MFBF New Office Headquarters Address

For your records MFBF will be moving to our new location this fall.  The new address is:

249 Lakeside Ave

Marlborough, MA 01752

**Click here for a full color pdf newsletter**

2010 Farm Plate Registration Update

It has come to MFBF’s attention that Massachusetts RMV is now requiring additional information on farm plate registration.  To obtain farm plates in 2010 you must furnish copies of the following documents:

• A business certificate from the city or town in which you are doing business. If you currently don’t have one, please visit your town hall to obtain one.

• Corporation papers from the Secretary of State, Department of Corporations and Taxation (if applicable).

• A Federal Identification Number/Employer Identification Number (FID/EIN)* from the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you currently have an FID/EIN, please enclose a copy of one of the following most common forms of proof of an FID/EIN:Any pre-printed IRS correspondence that includes corporation name, address, and FID/EIN number

            a.   Federal Tax Deposit Coupon Form 8109

            b.   Form 147C

            c.   Notice of New Employer Identification Number Assigned Form 5372

d.  CP575 Notice (issued by the IRS). This is a letter sent to a customer to confirm issuance of an FID number.

            e.   Certificate of Exemption Form ST-2 (issued by DOR)

Note: If your business is unincorporated (e.g. a sole proprietor or general partnership), then the pre-printed IRS correspondence must list the owner information in this sequence: individual’s name, business name, and address.

• A list of all authorized users who will have access to the Section 5 plates and a photocopy of a valid driver’s license for each authorized user.

If you have applied for farm plates under your individual name then nothing changes for you in 2010.  If you have applied for farm plates under your individual name and your farm or DBA name, then you must have a business certificate and a Federal Identification Number.

For information, please contact our Ashland office at 508.881.4766 and ask for John.  You can also contact MASS DOT/RMV office at 617.351.9272   

Note:  To obtain farm plates in Massachusetts you must prove that you are “substantially engaged in farming or the growing and harvesting of forest products or incidental lumbering operations, including the preparation and transportation of the products prior to retail sale.” You may prove that you are substantially engaged, in either activity, by providing documents that satisfy the Registrar that at least one of the following apply:

• At least forty percent (40%) of your gross income is from the activity; or

• The activity produced a gross income of at least $1,000 or suffered a net loss of at least $2,000 in the prior year as indicated on schedule C, D, or F of the U.S. and Massachusetts Income Tax Returns or, if you have been in business for less than a full tax year, you can produce documents to show that based on current-year income or expenses, you are reasonably expected to meet this criteria; or

·     If your farm is enrolled in and classified under M.G.L. c. 61A as being devoted to agricultural or horticultural use, you provide a copy of the current tax certificate issued by the local tax assessor; or if the land you grow and harvest forest products on or use for incidental lumbering operations is classified as forest land under M.G.L. c.61, you provide a copy of the current tax certificate issued by the local tax assessor

New incentives for employers to hire unemployed workers

If you hire someone who was previously unemployed, or have recently done so, you probably qualify for a tax benefit.  Under a new federal program, employers who hire someone who was previously unemployed are not required to pay the employer share of social security for that employee.

Provisions of this program include:

• Any employee hired after February 3, 2010 and before January 1, 2011 may qualify.

• Employers are still required to withhold the employee share of social security.

• Employers must have the employee sign an IRS form stating that they were unemployed during the 60 days before beginning work or, alternatively, worked no more than 40 hours for anyone during the 60-day period

The exemption is effective for wages paid from March 19, 2010 through December 31, 2010

In addition, for each worker retained for at least a year, businesses may claim an additional general business tax credit of up to $1,000 per worker.

For more information, consult the IRS or your tax preparer.

http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=220745,00.html

Ballot Initiative Thwarted – Rules Incoming

Proponents of a ballot initiative that would have essentially prevented manure digesters and biomass facilities in MA have backed off from this effort. The ballot initiative, which would have essentially prohibited the creation of such operations by denying those operations Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), will not be on the ballot this fall.  Key to their decision was an announcement by the state that they would promulgate regulations by the end of the year that will set standards for biomass facilities eligible to receive RECs.  Earlier efforts to pass legislation along the lines of the ballot initiative were stymied by Farm Bureau and a coalition of forestry and renewable energy groups.

This development is definitely good news for dairy farms interested in manure digesters. Digesters are not part of the new regulations.

There is still a need for forestry and landscaping folks to be involved though. Biomass facilities offer a good market for waste wood. We need to participate in the rulemaking process to ensure that the resulting regulations are sound and reasonable. NIMBYs and those who are opposed to commercial forestry will without a doubt be very vocal in trying to make the regulations as onerous as possible. Also of some concern are reports that the state will apparently be basing much of the regulation on the conclusions of a report by the Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences. Creating policy around a single study is questionable in any situation. In this situation it is particularly worrisome given that there has been some criticism from credible sources on the some key “findings” of the report. 

Farm Bureau is supportive of policies and regulations to ensure that any new energy facility is environmentally sound, but we need to make sure the regulations and policy are sound. Farm Bureau will be working with a number of other organizations throughout the rulemaking process to make sure that the interests and viewpoints of our members are understood and considered by regulators. If you are interested in learning more or participating, please contact Kent or Brad at 508.881.4766.

AFBF, AG CONNECT Expo Team Up

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 9, 2010 – The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and AG CONNECT Expo 2011 announced today they are teaming up in 2011 with the co-location of the 2011 AFBF Annual Meeting and AG CONNECT Expo 2011 and, both to be held in early January 2011 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

The American Farm Bureau is the nation’s largest farm organization, and AG CONNECT Expo is North America’s new global agriculture exhibition. AFBF’s 2011 Annual Meeting will be Jan. 9-12, while the AG CONNECT Expo runs Jan. 8-10, with “Preview Day” on Jan. 7 by special admission.

The co-location will provide Farm Bureau members attending the 2011 AFBF Annual Meeting with the added value of convenient access to AG CONNECT Expo show floor on January 8-10. The 5,000-plus attendees expected at the AFBF Annual Meeting will have the opportunity to participate in an event that offers the best in technological advances and showcases innovative agricultural equipment, inputs, components and services. This unique opportunity for Farm Bureau members – a one-time exception in AG CONNECT’S standard registration - became a reality after AG CONNECT Expo organizers approached AFBF about teaming up in Atlanta, according to AFBF President Bob Stallman.

“The cooperative arrangement will give Farm Bureau members an opportunity to participate in a world-class agricultural exposition while they are attending our meeting,” Stallman said. “But it also gives the AG CONNECT Expo an opportunity to benefit greatly by having access to a diverse group of agricultural leaders - Farm Bureau members from across the nation who will be gathering in Atlanta to conduct Farm Bureau business.”

Martin Richenhagen, the AG CONNECT Expo Management Committee Chairman and AGCO Chairman of the Board, President and CEO, said the co-location is welcome news for all AG CONNECT Expo stakeholders.

“AG CONNECT Expo provides one of the best opportunities for all in agriculture to interact with each other and build their businesses during the coming years. We know that global food production will need to double in the next 40 years – a daunting challenge that can only be met with innovative technology and forward-looking, science-based agriculture. AG CONNECT Expo is a showcase for prototypes, innovations and the best in efficiency-creating technology,” Richenhagen said.

Charlie O’Brien, vice president, agricultural services for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), the show’s owner and producer, said that AEM has historically been deeply involved in the issues facing the agricultural industry, and AEM and AG CONNECT Expo work to foster relationships with leading industry organizations to advance agriculture. “We are very pleased to be able to work with AFBF, and this co-location offers value to all AG CONNECT Expo 2011 participants as well as the Farm Bureau membership.”

AFBF’s Stallman adds, “We are excited to retain the popular Farm Bureau exhibits that have always been the hallmark of the AFBF Annual Meeting Tradeshow, such as the county Farm Bureau Activities of Excellence, state Farm Bureau exhibits, the Farmer Idea Exchange and our Foundation Silent Auction,” Stallman said. “But we are also pleased to offer our members the ability to view a greatly expanded offering of agricultural equipment, products and services.”

AG CONNECT Expo is run for and by the industry, with direction from industry companies and organizations. This management philosophy puts manufacturer and customer needs first and earmarks show revenues to advance industry causes. For more information on AG CONNECT Expo 2011, visit www.agconnect.com.

RMA/USDA Crop Insurance Summer Update

Summer weather sometimes includes severe storms that may cause crop damage.  Many Massachusetts producers employ federal crop insurance programs that cover most weather related perils.  Crop insurance policies require that damage be reported to your crop insurance agent within 72 hours of discovery.  Your agent will provide instructions on how to proceed with the claim and loss adjustment process.  Never destroy evidence of damage until a loss adjuster evaluates it.  Producers should also promptly report crop damage to the Farm Service Agency (FSA/USDA) to ensure eligibility for any available SURE Program crop disaster payments.

Massachusetts dairy producers are reminded of the availability of RMA’s Livestock Gross Margin (LGM) – Dairy Cattle Program.  The program provides protection against shrinking margins of milk income over feed costs.  It can pay when the actual gross margin is less than projected gross margin, based on Board of Trade prices.  The July enrollment period is 07/30 and 07/31 followed by 08/27 and 08/28 for August.  The first 11 enrollment periods provided a cumulative opportunity of approximately $2.76 in loss payments per $1.00 of premium cost.  The LGM Dairy Cattle Program Fact Sheet is available at http://www.rma.usda.gov/pubs/rme/lgmdairy.pdf.

Finally, Massachusetts producers should begin considering next year’s crop insurance coverage plans.  Your local crop insurance agent can help you evaluate your risk management strategies and crop insurance coverage needs.  Key sales closing dates for Massachusetts are as follows: November 22, 2010, for Apples, Cranberries, and Peaches; November 30, 2010, for Clams; and, March 15, 2011 for Adjusted Gross Revenue-Lite, Corn, Fresh Market Sweet Corn, Potatoes, and Cigar Binder Tobacco.

Custom Ag Solutions works with RMA to educate Massachusetts producers about Federal Crop Insurance Programs.  To locate a crop insurance agent or obtain information about risk management and RMA’s Federal Crop Insurance Programs, please visit www.RMA.USDA.gov or www.MassAgRisk.com.  To receive information by mail, call Custom Ag Solutions at 877-227-8094. 

Put Death Taxes to Rest Campaign….The time is now!

The time to get Congress to act on the automatic “sunset” of the current Estate Tax rules is now! If we sit idly by, the tax rules will change as the automatic “sunset” happens at the end of 2010. The federal estate tax rate will increase by 10% and the exemption will drop by $2.5 million!  Time is slipping away as each day goes by without action.  MFBF, along with AFBF, is announcing a call-to-action for all county Farm Bureau and their members.  In the remaining months of 2010, during the August recess period, throughout the fall including county Farm Bureau Annual meetings, the time to act is now.

We feel that this timeframe is our best chance for repeal of the Death Tax.  With the uncertainty of these economic times, farmers here in the Commonwealth need to be able to prepare and plan for the future of their farm, and retain the ability to pass along their life’s labor to the next generation with limited penalty.  With a higher Death Tax exemption level this would become more of a reality for our farm families here in Massachusetts.

Our grassroots strategy has begun in the House and needs to continue with the Senate.  It is our hope that the Senate will pass a bill more generous than that which the House passed last December. When this happens we will need to convince House members to accept the newer Senate version.  This is where Mass Farm Bureau, and its long history of grassroots action comes into play.   Our organization and our members need to take action.  We need to let every member of Congress know Farm Bureau’s position and to act now.

With the help of AFBF we recommend the following tactics:

Postcard Campaign – Our goal is to have materials submitted from every county Farm Bureau and its members.  Postcards may be sent by the county Farm Bureau and/or individual members. The goal is to make our position known. 

Submit letters-to-the-editor in districts of undecided House members.

Engage all social media networks to spread the word about the “Put Death Taxes to Rest” campaign.

Meet with your Senators and House members in their district offices.  Meetings with lawmakers or their staff in their district offices can be very effective and productive.  They have a different
dynamic than meetings in Washington DC and are easier to schedule and attend.

Farm Visits and Farm Bureau Meetings with Farm Bureau Leadership and Affected Members.

Continue to “Share Your Story”

The success of this campaign continues to hinge on action from all of our Farm Bureau membership. 

See below for a complete list of Massachusetts Senators and Congressman with proper contact information:

Massachusetts US Senators

Senator Scott P. Brown

317 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington D.C. 20510

(202) 224-4543

Senator John Kerry

218 Russell Bldg.

Second Floor

Washington D.C. 20510

(202) 224-2742

Massachusetts US Representatives

Congressman Michael E. Capuano

10 First Street

Cambridge, MA 02141

(617)621-8628

Roxbury Community College

Campus Library

Room 211

Roxbury, MA

Phone: (617) 621-6208

Fax: (617) 621-8628

Congressman William Delahunt

Cape and Islands Office

146 Main Street

Hyannis, MA 02601

(508) 771-0666

Toll-Free: (800) 870-2626

Fax: (508) 790-1959

South Shore Office

1250 Hancock Street, Suite 802-N

Quincy, MA 02169

(617)-770-3700

Toll-Free: (800) 794-9911

Fax: (617) 770-2984

Congressman Barney Frank

NEWTON

29 Crafts Street

Newton, MA 02458

tel: (617) 332-3920

fax: (617) 332-282     

NEW BEDFORD

558 Pleasant Street #309

New Bedford, MA 02740

tel: (508) 999-6462

fax: (508) 999-6468

TAUNTON

The Jones Building

29 Broadway

Suite 310

Taunton, MA 02780

tel: (508) 822-4796

fax: (508) 822-8186

Congressman Stephen F. Lynch

Brockton Office

155 West Elm Street, Suite 200

Brockton, MA  02301

Phone: (508) 586-5555

Fax: (508) 580-4692   

Boston Office

88 Black Falcon Avenue, Suite 340

Boston, MA  02210

Phone: (617) 428-2000

Fax: (617) 428-2011

Congressman James McGovern

34 Mechanic Street

Worcester, MA 01608

Phone: (508) 831-7356

Fax: (508) 754-0982

           

8 North Main Street, Suite 200

Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: (508) 431-8025

Fax: (508) 431-8017   

371 S. Main Street Suite 102

Fall River, MA 02721

Phone: (508) 677-0140

Fax: (508) 677-0992   

255 Main Street, Room 104

Marlborough, MA 01752

Phone: (508) 460-9292

Fax: (508) 460-6869

Congressman Ed  Markey

Medford

5 High Street, Suite 101

Medford, MA 02155

781-396-2900 

Framingham

188 Concord Street

Suite 102

Framingham, MA 01702

508-875-2900

TTY Line: 508-820-1802

Congressman Richard Neal

SPRINGFIELD

300 State Street, Suite 200

Springfield, MA 01105

(413) 785-0325

(413) 747-0604 fax    

MILFORD

2 Congress Street

 Milford, MA 01757

(508) 634-8198

(508) 634-8398 fax

Congressman John Olver

57 Suffolk Street

 Holyoke, MA 01040

 Phone: 413-532-7010

Fax: 413-532-6543     

78 Center Street

Pittsfield, MA 01201

Phone: 413-442-0946

Fax: 413-443-2792     

463 Main Street

Fitchburg, MA 01420

Phone: 978-342-8722

 Fax: 978-343-8156

Congressman John F. Tierney

17 Peabody Square

Peabody, MA 01960

Phone: (978) 531-1669

Fax: (978) 531-1996   

Rm. 412, Lynn City Hall

Lynn, MA 01902

Phone: (781) 595-7375

Fax: (781) 595-7492

Congressman Niki Tsongas

492 Main Street Acton, MA 01720

Phone: (978) 263-1951

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM     

305 Essex Street, 4th Floor

Lawrence, MA 01840

Phone: (978) 681-6200

Fax: (978) 682-6070   

Haverhill Citizens Center

10 Welcome Street

Tuesdays & Thursdays

9:00 AM- 11:00 AM   

11 Kearney Square, 3rd Floor

Lowell, MA 01852

Phone: (978) 459-0101

Fax: (978) 459-1907

Beacon Hill/Summer Session Update
Brad Mitchell, Director of Government Relations

Summer season brings with it the closing weeks of the formal legislative sessions in Massachusetts, so there’s always a rush to complete important legislation.  With a $600 million shortfall in federal funds available to Massachusetts, the scramble to balance the FY11 state budget resulted in significant cuts to every agency.  The Department of Agricultural Resources fared better than most, thanks to the efforts of MFBF members lobbying their legislators to maintain the vital services of this department.

Most of the Farm Bureau efforts on Beacon Hill during the last month have been related to the Senate version of the Gaming/Casino Bill. Working with a coalition of ag organizations including 4H and MACD, Farm Bureau was successful in convincing Senators Brewer and Rosenberg to file an amendment that would create an Agricultural Development Trust Fund to provide $3 million annually to various agricultural organizations and projects.  The Senate version of the bill, however, did not contain a provision creating a trust fund dedicated to agriculture. That said, agriculture was specifically included as a component of the Economic Development Fund with funding devoted to “agricultural development programs, including youth agricultural education”. The bill must still reconciled with the house version, and be signed by the governor – all by July 31.

The school nutrition bill continues to make its way through the legislature after an attempt to remove a buy local provision was successfully defeated by Farm Bureau and other supporters. Some state institutions of higher education were concerned that buying local would increase their costs, and thus opposed the bill.

The Food Policy Council bill is before the Senate after having successfully passed the House. This bill would bring together agricultural, public health, nutrition and land conservation organizations in formal planning discussions.  Farm Bureau already is active in the Alliance of these groups formed outside of government.

A “compromise” bill to legislation that would have essentially banned new biomass facilities and manure digesters has been offered to the legislature. Unfortunately, the alternative language was drafted largely by the environmental community, without significant input from the businesses impacted by it. While the new bill would exempt manure digesters, it would still essentially prohibit the building of new biomass facilities, and essentially cut off new markets for waste wood for our members involved in forestry. Farm Bureau opposes the new language. We support the concept of ensuring any new energy facility is a net improvement over the status quo – however the new proposed language simply set the bar too high.  We are still hopeful that a compromise can be reached which has buy-in from a larger contingent of stakeholders. If not, proponents appear ready to go through with a ballot initiative.

The two year session ends at the end of July,  so it’s a race to get any current legislation passed by then. If a bill currently before the legislature does not pass, it will need to be refiled. As county annual meeting season approaches, please begin thinking about your legislative priorities – both for potential refiles and new bills.

From the MFBF Executive Director

Summer in Massachusetts agriculture is a busy time, but also a rewarding time!  It is no different in the operations of your Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation.  We have some exciting news, as MFBF’s headquarters will move in September to our new building in Marlboro, MA.  This new location will provide your organization with adequate office and meeting space for future growth, public visibility, and accessibility.  The new office is located at 249 Lakeside Avenue (US Route 20), just East of the I-495 interchange. (If you know the Marlboro Holiday Inn, the office sits right below the motel on Route 20).  At press time it is anticipated that the staff will relocate to the new building in mid-September, depending upon the renovations that are underway.  See front cover for new mailing address, telephone numbers will listed in a future issue  when we are given the new numbers from our phone carrier (1.866.548.MFBF will continue to work without interuption).

This is the time of year that we hear from the membership as they renew for another year or raise an issue for the upcoming policy development discussions. As far as renewing members, we are seeing the trend continue that our members are attempting to renew at the proper membership category.  For the past two years we have experienced Associate members renewing as Regular (Farmer) members, and more Regular members upgrading to Gold Member status.  I take this as a sign that these members are happy with the performance of the organization.  As a membership organization we rely upon member dues to operate, so if you join at a lower dues category than is appropriate, you are only shortchanging our ability to serve you!  As members call the office for assistance I have directed staff to check on membership status.  Only Regular (Farmer) members are entitled to staff assistance on farm-related issues.

Membership renewals are coming in very well.  We finished the last membership year on June 30th with a deficit of several hundred members, but Regular (Farmer) memberships actually INCREASED!  We need this trend to continue.  You can do your part by signing up a new member this month.  Membership forms can be found at www.mfbf.net, or we can mail you one from the office.  Our Associate memberships are largely recruited by Farm Family Insurance agents, and we hope a renewed focus on growth will return during the coming year.

Fall brings the beginning of Farm Bureau’s Policy Development program.  This is when the true, grass-roots nature of Farm Bureau is front and center.  Are you aware of an issue that MFBF should be involved in at the federal, state or local level?  Do you have a suggested program, or a solution to a problem facing farmers?  By attending your County Annual Meeting (see schedule in this issue) and presenting your thoughts during the “resolutions” portion of the meeting, you can get the ball rolling.  These ideas or priorities are voted on at the county meeting and sent on to the state.  At the MFBF Annual Meeting in early December our voting delegates will act on these suggestions and prioritize them.  If they relate to federal matters, we send them on to American Farm Bureau, but the others stay local and provide guidance to staff and leadership on the priorities of MFBF.

If you have an issue, or an idea, no matter how small or large it may seem, PLEASE bring it to your county meeting!  If you need help formulating the idea for policy development, give your staff a call and we will assist you.  Policy Development really is the most important facet of Farm Bureau, and it’s your opportunity to get involved.

I hope that you are enjoying a successful summer! 

President’s Corner by A. Richard Bonanno, Ph.D.

A dry and hot summer so far certainly makes life tough but I will gladly take the extra work over the cool, damp, and low yielding summer of last year.  If you have read Doug Gillespie’s column and saw the picture, you are aware of our new building.  I want to thank everyone involved that made this long overdue achievement possible.  Ed Davidian, working with a local real estate agent found the building.  Once we spent some time looking at other options in the area, the Site Selection committee, the Executive committee, the Investment committee, and the full Board of Directors all did their part.  Doug is currently working with contractors to make the necessary renovations and I am hoping that we will have our October Board meeting at the new location.

The first two weeks of July were filled with travel for me as I attended the Northeast President’s and Administrators Conference in West Virginia, followed by the AFBF President’s Council meeting in Washington D.C.  Just getting to and from the northeast meeting was certainly a journey.  The trip involved two plane rides with a destination of Charleston, WV, followed by a 3 hour car ride to Snowshoe Mountain.  Doug did all the driving and not a straight piece of road was anywhere to be found.  It was good to have the small group (12 states) together and we were able to each report on what is happening in our states including membership and legislative challenges.  Even in the Northeast, there is quite a difference between the states with membership ranging from 3000 in some of the New England states up to over 50,000 in Pennsylvania.  A common theme among the states was the animal care issue and the work of outside groups who are trying to add legislation in this area.

On the national front, I had two productive days in DC.  The first day and a half was filled with updates from AFBF on many legislative issues, including an excellent session on Estate Tax reform.  We also started the second day meeting with Agriculture Secretary Vilsack which included a good question and answer session.  The Secretary is, of course, working in an environment where nutrition and school lunch programs, commodity crop production, and fruit and vegetable production are not always on the same page.  In fact, they are often at odds over both dollars and philosophy.

In the afternoon, I visited with Senator Scott Brown and his staff, and then with staff from Sen. Kerry’s and Congresswoman Tsongas’ offices.  I also spoke to staffers about food safety at outspoken Congresswoman Rosa Delauro’s office. The issues that I focused on were EPA authority related to greenhouse gasses and the Clean Water Act, immigration reform, estate taxes, and food safety.  These national issues have many sub issues within them and can become very complex to discuss and take a side on.  My objective was and is to express our concerns as Massachusetts farmers and to focus on how our members are affected, good or bad, by each piece of legislation or pending regulation based on our policies that are set at the MFBF annual meeting.  By the way, start thinking about resolutions to be debated at your county annual meetings this fall.

A. Richard Bonanno, Ph.D.

rich@mfbf.net

2010 Annual Meetings:

Berkshire, September 30, First Baptist Church,  88 South St/Rte 7 Pittsfiled, MA. Starting at 7:00PM.  RSVP to Leona Butler at 413.442.6757

Bristol, October 14

Cape & Islands, October 19, Location TBA

Essex, October 28, 6pm

Franklin-October 13, Location TBA

Hampden, October 27, 6:30 Monte Carlo, West Springfield

Hampshire-October 22, Blue Bonett at 6:00PM

Middlesex, October 20

Norfolk, October 12

Plymouth, August 30, Fireside Grill, Rte 18, Middleborough, MA.  Social Hour 6:00-7:00PM with buffett to follow.  RSVP to Lisa Blair at 508.866.9150

Worcester, October 26

MFBF:  Dec 2 & 3, Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, One Monarch Place, Springfield, MA  01144, 413-781-1010

Ohio Livestock Groups, HSUS Strike Deal

By Stewart Doan

© Copyright Agri-Pulse
Communications, Inc.

Columbus,OH, June 30 – Seven months after Ohio agriculture groups convinced 64 percent of Buckeye voters that it was wrong to let an out-of-state activist force its agenda on the state’s livestock and poultry growers, the same groups have struck a deal with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) on animal welfare and handling reforms. In return, HSUS will not pursue a ballot initiative this fall in Ohio.

 The compromise is not legally binding.

“This agreement represents a joint effort to find common ground.  As a result, Ohio agriculture will remain strong and animals will be treated better,” Gov. Ted Strickland said at a news conference Wednesday in Columbus, flanked by Jack Fisher, executive vice president of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF), representing the Ohioans for Livestock Care coalition, and Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of HSUS, neither of whom seemed happy to be there, based on their body language.

The compromise preserves the integrity of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board approved by voters in November and provides recommendations on animal welfare and animal care standards.  

“It allows Ohio farmers to continue producing safe, local, affordable food for Ohio consumers,” Fisher emphasized.

In an interview with Agri-Pulse, Fisher said the coalition that spearheaded passage of State Issue 2 last year was committed to defeating HSUS’s planned factory farming initiative, but ultimately decided it would have come at a high cost with no guarantees.

“Ballot initiatives are quite expensive – both in people time and in real dollars,” he explained. With HSUS throwing its considerable financial resources into Ohio, Fisher acknowledged that the cost of this year’s campaign was going to be “extremely high, much higher than last year,” when OFBF and its allies spent an estimated $5 million.

Industry sources suggest that Ohio ag interests would’ve needed to raise around $10 million to get their message out to voters.

Beyond livestock care issues, the language also addresses regulations on dog breeding kennels, cockfighting and dangerous and exotic animals.

“This agreement provides a pathway for the enactment of a series of eight major animal welfare reforms, representing an historic advance on animal welfare issues,” said Pacelle.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) includes recommendations for the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board (OLCSB), the Legislature, and the Governor to adopt the following provisions:

• A ban on veal crates by 2017, which is the same timing as the ballot
  measure.
•  A ban on new gestation crates in the state after December 31, 2010. Existing facilities are grandfathered, but must cease use of these crates within 15 years.
• A moratorium on permits for new battery cage confinement facilities for laying hens.
•  A ban on strangulation of farm animals and mandatory humane euthanasia methods for sick or injured animals.

•  A ban on the transport of downer cows for slaughter.
• Enactment of a legislation establishing felony-level penalties for cock fighters.
• Enactment of legislation cracking down on puppy mills.
• Enactment of a ban on the acquisition of dangerous exotic animals as pets, such as primates, bears, lions, tigers, large constricting and venomous snakes, crocodiles, and alligators.
•  

Failure to implement the provisions related wild and dangerous or the reforms recommended to the OLCSB by Dec. 31, 2010 could void the agreement and allow the HSUS to resume its ballot initiative campaign, according to a draft of the MOU.

However, if the terms of the agreement are met and implemented to the satisfaction of all parties, it will extend to Jan. 1, 2014. Further extensions of the agreement are possible through 2019 if the terms continue to be met.

To watch the press conference: http://www.ohiochannel.org/multimedia/people/person.cfm?person_id=88901

Editor’s Note:

MFBF members can go to the Agri-Pulse website, www.Agri-Pulse.com and sign up for a trial subscription to the weekly e-newsletter.  MFBF values this newsletter as the most factual about what’s going on in
agriculture.

Summertime Danger: Heat Stress

It’s a beautiful day! While outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy a hot summer day, summer weather can place landscape and agricultural employees in dangerously hot environments. Combining physically demanding work and long days with hot temperatures puts workers at risk for several types of heat stress such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat syncope, heat cramps and heat rash.

Recognize the Hidden Dangers of Heat Stress

Heat stress doesn’t just impact the ill employee – it puts other people and property at risk of injury and damage. Consider these symptoms: sweaty hands, blurred vision, headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of dexterity, decreased reaction time, lapses in judgment and irritability. Now imagine a heat-stressed employee suffering from one or more of these conditions but still trying to operate a vehicle, piece of equipment or hand tool. The hazard of heat stress goes beyond one employee and poses a threat to fellow employees and the public.

The OSHA Standard

The federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration does not have a specific regulation covering heat stress hazards. However, the “General Duty Clause,” Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 requires each employer to “furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.” OSHA has used the general duty clause to cite employers that have allowed employees to be exposed to excessively hot work environments.

Several states do have specific occupational regulations pertaining to heat stress employers must follow. Check with your state department of labor or occupational health for details. You can also consult trade associations or a lawyer familiar with OSHA and state safety standards for additional information.

Be Smart: Implement an Education Program

The first step toward reducing the risk of heat stress injuries is to make sure all employees understand the causes of heat stress. Education should alert supervisors and laborers to:

• Be on high alert for heat stress during hot, humid days;

• Be ready for the possible need to alter the work day to avoid the hottest time period;

• Wear hats and light clothing;

• Take regular, shaded rest breaks;

• Have adequate access to potable water; and

• Recognize the signs of heat stress such as no sweating (heatstroke), excessive sweating (heat exhaustion) and/or muscle spasms (heat cramps).

To help employers provide heat stress training, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health provides numerous educational materials on heat stress for free at its Web site, www.cdc.gov/niosh.

Beat the Heat: Plan Ahead

While education is the first step, it’s equally important to have an actual written plan in place. Instead of having to improvise a heat stress strategy each day, an employer can plan ahead to determine such things as how much water to bring on-site, how often to take breaks and what hours of the day to avoid working. An employer can also document what emergency steps to take should an employee suffer a heat-related illness and make sure the necessary first aid is available.

Remember: heat stress is a serious risk to landscape and horticultural workers. Proper education and planning are the keys to keeping employees healthy and safe.

This article was provided by Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company for informational purposes only. Farmers face unique issues. Talk to an insurance agent who understands agriculture insurance. To find an agent near you call 1-800-THE-FARM or visit www.FarmFamily.com.

The Farm Family group of insurance companies, headquartered in Glenmont NY, operates in 12 states in the Northeast and is a subsidiary of American National Family of Companies.

This information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. The information is general in nature and may not apply to all circumstances. Farm Family, its affiliates, agents and employees do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and assume no liability, expressed or implied, in connection therewith. Further, the information is not intended to constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with an appropriate legal advisor.

National Saltwater Angler Registry

A new federal law requires most saltwater fishermen to sign up with the National

Saltwater Angler Registry. Registering is quick, easy, and FREE in 2010.  The new state law, “An Act Instituting Saltwater Fishing Licenses” enables the Mass. Div. of Marine Fisheries to transition from the federal registry in 2010 to the state’s marine recreational fishing permit program in 2011 keeping the future  permit fees (est. $10) in the state where they will be used to enhance recreational saltwater fishing in the Commonwealth.

Before you go fishing this year register for free with the federal government at https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov/register/home.jsp or call (888) 674-7411 to register by phone.  You will receive your free permit with registration number almost immediately.  Print it out and carry it with you until the official waterproof and tear resistant one arrives in your mailbox.  You may be asked to present it by law
enforcement.

NEXT YEAR, 2011, you will need to buy a Massachusetts recreational saltwater fishing permit.  The permits will be available at the Mass. Division of Marine Fisheries offices in Gloucester, New Bedford, and Boston, at selected bait and tackle stores and online at www.mass.gov/marinefisheries.

The National Saltwater Angler Registry is a new tool to help count fishermen and their catch.  Be one of the 12 million anglers in the registry.  To find out if you need to register follow the questions and answers on the website.  Currently children 15 and under, the disabled, or those that fish exclusively on party and charter (for hire) vessels that are legally permitted by Marine Fisheries do not need to register, children 16 and over need to register.  Anglers over 60 years of age need to register but are exempt from fees.

Celebrating Massachusetts Century Farms, 2010

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation and the Massachusetts State Grange are joining together to celebrate our Massachusetts Century Farms with signage and documentation.  These are farms that have been in operation for over one hundred years by the same family and are still viable.  It is a testament to the determination of these folks with the losses and gains that any business faces especially with the increasing urbanization and regulation of the Commonwealth and then, there’s the weather.  As Dr. Richard Bonanno, President of Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation said, “As we are all aware, the best laid plans are often no match for the unpredictability of Mother Nature.” 

Recipients of this designation receive a sign identifying them as a Century Farm, owned by the same family for over 100 years and a publication listing other Century Farms in the Commonwealth.  Some farms go back to the mid-1600s and the days of the Tall Ships when plot plans read “east of the great river”.  An interesting read when you consider the evolution of these farms, their histories, stories and genealogical details.

Century Farms are an inspiration to others who strive to achieve such a milestone.  Their strong family ties that continue to maintain hundreds of thousands of acres of open space and natural resource conservation management in a way that improves the economy, tourism, the environment and ultimately our quality of life.

If you know of a family farm that deserves this recognition, please contact the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, info@mfbf.net, 466 Chestnut Street, Ashland, MA 

Tell US

How your Farm Bureau Membership saved you money – in 200 words or less – and receive a gift certificate if we publish your story!

“Since I have joined Mass Farm Bureau I have begun using their Access membership card for all my target.com and dickssportinggoods.com purchases.  I am an avid golfer and when the time came for me to purchase a new putter I immediately went to mfbf.net and logged on to their membership savings page to see if I would be able to use the Dicks Sporting Goods 15 percent online discount.  The putter I purchased was $199.99 and with my Farm Bureau 15 percent off, I saved $30.  That is half of my yearly membership with one purchase!  Now that we have a new baby we utilize 10 percent off at target.com to help us save on diapers and formula as well. I am so happy that I decided to join this organization, I am helping to preserve local agriculture and saving money at the same time!”  Worcester County -Name withheld by request.