POSTAL CUSTOMER The Voice of Agriculture News & … · deadline is October 31, 2016 for ......

MASSACHUSETTS FARM ENERGY PROGRAM RURAL ENERGY FOR AMERICA PROGRAM (REAP) APPLICATION ASSISTANCENeed help preparing your REAP application? The Massachusetts Farm Energy Program is able to provide it! Our program recently received a grant to help farms prepare their REAP applications, at no cost. But don’t wait until the deadline approaches; REAP applications can be submitted any time, so contact us now! Next REAP application deadline is October 31, 2016 for projects requesting $20,000 or less. MA Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) - Keep Warm this Winter with Commercial Air-Source Heat Pump Rebates. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is excited to now offer grants for commercial-scale mini split air-source heat pump projects as part of our $30 million commitment through 2020 to the Commonwealth’s clean heating and cooling sector. With the addition of commercial-scale grants, funding is now available for the installation of air source heat pumps for homes, businesses and government and non-profit buildings in the Commonwealth. Through these programs, grants of up to $225,000 are available to support the installation biomass heating systems, depending on system size and efficiency. MassCEC is also offering increased incentive levels to affordable housing developments, non-profits, and public agencies to allow a broader range of customers to access this technology. Installers interested in participating in any of the air-source heat pump programs can find more information, including program manuals and application instructions, at the Air-Source Heat Pump Installer Resources webpage for more information on how to participate. For any questions please contact The MassCEC Clean Heating and Cooling Team, [email protected], www.masscec.com.

MASSACHUSETTSFARM BUREAU FEDERATION

The Voice of Agriculture

The Official Newspaper of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation© Vol. 24 Issue 6 September 1.866.548.MFBF

News & Views

Massachusetts Farm Bureau249 Lakeside AveMarlborough, MA 01752 PRSRT STD

US PostagePAID

Permit #1N.Haverhill, NH

POSTAL CUSTOMER

As someone who grew up showing livestock, September in my mind will always be associated with the “Big E” – from the late nights in the show barn to the delicious baked potatoes to the barn cold that always happens to you upon returning home. While I know I’ll still be spending some of my personal time at the Big E, this month also signals the kick-off of county annual meeting season.

While Plymouth County technically already started the county annual meeting cycle by hosting theirs on Aug. 29, the other counties are set to hold their meetings in late September and early October. This makes it the perfect time to discuss our resolution process, which directs our policy efforts for the coming year(s). And, as a member you can participate just by attending your county’s annual meeting!

The county annual meetings are a great chance to network and socialize with your neighbors, while at the same, time tell us what you consider a priority. During the business portion of the annual meeting, other members (or you!) will bring forth resolutions for members to vote on.

Resolutions that you and other members approve are then reviewed by our Resolutions Committee. This committee consists of members who were elected by each county. The members of this committee prepare and forward the resolutions to the statewide delegation.

The resolutions are then discussed and voted upon by delegates at MFBF’s annual meeting, which this year is

set to be held on Dec. 1 and 2 at the Marriott in Peabody. Delegates are members of each county who have been voted into that position by other county members.

Resolutions which are adopted at the annual meeting become a part of MFBF policy for a term of three years – and guide MFBF leadership and staff in setting priorities. But don’t lose hope if you feel a resolution that was adopted was unsuitable. You may have another chance to vote on it in three years.

After the resolution has been in place three years, the resolution committee reviews the policy and determines whether it is still relevant. If determined to still be applicable, delegates will vote whether or not to reaffirm the resolution at the annual meeting.

Your influence can even reach further than the state. If your resolution is determined to have national applicability, it is sent to the American Farm Bureau Federations’annual meeting for consideration.

The bottom line is that these resolutions come from you and are voted on by you. We need your input into our policies so we can chart a course forward.

I encourage you to attend your county meeting – and bring a friend! We want to hear from you. Don’t miss your chance to shape our policy!

Katelyn [email protected]

COUNTY ANNUAL MEETINGS ARE YOUR CHANCE TO GUIDE FARM BUREAU POLICY BY KATELYN PARSONS, MFBF DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND MEMBERSHIP

LABOR, OVERREGULATION THEMES OF AFBF PRESIDENT ZIPPY DUVALL’S VISIT TO MASSACHUSETTS

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall toured Massachusetts agriculture to gain a greater understanding of the issues facing farmers in the Commonwealth. During his visits with local farmers, the two reoccurring themes of discussion were labor and overregulation.

“I’ve seen the same issues all across the country,” Duvall said. “It may affect the Northeast a little bit differently but I’ve heard about immigration and overregulation, whether it had to do with the clean air, clean water or endangered species. So Northeastern farmers are no different when it comes to the issues, it just affects them a little bit differently and the pressure is turned up a bit in certain areas.”

Duvall’s visit started on Wednesday, Aug. 3, with a tour of an organic and conventional dairy farm and farm store, then he had a conversation with a lumber mill owner and concluded his day with a stop at a family farm stand. The tour continued on Thursday, Aug. 4, with Duvall visiting an up-and-coming meat producer, a small grains and sod family farm operation, a berry farm family, a cranberry grower and the Boston public market.

During all these stops he met with Massachusetts Farm

Bureau Federation members who told him their stories.

“It’s important for me as a President to go out and listen to the farmer’s story because every day of my life I’m in front of policymakers in D.C. talking about issues that face farmers,” Duvall said. “And when those issues are the challenges that are facing farmers here in Massachusetts, I want to be able to bring a reality to the story I tell to policymakers.”

While Duvall was able to visit Massachusetts this year to hear farmers’ stories, he isn’t always able to do this so he encouraged the farmers he met with to be active in Farm Bureau in order to have their voices heard.

“It’s very important for the grassroots to be a part of our organization, be a part of the policymaking, be a part of the telling of their story, not only in their local community, but in Washington and in their state Capitol,” Duvall said.

He went on to say that this requires farmers using a united voice on the issues.

“We need to stick together so we can continue to drive reforms in the regulation of clean water, clean air or endangered species, and push forward to make sure immigration reforms comes through so we have labor to harvest our crops,” Duvall said.

Upon his departure, Duvall left the state with a greater appreciation for the challenges facing Massachusetts farmers.

“I’ve never been in this area before and I am leaving it with a great appreciation of Massachusetts farmers’ ability to adapt to the environment that they live in,” Duvall said. “Their creativity and their entrepreneurship is overwhelming to me.”

OUR MISSION:TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS, ENCOURAGE THE GROWTH AND BE OF SERVICE TO OUR MEMBERS IN THE

BEST INTEREST OF AGRICULTURE.

2 NEWS & VIEWS September 2016

August 29th PLYMOUTH COUNTY

TIME: 6:00 PM Social Hour, 7:00 PM Dinner

PLACE: Monponsett Inn 550 Monponsett StreetHalifax, MA 02338

COST: $15 per personRSVP: Contact Lisa Blair at

(508) 866-9150

September 20th BERKSHIRE COUNTY

DETAILS TO FOLLOW...

October 13th FRANKLIN COUNTY

PLACE: Greenfield Elks Club 2 Church Street #5 Greenfield, MA 0130

DETAILS TO FOLLOW..October 15th NORFOLK COUNTY

TIME: TBAPLACE: Lafayette House

109 Washington St.Foxborough, MA 02035

COST: $30 per person - BuffettRSVP: Contact Rudy Medeiros at

(781) 344-4096 or [email protected] byOct. 11th

October 18th CAPE & ISLANDS

DETAILS TO FOLLOW...

October 19th MIDDLESEX COUNTY

PLACE: Gibbett Hill Grill 61 Lowell Rd, Groton, MA

DETAILS TO FOLLOW...October 20th BRISTOL COUNTY

TIME: 6:00 pm Social Hour 6:30 pm Dinner HoursPLACE: White’s Restaurant Westport, MA COST: $35/person Seafood

Newburg BuffetRSVP: Contact Peggy Lopes at

(508) 822-6635 or email:[email protected]

October 20th ESSEX COUNTY


PLACE: Diburro’s Function Facilities Boston Road, Ward Hill

COST: $30/personRSVP: Contact Betty Rogers at

(978) 372-4305 or [email protected] byOctober 14th

October 21st HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

DATE: Friday, October 21stTIME: 6:00 pm Social Hour 7:00 pm Dinner HourPLACE: Bluebonnet Diner 324 King Street Northampton, MACOST: $15/person – (Buffet) RSVP: Jaime Wagner at (413) 218-2695 or email [email protected] by Oct. 14th

October 24th HAMPDEN COUNTY

DATE: Monday, October 24thTIME: 6:00 pm Social Hour 6:30 pm Dinner HourPLACE: Take Five Restaurant 944 Springfield St. Feeding Hills, MACOST: TBD

October 25th WORCESTER COUNTY


PLACE: Salem Cross Inn, 260 WestBrookfield, MA

COST: TBDRSVP: Call (508) 366-2644 or email [email protected]

Please mail checks to:

(Also may pay at the door) Jon NoursePresident of WorcesterCounty70 Nourse StreetWestborough, MA 01581

COUNTY FARM BUREAU ANNUAL MEETING DATES

Following five continuous months of unusually dry weather, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton has declared a Drought Warning for the Central and Northeast regions, a Drought Watch for the Connecticut River and Southeast Massachusetts and a Drought Advisory for Western Massachusetts and Cape Cod and the Islands. The declaration was the result of a recommendation from the Drought Management Task Force and will remain in effect until water levels return to normal in the affected regions.

USDA has the science-based solutions and technical experts on the ground today to help farmers and ranchers through drought and to prepare our country for weather events in the future. USDA offers technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers to cope with drought across the nation.

Visit http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?navid=drought for more information.

MASSACHUSETTS DROUGHT MANAGEMENT

MASSACHUSETTS

FARM BUREAU FEDERATION, INC.

Toll Free-1.866.548.MFBF

President Edward Davidian

Vice President Bruce Howden

Treasurer Mark Amato

Immediate Past President A. Richard Bonanno, PhD

DIRECTORS:

Berkshire—Holly Aragi Bristol—Frederick Vadnais, Jr.

Cape Cod & Islands— Jeff Deck

Essex—Peter Gibney Franklin—Nathan L’Etoile Hampden—Leon Ripley

Hampshire—Alan Everett Middlesex—Warren Shaw

Norfolk—Rudolph Medeiros Plymouth—Jack Angley Worcester—Jon Nourse

Budget Committee

Charles Proctor Wayne Smith Robert Parrish

Directors-at-Large Jim Larkin Jamie Cruz

Women’s Leadership Committee Joyce Ripley

Young Farmers & Ranchers Ryan MacKay

MFBF Staff:

Douglas P. Gillespie Executive Director

Brad Mitchell

Deputy Executive Director

John Conners Communications & Technology

Katelyn ParsonsDirector of Marketing & Membership

Joan Monaco-Office Manager

Liz Smith

Administrative Assistant

Kelley Garufi

Administrative Assistant

Kim Follansbee

Database Administrator

September 2016 NEWS & VIEWS 3

The Massachusetts Department of Resources (MDAR) and the Massachu-setts Dairy Promotion Board (MDPB) today awarded six grants totaling $183,420 to nonprofits for projects which seek to advance the image, sales and demand for Massachusetts dairy products.

“Our administration is committed to supporting the Commonwealth’s hardworking farmers, and ensuring Massachusetts residents have access to nutritious, locally produced food,” said Governor Charlie Baker.“These grants will assist initiatives and programs designed to maintain an eco-nomically viable dairy industry in the Commonwealth, and raise consumer awareness and demand for local dairy products.”

“As demand for locally-grown food increases, promotion and education are necessary to keep dairy products relevant in the marketplace,” said Lieuten-ant Governor Karyn Polito. “The Massachusetts Dairy Promotion Board Grant Program helps support our state’s dairy farmers who contribute to our agricultural and tourism industries and provide fresh, nutritious food for the Commonwealth’s residents.”

The MDPB, a nine-member board of state officials and dairy farmers formed to promote Massachusetts dairy products, is chaired by a designee of the MDAR commissioner and helps promote increased consumption of dairy products through effective use of promotion, education and research.

The MDPB Grant Program, overseen by the board, is funded by the state’s dairy farmers. “The approximately 150 family-run dairy farms in Massachu-setts are a vital part of the Massachusetts food system, producing not just nutritious milk but also yogurt, cheese, butter and famous New England ice cream,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton. “This grant program not only supports our local dairy industry, but also assists efforts to educate consumers on buying local, which will help keep Massachusetts citizens healthy and boost our economy.”

Examples of Fiscal Year 2017 grant projects include supporting school nu-trition and wellness through a mini-grant program that facilitates school breakfast program, as well as dairy promotion and education at Eastern States Exposition, along with a regional buy-local campaign educating con-sumers about the contributions and challenges of dairy farming.

“These grant funds will be used to build capacity with our buy-locals, re-gional dairy industry promotion organizations, and dairy minded nonprofits to keep dairy products relevant in the market place while also educating consumers of the positive contributions dairy farming has on agriculture across the Commonwealth,” said MDAR Commissioner John Lebeaux.

New England Dairy &Food Council

Boston $60,000.00

MA Association ofDairy Farmers

Conway $46,840.00

Community InvolvedIn Sustaining Agriculture

S. Deerfield $43,000.00

Eastern States Exposition

W. Springfield $23,000

MA 4-H Foundation Framingham $6,746.00MA Agriculture in theClassroom

Marlborough $3,834.00

“Massachusetts dairy farmers provide fresh, nutritious food across the Com-monwealth and are poised to grow into an even more significant contributor to our economy,” said Senate President Stanley C. Rosenberg (D-Amherst).

“These grants provide funds that will be put to excellent use, helping us build on the growing demand for locally produced food, and will provide a fantastic return on a very smart investment.” “Supporting local farmers is good for the economy and environment,” said State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield). “I want to thank the Baker-Polito Administration for continuing to support a critical part of what makes Western Massachu-setts such a special place.”

“I want to thank the Baker-Polito Administration, Commissioner Lebeaux, the Department of Agriculture Resources, and the Massachusetts Dairy Promotion Board for awarding over $89,000 in grant funding to the Massa-chusetts Association of Dairy Farmers in Conway and Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture in South Deerfield,” said State Representative Stephen Kulik (D-Worthington). “By awarding these grants, it shows the Administration is committed to supporting our state’s dairy farmers by helping them bolster their ability to advertise, which in turn helps educate the residents of the Commonwealth about their local dairy options. I thank them all again for helping support the buy local movement.”

MASSACHUSETTS DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDED GRANTSOctober 20th ESSEX COUNTY


PLACE: Diburro’s Function Facilities Boston Road, Ward Hill

COST: $30/personRSVP: Contact Betty Rogers at

(978) 372-4305 or [email protected] byOctober 14th

October 21st HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

DATE: Friday, October 21stTIME: 6:00 pm Social Hour 7:00 pm Dinner HourPLACE: Bluebonnet Diner 324 King Street Northampton, MACOST: $15/person – (Buffet) RSVP: Jaime Wagner at (413) 218-2695 or email [email protected] by Oct. 14th

October 24th HAMPDEN COUNTY

DATE: Monday, October 24thTIME: 6:00 pm Social Hour 6:30 pm Dinner HourPLACE: Take Five Restaurant 944 Springfield St. Feeding Hills, MACOST: TBD

October 25th WORCESTER COUNTY


PLACE: Salem Cross Inn, 260 WestBrookfield, MA

COST: TBDRSVP: Call (508) 366-2644 or email [email protected]

Please mail checks to:

(Also may pay at the door) Jon NoursePresident of WorcesterCounty70 Nourse StreetWestborough, MA 01581

Join Rooster of Nobska Farms to learn how to start and achieve success in your seed-to-shelf business. Nobska Farms is a microfarm specializing in exotic chili peppers. The peppers grown on the farm are used to make value added salsas, sauces, chocolates, among other items sold at farmers markets and to local stores & restaurants.

We will discuss managing the operations of a small farm business & how to collaborate with other businesses and organizations to promote growth and contribute to community. We will also discuss difficulties and lessons learned when starting your food business.

A short tour of the farm will follow. We will end with refreshments and guests will be able to sample and purchase products from the farm.

When: Thursday, September 1, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMWhere: Nobska Farms, 9 Nobska Rd, Woods Hole, MA 02543 Cost: $5 Beginning Farmer, $15 SEMAP Members, $20 General PublicRegister online at semaponline.org/educationDirect event link: http://conta.cc/2btcts8

READY TO START A LOCAL FOOD BUSINESS BUT NOT SURE WHERE TO BEGIN?


Exploring The Small Farm Dream Course - for those thinking about farming Are you considering starting an agricultural enterprise in Massachusetts? The “Explorer” courses are intended for those considering farming as a (small) business. Its purpose is to help pre-venture, aspiring farmers learn what it will take to start and manage their own agricultural enterprise. Explorer makes use of four, guided group sessions and a farmer panel of those who have already done what you are contemplating. It is based on an acclaimed workbook developed in partnership with NESFI and presented by an instructor experienced in starting farm businesses. Explorer was created to help you articulate the clear vision and goals you will need to guide an agricultural business. Proposed Dates/Location*: February - March 2017 - Five Tuesday evenings from 6:00 - 9:00PMFebruary 28, March 7, March 14, March 21 and March 28, 2017at Bristol Community College Fall River campus*

(*Dates & location are tentative based on interest. Seven or more students need to register by September 15 in order to hold this course in the proposed location.) Tilling the Soil of Opportunity Course - for existing agricultural enterprises More than 350 farms have completed this course for existing Massachusetts agricultural businesses that will benefit from an organized look at their current

operation in order to plan for growth and change. You must have at least two years of documented farm production and income as a for-profit or non-profit farming enterprise to take this course. The course instructor guides participants through creation of a full business plan to improve decision making on the farm. MDAR has enhanced the 30 hours of group meetings with individualized technical assistance and confidential one-on-one financial planning. The instructor visits each participant’s farm during the course. Next Tilling the Soil course to be tentatively scheduled for Fall 2016 or early winter 2017, location TBD based on interest. If you are interested in either course:Complete and send in an application form as soon as possible. Applications for both courses are available at the MDAR Agricultural Business Training Program (ABTP) website: www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/agr/land-use/agricultural-business-training-program-abtp.html Email completed application to Melissa at [email protected] or mail to: Melissa Adams, Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources, 101 University Drive Suite C4, Amherst MA 01002. Course applications are accepted on a rolling basis until a course is filled.

In times of low milk prices, what’s a farm to do? How about converting manure into electricity and organic fertilizer while collecting fees from electricity sales and food waste haulers? This has been the answer for many northeast dairy farmers in Pennsylvania, New York and Vermont who have purchased anaerobic digesters.

Hopefully, more Massachusetts farms will be next.

There are 240 agricultural digesters in the USA, almost ¾ provided by America’s two major design and build technology providers. Of these digesters more than 90% were purchased direct rather than via a middleman/developer.

The oldest design and build, technology provider based in the USA is RCM Digesters (34 years). The other major American based digester company, from Wisconsin, also does a good job for farmers.

There are four styles of digesters but RCM recommends the “complete mix round tank” for Massachusetts. Complete mix has an advantage because it is less expensive and more forgiving when adding food waste to manure. Adding food waste is key to profitability in Massachusetts.

Internationally, complete mix, round tank style digesters are also the first choice. American based complete mix digesters have modifications the Europeans do not offer. First, they are built in-ground to reduce heating costs via natural warming. Secondly, they use a flexible cover rather than solid. The flexible cover expands to preserve excess gas and is more easily opened if a minor repair is required.

The nearest digester to your farm may be Barstow’s in Hadley, MA. It was built by RCM it in four months, in late 2013.

The Barstow’s digester project is that rare situation where an outside developer is the farm’s partner. Vanguard (formerly AGreen) chose an American technology provider (RCM) and Barstow’s manure management problems were solved.

Although happy to work with developers, the usual sale is different. Typically the two major technology providers sell “factory direct” to the farmer. They make money building the digester and the farmer profits by converting his manure into electricity and selling it himself for many years into the future, (2037? 2047?). Digesters are a generational product.

Additional revenue streams and savings typically include significant tipping fees from food waste haulers, free heat, electricity, organic bedding and organic fertilizer. Odors are reduced 90%.

Of course the technology provider will help customers with grant applications, permitting, introductions to haulers etc. The digester technology source provides a proven roadmap and stays with the farmer through start up.

As mentioned anaerobic digesters are an integrated, familiar part of farms in

Pennsylvania, New York and Vermont. Farmers exchang e ideas and there are even digester association meetings. (Many of RCM’s key employees are based in the Northeast, near Lancaster, PA).

Unfortunately, in southern New England there are few digesters and as a result confusion exists. Here are a few common misunderstandings:

1) Digesters don’t work.Early on there were some problems but since the late 1990’s, when significant grants became available, that changed. RCM and their Wisconsin competitor now know they are only as good as their last digester. If there were problems with the last one, it will be difficult for their next farm client to receive needed grants. So for the past 16 years, and in the future, all their digester projects - must work.

2) They are too expensive.Farm digesters of all sizes in southern New England are being estimated and the numbers look very good. Payback from 1 year to 7 depending on grants acquired. There are also private investors who are willing to offset farm costs, share revenue streams and eventually exit the digester project.

3) Farmers are not qualified or do not have the time to run a digester.Not true. In almost all cases nationally the farmer himself owns and operates the farm’s digester. It only takes about ½ an employee to monitor the gauges and system. A round, complete mix digester tank is similar to a cow’s stomach and farmers know all about that.

4) Good food waste is hard to find.Southern New England has America’s densest population and there is no shortage of food waste. There are multiple haulers in the Northeast and introductions to farmers will be arranged. Some haulers will not commit until the digester is built, but availability and tipping fees can be discussed in advance.

5) Food waste is complex and must be monitored by specialists.Not so. At most digesters largely liquid food waste is delivered daily and easily pumped into the digester. The presence of manure acts as a buffer and stimulates the anaerobic process. Large percentages of food waste (e.g. 70%) can be used as long as the farmer/investor is attentive to changes in food waste content.

6) The farm must have lots of cows.Dairy farms of many sizes have digesters, Barstow’s is now milking about 240. Low “factory direct” costs, plus the addition of food waste, make digesters a sound financial decision. 150 milking cows (or the equivalent) is a good minimum number for a cost efficient digester.

Every Massachusetts farm is unique and the return on investment will vary. Nevertheless, in times of financial stress it is a good idea to think outside the box. A farm digester will increase your revenue, the question is only the size of that increase.

Jim Muir lives in Connecticut and is the Director of Business Development for RCM Digesters. He is available to visit your farm for a general discussion of digester benefits.

Jim can be contacted by phone: 860 664 5086, mobile: 203 824 4140 or email: [email protected].

CREATING NEW FARM REVENUES WITH ANAEROBIC DIGESTER

Complete mix, round tank, in ground, digester at Barstow’s in Hadley, MA.

MDAR’S AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS TRAINING COURSES


For savings certificates on GMC, CAT, Case IH or Polaris:

1. Go to fbadvantage.com and choose which offer you’d like to receive.

2. Have your Member Card ready and enter your membership number and zip code.

3. Print your savings certificate.

For Grainger :

1. Go to fbadvantage.com and click on “Grainger”.

2. Follow the online instructions to save up to 30% and get free shipping.

3. Use your MA Farm Bureau account #853567089.

ACCESS® Member Benefits

1. Go to our website at www.mfbf.net

2. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the Access® logo.

3. Choose a category and start shopping.

To learn more about all the discounts and programs offered by Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, visit mfbf.net/

FARM BUREAU MEMBER DISCOUNT PROGRAMSHOW DO WE SAVE YOU MONEY? IT’S AS SIMPLE AS ONE-TWO-THREE…

RESOLUTION PROCESS STARTING UP SOON BY BRAD MITCHELL, MFBF DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Resolutions are the backbone of Farm Bureau Policy. They are basically policy statements offered by members that state a position on issues impacting agriculture – taxes, land use, wildlife control – anything that affects farming.

A resolution is usually first offered at a County annual meeting, which in MA start at the end of August and run through October.

The way it typically works is that a voting member (you must be a Regular member to offer a resolution) will stand up and propose a resolution during the County annual meeting when the President calls for new resolutions. (NOTE: you can see resolutions that have passed in our Policy Book at . http://mfbf.net/Portals/0/pdf/Policy%20Book%202015.pdf ) A discussion about the proposed resolution is followed by a vote for approval.. Resolutions which pass at the County level are then submitted for discussion at the Business Session of the State Annual Meeting where delegate members from across the state deliberate and vote on them at a day-long session devoted entirely to that purpose. Resolutions which pass become MFBF Policy and are the basis of our positions on legislation and policy. Those resolutions with national significance are then sent to the Delegate Session of American

Farm Bureau, where they are similarly discussed and voted on by delegates from across the country.

So if you have a particular issue or concern that you think Farm Bureau needs to address, your upcoming County Annual is your chance to help direct MFBF Policy. Staff members are happy to help you write the resolution if you feel you need some help (call 508.481.4766). If you can’t make your County annual meeting, contact your County President or another member to offer it on your behalf.

Farm Bureau’s ability to work on behalf of its members relies on members being involved, and the resolution process is one of the most important ways to get involved. Remember: Farm Bureau works for you, but we can’t work without you!

Brad [email protected]

MFBF MOBILE COUPON NETWORK APPUNPARALLELED VALUE. POCKET-SIZED PORTABILITY.

With Massachusetts Farm Bureau’s all new “My Deals” mobile app, our members can now have mobile access to more than 200,000 ready-to-use coupons in the palm of your hands. Not just any deals, but savings of up to 50% at neighborhood restaurants, retail stores, hotels, auto shops

and more, redeemable in virtually every market in America.

JUST “SHOW YOUR PHONE” AND SAVE

There are more than 200 million mobile subscribers in the U.S. (and 5.3 billion worldwide), aggressively looking for on-the-go opportunities to save. Yet most deal-finding apps either offer too little relevant value or still require a printed coupon before merchants will honor the discount.

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau “My Deals” Mobile app is different. Not only does it use GPS functionality to find the nearest deals, but its on-screen coupons are welcomed at over 200,000 merchant locations throughout America – with no printed coupons necessary, and no confusion at the point of sale.

The My Deals Mobile app, can be instantly downloaded within iTunes or the Android Market.

MORE DEALS IN MORE PLACES

MA Farm Bureau mobile coupon offers are available in over 10,000 U.S. cities, as well as the top 1,000 markets in the United States. Our collection of mobile coupons spans both national brands and local merchants in such popular categories as dining, shopping, hotels, recreation and auto services.

Download our all new “My Deals” app and start saving today!

With the completion of the Massachusetts Local Food Action Plan, a group of stakeholder organizations formed a collaborative to work toward making some of the key recommendations in the Plan a reality. Members of the Executive Committee that led the planning process have formed a Steering Committee for a new Massachusetts Food System Collaborative (MFSC), which is guided by an Advisory Committee composed of many of the Plan’s current Project Advisors.

The MA Food System Collaborative is interested in talking to farmers who have had positive or challenging interactions with local boards of health or health agents, as part of a project working toward alleviating tensions between agriculture and public health regulators. Contact Winton Pitcoff at [email protected].

MA FOOD SYSTEM COLLABORATIVE SEEKS FEEDBACK


American Farm Bureau Federation has asked USDA for emergency dairy assistance. Read the full letter below:

Last week, 61 members of Congress sent you a let-ter asking for emergency assistance for dairy farm-ers. We support that request and are writing to further flesh out our views on the issue.

In May of 2016 the U.S. all-milk price fell to the lowest level since 2009 at $14.50 per hundred-weight. In June, the Margin Protection Program margin also fell to its lowest level since the pro-gram began at $5.75. In total, dairy farm cash re-ceipts from milk sales have fallen $16 billion since the record highs of 2014. The decline in dairy farm revenue has led many dairy farm families to exit the industry. In 2015 we lost 1,225 dairy farms – many of those small dairy farm operations in the Northeast and Great Lakes Region where the aver-age herd size is fewer than 200 milking cows.Despite the difficult financial performance in the dairy industry, milk production in the U.S. has not declined. Year-to-date milk production is up 1.6 percent and cow numbers are up 8,000 head year-over-year. USDA forecasts milk production to re-main strong, increasing 2 percent over 2015 levels for the rest of this year.

The USDA projects the annual average milk price in 2016 to be $15.70 per hundredweight, which would be a 35 percent drop from 2014 and the second lowest level in the past decade. Factors con-tributing to this price drop include a) reduced de-mand from the two largest dairy importers in Chi-na and Russia; b) the expiration of the European Union milk quota system in early 2015 and rapid expansion by member states in the production of milk and finished dairy products; c) the expansion of the U.S. dairy herd following the record high price and demand environment of 2014; and d) re-cord high domestic inventories of cheese products.

These global factors are unlikely to be resolved soon. Russia has extended the embargo on EU food products until the end of 2017, and since October 2015 the EU has provided two separate farm crisis aid packages to farmers totaling nearly one billion euros. Here at home, U.S. farmers have been slow to adopt USDA-sponsored tools to man-age dairy market price risk. In 2015, just 25,000 of the 45,000 U.S. dairy farms signed up for the new Margin Protection Program enacted in the 2014 farm bill, and only 23,000 enrolled this year – a majority of them at catastrophic coverage only.

We are extremely appreciative of USDA’s actions to extend the sign-up deadline for MPP and the

recent announcement to allow coverage for the expansion of a farm’s production when new fam-ily members join the business. We also believe the $11.2 million in MPP assistance announced last week will help the sector.

While we hope the futures market is correctly predicting dairy prices are recovering, we believe it would be very helpful for the Department to con-sider options to ensure dairy producers will receive assistance in the short term. We request you to use Section 32 funds to buy additional dairy products to be used in USDA’s nutrition programs and for donations to food banks. Specifically, we believe cheese could be purchased in a quantity that would help the dairy industry and yet not negatively impact our exports of cheese products. If the De-partment spent $50 million, it could purchase 28 million pounds of cheese for domestic feeding pro-grams. This would not only be beneficial to those in need of food, but also would help reduce the re-cord high inventories and would provide a positive price impact for dairy producers.

Again, thank you for all you have done to help the dairy industry in the past. It has not gone unno-ticed. Please use whatever authorities you have to provide additional help in the near future.

AFBF HAS ASKED USDA FOR EMERGENCY DAIRY ASSISTANCE

The 2016 Polaris BRUTUS is now available. This year’s model offers a new landplane attachment for grading, leveling and aerating soil. The 2016 models include an ergonomic joystick that provides easy control of front attachments. For a limited time, eligible Farm Bureau members in participating states can save $1,000 on a new BRUTUS vehicle.

Polaris® Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) has strengthened itsBRUTUS® side-by-side utility vehicle line with the introduction of two new BRUTUS HDPTO configurations and a cargo box utility spreader attachment. These purpose-built offerings provide users with even more versatility while completing work tasks, regardless of conditions.“Our commercial customers want a vehicle that helps them do their jobs as productively and effortlessly as possible, and these new offerings provide additional solutions,” said Tate Johnson, Polaris director of work vehicles. “The updated HDPTO provides users with the flexibility to configure the cab enclosure to the job, while the

HDPTO Deluxe offers a dramatically improved in-cab experience. Additionally, the all-new spreader expands the possible work applications of BRUTUS beyond the attachments already offered.”

The BRUTUS HDPTO and HDPTO Deluxe models also include a new Tier 4 compliant, 24 horsepower Kohler diesel engine. The three cylinder overhead cam design and indirect injection delivers smooth power, reduced combustion, and minimal noise and vibration. Biodiesel fuels of up to B20 are approved for use with the engine.

Other 2015 BRUTUS enhancements include:

Cab: The HDPTO allows users to configure the frame based on needs with optional Lock & Ride® Pro-Fit accessories, while the HDPTO Deluxe offers maximum comfort with a fully-enclosed cab, complete with a noise seal-off kit, windshield wiper assembly, heat, defrost and air conditioning.Alternator: A more powerful, 110 amp alternator

provides power to fit all types of electrical needs.

Cargo box frame: A strengthened cargo box frame is designed to work seamlessly with the new utility spreader attachment.

The all-new cargo box utility spreader is designed for application of dry, free-flowing granular materials such as sand and salt. The spreader holds up to 7.8 cubic feet struck/10.6 cubic feet heaped, while dash-mounted controls enable the driver to comfortably make application adjustments directly from the cab. The 2015 BRUTUS HDPTO and HDPTO Deluxe are compatible with the spreader, as well as the seven existing BRUTUS attachments including an angle broom, snow blower, finishing mower, snow blade, materials bucket, grapple and pallet forks.

To learn more about the 2015 Polaris BRUTUS lineup or to locate a local dealer, visitPolaris.com/BRUTUS.

POLARIS® UNVEILS NEW BRUTUS® MODELS, SPREADER ATTACHMENT


CLASSIFIEDS

SERVICE

SALE FOR SALE: Locally Grown Winter Rye Seed, germination rate tested & cleaned. Available in bushel or bulk bags. Winter Rye Straw, no weeds. Call for pricing: volume discounts, delivery available on straw & rye seed. Call John in Groton 508-254-5484.

FOR SALE: 2.49 acre perked building lot with option to buy additional 5.01 acres open land in Western MA. Asking $90,000 for lot and $25,000 for additional land. Contact [email protected]

FOR SALE: Cranberry Water Picker made by Hayden Mfg., Wareham. Eight-foot wide. Excellent condition. $3,500 – Norton, MA. Call 508-230-3158.

FOR SALE: Cranberry Corral Boards - 500 Feet. Excellent condition – stored inside. $600 – Norton, MA. Call 508-230-3158.

FOR SALE: Good quality mixed grass baleage off our own farms. $60 per 1,000 pound bale loaded onto your truck. Call (401) 742-7393.

FOR SALE: Scrapper Blade Landpride Model RBT4084 84” Manual Hydraulic $1,700. Call 508-212-0467 evenings best.

FOR SALE: Hay – 1st, 2nd & Alfalfa cuts available – no dust guaranteed. Wholesale & retail we deliver & unload. Also in Lg. square bales 3x3x7 upon request. Cell 774-259-6960 or office 508-252-3535. Skip & Tish 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.

SERVICE: Homestead Agricultural Services: Services include but not limited to: red brand certified fence installer, field reclamation, custom field works, brush hogging & manure removal. Visit www.homesteadagservices.com or call 508-386-6229.

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. Contact Donald E. Graves, CPA, MST, MPFP, or Alexander V. Siano, CPA, at: Donald E. Graves, CPA, LLC 377 Main Street, Suite 1, Greenfield, MA 01301-3332, 1-800-286-6036, [email protected]

FARM MAINTENANCE: All types arena work, construction & renewal. Paddock areas built, fencing new & repairs, hydrant work, & brush work. CRF Maintenance Services. www.cringfarm.com 508-278-9824.

REAL ESTATE APPRAISER/CONSULTANT: Reports/consultation provided for estate planning/tax returns/business dissolution, APR/CR and buying/selling. William King 508-867-2600 or [email protected].

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONMFBF, Inc. ∙ 249 Lakeside Ave., Marlborough MA 01752, 1-866-548-MFBF

Annual DuesVOTING MEMBERS: REGULAR MEMBER: $195 For those who derive income from an agricultural commodity. May vote on issues, sit on committees & receive member services.

GOLD CLUB MEMBER: $350 A regular member who makes a supplemental donation in support of agriculture Receives special statewide recognition

PLATINUM CLUB MEMBER: $500 Platinum members provide financial support Farm Bureau at the highest level. May vote on issues & sit on committeesNON-VOTING MEMBERS:

ASSOCIATE MEMBER: $60 Must not receive agricultural income. Receive member benefits.

ALLIED BUSINESSES: $200 Supply companies and other service providers essential to agriculture.

STUDENT: $20 Ages 16-25, full-time. School grade/year

Name: Farm Name: Mailing Address: Phone: Fax: Email: Referred by: Please indicate which commodity areas best fit the product(s) you produce:

Ag/Open Space Supporter Horticulture Aquaculture Livestock Equine Poultry Forestry Vegetables Fruits Other

I hereby make application for an annual membership in the

_____________________________COUNTY FARM BUREAU

County Farm Bureau and Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (which is a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation), whose purpose is to promote, protect, and represent the economic, social, and educational interests of Massachusetts’ farmers, as well as encourage the protection of agricultural areas and rural interest within the state. I am interested in promoting these objectives through membership. I understand acceptance or denial and classification of my membership are determined by the County Farm Bureau.

Contributions, gifts, or membership dues to a County Farm Bureau, or MFBF are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. However, they may be tax deductible under other provisions of the IRS code. Membership dues are non-refundable and non-returnable.

A service fee of $15 may be assessed for a returned check.

Signature:

WANTEDWANTED: Small Chicken Plucker and Scalder. Leave message 508-881-8788.

POSITION: Farm Equipment Operator/Mechanic -- LITCHFIELD, NHWilson Farm, Inc, LITCHFIELD, NH seeks a full-time, year-round individual to join our agricultural team on our 500 acre diversified vegetable farm.

Full-time is approximately 50+ hours/week (6 days = lots of overtime pay!) but may fluctuate according to season. The Farm Equipment Operator/Mechanic is responsible for operating all farm equipment (tractor, backhoe, front loader, fork lift, dump truck, box trucks), planting, spraying, harvesting, maintenance support of farm equipment and assisting the Farm Manager and owners in achieving farm goals.

Efficiently and safely perform all crop and field tasks assigned by Farm Manager, including but not limited to planting, spraying, harvesting and transporting. Must be able to work alone and in team settings. Knowledge of Spanish language a plus. Communicate daily with Farm Manager on scheduling and logistics for farm equipment and operations. Ensure efficient and safe operation of all farm equipment including daily preventative and repair maintenance. Obtain and maintain pesticide license and effectively check, transport and operate sprayer in the field, following standard safety guidelines. Travel to the Lexington, MA location as needed. Other projects as assigned by Farm Manager and/or Owners.

Physical requirements: Riding farm equipment for prolonged periods of time; must be able to lift approx. 40+lb

Qualifications: 2+ years previous experience operating and maintaining mechanical integrity of farm equipment, trucks, tractors or other large equipment.

Education: High School/Trade School/Mechanic School education

We offer competitive wages and benefits, which are commensurate with candidate’s applicable work experience, in a friendly, customer-driven environment.

To apply: please go to http://www.wilsonfarm.com to print our employment application or pick up an employment application in-store at the farm. All candidates must complete our Employment Application to be considered:

Cindy McAuleyWilson Farm, Inc.10 Pleasant StreetLexington, MA 02421(781) 862-3900(781) 863-0469 FAX

Applications may be submitted by email as attachments. Wilson Farm, Inc. is an E/O/E

POSTAL CUSTOMER The Voice of Agriculture News & … · deadline is October 31, 2016 for ......

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