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VOLUME 5, ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2016 Southwest Ohio Highland High marks for Farm Science Review Ag Secretary at farmers Wilmington ag facility honored Vilsack: USDA can boost By Gary Brock #1 SOURCE FOR [email protected] rural communities By Gary Hu enberger QUALITY HARVESTING LONDON – Highland ghu† [email protected] County farmers Tim and EQUIPMENT Sandy Shoemaker and WILMINGTON — The ST. RT. 68 & I-71 Howard Grabill of Mill- role government can play to stone Creek LLC farm strengthen America’s rural WILMINGTON, OH were one of fi ve Ohio areas was stressed during US farm families to receive 937.382.5717 Agriculture Secretary Tom the 2016 Conservation Vilsack’s visit to Wilmington WWW.MFEAG.COM Farm Family Award. College Sept. 22. The awards were pre- Vilsack toured the college’s EMAIL: sented the fi ve family newly upgraded and expanded farms during ceremonies Center for the Sciences and [email protected] Sept. 22 during the Submitted photo Agriculture, and the facil- annual Ohio Farm Sci- Attendees watch a demonstration at Trotter Field during the final day of the Farm WE SPECIALIZE IN JOHN DEERE EQUIPMENT Science Review on Thursday. ity’s agriculture and science AND CARRY A WIDE VARIETY OF OTHER ence Review in Madison classrooms and laboratories. County. BRANDS INCLUDING CASE IH, NEW More than 125,000 attend annual three-day event The renovation and expansion HOLLAND, GLEANER AND CATERPILLAR. In receiving the award, project was funded by a $19.7 40906315 Sandy Shoemaker said, By Gary Brock meet and talk to FFA members million rural development, low- [email protected] “Thank you, this means from all parts of Ohio.” interest, 32-year loan from the a lot. We would be doing Over the three days of the U.S. Department of Agriculture this whether we received LONDON — Pennsylvania Farm Science Review Sept. More Than farmer Larry Gill and several (USDA). an award or not. We are 20-22, more than 125,790 visi- In remarks prior to introduc- both retired, but that title friends drove nearly four hours tors attended. This is according Just Tires... Sept. 22 to attend the annual ing Vilsack, Wilmington Col- isn’t appropriate for us to the sponsor, the College of lege President Jim Reynolds We Are A — we have just changed Ohio Farm Science Review in Food, Agricultural, and Envi- Madison County near London. said without the USDA’s help, jobs. We are going to con- ronmental Sciences at The Ohio the extensive renovations and Resource tinue this job for the rest “It’s quite a drive, but well State University. There were worth it,” Gill said while walk- new wing would not have been of our lives.” also more than 600 vendors and possible. During the eight years This was the 33rd year ing through the many exhibit exhibitors. buildings on the grounds of the Vilsack has been the agricul- of the awards program. The Review offered farmers ture secretary under President In addition to the High- Molly Caren Agricultural Center. and growers a “wonderful oppor- Gill, who grows grain and Obama, the USDA has awarded land County farm family, tunity to learn about the latest $6.9 billion in loans and grants the other four families raises beef on 230 acres between agricultural research and innova- Pittsburgh and Erie, doesn’t for education and healthcare honored were: Robert Lill tion,” said Matt Sullivan, super- facilities in rural regions. Serving all of Marion County; Justin mind the long drive at all. “I intendent of the center. really enjoy coming here. It is One intended effect of those and Lowell Wolff of Medi- “When you look at the overall USDA infrastructure invest- your na County; Edward and encouraging to see so many Farm Science Review, we had people here in farming and all ments, said Vilsack, is to stem Agricultural Karen Bay of Guernsey the largest number of exhibitors the rural brain drain such that County; and William and the new technology,” he said. ever, the weather was awesome, Ansonia FFA member Aric youth who live in small towns Tire Needs Shauna Wilkins of Miami and we had great attendance,” have options, and “don’t neces- County. Barga agrees. While walking Sullivan said. “Exhibitors’ feed- throughout the exhibits and dis- sarily have to go to a big city “Farmers were the fi rst back has also been very positive. to run a business and make a conservationists, and to plays, the Darke County agricul- “Our fi eld demonstrations Wilmington ture student was quick with his difference.” 603 McCoy Rd. this day the conservation went extremely well, with the In part, he attributed the efforts they employ will assessment. “This is awesome. most corn and soybean combines 937-382-2300 There are lots of new experi- brain drain to a lack of collec- allow the land to be the that we’ve ever had at Farm tive foresight while the number most productive it can be ences here and new technology Science Review. We’ve had an to see,” he said. “And lots of free of U.S. farmers dropped from Hillsboro to provide food, fi ber and outstanding year installing fi eld 25 million to 2.3 million. fuel for generations to stuff,” he said, as he placed some drainage, and we’ve generated 108 Willettsville Pike items from a vendor into his bag “We didn’t stop and think, come,” said Ohio some of the best corn and soy- ‘Golly, where are those [rural] 937-393-3520 Department of Agri- while walking with a group of bean yields we’ve ever had.” 40878530 fellow Ansonia FFA students. See WINNERS | 5 “It’s also a good chance to See SCIENCE | 8 See COLLEGE | 5

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2 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 The November election and Ohio farmers By Gary Brock for Ohio’s farmers. The federal Trump said, “By the way, for couple is taxed at a flat rate of taxes, partly because large tax [email protected] EPA, for example, has come the family farmers, Hillary Clin- 40 percent. bills can force families to sell under a lot of fire while under ton’s plan proposes an estate Clinton’s proposal would their farms and/or businesses. XENIA — How significant the Obama Administration tax of 65 percent, 65 percent. lower that threshold: Estate This whole “estate taxes” an impact will the presidential for expansion of regulations So you are going to have an taxes would apply to inheri- issue is about the only farm- election next month have on impacting farmers. estate tax of up to 65 percent. tances worth more than $3.5 ing and agriculture issue being rural Ohioans? Come January, However, Obama has Lots of luck having your kids million from an individual or $7 debated by the two major can- will Ohio farmers need to been a major advocate for hold on to your farms — not million from a couple, and the didates. be A: Concerned; B: Very the Trans-Pacific Trade going to happen.” rate would range from 45 per- The reality of the election for concerned; or C: Terri- Agreement, a measure Under Clinton’s proposed cent to 65 percent. Ohio’s farm and rural families is fied, depending on which that would benefit Ohio tax plan, inheritances worth Family farms worth less than that the choices aren’t so much presidential candidate’s farmers immensely. more than $500 million from $3.5 million or $7 million from about how either of the candi- hand is resting on the I think the same might an individual or $1 billion from a couple would be exempt from dates rate on “farm” issues, but Bible Inauguration Day? happen in the next four a couple would be taxed at a Clinton’s estate tax, at least how they rate on issues com- To be sure, the last Gary years regardless of who is 65 percent rate. But, as ABC under her current plan. mon to all Americans such as eight years of the current in office — a mix of good reported, almost certainly no The higher rate would raise national security, job growth, administration haven’t Brock Rural Life and bad for Ohio farmers. family farm would fall under an extra $75 billion over a personal freedoms and leader- been all roses and candy Today Editor Take the Democratic the top rate. decade, Clinton’s campaign ship. if you ask a lot of Ohio party nominee’s proposal “In previous discussions of estimates. Those voters in the farming farmers. Over the last few to increase estate taxes. this issue, opponents of the We all know how much farm and agriculture communities years, when I have accompa- On Sept. 28, Donald Trump estate tax were unable to find a families hate the idea of estate here in Ohio and across the nied Ohio farmers to Washing- suggested to an audience in single case where a family farm or “death” taxes. The reality is country will make their choices ton D.C. to meet their elected Iowa that family farmers would had to be sold to pay estate that many farmers here in Ohio next month on a broad spec- representatives and lobby pub- pay a 65 percent estate tax taxes,” Roberton Williams from wouldn’t pay estate taxes under trum of positions and issues lic officials in a host of federal rate under Hillary Clinton’s the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy the current system or the pro- important to them, not just a agencies, the biggest complaint proposed tax plan, making it Center told ABC News. posal by Clinton. single issue or two. I heard was over the increase impossible for their children to Currently, every estate worth But we know the small- in federal regulations leading “hold on to your farms.” over $5.45 million from an indi- business owners and farmers Gary Brock can be reached at 937-556-5759 to greater costs and paperwork According to ABC News, vidual or $10.9 million from a are fierce opponents of estate or on Twitter at GBrock4.

Winterize your vegetable garden with a cover crop

By Sara Creamer like barley, oats, ryegrass, nates. Do not fertilize a Fayette County Master Gardener and cereal rye; legumes legume crop since that (plants in the bean fam- will interfere with nitro- WASHINGTON CH — ily) such as peas, vetch, gen fixation. Legumes Even though fall is offi- clover, and alfalfa; brassi- need a specific soil bacte- cially here, it is not time cas (the mustard family) ria (Rhizobia) to colonize to quit working in the including oilseed radish, the roots in order to fix vegetable garden. Putting turnips, and Ethiopian nitrogen. Anyone that has in some effort to prepare cabbage; and broadleaf grown spring peas will the garden for winter will crops such as sunflower, have used this inoculum save you some time in the flax, phacelia, and buck- and knows that fresh is busy spring season. Now wheat. required. is the time to winterize With all these choices, Like any crop, in order your engines, clean and how do you pick a cover to achieve good germina- store your tools, drain crop? Because you are tion and establish prop- hoses, remove debris going into winter with erly, the seed must be in from the garden, plan this cover crop, cool sea- good contact with the crop rotation, and get a son crops are the way to soil, be lightly incorporat- soil test if it has not been go. They should be plant- ed, and receive adequate done in a couple of years. ed in September through water. It is also time to plant a early October in time to Your local extension cover crop. allow them to grow and office should be able to receive 50 hours of wildlife management. through the 2017 train- A cover crop is a crop establish before winter. help you with resources intensive instruction on Interns then volunteer ing class contact: Sara planted to protect and Some cover crops will to find seed and to plant horticulture topics. Top- their time assisting with Creamer 740-335-1150 or improve your soil. A be killed by the winter a cover crop in your veg- ics include (but are not educational programs and email her at creamer.70@ winter cover crop helps and the residue will etable garden. The follow- limited to) botany, soils activities through their osu.edu. Come join our prevent soil erosion and remain to protect the soil ing links will also provide and fertilizers, entomol- local OSU Extension team. nutrient leaching, reduces and be ready to incorpo- some resources: http:// ogy, herbaceous plants, County office. For more Sara Creamer is Fayette County weeds, adds soil organic rate into the garden in the www.walnutcreekseeds. vegetable and fruit pro- information on becom- Master Gardener coordinator. matter (SOM), and can spring. They are good for com duction, phenology, and ing a Master Gardener encourage beneficial areas of the garden where http://www.mccc. insects. Some cover crops early spring crops such as msu.edu/documents/ also provide nitrogen by peas, greens, and radishes seed_dealer_fact- fixing it in their roots. will be planted. sheet_08-29-11.pdf Other crops are good at There are cover crops http://www.nacdnet. taking up excess nitrogen that will resume growth org/dmdocuments/ Rural Life Today in the soil and accumu- in the spring. These can UCWebinar-Soil-Health- lating it in plant tissue still be incorporated into Hamilton-SWCD-OH- (referred to as nitrogen the garden but provide Feb2014.pdf October 2016 Southwest - Ohio scavenging). protection longer into the A cover crop is a good Rural Life Today is published monthly by Civitas Media, LLC and Good cover crops growing season. These way to help with winter- is distributed in over 60 counties throughout Ohio. Rural Life Today is establish quickly, compete would be good for areas izing your garden. Your published in six zones (North, Northwest, West Central, Central, Southwest, with the weeds, develop of the garden where mother always told you to and Southeast). All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any material from large root systems, have warm season crops like wear a hat in winter. Your this issue in whole or in part either in print or online is prohibited. enough top growth to tomatoes and peppers garden could use a cover Editor: provide biomass (material will be planted. crop. Gary Brock [email protected] North Zone: West Central Zone: Southwest Zone: to be incorporated into Typically, a grass or Training Class 937-556-5759 Tom Hutson Christie Randall Randy Graf the soil in the spring), grain combined with a A Fayette County Mas- [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Publisher 440-775-1611 937-548-3151 ext 1743 937-556-5758 should not be invasive, legume makes a good ter Gardener training Pamela Stricker [email protected] Northwest Zone: Central Zone: Southeast Zone: low maintenance, and cover crop for a vegetable class will be taught begin- 567.242.0463 Natalie Buzzard Vicki Taylor Julia Schultz inexpensive and available. garden. The grass or ning in January 2017. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Subscriptions: 567-242-0356 419-468-1117 ext 2042 740-446-2342 There are four gener- grain germinates quickly Classes will be held on Customer Services [email protected] ally used cover crop and provides protection Mondays, Tuesdays, and 419-993-2000 types: grains and grasses until the legume germi- three Saturdays. Interns A3

Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 3

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are resistant to change. said Vilsack. selected to join USDA’s College Vilsack replied he He was encouraging in StrikeForce for Rural thinks “you can’t force his thoughts about the Opportunity and Growth From page 1 people to be bold; you small city of Wilmington Initiative. got to show them a way.” located in a largely rural The initiative aims people going to go?’ We And one thing that can county. at delivering sustain- forced them, in essence be done in that regard, “There’s no limitation able results by building by not giving them he said, is to make the in what can be done in partnerships with com- opportunity, we forced case that change is this small town. None. munity organizations, them to leave their small constant and cannot be You have all of the ele- businesses, foundations, town and go to a big avoided. ments here,” the secre- universities, faith-based city,” the secretary said. “So, the question tary remarked. and other groups to help During public com- becomes either allow At an earlier juncture, challenged communities ment, a questioner change to manage you Vilsack said it is “really shape a future based on suggested part of the — as many communi- phenomenal” that nearly local assets and regional Gary Huffenberger | News Journal challenge in dealing with ties have seen the slow a quarter of WC students strengths, stated a media U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, second from right rural brain drain involves deterioration of their are agriculture students. advisory from the USDA. foreground, slices cabbage in a way he said is reportedly safer creating a risk-taking community because of Earlier this year, Vil- for fingers when using a knife to cut foods. Wilmington College culture among rural resi- allowing change to man- sack announced that Reach Gary Hu† enberger at fourth-year agriculture student Jessica Michonski, first in right dents, who the audience age them — or you can 11 high-poverty coun- 937-556-5768 or on Twitter @ foreground, and others observe the secretary’s demonstration in a member said sometimes GHu† enberger. food lab at the college’s expanded and extensively upgraded Center manage the change,” ties in Ohio had been for the Sciences and Agriculture.

said of the Area 5 win- Winners ner: “Tim and Sandy Shoemaker and Howard From page 1 Grabill of Millstone Creek LLC farm more culture Director David than 100 acres in High- Daniels. “I am proud of land County. They raise each of these families beef cattle. Millstone for being good neigh- Creek farm has been bors, handling the land a cooperator with the with care, and helping Highland Soil and Water to responsibly keep Conservation District for food and agriculture a 26 years. top ranking industry in “The Millstone Creek Ohio.” farm property was donat- “Each of the fi ve ed and accepted into Gary Brock photo farming families we the Ohio Department of The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) recognized five recognized operates in Conservation Farm Family Awards winners at Farm Science Review Agriculture’s Farmland on Sept. 22. Pictured are (back row, left to right): Jason Bower, a different geographic Preservation Agricul- area of Ohio, with dif- sales representative for ADS Hancor Inc.; Jennifer Kiel, editor of tural Easement Donation Ohio Farmer; Yvonne Lesicko, executive vice president of Ohio Farm fering acreages, soils, program in 2004. The Bureau Federation; Kris Swartz, president of the Ohio Federation of and topography,” said Gary Brock photo conservation practices Highland County farmers Tim and Sandy Shoemaker accepted the Soil and Water Conservation Districts; Kirk Hines, chief of the ODA Kirk Hines, chief of the used on the farm include; Area 5 2016 Conservation Farm Family Award on behalf of them Division of Soil and Water Conservation; Mark Smith, USDA Natural department’s Division of and Howard Grabill of Millstone Creek LLC farm during the awards Resources Conservation Service; and Tim Shoemaker, Area 5 winner. grass fi lter strips, exclu- Front row (left to right): William and Shauna Wilkins, Area 4 winners; Soil and Water Conserva- sion fencing, pipeline, ceremonies Sept. 22 at the Farm Science Review. tion. “They each have a Betty Jo and Robert Lill, Area 1 winners; Lowell and Cara Wolff, Area watering facilities, access tion grant, which helped positive way to preserve 2 winners; Sandy Shoemaker, Area 5 winner; and Karen and Edward unique mixture of crops roads, feeding pads, and Bay, Area 3 winners. and livestock. Each farm to promote soil health, their way of life.” The pasture planting. The and emphasized the Shoemakers and How- wildlife and other natural September issue of Ohio has its own management farm has hosted educa- challenges and goals. importance of managed ard Grabill provide an resources on the land Farmer magazine and tion events, such as a grazing as a key compo- outstanding example of they farm. Conservation received plaques from They share a common pasture management commitment to conserve nent to meeting Ohio’s how to incorporate con- farm families also host ADS Hancor Inc. Nomi- grazing school, kinder- water quality goals. servation practices that a variety of educational nations are sought annu- natural resources; the garten agriculture day soil, water, woodlands, When asked about their contribute to an environ- programs, opening their ally between January and tour, Highland County conservation philosophy, mentally and economi- farms to schools, scout May, and Ohio farming and wildlife on the land farm tour, and was part they farm. Every farm the Shoemakers said, cally sound operation.” groups, farm organiza- families are encour- of an agriculture week “We strive to leave the Since 1984, the Con- tions and others. aged to apply. For more and family are unique celebration with the but conservation is the environmental resources servation Farm Family In addition to receiv- information or to apply director of Ohio Depart- under conservation stew- Awards program has rec- ing $400 each from individuals can contact foundation of their liveli- ment of Agriculture. hoods.” ardship in good condi- ognized 171 Ohio farm the Ohio Farm Bureau their local Soil and Water “Millstone Creek was tion for the next genera- families for their exem- Federation, the families Conservation District In honoring the Mill- also part of a National stone Creek Farm, Hines tion and will continue to plary efforts conserving were also featured in the (SWCD). Grazing Lands Coali- model conservation in a soil, water, woodland, WE’RE AT YOUR SERVICE Huge New Passenger Tire Sale The guide to Xenia Shoe & Leather Cash - C/C only. Installation Included. quality goods Xenia’s Finest Shoe Store For The Real Deal, Check These Prices! and services Red Wings • Keem Utility • Birkenstock & More! Most 14”- 15”- 16” Tires 4/$295 + tax. 40724203 Most 17” Tires 4/$395 + tax. 21 E. Main Street • Xenia, OH, 45385 that ‰ t your (937) 376-8156 • www.xeniashoe.com RALPH THE TIREMAN 221 S. HINDE ST. rural lifestyle! Xenia’s Finest Shoe & Leather Repair WASH. C. H. OH. 43160 Shoe Store • Shoe Repair & Restoration • Pedorthics • Zipper Repair 740-335-1200 40921409

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Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 7 Grain, farm prot experts: Some gloom, but not doom for ‘17 Farmers will face negative proŒts, lower prices next year

By Gary Brock reality for corn is that we “I think soybeans are [email protected] are swimming in it. In the best story. For the Ohio, we hear a lot about 2016-17 harvest, we say LONDON – Ohio farm- poor yields, but here at we are going to have a Gary Brock photos ers can expect negative Farm Science Review lot of beans. We have OSU Agriculture Economist Matt Roberts, at right, talks about grain prices and yield with moderator profits next year as grain I have talked to farm- said this 12 months ago Davis Marrison of OSU Extension during the “Ask the Experts” sessions at the Farm Science Review Sept. prices fall and expenses ers who are on track for and 24 months ago. This 20-22 in Madison County. stay flat going into 2017. record yields. South of means there is a demand. seeing low profits and But there are ways I-70, we have solid yields, This summer, every year even losses here in the farmers can cushion the north of I-80, excellent for the last eight years last couple of years, and profit downturn, agri- yields forecast. For corn we have thought we are our projection is for even culture economists say, though, the real problem going to be swimming more of the same in 2017. including switching from is surplus.” in beans. Then someone It is likely, especially with corn to soybeans next However, he said the somewhere says we really, the present price environ- year and scaling back on good news is, “we should really like beans.I think ment that Matt is telling farm equipment. be in a surplus. In 2013, we are going to see this us. We are stuck with the Those were just two of 2014, and 2015, we had same issue again.” legacy of the boom times the points raised by Ohio the largest corn harvests Corn yield predictions? of 2006 to 2012, it is the State University agri- in history. So it is nor- Roberts said the market cost structure that is still culture experts to Ohio mal we would have low thinks yield is a little in place.” farmers at the Farm Sci- prices, then. In 2010, 11 lower than what is cur- He talked about the ence Review held Sept. and 12 we had three years rently being estimated possibility for farm rental 20-22 in Madison County. in a row of below trend by the USDA. “I think rates to drop from the During the “Ask the yields and I said then that most farmers thought the average of nearly $200 an OSU Agriculture Economist Barry Ward, at right, talks with moderator Experts” sessions, farm- you can’t expect to have USDA was shooting high, acre to $150 an acre. ers were told they should David Marrison of OSU Extension about land rental costs and farm below trend years every especially in Ohio. I think Concerning costs, Ward profits for the coming year. be prepared for “the year. That’s why it’s an 172-173 is more com- said seed costs are stuck. worst.” average. It was the first fortable here, than 175 “We are expecting costs Ohio State University time in more than 80 (bushels per acre). But to remain about the same. agriculture economist years we had three below in the Western cornbelt People are looking to Matt Roberts discussed trend yield years in a row, there are 200 bushels esti- more non-GMO seeds to with farmers the grain now we have for the first mates,” he pointed out. get away from those high markets, and was asked time in 80 years three “But once we get into seed costs. But we have his predictions for the above trend yield years in the fields, I suspect we to be careful, because corn and soybean pros- a row.” will see big numbers com- sometimes we get what pects for 2017. “It’s 2016, Roberts said that next ing out. Southern Ohio we pay for,” Ward cau- how can it get worse? year he expect that there doesn’t look too bad, tioned. Wheat is the worst,” he will be less corn planted, and there are bushels up Fertilizer is the one said. and “I don’t expect to see north as well.” bright spot. “Our expec- He said there is a mas- a 175 yield next year. For Profits will be down tations are that fertilizer sive surplus of wheat the 2016 crop, I expect In another session costs will be lower.” globally. “That’s the long- there will be a lot of for farmers, Ohio State Regarding costs, he term issue. Egypt said it storage pressure. If you University agriculture said there will be slightly is not going to import any have on farm storage, economist Barry Ward lower variable costs for A farmer in Greene County gets an early start on harvest 2016 in more wheat because of a this would be a year to was asked by Extension 2017 for all three crops, disease. In the U.S., not late September. In the southern part of the state, corn yields are benefit. It is hard for me educator David Marrison but not enough to make a expected to be good, at about the 175 bushels an acre predicted by only have we produced a to see prices going much about his forecast for huge difference. the USDA. But lack of corn in other parts of Ohio will mean smaller lot, but we have not seen below $3.20 on the board. 2017 crop profitability. Corn costs? “Our pro- yields, OSU Extension experts predicted at the Ohio Farm Science any demand for wheat. I am a big proponent of “I am not too enthused jection for 2017 is $363 Review. In fact, it is the opposite hedge storage. This year, about this subject, and I per acre and that is about mostly because of higher returns per total cost, compared to corn and if we see that December am sure many of you are 1.3 percent lower than fall fertilizer costs. that number is negative soybeans. There’s no contract get up to the not either as we start to last year. This is mostly Return per acre? “It’s - minus $171 per acre. good prospects for wheat, $3.55-$3.60 range, then I analyze the profit poten- lower fertilizer prices.” not pretty, based on our That does assume factor- certainly for soft red would start putting more tial for next year in corn For beans, Ward about market forecasts. Return ing in everything, land, wheat producers in the and more into an HTA or soybeans and wheat,” costs should be 3-4 per- above variable costs for rental rate, assuming Eastern Belt.”For all a futures hedge.” Ward said. cent lower, and wheat, corn is about $245 an fixed machinery costs and On corn, Roberts was Roberts has better “Unfortunately, we are about 10 percent lower, acre; but if we look at equally pessimistic.your “The news regarding soybeans. in a period where we are See GRAIN | 12 real estate Eliminate High Heating Bills! needs,For either all yourFor real all privateestate treaty needs,your either Don’t wait any longer! 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8 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 Fayette County ag student MCs Farm Science annual luncheon

By Gary Brock Sciences interim Dean [email protected] Lonnie King, Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor, a host of LONDON — Fayette state elected offi cials and Countian and Ohio State OSU alumni and guests. University sophomore “This is a special Natalie Miller didn’t event, a formal event, appear nervous in the but also it was a relaxed least. “But I was nervous, and casual event, too. just a little,” she said. So I was only just a little The Miami Trace Class nervous,” Miller said of 2015 graduate on Sept. after the luncheon was 20 was the master of fi nished. Miller majors ceremonies at the annual in both agri-business and Gary Brock photo Celebration of Ohio economics at OSU and is Ohio State University President Michael V. Drake addressed those Agriculture Luncheon the daughter of Doug and attending the annual Celebration of Ohio Agriculture Luncheon held held on the opening day Anita Miller. on the opening day Sept. 20 of the Ohio Farm Science Review at the Gary Brock photo Molly Caren Agriculture Center in Madison County near London. of the Ohio Farm Sci- She was the recipient Ohio State agriculture student sophomore Natalie Miller, a 2015 ence Review at the Molly Miami Trace graduate, was the master of ceremonies Sept. 20 at of the Dairy Farmers of this event today and your the nation and the world. the annual Celebration of Ohio Agriculture Luncheon held on the Caren Agriculture Center America Don H. Schriber support for our college,” “It was one of the things opening day of the Ohio Farm Science Review at the Molly Caren in Madison County near Agriculture and Ecol- she told the guests at the we wanted to focus on Agriculture Center in Madison County near London. London. ogy Scholarship. She agriculture celebration back in 1870 and the “Today we celebrate a 37 percent increase Miller was the emcee has been able to study luncheon. things important to us. agriculture in Ohio, and in agriculture students, before more than 300 abroad in places such as President Drake told We wouldn’t be what we we certainly have a lot to almost 4,000 students at guests including OSU Nicaragua, she told those the audience that Farm are without you,” he told celebrate,” said King. He present. President Michael Drake, at the gathering. “I am Science Review repre- those in the OSU agri- College of Food, Agricul- said that OSU, there has so appreciative of this sents the strength of culture college and their been in the last 10 years Gary Brock can be reached at 937- ture and Environmental and all of those attending Ohio State serving Ohio, supporters. 556-5759.

of exciting industries Science here. Sometimes agri- culture is thought of as From page 1 ‘cows and plows’ and I want my students to see Amy Henry of South that it is so much more Charleston in Clark than that.” County teaches in the Meigs County farmer Hilliard School District Don Hardin said he and says she has attend- attends Farm Science ed Farm Science Review every year. “I like coming for the last 30 years. “I here a lot, always have.” come for the change. He said he and his When I was young I family have attended the came with my parents. annual agriculture event Gary Brock photo Now I teach business Mickalia Ayers, a member of the Teen Leadership Council from every year for at least the Columbiana County, is pictured at right leading the visiting to high schoolers and last 20 years. “We enjoy middle schoolers. I bring students from across Ohio in the “Bee Challenge” in the OSU a little bit of everything interactive Science tent Sept, 21 during the annual Farm Science my students here every here.” Review in Madison County. At left are Jake Winkler and Hallie Murph Gary Brock photo year because agriculture Bob Eddingfi eld of from Montgomery County taking the challenge. Carlie Ellis and Matthew Horn with the East Clinton FFA stopped by is Ohio’s number one Greene County said he the Rural Life Today booth while their agriculture group attended the Asian tiger mos- the annual Farm Science Review in Madison County near London on industry, and I think it has attended the Farm Ohio State’s program quito, is found in nearly Sept. 21. More than 1,200 people, including a number of FFA groups is important for busi- Science Review “off and to ensure safe drinking half the state’s counties from across Ohio, attended the three-day exhibition of farming and ness students to know on for the last 10 years. water while sustaining now. Those mosquitoes agriculture, future technology on the farm and numerous seminars about the number one What does he like about an economically produc- and workshops. haven’t been found to industry in Ohio and to it? “The education pro- tive agricultural sector. have Zika, however. yields for corn and soy- visitors. be exposed to the differ- grams, learning about The project includes Terry Howell and, beans from fi elds on the The 2017 Farm Sci- ent businesses that they the new equipment and information on research posthumously, John Farm Science Review ence Review will be held can can become involved just getting the basics.” on water quality and Rockenbaugh, were grounds. Sept. 19-21. For more with,” she said. Highlights of this nutrients, nutrient use inducted into the Farm Some 24,200 visi- information, go to fsr. She said it was impor- year’s review included: effi ciency for nitrogen Science Review Hall of tors attended the show osu.edu/. tant for students to An update on Zika and phosphorus, preci- know that they don’t Fame during the Celebra- sion agriculture and Sept. 22, with 46,680 in in Ohio – While the (Gary Brock can be reached tion of CFAES luncheon. attendance for the Sept. have to leave this state mosquito known as the compaction, and high- at 937-556-5759. Tracy Turner An update on the Col- 20 opening day, while to get a good job. “There main carrier of Zika yield factors. of OSU Extension contributed lege’s Field 2 Faucet Sept. 21 was the highest- information and comments from are a lot of great jobs virus doesn’t live in Early harvest results water quality initiative, attended day with 54,910 the superintendent to this report) right here in Ohio; a lot Ohio, another carrier, showed above-average

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Rural Life Today РSouthwest Ohio РOctober 2016 9 FSR talks aquaponics Growing Πsh, plants together a reality with revived system

By Maximilian system is done indoors. fl exible as it can be done said during the talk. Kwiatkowski Aquaponics alters the outdoors or indoors and “For example you might [email protected] nutrient quotient to the the latter can be used lose power. If you’re on equation. year-round. a commercial scale you LONDON — Growing “The basic concept is “This is extremely, better have a back-up plants and raising fi sh simple,” Smith said. “You extremely benefi cial generator or else the can be done at the same have a barrel, fi sh tank because come winter whole thing stops.” time in the revived fi eld — whatever that’s aer- time when you have This leads to the of aquaponics, attendees ated to provide oxygen fresh, delicious tomatoes numerous business Maximilian Kwiatkowski | The Madison Press learned at the Farm Sci- to the water. You have a and nobody else does, considerations. Smith Matthew Smith, an aquaculture extension specialist with Ohio ence Review on Sept. 21. pump to get the waste you’ll be glad you had it,” highlighted, on a large State, talks with an attendee at the Farm Science Review about Ohio State University aquaponics, a revived agriculture system that allows user to grow from the fi sh up to anoth- Smith said told attend- scale, it’s relatively capi- plants and fish together in a soil-less environment. aquaculture specialist er barrel or tank where ees. tal intensive. A farmer Matt Smith gave two the plants are. A natu- A person can also do needs to keep the area is a high turnover rate as Greenville. talks on the emerging rally occurring bacteria it easily in home. The warm so the crops live. people who were origi- “We’re looking at put- fi eld during the second breaks the waste down model on display at the The building can deterio- nally hobbyists went over ting together a plan for a day of the three-day and provides nutrients Farm Science Review’s rate and more. their heads. hydroponic greenhouse agriculture trade show, to the plants. Water then Firebaugh Center is “The biggest barrier Smith said that has and we wanted to see which drew more than fl ows back to the fi sh and made of a few plastic for many is the business been largely successful if aquaponics was an 120,000 to Ohio State’s the process starts again.” drums, PVC pipe and a end,” Smith said. “It’s in tropical regions like option,” said Kimberly Molly Caren Agricultural Typically the systems simple electric pump. possible to do but you Hawaii and the Virgins Morris. Center outside of Lon- use tilapia, yellow perch This has led to a sizable have to be good at busi- Islands as the tropical She is a trained micro- don. or bass. Right now most number of hobbyists. ness.” climate avoids any heat- biologist. Both her and Aquaponics is an systems allow for leafy The systems can also be Even still, this is ing issues and expensive her husband grew up in ancient form of agricul- crop like lettuce, kale raised which is benefi cial agriculture and the produce makes up any an agricultural setting. ture from ancient Egypt or arugula, as well as to those looking to avoid knowledge and skills are economic problems. The two hope to start an and the Aztecs that tomatoes or different back problems during needed there as well. Regardless, about herb growing business essentially combines kinds of peppers. Smith harvest time. “Growing fi sh isn’t thirty people showed that may go out of state the fi eld of hydroponics, said a group in Japan is “I get lots of calls on easy, some get suicidal up to each of Smith’s to neighboring Indiana. (soilless agriculture) trying to make a system it,” Smith said. and they’ll end up on the talks Wednesday at the “We’re still trying to with aquaculture (fi sh that allows for wheat and There are a number of fl oor. With tilapia for Review. The majority fi gure out our market farming). corn to be grown this drawbacks, as well. In whatever reason they’ll seemed to be curious and a fl exible system to To survive, plants way, but hasn’t yet been Ohio and other Midwest- seem to just magically about the fi eld; no one keep a sustainable busi- need sunlight, nutrients successful. ern states with heavier recover when you put raised their hand when ness,” she said. “While from the soil and water. Overall, there are bene- winters, aquaponics must them back in the tank. Smith asked if anyone it’s still early I want to be Hydroponics removes fi ts to the system, namely be done indoors. Try that with yellow was in the fi eld them- prepared as possible.” soil from the equation that the roots aren’t lost “Indoors you can perch or bass you don’t selves. and replaces it with during harvest and uses avoid mother nature, but put it back in the system Two interested observ- Maximilian Kwiatkowski can be water fortifi ed with plant reached at 740-852-1616, ext. 1617, less water than other you can’t always avoid you throw it away.” ers were Kimberly and or on Twitter @msfkwiat. food. Usually, the whole types. It’s also relatively mother nature,” Smith In the Midwest, there David Morris from

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10 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 Scenes from the Farm Science Review Sept. 20-22

Gary Brock photos Farmer Gary Wical of Spring Valley, Greene County, center, looks over the Rural Life Today booth while Miami County farmer Bill Wilkins leads a discussion with a group of visitors about tools that can be used attending the annual Farm Science Review in Madison County. to assist farmers with disabilities at the OSU AgriBility tent during the annual Farm Science Review in Madison County.

Marissa Hall of the Cardington FFA in Morrow Cathy Jackson, Ohio Ecological Food and Farm County enjoys “stomping” on the “Stamp Out Association certification specialist, talks with a Disease” display in the OSU interactive science visitor at the OEFFA display Sept. 22 at the annual display tent Sept. 21 during the annual Farm Farm Science Review. Ohio State University student Katie Cole, at right, talks with two FFA students at the “Bee Challenge” Science Review in Madison County near London. booth in the OSU interactive science tent at the annual Farm Science Review held in Madison County Sept. 20-22. You can grow Buy Now For The Lowest Ohio’s Elite Beans. Price of 2017! We offer premium prices to Ohio Our Identity Preserved soybeans feed the World farmers who contract with us to and offer farmers grow pure, Identity Preserved great premiums soybeans. Our 25 year history and well-established international supply chain for premium, non-GMO soybeans is great for Ohio farmers. If you’re interested in learning more, give us a call at: 1-855-GROW-4-US

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Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 11 Farmers: There are ways to get through coming lean times

By Gary Brock cially, said Bruynis. keting strategies vary [email protected] Bruynis had 10 ideas somewhat depending on to share with farmers: on-farm storage, crop LONDON — Farmers • Complete a fi nan- insurance participation are bracing for a lean cial analysis. Knowing and total bushels avail- winter and perhaps an where your business able for sale. Regardless even leaner 2017 as stands fi nancially is crit- of the farm constraints, profi ts disappear with ical in developing a plan it is critical to set price falling revenues and fl at to survive this period targets that are realistic expenses. So what can of low margins, he said. and based on the farm’s farmers do to survive Good fi nancial capac- true cost of production. the next two years? ity allows farm families Also, it’s important to Chris Bruynis, Ross to borrow new money, be able to use available County OSU Extension restructure term debt, marketing tools such Educator and associate or even make interest- as option contracts and professor at OSU, told only payments on some hedge-to-arrive con- farmers they should loans. “Know how much tracts and understand follow a 10-point list money the farm needs risk exposure created or of suggestions that can to generate in order to protected by each. help them through these make a living.” A bal- • Increase profi table lean times. ance sheet should not enterprises. “Farmers Gary Brock photo Bruynis was one of take a lot of time, he are telling me they are OSU Extension Educator Chris Bruynis of Ross County, at right, talks about what farmers can do to make it through the next couple of years in a low profit environment during an “Ask the Experts” the speakers in the “Ask added. going to plant more session moderated by Extension Educator David Marrison at the Ohio Farm Science Review last month the Experts” sessions • Lower the cost of soybeans next year. But in Madison County. at the Ohio Farm Sci- production. There is sig- we don’t want to mess ence Review in Madison nifi cant variation among up the long-term crop pared to the fi xed costs ruptcy auctions rarely Examples include exca- County near London farmers in the cost of rotations. But we are that will be spread over provide the cash fl ow vating, construction and Sept. 20-22. production depending looking at short term. the remaining acres to needed to repay farm painting businesses, or What caused this on size and scale of the Farmers will need to determine if this is a loans and meet other livestock, machine shop downturn in profi ts? operation. Items such closely evaluate the pos- good decision. Other fi nancial obligations of and custom hire enter- Too many good years in as cash rent, production sibility of increasing ideas could include sell- the farm family. prises. a row, Bruynis said. “We costs, operating costs acres of one crop over ing unused and under- • Cooperation among • Know if or when it had all these good years, and equipment deprecia- another. Farmers may utilized equipment on neighbors. Produc- is time to get out. “It so farmers transferred tion can greatly affect also wish to adopt a dif- the farm. ers may want to con- looks much different this wealth into new this cost. Strategies to ferent cropping strategy • Add additional rev- sider creating farming between age 35 and age equipment, land, cash lower input costs can such as double cropping enue streams. “A lot of arrangements that 65. “But going forward rents. Now we have to include setting realistic to maintain profi table spouses are working off include bulk purchas- with continued net loss adjust to the new norm yield goals and adjust- income levels. Be careful the farm now because ing of inputs, owning by farming, can I recov- of lower milk prices, ing your inputs accord- not to exchange short- of the health insurance equipment and produc- er from that long term? lower cattle prices and ingly, selecting lower term profi tability over benefi ts.” Other ideas ing greater market- If I am 35, I can see lower corn prices.” priced inputs providing long-term profi tability. would be the addition of ing opportunities to going through this, we What should farmers they perform similarly, • Reduce unproduc- other agricultural pro- maximize income. The have seen these cycles be doing now? and making sure the tive assets. We need duction enterprises or arrangements could before. But if I am 65, He said that lower input generates more to lower cash rents. agritourism enterprises. involve farmers special- perhaps I see leaving crop prices this year, than its cost. “These are “Sometimes you may “One Delaware County izing in a farming prac- farming for a year or combined with higher short-term items, not have to walk away. Cut farmer commented to tice such as planting, two and then return,” he input costs means that something you’d want your losses. Unfortu- me that he makes more spraying and harvesting said. producers, farmers and to do year in and year nately we are a couple money selling pump- and working together to Farm business own- farm business owners out.” But you don’t want of years away from kins six weekends and capitalize on the special- ers need to assess when may need to develop to do things that would the CAUV taxes to go zipline rides than farm- ized strengths of each exiting the business clear fi nancial strategies impact yield. Don’t do down.” Growing crops ing the rest of the year.” other. may be the best alterna- to deal with projected things that are not pay- on marginal soils or • Talk to your lender. • Work toward full tive for them. At some lower profi t margins. ing, he said. rented ground with “You can talk to your employment. Are point, preserving wealth In order for farmers to • Improve grain- extremely high rental lenders, but I can tell there things in differ- should become more lessen the potential for marketing skills. You rates may be good can- you, your lenders are ent times of the year important than continu- losses and to deal with can always see the didates for removal from nervous,” he said. The to add income? This ing against all odds, the prospect of lower people in your com- the business portfolio. earlier you communicate can include adding Bruynis pointed out. profi tability, they fi rst munities that are good Farmers need to weigh with your lender, the enterprises to their Gary Brock can be reached at must fully understand at grain marketing, he the loss from farming more options will be business portfolio and 937-556-5759 or on Twitter at where they are fi nan- pointed out. Grain mar- these properties com- available to you. Bank- hiring labor more fully. GBrock4.

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12 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016

ing anything next year. system.” Grain What do you say to that, One Delaware County farmer Barry?” farmer pointed out that From page 7 “Well, that is a very in his county, agriculture good point to make. land prices for non- some return to labor and Keep in mind that this agriculture uses have management. That’s a is an average. These are not gone down. “Yes, pretty negative number.” economic enterprise in places like Delaware But this structure budgets, and farmers, County, that is a differ- varies by farm tremen- when we look at these ent animal. The land dously. “We will have core numbers, farmers is either transitioning a wide range in fi xed will live off the deprecia- immediately or is being costs. Farmers will have tion a bit. It already is to bought for speculation,” to be very aware of their an extent. Farmers can Ward pointed out. machinery costs. Going extend their equipment What does he think forwards farmers need longer, three or four can help weather the to look at getting rid years,” he said. storm? “I would suggest of some of that excess He said the problem you already have a good machinery. However, with high farmland equity position going the secondary market rental costs will be “a into the year. We need to is week, so selling back struggle. The problem know where we are, and into it may not make the hanging over everyone’s work with our lenders. Erin Thompson | The Madison Press farmers happy, either,” heads is property taxes. We need to look at costs Sabrina Schirtzinger, an OSU extension educator, speaks about pollinator gardens at the Farm Science Ward said. We have a lag in the sys- that might have made Review Sept. 22. Ward said the rental tem. The Ohio Depart- sense at $5 a bushel markets vary across ment of Taxation is a but maybe don’t now at Ohio, but the average couple of years behind. $3.50 a bushel. We need across Ohio is $187 per Plant a garden, save the bees We won’t be seeing any to look at seeding rates, acre. tax relief until after then. consider more non-GMO Based on what he is For now, the land owner seeds to save money, seeing, Ward said, “All By Erin Thompson a way to help combat Some plants are continues to see higher don’t invest in machin- [email protected] the plight of these vital essential, but not the signals out there are tax bills, so it is tough ery if you don’t have to. shouting consider soy- insects and it’s as close because they provide for those negotiations.” We’ve gotten used to LONDON — Bees as your own backyard. nectar for the pollina- beans for next year.” But Ward said he Cadillac machinery with In return above vari- are disappearing at an Simply, plant a pollina- tors. Instead, they give believes farmers “will all the bells and whistles. alarming rate in the tor garden. them a place to lay able rate per acre for weather the storm partly Step back from that, I’ve United States and mon- A pollinator garden is their eggs and protect soybeans, instead of on equity and working already suggested to arch butterflies may exactly what it sounds themselves. Plants such $245 for corn, it is$295 capital issues. Hopefully, growers to maybe step for soybeans, he pointed we will still have equity back from that larger be fluttering down the like: a garden planted as milkweed, fennel, out. There are also a lit- and working capital equipment purchased same path. for the specific purpose clovers and violets are tle lower fi xed costs per but the end of this year to go from 24-row to In the last half of attracting pollinators. excellent shelter plants, acre for soybeans. The and will allow us to get 16-row and back to decade, 30 percent of Pollinators include said Schirtzinger. returns above fi xed costs through next year and 12-row equipment - and the national bee popula- bees, flies, moths, but- Though it is tempting then are only a minus perhaps enough relief that’s a tough sell,” Ward tion has disappeared terflies, birds and some to rake the leaves out $69 an acre. from rental rates and lamented. and since 1990 about mammals. Approximate- of the flower bed every Marrison asked Ward, the prices will rally a bit 970 million monarch ly 80 percent of flower- fall, they can provide “From this it looks like I and we will start to see Gary Brock can be reached at butterflies have van- ing plants need pollina- valuable shelter to help shouldn’t even be plant- 937-556-5759 or on Twitter at some equilibrium in the GBrock4. ished, according to the tors, said Schirtzinger. pollinators make it U.S. Fish and Wildlife To plan a garden that through winter. service. will attract and keep Even though fall is A presentation led by pollinators, keep in here, there are many Sabrina Schirtzinger, an mind that their basic flowers that bloom in extension educator with needs must be met: the fall that serve these The Ohio State Univer- food, shelter and water. purposes you can still sity, during The Farm To keep the pollina- plant. State Fair zin- Science Review Sept. tors fed include mul- nias, Mexican sunflow- 22 covered planting pol- tiple nectar plants, such ers and mums are a few A monthly feature, presented by Rick Williams Auction Company,LLC, linator gardens. as Black-eyed Susan, popular fall flowers that highlighting an important fact about Ohio agriculture and rural life. In Ohio, two differ- goldenrod, and a butter- also attract bees and ent types of butterflies, fly bush in your garden. butterflies. Karner blue and Mitch- Be sure to select plants No one individual can ell’s satyr, are on the with different heights, solve the problem, but endangered species list. colors and designs. turning your backyard Six different types of White, pink, purple, into an oasis for these bees are currently under red, yellow and orange essential insects is a review by the U.S. Farm petals tend to draw pol- start, she said. and Wildlife Service to linators in the most, Reach Erin Thompson at 740- be declared endangered. according the Schirtz- 852-1616, ext. 1615. Fortunately, there is inger.

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Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 13

Collin Dunaway raking coffee beans at the Doka Coffee plantation. Felicity FFA members that attended camp sitting by Bluegill Rock. Felicity FFA star student Felicity FFA members attend awarded a trip to Costa Rica FFA Camp Muskingum

By Kolbie Brandenburg was awarded the trip to farm and Don Fernando’s By Kolbie Brandenburg members from all over assigned a country. FFA Reporter Costa Rica. Fifty FFA Beef Farm. Jennings and FFA Reporter Ohio. This helped FFA mem- In June, Collin Dun- members from across the Dunaway also visited a At camp, members bers get out of their away and FFA advisor country were selected local elementary school On June 27 through were split up into new comfort zones and help Holly Jennings had to go on this trip. Jen- where members repaint- July 1, 31 Felicity- camp chapters and members show their the opportunity to go nings and Dunaway had ed the fences located Franklin FFA members encouraged to meet competitive side. Mem- on a nine-day trip to an adventurous nine around the school. attended Ohio FFA new people. State offi- bers also competed Costa Rica. Previously days there. Some major They were able to Camp Muskingum in cers held different lead- individually. Kolbie in November, Dunaway agricultural companies show their adventurous Carrolton. While at ership activities to help Brandenburg, Harlie had the opportunity to they had the opportunity side by zip lining, visit- camp, members enjoyed members grow and gain Brandenburg, Nathaniel compete at the National to visit the Dole banana ing a hot spring, and many recreational activ- new skills. This year Buckler, Haley Cooper, FFA Convention, as a plantation, Doka coffee rafting down the Sara- ities, such as paddle at camp the theme was Lexi Barger and Elise National FFA proficiency plantation, and the Aqua piqui River. Dunaway boarding, swimming, the Olympics where Botkin all participated finalist. Tilapia Corporation. and Jennings received sand volleyball, shoot- there were different in the talent show and He then competed to They experienced a new outlook on agri- ing riffles and shotguns tournament-like compe- Ceirra Carrington par- participate in the FFA Costa Rican agriculture culture and a once in a and hanging out with titions held. ticipated in the creed travel seminar, where he by visiting an organic lifetime opportunity. state officers and FFA Each chapter was contest.

WHS FFA raises $900 for homeless shelter By AMANDA MILBURN $900. how people without a FFA Reporter This event donates home feel. The struc- the entire amount of ture was built in the WILMINGTON — money raised to the span of three hours, and Thirty high school stu- homeless shelter to help received second place dents from the Wilming- them pay for the special for “The Best Structure ton FFA chapter partici- services they offer. FFA Made.” pated in the Cardboard members rallied for the In true FFA fashion, City event on Sept. 17, cause, asking area busi- the dwelling sported the an event supporting the nesses to support them FFA colors of blue and local Clinton County by donating cardboard gold, complete with bal- Homeless Shelter. to construct their tem- loons and streamers as Participating mem- porary dwelling which well as FFA banners. bers gave a $10 dona- members called home Members walked away tion to the cause, with throughout the event. from the event taking the chapter matching Members built their third place for the most and then doubling, rais- structure to live in to money raised for the ing a total of more than be able to connect with cause.

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Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 15 Felicity FFA excels at Clermont County Fair

By Kolbie Brandenburg lamb, Reserve Grand champion Tia Smith won Grand Cham- FFA Reporter breeding ewe and Reserve pion Market Steer and Grand Overall Showman. Erin Jen- Overall Beef showmen. Dun- The 2016 Clermont County nings, Mallory Taulbee, Steven away got 3rd overall market Fair was held from July 24- 29. Jones, Joey Liming, Gavin steer, Liming got 5th overall Many FFA members competed Hatfi eld, Raina Presley, Jenna breeding heifer, Taulbee got and participated in the junior Brown, and Clayton Griffi th all Reserve County Born Feeder fair activities. Some members exhibited market hogs. Mallory steer and 3rd overall Feeder even went home being named was named Top 5 in showman- steer. Jennings got Reserve Top Five with the animals they ship. Erin Jennings, Kennedee Breeding Heifer and was exhibited. Kolbie Branden- Pemperton, Mallory Taulbee, named Beef Herdsman. Kolbie burg and Harlie Brandenburg Collin Dunaway, Clinton Lim- Brandenburg, Harlie Bran- showed sheep. Kolbie got 4th ing, Clayton Lindsey, Steven denburg, Emily Woodall, Tia overall market lamb, Reserve Tia Louiso serves drinks and snacks to buyers Douglas Tull poses by his Jones, and Morgan Smith Louiso, Kaylee Hughes, and during the junior livestock sales to show the second place win with his Grand champion breeding ewe showed beef cattle. Smith won Amy Davenport all exhibited club’s appreciation. rabbit. and Reserve Overall Show- Grand Champion Market Steer meat goats. Kolbie got Grand second in the Junior Showmen and Clayton Lindsey. Winter man. Erin Jennings, Mallory and Grand Overall Beef show- and Reserve market goat. of Showmen contest. Madison got Grand Champion Single Taulbee, Steven Jones, Joey men. Dunaway got 3rd overall Harlie got Grand Champion Moore, Madison Winter, Kait- Fryer, Reserve Champion Meat Liming, Gavin Hatfi eld, Raina market steer, Liming got 5th breeding doe and Reserve lyn Sharp, and Grace Kirkham- Pen, Reserve Champion Exhi- Presley, Jenna Brown, and overall breeding heifer, Taul- Champion Dam and Daughter. Hartley exhibited poultry bition Rabbit, Outstanding Clayton Griffi th all exhibited bee got Reserve County Born Woodall got 5th overall market projects at the fair. Moore had Rabbit Exhibitor and Overall market hogs. Mallory was Feeder steer and 3rd overall goat, Champion Goat exhibi- Reserve Champion market Rabbit Showmen. Clinton named Top 5 in showmanship. Feeder steer. Jennings got tor and Champion Overall turkey and Champion Overall Liming won Junior Fair King, Erin Jennings, Reserve Breeding Heifer and Showmen. Mr. Schoen, Felicity Poultry Exhibitor. Emily Woodall won Caprine Kolbie Brandenburg and Har- was named Beef Herdsman. FFA Advisor, won 2nd Overall Felicity FFA rabbit exhibi- Representative and Madison lie Brandenburg showed sheep. Kolbie Brandenburg, Harlie adult Showmen of Showmen tors included Madison Winter, Winter won Small Animal Rep- Kolbie got 4th overall market Brandenburg, Emily Woodall, while Emily Woodall was also Douglas Tull, Jaime Moore, resentative.

AGRICULTURE CALENDAR OF EVENTS Registration now open The following are upcoming farm- Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. ing and agriculture events in Ohio: for 10th Stinner Summit November October Nov. 3: “Finding Your Voice” - Oct. 14: Stinner Summit -The OSU Extension Champaign and DELAWARE — Registration can we’ll support it with $40,000. Agroecosystems Management Pro- Miami Counties AgricultuHER is now open for the 10th annual But if an agreement can only be gram will host the 10th Annual event; 6 p.m. with light refresh- Stinner Summit at the Stratford reached by smaller groups propos- Stinner Summit at the Stratford ments and conclude at about 8:45 Ecological Center in Delaware on ing 2-4 projects, then there will Ecological Center in Delaware on p.m. Registration is $15 and is due Oct. 14th. The Summit is spon- be less support available in total Oct. 14. The Summit, held at a dif- Oct. 21. The event will be held at sored by the Agroecosystems Man- and per project,” according to the ferent location each year, is a highly the First Baptist Church, 53 S. Nor- agement Program (AMP). group’s press release. engaging and participatory event wich Rd in Troy. RSVPs can be made To celebrate the 10th anniversary During registration you will be that draws stakeholders from around to either the Champaign or Miami of the Stinner Summit, the organi- asked to share what you think is Ohio. The event is free of charge County Extension Offi ces. The reg- zation has announced it is “going the biggest opportunity or most and open to any who are interested, istration brochure can be found at back to the roots – Ben Stinner’s pressing challenge to healthy though space is limited. To register: http://go.osu.edu/agevents . outstanding ability to find com- agroecosystems and sustainable http://amp.osu.edu/index.php/10th- Nov. 21: “Preserving Harvest” mon ground, ways that people can communities in Ohio. We’re not annual-stinner-summit-registration/ workshop - Nov. 21, 7 to 9 p.m. at work together toward the common looking for a project idea, we want Oct. 15: Marion County Farm the Alexandria Public Library in purpose of healthy agroecosystems the current topics that are most Bureau -“Film on the Farm”, 7 to 11 Licking County. Sponsored by the and sustainable communities.” important for us to discuss togeth- p.m. at Buck Farms, 7632 Wildcat Ohio Environmental Food and Farm Participants will be challenged to er. They will use your responses Pike, New Bloomington. The event Association, the workshop will be find that common ground. In keep- to guide our initial discussions on will include a family friendly movie given by Rachel Tayse of Harmoni- ing with the original spirit of the the way to finding your common on a big screen, with City Barbeque ous Homestead. For information, Summit, it will fund a maximum ground. for dinner, plus a petting zoo, farm contact Chuck Dilbone at (740) 877- of four projects. “Our hope is for To register, go to http://amp.osu. equipment to see; this is a Farm 8738, or [email protected] everyone to come together and edu/index.php/registration-for-9th- Bureau member and Our Ohio Sup- agree on one project, and if they annual-stinner-summit porter event only. For information, December contact Marion County Farm Bureau Dec. 7-8: Ohio Farm Bureau annu- at 740-251-9513 Monday through al convention, Columbus.

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16 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 Corn is king at Clinton County Corn Festival

Gary Huffenberger | Wilmington News Journal Gary Huffenberger | Wilmington News Journal The Wilmington High School Marching Band took part in the downtown parade. The float of Tolliver’s Olde Fashion Applebutter was packed with people, flags and waves.

Gary Huffenberger | Wilmington News Journal Charlie’s Bucket Band from Murphy Theatre performed at the Corn Festival. From left are Adriana Benitez holding a hand-made shaker and band leader Chip Murdock.

Tom Barr | Wilmington News Gary Huffenberger | Wilmington News Journal Journal These three teams won trophies in the Corn Olympics for placing first, second and third overall. The first-place champion, in the center, is The 39th the Laurel Oaks team; finishing second, on the right, is the Wilmington Nursing and Rehabilitation Center team; and placing third, on the Annual Corn left, is the team from CMH Regional Health System. Also joining in the fun were Wilmington Savings Bank and NCB bank. Festival took place through the weekend of Sept. 9-10 at the Clinton County Fairgrounds, with a wide variety of entertainment, food, games, arts and crafts, demonstrations and big and little engines. Enjoying Gary the event were Huffenberger | three generations Wilmington News of a Wilmington Journal family — little Wilmington Ellie and Cooper Nursing and Jenkins, mom Rehabilitation Kelsey Jenkins Center was the Tom Barr | Wilmington News Journal and grandma runner-up in the Working the Leadership Clinton booth at the Corn Festival were Carol Foell. Corn Olympics. recent Leadership Clinton graduates, from left, Jonathan McKay, Dawn Shumaker, Abby Weiner and Rebeka Hamilton.

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Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 17 Thrashing and fun at Old Timers Days

Nick Zachrich New manager for Farm Science Review COLUMBUS – The Farm Science experience while showcasing cutting- Review got its new manager in the edge innovations and best practices Nick of time. of modern agriculture. Nick has the Nick Zachrich began his new posi- ability to take what he learns on a day- tion Monday, Sept.12, just days shy of to-day basis and use that information Gary Brock photos when the 2016 show opened its gates. to craft innovations that will help us Earl Davis of Cedarville, at left, and Zachary Barnett of Xenia, at right, take part in a wheat thrashing One of the nation’s premier agri- achieve these goals.” demonstration Sept. 23 during the three-day Old Timers Days celebration at the Greene County cultural trade and education shows, As manager, Zachrich will oversee Fairgrounds in Xenia. the Farm Science Review is an annual the Review and other events that take three-day event sponsored by the Col- place at the college’s Molly Caren Agri- lege of Food, Agricultural, and Envi- cultural Center near London. ronmental Sciences at The Ohio State “I look forward to serving our University. agricultural industry in the region,” Zachrich is a six-year employee of Zachrich said. “Technological advance- the Review, having served as site man- ments in agriculture are more exciting ager since 2010. now than ever. I plan to continue to “Nick possesses a unique combi- build on the reputation that Farm Sci- nation of education and experience ence Review has to demonstrate and that has prepared him well for this display the latest in agriculture.” important role within the college,” Zachrich joins Matt Sullivan, who said Roger Rennekamp, director of began his role as superintendent of the Ohio State University Extension, the Molly Caren center this summer. Sul- outreach arm of the college. “Our goal livan was previously assistant manager is to continually improve the visitor of the Review. W S  F

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18 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 Tyler, Mandy share meat and potato dishes By Darla Cabe you can hear turkeys gobbling 1/4 cup ketchup internal temperature reaches guarantee even browning and For Rural Life Today along the creek below his 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 135 degrees and remove. Do crispy. This typically takes house and see plenty of doe 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire not fret about “undercooked” around 5 minutes per batch. Nothing hits the spot like with their fawns feeding in the sauce pork. The carryover cooking Using a slotted spoon, remove good old meat and potatoes. It pasture. 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ground will take the meatloaf to 140 the chips to a wire rack lined warms you up and fills you up He learned to cook from his black pepper degrees. Tent the loaf with with paper towels. IMME- on these cooler days of early mama and Tyler shares that his Directions: aluminum foil and let it rest for DIATELY hit them with the Autumn. It’s hearty and can earliest memories in the kitch- An hour prior, place the 20 minutes. Kosher salt and seasonings of be prepared simply or with a en involve standing on a chair grinder components in the The last 10 minutes of rest, your choice. Smoked sea salt little more flair. However you watching his mama “measure freezer. butter and toast the sourdough and coarse black pepper work choose to make it, meat and this and whisk that” and wait- Using the large die, grind the bread slices and preheat the wonderfully! potatoes just can’t be beat. ing for his job, which would pork, pork fat and venison into broiler. Store in airtight container or be pouring in the chocolate a Weston lug. Next, switch Slice the meatloaf into half- zip tight back for up to a week. Tyler Viars chips for mama’s famous cook- to the smaller die and repeat. inch slices, place on one slice To say that Tyler Viars likes ies. “Once the cookies were Set aside and allow to come to of sourdough. Top it with a Mandy Wilber the outdoors, is a bit of an finished, mama and I would room temperature. slice of cheddar cheese and Mandy Wilber refers to her understatement. To say pull them from the oven. Preheat a smoker or oven to place under the broiler life as “a circus”. Her that this Ohio boy lives Then I’d wait anxiously 250 degrees and add the hard- until the cheese is com- family home, affec- a quiet life is also an for my dad to give one wood. pletely melted. Add tionately called “The understatement. He grew a try. The reward of Combine the ketchup, toma- the aioli, pickles, onion Compound” is located up hunting, fishing and making someone smile to paste, chipotle peppers and straws and other slice outside of Zanesfield and trapping and continues by one simple cookie cocoa in a large mixing bowl. of bread to complete the sits on ten heavily wood- to do this today. He has fascinated me. Then and Remove approximately 1/3 of sandwich. ed acres. It is home to also spent time in the now, it makes me more the mixture into a separate ** If you do not have her, her partner Bryan, South, where he devel- Viars happy seeing those smil- bowl. a grinder or smoker, this Wilber their 10 children, two oped a passion for bar- ing faces than eating the Using a food processor, pulse recipe works great in the dogs, a cat and many beque and bourbon, and food myself.” the potato chips until they oven or grill and pre- chickens. “We love being has traveled the globe filming are the consistency of bread- ground meat works perfectly. in the country,” Mandy says, for many shows that air on the Smoked Meatloaf Sandwich crumbs. Add the potato chips “We appreciate our ability to Outdoor Channel and ESPN 2. Meatloaf Ingredients: to the 2/3-ketchup mixture. Housemade Potato Chips use our land for fresh produce “What really kicked off my 2/3 cup ketchup Now, add the onion, carrot, 1 ½ pounds of russet pota- and eggs.” career,” Tyler says, “was the 1/4 cup tomato paste garlic and poblano to the food toes sliced inch thick (sliced The family also grows blessing of being a contestant 2 ounces chipotle peppers in processor and finely chop. as thinly as possible. A mando- peaches, blackberries, black on MasterChef.” He com- adobo, sauce included With the duck fat, heat a lin is recommended) raspberries and mulberries. peted on the famous TV show 1 teaspoon cocoa powder 10-12 inch skillet over medium 8-10 cups peanut oil (Veg- “My biggest interest is my in 2014 and was known for (it may seem odd, but it adds heat. Add the vegetable mix- etable or Canola will work as family. All the children are always wearing camouflage great depth) ture to the skillet with the sage well) very active and there is never clothes. “If you are cooking in 6 ounces ruffled, kettle-style and kosher salt. Cook the veg- Water to cover potatoes a shortage of ball games to camo, then it must have been barbecue potato chips (nacho etables for approximately 3-5 ½ cup distilled white vinegar watch or events to attend.” a successful hunt” he remarks cheese chips are awesome as minutes or until they soften Kosher Salt to taste Outside her job of managing with a grin. Being form Ohio well. AKA: Doritos) and begin to brown. Add the Cajun, BBQ seasoning or the family, Mandy also works and having cold winters, Tyler 3 cloves garlic vegetables to the ketchup Paprika are optional additions as a children’s services case says hearty meat and potato 1 medium carrot, quartered and potato chips and stir to (be creative) worker. She enjoys making her dishes are a staple. “From 1 poblano, seeded thoroughly combine. Let the In a large bowl, cover sliced own wine which she shares something as simple as steak 1 medium sweet onion, quar- mixture cool for roughly 10 potatoes with cold water and with friends and family. and a baked potato, to a ham- tered minutes. stir. This helps release the “It is my passion to cook burger and fries or a big roast 1 tablespoon duck fat or Using the best kitchen uten- starch. Drain the potatoes and for my family and teach them on a bed of mashed potatoes unsalted butter sil — your hands — add the repeat until the water is no lon- how to prepare meals. Making and gravy, they all warm my 1 teaspoon dried sage ground mixture to the ketchup ger murky and appears clear. a meal for nine (a few of the heart and please the palate. All 1 teaspoon kosher salt and potato chips and thorough- Return the potatoes to the kids no longer live at home) is being delicious, the ‘satisfying 1 pound venison shoulder ly combine. Shape the combi- bowl and cover with cold water always a process and I insist part’ though is the people I am roast (if your season went nation into a compact, rough and the vinegar. Let the pota- that we all eat together each sharing the food with.” poorly, beef chuck roast will 10-inch long by 2-inch high by toes soak for a minimum thirty night.” With so many sched- Tyler was taught the impor- suffice) 4-inch high loaf. Wrap the loaf minutes and up to roughly two ules to keep up with, Mandy tance of the family table. 2 ounces pork fat or bacon in plastic wrap or aluminum hours. Drain the potatoes and admits that sometimes dinner “Throughout my childhood, it 1 pound pork shoulder foil and let set for 45 minutes dry the potatoes as best as together does not happen until didn’t matter where we were 3 large eggs — minimum. possible remembering oil and 9:30 at night, but that’s okay, in the afternoon or what we 12-16 slices of quality ched- Meanwhile, combine the water are NOT friends. and everyone participates were doing after school, at dar cheese slices aioli ingredients and let refrig- Meanwhile, using a dutch in making the meal. “The dinner time, we were sitting at 12-16 pieces of fresh sour- erate for the flavors to meld. oven or electric fryer heat the kids love the cooking show our designated seats surround- dough bread Coat the meat with the peanut oil to 300-315 degrees. “Chopped”, so we frequently ing the table.” Tyler’ s family Butter for toasting bread reserved glaze. Wrap the meat If using a dutch oven, a candy have our own version right at includes his parents, Todd Bread and butter pickles for in aluminum foil and smoke or infrared surface thermom- home,” Mandy shares. “We and Brenda and his brothers serving for approximately 40 minutes. eter to ensure the temperature select judges and participants Jacob and Lucas. He currently Onion straws After the time has allotted, is maintained. Working in and then the judges select resides outside of Wilmington Zesty Aioli Ingredients: remove the foil and smoke for batches, 5 to 6, fry the pota- where he says in the Spring, 1/2 cup mayonnaise another 40 minutes or until the toes, turning occasionally to See COUNTRY | 19

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Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 19 New members of Young Ag Professionals state committee named

COLUMBUS – Ohio Farm Bureau cialization in risk management and Dustin and Casey Converse of Richwood Federation announced Sept. 29 the insurance. newest members of its Young Agri- Long was the 2015 winner of Ohio the family’s row crop farm with his Brandi and Wes Montgomery of Washington cultural Professionals State Com- Farm Bureau’s Discussion Meet and grandfather, father and brother. Court House. mittee: Dustin and Casey Converse advanced to the Sweet 16 in Ameri- Schwab is a Butler County Farm of Richwood, Elizabeth Long of can Farm Bureau’s national competi- Bureau board trustee, Food & Ani- London, Brandi and Wes Montgom- tion. She is a Madison County Farm mal Issues Action team member and ery of Washington Court House and Bureau member where she serves was on its Issue 2 committee. She Lauren Schwab of Somerville. as the communications action team attended American Farm Bureau As committee members serv- leader. She also is a graduate of Ohio Women’s Communications Boot ing two-year terms, they will help Farm Bureau’s AgriPOWER program camp in Washington, D.C. in 2008. develop and conduct activities that and has an American FFA degree. She works on the family’s sow-breed- provide opportunities for young Long helps out on her family’s small to-wean swine farm. She also is a professionals to become involved in cattle and grain farm. She graduated freelance writer for agricultural Ohio Farm Bureau programs. from Ohio State University with a publications and works with the Dustin and Casey Converse are bachelor’s degree in animal science National Pork Board’s #RealPigFarm- Union County Farm Bureau mem- and is an agriculture loan officer ing campaign to educate consumers. bers with Dustin currently serving with PNC. In 2015 she was a finalist in the as a county board trustee and previ- Wes and Brandi Montgomery National Pork Board’s America’s ously as vice president and animal are Fayette County Farm Bureau Pig Farmer of the Year. She is a issues chair. He also participated in members with Brandi currently graduate of Miami University with a Elizabeth Long of London. the Young Ag Professionals trip to serving as vice president and previ- bachelor’s degree in journalism and Washington, D.C. He is a crop insur- ously as secretary and organization women’s studies and a master’s in ance adjuster for ProAg Crop Insur- chair. She also competed in Ohio family studies. ance as well as a dealer with LG Farm Bureau’s Discussion Meet Ohio Farm Bureau’s Young Agri- Seeds. The couple have a beef cattle contest and was on the county Farm cultural Professionals program is and small grain operation and bale Bureau’s Farm to Fork Committee. open to individuals and couples hay and straw. Casey owns and oper- She is an office assistant with Weade between the ages of 18-35 who are ates the Cassandra Converse Agency Law Office and a graduate of Wilm- interested in improving the business with American Family Insurance. ington College with a bachelor’s of agriculture, learning new ideas She is a 2011 graduate of Ohio State degree in agriculture and concentra- and developing leadership skills. To University with a bachelor’s degree tion in agronomy. Wes, who formerly get involved contact Melinda Witten Lauren in business administration and a spe - served as county president, works on at [email protected]. Schwab of Somerville.

1Tablespoon Worces- ter. Noodles can rest in Country tershire sauce floured bowl. Rural Life Today has booth at FSR Ketchup When beef is done From page 18 1 teaspoon each salt transfer broth into pot. and pepper Add water to make the ingredients. Being Mix all ingredients approximately 2 qts and a judge takes courage. I except ketchup. Shape bring to a rolling boil. once had to try peanut into loaf on baking sheet Add noodles and cook butter and tuna cracker covered in aluminum foil. until tender (at least 10 spread! Occasionally, I Cover meatloaf liberally minutes). While noodles am pleasantly surprised with ketchup. Bake at are cooking tear beef up by their creativity,” she 350 for an hour. and add to the pot. Add adds. *I made this recipe salt and pepper to taste. Mandy’s family enjoys when I was a young teen- Serve over mashed pota- Fall for so many reasons. ager because I didn’t like toes with a hot buttered They love pumpkin anyone else’s meatloaf. roll on the side. everything; bread, pan- It is still the kid friendly *Always make mashed cakes, muffins, cookies. meatloaf that my kids potatoes with salted but- “We like to have hot love to make. ter and evaporated milk. apple cider by a bonfire and I especially like to Beef and Noodles Easy Peach Cobbler make chilis and stews on 3-4 lb rump roast (or 2 cups peaches crisp Autumn days. How- any roast really) Salt and 1 cup baking mix ever, there is nothing pepper liberally 1 cup sugar, divided heartier than a meat and Onion soup dry mix into 2 half cups potatoes meal. We love packet ¼ cup butter comfort food and carbs. Brown gravy dry sea- ¾ cup milk Heaven on a plate is beef soning packet 1 t vanilla and noodles over mashed Water to cover ¼ t. cinnamon potatoes served with a Salt and pepper Combine fruit and fresh baked buttered roll. thawed roast. Put in ½ cup sugar, set aside. When we have a meal crockpot. Add onion Combine baking mix, with meat and potatoes, soup and brown gravy ½ cup sugar, milk, cin- everyone’s mouths water envelope. Cover with namon and vanilla. Melt from the aroma that fills water. Cook on low for butter in 8x8 baking the house.” 6-8 hours. dish. Pour in batter. Add Noodles fruit directly to batter. Meatloaf 2 beaten eggs 1 t salt Don’t stir or mix. Bake 2 lbs ground beef ¼ milk 2 cups flour at 350 for 40-45 minutes 1Tablespoon mustard Combine eggs, milk until golden brown. Blue- Rural Life Today joined for the first time the more than 600 vendors and companies with booths 1 medium onion and displays at the 2016 Farm Science Review in Madison County Sept. 20-22. IIn the photo above, and salt. Add flour. berries, blackberries, subscriber and Farm Science Review antique crew member Roseann Harbage points out to a booth chopped Divide dough into 3-4 strawberries or any other visitor the Rural Life Today’s “Country Cooking” farm recipes that appear each month. We provided 1Tablespoon brown balls for easier roll- soft fruits can be added. nearly 4,000 September copies of Rural Life to FSR visitors during the three days. “I want to thank sugar ing. Roll out dough on Serve hot with vanilla ice everyone who came to the booth over the three days to say hello, give words of support for Rural Life 1 cup oats a floured surface. Roll cream. and give suggestions for articles. It was great meeting everyone,” said Brock. 1Tablespoon A1 Sauce very thin! Cut noodles *This is a family fall 2 eggs with a pasta or pizza cut- favorite. A20

20 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 ‘Farm to School’ workshops are planned

By Martha Filipic cultural, and Environ- programs throughout presentations will dis- Ohio Farm Bureau and Inn Toledo, 6165 Levis OSU Extension mental Sciences. the state, the Ohio Farm cuss grants available to Nationwide 4-H Center, Commons Blvd., 8 a.m.- The benefits stretch to School program is support Farm to School 2201 Fred Taylor Drive, 2 p.m. Registration is COLUMBUS — When beyond fresh fare on the planning five regional programs; others will 2:30-7 p.m. The pro- $30; lunch is included. it comes to the school lunch plate, Smathers workshops in October focus on local successes, gram is free and dinner Oct. 20 in Yellow cafeteria, it’s not often said. Farm to School and November. for example. Anyone can is included thanks in Springs at Antioch Col- that “farm-fresh food” programs, which con- The workshops are sign up for any or all of part to workshop spon- lege Wellness Center, comes to mind. nect local farms with geared to anyone inter- them. Preregistration is sor Farm Credit Mid- 240 E. South College But there’s no reason educational institutions, ested in Farm to School required. America. St., 2:30-7 p.m. Free. why it shouldn’t, said provide opportunities programs, Smathers Details and online reg- Oct. 13 in Massillon Nov. 10 in Cincinnati. Carol Smathers, Ohio for students to learn said, from farmers, pro- istration links are avail- at the R.G. Drage Career Details will be added to Farm to School coor- more about agriculture ducers and distributors able at farmtoschool. Technical Center, Mor- the Ohio Farm to School dinator for Ohio State and local foods while to parents, teachers and osu.edu/events/2016- gan Hall and Conference workshop website when University Extension. also strengthening local school or early care cen- workshops/. Center, 2800 Richville available. OSU Extension is the food systems, she said. ter administrators. The workshops will be Drive SW, 12:30-5 p.m. For more information, outreach arm of The To help spread the The sessions at held: Free. contact Amy Fovargue Ohio State University’s word and potentially each workshop differ, Oct. 4 in Columbus Oct. 14 in Perrysburg at [email protected] College of Food, Agri- expand Farm to School Smathers said. Some at the university’s at the Hilton Garden or 740-398-8397. OSU oŒ ers free  sh farming boot camp

By Tracy Turner the program’s goal is to the breeding, rearing and include new skills and of the training will take Applications for the OSU Extension increase the number of harvesting of animals in innovations required to place on Saturdays, with program are available at fi sh farmers in the region, ponds and indoor tank sustainably and success- some Friday sessions. go.osu.edu/abc2 and are PIKETON – Want to said Hanping Wang, the systems for food, sport, fully own and operate an “Participants will also due by Nov. 4. Applicants learn how to become a director of the ABC pro- bait and ornamental fi sh. aquaculture or aquaponic be paired with trainers will be notifi ed of selec- fi sh farmer? gram at the OSU South In Ohio, there are about farm,” he said. and mentors in the fi eld, tion by Nov. 15, and the The Ohio Center for Centers. The OSU South 200 fi sh farmers regis- During the intensive and have the opportu- fi rst day of the boot camp Aquaculture Research Centers are part of the tered statewide, accord- program, participants nity to tour several area will be Jan. 14, 2017, at and Development at The College of Food, Agricul- ing to a 2010 OSU South will take part in 16 days aquaculture farms,” Wang the South Centers. Ohio State University tural, and Environmental Centers survey. of training, including said. “Participants will For more information South Centers is offering Sciences. The boot camp will 12 one-day intensive also learn how to create on the program, contact 30 new and beginning “The goal of the ABC-2 include classroom and classroom and hands-on a business plan and how Wang at 740-289-2071 or fi sh farmers an in-depth is to enhance the sus- individual and group sessions on aquaculture, to market their new busi- 800-297-2072, ext. 125, introduction to aquacul- tainability of new and hands-on training, Wang aquaponics and business, ness and products.” or [email protected]. ture and aquaponics and beginning aquaculture, said. Sessions will be three aquaculture/aqua- The program is free of For questions on apply- the business of fi sh farm- aquaponic and next-gen- held at the South Cen- ponics workshops, and a charge, thanks to a grant ing, contact Sarah Straus- ing through a yearlong eration farmers in Ohio ters, which are in Pik- farm tour. Participants from the U.S. Depart- baugh at 740-289-2071 or program. and the Midwest,” Wang eton, and at other aqua- will also have the oppor- ment of Agriculture’s 800-297-2072, ext. 112, Called Aquaculture said. culture facilities. tunity to work on an National Institute of Food or strausbaugh.54@osu. Boot Camp-2 or ABC-2, Aquaculture includes “The training will operating fi sh farm. Most and Agriculture. edu.

Hardin County Fair champion carcasses evaluated

By Mark Badertscher and Reserve Champion County Fair by experi- where 1 has the highest OSU Extension Educator steers, barrows, gilts, enced judges, who try to cutability). The reserve lambs, and goats from select the one that will champion steer had a HARDIN COUNTY – the Hardin County Fair yield the highest quality 14.8 square inch ribeye The Hardin County Car- are sent to Mt. Victory of lean meat. For the Car- area, 0.4 inches of back cass Show of Champions Meats for holding and cass Show, actual mea- fat, and a yield grade of was held Sept. 15 at Mt. processing. According surements are taken of 2.2. This second place Victory Meats. A group of to Garcia, all carcasses the weight, muscle, and steer also received a low adults and young people in this year’s show were fat to determine the qual- choice quality grade. were on hand to hear of excellent quality and ity and amount of meat Overall on the rail, the judge and OSU Assistant the project exhibitors did which can be harvested reserve champion steer’s Professor of Meat Sci- an outstanding job done from the meat animals. carcass ranked higher ence Lyda Garcia discuss feeding and caring for The steers were evalu- than the champion steer’s the merits of the winning their animals. ated for percent boneless carcass. animal carcasses from the The project animals trim retail cuts, as well The hog carcasses are 2016 Hardin County Fair. were evaluated in the as USDA quality grades. evaluated based on the The Grand Champion show ring at the Hardin The champion steer had amount of lean muscle Carcass show attendees listen to oral reasons provided by Lyda a 15.5 square inch ribeye they will yield in combi- Garcia, OSU Assistant Professor of Meat Science. area, with 0.6 inches of nation with the amount of Full Insured Workers Comp back fat. The champion back fat. On the four hog pion barrow having the higher than the reserve Since 1975 graded a low choice qual- carcasses in the show, the largest loin muscle area. champion gilt because of ity grade. The fi rst place loin muscle areas ranged The reserve champion carcass quality. TACKETT’S steer had yield grade of from 9.3 to 10.1 square barrow scored the highest The champion lamb Certified 3 (on a scale of 1 to 5, inches, with the cham- percent lean muscle with carcass had 45.52% Fast 3.89 percentage points boneless trim retail cuts Friendly TREE Arborist higher than the reserve while the reserve cham- on Staff COOK HYDRAULIC SERVICE, LLC champion gilt. The pion lamb carcass had Local EXPERT’S Complete Hydraulic Sales & Service reserve champion barrow 44.86% boneless trim *Removal *Trimming *Trees HYDRAULICS also had a lower amount retail cuts. The champion LECTRO-HYDRAULICS of back fat than any of and reserve champion *Shrubs *Stump Removal E the other hogs. Overall, lambs had 0.3 and 0.25 LUBE SYSTEMS the reserve champion inches of back fat, rib 836-5598 | 890-2140 NEUMATICS barrow’s carcass ranked eye areas of 3.1 and 2.4 P higher than the cham- square inches, and yield 240 S. Walnut Street · Wilmington, Ohio 45177 Bucket Truck Bobcat Service pion barrow. The cham- 40912364 937-382-6926 40832109 pion gilt’s carcass ranked See SHOW | 22 A21

Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 21 AgricultuHER OEFFA annual conference ‘Finding Your Voice’ moves to Dayton for 2017 DAYTON — The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm seminar Nov. 3 Association has announced that the state’s largest sus- By Amanda Douridas to raise awareness about today’s tainable annual agriculture and Amanda Bennett agricultural practices. conference is moving to Day- OSU Extension - Jess Campbell, co-owner ton for 2017. of Carroll Creek Farms, loan The event will be held over TROY — OSU Extension officer with Farm Credit mid- three days at the Dayton Champaign and Miami Counties America and president of War- Convention Center Feb. 9-11. announce the AgricultuHER ren County Farm Bureau has a The change in location will “Finding Your Voice” event wide range of experience in the mean new on-site hotel and to be held on Nov. 3 in Troy. agriculture industry. Jess will parking, cell phone reception, Wi-Fi and a larger three-day This event is designed to bring discuss how she has been an trade show. women of agriculture together advocate for agriculture locally During the conference, to discuss how to share our and at the state and national there will be educational way of life and career with the levels. workshops on sustainable general public. As more of our All three speakers have farming, livestock, business, community becomes further unique experiences and Gary Brock photo homesteading, and in-depth Ohio State University students sample food at the 2015 OEFFA Conference removed from the farm, it is approaches to promoting agri- Thursday pre-conference held in Licking County. important to be able to explain culture. The evening will begin sessions. There will be made- a raffl e, book sales, and a set- fall. Learn more and sign up what we do and why we do it. at 6 p.m. with light refresh- from-scratch, local, organic ting that encourages network- to receive conference updates The evening will feature three ments and time to mix and min- meals during the conference; ing, learning, and fellowship. at www.oeffa.org/confer- guest speakers. They are: gle. They will conclude at about activities for kids and teens; Registration will open this ence2017. - Emily Adams is an Exten- 8:45 p.m. Registration is $15 sion Educator in Coshocton and is due Oct. 21. The event County and has developed a will be held at the First Baptist strong Women in Agriculture Church, 53 S. Norwich Rd in program in her county. She will Troy. RSVPs can be made to guide participants on how to either the Champaign or Miami ‘Film on the Farm’ in Marion County navigate conversations when County Extension Offices. emotions are strong. The registration brochure can MARION — The Marion The event will include ber and Our Ohio Supporter - Laura Sutherly operates a be found at http://go.osu.edu/ County Farm Bureau and its a family friendly movie event only. cattle and grain farm as well as agevents . Young Farmers will be hold- on a big screen, with City For more information, con- a commercial grain and fertil- ing a “Film on the Farm” Barbeque for dinner, plus a tact Marion County Farm Amanda Douridas is the OSU Extension izer retail business with her Educator in Champaign County and Amanda event Oct. 15, 7 to 11 p.m. petting zoo, farm equipment Bureau at 740-251-9513 husband. She will share with us Bennett is the OSU Extension Educator in at Buck Farms, 7632 Wildcat to see and other activities. Monday through Thursday how she has used social media Miami County. Pike, New Bloomington. This is a Farm Bureau mem- 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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Rural Life Today 1/4 Page Vertical Zone: Southwest & Southeast A22

22 Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 Tales From The Farm: Ode to the alfalfa mill By Sam Hatcher agribusiness, that of the C.M. Saunders had faith ily, now being owned by For Rural Life Today alfalfa mill. in people. Owning that young Richard’s sons; Ron One of the first entre- many alfalfa mills meant and Dave. At one time, it was preneurs in Ohio – that’s that Saunders couldn’t The Saunders Napoleon a huge business in the the person who has a physically operate all of mill location was sold to United States. Four loca- business idea, then takes them, let alone take care Fred Yarnell and Roy Wea- tions just in Henry County a risk that the idea will of the buying of the stand- sel in 1957, and the name alone. Scattered across the become profitable – was ing alfalfa, then testing of the mill was changed country, it ran into liter- a guy named Clarence M. for protein content, then to Napoleon Alfalfa Mill. ally hundreds of locations. Saunders. Born in Gallia marketing and shipping This partnership lasted The “it” is the alfalfa mill. County in southeastern the finished meal or pel- until 1959, when Roy They have served a pur- Ohio in 1884, C.M. Saun- lets. He hired competent Weasel assumed total pose for American farmers ders made his way to managers for the mills, ownership of the alfalfa since the decade of the northwest Ohio in 1926 then would transfer work- mill. Roy Weasel later fell 1930’s. and founded a company ers who wanted to go from on some hard times and Sam Hatcher and his nine-year-old son on their family farm last fall The Latin name for in 1933 called Saunders Ohio to California in the sold the Napoleon mill to in Henry County. alfalfa is medicago sativa. Mills. The idea behind winters to work. Ray Verhoff, who along Huddle family. cover crops that then get Alfalfa is first mentioned Saunders Mills was to buy To finish the story of with his sons, owned Ver- in history books as far Some of the alfalfa mills killed off with sprays and standing alfalfa from farm- C.M. Saunders, he got hoff Alfalfa Mills, which were struggling to hit the like. back as the 4th century ers in a given geographic involved in the harness started out in Ottawa when the Greeks valued it certain protein contents The concept of the alfal- area, paying them by the horse racing business and Ohio. Roy then went to and production tonnages, fa mill been around for for livestock fodder. That’s ton for the alfalfa, then founded Saunders Mills Archbold Ohio, and along most definitely a l-o-n-g and as the mills them- quite a long time now, and cutting the alfalfa in the Stables during the heyday with a gentleman named selves kept shrinking in even the mills have had time ago… field, chopping the cut of the alfalfa mill venture. George Schroeder, started Called lucerne on the numbers, the idea of a “going green” moments. alfalfa in the field, hauling He starting selling off an alfalfa mill named S&W cooperative was born, and The dryers of the cut continent of Europe, alfal- the chopped alfalfa to the his alfalfa mill interests Alfalfa Mills, which is still fa was actually brought to a company named Ohio alfalfa used to be operated local alfalfa mill location, starting in the late 1940’s, in operation yet today. Blenders was created in mostly with natural gas, North America from the drying it into alfalfa meal, eventually selling com- The Verhoff family owned South American country the early 1960’s to com- but technology improved then pelletizing the meal pletely out of the business and operated the Napo- bine the production of to where the alfalfa can of Chile in the 1850’s. It according to a certain pro- by 1957, and devoted the leon mill until almost the then made its trek across area northwestern Ohio now lay in the fields for tein content, bagging it in remainder of his life to his end of the 20th century, alfalfa mills, and to utilize a couple of days to dry the United States to 100 lb. bags or leaving it harness racing activities. when at that time, they almost every farm as the a central location to mar- naturally, and now even in bulk pellets, then ship- In Henry County Ohio, closed the Napoleon mill ket the pellets more effec- spent sawdust can be used country grew its way west- ping it by rail, or as the C.M. Saunders owned and shifted the production ward to the Pacific Ocean. tively. Located in Toledo, to fire the dryers at the trucking industry started two of the four alfalfa to their Ottawa and New transportation by truck, alfalfa mills today, thereby In the United States, alfal- to expand, shipping the mills, one being located in Bavaria, Ohio alfalfa mill fa is valued for its forage rail and lake freighters are recycling the sawdust. Of pellets by straight truck, Deshler, and the other in locations. used to ship pellets virtu- course, that same tech- ability as a good source of then by semi truck as the Napoleon. When Saunders The New Bavaria, Ohio protein for farm animals. ally all over the world. nology has also created evolution of the truck- began selling his interests alfalfa mill was originally As the business of farm- man-made proteins, and Stored against the ele- ing industry developed. in the alfalfa mills, the started by the Schwab ments in a loose form, ing transformed from the because of that “improve- As the market for alfalfa Deshler alfalfa mill was family, then ownership small family farms to the ment”, there are only a it is one of the reasons pellets kept expanding, sold in 1948 to a newly transferred to Ray Ver- why the massive gambrel/ mega-farms in the latter handful of alfalfa mills left shipping by water became formed company named hoff and his sons, it was part of the 20th century, in the United States today. hip roof barns were built yet another mode of Yarnell Brothers Inc. Four renamed Verhoff Alfalfa in the 1800’s and 1900’s, the growing of alfalfa just Yes, the concept of transportation to markets brothers, Fred, Richard, Mills, and it is still owned doesn’t seem to have a using alfalfa for animal they being the barns with overseas. Lester and Leonard, and operated by the Ver- the large hay mows, hay place anymore in the crop production has been Saunders Mills eventual- formed the company to hoff family yet today. The rotations of the mega around for centuries now, track systems underneath ly grew to include 48 alfal- combine their interests of Verhoff family is now in its the roofs of the barns, and farmers of northwest while the concept of the fa mills, stretching from farming, custom baling, 3rd generation of being “in Ohio. The smaller farmers alfalfa mill has been here also containing hay cars, Ohio to California, and a coal yard and the alfalfa the business.” hay slings and the massive always seemed to have a for almost 100 years, and encompassing thousands mill. All four brothers had Even little Malinta Ohio small field or so for the land’s sake, here’s hemp ropes scattered all of acres of alfalfa, which worked for C.M. Saunders saw an alfalfa mill at one through the ceilings of the of alfalfa in their crop to hoping they never go in turn became another at different times in their time in its history, the mill rotations. With this new out of business. Ode to structures used to store cash crop for farmers lives, running various mill being located at the north trend of the mega farmer the alfalfa mill, another the hay. who chose to raise alfalfa. operations in Ohio and end of the village. The mill mentality, they are all part of life on the farm. As the mechanization of Since almost every farmer California, and Fred and was originally constructed farming marched forward, about mega profits, and had livestock that they C.M. had even owned on leased property with not about leaving the land Sam Hatcher is a 4th generation the inventions of the hay fed hay to anyways, alfalfa some race horses together. a railroad siding from the farmer. His farm is located just south press, then stationary in better shape than what of Napoleon along the Maumee River really wasn’t so much of a When the original four old DT&I Railroad, and they found it in. Of course small square balers made “new” crop, but rather the Yarnell Brothers split ran for just a few short in Henry County. He and his family so the loose hay slowly got the current “cover crop” raise corn, soybeans, wheat, alfalfa alfalfa mill became a differ- up in 1950, the Deshler years in the early 1960’s rage and the “loosening” and have a small cow/calf operation replaced with small square on their farm. “I farm there with my ent way for the farmer to alfalfa mill was retained by National Alfalfa. The up of the soils is upon us bales. Still more advance- market the crop. The mills by brothers Richard and mill was closed, then was older brother and dad. I teach Social ments with the processes all now with the start of Studies at Paulding High School in were even set up to grind Lester Yarnell, then even- partially torn down, but Paulding.” He is married with three of cutting, chopping, dry- the 21st century, but the baled hay in the winter, tually owned by just Rich- yet even today, remnants taproot of an alfalfa plant children, the oldest currently serving ing and finally making the in the U.S. Navy, his middle one thereby ensuring a market ard Yarnell and then his of the mill can be seen on is pretty similar to the tap- dried product into pellets for the extra baled hay son Richard, and today it the property, the property lives in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and their root of all of these other youngest at age nine looks to be the made for an entirely new stored on the farm. is still in the Yarnell fam- now owned by the Jay 5th generation farmer.

boneless retail cuts with a they are doing with the Show ribeye area of 1.7 square feeding and care of their inches. Back fat was 0.1 project animals. The com- From page 20 inches on the champion plete carcass show data goat compared to 0.15 is available at the OSU grades of 3.4 and 2.9, inches on the reserve Extension office and on respectively. Overall, the champion goat. In the Hardin County Exten- reserve champion lamb end, the champion goat’s sion’s website at hardin. was ranked above the carcass ranked higher osu.edu. champion lamb because than the reserve cham- The Hardin County of lower back fat and pion goat’s carcass when Carcass Show of Cham- higher cutability. evaluated by the carcass pions is organized by When comparing show judge. OSU Extension, and is the goat carcasses, the The carcass show ani- sponsored by the Hardin champion goat’s carcass mals illustrate the high County Sheep Improve- was 3 pounds lighter quality of meat animals ment Association, the with 47.60% boneless being produced by Har- Hardin County Pork Pro- trim retail cuts and had din County 4-H and FFA ducers, the Hardin Coun- a ribeye area of 2 square members. These young ty Cattle Producers, the inches. The reserve people and their parents Hardin County Fairboard, champion goat’s carcass need to be commended and Craig and Ed Powell 40863368 dressed out with 47.10% on the outstanding job at Mt. Victory Meats. A23

Rural Life Today – Southwest Ohio – October 2016 23 Butler County AGRICULTURE SNAPSHOT

Butler County – Ohio Ranked items among the 88 state counties 2012 CENSUS OF and 3,079 U.S. counties, 2012 State Universe U.S. Universe AGRICULTURE Item Quantity Rank 1 Rank 1 MARKET VALUE OF AGRICULTURAL County Pro le PRODUCTS SOLD ($1,000) Total value of agricultural 2012 2007 % change products sold 65,040 59 88 1563 3,077 Value of crops including nursery and greenhouse 53,310 54 88 1132 3,072 Number of Farms ...... 865 ...... 949 ...... -9% Value of livestock, poultry, and their products 12,730 54 88 1,945 3,076 Land in Farms ...... 146,054 acres ...... 127,194 acres ...... +15% VALUE OF SALES BY COMMODITY GROUP ($1,000) Average Size of Farm ...... 169 acres ...... 134 acres ...... +26% Cattle and calves 6,282 36 87 1649 2,827 Grains 47,682 50 88 862 2,926 Market Value of Products Sold .. $65,040,000 ...... $38,795,000 ...... +68% TOP CROP ITEMS (acres) Soybeans for beans 48,938 44 87 612 2,162 Crop Sales ...... $52,310,000 ...... (80 percent) Corn for grain 44,938 41 87 662 2,638

Livestock Sales ...... $12,730,000 ...... (20 percent) TOP LIVESTOCK INVENTORY ITEMS (number) Calves and cattle 13,352 35 88 1,703 3,063 Average Per Farm ...... $75,190...... $40,880 ...... +84% Hogs and pigs 10,502 40 88 623 2,889

Government Payments ...... $2,379,000 ...... $2,415,000 ...... -1% Other County Highlights, 2012

Average Per Farm Receiving Payments ...... $8,495 ...... $7,318 ...... +16% Economic Characteristics Quantity Farms by value of sales: Less than $1,000 ...... 218 $1,000 to $2,499 ...... 101 $2,500 to $4,999 ...... 125 5,000 to $9,999 ...... 104 Land in Farms $10,000 to $19,999...... 61 by Type of Land $20,000 to $24,999...... 29 Woodland 7.8% $25,000 to $39,999...... 57 Cropland $40,000 to $49,999...... 16 Pastureland 7.5% 79.7% $50,000 to $99,999...... 47 Cropland $100,000 to $249,999 ...... 51 89% Other 6.2% $250,000 to $499,999 ...... 34 $500,000 or more ...... 22

Other Uses Total farm production expenses ($1,000) ...... 63,380 11% Average per farm ($) 73,272 ...... Net cash farm income of operation ($1,000) ...... 13,641 Average per farm ($) ...... 15,770

Operator Characteristics Quantity

Farms by Size Principal operators by primary occupation: 300 Farming ...... 380 300 Other ...... 485 250 Principal operators by sex: ...... 200 Male ...... 714 Female ...... 151 200 150

Farms Average age of principal operator (years) ...... 59.2

FARMS 100 All operators by race(2): ...... White ...... 1,324 50 100 Hispanic ...... 7 0 1 to 9 10 to 49 50 to 179 180 to 499 500 to 999 1,000+ Acres/Farm 0 See “Census of Agriculture, Volume 1, Geographic Area Series” for complete footnotes, explanations, 1-9 10-49 50-179 180-499 500-999 1,000+ de nitions, and methodology. ACRES 1= Universe is number of counties in state or U.S. with the item. 2= Data collected for maximum of three operators per farm A24

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