ago turned into a prof- Terry said. customers prefer white beans with no itable venture for the Bellvilles. At that Terry sees the bovine tuberculosis distinct "eye." Terry has found that they time, they offered up their land for Dr. problem in deer as a key issue for the yield the same as conventional soys, plus Larry Copeland, of the MSU Crop and organization. Half of his land falls into he gets paid a premium upon delivery to Soil Science Department, and a private the buffer zone around the five counties the elevator in Pinconning. seed company to use for trial plots. where 1'8 has been found. The other half A worthy vocation "We started farming on our own in is on the south side of M-55. '74," Terry said, clearly happy about the Crop damage is a major factor on 1tJ. Member Profile choice. Terry grew up on his family's dairy farm and studied civil engineering the farm. "I wouldn't doubt that it's in excess of $5,000. I think that's very con- in college. During a lO-year stint with servative," Terry said of the yearly loss. tERRY BELLVILLE the highway department, he found that One year, deer nibbled a IS-acre field • Home: Whittemore, losco County out-of-town trips away from his young of 8-inch-tall winter canol a to nothing . • Wife: Joyce family and sitting idle in an office didn't "It's not unusual to see 200 deer on a • Children: Chad, 24 and Jana, 30 make a good lifestyle for him . 40-acre field," he said. • Farming Operation: 1,000 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat, oats, "I never did quit fanning, even in Terry says getting involved in Farm canola and hay - some grown for certified foundation seed. between," he said. Once he left the office Bureau can pay big dividends. "It's a • Farm Bureau Involvement: State Promotion and Education Com- job, Terry and joyce began growing cash two-way street," he said. "The more mittee, Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors, former County you get involved, the more you'll get crops on their own. Joyce also owned a president. beauty salon for 30 years, but now farms back." RL 22 • R U R ALL I V I N G • 5 P R I N G 1 9 9 8 MarIe Karker and Young Farmer Trust schorarshlp winners water from the manure, and I will work company after graduation. He also plans the fields after they're covered to help to be a part-time cash crop farmer and control the smell." wants to get involved in politics to repre- Stakenas is the youngest of five chil- sent the agriculture industry. 1\vo issues dren from Ludington. He worked at very important to Rogers are urban Stakenas Farms and was involved in sprawl and beginning farmer financing. Ted Rogers received the MFB Young Farmer Trust sports and 4-H in high school. He is cur- "I will help farmers protect them- Fund award from Patti Warnke, a State Young Farmer rently on the Michigan State University selves and their land from urban sprawl Committee member. DairyJudging Team. by representing them in farm organiza- Young Farmer Trust Fund tions or by lobbying on their behalf," award winner said Rogers. "As an employee of an agri- Ted Rogers received the $3,000 culture business, I will also be in a prime Michigan Farm Bureau Young Farmer position for my voice to be heard on Trust Fund Scholarship award, which is beginning farmer finance programs." given to an outstanding student enrolled Rogers is the second of three boys in a four-year program in Michigan State and has been involved with agriculture University's College of Agriculture and all of his life. He grew up on a farm in Natural Resources. Mason, was an FFAmember, and was Rogers grew up in Mason and is now a involved in 4-H and Discussion Meet. sophomore at Michigan State University. Rogers will be traveling to Australia this He'sdouble majoring in agriculture and summer with a College of Agriculture natural resources communications and and Natural Resources overseas study crop management and plans to work as a program. RL Steve Stakenas receives the MFB Marge Karker sales representative for an agribusiness scholarship award from Patti Warnke. by Kristy Elliot n't take it so hard ... Physics softens your water S teveStakenas received the Michigan Farm Bureau Marge like lightening treats the rain Karker Scholarship award at withOltt electricity, salt or chemicals - for city or well water an MSUceremony Feb. 26. The SoPbTec Water Conditioning System for HOME & AGRI- CULTURE. Controls hardness, calcium scale and corrosion. $1,500 award is given to an out- Removes existing scale. Helps control sulfur odor. Saves energy costs. Installs easily. Maintenance and service free. Use 50010less standing student enrolled in a two- soaps and detergents. SoPbTec water conditioning system makes year agricultural technology pro- hard water act like soft water. Other Applications gram at Michigan State University. Farms Greenhouses Irrigation Systems Dairies Stakenas is a freshman majoring in SoPhTec water conditioning system extends equipment life. Prevents scale dairy cattle management, and plans build-up, clogging oflines, fixtures and equipment Safe for soil, plant life and to work as a herdsman for Stakenas animals. SoPbTec is a cost effective alternative to a salt water system. Total sys- Farms Inc. after graduation. One tem cost for the home is $359 plus $8.50 shipping. A 90 day money-back guarantee plus a ten year warranty. issue Stakenas plans to address Toplilce you, order or to receive more information, call or write: throughout his career is the manage- CARL KNIGHT ment of liquid manure. SoPhTec Distributor 4860 Quarry Lane • Cleveland, OH 44143 Environmentalists say that liquid manure contaminates groundwater, TOLL FREE 1-800-708-2872 www.sopbtec-water.com and local residents don't like the smell, said Stakenas. "I plan on setting up a system to remove the M I CHI G A N FAR M BUR E AU. 23 . the¥. way to ~ beautifui reC~ ... The New Roth IRA V Tax-deferred interest earnings V Tax-free withdrawals V Lifetime retirement income V Now available from your Farm Bureau .Insurance agent Everything good about a Roth IRA is {evenbetter with Farm Bureau Insurance service. : Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent today. M~ Your Fu:tur~ Mor~ PredicmlJ~ ._.@ ... FARM BUREAU MUTUAL' FARM BUREAU INSURANCE FARM BUREAU LIFE. FARM BUREAU GENERAL Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Post Office Box 30960 7373 West Saginaw Highway Lansing, Michigan 48909-8460