MFBF Office Headquarters Address

249 Lakeside Ave
Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: 508.481.4766 | Fax: 508.481.4768

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Campaign for the future of Massachusetts Agriculture

Join Farm Bureau’s Exciting New Partnership with UMass to help build new Agricultural Learning Center

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) is partnering with the University of Massachusetts-Amherst in support of the Agricultural Learning Center.  With a total contribution of $500,000, paid over three years, the Center’s cornerstone building will be named “Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Hall”.

The Agricultural Learning Center at UMass Amherst will serve as a hands-on “living” laboratory for students and the general public who are interested in food, farming, landscape, and other enterprises relying on natural resources. The Center will have areas dedicated to livestock and horses, fruits and vegetables, cranberries, turf and nursery crops and so much more; and will offer training in both traditional farming methods and new innovations developed through ongoing agricultural research.  

Situated within easy walking distance of the heart of campus, the Agricultural Learning Center will provide students with an interactive experience in agriculture. It will also make the scientific and educational resources of the university available to a larger community, drawing visitors from across the Northeast to workshops, courses, demonstrations and conferences at a state-of-the-art Center.  The Agricultural Learning Center is destined to become the focal point for agriculture in the region!

With YOUR support and upon passing structural approval, the fully renovated, historic 19th Century historic horse barn will be relocated to its new location on 25 acres abutting the UMass Amherst campus, and be renovated to serve in its new capacity as a learning laboratory.  Just as it was once was a showcase for Mass Aggie, the barn, “Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Hall,” will be the heart of the Center. 

As more and more people are rediscovering the importance of local and sustainable agriculture, and as more students are becoming interested in farming, the time is right to establish the Agricultural Learning Center to address the needs of students, farmers, and citizens.  Please join the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation and give generously to fund the creation of the Center, which will benefit agricultural education, outreach and research. All donors will receive permanent recognition inside the building. Consider joining MFBF President A. Richard Bonanno, PhD, and Vice President Edward Davidian, and their families, in pledging to become a member of “The President’s Circle” (details on the back of this page), or giving at a level appropriate to you and your business.  

To make your contribution to the Campaign for the Future of Massachusetts Agriculture, in support of the Agricultural Learning Center’s Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Hall, please complete the pledge form and mail to the specified address.  Thank you for your generosity!

Establishing The UMass Amherst Agricultural Learning Center

Gifts may be made at any level and may be an outright donation or a pledge for a period of up to three years.  For information about different ways to give, contact Thomas Hastings, a Farm Bureau member and Director of Development at UMass Amherst’s College of Natural Sciences (413-577-4295 or email thastings@cns.umass.edu.  For more information about the campaign by Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, contact Edward Davidian (508-868-7841 or email ed@mfbf.net).  For further information about the Agricultural Learning Center, contact Stephen J. Herbert, Associate Dean and Director of UMass Center for Agriculture (413-545-2890 or email sherbert@cns.umass.edu).

My/our gift to UMass Amherst Agricultural Learning Center is

o              As a Benefactor, with a gift of $____________

o              President’s Circle (Pledge at least $1,000 per year for three years)

o              A one-time gift of $_________________

o              A multi-year gift of $________________ per year for _________ years with the first payment made by the date of __________________,                                     20____.

Please remind me/us of this pledge: _____Annually   _____Quarterly

       I/we plan to make this gift in the form of: _____Check        _____Securities   _____Other (please specify) _____________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO UMASS AMHERST

Or use your _____VISA      _____MasterCard               _____Discover     _____American Express

Account Number:____________________________________ Expiration Date:_________________

Security Code:___________________         Signature:_____________________________________

o              My gift will be matched! Many employers will match charitable contributions. 
If your employer does, ask for a matching gift form and enclose it with your payment.

Please complete for each donor:

How You Wish To Be Listed In Recognition: _____________________________________________

Name: (First, Middle, Last):___________________________________________________________

Address: (Street, City, State, Zip)_______________________________________________________

Name: (First, Middle, Last):___________________________________________________________

Address: (Street, City, State, Zip)_______________________________________________________

Please mail your pledge or payment to:

College of Natural Sciences

715 Lederle Tower

University of Massachusetts Amherst

710 North Pleasant Street

Amherst, MA 01003

(All gifts will be acknowledged directly by Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation.)

Report on the October 15th judiciary Committee Hearings                             
 by Brad Mitchell, Director of Government Relations

The HSUS bills which would ban certain livestock practices, as well as a bill banning any activity related to the slaughter of horses, were heard on October 5 before the Joint Committee on Judiciary in the State House in Boston.  More than 160 bills were heard that day and it was a very crowded session. MFBF had a panel at the hearing to speak against the HSUS and horse slaughter bills.

The Judiciary Committee is largely comprised of legislators from urban areas and we have have few dealings with this Committee. Few members of the Committee have any connection to agriculture with both legislators representing decidedly non-agricultural areas.  Senator Creem covers Brookline, Newton and Wellesley. Representative O’Flaherty covers Charlestown and Chelsea.

A group of Farm Bureau Representatives spent two days in the week prior to the hearing meeting with Committee members and staff to lay out concerns, especially with the HSUS bills. Rich Bonanno, Lisa Colby, Paula Cruz and Brad Mitchell made the rounds to meet with members of the Committee.  Our messages regarding this bill seemed to go over well – many were not aware of the Livestock Care and Standards Board and seemed to appreciate the common sense approach we were offering. 

At the hearing, farming advocates  were outnumbered by humane advocates by at least 4 to 1. They had big buttons that said “Humane Legislation” on their lapels.  Not all were there to support the HSUS bills however. There were several other humane bills on the agenda. One, which seemed to make sense, related to allowing judges to include pets in restraining orders in cases of domestic abuse.

Two panels got up prior to the MFBF Panel to speak in support of the HSUS bills

• One, lead by Rep Lewis from Winchester (who sponsored and is pushing the HSUS bill and agenda) stated that such practices would “turn your stomach”, and that banning them would “help small family farms.”  He neglected to state that none of the practices are utilized in MA.  It was glaringly obvious (at least to me) that he didn’t have a single farmer on his panel to support his claims about helping them.
• A second panel was led by a woman from Ipswich who was somehow involved in 4H - although she was not particularly clear about what her role was with the organization.  She spoke against poor treatment of farm animals. She had several young girls (ages about  10 to 14) who volunteered at a local farm socializing calves as part of their 4H experience. They too spoke against “factory farm” practices.  While sincere, they did not seem to have any experience with farming other than the single farm where they volunteered. I thought it was rather tell-tale that the Committee chair told her twice to “let the children speak for themselves”.

The Farm Bureau panel was called up just as the house members left for roll call and did not return until halfway through the panel presentation.  Rich Bonanno, Lisa Colby, John Doherty, Paula Cruz and I all spoke. Terry Lawton had to leave prior to the panel being called.  We highlighted:

That none of the practices existed in Massachusetts, nor likely ever would.

• That the HSUS bill had originally included caged hens and had been amended to remove this practice due to deal making in DC between HSUS and a National Ag group. As a result, the only practice in the bill which had any relevance to MA agriculture had been dropped. This highlighted that the true intention of the bill had nothing to do with Massachusetts agriculture.
• Slaughter remained one of the few means by which to manage unwanted horses. Prohibiting slaughter would only exacerbate an existing humane crisis with horses being left to neglect. A recent Government Accounting Office had reached the same conclusion.
• Passage of this bill would suggest that there was a problem with farms in Massachusetts. This would cast a shadow on our industry and undo the work many farms had done to gain consumer trust.
• Our support for the Livestock Care and Standards Bill which could address any and all humane issues with livestock – including ones that actually exist here.

While they did not testify at the hearing, The Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association sent in testimony opposing the HSUS bill and supporting the Care and Standards bill.

All of us had to leave after our testimony. I have heard from others following that subsequent humane testimony included outside “experts” brought in by HSUS who stated that our proposed Livestock Care and Standards Board would only “pave the way for factory farms to come into the Commonwealth.” While this is an absolutely ridiculous claim, few on the Judiciary Committee have the experience to recognize it as such.

I had two “takeaways” from this hearing:

First, Farm Bureau members need to get involved. While I know folks are busy and it is a long trek into Boston for many, we are not going to beat many bills with only 5 farmers at a hearing. Politicians, whether they or we like it, are elected based on numbers.  So, when they see 20 people with  buttons reading “Humane Legislation”, and only 5 farmers speak up - the math is not in our favor.

We also need to get our customers involved.   In one meeting, one of Senator Creem’s staffers told me that “a lot of our constituents support humane legislation.”  I responded that a lot of her constituents also supported local ag through farmers markets, CSAs, etc…  The problem is that the Senator’s office had not likely heard from a single constituent opposing this bill. We need to have these conversations with our customers and encourage them to support us on Beacon Hill.  We’ll be developing some materials to help you do this, but don’t wait on us to start educating and recruiting your customers.

We’ll keep you updated on this and other bills with Action Alerts. The key word here is action – so please, stay involved.

All of us at Massachusetts Farm Bureau are pleased and excited that we can be a part of a campaign at UMass Amherst to solidify a strong undergraduate teaching program into the future.  As you can read in this issue, our plans to partner with the University have been given a unanimous vote by our Board of Directors.  To my knowledge, this will be the first building on any university campus to be named after a state Farm Bureau.  Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Hall will be the focal point of this new partnership.  Please read the information in this newsletter and the additional information that we will be sending to you.  Consider helping us achieve our goal of $500,000.               

In mid-October, Joe Young from the New England Apple Council and I met with Jose Ocasio and his staff from the Massachusetts Department of Career Services regarding the H-2a program.  The meeting dealt with the labor surveys that MA sends out regarding prevailing and common practices.  We focused most of our efforts on experience requirements.  As you might remember, we sent a survey to all our regular members this past summer asking about farm worker employment practices.  This survey gave us valuable information about experience requirements, and will help our efforts to work with MA in developing the official surveys required by the U.S. Department of Labor that will be mailed this Fall.  The bottom line is this: Farmers are in the H-2a program because they cannot find sufficient numbers of qualified, willing, able, and legal U.S. farm workers.  Farmers who are not in this program are obtaining workers from a variety of sources including temp agencies, intern programs, hiring former workers, and local advertising.  Some of these workers are undocumented.  I don’t know of a single farmer that prefers to hire inexperienced labor but we all deal with the realities of finding that labor.  Most often, we hire returning workers first because they are experienced, even if it is only from working on our own farms.  We want to able to reflect the importance of that prior experience in the surveys.  I hope you will participate if you receive one of these surveys.               

On October 5, the Judiciary Committee met in Boston to hear testimony regarding the animal rights bill filed by HSUS through Rep. Lewis.  It was certainly a contentious hearing as both sides made their case about animal confinement related to gestation crates and veal crates.  Our group included Brad Mitchell, Paula Cruz, John Dougherty, Lisa Colby, Terri Lawton, and myself.  The position of MFBF is that it is ridiculous to ban something that doesn’t exist. Passing this legislation would only darken the public view of agriculture by suggesting we farm in a way that some find objectionable or extreme. The other side insisted that we need the legislation to keep factory farms out of Massachusetts.  There was also testimony from a 4H leader and 4 students supporting HSUS.  As both sides spoke I was thinking about how few of us there are in MA and the need for all of us to stick together.  We have differences in the way each of us farm and we can have good debate about conventional or organic, supermarket or farmer’s market, raw or pasteurized, cage or free range, GMO or non-GMO,  stantions or free stall, etc.  But the bottom line is that all of that is part of farming and who we collectively are.  All 7700 of us together produce less than 20% of our food and no good will ever come out of us publicly bashing each other.

As always, I appreciate your thoughts and criticisms.

USDA HOGS AND PIGS SURVEY 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is gearing up to conduct its largest quarterly survey of the pork industry. The December Hog and Pig survey is the only chance to officially measure the New England hog industry in 2011. During the first two weeks of December, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will contact pork producers for the Hogs and Pigs Survey. They will be asked to report their market hog and breeding stock inventories as well as their farrowing intentions as of December 1.

Gary Keough, Director of the NASS New England Field Office, noted that all information provided by respondents is confidential by law. “NASS safeguards the privacy of all responses and publishes only State and national-level data, ensuring that no individual producer or operation can be identified,” he said.

To make it as easy as possible for producers to participate, we offer the option of responding by mail, telephone, Internet, or personal interview.

Survey results are published in NASS’s quarterly Hogs and Pigs report, to be released December 23. NASS also publishes national estimates of the number of hog operations by size group in the Farms, Land in Farms, and Livestock Operations report in February. These and all NASS reports are available online at ww.nass.usda.gov. For more information, call the NASS New England  Field Office at 1-800-642-9571.

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR By Douglas Gillespie., Massachusetts Farm Bureau Executive Director

Its Annual Meeting Time!  I hope that you are planning to join your fellow Farm Bureau members on December 1 at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Fitchburg (just off Route 2) for your 92nd MFBF Annual Meeting.  Please consider coming, and be sure to make reservations right away, before the meal prices increase on November 18th.

The workshops are specially designed to be timely and relevant to our members.  Dairy BMPs, Risk Management Programs in the Aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene, and Legislative Advocacy are the morning workshops.  After the awards luncheon there will be a double session on Alternative Energy Opportunities on Farms, and workshops on Forestry Programs, Using Social Media, Farm Marketing, and a pesticide credit workshop on Resistance Management.

The evening banquet will honor program achievers in a number of Farm Bureau areas.  Our keynote speaker will be Julie Anna Potts, the new Executive Vice President of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

There will be a silent auction again this year, to benefit the state FFA programs, so please consider a donated item for this event.  Friday, December 2 will be the voting delegate session, and we will be discussing and voting of Farm Bureau policy as well as a proposed bylaw change to allow creation of a membership category for supporters or “Friends” of local agriculture.

We’ve had a number of calls to the Marlborough headquarters in regard to farm damage resulting from Tropical Storm Irene.  USDA Farm Service Agency has collected damage data reported by farmers, and is now awaiting federal funding.  You need to be aware that federal funding is not a sure bet.  We are in an era of budget cutting, not budget expansion, so nothing is a sure thing anymore.  I personally believe that there will be a disaster relief bill passed by Congress because of droughts, tornados and hurricane damage in nearly every state.  However, it is likely that only those who have bought at least the minimal catastrophic crop insurance coverage will be eligible for disaster payments.  This has been the case for the past few years.

In light of the creation of a deficit reduction committee in Congress, interest is growing on how to construct the next federal Farm Bill.  We continue to hear that direct subsidy payments may be a thing of the past, and that risk management programs (crop insurance and similar policies) are the way of the future.  Do not get left behind!  If you are not a crop insurance subscriber presently, you need to be researching how to participate at some level.  Not all the products are beneficial to the retail-oriented farming in New England, but some of the revenue or margin insurance products are.  Be aware that you do need to buy some form of minimal coverage to be eligible for disaster payments when they become available.  Even the MILC program for dairy producers appears likely to be replaced with an insurance program related to milk prices and input costs.  Time to get on the bandwagon, as its likely the only wagon moving forward.

The new GMC vehicle discount program offered to Massachusetts Farm Bureau members is a great new member benefit!  Check out the list in this issue; 27 models of Chevrolets, GMCs and Buicks are available with a $500 discounts.

Finally, I want to encourage you to join the leadership of Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation in our new partnership with UMass Amherst to create the Agricultural Learning Center adjacent to campus.  The launch of this initiative is good news for us all. It demonstrates the university’s commitment to production agriculture for decades to come because the Farm Bureau donations will generate millions of dollars of university funds to ensure that the entire project happens!  We can all be a part of this critical campaign.

I look forward to seeing you on December 1 in Fitchburg.

MFBF Bids Farewell to Kerry Reynolds, Welcomes Kelley Garufi

Massachusetts Farm Bureau would like to bid a fond farewell to Kerry Reynolds who will be leaving us after sixteen years of service. Kerry began working for the organization when our office was located in Bedford. She has been through two moves with us, first to Ashland, and again last year to our current location in Marlborough. We wish her all the best as she begins this next chapter in her life.

Mass Farm Bureau would also like to welcome Kelley Garufi, who has joined our administrative staff this month, to replace Kerry.  Kelley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team and will be a welcome asset to the office.

Equine Owners:  What has Farm Bureau done for me?

Did you know that?

•  the Equine Liability Law and sign that’s posted on your barn was a direct result of Farm Bureau legislation?  Same with the Pick Your Own Liability law and signs that you see at berry, fruit, vegetable and Christmas Tree farms.
• horses are considered livestock in Massachusetts?  We know that horses are both pets and livestock, but need the added protection of agricultural exemptions afforded to livestock
• Farm Bureau gained specific changes and broader definitions of agriculture and farming in agriculture law that includes equine activities
• Farm Bureau got equine activities included in the municipal Chapter Land 61B reduced tax rate program to preserve Massachusetts’ cultural heritage. We continue to fight for improved valuations.
• created farm energy discount programs that are administered by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.
• we support the creation and implementation of low interest loans and emergency relief efforts for agriculture.
• we support the Farm to School program.
• we support the creation and initiatives of 147 – and growing Agricultural Commissions across the state which may include their recommendation to waive animal and farm equipment excise taxes.
• you received a ten percent discount on services at Tufts large animal hospital in North Grafton as a member in good standing.
• Farm Bureau speaks up against animal rights extremists.
• we advocate for environmental regulations that are based on sound science as well as cost/benefit analysis.
• We facilitate communication between environmentalists and farmers,and so much more.

 Farm Bureau advocates every day for your business interests and rights by our state legislative impact and a national voice with the American Farm Bureau Federation.

We’re not asking for a thank you, but we do need your membership to keep fighting for your rights.  We gain our strength in numbers, so ask your friends to join too!

Forest Viability Applications Available NOW

Applications to the Forest Viability and Enhancement Program are currently available and are due on Friday, December 9, 2011.

• Traditional Forest Products:  Development of a Forest Viability Enhancement Plan to achieve greater economic return though the marketing, processing, and sale of traditional forest products such as saw logs, cordwood, and pulp.
• Non-Traditional Forest Products:  Development of a Forest Viability Enhancement Plan to grow, produce, or make non-traditional forest products including: medicinal and nutraceutical plants (ginseng, witch-hazel, and slippery elm bark) food products (maple syrup, mushrooms, and nuts) decorative and handicraft products (wreaths, greens, landscaping plants, basket splints, birch bark or other wood/vine products) or rustic furniture
• Recreation and Wildlife:  Development of a Forest Viability Enhancement Plan to achieve economic return based on recreational and wildlife activities including: cross-country ski/hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and environmental education.  

USDA Risk Management Agency Announces Massachusetts Educational Partnership

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced a $239,000 Partnership Award to educate Massachusetts agricultural producers about Federal Crop Insurance Programs. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) administers the Federal Crop Insurance Program and will oversee the partnership award.  The award provides funds to conduct crop insurance education events in locations throughout Massachusetts for producers of numerous insurable crops ranging from apples to nursery crops to tobacco. Crop insurance programs will also be promoted through multiple mailings, articles, and webinars.

The partnership will include 28 educational events to be coordinated with regional partners including the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association, the Northeast Organic Farmers Association - Massachusetts, and the Massachusetts Future Farmers of America Association.

Federal risk management programs are available in Massachusetts to cover apples, clams, cranberries, dairy (gross margins), field corn, nursery crops, peaches, potatoes, sweet corn, and tobacco. Two whole-farm revenue policies, Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) and Adjusted Gross Revenue-Lite (AGR-Lite), are also available. Federal subsidies for crop insurance programs generally cover around 50 percent of a policy’s premium. Key sales closing dates in Massachusetts occur in November and March for 2011 crop year participation in most programs.  In fact, Massachusetts producers of apples, clams, cranberries, and peaches are reminded of fast-approaching November deadlines (11/21 for apples, cranberries, peaches and 11/30 for clams).  Producers planning to purchase a new crop insurance policy or wanting to make changes to an existing policy should contact their local crop insurance agent immediately  to get program details or begin the application process.  

The award is funded under RMA’s Targeted States Program, which was established to deliver crop insurance education to producers in 16 historically underserved states, including Massachusetts.  RMA’s Raleigh, North Carolina, Regional Office will provide substantial oversight and expertise to the partnership. The educational sessions will be coordinated and delivered by Custom Ag Solutions, a consulting firm that specializes in the development and delivery of risk management programs, tools, and educational programs.   

For additional information about the USDA’s Risk Management Agency, please visit www.rma.usda.gov.

For additional information about the USDA/RMA Raleigh, NC, Regional Office, please visit http://www.rma.usda.gov/aboutrma/fields/nc_rso. 

For additional information about Custom Ag Solutions, please visit www.casnow.com. 

MFBF 92nd Annual Meeting information

Join your neighbors and friends in celebrating Massachusetts’s agricultural industry and the successes of the state’s largest general farm organization.

This two-day event is where Farm Bureau members establish policy for the upcoming year, attend workshops and learning sessions, as well as enjoy good food, entertainment and a bit of rest and relaxation away from the farm . This year’s MFBF Annual Meeting is a value-packed program.

Thursday, December 1st will be full of workshops with an Awards program at lunch.  The dinner banquet will honor the 2011 John Ogonowski award winner.

Staying overnight?  Farm Bureau Members can book accommodations for Wednesday, november 30th & Thursday, December 1st at a rate of $79.95 for a single or double room at the Courtyard by Marriott and Conference Center. Taxes are extra. The hotel address is: 150 Royal Plaza Drive, Fitchburg, MA 01420 Tel 1 978-342-7100, 1-800-236-2427

The Delegate Session will be on Friday, December 2nd.  It is our delegate session that helps guide and direct MFBF.  It is through our membership’s grassroots efforts that we develop resolutions which direct our organization for the upcoming year.  Contact your County Farm Bureau President if you would like to become a delegate.

Annual Meeting Workshops

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Meeting hosted by Worcester County Farm Bureau will be held on December 1st at the Courtyard by Marriott in Fitchburg, MA

The following workshops are being offered:

Hurricane Irene, a Case Study on USDA’s Risk Management Insurance Program

An Overview of USDA/RMA Risk Management  Crop Insurance Program will be presented, along with a look at what benefits are available to you if you had federal crop insurance and suffered damage from Hurricane Irene this Summer.

Dairy Best Management Practices

This session will explore the new BMP handbook for dairy production created through a collaboration between UMass Extension, MDAR, Mass Maple & Farm Bureau.  Participants will discuss the importance of BMPs to protect farm operations.

Farm Bureau 101 & Becoming a “Grasstop”

Explore how Massachusetts Farm Bureau works, and learn about the grassroots process from county resolutions  to developing legislation.  Partcipants will also focus on how to get involved and be effective in the legislative arena.

Alternative Energy Part I & II

A two-part workshop that focuses on energy efficiency and renewable energy opportunities for Massachusetts agriculture including potential technologies for various sectors and an overview of available programs. We’ll also review the obstacles that may be in the way when coverting to solar energy.

Resistance Management

This one pesticide credit workshop will cover weed resistance management, with a focus on Roundup Ready Plus system which encourages the use of other crop protection products (multiple modes of action). It will also cover insect resistance management and specifically refuge-in-a bag (RIB), a single bag solution that ensures refuge compliance and utilizes multiple modes of action as well. I think he can hang his competitor hat at the door and talk about other products available that offer single bag solutions as well as other HT crops on the horizon.

Forestry Viability

This workshop focuses on the 4 Working Forests Initiative programs administered by Farm Bureau for DCR - Forest Stewardship, Forest Viability, Carbon Offset and Trading Program and Estate Planning. Forest Stewardship provides cost reimbursement for preparing a 7 year forest stewardship plan.  Forest Viability is a business planning program for forest based businesses that provides an individualized business plan AND seed capital to make the changes recommended in the plan in exchange for a 20 year non-development covenant.  Carbon Offset and Trading is a new program for MA providing cash payments to landowners for management of your forests for carbon credits that can be traded on the Chicago Climate Exchange.  Estate Planning provides landowners with options to help pass forest lands to future generations without dividing up the parcels.  Come and learn MORE!

Social Media

This workshop will be a true hands-on  experience geared towards those who are new or just beginning to explore social media/web 2.0. Attendees are welcome to bring your own laptop.

The facilitators will guide attendees in hands-on learning as they explore such topics as:

• Navigating through the many free social media tools available to all and why everyone is using them
• Building a Facebook page (personally and professionally) and how to utilize the many functions Facebook offers to help market and grow an online presence
• Creating accounts and learning how to use LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.
• Understanding what is the purpose of these tools and how can you manage staff time and resources to ensure a return on that investment
• Personal Q&A time with social media coaches; and much more!

Farm Marketing

How to use Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms to better market your farm, run a CSA  or participate at farmer markets thoughout the summer, this workshop will help you better market your farm through your CSA and Farm Markets.

MFBF Annual Meeting Registration Form

Don’t forget to make your meal reservations.  We’ve planned two wonderful meals to tempt your appetite. Please clip section and return with your check (made payable to MFBF) via mail to Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, C/O Susan Cornelia, 249 Lakeside Ave, Marlborough, MA 01752. Fill in the name of each person attending. You can also register online at MFBF.net ALL RESERVATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY NOVEMBER 18th

**All reservations made after November 18th will have a
$5.00 late fee added to each lunch and dinner reservation.**

MFBF 92nd Annual Meeting Sponsorship and trade show booth info                

TRADE BOOTHS

Trade Booth space is being offered again this year. Trade booth space will be $300 for an 8’x2’ booth. Booth space this year is at a premium and based on prior demand, you should act quickly.

ANNUAL MEETING SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

MFBF is again offering annual meeting sponsorship opportunities. The Board of Directors will recognize your company as an industry leader by sponsoring the 2011 MFBF Annual meeting and its activities. We are offering four levels of sponsorship:

Platinum Level- $500

Gold Level-$350

Silver Level-$150

Bronze Level-$50

Please contact John Conners at 508.481.4766 or email at: john@mfbf.net We have a special offer for those who sponsor at the Platinum level. If you contact us no later than November 18th, your sponsorship will include a free booth!

FFA Silent Auction at MFBF Annual Meeting

Mass FAA in the Classroom will again be holding a silent auction at the MFBF Annual Meeting. All proceeds will go to support FFA programs throughout Massachusetts.  FFA Board Members would appreciate donations from Farm Bureau Members for the 2011 silent auction.  We have enjoyed seeing the beautiful baskets made at farm stands, the treasures from the farm house attic and the holiday decorations that are brought to the auction. The auction will be held on Thursday, December 1st, from 9-5.  Written bids will be accepted during the day.  Bids will close at the cocktail hour before the banquet.  If you would like to donate auction items please eamil Kim LaFleur at massffa@gmail.com

Town Of Dennis Request for Proposals Agricultural Use for Portion of Melpet Farm

The Town of Dennis is requesting proposals for the agricultural use of a portion of Melpet Farm. The Town desires to preserve the premises as a working farm and future agricultural center.

Proposals will be accepted at the Dennis Town Hall, Office of the Town Administrator, 485 Main Street, P O Box 2060, South Dennis until 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 23, 2011. A Request for Proposal package may be obtained at the above noted address, on our website at www.town.dennis.ma.us, or by calling (508) 760-6123. The awarding authority is the Town Administrator. The Town reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive minor deviations and award the contract in the best interests of the Town. The Town encourages Minority and Women Business Enterprises to submit proposals.

MA Farm Disaster Recovery Fund

Severe weather this summer brought devastation to many Massachusetts farms. Making a bad situation worse, hundred year flooding from Tropical Storm Irene washed away farmlands, farms, livelihoods, families, and in some cases large chunks of rural communities. Coping with a tragedy of this magnitude demands a full court press.

Federal, state and local authorities have moved aggressively to triage the most serious infrastructure damage. But that leaves lots of unaddressed farm, family and community needs, and an opportunity for what Massachusetts residents and businesses and organizations do best: give ... so that others may recover, and so that families and communities may return to normal.

The Commonwealth’s agricultural community has reacted swiftly to this tragedy and established the Massachusetts Farm Disaster Recovery Fund, a charitable initiative formed under Massachusetts Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) to mitigate suffering and to improve farm lives and communities. Generous vendors from the Massachusetts Pavilion at the Big E pledged contributions to launch this campaign. Additional support is critical to reach farm families and communities that need help so desperately.

Contributions may be sent to:

MACD
MA Farm Disaster Recovery Fund
319 Littleton Road, Suite 205,
Westford, MA 01886.

It’s Time for an Insurance Check-up

tend to take stock of what we’ve accomplished in the past year. Maybe you’ve made additions to your barn or home, purchased new equipment or vehicles, or hired new employees. Or maybe you’ve had an addition to your family.

If you’ve made any major improvements to your farm but haven’t reported them to your insurance agent, you could be underinsured. For many, it’s only after a loss happens that they realize they failed to maintain sufficient coverage to keep up with the increasing cost of replacing their business. 

An annual review with your agent can help make certain:

• you’ve got the right type of insurance;
• your current level of coverage is sufficient;
• you receive credits for improvements you’ve made to your property.

If you decide to “shop around,” be sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Are you getting the same coverage for the same premium dollar? All too often, another company may not be offering you the same insurance protection as your current policy provides. Is it the right protection? Do you have enough insurance? Do you have gaps in your coverage? Sometimes you can get a quote for a lower price – and then discover when it’s too late that you don’t have the same amount, or even the same kind, of coverage. Will you qualify for discounts/reductions with a new company? You could lose any discounts if, for example, your business and auto policies are packaged with one company and you decide to move one of them.

So when you take stock of what you’ve accomplished this year, don’t forget to contact your insurance agent to be sure the fruits of your labor are fully protected.

This article was provided by Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company for informational purposes only.

The Farm Family group of insurance companies, headquartered in Glenmont NY, operates in 13 states in the northeast and is a subsidiary of American National Family of Companies. 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.

CISA Launches Emergency Farm Fund for Farmers Affected by Hurricane Irene

The CISA Emergency Farm Fund was launched this week by Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) in partnership with Whole Foods Market, Equity Trust and individual donors in response to the damage suffered by farms in western Massachusetts due to Hurricane Irene. The fund is a revolving fund that will provide an additional safety net for farmers impacted by future emergencies, including natural disasters resulting from more frequent severe weather events.

The outpouring of community concern for affected farm businesses made possible the creation of the loan fund, catalyzed by a $50,000 matching grant provided by an anonymous donor. Thanks to this generous grant, all donations to the fund up to $50,000 will be fully matched, and the fund could reach $100,000 or more. With a commitment from Whole Foods Market to donate $15,000 towards the match, the fund is on its way to raising the $100,000 or more that will ensure that emergency funds are available to farmers when they need them.  

The CISA Emergency Farm Fund will offer quick, zero-interest loans to assist farmers and farm businesses who are struggling to meet their immediate needs in the aftermath of the storm and flooding. The fund will be available immediately following future disasters to help farmers affected by unexpected events continue farming.

In an effort to further enhance this effort and simplify the delivery of support, funds collected by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) from generous vendors from the Massachusetts Building at the Big E and matched by the Eastern States Exposition will be directed to the CISA Emergency Farm Fund.

The CISA Emergency Farm Fund will be managed by CISA with the assistance of Equity Trust. The Loan Review Committee includes a team of people with a variety of agricultural backgrounds and will include representatives from CISA staff and board, Whole Foods Market, Equity Trust, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, and farmers.

Donations to match the $50,000 are now being accepted and can be made at www.buylocalfood.org.

CISA is a nationally recognized organization comprised of farmers, consumers, and professionals working together to strengthen local agriculture by building connections between farmers and the community. Founded in 1993, CISA runs a number of innovative programs, including Senior FarmShare and the “Be a Local Hero, Buy Locally Grown” public awareness campaign. Learn more about CISA at www.buylocalfood.org or call 413-665-7100. 

Free Disaster Legal Services Available in Berkshire, Franklin CountiesResidents in Berkshire and Franklin counties affected by the August 27 – 29 storms can request the assistance of a lawyer through a toll-free legal aid line. The service is provided through a partnership comprised of the American Bar Association, the Berkshire County Bar Association, the Franklin County Bar Association, the Hampden County Bar Association and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Individuals with legal issues arising from the severe storms that struck western Massachusetts in late August and who are unable to afford a lawyer can request assistance 24 hours a day by calling 1-855-866-1644. Callers will be asked to leave a voice mail message. A volunteer attorney will return the call within 24 – 48 hours. A Spanish-speaking attorney may be requested.

 Legal services are available for disaster related, non-fee generating legal needs such as:

•            Assistance with securing FEMA and other government benefits 

•            Assistance with life, medical and property insurance claims

•            Help with home repair contracts

•            Replacement of wills and other legal documents destroyed in the disaster

•            Assistance with consumer protection, remedies and procedures

•            Counseling on mortgage and foreclosure problems related to Tropical Storm Irene

•            Counseling on landlord/tenant problems

There are some limitations on disaster legal services. For example, assistance is not available for cases that will produce a fee (such as cases where attorneys are paid part of a settlement awarded by the court). Cases that may generate a fee are forwarded to a local lawyer referral service.

Partnership in Agricultural LEadership Program by Terri Lawton

 In mid-September I spent four days in New York City with a group of nine outstanding young farmers from all across America. This was part one in a four-part training for participants in the Partnership in Agricultural Leadership (PAL) program.

We went to New York City to talk to folks about agriculture. We even were on Wall Street and saw the “Occupy Wall Street” folks before it was even in the news.

We had a scavenger hunt that forced us to explore the city by finding Macy’s, the site of the World Trade Center, Central Park and other New York landmarks, including a visit to Whole Foods below the Time Warner building.

During the day we participated in mock interviews with the AFBF staff who pretended to be hostile media people. They would break down our presentation, including speech, choice of words and other non-verbal communication. We were then sent back to change our presentation and to prepare for another interview a short time later.

Most of our days were spent in the main office of Farm Credit. It was interesting to see how the bank manages money, seeks funding for loans, and maintains the health of the bank’s balance sheet.

The office was just on the other side of the bay from where the World Trade Center was and I felt a powerful sense of what those attacks meant for our country. Many people who died in those buildings were friends of the people who worked at the Farm Credit office. I can’t imagine watching the horror of that devastating event.

I feel changed by the first session of the PAL training. I notice that my communication is more concise, and I have grown appreciate some of the tips the AFBF trainers gave.

I am grateful that I could participate in the PAL training. I encourage other young farmers to seek leadership roles in Farm Bureau, or to compete in YF&R events so they can be invited to participate in such an incredible leadership development program.

Getting the Most From YOUR Farm Bureau Membership

Activate your MFBF Membership – Make your vote count - Renew your Farm Bureau Membership now! Then check the deck page on your insurance policy to see how much you saved with your membership!

Learn more – contact the Marlborough office for information about things that concern you:  fencing, adverse possession, betterments, animal regulations, chapter land, agricultural exemptions, insurance products from crops to trucks, estate planning, leadership training and much more!

You don’t have to be a farmer to join Farm Bureau!  As a Farm Bureau member, you get $20 every time someone you referred signs up.  So think about who you do business with and if Farm Bureau programs and services could be of benefit to them and then, just ASK them to join.

Member to Member Marketplace

Island Alpaca Company, www.islandalpaca.com, 10% discount to MA Farm Bureau Members off current retail prices for alpaca goods in the farm store (except spinning equipment).  Martha’s Vineyard, 508-693-5554.

Roberts Brothers Lumber, 1450 Spruce Corner Road, Ashfield MA 01330, 10% savings on current Lumber Price Sheet, excluding delivery, planning and any other services.

Dowse Orchards, 98 North Main Street, Sherborn, MA  01770, 10% savings on farm produce.  508-653-2639, www.dowseorchards.com.

Twin City Eye Care, 867 Merriam Ave., Leominster, MA  01453, 978-537-6045, www.twincityeyecare.com. 20% discount on lenses and frames.

Member Benefits:

Budget Truck Rentals – Moving household contents or moving product to that Farmers’ Market, MFBF members get a 15% discount on Budget Truck Rentals by using MFBF account number 56000133689.  Visit www.budgettruck.com/mafbf or call 1-800-566-8422.

Prescription Rx – This benefit helps reduce prescription drug costs.  MFBF members save an average of 30% (some as high as 75%) on prescriptions.  The card is like a coupon that you use over and over again at over 75,000 national and regional pharmacies. 

Grainger sales – 10% discount and free shipping on internet orders. wwwgrainger.com. 

HORSELOVERZ.COM,-the World’s Largest On-Line Tack Shop in Hazelton, Pennsylvania.  Not just for horses, they carry a large variety of PET SUPPLIES and feature a special “DEAL OF THE DAY”.  Whether you have a dog, cat, duck, hamster, rabbit, iguana, horse, sheep, goat, pig or just a fence and lawn to care for or need to find a gift to give, visit the www.horseloverz.com website.  877-804-7810 office, 570-579-003 fax. Your Coupon Code for 10% OFF any order – MAFB2011.

 Choice Hotels-Consider using Choice Hotels and your Farm Bureau Membership for significant savings at over 1,500 locations.  Book your stay at www.choicehotels.com/ or by calling 800-258-2847.  Use your MFBF Special Rate Identification #00800212.  Sign up for your personal ChoicePrivileges® member number to earn points towards special promotions at www.choiceprivileges.com/signup/. 

FOR SALE:  John Deere 8’ drop lime spreader, good condition, original operator’s manual. $500 978-928-4292.

FOR SALE:  Hereford Calves. 9-10 months old, hand raised and tame, both steers and Heifers, for your feed lot or pasture. 617-840-2074.

FOR SALE:  Hay – 1st and 2nd cut – no dust guaranteed.  Wholesale and retail.  We deliver and unload.  Work cell 774-259-6960 or office 508-252-9029.  Skip & Trish at Homestead Farms.

FOR SALE: Tires. Great prices, all sizes, tire repairs, road service, calcium chloride service. Hoey Tire, Worcester. Call 508-755-6666, www.hoeytire.com.

FOR SALE: Hay 1st and 2nd cutting. 4’ X 5’ round and small square bales.  Conway Farm’s Lakeville, MA. 508-821-0149.

FARMM MAINTENANCE:  All types arena work, construction & renewal. Paddock areas built,  fencing new & repairs, hydrant work, brush work, field fertilization & care. CRF  Maintenance Services. www.cringfarm.com  508-234-9824.

SERVING THE FARMERS IN MASS: Helping farmers keep what they make.  Experienced in  dairy, beef, fruit & vegetable farming; experienced with APR, retirement planning, estate  planning & taxation, tax free exchanges. Donald E. Graves, CPA, LLC, Masters Degree in  Taxation &   Financial Planning, Bentley College, 377 Main Street, Suite 1, Greenfield, MA   01301-3332,  1-800-286-6036, info@donaldegravescpa.com

PASTURES:  Let our expertise in pasture construction and design provide you with pastoral views, solutions for your equestrian needs and elimination of boarding fees.  Reclaim your woodlands into pastures.  Increase your property value.  Call Woodridge Farm, Lincoln, MA.  781-259-0251.

*APPRAISER/CONSULTANT for farm/forest property. Estate planning, buying/selling,  APR/CR valuation my specialty. William King 508-867-2600.