A New Home for 4-H at the State Fair P8-9 Manager’S Column Basin Electric Announces Mid-Year Rate Increase

SEPTEMBER 2016 VOL. 17 NO. 5

A New Home for 4-H at the State Fair P8-9 Manager’s Column Basin Electric Announces Mid-Year Rate Increase

We received notification ated at Basin Electric and the remaining power comes from from Basin Electric Power the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). Wholesale Cooperative that they are power cost represents about 74 percent of Renville-Sibley’s raising their rates to the total cost of electric service. membership by an average We do not plan to raise rates to our members in 2016. of 7 mills on Aug. 1, 2016. 7 Fortunately, East River was able to absorb about half the 2016 DeeAnne Newville, CEO mills is 0.7 cents. This is an Basin rate increase impact due to higher-than-anticipated margins so far in 2016. Most of the remaining impact was [email protected] additional $7 for every 1,000 kWh purchased from Basin absorbed by East River utilizing their margin stabilization Electric. This increase was account which is similar to our revenue deferral account. The unexpected and it is unusual for Basin Electric to increase their increase in margin is largely due to East River’s membership in rates in the middle of the year. Prior to increasing rates, Basin the Southwest Power Pool (SPP). In October 2015, East River Electric utilized their revenue deferral and they made a number joined SPP – a regional transmission organization that oversees of budget delays and cuts across the organization to minimize the bulk electric grid. The financial benefits of this relationship the additional amount of revenue needed for 2016. Basin have been greater than anticipated. Electric’s intent is to leave the rate increase in effect throughout We expect to receive an increase from East River beginning 2017. Jan. 1, 2017. The amount of the increase is currently un- Several factors have put tremendous pressure on Basin Elec- known. East River received word from WAPA that they expect tric’s bottom line, which will in turn impact member coopera- to pass through a decrease in the cost of their power beginning tives and ultimately, end-use consumers. In short, the general in 2017. The Basin Electric rate increase, the WAPA rate de- drivers impacting Basin Electric’s rates are: crease and other factors will be taken into consideration as East • Lower than anticipated member sales River puts their budget together for 2017. We should know • Reduced revenue from non-member sales (surplus sales) our 2017 wholesale power rates by November. • Added costs to operate generation facilities • Generation and transmission investments We do not plan to raise rates to our • Reduced revenue support from non-electric or subsidiary businesses members in 2016. Paul Sukut, Basin Electric CEO, reported that beginning last October, very mild weather conditions have greatly As we put together our 2017 budget, we will submit a plan impacted consumer energy usage across its nine state region. to RUS to change the amount of revenue deferral we initially In addition, they witnessed a considerable drop in commodity designated for use in 2017. The plan we currently have sub- prices, which had a significant effect on both member sales in mitted with RUS allows us to bring our revenue deferral back the Bakken region and Dakota Gasification Company’s (DGC) to future year revenues over a period of six years. The reason revenue levels. Revenue from DGC has typically contributed we created a revenue deferral was to use excess, unexpected financial support to Basin Electric. With depressed commodity revenues from past years to offset future increases in the cost of prices, however, DGC is unable to provide the same level of wholesale power. support in 2016. 7262.00 As always, if you have questions or concerns, please feel free Renville-Sibley is a member of East River Electric Power to send an email ([email protected]) or call the Cooperative. Through East River, we are also a member of Ba- office (800-826-2593) to arrange a time to meet with me. sin. Approximately 81 percent of our wholesale power is gener-

2 September 2016 • COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS Co-op News ENERGY STAR® Rebates Renville-Sibley offers rebates to members who purchase the following ENERGY STAR® certified appliances for their home refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, clothes (USPS 019-074) washer, clothes dryer, dehumidifier, central air-conditioner and room air-conditioner. To qualify for the rebate, the unit must be currently ENERGY STAR certi- Board of Directors Philip Nestande – Chair fied. Occasionally, ENERGY STAR changes their qualification of what is certified. Roger Manthei – Vice Chair Therefore, what was ENERGY STAR certified last year or even last month, may not Alan Neyers – Secretary/Treasurer be currently ENERGY STAR certified due to a change in the requirements. Renville- Steve Benson Sibley would like to remind members to verify that the appliance they are purchasing Randy Dolezal Whitey Hinderman is currently ENERGY STAR certified by visiting the ENERGY STAR website www. Gary Peterson energystar.gov. Once in the website, click on Energy Efficient Products tab at the top Stanley Prokosch of the page and then click on the Wayland Zaske appliance you are interested in Renville-Sibley Employees purchasing. Next, click on the Gene Allex – Line Superintendent “find and compare” product but- Brian Athmann – Journeyman Lineman Shawn Beckler – Crew Chief ton and enter the model number Mike Benson – Journeyman Lineman of the appliance you are purchas- Brad Braulick – Crew Chief ing. Renville-Sibley also uses this Nick Bruns – Operations Assistant web site to verify that the appli- Anthony Carruth – Journeyman Lineman Rick Ferguson – Warehouseman ance is currently ENERGY STAR Brayden Fischer – Apprentice Lineman certified before issuing the rebate. Amy Holwerda – Consumer Accounts This web site has a host of other Representative information to assist members in Daniel Kramin – Operations Manager Cindy Mertens – Administrative Services Manager becoming energy efficient. DeeAnne Newville – CEO Please contact the office if you Brandon Ochs – Apprentice Lineman have any questions on rebates or Clint Olson – Journeyman Lineman on ENERGY STAR products. Jerrad Ryer – Apprentice Lineman Lenae Wordes – Communications Manager

RENVILLE-SIBLEY COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS is published monthly by Renville-Sibley Co-op Power Mission Statement: Association, 103 Oak Street, Danube, MN, 56230 for its members. Electric cooperative members devote 50 cents from their monthly electric payments for a subscription. Renville-Sibley Cooperative Power Renville-Sibley Co-op Non-member subscriptions are available for $6 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Danube Post Office, Danube, Association will provide efficient, Power Association MN 56230 and at additional mailing offices. reliable electric energy and services POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Renville-Sibley to enhance the quality of rural living. We do not plan to raise rates to our Cooperative Connections, PO Box 68, Danube, MN 56230; Telephone (320) 826-2593; Toll Free 1-800-826- members in 2016. 2593; Fax (320) 826-2679; Web site: www.renville-sibley.coop

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Renville-Sibley Co-op Power Association

Call BEFORE You Dig

Renville-Sibley Co-op Power will 8-1-1 be closed Monday, Sept. 5, in observance of Labor Day.

COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS • September 2016 3 Safety tips Current issues Back-to-School Electrical Safety When hooking up computers, appliances, TVs, game consoles and other electronics, it pays to be safe. Students and parents who know what electrical hazards to look for and how to address them will start the school year with peace of mind. Protect yourself from injury and keep electronics running safely by taking the following precautions: • Use only approved electrical products with the mark of a recognized certification agency. • Choose power bars with a heavy- gauge cord that are approved by a recognized certification agency. • Replace frayed or damaged extension cords with new ones. • Keep extension cords out from under carpet, rugs or furniture as this could damage the cord and also present a fire hazard. • Keep flammable materials such as books, paper and clothing away from heaters, stoves and other heating sources. • Never leave cooking appliances unattended. • Plug portable heaters and air conditioners directly into the outlet. If an extension cord is needed, Kids’ Corner Safety Poster to prevent overheating and risk of fire, use only one that is rated for this purpose to ensure that the cord “Call 8-1-1 before you dig.” can handle the electrical current. Elizabeth Land, • Never remove the third prong from an electrical 9 years old product. The third prong is the grounding device Elizabeth is the and is a critical safety feature. daughter of Greg • Avoid overloading outlets or circuits as this can and Anne Land, cause overheating that may lead to fire. Dell Rapids, S.D. They are members off to College of Sioux Valley En- Every fall, thousands of students move away from ergy, Colman, S.D. home to attend college. When renting off-campus accommodations, have the landlord correct any Kids, send your draw- electrical hazards before you move in, such as: ing with an electrical • Exposed electrical wiring; safety tip to your local • Loose or damaged plugs and switches or outlets electric cooperative (address found on and switches with missing cover plates; Page 3). If your poster • Dim, flickering or surging lights; is published, you’ll • Fuses that blow or circuit breakers that fre- receive a prize. All quently trip or outlets that don’t work when fuses entries must include are replaced or breakers reset; and your name, age, mail- • Fuses and switches that are warm or hot to the ing address and the touch. names of your parents. Colored drawings are encouraged. Source: esasafe.com

4 September 2016 • Cooperative ConneCtions Reader recipes Garden Goodness

ripe tomato relish roasted vegetables 12 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped 3 green peppers, chopped 1 tsp. garlic salt 1 small zucchini, sliced 7 large onions, chopped 2 cups white vinegar 1 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 cup asparagus pieces 3 cups celery, chopped 4 cups sugar 1/2 tsp. fennel seed 1 cup red potato chunks 1/4 cup salt 2 T. mustard seed 1 small green bell pepper, cut into chunks 1 cup baby carrots 1 small red onion, cut into thin wedges 2 T. oil Combine tomatoes, onions, celery and salt; let set overnight. 1 small yellow squash, sliced 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, optional The next morning, drain for 4 hours. Add remaining ingredients. Put in jars and refrigerate. Mix seasonings in small bowl. Toss vegetables and oil in large bowl. Add Laila Arndt, Glenham seasonings; toss to coat well. Spread vegetables in single layer on foil-lined 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake at 450°F. for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. If desired, sprinkle 1 cup shredded part-skim sweet & sour salad mozzarella cheese over vegetables during last 5 minutes of baking. Makes 6 servings. 12 cups watermelon, cut into Dressing: cubes 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories 93, Total Fat 5g, Cholesterol 0mg, 2 cucumbers, peeled and cubed 1/2 cup sugar Sodium 342mg, Carbohydrates 10g, Dietary Fiber 2g, Protein 2g 2 green onions, coarsely 1 tsp. poppy seeds Pictured, Cooperative Connections chopped 1/4 tsp. salt and pepper

Put watermelon in a colander to drain while preparing vegetable pizza cucumbers and onion. Combine watermelon, cucumbers and onions in a large bowl. Mix together dressing ingredients 2 tubes refrigerated crescent rolls Garden vegetables of choice in a shaker bottle until sugar is dissolved. Pour dressing over 2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese, – carrots, peppers, broccoli, salad, gently stirring to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve. softened cauliflower, tomatoes, etc. Susie Trapp, Humboldt 1 pkg. dry ranch dressing Shredded Cheddar cheese 1 cup mayonnaise Please send summer Garden ‘n pasta your favorite pasta, crockpot Unroll crescent rolls and pat onto a greased jelly roll pan. and holiday 1 lb. thin spaghetti, broken into 1 red onion, diced Bake according to package directions; cool completely. 1-inch pieces Dressing: Mix together cream cheese, dry ranch dressing and treat recipes 1 pint cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 (16 oz.) bottle Italian salad mayonnaise. Spread on crust. Top with cut up piece of to your local 2 medium zucchini, diced dressing vegetables, pressing down slightly. Top with shredded cheese. electric cooperative (address 1 large cucumber, diced 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Refrigerate. Eric Neville, Milesville found on Page 1 medium green bell pepper, 1 T. sesame seeds 3). Each recipe diced 1 tsp. paprika printed will be 1 red bell pepper, diced 1/2 tsp. celery seed Zucchini pancakes entered into a 2 (2-1/4 oz. cans) sliced ripe 1/2 tsp. garlic powder drawing for a 1/3 cup biscuit baking mix 2 eggs, lightly beaten olives, drained prize in Decem- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 cups shredded zucchini ber 2016. All 1/8 tsp. pepper 2 T. butter Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse entries must in cold water. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, include your zucchini, cucumber, green and red bell pepper, red onion In a bowl, combine biscuit baking mix, Parmesan cheese, name, mailing and olives. To make dressing, whisk together Italian salad pepper and eggs just until blended. Add zucchini, mixing address, tele- dressing, Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, celery seed well. In a large skillet, melt butter. Drop batter by about phone number and garlic powder. Pour over salad and toss until coated. 1/3-cupfuls into skillet; press lightly to flatten. Fry until and coopera- Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight. golden brown, about 3 minutes each side. tive name. Ginny Jensen, Volga Lynn Holzerland, Waubay

Cooperative ConneCtions • September 2016 5 Energy Efficiency Notes Manager’s Column, Continued on Page 7 Is A Geothermal Heat Pump Right for You?

Dear Pat: I am planning to Vertical system: If the site does not have sufficient space for replace my current heating a horizontal system, a collector can be placed vertically. In this system with a geothermal system, a drill digs 100 to 400 feet below the surface and places heat pump. It is compara- the tubing. This system can be more costly than a horizontal tively pricey to other options, system, but will have less impact on any existing landscaping but it seems like an efficient and can be used on smaller lots. option and I like the fact that Pond system: If a home has access to a pond or lake, a it includes air conditioning. pond system (also known as a water-source heat pump) may Would a geothermal heat be possible. The loop field is connected to the heat pump and pump be a good choice for then placed at least eight feet below the surface of the water. If me? – Ralph D. a homeowner has access to a pond that is sufficiently wide and deep, this option can be the lowest cost. Patrick Keegan Dear Ralph: In most areas Geothermal systems typically cost more than other heat- Collaborative Efficiency of the U.S., space heating and ing systems, largely because of the collector and the associated cooling account for a large digging or drilling, but their high efficiency can help reduce percentage of overall home energy use, so upgrading to a more the payback time. The cost will vary based on whether new efficient HVAC system is a great way to reduce your monthly ductwork is needed and the type of collector you install, energy bill. A geothermal heat pump, also known as a ground- among other factors. However, there are incentives available source heat pump, is among the most efficient types of heating for those who install qualified geothermal heat pumps. Most and cooling systems you can consider installing in your home. notably, there is a 30 percent federal tax credit for installing an Even when it is extremely hot or cold outside, the tem- ENERGY STAR®-rated system before the end of 2016 – so, perature a few feet below the surface of the ground remains if your system and installation cost $20,000, you could take relatively constant and moderate. A geothermal heat pump $6,000 directly off your federal tax bill. Some states also offer system uses this constant ground temperature to help heat tax incentives and your electric co-op may offer rebates or and cool your home. As a result, geothermal heat pumps are financing to help you pay for the system. quite efficient. For example, according to the U.S. Environ- mental Protection Agency, geothermal heat pumps use up to Geothermal systems typically cost more 44 percent less energy than traditional air-source heat pumps and up to 72 percent less energy than electric resistance heaters than other heating systems, largely be- combined with standard air conditioners. cause of the collector and the associated A geothermal heat pump system is made up of three main components: digging or drilling, but their high efficiency 1. The collector, or loop field, which is in the ground and can help reduce the payback time. cycles a liquid, like antifreeze, through dense plastic tubing 2. The heat pump that is in your home For those with high energy bills resulting from heating and 3. The duct system that distributes the heated or cooled air cooling, an efficient geothermal system is a good option to throughout your home. consider. In addition, those building new homes should con- During the winter, the collector absorbs the heat stored in sider at the outset whether to install a geothermal heat pump. the ground and the liquid carries that heat to the heat pump, With new construction, the system can be included in the which concentrates it and blows it into the duct work, warm- mortgage and installing it before the home is completed means ing your home. In the summer, the heat pump extracts heat no disruption to your landscaping. from the home and transfers it to the cooler ground. Talk with a qualified energy auditor who can help you The collector that exchanges heating and cooling with the evaluate the different heating and cooling options that would ground can be set up in one of three main ways: be best for your home. Horizontal system: Plastic tubing is placed in trenches four This column was co-written by Pat Keegan and Amy Wheeless to six feet below the surface of the ground. This system works of Collaborative Efficiency. For more information on how to test well when a home or business has sufficient available land, as and seal your ductwork, please visit: www.collaborativeefficiency. these systems may require up to 400 feet of trenches to be dug. com/energytips. 6 September 2016 • COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS Co-op News

Where Is the Number? Thank you… Thank you for your generous donation of $500 to the Sons of Last month, Renville-Sibley member James Brazil the American Legion’s third annual Flag Day golf tournament. did not find his member number in the newslet- We had an amazing day of weather, golf and patriotism. The day ter. The credit will increase by $10 for a value started off with a shotgun start by the BOLD Skeet and Trap team of $20. and really set the pace for a fun-filled day. We were able to raise A new number has been hidden some- money for the BOLD Trap and Skeet team and also for future where in this newsletter. If you find your Son’s projects. number and call the office by Sept. 1, you will Thanks – SAL 186 receive this credit on your electric statement. Good luck in your search! Thank you to Barb Woltjer for the lemonade and cake given to the crew. It was very much appreciated. Comparative Report Community Events Many local communities are busy planning upcoming events. Current 1 Year Ago 10 Years Ago To find out more about these activities, please check out the June 2016 June 2015 June 2006 following sites: Number of Consumers 1,883 1,893 1,962 Kilowatt Hours Purchased 7,721,690 7,787,358 9,081,540 Redwood County: www.co.redwood.mn.us/links.htm Renville County: www.renville.com Cost of Purchased Power $427,610.41 $434,583.77 $269,692.03 Sibley County: www.co.sibley.mn.us/things_to_do Want Ads Wanted For Sale FREE Want Ad Service Wanted Offered to Members Giveaway ForGiveaway Sale Members can submit ads for the following categories: Giveaway, For For Sale: New, never used 12-cup Black & Decker coffee maker Sale, For Rent and Wanted. Ads are limited to no more than 15 words and 4-cup Cuisinart coffee maker. and must be received by the first of the month to be included in the Elsie Heutinck, Olivia, MN, 320-523-1705 following month’s newsletter. Renville-Sibley reserves the right to edit content or exclude ads due to space restrictions. Ads will be run one time Wanted: Central Air Cond unit for forced air LP furnace only unless resubmitted. M.E. Boyum, Fairfax, MN, 507-426-8244

Please complete the following information and mail to: Renville-Sibley Cooperative Power, PO Box 68, Danube, MN 56230 IT’S THE Name: ______LAW Address: ______You must stop for any ______school bus, including the ______Head Start bus, with its Phone number: ______sign out or flashing. You must stop for all Ad to be placed (limit of 15 words per ad): pedestrians in the ______crosswalk. ______Renville-Sibley Co-op wishes the students and ______all the school staff a safe Type of ad: r Giveaway r For Sale r For Rent r Wanted and successful year!

COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS • September 2016 7 Nordby Exhibit Hall: 4-H’s New Home at the State Fair

4-H members are familiar witH pledges. four classrooms, a large demonstration kitchen and At meetings across the country, members pledge offices for State Fair and Beadle County Extension their head, hands, heart and health to ideals that staff. serve society well. But, for the past three years, The building will be a statewide home for South By South Dakota 4-H members have undertaken a dif- Dakota 4-H year-round and will be utilized for Brenda ferent type of pledge: to raise resources to construct meetings, training sessions, various competitions Kleinjan a new home for the program that has been synony- and other gatherings. When not in use by 4-H, the mous with state and county fairs for more than a building will be available for events such as conven- century. tions, trade shows, performances, receptions, etc. On Sept. 4 at 4 p.m., the Nordby Exhibit Hall “When we did the strategic plan a few years ago, on the South Dakota State Fair Grounds in Huron, one of the things identified was the need for this S.D., will be dedicated. type of building,” said Loren Noess,a member of The $4.7 million building is multi-purpose in the State Fair Board and chairman of the drive to that it was constructed for 4-H, youth and commu- construct Nordby Exhibit Hall. nity. It contains 30,000 square feet of exhibit space, The South Dakota State Fair Foundation was Photos by Stewarts Aronia Acres

8 September 2016 • COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS created in 1992 with a mission to support activities designed to enhance, improve, expand and continue the South Dakota State Fair. As part of that mission, the Foundation has embarked on an important venture to further strengthen the State Fair’s future. As summer barreled to the deadline for the building’s opening, organizers were nearing the end of the fund-raising for the project. At the beginning of August, $4.36 million of the $4.7 million goal had been raised. There may be a few loose ends to tie up, but organizers are confident that the building will be open to greet the thousands of visitors and exhibitors at the fair. “It will be open and usable for the State Fair. Some of the classrooms won’t be completely ready, but the main exhibit hall will be,” said Noess, who retired in 2015 after nearly four decades working for electric coop- Dakota is agriculture. Not everyone in 4-H To raise the final monies eratives in South Dakota. is going to farm and ranch, but there are so needed for the building, The versatile, open-layout building replaces many opportunities in the ag sector – agrono- organizers have launched Clover Hall, which had been utilized since the mists, ag lenders, rural electrics – where these The Final Brick Count- down, which is the push 1950s for 4-H exhibits and competitions. members will one day contribute.” for the last $500,000 of Noess said that in addition to the building’s Noess noted that the building is named for the building’s $4.7 million Earl Nordby. function during the State Fair, its presence is campaign. Any donation of “We’ve had lots of help with this. Earl providing a foundation for other activities on $1,000 toward the capital Nordby has been the grounds. campaign is recognized very generous “4-H is one of the big “That type of a build- with an engraved Sioux providing an ad- ing has been a plus in quartzite paver located ditional donation anchors for the South getting other things to on the grounds of the and then offering come to the state of South new exhibit hall. Multiple the challenge for Dakota State Fair.” Dakota,” said Noess, not- bricks can be created for additional money,” ing that the building was one donor – for example, a donation of $3,000 is said Noess. a part in securing the National Junior High recognized with three Rodeo Association finals in June 2018 and For Noess, who said 4-H played a big role bricks. Call 605-553-4251 in his childhood and teen years, investing in 2019. “It was built for 4-H plus to be used for or visit www.sdstatefair- the program makes sense for an ag-based state. other activities as well such as farm shows foundation.com to learn “4-H is one of the big anchors for the “One of the things that we’d like and the more. Online donations South Dakota State Fair,” said Noess. “I Legislature would like too is for the fair to can be made through this have always said our No. 1 industry in South have year-round activities,” said Noess. site.

About Nordby Exhibit Hall:

The new 48,000 square-foot exhibit hall features: • More than 30,000 square feet of exhibit space • Multiple classrooms • A versatile conference room/work room, available for activities during the fair and in the off-season • A large kitchen for 4-H Special Foods competitions and year-round concessions • A performance stage • Year-round office space for the State Fair staff.

COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS • September 2016 9 Board News July Board Meeting Highlights

The July board meeting was held on credits trans- Monday, July 25, at 8 a.m. All board ferred. members were present except Whitey • Presentation NOTICE: Hinderman. Others present were CEO by Greg Blum The August board meeting will DeeAnne Newville, attorney Jeff Whit- from CFC be held on Monday, Aug. 29 at more and staff member Dan Kramin. • Reports from 8 a.m. The September board staff mem- meeting will be held at 8 a.m. The following items were reviewed and bers as to approved by the board: the activities on Monday, Sept. 26. • Minutes of the June board meeting in their department. Items in the – Line crew work in progress and • Operating and disbursement reports reports include: pending work for the month of June – High level Statement of Opera- – Accounts receivable • Capital credits to an estate tions review YTD through June – Basin Electric Tour • Safety report for July 2016 (unaudited) – Farmfest • NRECA regional meeting voting – Organization activities – Family-a-Fair night delegates – East River update – Strategic Planning Session • CoBank 2016 board election – NRECA update • Upcoming meetings were discussed. – MREA update Please contact the Renville-Sibley office The board reviewed: – Engineering update if you would like more information • List of new members and capital – Technology update regarding the board meeting. Thank You Outage Report affecting 10 members or more System Renville-Sibley Co-op Thank you for your generous donation of $100 for the Map Power Association “Scholar of the Month” Program awarded to Allison Crooks Emmet Kingman Krause. She, in turn, presented it to the Math Program. Substation Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. locations are Please contact Renville-Sibley’s Consider insulating your water heater Troy BOLD School marked by office for more details about tank, which could reduce standby heat losses by yellow stars. Henryville these power outages. 25 percent to 45 percent and save you about 4 percent Date: 7-16-16 to 9 percent in water Honner heating costs. You can Time off: 10:19 p.m. find pre-cut jackets or blan- Time on: 12:55 a.m. Birch kets available from around $20. Cairo Cooley Substation: Cairo Source: Energy.gov Cause: Tree on the line

10 September 2016 • COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS Co-op News Group Travels to North Dakota

On July 11, 48 members loaded a bus headed for the beau- tiful state of North Dakota. On this three-day adventure, members learned all kinds of new information about electricity, made some new friends and had the opportunity to win a “fabulous prize.” After a long day of driving in the rain, we arrived at Bismarck which would be our home base for two nights. Steve Tomac, senior legislative representative at Basin Electric, met us at the hotel and shared information about Basin Electric and the legislative challenges facing the cooperative. A relaxing cruise down the Missouri River aboard the Lewis and Clark Riverboat was the perfect way to close out the first day of our trip. The second day was really our big tour day. We started out at Antelope Valley Station to learn how coal is used to make in the United States. The group heard about what transpired our electricity. A large display model is set-up to view as our in the seven years it took to construct the dam and had the tour guide explained how the plant operates. We then adorned opportunity to take a peek at one of the five generating units. hard hats on our heads, headphones in our ears and headed After seeing all this, we sure appreciate all the work that goes out to take a personal look at the plant. Thank goodness it was into generating our electricity. a little cool outside as the temperatures can get really hot up After a full day of touring, the group had the evening on on the 17th floor of the plant due to the heat from the boiler. their own to take in a bite at one of the nearby restaurants, re- After a delicious sandwich, chips and a cookie at the plant, we lax at the hotel, shop at the mall across the street or take a walk loaded the bus and headed off to the Coteau Freedom Coal at the nearby park. On our way home the next day, we visited Mine. Thank goodness the rain had passed and the sun was Frontier Village which is home to the World’s Largest Buffalo shining so we could get down into the coal mine and see how Monument. Those travelling on this tour reported having a coal is extracted from the earth. The equipment they use is great time and would recommend those that have not taken HUGE! It is very interesting to see how the coal is mined and this tour to sign-up the next time it is offered. amazing to see the land put back to its original state after the mining is complete. The final destination of the day was the Above: Members enjoy a stop at Frontier Village in Jamestown, N.D., on the Garrison Dam, which is the fifth-largest earthen dam structure way home. Below: One group poses for a picture before heading out for a tour of Antelope Valley Station.

COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS • September 2016 11 Cooperatives Demonstrating Cooperation

Cooperation, tHe very act of working witH than if the co-op couldn’t count on that help. one another is an intrinsic quality of cooperatives. And cooperatives demonstrate cooperation in It’s one of the seven cooperative principles (Coop- other ways, too. Nearly 75 years ago, cooperatives eration Among Cooperatives.) recognized the need to speak with a common voice Everyday, local electric cooperatives embody this in the legislative arena. Minnesota cooperatives principle. formed the Maple Grove-based Minnesota Rural Cooperation is evident in times of severe weath- Electric Association in 1941 to represent their By er. When storms – whether ice storms, wind events member cooperatives’ interest in front of that state’s Brenda Kleinjan or tornadoes – disrupt power to any of the more legislature. In 1942, seven cooperatives formed the than 350,000 people served by electric cooperatives South Dakota Rural Electric Association, now locat- in South Dakota and western Minnesota, help from ed in Pierre, S.D., to help fight not only legislative a neighboring cooperative is only a phone call away. battles but to jointly buy wire and supplies needed Local cooperatives ably and skillfully deal with to electrify rural South Dakota. Below: Crews from most of their weather-related issues on their own. Today, both organizations continue to provide several cooperatives assist West Central But, on occasion, Mother Nature deals out a bit legislative representation along with safety and other Electric Cooperative more than a single cooperative can quickly deal training and other services that are strengthened by in Murdo, S.D., with with on their own. The ability to call in extra working together. repairs following a personnel who are trained and knowledgable about Also in the 1940s and 1950s, cooperatives real- summer storm. rural electric systems can help restore power faster ized that their growing systems would need more

12 September 2016 • COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS Left: Each spring, during the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Legislative Conference, co-ops work together to make sure that cooperative issues are heard by our nation’s leaders.

power, so generation and transmission cooperatives be found working together promoting their services – such as East River Electric Power Cooperative in and answering members’ questions at a variety of Madison, S.D., Rushmore Electric Power Coopera- events such as the Black Hills Stock Show, Brown tive in Rapid City, S.D., L&O Power Cooperative County Fair, South Dakota State Fair, Farmfest, in Rock Rapids, Iowa, – were created. Today these Dakotafest and numerous regional farm and home cooperatives may also assist cooperatives with engi- shows. neering, information technology, economic devel- Cooperatives’ opment, advertising partnerships and other needs. commitment By 1961, the formation of Basin Electric Power to education, Cooperative in Bismarck, N.D., allowed these especially pro- cooperatives to work together on a regional basis to viding learning generate electricity through power plants owned by opportunities to cooperatives in several states. Today, Basin Electric the region’s youth, operates a diverse energy portfolio: coal, gas, oil, is yet another way nuclear, distributed and renewable energy, includ- that cooperatives ing wind power and is consumer-owned by 137 work together. member cooperative systems in nine states. These Classroom educa- Above: Students from cooperatives cooperatives in turn provide power to more than 2 tion programs such as The Story Behind in South Dakota and Wisconsin million individuals. the Switch and Co-ops in the Classroom discuss the role of cooperatives Throughout the year, groups of cooperatives can travel from school to school in coopera- during a workshop at the Rural SEVEN COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLES tive territory throughout the region. ElectricSEVEN Youth Tour to Washington,COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLES PRINTABLE WALLET CARD And for decades, cooperatives have D.C. Left:PRINTABLE Festivals and shows WALLET such CARD provided the region’s teenagers with as Dakotafest allow cooperatives to 1. Print on tabloid (11” x 17”) sized paper. opportunities to travel to Washington, work1. together Print on totabloid deliver (11” safety, x 17”) sized paper. 2. Cut out wallet card on solid black outline. D.C., for the Rural Electric Youth Tour. energy2. Cutefficiency out wallet and card other on solid black outline. 3. Fold wallet card in half on vertical dashed line so the printed messages3. Fold to wallet co-op card members. in half on vertical dashed line so the printed sides are facing outward. There, students truly witness the power sides are facing outward. 4. With the side B facing toward you, fold into thirds, folding of working together as student represen- 4. With the side B facing toward you, fold into thirds, folding the right side first, followed by the left. tatives from hundreds of cooperatives nationwide the right side first, followed by the left. gather to learn about cooperatives, politics and the sights of the Nation’s capitol. SIDE A FIRST FOLD SIDE B SIDE A FIRST FOLD SIDE B

VOLUNTARY AND MEMBERS’ ECONOMIC AUTONOMY AND VOLUNTARY AND MEMBERS’ ECONOMIC AUTONOMY AND COOPERATION AMONG OPEN MEMBERSHIP PARTICIPATION INDEPENDENCE COOPERATION AMONG OPEN MEMBERSHIP PARTICIPATION INDEPENDENCE COOPERATIVES COOPERATIVES Cooperatives serve their members Cooperatives are voluntary organizations Members contribute equitably to, and Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help Cooperatives serve their members Cooperatives are voluntary organizations Members contribute equitably to, and Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help most effectively and strengthen the open to all persons able to use their democratically control, the capital of their organizations controlled by their members. most effectively and strengthen the open to all persons able to use their democratically control, the capital of their organizations controlled by their members. cooperative movement by working SEVEN services and willing to accept the cooperative. At least part of that capital If they enter into agreements with other cooperative movement by working SEVEN services and willing to accept the cooperative. At least part of that capital If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or organizations, including governments, or together through local, national, regional COOPERATIVE responsibilities of membership, without is usually the common property of the together through local, national, regional COOPERATIVE responsibilities of membership, without is usually the common property of the and international structures. PRINCIPLES gender, social, racial, political or cooperative. Members usually receive raise capital from external sources, they and international structures. PRINCIPLES gender, social, racial, political or cooperative. Members usually receive raise capital from external sources, they religious discrimination. limited compensation, if any, on capital do so on terms that ensure democratic religious discrimination. limited compensation, if any, on capital do so on terms that ensure democratic CONCERN FOR The National Rural Electric Cooperative subscribed as a condition of membership. control by their members and maintain CONCERN FOR The National Rural Electric Cooperative subscribed as a condition of membership. control by their members and maintain COMMUNITY Association (NRECA) is the national service DEMOCRATIC Members allocate surpluses for any or their cooperative autonomy. COMMUNITY Association (NRECA) is the national service DEMOCRATIC Members allocate surpluses for any or their cooperative autonomy. organization for more than 900 not-for- organization for more than 900 not-for- While focusing on member MEMBER CONTROL all of the following purposes: developing While focusing on member MEMBER CONTROL all of the following purposes: developing profit rural electric cooperatives and public the cooperative, possibly by setting up EDUCATION, TRAINING profit rural electric cooperatives and public the cooperative, possibly by setting up EDUCATION, TRAINING needs, cooperatives work for the power districts providing retail electric Cooperatives are democratic organizations needs, cooperatives work for the power districts providing retail electric Cooperatives are democratic organizations reserves, part of which at least would AND INFORMATION reserves, part of which at least would AND INFORMATION sustainable development of their service to more than 42 million consumers controlled by their members, who actively sustainable development of their service to more than 42 million consumers controlled by their members, who actively Cooperatives provide education and Cooperatives provide education and communities through policies in 47 states and whose retail sales account participate in setting policies and making be indivisible; benefitting members in communities through policies in 47 states and whose retail sales account participate in setting policies and making be indivisible; benefitting members in training for their members, elected training for their members, elected accepted by their members. for approximately 12 percent of total decisions. The elected representatives proportion to their transactions with the accepted by their members. for approximately 12 percent of total decisions. The elected representatives proportion to their transactions with the representatives, managers and representatives, managers and electricity sales in the United States. are accountable to the membership. In cooperative; and supporting other activities electricity sales in the United States. are accountable to the membership. In cooperative; and supporting other activities employees so that they can contribute employees so that they can contribute primary cooperatives, members have approved by the membership. primary cooperatives, members have approved by the membership. effectively to the development of their effectively to the development of their Learn more at NRECA.coop equal voting rights (one member, one Learn more at NRECA.coop equal voting rights (one member, one cooperatives. They inform the general cooperatives. They inform the general vote), and cooperatives at other levels are vote), and cooperatives at other levels are public, particularly young people and public, particularly young people and organized in a democratic manner. organized in a democratic manner. opinion leaders, about the nature and opinion leaders, about the nature and benefits of cooperation. benefits of cooperation.

COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS • September 2016 13 Safety FIRST Look Up, Look Down and Look Around

the approach of fall brings harvest, end-of- or trees as they can easily hide electrical lines and the-year home improvement projects and other other equipment. activities that can bring people outdoors near power lines and other electrical equipment. Be Careful Around Trees In 2015, the insurer of electric cooperatives If you plan to cut down a tree, make sure now reported that there were 99 electrical contacts na- power lines are nearby. If you cut down a tree and it tionwide that year. Unfortunately, these contacts led falls on a power line, don’t touch it or try to move ® By Brenda to numerous injuries and 13 fatalities. it. Contact your local Touchstone Energy Coop- Kleinjan The largest number of reports came from things erative immediately. – from booms, cranes and buckets to antennas, Finally, you should never plant trees directly flag poles, ladders and trees – making contact with under power lines. Short trees should be planted at overhead power lines. least 25 feet away from power lines, while medium Electric cooperatives strive to keep these contacts trees should be planted at least 40 feet away. at zero. Cooperatives have these tips for staying safe: Always call 8-1-1- before you dig to have underground lines, pipes and cables identified. Stay Clear • Do not store equipment near or under power Vehicle Accidents: Stay in your Vehicle lines. Not only can the equipment be damaged in Accidents between vehicles and power lines can STayIanng accident, but Saworkers climbingFE on the equip- be extremely dangerous. If you are ever involved in TrEES and ment can be harmed as well. an accident that includes downed power lines, fol- On ThE Farm.•Lastly, be careful when working around bushes low these simple steps: POwEr LInES.

Severe weather, especially windy and icy conditions, can cause branches or entire trees to fall onto power lines, resulting in significant damage to lines while creating danger for anyone around them. If you come across a downed power line, treat the area as if it is “energized.” Also, never touch a tree that is caught in a line as it could be electrified.

14 September 2016 • COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS If you plan to cut down a tree, make sure no power lines are nearby. If you cut down a tree and it falls on a power line, don’t touch it or try to move it. Rather, you should contact your local Touchstone Energy® Cooperative immediately. Before operating farm machinery including grain augers, sprayers or combines, check for Finally, you should never plant trees directly under power lines. Short trees should be planted sufficient space around overhead power lines; the general rule is at least ten feet. If you are at least 25 feet away from power lines, while medium trees should be planted at least 40 feet operating a tall piece of equipment, make sure to lower any retractable piece of the machine. away. As always, call 811 before you dig to have underground lines, pipes and cables identified.

Do not store equipment near or under power lines. Not only can the equipment be damaged in an accident, but workers climbing on the equipment can be harmed as well. Lastly, be careful when working around bushes or trees, as they can easily hide electrical lines and other equipment.

605-962-6243 or 1-800-640-6243 For more information from Touchstone Energy® visit: www.oaheelectric.com TOGETHERWESAVE.COM STA: April 2009 Safety Brief Digging in to electric and other underground utilities can pose Word Count: 186 problems and possibly fatal situations. Being aware of where the above ground components – such as green cable boxes shown below, pad-mount transformers and other devices is Safety FIRST Every 6 minutes also important. an underground utility line is damaged SbecauseTayI ngsomeone Sa decidedFE to dig TrEES and Look Up, Look Down and Look Around On TwithouthE Farm. first calling 811. POwEr LInES.

• Do not leave your vehicle; it’s the safest place touching the vehicle and ground at the same time. If you plan to cut down a tree, make sure no power lines are nearby. If you cut down a tree and for you to be. Keeping your feet together, “bunny hop” to safety. it falls on a power line, don’t touch it or try to move it. Rather, you should contact your local ® • Wait for emergency workers and local electric Doing this will ensure that you will not have differ- Touchstone Energy Cooperative immediately. crews beforeBefore exiting operating as they farm will machinery ensure the including lines are grain augers,ent strengths sprayers of or electric combines, current check running for from one Finally, you should never plant trees directly under power lines. Short trees should be planted completelysufficient de-energized. space around overhead power lines; thefoot general to another. rule is at least ten feet. If you are at least 25 feet away from power lines, while medium trees should be planted at least 40 feet STayIng SaFE • If youoperating must exit a tallthe piece vehicle of equipment,because it makeis on surefire, to lower• Be any aware retractable that, Trpieceafter anof theaccident EESmachine. with a pole, and away. As always, call 811 before you dig to have underground lines, pipes and cables identified. jump clear of it with your feet together and without wires can fall at any time. • Downed lines can sometimes show they are On ThE Farm. live by arcing and sparking with electricity, but this is not always the case.P TreatO all wdownedE wiresr as LInES. thoughDo not they store are equipment energized. near or under •power Remember, lines. Not most only power can the lines equipment are not insulated. Thebe coating damaged on in the an Severelines accident, is for weather,but weather workers proofing especially windy and icy andclimbing will not onoffer the any equipmentconditions, protection can befrom can the cause electrical branches or entire current.harmed as well. trees to fall onto power lines, resulting in •Lastly, The tires be careful of the when vehicle working do not around insulate it from electricalbushes dangers. or trees, Follow assignificant they the can above easily damage safetyhide precau to -lines while creating tionselectrical even if linesthe car and has other rolled equipment. and is upside down or on its side. The vehicledanger is thefor path anyone to ground around for them. the electrical current. So while you remain in the car, you are safe. If youIf you step come out of theacross car, you a aredowned power line, in danger of becomingtreat the the path area to ground. as if it is “energized.” Also, • If you come upon the scene of an accident in- volving downed powernever lines, touch avoid thea tree area thataround is caught in a line the downed line entirelyas it andcould do not be touch electrified. the Before operating farm machinery including grain augers, spray- vehicle, as everything from trees to manhole covers ers or combines, check for sufficient space around overhead can become energized. power lines; the general rule is at least 10 feet. If you are operating a tall piece of equipment, make sure to lower any If you have any questions, contact your local retractable piece of the machine. electric cooperative.605-962-6243 or 1-800-640-6243 For more information from Touchstone Energy® visit: www.oaheelectric.com TOGETHERWESAVE.COM If you plan to cut down a tree, make sure no power lines are nearby.COOPERATIVE If CONNECTIONSyou cut down • September a tree 2016 and 15 it falls on a power line, don’t touch it or try to move it. Rather, you should contact your local Touchstone Energy® Cooperative immediately. Before operating farm machinery including grain augers, sprayers or combines, check for Finally, you should never plant trees directly under power lines. Short trees should be planted sufficient space around overhead power lines; the general rule is at least ten feet. If you are at least 25 feet away from power lines, while medium trees should be planted at least 40 feet operating a tall piece of equipment, make sure to lower any retractable piece of the machine. away. As always, call 811 before you dig to have underground lines, pipes and cables identified.

605-962-6243 or 1-800-640-6243 For more information from Touchstone Energy® visit: www.oaheelectric.com TOGETHERWESAVE.COM August 25-28 August 24-28 August 20-21 August 20 August 19-21 August 19-21 August 27 August 26-27 August 25-28 August 25-28 August 25-28 r White River, SD,605-669-3310 RodeoFrontier Days 605-339-1203 Event Rodeo, SD SiouxFalls, Boys RanchMcCrossan Xtreme 605-440-0640 Custer, Festival, Arts SD HillsMusicand Southern SD,605-275-6891Aberdeen, State S.D.SeniorGames Madison, SD,605-256-3644 Steam Jamboree Threshing 54thAnnual Village Prairie Deadwood, SD,605-578-1876 Kool Deadwood Nites Lemmon, SD,605-393-5832 Hugh GlassRendezvous Mitchell, SD, 605-995-8430 PalaceCorn Festival www.rosholtthreshingbee.com Rosholt, SD,605-537-4426 Bee 28th AnnualThreshing SD,605-692-7539 Brookings, &Brew Festival Wing 605-665-1657 Yankton,Riverboat Days, SD egional Dateline September 9-10 September 9-11 September 4 September 3 September 2-4 September 1-5 Please call ahead to confirm date, timeandPlease callahead locationofevent. to confirm Include To have your event onthispage, send including complete date, event, listed information, place and to contact your cooperative. local electric Submitted Photo Demolition Derby, Winner, SD BolanderMemorial Billy Winner, SD,605-842-1533 Bull Riding&Ranch Ride Bronc Pieces andPatches QuiltShow SD,605-338-2847Worthing, Festival LifeLight SD,605-353-7340 Huron, South Dakota State Fair 605-745-4140 SD Hot Springs, Festival, Poetry CowboyBadger Clark Music& 605-281-5663 Tractor Show, Andover, SD James Valley and Threshing 605-469-6232

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