Issuu

BON HOMME YANKTON ELECTRIC MAY 2022 VOL. 23 NO. 1

ERATIVE

CONNECTIONS

Great Goats Goats gaining in popularity Pages 8-9 Irrigators beneﬁt from load control Pages 12-13

Bennett and Matea Gordon of Whitewood are part of a rising trend in teens choosing to show goats at youth exhibits and competitions

MANAGER’S COLUMN

Electric Equipment Affected by Inflation and Long Lead Times

Stephanie Horst horst@byelectric.com

The Russia/Ukraine war and the ongoing pandemic are contributing to the supply chain issues in the electric industry. There is great uncertainty when this will be fully resolved which affects our ability to build electric infrastructure. According to our material supplier, there are three reasons for supply chain disruption right now. Raw materials like copper, aluminum and steel are in demand, logistics and freight are bottled up, and labor shortages in the manufacturing plants. The demand on raw materials has another unique challenge with other industries ramping up production like electric vehicles and battery storage. So, why does this matter to the members of B-Y Electric? Well, availability and price.

We need your help in order for us to have the material you need for your service. One item that is being severely impacted right now are transformers. Currently, the lead times on a transformer is 140 weeks which means we are now evaluating our 2024 needs. Last fall we were putting our plans together for this year’s construction season like any other year and were notified the lead times for transformers were into 2023. Of course, we secured our needs for 2023, but what about 2022? We decided to focus our construction on upgrading junction boxes from 200 amps to 600 amps in the lake area instead of line upgrades. This large project has been in our work plan and we have the materials to complete it. The electric demands due to load growth in the lake area were taxing the 200 amp equipment. This project will increase reliability in that area. The last few years, our construction work consisted of line moves due to the SD

2 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

DOT widening highways in our area or upgrading aging line. When we do these type of line projects mostly going from overhead construction to underground construction, it requires new transformers. Since this summer we will not be doing line upgrades, the transformers that would be needed will be available for new services, service upgrades, and emergencies. Those alone won’t be enough to get us through the season so we will be ordering stock transformers from our vendor as they become available. We don’t want to get into a situation where we won’t have any at all. We take pride in being able to serve our members in a timely manner. It is not who we are to not be responsive to our members. We need your help in order for us to have the material you need for your service. If you know that you will need a new service or a service upgrade this year, please call Ken at 605-463-2507. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee we will have the material for your project if you do not plan ahead. Those that do will have access to the availability first. These challenges are also impacting costs. We are seeing a 15 kVa transformer, which is the size for most residential services, is up 125% and larger transformers for small commercial and ag services are up 200-300%. In dollars, it as an additional $1,000-$9,000 more per transformer. We are hopeful that when the supply chain issues are resolved, the prices will go back down. Your Board and all employees at B-Y Electric are mindful of how all these challenges affect our member’s wallet. We are very proud that with the rising inflation, our members can be relieved that B-Y Electric does not need to raise rates. For more information, call our office at (605) 463-2507 or email horst@byelectric.com

BOARD REPORT

ERATIVE

CONNECTIONS

BON HOMME YANKTON ELECTRIC (USPS No. 018-973) Bon Homme Yankton Electric Association, Inc PO 158 134 S. Lidice St. Tabor, SD 57063 Office Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm To pay by phone, call: 1-888-395-5315 To report an outage, call: Local call from Tabor, Tyndall, and Yankton: 605-463-2507 NOTICE: Electric bills must be paid by 10:00am on the 20th of each month to avoid a $10 late fee. Board President: Paul Voigt Board of Directors Dave Sykora - Vice President Dave Sternhagen - Secretary Robert Ruppelt - Treasurer Dean Sternhagen John Lillevold Rick Cheloha General Manager: Stephanie Horst Operations Manager: Ken Carda Office Manager: Nicole Einrem Marketing/Communications Coordinator & Editor: Jaclyn Arens

MARCH BOARD REPORT The March board meeting was held on March 23, at 8am. All board members were present. Others present were Attorney Sheila Woodward, General Manager Stephanie Horst, Oﬃce Manager Nicole Einrem, Operations Manager Ken Carda, and Apprentice Lineman Alex Caba. THE BOARD REVIEWED CONSENT AGENDA:

Year-to-Date Comparison February-21 February-22 Total Revenue ................................$1,047,692 .................................................. $987,186 Cost of Power....................................$679,761................................................... $580,013 Total Cost of Service .....................$1,030,242 .................................................. $899,534 KWH’s Purchased ..........................10,493,855................................................... 9156,654 Residential Average kWh .......................2,372.......................................................... 2,102 Residential Average Bill .......................... $234 .......................................................... $216

Lidice St., Tabor, SD 57063-0158. Families subscribe to Cooperative Connections as part of their electric cooperative membership. The purpose of Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is to provide reliable, helpful information to electric cooperative members on electric cooperative matters and better rural living. Subscription information: Cooperative members devote 50 cents

Postmaster: Please send address changes to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections, PO Box 158,

• Policy 70-04 Custom Work Rates • Executive Session - Enter & Exit - None • Next Meeting date set for Wed, April 20, at 8am

• Guest Employee - Alex Caba • Communication/Marketing Report • Operations & Safety Report

Yankton Electric Association, Inc, PO Box 158, 134 S.

Periodicals postage paid at Tabor, SD 57063.

OTHER GOVERNANCE:

THE BOARD REVIEWED AND APPROVED:

the monthly publication for the members of Bon Homme

Non-member subscriptions are available for $12 annually.

Oﬃce & Financial Reports General Manager Reports East River Cyber Secuirty/IT Report NRECA Annual Meeting PowerXchange Report • Director Reports • Legal Report

• Minutes of the Previous Meeting • New Members & Cancellations • Capital Credits to Estates Discounted $4,415 • Closed Work Order Inventory - None • Review Special Equipment purchases $12,087

Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is

from their monthly electric payments for a subscription.

• • • •

March 2022 Solar Stats

kWh 40 35 30 25

Tabor, SD 57063; telephone (605) 463-2507; fax (605)

463-2419

15 10 5 0

Day of the month

Welcome New Members Avon Paul & Landon Pudwill

Lesterville Jacob & Kristie Bierle

Consumer Directly

Energy to Grid

Scotland

John Wilson

Aaron Cass

Arely Ayala

Yankton

Lisa Miller

Allison & Justin Davis

Tricia Bromley

Premier RV Resort

Brady & Amanda Hanson

Madonna Stands

MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 3

EFFICIENCY UPGRADES

Budget-friendly efﬁciency upgrades There are two ways to measure energy efficiency improvements. There’s the payback period - the amount of time it will take for the improvement to pay for itself. Then there’s comfort. Improvements can often increase the comfort level of a home - not easy to measure but one of the driving forces behind home weatherization efforts. There are several areas of the home that can be improved easily, without breaking your budget. LIGHTING - There has been a steady decline in the price of LED bulbs for residential consumers. Nowadays, 60-watt-replacement LEDs can be purchased for $5 or less. LEDs should save 60 percent or more on power costs compared to incandescent bulbs and last for many years. New LED fixtures are also an affordable option. They come with LED bulbs built in so you never need to change the bulbs. HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING - The Energy Information Administration estimates that heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems account for 22 percent of a typical home’s annual electric bill. While newer systems can be 20-45 percent more efficient than older ones, the upfront cost is often a barrier to adoption. But there are still ways to save. Simple solutions such as changing air filters at least every three months will increase airflow to rooms, increase the life of the HVAC unit’s motor and improve air quality in the home. Sealing and insulating ductwork can be done in a weekend and results in energy savings of up to 20 percent. To lessen the amount of work that heating and cooling systems need to do, it is important to find and seal air leaks. Look for leaks around exterior doors and windows, electric outlets, and entrance points for TV and phone cables. Also check dryer vents and any place with an opening in the wall. To seal leaks, apply caulk, spray foam or weather-stripping to these areas. Simple acts such as cooking outdoors on a hot summer day or keeping curtains closed to keep out the summer sun will keep the interior of your home cooler and reduce the amount of time AC units need to operate.

4 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

EV REGISTRATIONS SEE SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE

According to the South Dakota Dept. of Revenue, the state experienced a boom in electric vehicle registrations in 2021. At year-end, there were 1,313 electric vehicles registered in the state. That compares to just 242 from the year before. EV registrations saw a slight jump from 227 in 2015 to 236 in 2019. Minnehaha County led the state with 406 registered EVs, followed by Pennington County with 228 and Lincoln with 151. Nine counties had no EVs registered.

Stay away from power lines Naomi Goldade Naomi Goldade likes to have outdoor fun in the spring and summer but reminds co-op members to stay away from power lines. Naomi is the daughter of Alex and Rachael Goldade of Timber Lake. They are members of Moreau-Grand Electric Cooperative. Kids, send your drawing with an electrical safety tip to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). If your poster is published, you’ll receive a prize. All entries must include your name, age, mailing address and the names of your parents. Colored drawings are encouraged.

RECIPES

SUPER CASSEROLES ONE DISH CHICKEN AND RICE

CHICKEN AND CHEESE CASSEROLE

Ingredients: 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni 2 5-oz. cans of chicken chunks 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups milk 2 cans cream of chicken soup 4 oz. sliced mushrooms 1/4 cup chopped onion

METHOD Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix all seven ingredients together. Pour into a 9x13 baking pan. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Jeanette Kleinsasser, Iroquois

Ingredients: 1/2 to 1 cup onion, chopped 1/4 to 1/2 cup green and/or red bell pepper 1 can cream of chicken soup (or cream soup of your choice) 1/2 cup milk 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1/3 cup mayonnaise 2 cups chicken, cooked and chopped 1 cup peas (frozen) 2 cups cooked white rice 1 cup shredded cheddar, divided

METHOD Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9-inch x 13-inch baking dish and set aside. Sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil or butter. Blend soup, milk, salt, pepper, and mayo in a bowl. Add chicken, peas, sauteed onions and peppers, and rice to the prepared baking dish. Mix gently. Pour soup over chicken mixture. Mix gently. Fold in half of the cheddar. Top with remaining cheese. Bake until top is golden brown, about 25 minutes. Becky Walker, Sioux Falls

TUNA PASTA CASSEROLE

Ingredients: 4 oz. dried whole-wheat rotini pasta (about 1-1/2 cups) Nonstick cooking spray 16 oz. frozen mixed vegetables, thawed 1 pouch (11 ounces) low-sodium chunk light tuna 1 can (10-3/4 oz.) low-fat, low sodium condensed cream of chicken soup 1/2 cup chopped roasted red bell peppers 1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half 1 tsp. all-purpose, salt-free seasoning blend 3/4 cup crushed low-sodium, whole-grain crackers 1/4 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese

METHOD Prepare pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Using colander, drain well. Transfer to large bowl. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray 2-quart glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Stir mixed vegetables, tuna, soup, roasted peppers, half-and-half and seasoning blend into pasta until combined. Transfer to baking dish. Top with crackers and Parmesan cheese. Bake, uncovered, 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is warmed through and topping is golden brown. familyfeatures.com Please send your favorite dairy recipes to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). Each recipe printed will be entered into a drawing for a prize in December 2022. All entries must include your name, mailing address, phone number and cooperative name.

MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 5

6 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

IT'S BACK!

2022 Power Supply Tour July 12-14 Antelope Vall ey Station

Freedom M ine

Dakota Synfuels Plant

South Dakota Capitol

ctric

Ele East River

Join us on a 3 day/2 night excursion to learn about where your electricity comes from! Transportation, hotel, and meals are paid by B-Y Electric (must be a member). Travel with Clay-Union Electric and Union County Electric members in addition to B-Y Electric members. Registration deadline is June 17, 2022. There is limited space for each cooperative and preference will be given to members who have not attended the tour in the past. Reserve your space today by sending in your registration form and deposit. The deposit will be forfeited if you cancel after June 22, 2022.

2022 Power Supply Bus Tour Registration

Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________ (If registering as a couple/double, include both your names) Address:_________________________________________________City:______________ State:_____ Zip:_________ Phone Number:_____________________________ Email: __________________________________________________ Check one: _________ Single $15.00 or _________ Couple/Double Occupancy $30.00 (Refundable Deposit) Tour Date: July 12-14, 2022 Registration Deadline: June 17, 2022 Jaclyn Arens

More Info: (605) 463-2507

jarens@byelectric.com

Mail Application and Deposit To:

B-Y Electric, PO Box 158, Tabor, SD 57063 MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 7

GREAT GOATS

GOATS STEAL THE SPOTLIGHT Anna Johnson and Jessemy Sharp groom at the 2021 Brown County Fair. Photo by Donna Sharp

Ag students show a fondness for working with goats at youth exhibitions and competitions Billy Gibson billy.gibson@sdrea.coop

Matea Gordon’s goats always keep her guessing. The 17-year-old is one of four Gordon siblings from Whitewood who have been highly active - and highly successful - on the 4-H and FFA competition scenes over the past decade. She prefers to work with market goats because the animals force her to stay on her toes. She never knows what she’s going to get. “They tend to have big personalities. Sometimes they’re shy and cute. Other times they can be pretty stubborn. You just never know,” she said. “Plus, it’s fun to see how much progress you can make with them throughout the year.” Her younger brother, Bennett, enjoys raising and feeding the goats daily. “I’ve learned about genetics, animal health and feed nutrition. The goats kind of become your friend as you bring them up and take care of them.” The brother-sister duo are part of a

trend in ag exhibition circles that finds eager competitors opting to work with goats. Their mom, Kindra Gordon, said all four of her children have been fond of tending to goats. She said the family started with two goats a decade ago, and their involvement grew from there. Today, they travel and compete at nearly a dozen shows throughout the year. Likewise, she has seen youth participation in goat exhibitions double over the past few years. “When the kids joined 4-H, they wanted to do a project and the goats just seemed to fit our lifestyle,” she said. Regardless of what animals her children choose, she has found there’s much to be gained in participating in the competitions and other opportunities that youth ag programs provide. “The kids have learned about responsibility, life skills and the agriculture industry. They learn about sportsmanship and how to manage stress. We tell them to be happy for their friends when it’s their time to win, and

8 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

they’ll be happy for you when you win. We’ve met a lot of people and made a lot of friends along the way.” One of those friends is Tessa Erdmann, a freshman at SDSU from Groton who serves as president of the state FFA. She is long-time friends with Matea and her older sister, Danika, both of them winners of Butte Electric Cooperative’s college scholarship program. Tessa said her choice to work with goats mostly came down to a practical matter. She cites her smallish physical stature as one reason for channeling her focus on the species. “I’m 5 feet tall and I came to the conclusion that I didn’t want to hold on to something way bigger than me,” she said. At age 12, Tessa went with her father, Darrin, to an auction and brought home her first three animals: Buttercup, Sassy and Thunderbolt. She describes the event as “love at first sight.” In her first year to show at the Brown County Fair, Tessa won ribbons in the breeding and showmanship divisions and has placed many times since then. A former gymnast and a member of Northern Electric based in Aberdeen,

GREAT GOATS

Moorse sees goat-breeding as a gift

Clockwise from top/left: FFA President Tessa Erdmann; Kylee Ellerton of Custer; Taylor, Tate and Tye McGraw of Raymond.

Tessa said she has also experienced a large measure of mutual support within the animal exhibition community. “Everybody is always so nice and you can count on everyone to help one another,” she said. “We’re competitive inside the ring, but outside we’re family and we don’t hate each other. One year, someone’s father was hurt and couldn’t make it to the competition. Everyone chipped in to help the family out.” Becca Tullar is a 4-H advisor in Brown County. She explained what she believes is the reason for the rising interest in goats. “They’re a good starter animal and youngsters get used to them and many of the students stick with them. They kind of grow up together,” she said. “They’re easy to handle. Once you get them halter-broke they’ll go wherever you want. They’re fun animals to show.

They’re almost like pets and they build easy bonds.” One competitor who has a way with his goats is Tate McGraw, a 17-yearold from Raymond who has Down syndrome. His father, Wade, said Tate has been showing since he was 8. “It’s been a real blessing. He’s easygoing and just has a way with the animals. He can get them to do things that other handlers can’t,” he said. His other son Tye, 14, and daughter Taylor, 13, also show goats and other animals and McGraw said they each have their individual strengths. “The best thing as a father is to see the network of friends they’ve developed across the state. They all support each other and they’ve learned to respect one another because they know one day they could be on top and the next day they could be on the bottom.”

Garret Moorse isn’t sure if he chose goats or goats chose him. In 2004, Moorse received twin Nubian kids – a buck and a doe – as a birthday gift. That gift sparked an interest in goats that has led him to building a top breeding operation in southwest Minnesota. By 2011, Moorse was ready to hit the show circuit with only marginal success in the early stages. It would take a couple of years to make it to the American Dairy Goat Association. National Show in St. Paul where Moorse-G Foxy was named Reserve Junior National Champion Recorded Grade. He saw it all as a learning process. “When I started out I didn’t win anything but I learned a lot, and not to mention I met so many great people that I now call close friends,” he said. “When Foxy won, that’s what really got us excited and dedicated to continue on this path with dairy goats.” Moorse raises and markets Alpines, Lamanchas, Saanens, Toggenburgs and Recorded Grade Seniors and Juniors. He said he enjoys working with the animals and is especially appreciative of his “goat family.” “It’s a tight community and we’re always seeing each other at shows, exchanging information and sharing ideas,” he said. “I couldn’t do what I do without my family and friends.” For more information, Moorse can be contacted at 507.530.3175.

MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 9

SAFETY

May is Electrical Safety Month Electricity lights homes and businesses, provides warmth and keeps appliances and equipment running smoothly.

STAYING SAFE ON THE ROAD

Downed power lines can happen because of wind, storms, animals or an auto accident/collision. • If you see a downed power line, call 911 to report it and stay in your car. You cannot tell by looking or listening if the power line is deenergized. Wait in your vehicle until an electric utility worker says it is safe. • Do not drive over a downed power line. Doing so could cause a domino effect and bring down other lines, poles, and equipment. • Only exit is if your vehicle or cab is on fire. If this is the case, make a solid jump from the car or cab without touching it, landing with both feet together. Then, hop away with your feet together as far as you can.

STAYING SAFE OUTSIDE

When working outside, be aware of overhead and underground power lines. • Keep at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. Keep any items you are carrying or using, such as long poles or other extended equipment, 10 feet away from power lines at all times. • Make sure that all outside outlets are ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected. • Before digging, call 811. Buried lines such as electric, gas, water, sewer and other lines bring services indoors. Besides the dangers of coming in contact with a gas or electric line, fines due to damage are the responsibility of the homeowner or landowner. • When you see lightning, take shelter inside the house, shop or a hardtopped vehicle for protection. Stay away from high places, and do not take shelter under an isolated tree. Stay away from items that conduct electricity, such as metal fences. If you are swimming or in a hot tub, get out. Water is an electrical conductor that is dangerous during a storm. STAYING SAFE INSIDE

With so many people working from home, the workplace and where you live can be one and the same. This means more devices are plugged into outlets or circuits that may not be able to handle the load. • Have a qualified electrician/licensed contractor check for hazards if you notice the following: dimming lights, a sizzling or buzzing sound, the smell of warm plastic, a switch plate that feels warm or looks scorched, sparks when plugging in or unplugging items or circuits that trip often. • Be aware that electrical equipment can spark when flammable vapors, gases or dust are present. • Do not overstretch a cord or use frayed or damaged cords. • During storms, lightning can enter homes through corded phones, televisions, radios or computers. Lightning can also travel through plumbing. Unplug appliances and electronics before storms, including cell phones that are charging via electricity. Surges caused by lightning can damage electronics and appliances. For more information on electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org. 10 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

WHO POWERS YOU

‘WHO POWERS YOU’ FINALISTS Ken Carda and Stacy Starzl Hansen were selected as contest ﬁnalists for the Touchstone Energy ‘Who Powers You’ contest. Jaclyn Arens jarens@byelectric.com

‘Who Powers You’ is a contest being hosted by B-Y Electric, our power supplier East River Electric Cooperative, and the other Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives in this region. This is the first year of a local version of the ‘Who Powers You’ contest which seeks to highlight local figures who are making a difference in their communities. Nominations were accepted from the end of February 2022 until April 1, 2022. Weekly finalists were announced and featured on Keloland Living starting March 2nd. The three contest winners will be announced on Keloland Living on May 11, 2022. The ‘Who Powers

You’ contest grand prize winner will receive a $3,000 prize. A secondplace winner will receive $1,500, and the third place winner will receive $500. We are excited to announced that there were two contest finalist in the B-Y Electric service territory!

KEN CARDA

B-Y Electric’s very own Operations Manager Ken Carda was selected as a finalist, and he was featured on Keloland Living on March 24th. Ken was nominated in recognition of his involvement in the Tabor community, his willingness to help his neighbors, and as the fire chief in Tabor. If you missed Ken’s Keloland Living interview, you can watch it

here: https://www.keloland.com/ keloland-living/ken-beau-two-whopowers-you-contest-nominees/ STACY STARZL HANSEN

Stacy Starzl Hansen, the Executive Director of River City Domestic Violence Center, was also selected as a finalist, and she was featured on April 7th. Stacy was nominated due to her leadership of River City Domestic Violence Center. In her Keloland interview Stacy mentioned that she has always worked in a helping profession. Through River City Domestic Violence Center, she works to give a voice to the voiceless. Watch Stacy’s Keloland Living interview here: https://www. keloland.com/keloland-living/paulstacy-two-who-powers-you-contestnominees/.

MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 11

LOAD MANAGEMENT

THE POWER OF LOAD MANAGEMENT Chris Danielski monitors an irrigation pivot control panel from his phone app. Photos by Billy Gibson

Load control program reaps big rewards for both residents and large energy users Billy Gibson billy.gibson@sdrea.coop

Danielski Farms didn’t become a blue chip producer over the past four decades by making boneheaded business decisions. In 2013, the company was invited by Cherry-Todd Electric to participate in the cooperative’s irrigation load management program. Load management is a term used to describe a co-op’s ability to balance the system’s electrical load by adjusting or controlling network demand. Better balance brings greater efficiency and lower costs for all consumers on the system. Len Danielski recalls pulling the leadership team together and weighing the pros and cons. The proposal included installing specialized equipment that would allow CherryTodd to temporarily interrupt power when warranted - to any of roughly 200 irrigation pivots across 18,000 acres.

While different electric co-ops have their own load management policies, Cherry-Todd’s guidelines call for a lower irrigation rate for participants and the right of the consumer to withdraw and return to the regular rate at any time. The deliberation process was helped along by the fact that Danielski’s General Manager Gary Garvin previously served as a board member at Cherry-Todd. He was aware the cooperative business model was designed and intended to produce “win-win” situations for both the co-op and its owner-members. Danielski Farms ultimately decided to place all of its irrigation system under load management and Len Danielski reports the results have exceeded expectations. “We found it was a winner all the way around. We have the choice to place one pivot, two pivots, or all pivots on the load control program, or none,” he said. “We’ve analyzed the benefits over time and found that the company wins,

12 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

the cooperative wins and the co-op members win. It’s a great partnership.” Chris Rahn, Cherry-Todd’s primary key account contact, said load management is a tremendous benefit for members because it allows the cooperative – working in concert with both the member and the co-op’s wholesale supplier Rushmore Electric – to distribute power more efficiently. Rahn explained that one of the best ways to deliver power at the lowest possible cost is to “shave the peak” or to make sure supply and demand stay in a constant state of equilibrium as conditions such as weather, member consumption and market forces change constantly. Utilities are able to control supply but can find it challenging to project what consumer demand will be at any point in time. Educated projections are important, but there are occasions when it helps for the co-op to have some control over demand. In the end, everyone benefits. “We’ve had a residential water heater load control program for quite a while and it’s been well-received by our

LOAD MANAGEMENT

members,” Rahn said. “It enables us to get a better handle on the demand side and that’s a benefit for all the members on our lines.” Garvin said another mitigating consideration for Danielski Farms is the fact that Cherry-Todd has done its part by making significant improvements to its infrastructure over time. “We used to joke that we were always under load management because the power would go out a lot, but things have changed dramatically for the better and we hardly ever get bumped these days,” Garvin said. “I’ve also got load management on my water heater at home and it works for us.” Len Danielski said that under the load control program power to his pivots rarely gets disrupted and typically only for a few hours when it does. He said the company is pleased to participate in a program that will ultimately benefit all co-op members across the system.

From left, Gary Garvin, Len Danielski, Chris Danielski and Chris Rahn discuss CherryTodd Electric’s load management program.

“We’ve found interruptions are usually during times when we don’t need to be irrigating anyway, like in the heat of the day when a lot of the water will only get evaporated,” he said. “And if it helps the cooperative and saves every member on the system some money, that’s great.” Another element that makes the program work for Danielski Farms is the installation of a remote irrigation control system. All of Danielski’s pivots

All of the roughly 200 irrigation pivots at Danielski Farms are under Cherry-Todd Electric’s load management program.

are connected to the Ag Sense phone app that enables a user to turn the pivots on or off individually or in groups, and receive an abundance of electronic data. Chris Danielski manages the app and said the telemetry allows him to track exactly when load control is being implemented, though he usually receives information from the co-op as well. He said efficiencies gained through both programs have resulted in net savings. “If we have an hour or two of load management, once we get the notice that we’re back on I can restart the pivot from inside the office,” he said. “It used to take several hours to get someone to go out and restart the system.” East River Electric, based in Madison, is a power supply cooperative that delivers wholesale electricity to 24 distribution co-ops in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota. East River has offered its co-ops a load management option since 1985 and has saved members roughly $260 million in avoided wholesale power costs. More than 75,000 different electric loads in homes, farms and businesses are connected to the system, including water heaters, air conditioners, irrigation systems and other big energy users. Chris Larson, general manager of Clay-Union Electric, said the co-op based in Vermillion offers end-use consumers a load control program for

water heaters, irrigation systems, grain bins and other commercial processing equipment. The cooperative has 320 irrigation systems under load management with requests for 10 more in the near future as drought conditions show no signs of abating. Larson emphasized that every cooperative has its own unique rate structure and load management policies when it comes to discounts, demand charges, time-of-use, system peaks and other variables. He said it’s important for consumers to contact their local co-op for details and to work closely with staff to find the best solutions for the member. He said co-ops are obligated to capture their costs of providing power but are also responsible for finding ways to accommodate their memberowners and helping them achieve their individual goals. “Load management really is essential to maximizing system efficiency,” Larson said. “It’s a sophisticated process that ultimately leaves the member with plenty of choices. If we’re controlling irrigation or commercial operations at a time that’s not good for them or complicates their workflow, they need the ability to override the control system so they can make a good business decision that’s best for them.”

MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 13

CO-OP NEWS

Local Discounts with your Co-op Connections Cards Your cooperative membership earns you discounts at local participating businesses. Simply show your Co-op Connections Discount Card and save. • Linda’s Angel Crossing in Yankton 20% off 1 Regular Priced Item. • Royal Sport Shop in Yankton 10% discount on in-store purchases. Some exclusions apply. • Head2Heels in Yankton 10% off any regular-priced item. • Mead Cultural Education Center in Yankton $3.00 Off Admission • Olson’s Pest Technicians in Yankton 20% off for new customers. • Elwood Family Dental Care in Yankton Free whitening strips at recare (cleaning) appointments. • Haase’s Main Stop in Scotland $2 Cheese sticks with specialty pizza order and/or Free 32oz fountain drink with a $5 deli purchase • Loving Hands Gifts in Tabor Pay CASH and receive $10 off purchases of $100.

For a full list of ways to save, visit www.connections. coop. To request a card or become a participating business, call (605) 463-2507 or email jarens@ byelectric.com

Now Selling Generac Generators! Call us for more information (605) 463-2507

14 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MAY 2022

FFA Farm Safety Day in Scotland On March 18th, B-Y Electric participated in Scotland School District’s annual Farm Safety Day. This Farm Safety Day is targeted to K-8 grade students. Scotland’s FFA Advisor Lindsey Kaufmann planned the Farm Safety Day with the help of FFA committee members Baily Vitek, Charlotte Mares, Kalley Vitek, Joslyn Walloch, Cole Friederich, Brandon Souhrada, Dawson Hlavac, and Macee Haase. Jaclyn Arens, Marketing and Communications coordinator, put on an electrical safety demonstration with our Powertown display. Powertown is an interactive display that takes kids through multiple electrical safety scenarios at home, at the farm, and on the road. Tyler Suess, Journeyman Lineman, used his own equipment to demonstrate the safety equipment linemen need to wear to work on power lines. Tyler even let the kids try on his high voltage rubber gloves and attempt to tighten a nut on a bolt. In addition to B-Y Electric’s demonstrations, other safety sessions included basic farm safety, animal safety, fireman safety, EMTs, and horse safety. If you are interested in organizing an electric safety demonstration, contact Jaclyn Arens at jarens@byelectric.

CO-OP NEWS

BE ALERT. BE PREPARED.

BE AROUND TO FARM AGAIN NEXT YEAR. Fieldwork can feel like second nature. But, complacency when operating around power lines can be deadly. Staying alert and being prepared can help prevent catastrophic accidents. Knowing what to do if an accident does occur can be the difference between life and death.

RE-ENERGIZING SAFETY

Contact your local Touchstone Energy® Cooperative or visit YourCoopPower.com to find safety tips and make a plan.

FREE Classiﬁed Ad Service

Members can submit classiﬁed ads for the following categories: Giveaway, For Sale, For Rent, and Wanted Ads. All ads must be received by the ﬁrst of the month to be included in the following month’s issue. Ads will run one time unless resubmitted. Bon Homme Yankton Electric reserves the right to edit content or exclude ads due to space restrictions. Email ads to Jaclyn Arens at jarens@byelectric.com.

CLASSIFIEDS

June Issue Deadline: May 1, 2022. Email your classiﬁed ad to: jarens@byelectric.com. Members can post one free ad per year. Repeats or longer ads are $1/column inch. • For SALE: 2 year old Angus bulls. Grandsons of Rito 707. Call 605-661-5624 (Allen Bierema) or 605-661-6021 (Brad Bierema) • FOR RENT: 1 bedroom apartment. Tabor Manor. Contact Gary at 605-463-2209 or Ron at 605-463-2256. • Beseda Hall, Tabor, SD for rent for any special occasion such as weddings, anniversaries, graduation or birthdays! For more information contact Linda Bares at 605-661-6220 or snlbares@gmail.com. • FOR RENT: Tabor Self Storage. Call 605-6600274 or 605-660-3497.

Statement of Non-Discrimination

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_ filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.

MAY 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 15

MAY 20-22

Open House and Free Fishing Weekend Statewide, SD, 605-223-7660

MAY 21

Booth Day D.C. Booth Fish Hatchery, Spearﬁsh, SD, dcboothﬁsh hatchery.org

MAY 21

Frühlingsfest & Spring Market Main Street, Rapid City, SD, 605-716-7979

MAY 28

Deadwood Live: Hank Williams Jr. Outlaw Square, Deadwood, SD, www.deadwoodlive.com

MAY 14-15 Ellsworth Air & Space Show 1940 EP Howe Drive, Ellsworth AFB, SD

To have your event listed on this page, send complete information, including date, event, place and contact to your local electric cooperative. Include your name, address and daytime telephone number. Information must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to your event. Please call ahead to confirm date, time and location of event. To view the publication’s master event calendar, scan the QR code below:

APRIL 23

Tabor 150 Anniversary Celebration Tabor, SD, activities from 1:30 p.m. to midnight, 605-463-2507

APRIL 27-30

45th Annual Kingswood Rummage Sales Southwest Sioux Falls, SD, kingswoodrummage.com

APRIL 28

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta 131 E Falls Park Drive, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-274-3735

MAY 8

Mother’s Day Tours Historic Adams House and Days of ‘76 Museum, Deadwood, SD, 605-578-3724

MAY 14-15

MAY 28

Memorial Weekend in Mitchell Main Street, Mitchell, SD, 605-292-4444

MAY 28-29

Black Hills Renaissance Faire Manuel Brothers Park, Lead, SD, www.blackhillsrenfest.com

MAY 29-30

MercyMe: The Inhale (Exhale) Tour Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-367-7288

AMA Coins and Sports Cards Show Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-321-9195

Back When They Bucked Rodeo Days of ‘76 Arena, Deadwood, SD, 605-718-0810

APRIL 29-MAY 1

MAY 14-15

Prairie Points Quilt Guild Show Harding County Memorial Rec Center, Buﬀalo, SD, 605-641-5591

State USBC Women’s Bowling Tournament Village Bowl, Mitchell, SD, 605-336-5583

APRIL 29-MAY 1, 5-7

Ordinary Days Grand Opera House, Pierre, SD, pierreplayers.com

APRIL 30 Or visit https://sdrea.coop/ cooperative-connectionsevent-calendar to view more upcoming events.

MAY 7

Ellsworth Air and Space Show 1940 EP Howe Drive, Ellsworth AFB, SD, ellsworthairshow.com

MAY 15

PAW Patrol Live! Swiftel Center, Brookings, SD, www.swiftelcenter.com

MAY 17

SDSO Centennial Finale Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD, sdsymphony.org

Norwegian Independence Day Main Street, Vivian, SD, 605-222-3296

MAY 3-8

MAY 20-22

Come From Away Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD, www.washington pavilion.org/event/come-away

Annual Sound of Silence Tesla Rally 615 Washington Street, Custer, SD, 605-673-2244

MAY 30

JUNE 2-5

Wheel Jam South Dakota State Fairgrounds, Huron, SD, www.wheeljam.com

JUNE 3-5

Lake Andes Fish Days Citywide, Lake Andes, SD, 605-487-7694 Note: Please make sure to call ahead to verify the event is still being held.