Country
Friday, November 1, 2019
cres A
Focusing on Today’s Rural Environment
Volume 7, Edition 16
Farming today
PHOTO BY JENNIFER COYNE
Stearns County SWCD nutrient management specialist Mark Lefebvre (left) and farmer Brandon Dingmann stand in front of a Kernza field Oct. 21 near Cold Spring. The two are working together in a project to see how Kernza helps eliminate nitrates in wellhead protection areas near Cold Spring.
for tomorrow
Dingmann partners with SWCD to grow Kernza as part of sustainability efforts By JENNIFER COYNE Staff Writer COLD SPRING – Brandon Dingmann is a young farmer in central Minnesota with one goal in mind – to care for the land so that future generations may have the same opportunities of forming a career in farming. “This is our livelihood,” Dingmann said. “I feel I need to do whatever I can to help improve the longevity of this farm.” Dingmann and his father, Dave, run 1,100 acres of land where they grow corn varieties, soybeans, canning peas and small grains near Cold Spring. They also raise chickens and cow/calf pairs, and feed out Holstein steers. This past summer, the Dingmanns partnered with the Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District and University of Minnesota to grow 20 acres of Kernza. “If we could find a way to address soil health and eliminate the issues of
farming in the city’s wellhead protection area for future generations, we wanted to give it a try,” Dingmann said. Kernza is a relatively new small grain, most closely related to wheat. The plant was developed as a perennial grass that forms a deep root system in the soil, which helps capture nitrates and prevent the particles from leaching into groundwater. In the city of Cold Spring, elevated levels of nitrates in public drinking water have caused concern from both community members and area farmers. With a grant from Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, Stearns County SWCD had the opportunity to use Kernza to address the issue, and the Dingmanns were willing to participate in the project. “When you’re fighting groundwater issues, you have to be proactive,” Dingmann said. “As farmers, we want to do the best we can to not cause a greater issue.” Over the past year, Dingmann worked closely with Stearns County SWCD’s nu-
4
This month in the
COUNTRY
5
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Kernza seed is prepared for planting at Brandon Dingmann’s field last fall near Cold Spring.
trient management specialist Mark Lefebvre in expanding seed production of the crop’s MN-Clearwater variety. “Brandon took a risk on this project,” Lefebvre said. “We’re working with a new crop with environmental benefits, but it’s still a great risk. This shows Brandon’s commitment to being proactive.” After planting the crop last fall, it was ready for harvest in August. Dingmann swathed the field Aug. 19 and combined
A short moment in life, an experience of a lifetime Freeport No such thing as a seagull; Plowing, Part II Diane Leukam Column
6
Pumpkin spice and patience By Tamara Schmidt & The Jeffrey Skroch Family
9
it seven days later. “I heard horror stories of harvest not going well,” Dingmann said. “We were prepared for the worst, but when it was all done it was pretty easy. There was an open window for us to harvest.” Kernza can be taken off the field with methods commonly used in small grain
Friendships grown on hunting presence Eagle Bend
12 Living soil that creates livelihoods Litchfield
DINGMANN continued on page 2
16 Country Cooking 18 County Acres According to: Frank Vouk
Page 2 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019
Country Acres
Published by Star Publications Copyright 2014 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. Sauk Centre, MN 56378 Phone: 320-352-6577 Fax: 320-352-5647 NEWS STAFF
Diane Leukam, Editor diane@saukherald.com Ben Sonnek, Writer ben.s@saukherald.com Herman Lensing, Writer herman@melrosebeacon.com Jennifer Coyne, Writer jenn@dairystar.com evan Michealson, Writer evan.m@star-pub.com Carol Moorman, Writer carol@melrosebeacon.com
Story ideas send to: diane@saukherald.com SALES STAFF Jeff Weyer, 320-260-8505 jeff.w@dairystar.com Kayla Hunstiger, 320-247-2728 kayla@saukherald.com Missy Traeger, 320-291-9899 missy@saukherald.com Tim Vos, 320-845-2700 tim@albanyenterprise.com Mike Schafer, 320-894-7825 mike.s@dairystar.com Warren Stone, 320-249-9182 warren@star-pub.com Jaime Ostendorf, 320-309-1988 Jaime@star-pub.com
DINGMANN continued from front harvest: a straight combine, swather or stripper head. The grain was processed as a seed stock to establish future planted acres used in the grant project. It is also being evaluated for its quality in food processing, such as baking, beer brewing and pasta making. Soon after the field was harvested, Dingmann prepared another 20-acre field for Kernza. The crop was planted in early September and will be harvested next August. Unlike the other field, this new seeding will be evaluated for its ability to reduce nitrate leaching in the soil. “As a perennial, Brandon should be able to harvest this for several years before having to till it under and start new,” said
DINGMANN continued on page 3
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Brandon Dingmann harvests Kernza Aug. 26 on his farmland near Cold Spring.
PRODUCTION STAFF Pat Turner Amanda Thooft Nancy Powell Brian Dingmann Maddy Peterson
Janelle Westerman Deadlines: Country Acres will be published the first Fridays of April, May, June, September, October and November, and the third Friday of every month. Deadline for news and advertising is the Thursday before publication.
Brandon Dingmann unloads Kernza seed into his planter last fall on his farmland in Stearns County near Cold Spring. Dingmann Kernza grows in a field last summer near Cold Spring. The grain, similar to wheat, will grow more than planted the crop as part of a research project with the Stearns 3 feet tall. County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Safety Man Advice...
THE MOST DANGEROUS JOB IN THE WORLD? FARMING!
While farming is a rewarding profession, it also brings with it hazards unique from other occupations. Almost 200 farm workers are injured each day.
The TOP 5 Dangers on a Farm Safety Man is brought to you by Elmdale Farmers Mutual Insurance, Inc. We’ve been standing behind Central Minnesota farmers and homeowners for over 100 years.
PLEASE BE SAFE THIS YEAR!
5. Grain Bins: In just 20 seconds you can sink and become engulfed. With an average time of 4 hours for emergency responders to rescue you, it’s no surprise there is a 62% fatality rate. 4. Electrocution: 62 farmers each year die from electrocution. Contacting equipment with power lines is the most common risk. Remember to look up. 3. Corn Pickers & Combines: Be aware that if you are trying to unjam a roller, it takes only a 1/2 second for your hand holding a stalk 3 ft. long to reach the rollers. 2. PTO’s (Power Take Off ): Use your protective guards and remove loose clothing. 1. Tractor Rollovers: Heavy machines combined with uneven terrains are a recipe for disaster. Even experienced operators have been involved in a rollover.
CANov1-1B-JW
Rubes Sponsored by Elmdale Mutual
“Committed to being the eyes and ears of our communities.”
Elmdale Farmers Mutual Insurance, Inc. For a Minnesota agent nearest you, contact 320-573-2151 or go to elmdalemutual.com Serving 15 Counties in Central and Western Minnesota
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 3 DINGMANN continued from page 2 Lefebvre, mentioning the straw yield was estimated at 1.5 tons per acre, too. The quality of the forage is similar to a grass and straw mix. Dingmann has fed one bale to his cattle herd, and hopes to supplement it in the feed ration in the coming seasons. “The feed value is less than grass, but better than straw,” he said. “I’ve fed it in place of grass hay in the
TMR.” Lefebvre agreed. “We’ve been surprised at the regrowth in the first field,” he said. “We don’t know for sure yet, but there could be an opportunity for grazing there. The thing about Kernza is that it could be the best fit for a farm – a better fit than some small grains.” The project began with the slight challenge of planting the grain, but
after adjusting the drill to improve seed flow, the process went smoothly for Dingmann. The farmer is also concerned about grain yield lessening over the years, especially as volunteer crops have the potential to suppress the stands. “Really, I like doing new things to improve soil health, so hopefully this will become another crop to do that,” Dingmann said.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
“I hadn’t heard of [Kernza] before, but after learning about it, I quickly wanted to get involved. I’m always open to trying new things and diversifying our farm.” Dingmann and Lefebvre have two more years of the grant project. They have learned a lot about the crop’s potential yet have more to explore, especially for how it can improve soil health, serve as an alternative commod-
ity in the marketplace, and benefit area farmers’ production systems. “Bakeries and breweries in Minneapolis are looking at this as an ingredient source,” Lefebvre said. Dingmann agreed. “We’re going to have to sell the story of it for the end user to pay the price, which is higher than traditional grains,” he said. “In today’s society, that’s defi-
nitely feasible.” As Dingmann and his family continue working with the crop, he is hopeful it may provide immediate benefits to the farm and a solution to the community’s water quality problem. More importantly, Dingmann believes it may just be the answer to sustaining the farm for future generations.
Paul’s Welding & Repair
A stem of Kernza shows growth last summer in Brandon Dingmann’s field near Cold Spring. The perennial plant is a cousin to annual wheatgrass.
20 Years of Quality Service!
We help keep your farm in full operation!
On-Site Welding & Repairs
PORTABLE WELDING NEEDS!
Aluminum, Stainless Steel & Mild Steel
CA-Nov1-1B-TV
Call us to Rent Jamesway Spreader Tanks!
Call Paul for all your
196 West St. S St. Martin, MN 56376 • 320-548-3300
CHOOSE YOUR SPORTSMAN ®
SPORTSMAN 570 SP
®
Sportsman XP 1000 S
®
Sportsman 850
®
Sportsman 570 SP
®
Sportsman 450
®
STOP IN TODAY! WE HAVE THE RIGHT SPORTSMAN FOR YOUR NEEDS.
CA-Nov1-1B-JO
®
Just 20 minutes from Little Falls or St. Cloud on Cty. Rd. 17
HOLDINGFORD
320-746-2165 View more offers at www.jimssnowmobileandmarine.com WARNING: Polaris® off-road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, and protective clothing. Always use seat belts and cab nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. All riders should take a safety training course. Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2019 Polaris Industries Inc.
CA-Oct18-1B-TV
Financing available!
Page 4 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019
A short moment in life, an experience of a lifetime Christenson recalls yearlong deployment to Kuwait By ANDREA BORGERDING Staff Writer FREEPORT – At just 17 years old, Tanya Christenson had a lasting experience that would change the way she saw the world for years to come. Christenson enlisted in the U.S. National Guard, completed 12 weeks of basic training and completed four months of job training during her junior and senior years of high school. Then, within one year of enlisting, she was deployed to Kuwait in 2004 during the Iraq War. The experience of enlisting and ultimately being deployed was something Christenson said she will never forget. “My dad always said that I had talked about enPHOTO BY ANDREA BORGERDING listing for as long as he can Tanya Christenson holds a medal of recognition and her photo from basic training Oct. 24 in her home remember,” Christenson south of Freeport. Christenson served a yearlong tour in Kuwait during the Iraq War. said. “I think it was some-
$
thing I always wanted to do.” Christenson grew up on a dairy farm south of Freeport. Her parents, Carl and Kathy and Schulzetenberg, milk 60 cows on her family’s farm where today she works in partnership with her father. Knowing she ended up where she started out – on the family farm – Christenson is grateful for her time overseas. “It was good to leave for awhile and to have that experience rather than just farming,” Christenson said. “I was so young when I went there – no family and not married. I actually enjoyed being there.” Christenson found out during her four months of job training in Virginia as a fueler for a 77 Fox, that her unit – the 434 MSB out of St. Cloud – would be deployed for a 12-month tour stationed in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The mission
699
Bobcat compact track loaders have built a reputation as the industry’s most powerful, comfortable, and versatile compact track loaders. When it comes to pushing force, flotation and ground disturbance, other brands can’t measure up. Even in soft, sandy, wet or muddy conditions, you’ll be able to push through and get the job done. A commanding lineup of models offers machine sizes for any task.
for her trucking unit was to haul up-armor, armor used to protect vehicles, to units stationed at the Kuwait/ Iraq border. Christenson left just before her high school graduation in May 2004. Upon arriving at Camp Arifjan, Christenson realized her unit was highly anticipated. “We were the first unit to come over that was half female,” Christenson said. “They actually wanted to make sure we were all safe because there were so many males already over there and they all knew we were coming.” Upon their arrival, Christenson said they were treated as any other infantry unit. Initially, Camp Arifjan was a temporary camp, but during Christenson’s stay, barracks were built making the camp a more permanent encampment. “The amenities were nice compared to when we were traveling up north,” Christenson said. Christenson’s duty
CHRISTENSON continued on page 7
$
Dassel 888-679-4857 Long Prairie 866-514-0982
6000
St. Cloud 844-262-2281 Willmar 877-484-3211 CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Visit Bobcat.com/Offers or stop by today for details. *Offer ends 12/31/2019. Available at participating and eligible dealers only. Offer may vary by product type, series, model and select units in dealer’s current inventory. Must take delivery from dealer stock by 09/30/2019. Offers available on new equipment in US and Canada only. Some restrictions apply. Length of contract may vary. Prior purchases not eligible. See dealer for details. Financing provided on approval of credit by authorized Bobcat finance providers to well-qualified buyers. Administrative fees may apply. Offer not available to government accounts, national accounts and municipal/utility bid customers. Non-commercial customers may not be eligible for low rate financing. Bobcat Company reserves the right to extend or discontinue any of these programs at any time without prior notice. Bobcat®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries.
One Tough Animal
®
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 5
320-346-2234 • Fax: 320-346-2237 147 Central Ave. S., Brooten, MN 56316
MEMBER FDIC
www.bvsb.bank
CA-Nov1-1B-KB
T
he countryside has begun to turn tect an easy meal they will show up, to black, and by the time you are the point of becoming a nuisance for reading this some of it might some farmers. Since all gulls are prowell be frozen. The 10-day forecast is tected under the Migratory Bird Treaty looking, well, Novemberish. Act, managing them can be tricky, esLast week my husband, Don, and pecially if they are on the farm where I were driving through the countryside cattle are fed outdoors. when we saw something that to me is It seems as though I can’t get away a harbinger of winter. Someone was from plowing columns. I hope you had working a field with a moldboard plow, a chance to read “Plowing through a by Diane Leukam and sure enough, a flock of seagulls test of marriage� in the last issue, about was following him, rising and settling as he drove Hans and Hilda’s struggle plowing through wet across the field. It always makes a striking visual, ground many years ago. It has certainly sparked with the combination of dry foliage, a colorful trac- conversations, and people have since told stories of tor (take your pick which color), black earth and their own experiences doing the same thing. I just white seagulls. hope they all had as good an outcome as Hans and Do you ever wonder where they come from? Hilda. Even as a kid, I wondered where they lived, and One day my phone rang at work and it was how they could suddenly appear in flocks as soon Hilda’s mother. In her 90s, she is loving the whole as Dad started plowing a field. And, if they are thing. She said she will call her daughter now and seagulls, what are they doing in central Minnesota ask how Hans is doing. I hope Hans and Hilda are and why are they not by the sea? enjoying their anonymous notoriety. Here is what I found out about that: There is One person from Litchfield wrote a wonderful no such thing as a seagull. There are many types thank you note that I already received the next Monof gulls, though. Around here, 19 types have been day, saying she and her husband had been married observed but we basically have three common ones for 54 years. They had some struggles but “the rest – Franklin’s, the Ring-billed and Herring – which of their years have been great!� Hans’s response of are the only species that breed here. One reason we the same thing had brought tears to her eyes. She do not see much of these noisy, rambunctious crea- requested the note be delivered to Hans and Hilda tures is that they stick very close to their nesting so they can keep it, and know how much their story grounds near marshy areas and shorelines the entire meant to her. (It didn’t hurt that her father’s name time their babies are growing up. was also Hans!) I would take it a step further and say that since Sharing stories brings people together. Even Franklin’s gulls have a black head, most of the gulls if you are going through something difficult and it we see behind a plow are likely to be the other two seems like you are alone, others are also experienctypes. They follow along eating grubs and insects ing something similar. We can lean on one another. that are turned up by the plow or whatever equipIt is my privilege to be in a position to share ment is tilling the soil, squawking away as they go. stories, and as usual, I hope you will enjoy all that They are opportunistic, and whenever they de- this issue has to offer!
CA_Nov1_1B_JO
No such thing as a seagull; Plowing, Part II
Country Acres Call 320-352-6577 today to advertise!
HELP WANTED
SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC
700 SERIES
FULL BENEFITS
10-16.5 • 10 Ply Hauler 732 Deep Tread . . .$17295 12-16.5 • 12 Ply Hauler 732 Deep Tread . . .$21095 14-17.5 • 14 Ply Hauler 732. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$39395
100% Healthcare • Paid vacation and holidays • Uniforms provided
Apply in person or email randy@acfarmservice.com
A&C Farm Service, Inc. CA-Nov1-1B-MS
412 BUSINESS 23 S | PAYNESVILLE, MN 320-243-3736 • www.acfarmservice.com
$$
t 1MZ )BVMFS t 1MZ )BVMFS t 1MZ )BVMFS $ 95 ... $ 95 ... t 1MZ ""! 95 $ t 1MZ ... "
Cement Tire SKS 775 10-16.5 • 10 Ply 207 12-16.5 • 12 Ply 285 14-17.5 • 14 Ply 449
ot Mounting N Included!
$$
500 SERIES
CA_Sept15_1B_KH CA-Noiv1-1B-WS
t 1MZ 4,4 "! 95 10-16.5 • 10 Ply SKS 532 . . .$147 " 95 12-16.5t• 101MZ Ply4,4 SKS 532 . . .$177 t 1MZ 4,4 ! $
#
CANov1-1B-MT
Page 6 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019 Commentary
Pumpkin spice and patience By Tamara Schmidt, Rice | The Jeffrey Skroch Family And all the other producers in your world
F
all, the time of year when the world is excited for pumpkin spice flavored everything and fall fashions of scarves and boots, is a time of increasing anxiety and a quiet depression that blankets myself and our family. While the rest of the world is excited to carve pumpkins and decide on their Halloween costumes, I am constantly replaying that night in my mind. “Come home now, Important.” A text I received late one evening while lounging on my couch including these words that I will never forget, words that began the unbelievable journey that has been our last four years. I quickly dismissed the text to my husband thinking Mom accidentally included me on a text to the wives of my three brothers since the guys were busy harvesting. But, to be sure, I tried to call her. If for
nothing else, to make fun of her inability to understand technology. No answer. I told my husband, let’s get ready to go, just in case. As I pulled the second leg of my jeans on it clicked, I told my husband, “Someone died, we have to go now!” He looked at me like I was crazy, but my heart sank. A year prior, when my grandfather passed, my mother had me call all the aunts and uncles with this same verbiage so that no one would be too emotional to drive. By the time we were on the highway headed the hour home, I received a call from my dad. “Tam, there was an accident, your brother Jeff was killed.” I screamed and threw the phone. My husband begged me to pull over and let him drive as he gathered the phone and spoke to my dad. From there, I cannot begin to describe the way
everyone was broken to the core. The imagery of even the strongest in my family falling apart, the priest wrapping his arms around my sister-in-law and Jeff’s 8-month-old daughter, Quinn, at my brother’s funeral, and the reality of the enormous changes that were about to take place in our family, our company, and our livelihood will never leave my mind. Oddly enough, only about a year prior, my father and brothers were some of the first on the scene of an accident where a priest hit some farm equipment. They tried their best to help, but it was too late for that priest. An example of foreshadowing at its finest. Too many, too close to home. My life, my family’s lives, his wife, my niece’s life, they are all forever changed. That semi driver hit a parked semi that was fully lit that night and
consequently killed my brother. Sleeping, not paying attention, on a phone; it doesn’t matter. What matters is that so many lives were irreversibly altered that night and so many other times in similar situations, all unnecessarily. So, I beg you, take care, take it slow, give the farmers room to move the big equipment. They don’t want to slow you down either. Don’t change someone’s life this season, instead, take and enjoy the beauty of make for the world. Thanks in advance another sip of that pump- a bountiful harvest that kin spiced something the farmers are trying to for your patience.
HELP WANTED MECHANIC or SETUP FULL BENEFITS
Let us help you customize your farm NOW HIRING
100% Healthcare • Paid vacation and holidays • Uniforms provided
Apply in person or email randy@acfarmservice.com
A&C Farm Service, Inc.
Free Estimates ates • Free Delivery Locally Owned and Operated
CA-Nov1-1B-MS
412 BUSINESS 23 S | PAYNESVILLE, MN 320-243-3736 • www.acfarmservice.com
Full-time Delivery Driver/ Lumber Yard Worker
Call C ll Randy or Derek Today!
• Residential • Agricultural • Light Commercial • Drafting
320-251-5090 800-728-5091
St. Martin, MN • www.lifestylelumber.com • 320-548-3459 • 800-699-9774
CA-Nov1-1B-TV
141 28th Avenue South Waite Park, MN We Know Water from the Bottom to the Tap
trautcompanies.com
TRAILERMAN GOOSENECK DECKOVER Trailerman HHG8275F20 27’+5’=32’ Gooseneck Deckover, 2x10,000 lb. Oil Bath Dexter Axles, X-Braced Frame, Dual Wheels, 2x12k Drop Leg Jacks, Sealed Wire Harness, LED Rubber Mounted Lights, Lockable Tool Box, Spare Tire, 3 Ramps, Stake Pockets With Rub Rail, Black.
$
9,800
STOP IN, we have many trailers available!
Stock #000326
SEE OUR INVENTORY AT WWW.HILLIG.COM • 320-732-6161 Hwy. 71 South • Long Prairie, MN 56347
CA-Nov1-1B-JO
Well Drilling Certified Testing Lab Water Treatment Sprinkler Systems Pump Service and Repair Commercial and Residential
We drill wells year round. A plot of land means the possibilities of building your dream home are endless! Whether you dream of a remote country home or prefer a development outside the city limits where you still have neighbors, one of the first things to consider is a well. Traut Companies will customize a system to meet your household’s needs. Call today! CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 7 CHRISTENSON continued from page 4
Her squad received recognition of excellence for the missions completed to the northern border. When she wasn’t completing missions north, Christenson washed vehicles at wash racks at Camp Arifjan. Trucks and other vehicles had to be cleaned of all the sand and dirt from the desert before they were sent back home. During her time there, Christenson kept in touch with her family through email and letters. “Back then you could only call home on phones you bought over there,” Christenson said. “They had just started doing PHOTOS SUBMITTED screen calls but the con- Tanya Christenson (back, left) stands with the crew she went on missions with in 2005 at Camp Arifjan, nection was so bad or de- Kuwait. This group received an Excellence Award for completing missions to the Kuwait/Iraq border. Behind them are the trucks similar to what they drove to haul equipment. layed.” Christenson enjoyed care packages sent from home as well as messages of community support while her unit was stationed in Kuwait. Towards the end of her deployment, Christenson had experienced a full year of serving in another country and culture on the other side of the world. “When we left, I thought, ‘I will probably never be back here,’” Christenson said. “How odd to spend a whole year there and know that you Tanya Christenson is pictured with “battle buddy” Tischel (Rugland) will never see it again.” Schwegel after completing basic training in 2004. included traveling north about 400 miles. Traveling in convoys of 4-6 semis with three people in each truck, they would travel for a week at a time to the Iraqi border. Although trained in fueling, Christenson drove semi more than fueled trucks. Traveling north to the border took twice as long as it normally would to travel 400 miles because of the lack of traffic rules and locals inadvertently breaking up the convoy. “On the road, we were always on the lookout,” Christenson said. “We had 50-caliber gunners riding on top. I did that for
awhile, too. We were able to fire over the top of vehicles if people would try to break up our convoys.” Christenson said she had moments when she was fearful but for the most part where they were stationed was safe. “There were a few times when we saw a little action but not like some,” Christenson said. “We were pretty lucky.” Once they had arrived at the border, the convoy unloaded the up-armor. The squad then returned to Camp Arifjan for another load. After missions, Christenson would have a few days off.
CHRISTENSON continued on page 8
Tanya Christenson (right) stands with fellow unit member, Laura Williamson, in 2004 in Georgia just before leaving for Kuwait. The plane behind them is what they flew into Kuwait.
RELIABLE, POWERFUL,
EASY TO OPERATE
MORE THAN YOUR FARM, YOUR AMERICAN DREAM.
WORKMASTER™ 25S
SUB-COMPACT
The T he perfect perfect “first “ffirst sstep” tep” ttractor ractor ffor or homeowners and AG-lifestylers AG-lifestyylers who need a hardworking, versatile small tractor to handle the chores garden a gard den tractor tracttor just justt can’t. can’’t.
CA-Nov1-1B-MT
We offer coverage that includes coverage for buildings, Equipment and liability-all at competitive rates. Call today to get a quote to protect you and your farm.
American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I., American Family Insurance Company, Midvale Indemnity Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 007388 – Rev. 2/15 ©2015 – 9414129
Timothy Kampsen, Agent Tim Kampsen Agency Inc 501 Main St S, Sauk Centre Bus: (320) 352-6115 tkampsen@amfam.com
Kyle Hoium, Agent Kyle Hoium Agency LLC 10 3rd Ave SE, Melrose Bus: (320) 256-3434 khoium@amfam.com
SAUK CENTRE, MN 320-352-6543 • Hwy. 71 South
PIERZ, MN 320-468-2161 • Hwy. 27 West
www.modernfarmequipment.com
CA-Nov1-1B-JW
Page 8 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019 CHRISTENSON continued from page 7
Christenson was 19 years old when she arrived back in the United States. She spent two weeks in North Carolina training troops who were to be deployed to Kuwait. “Not many troops had been over yet at that time so we were able to help train troops on what to expect overseas,” Christenson said. Christenson returned to the family farm after her deployment. Shortly after she enrolled at St. Cloud State University to pursue veterinary medicine. After a few semesters, she realized farming with her own cows was where she wanted to be. She still had four years left of her 8-year obligation to the National Guard, so Christenson continued her obligation of one weekend a month
and two weeks of training during the summers. Christenson eventually met her husband, Jason, and started a family. Today they have five daughters, Madison, 17, Addison, 12, Jacilyn, 6, Kaylin, 5, Evelyn, 1. In 2007, her unit was called for a second deployment to Kuwait. She was several months pregnant at the time and was not deployed. Several years later, her 8-year obligation was complete and Christenson was honorably discharged from the U.S. National Guard. “I miss it sometimes,” Christenson said. “It’s a whole part of my life that is so different from where I am at now.” Christenson has kept in touch with a handful of members from her platoon,
which allows her to keep who died.” going overseas and witness kneeling for the national tabs on what is happening Christenson feels if a fallen soldier, they would anthem. with her former unit and people would experience hopefully think twice about overseas. “Until you actually have done it, it’s something that’s hard to explain – it’s something I wasn’t expecting either,” Christenson said. “Even when you are there it’s hard to explain to people what is happening over there.” Her experience overseas has given Christenson a viewpoint she wishes everyone could listen to and take into consideration. “It is bothersome to me when people don’t stand for the national anthem,” Christenson said. “It is being disrespectful to the ones who passed away over there. The reason they don’t stand has nothing to do with the words of the anthem or with the soldiers
Established in 1975
Drainage LLC. Howard Marthaler 320-250-2984
Jason Marthaler 320-249-6062 Karl Larson 320-808-8012
Ditching • Tiling Excavating Ag Waste Systems
PHOTO BY ANDREA BORGERDING
Tanya Christenson received these medals during her tour in Kuwait from 2004-05.
AS K A B O U T
Ritchie Cattle Fountains
Call or stop in today! Mondloch, Inc.
have a combined n o s a J d rd an of OVER 90 YEARS! a w , Ho xperience l r K a w o rk e
320-548-3255
“FARM DRAINAG E SPECIALISTS”
125 Main St., St. Martin, MN 56376 Fax: 320-548-3705
CA Nov1_1B_TV N 1 1B TV
BE READY FOR
A ATTACHMENTS FALL WITH THESE
“We are in the land improvement business. We do farm drainage, ag waste systems, site work for farm buildings and silage pads, plus miscellaneous work. We also do county, township, and watershed work, as well as soil conservation work.” - MBC Drainage, Sauk Centre
PRICES GOOD THROUGH 2018 ATTACHMENTS!
WOOD SPLITTER/ TREE SHEAR
NEW
HYDRAULIC TELESCOPING BOOM • Transports easily at 8’ • Extends to 21’ $1,850
PATENT PENDING • Whether shearing, ng trimming oor splitting this attachment can do it all! + $75 Shipping
LL AE NV DE L E R
$2,750
1800 2nd St. S. • Sauk Centre, MN
$2,500
• Cut and Grade in both directions • Optional hydraulic scarifier and grate kit
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
+ $125 Shipping
2 year warranty on all products!
SB NU OC WK E T
$1,350
Most items in stock!
• Heavy duty 3/16” material • Options with or without mesh back • Comes$2,025 in sizes 6-10 ft.
Located 1.5 miles west of Sauk Centre at 42739 County Road 184
320.352.3477 www.messerrepair.com 320.352.3477 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! $2,225
CA-Nov1-1B-JO
$2,500
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 9
Friendships grown on hunting preserve The club offers a huntlodge where guests can Ellwangers’ alternative ing rent rooms; trap, archery and rifle ranges; cleanto traditional farming ing facilities and fields for
By HERMAN LENSING Staff Writer EAGLE BEND - Over three decades ago, Don and Sue Ellwanger of rural Eagle Bend decided traditional farming was not really working for them. They took their farm in a different direction. It is one that continues to keep their lives filled – and busy. “This piece of land was terribly low and so irregular in shape that it was hard to farm in a conventional manner,” Don said. “It became much more realistic to make it look like a hunting operation than a conventional farm.” The Ellwangers were raising feeder pigs and beef cattle when they heard of an application on hunting preserves. They continued to look at that and felt it was a way they could live on their land.
PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING
ELLWANGER continued on page 10
Don and Sue Ellwanger have provided countless successful hunts and made many friends at their American Heritage Hunting Club near Eagle Bend.
/80%(5 +$5':$5( 5(17$/ LUMBER • HARDWARE • RENTAL • PAINT
www.mmlumber.net
Winter Hours Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm Saturday 8am - 12pm 28584 State Hwy. 55, Paynesville, MN 56362
320-243-4202
Are you a DO IT YOURSELF” type of person? YOU’RE LIVING YOUR DREAM. NOW YOU CAN DRIVE IT, TOO.
Implement
23661 Hwy. 4 , Lake Henry, MN
inc.
(320) 243-7411
© 2018 AGCO Corporation. Massey Ferguson is a brand of AGCO Corporation. AGCO® and Massey Ferguson® are trademarks of AGCO. All rights reserved. MF18TK007CRv02
masseyferguson.us
• Air compressors & Tools • Concrete Tools • Carpet Installation Tools • Floor Care & Carpet Cleaning GIVE US • Jacks • Lifts A CALL • Power Tools TODAY!
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Visit your Massey Ferguson dealer to learn more.g
training dogs. The farm may no longer be producing traditional farm crops, but it is still raising crops and animals. It is also a year-round operation. “We raise about 3,000 pheasants,” said Sue. “We have a brood stock. We pick eggs, incubate and hatch them and raise them. They are raised through the end of the summer. The chuckars we have shipped in.” Chuckars are an Eurasian upland gamebird in the pheasant family. They have been introduced to the United States and there are now wild populations here. Because they prefer and arid mountain climate, they do not do well in Minnesota. The chuckars and pheasants are the most common bird raised and hunted at the club. The Ell-
CA-Nov1-1B-TV
You’ve always dreamed of owning your own farm, and being closer to the land. Now you’ve got it. And to work that land, you need just the right tractor: a GC1700, 1700E or 1700M Series compact tractor from Massey Ferguson®. Not too big. Not too small. With the versatility and ease-of-use to do the jobs that need to get done — from mowing, loading and backhoe work to snow blowing and hauling.
“It became apparent that with the small size we were that it was much easier and more economically feasible to raise pheasants than pigs and cows,” said Don. “When we began, some days pheasants were worth more than feeder pigs.” Their 200-acre farm was converted into a licensed shooting preserve, the American Heritage Hunting Club. The club offers the opportunity for people to hunt, but where they still have to work for a successful hunt. “Those who come here to hunt don’t have go over a large area to get the shootable number of birds,” said Don. “We can put birds on a small enough field that they can hunt for an hour or so and have a hunt and have good time, as opposed to spending all day to hunt across acres before you find a bird.”
COME TO US FOR YOUR EQUIPMENT RENTALS
CA N CA-Nov1-1B-TV B TV
Page 10 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019 ELLWANGER continued from page 9 wangers have made their land a habitat for those birds and other animals. “We still plant, but never harvest anything,” said Don. “If anything is left in spring it is disked down. Most of the time, by spring, the deer have been through it and there is nothing left anyway. Some areas have been planted permanently to native grass strips. Others are tilled for grain, sorghum and corn and whatever else.” The fields provide the habitat and food for released birds. About the only time work is done on fields, after planting, is the cutting of strips into the fields. “We mow strips into them,” Don said. “Sometimes it helps hold birds in the strip, but mostly it is to keep hunters organized. Otherwise they are out there and pretty soon some
can’t figure out where they have been and where they haven’t been.” The cutting of rows serves another purpose. It makes hunt areas more accessible. “People with walking disabilities, or because of age, can walk on the mowed areas and it makes it easier for those hunters, too,” said Don. Helping any hunters have an enjoyable and successful hunt is the focus of the club. Parties contact the club, giving their party size and how many birds they would like to take. Birds are released, but they must be hunted. “When they go to the field you want them to be in the area that feels like it should have pheasants,” Don said. The grounds of the AHHC are not easy grounds
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Heat lamps are needed to help keep new chicks warm.
to hunt. Some groups have harvested 100% of their goals, other less so. “The record is zero,” said Don. “They saw 16 birds, but didn’t get any.” Factors that contribute to a low percentage often have more do to with the skills of the hunter or their dogs, than the availability of birds. Dogs, in Don’s view, are needed for a successful hunt. “The number footflushed is very few,” Don said. “Without a dog, and in some cases without a good dog, you will not get them. They just hide or out-maneuver you.” Some hunters bring their own dogs and other times, friends of the Ellwangers will provide and help run dogs during the hunt. The guides are there to work the dogs and control the hunt, and like being part of a hunt. “They have as much fun going out and hunting with others without taking a gun along. They enjoy working their dogs,” Don said. Occasionally there is even a surprise for the hunters. Not all pheasants look alike. “We have different coloreds birds, like gold and white,” said Don. “The first time a hunter sees a white bird, bet on the bird.” Another challenge is the chuckars. Their looping
Harvest Help . . .
flight patterns and tendency to run before flying make them a challenge to shoot. “They are sporting to shoot because they are smaller and fly more erratically,” Don said. “If they are looking at you, they will fly right at you. People have hit them with their gun barrel.” What really makes them a challenge to hunt is their immobility. The birds will sit very tight to the ground. “They sit like rocks,” Don said. “They are good for helping train point dogs. They don’t flush and run away.” The site has also earned a reputation for helping promote hunting to a wide range of groups. Television shows, schools and natural resource classes have all found something they liked at the club. So, too, have people coming to train dogs, but for the most part, it is hunters. “You never know what will come through the door, in terms of what they want to hunt,” said Don. The three decades of providing a hunting experience has put the Ellwangers in touch with people from all walks of life and across the world. Their regular customers travel from Valdez, Alaska, and the state of Virginia. One group they will not forget came from Germany.
IS YOUR
Let us calibrate your yield monitor.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Mike Cotrel of Wadena and his Brittany dog were among the hunters who have found success at Don and Sue Ellwanger’s hunting club near Eagle Bend.
“They came just to shoot clay targets. They were taking pictures of themselves holding guns,” Don said. “In their country it (gun ownership) is much more controlled.” Some are regular visitors, some annual, and some come back after a 10year absence. To Don those who return are proof of AHHC’s having met a goal. “You want to provide an enjoyable and positive experience for everyone
that comes here,” Don said. “By the end of day we want them to go home feeling tired, feeling successful, and wanting to come back.” Some hunters have a real attachment to the place, and the experiences they’ve had. Some of the families have had four generations come. Others have taken older dogs on a final hunt. In other cases the
ELLWANGER continued on page 11
TRACTOR’S EXHAUST IN NEED OF REPAIR?
We CUSTOM BUILD hard to Ànd exhaust systems.
With a fast turn around so you can get back to work.
Simple Yet Accurate
• Complete in-house R&D
• Exhaust Fabrication
• CNC Mandrel Tube Bending up to 5”
• MufÁer Manufacturing • Water-Jet Cutting
From prototype to Ànished product…
We do it all!
Make sense of your yield data and make better decisions for your operation. •Instead of time consuming re-calibrations Get simple, reliable results • Instead of isolated information Get instant connectivity and sharing • Instead of complicated desktop software Get yield-by-hybrid reports instantly from the cab. • Instead of only whole-Àeld results. Get zone-by-zone yield data unlike any other yield monitor.
Where technology and craftsmanship come together 60819 US Highway 12 LitchÀeld, MN 55355
With you from the word go!
320-693-0222
CALL US TODAY! Peter Johnson 320-212-8551
mike@heartthrobexhaust.com
www.heartthrobexhaust.com
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Nick Hanson 320-979-6820
CA-Nov1-1B-JO
616 Parkway Drive, Belgrade, MN and 4041 180th Ave SE, Lake Lillian
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 11 ELLWANGER continued from page 10 club has been the kickoff to a new life. “We’ve had bachelor parties start here,” said Don. “They come here, hunt or shoot clays, then go off to the party.” Some things have changed over the years. The Ellwangers now use part of the lodge for their living quarters, and deer hunting (subject to Minnesota hunting laws) is a part of their annual life. They like what came into their lives since their farm became a preserve. “For most part we’ve had a lot of customers that became good friends over the years,” said Don. “You get to know them and if you don’t see them you wonder if they had died or something. They are good friends.”
Winter is nearby! Get the job done right this FALL!! Stop at Midsota Manufacturing!
Bale Processor
Grapples
Roto Tillers
Special Year-End Pricing on Skidloader Attachments
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Brush Cutter
Rock Bucket ket Remember, if you’re going to be HAULIN you need to be CALLIN, Midsota Manufacturing in Avon!
LAND ROLLERS Tested • Proven WHY SPEND MORE?
Augers
(320) 356-2412
Rock Wagons
www.midsotatrailersales.com 404 County Road 50 Avon, Minnesota 56310 – South Side of I-94
CA Nov1_1B_TV
Day-old chicks are pictured shortly after hatching. Don and Sue Ellwanger raise pheasants from eggs to adulthood.
DO YOU HAVE A WINTER REMODEL JOB ON YOUR MIND?
15’-62’ sizes Over 2,000 sold & operating in the Midwest! • Wing steering for easy folding • Variable Áex slot allows for rollers to Áex in the Àeld on uneven surfaces • 2-7/16 bearings for proven performance • All pivots are grease zirc Àtted • 36’ and larger units feature rear stabilizer braces for added support. • Guaranteed against defects in workmanship and materials. • 24” drum diameter • 1/2” wall thickness • 6-hole hubs rated to 5,000 lbs. • 100% U.S.A. Made
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
Pick up the phone and give us a call!
Wagons
Big Bale Tandem Dump Racks Bale Racks
We can help you with those plans!
• Big Square And Big Round Bales • Heavy Duty • Double acting hydraulic lift BEST trailering wagon ever built • 10’x24’ Bed • 8 Bolt Hubs • 8-20 Ton sizes • Professional welding • Extend reach
20 Ton Wagons!
Harms Mfg., Inc. 14451 430TH ST. • BERTHA, MN 56437
218-924-4522
HELPING TO BUILD YOUR DREAMS
• Heavy Duty • All Steel Construction • Guaranteed To Trail • 10’x30’ bed
• www.harmsmfg.com
18508 County Rd 130, Paynesville, MN 56362 • 320-243-7815 Visit our website for more buildings • www.borklumber.com
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Heavy Duty!
CA-Nov1_1-B-JW
t
Standing By Our Service and Serving Central MN for Over 48 Years
Page 12 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019
Living soil that creates livelihoods Schmidt creating biointensive organic farm
By EVAN MICHEALSON a $3,000 training allowance as members of the Staff Writer two-year program. Among the finalists is LITCHFIELD – The Johnnie Schmidt, a LitchExpanded Initiators Fel- field native whose project lowship program was creat- hinges on starting from the ed by the Little Falls-based ground up – literally. Initiative Foundation in Schmidt’s project is a 2016 to help entrepreneurs biointensive organic farm in the beginning stages of that would teach newcomtheir social projects. ers the basic principles The fellowship will of farming. His interest award a $30,000 stipend to in organizing the project seven of 15 finalists who stemmed from a desire managed to garner enough to reinvigorate interest in potential with their benefi- farming – a profession he cial enterprise. The final- feels is losing valuable ists would receive $66,000, farmers to industrial farms. mentoring g and training g and According to the University of Minnesota’s versit vers Center for Farm FiC nancial Management’s n annual report for 2018, an the median income for th Minnesota farmers was M the lowest it has been tth iin the 23-year history of tthe analysis. A bag of Crow River Organic Works seed bombs are mixes Johnnie Schmidt created to prevent the monarch butterfly from decreasing.
“The area is losing so many farmers,” Schmidt said. “Younger people don’t want to take it up and can’t afford it. We want to show that you can keep your rural lifestyle and grow in your own yard. We want to show it’s possible.” The farming methods Schmidt will be pushing forward dates back to original farming methods far before technology entered the farming industry. For this type of farming, Schmidt has no desire to use rototillers or mechanical plows. “I saw a quote from a conservationist and he said, ‘When you use a rototiller, it’s a hurricane, tornado, earthquake and forest fire all happening simultaneously, destroying what’s there,’” Schmidt said. At its core, the project will give its participants a chance to concentrate on homegrown farming, an often-unfamiliar concept amidst an emphasis on technology and processed goods. “It’s the symbiosis of working with nature and seeing that your food doesn’t come in a pre-packaged can or a cellophane-wrapped box at Walmart,” Schmidt said. “There will be food coming out of here that they’ve
PHOTOS BY EVAN MICHEALSON
Johnnie Schmidt is pictured Oct. 23 at the Litchfield Community Gardens in Litchfield. Schmidt is starting a biointensive organic farm adjacent to the community farm across from Litchfield High School.
never tasted – even though it’s a tomato.” The biointensive farm will deploy compost while working near the surface of the soil rather than tilling the ground. To prevent large-scale weeds, Schmidt’s farming method utilizes tarps to germinate weed seeds before they can grow. To track crop growth, the techniques require farmers to place multiple
crops as an indicator. “You would plant carrots into the stale bed, but you would also plant some radishes at the same time,” Schmidt said. “The radishes will come up just before the carrots and will be your signal.” Crops will be planted into six rows on a 100-footlong by 30-inch-wide stale bed spaced two inches apart. While that might seem too tight or cramped,
it offers an advantage of human maneuverability rather than relying on tractor cultivation. “Most people wonder how we could produce that much,” Schmidt said. “We aren’t using tractors, so we don’t need all these wide-spaced rows for tractor tires and for cultivating machinery.”
SCHMIDT continued on page 13
Change of Season is Coming...
Are you Ready? Ritchie Waterers
SB Series
Most Models In Stock.
Hydraulics Sales & Service Serving central MN
This is, quite simply, the most advanced, best-built manure spreader you’re ever going to see. Now, do you need one this tough? Well, that all depends on how often you like to buy them.
SALES AND PARTS, HYDRAULIC REPAIR & HOSES AND FITTINGS
SBX Series ®
ng and Ma eedi nu re
ou
ut ion .
Minnesota’s L If y
h
l
o wwave as w.da barn, we have y.com airylandsuppl
39 Protwin P rotwin® Side-Discharge Side-D Diisscch harge
DAIRYLAND SUPPLY
OFF I-94 I ON THE CORNER OF H HWY. 28 & 71 SOUTH, SAUK CENTRE 320.352.3987 OR 800.338.6455 • WWW.DAIRYLANDSUPPLY.COM
CA-Nov1-1B-JO
tF es
ProPush 2054
ing Dealer nd l Ha
ar g
Available in sizes 300-700 cu. ft.
17
6C e ount y Rd. 186, Sauk C
, n t re
MN
HOSE ASSEMBLIES WHILE YOU WAIT Call Ryan at 320.351.7875 | Email ryan@ceshydraulics.com
CANov1-1b-MT
Service & Installation Available. Parts On Hand.
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 13 SCHMIDT continued from page 12 creature Schmidt holds an affinity for. “They’re so emblematic and beautiful,” he said. “They’re incredible animals. They travel from here all the way to Mexico. They all go to the same few acres in the mountains of Mexico that are completely covered in monarch butterflies. It’s crazy.” The species is threatened by a troubling lack of the milkweed wildflower. Milkweed is the only food source for the monarch butterfly, meaning that without milkweed seeds, the colorful insects will die. That is why Schmidt has produced and planted seed bombs, a milkweed seed mix designed to keep the monarch butterfly’s shrinkage at bay. “A number of years
ago, I planted about 1,500 milkweed plants in Willmar at a greenhouse at the MinnWest Technology Campus,” he said. “I raised them, sold them and planted them all over the place, Johnny Appleseed-style.” However, even as Schmidt worked to prevent the butterfly’s extinction,
an organic farm project was always in the back of his mind. Almost a decade ago, the farmer was living in Santa Fe, N.M., when he attended a seminar hosted by microbiologist Elaine Ingham, an experience that deeply resonated with him. “It really hit me when I went to this seminar,” he
said. “I came back to Minnesota wanting to develop compost. That’s what started it. I really wanted to be an expert in living, organic soils.” Schmidt plans to demonstrate his intensive project on a 13-acre patch of land across the road from Litchfield High
School, where the original Litchfield Municipal Airport stood. The property is owned by Litchfield Public Schools, who gave Schmidt, a former architectural design student, permission to use the land
SCHMIDT continued on page 14
Kommander Pro Series New Kubota Zero-Turns...Priced to Move ϭϮϭ Ͳ ϰϴ͟ ĞĐŬ
ϭϮϱ Ͳ ϱϰ͟ ĞĐŬ
ϭϮϮ Ͳ ϰϮ͟ ĞĐŬ
>ŝƐƚ WƌŝĐĞ
Ψ ϱϰϵϭ
>ŝƐƚ WƌŝĐĞ
Ψ ϰϯϱϱ
>ŝƐƚ WƌŝĐĞ
Ψ ϲϯϯϮ
Ͳ ĞĂůĞƌ ŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ
Ͳ ϮϰϮ
Ͳ ĞĂůĞƌ ŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ
Ͳ ϭϴϲ
Ͳ ĞĂůĞƌ ŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ
Ͳ ϯϴϯ
Ͳ <ƵďŽƚĂ /ŶƐƚĂŶƚ ZĞďĂƚĞ
Ͳ ϮϬϬ
Ͳ <ƵďŽƚĂ /ŶƐƚĂŶƚ ZĞďĂƚĞ
Ͳ ϮϬϬ
Ͳ <ƵďŽƚĂ /ŶƐƚĂŶƚ ZĞďĂƚĞ
Ͳ ϰϱϬ
Ͳ ĂƐŚ /ŶĐĞŶƟǀĞ
Ͳ ϭϬϬ
Ͳ ĂƐŚ /ŶĐĞŶƟǀĞ
Ͳ ϭϬϬ
Ͳ ĂƐŚ /ŶĐĞŶƟǀĞ
Ͳ ϭϬϬ
ŶĚ ŽĨ ^ĞĂƐŽŶ ĞĂů Ψ ϰϵϰϵ
ŶĚ ŽĨ ^ĞĂƐŽŶ ĞĂů Ψ ϯϴϲϵ
ŶĚ ŽĨ ^ĞĂƐŽŶ ĞĂů Ψ ϱϯϵϵ
Superior cut quality. Smooth controls. Comfortable ride. Budget friendly.
For more details on the Z100 Kommanders, go to Kubotausa.com
0% Down
0% APR LOW RATE FINANCING*
Limited Inventory available. All freight & set up fees waived! * See dealer for details.
PHOTO BY EVAN MICHEALSON
Johnnie Schmidt works Oct. 23 at the Litchfield Community Gardens. Schmidt will be operating a biointensive organic farm that helps newcomers learn the basics of farming.
E Hwy 12 - Willmar | 320-235-2717 | haugkubota.com CANov1-1B-MS
Santa Santa WILL BE COMING! IS COMING TO THE COUNTRY STORE!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH
Register for a door prize for your kids & your pets!
From 10:30 am to 1:30 pm
Bring your kids and pets to get a free picture taken with Santa!
COLD SPRING CO-OP &
COUNTRY STORE Monday – Friday: 8:00AM to 6:30PM Sat.: 8:00AM to 3:00PM Sunday: Closed 300 Main St., Cold Spring, MN • (320) 685-8651
CA Nov1_1B_MH
Ultimately, the simplistic farming applied to Schmidt’s envisioned project relies on efficiency, allowing even uninitiated farmers to pick up the trade. “It uses Lean principles that come from Japanese manufacturing,” Schmidt said. “It’s about similar principles, including using minimal effort in making everything as efficient as possible. That’s what’s exciting. It’s not just going through the motions; it’s about perfecting the technique and demonstrating it to people.” Efficiency is a familiar concept to Schmidt, executive director of Crow River Organic Works on Davis Avenue in Litchfield. The business revolves around the declining population of the monarch butterfly, a
Page 14 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019 SCHMIDT continued from page 13
All Aluminum/Stainless Steel Welding and Metal Sales. We also provided Portable Welding CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Brandon Petermeier 10098 County 11• Sauk Centre | 320.223.2852
GENERATORS • INDUSTRIAL PORTABLES
• MOBILE/PRIME POWER DIESEL • EMERGENCY STANDBYS
• PTO • 2-BEARING • VEHICLE MOUNTED
AMPS, Inc. 105 County Road 10, Albany, MN 320-845-4690 • www.ampsrs.com
CA-May5-1B-TV
OFFERING
for his project. “We’ll be leasing the property,” Schmidt said. “We’ll be sharing the land with football practices and soccer fields.” The farm also offers Litchfield agricultural clubs the opportunity to receive valuable farming experience. Schmidt expects the Meeker County 4-H and the Litchfield FFA Chapter to undergo projects of their own. “The wonder of this is that all of the kids will be on a level playing field,” he said. “All of those kids will be right next to the soccer and football players at the same time. It’s a different thing.” Schmidt is teaming up with Dirt Group Global, an organization that guides embattled youth on the path to success. The integral aspect of the partnership involves placing the youth in a situation where they can learn cooperative skills and put their hands into the creative process. “When you’re traumatized, it can be easy to shrink back into your shell and not know why,” Schmidt said. “We have nerves in our face that are
Johnnie Schmidt arranges seeds Oct. 23 at the Litchfield Community Gardens. Schmidt creates seed bombs – a milkweed mix that helps keep the monarch butterfly population stable.
all connected to emotion and to food. Smiling opens up when you do this work.” However, the farm will not be open to only local organizations. There will be available space for anyone attempting to test a tried and true lifestyle. “People will be gardening right alongside us so they will be able to learn our techniques,” Schmidt said. “Newer farmers wanting to break into this can be a part of an incubator. They can start their own farm
next to ours. They can start their own business on their own using our infrastructure and our tools to get started.” Schmidt’s farmland will feature a variety of different crops. While he initially wants to show people more baseline options such as carrots and tomatoes, the organic farm will cover a wide scope. “At least to begin
SCHMIDT continued on page 15
CA-Nov1-1B-TV
WȡNȬEȪ is coming!
BELGRADE CO-OP Melrose
Make sure your
and
320-256-4615
Remember for all your comfort needs…
320-254-8231
BOOKING SEED FOR SPRING 2020 We are your authorized Ritchie Sales and Parts Dealer!
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
Waterer is prepared!
Belgrade
Better Get Gilk!
We Provide: • Seed Recommendations • Crop Nutrients • Crop Protection
Financing Options 2020 0% - 9.95% Apply to Save! by January 10th
gilkplumbing.com Plumbing, Heating & A/C, LLC Licensed • Bonded • Insured
MF 7497 ...........................................................$80,000 MF 7622 ........................................................$105,000 MF 7720 ........................................................$105,000 MF 67145 w/loader ...................................$105,000
13 West Main Street, PO Box 249 Richmond, MN 56368 EMERGENCY: 320-293-1881
320-597-3200
MF 6614 w/loader ........................................$85,000 MF 5610 w/loader ........................................$35,000 Agco DT220A .................................................$39,500 MF 4355, orchard cab .................................$28,000
CA Nov 1_1B_BT
James & Wendy Gilk
www.belgradecoop.com
MF 1250 Compact w/72” deck ................... $9,500 JD 4210 Compact w/60” deck .................... $7,000 Sunflower 4630 9 shank ripper................$39,500 Wilrich 513 9 shank ripper.........................$37,500
Krause 3950 24’ tandem disc ....................$11,500 Glencoe 4450 9 shank disc ch ..................$12,000 White 9524 22” CFS planter w/liquid..$105,000 White 9222 12 row 30” w/liquid ..............$50,000
View our full list of used equipment at www.VillardImplement.com
Villard Implement Villard, MN • 320-554-3101
©2019 AGCO Corporation. Massey Ferguson is a worldwide brand of AGCO Corporation. AGCO and Massey Ferguson are trademarks of AGCO. All rights reserved.
CANov1-1-B-MK
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 15 SCHMIDT continued from page 14 with, there will be 30-40 different vegetables on our farm,� Schmidt said. The process will be more than just putting seeds in the ground; the farming technique encompasses several other notable skills to keep people active and flourishing. Schmidt is not concerned about the stipend; it would certainly help with networking and pushing forward with the project,
but his main takeaway from his biointensive organic farm project is the overarching message of collaboration. “This is about building community and supporting our rural community here,� he said. “That’s why I feel hugely supported. They recognize what I’m working on, whether I get it (the stipend) or not. I’m looking forward to giving back.�
As it turns out, Schmidt sees two aspects of his life as remaining parallel; farming and butterflies are both on the decrease, but he is hoping to bring them back better than ever. “There’s land all over,� he said. “It doesn’t take some crazy scheme. It’s within reach, and we can show people how to do it.�
Paynesville
320-243-3938 www.feedco.net
salutes Alexis Woeste Long Prairie-Grey Eagle School Eighth grade Parents: Tim and Ammy Woeste LP-GE FFA Chapter
t
Tell us about some of the things you’ve done this year in FFA. I judged at a general livestock competition and I am planning on judging a dairy contest. Last fall I sold fruit and bread braids.
t
r
Johnnie Schmidt is the executive director of Crow River Organic Works, a local seed bomb producer aimed at protecting the monarch butterfly population.
Quality Construction...
Subject to local building codes, snow-load requirements, delivery & crew travel in some areas. Prices subject to change without notice.
Fully Insured #BC574944
320.492.6364
j.austinconstruction@yahoo.com
Country Acres
>>> NOVEMBER COUPON
! ) 1)/// " & $ #) ! !# ) " " ! ) 1)/// " & $ #) ! !# ) " " ( % $ " # $ # + + ( % $ " # $ # # !# & " .01+2/+ ' ! # ! # ( & ! ! # !# & " .01+2/+ ' ! # ! # ( & ! ! "# !# ! # + "# !# ! # +
! * #" $"# % "#! ## # # # #
! * #" $"# % "#! ## # # # # # $ 1/ "+ ' ! % " & + # $ 1/ "+ ' ! % " & + ( # # % ! " % # ! ! ! # # ( # # % ! " % # ! ! ! # # $ " # "$! ) ) ! $ # # % $"+ $ " # "$! ) ) ! $ # # % $"+
Tell the advertisers you saw it in Country Acres!
SERVICE SPECIALS <<<
$23.95
CONVENTIONAL OIL CHANGE & BRONZE CAR WASH Disclaimer: Up to 5 quarts of oil, plus tax and disposition fee. Not valid with any other offers or discounts.. See service for complete details. Expires 11/30/19.
& ! + ! & ! ! 30/ " '% % 23034 $ & ###' ! '
& )10.* 256(.///
Big Enough to Earn Your Business... Small Enough to Keep It SERVICE HOURS:
www.albanychrysler.com
Mon.-Fri. 7:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.; Sat. 7:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
320-845-2801 • 800-392-3426 Fax: 320-845-4788
CA-Nov1-1B-TV
24x24x10 ........$7,500 30x40x10 ......$11,000 36x48x10 ......$14,000 40x64x12 ......$18,000
Ask Abou Concretet Prices!
What does leadership mean to you? Leadership to me means you are willing to put others first and are willing to help other people make the world better.
What other hobbies and interests do you have outside of FFA? I show animals in 4-H, I am a four-sport athlete. I am in cross-country, basketball, dance and softball. I like quilting and spending time with What is the greatest benefit family and friends. you have received from being involved in FFA? It helps me
CA-Nov1-1B-RB
CA-Nov1-WS
Fast & Economical!
What do you enjoy most about FFA? Why? I enjoy meeting new people and spending time with other FFA students at my school. I enjoy it because I get to learn more about animals and how to be a better judge from other people.
How would you encourage an inactive FFA member to become more involved? I would tell them how much fun it can be and tell them to try it because once you try it you just want to keep being involved.
Built to Handle Our Midwest Weather!
Custom Built to Any Size
Name one current issue you believe will impact agriculture in the future. Why? The increase in technology will definitely impact agriculture. People will be able to check their crops and make them better. People will also be able to produce better milk and meat. We will be able to produce better animals and have better genes in the animal.
become a better showman because I know more than people who aren’t in FFA. I also know what to look for in my animals when I pick them out.
Page 16 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019
COUNTRY COOKING SOUP’S ON! Editor’s note: This time of year, soup is a wonderful way to warm up on a cool day, with leftovers for another meal. These are some of my favorites, with the potato soup and spinach tortellini soup recipes originally received from two of my sisters-inlaw. Thank you, Jane Schurman and Mary Goerdt!
Spinach Tortellini Italian Sausage Soup • 1 package Johnsonville mild Italian sausage • 1 Tbsp. olive oil • 4 cloves garlic, chopped • 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes • 1 tsp. dried oregano • 1 10-ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini • 1 medium onion, chopped
• • • • • • • •
1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. fried basil 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper 32 ounces chicken broth 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes 6-8 ounces fresh baby spinach Shaved Parmesan Crisp garlic toast
Heat stock pot over medium heat and brown sausage; drain (remove from pan). Heat olive oil in stock pot and saute onion until translucent, 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic, pepper flakes, oregano, basil, salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute; add tomatoes, chicken broth and sausage. Bring to a gentle boil and cook until tomatoes are tender, 10 or more minutes. Add cheese tortellini and cook another 6 minutes. Then add spinach, a few handfuls at a time, and slowly stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Serve in bowls with shaved Parmesan and a piece of garlic toast.
Wild Rice Soup Don’s Favorite Chili • 2 pounds ground beef • 1/2 green pepper, chopped, optional • 1 28-ounce can Busch’s Country Style Baked Beans • 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes with green peppers, celery and onions
• 1 12-ounce can tomatoes, chili style, diced • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce • 1 package dry chili seasoning • 2 ounces Heinz chili sauce • Black pepper to taste
Brown ground beef and green peppers; drain. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer until flavors blend, about 30 minutes.
Carrot Ginger Soup • 3 Tbsp. butter • 1 tsp. fresh ginger, minced • 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and • 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock sliced thin • 2 cups water • 2 cups white or yellow onion, • 3 large strips of zest from an orange chopped • Chopped chives, parsley, dill or • Salt fennel for garnish Melt the butter in a soup pot over medium heat and cook the onions and carrots, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5-8 minutes. Sprinkle a teaspoon of salt over the onions and carrots as they cook; do not let them brown. Add the ginger, stock, water and zest strips. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook until the carrots soften, about 20 minutes. Remove the zest strips and discard. Working in small batches, pour the soup into a blender and puree until completely smooth. Only fill the blender bowl a third full with the hot liquid and keep one hand pressing down on the cap of the blender to keep it from popping off. Add more salt to taste. (You will need more salt if you are using homemade unsalted stock or unsalted butter.) Garnish with chopped chives, parsley or fennel fronds.
8-10 red potatoes, peeled and cubed 3 Tbsp. flour 3/4 cup real bacon bits 1/2 red onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 2 Tbsp. chicken bouillon granules, or 6 cubes • 1 Tbsp. dry ranch dressing mix
• • • • • • •
2 tsp. parsley 1 tsp. seasoned salt 1/2 tsp. black pepper 3 cups water 1 cup half-and-half 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
Put potatoes in the bottom of crock pot. Sprinkle with flour and toss to coat. Scatter bacon bits, red onion, garlic, chicken bouillon, ranch dressing mix, parsley, seasoned salt and black pepper over the potatoes. Pour water over all. Cook on low for 5-6 hours. Add half-and-half the last half hour. Garnish with Cheddar cheese and green onion if desired.
Country Acres
6 Tbsp. butter, divided 3/4 cup celery, thinly sliced 3/4 cup carrots, finely diced 3/4 cup onion, chopped 6 cups chicken broth 1/2 tsp. dried thyme 1/4 cup flour
• • • • • •
3 cups cooked wild rice 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 3 cups rotisserie chicken, cut up 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley, minced Pinch of ground nutmeg Salt and ground white pepper to taste
Melt 2 Tbsp. butter in a one-gallon soup pot over medium heat. Add the celery, carrots and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add the broth and thyme to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Adjust heat so the broth bubbles gently and cook for 15 minutes. Melt remaining 4 Tbsp. butter in a small, heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is golden brown and smells nutty, about 8 minutes. Set aside. When the broth has cooked 15 minutes, add the flour mixture in a thin stream, stirring constantly. Cook 15 minutes longer, occasionally. Stir in the wild rice What We Can Dostirring For You and cream. Heat until simmering, then adjust heat and simmer 10 minutes. Add the chicken and cook 5 minutes longer. Stir in the parsley, nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste.
Country cres A
Are you out of our coverage area?
Full-Color Graphics Signage!
Subscribe T
ODAY!
NAME:
Slow Cooker Baked Potato Soup • • • • • •
• • • • • • •
ADDRESS: CITY: PHONE:
STATE: E-MAIL:
Full-Color Graphics Signage!
ZIP: Full-Color Graphics Signage!
Please return this form along with check or money order for $35.00 payable to: COUNTRY ACRES 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378
or
Tell the advertisers you saw it in Country Acres!
Call 320-352-6577 or email missy@saukherald.com NO REFUNDS
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 17
WHAT'S THIS? This warthog (Phacochoerus africanus), shown at Restock in Sauk Centre, is from the savanna of South Africa. These wild pigs also live in Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Kenya, Zambia and Tanzania, and are not a threatened species. In Minnesota, the European wild boar is a prohibited invasive species and according to the DNR, “It is unlawful (a misdemeanor) to possess, import, purchase, transport, or introduce these species except under a permit for disposal, control, research, or education.�
m u lt i - p a r c e l
REAL ESTATE AUCTION
SUN., NOV. 3, 2019 — 12 NOON Auction will be held at 725 130th Ave. NE, Murdock, MN Dennis Plucker Estate, Owner Check website for complete listing
CA-Nov1-1B-MS
80 Acres +/- { 6GEVKQP q MGTMJQXGP 7QYPUJKR q 6YKHV &QWPV[ 01 }
www.HughesRealEstate.net
RUN WITH AN X739
SIGNATURE SERIES TRACTOR
500 OFF 0% APR
$
AND
FOR 60 MONTHS
2,4
• 25.5-hp* (19-kW), 745 cc engine • 4-wheel steering • Full-time 4-wheel drive • 4-year/700 hour Bumper-tobumper Warranty**
SIGN Design Sauk Centre, MN (320) 352-6577
What We Can Do For You Business Signs of All Kinds Farm Signs Yard Signs (Political, Garage Sale, Event) Banners Boat Lettering Vehicle Letter/Signs Watercraft Decals Snowmobile Decals Fishhouse Decals D.O.T. Numbers Logan Thomas, Magnets Designer & All in Full Color!! Sign Creator Located in the
Sauk Centre Herald OfďŹ ce 522 Sinclair Lewis Avenue Sauk Centre, MN 56378
1
RUN WITH AN X580 SELECT SERIES TRACTOR
500 OFF 4.9% APR
$
AND
Ask for Joyce or Logan!
Call 320-352-6577
1
FOR 48 MONTHS
3,4
• 24 hp* (17.9-kW), 726 cc engine • 54-in. Accel Deep™ Mower Deck • 4-year/500 hour Bumper-tobumper Warranty** • Power steering
Full-Color Graphics Signage!
Winter is right around the corner.
View more useful tips at www.petmd.com Call 320-352-6577
551 Railroad Ave., Albany Call 320-352-6577 Located across from the Kraft plant
320-845-6930
ST. CLOUD • 1035 35th Ave NE – E Hwy 23
PAYNESVILLE • 725 Lake Avenue South
320-252-2010
320-243-7474
SAUK CENTRE • 1140 Centre Street 320-352-6511
ALEXANDRIA • 5005 Co Rd 82 SE
PRINCETON • 3708 Baptist Church Rd – N Hwy 169
320-763-4220
763-389-3453
LITTLE FALLS • 16069 Hwy. 27 E. 320-632-5469
CA-Nov1-1B-MT
1. If you have outdoor pets consider bringing them in during extremely cold temperatures. 2. If your pet needs to stay outside, make sure it has a warm, dry, and draft free shelter outside. 3. Outdoor animals eat more during winter. Make sure you pet has enough food and water. 4. Indoor pets, meanwhile, conserve energy in Full-Color Graphics Signage! Signs, Banners the winter. Adjust their food accordingly. cals & More‌ 5. Watch out for frostbite on yourDePets Call Today! during the winter months. 6. Salt and ice can be rough on your pets paws, consider having them wear booties for walks.
CA-Nov1-1B-TV
Try these winter pet care tips!
www.mmcjd.com 1 Offer valid for $500 off on all New John Deere X739 Signature Series Lawn Tractors and X580 Select Series Lawn Tractors purchased from a participating John Deere dealer between 4 September 2019 and 1 November 2019. Some restrictions apply, prices and models may vary by dealer. This can be combined with the regular installment options. Prices and savings are in U.S. dollars. 2 Introductory rate of 0% APR is for 60 months only. 3 Introductory rate of 4.9% APR is for 48 months only. 4 Offer valid on qualifying purchases made between 4 September 2019 to 1 November 2019. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offers available on new equipment and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars. *The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will be less. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information. ** Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JOHNDEERE.COM. John Deere, the leaping deer symbol, and green and yellow trade dress are trademarks of Deere & Company.
Page 18 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019
Head of Steam!
COUNTRY ACRES ACCORDING TO:
Frank J. Vouk St. Stephen | Stearns County
sawmills and threshing machines.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Frank Vouk (left) of St. Stephen and his uncle, Al Vouk are co-owners of this 1913 Case 80 steam engine, along with Jim Vouk, who is Frank’s father. Since 2000, the engine has been housed and used at the Albany Pioneer Days show, running the sawmill and threshing.
You are a part owner of an agricultural steam engine. What brand and model is it and where did you get it? I am an owner with my father, Jim Vouk, and uncle, Al Vouk. The steam engine is a 1913 Case 80. My great-
grandfather, Frank Vouk, bought it brand new in 1917. What were steam engines used for? Steam engines were used for various things, such as plowing and running
Sawing Show from 1965-2000. It has since been housed and used at the Albany How do they work? They are/were fired Pioneer Days show, running the sawmill with either wood or coal. Usually around and threshing. here it was wood, as trees were plentiful. In the Dakotas it was usually coal as trees What has been your involvement in were not plentiful but coal was. Fire boils Albany Pioneer Days? Since our family the water, converting it to steam. Steam show ended in 2000, many members of is introduced into the cylinder which the Vouk family have been involved with pushes a piston back and forth to turn the helping at Albany Pioneer Days, mostly flywheel. The flywheel is belted to a piece running the sawmill but also working in of equipment – the sawmill, etc. the schoolhouse, popcorn stand, ladies’ building, prairie tractors and entertaining What is unique about this particular on stage at night. tractor? This tractor has been in the Vouk family since it was brand new. Are there any special requirements for operating a steam engine such as What is the history of farming in yours? You need to be licensed through your family? My great-grandfather, the state of Minnesota to operate one of Frank, used this engine to do custom these engines and five of Jim’s 10 children threshing in the St. Stephen area and are licensed steam engineers – myself, to run his sawmill to produce lumber Jake, Alison, Jamie and Molly. for local farmers to build their farms. In 1935 Frank died so his son, Bill Vouk, took over the business at age 18 and used this engine until the early 1950s. It was then restored in the early 1960s and used at the Vouks’ Steam Threshing and Lumber
Customized to Your Operation
redhorizonequipment.com
Upper Midwest Pumping Woeste Custom Harvesting
CA-Nov1-1-B-JO
Specializing in Custom Pumping and Drag Hose Applications
21915 160th Street Glenwood, MN 56334
Equipment & Truck
Phone: 320-634-4445
Custom Forage Harvesting of Hay and Corn Silage
www.uppermidwestpumping.com Call now to get info@uppermidwestpumping.com
88,500
600-50-22.5 tires, 26’ working width, double V notched 19.75” front blades, 19.75” smooth rear blades, guage wheels, Otico rubber roller with Max Life scrapers, remaining warranty.
1998 Case IH $ 8910
39,500
1998 Case IH 8910 2WD, Cummins 8.3 liter, 135 HP, 18 spd. power shift, with differential lock, 540-1000 PTO, 11.00-16SL front tires 18.4R 42 rear tires, hub duals, new Case IH reman engine with very low hours.
BERGMAN Automatic
AGRi-Speed HITCH
• Simple drawbar mount • Easy to operate day or night • PTO compatible • Fast, reliable, safe • Increases efÀciency, only need 1 person • Easily pulls more than the D.O.T. allows on the highway • Available for pick-ups, choppers, tractors, wagons, etc.
1993 Peterbilt $ 379EXHD
38,500
www.bergmanmfg.com Gilman, MN • 320-387-2770
37,850
Day cab, Cummins N-14, 13 speed Eaton Fuller, NEW 2020 Timpte 4066 ag super hopper, radio, differential lock, low air leaf suspension, air ride, 11R22.5 tires, 40’x66”x96”, 11R22.5 tires, 215” wheel base, 3.70 ratio, stainless steel front corners and rear panel, dual stacks and air cleaner, 6 aluminum wheels, 4 aluminum wheels, Thunder electric power tarp saddle box, air slide 5th wheel. with remote, FET paid.
Have all your Ag & Truck equipment repaired locally:
Gilman Co-op Creamery FEED & FARM SUPPLY STORE
$ 2020 Timpte 4066
• Combines & Heads • Tillage Equipment • Mowers
• Tractors • Trailers • Trucks
Large in-stock parts and bulk oils for Trucks & Farm Equipment: Oil, Washerfluid, Lights and more
CA-Nov1-1B-JO
PUMPING
2019 Degelman $ Protill - 26’
21171 US Hwy. 71 Long Prairie, MN 56347 Tim 320-247-3857 Brian 320-293-2703
CA-Nov1-1B-KB
UPPER MIDWEST
on our schedule!
Licensed & Insured • 40+ Years of Combined Agricultural Experience (and that’s just between the two owners)
Friday, November 1, 2019 - Country Acres • Page 19
SPRING AHEAD THIS FALL 2020 planting season TO GET A JUMP ON THE
SPREAD YOUR FERTILIZER & WORK LOAD THIS FALL FOR NEXT SPRING!
PAYNESVILLE SOIL SERVICE LOCAL INDEPENDENT CO-OP PHOTO SUBMITTED Al Vouk (left) and Frank Vouk stand near a 1913 Case 80 steam engine, which they own with Frank’s father, Jim. The engine operates by a fire that boils water, converting it to steam that is introduced into the cylinder, which pushes a piston back and forth to turn the flywheel. The flywheel is belted to a piece of equipment such as a sawmill or threshing machine.
Country Acres
WATS: 18002324265
CANov1-1B-WS
THE FARM
We build custom gates to your speciÀcations
Call for pricing! Calf Chutes SINCE 1859, GEHL HAS CREATED INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR EQUIPMENT OWNERS AND USERS.
www.spanierwelding.com
Today, Gehl carries the tradition forward with a complete line of skid loaders, track ORDGHUV DQG DUWLFXODWHG ORDGHUV GHVLJQHG ZLWK SURGXFWLYLW\ DQG HI¿FLHQF\ LQ PLQG Plus a full line of EDGE attachments are available to add more versatility around WKH MREVLWH ZLWK \RXU *HKO HTXLSPHQW
Auto-Owners Insurance and your local independent agent would like to thank U.S. military service members and veterans for the sacrifices they have made for our freedom.
CHOOSE G E N U I N E
™
P A R T S
FOR YOUR GEHL EQUIPMENT
CALL YOUR LOCAL GEHL DEALER TODAY!
A&C Farm Service, Inc.
320-252-6650 advantageoneins.com • SAUK CENTRE
• ST. CLOUD
• HOLDINGFORD
864 Main Street Sauk Centre, MN 56378
3801 North 3rd Street St. Cloud, MN 56303
580 Main St., Holdingford, MN 56340
• ALBANY
• LONG PRAIRIE
• PIERZ
140 5th Street, Albany, MN 56307
9 Central Ave Long Prairie, MN 56347
• MELROSE
205 Main St N Pierz, MN 56364
502A E Main St. Melrose, MN 56352
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
CA-Nov1-1B-MS
Loren Pearson Seed Specialist Certified Crop Advisor
WE GREW UP ON
Tell the advertisers you saw it in Country Acres!
Paynesville, MN 320-243-7552
Check out our website for more! products
PHONE: 3202433494
John Vanderbeek Agronomy Manager Certified Crop Advisor
CHECK OUT OUR SPECIAL DEALS ON ALL REMAINING GEHL SKIDLOADERS!
Jct. Hwys. 55 & 23 • Paynesville
320-243-3736 www.acfarmservice.com ZZZ JHKO FRP
Page 20 • Country Acres - Friday, November 1, 2019
DISCOVER
Let Davis Motors Help You With Your Next Purchase.
Full Line-Up of Chevrolet, Buick & GMC Vehicles.
All At One Location!
Our USED & Certified Pre-Owned
We are Central Minnesota’s GMC Dealer!
Chevy, Buick, and GMC Inventory
160 Vehicles
On our Lot!
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
OVER
WE ARE OPEN Mon - Thu: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm | Fri: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Sat: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
LITCHFIELD: 320-693-3224 OR 877-693-3224
www.davismotorsgm.com
PRICES GOOD NOV. 1-14, 2019 STEARNS PACKAGING
STEARNS PACKAGING
Hypo-Chlor,, 6.4%
HD Utensil Cleaner
1 GALLON $
ST1
3.47
ST16
8.07
STEARNS PACKAGING
Milkstone Remover
Acid Rinse
ST11
12.97
HAWKINSON AG
22-20-0.5 Soy Flour Milk Replacer
21-10-1.0 Soy Flour Milk Replacer
2220SF
1 GALLON $
STEARNS PACKAGING
1 GALLON $
HAWKINSON AG
ST70
1 GALLON $
$
40.97
2110SF
MILLER/API
7521
Milk House e Heater
34.97
EUH341
29.97
$
21.977
UNIVERSAL G DRAIN PLUG HEATER
SINKING DEICER 15N
$
MILLER/API
MILLER/API
1500 W FLOATING DEICER $
$
WORLD MARKETINGG OF AMERICA
44.97
2002DP
10.97 BIG GAIN
FLEET SUPPLY SAUK CENTRE
GLENWOOD
LONG PRAIRIE
Hwy. 28 & 55 • Ph. 320-634-5209 STORE HOURS
Hwy. 71 S. • Ph. 320-732-6195 STORE HOURS
Monday-Friday 8:00am-7:00pm Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
PAYNESVILLE
LITTLE FALLS
GLENCOE
Hwy. 55 West • Ph. 320-243-3556 STORE HOURS
Hwy. 27 • Ph. 320-632-9240 STORE HOURS
3105 10th St. • Ph. 320-864-4304 STORE HOURS
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
50.977
BIG GAIN
BIG GAIN
Sure Gro Total Calf Sure Goat Dairy Feed Start, 16% Creep, 21% Z2034
$
11.07
2115
$
11.67
9250
$
12.27
BIG GAIN
BIG GAIN
BIG GAIN
BIG GAIN
Scratch Grains
Duck and Goose Feed
Egg Mash, 16%
Lamb Grower
Z9126
$
11.57
Z7550
$
9.57
7505
$
9.07
9019 Hunting & Fishing Licenses Available At All Locations!
YOUR COMPLETE FARM & HOME STORE
1050 Centre Street • Ph. 320-352-5261 STORE HOURS
$
No Cash...No Problem. Charge It!
1050 Centre Street, Sauk Centre • 320-352-5261 WWW.FLEETSUPPLYMN.COM
CA-Nov1-1B-WS
$
9.77 Get your Propane tanks filled here! Available at all Fleet Supply Stores