MFBF Office Headquarters Address
249 Lakeside Ave
Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: 508.481.4766 508.481.4766| Fax: 508.481.4768
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Farmers Should Be Pleased by DOT Guidance on Ag Transportation
The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation are that pleased the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration listened to farmer and rancher concerns regarding changes to agricultural transportation regulations and commercial drivers license provisions.
As a result of comments received from MFBF, AFBF and others, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced on August 10 that the FMCSA has no intention to propose new regulations governing the transport of agricultural products, and that the agency has released guidance to states so they clearly understand common-sense exemptions “to allow farmers, their employees, and their families to accomplish their day-to-day work and transport their products to market.”
“This public announcement and the guidance sent to states today by the FMCSA is great news for America’s farm and ranch families,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “The key word is commonsense, and it was refreshing to see that our federal authorities heard the concerns we expressed. It lifts a big cloud of uncertainty in farm country and the action is greatly appreciated.”
Stallman said he was pleased by Secretary LaHood’s clarity in stating the department “had no intention of instituting onerous regulations on the hardworking farmers who feed our country and fuel our economy.”
“Operating and moving the machinery necessary to tend and harvest crops and care for livestock is a vital part of farming and ranching,” Stallman said. “Long established protocols are in place at the state and local levels to ensure that safety is paramount, and that farmers are able to do their jobs and transport their goods to market.”
MFBF President A. Richard Bonanno also applauded the US-DOT guidance: “We appreciate the common-sense approach that FMCSA took, and it was a nice change of pace to see that our federal regulatory authorities heard our concerns. The guidance to the states really clears up what was becoming a complicated and potentially expensive issue.”
No new regs for agri transport; follow common sense
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration said Wednesday that it has no intention to propose new regulations governing the transport of agricultural products.
The agency also released guidance designed to make sure states clearly understand the common sense exemptions that allow farmers, their employees and their families to accomplish their day-to-day work and transport their products to market.
Certain agricultural commodity carriers are exempt from regulations regarding Hours of Service or record-of-duty-status requirements when transporting agricultural commodities and farm supplies during the planting and harvesting seasons as defined by each state.
After hearing from concerned farmers earlier this year, FMCSA initiated this review to make sure states don’t go overboard in enforcing regulations on agricultural operators, and to ensure consistent access to exemptions for farmers, the agency said in a news release.
No regulations will be proposed for any new safety requirements or changes to the rules governing the agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies to or from a farm.
“FMCSA is pleased with the input we’ve received from the agricultural community and members of Congress. We received about 1,700 comments and the vast majority called for us to preserve the guidance that leaves states to carry out the farm exceptions as they have for many years.” FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro said. “We want to make crystal clear that we are not imposing any new regulations.”
The just released guidance – which does not impose any new rules on farmers – follows the Federal Register public notice which FMCSA issued on May 31, 2011, asking farmers, farm organizations and the public to give input on the agency’s longstanding safety rules.
Earlier this year, farm groups came to FMCSA with concerns that some states might not allow exemptions to Commercial Drivers License (CDL) requirements for certain farm operations using “crop-share” leasing.
When FMCSA investigated, there appeared to be wide differences among states in how the “for-hire” and related agricultural exceptions were being applied. In order to ensure consistency, FMCSA asked state officials to cease all new entrant safety audits on farmers engaged in “crop-share” leasing and issued the public notice soliciting input that
When FMCSA investigated, there appeared to be wide differences among states in how the “for-hire” and related agricultural exceptions were being applied.
In order to ensure consistency, FMCSA asked state officials to cease all new entrant safety audits on farmers engaged in “crop-share” leasing and issued the public notice soliciting input that would provide insight on the complex use of farm equipment on public roads.
The guidance released Monday, which is based on that input, clarifies three critical issues:
Interstate vs. intrastate commerce. Since the difference between the two has been determined by the U.S. Supreme Court and other federal courts, FMCSA has limited flexibility to provide additional guidelines. The agency has concluded that new regulatory guidance concerning the distinction between interstate and intrastate commerce is not necessary. Generally, the states and the industry have a common understanding on this point. To the extent that fact-specific questions arise, the Agency will work with the States and the industry to provide a clarification for the specific scenario.
- Commercial Driver’s License. Federal regulations allow states to make exceptions to Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) regulations for certain farm vehicle drivers such as farm employees and family members, as long as their vehicles are not used by “for-hire” motor carriers. Some states have questioned whether this exemption applies to drivers who work for “crop share” or similar arrangements. FMCSA’s notice includes guidance to ensure consistent application of the exemption. After considering the public comments, the agency has determined that farmers who rent their land for a share of the crops and haul their own and the landlord’s crops to market should have access to the agricultural CDL exemptions given by the states.
- Implements of Husbandry. In a perfect world, farm vehicles would only operate on farms, while commercial trucks would operate on public roads. The reality is that farm equipment that is not designed or intended for everyday use on public roads is often used for short trips at limited speeds. This creates a gray area for classification. After considering the public comments, FMCSA has determined that most states have already adopted common sense enforcement practices that allow farmers to safely move equipment to and from their fields. In areas where farm implements are common, the enforcement community and the agricultural community have achieved a mutual understanding of which safety regulations should apply to farm equipment on their public roads.
“We have no intention of instituting onerous regulations on the hardworking farmers who feed our country and fuel our economy,” said Secretary Ray LaHood. “Farmers deserve to know that reasonable, common sense exemptions will continue to be consistently available to agricultural operations across the country, and that’s why we released this guidance.”
the transport of agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies to or from a farm.
“FMCSA is pleased with the input we’ve received from the agricultural community and members of Congress. We received about 1,700 comments and the vast majority called for us to preserve the guidance that leaves states to carry out the farm exceptions as they have for many years.” FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro said. “We want to make crystal clear that we are not imposing any new regulations.”
The just released guidance – which does not impose any new rules on farmers – follows the Federal Register public notice which FMCSA issued on May 31, 2011, asking farmers, farm organizations and the public to give input on the agency’s longstanding safety rules.
Earlier this year, farm groups came to FMCSA with concerns that some states might not allow exemptions to Commercial Drivers License (CDL) requirements for certain farm operations using “crop-share” leasing.
When FMCSA investigated, there appeared to be wide differences among states in how the “for-hire” and related agricultural exceptions were being applied. In order to ensure consistency, FMCSA asked state officials to cease all new entrant safety audits on farmers engaged in “crop-share” leasing and issued the public notice soliciting input that when FMCSA investigated, there appeared to be wide differences among states in how the “for-hire” and related agricultural exceptions were being applied.
In order to ensure consistency, FMCSA asked state officials to cease all new entrant safety audits on farmers engaged in “crop-share” leasing and issued the public notice soliciting input that would provide insight on the complex use of farm equipment on public roads.
The guidance released Monday, which is based on that input, clarifies three critical issues:
- Interstate vs. intrastate commerce. Since the difference between the two has been determined by the U.S. Supreme Court and other federal courts, FMCSA has limited flexibility to provide additional guidelines. The agency has concluded that new regulatory guidance concerning the distinction between interstate and intrastate commerce is not necessary. Generally, the states and the industry have a common understanding on this point. To the extent that fact-specific questions arise, the Agency will work with the States and the industry to provide a clarification for the specific scenario.
- Commercial Driver’s License. Federal regulations allow states to make exceptions to Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) regulations for certain farm vehicle drivers such as farm employees and family members, as long as their vehicles are not used by “for-hire” motor carriers. Some states have questioned whether this exemption applies to drivers who work for “crop share” or similar arrangements. FMCSA’s notice includes guidance to ensure consistent application of the exemption. After considering the public comments, the agency has determined that farmers who rent their land for a share of the crops and haul their own and the landlord’s crops to market should have access to the agricultural CDL exemptions given by the states.
- Implements of Husbandry. In a perfect world, farm vehicles would only operate on farms, while commercial trucks would operate on public roads. The reality is that farm equipment that is not designed or intended for everyday use on public roads is often used for short trips at limited speeds. This creates a gray area for classification. After considering the public comments, FMCSA has determined that most states have already adopted common sense enforcement practices that allow farmers to safely move equipment to and from their fields. In areas where farm implements are common, the enforcement community and the agricultural community have achieved a mutual understanding of which safety regulations should apply to farm equipment on their public roads.
“We have no intention of instituting onerous regulations on the hardworking farmers who feed our country and fuel our economy,” said Secretary Ray LaHood. “Farmers deserve to know that reasonable, common sense exemptions will continue to be consistently available to agricultural operations across the country, and that’s why we released this guidance.”
Update on Humane legislation-
By Brad Mitchell, Director of Government Relations
There have been several events relative to humane legislation in Massachusetts that may be of interest to our members.
At the national level, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and the United Egg Producers (UEP) recently entered into an agreement where they will jointly file federal legislation to essentially phase out battery cages in favor of enriched cages (basically bigger cages).
As part of the deal, HSUS has agreed not to fund or support any state legislation or ballot initiatives dealing with battery cages.
This has left the HSUS in a bit of a jam in Massachusetts. As you know, they are the major proponent of legislation in the Commonwealth which would ban battery cage egg operations, sow gestation crates, and veal crates. Since no farms in MA use gestation or veal crates, not being able to weigh in on battery cage operations will largely “neuter” HSUS in promoting this legislation. Where their legislation had little relevance to Massachusetts before, it has none without a focus on battery caged hens. HSUS will either have to amend the legislation to remove battery caged hens, or largely step out of the game.
No doubt this conundrum is what let the HSUS Massachusetts lobbyist to approach MFBF to propose a “compromise” which would merge their legislation with that filed on behalf of MFBF to create a Livestock Care and Standards Board. While Farm Bureau is always interested in a mutually acceptable compromise, what HSUS proposed was unfortunately not acceptable – or even a compromise. Their proposal was to change the Livestock Care and Standards Board to their liking, and add all the elements of their bill to it (other than the ban on caged hens). The proposal was rejected unanimously by the MFBF Board of Directors.
The most objectionable element of the HSUS proposal was to have the same legislation that creates a Livestock Care and Livestock Board, ban veal and sow gestation crates without giving the board any opportunity for input. This is unacceptable to MFBF as the whole idea of the Care and Livestock Board is to ensure that humane restrictions are developed in a thoughtful and inclusive manner through the Board. MFBF offered to amend the legislation to have the Board address these practices (as well as caged hens) first and foremost, but HSUS was adamantly opposed to this concept. HSUS also requested that we replace the word “livestock” with another, as they find this word “offensive.”
All of this activity around the Massachusetts humane bills is driven by the HSUS/UEP agreement. It is a bit interesting that a deal forged between two national organizations in DC, with no representation at all from Massachusetts farmers or legislators, could have such an effect on legislation here. Somewhat comically, HSUS is now proposing to remove the only practice which exists in Massachusetts from their bill! It makes you wonder about the true intentions of HSUS in the Commonwealth.
On a more constructive note, our bill creating the Care and Livestock Board was heard by the Joint Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture in July. The farming community had a good turnout, with compelling testimony from President Rich Bonanno and Farm Bureau members Paula Cruz, Rhett Proctor and Kathy Orlando. Jack Kittredge of NOFA also provided sound testimony supporting the bill. The MA Veterinary Medical Association provided written support. All in all, it wasit was a very successful hearing.
Brad Mitchell
Director of Government Relations
brad@mfbf.net
Farm Stand Break in Alert
Over the past two weeks, there have been a series of break-ins and robberies at local farm stands in Middlesex and Essex Counties. Specific towns hit have been Dracut, Methuen, North Andover, Boxford, Georgetown, and Ipswich. A farm stand in Derry, NH was also targeted. It appears that in all cases, the thieves were looking for cash. Cash registers and cash boxes have been taken. In at least two cases, file cabinets were broken into. A surveillance video at one farm stand showed three medium-build individuals wearing hooded sweatshirts and trying all windows and doors until they found an open window. In at least one case, they entered through a locked door. So far, no one has been caught. So, please watch the cash, lock the doors and windows, and be extra vigilant.
President’s Corner By A. Richard Bonanno, Ph.D., Massachusetts Farm Bureau Presidents
I attended Garabed “Red” Dargoonian’s 90th birthday party recently. For those of you that know Red, he was treasurer of MFBF for over 50 years and a board member for even longer. Red is doing very well and now living in Hampstead, NH. At his new home, he brought in topsoil for his large garden because he said the soil was not as good as at his farm in Andover. He is even wholesaling vegetables to local farm stands. Happy Birthday Red!
It was a pleasure to see that the Secretary of Transportation, Ray LaHood, has dropped his plans to greatly increase requirements on vehicles used in Agriculture. The proposed regulations would have essentially required everyone to obtain a commercial driver’s license, even when vehicles are used exclusively on the farm. The power of farmers to direct their own destiny is great when we are on the same page. Over 1700 letters to the Department of Transportation were very convincing.
Immigration reform continues to be a hot topic in DC. Current legislation revolves around both an e-verify system and a potential new guest worker program. The e-verify piece would require a national registry of all workers based on social security numbers. Farmers say that if they lose their workers as a result of e-verify, there needs to be a reasonable program that allows them to hire legal workers. Most growers in the U.S. do not consider the H-2a program to be a viable alternative, due to its costs and paperwork nightmares. This has been also evident in Massachusetts where the number of H-2a workers reached a peak of over 1200 in 2002 and is now less than half that number. The suggested alternative is the H-2c program. Details are being worked out and the legislation may still go nowhere. The only way to really reform H-2a or to create a new guest worker program is for California and other border states to buy into it. If anything happens, it will be this year. Immigration reform is unlikely to go anywhere during the election year of 2012. There is a great article in the August 2011 issue of the American Vegetable Grower magazine that details the current situation.
In July, Doug and I attended a meeting of the Northeast Presidents and Administrators in Connecticut. We spent a lot of time comparing notes on our membership categories, costs, and newsletter practices. The meeting was very helpful to us, especially as we discuss plans to expand membership.
As you know from recent articles and Doug’s column in this issue, we are a looking at ways to increase our ability to communicate with the public and to create a membership category that will allow non-farmers to support our efforts on behalf of agriculture in the Commonwealth. We have already started this process in our relationship with sportsmen’s clubs. We are also working out the details of a new membership category with Farm Family Insurance. At our July MFBF Board meeting at Charlie McNamara’s farm, we met with our Farm Family agents for their input as well. Our Membership committee and the MFBF Board will also be working on the details of this category and I am hopeful that we can make a by-law change in December to officially create a new membership category.
I hope to see many of you at the County annual meetings. Your input and feedback is always important to me.
Thank you! rich@mfbf.net
Tree Production for Landscapes: Preliminary Research Result for Planting Methods
Date: October 20, 2011
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Amherst Nurseries, 199 Belchertown Rd (Rte. 9) Amherst, MA
Join us for a tour of Amherst Nurseries where Dan Lass, UMass Isenberg School and Cathy Neal, Extension Nursery Specialist, UNH will discuss research results of three different tree production methods: field grown (B&B or bare root trees); pot-in-pot; and in-ground fabric containers. Trees will be harvested and roots processed to compare the three different methods of tree production. In addition to the trials, planting cost differences and summaries of survey results will be presented. A survey of landscape and nursery professionals was conducted this year to assess current attitudes and demand for trees being grown using the three different methods.
Program details: http://extension.umass.edu/floriculture/
Register by contacting Tina Smith, UMass Extension
Phone: 413-545-5306 or Email: tsmith@umext.umass.edu
This program is sponsored by a grant from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture in cooperation with University of Massachusetts Isenberg School of Management, University of New Hampshire Extension and University of Massachusetts Extension Agriculture and Landscape Program
From the Desk of the Executive Director-by Douglas Gillespie
It’s been a very busy summer here at Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation! With the economy in the doldrums and unemployment higher than normal, your staff is gratified to be active and busy.
Memberships continue to come in, and it appears that state-wide membership is turning the corner after a two-year decline. Farmer (Regular) memberships continue to increase every year, but Associate memberships have declined in both 2010 and 2011. However, our August 1 report to American Farm Bureau Federation indicated 4,833 members, and we have added over 300 more since then, so membership is over 5,100. We need 5,700 members by November to achieve our objectives for the year, and even that is below our previous high of 6,823 members in 2005. Special thanks to the North Brookfield Sportsmen’s Club in Worcester County. They recently voted to sign up all of their 142 members with the Farm Bureau. We expect several other sporting groups to follow, as farmers and the sporting community are a natural match, sharing a desire to keep land open in agriculture. As I write this column, I believe that clubs in Auburn and Milford have voted to join Farm Bureau, but haven’t yet shared their membership lists with our office. You can help our membership growth effort by signing up a new Farm Bureau member this month.
It seems that during tough times members question what they get for their dues payment. Well, just this past week the efforts of Farm Bureau saved hundreds of farmers in Massachusetts a lot of money! The US Department of Transportation, back in May, issued proposed regulations that would have made nearly all pieces of farm equipment, tractors and farm vehicles subject to federal motor carrier laws and required farmers and employees to have commercial driver’s licenses. This change would have occurred because USDOT decided that since farm products are used and consumed in interstate commerce, the entire production process would be subject to interstate trucking regulations!
The strength of Farm Bureau fought back! Over 1,700 comment letters, including Massachusetts Farm Bureau’s letter on YOUR behalf, were submitted to the USDOT. Last week, Secretary Ray LaHood announced that USDOT was dropping the proposal, and, in fact, issued clear guidance to the states regarding the whole issue. So when you ask “What have you done for me lately?”, the cost-savings on this single issue alone totals thousands of dollars per farm! Your recent dues payment was a bargain.
It’s that time of the year again, when your County Farm Bureau will be holding its annual meeting. A complete listing of dates and locations appears elsewhere in this issue. I encourage you to attend, get to know your county leaders, and get involved. If you have an issue that you feel Farm Bureau should be working on at the local, state or federal level, please bring it up at your county meeting so that a resolution can begin the process of becoming Farm Bureau policy. Your county leaders can help you with the process; just show up and be prepared to identify the problem, and suggest ways to fix it. YOU are a critical piece of the process. YOU can make a difference!
I look forward to seeing you at your County Annual Meeting.
Douglas P. Gillespie
MFBF Executive Director
Pesticide Residue Calculator Helps Allay Consumers’ Fears
column, published in the June-July 2011 issue of The Grower magazine.
By Vicky Boyd, Editor
You may have heard about the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen list, the supposed research that links children’s low IQs to pregnant women eating pesticide-laden produce and Dr. Oz’s recent show highlighting produce pesticide residue and his own recipe for a produce wash.
Unfortunately, these are part of a growing trend from fear-mongering groups that play on consumers’ emotions and lack science to back their claims.
The Watsonville, Calif.-based Alliance for Food and Farming last summer launched a website—http://www.safefruitsandveggies.com—to address some of those concerns. More recently, the alliance conducted a webinar to update industry leaders on website additions and to enlist their help in spreading the fact-based truth.
“Nothing concerns us more than the needless fears created by these baseless claims,” says Bryan Silberman, president of the Newark, Del.-based Produce Marketing Association, an alliance member.
In fact, a recent survey showed that 29 percent of consumers avoid some produce because of pesticide concerns.
The alliance, comprising about 50 farmers and farm-related organizations nationally, was established to promote science-based information and to counter unsubstantiated claims.
It is supported by voluntary donations and takes no funds from chemical companies or their representatives, says Marilyn Dolan, alliance executive director.
One of the recent additions to the website is an easy-to-use pesticide residue calculator.
With a few clicks of the mouse, users can find out how many servings of an individual produce item with the highest residue levels recorded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture they could safely consume.
Take strawberries, for example. A woman, like myself, could eat 2,042 servings in one day without any effects from pesticide residue.
If I wanted to read the science behind the calculations, I could click on a button that takes me to the full report, written by leading university and medical experts.
And the alliance’s efforts seem to be working, Dolan says. The Environmental Working Group has softened its original message and now says people shouldn’t stop consuming produce because of the pesticide risk.
Nevertheless, the EWG continues to promote its Dirty Dozen, which lists what it considers the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues.
But Dolan says the industry needs to step forward and tell its story. “It’s not enough any more to respond with a letter from a produce group,” she says. “We need multiple responses. The more comments, the better.”
This becomes especially important with entertainment shows, such as Dr. Oz, that are all about ratings and less about facts.
The alliance has begun a system to alert growers about upcoming issues and how to respond.
“Even if it’s a brief response, numbers really, really matter,” Dolan says, referring to the likes of Dr. Oz.
Controlling the Future of Your Farm with Effective Estate Planning by CAS’ Brett Crosby
I spent much of the last week preparing court testimony for a common situation. Parents couldn’t decide how to split up the family farm and left it to their four children to work things out. The parents died, the siblings disagreed, arguments escalated, and the children eventually filed civil suits against each other over the estate. Now, a judge will decide how to split up the family farm. The children’s relationships with each other have been permanently altered, and they have spent thousands of dollars on attorneys, accountants, appraisers, and economists. This situation is all too common and could have been avoided with an effective estate plan.
An effective estate plan helps maintain family harmony and keep heirs out of court by managing expectations and directing the orderly division of property. Effective estate plans also accomplish other important goals like minimizing estate tax burdens, providing retirement income, and providing asset protection. Still, many people do not have an effective estate plan, or any estate plan for that matter.
People generally avoid planning their estates because they feel overwhelmed. Problems such as tax burdens and equitable treatment of family members sometimes seem insurmountable, so people simply don’t address them. Unfortunately, much like an aching tooth, these problems only get bigger with time, and addressing them sooner is always much better than addressing them later.
The good news is that creating an effective estate plan is not impossible and is often not even that difficult. Most obstacles can be overcome with open communication, creativity, and the help of legal and tax professionals. The important thing to remember is that ignoring estate problems will only make them worse.
Effective estate planning begins with effective communication. The needs, goals, and expectations of the people affected by an estate transfer must be understood before a plan can be created. Remember, communication isn’t a one-time event, and affected parties should communicate continually through the planning process to ensure that the proper objectives are being pursued. Finally, once a plan is completed, all adults affected by the transfer should understand how the plan affects them so that unrealistic expectations are not created. The probability of future litigation is substantially reduced with effective communication in the present.
Once everybody communicates their needs and goals, creation of the actual estate plan can begin. This step requires help from legal and tax professionals who will attend to the details and help minimize legal and tax liabilities. The costs associated with this step can sometimes scare people away, but the professional work required to plan an estate can almost always be completed in affordable steps over a period of time. Professional fees are very cheap insurance against taxes and/or legal fees that may be incurred if no plan is ever implemented.
Estate planning is not the mystery some believe it to be. It begins with communication and understanding of the affected parties’ goals and needs. Next it requires help from competent legal and tax professional. With this foundation, creative solutions can be created to solve the most vexing of estate transfer problems. Tax liabilities can be reduced, retirement income can be protected, and the expectations of heirs can be managed. Most importantly, an effective estate plan will keep the family in control of the family farm and keep the courts from deciding how it will be divided.
For more information about estate planning issues, please visit http://farm-risk-plans.usda.gov/index.aspx?action=riskman.human_risk, https://www.agtransitions.umn.edu, and/or http://www.agrisk.umn.edu/Library/Display.aspx?RecID=4284.
Custom Ag Solutions (CAS) works with the USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) to educate Massachusetts producers about Federal Crop Insurance Programs and risk management issues. 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.
Preserve Life’s Wondrous Moments
Active MFBF Membership - ReneSeeing your daughter take her first step, gathering on the couch with a bowl of popcorn for movie night, bear hugs after a long day at work, getting the key to your first home and watching your son cross the stage to receive his diploma. Wondrous moments like these – both small and large – form the patchwork of our lives.
We all want our loved ones to have lives filled with happiness and opportunity. We do almost anything to make that happen, from re-arranging schedules to never miss our children’s events to putting in extra time at work to save up for that special family vacation.
You work hard to make sure your loved ones have a comfortable life, one that includes its fair share of wondrous moments. But if you were suddenly out of the picture, would your loved ones have the same opportunities and quality of life?
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, the perfect time for a life insurance review. Life insurance helps ensure that the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to achieve for your loved ones won’t come to a halt if something were to happen to you.
Create an enduring financial strategy for your family and start with a fundamental tool: life insurance. Life insurance can do wondrous things for you and your family:
- Buys time. Allows loves ones to focus on their grief by helping to pay for the funeral and other final expenses.
- Provides a fresh start. Lets loved ones start with a clean slate by helping to pay off credit card bills, outstanding loans and even the mortgage.
- Generates income. Helps replace lost income for years to come so that surviving family members can continue to pay for life’s necessities.
- Offers flexibility. Gives a surviving spouse the chance to take time off from work or to switch to a job that offers a more flexible work schedule.
- Creates opportunities. Can provide funding to start a business, or pay for schooling so surviving family members can train for a new career.
- Funds the future. Offers a way to fund longer-range goals like a college education for the kids or a secure retirement for a surviving spouse.
- Leaves a legacy. Gives parents the chance to leave future generations with the legacy of long term financial security.
LIAM is sponsored by the LIFE Foundation (www.lifehappens.org), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help Americans make smart insurance-buying decisions, and partnering companies such as Farm Family Life Insurance Company, headquartered in Glenmont, NY and American National Insurance Company, headquartered in Galveston, TX. Don’t wait another minute: schedule time to meet with your insurance agent today.
New LGM Dairy Gross Margin (income over feed cost) Insurance
The program is based on milk income over feed costs, which the program calls a “gross margin.” The insurance program covers the difference between the expected gross margin (insurance guarantee) and the actual gross margin for the producer’s selected months, based on a targeted amount of milk. Futures prices from the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) are used to determine the values of Class III milk, corn and soybean meal. Futures prices result in uniform commodity prices for all producers. There is a maximum producer enrollment limit of 240,000 cwts of milk per year.
Key Definitions:
The expected gross margin is calculated by using the amount of milk (cwt) the producer chooses to enroll times the futures prices for the milk and feed to be fed for the selected month(s). The expected gross margin is the difference between the values of milk minus the feed cost.
The actual gross margin is calculated for the same time period as the expected gross margin. The calculations are done using the same methodology as was used to calculate the expected gross margin.
An insurance indemnity (loss payment) results when the expected gross margin exceeds the actual gross margin. Deductibles are available from $0 to $2 per cwt, in $0.10 intervals. Indemnities are paid within 60 days after the last month insured (after the claim can be calculated), in the chart below, payments could have occurred December through July if any of these months had been selected as the months for which insurance protection was purchased.
Cause of loss covered is the difference between the expected gross margin (insurance guarantee) and the actual gross margin. It does not insure against death or other cause of production loss or damage to the producer’s dairy cattle. It does not insure expected price changes which are already reflected in BOT futures prices.
Enrollment Periods. Twelve monthly enrollment periods are available beginning the last business Friday of each month until 9pm next day. The last 10 months of each enrollment period is when insurance is available. Producer can elect to insure during selected or all 10 months in each period. Program is available in 48 contiguous states.
Premium is billed at the end of the enrollment (insurance) period in which producer enrolled. There federal premium subsidy if milk is enrolled in at least 2 of the months available for the monthly enrollment period: (deductible/subsidy rate):
$0/18%, $0.10/19%, $0.20/21%, $0.30/23%, $0.40/25%, $0.50/28%, $0.60/31%, $0.7/34%, $0.8/38%, $0.9/43%, $1.0/48%, $1.10 to $2.00/50%
Estimates for educational purposes. For more information contact a crop insurance agent or http://www3.rma.usda.gov/apps/agents/
Get Ready. Set. Save!Get your family TEAM-oriented.
With the new sports season coming up, it’s time for big savings! You and your family can not only watch and wear your favorite sports teams, but play like them, too.
Watch Your Favorite TEAMS on TV or Live
Make this sports season a family event from the convenience of your own home or live at the stadium. With DIRECTV, watch all the sports you can handle from the comfort of your sofa and get a $75 gift card upon activation.
If your family members are die hard fans, they’ll be pleased to know you can save 10% on all sporting tickets nationwide at Premium Seats USA. This way they can enjoy the action live!
Show TEAM Spirit with Logo Apparel
Show team spirit with your favorite team’s logo on a hat from Lids.com and get up to 20% off. Get matching jerseys or other sports wear for your family from the NBAstore.com and save $10 off any $100 purchase. You can also save 10% on all kinds of jerseys, hats, backpacks, clothing, school supplies and more at Fanatics.com.
Play on a TEAM of your Own with Premium Sports Gear
Give your family everything they need to play sports and get active. You can get top-of-the-line athletic shoes and free shipping with any $75 purchase from The Finish Line and Footlocker.com. Save up to $10 at Big 5 Sporting Goods, 10% at Dunham Sports, and free shipping with any purchase at Columbia Sportswear.
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September 19-23 is Mass Harvest for Students Week 2011
This annual event encourage schools and colleges to celebrate and promote healthy local food from Massachusetts farmers. Schools, teachers, students, families and the communities celebrate in all kinds of creative ways, such as:
• featuring a local fruit or vegetable on each day’s menu
• serving produce from the school garden
• providing local snacks or sharing recipes at parents’ night
• hosting student visits at a nearby orchard
• inviting a legislator to lunch
We’d appreciate any assistance you can offer in posting or circulating the attached announcement. Would you be able to include it in your calendar or newsletter? I’d be happy to edit it for the appropriate format.
If you have any questions or suggestions for how we can inform people about this event, please contact me at 617-642-3562.
The Middlesex Conservation District wants your input!
The 2008 farm bill set aside money for conservation efforts and stressed the importance of local input. Money from the farm bill impacts local environmental efforts. Your input ensures it is directed to best address the needs of the local community. Please take this short survey to make sure your voice is heard. https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6F3CJ3K
A Personal Perspective on Hawaii by Liz Smith, MFBF Membership Coordinator
So I answer the phone the other day and John Conners is on the line saying, “I need an article on Hawaii for the newsletter.” ”Huh? Why me?,” Your humble membership coordinator asks? Oh yeah, that’s right, because I lived there! Over the course of almost eight years, I went from being a “malahini” or newcomer, to a “kamaaina” or local. Living in paradise took some adjustment but even now after all these, (ahem) non-specific-amount-of-years, I still miss it. So for the next few months leading up to the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting, please allow me to be your virtual tour guide and spotlight some of the must-see spots and must-try activities for you to consider on your upcoming trip.
Mass. Farm Bureau has reserved a block of rooms at the Hilton Hawaiian Village which has been a popular hotel since 1957. It’s the largest hotel in the Hilton chain, with over 3,600 rooms and 7 towers. Located at the West end of Waikiki and built on the former village of Kalia, the Village was constructed by Henry Kaiser, the industrialist who also built the Hoover and Grand Coulee Dams, and founded the Kaiser Permanente health system. Moonlighting from my advertising career, my weekend “job” was to teach scuba diving at the Diamond Head tower pool, and (yawn) occasionally watched Tom Selleck take a break from filming Magnum P.I. to play volleyball on the beach. (Ah yes, those were the days.) Today, the Hawaiian Village Hotel sits on over 22 acres of beachfront property and features the largest swimming pool in Waikiki, over twenty-two restaurants, exotic wildlife, and botanical gardens as well as a branch of the Bishop Museum.
If you enjoy being outdoors there’s always a lot to do in the Aloha state. Water sports rule in Hawaii, where no matter what time of year it is, you’ll generally be able to find a beach which enables you to participate in your choice of water activity. Whether you choose to relax by swimming, sunbathing or snorkeling, or seek more adventure through scuba diving, surfing or wind-surfing, there’s something for everyone. Winter brings the big waves to the North shore, with heights of 15 to 20’ being fairly common. The rule of thumb is that if the big waves are breaking on the North shore, it’s time to head on over to the other side of the island for calmer waters. Hanauma Bay is a marine life conservation area that offers an up-close look at a wide variety of species. The bay was formed by a now-extinct volcano and features a calm, protected coral reef that’s perfect for the beginner snorkeler or diver. Brightly colored tropical fish abound in the sheltered cove where once upon a time I led my scuba diving students on guided tours of Hawaii’s depths.
If water sports are not your cup of tea, you might want to take advantage of the abundant hiking opportunities. Topping the popularity list is Diamond Head, or “Leahi” as the Hawaiians named it. It’s a relatively short (less than 1.5 mile round-trip) hike that takes you to the top of this famous peak and offers panoramic views of Waikiki’s shoreline. The terrain is dry and hot so try to go early in the morning before the day heats up. If you’re looking for a more tropical feel, then the Aiea Loop Trail is for you. Winding through stands of Norfolk pines and lemon eucalyptus trees that gently scent the air, this nearly five mile trail offers views from Pearl Harbor and the Waianae Range, to Honolulu and Diamond Head. Although the trail is rated as moderate, there are some steep switchbacks and it can be muddy so appropriate footwear is important. The Loop Trail is also home to Keaiwa “Heiau”, a sacred temple that the “kahunas” or priests used for healing purposes. It’s estimated that the heiau was built in the 16th Century by an “alii” (chief). Although the name “keaiwa” means “mysterious”, many visitors report a sense of calmness when they visit. We hope that you’ll return from your trip feeling both relaxed and with a renewed sense of enthusiasm. Look for more to come in next month’s issue of News & Views, until then “Aloha”…
The AFBF Meeting runs from January 8th through the 11th, but we have reserved the rooms from January 5th through the 12th in case you’d like to extend your stay. The room cost is $215 a night for a garden view, and $270 a night for an ocean view. If you’d like to reserve a spot at the AFBF Annual Meeting, please contact John Conners at 508-481-4766, or by email at: john@mfbf.net. The deadline for reserving a spot is October 28th, 2011, full payment is also due on the 28th.
Columnist Dave Barry to Keynote AFBF Annual Meeting
Pulitzer Prize-winning humor columnist Dave Barry will deliver the keynote address at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 93rd annual meeting, Jan. 9, 2012, in Honolulu.
More than 10,000 Farm Bureau members from across the nation are expected to gather in Hawaii Jan. 8-10 to hear from distinguished leaders and participate in a grassroots policy setting process that will guide the American Farm Bureau Federation through 2012.
Barry, a 25-year journalism veteran, is best known for his syndicated work that appeared in more than 500 newspapers in the U.S. and abroad. In 1988 he won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary.
“We are excited to have Dave Barry as our keynote speaker,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “We will be working through some very important policy issues during our time in Hawaii, so it will be nice to take a break from our business at hand and share a lighter moment with Dave Barry.”
Barry is the author of 30 books, two of which were used as the basis for the CBS TV sitcom Dave’s World, which aired 1993-1997. In his spare time, Barry plays lead guitar in a literary rock band called the Rock Bottom Remainders, whose other members include authors Stephen King, Amy Tan, Ridley Pearson and Mitch Albom.
Farm Bureau members can register for the 93rd AFBF annual meeting through their state Farm Bureaus.
MFBF 92nd Annual Meeting Information
Massachusetts Farm BureauFederation’s Annual Meeting, hosted by Worcester County Farm Bureau, will be held on December 1st at the Courtyard by Marriott and Coco Key Resort, Fitchburg, MA
Each year Mass Farm Bureau offers nine workshops that are designed to help educate our farmer members. This year our tentative workshop topics are as follows: Best Management Practices for the Dairy Industry, Farm Financial Uncertainty – Making Informed Decisions for Long-Term Survival (presented by Custom Ag Solutions), Farm Marketing, Alternative Energy (two parts), Forestry, Social Media, Farm Bureau 101, Pesticide Credit Workshop. As workshops become more final we will release full descriptions and registration information.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES & TRADE 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 16th, your sponsorship will include a free booth!
Massachusetts Tomato Contest Draws 106 Entries
Farmers from Idylwide, Stillman’s, Verrill and Ward’s Berry Farms take top honors at 27th annual event.
Tomato farmers from across the state converged on City Hall Plaza to display the fruits of their labors at the Commonwealth's 27th Annual Tomato Contest. A highlight of the kickoff celebration for Massachusetts Farmers' Market Week, this year's festival drew 106 entries.
Top prizes went to Idylwide Farm of Acton, Stillman’s Farm of New Braintree, Verrill Farm of Concord, and Ward’s Berry Farm of Sharon. Entries were judged by a panel of food writers, chefs, cookbook authors, produce experts and state officials.
“Local tomatoes and other produce are in abundant supply right now at farmers' markets and roadside stands across the state and I encourage all Commonwealth residents and visitors to stop by a nearby market and discover great, farm-fresh food," said Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner Scott J. Soares, who kicked off the event by reading the Patrick-Murray Administration's proclamation, declaring August 21-27 as Massachusetts Farmers' Market Week.
In addition to the presentation of awards, the Tomato Festival included tomato tasting, recipe demonstrations and information on nutrition and local farms. The festival and contest are sponsored by DAR, the New England Vegetable and Berry Growers Association and Mass Farmers' Markets.
Agricultural Business Planning Courses January-March 2012
MDAR offers three formats serve the broad spectrum of individuals who make up Massachusetts agriculture:
Explorers - For those who are thinking about getting into farming or expanding a hobby to an income-generating scale, “Exploring the Small Farm Dream” delivers experienced Instructor guidance and timely peer group feedback for making informed decisions about whether and how to proceed in farming. Five sessions over 6 weeks on weekday evenings in Amherst and Marlborough. Cost per enterprise - $125.
Planners – For those a step or two beyond Explorer who have access to land and a stronger sense of what they want and are capable of doing, “Planning for Start-up” provides a gut check before making more significant investments of time and money. Requires completion of Explorer, or prior self guided completion of the Explorer workbook. Applicants must have already reached the decision to farm on a revenue generating scale. Six sessions over 8 weeks on Saturday mornings in Amherst and possibly also in Marlborough based on regional demand. Cost per enterprise - $175.
Established Farmers – For those already operating an agricultural enterprise with at least two years of production and sales records, and who need to develop a comprehensive business plan on paper, “Tilling the Soil of Opportunity” offers a chance to assess, regroup, assemble documentation for decision making, consider redirection, plan expansion, or approach ownership transfer. This course draws on extensive peer experience, Instructor knowledge and guest speakers - with the addition of substantial individual technical assistance at course conclusion. 10 sessions over 11 weeks on weekday evenings in Amherst and Marlborough. Cost per enterprise - $225.
Explorer and Tilling the Soil courses are limited to 12 farms/potential agricultural businesses, with an option to bring a key partner at no extra cost. Planner is limited to 10. Full attendance is required to get expected results. Fees are kept low through MDAR support.
Please request additional details and an application for the course that fits you best. Courses fill quickly in the Fall. Email requests to Rick.Chandler@state.ma.us, or visit Agricultural Business Training Program.
AARP Foundation Grant Opportunity
AARP Foundation is seeking to fund the development or scaling of innovative, sustainable solutions to hunger that have the potential to make a significant impact on community food security and sustainable food systems for Americans 50 and older.
Through a competitive RFP process, AARP Foundation will award grants to eligible local, state and/or national registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the United States, in amounts ranging from $50,000 to $300,000.
Grants will be awarded under the AARP Foundation Sustainable Solutions to Hunger Innovation Grants Program. There are two models of grants: Scaling Grants and Innovation Grants.
- Scaling Grants will fund existing programs that have demonstrated success and require additional funds to bring them to scale.
- Innovation Grants will be made to fund ideas that have the potential to substantially contribute to greater long-term, sustainable food security for adults 50 and older.
Deadlines : Sustainable Solutions to Hunger Grants Program timeline:
Submit Letter of Inquiry by September 15, 2011 11:59PM(EST
Submit Proposals by October 15, 2011 11:59PM(EST)
Grant Awards Announced in December 2011
For more information about this funding opportunity, please visit: www.aarp.org/hungergrants. For information about this and other AARP Foundation grant programs, please visit: www.aarp.org/foundationgrants.
MCCA Local Vendor Fair - September 26-27
Are you a local producer or supplier of meat or poultry products?
Do you represent a locally produced non-alcoholic beverage?
If so, we look forward to meeting you!
Massachusetts Convention Center Authority and Levy Restaurants are hosting a Local Vendor Fair to source fresh, new local products!
Monday, September 26th and
Tuesday, September 27th, 2011
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer Street, Boston, MA 02110
For more information, or to make an appointment, please visit www.massconvention.com/vendorFair/default.html
Energy Officials Seek to Speed Process for Grid Connection of Renewable Energy Projects
State report details sharp increase in wind and solar energy installations over the past five years with the number of small and medium-scale renewable energy projects on the rise in Massachusetts, the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) today filed a report with the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) outlining recommendations aimed at improving the process through which utility companies connect new renewable energy generation projects to the electric grid that feeds power to customers throughout Massachusetts.
The action was taken in conjunction with the release of a report today by the Patrick-Murray Administration, showing that sharp growth in renewable energy generation projects sparked a seven-fold increase in demand for interconnection service between 2004 and 2010. The distributed generation sector in Massachusetts is relatively new and has grown sharply in recent years, according to the report. Typical distributed generation projects include small-scale or community-scale wind turbines, residential or commercial-scale solar photovoltaic installations, small-scale hydro and combined heat and power systems.
“In the wake of nation-leading energy legislation and policy put in place under Governor Patrick, Massachusetts is experiencing a clean energy revolution, and we are on track to see 90 megawatts each of wind and solar power either installed or in construction and design by the end of 2011 – representing 30-fold increases in deployment of both technologies since 2007,” Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. said. “Making it easier and more efficient to connect new renewable energy sources to existing utility company infrastructure will speed the pace of clean energy adoption, furthering our goals to expand a new clean energy economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and cut long-term energy costs.”
DOER’s filing with the DPU today requested several changes to the interconnection process, including:
- Accelerated and Binding Timelines: Recommendation that the DPU mandate shorter, clearer, and binding timelines for interconnection applications. These timelines would be significantly shorter than those in the existing tariff, and enforceable by the DPU.
- Faster and more Efficient Application Process: Recommendation to create a uniform, user friendly, online application system that would automatically and transparently track whether each utility meets established timelines, and allow applicants and state regulators to monitor the status of an application in real-time.
- Interconnection Ombudsperson: Recommendation that the DPU assign an interconnection ombudsperson responsible for hearing and quickly resolving issues arising during the interconnection process.
The request for an investigation by the DPU and the report are just two of several activities DOER has undertaken to improve the interconnection process, ranging from working with utilities to launch an interconnection education and awareness initiative earlier this year, to developing a distributed generation and interconnection website.
Massachusetts has emerged as a national leader in distributed renewable energy generation. The Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) gave the Commonwealth its highest grade of "A" last year for its interconnection policies. The rising demand for renewable energy generation aligns with the goals of these policies and legislation adopted since 2007, including the Global Warming Solutions Act (which seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050), the Green Communities Act, and the Green Jobs Act.
“The changes we are proposing would help Massachusetts residents, businesses and municipalities meet their energy savings goals faster, saving money and time,” said DOER Commissioner Mark Sylvia.
“These improvement are essential to helping the Commonwealth continue its leadership in renewable energy and help make clean energy a marquee industry here just like IT and lifesciences,” said MassCEC Executive Director Patrick Cloney.
The Massachusetts Distributed Generation Interconnection Report released today recommends ten changes to the existing interconnection process in order to accommodate the large increase in demand for distributed generation. Projects currently seeking interconnection to the grid must go through the existing interconnection process in order to connect non-utility scale generation installations to the electric grid. The DOER emphasized many of the report’s recommendations in its request to the DPU, as well as through some new suggestions.
"This timely analysis illustrates the significant growth of distributed generation and renewables in Massachusetts," said Peter Rothstein, president of the New England Clean Energy Council. "Its recommendations to expedite the interconnection process are welcomed wholeheartedly by the clean energy industry."
The total volume of interconnection applications grew four-fold for National Grid, NStar and Western Massachusetts Electric (WMECO) between 2004 and 2010 and the total kilowatt volume of interconnection applications reviewed grew seven-fold between 2004 and 2010. The findings of the report predict continued growth in interconnection demand as a result of the state’s ambitious clean energy programs.
The recommendations also include developing guidance on state and federal requirements and expanding education on the interconnection process for installers.
Prepared by KEMA, Inc., the Massachusetts Distributed Generation Interconnection Report was funded by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) in cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER).
The report was undertaken to identify solutions to challenges within the existing interconnection process.
The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) develops and implements policies and programs aimed at ensuring the adequacy, security, diversity, and cost-effectiveness of the Commonwealth’s energy supply within the context of creating a greener energy future. To that end,
DOER strives to:
Ensure deployment of all cost-effective energy efficiency,
Maximize development of clean energy resources,
Create and implement energy strategies to assure reliable supplies and improve the cost of clean energy relative to fossil-fuel based generation, and
Support Massachusetts clean energy companies and spur Massachusetts’ clean energy employment.
Federal 30% ITC Cash Option Reminder
For those still interested in pursuing the Federal Investment Tax Credit Cash Option for selected renewable energy technologies, the original deadline of December 31, 2010 for “Beginning Construction” for this opportunity was extended until December 31, 2011 by the lame duck session congress at the end of last year. Enacted as part of the 2009 ARRA stimulus package, this option provides non-residential commercial projects the opportunity to receive cash at the completion of the project in lieu of receiving a tax credit. Eligible renewable energy projects must now need to have been completed in calendar years 2009, 2010 or 2011 OR meet the are eligibility provisions for those initiating the project by the end of December 31, 2011, including executing a financial contract, executing an installing contractor contract and demonstrating at least 5% project expenditures by this date. This means if you can at least begin implementing an eligible renewable energy project by the end of this year you could still be eligible for the tax credit cash option. For more details on all eligibility requirements and other information please see: www.treas.gov/recovery/1603.shtml.
At the same time, those in our agricultural community who favor such a tax incentive can contact your local U.S. congressional representatives and senators to request this extremely beneficial cash tax equity option be extended beyond this year’s end as part of the new agenda of our new Congress in Washington, D.C.
Century Farms Books For Sale
Mass. Farm Bureau is pleased to announce that we have donated 250 copies of the Century Farms 2010 book to school and public libraries across the Commonwealth. More than 500 Massachusetts libraries were sent a notice offering a free copy of the book. Since not all of the libraries took advantage of this offer, we still have copies available for purchase.
The book chronicles the stories behind farms that have been family-owned and operated for at least 100 years. Did you know that there are thirteen farms in
Massachusetts that have been continuously farmed for over 300 years?! Or, that the largest Air Force Reserve base in the United States was once part of a Massachusetts Century Farm? From stories of brushes with famous people, to everyday details of life on the farm, Massachusetts Century Farms 2010 offers an in-depth look at how these farms were operated through the years.
To order your personal copy, please send a check for ten dollars (includes tax and shipping) made payable to Massachusetts Farm Bureau (or MFBF). Send to: 249 Lakeside Ave., Marlborough, MA 01752.
UPCOMING 2011 MFBF County annual Meetings
-SAVE THE DATE
Sept. 29 – Berkshire County, 7 PM, First Baptist Church, 88 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA 01201, RSVP: Leona Butler, 413-442-6757.
Oct. 11 – Norfolk County, 6:30 PM Social, 7 PM Dinner, Norfolk Agricultural High School, 400 Main Street, Walpole, MA 02081, RSVP: Cut Off Date Wednesday October 5th. Guest Speaker Senator Timilty Sandy Medeiros, 781-344-4096, Rudy.Sandy@verizon.net.
Oct. 12- Franklin County, 6 PM, Greenfield Elks, 2 Church Street, Greenfield, MA 01301, RSVP: Joleen Jurczyk, 413-475-0666, joleenjurczyk@gmail.com
Oct. 13 – Bristol County, 5:30 PM Social, 6 Dinner, Venus de Milo Restaurant, 75 Grand Army Highway (Route 6), Swansea, MA 02777, RSVP: Peggy Lopes, 508-822-6635. Speaker at the Annual Meeting is State Rep Christopher Markey (D-Dartmouth)
Oct. 14 - Hampshire County – 6 PM, Bluebonnet Diner, 324 King St., Northampton 01060-2333. RSVP Barbara Mitchell,413-253-5532.
Oct. 18 – Cape & Islands, Cape Codder, 1225 Iyannough Road, Hyannis, 02601. RSVP: Nancy Chute, 508-563-3368, ec255561@aol.com.
Oct. 19 – Middlesex County, 6 PM, The Barn at Gibbet Hill, 61 Lowell Road, Groton, MA 01450, RSVP: Martha Keighley, 978-443-8851, Martha@bartlettgreenhouses.com or Anne Stone, 978-443-5798.
Oct. 20 – Essex, 6 PM, Coolidge Hall, Topsfield Fairgrounds, 207 Boston Street (Newburyport Highway), Topsfield MA 01983. RSVP: Betty Rogers, 978-372-4305.
Oct. 25 – Worcester – TBA
Oct. 26 - Hampden County – 6 PM, Monte Carlo Restaurant, 1020 Memorial Ave., West Springfield 01089. RSVP: Liz Hall, 413-357-6624.
Let the sun shine: four farms open doors to highlight renewable energy
You’ve been wondering about that wind mill that went up down the road for a while now. Or you’ve been curious about those solar panels on the neighbor’s barn that you watched fall into place, piece by piece. How much did those installations cost? How much electricity do they provide? Could you afford to do the same?
Well, now you can get plugged in to the details of renewable energy at a farm near you - without having to peek over the fence. During the month of September, four farms around New York will open their doors to the public for a guided tour of their energy saving stategies and renewable energy systems.
This year’s farm energy field days include something for everyone. Tim and Jean at Dorpers Sheep Farm will teach a do-it-yourself solar electric and solar thermal workshop. Jay and Polly Armour at Four Winds Farm will describe their professionally installed PV electric system and share other techniques to reduce fossil fuel use. Jan and Ron Bever live off the grid at at Highland Hills Maple Sugar Farm and are eager to show you how to do the same. According to Jan Bever at Highland Hills Maple Sugar Farm, “you can afford renewable energy if you can buy a used car”. And finally, Dani Baker and David Belding at Cross Island Farms will lead a tour of their brand new 10KW wind turbine and a 7KW solar array. Combined with a 17kw back-up generator for emergencies, it is expected that this project will supply almost all of the farm’s need for electricity.
All the field days are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For specific dates, times, and locations, see below. Please contact Violet Stone at 607-255-9227 or vws7@cornell.edu to register.
The Farm Energy Field Day are sponsored by the Cornell Small Farms Energy Project Team and funded by Northeast SARE (Sustainable Ag Research and Education). To learn more about either of these organizations, visit www.smallfarms.cornell.edu or www.nesare.org
Classifieds
Items for sale
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: Hareford calves 8-9 months old, hand raised and tame, both steers and Heifers, for your feed lot or pasture. 617-840-2074.
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: Dumpsters & Roll off Trailer. Nedlund 8 ton EZ Roll Off (EZ16TRR) with two 15 yard containers and one 10 yard container. All five years old & in excellent contidion. Cost $25,575 new. For sale $16,000. Call 413-256-8968.
Service
FARM 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.
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