Stories and Perspectives from the Farm
Sick Pigs, Advocating Stories, New EPA disappointing news, What's Up with China?
Farm Updates
Sick Pigs
Pigs are sick. Not exactly sure what is going on with them. We called a veterinarian to come out and look at them. We are hearing there is quite a bit of PRRS and PEDv in the area, so it could very well be that. It’s been quite windy and viruses travel through the air. So we will not be surprised if they caught a virus.
Weather
We have received some very nice rain showers. I looked at the forecast and we have rain chances for the next few days. It’s definitely helping the dough conditions. No planting in the new future.
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Sharing Ag with Leadership Group
Yesterday I worked with our local county leadership group where I shared my story about agriculture. It’s always good to talk with individuals who are not familiar with agriculture. The day consisted of a presentation about agriculture, toured CHS and Devenish (livestock feed) and listened to some guest speakers who talked about the 80s Farm Crisis, the diversity of our ag labor force and raising cattle.
Property Tax
Yes, on April 1 (not an April Food’s joke—I wish it was!) I opened our newest property tax statement. Our property taxes increased 15%. Kind of sobering news when all of our commodity prices are down. Ugh.
In the News
New Clean Fuels Standards Update
Last Friday, the day before a holiday weekend, the EPA came out with new rulings on adopting Clean Fuel Standards. Okay, are you ready for this?
They are pushing for all heavy duty trucks/semis to be electric by 2027. No, that is not a typo. They acknowledged that they did not look at biofuels as part of the clean fuels initiative. What? Are we invisible?
This is insane! No way can we meet the standards by 2027.
Are We Paying Attention to China?
Yesterday during our session with the county leadership group, one of the guest speakers was Lawrence Sukalski, a local farmer. Lawrence is also on the USB (United Soybean Board). He warned us of what is happening with China. He repeatedly said “they want our lunch” meaning their expansion into other parts of the world growing soybeans and other crops and wanting to take over the US grain trading positions.
I guess we need to start paying attention to what is happening.
USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack Announcement
Secretary Vilsack was in Minnesota yesterday announcing a new $1.5 billion conservation projects. It is the highest amount ever.
I feel like our government spends too much money and frankly, I am tired of hearing about all the money being spent. This isn’t a time to ignore our spending spree this country has been on.
I am glad to hear our local ag leaders asking him to address Prop 12 situation. I feel that is a priority and needs to be addressed sooner than later. Maybe in the new Farm Bill? He did acknowledge our concerns.
Blog Links
As you have noticed, I am an advocate for agriculture. And especially literacy in the schools. I have compiled a list of 40 top books for children that are ag accurate. Let’s spread the word!
Top 40 Books for Children Teaching Them About Where Their Food Comes From.
Here is an example of how Ag in the Classroom can be used:
Who Grew My Soup (for grades K-2 and grades 3-5)
We celebrated Easter this past weekend. Such a good reminder what Christ has done for us. He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!
Until next week!