working together, always learning the

PracticalA quarterly publication of Practical Farmers of Iowa FarmerVol. 31, No. 1 | Winter 2015

On the cover In this issue Board member Ann FIELD CROPS: LIVESTOCK: FARM OTHER FEATURES: Cromwell and her brother Protecting Cash Addressing the TRANSITIONS: → Griffieon Family Farm Photo Essay Kevin Huedepohl bring in Crops: Cover Crops Need: How Can Iowa Top Goal: Your 3 the harvest. or Genetically Farmers Meet the Farmland, Your → 2015 Annual Engineered Traits? Demand for Niche Legacy Conference Photo by Helen Gunderson 8 Pork? 10 12 Photos 14 In This Issue features departments

4 SPECIAL: PHOTO ESSAY :: SOYBEAN 14 SPECIAL: PHOTO SPREAD :: 2015 3 FROM THE VICE HARVEST: GRIFFIEON FAMILY FARM ANNUAL CONFERENCE PRESIDENT In this pictorial essay, see how bringing in the Revisit special moments – or see what you missed beans is a family affair. – at the 2015 annual conference. 18 PFI LEADERS PFI truly runs on the 5 COOPERATORS' MEETING RECAP :: 20 SAVINGS INCENTIVE PROGRAM :: MEET strength of its members STAYING HUNGRY AND INSPIRED THE CLASS OF 2016 – as this list shows! Learn what topics are tops on PFI farmers' minds for on-farm research in 2015, and see 21 NEXT GENERATION :: BEGINNING PFI 23 THOMPSON photos from this long-standing annual event. FARMERS: DRIVEN TO FARM LEGACY There's no such thing as a typical beginning 8 FIELD CROPS :: PROTECTING CASH farmer, and PFI members are no exception. Get to 24 PAST, PRESENT & CROPS: WHAT METHOD IS BEST? know a few of the diverse beginners in our ranks. FUTURE A change in the market in 2014 saw prices for 27 MEMBER BOOK corn and soybeans drop – even as production 22 HORTICULTURE :: QUESTIONING ALL REVIEW costs remain high. What does this mean for Get more details on what PFI hort farmers conventional, non-GMO corn and beans – and researched last year and plan to study in 2015. "The Soil Will Save can they pay for your cover crops? Us" 25 POLICY:: LEVELING THE FIELD – By Gail Hickenbottom 10 LIVESTOCK :: CAN IOWA FARMERS Learn about Whole Farm Revenue Protection, PFI NEWS MEET NICHE PORK DEMAND? a new insurance option in Iowa for small, 28 diversified farmers. Demand for niche porke continues to grow. 30 WELCOME NEW Read advice from experts on how to tap into MEMBERS this growing market opportunity. 24 ENERGY :: WIND ENERGY Q&A Read how things are going with PFI member 30 CALENDAR :: 12 FARM TRANSITIONS :: YOUR LEGACY Mark Runquist's wind turbine. FEB. – APRIL What do you want for the future of your farmland? Read what matters most to several 31 JOIN PFI PFI members.

We love to hear from you! Please feel free to contact your board members or staff. DISTRICT 1 (NORTHWEST) Ann Franzenburg PFI STAFF Nick Ohde (306) Dan Wilson – President 6925 19th Ave. For general information and staff connections, Research and Program Assistant 4375 Pierce Ave. Van Horne, IA 52346 call (515) 232-5661. Staff extensions are listed nick@ Paullina, IA 51046 (515) 928-7690 in parentheses. Teresa Opheim (302) (712) 448-3870 [email protected] All email addresses are Executive Director [email protected] Vic Madsen @practicalfarmers.org teresa@ DISTRICT 2 (NORTH CENTRAL) 2186 Goldfinch Ave. Erica Andorf (303) Julie Wheelock (304) Wendy Johnson Audubon, IA 50025 Office Manager Savings Incentive Program Coordinator 2038 March Ave (712) 563-3044 erica@ julie@ Charles City, IA 50616 [email protected] Sarah Carlson (305) Sally Worley (310) (562) 852-7044 Operations Director [email protected] Mark Quee Midwest Cover Crop Research Coordinator 1951 Delta Ave. sarah@ sally@ DISTRICT 3 (NORTHEAST) West Branch, IA 52358 Lauren Zastrow (312) Tyler Franzenburg Steve Carlson (308) (319) 530-3782 Beginning Farmer Consultant Office Assistant and Events Coordinator 6915 15th Ave. [email protected] lauren@ Keystone, IA 52249 steve@ (319) 721-2176 Kurt Van Hulzen Meghan Filbert (309) [email protected] 2397 Wadsley Ave. Livestock Coordinator Sac City, IA 50583 meghan@ DISTRICT 4 (SOUTHWEST) [email protected] the Mark Peterson – Vice-President Stefan Gailans (314) 2311 N Ave. AT-LARGE FRIENDS of FARMERS Research Scientist, Cooperators' Stanton, IA 51573 Kathy Eckhouse Program Coordinator Practical Farmer stefan@ (712) 370-4004 400 Hakes Dr. the Practical Farmer is published quarterly as a benefit [email protected] Des Moines, IA 50211 Suzi Howk (301) of membership, and helps keep farmers and friends of DISTRICT 5 (SOUTHEAST) (515) 981-1625 Finance and Benefits Manager [email protected] farmers in touch with one another through informative Ann Cromwell suzi@ articles on relevant farming topics, current on-farm 3303 240th St. Gail Hickenbottom – Treasurer Tamsyn Jones (311) research, upcoming events and other news of interest. Williamsburg, IA 52361 810 Browns Woods Dr. Communications Specialist (319) 668-8248 West Des Moines, IA 50265 tamsyn@ Newsletter Editor: Tamsyn Jones (515) 256-7876 [email protected] Liz Kolbe (313) (Back issues are available upon request. Unless otherwise noted, CO-FOUNDERS Horticulture Coordinator articles may be reprinted or adapted if credit is given. Clippings and AT-LARGE FARMERS notice are appreciated). Melissa Dunham – Secretary Larry Kallem Sharon Thompson liz@ th 1933 Penrose St. 12303 NW 158 Ave. Boone, IA Drake Larsen (307) Grinnell, IA 50112 Madrid, IA 50156 Communications (641) 236-4374 (515) 795-2303 and Policy Coordinator [email protected] drake@ Vice President's Note Why I Belong

I don’t want to talk to Diversity is Our Strength those organic folk!” “ PFI members include (clockwise, from left to right): Friend of farmer and landowner Ruth “Gee, almost all the Rabinowitz (with her father David and sister Shauna); Terry Troxel (vegetables); Jon programming is for Bakehouse (corn, soybeans, small grains, beef cattle, hay); Jack and Marion Boyer (corn, soybeans, corn seed); and Ryan Herman (beef cattle, hay, agroforestry). horticulture.”

These are actual comments I have heard about Practical Farmers. The first one happened at the first Farm Progress show that we exhibited at. What appeared to be happening was a son trying to convince his dad to stop and talk to us. The second was a comment directed at me while attending a PFI meeting.

Interestingly, I have heard this type of comment more than once, depending on which “kind” of farmer I'm visiting with, but it always seems to be directed at a “kind” of farmer other than themselves.

Personally, I am proud of how diverse a group we are and the “kinds” of farmers that make up our membership. Whether you farm organically, have livestock – or even whether you actually have the chance to get dirty in the great outdoors – we all are and can be members of Practical Farmers.

I am proud to belong to an organization with membership so broad that it defies definition. I know that I have spent time trying to determine what a “typical” member is, and I think the glue that holds us together consists of two things: The never-ending curiosity to try new ideas, Dog of the Issue along with challenging old ones on our farms, and the burning desire to be good stewards of what has been entrusted to us.

I can only speak for myself, but this is why I belong.

– Mark Peterson (Stanton, Iowa) Farmer and Vice-President of Practical Penny helps with the harvest. Penny is owned by Earl and Jeff Farmers of Iowa Hafner, who farm near Panora.

www.practicalfarmers.org | 3 Photo Essay

LaVon Griffieon shares the story Candid: behind this photo shoot. SoybeanGRIFFIEON Harvest: FAMILY FARM Photos by Zhenru Zhang

Top Row (left to right): LaVon is calling husband Craig Griffieon, who is stuck with his combine in the mud, to let him know he is late for a photo shoot for "Map of My Kingdom" trailer, thus missing the perfect light the photoshoot was planned around. LaVon is showing photographer where Craig is stuck in the mud using a map of the Griffieon kingdom. LaVon stands in front of a wall of farmstead photos spanning 1910-2012.

Above (left to right): LaVon holding some of the soybean harvest. LaVon returning to pickup after helping extract combine. LaVon showing photographer areas the grass is greener where chicken tractors have been. Right: Mud puddle extraction crew, starring: daughter Autumn Ogden, son Phil Griffieon, son-in-law Laramie Ogden and husband Craig. Bottom Row (left to right): Phil is directing traffic. Phil and Autumn walk from the grain cart into the yard (LaVon assumes Phil is Snapchatting with brother Nick who missed out on quality family time). Craig and LaVon in front of their Iowa century farmhouse.

4 | the Practical Farmer Cooperators' Meeting Recap

Practical Farmers Cooperators: Staying Hungry and Inspired by Stefan Gailans

weed pressure in late-season spinach In her closing remarks to the crowd gathered at the 2014 Cooperators’ Meeting, seeded after cover crop termination. Wendy Johnson, who farms near Charles City, made mention of the “hunger for more information, to experiment, to want to become better stewards of the Dave, and his wife, Meg, have entered land and the treatment of animals, and just be all-around better at farming.” an agreement with Meg’s father to graze This year, 54 farmers attended the meetings on Dec. 8 and 9 in Ames to hear their cattle on corn ground seeded with a cereal rye cover crop in the fall. By grazing from their farmer colleagues about on-farm research conducted in 2014 and the cover crop growth and leftover corn to plan projects for the coming year. A curious bunch went home with more residue on Meg’s father’s land, Dave questions to answer, and with ideas about how to answer those questions. and Meg have substantially reduced the amount of hay they need to purchase and feed to their cattle, thus reducing their he Cooperators’ Program is Practical to monitoring pollinator insects and production costs. Farmers of Iowa’s vehicle for keeping good yield and financial Tconducting on-farm research on the records. A Focus on Research Quality issues and concerns about agriculture deemed most important by our members. A foundation of good on-farm research is The annual two-day Cooperators’ Meeting attention to project design. Mark Quee, of serves as a showcase for our farming Scattergood Farm near West Branch, led a members who conducted research on their Since 1987... session in front of the whole group on the farms during the past year to present their . . . PFI farmer cooperators principles of randomization and replication findings to their peers. Rick Hartmann, of have conducted nearly 950 when setting up research trials on the Small Potatoes Farm near Minburn, sums it on-farm research projects farm. Mark explained how adopting these up like this: “At the Cooperators' Meeting and shared the information principles can result in data that can be you've got the kind of PFI members that gained with neighbors, statistically analyzed in order to formulate started the organization; farmers interested farmers and the public. conclusions. in on-farm research." Ann Franzenburg, of Pheasant Run Farm Topics can vary each year based on near Van Horn, gave this year’s keynote research projects selected and interest In 2014... address, “Diversification brought me from attendees. Here's what participants . . . 65 farmers took part in back to the farm.” Ann explained that the undisclosed second half of her focused on in 2014: 42 projects presentation title was, “Good record- ●● Field crops: In the field crops group, we keeping kept me on the farm.” This was heard from Dick Sloan, Wade Dooley, particularly apparent when Ann displayed Wendy Johnson, Tim Sieren and Vic Connecting Members Across and explained all the methods she uses on Madsen about the costs of production Enterprises the farm to keep track of planting, harvest associated with seed treatments and and delivery dates, among many other manure nitrogen stabilizers as well as This year, the meeting also featured a things. the viability of small grain crops in Iowa. couple of “cross-cutting” sessions that appealed to field crop, livestock and Planning Future Research, ●● Livestock: Our livestock farmers, led horticulture farmers alike. In one of these Fueling the Spirit of Inquiry by Ron Rosmann and Cheryl Hopkins, sessions, Rob Faux, of Genuine Faux The meeting is also used to prioritize addressed different ways to efficiently Farm near Tripoli, and Dave Schmidt, of research ideas for the next year. In this feed hogs and strategically use grazing Troublesome Creek Cattle Co. near Exira, way, the Cooperators' Meeting helps to to reduce parasite loads in goats. elaborated on their experiments with build a cumulative knowledge base, as cover crops in their operations. Rob and ●● Horticulture: The horticulture group well as reveal new avenues of interest. his wife, Tammy, have been testing various featured Alice McGary, Will Osterholz, The knowledge gained from farmers warm-season cover crop species to grow Mark Quee, Jordan Scheibel, Jason conducting on-farm trials – and sharing in the summer between the time they Jones, Siobhan Danreis, Emma Johnson their results and insights – helps generate harvest early-season crops and plant late- and Rick Hartmann, who discussed ideas for future research that keeps the everything from experimenting with season crops in their vegetable production cover crops, worm castings, paper and system. Of the many cover crops they've plastic mulch and compost extract tested, Japanese millet appears to reduce (Continued on pg. 6)

www.practicalfarmers.org | 5 Cooperators Meeting Recap

RESEARCH PRIORITIES FOR 2015 Livestock Priorities Field Crop Priorities 2014 Cooperators' ●● Alternative free choice minerals for ●● Improving small grain production and Meeting Summary livestock marketing (Cont'd) ●● Poultry feed comparisons ●● Cover crop species and variety selection ●● Agriforestry, design and process of learning in continual motion. implementation of an alley cropping ●● Cover crop effect on soil fertility Jack Boyer, who farms near Reinbeck, system incorporating livestock ●● Long term soil health attended his first Cooperators’ Meeting ●● Grassfed meat and carcass quality this year and says: “I think the meeting ●● Audit of actual input needs/reducing was a good event and I enjoyed the ●● Soil health through grazing inputs discussions.” Jack is experimenting with management ●● Non-GMO corn variety screening cover crop seeding dates in his seed corn operation. He will document cover crop Energy Priorities ●● Weed management growth and changes in soil fertility with ●● Who with knowledge of farm energy Horticulture Priorities the cover crop seeding dates, as well as provides energy audits? any effects on his 2015 soybean crop. ●● Cover crops as living mulch ●● What are the programs out there A number of farmer-attendees mentioned offering financial assistance with ●● Cover crops for weed suppression installing solar, wind, and/or that the Cooperators’ Meeting is their geothermal systems? ●● Improving soil health with compost favorite Practical Farmers event of the extract year. When asked why she attended this ●● The economics of renewable energy: year, Jan Libbey, of One Step At A Time ●● Vegetable crop variety trials for Iowa what’s the payback time for solar, Gardens near Kanawha, says: “I come wind, and/or geothermal? ●● Financial recordkeeping to improve because you all (other farmers) inspire me, ●● Expert, unbiased advice: Where can I profitability and it's important this time of year to have go to receive advice on deciding what ●● Baseline yield data collection for FSA inspiration!” technology is best for my farm? ●● Improving on-farm pollinator habitat Are you interested in becoming part of Practical Farmers network of on-farm researchers? Contact Stefan Gailans: *NOTE: These are research ideas; not all will turn into projects. Of those that do, not all [email protected], (515) 232- projects will be completed in 2015; some might span multiple years. Check back at our next 5661. Cooperators’ Meeting for results from 2015.*

1 2

1. Bruce Carney (left) visits with J Arbuckle during the reception Monday night.

2. Attendees enjoy good food and fellowship at the meeting.

(Continued on next page) 6 | the Practical Farmer Cooperators Meeting Recap

3 4

3. 5 Craig Griffieon, Wade Dooley and Dick 6 Sloan brainstorm research priorities. 4. Gary Guthrie visits with Kate Edwards during the reception on Monday night. 5. Ryan Marquardt, with the help of son Zane and daughter Hazel, recap research ideas for next year. 6. Tim Sieren presents research he conducted on nitrogen stabilizers to the field crops group. 7. The field crops group holds a discussion on reducing costs of inputs. 8. Vic Madsen describes his randomized and replicated strip trial comparing red clover with a cover crop mix. 8

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www.practicalfarmers.org | 7 Field Crops

Protecting Cash Crops: Cover Crops or Genetically Engineered Traits? by Sarah Carlson

also can help farmers cut back on nitrogen The cost of growing an acre of corn in 2014 was $771.98 per acre, or $4.29 while maintaing cash crop yields. But in per bushel. An acre of soybeans cost $556.60 per acre, or $11.13 per bushel. these regions, cover crops grow for much These production costs are similar to previous years (Table 1). For instance, longer periods of time than in the Corn in 2012 the cost of production for corn was $761.78 per acre, or $4.23 per Belt, where corn and soybeans are the two bushel (Duffy, 2012). In 2013, the cost was $776.68 per acre and $4.31 per crops dominating the growing season on bushel. Similary for soybeans, in 2012 the cost to grow an acre of soybeans the landscape. was $545.91 per acre, or $10.92 per bushel, while the cost in 2013 remained Can cover crops provide water quality virtually unchanged at $547.71 per acre or $10.95 per bushel (Duffy, 2013). and soil health benefits while helping However, while costs of production were similar during these years, the price reduce farmers’ costs of growing corn farmers received in the marketplace dramatically changed in 2014. and soybeans? What does research tell us about the potential crop protection benefits of cover crops? he average price of a bushel of corn Other farmers mentioned that the cost paid to Iowa farmers during the 2012 savings from lower seed prices could help An Economic Pest of Interest T calendar year was $6.67 and $6.22 in pay for their cover crops and potentially 2013. For soybeans, the average price of control crop pests, diseases and even weed Western corn rootworm (Diabrotica a bushel paid to Iowa farmers during the pressure. virgifera) is a pest of economic significance. 2012 calendar year was $13.89 and $14.12 This pest can severely damage corn roots, in 2013. In 2014, however, a bushel of corn At agriculture events across Iowa, farmers thereby reducing yield potential. Currently, averaged $4.15 and a bushel of soybeans overwhelmingly comment about ways to farmers use a few methods to control averaged $12.67. Considering the bumper cut corn and soybean production costs. crop pests like western corn rootworm, yields just harvested, low cash grain prices Some research is proving what long-time including: insect-resistant corn hybrids, could continue for a number of years. This cover crop farmers have been observing on granular soil insecticides, seed treatments, begs the question: Could switching to their farms: The costs of growing corn and insecticide applications to kill mature conventional, non-GMO corn hybrids and soybeans can be cut by incorporating cover insects or extended crop rotation. Corn soybean varieties pay for cover crops and crops over the long-term. rootworms, however, have quickly become provide similar results? resistant to chemical management options: Cover crops have increased in popularity Also, in 2011, the first cases of resistance to and their addition to the landscape has Covering Costs genetically modified corn were confirmed reached an estimated 400,000 acres in Iowa in Iowa. At PFI’s recent Cooperators’ Meeting, – a number that reflects a rapid increase farmers discussed the potential cost savings over the past six years. However, it is a A recent study from South Dakota suggests of buying conventional, non-GMO corn small percentage of the 23 million acres that even in colder climates, cover crops seed while still maintaining similar yields. planted to corn and soybeans in Iowa. can impact corn crop pests. In 2010, Dr. Jeremy Gustafson, who farms near Boone, Jonathan Lundgren and colleagues found Since cover crops are relatively new to the finds his non-GMO crops to yieldbetter that western corn rootworm populations Corn Belt, comparatively few studies about than his GMO crops. "The lower price of and their natural enemies were affected their crop production benefits have been non-GMOs is definitely a benefit, but we are by a winter cover crop. They broadcast- conducted here. As described in the book seeing higher, rather than equivalent yields, seeded a cover crop of slender wheatgrass "Managing Cover Crops Profitably," cover from our non-GMO crops. By planting a at 30 pounds per acre in September 2006 crop research from the warmer eastern and non-GMO crop, we are getting the full and 2007. Half of the experiment was southern areas of the U.S. show that cover genetic potential from our hybrids. Every planted to cover crops while the control crops can reduce weed, insect and disease time you add a trait you lose a little bit of plots were not. The following springs, pressure to the succeeding cash crop. They yield potential." they used glyphosate to kill the cover Table 1. Average price paid per bushel, and costs of production per acre and per bushel for corn and crop near the time of corn planting. In soybeans in 2012-2014 in Iowa. both years the same glyphosate-tolerant Year Avg. Corn Corn cost / Corn cost Avg. Soybean Soybean Soybean cost corn hybrid was planted across the Price / bushel bushel / acre Price / bushel cost / bushel / acre entire study area. To make sure western corn rootworm pests were present, the 2014 $4.15 $4.29 $771.98 $12.67 $11.13 $556.60 researchers artificially infested all the plots 2013 $6.22 $4.31 $776.68 $14.12 $10.95 $547.71 with rootworm eggs. After planting corn, 2012 $6.67 $4.23 $761.78 $13.89 $10.92 $545.91 they began sampling and monitoring the

8 | the Practical Farmer (Continued on next page) Field Crops

Field staff working for Jonathan Lundgren sweep over a Corn rootworm larvae Western corn rootworm cover crop field for insects. plots, including counting the number of resistance to both chemical management damaged 11.5 percent and 7.0 percent of Western corn rootworm instars, or “grubs” and genetically engineered corn. In 2011, the stalks in 1984 and 1985, respectively. and measuring their size. An instar is the Dr. Aaron Gassman and other researchers term used to describe the different stages from Iowa State University documented European corn borer has not been an of the rootworm’s lifecycle when it looks the first western corn rootworms resistant economically devastating pest for corn like a grub or worm. Natural rootworm to corn traits that had been developed farmers for more than a decade due to enemies, including beetles, spiders, ants specifically to target these pests. They the common use of Bt corn. However, and ladybugs, were also counted. also discovered that the longer these corn rootworm damage can reduce yield genetically modified corn hybrids are significantly and be costly to manage. Jonathan and his team made three key planted in consecutive years in the same These two studies suggest that cover findings: field, the greater the potential for this pest crops could provide alternative pest to develop resistance. management options – and the costs of 1. In the plots that followed a cover crop, growing a cover crop could be offset by significantly fewer third-instar-stage What About Other Economically combining it with a conventional, non- rootworms (the largest) were found Important Corn Pests? GMO hybrid. than in the plots left as bare soil over the winter. Research conducted in 1984 in Ontario, Jeremy Gustafson's observations back Canada, sought to study a similar question up the research: "We have seen less pest Corn root damage was significantly less 2. to the one investigated by Jonathan in infestations in our fields where we are following a cover crop than bare soil. South Dakota. Dr. J. D. H. Lambert and using cover crops. Our neighbors not using 3. Finally, the natural enemy populations colleagues measured another pest of that cover crops have more pest infestations." collected from the soil surface were in once caused great economic devastation: greater abundance during June and July European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis). In in the cover crop plots versus the bare their study, 9 pounds of red clover per acre Learn More: Workshop on Cover soil. was interseeded into standing corn at 10 Crops & Crop Pests – Feb. 18 and 25 days following corn planting, then While the small (first instar) and medium compared to a control where no clover Learn more about how cover crops can (second instar) rootworm numbers were was interseeded with corn. The corn in impact natural enemy populations – and similar between the two treatments, this study was not genetically engineered. how you can use cover crops to better Jonathan found a strong negative At harvest, 40 corn stalks from each control crop pests – at a workshop with correlation between the number of natural replication of each treatment were cut at Jonathan Lundgren. enemies and the number of third instar corn the ground level and rated for European "Living Soil for Crop Protection" will take rootworms. This means that as beneficial corn borer damage – which was found to place on Wed., Feb. 18, at the West Des insect populations increased, third-instar be less in the treatments interseeded with Moines Sheraton Hotel during the 2015 corn rootworm numbers decreased. red clover 10 days after corn planting. In Iowa Cover Crops Conference. these plots, corn borer damage was 5.6 Corn rootworm management is not cheap, percent in 1984 and 2.6 percent in 1985. To register or and read more about the and management costs could increase. Where corn was the sole crop, the insects conference sessions, visit: These crop pests have shown themselves to be highly capable of developing www.swcs.org/15IACC.

www.practicalfarmers.org | 9 Livestock

Addressing the Need: How Can Iowa Farmers Meet the Demand for Niche Pork? by Meghan Filbert

After the downturn of the U.S. pig Dan Wilson and family raise pigs according to Niman Ranch standards at Seven W Farm, market in the late 1990s, many near Paullina. producers turned to niche production to stay afloat. Niche markets were established rapidly and have continued to expand, creating demand that consistently outpaces supply. “Consumers have never been more aware of or interested in how animals are raised for food," says Gina Asoudegan, senior director of mission for Applegate Natural & Organic Meats. "Niche standards are becoming mainstream and what’s expected in a product.”

s demand for niche pork continues to with high meat quality. The following Welfare certifications required by buyers grow, the current supply is low. Since are common standards in niche pork vary slightly depending on the company. A May 2013, the U.S. pork industry production: The pinnacle of welfare standards is Global has been battling porcine epidemic Animal Partnership (GAP) certification, diarrhea virus (PEDV), which has reduced ●● Absolutely no antibiotics are given and most buyers’ and wholesalers’ the national pig inventory. The strained ●● Pigs have never been given hormones requirements align with these standards. pork supply, coupled with ever increasing or artificial growth promotants consumer demand, offers great potential Pig Preference for Iowa pork producers. ●● Animals are fed all-vegetarian diets ●● No gestation crates are used In addition to specific production protocols, “We’re just scratching the surface of buyers are looking for consistently tender the niche pork renaissance,” says Tom ●● Sows in farrowing pens have freedom and flavorful carcasses. Josh Joseph, meat Garrity, chief financial officer of Fra’Mani of movement pool associate for Organic Valley, says “the Handcrafted Foods in California. “The ●● Producers adhere to bedding, space preferred genetics for niche production are supply is limiting the ability to grow, and outdoor access requirements Chester White, Berkshire, Hampshire and not the market. Grocery and restaurant Duroc pigs, which are hearty breeds that do demand is so great and this should serve ●● Humane handling practices are used well in outdoor facilities and provide high as encouragement to farmers." In the last quality meat.” The ideal market weight is Dee McLaughlin, founder of American several months, companies on the East 280 pounds. Homestead Natural Meats, explains the and West coasts have called PFI looking recent consumer trends he is seeing: for niche pork. These buyers are turning “Farrowing year-round and selling pigs “Fourteen to 15 years ago, the primary to the epicenter of pork production – Iowa on a monthly basis is the key to being niche was for antibiotic-free meat. Trends – to fulfill their demand. Applegate, for profitable,” says niche pork specialist have evolved and we’re seeing demand instance, recently hired a director of pork Al Doering. Buyers are looking for for non-GMO-fed pork, in addition to supply, based in Carroll. Bridging the gap farmers who can produce a steady, year- excellent welfare, no growth promotants between supply and demand presents round supply of finished pigs to avoid and antibiotic-free.” great opportunity for niche pork producers fluctuations that affect market demand. in Iowa to scale up, or beginning farmers Some buyers want pigs on a weekly basis. to break into the scene. Production Standards We're just scratching the surface of the niche pork renaissance. Niche pork buyers are actively seeking The supply is limiting the ability to grow, not the market. farmers to purchase pigs from. The core production standards required by each Grocery and restaurant demand is so great, and this should wholesaler are generally similar, and are serve as encouragement to farmers. – TOM GARRITY centered on humanely raised animals Fra'Mani Handcrafted Foods

10 | the Practical Farmer Livestock

Niman Ranch offers seasonal premiums "Pigs raised this way require plenty of labor to farmers who can provide pigs during so I’m fortunate to have my dad’s help. the summer and end of winter when He helps with grinding feed, castrating, supplies lack. Dee wants farmers to know administering shots, cleaning pens and that “there is a guaranteed market and a yards, loading and moving pigs around guaranteed premium for producers that the farm and for market, and much more. can commit to providing 180 pigs every He also gives considerable management two weeks.” expertise."

Buyers will take as many pigs as they can While Paul worries that there are not find, with the minimum being five animals. enough young farmers to replace retiring That being said, small volumes of finished farmers, he says he wants to assure young pigs and remoteness of farms can cause people that "The future in niche pork looks logistical issues with transportation to the Drew Lietz started raising pigs for Niman very bright." packing plant. Pigs produced in Iowa for Ranch in 2012, on his family farm near niche production are processed at Sioux- Alta. Practical Farmers is creating an inventory Preme Packing Company in Sioux Center. of wholesalers seeking pork, farmers wanting to sell wholesale and vacant Economically, semi-loads of 180 pigs farmers. If Paul had to direct-market his barns that could be used for pork headed to the packing plant are preferred. product, he doesn’t think he would be as production. We are working to facilitate Some buyers will cover transportation successful. expenses if pigs are delivered to the matches between producers and buyers. packing plant by the farmer. For producers considering finishing feeder Contact Meghan Filbert at (515) 232-5661 pigs versus a farrow-to-finish operation, or [email protected] with Advice for Farmers Paul recommends the latter. “Farrow-to- any information. finish is where the profit is, because you In a 2006 article, "The United States pork can control your genetics and pig supply, niche market phenomenon," published which is essential.” Phil Kramer, a farmer Companies Seeking Niche in the "Journal of Animal Science," Mark and Niman Ranch field agent based in Pork Farmers Honeyman and colleagues suggest that the Algona, says he wants farmers to know that niche pork market sector offers an entry Niman Ranch offers incentives to make it American Homestead Natural Meats point for beginning producers, diversified easier for producers to get into farrow- Contact: Mike Petzenhauser farmers and sustainable agriculturalists. to-finish production: The company loans (515) 231-7834 Al Doering offers the following advice to farmers $325 per sow for 11 months with [email protected] interested farmers: 0 percent interest, and will also co-sign on www.homesteadnaturalmeats.com "Start with quality breeding stock," Al says. loans. Applegate Natural & Organic Meats “It’s hypercritical to purchase clean animals Contact: Gina Asoudegan For beginning farmers thinking of (215) 431-4932 and practice good biosecurity. Don’t buy getting into niche pork production, Paul [email protected] stock on a shoestring. You need clean emphasizes that to do it full-time takes www.applegate.com animals and a clean environment to be motivation and the ability to prioritize. able to produce pigs without antibiotics.” Fra’mani Handcrafted Foods “You need to be content with a living wage Contact: Tom Garrity If you’re starting from scratch, Al adds that that may be below your neighbors," he (510) 526-7000 site selection should also be considered. says, "but there is much value to being EMAIL www.framani.com Ensure you’re not too close to confinement your own boss and loving what you do.” operations and that you're positioned away Niman Ranch Drew Lietz, a beginning farmer who started from prevailing winds. Contact: Lori Hardman raising pigs for Niman Ranch in 2012 on his (641) 579-6594 Paul Brown, Niman Ranch's 2014 Farmer family farm near Alta, shared some insights [email protected] of the Year, who farms in New Providence, in a 2013 PFI blog post about some of the www.nimanranch.com Iowa, recommends visiting as many challenges he faced getting started: "My Organic Valley / Organic Prairie operations as you can before starting biggest challenges so far include sows The company is seeking to procure your own. “There are so many different laying on their pigs, coughing and labor. certified organic pork facility designs and options to consider," With wide farrowing crates, sows are more Contact: Josh Joseph he says. "Visiting with other farmers will likely to lay on piglets than narrow crates. (608) 625-3329 help you make these decisions.” Paul also [email protected] "I treat my pigs two times for mycoplasma, www.organicprairie.com commented on wholesale versus direct a respiratory disease, and one time for marketing. For him, selling wholesale works Do you know of other companies looking circovirus, but I still have occasional well because, as he puts it, "I’m great at for niche pork producers? Let us know! coughing. I may try treating for mycoplasma production but not great at marketing" – Contact Meghan at (515) 232-5661 or three times in the future, but that will take something he believes rings true for many [email protected] more labor.

www.practicalfarmers.org | 11 Farm Transitions

Top Goal: Your Farmland, Your Legacy by Teresa Opheim My mother, Barb Opheim, grew up on a Pocahontas Iowa City in 1994, when her children were two, six, eight and 10. Susan and her family County farm. She still owns 80 acres of the farm -- land have raised pigs, goats, sheep, chickens that her grandfather plowed out of prairie in 1886 -- and and more on the farm. “I grew up on a dairy, pig and sheep farm and that’s what I my three siblings and I will inherit the farmland. I recently liked and understood,” Susan says. In 1997, asked her to look through the list below and tell us what her family delivered their first Community Supported Agriculture vegetable boxes. her top goal was for her farmland after she is gone. Did When her children were around, their she want us to hold onto it because of its historical vegetable business included 300 CSA boxes a week. Now, she and her help significance to our family? Did she want it used to help deliver 150 boxes of vegetables during get a new generation of farmers on the land? three seasons of the year. Recently, Susan sat down and looked Her answer didn’t surprise me: She doesn’t want the through the farm goals listed above. It 80 acres further divided (we will inherit it as a unit), but didn’t take her long to pick her own. most of all she wants to keep family harmony. “I do not “I want this farm to remain a community farm,” she says. “I took it from a non- want my heirs to do any fighting because of this land,” working farm – it was all in brome grass, she says firmly. the buildings were empty, there were no animals. I built a community around the ou may want to accomplish many ●● Use my farmland to help stem the tide farm, which extends into Iowa City, into goals with the farmland you own. of land consolidation. Cedar Rapids and beyond," Susan says. "It Some of these goals will complement would be a tragedy for it to be sold and Y ●● Use the farmland to conserve soil, each other and others will not. Usually, we become some family’s playground.” increase biodiversity, improve water can’t have it all, so please join other PFI quality and other conservation. Keeping Family Harmony members in thinking through what you want most for the future of your farmland. ●● Ensure that my farmland does not Vic and Cindy Madsen, who farm near What is your top goal? prevent my heirs from developing into Audubon, have a common but challenging independent adults. situation for the disposition of their 225 Here are some possibilities: acres of farmland: both farming and What are your values and the legacy you non-farming heirs. Vic’s top farm goal for ●● Keep family harmony, or foster positive want to leave? Because your farmland is the future is to keep family harmony, “to relationships among family members. such a valuable resource, the temptation keep my family from fighting about what ●● Provide land for my farming heir(s) to is to gravitate toward a particular legal or happens to or on the farm." His second goal, he continues, "is to provide a home farm. financial strategy that preserves wealth without working hard to identify your top for a family to live on the farm and work ●● Provide a farm for a family to work. goal and then communicating it to your the ground. A farm is a wonderful place for children. Looking at the farm in 30 years, heirs. Practical Farmers is eager to link ●● Help provide my heirs with greater I’d like to see little kids running around. A you with other farmland owners who have financial stability through the sale of, or farm is more complete when there are little worked through these questions about rental income from, the farm. kids on it. I enjoy that so much.” protecting what matters most. ●● Use my farmland to benefit a worthy Conservation and Biodiversity cause. Providing a Farm for a Family to Work ●● Give all of my heirs an inheritance of Chris Henning is a farmer and landowner who owns 320 acres of farmland in Greene equal economic value. For Susan Jutz, her top goal for her 80 County. She has a 50-50 crop share on 165 acres farm near Solon is to provide a farm ●● Keep the farmland together. of those acres, and timber, a pond and 100 for a family to work. Susan purchased the acres of Conservation Reserve Program on farm in a rapidly developing area north of the rest. Says Chris: “My number one goal

12 | the Practical Farmer (Continued on next page) Farm Transitions

Susan Jutz Chris Henning Barb Opheim

Top Goal for the Future of Her Top Goal for the Future of Top Goal for the Future of Her Farmland? Her Farmland? Farmland? PROVIDE A FARM FOR A INCREASE SOIL KEEP FAMILY HARMONY FAMILY TO WORK CONSERVATION, BIODIVERSITY, AND IMPROVE WATER & AIR QUALITY for my farm is to increase soil conservation, “I don’t even know what kind of success biodiversity, and to improve water and air the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and quality.“ Chris lived in Des Moines for 25 Practical Farmers of Iowa can have far into years and has now been “home” on her during this generational transfer discussion the future," Helen says. "But they are who I farm nearly as long. She sees her farm as includes securing ‘long-term protection for am investing in. I can think of no individual preserving “wild spaces in this carpet of a true Iowa family farm that has significant people, no banks, no government entities, soy and corn that is Greene County. I do it conservation features blended into a who would have the same kinds of for the beauty and the history." working landscape.’ This was written after commitment and potential for success much thought and a lengthy discussion with sustainable practices than [these two "If there was a way to have buffalo or with our family. With that stated goal, we groups]." prairie chickens, I would," she adds. could now measure proposed actions "Instead, I enjoy the coyote, the pheasant If you own farmland, what is your top goal? against it.” Their decision was to bequeath and the deer in abundance. I will sacrifice Why? Is your goal missing from the list the farmland to Practical Farmers with the a little of the high yield and the money for above? Please let me know and continue proviso that the farmland be kept together the conservation and the diversity. It's a the conversation. Contact me at teresa@ and not sold. matter of what is enough and what is most practicalfarmers.org, (515) 232-5661 or important.” “To divide up this farm and sell its assets write to me at Practical Farmers of Iowa, off to the highest bidder is in complete 600 Fifth Street, Suite 100, Ames, 50010. Preserving a Family Farm, Blending conflict with our goals," say Tom and Irene. Thank you to Margaret Smith for counsel Conservation and Working Land "Our children understand this." on farmland goals, and to Barb, Susan, Tom and Irene Frantzen have been Benefitting Important Causes Chris, Vic, Tom, Irene, Helen and all the leaders in Practical Farmers for carefully other PFIers who are sharing their goals considering and choosing their farm goal, Helen Gunderson made a similar decision and strategies to ensure that their farm and then working through the arduous for her Pocahontas County farmland as legacy continues. process of implementing it for their farm. Tom and Irene – including Practical Farmers in her will, as well as the Iowa Natural “Holistic management, which we’ve Heritage Foundation – but a different top practiced for 20 years, has been the driver goal gets her there: benefitting causes she as we’ve worked out the details of our believes in. generational transfer,” Tom and Irene say. “The goal we developed to guide us

www.practicalfarmers.org | 13 2015 Annual Conference

Learning... 1 3 1. Ray Cruse and Ajay Nair present information about irrigation systems. 2. Phyllis Larsen takes notes at the Farm Legacy Letter short course while LeRoy Larsen looks on. 3. Jill Clapperton explains the role of soil nema- todes in contributing to soil health. 4. Mike Castellano talks with Wendell Zimmer- an during a break at the soils short course. 5. Jannine Teachout and Irene Frantzen discuss their farm legacies. 6. Melissa Dunham shares her farm financials with the audience. 2

4 6

5

1

1. Farmers Tim Smith, Jeremy Gustafson, Jon Kiel, Wade Dooley, James Gruber, Tyler Franzenburg, and Eric Franzenburg share laughs and conversation at the potluck. 2 2. Drake Larsen enjoys a brat donated by Niman Ranch, much to the delight of Tom Franzen. ...and Eating! 14 | the Practical Farmer 2015 Annual Conference

1 2 3

4 Networking 1. Laura Jackson talks with Mary Damm at the breakfast roundtable with Jill Clapperton.

2. Art Dunham and a vendor discuss enjoy talk- ing with each other about GMO crops during breakfast. 3. Stephanie Enloe, Ben Wise and two other at- tendees talk during the Friday energy session. 6 4. The breakfast roundtable session was a big hit. 5. Tony Thompson talks with Dan and Julie Beougher in front of the Iowa Farmers Union booth. 6. A conference goer shakes hands with Tim Kruse. 5 7. Conference goers mingle in between sessions. 838 people came to the conference this year. 8. The conference wouldn't be possible without the support of our sponsors. 9. Dan Wilson chats with a vendor.

7 8 9

www.practicalfarmers.org | 15 2015 Annual Conference

Good Conversations 1 2 1. Nathan Anderson and Tim Smith doing what Practical Farmers' members do best: learning from fellow farmers.

2. Actor Madeleine Russell performs in the play Map of my Kingdom, a play focusing on farm inheritance commissioned by Practical Farmers by member Mary Swander, which was performed at the conference in lieu of a keynote address.

3. Dan Wilson and Mark Peterson chat during a break.

3

1 2 3

5 4 6

...and Good Friends 1. Jack Davis and Jordan Clasen socialize at the potluck.

2. Suzan Erem and Paul Willis catch up while waiting for food to be served at the potluck. 7

3. Lonna Nachtigal, Sally Gran, Donna Prizgintas, and Harn Soper enjoy a laugh during the potluck. Thanks Donna and Lonna for hosting the potluck!

4. Patti Edwardson and Angie Carter talk in front of the posters.

5. Rick Hartmann and Mukiza Gahetano pose for a photo.

6. Sean Skeehan and Alice McGary enjoy a break and some snacks in between sessions.

7. Jennifer Vazquez and Brandi Janssen pose for a photo in between sessions.

16 | the Practical Farmer 2015 Annual Conference

1 Fun ... 1. Emily Rose carries around Gabe 2 Bahrenfuse. 2. Jan Libbey, Janna and John Wesselius and Tim Landgraf enjoy conversation over Lonna Nachtigal's beautiful table decorations.

3. Steve McGrew on saw and Jon Bakehouse on guitar during the potluck.

4. Jack Knight busts a move.

5. Jeff Olson holds Nira Larsen as her mom, Sarah Hargreaves, pres- ents during the soils short course.

4 5

3 ... And More Food 1. Air Philavanh and Deb Tidwell fill up on salad and cornbread at the Saturday lunch.

2. Ann Franzenburg and Jason Grimm chat while snacking during a break.

1 2

www.practicalfarmers.org | 17 PFI Leaders

More Than 420 Members Serve as Leaders in 2014 Speakers ~ Sharing knowledge, in the news Conference Speaker Mark Peterson Amber Anderson- Suzan Erem Eric Johnson Lonna Nachtigal Skillman Glen Elsbernd Darwin Pierce Mba Janna Feldman Jason Johnson Linda Naeve Ethel Sieren Irene Frantzen Mark Quee David Ausberger Thomas Feldman Wendy Johnson George Naylor Tim Sieren Tom Frantzen Dave Schmidt Narad Bastola Dana Foster Nicole Jonas Dan Nickey Dick Sloan Kevin Griggs Leo Schultes Donna Bauer Irene Frantzen Steve Jonas Arliss Nielsen Jennie Smith Gary Guthrie Mari Schultes Bill Beaman Tom Frantzen Paul Jones Dale Nimrod Margaret Smith Cheryl Hopkins Jerry Sindt Bryant Bear Ann Franzenburg Tamsyn Jones Sunny Nimrod Tim Smith Mike Hopkins Dick Sloan Steve Berger Eric Franzenburg Rick Juchems Gayle Olson Patrick Standley David James Tim Smith Judy Beuter Wayne Fredericks Jay Jung Jeff Olson Larry Stone Kay James Rob Stout Ethan Book Jim Freeland Susan Jutz Teresa Opheim Rob Stout Rick Juchems Kelly Tobin Rebecca Book Joan Fumetti Lindsay Kaiser Alix Paez Becki Sullivan Susan Jutz Seth Watkins Jack Boyer Gene Gage Travis Kaiser Tim Palmer Sean Sullivan Laura Krouse Farminar Speaker Hannah Breckbill Stefan Gailans Larry Kallem John Pesek Mary Swander Drake Larsen Corry Bregendahl Liz Garst Tom Kaspar Jim Petersen Jan Swinton Fred Abels Bob Lynch Penny Brown Chris Goedhart Arlyn Kauffman Mark Peterson Angie Tagtow Rebecca Book Adam Montri Huber Luke Gran Dennis Keeney Melanie Peterson Francis Thicke Ethan Book Margaret Smith Thomas Burkhead Sally Gran Jason Kerr Air Philavanh DickThompson Al Brudelie Tim Smith Ethy Cannon Craig Griffieon Bill Kimble Andrew Pittz Sharon Thompson Cheryl Daman Seth Watkins Steve Cannon LaVon Griffieon Greg King Donna Prizgintas Tony Thompson Kevin Dietzel Dan Wilson Sarah Carlson Jason Grimm Fred Kirschenmann Ruth Rabinowitz Kate Timmerman Beau Ebersole Angie Carter Bobbie Gustafson Erwin Klaas Mark Rasmussen Kelly Tobin Cover Crop Speaker Shanen Ebersole Jordan Clasen Jeremy Gustafson Jack Knight Lois Reichert Mike Todd Fred Abels Adam Ebert Zachary Couture Gary Guthrie Karen Koenig Matt Roe Ward Van Dyke Paul Ackley Kate Edwards Craig Cox Earl Hafner Scott Koepke Gabrielle Roesch- Jenny Vazquez Michael Ahlers Noah Engel Rick Cruse Jeff Hafner Liz Kolbe McNally Howard Vliegar Nathan Anderson Rob Faux Doug Darrow Rick Hartmann Laura Krueger- Daniel Rosmann Tom Wahl Jon Bakehouse Tammy Faux Alison Deutsch Stacy Hartmann Feldstein Maria Rosmann Nick Wallace Steve Berger Janna Feldman Jim Deutsch Susan Heathcote Barry Kusel Mike Rosmann Steve Wallace Jack Boyer John C. Gilbert Wade Dooley Aaron Heley Tim Landgraf Ron Rosmann Ellen Walsh- Wade Dooley Dave Hill Andy Dunham Lehman Jan Libbey Kathy Russell Rosmann Andy Dunham Wendy Johnson Melissa Dunhan Chris Henning Matt Liebman Matt Russell Seth Watkins Jon Giselson Jason Jones Paul Durrenberger Gail Hickenbottom Bob Lynch Ben Saunders Jim Welter Jeremy Philip Kramer Shanen Ebersole Gary Hildreth Nick Mabe Jordan Scheibel Janna Wesselius Gustafson Matt Liebman Herb Eckhouse Annette Hill Cindy Madsen Rich Schuler John Wesselius Robert Harvey Meg Schmidt Kathy Eckhouse Dave Hill Lee Matteson Lisa Schulte-Moore Aaron White Rick Juchems Dick Sloan Kate Edwards Cheryl Hopkins Steve McGrew Grant Schultz Mary Wiedenhoeft Barry Kusel Susan Yario Jean Eells Steve Hopkins Adam Montri Joe Sellers Dan Wilson Al Lingren Members in the Cindy Elwick Laura Jackson Dru Montri Erik Sessions Denny Wimmer Bob Lynch News Mike Elwick Brandi Janssen Lucena Morse Charlotte Shivvers Angela Winburn Steve McGrew Fred Abels Arlene Enderton Wes Jarrell Gordan Murray- Marietta Shivvers Sally Worley Jeff Olson Leigh Adcock Darin Enderton Andy Johnson John Carr Tim Palmer Nathan Anderson Kamyar Enshayan Angela Johnson Danelle Myer Martha Shivvers Staff & Board Field Day & Pasture Walk Hosts ~ Supporting Practical Farmers ~ Providing networking and information-sharing PFI Staff Teresa Opheim Jeff Klinge Fred Abels Zachary Couture Larry Harris Lois Reichert Erica Andorf Marc Strobbe * Tim Landgraf Hilary Burbank Wade Dooley Marie Kashindi Mike Salama Sarah Carlson Julie Wheelock * Mark Peterson Jon Bakehouse Rob Faux Bob Lynch Grant Schultz Steve Carlson * Sally Worley Kurt Van Hulzen Tina Bakehouse Tammy Faux Linda Lynch Ethel Sieren Margaret Chamas * Lauren Zastrow Dan Wilson Dhanmaya Barakoti Susan Frye Daniel Maibach Tim Sieren Meghan Filbert * Narad Bastola Mukiza Gahetano Samuel Maibach Bucumi Simon Stefan Gailans Board of Directors Founders Bonnie Beard Luke Gran Tim Maibach Mariselina Simon Luke Gran * Ann Cromwell Larry Kallem Dan Beard Sally Gran Martha McFarland Sean Skeehan Suzi Howk Melissa Dunham Sharon Thompson Jill Beebout Craig Griffieon Bill Michael Diana Sloan Tamsyn Jones Kathy Eckhouse Steve Berger LaVon Griffieon Mike Natvig Dick Sloan Liz Kolbe Ann Franzenburg Consultants Tika Bhandari Jason Grimm Jacqueline Terry Troxel Drake Larsen Tyler Franzenburg Kathy Eastman Ray Bratsch-Prince Bobbie Gustafson Ndabazaniye Jennifer Vazquez Tomoko Ogawa * Gail Hickenbottom Rich Schuler David Carbaugh Ty Gustafson Denise O'Brien Dan Wilson Nick Ohde * Wendy Johnson Chris Wilbeck Leslie Carbaugh Earl Hafner Ta Kaw Paw Erin Wilson Bruce Carney Jeff Hafner Mark Peterson Lorna Wilson * indicates partial year Connie Carney Angelique Robert Pridie Torray Wilson Bizimana Charles Hakuzimana Jack Reichert

18 | the Practical Farmer PFI Leaders

Committees and Programs ~ Charting a course for the future Cooperators’ Program Nominating Social Hosts Julia Slocum Matt Russell Paul Hathaway Committee Committee Ann Cromwell Laura Vellema Sophie Ryan Chris Henning Dave Lubben Irene Frantzen LaVon Griffieon Neal Vellema Ben Saunders Mark Hilleman Gayle Olson Jeff Klinge Wendy Johnson Susan Yario Patrick Standley Joel Horsley Jeff Olson Mark Quee Kevin Kolbe Tom Wahl James Iverson Class of 2015 Mark Quee Maria Rosmann Susan Kolbe Ellen Walsh-Rosmann Andy Krieger Ibrahim Ali Ron Rosmann James Nisly Erin Wilson Colleen Krogmeier Policy Committee Narad Bastola Sean Skeehan Donna Prizgintas Torray Wilson Laura Krouse Nathan Anderson Caitie Caughey John Lubke Energy Committee SIP Committee Rick Hartmann Savings Incentive Deb Draper Robert Lynch Kamyar Enshayan Donna Bauer Fred Kirschenmann Program (SIP) Arlene Enderton Rick Mallams LaVon Griffieon Erin Drinnin Jeff Klinge Darin Enderton Stephen McGrew Francis Thicke Class of 2013 Gail Hickenbottom Laura Krouse Janna Feldman Michael Natvig Tony Thompson Brian Bagge Vic Madsen Jerry Peckumn Mukiza Gahetano James Reicks Thomas Burkhead Angela Tedesco Farm Transitions Mark Peterson Jason Grimm Arnold Schneider Jordan Clasen Steve Weis Committee Ann Robinson Chad Hensley Delores Sedlacek Francis Thicke Kate Edwards Annette Hill Soil & Water Irene Frantzen Glen Elsbernd John Sellers Tom Frantzen Strategic Directions David Hill Conservation District Dick Sloan Karla Hanson Commissioners Cindy Madsen Committee Phillip Jensen Curt Smith Morgan Hoenig Emma Johnson Dennis Abbas Vic Madsen Kate Edwards Steve Smith Cheryl Hopkins Marcus Johnson Nathan Anderson Margaret Smith Tom Frantzen Mark Tjelmeland Mike Hopkins Wendy Johnson Amber Anderson Mba Dan Wilson Helen Gunderson Kelly Tobin Jay Jung Jason Kerr Dan Beougher Angela Winburn Gail Hickenbottom Rick Wadle Drew Lietz Tyler Magnuson Russell Brandes Cheryl Hopkins Farmland Investment Brian Ness Amber Miller (Carney) Tom Buman Volunteers Exploratory Committee Tim Landgraf Cheryl Ness Steve Quail Dennis Carney Emily Rose Pfaltzgraff Dan Wilson Melissa Dunham Jacob Petersen Sue Quail Donald Davidson Donna Prizgintas Tim Landgraf Welcoming Committee Daniel Rosmann Matt Roe Glen Draper Jordan Scheibel Dick Schwab Mike Salama Julia Slocum Fred Abels Shanti Sellz Jean Eells Jordan Scheibel Finance Committee Nathan Anderson Teresa Stecker Steven Fales Dave Schmidt Melissa Dunham Amber Anderson-Mba Tony Thompson Bill Frederick Linsey Schuldt Dana Foster Jon Bakehouse Rory Van Wyk Kate Giannini Luke Schuldt Gail Hickenbottom David Carbaugh Gary Hammitt Grant Schultz SIP Mentors Dan Wilson Ann Cromwell Michael Von Weihe Doug Alert Melissa Dunham Investment Committee Ellen Walsh-Rosmann Donna Atha Kathy Eckhouse Gail Hickenbottom Amber Wheeler Robert Atha Cooperators Kathleen Eggers Dick Schwab Jake Wheeler Jason Bandstra William Eggers ~ Kurt Van Hulzen Erin Wilson Mike Bandstra Finding solutions to on-farm challenges Tammy Faux Dawn Anderson Jeremy Gustafson Steve McGrew Jill Beebout Labor4Learning Ann Franzenburg Class of 2014 Nathan Anderson Gary Hammitt Danelle Myer Andy Dunham Committee David Hance Dawn R. Anderson John Arbuckle Logan Handsaker Mark Peterson Melissa Dunham Shanen Ebersole Rick Hartmann Daniel Beougher Jon Bakehouse Rick Hartmann Mark Quee Ann Franzenburg Terry Basol Cheryl Hopkins Myron Reese Rob Faux Gail Hickenbottom Anne Bohl Eric Franzenburg Jill Beebout Chad Ingels Lois Reichert Wendy Johnson Wendy Johnson Matt Brandenburg Gene Gage Jack Boyer Duane Johnson Kathy Rose Jordan Scheibel Susan Jutz Kim Cross John Gilbert Bill Buman Emma Johnson Ron Rosmann Julia Slocum Greg Lipes Cheryl Daman Jeff Hafner Bruce Carney Loyd Johnson Matt Russell Ellen Walsh-Rosmann Dennis McLaughlin Kevin Dietzel Jordan Clasen Marcus Johnson Aaron Saeugling Jay Hansen Dan Wilson David Mixdorf Ranae Dietzel Siobhan Danreis Wendy Johnson Ben Saunders Rick Hartmann Rosalie Owens John C. Gilbert Jerry Depew Jason Jones Jordan Scheibel Labor4Learning Chris Hoerichs Jerry Peckumn Sarah Gilbert Wade Dooley Susan Jutz Rose Schick Trainers Sharon Hoerichs Mark Peterson Twyla Hein Andy Dunham Dustin Kaestner Dave Schmidt Jill Beebout Cheryl Hopkins Melissa Dunham Paul Kassel Meg Schmidt Frank Santana Dave Hiler Andy Dunham Mike Hopkins Kate Edwards Arlyn Kauffman Bernard Schmitz Larry Stone William Lorentzen Melissa Dunham Ed Jackson Arlene Enderton Nate Kemperman Tim Sieren Teresa Troxel Martin Lucas Rob Faux Eric Johnson Darin Enderton Greg King Sean Skeehan Kurt Van Hulzen Heather Luitjens Rick Hartmann Betty Kimble Rob Faux Tim Landgraf Dick Sloan Dan Wilson Loren Luitjens Tammy Faux Nicholas Leete Tim Smith Stacy Hartmann Bill Kimble Angela Winburn Tracy Meise Craig Fleishman Bob Lynch Tony Thompson Ryan Herman Jeff Klinge Danelle Myer Tom Frantzen Vic Madsen Terry Troxel Susan Jutz Representative to Tim Landgraf Phrakhounmany (Air) Susan Frye Lee Matteson John Wesselius James Nisly Leopold Center Board Jan Libbey Philavanh Bev Gilbert Sean McCoy Jake Wheeler Erik Sessions of Directors Mark Quee John Gilbert Martha McFarland Gary Wilson Ben Pullen Scott Shriver Susan Jutz Daniel Rosmann Craig Griffieon Alice McGary Wendell LaVon Griffieon Clarke McGrath Zimmerman

www.practicalfarmers.org | 19 Savings Incentive Program

Meet the Savings Incentive Program Class of 2016

Benjamin Barron Charles Bizimana William and Stacey Borrenpohl Hannah Breckbill Alex Congera Jefferson Des Moines LaMotte Decorah Des Moines

Jack Davis Jennie Erwin Andrew and Naomi Friend Carl Glanzman and Doris Bane Marty Grimm (right) Adel LeMars Story City Oakland Decorah

Etienne Hacima Angelique Hakuzimana Aidan Hamilton (right) Jerret Horn Eve Iversen Laura Jones Des Moines Des Moines Thornton Newton Story City Wilton

Lindsay Kaiser Karen Koenig Kayla Koether and Landon Corlett Adam Ledvina Greg Lipes Kate Mendenhall Waverly Hampton Decorah Toledo West Branch Spirit Lake

Learn More View profiles of Savings Incentive Program Class of 2016 recipients at: practicalfarmers.org/programs/youth- and-next-generation.html Ta Kaw Paw Mariselina and Bucumi Simon Travis Voss Donna Warhover Des Moines Des Moines Solon Mount Vernon

20 | the Practical Farmer Next Generation

Beginning PFI Farmers: Driven to Farm, Linked by a Number by Julie Wheelock

as many other aspiring farmers. Mukiza Take a moment and picture a typical beginning farmer in your mind. Nothing? says the potential rewards outweigh the Great! Because there is no such thing as a “typical beginning farmer.” For the difficulty. “Being a farmer reminds me to purpose of the Savings Incentive Program, a beginning farmer is defined as not forget the life I had in my country, and someone who has been farming for five or fewer years. The "someone" in that it gives me a good way to help my children. definition can be anyone. The term "beginning farmer" represents an interesting My children asked where their food comes from, but when they come to the farm with mix of people who share only the passion to farm – and a number. The beginners me, I can show them.” in our various Saving Incentive Program classes represent that fascinating diversity. Past and current enrollees range in age from 17 to over 60. We have Homework to Home-Grown Meat men and women; moms, dads and singles; farm-raised and farm transplants; eventeen may seem a bit young to refugees and American-born. Get to know a few of Practical Farmers diverse jump into a farming career, but Jarret beginning farmers! S Horn of Newton is off to a solid start. He doesn’t see his age as a factor in his decision to farm: Making a living farming Motherhood and Milking Cows Even with the hard work motherhood and has always been a goal of Jarret's, and running a dairy require, Laura says she getting an early start made sense. “I’ve aura Jones, a 2016 Savings Incentive wouldn’t raise her family any other way: talked to a lot of experienced farmers and Program participant, operates a dairy “There is nothing better than seeing well- they all tell me two things: Start early and Land row crop farm near Wilton with grown heifers and a healthy herd of cows. start with cash.” Being part of the Savings her dad, while her husband works off-farm It makes it easier to go to work. And having Incentive Program will certainly help with as a lineman. Laura, 29, has two young my kids grow up on the farm and learn from those two pieces of advice. children at home with her and a third on my parents and grandparents is awesome. the way, and has found a way to balance How many four-year-olds are good friends Jarret has already started direct-marketing motherhood with her love of the dairy. It with their great-grandpa?” his home-raised hogs, and is looking to hasn’t come without some adjustments and use his 42 acres of rented ground to grow support from family, but for Laura, it has Escaping War to Begin Farming corn to feed his pigs. After completing the been worth it. program, he plans to use his match money orn in the African nation of Burundi to purchase Red Angus breeding heifers or in 1970, Mukiza Gahetano and his “I feel being a mom and farming go hand- a planter. Jarret has received other valuable family relocated several times as in-hand. We definitely had to improve some B advice from his mom and dad, who both they sought to escape fighting and unrest safety measures on the farm when my kids grew up on farms. “They want me to do in their country. In 1996, they settled in a got mobile," Laura says. "Some days, just what makes me happy, but they also want Tanzanian refugee camp and were supplied getting the cows milked, animals fed and me to be prepared that it’s not always just only beans and corn for food. Mukiza and a my son to preschool is a miracle, but my fun.” dad and grandparents help with the kids.” small group of other refugees soon began a garden in the camp to grow vegetables Jerret's biggest hurdle as a young beginning It’s not always easy getting up at 3 a.m. to for better nutrition. In 2008, Mukiza arrived farmer is a common obstacle for many milk cows. Soon Laura will be able to push in Des Moines and became involved with starting out. “It’s been a challenge locating milking time back to 5 a.m., thanks to the Lutheran Services of Iowa. He says he space and land to farm as well as having installation of a robotic milker. This will allow still holds onto his dream of becoming a enough operating capital," he says. To offset for more flexibility with Laura’s schedule – successful, self-suffcient farmer – and he is this, Jarret plans to follow in his dad’s steps as well as some much-needed family time. being proactive as a beginning farmer to and take an off-farm job after college. “My make that happen. dad is my FFA advisor and the ag teacher at my high school. He really sees and “I’ve already started to do the Savings I feel being a mom and farming go understands the value in me starting to Incentive Program and I hope in 10 years I farm at a young age.” hand-in-hand. . . . It's not always will improve my farm business better than easy getting up at 3 a.m. to milk now," Mukiza says. "I will try to rent land, and the money I save will help me to do that.” cows [but] having my kids grow up Read more about beginning farmers in on the farm and learn from my par- As a refugee, Mukiza faces some unique PFI's network in this blog post from last challenges – such as becoming familiar with summer: http://practicalfarmers.org/ ents and grandparents is awesome. growing food in a different climate with blog/2014/07/17/iowa-beginning-farmers/ – LAURA JONES (SIP Class of 2016) different soils, pests, markets and more. But he faces the same land access challenges

www.practicalfarmers.org | 21 Horticulture

Question All, Test a Few: The Scene in Horticulture Research by Liz Kolbe

In the weeks leading up to the Cooperators’ Meeting, I was faced with a daunting task: organizing an enormous diversity of horticulture farmers’ research into only a few short hours of conversation and a few pages of reports. Like their farms, horticulture research is varied, ranging from questions about bee species to varietal yields to soil health to accounting.

orticulture research at Practical Farmers falls into two groups: field Htrials and recordkeeping projects. From left to right: Marcus Johnson, Sally Gran, Susan Jutz, Rick Hartmann, Terry Troxel Field trials are set up to be randomized and Dick Schwab. Marcus and Dick look at bees collected by Rick and his wife Stacey, of and replicated, designed to stand up to Small Potatoes Farm, as part of a pollinator project. statistical analysis and accepted scientific protocol. This type of research is fantastic baseline information from the environment While we can’t tackle all the questions for building new knowledge and inspiring on farms: “Baseline Bee Data Collection” raised, farmers at the Cooperators’ new questions (or more refined questions). and “Pesticide Drift Monitoring.” Meeting work collaboratively to determine Examples of 2014 field trials include: priorities and design projects for the Recordkeeping projects may seem the coming year. In 2015, expect to see PFI ●● “Summer Squash Following Winter simpler of the two, but if you look carefully, horticulture farmers doing research on Rye” every recordkeeping project requires a some (or all!) of the following topics: ●● “Quick Turn-Around Cover Crops” farmer to share information about his or her farm practices and finances. Working ●● Enterprise recordkeeping for tomatoes ●● “Effect of Compost Extract on on these projects and with these farmers’ and cucumbers Qualitative Soil Analysis and Yield” data reminds me that having your own ●● Pepper variety trial ●● “Mulching Comparison for Sweet data is important, but the willingness to Potatoes” and share it is what sets Practical Farmers apart ●● Chickling vetch as a living mulch in from the rest of the field. broccoli ●● “Worm Casting Application Methods ●● Cover crop variety trials and Impact on Cabbage Yield” The horticulture research cooperators in PFI are asking questions that extend ●● Romaine lettuce yields and soil health Recordkeeping projects consist of farmers beyond the boundaries of their fields, and with compost extract providing data – such as yield, revenue, impact more than their own operations. energy use, expenses, etc. – about ●● Best production practices for Dan’s [Specht] Blue Sweet corn something they are already doing on their Kate Edwards and Dale Raasch vote on farm. Recordkeeping projects for 2014 horticulture projects for 2015. ●● Quick turnaround cover crops included: ●● Whole farm financial analysis ●● “Yield Data Collection for Vegetable Production Baseline” ●● Yield data collection for vegetable production ●● the “Whole Farm Financial Project” ●● Bees and pollinators ●● “Energy Use and Cost for Starting Seedlings” and ●● Summer squash following rye ●● “Winter Greens Production: Revenue ●● Mulch comparisons and Energy Cost” Watch for some of these in-process projects Two additional projects that best fit under to be featured in a few horticulture-focused the recordkeeping category were collecting PFI field days this coming season!

22 | the Practical Farmer Thompson Legacy

On-Farm Research and Life’s Persistent Questions by John Gilbert

Each year at the Cooperators’ do everything possible ourselves, the Meeting, a farmer gives opening idea of doing our own research was both remarks to remind us all why farmer- intoxicating and empowering. led, on-farm research is important I started to understand how important our to Practical Farmers’ identity and research was when Alfred Blackmer came mission. This year the message to the Coulter Community Center to ask was delivered by John Gilbert, a PFI members to help him prove his late PFI member since 1988 who raises spring nitrate test. Just how heady that crops and livestock near Iowa Falls. request was, was underscored a few years later when I read the results of the work: the research and awareness it created were want to thank credited with reducing nitrogen use in Iowa We should have a whole discussion about Stefan for the by 100 million pounds a year – or a million why, but suffice it to say that for a lot of Iopportunity to pounds per county. Oh, but for a few brief people, if we say A is better than B, and violate Mark Twain's shining moments in Camelot. they are doing B, then they feel we're advice that it's telling them they're wrong. And no one better to keep your What really drove home the importance wants to be told they're wrong, because it mouth shut and of on-farm research was the knock-down, means they might have to change, which be thought a fool drag-out Dick [Thompson] and the Butler means using their grey cells. Humans, like than to open it and County extension director got into at an horses, have a stubbornness and tendency remove all doubt. Aplington meeting over Dick's finding to resist change; you can lead them to that there was no economic response to water, but you can’t make them drink. But I don't know of another group more broadcasting phosphorous and potassium deserving of my humility. As I look on ridges. Now, if you're wrong at our place, it means around the room, I see a lot of people to you'll be hearing one of my wife's favorite whom I owe a real debt of gratitude for There are lessons we can still take from sayings: "It's what you don't know you the things they've learned and shared that exchange today. One, Dick knew that don't know that gets you into trouble." It over the decades; for their leadership, he'd done good science and the numbers was one of those didn't know-didn't know for their friendship and for the standard didn't lie, and the results were valid and to times that got me doing research work of excellence they established in doing be defended, civilly. Two, he was talking with PFI. When the high-lysine corn we'd on-farm research. It's what gives this work about economic response, which has been been blissfully feeding for many years meaning, and is what we must keep in the hallmark of PFI research from the get- was no longer available, I was talking to mind and carry on. go, and something that is woefully missing Sarah [Carlson] and she told me about the from the siren songs most farmers hear non-GMO varieties the [USDA Agricultural Like a lot of people, my first experience today – and, I fear, from too many people's Research Service] was experimenting with, with PFI was going to one of Dick’s comprehension. And three, there are and the lab where they were calibrating [Thompson] early field days with Allyn people who are not happy with what we their near-infrared spectrometer for amino Hagensick, who had told me about this research and some of our findings. acids. So, I figured, we'll get a few varieties new group. For someone cursed with and run some strip trials, and Sarah can get the belief we not only could but should the grain analyzed and we'll find a good alternative for feed. How hard can it be?

Sometime in the second year, I began to Sometime between the third and fourth years, I was pretty sure understand what Jerry Hatfield meant when he said one of the hardest parts I'd gone down the rabbit hole. We were considering things like about being director of the Soil Tilth Lab hydrogen bonds, incomplete proteins, microbial energies and was getting his researchers to find answers, not just more questions. all sorts of stuff people with letters after their names like to (Continued on page 24) argue about. – JOHN GILBERT

www.practicalfarmers.org | 23 Past, Present & Future

Thompson Legacy (Continued from page 23)

Sometime between the third and fourth

Leave A Legacy years, I was pretty sure I'd gone down the rabbit hole. We were considering things I believe in PFI's like hydrogen bonds, incomplete proteins, “ microbial energies and all sorts of stuff values and mission. I people with letters after their names and want to see it continue no pigs to feed like to argue about. into the future. But I have to tell you: When an experiment gets hailed; or it's raining cats and dogs – RICH PIROG and you have no idea how the next treatment is going to get done; or it won't rain and everything is getting cooked; or There are ways to provide for your loved ones AND leave a legacy for the worst, a perfectly good trial yields little Practical Farmers of Iowa. You can do both, and it’s easy. more than Dick's advice that "no difference is an answer" – it's times like that when • Designation of your retirement plan for PFI I remember the line from "The Matrix" about "why didn't I just take the blue pill?" • Leave a life insurance policy Why not be oblivious to things like my • Make a gift through your will neighbors, drink the industrial Kool-Aid, let • Make a gift now and receive income for life with a charitable gift someone else do the thinking? annuity. Then I think, no, hell no! I'm a Practical Many such gifts can help you and your family today as well as help our Farmer. Then I remember why the mission years into the future. You can put some in place today without af- organization is important. Then I fecting your cash flow during your lifetime. remember the Albert Einstein quote that could be the Practical Farmers’ motto: Want to learn more? Contact Teresa Opheim, executive director, at "Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope (515) 232-5661 or [email protected]. for tomorrow, but never quit questioning.” Then I remember why meetings like this * Important: Consult with your own legal and financial are important: that the sirens are still advisors before making any planned gift. * singing life's persistent questions. The one we get to deal with this afternoon is: Do we have answers, or just more questions?

Small-Scale Poultry "Feed" Day at Riverside Feeds – Farm to Food Tax Credit March 28, in Riceville More than 12 percent of Iowans are food insecure, yet food waste ranks first in type of Join Riverside Feeds, LLC – owned by PFI landfilled waste. member James Frantzen and specializing in non-GMO soy protein and poultry feed – at The Farm to Food Donation Tax Credit is an open house and "feed" day on Saturday, available to growers who donate ready-to- March 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the consume foods to a food bank, pantry or Forest Street Plant in Riceville (300 Forest emergency meal program. The credit was St., Riceville). available during the 2014 growing season but Learn about the feed products available from very few farmers took advantage of it, so ISU Riverside Feeds and see equipment used to Extension is providing outreach to help growers produce it. Guided tours of the feed mill will understand how to claim the credit in the take place every hour, and several vendors hopes of getting healthy food into the hands of will have exhibits at a small trade show, members of the local FFA chapter, who will be Iowans who need it. including Stonebridge, Maverick Nutrition, helping out during the open house. Organic Valley and Practical Farmers of Iowa. For more information about the credit, visit: Questions? Contact James at (641) 257-8122 https://tax.iowa.gov/farm-food-donation-tax- Come hungry – the event will feature lunch or [email protected] sponsored by Organic Valley! – and meet credit

24 | the Practical Farmer Policy

Whole Farm Revenue Protection Leveling the playing field on insurance premium subsidies by Drake Larsen

Whole Farm Revenue Protection is a traditional revenue protection plans. If a management. Having a secondary option, new risk management tool created farmer has two or more crops and meets like WFRP, would help level the playing the diversification requirement, he or she field with field crops in Iowa and orchards in the 2014 Farm Bill intended will receive the higher premium subsidy. in surrounding states. If our insurance to help small, diversified farms – The WFRP subsidy rate will be 80 percent, coverage and premiums were similar to including those growing fruit and compared to coverage options between 50 Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan we vegetables. This is an important step and 75 percent in the old AGR program. could more confidently expand our orchard toward leveling the playing field for Moreover, WFRP offers an 85 percent and have more competitive local pricing, diversified farming operations. Until coverage level. Similar to existing individual which would benefit our customers. now, premium subsidy levels for crop policies, the subsidy level declines at However, we are still unsure if WFRP is farmers with diversified operations the very highest coverage levels. right for us, yet. The baseline data for many were far below those offered to crops we grow aren't available for Iowa Unlike traditional crop insurance, WFRP producers of commodity corn and (they are in MN, MI and WI); our premiums allows producers to insure the value of soybeans, who secure insurance on a would be much higher and only lower all of their crops, including mixed grain coverage levels would be available." crop-by-crop basis. and livestock operations, and diversified fruit and vegetable farms, rather than Farmers interested in the new whole lternative risk management tools having to insure crop-by-crop. This makes farm policy should speak to a local crop were available under the terms the policy an especially attractive option insurance agent about purchasing the new AGR (adjusted gross revenue) and A for diversified farms with extended crop policy, contact a Regional or County RMA AGR-lite, but these policies had lower rotations, integrated grain and livestock office with any questions, or review RMA’s basic subsidy rates and liability limits. systems, specialty crop growers, and online materials found here: http://www. Furthermore, AGR and AGR-lite were never organic producers—especially those rma.usda.gov/policies/wfrp.html. available in Iowa. producers who grow crops without organic Learn more about WFRP and how it compares to The new Whole Farm Revenue Protection price elections. Emma Johnson of Buffalo Ridge Orchard has been talking with her NAP in the farminar on March 17, "Head-To-Head: (WFRP) crop insurance policy offers Comparing Two Insurance Options for Specialty insurance agent about the program. She premium subsidies that are on par with Crop Farmers": practicalfarmers.org/2015- says, “Right now, crop diversity is our risk those available to producers under the winter-farminar

What's the Difference Between Yield Insurance and Revenue Insurance?

– Reprinted from the article "Whole Farm Revenue Protection for Diversified Farms" on the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s website

Insurance for farmers typically comes in can occur when yields are high. USDA’s ●● An 85 percent coverage level two forms: yield insurance and revenue Risk Management Agency (RMA) develops ● insurance. Yield-based insurance policies crop insurance policies, sets premium rates ● A premium subsidy of up to 80 percent provide indemnity payments when crop and subsidizes the costs for farmers and when at least two crops are grown yields drop below an insured amount, as approved insurance providers. The federal ●● A premium discount for increased long as the reason for the low yield is an policies are then administered through diversification insured cause of loss (e.g. drought, excess private crop insurance agents, who sell the rain, etc.). Revenue insurance is similar, policies to individual farmers. ●● Coverage for both crops and livestock but insures against drops in price as well as ●● Replant coverage yield. The 2014 Farm Bill authorized RMA to create a new revenue insurance product ●● Coverage for expanding operations Traditional crop insurance policies insure for diversified farming operations. Unlike without expansion histories individual crops and some organic crops, traditional yield or revenue insurance, this but those policies are not available for product is not intended for a single, specific ●● Inclusion of some incidental processing every organic and conventional crop in crop, but for all the crops and livestock expenses necessary to make the every county. Revenue insurance protects grown or raised on a given farm. commodity ready for market, such as against both low crop prices and low yields, washing, trimming, and packaging; and unlike traditional crop insurance that only Some of the benefits this new insurance ● protects against low yields; low crop prices option include: ● An $8.5 million liability limit.

www.practicalfarmers.org | 25 Energy

Wind Energy Update Q&A Combining attitude and effort to conserve energy By Mark Runquist

A few years ago we featured PFI member Mark Runquist regarding his family’s – they complement each other in that the energy conservation and alternative energy production. In that article ("Energy calm summer days offer more solar, while Conservation Trumps Wind Turbine for PFI Farmer"), in the Spring 2012 issue of the windy cloudy winter and spring favor wind – I would install a solar system first as the newsletter, Mark pointed out the surprising result that conservation efforts it is more economical and has fewer moving saved more kilowatt-hours (kWh) than the small wind turbine produced. In other parts to break. words, his conservation efforts alone reduced his electricity consumption more What’s been your experience with the than the amount of energy produced by installing the wind turbine. We thought installer or company? we’d catch up with Mark again and see if those trends continue and what his MARK: It's true that you never really impressions are now that the turbine has been in production for six years. know how a company backs its products. Particularly in the alternative energy area, Can you give us an update on the turbine pay attention to it. For example, imagine it is not always easy to choose a reputable performance and your conservation efforts? if car dashboards had the immediate mpg installer and know what products may be displayed larger than the speedometer. most reliable. I have heard a number of MARK: The turbine continues to perform horror stories – one from just a few miles flawlessly. The Skystream turbine has not Drivers would focus on maximizing away where a 10kW turbine and tower had any maintenance in the first six years of economy because they could see in blew down in a 50 mph wind, significantly production. In terms of energy produced, real time how their actions relate to fuel below the published engineered survival 2014 was the highest production year to economy. The same goes at home – paying speed. The installer said it was an issue for date: On average, the turbine produced an attention leads to changes. the turbine owner to collect from his hazard 419 kWh per month. Regarding efforts, there are things like insurance company – and the installer is out Likewise, our electric consumption using an economical solar clothes dryer! of business, so the person is out significant continues to drop. In 2014, our average We replaced kitchen appliances with more investment. household electrical use averaged 732 kWh energy-efficient models: a new and smaller We had a significant storm the first year per month, down from 12,000 kWh before “garage fridge” to replace the 1970s-era the turbine was up. It blew down garages starting conservation efforts. In 2014, the energy hog. Just replacing the 12 100-watt and barns on neighboring farms, dropped turbine produced 57 percent of our total incandescent light bulbs in the barn alleys trees on our place and crinkled the bins electric needs. with CFLs means that when I flip that switch, instead of burning 1,200 watts, I’m burning at the elevator. Our turbine sustained Can you tell us about some of your 276 watts and replacing a CFL bulb only water damage, and since it was due to a conservation efforts? once for every incandescent bulb because manufacturing defect of the housing, we MARK: It is a combination of attitude of a longer lifetime. received a new turbine at no cost, including and effort. You need an attitude to be for the labor to replace it. Would you put up another wind turbine, if mindful of your energy use. It all starts you had a chance to do it all over again? However, I am sorry to say that the original with monitoring and measuring; after all, if company has folded and another company you don’t measure it, you most likely don’t MARK: Yes. While economics and a higher degree of self-sufficiency are important, has purchased the assets and product line. I I sleep better at night knowing that I’m haven’t had a need to interact with them, as contributing less to climate change. So far the turbine has not needed any work and is now out of the five-year warranty period. View of Mark's turbine over its lifetime, the turbine has prevented 26,000 tons of CO from 2 Any advice for PFI members considering escaping into the atmosphere, alternative energy? and much more than that from MARK: First, take seriously the lift from conservation efforts. conservation efforts. Get a whole-farm Is there a reason you chose a wind energy audit and be mindful of your usage. turbine over a solar installation? Second, take a serious look at generating your own energy. Try to work with someone MARK: At the time we installed who has a strong and long track record. Talk the turbine, the cost to install a to others who have installed systems to find turbine was substantially less than out what they like and don’t like about their a similarly sized solar installation. installations. Now, that is reversed and solar is less to install than wind. While there would be a benefit to having Mark Runquist both solar and wind installation

26 | the Practical Farmer Member Book Review

"The Soil Will Save Us" by Gail Hickenbottom

Aldo Leopold once stated: “Land, soil carbon challenge to “see how fast land then, is not merely soil; it is a managers can turn atmospheric carbon fountain of energy flowing through into soil organic matter.” a circuit of soils, plants, and But in today’s society, Kristin's book animals.” To pick up where Leopold reminds us that the decision-making left off Kristin Ohlson’s book The process inherent in our system traps Soil Will Save Us, brings the reader many commercial farmers between new the discussions on how scientists, technology advancements and government farmers and foodies are attempting policy. Sometimes, these two attributes are ranked higher in the decision-making to maintain and increase soil fertility. process above profitability and soil health. Until the government advances new technology and policies, soil health as a hrough this dialogue, the book consideration will probably not hit home opens avenues for thinking about to the majority of land owners and farmers. how changing human behavior can T As in the 1980s, when profitability became help achieve better soil health. The major Published in 2014, "The Soil Will Save a challenge, PFI's founders realized that challenge for farmers in the future is to Us" discusses how studying agriculture managing for soil health and its attributes develop more healthy soils that respect the and soil science can help to heal and is key to success. This re-evaluation of complicated partnerships in nature. upgrade the productivity of our land. the direction caused by 1980s technology Kristin emphasizes the need to build up Author Kristin Ohlson has reached out and policies – a direction at odds with soil carbon in the soil so that carbon can be to many knowledgeable individuals for health – challenged PFI members to think shared with microorganisms. One of the their opinions, such as Gabe Brown, Elaine outside the box and be creative to make a major goals expressed throughout the Ingham, Fred Kirschenmann, Ricardo more profitable living. book is to grow healthy food through Salvador – and many more real-world a healthy environment and not destroy Kristin's book is one of those books that experts Practical Farmers of Iowa has the land. This can be accomplished by you might want to add to your home reached out to as resources for enriching not only looking for the physical and library. In my home, I have a copy of "A members' knowledge. In addition to chemical characteristics of soil, but also the Sand County Almanac," which I take from seeking the perspectives of those subject- characteristics of its biological life. the shelf from time to time to refresh my matter experts, PFI is acknowedged memory on Leopold's writings. "The Soil midway into the book as “an organization Soil can be looked at as part of a Will Save Us" might become a similar that is conducting on-site research to help biologically community, with the guiding staple, one of those books you might want themselves and others create a better question of what is needed to keep that read from time to time to remind yourself agriculture.” community healthy as well as regenerate of what regenerated agriculture means, the soil. In chapter three, entitled “Send and a way foward to building healthy soils in the Cows,” Kristin devotes meaningful Gail Hickenbottom for the next generation. discussion to how plants and animal life positively interact together. For Gail Hickenbottom is a friend-of-farmer instance, one might sometimes think that member from West Des Moines who integrating livestock is not needed or may serves on Practical Farmers’ board of have a negative impact on the soil. The directors. information provided enlightens us that livestock properly managed may have a synergistic effect by creating a balance that works to improve the soil's well-being.

Throughout the book, many of the people interviewed point out the desired characteristics of healthy soils and the need for those characteristics to be promoted for a strong biological system. In one example, Abe Collins launched a

www.practicalfarmers.org | 27 PFI News

Farewells, Reflections – and Updates – from Tomoko Ogawa

or a fan of farmers like me, working at I started to think about it, I did not see Practical Farmers was a dream job. I myself in the United States long-term, F always admired and was intrigued by and increasingly started to think about farmers, probably because I grew up quite returning to Japan. disconnected to agriculture, while knowing in the back of my head that farmers are After leaving PFI in November, I spent two the ones supporting the foundation of my months traveling in Spain, volunteering life. Although I had a tiny bit of experience at vegetable cooperative farms. When I working at a farm in Japan, I often felt go back to Japan, I’m planning to study at inadequate to talk to PFI farmers. I grew up a culinary school in the evening to learn in a big city, and apart from English being more about traditional Japanese cuisine my second language, I didn't know the and work at a farm or restaurant during language of agriculture. the day. One day, I’d like to teach Japanese cuisine and food culture to people visiting But you were so kind and patient to teach Japan, or return to Spain to teach there. My me, and I cannot thank you enough for dream is to teach not only cooking itself, your generosity in sharing your knowledge but also about local farmers, agriculture – as well as delicious food! – with me. I and regional products. Tomoko poses with one of Earl Hafner's cats remember that, after four years, I finally after staffing her last field day for PFI at Early Morning Harvest in November. felt comfortable talking to everyone at the I’m very thankful for having met Practical 2014 annual conference and realized how Farmers, a jewel and hope in Iowa, and much I’ve learned from my years at PFI. so many wonderful people through this with me will always be a part of me that I organization. Good-byes never become can revisit anytime. I also look forward to I really enjoyed working at Practical easy, no matter how many times I have staying connected to PFI from Japan as the Farmers because I was constantly reminded done them, and having lived in Iowa for first Practical Farmers member in Asia! I how much more I need and want to learn the majority of my adult life, I’m quite will continue to be inspired by all the great about agriculture and food. Because of nervous about readjusting to life in Japan. work you do. I know Japan and Iowa are far your commitment to Iowa, its land and However, it comforts me and gives me apart, but if you are ever interested, please people, I’ve been inspired to find and be strength to know that the conversations, come visit me in Japan – I will be your best more committed to a community. When food, knowledge and the time you shared tour guide! Nick Ohde Joins PFI as New Research and Want to Weigh in on Program Assistant PFI Newsletter? Sign up to take part in a survey! ick grew up in rural southeast Iowa, not too far from Wapello. Born into a "the Practical Farmer" has been a staple N family of conservationists, he learned of PFI since the organization's early years. an appreciation and respect for the natural While it's undergone design and other world from an early age. Also born into changes over the years, above all, its goal a family of eaters, he became intrigued is to celebrate you, our members, and by the concept of an agriculture that was serve your needs and desires. good for producing food and good for the To make sure we're staying on track, environment, and came to graduate school we're planning to conduct a newsletter at Iowa State University where he earned survey this spring, and are looking for an M.S. in Sustainable Agriculture in 2011. participants willing to share feedback. Upon graduating, Nick worked at Iowa In his spare time, Nick enjoys exploring What do you like or dislike? What do you State researching the production of the ecosystems of Iowa with a gun or want to see more or less of? How can we perennial grasses for biofuel production, binoculars in hand, cooking what he finds improve the newsletter so it better serves and coordinating workshops for teachers there, reading the works of Wendell Berry all member types and categories? centered on energy use in agriculture. (and other authors), laughing, practicing From 2012-2013, he lived in rural yoga, and spending time with friends and Want to weigh in? We plan to conduct Ecuador, working with farmers, interns, family. He looks forward to working hard to the survey in mid-May. and volunteers on community projects. accomplish the goals of PFI's members. If you'd like to take part, contact Tamsyn Most recently, Nick served as the kitchen at [email protected] or at manager at Café Beaudelaire in Ames. (515) 232-5661 by Friday, May 1.

28 | the Practical Farmer PFI News Tom Wahl and Kathy Dice Receive 2015 Sustainable Agriculture Achievement Award quality of life. “This is not important om Wahl and Kathy Dice of just for today’s farmers,” Tom explains, Wapello were recipients of the “but also we must be able to recruit T 2015 Sustainable Agriculture future generations to farming.” Finally, Achievement Award, granted annually a sustainable agriculture must not by Practical Farmers of Iowa to an degrade our resource base – “Healthy individual or couple that has shown soil, clean water and air, biotic and dedication to sustainable agriculture, human communities should thrive as a generously shared their knowledge result of agriculture.” with others and been influential in efforts to foster vibrant communities, Tom and Kathy’s thoughts on diverse farms and healthful food. The sustainability, and how to create a award was presented to Tom and Kathy sustainable farm, didn’t happen all at during Practical Farmers’ 2015 Annual once. Both come from a conservation Conference, “Mapping Our Future,” in background, having worked for their Ames. local county conservation boards, and Kathy Dice and Tom Wahl their thoughts on sustainable agriculture Perennial Agriculture have evolved over time, just as their Visions event where a call for integrated Tom and Kathy own Red Fern Farm, predominant farm enterprises have cropping systems using perennial plants an agroforestry farm and nursery that changed over time. They used to run a really resonated with them. That was specializes in nut and berry crops as well sizable pasture poultry operation but an “Aha! moment” for them, and Tom production of tree nursery stock and now fruit, nut and berry sales prevail realized chestnuts and other trees could medicinal forest plants. The farm, which along with sales of nursery stock. be the perennial crops. Farm conversion to agroforestry began shortly thereafter. Tom and Kathy purchased in 1986, is the While the farm currently has about site of ongoing research on a variety of 75 species of crop trees and shrubs— Tom says that Practical Farmers tree crops and forest farming systems. including paw paw, persimmon, of Iowa and Holistic Management “One of our goals is to promote Asian pears, heart nut trees and have been important as they’ve sustainable agriculture. We are aronia berries—chestnut trees are developed their farm and thoughts passionate about the role of perennials a cornerstone of Red Fern Farm. about sustainability. Tom and Kathy in creating sustainable farms,” says “Chestnuts are almost the perfect food,” have excelled as leaders in Practical Tom, referring to their central tenet Kathy describes, “They have very high Farmers of Iowa by conducting on-farm of keeping the ground covered and quality protein and are low in fat.” research and hosting many field days fostering biodiversity both above and Tom’s interest in the tree started at an and demonstrations. Red Fern Farm below ground. early age, when a grade school teacher is the site of on-going agroforestry described the how this majestic and research looking at practical forest Long-time family friend and Practical important American tree species was farming systems that can work in Iowa. Farmers staffer Nick Ohde presented nearly wiped out by a fungal blight. The Additionally, Tom and Kathy host many Tom and Kathy with their award. story of near extinction stuck with Tom farm tours each year for a variety of “Growing up I spent many evenings for a long time. special interest and school groups. over at their farm. They heavily shaped They are active in several professional Many years later Tom and Kathy were my view of sustainability, long before I societies dedicated to agroforestry and attending a Practical Farmers’ Shared had ever heard that word,” Nick recalls. sustainable agriculture. “I realize now,” he says, “they really are pioneers. Not in the sense of trying to Past Sustainable Agriculture Achievement Award recipients: hold on to or recreate some long-lost past, but that they are bravely building 2014: Susan Jutz 2007: Francis Thicke 1998: Neil Hamilton the path to a better world, to a better 2013: Matt Liebman 2006: Paul Johnson 1997: Dennis Keeney life for their family and community. They are truly rethinking what sustainable 2012: Fred Kirschenmann 2005: Denise O’Brien 1996: Michael Duffy agriculture means.” 2011: Tom and Irene 2004: George Beran 1995: Dick and Sharon Frantzen Sustainability Defined 2003: Rich Pirog Thompson 2010: Ron Rosmann and Tom and Kathy describe that their 2002: Rick Exner 1994: Richard Cruse Maria Vakulskas Rosmann definition of sustainable agriculture 2001: David Williams 1993: Larry Kallem has three parts. First, agriculture must 2009: Vic and Cindy 1992: Jerry DeWitt provide the things society needs: food, Madsen 2000: Mark Honeyman fiber, fuel and heat, building materials, 1991: John Pesek 2008: Kamyar Enshayan 1999: Jean Wallace medicine and more. Next, agriculture Douglas 1990: Alfred Blackmer must provide farmers with a high

www.practicalfarmers.org | 29 New Members & Calendar

UPCOMING EVENTS ~ FEB. | MARCH | APRIL

Various Dates in February – "Map of My Kingdom" Play Performances | Multiple Locations Commissioned by PFI and written by playwright Mary Swander, the play explores many of the thorny and emotional dimensions of farm transfer. Upcoming dates: • Sunday, Feb. 15 – Lytton • Thursday, Feb. 19 – Forest City • Saturday, Feb. 21 – Orange City • Tuesday, Feb. 24 – Storm Lake • Thursday, Mar. 26 – Dubuque District 1–NorthwestWelcome, • Clif Cameron,New Farley Members!• Don Sponheim, Prairie City • Brent & Dana Bergquist, • Cindy Clemen, Waterloo • Justin Sprague, Audubon Feb. 18-19 – Midwest Soil Health Summit | Lohrville • Terrance Durian, Cedar Rapids • Connie Thienes, Waukee Alexandria, MN The Summit will convene some of the most innovative • Aaron Bloom, Aurelia • Thomas & Jeanette Hansen, • Luke Vance, Sheldahl farmers and researchers in the Upper Midwest for two • Matt Essick, Dickens Decorah • Joseph Villines, Norwalk days of networking, speakers, panel discussions and • Wyatt Feilmeier, Early • Deborah Jacobi, Dorchester • Seth Watkins, Clarinda breakout sessions – all geared at improving the health • Bobby Jewell, Decorah of your soil. For more, visit: www.sfa-mn.org/ • Bennet Groth, Lawton District 5–Southeast • Jens Hjelm, Lake Park • Eric Lamp, Cedar Rapids Feb. 19 – Advanced Workshop on Organic Management • Tim & Jody Engman, Brighton • Chris Huegerich, Breda • Lori Lechtenberg, Ossian of Root and Tuber Crops | East Troy, WI | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • Daniel Hoy, Eddyville Cost: $40 for the first person on the farm; $20 for • John Kiel, Orange City • Martin Short, Marion • Jennifer Janicki, Grinnell additional family members and business partners. • Bryce Parker, Holstein • Derrek Sommerfelt, Tripoli • Frances Johnson & Michael Learn in-depth, organic management strategies for several root and tuber crops, including potatoes, • David Van Oort, Doon District 4–Southwest Schultz, Iowa City onions, carrots and garlic. Topics will include: variety District 2–North Central • Cecily Ambroson & Samantha • Lynne Johnson, Fairfield selection; management of common insect pests Newport, Urbandale • Doug Adams, Humboldt • Nate Kaeding, Iowa City and plant diseases; post harvest handling; cultural • Ken Ashley, Indianola considerations; and more Visit: http://michaelfields.org • J. Gordon Arbuckle, Ames • Brent Kilburg, Eldridge • Michael Basett, Grimes • Dennis Barkela, Sheffield • Jacob Long, Burlington Feb. 21 – Midwest Hop Growers Seminar & Trade Show • Charles Bizimana & | Warren, WI • Matt Bennett, Kelley • Jenny Mansheim, Fort Madison Bangirinama Joserine, Des • David & James McCartney, This event gives hop producers the chance to speak • Cathy & Dennis Carlson, Moines with representatives from different sectors of the hop Carlson Tree Farm, Hampton Iowa City • Paula Black, West Des Moines industry, from equipment and finance, to irrigation and • Adam Christian, Roland • John Miller, Fairfield quality analysis, and others. For more, visit: • Amy & Jason Boyer, Weldon • Chad Cook, Boone • Jessie Nichols, Fairfield http://growmorehops.com • Keith Charlier, Blanchard • Nick Davis, Humboldt • Doug Nolte, Wilton Feb. 26-28 – MOSES Organic Farming Conference | La • Alex Congera & Chantal • Laura Frescoln, Ames • David & Amy Petersen, Blue Crosse, WI Marie, Des Moines Grass • Jon Giselson, Floyd The MOSES Conference is the largest event in the U.S. • Calvin Culp • Ben Rigdon, New London about organic and sustainable farming. It’s the one • Justin & Heather Greenlee, Des Moines event of the season where you can expand your farming • Clark Rutledge, Goose Lake Ames • John Freeman, Osceola knowledge, discover new resources and tools, make • Brett Schulty, Wellman • Kit Higgins, Boxholm • Dale Grimmius, Grundy Center connections and find support. For more, visit: • Jessica Stutsman, Riverside http://mosesorganic.org/conference/ • Iowa Central Community • Etiene Hacimana & Florence College, Mike Robertson, Fort Ntiruvakure, Des Moines • Kriss Wells, Le Claire March 14 – Beginner Beekeeping | East Troy, WI | 9 a.m.- Dodge • Angelique Hakuzimana, Des • Elizabeth Williams, Fairfield Noon | $25 • Abbie Johnson, Mason City Moines • Brent Yoder, Wellman Back by popular demand, join experienced beekeeper • Shannon Latham, Sheffield Dan O’Leary for an introduction to beekeeping. Dan • Bradley Hanawalt, Des Moines District 6–Out of State has spent over 30 years working with bees. For more • Jon Linn, Iowa Falls • Nickolas Hansen, Colfax • Kaleb Anderson, Goodhue, visit: http://michaelfields.org • Dana Norby, Osage • Ta Ka Paw & Hsa Hei, Des MN March 14 – Pollinator Habitats | East Troy, WI | 1-3 p.m. • William Osterholz, Ames Moines • Adam Boge, Oreana, IL | FREE • Richard Schultz, Charles City • Jeff Koch, Van Meter • Duncan Campbell, La This workshop will take place after the "Beginner • Annette & Dave Sweeney, • Dawn Larson, Saint Charles Grange Park, IL Beekeeping" class. Instructor Steve Bertjens, state Alden NRCS biologist, will answer all your questions about • Nic McMillin, Saint Charles • Lindsey Carpenter, Monroe, • Tom & Troy Thorpe, Scranton how to attract honeybees and native pollinators. He will • Martin Murdock, Woodbine WI also cover all the cost share programs offered by NRCS. • Mike & Michelle Walters, • Sharon Oamek, Honey Creek • Tony & LuAnn Colosimo, (You don't have to attend the beekeeping class to Webster City • Meryle Osborn, Crescent Irving, TX attend this workshop). Visit: http://michaelfields.org District 3–Northeast • Chad & Ryan Pontier, Osceola • Ann Nore & Madeline April 10 – Tractors and Implements| East Troy, WI | 9 Snyder San Francisco, CA • Michael Batz, Palo • Melanie & Michael Seals, a.m.-Noon | $25 • Pesticide Action Network • Joshua Bauer, West Union Moravia In this hands-on training, learn how to drive and safely Linda Wells, Minneapolis, MN operate a tractor and attach implements. For more, • Maren & Tom Beard, Decorah • Bucumi & Mariselina Simon, Des Moines visit: http://michaelfields.org • Denise Boudreau, Colesburg For more events, visit practicalfarmers.org 30 | the Practical Farmer Join PFI

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