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PERIODICALS www.azfb.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2013 Volume 66 No. 11 Official Publication of the Arizona Farm Bureau See ATTITUDES Page 6 Build Your Team - Page 2 For Your Farm’s Succession Plan Roadway Safety - Page 2 We’re All Responsible Affordable Care Act - Page 5 Curbing the Confusion around Obamacare See WATER Page 4 S andy Fabritz-Whitney serves as the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources and was appointed to this position in 2011. Prior to this ap- pointment, she served as Assistant Director of the Water Management Division at the Department, overseeing the Assured and Adequate Water Supply Program, Recharge and Recovery Program, long-range planning and data analysis section, the statewide well program, and water rights and conservation requirements within the Phoenix, Pinal, Prescott, Santa Cruz and Tucson Active Manage- ment Areas of the State. Director Fabritz-Whitney has been with the Depart- ment for over 20 years. During her career; she also served as the Assistant Area Director for the Phoenix Active Management Area and as a technical administrator for the Arizona Water Banking Authority. Recently, she served as Co-Chairman of the Water Resources Development Commission, and has served as the Department’s staff lead on several statewide long- term water planning assignments including the Gover- nor’s Blue Ribbon Panel on Water Sustainability (2009), the Governor’s Drought Task Force (2003) and the Gover- nor’s Water Management Commission (2000). Arizona Agriculture: What kind of future do you see for Arizona and our water? Fabritz-Whitney: There has been so much done throughout Arizona’s history to aggressively acquire, secure and protect Arizona’s water and get it put to use. I base the future on that same determination. What I see still in Arizona are people who are dedicated to the long-term economic development and security of the state. So, coming at it from that perspective, I’m very hopeful and feel that our future is very promising; not that it’s not without its challenges. That same resolve we’ve previously used to secure and develop water supplies, construct reservoirs and dams that maintain those water supplies and reduce variability, must be applied to our future efforts. Arizona Agriculture: What are your expectations for the agriculture community as it relates to water? Fabritz-Whitney: It’s difficult because you have cities that have a lot of money and you have farmers that don’t. We need to recognize that difference. Plus, we need to mitigate the harmful perception that agriculture is wasting water. I hear all the time that agriculture is wasting water when we know in reality farmers are implementing efficiency and conservation measures in production agriculture. The agricultural community has to make sure that they are doing a good job of telling others what actions they’re taking to conserve water and improve efficiencies. We all need to share that story including the Farm Bureau and oth- er agriculture organizations. We’ve often sat back and pat- ted ourselves on the back, but when you read what the New York Times and the Washington Post say about Arizona and water, they don’t get it. Others don’t realize that Phoenix – where three rivers converge – developed because of agriculture. Most miss the economic advantage that comes from agriculture. Arizona Agriculture: What are the long-term solutions we need to have a conversation around? Fabritz-Whitney: Besides promoting what we’ve done, the next phase is to squeeze more out of our efficiencies. We always need to be looking for the next big thing; new technologies and then improve on what we do well now. The hard conversations are what are coming up. The transfer issue in Yuma, for example, has been front and center for a while, emerging out of [Andy] Tobin’s House Bill 2338. The Bill put a magnifying glass on concerns from some rural communities about the potential of water supplies being taken away or supplies transferring from one area to another. The focus was on agriculture mainly because it was Yuma. Other rural communities across Arizona are also concerned about transfers of water. We have to have a serious conversation about that issue. For example, water transfers may be a viable option in times of shortage through partnerships that agriculture could enter into with cities and towns voluntarily, receiv- Sandra Fabritz-Whitney A Conversation with a Water Enthusiast: Sandra Fabritz-Whitney She sees a hopeful future in Arizona agriculture’s water needs. By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau A rizona Farm Bureau’s new fiscal year began October 1. But before it began, we celebrated the orga- nization’s outreach efforts of the past 12 months and are reporting that the investment to get your Arizona agriculture story out to the public only cost 1 cent per impression since this year’s grand total of impressions at the end of September 2013 was 5,653,130. Always guided by Arizona Farm Bureau’s three main objectives in public outreach, we 1) work to sup- port efforts to improve agriculture markets for Arizona farmers and ranchers, 2) valiantly dispel the majority of misconceptions in agriculture, and 3) earnestly engage Arizona families in the exciting story of Arizona agriculture. Your Agriculture Story is Transforming Attitudes In this Facebook poster example on “Friends of Arizona Farm Bureau,” the metrics say 21,688 people saw this post, 296 people “shared” the poster on their Facebook newsfeed and 85 people “Liked” this poster. The more people that share a Facebook poster we post, the more people will see your story! By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau
Transcript
Page 1: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

PER

IOD

ICA

LS

www.azfb.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER, 2013 Volume 66 No. 11 Official Publication of the Arizona Farm Bureau

See ATTITUDES Page 6

Build Your Team - Page 2 For Your Farm’s Succession Plan

Roadway Safety - Page 2We’re All Responsible

Affordable Care Act- Page 5 Curbing the Confusionaround Obamacare

See WATER Page 4

Sandy Fabritz-Whitney serves as the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources and was appointed to this position in 2011. Prior to this ap-

pointment, she served as Assistant Director of the Water Management Division at the Department, overseeing the Assured and Adequate Water Supply Program, Recharge and Recovery Program, long-range planning and data analysis section, the statewide well program, and water rights and conservation requirements within the Phoenix, Pinal, Prescott, Santa Cruz and Tucson Active Manage-ment Areas of the State.

Director Fabritz-Whitney has been with the Depart-ment for over 20 years. During her career; she also served as the Assistant Area Director for the Phoenix Active Management Area and as a technical administrator for the Arizona Water Banking Authority.

Recently, she served as Co-Chairman of the Water Resources Development Commission, and has served as the Department’s staff lead on several statewide long-term water planning assignments including the Gover-nor’s Blue Ribbon Panel on Water Sustainability (2009), the Governor’s Drought Task Force (2003) and the Gover-nor’s Water Management Commission (2000).

Arizona Agriculture: What kind of future do you see for Arizona and our water?

Fabritz-Whitney: There has been so much done throughout Arizona’s history to aggressively acquire, secure and protect Arizona’s water and get it put to use.

I base the future on that same determination. What I see still in Arizona are people who are dedicated to the long-term economic development and security of the state. So, coming at it from that perspective, I’m very hopeful and feel that our future is very promising; not that it’s not without its challenges. That same resolve we’ve previously used to secure and develop water supplies, construct reservoirs and dams that maintain those water supplies and reduce variability, must be applied to our future efforts.

Arizona Agriculture: What are your expectations for the agriculture community

as it relates to water?Fabritz-Whitney: It’s difficult because you have cities

that have a lot of money and you have farmers that don’t. We need to recognize that difference. Plus, we need to mitigate the harmful perception that agriculture is wasting water. I hear all the time that agriculture is wasting water when we know in reality farmers are implementing efficiency and conservation measures in production agriculture.

The agricultural community has to make sure that they are doing a good job of telling others what actions they’re taking to conserve water and improve efficiencies. We all need to share that story including the Farm Bureau and oth-er agriculture organizations. We’ve often sat back and pat-ted ourselves on the back, but when you read what the New York Times and the Washington Post say about Arizona and water, they don’t get it.

Others don’t realize that Phoenix – where three rivers converge – developed because of agriculture. Most miss the economic advantage that comes from agriculture.

Arizona Agriculture: What are the long-term solutions we need to have a conversation around?

Fabritz-Whitney: Besides promoting what we’ve done, the next phase is to squeeze more out of our efficiencies. We always need to be looking for the next big thing; new

technologies and then improve on what we do well now. The hard conversations are what are coming up. The transfer issue in Yuma, for

example, has been front and center for a while, emerging out of [Andy] Tobin’s House Bill 2338. The Bill put a magnifying glass on concerns from some rural communities about the potential of water supplies being taken away or supplies transferring from one area to another. The focus was on agriculture mainly because it was Yuma. Other rural communities across Arizona are also concerned about transfers of water. We have to have a serious conversation about that issue.

For example, water transfers may be a viable option in times of shortage through partnerships that agriculture could enter into with cities and towns voluntarily, receiv-

Sandra Fabritz-Whitney

A Conversation with a Water Enthusiast: Sandra Fabritz-Whitney She sees a hopeful future in Arizona agriculture’s water needs.

By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau

Arizona Farm Bureau’s new fiscal year began October 1. But before it began, we celebrated the orga-nization’s outreach efforts of the past 12 months and are reporting that the investment to get your Arizona agriculture story out to the public only cost 1 cent per impression since this year’s grand

total of impressions at the end of September 2013 was 5,653,130.Always guided by Arizona Farm Bureau’s three main objectives in public outreach, we 1) work to sup-

port efforts to improve agriculture markets for Arizona farmers and ranchers, 2) valiantly dispel the majority of misconceptions in agriculture, and 3) earnestly engage Arizona families in the exciting story of Arizona agriculture.

Your Agriculture Story is Transforming Attitudes

In this Facebook poster example on “Friends of Arizona Farm Bureau,” the metrics say 21,688 people saw this post, 296 people “shared” the poster on their Facebook newsfeed and 85 people “Liked” this poster. The more people that share a Facebook poster we post, the more people will see your story!

By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau

Page 2: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

The Voice of Arizona Agriculture325 S. Higley Rd., Suite 210 • Gilbert, AZ 85296 • 480.635.3600 • fax 480.635.3781 • www.azfb.org

OFFICERSPresident • Kevin Rogers, Mesa

1st Vice President • Tim Dunn, Yuma2nd V. P. • Stefanie Smallhouse, Redington

Exec. Secretary • James Klinker, MesaEXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Rock Cramer • ParkerDeWayne Justice • Waddell

ARIZONA AGRICULTURE STAFFJulie Murphree, Editor

Peggy Jo Goodfellow, AdvertisingPlease send comments to:

[email protected] advertising, e-mail [email protected], call480.635.3609 or visit www.azfb.org/publica-

tions.htm

Arizona Agricultureis published monthly, except

December, plus three special editions, (ISSN 0274-7014) by the Arizona Farm

Bureau Federation325 S Higley Rd., Suite 210

Gilbert, AZ 85296Periodicals postage paid in Higley,

Arizona and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTERSend address changes to:

Arizona Agriculture325 S Higley Rd., Suite 210

Gilbert, AZ 85296Subscriptions are included in

annual dues.

2 www.azfb.org ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013

Western Agricultural Insurance Company*, Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company* and Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company*/ West Des Moines, IA. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services

With offices across the state, we make it simple to protect your family, home, car and business. Contact your local agent today.

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Your Agent of the Month

Scott MechamScottMechamhasbeenwiththeArizonaFarmBureaufamilysinceJuly1,2011.ScottandhisstaffworkoutofhisofficelocatedinMesaandareapartoftheCactusAgency.Congratulations Scott!!

Your Agent of the Month

We make insurance simple.®

Successful business succession doesn’t just happen. It takes careful planning and teamwork to develop a transition strategy for the business you’ve worked decades to build. By building and managing your plan with a team of ad-visors, you’ll have the confidence that comes from working with people you know and trust. Your transition team

may include a variety of advisers; but remember you’re the one at the wheel.“No way can I do this succession planning thing for my family farm alone,” says one Arizona farmer. “For one

thing, it’s not about me anyway. It’s about my family.”The good thing is that you can vary your team based on what works for you and what specific goals and desires you

have for the future of your operation.

you at the WheelYour goals and desires for the future of your farm or other business operation guide your business succession team.

Insurance AgentTo help you see the big picture and provide information about how life insurance, annuities and other financial

strategies could play a role in your plan, you should make sure your insurance agent is on your succession plan team.Financial/charitable Advisor

To provide direction on the options available and serve as a general adviser on your business succession plan, en-gage a financial advisor.executor/Banker

The executor or banker can help provide information about the financial condition of your business and an ongoing relationship with the next generation.

Teaming Up! Assembling Your Business Succession TeamThird in a Series on Succession PlanningBy Farm Bureau Financial Services with contributions by Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau

See TEAMING UP Page 5

Movement of equipment between fields or operations is imperative for all of our operations and many times we must use public roadways. Our state laws recognize and protect our rights to use public roadways to move farm equipment. These laws also recognize the unique nature of farm equipment and this equipment is treated

differently than vehicles you typically see on the roadways.One of the many challenges we face from urban encroachment is in-

creased congestion on roadways and increased scrutiny from law enforce-ment. We are sharing the roads with more traffic that is less familiar with the movement of agricultural equipment. While it’s easy to fall into the “I was here first” mentality, we must recognize that these drivers are not going away.

With that in mind there are some proactive steps that can be taken to avoid incident with the other motoring public on roadways.

1. Make sure you are visible: It may be hard to believe that a tractor driving down the roadway is not visible in itself but flashing lights, reflec-tive tape and SMV signs can be helpful in ensuring other motorists see these vehicles from a long distance and react accordingly. Another impor-tant consideration is making sure the widest points of the implement are marked, particularly if that implement occupies more than one lane. Farm Bureau offers all of this safety equipment at a discount for members.

2. Keep Right: Farm implements are slow moving vehicles and should be in the slow lane and as far right as they can safely travel.

3. Avoid Rush Hour: Avoiding traffic is a great way to avoid traffic accidents. We know that accidents can happen at any time but avoiding times of heavy traffic and congestion can cut down your risk.

4. The Five Car Law: State statute allows for vehicles to travel on roadways at speeds less than the posted speed limit but it does require that you do not back up traffic. If you have more than five cars behind you state law requires that you move to the side of the road to let traffic pass.

5. mplement Spacing: If you are moving more than one piece of equipment, space the implements out so normal vehicle traffic can pass safely.

6. Hearing Matters: Your sense of hearing has the quickest response time in sensing danger. Be sure that when operating equipment on the roadways your hearing is not impaired due to headphones or other distractions that can impair your sense of hearing.

We all invest a lot in our equipment and employees. Let’s do everything we can to ensure they both make it home safe.

Editor’s Note: For information on safety equipment and practices or to order safety material please contact Liz Foster with the Arizona Farm Bureau at 480.635.3611 or [email protected] . Also, if you’d like a copy of our Transpor-tation booklet that includes information on our laws and regulations, contact Anna Kennedy at 480.635.3614.

Use reflective tape and slow moving vehicle (SmV) signs to ensure other motorists see your farm equipment from a long distance. equipment size does not substitute for safety signs.

Safety on the Roadways is Everyone’s ResponsibilityBy Adam Hatley, Chairman of the Arizona Farm Bureau Safety Committee and Arizona cotton farmer

Page 3: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013 www.azfb.org 3

Page 4: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

4 www.azfb.org ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013

Water continued from page 1

ing a financial benefit from it that could help municipalities with meeting the water supply needs of their customers. But the partnerships have to be mutually beneficial. You can’t sacrifice agriculture economies for urban economies.

This circles back around to informing the public to just what does it mean to have an agriculture economy in this state? For example, if you don’t have alfalfa growing in Arizona to feed our local dairy herds, you’ll have to pay $4.99 for a gallon of milk like some states do instead of $1.99 in Arizona because right now we have a local dairy industry.

Plus, what do we do beyond our current water supplies? This is not just about agri-culture. We’re approaching a point in time, today, that requires we evaluate what we’re going to do to supply water to all of our communities in the next 50 years: urban, rural, environmental and agriculture communities.

Arizona Agriculture While current Farm Bureau policy recognizes the value of fallowing land in times of drought and lays out parameters, what should be the ap-proach of all stakeholders?

Fabritz-Whitney: All stakeholders are managing [their water resources], though. That’s the success of Arizona’s water management structure in this state. Unfortu-nately, we have not done a good job getting the word out about what has been done.

There are mandatory conservation measures for agriculture in the active manage-ment areas (AMAs) just like there’s mandatory conservation measures for homeown-ers, industry (golf courses, mines, etc.). So, we already have a water management struc-ture in this state that has to demonstrate increased efficiencies of water use over time in AMAs. Cities and towns are also required to develop and submit a water conservation plan for their communities.

Agriculture does not have to do the same. So you see where there starts to become somewhat of a rub. It starts to create a perceptual disconnect between agriculture and urban areas and perpetuates the myth that agriculture is not doing its part to conserve water.

Arizona Agriculture: At a recent Arizona Farm Bureau Board of Directors meet-ing you discussed “growth” opportunities – new and future technologies – and manage-ment of water that adds to our water supply. Can you go over them with our readers?

Fabritz-Whitney: Typically what I like to say is that we need to look first at what is locally available. Increasing efficiencies in water use is the first step and if you can squeeze more water out of each acre foot, you can produce ongoing benefits.

Another area is reclaimed water use. We really have not fully developed this area in our state. Arizona is a leader in the nation in reuse – primarily through underground storage and recovery. We have to get the public comfortable with the concept of reus-ing water; in fact we’re already indirectly drinking reclaimed water. When water goes into the ground and then you pump it for use it’s coming up as reuse. Agriculture can be a part of this too – creating that transition to direct reuse of reclaimed water to water crops.

The Water Resource Development Commission looked at water supplies 25, 50 and 100-years out. The study showed an imbalance between available supplies and projected demands of 900,000-acre-feet in 50 years and about 3 million acre-feet in 100 years. When you add the use of reclaimed water to those future water supplies, you can

actually cut those numbers in half. Watershed management is also something to consider. Lots of studies were done

in the past on forests in Arizona to study the possible water yield increases through vegetative management, but it’s become more challenging because of environmental policies and land management policies. Waterhshed management is a proactive measure creating healthy ecosystems and healthy rivers and riparian systems and improving your water supply if you manage that correctly. The multiple benefits of this means we should explore it more.

Ultimately, what we come to is that we need to bring water supplies in from outside the state and ocean desalination is an excellent option for us. For Arizona, we have ac-cess to the Sea of Cortez, but we have to build our partnership with Mexico. We need to start those conversations and identify mutually beneficial options for both Arizona and Mexico.

The Central Arizona Project took 50 years to realize before we got water delivery, so we’ve got to get these conversation started. The comprehensive groundwater man-agement effort took 70 years. Adjudication has been going on for 40 years.

It takes time for these things to be realized. So if we’re going to have a water supply that meets our projected demand see continued economic benefits, we need to develop the supplies to realize our future potential.

When you talk about future supplies you also have to look at the cost. The cost to deliver to the homeowner, what he pays for, essentially the cost of the water and the cost to treat it on average in Arizona is about $5 per 1,000 gallons. The cost to desalinate wa-ter, you’re looking at around $7 per 1,000 gallons for delivered water. Not a big increase for the homeowner, if you compare it to what we are willing to pay for bottled water, about $12,000 per 1,000 gallons. We are willing to walk into Circle K and buy 20 ounce $1.99 bottles, yet we get upset when our water bill goes up 30 cents.

Arizona Agriculture Do we need a new mindset to water management and growth; if so, what and how?

Fabritz-Whitney: The problem with everything I’ve listed is that it all costs money. None of this stuff is cheap. It’s not so much a water management mindset; it’s more of a refocus on water issues in general. We’re always focused on highways and highway maintenance but where is the money for water infrastructure and acquisition? It always breaks down around the same thing: money. Who is going to pay?

Part of it goes back to educating; focusing the conversation in the right forum with diverse stakeholders including our business leaders in the state about infrastructure (including aging infrastructure) and future water supplies may help us get closer to closing the imbalance.

Arizona Agriculture: Have we built a community in the desert that’s not sustain-able?

Fabritz-Whitney: No. You can’t grow beyond what you have so how could you be unsustainable. We have management of our groundwater supplies. Though not perfect, it’s better than anywhere in the nation.

We look at it and manage it and do things to protect it. We’ve got renewable sup-plies. We’re going to grow only as far as our water supplies will take us.

continued on page 5

Page 5: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013 www.azfb.org 5

We’re more sustainable than Atlanta, Georgia, for example. You hear about them – when they don’t get rain they go into water scarcity. Their reservoirs have only 30 to 60-days of supply, we have 60 million-acre-feet of water supply storage on the Colorado River. It’s huge. It’s what’s really has saved us during the drought.

Arizona Agriculture: What have I not asked you? Fabritz-Whitney: Farmers are not the only ones doing a good job conserving water.

The cities and towns are doing a good job too. The farmers need the customers and the customers need the farmers. It’s a symbiotic relationship. Really it’s about Arizona. How can we ensure that Arizona sustains its economic viability? That’s what we need to keep asking ourselves.

Editor’s Note: Sandy Fabritz-Whitney will be talking to our farm and ranch del-

egates during this year’s Annual Meeting in Scottsdale, November 7 and 8.

Water continued from page 4

There’s been a lot of news and noise around the Affordable Care Act (ACA) re-cently. While the new health plans created under the ACA are not effective until January 1, 2014, the annual election period began just four weeks ago, on October

1. In order to help our members understand the changes, and how it may impact them, we’ve put together a list of the most commonly asked questions. does the AcA impact me?

The simple answer is yes. It will affect almost everyone in some manner. However, there is really very little impact on those who are 65 and older who have Medicare coverage and a Medicare Supplement policy. Those covered under group plans through their employer should visit with their employer on what changes are in store. The bulk of changes come from those purchasing individual coverage. What is the Annual election period?

The Annual Election Period (AEP) is a period of time when you can purchase the new ACA compliant policies. The AEP this year runs from October 1, 2013 through March 31, 2014. If you enroll between October 1, 2013 and December 15, 2013, you will have a January 1, 2014 effective date. If you enroll later than that, your effective date will be later. In future years, the AEP is scheduled to run from October 1 – December 7, with effective dates of January 1. During this time, the insurance company must accept your application for coverage and there is no underwriting and no exclusions or denials because of health conditions. Is that the only time I can buy health insurance?

It is not the only time you can buy, but it is the only time you can buy without a qualifying life event. A qualifying life event can make you eligible for a Special Enroll-

Curbing the ConfusionBy Steve Kammeyer, Director of Health Insurance Services, Farm Bureau Financial Services

ment Period (SEP). Examples of a qualifying life event include:• Loss of coverage through your employer group or other group plan• Moving to a new state• Certain changes in your income• Changes in family size (marriage, divorce, birth of a child)The only two enrollment options to buy individual health insurance is either during

the AEP or during an SEP which occurs because of a qualifying life event. What options do I have?

If you have purchased a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona policy through your Farm Bureau agent, you have some options to consider. It will depend on when you purchase the policy:

• If you have a policy effective date before October 1, you will be required to move to a new ACA plan effective January 1, 2014. • If you have a policy effective date between October 1 and December 15 of this year, you may remain on that plan through 2014 and your rates will remain the same for that time. On January 1, 2015 you will need to move to a new ACA compliant plan.

how do I know what is right for me and determine what I need to do?There are many different things to consider when comparing the plans. The best

thing to do is to contact your local Farm Bureau agent to discuss the ACA as well as the new plans available. They can help you sort out your options and make the right deci-sion for you and your family. If you don’t currently work with a Farm Bureau agent, you can locate one by going to www. fbfs. com and using the agent locator tool.

continued from page 2Teaming UpAccountant

To offer perspective and guidance on tax implications involved in estate planning and business succession, make sure your accountant is part of the team.Business consultant

A business consultant can help you evaluate and analyze the current state of your business and where its strengths and weaknesses may be. estate planning Attorney

An estate planning attorney can help keep you and the team informed about estate-planning laws and how they may affect your succession strategy, as well as execute wills, trusts and powers of attorney, and change any property titles.

Editor’s note: Contact your Farm Bureau agent, or go to the Farm Bureau Financial Services website at fbfs.com and select the “Business” tab to get started on your succes-sion planning journey. Consult with your attorney and other professional advisors for tax and legal advice, and to determine the best solution for your specific situation. Next in the series will be “When Equal is Not Fair.”

Page 6: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

6 www.azfb.org ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013

Attitudes continued from page 1

Specifically for the 2012/2013 Fiscal year (highlights our major ones; but not all):• Reach 4 million Arizonans (impressions) with our Arizona Agriculture message! (Accomplished: Have reached and exceeded the goal: 5,653,130) • Created and completed 10 specialty crop videos by September 30th (Accomplished)• Reach 57,000 to 60,000 students, parents and teachers by end of 2012/2013 school year: (Accomplished: Reached over 64,000!)• Sponsor goal of $50,000 for 2013. (Accomplished: $52,000), • Ongoing increase in royalties of top 3 benefit providers (Accomplished)

Beyond output to outcomesBut beyond our out-

put, we need to know that we have solid outcomes in public outreach. In other words, does our output generate outcomes that make a difference, especially in people’s at-titudes about Arizona ag-riculture?

We believe that we have four areas where our output is unveiling clear outcomes, specifically in delivering great trans-formation of attitudes: 1) Ag in the classroom, 2) Fenceline (speakers bu-reau), 3) Special events, and 4) Social media.

Ag in the classroomPersonally, I have always suggested that one of our best tools of engagement with

the public about our Arizona agriculture story happens in the classroom with parents, teachers and students. And, I still feel this way. But it’s not just a feeling anymore. The evidence is clear.

Specifically, it is Ag Education Associate Director Katie Aikins’ file full of letters from children and teachers telling her of their new-found love and appreciation they have for our state’s agriculture.

Space allows only one example; from a student, “Thank you very much for teach-ing us about Dr. Seuss Green Eggs and Ham. We learned that eggs come from girl hens and ham comes from pigs.”

This positive engagement is also validated by our research on the issue that students learning math, science, social studies and language arts using agriculture have better

test scores because hands-on ag-related education helps them retain information better. As we grow this program, we’ll continue to see the positive outcome of engagement

in this area.

Fenceline, Arizona Farm Bureau’s Speakers’ BureauLaunched by Marketing Manager Peggy Jo Goodfellow through her Project CEN-

TRL project, Fenceline just completed its second year and our outreach in this area more than doubled. Fenceline coordinates speaking engagements between civic and other organizations needing farm and ranch professionals to tell the Arizona agriculture story.

While the main evidence of positive outcomes here is anecdotal, they are numer-ous. The biggest sign of its impact is repeat requests from the various groups to come back and talk. Additionally, the most common reaction to our presentation (that is also given by Farm Bureau staff) is that the audience “never realized how much agriculture production takes place in this state.”

A Variety of Special eventsIf one were to average it out, Arizona Farm Bureau could claim participation in a

special event per week. During the fall months, Arizona Farm Bureau staff joke that we’re doubling up on the events around the state.

Two of the biggest ones Arizona Farm Bureau participates in involve the Earth Day and Boo at the Zoo events at the Phoenix Zoo and the Young Farmer and Ranchers’ participation in the Spring Game and Fish Expo. These three events draw thousands of participants.

We have found that when we align with an established event that has already built an audience, we gain traction by participating.

From these events we’ve drawn new advocates that often extend the relationship on our social media channels, including helping us build a reservoir of questions and answers that we can turn into stories about agriculture. Many of our new advocates then seek us out the next time we participate in an event.

Social Media: Farm Bureau’s New FrontierThe experts tell us for social media (YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twit-

ter) to be legitimate it must engage. We’ll engaging we are!In Arizona Farm Bureau’s various social media channels, we’re keeping the con-

versation going. This year we began a new series on Facebook where we ask moms to pose questions for our farmers and ranchers to answer. To date, we’ve completed about eight question and answer articles where the question was first posed on “Friends of Arizona Farm Bureau’s” Facebook, then the answer was posted on our Fill Your Plate blog and linked back to the Facebook page.

Our other very popular series we plan to continue on Facebook is the “Faces of Arizona Agriculture.”

Speaking of engagement, Sherry Saylor’s “The Faces of Arizona Agriculture” poster garnered 6,000 “views,” 79 “likes” and 52 “Shares” on Facebook. plus, 12 different people commented on Saylor’s poster on Facebook.

continued on page 7

Page 7: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013 www.azfb.org 7

Cecil Miller Jr., Arizona Farm Bureau’s longest-serving president, passed away last month. Miller served as president of Arizona Farm Bureau from 1971-1992. He also served as vice president for the American Farm Bureau Federation and

was presented with AFBF’s Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award in 2007. His lifetime of service to agriculture included serving on the boards of the Salt River Project and the public lands committee for the Bureau of Land Management.

“Arizona agriculture has lost a true leader,” said Arizona Farm Bureau President Kevin Rogers. “He led our organization like no other. For those that had the privilege to work with Cecil, we lost a friend. He gave countless hours to our organization and we will forever be grate-ful for his thumbprint he left on this orga-nization. Our prayers are with the Miller family.”

“Cecil’s favorite quote was, ‘If you al-ways tell the truth, you don’t have to remember what you said,’” says Arizona Farm Bureau’s Chief Adminis-trative Officer Jim Klinker. “He was a leader that was as comfortable with downtown Phoenix bank presidents as he was with cow hands under the pines at Mormon Lake. He was a leader in the generation that brought Colorado River Water to the central desert and created a farm labor law that was fair to both workers and farmers. His leadership put the Arizona Farm Bureau on sound financial ground. Cecil gave full measure to his farming and ranching community and to the state of Arizona.”

Klinker served under Cecil’s Farm Bureau leadership from 1974 to 1992.Miller’s life will be celebrated during a memorial service at 10:30am on Saturday,

November 16 at the Church at Litchfield Park, 300 North Old Litchfield Road in Litch-field Park, Arizona.

He was featured during Arizona Agriculture’s Centennial series in the March 2012 issue that can be found on azfb.org in the “Media” section within the “Arizona Agri-culture” link.

Cecil Miller, Jr.’s Legacy of Leadership

cecil miller receiving the 2007 distinguished Service to Agri-culture Award from American Farm Bureau Federation.

Attitudes continued from page 6

Where has all of this led us? An ongoing dialogue with one of our key demograph-ics, moms. One Arizona mom posted on Facebook, “Thanks so much for answering my question! I feel like I can now connect to our state’s farmers and ranchers!”

Plus, the “comments” and “shares” gleaned from various information we’re post-ing in our social media channels is letting us know our audiences are engaging.

Yes, Arizona agriculture has a long way to go to get to where we need to be with public outreach and telling your Arizona farm and ranch story. But your story is reso-nating with Arizona families and we’re having fun making you shine!

Ultimately, though, you are the best one to tell your story. This joint effort means we all must be engaged; marketing the story of your life and times farming and ranch-ing. Let’s join together in this new fiscal year of the Arizona Farm Bureau and get it done.

Page 8: November/December 2013 Arizona Agriculture

8 www.azfb.org ARIZONAAGRICULTURE•NOVEMBER/DECEMBER,2013

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united States postal ServiceStatement of ownership, management, and circulation 1. Publication Title: Arizona Agriculture 2. Publication Number: 0274-7014 3. Filing Date: 10-01-13 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly (except for December ) 5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 11 6. Annual Subscription Price: $50.00 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: Arizona Farm Bureau Federation 325 S. Higley Rd, Suite 210, Gilbert, Arizona, 85296 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Busi ness Office of Publisher: Arizona Farm Bureau Federation Arizona Agriculture 325 S Higley Rd, Suite 210, Gilbert, Arizona, 85296 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher: Jim Klinker 325 S Higley Rd, Suite 210, Gilbert, Arizona, 85296 Editor: Julie Murphree 325 S Higley Rd, Suite 210, Gilbert, Arizona, 85296 Managing Editor: Julie Murphree 325 S Higley Rd, Suite 210, Gilbert, Arizona, 85296 10. Owner: Arizona Farm Bureau Federation 325 S Higley Rd, Suite 210, Gilbert, Arizona, 85296 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Hold ers Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None 12. Tax Status: The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes has not changed during preceding 12 months 13. Publication Title: Arizona Agriculture 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: 9-2-13 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Agriculture industry news a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 3103; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date —3124. b. Paid and/or Requested Circulation: i. Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541. (Include advertiser’s proof and exchange copies): Aver- age No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 2953; No. Copies of Single Is sue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 2974. ii.Paid In-County Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541 (Include advertiser’s proof and exchange copies): Average No. Copies Each Issue Dur- ing Preceding 12 Months — 0; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date - 0. iii.Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 0; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 0. iv. Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Pre- ceding 12 Months — 0; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 0. c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation [Sum of 15b. (1), (2), (3) and (4)]: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 2953; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 2974. d. Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, complimentary, and other free) i. Outside-County as stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Pre- ceding 12 Months — 0; No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 0. ii. In-County as Stated on Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 0: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 0. iii. Free or Nominal rate copies mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 50: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date- 50. iv. Free or Nominal rate distribution outside the mail: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 months - 0: Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 0. e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 50: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 50. f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 3003: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 3024. g. Copies not distributed: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 75: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 75. h. Total (Sum of 15f and g.): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months — 3078: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 3099. i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c. divided by 15f. times 100): Average No. Copies Each Issue Dur- ing Preceding 12 Months — 98%: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date — 98%. 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership: Publication Required. Will be printed in the Nov 4, 2013 issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Date 10-7-13

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

Special Wednesday Afternoon Presentations Available Prior To Kick-Off Of State Farm Bureau Convention

The 2013 Arizona Farm Bureau Annual Conven-tion will be held at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center, in Scottsdale, November 6 -8. On Wednesday af-ternoon, beginning at 2:00 p.m., Katie Aikins will pres-ent on Biotechnology (first), Animal Welfare and Mis-conceptions. Each presentation runs 55-minutes with a short break in between each one. If you want to know how to address these issues, you’ll want to attend!

Biotechnology – 2:00 p.m.

Participants will discuss one of agriculture’s most debated issues: biotechnology and GMOs. This presenta-tion will introduce participants to the history and science behind genetically modified organisms.

Animal Welfare in Agriculture – 3:00 p.m.Participants will learn and discuss animal welfare

issues in agriculture. Is it really like what they see on TV and the internet? Current production practices and policies will be discussed. This presentation takes par-ticipants on a virtual tour of a slaughter house facility.

misconceptions of Agriculture – 4:00 p.m.

Participants are challenged to question sources of

information. Participants will learn the difference be-tween animal rights and animal welfare organizations. In addition, misconceptions regarding hormones in food, antibiotic use, organic and conventional food production, and genetic modification are discussed.

RSVP that you’ll be attending to [email protected] as seating is limited. You do not have to be at-tending the Convention to attend these Wednesday after-noon sessions.


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