~ Michigan Farm Bureau .04 Buyer's Service Program \ \ Now It's Guaranteed! .. What IS the Buyer1s Service? The Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service is a program designed to help save you hundreds of dollars on major purchases that you may make in the coming years. Farm Bureau has Most major brands available at discounts up to contracted with The Family Saver Co. to pro- 60%! • I vide this service. Appliances Photography equipment Freezers Lawn and garden equipment The Family Saver can be your purchasing agen- Dishwashers Power tools cy by eliminating much of the middleman's Washers and dryers Lamps high mark-up and pass these savings on to you. Refrigerators Fireplaces Ranges Wood furnaces No pressure to buy, only our help in saving Small appliances Luggage you money. Microwave ovens Watches Musical equipment '''f Electronic Equipment Lawn furniture Stereos How can we Scanners Televisions Sporting Goods Archery equipment Hunting equipment Miscellaneous do this? Furniture Carpeting Pool and game tables Rods and reels Box springs and mattresses Very simple. We order merchandise direct from the factory or distributor and ship it All merchandise is brand new and carries fuJl factory directly to you or to a warehouse near where warranties with nationwide local service. you Iive. We do not have the high cost of in- ventory, or large warehouse and showrooms, sales commissions, etc. As your purchasing ---------------------------- agent to help you save money, we also have Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service Enrollment Form some retailers who are interested in increasing Please complete and mail along with your check or their volume and thus giving them larger buy- money order in the amount of $25.00 to: ing discounts by brokering their product through our great purchasing power. Michigan Farm Bureau Member Service Department P.O. Box 30960 Lansing, MI 48909 What does it cost? Date The Buyer's Service, at a cost of only $25 for the first year and $15 thereafter annually, allows you Membership Number to get unlimited pricing information via a toll free number. This program compares favorably Farm Bureau Membership Name with ones costing up to $795 annually . (as shown on membership card) \ .. .\ Satisfaction IS Address Guaranteed! City 4 ( Use the Family Saver for one full year. If at the State and Zip \ end of the year you find you could not save at .. least $25.00 in quick quotes, we will refund your Telephone No. $25.00 fee! Amount Enclosed $ (check or money order) JANUARY 1984 FARM NEWS VOL. 63 NO.1 THE COVER Delegate participation is A publication essential to grassroots policy setting at the MFB of the annual. At the microphone is Lenawee County delegate Michigan Laurie Isley. Farm Bureau Photo by Marcia Ditchie In this issue: From Vision to Reality Equipped with a new name, new products for Michigan farmers and new leadership, Agra Land is ready to earn its place as the state's leading cooperative. 10 'Secret' Formula Pays Off Again Chippewa County's secret to award winning programs - busy people who care. 13 Ambassador for Agriculture Gordon Guyer, recipient of MFB's 1983 Distinguished Service to Agriculture award, talks about his future goals for Cooperative Extension and Michigan agriculture. 15 Delegate Reporter Newspaper style summary of people and events at the MFB annual meeting. 16 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Farm Bureau Market Place - 20 Country Ledger - page 5 Rural Exchange - page 21 Legislative Review - page 6 Discussion Topic - page 22 Front and Center - page 19 Agrinomic Update - page 23 Michigan farm l"lew!I RURAL LlVII"lO (ISSI"l 0026-2161): Michigan farm News Rural Living Is published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bu. reau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway. LansIng. Mich. 48909. Post Office Bo)( 30960; telephone. Lansing 517-323- 7000. E)(tenslon 508. SUBSCRIf"TIOI"l 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. 345040. Established Jan. 13. 1923 as Michigan farm News. name changed to Michigan farm News Rural Living Dec. 1. 1981. Thlrd.class postage paid at LansIng. Michigan and at additional mailing offices. EDITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor; Mar- cia Dltchle. Associate Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor; Cathy J. Klrvan. Associate 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 Of- fleer. Max D. Dean; Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District I. Arthur Bailey. Schoolcraft; DIstrict 2. Lowell Eisenmann. Bllssfleld: District 3. ., James Sayre. Belleville; District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia: District 5. Albert Cook. Mason: District 6. Jack Laurie. Cass City: District 7. Robert Rider. Hart: District 8. Lyle LeCronler. Freeland; District 9. Donald Nugent. Frankfort: District 10. Margaret Kartes. West Branch; District 1 1. Bernard Doll. Dafter. DIREC- TORS AT LAROE: Dave Conklin. Corunna; Michael Pridgeon. Montgomery: Robert Rottler. Fremont. fARM BUREAU WOMEN: Faye Adam. Snover. fARM BUREAU YOUI"lO fARMERS: Mark Smuts. Charlotte. POSTMASTER: In using form 3579. mall to: Michigan farm News Rural Living. P.O. Box 30960. 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Mich. 48909. The Future Depends on YOU (Editor's Note: The following are better when government is not market system. They are look- excerpts from President Smith's attempting to manipulate them. ing to protection rather than annual address to delegates at We, in agriculture, must remem- competing for consumers. the 64th MFB annual meeting, ber that fact as the new farm We must apply that to agricul- Nov . .30.) program is developed for 1985. ture as a new farm program is We must realize that we operate developed. We are tied to the The word "YOU" is probably in a world market and that ex- export market for our income. one of the most powerful words ports are crucial to the econom- Support prices must reflect in the English language. It has ic welfare of American agricul- world prices or we will again a weakness, however, in that it ture. We are facing new com- have government in the storage is both singular and plural. petition for world markets. business, due to loss of mar- When people in a group hear China will be an exporter of cot- kets. We must recognize that the word "you," it's easy to ton in 1984. The European Eco- taxpayers will not tolerate fed- transfer the responsibility to nomic Community had agricul- eral expenditures for storing other group members and es- tural exports of $25 billion and surplus commodities. As farm- cape the responsibility that last year replaced Australia as ers, we will find it difficult to each individual has. the third largest exporter of talk of the need to curtail In Farm Bureau we, as mem- wheat in the world. government spending and at bers, have experienced many Congress and leaders in the the same time be participating successes because we inter- auto industry and unions must in programs which are depen- preted "you" to be singular. realize what they are doing to dent on government to be our Each member has acted as this nation as they push for the market. though the total program de- "domestic contents" bill. This We hear members of Congress pended on him or her. They bill requires that 90% of the talking about needed tax in- believe in the ability of people parts in American cars be made creases including a freeze on to solve their own problems. in the United States. federal estate tax credits for Farmers and all citizens One congressman suggested which Farm Bureau has worked should be pleased with some this bill be renamed the "UAW so hard. They talk about in- things going on around us Wage Differential Protection and creasing taxes on fringe bene- today .... Anti-Consumer Act." One eco- fits and other areas. This is a The first is the economy of nomic association says the pure and simple tactic to drain this nation. We are gratified average price of both domestic from citizens the money which that unemployment continues and foreign cars have been citizens would have to spend to decline. The index of busi- boosted by $1,000 due to "vol- and place it in the hands of ness activities is up from a year untary" restraints already government spenders. Ameri- ago; hours per week spent on agreed to by Japan, and that cans everywhere should stand the job are increasing. the domestic contents bill will up and shout: "No! members of In the past several years, raise prices by another $1,000. Congress, you can't do this to there has been support for the Government interferes and con- us. Stop meddling with our market system through deregu- sumers suffer. future with your political lation of several industries. Farmers will be the big losers schemes." These include the petroleum if this legislation goes through, The future of this organiza- and airline industries. Con- for we will lose our share in the tion, the future of agriculture, sumers have benefited. Look at world market. Japan, for exam- the future of this nation de- the banking industry since it ple, will continue to buy food, pends on you. Whatever our or- was deregulated. There is now but in countries that buy their ganization becomes, whatever competition. A customer can products. our industry becomes, whatever compare terms for both borrow- The auto industry and auto our nation becomes - it hap- ing and saving. unions seem to be afraid of the pens because of you! Markets work and they work 4 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 COUNTRY LEDGER · Thanks, We Needed That! ... By Connie Turbin The survey conducted during "A good addition to our farm the MFB annual meeting among magazines." 4 "I like everything that Donna the 509 farmer delegates who "Doing a good job of com- Wilber writes," commented one represented county member- municating with members." ~ of the respondents in our recent ship in the policy deliberations "Super ." Rural Living readership survey. gave us a much needed morale "Educational. Enjoyable to ~ That pretty much says it all, boost. The results told us that read." ~ but, of course, we knew that we steadily hit the information "An excellent publication, but whatever our communications mark for 62% of the 225 who keeps getting better." ~ format, Donna's following answered the survey. Among "Excellent quality, infor- \I among our readers would re- the most highly read columns mative and something we can main steady. in every publication are Wash- be proud of." From the DONNAcolumn that ington and Lansing legislative "Good reading. Timely sub- .., appeared in the newspaper tab- reports, the Discussion Topic, jects." loid, Michigan Farm News, to and the Market Place feature. "Great!!!!!" • her contributing editor's col- An earlier communications "Keeps membership up to ~ umn during the first year of survey told us - and the recent date and informed." ~ Rural Living magazine, her one confirmed - that you are "1 like the size and format." t warm, personal style gained her interested in your farm neigh- "Very good. The real problem many friends as well as readers. bors throughout the state. Sev- is ours - taking the time to ,. And although she no longer enty-five percent of those sur- read the whole magazine." I pens a monthly column for the veyed asked for more profiles of "A publication that we, as magazine, she has turned her county Farm Bureau member Farm Bureau members, can be ~ attention to news and feature families. proud of and use as a good articles that inform with the We learned a lot about how source of information." same caring, human interest you read us from the multiple We'll be doing our best to .. touch. choice questions in the survey, meet your expectations for your Donna Wilber "feels" what but we really enjoyed reading Farm Bureau publication in the (t concerns farm people. Knows the personal comments offered year ahead. Wejust can't think t what questions they want to by the respondents about the of a better way to get a positive ask of Farm Bureau and polit- overall publication. We'd like to start for 1984 than to hear from o( ical leaders - and she gets the share some of them with you. more of you. A copy of the ~ answers. Sorry we can't include all of the Rural Living readership survey But there are moments of comments, but they are all like appears on page 30 of this ~ doubt - for Donna and for all music to our ears! issue. We'd like to invite you to of us who write and produce the "A real upgrade from the past complete the questionnaire and • monthly issues of Rural Living. format." return it to: Michigan Farm ... Are members reading Rural "Very interesting; read every News Rural Living, P.O. Box Living? page of it." 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Do they like the new size and "Worthwhile to publish. In- To those who took the time t format? teresting to read." during the busy annual meeting Is it helpful to them in under- "A good resource for discus- days to complete the survey, " standing and communicating sion meets or teaching." the Rural Living editors would the varied issues that concern "An informative tool for the like to say, "Gee, thanks! We today's farm families? local membership.~' needed that!" "Informative and friendly." "A fine magazine for our • organization. A very impressive appearance." • .. lot RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 5 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW .. trees .... This project will pro- would guarantee future control. -\ vide us with information on the It was necessary before a recall- impact of combining short-term ed senator left office. "Power commodity program objectives politics" was the rule of the day ., with long-term conservation ob- and night. The party line vote Funding Bills - A bill that jectives." was 19 to 18. Sen. Mack, who provides for an $8.4 billion in- Block also announced a pilot has had heart trouble, suffered crease in U.S. backing for the conservation project in the an attack but was kept on the International Monetary Fund Palouse region of Oregon, floor with emergency medical was signed by the president Washington and Idaho. The personnel administering oxygen Nov. .30. Another export-orient- project there will make certain until the final vote, after which ed part of the bill was a provi- acreage of perennial grassland he was rushed to a hospital. sion that reauthorized the and legumes eligible as conser- There was supposed to be an Export-Import Bank for three vation acreage under 1984 farm agreement that the remapping years and $7.5 billion for re- gional development banks in programs . Another initiative involves ex- bill would not be pushed in the House. However, a couple days . Latin America, Africa and Asia. panding to 45 states, the tar- after the vote, any such agree- • The funding bill received FB geting of Agricultural Stabiliza- ment was denied and caucus support because of the need to tion and Conservation Service action was started in the House. stimulate U.S. farm exports to and Soil Conservation Service Most observers agree that if developing countries. assistance in 1984 to more crit- party "power politics'.' prevail, ical erosion and water-short bipartisan support and har- areas. Plans are being made for mony on most issues neces- lit Pilot Project Reduces Soil two national conferences next sary for Michigan's economic Erosion - USDASecretary year - one to discuss conserva- recovery may be lost. John Block announced new in- tion strategy in the 1985 farm itiatives by the Department of bill and the second on conser- Agriculture to encourage farm- vation tillage technology. Unemployment Debt - H.B. ers and ranchers to reduce soil 499 has passed both houses. It erosion and improve natural will save "negative balance" resources. Included in the pro- employers in Michigan $111 mil- gram are $20 million of Agricul- lion in the "solvency" taxes tural Conservation Program used to pay the unemployment funds available for long-term debt to the federal government. conservation on highly erodible This is helpful to farmers as land in 1984 acreage conserva- As this is written, the Legisla- they are "negative balance" em- tion reserve. ture is nearing year-end recess ployers. FB supported the bill. At a news conference, Block in a state of political confusion "" said to be eligible for considera- and, some say, paralysis. This is tion, farmers must be enrolled brought by the recall activity 'Frivolous' Legal Cases - in a 1984 commodity program against several legislators and H.B. 4.348 and H.B. 4.349 have requiring an acreage reduction. the fact that two Democratic passed the House and are in a Funds will be used to encourage senators (Mastin of Pontiac and Senate committee. Small busi- the planting of grass or trees Serotkin of Mt. Clemens) lost nesses and individuals, within rather than crops on highly their seats through recall eJec- certain dollar and employer erodible land. Federal cost tions. limits, could qualify for the share will be 90%. state to pay their legal costs in Calling this a pilot project, civil and administrative matters Block said, "Our goal for this Reapportionment - If Re- against the state, if the state's test program is to determine a publicans win the special elec- opposition is found to be ', producer's willingness to retire tions to fill the seats held by "frivolous." highly erodible land for five the two senators who were re- Either a judge or the presid- years if seeded to grass and at called, the Democrats will lose ing officers at an administrative least 10 years if planted to control of the Senate. This led hearing could rule that the to sudden action on S.B. .3 to re- state's action was "frivolous," district the Legislature, which 6 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 which is defined as harassment, no legal merit or reasonable basis for the action. FB policy Key '84 Policies Address supports these bills. Taxation, Water Rights State Income Tax - The recall push began when the (Editor's Note: The following are We also support an amend- state income tax was raised to key policies adopted by MFB an- ment to allow for an assess- bring Michigan back from the nual meeting delegates. A com- ment against landowners who brink of bankruptcy. plete printing of Michigan Farm contributed to the impairment When Gov. Blanchard came Bureau policies for 1984 will be o.f a drain through abusive prac- into office last January, it was available in February.) tices such as excessive erosion estimated that the state's ac- from improper soil manage- Drain Code Revision - cumulated deficit was over $1.7 ment, pasturing of livestock in Michigan farmland is enhanced billion. This was in spite of the or on drain systems and im- by an adequate and well-man- fact that the budget had been proper installation of drainage aged .d~ainage system. Nearly cut more than $1 billion al- inlets. 12 million acres of Michigan ready. Major across the board When a drain fails to perform farmland require drainage to cutbacks had been made. The the purposes for which it was produce food, feed and fiber. state's share of school costs de- designed and constructed, the We support the amendments clined even further to below drain commissioner should be recommended by the Michigan 30%. In the past, it has been as notified and empowered to act Department of Agriculture high as 50% to 60%. Even then with concurrence of an appoint- Drain Code Task Force, which the schools did not receive their ed three-person board, to repair would retain authority for ad- , payments which in turn re- quired borrowing at high inter- ministration of the Drain Code in the Department of Agricul- and/ or clean out the drain re- striction to bring it to original est rates. This led to more local standards without petition and ture. The recommended revi- elections to increase property long delays. 1 ~axes to keep the schools go- sions in the Drain Code which would benefit agriculture in- Drainage laws in other nearby mg. Other local governments states provide for routine main- clude but are not limited to the were affected in a similar man- tenance which benefits agricul- following: ner. ture specifically and the com- ' • Provide access to the minori- Michigan's financial ratings munity in general. We believe ~y of the landowners in petition- sank from one of the best in the that all revisions to the Drain Ing for a drain. nation to the bottom. American Code should be limited to drain • Require uniform construc- banks were not willing to lend issues and not include other is- ti~n standards to minimize neg- Michigan any more money. sues such as water rights, irri- ative public opinion aspects of Ironically, six Japanese banks gation or any other water is- drain construction and mainte- came to the rescue and sues. We are opposed to a com- nance. guaranteed further loans. plete rewrite of the Drainage • Encourage a program by In addition to major budget Code. We vigorously oppose local governmental units to cuts, then Gov. Milliken re- amendments that would add ,. manage storm water coming quested and the Legislature additional and unnecessary ex- from urban areas in a manner passed a Ih% increase in the in- pense and delays to drainage compatible with overall water- come tax (4.6% up to 5.1 %). projects. shed needs. However, it was limited to six County Farm Bureaus should • Provide for the establish- months and expired before the schedule informational meet- ment of a fund for annual main- 1982 election. ings with their county drain tenance work on each new drain In January 1983, Gov. Blan- commissioners, Road Commis- constructed or in existence as chard took 9ffice and recom- sion, Soil Conservation District of a specified date. The fund mended even further cuts in the and others who may have an would be established by an an- budget along with an increase impact on maintaining and im- nual assessment on landowners in the income tax from 4.6% to proving agricultural drainage. benefiting from the drain with 6.35% with a portion to be used We will aggressively pursue provision for exempting a land- to payoff the accumulated these revisions to the Drain owner from the assessment if deficit. Code. he voluntarily maintains that (continued on page 29) portion on his property. (continued on page 24) RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 7 ' • A Breakthrough In Calf Nutrition FREE MAXI CAKE Farm Supply Catalog 48 page full-color catalog features practical and hard-to-find products for the farm and ranch. Top Performance, Custom Ear Tags. Personalized hats. Barn and fencing tools. Truck accessories. Home and gift Scours Control items. Farm-office products. Satisfaction guaran- teed on all products or your money back! Fast Every Feeding ./ service, good prices and over 175,000 satisfied customers! Send for your FREE catalog today! ----------- Mail today for FREE Catalog or Call Toll-Free 1-800-443-4934 Name For years, scours have been a serious challenge to calf health even with good care. But now Land O'Lakes research has pro- Address duced a breakthrough in calf nutrition ... Maxi CareTMmilk City replacer. Research trials showed calves fed Maxi Care scoured 43% fewer days and were less likely to get scours. State Zip Modern Farm Catalog Results like these mean less treatment and a reduced chance 860 Big Horn Avenue, Cody, Wyoming 82414 of death to valuable herd replacements. Good management and Maxi Care milk replacer ... the care your calves deserve. 46 HP DIESEL Land O'Lakes feeds are available at the following Agra Land local cooperatives and service centers: TRACTORS Brand New! Agra Land Local Cooperatives Agra Land Service Centers $5,995 Allegan Farmers Co-op Battle Creek Farm Bureau 616-673-2175 616-962-4025 Carson City Coldwater 517-584-6631 517-279-8491 Call Today!! Climax Branch 616-746-4286 Hart 616-873-2158 Blissfield Co-op Company 517-486-2] 7] Marcellus 616-646-5115 1-800-826-3403 Buchanan Co-ops 616-695-6823 Mt. Pleasant 517-773-3670 Caledonia Farmers Elevator 616-891-8108 Pinconning 517-879-3411 Chesaning Farmers Co-op 517-845-3040 Remus 517-967-8358 Coopersville Co-op Elevator 616-837-8051 Schoolcraft 616-679-4063 Eaton Farm Bureau Co-op 517-543-1160 Scottville 616-757-2594 Elkton Co-op Farm Produce 517-375-2281 Traverse City 6 I 6-946-5836 227 page Illustrated book explains sausage making Ellsworth Farmers Exchange 616-588- 2300 Yale 313-387-2202 plus home curing and smoking of meat, fowl and fish. Over 100 recipes. We now have Low Salt Falmouth Co-op 616-826-3301 Seasonings. Free equipment and supply catalog McBain Branch 616-825-2483 has more information. Farmers Co-op Grain-Kinde 517-874-4200 The SAUSAGEMAKER Fowlerville Co-op 517-223-9115 177-56 Military Road Buffalo, N.Y, 14207 Fremont Co-op Produce 616-924-3851 Farmers Co-op Elevator- TREES: Planting stock for Hudsonville Vriesland Branch 616-669-9596 616-772-2515 AGiiA Christmas, ornamental and reforestation at wholesale prices. Free price list and planting guide. Ida Farmers Co-op Kent City Farm Bureau Lapeer County Co-op 313-269-3325 616-678-5021 313-664-2907 LAnD Flickingers' Nursery. Sagamore, PA Leslie Co-op 517-589-8248 16250. Phone 412-783-6528. Marlette Farmers Co-op 517-635-3578 Nashville Co-op Elevator 517-852-0789 Oxford Co-op Elevator 313-628-2174 HID-SOUTU TRACTOR Portland Co-op Company 517-647-4722 PARTS, INC. Ruth Farmers Elevator 51 7-864-3391 Rt. 2. Box .316.M I. Sikeston. MO 6.380 I Salem Co-op Company 616-681-9570 CALL TOLL FREE Sebewaing Farmers Co-op 517-883-3030 Out of State: 1-800-325-7070 West Branch Farmers Co-op 517-345-0428 Missouri Res.: 1-800-392-0929 °For good used parts at low prices. ° Farm Credit Services is the Production Credit Association, Federal Land Bank Association and the Bank for Cooperatives. Fro~ Vision to Reality By Donna Wilber than just those in the Farm There was no mourning, how- Bureau archives. ever, on Nov. 28 at the Lansing On Nov. 28, 1983, the 54-year- It's never easy to lose a child, Hilton Inn, when the new Agra old Farm Bureau Services, Inc., regardless of the reason or the Land, Inc. rose out of the ashes first-born "child" of Michigan child's age. It had given the of FBSto take its place. The in- Farm Bureau, ceased to exist. parent the usual growing pain fant regional agricultural Struck by a tragedy called PBB frustrations in its early years, cooperative was greeted enthu- with which the farm cooperative and when it grew up to be big siastically by an optimistic had struggled for a decade, and strong, there was great crowd of nearly 400 people. drained of its financial and parental pride. In times of deep There seemed to be a prevail- human resources, it became on- trouble, it caused heartache ing, positive attitude that the ly a name that will, no doubt, and feelings of fierce protection co-op that emerged from the be recorded in history, its name that can only be experienced by reorganized FBSwould be a indelibly written in more annals those who gave it birth. force to be reckoned with in the agribusiness arena and that the 10 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 beneficiaries would be its investors - and to the farmers tinued cooperation between farmer supporters. of Michigan. We had to make Michigan Farm Bureau members In addition to the new name, the decision that would bring and the new organization." the new products, services and the best end results for those According to Laurie, the programs that will be offered, people." thinking behind that resolution there's one major difference was that even though Agra ." MFB Delegates Give Support between FBS and Agra Land. It Land is not a part of the Farm has no relationship to Michigan Laurie chaired the MFB Policy Bureau family, it is a vital part Farm Bureau. It's not affiliated Development Committee that of the state's cooperative sys- with, nor controlled by, the drafted the slate of proposed tem. parent of FBS. policy resolutions presented to "A large percentage of our the 509 voting delegates at the members are owners of local co- .. Feelings of Loss - organization's annual meeting, ops. We wanted people to un- But No Regrets Nov. 29-Dec. 2. It was the day derstand that even though it's How does this separation im- after Agra Land's first annual no longer a part of the family, pact on the parent? Are there meeting that the delegates we've still all got to work feelings of loss, maybe even unanimously adopted policy together. jealousy, that the new "kid" supporting the new co-op: "It's like having a kid leave " might become bigger and "We commend Farm Bureau home. You sure hate to see him stronger and more effective members for their strong sup- go, but you'll do everything you than MFB's was? port of Farm Bureau Services can to keep him on the right Common characteristics of a during its year of reorganiza- track, support him and see that caring parent are the will- tion. The success of the reor- he's successful in life," Laurie .. ingness to "Jet go" of a child ganized Farm Bureau Services is said . "" when the appropriate time dependent upon the continued comes and the wisdom to know Groundswell of Support support of our members. We A when the child can no longer urge each member to fully sup- Farm Bureau Insurance benefit from the parent's pro- port the new regional coopera- Group, another Michigan Farm • tective arms. The same holds tive by purchasing farm supply Bureau affiliate, illustrated its true, in a way, for the parent needs and marketing commodi- strong support for the fledgling Michigan Farm Bureau, accord- ties through local member cooperative by investing equity ing to Jack Laurie, former FBS cooperatives of the organiza- in Agra Land. .. vice president. Laurie, who is tion. We encourage the con- As a major investor, FBIG has also MFB's vice president, was one seat on the Agra Land one of the 12 directors on the board of directors. That seat ~ FBS board who made the tough will be filled by Elton R. Smith, decision to file for reorganiza- FBIG president. Since Smith i. tion under Chapter 11 of the also serves as president of bankruptcy laws. Michigan Farm Bureau, there is Laurie admits to feelings of likely to be close communica- ti loss because FBS was an in- tion and cooperation between tegral part of the Farm Bureau the former parent and the new family for over half a century. co-op. ,. But there are, he said, no feel- Land O'Lakes, a large regional ings of regret for the decision. cooperative based in Arden "Yes, it is like losing one of Hills, Minnesota, also invested the family. At the same time, in the new organization and will ., understanding full well that it have one seat on the board, fill- t was necessary for the good of ed by Homer Porter, senior vice Michigan agriculture and president of marketing. ~ Michigan's farmer cooperative In what was termed a .. system, we had to put aside "groundswell of support," mem- those feelings," he said. ber co-ops also invested equity "Letting it go was a tough in Agra Land and voted their , decision, but it was a decision An enthusiastic crowd lined up shares to elect nine members to made for the good of everyone the new board. for Agra Land caps at the close involved. As FBS directors, our of the co,op's first annual Elected were: Joseph O'Hen- first responsibility had to be to meeting, where the new name, ley, manager of Lapeer County • the owners - the stockholders, logo and plans for the future Cooperatives; Harry Stanton, the debenture holders and the were unveiled. manager of Eaton FB Co-op; RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 II '. Larry Metz, Monroe County of Agra Land. The message was the new feeds and how to rec- farmer and member of the Ida a tribute to FBSemployees for ommend their use. Dairy pro- Farmers Co-op board; Hein their personal sacrifices (such ducer meetings at local co-ops Meyering, manager, Falmouth as wage freezes) and dedica- are scheduled throughout the Co-op; Howard Boerman, man- tion during the reorganization month of January. Also sched- ager, Fremont Co-op Produce period. The "we" in the mes- uled for January is an aggres- Co.; Robert Wenger, Barry Coun- sage was also indicative of the sive advertising campaign to in- ty farmer and president of the teamwork philosophy of Newton troduce dairy farmers to the Caledonia Farmers Elevator Co.; Allen. new feeds. Clarence Ventline, manager, "We could not have accom- According to Bob Cicigoi, vice Farmers Co-op Grain Co., Kinde; plished our goals without our president and general manager William Goodchild, manager, employees, their positive at- of Agra Land's supply division, Kent City FB; and Kenneth titudes, and their sacrifices this same format will be used to . Wadsworth, Sanilac County made throughout the past introduce Land O'Lakes swine farmer and member of the Ruth year," he said. "We feel we have feeds, with employee training Farmers Elevator board. many qualified employees who meetings in February and swine are determined to see this com- producer meetings in March. IIWe Did Itll Success Story pany succeed by their aggres- "We are also working with Positioned for growth and ex- sive marketing to assist our Land O'Lakes in seed, fertilizer panded services - that's how members, their performance of and chemicals," Cicigoi re- Agra Land's chief executive of- other duties in an efficient man- ported. "1 believe when you take ficer, Newton Allen, describes ner, and their exciting visions the combined strengths of Agra the new co-op's current situa- for the future." Land and Land a'Lakes in the tion. Credited for his dynamic areas of people, products, pro- leadership in bringing FBS From Visions to Reality grams and research, we are in through a successful reorgani- The successful reorganization position to win in feed, fer- zation, Allen brings to Agra gave the" go" signal to start tilizer, chemicals, seed, grain Land the same team spirit moti- turning those exciting visions and beans." vation, dedication to goals and into reality. Within days after To reach toward those ex- positive thinking that kept FBS the co-op's first annual meet- citing visions in the area of employees and leadership going ing, orientation meetings for grain and bean marketing, Agra strong during the past challeng- local co-op boards of directors Land's new board of directors ing 14 months. were held at Agra Land's Battle will appoint a special advisory The morning following an- Creek feed plant to introduce committee on dry beans, nouncement of the court's rec- the Land a'Lakes feed products charged with pinpointing the ommendation for acceptance of and programs. problems and opportunities the reorganization plan, a huge These were followed by one- producers will face in the banner proclaiming "We Did It" day product training schools on future. The board will also ap- greeted employees entering Land a'Lakes dairy feeds for co- point a separate advisory com- Farm Bureau Center, which will op employees to learn about mittee on grain to develop . remain the office headquarters (continued on page 27) 12 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 Committee chairperson, is one Chippewa County's 'Secret' of those who looks for things to do. She also thinks that the Formula Pays Off - Again county's success lies with hard- working dedicated members, but adds: "Enthusiasm is By Cathy J. J\iruan . "1 don't think there's a another key to the success of secret," says Robert Hesselink, our programs - Farm Bureau Chippewa County was honor- Chippewa County FB president can be quite contagious," ed Nov. 29 as top county Farm who was recently elected to his Postma and Hesselink agree Bureau of the year for the tenth fifth term. "You've got to have that surfacing new leaders is consecutive year during the people who are dedicated to difficult, as it is in most coun- star awards program at the Farm Bureau and its aims and ties. Michigan Farm Bureau annual goals, and we have a number of "We've seen a little new blood meeting in Grand Rapids. those in this area. come in, but not as much as The county won eight gold we'd like," Hesselink says. "We stars in the following program don't have a lot of young farm- areas: information, local affairs, ers in this area, yet those we do ,. membership, policy develop- have are starting to surface. ment, policy execution, Safe- When someone shows leader- mark, FB Women and Young ship potential we try to develop Farmers; and a silver star for that by getting them involved Community Action Groups. in a committee and moving Last year Chippewa and them up through the committee Macomb counties tied for top structure into other areas. It honors with five gold stars takes a lot of prompting, some- each; Chippewa also won two times, to get them started. silver stars in 1982. "But once they are loyal, they The consistent record of Chippewa President Robert really stick with us," Postma award-winning programs has Uesselink, and his wife Carolyn, adds. caused many to wonder if coun- who serves as county secretary, She says one of the reasons ty leaders have discovered a agree that "Busy people are the people stay involved in the best workers." , secret formula for success. organization, "once they get their feet wet," is because of the importance of the activities "We've got some concerned Farm Bureau sponsors. people in Farm Bureau who aren't satisfied to sit and just 'Court Watch' let things go," he says. "They Benefits Community want to try to do what they Postma was chairperson of think is best for agriculture in the Women's Committee when the area," one of the county's most suc- Hesselink says the old adage cessful programs, court watch, about asking a busy person if was launched. "When there are you want something done is observers in the courtroom, the definitely true in Chippewa " judges feel more obligated to County. "Busy people are the give prison sentences over pro- best workers, and we've got bation," Postma says. Eight Uawaiian leis for Chip- about half a dozen who run "We've got about 40 to 50 pewa's eight gold stars were around looking for things to people who are willing to go to presented to Earl Strater, third do." The county has another member of the executive commit- court if they are needed. About two dozen or so members who tee, by islander Nawelo Marciel 25 to 30 of them have already are willing to coordinate a pro- during the] 983 awards pro- gone, and the others will when gram. Strater, who accepted the gram or take charge of a proj- asked," awards for Chippewa President ect, and many more who will do The program is fully sup- Robert Uesselink, also received a specific job if asked. lapel pins from MfB President ported by local law enforcement Faye Postma, Information Elton Smith for the county's gold agencies. "When we surfaced star committee chairpersons. the idea of a court watch, we in- vited law enforcement people to the Women's Committee RURAl. UVING, JANUARY 1984 1.3 meeting, the board meeting and ing a request from local law en- "Sometimes one judge in to Community Action Group forcement leaders that Farm particular loses his train of meetings. They were feeling Bureau members return to the thought when he sees u.ssitting that they were not being sup- court room as observers (see back there, and asks, 'What, ported by the judges. story below). you again?'" Postma says the community County leaders are deter- also supports the program. "It's mined to find a solution to the not unusual for non Farm Bu- court problems, and are trying reau members to say, 'I hear to surface new candidates for Farm Bureau is doing some- the 1984 election. thing with the courts. We've got Perhaps that's the "secret for- a trial coming up next week; mula" of Chippewa County's will you have some people consistent record of success - there? We really feel we need members using their organiza- your support. We feel there are tion as a problem-solving tool. some injustices going on and a vehicle for effective organized we want some people who are action. That's what leaders of objective in the courtroom.'" the top county of the year Not all judges in the area are believe Farm Bureau is ... and fond of the court watch pro- when they headed back home gram. "It makes some of them across the Mackinac Bridge FAYE POSTMA mad," Postma says. "They run they carried eight gold stars to stamping down to the sheriff's prove their formula does work. "Court watch has been an department or Sault Ste. Marie ongoing thing, but periodically police department and say, we rest a bit until the problem 'What are those people doing up surfaces again." It surfaced there? What business is it of again a few weeks ago, prompt- theirs?' Law Enforcement Officials Give nigh Marks to Chippewa's Court Watch Program (Editor's Note: Chippewa County We would like to encourage a community service, we en- Farm Bureau President Robert you to once again implement courage them to stop in. They Hesselink received the following the program. We specifically can also call the court prior to request in mid-October from would encourage your member- their coming in and the court county law enforcement of- ship to observe the proceedings clerks will tell them what is on ficials.) in the 91 st District Court. Here the docket for that day. you will see the first stage of If any of your groups would In the past. members of your the criminal process that is like to have one of us or an of- organization have become in- open to the public. We are all in ficer from one of our depart- volved in a "Court Watch" pro- mutual agreement that your ments come out and speak con- gram in Chippewa County. As presence in the courtroom will cerning this matter, please call heads of police departments in increase the effectiveness and one of us and we will make ar- the county, we believe that the professionalism of the proceed- rangements for it. program had a tangible and ing. Roy Case, Sheriff positive effect on the outcomes District Court is open to the Chippewa County and dispositions of a number of public at any proceeding (with criminal and traffic cases where the exception of the hearing of Robert Clary, Chief your people were present as ob- certain sexually motivated Sault Police Department servers. A group of unbiased crimes). It begins at 10 a.m. Brian LeFevre, Sgt. and objective people such as every weekday morning, except- Dept. of Natural Resources those in your organization ing holidays. Trials are normally Dale Postma, Director helps to insure the integrity of held in the afternoon between I Kinross Public Safety all facets of the system. and 2 p.m. If your members are in the Sault and have some Lt. James Haydon time to spend, in what we feel is Michigan State Police 14 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 • DR. GORDON GUYER J Ambassador for " Michigan Agriculture t. By Marcia Ditchie stressing the use of innovative were in cooperation with MSU, communications technologies the United Nations and the ~ Researcher, teacher, ambas- in agriculture, including com- Food and Agricultural Organiza- ~ sador for Michigan agricul- puters and telecommunica- tion, and involved the establish- ture ... few people in Michigan tions. He has recognized that ment of pesticide research cen- .. can fulfill all these roles, but the future of farming depends ters in Taiwan, Brazil and one man who has been on the upon moving ever forward, im- Egypt." ~ staff at Michigan State Universi- proving our productivity and In 1977, Guyer was part of an ty for over a quarter century marketing skills by making bet- l8-member delegation that does. ter use of technology. traveled to the People's Repub- t- Or. Gordon Guyer, who began "Gordon has placed equal, or lic of China to further cultural his distinguished career of serv- greater emphasis on agricul- exchanges. ing Michigan's agricultural com- ture's primary resource - its "Our strategy was to offer a munity in 1953 as an entomolo- young people. Not only has he range of possibilities that al- gy instructor at MSU,was recog- influenced and inspired thou- lowed the People's Republic of t nized by Michigan Farm Bureau sands of students at Michigan China to expand and improve as the recipient of the organiza- State University, he was a driv- educational information ex- ing force behind the Michigan , tion's highest honor, the Distinguished Service to Agri- Agricultural Leadership Pro- changes between our countries," he said. During the visit, Guyer culture award, at the state an- gram, providing resources and established informational ex- nual meeting Dec. 1 in Grand incentives to develop this in- changes for remote sensing in ~ Rapids. In presenting the novative training program for agriculture, arid and semiarid ~ award, MFB President Elton R. young agricultural leaders," agriculture, environmental Smith cited Guyer for his "ex- Smith said. science, energy production, traordinary leadership and Dr. Guyer received his honor aquaculture and seed germ diligent work to preserve the at MFB's Annual Banquet before plasm exchange. ~J quality and integrity of Exten- an audience of over 900 Farm Two years prior to that visit, sion programs in the face of Bureau members and leaders of Guyer led the first delegation of budget restraints and cutbacks. other agricultural organizations entomology specialists from f' "Gordon was the guiding and agencies. universities across the United ~ force behind the establishment States through China to learn of the MSU Pesticide Research Serving Agriculture about Chinese agriculture and Center, supervising the plan- Throughout the World environmental insect control .., ning, building and program- Throughout his career, Guyer programs . ming of this fine institution, has worked for the betterment One foreign trip stands out in • which is known worldwide for of agriculture, not only in his mind . , research on pesticides," Smith Michigan but in various coun- "I was in Africa working on an said. tries around the world. international program on bird "He has shown imagination "I've been fortunate to be in- depredation, when Larry Boger, and vision by emphasizing and volved in a number of develop- • mental activities in foreign (continued on page 28) ~ countries," Guyer said. "These RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 15 - Dele.ate Reporter- Co-op Strength Grower Association Faces Long List of Challenges Important to Ag GRAND RAPIDS, NOV. 29, ing Association President While there is reason to GRAND RAPIDS, NOV. 29 1983 - Defending Michi- Elton R. Smith at the assoc- bel ieve that marketing 1983 - "The cooperative gan's Agricultural Market- iation's 23rd annual meet- orders will be available for system is modern agri- ing and Bargaining Act ing. the red tart cherry industry business," Elton R. Sm ith, (P.A. 344), maintaining Sm ith reported that the to use in 1984, Smith said president of Farmers Petro- federal marketing orders, state's marketing and bar- MACMA will resist attacks leum Cooperative, Inc., restoration of federal-state gaining law now faces ap- against the use of federal told members attending crop reports, processor peal proceedings in the marketing orders in the the co-op's 34th annual "slow-pay, no-pay" prob- U.S. Supreme Court, and future. meeting today. lems and competition from he pledged that the associ- He said that he was en- "Strength through coop- subsidized imports were ation would continue its couraged by support from erative members becomes tagged as major challenges vigorous support of the the governor and MDA more important as the today by Michigan Agricul- law in any legal or legisla- director for the restoration business of farming gets tural Cooperative Market- tive challenge. of federal-state crop re-' more complex and the porting services. He also re- total number of farmers ported good progress on an decline," Smith said. Policy Session Opens amendment to the federal "Farmers Petroleum Coop- erative has the capacity in -......- Perishable Commodities would reduce Agricultural Act, which slow-pay its distribution system to handle a lot more volume problems by establishing a without generating in- processor trust program. creased costs." While agreeing that coun- Smith said that coopera- tervailing duties should be tives are changing at an in- placed on subsidized im- creasing rate, with mer- ports, such as apple and gers, consolidations and grape juices, Smith cau- reorganizations taking tioned that unilateral solu- place locally, regionally tions to import problems' and interregionally. invite retaliation from "These changes and other other trading countries. changes will continue in Elections held during the our cooperative system annual meeting resulted in and agricultural system. reaffirmation of the current But the greatest challenge Setting the policies for the state's largest farm organization is board of directors. serious business. The 509 voting delegates began the annual task facing the cooperative sys- on Tuesday this year to allow more time for discussion on the 150 tem, if cooperatives are policy recommendations. going to survive in the Governor Addresses future, is that they must GRAND RAPIDS, NOV. 29, er and Pol icy Development Thursday Luncheon have strong member sup- 1983 - The 509 voting Committee chairperson, at MFB Annual port," he said. delegates to the Michigan told the delegates that they In other action, Neil Farm Bureau annual meet- were somewhat different Harris, cash crop farmer ing began their considera- than the delegates who had from Saginaw County, was tion of proposed policies assembled in the previous re-elected to the co-op's for the state's largest farm 63 annual meetings of the board of directors. Newly- organization this after- organization. elected to the board was noon at the Grand Center. "Concerns of one seg- Hugh White, dairy and soy- By Friday afternoon, they ment of agriculture affect bean farmer from Calhoun will have taken action on other segments. We oper- County. Re-elected to the over 150 pol icy recom- ate today in a world mar- board representing Michi- mendations dealing with ket where we must con- gan Farm Bureau were: Ar- state, national and organi- sider not only our own ag- thur Bailey, Kalamazoo zational issues. ricultural industry, but County; John Laurie, Tus- In opening the resolu- consumers and producers cola County; and Michael tions session, John Laurie, in other nations, as we set Pridgeon, Branch County. Tuscola County dairy farm- our policies," he said. See story on page 18 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 19841 J Attempts to Speak for Farmers Will Intensify, Delano Warns Among those goals, he those election years that members of Congress be- said, is ensuring and pro- coincide with, or are just lieve that agriculture is too tecting a united voice for prior to, the expiration of important for farmers to agriculture, but he warned the federal farm program control and that farmers .. that there are those - legislation," he said . are not capable of devel- politically or commercial- Pointing to the recent oping policies to achieve ly motivated "experts" - debate in Congress on the important farm goals. He who wish to speak for agri- dairy program and propo- urged Farm Bureau mem- culture. Failing that, they sals for the new farm bill, bers to adopt an action will use every political Delano said that special in- plan to make a difference devise to separate farmers terest commodity groups in those attitudes. from the principles and and some cooperatives "00 everything you can policies they have estab- have moved in to take the to broaden your own view- lished. decision making process point. Be fully involved in PRESIDENT DElANO "These efforts peak away from farmers them- Farm Bureau policy devel- GRAND RAPIDS, NOV. 30 every election season and selves. opment and pol icy execu- 4 grow especially intense in Delano said that some tion," he said. 1983 - Farm Bureau's goals for agriculture are very clear, AFBF President .. Robert Delano told dele- Young Farmers Compete for Titles gates at the ann'ual meet- ing Welcome Breakfast. GRAND RAPIDS, NOV. 30 to Washington, D.C., next competition in Orlando, - Laurie Isley, who won spring as part of MFB's an- Florida, in January 1984. the 1982 Discussion Meet nual Washington Legisla- Paul Jefts took first Chippewa on and was runner-up in the Outstanding Young Farm tive Seminar. Runner-up in the contest place in the Discussion Meet contest and will have Top Again! Woman contest last year, returned to Grand Rapids was Wendy Elsey of Cass County. the use of a Chevy 5-10 truck for one year. Final- GRAND RAPIDS, NOV 29, to continue those winning ists in the Discussion Meet 1983 - The dream of a ways. Isley won first place competition discussed, South Seas paradise seem- in the Outstanding Young "Subsidies: ammunition ed close enough to touch Farm Woman competition for a trade war?" during the 1983 star awards this year. program. For the presi- The Lenawee County vo- dents of gold star winning cational agriculture in- county Farm Bureaus, tra- structor and her husband, ditional flower leis were James, live near Palmyra. the fragrant souvenirs of this South Seas fantasy. Again in 1983, Chippewa County earned honors as the top county Farm Bu- GLENN PRESTON reau in the state. Eight cir- clets of flowers were pre- That brand new 6000 sented to the county for series All is Chalmers trac- gold stars in membership, tor will have its work cut Safemark, policy develop- out on the 900-acre Pres- PAUL lEFTS ment, pol icy execution, in- ton dairy and cash crop formation, Women, Young farm. Glenn Preston of The 30-year-old dairy- Farmers and local affairs. Branch County was named man, who was runner-up in Tied for second place Distinguished Young Farm- the Distinguished Young honors were Ogemaw and er and receives use of the Farmer contest, will repre- Sanilac counties, with LAURIE ISLEY tractor for one year. sent MFB at the AFBF an- presidents Robert Kartes They farm 300 acres of Preston and his wife, nual meeting. and Wayne Wood each re- cash crops and canning Suzanne, will represent Runner-up in the Discus- ceiving five leis for their tomatoes. Isley will re- MFB in the AFBF Distin- sion Meet was Dale Kettler gold star programs. ceive an expense paid trip guished Young Farmer of Saginaw County. I RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 ..... Ag Key Part of Governor's Economic Plans Elton R. Smith GRAND RAPIDS, DEe. 1, his administration to fully could produce jobs and fur- Re-elected as 1983 - The Farm Bureau involve agriculture in eco- ther econom ic develop- MFB President delegates took a break in nomic development plans, ment. their consideration of work on business climate Highlighting portions of GRAND RAPIDS, DEe. 2, .. policy resolutions today to issues as they affect agri- his 20-point plan for eco- 1983 - Elton R. Smith of hear a message from Gov. culture, and to blend agri- nomic expansion in the Caledonia, Kent County I ames Blanchard. cultural and environmen- Michigan food industry, dairyman who has headed tal pol icy in the state, he Blanchard said he will be the Michigan Farm Bureau .. said. working closely with Mich- since 1964, was re-elected Promotion of Michigan igan Department of Agri- president of the organiza- to products among the state's culture Director Paul Kin- tion today. The action residents is an immediate dinger and assured the took place during the reor- ) goal for his administration, delegates the agricultural ganization meeting of the '" . and Blanchard told the au- community will be pleased 16-member board of direc- dience that increased de- with their aggressive, bold tors in Grand Rapids, fol- ~ mand for Michigan prod- approach to agricultural lowing the close of the ucts in this state alone expansion and promotion. MFB annual meeting. Ear- l- Iier that afternoon, Sm ith had been nominated as Lack of Flexibility Blamed for president by the voting delegates. Current Ag Economy Problems Also re-elected was John ~ GOV. JAMES BLANCHARD Laurie, a Tuscola County ~ GRAND RAPIDS, NOV. 3D, Ahalt said Congress rec- dairy farmer, as vice presi- I n his rem arks to the 1983 - Many of today's ognizes the problem, but dent, and Donald Nugent, .. nearly 700 farmers, Blan- agricultural price support wants to be involved in a Benz ie Cou nty fru it chard said that state gov- programs are out of line making agricultural policy; grower, as third member of ernment and those in with econom ic real ities, that involvement I/ends up Michigan's agricultural sec- the board's executive com- ~ according to Dawson Ahalt, removing the flexibil ity." mittee. tor will have to work hard USDA deputy assistant The executive branch has Re-elected to their posi- ~ to increase agricultural secretary for economics. not always worn a white awareness. Such an aware- tions as district directors The reason, he told those hat in the farm pol icy area ness among citizens and were Arthur Bailey, Kala- attending the MFB Com- either, the assistant secre- decision makers will allow mazoo County, District 1; 'f modity Session, is because tary said, pointing out that James Sayre, Wayne Coun- the secretary of agricul- embargoes have damaged ty, District 3; Albert Cook, .,I ture does not have the flex- the U.S. reputation as a FB Honors Ingham County, District 5; ibility to gear the programs rei iable suppl ier in world Robert Rider, Oceana ~ to current economic con- markets. News People County, District 7; Donald ditions and supply/demand GRAND RAPIDS, DEe. 1, Nugent, Benzie County, situations. District 9; and Bernard ~ 1983 - Gold quills, the symbol of excellence in Doll, Chippewa County, journalism, were presented Delegates Complete Policy Platform District 11. today to two news people Michael Pridgeon of " - Kathleen Longcore of GRAND RAPIDS, DEe. 2, education and legislative Branch County was re- the Grand Rapids Press and 1983 - Over 17 hours of reforms in Michigan to na- elected director at large. ~ Robert Driscoll of the discussion and debate on tional farm programs. Newly elected to serve as Michigan Farm Radio Net- pol icy positions for the Policies adopted by the director at large was work and WPAG radio, state's largest farm organi- delegates on state and or- Wayne Wood, a Sanilac Ann Arbor. zation during 1984 came ganizational issues be- County dairy and cash They share the title of to a conclusion this after- come the policies of Mich- crop farmer. fj; 1/1983 Agricultural Com- noon at the MFB annual igan Farm Bureau. Those Re-elected to represent municator," an annual meeting. dealing with national and MFB Women on the board media recognition award The 509 farmer dele- international issues have was Faye Adam of Sanilac presented by MFB to news gates took action on near- been forwarded to the County. Mark Smuts of people nominated by ly 150 policy recommenda- American Farm Bureau Eaton Cou nty was re- county FBs in their au- tions ranging from tax, Federation Policy Devel- elected to represent Young .. dience. opment Committee. Farmers. 118 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 19841 FRONT 8l CENTER The first-ever MFBcampaign management training program will be conducted April 1] -13, ] 984. The program, designed to inform candidates about effective campaigning tech- niques, will be conduQted on a pilot basis. The training program will include local government candidates. Interested FB members should contact MFB Local Affairs Specialist Ron Gaskill, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909; phone 517-323-7000, ext. 559. FB Women will focus on the impact of public policy on farm operations during Ag Understanding Day in 1984. During an entire week of activities, March 16-22, county Women's Committees throughout the state will attempt to gain understanding by the non-farm public of the negative impact such policy decisions as embargoes can have on the producers of their food, as well as the positive impact of legislation such as P.A. 116. The state Women's Committee will be working with MFBstaff specialists to produce a slide-tape on the subject for use during the week. Summarization of the 1982 Michigan Fruit Tree Survey has been completed by the Federal/State-Michigan Agricultural Reporting Service. The survey was conducted last fall and winter to obtain information on the number of fruit trees, acreage and commercial operations growing major fruit species in the state. The survey details tree numbers by county, including tree age, and variety, and will be sent to all fruit growers in the state. Copies of the publication are available to the general public at $3.00 each. Checks should be made payable to USDA-SRS, and sent to the Michigan Agricultural Reporting Service, P.O. Box 20008, Lansing, Mich. 48901. The Great Lakes Vegetable Growers convention, scheduled for Jan. 24-26 at the Lansing Civic Center, will be doubled in size from last year's. It will include 16 educational pro- grams and over 200 exhibits. The first day's program will focus on ag labor, asparagus, mint, pickling cucumber and tomato production. Wednesday's programs will include discussions on pesticide application technology, plus onion, potato, slicing cucumber, melon, sweet corn and pepper production. There will also be presentations on farm labor housing and transplant production in greenhouses. The program on Thursday will cover production of carrots, lettuce and greens, cole crops and celery, and roadside marketing. Convention details are available from Bernard Zandstra, Department of Horticulture, MSU, East Lansing, Mich. 48824; phone 517-353-6637. The Ohio Fruit and Vegetable Growers Congress is scheduled for Feb. 7-9 at Stouf- fers Inn, Cleveland, Ohio. The three-day event will feature a trade show w.ith equipment and supplies, educational programs on production and marketing of fruits and vegetables, and a special women's program and tour. Nearly 70 speakers and panelists from throughout the U.S. will appear on the educational programs. For more information, contact the Ohio Vegetable and Potato Growers Association or the Ohio Fruit Growers Society, P.O. Box 479, Columbus, Ohio 43216. lilt's Uappening Because of You all across the state as 1984 membership campaign II teams contact their neighbors about the benefits of joining Farm Bureau. The statewide membership drive was kicked off Nov. 22 at five different locations and reports are that workers are optimistic their organization can realize another year of membership growth. County presidents and campaign managers received another shot of enthusiasm during their annual banquet in Grand Rapids on Nov. 29 to share with their workers back home. Announced at the MFB annual meeting was an incentive of a free trip to Hawaii for the AFBF convention in January 1985. The county FB with the highest percentage of target in each membership category, as of Aug. 31, 1984, will be a winner. There will be tough competition for those spots, so membership workers are urged to start making it happen now! Allis Chalmers will continue to sponsor the Distinguished Young Farmer contest, awarding use.of a 6000 series tractor to the 1984 winner. In addition, the title winner will receive an expense paid trip to Hawaii to represent MFB in national competition in January 1985. 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Only $3.95 + 85 cents postage and handling or 3 for ,. tams. ducks. goslings. turkeys. guineas. factory bargain outlets. Tremendous $12.00 - postpaid. I'10ney refunded in- Pharoah Quail. Pictured Brochure - selections. Save by mail. Be first in cluding postage if not completely 25C Cackle tlatchery. Bo.\ 529JJ. neighborhood to brag about your sav- satisfied upon return within 60 days. Sheep. C llt S Curtis. Reg. Surfolks and Lebanon. 1'1065536. ( 1-8t- 28b-ts) ings. $3.00. Brit's. 5-tl Third Street. You cannot lose. only gain. Many Reg. Southdowns. Helping small flock owners and 4-H'ers our special interest. • Newport. RI 02840. (1.29p-ts) satisfied customers. Order today. Home 204 N. Williams. Stockbridge. I'lich. 517- Rare. fancy. exotic and old fashioned Product Sales. 1171 Sandcreek tlwy .. 851-7043 - 517-851-8017. (7-12t-22p) bantams. chicks. ducklings. turkeys. Recipesl Couponsl Cooking Delight Adrian. Mich. 49221. (12-3t-87p) guineas. geese. Pictured brochure free. I'lagazine. Cookeville. TN 38502-2727. Paint "orses - Weanlings. yearlings. Country Hatchery. Wewoka. Oklahoma $3 per year. (4-1 Ot-I Op-ts) Deluxe mini-malic rum strip projec- bred mares. Lawerance Baumunk. Big 74884. (1-6t-20p-ts) tor and cassette system. All in one carry- Rapids. I'lich. 1-616-796-2346. Pecansl Quart each halves. pieces. ing case - nice for a mall presentation (9-IOt-12p) free catalog wholesale prices. meal. 3 quart sampler. $12.95. Postpaid. for those "Down on the Farm Days," Reds. cornish cross. barred rocks. white Canecreek Farm. Dept. I'IF. Cookeville. $180.00. E.\cellent condition. Used only ~. Morgan horses. mares and coils. rocks. se.\links. leghorns. turkeys. TN 38502. (7-12t-16p-tsl three times. Call1'la.\son's 616-924-0229. Phone 313- 727- 7679. (8-6t- 7p) ducks. Reich Poultry Farms. Route I. ( 12-3t-38p) Marietta. PA 17547. (1-6t-22p-ts) MISCELLANEOUS NURSERY STOCK CLASSIFIED AD POLICY Book Salel Hardcovers. $1.00 each! .. Over 400 titles: fiction. western. Tree Source. Quality hybrid poplar Members pay 10ct per word for non-commerical ads and 15ctper mystery. Children's series books and stock for: commercial energy planta- classics. Two 20~ stamps for list. Glenn tions. home heating. fast growing shade word for ads which promote a commercial business other than ag- Smith. Bo.\ 1513. Dept. F-I O. Akron. Ohio trees. wind breaks. Consulting and riculture. All other advertisers pay 20ct per word for one insertion 44309. (1-2t-30p-ts) custom tree planting services. 303 S. and 15ct per word for two or more consecutive insertions. Veronica Ct.. St. Joseph. Mich. 49085. Unattached? Pen Pals Nationwide. Phone 616-983- 7551. ( 12-7t-33p-ts) The deadline for advertisements is the first Monday of the Country Lovin Singles. Details free. Bo.\ month preceding publication and the publisher has the right 593RL - Appleton. Wis. 54912 to reject any advertising copy submitted. All ads must be pre- ( 1-5t-\4p-ts) paid and may be pre-paid up to one year in advance. Please in- REAL ESTATE Sensational musical greeting cardsl dicate if you are a Farm Bureau member. It is the responsibility of A truly unique gift. Many occasions avail- the advertiser to re-insert the ad on a month-by-month or year-by- able. Send for free catalog. Atlantic 'Equestrian Center' -Horse lovers. Gifts. 12555 Biscayne Blvd .. Suite 809-Z. this combination is hard to beat. Lovely year basis. Miami. FL33181. (11-3t-25p-ts) new horne and new barn on 10 acres. Send ads to Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. older home. shop and barn. $82.000. Satellite antenna dealers needed - $50.000. $11.000. respectively. P.L. 48909. No ads will be taken over the phone. no e.\perience required - dealer cost for Frisbey and Associates. Inc" U.S. 31 complete unit as low as $747.00 - retail South. Alanson. Mich. 49706. Phone $1.395.00 - call today! 303-636-0640. 616-347-4656. ( 12-3t-56p-ts) (] 1-6t-21 pots) Blueberry farm - Excellent produc- Name _ Radio Shack Computer for Sale - ing stage. 20 acres of blueberries Model 3. 48k. Will sell with word process- and 10 acres of other. Horne. barn. large ing. mailing list, statistical analysis and tool pole bldg .• packing shed. Tractor. I- editor I assembler programs. plus other drag. sprayer. rotilltor and all needed Address _ software (all on cassette). Also includes equipment to run the farming business! .f Radio Shack computer cassette player. Blueberry Harvestor available. Irrigation $850 or best offer. Contact Joe Mielke. equipment, pond and pipe. 4 inch well. 3059 Biber. Apt. S-9. East Lansing. Fantastic U-Pick operation and clientelel OFarm Bureau member ONon-member Michigan 48823. Phone 517-337-0937. Members of Michigan Blueberry Growers (I-51 p-tl) Market! Must be seen to appreciate! Come and look us over. 616-924-0229. Run the following ad in the issue(s): Why Die Without a Will? Two legal Fremont - Newaygo County. Mike &: "will forms" and easy instructions. Only Barb Ma.\son. (12-3t- 74p) $4 .... Order Today! Guaranteed! TY- Company. Bo.\ 752-MF. Pryor. OK 74362. 40 acre relirement farm. One mile off (8-6t-22p-ts) U.S. 31 freeway. 6.000 laying hens in ~ production. Nice 6 room farmhouse. "See Through People 50 Ways" Stop Other potentials. Write: The Egg Farm. 7 deceivers! 50 protections! $1. Newlife. Route 2. Hart. Mich. 49420. (1-3t-30p) Bo.\ 684-SQ. Boulder City. Nevada 89005. (9-6t-16p-ts) Extend the lire of light bulbs 100 times with The Button. Cuts energy costs. U-L Listed. 10-year warranty. Fits any stan- dard bulb. $2.79 for I: $7.39 for 3; $12.99 for 6: 75' postage &: handling. HAPPY Mail to: Electric Avenue Energy. 324-C East Balboa Blvd .. Newport Beach. CA 92661. (12-2t-49p-ts) NEW Extra Income. Addressing labels. Easier than addressing envelopes. Free details. Send two stamps: LISTS. Bo.\ 90028-RR. East Point. GA 30364. YEAR! Words _____ Insertions ____ Total Due ( 12-3t-20p-ts) ." I 20 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 I RURAL EXCHANGE Uorse Expo to Offer whine. Either way, you're think- Well, take heart. The Michigan Uelp for Potential Buyers ing of caving in except for the Horse Council will answer all fact that a horse is an awfully your questions and entertain Okay, it's time again for your pre-teen's annual request for a large animal. And except for the the most ardent horse lover in horse, Of course, that request fact that you really don't know your family all in one low-cost comes in one of two standard very much about horses and goodtime weekend. The council delivery styles - heart-wrench- neither, in spite of his or her will sponsor a glittering Horse ing plea or nervewracking obsession, does your pre-teen. Expo spotlighting the state's horse industry on March 10 and 11 at the Lansing Civic Center. The weekend features a live Rural Rascals Real Rascals stallion exhibition with 50 horses, films, commercial dis- plays and seminars. frazzled and/ or curious parents can take in seminars entitled, "50 You Want to Buy a Horse," "What to do With Your Horse," "feeding Your Horse," and "Caring for Your Horse." Other presentations include "Horse- Drawn Vehicles," "Side-Saddle Equitation," "Trail Riding," and "Wild Horses." In addition to displays and seminars, Saturday evening features a Las Vegas-style fun Night. Admission to all activi- ties is $3 daily / $5 weekend for adults, $1.50 daily / $3 weekend These "barefoot kits" bring Barefoot, but not by choice, MfB for children and senior citizens, thoughts of lazy, hazy summer Regional Representative Becky and $7 daily/$12 weekend for days to chase away January's Jeppesen (right) was confined to a families. Call 517-676-5728 or chill. Curtis, 6. Stuart. 4. and wheelchair after a knee injury at 800-292-9710 for more informa- Denise. 2. are the children of the annual meeting Uawaiian Uoe- down. Comforting her is Regional tion. Warren Bt Dawn Wilkinson of Allegan County. Representative Ann Jousma. FARMERS OF THE WEEK The Farmer of the Week program, co- Lutheran Church and is a National Ski Gratiot County FB and serves on the sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance Patrol member. Policy Development Committee. is a Group and the Michigan Farm Radio Net- member of the advisory board of B &. W work, honors Michigan farmers for their Nov. 14 - Daniel Schlenvogt, 61, a Co-op, is active in the Methodist Church contributions to the community and the dairy farmer from Stephenson, is the and was named State Farmer by the agricultural industry. Four farmers were new president of Menominee County FB. FFA. honored in November 1983: He is a volunteer fireman, secretary of the county MMPA local. former Sunday Nov. 28 - Edward Jannert, 61, is a Nov. 7 - Robert Spinniken. 59, School teacher and a past member of hog and beef farmer who farms 300 operates a 600-acre fruit farm near the township board and the county acres near Eau Claire. He is a member Lake Leelanau with two sons and a ASCS board. He serves on the church and past director of the Michigan Polled nephew. He serves on the township council of Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Hereford Association, past director of board of trustees and the township zon- the MSU Experimental Farm at Sodus, a ing appeals board. is a member and Nov. 2 I - Michael Uirschman, 33. member of Cass County FB and Pipe- past president of the Leelanau Horti- is a cash crop farmer from Ithaca who stone Church of Christ. He had the cultural Society. is active in Immanuel farms 640 acres. He serves on the town- champion and reserved champion bull ship board, is vice president of the at the Kalamazoo Fair in 1983. RURAL LIVING. JANUARY 1984 21 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. Solid Waste Management The average Michigan citizen areas, there will be fewer hostile Incineration is the fourth produces three-and-one-half to people to contend with. component of the DNR's strate- four-and-one-half pounds of gar- Current Farm Bureau policy gy. Energy recovered from in- bage each day. The average states that "land disposal of cineration of solid waste can be Michigan family generates one- waste is a temporary solution used to generate electricity or and-one half to two tons of gar- and the burying of waste should for process steam. Incineration bage per year. It has been esti- be minimized .... " FB is espe- can reduce the volume of land- mated that some 10 million cially concerned about the fill waste by 70% to 90%. Ap- tons of solid wastes are pro- siting of sanitary landfills on proximately 40% of the waste duced yearly in Michigan. Solid prime farmland. stream could be impacted by in- waste includes residential, com- To deal with this issue, 1983 cineration. mercial and industrial wastes. FB policy states: "Prior to site Landfills, although the last But where does it all go? In selection, Agricultural, Environ- option for management of solid 1978, the Legislature created mental and Economic Impact waste, will remain a necessary Public Act 641, the Solid Waste Statements must be filed and component of the DNR's strate- Management Act, which pro- considered." An amendment to gy. Landfills will be necessary vides for the regulation and this effect has been proposed to receive about 30% of the management of solid waste in for P.A. 641. waste stream, including ash Michigan. This act set down the All of the aforementioned from incineration facilities. specific engineering require- problems could be diminished Initially, resource recovery ap- ments to be followed for the or alleviated by the DNR's re- pears to be more expensive selection and operation of a cently developed statewide than landfills. landfill, to provide protection solid waste management strate- To compensate for the initial for public health and the en- gy. This strategy, supported by inequities in cost, the DNR's vironment. It also required FB policy, is an aggressive re- strategy proposes a bond pro- every county in the state to source recovery program. gram, tax incentives to en- prepare a 20-year Solid Waste The first approach to the courage the construction of re- Management Plan. DNR's Solid Waste Management source recovery facilities by To date, 17 counties have Strategy is waste reduction. A business and industry, and a state approved plans, 21 coun- 10% reduction in the waste disposal fee to be charged at ties have locally approved plans stream could be achieved simp- the point of disposal. and are waiting DNR approval, ly by reducing waste or prevent- A $300 million bond program two counties' plans have been ing its creation. This could be would equate to $91 per house- rejected locally, 34 counties are accomplished through in- hold. This could be spread out still in the drafting stage, and creased use of recycled goods over as many as 10 to 15 years. nine counties have not acted. by consumers, and a reduced Currently, the average house- According to the DNR, im- amount of packaging by the hold pays $96 per year for the proper land disposal of solid packaging industry. collection of solid waste. Ap- wastes has created 13% of the The second approach is re- proximately $15 of that is for known groundwater contamina- cycling. This alternative would disposal costs. If the strategy tion problems in Michigan, and divert 25% of the waste stream were to mean a 50% increase in 47% of the suspected problems. from disposal, an increase of disposal costs, the annual cost Finding sites for landfills is of 15% to 20% over present recy- per household would only go up special concern to agriculture. cling levels. Achieving this will $7.50. This is because collec- Approval of solid waste disposal require a statewide promotion tion and transportation costs facilities will surely continue, for the use of recycled products. account for about 70% to 80% and if the past is any indica- Composting means to biologi- of the total solid waste costs, tion, many of the proposed cally convert organic wastes and those costs would not be disposal facilities will be on such as garbage, leaves and affected by the strategy. farmland. Farmland is an ad- grass clippings, into usable soil The problems of solid waste vantageous location for landfills additives. Six percent of the management cannot be ig- due to its subsoil formations. material now going to landfills And since population density is could be diverted by the simple (continued on page 26) comparatively low in rural process of composting. 22 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 AGRINOMIC UPDATE New Era of Government Involvement in Agriculture When President Reagan signed You must submit a plan to ready to start approving con- into law the dairy compromise USDAdetailing how you intend tracts. Yet, USDA intends to let legislation, the American dairy to reduce production by the each applicant know by the end industry entered a new era of proposed amount. If the plan of February if your contract pro- more government involvement involves the sale of cows for posal is accepted as is, and if with dairy farmers. First of all, slaughter, you must state how the secretary will reduce your the basic price support dropped many cows you intend to sell culling intentions for any from $13.10 to $12.60 per cwt., each month of the IS-month quarter. If there are such "ad- effective Dee. 1. And if milk contract. If, after reviewing justments," it's not yet clear if surpluses are not reduced to these plans, USDA determines you'll have the option of back- specified levels by specified that milk production will drop ing out on your contract. Once dates, there are provisions to too much, or that cow slaughter approved by USDA, contracts make two additional 50ft cuts in will put substantial pressure on will be retroactive to Jan. 1. the basic price support level, to livestock prices, Secretary Block There are several restrictions $11.60 per cwt. The law leaves can reduce slaughter plans. But that must be remembered: in place a 50ft per cwt. "assess- no one region may be singled .The production capacity of ment" on milk produced. There out. any facility "freed up" through is also a mandatory 15ft per Dairymen must sign up by participation in the program cwt. "checkoff" for dairy Feb. 1, 1984 and contracts are shall not be used by anyone research and promotion, but supposed to be accepted by the else for the production of milk. you can get up to 10ft of that end of February, but in reality, back if you prove equivalent few county ASCSoffices are (continued on page 26) contributions to Michigan's dairy marketing and promotion program. GROW HUGE, JUICY TOMATOES IN 90 DAYS! Second, it's a government BURGESS GIANT plan to pay dairy producers $10 per cwt. for reducing milk pro- duction anywhere from 5% to CLIMBING TOMATOES 30% over a IS-month period \\\\\~ $1.00 BUYS a (from Jan. 1, 1984 through March 1985). Your production JUMBO PKT. A Full Season's Supply Of Seed "base" is your choice of calen- Ind a $1.66 .. vings from our Cdalog price. dar year 1982 production, with • BIG • SWEET • JUICY first quarter production count- THE TOMATO THAT MADE BURGESS FAMOUS ed twice (to arrive at a 15- This Imllzing Burgess climbing tOmlito will give you month production period); or juicy. red tOmlitoes up to 5" 8Cl'mI - 3" deep, and weighing up to 2 Ibs. each. Plump. round and smooth. the average of calendar years th .. super tomatoes have a wonderful no-acid flavor. 1981 and 1982, with first quar- You" be amazed at how fast your dimbing tomato vines will grow ... up to 18' or more if trained on a ters in both years counted stake or trellis. One seed can produce up to two twice. You don't get paid for bushels or more of tomatoes for just pennies .. chi ORDER NOW ... Plant seeds ... wait just 90 daya ... reducing back to your base. then pluck, fresh juicy tOmlitoes daily for yow dinner Production "bases" may be table. adjusted if you can show you SORRY LIMIT OF 1 PACKAGE PER CUSTOMER. FREE SEED CATALOG INCLUDED WITH YOUR had abnormally low production ORDER. resulting from a natural disas- ~ -MAIL COUPON TODAY BURGESS SEED & PLANT co. ter or other conditions beyond Depl. 3702.46. 905 Four Seasons Road your control. Bloomington. IL 61701 _EncloHCI Is $1.00 for one S6702 Jumbo Pkt. of Cllmbln, FULL GUARANTEE ~~,:.:to A;:ed:% - s:'::t'~x~rep.ld. Illinois Residents If not completely uti .. fled with ,rowin, pro.. re.. of your Cllmbln, NAME ~~~tt:: Ii!H:O sd~r.:: ING LABEL ONLY for ADDRESS your purch... price re- fund. CITY STATE ZIP RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 2.3 Key FB Policies FOXTA/LS (continued from page 7) Marketing and Bargaining Legislation - The Michigan Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining Act (P.A. 344 as amended) has proven to be a fair and equitable procedure through which marketing and bargaining associations and processors negotiate fruit and vegetable prices and other terms of trade. This has occur- red even though the law has been subjected to continuous litigation since its enactment. In December of 1982, the Michigan Supreme Court de- clared the law constitutional by a 6-0 vote. However, the proc- essors have carried the issue to the u.S. Supreme Court where it has been accepted for hearing. We support: • Action to assist farmers in other states in development and the enactment of state @ 1983 Ciba-Geigy Corp. marketing and bargaining legis- lation. • Enactment of proposed na- tional farm bargaining legisla- FALL PAN/CUM tion. • Aggressive action to defend marketing and bargaining ma- jority rule concept legislation. We will oppose any efforts by opponents of P.A. 344 and na- tional farm bargaining legisla- tion to weaken or cripple its operations and effectiveness. We urge that Farm Bureau at all levels give the highest priori- ty to marketing and bargaining legislation. 'j Water Rigbts - Agriculture is highly dependent on water. Michigan is well known for its abundant water resources. How- ever, the demands for water and the rights to it, are an in- creasing area of conflict both in and out of court. The demand for water from the three largest sectors of • ..,j (continued on next page) @ 1983 Ciba-Geigy Corp. Key PH Polices (continued from previous page) Michigan's economy - agricul- CRABGRASS ture, industry, tourism - is ex- pected to increase in the 1980s. Because settlement of disputes by court action under current law is slow, expensive, tedious and uncertain, we will support enabling legislation that would: -Identify critical water man- agement areas on a watershed basis. -Implement a water-use per- mit program administered by the Soil Conservation District for surface and groundwater on a critical water area basis. -Allow establishment of mini- mum in-stream flow standards and/ or maximum groundwater withdrawal rates to protect the natural resources of the state from pollution, impairment and destruction. -Clarify that commercial agri- cultural irrigation for food and fiber production is in the public interest and is a reasonable use @ 1983 Ciba-Geigy Corp. of water. - Allow interbasin transfer of irrigation water and modify the severance rule by permitting ir- rigation water on land which is immediately contiguous and ad- EVEN YELLOW jacent to land which touches lakes,' streams or other water- courses so long as such land is held in the ownership of a sin- NUTSEDGE gle individual or other legal en- tity and is held for the purpose of agricultural production of food and fiber. - Clarify that the riparian rights doctrine is applicable to groundwater. We also support legislation to clarify that a farm or farm operation has the right to use a reasonable amount of water balanced with the rights of other riparian owners to meet the needs of the production of farm products and crops grown. However, water usage should conform with generally ac- cepted agricultural and man- agement practices according to (continued on next page) @ 1983 Ciba-Geigy Corp. 25 Key PH Policies passing through of Workers' Agrinomic Update Com"pensation liability to a pur- (continued from page 2.3) (continued from previous page) chaser of goods and/ or services guidelines developed by the - Any dairy cattle that would from private firms or in- director of the Department of or could have been used to pro- dividuals who do not provide Agriculture. duce milk, but were sold, leased Workers' Compensation in- We encourage farmers to reg- or transferred to another person surance coverage for their ister their use of water for agri- after Nov. 8, 1983, and prior to employees or themselves. cultural production with the ap- legislative enactment (Nov. 29) propriate county official. may not be counted towards Slale Condemnation of Pri- " fulfillment of contracted herd vale Properly - When the reductions. Exceptions will be Tax Equity - A balanced state condemns or in any man- given only by permission of equitable total tax structure is ner prohibits the use of proper- Secretary Block. very difficult to achieve. It re- ty to protect the public health, quires a mix of revenue sources the state should also be re- - No milk base shallwho be as- signed any producer began and consideration of the impact quired to provide just com pen- marketing milk after Dee. 31. on the various segments of the sation if the owner / operator 1982, except as provided below: economy. A tax structure can was not negligent or did not "A producer's marketing history result in encouraging or dis- contribute to the cause of the (base) shall not be transferable couraging economic activity by problem. to any other person unless the creating a non-competitive at- entire operation (facilities and mosphere. Tax exemptions and herd) are transferred through credits are often used to bring death or gift of the owner, to balance and equity to the system. Some of these tech- Discussion Topic member (or members) of his im- m~diate family," niques have been used to make (continued from page 22) - Dairy farmers must submit Michigan agriculture com- nored. As the population and quarterly applications for the petitive with other states. We amount of solid waste in- diversion payment, and certify continue to strongly support creases, the availability of land the reduction was a net de- those tax expenditures used to for disposal decreases, thus crease in milk marketings for create tax equity for the m"aking land disposal an in- commercial use. agricultural economy. creasingly unfavorable option. -Offsetting compliance is re- Implementation of a com pre- quired. This means a reduction Workers' Compensation - hensive plan, utilizing all of the in one operation may not be off- Historically, Workers' Compen- approaches to solid waste set by expanded production in sation insurance costs have management, is essential for a other facilities you own or have been a major contributor to successful solid waste manage- an interest in especially as con- Michigan's unfavorable busi- ment program. troversial as this program is ness climate. Although reforms with consumers and the news were enacted in 1980 and 1981, Discussion Questions media". The administration will other reforms are needed to - Do landfills or open dumps be very hard on any violators. reduce premium costs to make pose a problem in your area? The program is for 15 months them more comparable with - What are your views on the only, and President Reagan got other states. DNR's new Solid Waste Man- assurance it wouldn't be re- We urge the claims process be agement Strategy? newed as one of his conditions streamlined to encourage -Would you be willing to use for approval. Some producers prompt, equitable settlement of more reusable containers to plan to reduce production for claims before they reach the reduce waste disposal? 15 months, but remain in posi- Appeals Board. - Has your county FB given in- tion to come back full throttle There is also a serious prob- put to your county's Solid when the program expires. lem that affects many self- Waste Planning Committee? Some will simply manage the employed and others who con- cows as beef cows, or divert tract for services with self- milk to other farm livestock. employed contractors. We But other producers note strongly support legislation to radical changes in cow manage- change Workers' Compensation ment hurt a cow's future pro- laws to clarify the unusual in- ductivity, while simply diverting terpretations that result in the milk to other livestock is im- practical. 26 RURAL LIVING,JANUARY 1984 Agra Land (continued from page 12) recommendations on new ser- vices to better serve farmers. The grain advisory committee will be aided by a study, com- missioned by Agra Land, of the Helpful products for farm & home total grain merchandising in- dustry to determine which direction the grain processing and merchandising segments TOOL CABINET WORK CENTER ~ "'" I 11.r . , mlr:-t.»l - I are headed. The study, con- ducted by an independent re- search body, is expected to be completed by June 1984. "We already have the facili- Here is an industrial quality tool cabinet for wall mounting. Organize tools, small parts, pi " I chemicals and more! Open size is 60" long, 24" high, 6" deep. Hasp on doors wiUaccept padlock. Great for farm, home, or shop. ORDER PRODUCT # 116 . l ~~ J i , I ties, the people, the programs Only $ 67.00 plus $ 6.50 shipping and handling and the services needed to help our farm customers become OLD COUNTRY more productive and more prof- itable each year," said Ed COFFEE MILL Powell, vice president and Enjoy fresh ground coffee with your own replica of the grinder Grandma had! Charming recreation in solid oak and cast iron. general manager of Agra Land's Enjoy fresher coffee flavor and the nostalgia of this decorator grain and bean division. "But mill today! the future is where we're going ORDER PRODUCT # 229 Only $ 34.50 plus $ 3.00 shipping and handling to spend the rest of our lives, • and the more careful, con- cerned thought we can give to the future, the more profitable PROTECT YOUR VEIDCLES and fulfilling it's going to be." "You, Your Cooperative and Agra Land, Inc., Where the Farm-to-Food System Begins" is ~- the slogan for the new co-op as it works toward that profitable and fulfilling future. DEEP HEAT BACK MASSAGER A flick of the switch and you get penetrating infra-red heat in seconds, or a relaxing massage. or both combined! Eight way comfort control for quick temporary relief of aches and pains. Famous Pollenex quality. Order now and we include a free neck and sacro attachment! LIQUID PLASTIC ORDER PRODUCT # 542 (NOT SOLD IN STORES) Only $ 64.50 plus $ 4.00 shipping and handling Polyurethane .. th~t applies like • pamt lorms a :~'. _. I I ; \. skin so tough it won't crack, chip -;<_ ......_~_... or peel. Cuts I ~ • ::--_.,.-- pointing .. costs _ cOl/ers and Oty. Description Amount I MERCHANDISE protects gloss- like a shield 01 unbreakable I SHIPPING I WA TERPROOF IN 30 MINUTES I TOTAL $ I Adheres to practically anything. Stops leaks. Ideal lor concrete, aluminum, I Minn. Residents add 6% sales tax I wood. masonry. conI/as. any metal. Clear pay all any major color. Just specify. We shipping costs. Order NAVAL 5. I I NAME ADDRESS Shrp CIS follows: ( ) 011. at SI.'S I CITY I each. ( ) Gal. at $25.95. ( ) 5 STATF ZIP Gals. at $20 per gal . I I o MasterCard o Visa I I • Name Address Exp. Date I TOWN & COUNTRY Marketplace I ._-------------------~ City State lip _ RURAL LIVING Ro~{'dal{' Ch{'mical Co.. (}{'pl. t\W-83 P.O. Box 3042, R()~{'dal{', Kan. 66103 I '2202 P.o. Box 417. Excelsior, MN 55331 I RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 27 Gordon Guyer volved in the program," Guyer sible so we can move faster to said. meet the needs of people when (continued from page 15) new problems arise," he said. who at that time was dean of Priorities for Throughout his career, Guyer the College of Agriculture and the Years Ahead has received many honors and Natural Resources, called me Not content to rest on the awards, but receiving the 1983 and tried to talk me into be- laurels of past accomplish- MFB Distinguished Service to coming director of Extension," ments, Guyer has two priorities Agriculture award has a special he said. "I indicated that I was for the Extension Service in the meaning. a very satisfied entomologist, next few years. "The only honor I have re- but Larry wasn't very willing to "The first goal I have is to ceived that means more to me take no for an answer." maintain a very high quality than this recognition by Farm Guyer became director of the staff," he said. "This is a real Bureau was when I was awarded Cooperative Extension Service challenge because our clientele my doctorate degree by Dr. in 1973. Since that time, he is is becoming much more highly Hannah in 1954. particularly proud of the ac- educated and technology is "1 have developed an ap- complishments the university moving fast. If we are going to preciation for Farm Bureau has made in communication be on the cutting edge with our because of its progressive ap- technology. educational programs, we've proach in Michigan with the en- "We developed a priority on got to have people who are one couragement of young people," innovative communication tech- step ahead. he said. "1 think that is going to nology with the computer to "That's going to mean higher be a tremendous asset to the move towards mass media and quality people, better salaries future of Farm Bureau, and be- partnerships with organizations and the efficient use of tech- ing honored by an organization like Farm Bureau in communi- nology. This is one of my high- that gives young people such a cations experiments. I think est priorities. high priority is even more this is the way of the future and "The next priority is to main- meaningful." I'm proud that we have been in- tain as much flexibility as pos- BUY YOUR NEXT CAR AT 1% OVER FACTORY INVOICE Save hundreds of dollars on a new American car or truck! Sav-On Cars is furnishing Farm Bureau members important car-cost information which will save you substantial time and money when shopping for your next car. HERE'S HOW: • You pick the options YOU want, at home, without being • Select as many cars or trucks as you are seriously considering. pressured. Then, at the bottom of your Car-Option Printout Fill in the appropriate information on the coupon below. you will find a simple form to fill out which will help you • Within one business day of receiving your request we will calculate the final dealer invoice cost, including any man- return to you a computer printout personalized for the spe- datory charges. cific model(s) you have selected. This Car-Option Printout • Use this price to negotiate your best deal with your local will show you the wholesale and retail cost for the base dealer, OR, if we list a participating factory-authorized model and for each and every option available on that par- dealer in your general area, you can buy the car from him ticular model. at an average of just 1% over dealer invoice. ~----------------------------------------------- Sav-On Cars with Your Farm Bureau Please send me a price and options Name Please Print printout for each model listed below. Style Address Model Year Make Model IMPORTANT Cily Example LESABRE 4-DOOR 1984 BUICK LIMITED SEDAN Slale Zip Hj!re is my: DCheck DMaslercard or Visa Card # Expiration Date nd 2 car Farm Bureau Membership # Mail with payment to: Sav-On Cars 26711 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 336 PRICES:$9 for 1 car, $17 for 2 cars, $24 for 3 cars. Southfield, Michigan 48034 Phone 313-356-7711 28 RURAL LIVING. JANUARY 1984 Lansing Review There has been a debate over with the local property tax ef- whether the surplus will be $25 fort. (continued from page 7) million or as much as $150 mil- There are also many impor- In February 1983, after much lion. Either way, about $75 mil- tant agricultural programs in study, the Michigan Farm Bu- lion is incumbered, including the MDA that must be im- reau board, by unanimous vote, $19 million that is due local proved. This is also true for commended Blanchard's leader- units of governments to satisfy agricultural research at MSU. ship and approach in using the constitutional requirements for While Michigan has had its fi- income tax to return Michigan state-local spending ratios. nancial woes, other states have to fiscal solvency and financial Some legislators want to use had similar problems but per- stability. The board pointed out any "surplus" to further cut the haps not as severe. They, too, that FB has believed in and sup- income tax, but others maintain have increased taxes. Ohio in- ported over-all cuts in spending that any surplus should be used creased the income tax twice, a to create greater efficiency, and to help payoff the $840 million total of 90%. that it was obvious that the in accumulated debts. Still deficit could not be solved by others believe that the state Lansing legislative topics are further major cuts. The board should begin to bring state reviewed by Robert E. Smith, pointed out, for example, that school aid into better balance senior legislative counsel. agriculture could not stand fur- ther cuts and the state's failure to fund a proper share of K-12 school costs. was forcing an in- crease in local property taxes. The FB position insisted that an income tax increase should not be permanent and that some "triggering mechani'sm" should automatically reduce the Each granule rate in response to economic recovery . a complete The increase as finally passed premix. • contained a "phase-out" for- mula. The 6.35% income tax during 1983 will automatically It's the sign of the times for faster gains, im- drop Jan. 1, 1984 to 6.1 %. It proved feed efficiency, and traditional health will continue to drop to 5.1% in benefits. 1986 and, with further cuts, back to 4.6% depending on the And because it's totally granulated, AUREO 5- P unemployment rate and pay- 250 controls sulfamethazine carry-over problems. ment of the deficit. AUREO 5- P 250 ... in good manufactued feeds. As a result, Michigan's See your Agra Land dealer "worst" short-term credit rating is now the highest a state can today for details. (;~!:~~~~ID Wayne. NJ 07470 have, which in turn helps the ratings of local governments. It will save millions of dollars in interest. FARMERS • INVESTORS Michigan has fewer state em- ployees than at any time in re- PUT IDLE LAND TO GOOD USE cent history. A modest increase Grow Trees - With High Volume Plantation Methods in state aid to schools was pos- sible, and more important, For: Energy I Lumber I Veneer -Tree crops are adaptable to most soil types schools are receiving their pay- With Selected Fast Growing Stock -Rapidly expanding market potential ments on time. - Excellent tax incentives -Short and long term returns It may be possible that some business tax reforms can be - Your Source For: made as there will be a surplus Quality Planting Stock this year. Tree Source Custom Tree Planting Plantation Management 303 S. Veronica Court. St. Joseph, Michigan 49085 - Phone 616-983-7551 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 29 Readership Survey - Rural Living Magazine To. make Rural Living mare effective and useful, we need to. knaw yaur attitude and apinians abaut this Farm Bureau publicatian. Please camplete the fallawing questiannaire and return it to. Rural Living, Michigan Farm Bureau. P. O. Bax 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Yau need nat id~ntify yaurself. Thank yau far yaur assistance. Publication Data 1. I find Rural Living infarmative and useful: o Frequently OSametimes o Infrequently 2. I find the avera II appearance af Rural Living. OPleasing ONat Pleasing 3. The articles in Rural Living are generally abaut: OThe right length OTaa lang OTaa shart 4. The writing style is: o Easy to. read o Difficult to. read 5. When I receive Rural Living. I usually spend the fallawing number af minutes reading it: OLess than 10 010 to. 30 o More than 30 01 dan't usually read it 6. I find these Rural Living calumns infarmative and useful: Frequently Sametimes Infrequently Rural Raute o o o Cauntry Ledger o o o Legislative Review Washingtan o o o Lansing o o o Frant and Center o o o Rural Exchange o o o Market Place o o o Agrinamic Update o o o Discussian Tapic o o o 7. Articles in Rural Living which attempt to. explain Farm Bureau palicy are: OUsually helpful OSametimes helpful OInfrequently helpful 8. Would you like to see more or fewer prafiles of county Farm Bureau member families in Rural Living? OMore OFewer 9. Rural Living has been helpful to me in the fallowing ways: 10. I would like to see Rural Living report on the following subjects: 11. In general, I think Rural Living is: Personal Data How would you classify yaurself? OFull-time farmer OPart-time farmer o Retired farmer ONon-farmer What is your primary type of farming operation? ODairy OFruit o Livestock OField Crops o Poultry OVegetable OOther _ What is the size of your operation? OLess than 100 acres 0101-250 acres 0251-500 acres 0501-1,000 acres DOver 1,001 acres ONumberand kind of livestock ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~_ How long have you been a Farm Bureau member? 01-4 years 05-9 years 010-15 years 015-30 years DOver 30 years .30 RURAL LIVING, JANUARY 1984 GOOD, USEFUL INFORMATION FOR PROFITABLE MANAGEMENT DECISIONS FROM THE RED WING SYSTEM™ OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Get the information you need to make those explains where your money came from and tough decisions with the farm computer of your what you used it for. Information to help monitor choice and the easy-to-use Red Wing System of your costs for more effective control and Financial Management Software. The kind of higher profits. information you need, when you need it, to help The Red Wing System utilizes the full power of make your farm more profitable. your computer to make recordkeeping easy. Red Wing is the system for farmers and Good, accurate, financial management ranchers who want to fully manage all their information, the kind of information you need to financial resources. You get complete, concise manage to profit. monthly reports (by enterprise, if desired) that Talk to your local computer dealer today! Available through leading Michigan computer dealers Ma~~~~~ with ... ( .... u/fRED I(ln BUSINESS SYSTEMS WING 610 MAIN STREET DEPT MRL, RED WING MN 55066 (612) 388-1106 Operates on most popular farm computers ."~ "'i 1954 1959 1960 1961 1962 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1977 1980 1982 1984 50/0 60/0 70/0 90/0 100/0 ";10/0 150/0 200/0 250/0 280/0 300/0 370/0 450/0 55% 600/0 750/0 850/0 900/0 1000/0 f ANNOUNCING OUR 19th CHARTER LIFE DIVIDEND INCREASE ... Over 30 years ago, Farm Bureau Life policyholders are receiving annual members purchased Charter Life policies to dividends well in excess of their annual help start the Farm Bureau Life Insurance premiums. Company of Michigan. Thank you, Farm Bureau members. Their support and trust have been well These Charter Life dividends are our special rewarded through the years, especially with thanks to all of you who supported us in our large Charter Life dividends. Since the first formative years and provided the solid Charter dividend of 50/0 in 1954, the annual foundation for our growth. dividend rate has increased steadily ... and now, effective Jan. 1, 1984, the new rate is 1000/0. FARM BUREAU ~ Charter Life dividends are paid in INSURANCE addition to regular dividends, so our Charter fMM BlRAU INTUAl GROUP • FARM IIUlEAU lFE • FARM BlRAU GENERAl • FB NftJTY Making your future a little more predictable r--------, .. Michigan Farm Bureau Non-Profit Organization, Rural Living Magazine U.S. POSTAGE P.O. Box .30960 J, 7.37.3W. Saginaw Hwy. PAID Lansing, Michigan • Lansing, Michigan 48909 Permit No. .37