Michigan Farm News FOUR TRACTORS The American Farm Bureau winners will receive the use of a high horsepower Allis-Chalmers tractor with choice of options for one year For the fourth straight year, the use of an Allis-Chalmers high-horsepower two wheel drive tractor (over 100 Pro HP) will be provided free for one year to the three national winners of the American Farm Bureau's "Young Farmer and Rancher Award," as well as the Discussion Meet national winner! BUILT WITH THE WINNER'S CHOICEOF OPTIONS! And to top it off, the award presentations will be made in Dallas, Texas at the AFBF annual meeting in January. Any Farm Bureau member family actively farming, the husband and wife being no more than 30 years of age as of December 31, 1982, is eligible. Now's your chance to win. So get into the competition! And get ready to move up to a Big Orange tractor! For more information, contact your county Farm Bureau office. May 1982 Volume 61, Number 5 IN THIS ISSUE 10 Washington Diary Michigan's Outstanding Young Farm Woman shares her views of the city of presidents, politicians and ordinary people. 19 Grow Some Green Stuff on Your Back Forty Increased demand for forest products could mean a financial boon for farm woodlot owners. 22 Ag Rescue Preparedness Kent County Young Farmers join with emergency agencies to help prevent farm accident fatalities. 24 Will Apathy Allow Animal Rights Groups to Win? Animal rights advocates charge modern agriculture with inhumane practices. How will the farm commu- nity respond? IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Rural Route 5 Donna 6 Lansing Review ABOUT THE COVER: 8 Washington Report Washington Legislative Seminar participants learned that govern- 16 County Newsletter ment policies have more impact 26 Agrinomic Update on agriculture than most farmers realize. 28 Discussion Topic - Photos by Marcia Ditchie 31 Market Place Michigan Farm News RURAL LIVING (ISSN 0026-2161) Michigan Farm News Rural Liuing is published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Mich. 48909. Post Office Box 30960; telephone. Lansing 517-323-7000. Extension SOB. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: $1.50 per year to members. Included In annual dues. $3.00 per year non-members In Michigan. $5.00 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. ~5040. Established Jan. 13. 1923 as Michigan Farm News. name changed to Michigan Farm News Rural Liuing Dec. 1. 1981. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan and at additional mailing offices. EDITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor; Marcia Ditchle. Associate Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor; Cathy J. Kirvan. Copy Editor. OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia: Vice President, Jack Laurie. Cass City; Administrative Director. Robert Braden. Lansing; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Max D. Dean; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson DIRECTORS: District I. Arthur Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2. Lowell Eisenmann. Blissfield; District3, James Sayre. Belleville; District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia: District5, Albert Cook. Mason; District 6. Jack Laurie. Cass City: District 7. Robert Rider. Hart; District 8. Lyle LeCronier, Freeland; District9. Donald Nugent. Frankfort: District IO. Margaret Kartes. West Branch: District II. Bernard Doll. Dafter DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Dave Conklin. Corunna; Michael Pridgeon. Montgomery; Robert Rottier. Fremont FARM BUREAU WOMEN: Vivian Lott. Mason FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS: Glenn PresIon. Quincy POSTMASTER: In using form 3579. mail to: Michigan Farm News Rural Liulng, P.O. Bax 30960. 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing, Mich. 48909. RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 3 Rural Route The Voter's Alternative to Deferred Tax Cuts We sent up a resounding cheer last when he proposed his tax reduction summer when Congress passed the program two decades ago: tax cut law, calling it a "shot in the "Our true choice is not between tax arm" for Michigan agriculture. It would reduction on the one hand, and the be a major factor, we said, toward in- avoidance of large federal deficits on creasing income for the state's farmers the other. An economy hampered by and estimated it would save us nearly restrictive tax rates will never produce $99 million. enough revenue to balance the budget Important, too, was the over $406 - just as it will never produce enough million it would have added to our jobs or enough profits." state's ailing economy, once we in- What some of our congressmen are vested those savings in new machin- saying is that it is NOT inflationary for ery, buildings and equipment. the federal government to take tax- "Reduction in personal income taxes will mean that Michigan taxpay- / payer money and spend it - but that it WOULD BE inflationary to let tax- ers will be able to keep $1.2 billion in their pockets this year, rather than I payers keep some of their money and spend it themselves! We reject that sending it off to Washington," we said. premise. We have proven that we can And we predicted that "1983 will j ( do a better job of spending - or saving see tax relief in the amount of $3.4 bil- , our own money than the federal lion and $5.4 billion in 1984. The total during our visits with congressmen, to government can. We know the mean- personal income tax reduction for just reduce even built-in cost increases in ing of fiscal responsibility. the next three years totals $10 billion the entitlement programs that now We have a choice: Do we want to for Michigan taxpayers." consume a majority of the federal bud- keep that $10 billion ourselves to save That's why it was such a disappoint- get. Which means, during an election or spend as we choose or send it to ment, when we were in Washington year, that lobbying by special interest Washington for the politicians and recently, to hear congressm~n say groups has been effective, and that bureaucrats to spend for us? there was "no alternative" to deferring our politicians think they can forget the It's really up to YOU, because it will those tax cuts. We don't buy that, and outcry for fiscal responsibility in the last take more than one letter to counter- a Wall Street Journal editorial pretty elections .. act the pressures your congressman is well sums up why .... Perhaps they even think that their receiving that will demand YOUR tax "With a free ride on taxes, our elect- unfilfilled promise won't be noticed dollars. You might remind him, too, ed representatives have built all kinds and they can go on freely spending that if pleas for fiscal responsibility do of automatic increases into their bud- and continue to feed the inflation that not work, there's always the ballot gets. Social Security payments go up has eroded our incomes. After all, the box. That may just get him where he automatically; federal pensions in- "average" taxpayer isn't nearly as vo- lives. crease even faster. Special interests cal as those special interest groups charge that they've been cut to the who are protected against bracket bone if their subsidies don't rise by at creep and are unwilling to make the least the rate of inflation. personal sacrifices others are forced to "The big projected deficits Washing- make. ton is trying to use as a fright wig to The tax cuts are a key part of Presi- president drive the voters into giving up the tax dent Reagan's economic recovery pro- Michigan Farm Bureau rate cuts they won last year do not gram. Without them, it has little really reflect a reduction in taxes; the chance of succeeding - and it must rate cuts will only about compensate succeed! for bracket creep. The projected gaps, Those congressmen who would If you have a question or opinion then, just demonstrate how much the have us give up what we have won that you would like to share in Rural government has come to depend on claim that tax reductions will cause Route; send it to Rural Living Maga- hidden tax increases to pay its bills," larger federal deficits and even more zine, Michigan Farm Bureau, P. O. the editorial said. inflation. They should remember the Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. We found an obvious reluctance, words of President John F. Kennedy 4 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 Donna RationMaster ™ Nobody Does It Better. Feeding Syste.m A USDA spokesperson, Washington, during our recent visit to D.C., called the District of Columbia, "64 {1. ,. square miles surrounded by reality." An apt description, I concluded as I pounded the streets of the nation's capital peddling press kits to the Washington based Michigan news media. While my eyes told me the characters I saw were real, my brain kept rejecting them as "unreal!" Like the man walking down the sidewalk in his Washington "uniform" - a three piece pin-striped suit, with bright blue track shoes on his obviously asphalt worn feet. And the De Laval technology enables you to place the young fellow who stood up from his sidewalk cafe table and dairy herd's grain feeding program under computer control. With the RationMaster Feed- burst into song between bites of his hamburg (and nobody - ing System, each cow gets only the concentrate not even the people at adjoining tables - paid him any heed). needed for optimum milk production. Compo- We no sooner recovered from this unreal show when nents include neck-worn transponders ... single- stall feeding stations where grain is dispensed down the middle of the street, oblivious to the rush-hour automatically ... and a Computer Command traffic, came a man with a long grey beard, waving his arms Center where a micro-processor stores and retrieves data on individual animals. and warning that the world was coming to an end. A good time to get off the streets, we decided, and hailed Reduced labor, more milk, less wasted feed, healthier cows, and shortened calving intervals a cab - only to pick a cabbie who told us (in broken English) are typical benefits. Let us explain more about his life story, the history of the city, his political views, and the RationMaster Feeding System - Module One of the advanced De LavalS HerdMasterTU his conclusion that "when we get a president who paints the Management System. ~; White House green, then we will know we have a man who can make a decision." CENTRAL DAIRY SI.JPPC'l( ~ Back in the relative calm of my hotel room, I sat at my rented typewriter working on a news release and caught a 2810 South Canal Lansing,Michigan 48917 movement out the window. There, perched on the very 517-322-2083 edge of the roof of Department of Transportation building across the street, was a man. While 1 whimpered, "please don't jump," my photographer roommate dashed for her GARDENING? • WANT A WEED FREE GARDEN WITHOUT HARD WORK? camera, half-hoping, I strongly suspect, to have an unusual action photo in the Washington Post. Well he didn't ... and she didn't, but the news release I finally finished had more typos than usual. In spite of all these "sideshows" (and this year was not unusual in that respect), the annual Washington Legislative \,\ I~ ,"I Seminar, sponsored by Farm Bureau Women, is the most exciting and, I think, effective activity this organization Wcftalhn undertakes. No matter how many times I have the oppor- tunity to participate, I never lose my awe of the city, its huge :~, marble buildings, its ghosts of heroes past, its "history in the making" atmosphere. w.Ighs ... But, most of all, I never lose my awe of our farmers in ac- Use An AGCO tion there - knowledgeable, articulate, dedicated to the pur- pose of their mission. It's grassroots policy execution at its . .~ . -.•.~-, .. .... . . " finest and a privilege to witness . ,,;.; It did seem this election year that it was more of a challenge for them to "get a word in." All of the politicians ~ wanted their turn on the soapbox and were reluctant to give WeedJ Nitro. Rows t.. Tills Deep it up once' they got it. Some of the legislative leaders ex- New Agco nller • Power Hoe ... nlls Deep ... Vert Easy To Hancle ... Makes pressed to me their frustration that "nobody listens; are we Gardens Weed Free Fasl WiIhcU Hsd really doing any good here?" Work ... 2 Wk Money Bat* Trial PerIod. 1 Helps you grow S400 to S600 worth of My answer to them was: unless you keep on invading that vegetables In your back yard It s like tax AGCO POBOX 75 DEPT ~ I "64 square miles surrounded by reality," your represen- free IOcome' SOUTHAMPTON. PA 18966 I tatives in the nation's capital will become so comfortably 12 High speed tiger tlOes tills 6 to 8 Inches I want more information please send I deep, works your SOIl to the texture of literature to I isolated that they will soon forget to whom they are account- I granulated sugar NAME _. I 3 Makes weeding last ~ and tun Weeds --.------ I able. We simply must keep reminding them - at the polls, I narrow rows 1 t03.ochesdeep STREEl -.-. --- _ through letters, calls, visits and participation in activities like 14 Aeraodtes& Thatcnes lawns 15 day tnal CITY II I pen your money back ILess shipping the Washington Legislative Seminar. cha~gesnaturally' IftheAGCOlsntthe STATE __ liP ----- I And, take it from a relatively objective observer - nobody I best and easiest to handle tiller you ve For rush delivery of literature call I I ever used ---------------------------~ 215-947-885524 hrs a day' does it better than you! RURAL LIVING, MAY 1982 5 Lansing Review Right to Farm: The official guide- Summary of Guidelines: Follow- are production of tree fruit; small fruit; lines to implement the Right to Farm ing is the policy statement of the MDA: field crops; forages and sod; livestock law (P.A. 93 of 1982) have been ap- "It is the policy of the director of the and poultry; fiber crops (pulp wood, proved by the Agriculture Commis- Department of Agriculture that a 'farm logs, Christmas trees, etc.); apiary; sion. The final version has resulted operation' shall be conducted with due maple syrup; mushrooms; furs (mink, from a long process, including public consideration to noise, dust, odors rabbit, etc.); and greenhouse crops. hearings held throughout the state by and fumes normally associated with The guidelines contain a list of how local Soil Conservation Districts. Be- such an operation. A farm operation such farm operations should be con- tween 2,000 and 3,000 farmers and shall not be restricted to a time of day ducted to meet the requirement in the others attended. Farm Bureau recom- or days of the week but shall be con- law that states that farm operations mended several changes that were ac- ducted according to generally accep- should conform to "generally accepted cepted. ted agricultural management practic- agricultural and management practices It is important that every farmer be es. Agricultural and management according to policy as determined by familiar with the law and guidelines in practices are in turn subject to varying the director of the department of agri- order to be sure the protections in the conditions, which include but are not culture." Right to Farm Act are as effective as limited to: geographical location, The guidelines for each farm pro- possible. weather, soil type and conditions, type duction category are practically the The entire law is printed below, fol- of crop or livestock and management same. A short summary follows: lowed by a summary of the guidelines system." - Machinery and irrigation pumps which became effective April 14, The guidelines specifically refer to should be operated and maintained 1982. 11 "Types of Farm Operations." They with due consideration to the weather, soil conditions and type of crop, and in accordance with established safety standards. Michigan Right to Farm Act -Tillage, planting (including aerial seeding), growing, land shaping and An act to provide for circum- dairy and dairy products; poultry harvesting should be conducted in ac- stances under which a farm shall and poultry products; livestock, in- cordance with generally accepted not be found to be a public or pri- cluding breeding and grazing; fruits, management practices. vate nuisance. vegetables, flowers, seeds, grasses, -Organic wastes produced in con- Sec. 1. This act shall be known trees, fish, apiaries, equine and junction with or resulting from the and may be cited as the "Michigan other similar products; or any other growing, packing, processing, cooiing right to farm act." product which incorporates the 'use and/ or storing of tree fruit should be Sec. 2. (1) As used in this act, of food, feed, fiber or fur. stored, transported, processed and/or "farm" means the land, buildings applied to the land in accordance with Sec. 3. (1) A farm or farm opera- and machinery used in the com- generally accepted practices. (This ap- tion shaIl not be found to be a public mercial production of farm prod- plies to all types of farm production.) or private nuisance if the farm or ucts. -Commerical fertilizers and other farm operation aIleged to be a (2) As used in this act, "farm op- soil additives should be applied in nuisance conforms to generaIly ac- eration" means a condition or ac- accordance with generally accepted cepted agricultural and manage- tivity which occurs on a farm in con- management practices. ment practices according to policy nection with the commercial pro- - Application and use (including as determined by the director of the duction of farm products, and in- aerial and ground level spraying and department of agriculture. cludes, but is not limited to: market- dusting) of federal and/or state regu- ed produce at roadside stands or (2) A farm or farm operation shaIl lated insecticides, herbicides, pesti- farm markets; noise; odors; dust; not be found to be a public or pri- cides and other chemical products fumes; operation of machinery and vate nuisance if the farm or farm should be in accordance with label di- irrigation pumps; ground ancJ aerial operation existed before a change rections. seeding and spraying; the applica- .. in the land use or occupancy of -On-the-farm product s~les should tion of chemical fertilizers, .condi- /Cmd within one mile of the bound- . be 'coridu'ded in accordance witn gen- tioners, insecticides, pesticides, and aries of the farmland, and before erally accepted practices. herbicides; and the employment such change in land use or oc- -Facilities for seasonal and full-time and use of labor. cupancy of land, the farm or farm labor where necessary to the operation (3) As used in this act, "farm operation would not have been a may be made available and shall be product" means those plants and nuisance. constructed and maintained in accor- animals useful to man and includes Sec. 4. This act shaIl not affect dance with federal, state and local law . but is not limited to: forages and the application of state and federal - Production resulting from field sod crops; grains and feed crops; statutes. crop operations should be stored, pro- cessed (including on-farm drying oper- ations) and transported in accordance 6 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 with generally accepted practices. As with other proposals, it is a tax forest land to be assessed according to (This applies to all other production.) shift and will effect each individual dif- use value instead of market value ferently. It cuts local property taxes for would be very important as it elimi- Property Tax Petition: Rep. Roy school operation by increasing the nates the present "uniformity" restric- Smith's property tax petition is one of sales and income taxes. Those people tion in the constitution. This Farm the five petitions that Farm Bureau has who already receive a large share of Bureau promoted provision has been sent to Community Action Groups, their property tax back due to the cir- in other proposals that have been on county offices and leaders for circula- cuit breaker or homestead property the ballot. tion if they desire. That petition had to tax rebate program and those farmers be recalled due to a legal ) error in who have signed up in the P .A. 116 wording. Since then, the Michigan program, would probably pay more Lansing Reuiew is prepared by Townships Association has decided to total taxes. On the other hand, there Robert E. Smith, MFB senior promote the petition in order to get the are others who would gain. legislative counsel. issue on the November ballot. The pe- The provision to permit farm and tition has been corrected and re- printed. Over 286,000 valid signa- tures are needed by July 6. The pro- posal would amend the constitution, and if passed by the voters, would be put into effect by the Legislature. The proposal includes: -Exemptions of not less than 75% of the school operating taxes on resi- dent homesteads up to a limit of $1,800 and on resident farms up to a limit of $2,500. - Exemptions of 100 % of the school Dairy Feed operating tax on resident homesteads for persons 62 years of age or over up Farm Bureau Services' Cooperative Research to the same limit of $1,800. Farms has discovered a new way to increase -Indexing maximum exemptions milk production. Nu Pro Dairy Feed helps annually. regulate* soluble and insoluble proteins within -State reimbursement to each school district of 100% of all operating the cows' rations. Field tests show that loss due to the exemptions. regulated protein aids in producing even more - Assessment of agricultural and for- milk in good dairy herds! Make more milk pro- estry lands on use. - No savings for business and in- duction your goal. Ask your Farm Bureau feeds dustry, therefore they cannot be used man about Nu Pro Dairy Feed today. He'll tailor to replace any tax losses. a program to your herd's needs. It is estimated that the first year of .Patent pending the program would mean a tax reve- nue loss to schools of $1. 56 billion. FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. The increase in the sales tax would make up $600 million. Another $400 Call toll-free 1-800-292-2639 million would result from savings on the present property tax refund pro- grams, which are the circuit breaker and P.A. 116. The rest of the loss of $520 million or more would have to be made up by an increase in the state income tax of at least .8% to 1 %. Farm Bureau does not have an offi- cial policy position on this petition drive at this time, but as with the other petitions, will make it available to Community Action Groups, county offices and leaders, and members for their consideration and decision. RURAL LIVING, MAY 1982 7 Washington Report Farm Bureau Works to Boost U.S. Exports With crop surpluses piling up and "Here we have actual farmers prices falling, an increase in going to visit with farmers, gov- U.S. agricultural exports is ernment officials and consum- essential, Farm Bureau ers so that these people can members participating in realize just how important the recent Washington these markets are and the Legislative Seminar told seriousness with which their congressmen. we are approaching trade To accomplish this barriers," Lodwick said. objective, they said, two One Farm Bureau dele- unused tools for spurring gation will talk to Japanese ag exports - the CCC revolv- leaders about their restrictive ing fund and the Export-Import Bank regulations and selective taxes, and - must be activated. They stressed the need for expanded ag exports and the importance of re- encourage improved access to their The CCC revolving export credit establishing the United States' reputa- markets for U.S. commodities. fund was included in the 1981 Farm tion as a reliable supplier. In Europe, the farm leaders will Bill, with Farm Bureau's support. It have similar discussions with emphasis was not funded, however, and there is Farm Bureau Trade Missions on commodities that pose unique no money slated for setting it up in the During the legislative leaders' visit problems because of subsidized ex- proposed fiscal year 1982 budget. with USDA officials in Washington, ports. The Farm Bureau legislative leaders D.C., Seeley Lodwick, undersecretary Value Added Exports reminded their congressmen that the for international affairs and commodi- Farm Bureau leaders have been revolving fund would actually be a ty programs, commended Farm Bu- meeting with officials of the USDA, savings in the long run because it reau for sending delegations of state the Commerce Department, and the would eliminate the need for annual Farm Bureau presidents to Brussels Department of State regarding in- CCC export credit appropriations. and Tokyo this spring. The delega- creased emphasis on value added ex- Like the Farm Credit System, once the tions, which will include MFB Presi- dent Elton R. Smith, will try to con- ports (a raw product that has been seed money is planted, it would be processed). As a result of these meet- self-perpetuating. vince these major trading partners that ings, the State Department surveyed American farmers and U.S. trade ne- Legislation (H. R. 5388) has been 100 U.S. embassies by cable, inquir- gotiators are solidly united in their in- introduced which would provide $500 ing about value added product export sistence that problems now restricting million to activate the fund. Farm Bu- opportu n ities. trade be quickly resolved. reau supports the bill. Results from the 90 responding em- Th~ Export-Import Bank is an inde- bassies indicated that the best opportu- pendent government agency that pro- Farm Bureau is nities for value added exports were the vides loans to foreign nations and Mideastern countries, which do not firms that buy U.S. industrial goods. Legislation (H.R. 4510 and S. 1552) credited with have much in the way of processing firms; the more affluent countries in eastern Asia; and the Caribbean area has been introduced which would mandate that a share of Export-Import stimulating trade which has made economic progress in Bank funds be devoted to the financ- countries where the political situation ing .of agricultural commodities. Farm promotion activi- is relatively stable. Bureau also supports these bills. The survey data has been given to In a special meeting with President ties to improve the Foreign Agriculture Service for analysis and recommendations on Reagan's deputy assistant for public liaison, state legislative leaders told U.S. ag export how to take advantage of the market opportunities. him that the current depressed farm Farm Bureau has been credited with prices for many commodities are due, in large part, to the export situation. prospects. stimulating these activities in the value added export area. 8 RURAL LIVING, MAY 1982 Your Membership In The MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU FB Blue Cross Now Makes Available Blue Shield Group Makes Changes In an effort to control rising costs Institutional within Farm Bureau's Blue Cross Blue Shield Group, John VanderMolen, MFB Member Services Department manager, has announced two enroll- Liquid Assets ment changes that became effective April 6, 1982. Designed to provide daily The first enrollment change requires money market income with Two Portfolios: all persons applying to the Farm Bu- reau Group to complete a brief health PRIME OBLIGATIONS GOVERNMENT questionnaire. The questionnaire is a screening tool that will prevent per- .14.07% .13.54% sons with severe or chronic medical Investment Advisor, GOLDMAN, ailments from becoming a subscriber in the Farm Bureau Group. Administrator and SACHS & CO. Current members who want to up- Sole Distributor grade coverage from the Econo plan to the Dimension III plan or from •Seven day annualized net investment income yield. computed by dividing the Dimension III to the Comprehensive Portfolio's average daily net investment income per unit for the period ended plan during the annual reopening April 8. 1982 by $1.00 and multiplying the result by 365. On that date the period will also be required to fill out average portfolio maturities in Prime Obligations was 36 days and in Govern- the medical questionnaire. ment was 35 days. The yields change in response to fluctuations in interest rates on portfolio investment and operating expenses. The second enrollment change in- volves implementation of a six month pre-existing clause. Specifically, there A prospectus containing more complete informa.tion including will be no benefit during the first six management fees and expenses, will be sent upon receipt of the at- months after the effective date of the tached coupon. Send the coupon to Michigan National Bank, Trust contract for medical conditions which, Department, 77 Monroe Center, P. O. Box 2804, Grand Rapids, within six months before the effective Michigan 49501. Read the prospectus carefully before you invest or date of a subscriber's coverage, caused send money. For current yield information call toll free that subscriber to receive medical ad- 800-621-2550. vice or treatment by a physician. Neither' the medical questionnaire nor the six month pre-existing clause ----------.-------------------------- will have any immediate effect on cur- rent Farm Bureau subscribers. Both o Please send me a prospectus. changes were approved by the state board of directors and meet the re- Name (as it appears on membership records) quirements of 1982 Farm Bureau policy as it pertains to health care. Implementation of the medical ques- tionnaire and six month pre-existing Address condition clause also enables Farm City State Zip Bureau members who are not present- ly Farm Bureau Blue Cross Blue Membership No. Shield subscribers to apply to the Farm Bureau Group at any time during the calendar year. Previously, Farm Bu- reau members could only apply during Mail to: Money Market Fund Program the first 10 days after becoming a Farm for Michigan Farm Bureau Members Goldman Bureau member or during the annual Sachs Michigan National Bank, Trust Department reopening period March 1 through 15. P.O. Box 2804, 77 Monroe Center Members who have questions about Grand Rapids, MI49501 these changes should contact their county Farm Bureau secretary. RURAL LIVING, MAY 1982 9 .- ... '- I 10 RURAL LIVING, MAY 1982 Michigan's Outstanding Young Farm Woman shares her views of the city of presidents, politicians and ordinary people. "It's an experience I'll never forget. Thank you, Farm Bureau!" March 29, 1982 After the bus ride to the hotel, Rural Living and a "Real Seal" cup, 4:30 a.m. - The alarm just went off check-in and a quick lunch, there's still and gave his aide a "Real Seal" pin to and Dwight has gone out to milk. I can some time before the 3 p. m. briefing promote the use of real dairy prod- see I'm not going back to sleep, so with the experts from the American ucts. may as well do something constructive Farm Bureau Federation and our leg- - like make a double batch of bread. islative leader workshop. So we walk The excitement that comes from to the capitol, past the reflecting pool, within starts to build - not because of and statues and more statues. Get lost the bread, but because of the anticipa- on the way back, but make it in time. tion when you're about to do some- The briefings go well, but I begin to thing you have never done before. For wonder if I can do the job I was assign- me, that something is to be two-fold: ed to do. The Farm Bureau staff urges the visit to the nation's capital and the us to speak out on the issues, but I'm air flight there. not sure I'm qualified to speak out on No time to worry about that now. entitlement programs and CCC. There are more immediate things to After the workshop, things seem a do, like shower, get the kids off to lot clearer. Sen. Riegle was to be our school, shape the bread (why am I first target. I wondered - how do you making bread?). I see as I glance handle a politician? I suppose under toward the barn that no one is here to the politician's mask, there's an every- help with chores. day person just like me. 7:00 a.m. - The kids are up and During the get-acquainted dinner getting along nicely. Grandma just tonight, everyone is asked to intro- drove in the driveway; what a life- duce themselves. Some people are so saver, coming out at the last minute to witty and try to outdo the ones before take care of the kids when they don't them. I wish I could do that ... maybe feel well. with practice. : . like Charlie, for ex- 7:15 a.m. - Still no help for the ample. Charlie asked that no one con- chores. demn the Post Office because "20 7:30 a.m. - Kids are off for the bus. years ago, you could mail a letter for 4 It's a beautiful, warm, sunny day. I'm ready. Where's Dwight? cents and it got there in one day. Now The cherry blossoms aren't out yet, 7:45 a.m. - Dwight's in. Bread's it costs 20 cents and takes five days to but the daffodils and some tulips are in done. I'm glad I made the bread. It get there. And that, my friends, is still bloom. We head for the Senate seems to relieve my guilt about leaving only 4 cents a day." buildings, walking past the Library of the kids. Congress, the east capitol lawn, the 8:05 a.m. - Kisses, hugs, and we're March 30, 1982 Supreme Court. We pay 10 cents to a off! It's coffee and rolls with Sen. Riegle little boy to take our picture. 11:00 a.m. - To my surprise, I'm this morning at the Rayburn Building. I have some mixed feelings about not nervous, just excited as we board The senator is quite the - ahh - the office buildings. The high ceilings the 727 and take off. Everything on speaker. I can see that between politi- and doorways make me feel small. the ground is going from normal to cian's long-winded speeches and a lot Maybe that's good in a way. Those matchbox size. Mountains look like of topics to cover, we'll have trouble powerful men and women have lumps of sand. The ice shifting on getting any question time in. something to remind them of their Lake Erie looks like a big sheet of Sen. Riegle comes across as a very purpose, get them back on the right broken glass. The closer we get to pleasant, warm man. He explained his track when they forget where their Washington, the greener it looks down position on defense spending. I don't. power comes from. On the other hand there. think he totally understood Farm Bu- there's a lot of wasted space and There's the Lincoln Memorial, the reau's position on the cuts in entitle- wasted energy. Washington Monument, the capitol - ment programs. He sort of talked like The stairways are beautiful with how special it all is! We're going down Social Security was the only entitle- their brass rails and marble steps. but I don't see the airport. Are we go- ment program there is. Everything here seems to be marble, ing in the river? Ah! There's the run- Time ran out fast, but I got a few giving a cold, impersonal feeling. It way ... and we've landed. minutes to present him with a copy of surprised me to see how eagles can be RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 11 Farm prices. taxes and soda) programs were among the Issues Nash discussed with her con- gressman. Rep. Don AJbosta. put In, on, under and beside every- Wednesday, March 31 one is allowed to enter except the thing. When It's not eagles - it's stars! Today is going to be my busiest day, president's family. Just then a man on There's an awesome kind of beauty starting with breakfast. It's raining as the phone motions for us to come in about everything and the realization we travel to the Capitol Hill Club and look around. that most of our country's history was where we'll be meeting with our Michi- We look into the president's library, made here adds to the awe. gan congressional delegation. which he uses every day. Across the After the tour of the capitol, we sit During breakfast, we talk with Con- hall from the library is a portrait of Bet- on the steps for awhile to rest our toes gressman Albosta and his aide, ty Ford, a truly beautiful woman. Net- In barefoot warmth. Oh, It feels good! Charlie Ehrlich, about the budget and ta tells us that Mrs. Reagan is truly It's time for our meeting with of- the cuts we think should be made. devoted to her husband and is not es- ficials at the U.S. Department of Agri- Albosta states that it is time to stop giv- pecially interested in special projects culture. It amazes me, so far, that the ing 011 companies the tax breaks. He like many other first ladies. Her whole people we've met limit the time for thinks it's time we stop exporting our purpose in life is her husband. questions to near zero. Makes you grain for nothing - or close to it - and We see the east room with its hard- wonder If there's something they don't proposes we use the grain for gasohol, wood floors, four fireplaces and three want to talk about. I was impressed, keeping the dollars at home. chandeliers that reflect in the huge however, with the comments made by I was rather impressed with my con- mirrors. The east room is where Seeley Lodwick, undersecretary for in- gressman upon this first meeting, but I Caroline Kennedy learned to roller ternational affairs and commodity pro- can't help but wonder ... how much skate! This is something special. I feel grams. who congratulated us on our of it is frosting on the cake? Perhaps in kind of tingly knowing this is once-in- policy development process. the future, there should be time plan- a-lifetime experience. We see the "It's probably one of the most ned for the districts to meet and com- green room, the blue room, the red elaborate, one of the most sophisticat- pare notes and impressions after the room (which has invisible doors!), the ed, one of the most dedicated pro- breakfast. state dining room and go past the oval cesses that any organization has any Albosta admires my "Proud to be a office. The president is there! I've place," he said. "It involves a lot of Farmer" pin, so I give it to him. I'll always been a good window peeker, work on the county level, the state and have to get more just for such occa- but not good enough this time. national levels, and the end result that sions. We finish the tour just in time for our you have Is certainly familiar to many At 10 a.m., I have an appointment appointment with Jack Burgess, Presi- of us In the department. with Fredrick J. Ryan, special assistant dent Reagan's deputy assistant for "There are copies throughout the to the president of the United States! I public liaison. Of all our meetings in various agencies and although I'm not suppose our only function here is a Washington, Burgess was the only going to tell you it's among the best promotional one, but I feel it's impor- one who took notes during our visit. sellers, it certainly Is referred to often," tant to promote our industry any time This meeting involved our knowl- Lodwick said. we can. edgeable, articulate state leaders, but I He's talking about OUR policy book! Following our appointment with got a word in, too, and it seemed to Remember that as policy development Ryan, we get a tour of the White count. I said we were in favor of the time nears and you're wondering House that few people have the op- long-range plans we're seeing and are whether you have time to be involved. portunity to enjoy - thanks to Netta willing to stick with them. We want to A subway ride, a journey on the Dickey of Ryan's office. We are taken see the two to three year programs world's longest escalator, dinner down to the service entrance by the discontinued and start planning for the (doesn't anyone in Washington speak kitchens and up the back steps. Netta future. English?), a visit to the Hyatt Regen- points out the private living quarters of I felt the best about this meeting as cy's "calorie bowl" ... thank goodness the first family. We see the president's far as belieVing he will take our sugges- It's bedtime. private theatre, which Netta says no tions and pass them along! 12 RURAL LIVING. MAY 1982 "The attitude that farmers should only worry about the farm worries me most." After a candy bar for lunch, and a hotel, and meet some of the staff affected by labor's problems. In the quick stop at the Post Office to mail members. We take a cab to the Wash- long run, so am I. cards back home, we head back up ington Monument. The view from the In my opinion, Farm Bureau has a the Hill. Dwight is lost, can't figure out top of the monument is unbelievable! consistent record of supporting the where he is! I've figured out where the I look out at the old executive building farmers' position. I believe that if Farm capitol sits and I think I'm going to and the White House and that rush of Bureau and Its members limited them- make it. This is great! I'm glad I was excitement of the previous day comes selves to farm problems alone, it sent here. I can't believe it! back. would be a detriment to the organiza- Our appointment with Sen. Levin is Time for a visit to the Smithsonian tion and its members. Most farmers at 3: 15 p.m. at the Russell Building. before going to the airport. We take a don't have time to belong to 20 dif- He doesn't impress me as much as I few last pictures and then hail a cab ferent organizations. They want "one thought he would. He knows very little (new phrase!). Even though I miss the that does it all." That's what Farm about the farm, but I think if we work- kids and home, I am somehow sad Bureau is developing. ed with him, he might come around to about leaving. We had a productive The flight home seems shorter, see our viewpoint. He acts like he is stay, but there seems so much more to bumpier, and the landing is a real ex- trying to be nice enough to win a vote, do. perience. But we're back in Michigan but not willing to listen wholehearted- The attitude that farmers should on- again. At home, the kids greet us with ly. ly worry about the farm, worries me hugs, kisses and a sign that says Next is our appointment with Con- the most, I think. I am a farmer and "Welcome Home," signed by all the gressman Albosta. Don talks and talks proud of it, but I am also a mother. I family. ( and talks .... He is very much in favor have interests in education and I have This trip has really broadened my of using the surplus corn in distillaries always been interested in child welfare sights on life. Maybe it's because the for fuel. He seems resentful that Farm programs. I want my voice heard on excitement hasn't worn off yet. I prefer Bureau did not support him in his bid these subjects and if I can belong to an to believe that it is a new turn in my for reelection "because of his educa- organization which supports my beliefs life, a new beginning. Just where it will tion vote." He believes that Farm - I will support that organization. lead is not clear. But it is clear that I am Bureau should stick with strictly farm I also have interests in labor because ready and enthusiastic about this new issues, like organized labor sticks with my family (father, brothers, sister) are expansion - wherever it may lead! labor issues. They don't give him any trouble, he says. I pointed out that we are farmers, but we are also consumers. We feel that as individuals our voice can get lost, but as an organization we can have more of an impact on our sur- roundings. He also opposes our position on welfare. When I pointed out that we did not get upset when deserving peo- ple received welfare checks - it's when the 18-year-old goes in the store with a $50 coupon, buys $12 worth of beer and takes the rest in. change to spend on drugs - that we object to - he had to agree. Our last night in Washington. With -.•. , all the fun, there is a little sadness that : -.-- .... our time has gone so fast. It is nearly .... . .. over. By noon tomorrow we'll be on our way home. There is still so much .... : to do. I feel like I've only touched the , " •• II. tip of the iceberg. I can't believe it went this fast. ... April I, 1982 We tour the new offices of the .'Iiii The Farm Bureau policy book is one of the be5t read reference books in the U.S. Depart- American Farm Bureau Federation, ment of Agriculture. Undersecretary Seeley Lodwlok tells Nash and MFB President which is just across the street from our Elton Smith. RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 13 Election Rhetoric Clouds Issues Sen. Carl Levin charged the Farm Bu- reau members with being "inconsis- tent" in their policy of supporting the president's economic recovery pro- gram and urging that the proposed budget be cut. "You can't have it both ways," the senator said. He also stated there was "no alternative" to deferring the tax cuts passed last year, action which Farm Bureau opposes. In addition to Levin, the meeting was attended by Congressmen Broom- field, Pursell, Wolpe, Siljander, Saw- yer, Traxler, Albosta, Bonior, Dunn and Blanchard (who told the group he hoped to be their next governor), and aides to Congressmen Kildee and Her- tel. Congressman Davis met separate- ly with his constituents the following morning at their hotel headquarters. Following the congressional break- fast, MFB President Elton R. Smith ex- pressed disappointment that "not one Montcalm County Farm Bureau member Charles Mulholland (left), says that meetings with his congressman, Rep. Hal Sawyer, opened his eyes to the far-reaching influence of of the legislators recommended cutting government policy decisions. the size of government or addressed the issue of entitlement programs which are causing us so much problem "My recent visit to Washington, It was their "mission" to try to con- in the growth and size of government D.C., convinced me that the policies vince the decision-makers that Farm spending. Sooner or later, Congress is of our government have more impact Bureau policies on these issues were going to have to face up to the fact that on our farms than most of us realize." the best direction for agriculture and we have not cut the size of govern- This was the conclusion of L. the nation. That was not always easy ment. It's still growing; all we've done Charles Mulholland, who served as in this election year, with politicians is slow down the rate of growth." Montcalm County Farm Bureau's leg- anxious to do most of the convincing. Smith also said Farm Bureau could islative leader in Washington, D.C., "The impossible budget" was the not support delaying the tax cuts. March 29-April 1. Many of the 106 phrase Sen. Don Riegle used to de- "This would stop the economic re- farmers who participated in the 22nd scribe the president's proposed budget covery program from ever having a annual Washington Legislative Semi- during a meeting on the first morning chance to be successful." nar, sponsored by Michigan Farm Bu- with the farmers who had traveled to He denied that the organization was reau Women, "agreed with Mulhol- Washington to reaffirm their support inconsistent in its policies of supporting land's observation. of President Reagan's economic re- the economic recovery program while The key issues discussed in group covery program. asking for deficit decreases. We can and individual sessions with congress- The senator agreed with their con- cut the deficit by cutting the size of men were inflation and government cerns regarding the size of the propos- government, he said. spending, marketing and bargaining ed deficit and its role in keeping in- When the Farm Bureau group arriv- legislation, farm exports, food safety terest rates high. But, unlike the Farm ed back at Detroit Metro Airport fol- legislation, and health care cost de- Bureau members, he did not feel that lowing their three days of intensive ductions for self-employed persons. It entitlement programs were the "worst lobbying in the nation's capitol, Presi- didn't take the Michigan farmers long offenders." Rather, he zeroed in on dent Smith said, "I think it was impor- to become acutely aware that the out- the proposed budget for national de- tant for our farm leaders to be in come of these concerns would rest fense and the "exotic weapons" which Washington, D.C., at this particular with decision-makers in the nation's he believes are not needed. This, he time expressing their views on key capital, some of whom had little or no told the farmers, will be the "center of issues to their congressmen and other knowledge of how their decisions the Issue" in upcoming budget battles. key decision-makers. Hopefully, our would impact the viability of farms During Hie congressional breakfast visits with them had a positive im- back home. at the Capitol Hill Club the next day, pact. " 14 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 Front and Center Governor's Conference on the Horse Industry: Michigan's horse industry, contributing about $1.5 billion annually to the state's economy, has potential for significant economic expan- sion. To what extent is what Gov. Milliken wants to learn, so he's called a Conference on the Horse Industry for June 2-3 at Long's Convention Center in Lansing. Dr. Paul Kindinger of MSU's Cooperative Extension Service and one of the coordinators of last year's Governor's Conference on Agriculture, will serve as coordinator. The first bill to come out of the Regulatory Review Task Force (a recommendation from the Governor's Conference on Agriculture) is H.B. 5004, which repeals the regulation for cattle producers to have their animals tested for TB prior to sale within the state. There has not been a case of TB in Michigan cattle in 15 years and it is estimated that the bill will save farmers about $100,000 a year. The bill only affects cattle sold within Michigan; cattle coming in or go- ing out of the state will still have to be tested. The task force is chaired by Lt. Gov. Brickley. MFB makes gain over last year. With 72,346 memberships as of April 16, the organiza- tion reached the "gain" benchmark. And another benchmark is in sight. When membership workers surpass the 72,361 mark, they will have exceeded the all-time high for Michigan Farm Bureau membership. Twenty-one counties have reached goal as Rural Living goes to press. AFBF and MFB Forestry Advisory Committees will use an FB-produced film documentary to inform and educate farm landowners regarding the need to manage and ex- pand woodlots for increased profitability. Through interviews with growers, landowners and foresters in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, California and Georgia, the film introduces timber pro- duction as an agricultural crop which can be managed for profit. This film will be available soon through the Michigan Farm Bureau. An editorial apology to Congressman Jim Dunn (R-East Lansing) for identifying him as a Democrat in the April issue of Rural Living. Dunn, a Republican, has added his name as a co- sponsor to agricultural marketing and bargaining legislation (H.R. 4975), which FB supports. Farmers of the Week March 8 - Robert Conrad, 60, is a March 22 - Verne Macke, 54, a cash crop farmer who farms 325 acres dairyman and cash crop grower from near Scottville. Conrad is active in his Bronson, farms 950 acres and milks The Farmer of the Week program, church. He served as a township su- 72 cows in partnership with his son. co-sponsored by Farm Bureau Insur- pervisor, township assessor and a Macke is a past local DHIA president; ance Group and the Michigan Farm Mason County Zoning Appeal Board a county ASCS committee member; a Radio Network, honors Michigan farm- member. He is active in the Mason Branch County FB member; and he ers for their contributions to the com- County Farm Bureau, and his wife, belongs to the local Lutheran church. munity and the agriculture industry. Ann, is county FB secretary. March 1982 recipients were: March 29 - Charles Winn, 44, is a March 15 - Edward Johnson, 44, a lifelong dairy farmer from Richmond~ March 1 - Richard Marshall, 58, is dairy farmer from Daggett, farms 450 He farms 670 acres and milks 50 a beef cattle farmer from Concord who acres and milks 55 cows. He is Me- cows. He serves as a deacon, Sunday farms 1,000 acres. He is a member nominee County DHIA president; School teacher, and Sunday School and past president of the Calhoun county ASCS committee chairperson; superintendent for his Baptist church. County FB; director of the Federal Menominee County FB vice presi- He is a 4-H livestock sale committee Lank Bank of Concord Hills; past Al- dent; Upper Peninsula Holstein Assn. member, a past president of the local bion Elevator Co. president; and a secretary-treasurer; a church deacon; MMPA chapter and served four years member of Progressive Farmers, a and a past member of MFB's Policy on the Memphis School Board and six local group formed to exchange agri- Development Committee. Johnson years on the DHIA board, including cultural information. also taught high school for 17 years. five years as treasurer. RURAL LIVING, MA Y 1982 15 County Newsletter The county Farm Bureau newsletter is published monthly by the Michigan Farm Bureau. P.O. Box 30960. Lansing. Mich. 48909. Subscription price to members. $1.25 per year. included in the annual membership dues. Blue Cross Blue Shield Claims Can Still be Filed Over $258,480 Paid. We know, we know. have this Master Medical coverage, to FBS and FPC You've been meaning to take care merely check your BCBS identifica- Member-Patrons of it, but you've just been too busy the tion card for group number 93762. last year-and-a-half. Or perhaps Master Medical covers a number of Farm Bureau Services, Inc. and you've been avoiding sending any- services, among them office calls, am- Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Inc. thing by mail as your own personal bulance requests, prescriptions, ar- made patronage payments of more protest against the postal service's tificial limbs, allergy tests and insulin than $258,480 on March 12, 1982 to seemingly endless series of rate in- injection. The plan does include a member-patrons who did business creases. $100 deductible clause. with cooperatives in 1980 and 1981. If you're desperate for an excuse, It is important to note, though, that Of this amount, $189,610 was retain- there's always the time-honored, while you still have time to file a ed on the. companies' records in the oops-my-dog-ate-it plea. number of past health care charges, stockholders' names as equity. Whatever the reason, take heart ... the grace period does have a deadline. As cooperatives, FBS and FPC dis- Blue Cross Blue Shield Master Medical Make sure that you take the steps tribute all earnings resulting from Claims from as far back as Oct. 1, necessary to file those old claims in the business transacted with stockholder- 1980 (and on through Dec. 31, 1981) next few weeks. And, as always, if you patrons. The retained equities are can still be filed. have any questions you need answer- used by the regional cooperatives to To determine whether or not you ed, contact the county FB secretary. finance improvements in services and facilities for their members. Speak Loudly and Carry a Small Stick By Myra Hand Cheboygan County Farm Bureau Who ever said "speak softly and know what our complicated business- The small stick I feel we farmers carry a big stick" did not have Michi- es need! should carry is the gavel. I know the gan farmers in mind. I think if agricul- gavel is usually the symbol of the presi- Don't think we are being selfish if we ture is to remain a healthy industry we dent, but I mean it to refer to any of are only .09 percent but still want peo- must do just the opposite: "speak the offices or positions of authority: ple to understand our problems and loudly and carry a small stick." vice president, secretary, treasurer, want them to help us. Studies show We hear often that the percentage committee heads, editors, directors, . that between 30 and 40 percent of the of Americans who are farmers is a shy delegates, etc. Michigan population depends on agri- 3 percent. Some figures show as low culture for some part of their incomes. as 2 percent. Do you know what per- I'm not talking about just Farm Bu- These are farm workers, processing centage of Michiganders are farmers? reau either. I mean all organizations: plant operators, machinery dealers According to John VanderMolen of township government, county posi- and builders, truckers, grain elevators, Michigan Farm Bureau, the figure is tions, school boards, churches, etc. money lenders, etc. We aren't being only .09 percent. That sure makes us Many of these organizations often selfish wanting our farms to be profit- a minority! lack, and sometimes need, the voice able if that many people depend on us! How can .09 percent of the popula- of the farmer or rural people. As few tion speak softly and still expect to be The ways to make ourselves heard of us as there are, we all need to be ac- heard? Our voices are sure to be lost if are innumerable: newspapers, TV, tive on several levels. we don't speak loudly to let the rest of radio, school programs, letters to con- the people know what we have to of- gressmen and the press, rural urban By carrying this small stick we can fer them in food and fiber and what it programs, fair and mall displays, pro- help the farmer's voice be heard a little takes for us to produce it. We also gram speakers, and being active in louder and clearer. Think about it and must let our legislators know what other organizations. Find the way you I hope you will agree the Michigan regulations and laws do to help or are best at and speak so you can be farmer should speak loudly and carry hinder us. We can't expect them to heard. a small stick. Member Life Offers 125% Increase in Protection at No Extra Cost There's good news for all Farm Bu- , continue in effect for the entire "Scheduled benefits'vary according reau members who renew their Mem- 1982-83 Member Life policy year." to age, although the flat cost for any ber Life Insurance policies. They will Here is an example of what the 125 .Farm Bureau member is only $25 a continue to receive a 125 percent in- percent increase means for a Farm Bu- year. " crease over their policy's original reau member and his or her spouse: Members enrolling for the first time benefits throughout the policy year of The original policy schedule shows will receive benefits as listed in the April 1, 1982 to March 31, 1983. $5,180 coverage on the named mem- original policy schedule, although they "It may be a little hard to believe in ber at age 30 and $1,000 on the will be eligible for any benefit increases this age of inflation, but we're more spouse. Under the 125 percent in- that may be declared when they renew than doubling the Member Life Insur- crease, these amounts become their policies. Increases ranging from ance benefits without raising the cost $11,655 on the member and $2,250 10 percent to the current high of 125 by a single cent," said Robert Wise- on the spouse. percent have been declared each year man, executive vice president of Farm "In other words, to figure the new since the inception of the Member Life Bureau Insurance Group. "The 125 level of benefits, just multiply the program eight years ago. To find out percent increase in benefits that was in benefit amounts in the original policy more about the program, call your effect for the 1981-82 policy year will schedule ~y 2.25," Wiseman said. local Farm Bureau Insurance agent. Always Put Safety First In Balance With Nature By George J. Wizner By Dr. John Carew Clinton County Farm Bureau In the beginning with it came better diet and longer, We are now at a time of the year There was Earth: beautiful and wild; happier lives for more members when we farmers are getting busy, And then man came to dwell. of Society. many times over tired. One area of At first, he lived like other animals Soon it came to pass concern should be the handling and Feeding himself on creatures and That certain well-fed members of use of on farm chemicals. Modern ag- plants around him. Society riculture requires the use of numerous And this was called IN BALANCE Disapproved of the Farmer using chemicals. Herbicides, fungicides, WITH NATURE. Science. pesticides and fertilizers all should be Soon man multiplied. They spoke harshly of his techniques handled with care and caution. We are He grew tired of ceaseless hunting for feeding, protecting, and responsible to protect ourselves and for food; preserving plants and animals. the environment. He built homes and villages. They deplored his upsetting the Prompt treatment for victims ot agri- Wild plants and animals were Balance of Nature: cultural accidents is vital to protect the domesticated. They longed for the Good Old Days. victim from further injury. Have the Some men became Farmers so that And this had emotional appeal to the emergency phone number of the poi- others might be Industrialists, rest of Society. son center nearest you posted where it Artists, or Doctors. By this time, Farmers had become so can be used in a moment's notice. And this was called Society. efficient, Society gave them a new Always follow label recommenda- Man and Society progressed. title: tions on handling, rates, crop use and With his God-given ingenuity, man Unimportant Minority. proper disposal of containers. Check learned to feed, clothe, protect, Because Society could not ever out your application equipment every and transport himself more imagine a shortage of food year, replace worn out parts, wear efficiently so he might enjoy Life. Laws were passed abolishing proper protective clothing. It's always a He built cars, houses on top of each Pesticides, Fertilizers, and Food good idea to let someone know which other, and nylon. Preserva tives. farm or field you are working on. And life was more enjoyable. Insects, Diseases, and Weeds The men called Farmers became flourished. Safety should be one of our top pri- efficient. Crops and animals died. orities, most of us could not be replaced A single farmer grew food for 41 Food became scarce. as the operator if we are injured. Industrialists, Artists and Doctors. To survive, Industrialists, Artists, and And Writers, Engineers, and Doctors were forced to grow their Teachers, as well. own food. To protect his crops and animals, They were not very efficient. the Farmer produced substances to People and governments fought wars repel or destroy Insects, Diseases, to gain more agricultural land. and Weeds. Millions of people were exterminated. These were called Pesticides. The remaining few lived like animals. Similar substances were made by Feeding themselves on creatures and Doctors to protect humans. plants around them. These were called Medicine. And this was called IN BALANCE The Age of Science had arrived and WITH NATURE. Member Life insurance for you and your family ... At only $25 a year, it's worth a lot Illore than you bargained for Here's good news for Farm Bureau members who renew their Member Life policies. The 125% increase in Member Life benefits that was in effect for the 1981-82 policy year will con- tinue in effect for the entire policy year of April 1, 1982 to March 31, 1983. That means renewing members and their families will receive more than double the life insurance protection listed in the original policy schedule, and it won't cost a cent more in premiums. Member Life, an exclusive member benefit from the Farm Bureau life In- surance Company of Michigan, now protects more than 7,000 Michigan Farm Bureau families. Although the amount of protection varies acording to the member's age and family com- position, the cost for any Farm Bureau member is only $25 a year. Members enrolling in the program fqr the first time will receive benefits as listed in the original policy schedule, although they will be eligi- ble for any benefit increases that may be declared when they renew their policies. Increases ranging from 10% to the current high of 125% have been declared each year since the inception of Member Life eight years ago. To find out more about Member Life and its special features, call your local Farm Bureau Insurance Group agent. Member Life... a lot of value for only $25 a year. We're working to make your future a little more predictable FARM BUREAU ~ INSURANCE ,AMI_Ml_ GROUR • IAMI_lIUl.\ • ~1'SIR\IQ INSUWQ • 11-.1' Grow Some Green Stuff on Your Back Forty You don't have to be a forestry ex- pert to make money on your woodlot. Even if you can't distinguish a maple from a spruce, you can produce tim- ber and make a profit. How? By knowing who to call for help. Government organizations and the forest products industry offer various services - many free of charge - to help small woodlot owners increase production and improve the quality of their timber. Timber production from private woodlots is expected to become in- creasingly important as Michigan's for- estry industry enters an expansion period, says Ken Nye, commodity specialist for the Michigan Farm Bu- reau. 4IIn the next twenty or thirty years the demand for forest products should double," he says 4Iand with commercial and state owned forest- land already producing at near capaci- ty, lJluch of the additional timber pro- duction will need to come from the pri- vate woodlot." Nye points out that the forest indus- try has already made significant invest- ments in the state for new processing facilities. 4INew processing plants, with an investment value of nearly one bil- lion dollars, have been built by several major forest products companies." The forest products industry is cur- rently an important economic force, but investment of this sort points to an important growth period ahead for the industry. Because good timber stand man- agement is the key to increased pro- duction, government and private in- dustry offer various financial, technical and educational assistance programs. assistance programs and resources in The Agricultural Stabilization and All are geared to help forestland own- your area. Conservation Service (ASCS) offers a ers increase timber production and Extension also offers a variety of co-sharing program to owners of hard- quality. printed publications on forestland man- wood stands and pine plantations. agement and frequent seminars and Educational Assistance 4IThe cost share plan was designed workshops. by Congress to provide an incentive Managing your woodlot to produce the highest possible volume of good Financial Assistance for small woodlot owners to invest in If you have at least a 10 acre timber production," explains Nye. quality timber can begin with the Mich- woodlot and your land is good enough 4IWoodlot owners can recover up to igan State University Cooperative Ex- to produce a reasonable volume of 65 percent of their planting and timber tension Service office in your county. timber, you're probably eligible for stand improvement costs through the County Extension staff can help you financial assistance. program." track down forestland management 19 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 Government and Industry Assistance Is Available for Woodlot Management AUyou have to do is apply for cost- stock, etc. The actual percentage of provide management assistance and share assistance at the ASCS office in expenses covered (up to 65 percent) show you what to do. your county or district. (ASCS is listed will vary from county to county. The DNR, however, has suffered in the U.S. government section of ASCS also offers another valuable serious budget and staff cuts. Conse- your phone book.) service - aerial photographs. The quently, service foresters are generally Once your application is filled out, photographs can often make manage- only available to help landowners in ..ASCS will refer a Department of Nat- ment planning easier and quicker. the northern two-thirds of the state - ural Resources (DNR) service forester They serve as a map of your woodlot from Oceana County (west) to Bay to you for a visit to your property. The and can help you document changes County (east) and aUcounties north of DNR forester will provide you with a in your property as photos are taken at that line. management plan and timber stand intervals. In some Michigan counties, the Soil improvement recommendations. Conservation District (SCD) office After your application for cost-share Timber Stand Improvement may also provide some management assistance is approved, you may com- and Planting Assistance assistance. Check with the SCD office plete your improvements and receive There's no need to worry if you're a in your county. a refund on part of your expenses forest management novice. If you ap- The SCD office is usually a good from ASCS. The program covers ply for cost-share assistance through source for planting stock. GeneraUy, labor costs, equipment rental, planting ASCS, your DNR service forester will the SCD offers good quality trees at lower than average prices. How Much Is Your Woodlot Worth? Private Forest Consultant~ Public organizations, such as the Money doesn't grow on trees - or does it? If you have a woodlot out in ASCS, DNR and SCD, can help you your back forty, it could be worth a small fortune. finance and formulate plans for plant- The following shows some industry uses of Michigan hardwoods and soft- ing and improving your woodlot. woods and their market value per board foot (MFP). However, their responsibilities end there. Tree Variety Uses MFP Price- What do you do when it's time to harvest and market your timber? Many Hardwoods woodlot owners use consultants to in- Black Walnut Cabinets, furniture, up to $1,500 crease the profits from their timber- gunstocks land. White Oak Furniture, veneer, interior $250 - $450 Private consultants can completely trim, flooring, railroad ties, handle the sale of your timber, from barrels, kegs assessing its value, making arrange- Northern Red Oak General construction, rail- $200 - $360 ments with bidders, to handling timber road ties, veneer, hardwood sale contracts. flooring, furniture Because consultants are usually Yellow Birch Furniture, interior trim, $200 - $350 paid a commission or percentage (gen- woodenware, and spools erally 10 to 20 percent) of the timber sale price, it's in their best interests to Yellow Poplar Furniture, cabinets, veneer $150 - $200 production do a good job for you and to get the best possible price. Sugar Maple Bowling pins, flooring, up to $270 If for some reason you don't have woodenware access to a DNR forester, a private American Basswood Woodenware, boxes, $160 - $200 consultant can also formulate a man- furniture, veneer, carved agement and timber stand improve- wood novelties ment plan for you. This service is Softwoods usuaUy billed at an hourly rate. White Cedar Saw timber, telephone $250 - $350 Lists of private industry consultants poles, and pulpwood are available through the Department White Pine, Red Pulpwood and timber $25 - $75 of Natural Resources, Forest Manage- Pine, White Spruce, ment Division, P.O. Box 30028, Lan- Balsam Fir, Hemlock, sing, Mich. 48909; Gerald Keiser, and Cedar Michigan Association of Consulting Foresters, 7528 South Straits High- .Veneer Market Price. Selling price information is based on statewide averages and may vary. way, Indian River, Mich. 49749; or the local Cooperative Extension office. 20 RURAL LIVING. MAY 1982 New Tax Incentives Improve Investment for Profit Opportunities in Forestry Tax Incentives for "Because timber producers have which may affect the industry or the Forest Management many of the same problems as pro- landowner. Recently enacted changes in the tax ducers in other agricultural com- In Michigan, the forestry advisory laws pertaining to reforestation invest- modities, Farm Bureau has established committee is composed of 10 mem- ment offer incentives for landowners advisory committees to the boards of bers nominated by county Farm Bu- to manage their timber for profit. directors of the American Farm Bu- reaus. The American Farm Bureau Amendments to existing law pro- reau Federation and the Michigan advisory committee is composed of 14 vide tax Incentives to private land- Farm Bureau," Nye says. members from the timber producing owners. Title III, Sections 301 and These committees monitor state and states. 302 of P.L. 96-451, permit the tax- national legislation, regulation and Don Shirley, Copper Country Farm payer to claim amortization deductions markets for the forestry industry and Bureau member and timber producer, of up to $10,000 over a seven year make recommendations to the board serves as chairperson of both the period for reforestation expenditures of directors whenever issues arise AFBF and MFB committees. incurred during a single year and adds reforestation expenditures to the list of items that qualify for the regular 10 percent investment tax credit. The credit would be limited to ex- penditures of $10,000 or less in any one year and the amortization and in- vestment credit for certain reforesta- tion expenditures would apply to qual- ifying reforestation expenses incurred after Dec. 31, 1979. Under the old law, costs for site preparation, seedlings, planting, etc., had to be capitalized. These costs were not recovered for tax purposes until the timber was harvested. Since the new law allows amortization of these costs over a seven year period, the landowner can recover his costs for tax purposes in a much shorter time peri- od. However, currently deductible costs, such as precommercial thinning and other cultural treatments not as- sociated with establishing a timber stand, don't qualify for amortization. Qualifying timber property is defin- ed as property held for commercial Get The Most production of timber. Shelter belts are excluded and, at present, Christmas For Your Fertilizer Dollars tree production does not qualify under Ask the Farm Bureau people, they can handle and and all of your fertilizer the provisions of the law. needs. Cooperative buying power, efficient distribution and extensive min- Management Help From Industry Ing and manufacturing capabilities are strong testimony to this promise. The Farm Bureau people are experts who can help you get the most from Large wood products companies your fertilization program. We can advise you how to buy It ... when to buy also may provide management assis- it ... how to use It. tance to woodlot owners. You can Through membership/ownership In CF Industries, we have dozens of large check with these firms to find out if fertilizer manufacturing and distribution facilities In North America that ex- clusively serve cooperative patrons. ~e also have our own Farm Bureau Ser- management services are available in vices fertilizer plant In Saginaw, plus numerous bulk blend plants around the your area. state. Many Michigan Farm Bureau mem- Your Farm Bureau dealer Is backed by more fertilizer resources and more bers are currently involved in forestry fertilizer knowledge than ever before plus the right equipment for applica- production - from the management of tion. See him today and get the full story. a small woodlot for additional farm In- FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. come to the full-scale cultivation of Christmas trees, softwood .or hard- Call toll-free 1-800-292-2639 wood tree varieties. 21 RURAL LIVING. MAY 1982 Kent Young Farmers Focus on Ag Rescue Preparedness cy personnel or farm family members unfamilar with a machine could shut it off quickly in an emergency. "Teamwork is critical within agen- cies and between them," Brown said. As an example he discussed the use of anhydrous ammonia fertilizer, which is extremely toxic. Most accidents are caused by the breaking or misuse of a Equipment demonstrations helped emergency personnel to determine danger points hose or plugged tubes. Eighty-five per- in the "flow of power." cent of the accidents involve the face. He said the use of chemical goggles and gloves by farmers is critical. By Sharon Steffens breathing difficulties and chemical The need for team work became ap- Over 200 police, fire, ambulance, pneumonia usually hours or days after parent when he startled the group with emergency and farm personnel at- exposure. "Ask what the victim has the information that it takes 1,300 tended an Ag Rescue Seminar, co- been doing during the last two weeks," gallons of water to dilute one gallon of sponsored by the Kent County Farm he advised. anhydrous ammonia. Therefore, Bureau Young Farmer Committee when the ambulance crew or police and the Davenport College Emergen- get a call to come to an anhydrous am- cy Medical Services Unit, on April 10 monia accident, they should immedi- in Grand Rapids. The Kent County ately call the Fire Department for a Cooperative Extension Service also source of water, Brown said. cooperated in the educational effort. Much of Brown's presentation con- The purpose of the unique seminar tained words of warning which farmers was to focus on the special problems should heed to avoid accidents. and needs that both emergency medi- •Farm shops can be oxygen defi- cal and farm personnel may encounter cient, particularly in winter with doors at the scene of an agricultural acci- closed and a wood stove burning. It dent. Participants received continuing creates a fatal carbon dioxide atmos- education credit for the seminar. phere in five to seven minutes in the Seminar participants included rep- average garage and a fatal concentra- resentatives from 23 fire companies, tion in 12 to 15 minutes. five police and sheriff units, six emer- •No one should ever try to weld gency medical units and seven ambu- galvanized steel which is coated with lance crews, including one from as far George Brown zinc because it releases zinc fumes into away as Grand Traverse County. the air. George M. Brown, of the Depart- In discussing farm machinery, •In a grain bin, it only takes three ment of Agricultural Engineering, Brown cautioned that you remove the second to cover a person when the Michigan State University, conducted equipment from the victim, not the auger is on. A rescuer must approach the morning program covering rescue victim from the equipment. If you fol- the victim from below by punching procedures, personal protection, farm low the "flow of power" or the "flow of evenly-spaced holes in the silo three machinery, equipment hazards, first- agricultural production" through the feet off the ground to let the grain out aid and patient transport, material machinery, you can discover the dan- and reach the victim as fast as possi- hazards, toxic atmospheres and cave- ger points, he said. ble. Approaching from above does not ins. Brown has been attempting - un- work because the grain flows back on Brown stressed that emergency per- successfully thus far - to convince the victim. sonnel need to "look for clues when equipment manufacturers of the need In the afternoon, the Kent County they arrive at a farm." Sometimes the for standardizing the methods of shut- Young Farmers demonstrated 13 dif- cause of the accident is not readily ap- ting down a tractor. He suggests they ferent pieces of farm equipment and parent as with silo gas, which results in should all use a key because emergen- then discussed the flow of power or 22 RURAL LIVING, MAY 1982 In a farm emergency, agency team- work is critical to saving lives. Nation-Wiele Distri~utor of d Siding Metal Roofing an product, the danger points and method of shutting down ~tl1 each piece of equipment. Every Kent County equipment dealer volunteered equipment for the seminar. QUAtlt\t1 DELIVEIED Culminating the session was a demonstration by TOroul emergency personnel using a "Hearst" tool to take apart an old corn picker. ~1.. JOB SITE IN MOST PAITS Of u.S. Fritz Schweitzer, Alpine Township fire chief and fruit ~\~ '. \:\ ~\ REGAL RI B is available in three ways: farmer, summarized his feelings regarding the seminar: "It .\ ~ .\ \ I, \ \ ,. Colored Steel (12 beautiful colors) was really needed by emergency personnel. A rescuer could \\~\ '\ \\ \ • Galvalume (Aluminum- make things worse if he didn't have some familiarity with the \ Zinc Coated Steel with equipment. " \ \ a 20 Yr. Warranty) Craig Schweitzer, event coordinator for the Kent County \ \ \ .' , • Galvanized Steel. Full 36" Young Farmer Committee, said: "Consideration is being \ \ II~ Coverage 29 & 28 Gauge I given to conducting other seminars like this one, rotating counties and focusing on other areas such as fires on the ANY LENGTH UP TO farm or pesticide accidents." 40 FEET cut to the inch He and John Singer, co-coordinator for the Davenport College Emergency Medical Services Unit, plan to develop a "how to" manual on organizing similar events. For more information, contact Schweitzer through the Kent County Farm Bureau Office at 616-784-1092. Sharon Steffens is .newsletter editor and information 1-800-321-7670 chairperson for Kent County Farm Bureau. She and her ~ HOLMES LUMBER & BUILDING CENTER husband, John, operate a fruit farm in partnership with John's brother, Joe. They haue fiue children. HOMELITE BARNYARD MOTTO 818900 AG-PUMP MODEL AP-220 - Viton chemical seals iJ9/ ') .a BARGAINS Breckenridge Caro MAY SPECIAlS- Sale Dates May 1 to May 29, 19~2 Farmers Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 517-842-3575 Farmers Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 517-673-7714 BARB-WIRE HIGH TENSILE Carson City Farm Bureau Services. Inc. 517-584-6631 -Corrosion-resistant thermoplastic. Cassopolis Farmm Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 616-445-2311 body Coldwater Farm Bureau Services. Inc. 517-279-8491 Comstock PaIk Farmers Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 616-784-1071 Motto • • -2" self priming Conway Drayton Farm & Garden Supply 616-347-8360 I -8400 GPH Emmett Farmers Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 313-384-1350 Escanaba Mel's Lawn & Garden 906-786-8187 -Complete with 3 h.p. engine Grand Ledge The Deer Barn 517-627-8451 Hart Farm Bureau Services. Inc. 616-873-2158 CHAIN SAW SPECIAL Highland Jonesville Farmm Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 313-887-4109 Farmm Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 517-849.9502 ~ VI SUPER 2 Kent City Linwood Kent City Farm Bureau . 616-678-5021 Farmm Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 517-697-5761 -4 pt. 15112 gage wire 16" BAR & CHAIN Marcellus Farm Bureau Services. Inc. 616-646-5115 MI. Pleasant Farm Bureau Services. Inc. 517-773.3670 -80 rod role Petoskey Farmers Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 616-347-3260 -Tensile strength of 12112 gage wire .~~ 819900 Pinconning Remus Rothbury Farm Bureau Services. Inc. Farm Bureau Services. Inc. Rothbury Hardware & Farm 517-879.3411 517-967.8358 616-894-8590 -H.D. galvanized for long life ~ Reg. $239.95 Supply. Inc. Sandusky Farmm Petroleum Cooperallve. Inc. 313.648-3032 Limited Quantity Auailable Schoolcraft Scottville Snover Farm Bureau Services. Inc. Farm Bureau Services. Inc. Snover Cooperative 616-679.4063 616-757-3780 313.672-9221 UNIVERSAL co-oP 51. Johns Sl. Johns 500 Farmers Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. 517-224-7900 St. Johns Cooperative Chippewa County Co-op 517-224.2381 906-632-3751 FENCE CONTROLLER BALER TWINE Traverse City 'farm Bureau Services. Inc. 616-946.5836 9000' per bale Yale Farmm Petroleum Cooperative. Inc. West Branch West Branch Farmers Co-op Farm Bureau Services. Inc. 517-345-0428 313-387-2202 53975 325 tensile strength Available from aU partldpatlng Farm Bureau dealers MODEL 2000 231' per lb. throughout Michigan. CaD toll-free 1-8()()'292-2640. ext. 674, for the dealer In your area. AVAILABLE NOW (Some items may not be stocked at 01/ participating dealers. but are avoilable and mav be ordered.' - A deluxe weeder Big roll bale twine and plastic twine also available Farm Bureau Services, Inc. -Charges up to 3 miles of fence RURAL LIVING. MAY 1982 23 Will Apathy Allow Animal Rights Groups to Win? Animal rights advocates charge modern agricul- ture with promoting ''factory farms." How will the farm community Dr. Ullrey said that the issue of ani- respond? mal rights has been raised by those who know little about animals, espe- cially farm animals. There is a mixture of truth and fiction in their information that confuses and misleads the aver- By Donna Wilber In a slide presentation, Dr. Duane age citizen, he said. The animal rights Ullrey of Michigan State University's activists are very astute, though, in Is Brer Rabbit our brother? Animal Science Department. used a their organizational skills and are effec- Do unhappy chickens sing? tive in dealing with the media and leg- picture of Cook and his son, Wayne, Do pigs have an inherent need to and posed that question to the group. islators. wallow? "No, they are not monsters," he said, He warned the group that proposed Is the animal rights movement a a picture animal rights activists are legislation, if enacted, could have a "red herring"? Will it go away if ig- painting of modern-day animal agri- "serious negative impact on animal ag- nored? culturists. "They are just people trying riculture, animal research, and. the to make a living, who handle their productivity of farm families." The fact Currently addressed as a moral is- animals with love and care. This is the that legislation has been proposed in- sue, how long before it will become a story ~e need to share." dicates that congressmen have con- serious economic issue - for both pro- cerned constituents to whom they are ducers and consumers? This was the second meeting called listening, he said. Letters to congress- Will the general apathy of the agri- by Michigan Farm Bureau to discuss men which have spurred the introduc- cultural community allow animal rights the animal welfare issue with other ag- ricultural groups and agencies, and tion of animal rights legislation and its legislation to "slip through"? support have outnumbered - 1,000 to concern had raised considerably since Should good operators put peer the first such meeting, held last Sep- 1 - those received from concerned pressure on the "one bad apple in a farmers, he reported, and urged that tember. Activities by the animal rights barrel" farmers who do not use good all farm organizations be informed on activists and resulting publicity during management practices? pending legislation and take appropri- the intervening six months had left no How can agriculture counteract the ate action. doubt that it was an issue that needed misinformation regarding animal wel- to be addressed by the agricultural Of major concern to the farm lead- fare without providing the activists community. ers was the curriculum guide for with a platform for their message? school children, prepared and distri- Present at this second meeting were buted by the Humane Society of the Is AI Cook a sadistic monster? representatives from the Michigan United States, which introduces the All these questions and more were Live Stock Exchange, Michigan Beef concept of animal rights and discour- discussed by leaders of the animal ag- Industry Commission, Michigan Allied ages the consumption of meat and the riculture industry at an animal care Poultry Industries, Michigan Milk Pro- use of animal products and by-prod- meeting in Lansing on April 16, spon- ducers Association, Michigan Pork ucts. This curriculum guide has been sored by the Michigan Farm Bureau. Producers Association, Michigan Cat- introduced in Michigan and is being No concrete, unqualified answers tlemen's Association, Michigan De- used in the Lenawee County school were surfaced, except perhaps for the partment of Agriculture, Michigan system. last question. Anyone who knows AI State University and the Cooperative Farm Bureau was successful in in- Cook, Ingham County poultry pro- Extension Service. Also involved were serting its analysis of the curriculum ducer who serves on the MFB board, chairpersons of MFB's beef, dairy, guide (see Agrinomic Update, page knows that he is a gentle man, not a poultry and swine state advisory com- 26) in the information distributed to sadistic monster. mittees.' the teachers. Lenawee County Farm 24 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 Mixture of truth and fiction in animals rights publicity confuses and misleads the average citizen. Bureau members have made personal their veal sandwich- menu item and men. To date, over 200 members contacts with teachers, expressing "no veal this meal" cards are being have been involved in the workshops, their concerns, providing them with distributed to Detroit area restaurants. which are aimed at training farmers to the analysis, and offering qualified Action sheets are also available, giving take the positive story of agriculture in- resource people. instructions to contact senators and to the schools. A follow-up to in-class "What concerns us," said Mike Ko- representatives urging their support of presentations will be farm tours, she vacic, MFB's animal care project lead- the Mottl farm animal welfare bill. explained. er, "is that if the guide is in the schools This report raised the concern: "Will The Qroup concluded that an organ- of Lenawee County, an agricultural we be the next target?" ized, positive effort is necessary to ad- area, it's very likely that it is also in The group generally agreed that ag- dress the animal welfare issue and will other schools and we aren't aware of it riculture's "skirts are not entirely meet again in six months. In the mean- so we can take appropriate action." clean" and that all farmers need to time, each organization will continue its Farm Bureau members have been look at their own operations and man- own efforts to raise member awareness urged to become involved in local hu- agement practices and consider ap- of the issue and educate the general mane societies, to serve on school propriate alternatives. public about production agriculture. boards and curriculum committees, "No industry is free of practices or Cooperative efforts, such as Farm Bu- and also to survey what agricultural in- methods which need updating or reau and the Cooperative Extension formation is currently available in change," Kovacic said. "We must Service working to involve 4-H and school libraries and classrooms, he have enough faith in agriculture and FFA youth in educational projects, will said. the land grant universities to believe also be under consideration. Kovacic also discussed the "no veal that if better production systems exist, In closing the session, MFB Vice this meal" campaign which has been they will be found." President Jack Laurie, who chaired launched by animal rightists protesting Helen Atwood, manager of the the meeting, said, "I know of no better that milk-fed veal is "inhumanely rais- MFB Women's Department, reported way to tackle a problem of mutual ed." A group has called for the boycott on the "Ag Lessons in Schools" work- concern than sitting down together of Burger King restaurants because of shops sponsored by Farm Bureau Wo- and sharing ideas on how to solve it." TRUCKS == !!!!! !!!! Old pumps never die .•. They just waste energy. --- --- SINGLE AXLE 1977 Ford LN700, 16' grain dump, 15 ton hoist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,800"" -- .... -- - ..... ..... 1976 Ford LN750, 16' grain dump wl15 ton hoist Protect your crop yields & profits ... ................................... $9,400"" 1974 Ford F750, 16' bed wl15 ton hoist ................................... $7,800"" Let fuel/energy savings pay for 1975 GMC 16' grain dump. 15 ton hoist ................................... $9,400"" new & renewed irrigation pumpsl 1977 Chevrolet, 16' grain body, 18 ton hoist ................................... $9,800"" The best of pumps wear with time and usage, .. And efficiency declines ... And that causes your energy TANDEMS costs to go up. Every pump reaches a point when you 1976 GMC tandem, 427 eng., 20' grain dump, 25 ton hoist $17,500"" save money by repair or replacement. Rely on your 1974 Ford LNT900 tandem, 20' grain body, 25 ton local Goulds Irrigation Pump Specialist to help you ob- hoist $14,800"" tain and maintain maximum irrigation profitability. 1974 Chevy 427 tandem, 20' grain dump .................................. $14,800"" Rely on your BOULOS Dllllr .... " Goulds Agri-Pump Centers throughout the I i' .. OVER 35 GRAIN TRUCKS USA stock deep well turbine pumps, ~Ub- TO CHOOSE FROM!! mersible turbine pumps and centrifugal ~~. 8 Grain Trucks Under $4,000"' boost~r pumps ... so.y~ur Goulds Irrigatlon Pump SpeCialist can .... , serve your needs best. ~ \ Taber & Ottenwess, Inc. 2501 Wilson N. W. at Remembrance Rd. ~GOULDS PUMPS, INC. ~ 133 Years old and ,till growing Grand Rapids. Michigan 616.453.2438. after 6 p.m. 616-453-0292 25 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 Agrinomic Update Over the years, the American farm family has endured many hardships while developing our nation's agricul- tural industry. Despite these hardships - droughts, government over-regula- tion and sky-rocketing production costs - our country is the leading pro- ducer and exporter of food. At the same time, Americans spend a smaller percentage of their disposable income for food than any other country in the world. This envious position was not achieved without great personal sacri- fices, devotion and tremendous capital investments. The commitment to meet the challenge to feed a hungry world is surpassed only by the American farm- . er's love for his land and concern for his animals. He would be the first to suffer if he mistreated either of them. In the past decade or so, however, there has been a concerted effort to discredit the American farmer. Such criticism has come, for the most part, from those individuals or organizations with a particular cause to espouse. A case in point is the publication, "Peo- ple and Animals: A Humane Educa- tion Curriculum Guide," developed by the National Association for the Ad- vancement of Humane Education, a division of the Humane Society of the United States. The guide is currently being distributed to schools. The humane care and treatment of animals is a worthy project, especially for those who have or are about to receive their first animal or pet. However, when such a project is in- correctly presented, or is used to dis- guise other objectives, it can be ex- . tremely dangerous. Farm Bureau's specific concerns center around four points that are either stated or implied in the guide. Authors Have Little Agricultural Knowledge The introduction to the guide's farm animals chapter points out that "Al- most four billion chickens, cattle, and Critique Questions Goals of pigs are processed ... in the United States each year." Rather than being Animal Welfare Curriculum presented in such a matter-of-fact manner, these figures should show the tremendous productivity of American agriculture. The results of this are that never before in the history of mankind 26 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 has a society been able to so alleviate Several organizations and individu- determine: "Is this a product humans hunger, malnutrition and related suf- als are listed as sources of information. need (necessity), or a product that fering as in 20th century America. This But in no cases are the most knowl- humans want but don't need (lux- number represents an enormous sup- edgeable people in the community - ury)?" During a field trip to a grocery ply of high quality, nutritious protein farmers, county Extension agents and store, students are asked to identify food for the total population of our agriculture teachers - asked to speak products from farm animals and after society, regardless of the economic or discuss agriculture in the classroom. identifying each product are asked: position of the individual. "Which products come from a living The paragraph continues with the Vegetarianism Pervades the Guide animal? Which products require that statement, "Many small farms have The most obvious question is: What an animal be killed?" been replaced by large meat-, milk- does vegetarianism have ~ do with The goals of this curriculum as stat- and egg-producing operations." It is animal welfare? Nothing. It is evident, ed in the introduction are to assist the not pointed out, however, that the however, that the guide is being used students in developing compassion, free-enterprise system, when allowed to instill a value into the children rather justice and respect for all living crea- to operate, permits the production of than helping them clarify their values. tures - an admirable goal. But this maximum food at minimum cost to Vegetarianism is introduced in the goal is unachieved. The curriculum is the consumer. concept: "Humans sometimes choose completely lacking in objectivity. This The paragraph concludes with the alternatives to the use of animals or lack of objectivity is caused by the pre- statement: "While some farm animals animal products." conceived conclusion that vegetarian- still have the relative freedom of a field or barn, many of the animals that pro- vide our food products are kept in- doors throughout their entire lives. This intensive confinement can prohi- bit the animals' exercising their natural behaviors and can cause suffering and reduced resistance to disease." Animal care practices are normally researched thoroughly before being Two approaches are used in this ism is the only life-style compatible used by a majority of U.S. farmers and concept to discourage the use of ani- with humane treatment of animals. ranchers. The purposes of modern mals and their products. One is aimed Because the curriculum demands of confinement systems are to permit at placing meat in a "luxury" class as the students a vegetarian conclusion, farmers to give each animal selective opposed to a "necessity." Then, the input and discussion by agriculturists is treatment, adjust diets and in short, students discuss whether or not it is completely lacking. give each animal better care. No important for humans to have the lux- longer do animals have to wait for the Animals Are Equated ury products if it involves the killing of Directly With Humans farmer to break the ice on a cold an animal. Next, the use of animal winter day before they can get a drink. The animal rights movement sup- products is discussed. A number of They have heat in winter, cool ventila- ports the philosophy that animals pictures of wild and domestic animals tion in summer and clean, dry living should be provided the same moral are shown to the youngsters. The areas with food and water readily protections that govern our behavior teacher is asked to initiate a values available. In most cases, animals rais- toward one another. This philosophy voting game by pointing to one picture ed in confinement have adapted to is entwined into many of the concepts at a time and asking the students if this type of agriculture and could not found in this guide. they would buy or wear the skin of that survive well in a barnyard or range en- The first concept stresses the tenet animal. After voting (e.g., thumbs up, vironment. that "humans are animals." This is thumbs down) the students discuss Normally any good, sound study done by identifying characteristics such questions as: "Is one animal's life guide or curriculum must be backed common to "all animals," e.g., sounds' worth more than another? Would you up by a list of factual references on the want to wear that skin if you had to kill ."to commlmicate, .living together as subject. Resources listed for this families, and analogous parts of the the animals yourself?" publication include such things as body. The suggestive nature of vegetarian- Next, the thesis is developed that if "The Vegetarian Alternative," "Fac- ism continues in the full concept: humans are animals, then animals tory Farming" (a booklet from the "Humans raise and keep farm animals should have rights like humans. This Humane Society of the United States), to fulfill physical needs." concept starts out by identifying cer- and "Animal Machines" (a book by the vegetarian Ruth Harrison). These ma- In this concept, students are asked tain rights that people must have to ex- terials are, in most cases, extremely to cut out pictures of food, clothing ist together peacefully. Then some biased and unfit for classroom instruc- and household items that come from basic human needs are identified tion. farm animals. Then, they are asked to (continued on page 30) RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 27 Discussion Topic Here's to Your protect an individual against disease. Some illness is purely accidental. Other health problems can be controll- ed, but only if the individual alters his life style. Still others are related to en- HEALTH vironment, especially the work place. Whatever its health impact, guaran- teed medical care for all citizens would require increased expenditures. The purpose of any comprehensive medical system is to increase access to As the cost of medical care rises in a focusing on evermore sophisticated health care and improve the general time of limited resources, many ob- modes of care, with little regard for health status. However, there is much servers claim we are in the midst of a what economists call "cost effective- controversy about what factors in- health care crisis. But they do not tell ness." This is reflected in the increas- fluence health and to what extent. us if we are spending the right amount ing specialization of the medical pro- Health Indicators on health care. In the U.S. economy, fession. it is assumed that for most goods the Theoretically, competition among Before one can determine how total expenditure on a particular item insurance companies should provide health care can be improved, it is resulting from an individual buyer's incentive to restrain the increased pre- necessary to understand how health decision is the right amount, or close mium prices. The predominence in status is measured. The available to it. the market of employers purchasing health indicators (life expectancy, group insurance for their employees mortality and morbidity) usually However, that assumption cannot make competition especially vigorous. measure the incidence of ill health or be made for health care because of Since the expense of medical insur- death. peculiarities in its market. The fore- ance premiums is probably the pri- Life expectancy quantifies potential most of these peculiarities is the wide mary deterrent to extension of private life span. Life expectancy statistics spread use of insurance to pay medical health coverage, it is useful to under- may be misleading if separate esti- bills. stand how premium rates are deter- mates are not made for variou,s geo- About 90 percent of all hospital bills mined. Generally, commercial com- graphic, racial and economic groups. are paid through public or private panies rely upon experience rating to Life expectancy says nothing about health insurance. As a result, financial determine premiums. Under this sys- the quality of life. It is conceivable, for constraints playa less important role in tem, the insurer uses the previous example, for a group to have a rela- health care decisions than they might claim experience to determine their tively long life expectancy, but also a otherwise. expected future medical costs. The high incidence of minor illness. There is substantial evidence that Although mortality, the frequency consumers respond to low cost hospi- primary advantage of experience rat- ing is that by setting premiums accord- of death, has the advantage of being tal care by demanding more services easy to measure, it too provides little and expensive services, even when ing to personal characteristics, those individuals with the highest expected information about the population's fewer and cheaper services would do. health prior to death. With rapid in- For example, in-patient hospital care is costs will pay the highest premiums. creases in medical services, one would often substituted for out-patient treat- Medical Care: A "Right"? expect a higher proportion of deaths ment that would be equally effective. The importance Americans attach to be preceded by prolonged illness. The production of high cost hospital to good health is reflected in their im- Infant mortality figures also tend to care is- a self-reinforcing process: the mense economic commitment to med- give a distorted picture of medical suc-- risk of expensive hospital care stimu- ical care. Some observers believe, cesses. For example, effective medi- lates patients to buy more comprehen- however, that not enough is done to cine may enable a pregnant woman to sive insurance, while the growth of protect individuals against the per- bring a baby to term that otherwise such insurance- tends to make - care sonal and economic costs of illness. would have been lost through miscar- more expensive. They conclude that government riage . Yet if the infant dies shortly after Because of the highly technical na- should guarantee medical care for all birth, it will be included in the infant ture of most medical decisions and the citizens. They would, in effect, make mortality rate. protection from costs provided by in- medical care a "right." Morbidity is a measure of the preva- surance, patients tend to delegate con- Guaranteed medical care would lence or extent of illness, injury or sumption decisions to their physicians. shift the economic burden of treating disability in a population. Cautious in- Incentives for medical providers to re- illness from the individual victim to terpretation is again necessary. Defini- strain costs are relatively weak. society. It might improve the health of tions of morbidity are subjective, mak- - Most providers are personally com- some citizens, probably those who ing reliable compilation of statistics dif- mitted to alleviating human suffering. receive the least treatment now. But ficult. For example, discomfort that .Medical education reinforces that by no medical system could completely one person deems inconsequential 28 RURAL LIVING. MAY 1982 Farm Bureau Members! might cause another to stay home from work or even to see a doctor. The latter's illness would more than likely be reflected in the morbidity ENJOY fresh statistics than the former. A number of economists have anal- asparagus and yzed the education-health relation- ship. They have found a pervasive and strong relationship between edu- other delicious cation and health. One which appears more important than that is the rela- food products tionship between income and health. One study of children found that while available in the the incidents of certain illness or disabilities were unrelated to economic Spring Asparagus Sale status, it was inversely related to the educational level of the mothers. Such studies suggest that removing eco- Participating counties - see center pages nomic barriers to health care through guaranteed health care might do less of this issue for ordering information. to equalize health status than is com- Ittl monly supposed. ------------------------------------- Individual Responsibility A recent report concludes: "a num- miCHIGan'S Member to M'ember ber of factors such as smoking, drink- ing, exercise and eating habits have been found to be related to a person's \1 JJ L.- F8_R_m _8_8 S----JT SPRING SALE general health status." Because per- Nome _ sonal overindulgence often takes its toll only over a period of years, its vic- Address _ tims are unaware of effects until they are well advanced. Thus, the three leading causes of death among per- Phone _ sons 55 to 64 are heart disease, cancer and strokes, all of which are partially Quantity Price Amount controlled by prudent life style. Item and Size A broad concept of health care em- Fresh Asparagus Spears. 20 Ibs. S2O.60 phasizes individual responsibility for Fresh Asparagus Spears. 10 Ibs. Sl1.95 good health. In a sense, each person (Approx. $42.(0) MACMA Vintage Ham. 4/4 lb. hams/case price per b. - S2.64 who persists in habits which are known Thick Cut Bacon. 15 Ibs. - 10/lIh lb. pkgs. $25.80 to affect him adversely is opting for in- Hickory Stick. 4 lb. average $11.15 creased investment in health services. Some have questioned whether socie- Hot Dogs. 5 lb. box S7 .70 ty should underwrite such individual Apple Cider Concentrate. 24/12 oz. cans S26.9O folly through the tax and insurance Aorlda Orange Concentrate. 24/12 oz. cans S33.50 systems. Aor/da Grapefruit Concentrate. 24/12 oz. cans S25.8O Discussion Questions Aorlda,Lemonade Concentrate. 24/1~.oz. cans S15.35 Grape Juice. 12140 oz. jars S15.95 - Are costs preventing people from getting proper medical care? Florida Skinless Peanuts. 20 oz. can S2.4O Wisconsin Sharp Cheddar Cheese. 4/1 lb. pkgs. $10.90 -Should government impose cost- Wisconsin Medium Cheddar Cheese. 4/1 lb. pkgs. S10.50 control on hospitals? Wisconsin Colby Cheese. 4/1 lb. pkgs. $10.20 -Should government impose cost- Wisconsin Monterey Jack Cheese. 4/1 lb. pkgs. S10.2O control on doctors? Wisconsin MOZZilrel1a Cheese. 12110 oz. pkgs. S19.55 Wisconsin Swiss Cheese. 12110 oz. pkgs. S22.50 The Discussion Topic for Community Wisconsin Pepper Jack Cheese. 1218 oz. pkgs. S14.50 Action Groups is prepared monthly by Ken Wiles, manager of the MFB Total Member Relations Department. RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 ------------------------------------- 29 Emotional Approach Generates Fear, Tension . (continued from page 27) among all those who work with ani- farm animals. Discussion questions in- (e.g., adequate food, water, shelter mals. As yet, however, the pain/fear/ clude: "Do laws exist to require mini- and freedom from pain/fear/stress). stress syndrome associated by some mum care for pets (food, water, shel- In still another section, a series of with farm animals cannot be measured ter)? For farm animals? Do laws exist questions are asked: "Do all animals objectively or expressed numerically. that prohibit cruel treatment of pets? have rights? What would life be like for So, the principal scientific basis now Of farm animals? Which category has humans if they had no rights or if their available for determining farm animal more/fewer laws? Why do you think rights were not respected? What welfare is the response of these' this is so? Are additional laws needed would life be like for animals if they animals to their environment provided to guarantee either group of animals had no rights or if their rights were not by traditional production and clinical proper care or treatment?" respected?" criteria. A fourth concept deals with the The next concept has to do with But the basic misunderstanding that "ways in which some pesticides have hurt and pain. It starts out with the lies at the core of this curriculum and proved harmful to the environment." teacher asking the students to describe forces it to lack universal objectivity is The teacher discusses DDT: specifical- how a chicken would feel living with its lack of philosophical basis in our ly what it is, why it was used, and the thousands of other chickens or how Judeo-Christian society. The curricu- concerns about its effects on the envi- cattle might react to being crowded lum is based on the premise that hu- ronment that led the federal govern- "shoulder-to-shoulder" in a tractor mans and animals share equality. If, ment to ban its use in the United trailer truck on their way to market. indeed, this religious-philosophica! States. Further discussions deal with Another concept has to do with stance is accepted, then, obviously, the way DDT and other pesticides can emotions. After discussing emotions there is no alternative except vegetari- accumulate in bodies of birds and how and human/animal communications, anism. However, our Judeo-Christian the pesticides (residues) get there. the students are introduced to the society and thus, our modern western Nothing is said in the guide about word anthropomorphism (the attribu- agriculture, is based on stewardship of the positive effects of pesticides in the ting of specific human characteristics animals, not equality. Stewardship of food chain. to "other animals"). The anthropo- animals always recognizes animal morphism concept is controversial at welfare within the perimeters set forth Conclusion best, and rejected at worst. for the use of these animals for human The Humane Education Curriculum In the farm animals chapter, a con- betterment. Animal welfare based on Guide is a broad based attack on cept is introduced on suffering. equality can never be accepted in our American agriculture. Animal welfare First, four or five students are asked modern American society. is listed as the stated purpose, but to lock arms to form a small circle vegetarianism, environmental con- around three or four other students. A Restructuring of U.S. cerns (pesticides), and the dismantling The guide says: "Make circle small Agriculture is Implied of large farms in favor of small, ineffi- enough that inside students have dif- Several references are made in the cient ones pervade the guide. Also, ficulty lifting their arms away from their guide to practices, which if followed or questions and statements are worded sides." In this way, battery or laying implemented, would alter the struc- in such a way as to be suggestive and cages for poultry are introduced. ture of American agriculture. leading rather than thought provok- Next, the students are paired to- The students are introduced to a ing. This emotional approach tends to gether and one member of each pair is number of terms that apply to "mo_ generate fear, insecurity and tension in asked to stand as close as possible to dern food production practices." After youngsters and does not foster learn- his/her partner (facing the partner) discussing the word "intensive," the ing. and begin talking. After a few minutes, youngsters are asked to speculate on It seems prudent from this review the quiet partner is asked if he/she is what "intensive farming" might mean. that the Humane Education Curricu- uncomfortable having the speaker The teacher is asked to explain that lum Guide as now structured NOT be standing so close. Then, the talking "some people object to it (intensive recommended for use in our nation's partner is asked to move back until the farming) because of the problems it school systems. Continued efforts quiet partner is cOTI:lfortable. It is can cause for the animals." The final should be made to keep abreast of any pointed out that this'should'be approx- st~p in the'teaching strategy is to'refer future mo'dificcitions -and 'revisions of imately arm's 'length or human flight to intensive farms as "factory farms." the curriculum that might change this distance - the distance at which Another concept offered in the recommendation. humans feel "safe" from others of their guide is a discussion of the "return to (Editor's Note: This critique was own kind. The teacher is asked to ex- the land" life-style in which humans prepared by staff members of the plain that all animals have a biological raise and maintain farm animals to American Farm Bureau Animal Wel- flight distance, and if forced to live too provide for their own personal con- fare Committee. It has been edited for close together, can suffer constant sumption. The students are asked to length. For a complete copy write: stress. discuss "the reasons for this." Michigan Farm Bureau, Commodity The need for humane treatment Yet another concept has the stu- Activities and Research Department, and for the minimizing of pain and suf- dents identify additional laws that may P. O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. fering is a matter of general agreement be added to regulate the keeping of 48909.) 30 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1982 Farm Bureau Market Place Classified Ad Policy: Members pay 10 cents per word for non-commerical ads and 15 cents per word for ads which promote a commercial business other than agriculture. All other advertisers pay 20 cents per word for one insertion and 15 cents per word for two or more consecutive insertions. The deadline for advertisements is the 15th of the month preceding publication and the publisher has the right to reject any advertising copy submitted. All ads must be pre-paid and may be pre-paid up to one year in advance. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to re-insert the ad on a month-by-month or year- by-year basis. Send ads to Michigan Farm News Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. No ads will be taken over the phone. FARM EQUIPMENT FARM EQUIPMENT MISCELLANEOUS Hamilton Distributing Co .• Stormor Grain Bins. Stormor Farmall560 Gas Tricycle 4.14 plow, 12 ft. disc, 12ft. sprlng- Uncoln Log home model ready for Inspection. Bart & Hopi" Ezee-Dry. Automatic and PrO Dryers. Transport Augers. tooth, 14 ft. brillion packer, 4 row planter, 4 row cultivator, Mcfarlane, Spring Arbor, 517-750-2025. (4-2t.15p) Bucket Elevators. 616-751-5161. (5-6t.17p) rotary chopper. Farmall560 diesel wide front 3-14 plow. Farm- Book - "Shining Through" - 120 pp. with illustrations. For Sale: Used Storage Tanks, 6000 to 20,000 gallon all 230 wide front 2-14 plow. 7 ft. disc, cultivator, blade, PrO Beautiful rural romance 1897.99, based on diary and letters. capacity. Vertical or horizontal. Phone 616-798-1805. drive spreader. Sears oil furnace. Jenny steam generator dry 53.70 postpaid. R. McKim, Box 168, Holt, Mich. 48842. (l0-12t.15p-ts) steam. Green house glass. Phone 313.522-0162. (4-2t.6Op) (l-12t-25p-ts) Irrigation Equipment - Complete line - Lockwood center For Sale: John Deere. Good 1945 BO new rubber. Trade for Unsurpassed Aquarium Fish mailed. Filters. Plants. -25%. pivots - Rainbow and Alumax travelers, pipe and pumps. We Ferguson to 20. One new 11 x 26 tire. 616-861.2577. (5-19p) Catalog 50 cents (refundable). 313-627.2877. Aquadiscount, repair pipe and make up pumping units. Plummer Supply, Sawmill; V-71 Detroit diesel, Ford 172, power units, low 33559 Mill,Ortonville, Mich. 48462. (5-8t-16p-ts) Bradley, Mich. 616-792.2215. (l1-12t-27p-ts) hours. Notcher: set of new safety gauges, buck rake. Battle High Electric Bills? Something Wrong? Step by step Instruc- Manure PumPS. agitators, pipe and travelers for sale to pump Creek, Mich. 616-721.3237. (5-24p) tion booklet details in non-technical terms how you can check manure directly from lagoon or pit to fjeld. We also custom wiring and equipment for problems. Send $1.00 for "Trouble pump. Plummer Supply, Bradley, Mich. 616-792.2215. Shooting Your Electric Bill." Practical Publlcallons, P.O. Box (1l-12t-27p-ts) LIVESTOCK 493, Watertown, WI 53094. (5-2t-4Op-ts) For Sale: Used 5 years, 31 farrowing grates with waterers CORRIEDALE SHEEP breeding stock. 313-429-7874. Fish for Pond Stocking. Hybrid sunfish, bass, trout and chan- and divider panels. And 8 4' x 4' doubledeck nursery cages with (l2.12t-5p) nel catfish. Spring Valley Trout Farm, Dexter, Mich. Phone 313- waterers and feeders. Also pregnancy checker. Phone 517- 426-4772. (5.2t-36p) Flnnsheep cross lambs, ewes and rams, yearling ram, also 224-2850. (5.3t-26p) registered Ramboulet ram and registered Hampshire ram, also Young married man desires position on farm that will offer Bulk Tank - 460 gal. with extra large Copeland compressor. wool. 517.846.4164. (3-4t.19p) opportunity for partnership or ownership. Experienced and Also 18 watering cups, pipes and clamps. Used one year. Rich- reliable. Phone 517-639-4013. (5-2t.22p) Duroc Boars. Ready for service. PRV qualified herd No. mond, Mich. 313-727-1060. (4-2t.22p) 0135. The boars are sound, rugged, and aggressive. Helping to Wanted: Portable sawmill, maple syrup equipment, bee col- promote growth and durability. Mark Palmreuter, 517- onies or equipment. 517-436-3782. (5-2t-llp) 823-3745. (5-3t-26p) Rubber Nylon Fencing - 12~ foot. Strongest and safest avail- MUklng Shorthorns: Young bulls, yearlings and calves for sale. FOR HOMEMAKERS able! Ideal for horses! Rubber Floor Malting - 3', 4', 5' wide rolls. Write or visit Stanley M. Powell and Family, Ingleside Farm, Nutsll Quart each pecan halves, pecan pieces, walnuts. Three- Excellent In stalls, alleys, livestock trailers. Tough and durable. Route 2, 3248 Powell Hwy., Ionia. Mich. 48846. (4-6t-12p) quart sampler, 514.95 postpaid!!! Canecreek Farm. Box Large selection available! 8 foot red cedar posts, $2.00, $2.50, YearUng Registered Holstein Bulls. 15 mo. Cinnamon son 2727-MF, Cookeville, TN 38501. (2-12t.2Op.ts) 53.00. Munson's, Elsie. Mich. 517-862.5477. (4.2t-34p-ts) from 21,566M 3.7% 792F dam. Also Elevation, Bootnlck, Spices, Herbs, Teas and Coffees. Wholesale prices, free Farrowing Stalls - All steel $154.32. Includes feeder.waterer, Tony. Tested. George Robb, Fowlerville. 517-223-9462. mallorder catalog. Siers Spice Co., 3730 Robinson, Snover, top rail, rump rail. Weighs 1%". Free literature. Starr National, (5-2Ip) Mich. 48472. (4.2t.17p) 219 Main. Colchester, IL 62326.309-776-3446. (5-24p-ts) Arabians: Purebreds. Beaullful filly (2 yrs.) Sire: Champion Delldous Polish Dill Pickle Soup. Send 51.00 and S.A.S.E., A Wells Cargo enclosed trailer behind your pick-up can take LouAnGaze. Gelding (6 yrs.) Handsome bay. Gentle for child or P.O. Box 817, Houghton Lake, Mich. 48629. (4-3t.13p) the place of a larger van truck. 6' to 32' up to 5 ton capacity. woman. Near Saginaw. 517-777-3751. (5.22p) Great Sausage Recipes. Illustrated book with over 100 recipes Free brochures. Bosma Fabricating, 999 Wood Road, N. Top quaUty poultry at reasonable prices. Chicks for eggs, explaining sausage making, curing, smoking. Free equipment Muskegon, Mich. 49445. 616-744.1882. (3.3t-37p) meat or novelty. Also Guineas, Goslings, Ducks, Turkeys. pic. and supply catalog: SAUSAGEMAKER, 177-56 Military, Buf- ture brochure 50 cents. Country Hatchery, Wewoka, Oklahoma falo. N.Y. 14207. (9.9t.25p-ts) 74884. (4-3t-25p-ts) Nowl Frozen Tomato SUcesl Enjoy garden fresh flavor, year FIRESTONE round! Complete, easy Instructions. $1.00. Hamlltons, Box HEAVY DUTY DOGS 65Z:131, New Ulm, Minn. 56073. (5-21p-ts) Coldwater DWplcklesl Can In minutes! No hot brine. TRUCK TA~PAULINS Border CoUles: Scotch-English pedigree, $125. Also Collie or Delicious, crisp, factory secrets! Recipe 51.00. Hamiltons, Box Sheltle (miniature Collie) puppies; stud service. Baird Farm Ken- 652-131. New Ulm, Minn. 46073. 12 X 16 $23 26 X 40 $89 nel, Lowell, 616-897-9462. (4-2t.3Op) (5-21p-ts) 16 X 20 $32 26 X 55 $115 20 X 20 36 30 X 60 $145 MISCELLANEOUS 18 X 24 $38 50 X 100 $390 NURSERY STOCK "WOMEN • 50 Ways to See Through Men." Vernon 18 X 32 $50 60 X 120 $547 Howard's Inspiring booklet. Refreshing! Romantic! 51. Strawberry plants: Midway, Sparkle, Guardian, Surecrop, 20 X 30 $50 50 X 150 $562 NEWLlFE, Box 684-VR, Boulder City, Nevada 89005. Robinson - 25 - $5, 100 - $14, 500 - $45.50. Everbearlng - 25 Before Midnight June 6 (3.6t.2Op-ts) - $6.50, 100. $20. Black raspberry - 10 - $7.50. Red rllSpberry Why Die Without a Will? Two legal "will forms" and easy In- - 10 - 55, 25 • $12. Concord grapevines - $2.25. Shipping As part of an advertising test Firestone Tarp strucllons. Only $4 ... Order Today! Guaranteed! TV. under SIO - 51.50, over - 15%. I. J. Wolverton, 6197 East Mfg. will send any of the above truck size tar- Company, Box 752.MF, Pryor, OK 74361. (3-lOt-22p-ts) Lake Road, Millington, Mich. 48746. 517-871.2325. paulins to any reader of this publication who Factory outlet work clothes. Bargains on new shirts (low as (4-2t-44p.ts) $4.951. pants, jackets, shoes, boots, gloves, coveralls. Send reads and responds to this test before midnight $1.00 for catalog. Showroom Monday - Friday. Sara Glove June 6. Each tarpaulin Lot (#Z-18, PVC) is con- Co., 16 Cherry Ave., Dept. C-95, Waterbury, CT 06704. structed of high density fabric (with virgin grade (3-3t.36p-ts) REAL ESTATE ingredient, suppled by Gulf Oil Co., Dow All Farms - need farms for Midwest and International buyers. Chemical Co., and Union Oil Co.) with nylon LOWEST PRICE Top dollar. Details: John Peck, Four Seasons Realty of Lanslng. 517-482-4555. (4-13t.2Op-ts) reinforced rope hems, double lock stitched PUMPING POWER Taking bids on 25 acres with 36 x 70 bam built 1%6. Also 80 hems, electronically welded seams, 100% water acres more available to rent. All tillable. Isabella County. Right proof, #4 (112" dia.) metal grommets set on 3 ft. ON EARTH reserved to reject any or all bids. By owner. 517-644.2135. centers with reinforced triangular corner patches (5-32p) Northwind Ranch: 57 acres near Saginaw, Mich. Attractive 3 and are recommended for all heavy duty use and all bulk or pallet riding materials, and willbe WINDMillS bedroom, modem ranch among lovely trees. Garage, barns, corrals. Partly wooded, excellent hunting. riding trails. Good accompanied with a LIFETIMEguarantee that it blacktop road. Land contract. Owner retiring. 517.777-3751. Aermotor (5-31p) must perform 100% or it will be replaced free. The classic name SW Michigan U.Plck Fruit Farm. Established clientele slnce Add $7 handling & crating for each tarp or- in water pumping windmills 1957. New, execullve quality hilltop home. By owner - will dered, Firestone Tarp Mfg. pays all shipping. carry contract. 616.668-3603. WesMew Farm. Route 2, Mat- since 1888 tawan, Mich. 49071. (2-4t-25p) Should you wish to return your tarpaulins you $1.000,000 Farms Wanted - Anywhere In Michigan, with or may do so for a full refund. Any letter postmark- without stock and machinery. Worldwide computerized buyers. ed later than June 6 willbe returned. LIMIT:Fif- Write Write or call farm brokers at United Farm Agency. 1764 M.24. ty (50) tarps per address, no exceptions. Send for complete information to Caro, Mich. 48723. FREE farm and business catalogs. 517- 673-6888. (3.5t-35b-ts) appropriate sum together with your name & ad- Horse liarm, 54 stalls, huge arena, ranch home, tenant house, DEAN'S WINDMILLS dress to: Tarp Test Dept., #398G, Firestone mobile home, best condition, Saginaw area. L. D. Decker. Sales & Service Tarp Mfg., Inc., 6314 Santa Monica Blvd., Realtor, 517.463.2515. (5-22p) 32519 N. River Rd. 40 acres. Kalkaska area, mostly wooded, Red Pine, Maple, L.A., CA 90038, for fastest service from any Mt. Clemens, MI 48045 hunting. L. D. Decker, Realter.Owner, 517-463-2515. (5-17p) part of the country call collect, before midnight 7 Kentucky. 303 acres, hilly, wooded. view, pond, Richmond days a week (213) 462-1914 (ask operator for) (313) 469-2417 area. S600 acre, sell, exchange, terms, cash discount. L. D. TARP TEST #398G have credit card ready. Decker. Realtor-Owner, 517-463.2515. (5-23p) RURAL LIVING, MA Y 1982 31 v *3^-9f M^ -m- •* Photo by Cindy Nimz of Jackson, Mich Award of Excellence winner in Farm Bureau Insurance Group's color photo contest. YOUR RETIREMENT CAN BE THE BEST OF TIMES... OUR 13% INTEREST IRA WILL HELP GUARANTEE IT Retirement is a time for the pursuit of retirement income. By then, most people are in happiness...spending time with your grand- a much lower tax bracket and will pay much children, traveling, or just doing the hundreds lower taxes. of little things you've always dreamed about. The bottom line is simple: we can guar- You'll enjoy your retirement a lot more if you antee you a generous retirement income for as know you'll always have a generous income to long as you live, continuous tax savings year rely on. after year, competitive interest rates, and the That's where FB Annuity can help. Our knowledgeable service of your Farm Bureau In- flexible premium annuity is the ideal IRA (In- surance Group agent. dividual Retirement Account) because it guaran- Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent tees you a lifetime retirement income, tax sav- for all the help you'll need with your retirement ings year after year, and high interest besides. planning. You can deposit up to $2,000 a year (or up to $2,250 if you have a non-working spouse) We're working to make your into your FB Annuity IRA and deduct the entire amount as tax-deferred income on your income future a little more predictable tax return. What's more, your funds will earn 13% interest, guaranteed for all of 1982. The in- FARM BUREAU 'J*m terest you earn is also tax-deferred. In fact, you pay no taxes at all on your INSURANCE r l IRA until you begin receiving the funds as GROL * 1 :higan Farm Bureau Non-ProBt Organization ral Living Magazine U. S. POSTAGE D. Box 30960 73 W. Saginaw Hwy. PAID rising, Michigan 48909 Lansing, Michigan Permit No. 37