Weiser Signal American’s Harvest Edition

New Ag Businesses Weiser High Burlap and Buds new ag teacher Butterfield Farms Living Sky Farms Reynolds Creek Far West Agribusiness Calf Ranch Association 2 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

To those who work in acres, not hours, we thank you!

Two Rivers Medical Clinic, P.A. Specializing in Affordable Primary Care for the Whole Family Available by Appointment 5 days a week Walk-ins welcome 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday-Friday Including Lunch Hour Serving the upper country in Cambridge on Monday 683 E. Third • 549-0211

FREE ice with any 12 pack purchase! 8 Pc Fried Chicken & JoJo Dinner $12.99 Hours: Open 7am -9pm Mon. - Sat. 208-414-5656 (JoJo) 8am - 9pm Sun. Corner of Pioneer & W 7th

Timber Roberts, the daughter of Brett and Lynnette Roberts is enjoying the beautiful colors and scents of their flower farm. In 2019 the Roberts family started growing flowers as therapy to help the family cope from a personal tragedy. With the enjoyment Lynnette found in growing flowers Burlap and Buds came into existence providing a refuge for people to find relief from everyday struggles and to celebrate the happy occasions in life. Jill Joski Independent Insurance Agent Burlap and Buds provides beautiful 208-340-8078 | Jill . [email protected] cut flowers for many occasions Midvale Sand & Flowers are sold to wholesalers and florists around the area Gravel & Concrete by Nicole Miller • Concrete Owners of Burlap and Buds flow- er farm Lynnette and Brett Roberts • Blocks began their flower farm after facing • Drain Rocks tragedy. Through tragedy, Roberts Golden Rule chose a way to spread hope and heal- Feed Bunks ing by growing flowers. After losing their 4½-year-old son Shannon Williams Adjustable Dairy in a tragic accident in 2013, the Rob- 208-355-2245 and Bull Bunks erts family received many beautiful flowers in his memory. Each of those gifts brought small comfort. How- ever, the week after the funeral, the 404 E. 7th St • flowers in each of the vases began Weiser to die. Lynnette said that it hurt her heart every time Brett Roberts had to empty out a vase and put the flowers into the garbage. (208) 549-0924 In the time to follow, Lynnette We can handle ALL of your found herself wanting to plant things in her garden. She was drawn there insurance needs by the healing she found in every Local, Personal Service plant. She tended and nurtured them Very competitive premiums: Farm • Ranch every day and in return they would Business • Auto • Home • Toys give her beautiful flowers to enjoy. From the plants she grew, she could cut new flowers to refill the vases. Over time, Lynnette and her hus- band decided they wanted their farm to be a refuge where people could Burlap and Buds is a local family business who raises cut flowers to find relief from their day to day supply florists and designers in the . The business has struggles, and find the same healing grown over the years and this summer they raised 5 acres of flowers. feeling that she has found as she has The family are planning on expanding in the future. Above Riggin Rob- grown each plant. While they are a erts is holding a bouquet of newly cut flowers from his family’s farm. Courtesy photo few years away from having mature and beautiful flowers for people to will grow well in the Weiser area. grows well in the area and tulips enjoy, the Roberts said they have While the blooming season for are drought tolerant, Lynnette said started working on that dream. flowers does not begin until spring, she found that she cannot grow tu- The couple officially began Burlap Lynnette said that flower farming is a lips on her farm because they have and Buds flower farm in 2019. While year-round job. She said their grow- a healthy deer population that eats the family farms 50 total acres, the ing season begins in late December every bloom. flower farm currently consists of and early January, as they start most Lynnette said she enjoys the five acres of a variety of flowers, and of their annual flowers under lights flower farm most because it means Roberts said they plan to expand the in winter. spending time outside and working flower portion of their farm over the Flowers have always been a fa- as a family and focusing on the heal- next few years. vorite hobby for Lynnette. Lynnette ing and love she has felt as she has The Roberts sell flowers whole- said she has spent countless hours grown the flowers. sale to florists and designers in the researching, taking flower farming “I love knowing the flowers we Treasure Valley. From zinnias, to classes online and learning by trial cultivate are going to help someone sunflowers, to hydrangeas, Lynnette and error over the years. celebrate, feel loved, or heal from said she grows as many varieties that While anything drought tolerant sickness or sorrow,” she said. 3 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Amazing indoor air quality.

Keep the air in your home

clean no matter what season. We carry the leading technology that fits your needs in air quality. Call us today for more details on all our air CALL US TODAY! purification products. 208-414-1302 CCB# 116071

Serving Eastern and Western Crop Protection • Crop Nutrition Small Grains • Forage • Corn Seed

The onion harvest is close to being done. Around 20,000 acres of onions are grown in the local area. Due to COVID-19 and with many restaurants being closed 315 W. Commercial • 208-549-2143 the onion market has taken a hit. Prices are below the break even point. Above Amano Farms is harvesting their onions on Indianhead Road. Photo by Sheri Smit

Family owned and operated since 1982

ONTARIO - (541)889-4214 BOISE - (208)336-7505 1400 N. VERDE DRIVE 6619 S. SUPPLY WAY WWW.TREASUREVALLEYSTEEL.COM 40 Year Full Paint Warranty • Weather X Paint

STEEL ROOFING & SIDING 24 Colors Available - Galvanized - Zinc Alum Copper Penny - Cor 10 Complete Line of Accessories • Soffit • 3’ Tuff Rib Panel 3’ Pro Panel • 2 1/2” / Corrugated Panel • Standing Seam 2’ Delta Rib • 3’ Apex • 3’ PBR • 3’ Gulf Coast 4 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

WEISER PLUMBING SERVICE, LLC “Serving the community for over 50 years” 827 E. Commercial St. Weiser, Idaho 83672 208-549-0386 PLBC - 13403

Horton Farms Harmon, Terry & Brandi 2574 School Road Midvale, Idaho 83645 (208) 355-2315 Our Quotes Include Installation

T-L Irrigation Systems Are Hydraulic Drive Proven Technology That Works

www.franklinbuildingsupply.com Free Estimates Building supplies • Hardware • Fencing Roofing • Siding • And More

1200 N Whitley • Fruitland | 208-452-4400

•Building Materials •Cabinets •Roofing •Composite Decking •Insulation DIY or Installed •Masonry & Concrete •Interior Doors & Trim •Free Estimates •Exterior Doors & Windows Erin and Christoper McGlaughlin found the perfect home in Weiser with little over 2 acres to begin their business, Butterfield Farms. The McGlaughlins grow a variety of produce with the major focus of growing 1200 N Whitley • Fruitland, ID ...... 208-452-4400vegetables with lots of color and varieties that are not normally found at the grocery store. Erin is pictured with her son Daniel surrounded by their bountiful harvest. Photo by Nicole Miller

(208) 642-7265 53 Hill Road • Weiser Butterfield Farms honors www.kelleyorchards.com Apples • Concord Grapes U pick and picked. Open Mon.-Sat. 9 am-5 pm the history of the land McGlaughlin’s grow a variety of colorful produce and seed crops by Nicole Miller ful vegetables was to make vegeta- mulching of cardboard and wood When Erin McGlaughlin and bles more fun for children, however chips to cut down on weeds and help her husband Christopher moved to she has found that the color has a prepare the soil for planting. They Weiser from Colorado in 2017, they similar effect on adults as well. Eve- practice no-till methods of preserv- said they knew finding 2½ acres in ryone has fun eating a more colorful ing the top layer of soil as well as us- the middle of town paired with a plate and trying that new thing that ing chickens in areas where the soil historic home was a rare opportu- is both familiar and safe but in an needs softening instead of tilling and FARM nity. The acreage would be enough unusual color, she said. moving the top nutrient rich layer. for the two to grow produce for their Butterfield Farms also grows seed The perma-culture principles fo- family and be able to raise crops to crops for Seed Co-Op, cus on what is better for plants, peo- COMMERCIAL sell. one of the family’s unique ways of ple, and the environment by using Butterfield Farms was created af- striving to share their crops with symbiotic relationships between dif- IRRIGATION ter the family learned of the history consumers. Butterfield Farms grow ferent plants and using nature itself of the property they were purchas- rainbow carrots for seeds that they to help produce better quality pro- ing and learning that the land was introduced to the co-op along with duce, the McGlaughlins said. an original parcel on the Butterfield lemon basil, buckwheat, columbine, Erin said she has sold her crops tract. The McGlaughlins said they winter squash, lettuce, sunflower at local farmers markets and has set wanted to honor the history of the and barley. Erin said she also has a up a weekly vegetable share, offer- InstallationInstallation •• SalesSales •• ServiceService land. passion for teaching others how to ing an opportunity for customers to Butterfield Farms grows a vari- grow their own crops from seeds. sign up to receive a basket full of Residential • Commercial • Agricultural ety of produce, from lettuce to peas, According to the Snake River in-season produce. She has also had Submersible • Jet • Centrifugal salad turnips to herbs, potatoes, and Seed Co-Op website, the co-op takes the pleasure of working with chefs EMERGENCY SERVICES AVAILABLE barley. A major focus for McGlaugh- pride in offering top-of-the-line at different restaurants in McCall. lin is variety and growing crops that seeds grown using sustainable meth- While they are working toward add- Competitive Prices typically would not be purchased or ods by family farmers. The seeds ing licensing for more commercial Large Selection of Sizes seen at the local grocery store. are grown in the area and with every sales, the focus right now is building The family also grow fruit crops, generation of seed being saved, each the market and trust of local custom- however they have found that with seed becomes more adapted to this ers. five children, a fair amount of jam region. Erin said she has most enjoyed is enjoyed therefore most of the fruit The philosophy aligns with the their farm seeing the value of unique Farmers and Ranchers crops are eaten by the family. McGlaughin’s focus as stewards of produce. Butterfield Farms has made “When I am choosing what the land. The McGlaughlins said their food more interesting and crea- Thank You for your business crops to grow, I try to go for famil- they practice all perma-culture prin- tive with the variety that they offer. iar but just a little different,” Erin ciples in their farming as well as use She said she would rather provide a 431 E. First • Weiser McGlaughlin said. certified GMO and chemical free specialty item for a side dish than 208-549-1907 • 1-800-390-1520 Erin said one of her original moti- seeds. a large amount of a more expected vations for growing the more color- The family said they use a sheet items. 5 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

USDA Meats Available Call and Reserve your Prime Rib and Smoked Turkey for the Holidays

gilmore’s get more quality meats, inc. 698 Pioneer Road • 208-549-4844

The Weiser School District welcomed a new ag teacher this fall. Robi Salisbury grew up in New Plymouth and was very active in Future Farmers of America and earned the American FFA Degree. She was excited when the position in Weiser opened up as she wanted to teach in a small town. Above Salisbury, left, is help- ing Macy Buescher with a welding project. New ag teacher wants to teach students all aspects of agriculture 208-414-3000 • mtecom.net | 123 W Main St. • Weiser, ID Salisbury hopes students find a passion for ag by Nicole Miller school showed some of the best sports- New Weiser High School Agriculture manship compared to other teams. It was Extended and Future Farmers of American (FFA) that sense of community of which she teacher Robi Salisbury is not a newcom- wanted to be a part, she said. Internet er to the Treasure Valley, having grown “Since teaching in Weiser, I have got up in nearby New Plymouth, Idaho. nothing but support for my students and Service Area Salisbury said that being raised in my program. It really is one of the best an agricultural community had a large communities around,” Salisbury said. influence on her education. She owned Salisbury said her goal for the ag in Weiser horses and mules and program in showed pigs through- Weiser is to out high school at the provide her RELIABLE,RELIABLE, QUALITY QUALITY HIGH-SPEED HIGH-SPEED INTERNET INERNET Payette County Fair. Agriculture is some- students with She said she attended as many op- WITH FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SERVICE! ag classes and held thing I am super p o r t u n i t i e s an officer position as possible in FFA every year passionate about...” as well as in high school. Af- ~Robi Salisbury educating her ter graduating from WSD ag teacher students on Royal’s Truck New Plymouth High all aspects of School, Salisbury agriculture. & Diesel Repair Inc. earned her American With a FFA Degree, an honor given to a select strong passion for workplace readiness, 2280 NW 11th Street group of students in recognition of their Salisbury said she believes that when Ontario, OR (Exit 374) years of academic and professional ex- her students finish the program, they will 541-889-7002 • 800-391-6671 cellence. hopefully be able to enter the agricultur- Salisbury said she knew she wanted to al industry, attend trade school or college be a teacher from a young age, however with skills and knowledge to help them it was her experience“ with the ag pro- be successful. gram at New Plymouth that encouraged Salisbury also hopes to see the FFA her specifically to pursue ag education. chapter grow and increase the student New Plymouth’s FFA chapter helped leaders in the Weiser community. She be- her grow and gave her a variety of op- lieves there is a spot for everyone in the portunities for leadership, travel, and ag program and said she hopes to pro- personal growth, she said. This was an vide all students with the opportunity to impact she said she knew she wanted to grow and develop leadership skills and share with future generations of students. find a passion for some aspect of agri- “Agriculture is something I am super culture, whether it is welding, ranching, passionate about and getting to share farming, ag business or food science. that with students every day and watch- A project Salisbury said she is excited Diesel & Gas Engine Repair ing their passion grow for this industry is about is working on updating the green- something that attracted me to this pro- house. She said she also loved watching Pickups - 4x4’s - Autos fession,” Salisbury said. teacher Patty Matthews as she and stu- Salisbury said she was interested in dents work in the horticulture class and Farm Equipment the ag position for Weiser High School clean the north side of the ag building. because she wanted to teach in a small “We are constantly working on updat- Trucks & Semi’s town like the one she grew up in. She ing our curriculum and keeping it fun grew up competing against Weiser in and exciting for the students,” Salisbury various FFA events and sports and the said. 6 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Weiser, Idaho • 208-414-3352

Weiser Veterinary Clinic

Frank Coleman DVM • Dennis Johnson DVM Jennie Walker DVM • Kirk Ramsey DVM

Dogs • Cats • Horses • Livestock Far West Agribusiness Association moved their office to Weiser in August. The association covers five states, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada and Utah. They provide assistance with legislation, regulations, training, education and networking. Pictured above are Zane Davis, business manager, Errin Nelson, 208-549-0944 marketing and events manager and Margaret Jensen, executive director. 815 W. Idaho St. • Weiser, ID Far West Agribusiness Association moves their business to Weiser Mobile Repair Service The employees of Far West Agribusi- Weiser and be surrounded by agriculture.” ness Association, a new business to Weis- Marketing and events manager Erin • Specializing in er as of August, said they are thrilled about Nelson said she has been with FWAA for their move to Weiser and are excited to be 5 years and has spent 20 years in the ag- Hydraulic part of the community. ricultural industry. Nelson lives in Wash- Far West Agribusiness Association ington state and said she will continue to and AC hoses, (FWAA) was founded in 1959 under the work remotely from the Colfax area. name Inland Empire Fertilizer Dealers Social media specialist for FWAA, • Tractor Cab Parts Association. The name was eventually Paige Jensen was recently hired on and changed to Far West Fertilizer Association said she brings a history in business, sales • Repair and Welding to reflect the geography of our members and social media marketing and manage- then to Far West Agribusiness Association ment to the position and her education and • Gas & Diesel Repair to include all crop inputs and represent- experience are vital to the organization. • Agricultural and Trucks ing agribusinesses throughout the FWAA “The number 1 focus of FWAA is regions of Idaho, Oregon, Washington, legislative,” said Director Jenson. “The Utah and Nevada. FWAA employs three lobbyists from Or- JB Repair This year has brought several changes egon, Washington and Idaho, who work within the organization, including the ad- very hard at their respective statehouses 208-550-2055 dition of Weiser resident Margaret Jensen fighting and protecting legislation that im- as the executive director in April. pacts our members regionally.” Jensen said she has been affiliated with Through the FWAA Political Action FWAA for over a decade and was previ- Committee, the organization was able to ously a member of the FWAA board of di- send over $13,000 to legislators regional- rectors. She is in the process of instituting ly who have shown dedication to fighting positive changes for the organization. and protecting agriculture. The organiza- “This year we made the difficult but tion annually hosts a PAC auction to raise exciting decision to close our office in money, with the fundraiser helping the Spokane after almost 60 years…and organization maintain allies that uplift the move the business to Weiser, Idaho,” said FWAA, said Jensen. Jenson. FWAA also provides safety training Jensen received her bachelor’s degree and continued education opportunities for in genetics with a minor in plant science both its members and non-members to ob- from University of California Davis. She tain proper credentials and certifications has over 30 years of experience with the for ag chemical spills, CCA credits and vegetable and seed industry, first work- ammonia sulfate training. The trainings ing in research and several development are held throughout the region and year. departments before becoming a seed and The organization also offers scholar- agronomy employment recruiter with cli- ship opportunities for college and high ents across the Pacific Northwest. school students who chose to pursue an In addition to her specialized knowl- education in agricultural studies. edge, Jensen said her international con- The FWAA membership consists of ag Looking to finance your dream? nections have further expanded her under- retailers, crop input manufacturers of pest standing of the diverse needs of the global management and plant nutrition products, We’ll help you plant the seed. agribusiness industry. equipment manufacturers and retailers, as Every new producer has to start somewhere. And it’s far from easy. We help Jensen is also active in numerous in- well as other industry affiliates and Uni- give young, beginning and small farmers and ranchers a leg up with special dustries, political and community organi- versity Extension services. financing options, educational opportunities, and hands-on, strategic advice zations and said she has a desire to give “The FWAA is very active in support- to help you get started. back to the communities and organiza- ing the communities we are in,” said tions that have been so significant in her Jensen. So if you’re ready to start cultivating your dream, give us a call. We’d be life and career. Far West Agribusiness Association will happy to help. “We are looking forward to growing be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony and our membership and offering more to our open house on Thursday, October 29 from 541.823.2660 | northwestfcs.com current members,” said Jensen. “We are 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. They welcome the pub- excited to put our new roots down here in lic to stop by and say hi! 7 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020 From the harvest table A keep-it-simple food column by Chef Keith Bryant My start halls. In in the food 1989 I got industry out of the came at the military and age of 15 as went to work a busboy. for overnight Chef Ray cruise ves- told me I sels for the didn’t look Delta Queen comfortable Steamboat in the front Company out of the house, of New Orle- so he asked ans. Within me to work two years, I for him in worked my the kitchen. Eventually, my way up to executive chef. own family started their My career on boats lasted own restaurant in Slidell, for 16 years before I took Louisiana. I was in col- the opportunity to move lege at the time and came to Weiser. In my many home on the weekends years of cooking, I have to cook in the kitchen. I prepared cuisine from all also spent four years in over the world, but my the Navy cooking in mess passion is Cajun cooking. The garden is in good shape We are in the harvest zucchini for pasta a cou- season at my house and ple of times. Butternut squash noodles Sharon and I have been I started planning my Recipe working so much we re- holiday meals around Ingredients with crispy bacon ally don’t check on the the house. I love butter- 2 tablespoons olive oil Directions: mend using kitchen tongs garden enough. nut squash so I looked 1 small onion chopped Heat olive oil in a large to gently turn them as they If you have ever grown for something I could do 2 cloves of garlic minced saucepan over medium- cook. You will know that zucchini you know that with it besides roasting 6 cups spiralized butternut high heat. Add in the onion they are cooked when they if you miss one day that it. Spiral cutter to the squash noodles from two 10- and cook until translucent, soften and get smaller in vegetable becomes huge. rescue. We will have a 12-inch butternut squashes 3-4 minutes. volume. Well just like that we nice addition to the table Salt* Stir in the garlic and Add in the bacon and had quite a few large this year with this recipe. ¼ teaspoon ground black pep- cook, stirring constantly, give it a large gentle stir. vegetables and we didn’t I have also found with per for 30 seconds. To serve: Divide the want that much zucchini this item you can add ½ cup cooked Bacon Add in the butternut cooked noodles into bowls bread, so Sharon went whatever you want. ½ cup shredded parmesan squash noodles and cook and sprinkle each bowl out and bought one of I want to try it again cheese for 7 to 10 minutes (timing with parmesan cheese and the spiral cutters to make with chicken, also some 2 tablespoons Italian parsley depends on the thickness chopped fresh parsley, if noodles with it. It worked sage and brown butter chopped (optional) of your noodles). I recom- preferred. great and we have subbed sounds like a hit. Profitable returns expected for most agricultural products by Sarah Imada Leroy Loomis, grain buyer for United eral manager of Haun Packing Company, winter comes on. The onion market is de- From farm to table, the Treasure Valley Grain Company, said that commodity Herb Haun. Haun owns the business with pendent on our economy staying open,” is a large supplier of the agricultural prod- prices to the wheat growers will tend to his brother Fred and brother-in-law Stuart Haun said. ucts that feeds the domestic market and is be average this year. In the last month Syme. The Treasure Valley and Malheur exported to feed the world. prices have rallied due to exports to Chi- “Prices are slightly below the cost of County, Oregon together produce more The openness of the Weiser River Val- na, and oppressive dry areas in Russia, the production,” said Haun. than 25 percent of the nation’s yellow on- ley and its fertile lands provide agricultur- Ukraine and in some parts of the United The break-even point for yellow onions ions. Farmers grow the Spanish Sweet va- al produce including wheat, corn, beans, States have caused a wheat shortage driv- is $7 per 50-pound bag. This year jumbo riety, whose mild flavor makes a desirable beets, onions, hay, fruit, seed crops and ing prices up. yellows are currently at $6 per 50-pound ingredient for home cooks, food service, other specialty ag products. “Growers are receiving a better price bag. Red onions are $5.50 to $6 for a and manufacturers alike. Several regional According to Northwest Farm Credit for their wheat and also for corn,” Loomis 25-pound bag and whites are $12 to $14 processors produce whole peeled onions, Services, this year’s returns are expected said. for a 50-pound bag. individually quick-frozen dices, and on- to be profitable for most agricultural prod- Nearly half of all Idaho wheat is sold The COVID-19 shut down impaired the ion rings. ucts. to foreign markets, making it one of the onion industry as the food industry closed Hay Wheat state’s top export products. Yields for down and the demand of colossal and Idaho hay is known for its high protein United Grain Company, a Japanese wheat and corn have been average to super colossal onions lessened. The shut content and is marketable for dairy and business based in Vancouver, Washington, slightly above average. Good yields and down has kept the prices depressed. horse operations around the world. Idaho has served the Pacific Northwest for 50 good quality have helped the area farmers, According to Haun the onion harvest ranks first in the U.S. for production of years as the premier grain exporter. The Loomis said. is nearly over. The Weiser area grows certified organic hay and is the second company purchased Scoular earlier this Onions around 20,000 acres of onions a year. year. With the acquisition they retained The quality of this year’s onion crop is “The yields have been average. Trans- Scoular’s facilities in Notus and Ontario. excellent, according to co-owner and gen- portation is tight and will get worse as see PRICES, Page 9 8 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Carl Glarborg Certified Public Accountant 444 State Street Weiser 208-549-2653 [email protected]

Lube • Oil • General Maintenance Repair Computer Diagnostics • Fuel Injection Cleaning Coolant Flush • Transmissions Flush 355 E. 7th St. • 208-549-0076

Locally grown loans from locally grown bankers.

You’ll notice the difference.

Weiser 208-549-8608 ColumbiaBank.com Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender Duane and Kimberly Thiessen are raising free range chickens on their farm located on County Road 70 on the Weiser Flat. Every day can feel like an Easter egg hunt as the family gathers up eggs. Above Lydia, Katie, Peter Thiessen have a very full basket of fresh free range eggs. Living Sky Farms sells chickens, Got Unwanted Gear? eggs and is planning on adding beef and raw milk. They plan on opening a store on their farm and selling their fresh products beginning in November. Stop storing it. Trade for what you really want! Living Sky Farms products are raised without the use of chemicals Authorized Dealer Nicole Miller positive change in their kids health in nature and being connected to Located at the very west end of and as well as their own and really your food. There have been some County Road 70 nestled along the wanted to share those experiences meals where we look on the table Snake River, consumers can find with others. and realize that everything sitting Living Sky Farms where they can “We also couldn’t deny the amaz- there came straight from our farm,” Go Play Outside! buy chickens by the whole or cuts, ing changes in the soil when we Thiessen said. eggs, and will soon be able to buy stopped using chemicals,” Thiessen The Thiessens realize that while 1701 SW 4TH AVE - ONTARIO. OR beef, and raw milk. said. not everyone has the ability to do The Thiessen family moved to Kimberly was originally from that, it is their hope that more fami- 208-741-0759 Weiser from Saskatchewan Canada Idaho, so the family decided to look lies will try and keep their food and brought with them their dream for their dream home in the area. sources as local as possible. for their ag business and an inspira- “This state is beautiful and we “When they buy from small local tion for their farm name. Saskatch- love our small town of Weiser,” farmers they are not only supporting ewan is called the Land of Living Thiessen said. the livelihood of that farm, but they Skies so the name of their farm is a Along with chickens and eggs and are also keeping their money in the homage to the home where Duane expanding into beef and dairy, the community,” Thiessen said. grew up. family has also started an organic In addition to supporting the small Although both Duane and Kim- process of sheepskin tannery that is business the product is also usually berly were both raised in agricultural just getting off the ground. With that better tasting and fresh and without business families, they decided that they sell sheepskin rugs as well as preservative chemicals. Your Farm and Ranch Experts! their careers in agriculture would be custom tanned sheep, goat, alpaca, “Our goal is to bring back the hon- a little different. and deer hides for other individuals. est farm from the past. The farm that Lori McKinney Duane was born and raised on a While they have been in agricul- cares about their community and its Associate Broker commercial grain farm, and Kim- ture their whole lives, Thiessen said people. Our kids help candle and 208-739-0792 berly grew up in a family that raised that there are many aspects of farm- gather eggs. They know the names cattle in a feedlot. ing that you cannot learn until you of the cattle as they help move them They loved the farming lifestyle, have experienced it. She has read across the pastures. We care deeply Kendra Marvin and their way of farming in Weiser stacks of books on regenerative ag- for our animals and the quality of REALTOR® diverges greatly from what they riculture and on dairy cows, but the food we put out there, and we are 208-550-2241 grew up with. real learning happens when you get quite proud of it,” Thiessen said. In 2016, the family lost Duane’s your hands dirty and it is not always The Living Sky Farms products mother-in-law to cancer. During that pretty. Lessons are costly and can be can be found at The Market in Weis- experience they started getting into disheartening. er, at Roots Zero Waste market near growing food without chemicals and They love the work they do when the connector in Boise, and you can avoiding non-traditional food (proc- people, especially children, can see also buy directly from the farm. The essed, etc). the wonder and excitement from be- family has built a small store at the After clearing out chemicals ing around the animals. farm and looks forward to opening it www.indianheadgroup.com out of their diet, they saw a drastic “There is something about being to the public in November. 9 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Agriculture is our wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals, and happiness. “ –Thomas Jefferson

1 Appleton Ln. Weiser, Idaho

Reynolds Creek Calf Ranch is the new owners of KC Feedlot located on Weiser River Road. Weiser High School graduate Chase Harberd is managing the feedlot. The feedlot will run year-round and one of their Coffee & main goals is to support the local farming community. Harberd is the son of Jim and Darla Harberd of Weiser. Photo by Nicole Miller Baked Goodies 208-414-1422 Harberd returns to Weiser to 438 State St run Reynolds Creek Calf Ranch Weiser, ID 83672 Souvenirs • Local Hand Crafted Gifts by Nicole Miller he and his wife were excited to move A feedlot operates on a streamlined Reynolds Creek Calf Ranch based “back home.” He said he has enjoyed process that allows for the control of in Murphy, Idaho recently purchased coming back to working in the cattle average daily gains and more. Kerner Feedlot on Weiser River industry full time. Harberd said that while he knows Road. Now operating under the new The feedlot officially changed there is some marketing and bias name Weiser River Cattle Feeders, hands in May 2020. Some structural present that have given feedlots a bad the feedlot is managed by Weiser changes made so far include adding name, he would challenge all to see High School alumni, Chase Harberd. concrete receiving pits and mak- how the Weiser River Cattle lot is op- Harberd grew up working on a ing repairs. Harberd said that Bruce erated. The cattle are fed according feedlot with his grandfather, Howard Kerner, the previous owner, always to a specially formulated nutrition Raney, and working with cattle. Af- produced good work and managed plan created by a beef nutritionist, ter studying agriculture management a good business, so it was a mostly are checked on and cared for by em- at Treasure Valley Community Col- turn-key purchase. ployees who do right by their cattle lege, Harberd began working for The Weiser River Cattle Feed- every day. Agri Beef Company in Boise. ers will be running the feedlot year- The task of running and working Beginning as an intern, Har- round, different from the previous at a feedlot is not necessarily easy, berd said he gained experience and owner who mostly operated the lot said Harberd. Meeting the needs of worked up the ladder to become feed during the fall and winter months. the cattle around the clock and all manager. He worked for Agri Beef Kerner also provided more custom year means doctoring and feeding, for 4½ years, and when he and his feeding, and while the Weiser River often facing against the elements of wife’s own business began gaining Cattle Feeders will have some room extreme heat and drought as well as traction, he eventually stepped down for custom feeding, the focus will be heavy snow and freezing tempera- from leadership. company cattle. tures. The owner of Reynolds Creek A major focus for Reynolds Creek Weiser has a prominent agricultur- contacted Harberd about managing a Ranch will be supporting the local al community and Harberd said he is new feedlot, and originally Harberd agriculture businesses in the commu- hopeful that local farmers and ranch- said he was not interested. However, nities where they have cattle. Har- ers and the support of the community when the owner said he would be berd said that the goal is to work with can continue working together to managing the Weiser feedlot, Har- local farmers. Ranchers will have keep it that way. berd said he did not want to pass up another local source to market their Harberd said he and his wife have the opportunity. cattle. The feedlot plans to purchase enjoyed settling back in Weiser. Al- “The Kerners are like family. I am their feed locally, supporting local though he never went too far, being honored by the opportunity to con- feed producers. The business has al- back in Weiser and working with tinue to do right by their legacy and ready worked with a local farmer to the community has reminded him of do right by the cattle,” Harberd said. use manure from the feedlot to ferti- things that have made the town spe- “They started the feedlot in 1987 and lize his fields. cial. From the support of the local put a lot of blood, sweat and tears Feedlots are crucial to the cattle farmers and ranchers to the support into running it right for 32 years. It’s industry, Harberd said. Grass-fed of the community as he and his wife important to honor that.” beef can be a decent product how- both run a business in town, it has Harberd said he knew that it was ever ranchers are not able to keep up been good to have all the reminders the right time for the opportunity and with demand on only grass-fed cattle. of what makes Weiser special.

from page 7 Large crop of apples help offset the loss of early spring fruit largest U.S. producer of sessed exportable supplies. beets are grown primarily fruit being a good size and alfalfa hay. Alfalfa con- Individual producer profit- in irrigated areas of the the apples were of good stitutes more than 80 per- ability will depend on the Snake River Valley and quality. However, because cent of Idaho’s total hay ratio of high and low qual- are shipped locally to the of unsettling weather and production, with over four ity hay. Nampa refinery. The beet freezing temperatures in million tons harvested an- Sugar beets pulp is made into granulat- the spring, the orchards nually. Idaho’s high eleva- Idaho ranks second na- ed sugar, powdered sugar, lost their crop of apricots tions and arid climate cre- tionally in the production liquid sucrose, brown sug- and cherries. ate ideal drying conditions. of sugar beets, providing ar, and betaine. “I was very pleased with According to Northwest 20 percent of total U.S. Fruit the harvest this year,” said Farm Credit Services, the yields. Sugar beets are tra- Owners of Brooke Or- Rich. “The weather was outlook for hay growers ditionally Idaho’s fourth chards, Rich and Kathy very good this year except is varied. Rain disrupted most valuable crop. Ida- Brooke grow apricots, for the freezes during the first cutting and smoke in ho’s 850 and more sugar cherries, plums, and honey cherry season.” September slowed drying beet farmers plant approxi- crisp apples. Kelley Orchards, locat- times for late cuttings. Ex- mately 175,000 acres and The plums and honey ed near Brooke Orchards, port volume slowed during harvest more than six mil- crisp apples produced a the summer as traders as- lion tons each year. Sugar normal harvest with the Continued on Page 10 Hobby farmers care for a herd of Nubian goats

10 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

YourYour hometownhometown hardwarehardware store!store!

(208)(208) 549-0424549-0424

11011101 StateState StSt Weiser,Weiser, IDID

Have News to Report? Call 208-549-1717

Trust the #1 name in the Ag Industry Hotsy pressure washers... • Over 100 models • We stand behind our pressure washers...Hotsy has the best warranties in the industry • Parts and accessories • We provide on site service • Installation of complete washing systems Request an on-site demo! The growing season is over and now is the time to enjoy the harvest. Herb Haun and his grandson Kaleb Haun continue a family tradition of picking up onions on the family farm. had a bumper crop of apples this Apples available at their orchard dried fruit and jam at their orchard year and still have apples available. include Fuji, honey crisp, golden which is located at 53 Hill Road. Mattson Distributing However, the same spring frost delicious, red delicious, Jonathan, They are open Monday through 11711 Fairview Ave. that hit Brooke Orchard’s apricots mutsu and jonagold. Apples may Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and cherries also caused a short be purchased picked or for the next This year’s prices were steady on Boise, ID (208) 375-4510 crop on peaches and nectarines. couple of weeks people can go out apples but were a little higher for www.hotsyidaho.com Despite this, their apple trees were and pick their own. peaches and nectarines due to the loaded. Ron and Kimi Kelley also have short crop. Hobby farmers care for a herd of Nubian goats

11 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

It’s hard to stay current about what’s going on outside your front door

WEISER SIGNALProudly serving the Weiser River Valley AMERICAN since 1882 We Cancan Help!help

208-549-1717 or 549-1717 signalamerican.com 12 – Weiser Signal American – Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Only $3 a month to get your news delivered online 24/7

Call to subscribe

today! The fall weather has been ideal for farmers and ranchers. With nice warm days the fields are still green for cattle to graze. The beet and corn harvest is in full swing and with the only precipitation in the area on Saturday, Oct. 10, the fields have been dry to allow farmers to get into their fields to finish off the harvest 208-549-1717 season. Above cattle are grazing on the SS Cattle Company ranch. Royce and Pam Schwenkfelder run the SS Cattle Company with Royce’s brother, Bob, and his wife, Bonnie, in the Little Weiser River Valley near Cambridge, Idaho. Mon. - Fri. 8 - 6 • Saturday 8 - 5 250 E. FIRST STREET • WEISER 549-2534 TIRES • BATTERIES • SHOCKS • WHEELS • RIMS • ALIGNMENT LUBE OIL FILTER • FLEET SERVICE

Thank you to all our farmers and ranchers that keep our community growing!