Inside: Agralite Electric Cooperative • Benson, MN 56215 • 843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375 Volume LXXXII • AUGUST 2016 The differences between overhead and underground power lines By Tom Tate There are two methods of installing the power lines that carry electricity to your home, overhead and underground. Agralite Electric Cooperative members sometimes ask why we use one versus the other, or more to the point, why all power lines are not installed using the underground construction method. Isn’t one method better than the other? These are great questions, and the answer is that each method has its place. Overhead line construction starts with the setting of utility poles. Poles can be set in nearly any type of terrain, even rocky. In the case of heavy rock, special equipment is used to augur out the hole. If placement occurs in boggy or wet terrain, many techniques are available to set poles securely. Once the poles are in place, wires can be strung and then equipment––like transformers, fuses and reclosers are installed. Power can now flow. Underground line construction requires digging a trench that is deep enough to keep the lines well away from surface activities. Where the terrain is extremely rocky, underground lines may not be an option. Next, wires are laid in the trench directly or placed in conduits for protection. The trench is filled in, and the surface is restored to its original condition. Padmount transformers and additional equipment are installed as needed, now the system is ready to deliver electricity. Let’s take a look at some the advantages and disadvantages of each construction method, beginning with overhead. Photo above is by Cara Jo Greger, our August Calendar Contest Winner A gralite N ews Back by Popular Demand! Agralite is seeking local photographs for our 2017 calendar contest. Photos should be of a landscape, natural element, or interesting view from within the Agralite service territory. We want you to share the diversity and wonder of our local landscape. Photos must be submitted by Agralite members. Members must provide in writing that they have rights to publish the photo. Photos must be submitted by November 25th. Digital photos only. You must specify the subject of the photo and where it was taken. You MUST include contact information – account number, phone number, and address in your submission. Selected photos will receive a $15.00 credit on member’s bill if selected. Cover Photo will receive a $30.00 bill credit. Bill credits will be given in January of 2017. Photos will be selected by Agralite employees and directors by vote. Please limit 5 photo submissions per member – 1 winning photo per member. Submit your photos to: [email protected] or mail to: Landscape Contest C/O Agralite Electric Cooperative, 320 US Hwy 12 E, Benson, MN 56215 Agralite Cooperative Calendar Photo Contest Page 2 • Minutes • Kory Johnson, Manager Page 3 • Manage your energy use with these handy apps • Lighng Rebates • Energy Tip Page 4 • Make Safety a Priority as Farmers, Motorists Share Roads This Fall • Smarthub • Paying your electric bill Page 5 • Women and cooperaves • Electric co-ops help offer a place and a prize for research on greenhouse gases Page 6 • Building credit with your child • Electrical safety lessons for kids • Power lines (from 1) Page 19 • Classifieds • Recipe Corner • Right Light Guide Page 20 • Energy Explorers • Operaon Round Up Sign Up • Community Solar continued on page 6 Please note: Agralite’s Office will be closed Monday, September 5. Office Hours (after Sept 5): 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Transcript
Inside:
Agralite Electric Cooperative • Benson, MN 56215 • 843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375Volume LXXXII • AUGUST 2016
The differences between overhead and underground power lines
By Tom TateThere are two methods of installing the power lines
that carry electricity to your home, overhead and underground. Agralite Electric Cooperative members sometimes ask why we use one versus the other, or more to the point, why all power lines are not installed using the underground construction method. Isn’t one method better than the other? These are great questions, and the answer is that each method has its place.
Overhead line construction starts with the setting of utility poles. Poles can be set in nearly any type of terrain, even rocky. In the case of heavy rock, special equipment is used to augur out the hole. If placement occurs in boggy or wet terrain, many techniques are available to set poles securely. Once the poles are in place, wires can be strung and then equipment––like
transformers, fuses and reclosers are installed. Power can now flow.
Underground line construction requires digging a trench that is deep enough to keep the lines well away from surface activities. Where the terrain is extremely rocky, underground lines may not be an option. Next, wires are laid in the trench directly or placed in conduits for protection. The trench is filled in, and the surface is restored to its original condition. Padmount transformers and additional equipment are installed as needed, now the system is ready to deliver electricity.
Let’s take a look at some the advantages and disadvantages of each construction method, beginning with overhead.
Photo above is by Cara Jo Greger, our August Calendar Contest Winner
Agralite News
Back by Popular Demand! Agralite is seeking local photographs for our 2017 calendar contest. Photos should be of a landscape, natural element, or interesting view from within the Agralite service territory. We want you to share the diversity and wonder of our local landscape.
Photos must be submitted by Agralite members. Members must provide in writing that they have rights to publish the photo.
Photos must be submitted by November 25th. Digital photos only. You must specify the subject of the photo and where it was taken. You MUST include
contact information – account number, phone number, and address in your submission.
Selected photos will receive a $15.00 credit on member’s bill if selected. Cover Photo will receive a $30.00 bill credit. Bill credits will be given in January of 2017. Photos will be selected by Agralite employees and directors by vote. Please limit 5 photo submissions per member – 1 winning photo per member.
Submit your photos to: [email protected] or mail to: Landscape Contest C/O Agralite Electric Cooperative, 320 US Hwy 12 E, Benson, MN 56215
Agralite Cooperative
Calendar Photo
Contest
Page 2• Minutes• Kory Johnson, Manager
Page 3• Manage your energy use with
these handy apps• Lighting Rebates• Energy Tip
Page 4• Make Safety a Priority as
Farmers, Motorists Share Roads This Fall
• Smarthub• Paying your electric bill
Page 5• Women and cooperatives• Electric co-ops help offer a
place and a prize for research on greenhouse gases
Page 6• Building credit with your child• Electrical safety lessons for kids• Power lines (from 1)
Page 19• Classifieds• Recipe Corner• Right Light Guide
Page 20• Energy Explorers• Operation Round Up Sign Up• Community Solar
A Report to Patrons From the Board RoomMinutes of Meeting • Board of Directors • July 2016
Manager Kory Johnson
Board Chairman Orvin Gronseth called a meeting of the Board of Directors of Agralite Electric Cooperative to order at 8:30 a.m., July 25, 2016. All members of the Board were present. The agenda, minutes of the last meeting, the monthly disbursements, and payment of capital credits of deceased members were approved.
Yusef Orest, Manager of Member Services, discussed annual CIP goals and rebates. He discussed load management and a discussion followed.
Director Gronseth gave an update on the Pope County Fair auction bid.
Jennifer Stryhn, Manager of Finance, discussed
Agralite’s margins. She discussed the 990 tax returns, health insurance renewal, and capital credits. Jennifer brought forth Work Order #438, Special Equipment WO June 2016, Form 990 tax return, and Corporate Authorization Resolution and the Board approved them.
The financials were given by Jennifer with a PowerPoint presentation.
Tom Hoffman, Manager of Engineering & Operations, discussed line crew projects, recent outages, and the RESAP observation that will be July 27th. He stated that the line crew completed annual pole top rescue. He is advertising for an open journeyman lineworker position.
Tom gave the safety report.
Jennifer gave a PowerPoint presentation on Agralite’s Key Ratio Trend Analysis.
Kory Johnson, General Manager, discussed the Basin rate change, the recent meetings that he attended, and rate changes. He stated that GRE will close the Stanton Generating Station.
Director Draeger discussed solar. The August board meeting was set for the 23rd. The East River video was shown. The GRE video was shown. Being no further business came before the
Board, the meeting was adjourned.
Summer is winding down
Summer is quickly passing us by! Very soon we will see the school bus rolling down the road on its morning route.
As fall approaches, Agralite begins to look at the coming year and what we expect as far as changes in our wholesale power costs as this represents over 60% of the cooperative’s total expenses. This year Agralite will be seeing significant increases in our wholesale power costs. When the preliminary wholesale rates are looked at, it appears that the cooperative will see an approximate 8% overall increase in our wholesale power costs for 2017. This change in wholesale rates will increase our costs by nearly one million dollars. While these numbers are not yet final and I will be meeting with our wholesale suppliers to review these numbers, this increase will have a significant impact on Agralite and the rates that our members pay.
As you know, Agralite has three wholesale power providers. We receive power from Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), Great River Energy, and East River Electric. This arrangement has served our cooperative very well over the past 8 plus years since Agralite entered into our new power supply contracts. With this arrangement our cooperative has seen savings in excess of $8.3 million dollars over the past 8 years. These savings on our wholesale costs are dollars that Agralite did not need to collect from our members. Our power supply arrangement has helped Agralite to keep our rates to our members stable for the past 4 ½ years.
This past summer Basin Electric, the generation cooperative supplying East River announced they would be implementing a midyear rate increase effective
August 1 of 2016. This rate increase will be passed through to Agralite Electric Cooperative. I am hopeful that Agralite will be able to absorb this increase for the balance of 2016 by working with reduced margins and also look for expenses that we can trim at the distribution level. But as Agralite looks at our 2017 budget it will not be possible to absorb this rate change for an entire year.
I have received some preliminary rate information from Great River Energy indicating our wholesale rate will increase some over 8% for 2017. While I don’t have the specific breakdown of demand and energy components at this time, this will have a significant impact on our wholesale costs as Agralite receives approximately 55% of wholesale power from GRE.
As the board reviews our rates to our members, these factors will have a big impact on rate changes that will be necessary. The Agralite Board of Directors strives to keep rates reasonable and fair to all rate classes. The board will review our facility charges, the fixed charge that members pay that cover a portion of the fixed costs of operating a cooperative. These costs include many of the maintenance programs that ensure reliable service to all our members, a portion of the costs to build power lines to serve the membership, and other costs associated with cooperative operations. Also, we will review the energy and demand charges to our members to ensure that each rate class pays its fair share.
Please stay tuned for more information on this important issue and please feel free to contact your electric cooperative if you have questions.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Pro-gram Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the infor-mation requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: [email protected].
320-843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375The Agralite News is circulated every third Friday of each month
by Agralite Electric Cooperative.Editor - Kory JohnsonPublisher - Swift County Monitor NewsPostmaster send address changes to:Agralite Electric Cooperative, P.O. Box 228, Benson, MN 56215Second class postage, paid at 320 East Highway 12, Benson, MN 56215 (USPS 543-040)
AGRALITE NEWS PAGE 3August 2016
Member Services: Yusef Orest
Manage your energy use with these handy apps
By Anne PrinceTracking your steps, tracking your children, monitoring your banking activity
or locating your parked car––these days, it seems like there is an app for everything. If you are efficiency-savvy and want to manage your energy use, there may be an app that works for you. While there are several energy use apps to choose from, some can be difficult to use, particularly those aimed at general efficiency. There are no clear standouts, so try a few, and choose the app that works best for you.
Purchasing a smart thermostat for your home is a great way to begin managing your energy use. But, if you are looking for a more granular way to obtain information about your energy use, an app can provide useful insight into how specific actions impact your utility bill. The following is a snapshot of a few energy efficiency mobile apps. All of the apps mentioned in this article are available for Apple and Android systems.
NestOwned by Google, created by Nest Labs and linked only to the Nest thermostat,
this free app has several useful features. You can adjust your home thermostat by simply using your smart phone, iPad or iTouch––whether in your car or on your couch. App users can view and edit a thermostat schedule and keep an eye on how much energy is being used. You can also opt to receive extreme temperature alerts before your pet overheats or your pipes freeze. In addition, there is an option for smoke and carbon monoxide alerts, among others.
Together We SaveTouchstone Energy® Cooperatives offers the Together We Save app, which
enables users to calculate the energy use of many household appliances based on national averages. This free app includes roughly 100 calculators that determine the projected energy use and cost of particular appliances and activities. The app also offers 100 practical energy-saving tips. For Touchstone Energy® Cooperative members, the Together We Save app calculates energy costs based on your actual utility rates for even greater accuracy.
Smart Hub The Smart Hub app transmits utility data enabling consumers to see near real-
time information about their energy use. Essentially, this app helps customers better understand how and when they use energy. The Smart Hub app was developed by National Information Solutions Cooperative (NISC) and uses the same data as the Smart Hub web portal. While all members can pay their utility bill using their mobile device, pre-pay customers can also view their balance. For members who have solar PV systems installed at their home, the app enables them to check their offset power compared to their purchased power.
Lennox iComfort Like the Nest app, the Lennox iComfort app is only compatible with Lennox
products – in this case, the Wi-Fi thermostat. It has similar features to the Nest, in that users can remotely control their home thermostat and other settings. In addition, the app allows users to program the system to an energy savings “away mode” when no one is home. For example, you can select the settings you wish to run, then cancel the “away mode” as you return home to ensure a comfortable temperature awaits you.
Your trusted energy resourceWhile these apps employ the latest technology to maximize your ability to
manage your use, the next generation of energy apps will likely integrate across multiple platforms––managing your thermostat, appliances, water heater, home electronics and other devices from the convenience of your smart phone. In the meantime, while app technology continues to evolve, your best resource for saving energy and money is your local electric co-op.
Agralite Electric Cooperative can provide guidance on energy savings based on your account information, your energy use, and other factors unique to your location. Contact Agralite Electric Cooperative’s energy experts at 320-843-4150 to learn more.
Have you checked out our Lighting Rebates?
www.agralite.coop320-843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375
Agralite Electric Cooperative
Available for both Commercial & Residential
Call us today for more info!
Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month
Consider insulating your water heater tank, which could reduce standby heat losses by 25 to 45 percent and save you about 4 to 9 percent in water heating costs. You can find pre-cut jackets or blankets available from around $20.
Source: energy.gov
AGRALITE NEWSPAGE 4 August 2016
Agralite Electric’s SmartHub Program
• Pay their bill immediately with secureonline payments
• View monthly electricity usage and history
• Manage account information directly and trackpayment history from mobile devices or the web
• Receive email regarding bills
• Sign up for Auto Pay
With SmartHub, members can
SmartHub is a convenient two-way communication program that allows members to access their Agralite Electric account information through personal computers and mobile devices, including iPhone, iPad and Android smart phones and tablets.
SmartHub is intuitive and easy-to-navigate, and provides so much more than just bill payment.
SmartHub:A New and Enhanced Online Bill Payment System How to Access SmartHub
To pay your bills or utilize any of the other features, simply go to www.agralite.coop and click on “SmartHub” located on the left-hand side of the homepage. If you have yet to sign up for any kind of online bill payment account, simply click on the “New User” link and follow the prompts to sign up for an online account.
Agralite Electric is proud to provide you with powerful, secure and convenient account access, as well as detailed information about your energy usage via SmartHub. Sign up today to experience the new and exciting features of SmartHub.
If you have any questions, please contact our office1.800.950.8375
To download the FREE SmartHub app for your mobile device or tablet, click on the App Store icon on your iPhone/iPad or the Google Play icon on your Android phone/tablet, and search for “SmartHub”.
Agralite Electric’s SmartHub Program
• Pay their bill immediately with secureonline payments
• View monthly electricity usage and history
• Manage account information directly and trackpayment history from mobile devices or the web
• Receive email regarding bills
• Sign up for Auto Pay
With SmartHub, members can
SmartHub is a convenient two-way communication program that allows members to access their Agralite Electric account information through personal computers and mobile devices, including iPhone, iPad and Android smart phones and tablets.
SmartHub is intuitive and easy-to-navigate, and provides so much more than just bill payment.
SmartHub:A New and Enhanced Online Bill Payment System How to Access SmartHub
To pay your bills or utilize any of the other features, simply go to www.agralite.coop and click on “SmartHub” located on the left-hand side of the homepage. If you have yet to sign up for any kind of online bill payment account, simply click on the “New User” link and follow the prompts to sign up for an online account.
Agralite Electric is proud to provide you with powerful, secure and convenient account access, as well as detailed information about your energy usage via SmartHub. Sign up today to experience the new and exciting features of SmartHub.
If you have any questions, please contact our office1.800.950.8375
To download the FREE SmartHub app for your mobile device or tablet, click on the App Store icon on your iPhone/iPad or the Google Play icon on your Android phone/tablet, and search for “SmartHub”.
1. Pay with Automatic Bank Pay – No more checks to write or bills to mail. Safely pay your bill each month with automatic deductions from your checking or savings account.
2. Pay Online – SmartHub allows you to make payments 24 hours a day. Simply go to www.agralite.coop and click on SmartHub.
3. Pay with EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) – Each month your bill is paid automatically by the credit or debit card you designate.
4. Pay by Mail – Mail a check, cashier’s check, or money order addressed to Agralite Electric Cooperative, PO Box 228, Benson, MN 56215.
5. Pay in Person – You can pay your bills at our office or use our drive-up drop box 24 hours a day.
6. Pay by Phone – With Secure Pay, simply call 1-855-386-9925 and you can make payments with a credit or debit card any time of the day. Remember to have your Agralite account number available.
7. Budget Billing – Budget Billing averages your projected electric bills for the year and gives you a consistent monthly billing amount to pay each month.
Visit www.agralite.coop for more information or give us a call!
So many ways to pay your electric bill – let’s count the ways to see which
one is right for you!
Autumn is here. Time to hit the roads for festivals, pumpkin picking, and fall foliage. Now is also the time for crop harvest, and more motorists will be encountering farm equipment, increasing the potential for accidents. Harvest season generally brings a time of increased collisions between farm equipment and other vehicles. Collisions are often the result of the speed differential between slower-moving farm equipment and passenger cars and trucks. Many times, passenger vehicle drivers simply don’t have enough time to react if they don’t recognize farm equipment soon enough.
For Farmers Farmers can take steps to enhance farm machinery
visibility. Before traveling on public roads remember to:
• Lock brake pedals• Adjust mirrors for good vision• Make sure all warning flashers, lights, and
slow moving vehicle (SMV) emblems are in proper operating condition, clean, and easily visible; if they are covered with dust, wipe them off before leaving the field
• Check tire inflation pressures; inflate tires to the maximum recommended pressure for long-distance travel
When traveling on public roads:• Watch for potholes or obstacles that could tip the
tractor• Listen for cars; often vehicles rapidly approach
from the rear at three to four times the speed of the tractor
• Stay alert to avoid a serious accident; do not use a cell phone or two-way radio while operating on public roads
• Keep a constant lookout for pedestrians, animals, mailboxes, steep ditch embankments, and other roadway obstacles
• Slow down for sharp curves or when going down a hill
• Consider using an escort vehicle to follow behind• Be cognizant of high traffic times, usually
mornings and late afternoons; while it often is impossible to avoid operating on the roads during these times, it may be possible to limit road transportation
For MotoristsKeep in mind the following safety tips as you share
the road with farm equipment:• Farm machinery has a legal right to use public
roads, just as other motor vehicles• Farm machinery can unexpectedly turn onto a
public road from a field or driveway and often travels at speeds of 25mph or less; automobile drivers must quickly identify farm equipment and slow down immediately to avoid rear-end crashes
• Farm machinery operators may not be able to see you; if you can’t see the driver, the driver can’t see you
• Machinery that is half on the road and half on
the shoulder may suddenly move completely onto the road
• Extra-wide farm machinery may take up more than one lane to avoid hitting obstacles such as mailboxes and road signs
Before passing farm machinery:• Check to be sure the machinery is not turning
left. Look for left turn lights or hand signals. If the machinery slows and pulls toward the right side of the road, the operator is likely preparing to make a wide left turn. Likewise, sometimes to make a right turn with wide equipment, the driver must fade to the left
• Determine if the road is wide enough for you and the machinery to safely share
• Look for mailboxes, bridges, or road signs that may cause the machinery to move to the center of the road
• Be sure there is adequate distance for you to safely pass
Rural road rage
can be negated if everyone takes the responsibility t o h a v e e x t r a patience, careful driving habits, and use high-visibility m a r k i n g s a n d lighting.
Ohio State University’s “NetWellness,” July 23, 2014, accessed July 20, 2016, http://www.netwellness.org/healthtopics/poison/farmer.cfm
Safety: Carl HenningCLCP, Safety Coordinator
Make Safety a Priority as Farmers, Motorists Share Roads This Fall
AGRALITE NEWS PAGE 5August 2016
(Allow at least 2 working days for crews to mark all underground utility lines.)
Call before you dig!1-800-252-1166
By Adam Schwartz
In honor of Women’s Equality Day on August 26, let’s take a look at the roles women play in cooperatives across the globe. Even though women in the U.S. and U.K. were not allowed to vote until the early 1900s, women were granted equal voting rights in the first modern era cooperative, The Rochdale Pioneers Equitable Society. Established in 1844 in Rochdale, England, the co-op’s founders agreed that women should have equal voting rights. So you see, treating women equally has been baked into our cooperative DNA right from the start. And the cooperative business model continues to champion women’s equality across the globe.
According to a 2015 global study conducted by the Committee for the Promotion and Advancement of Cooperatives, co-ops have an increasingly positive impact on women and their inclusion in the labor force, and enhance women’s ability to achieve positions of authority (both within and outside of the co-op).
In developing countries––where women have long suffered due to biased cultural norms, government policy and lack of opportunities––the role cooperatives play in the lives of women, as well as the role women play in cooperatives, is now more meaningful than ever.
In Paraguay, a South American country bordered by Brazil and Argentina, gender equality has transformed the Manduvira Sugarcane Cooperative.
This fair-trade sugar co-op has seen a dramatic increase in the participation of female members and leaders. Manduvira is a multi-service co-op with two types of operations: organic, fair-trade sugar production, and savings and credit. In both of its operations, Manduvira has seen a significant increase in their success as women’s participation grows.
According to several co-op leaders in Manduvira, female members are generally more likely to apply what they learn in trainings and adopt new farming techniques compared to their male counterparts. Because women are more likely to adopt new technologies and the co-op has seen a higher percentage of women in leadership roles, the co-op has become stronger and more stable.
This is just an example from one cooperative. In South Africa, women make up 60 percent of co-op members from nearly all sectors. In Japan, women make up 95 percent of co-op members in consumer cooperatives and hold key governance positions. And globally, more women join savings and credit cooperatives, giving them increased access to financial resources.
Right here at Agralite Electric Cooperative, nine women work hard to help make the co-op run smoothly. Treating everyone equally and ensuring folks have fair opportunities is the cooperative way of doing business.
Women and cooperatives
By Paul WesslundWhat if carbon dioxide from burning coal at power
plants could be contained and turned into something useful?
A group of electric co-ops and other partners who want to investigate that issue recently broke ground on a research facility at the Dry Fork Station, a power plant in northeast Wyoming owned by Basin Electric Power Cooperative.
More than a dozen sites around the globe now study “carbon capture” as one possible solution to climate change, but they generally don’t offer the real-world conditions the Integrated Test Center partners say their site will offer when it’s finished next summer.
The facility will allow researchers to place equipment that can test ways to grab carbon dioxide from a working power plant and use it in ways the world might find valuable.
In addition to Basin Electric’s involvement, financial support comes from Denver-based Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The state of Wyoming has been the main funder and organizer of the test center, and another key partner is the XPRIZE Foundation.
XPRIZE Foundation is an organization that seeks “radical breakthroughs for the benefit of humanity.”
In the past, it has offered cash prizes for space travel
and health innovations. More recently it announced two $10 million prizes for “transformational approaches to converting (carbon dioxide) emissions into valuable products.”
The carbon XPRIZE will be awarded in 2020, but this past spring’s preliminary deadline has already produced several applicants, says Dr. Paul Bunje, principal scientist and senior director of energy and environment at XPRIZE. He says those entries have come from “big corporations, garage tinkerers, universities and small and medium-sized businesses.”
The variety of planned research includes using carbon dioxide to make fuels, ingredients in chemical processes, or thin, extremely strong “supermaterials” of the future.
XPRIZE contestants will begin moving equipment to the test center in the summer of 2018, says Dr. Marcius Extavour, XPRIZE director of technical operations. And what will that look like?
“Some of the equipment will be tall and skinny, some of it low and wide,” says Extavour. “Some of it might be in a smooth steel case, others will be exposed pipes, others will be, who knows what?”
To read more about the carbon XPRIZE, visit www.carbon.xprize.org.
Electric co-ops help offer a place and a prize for research on greenhouse gases
Electric co-ops will help lead research into removing greenhouse gas from coal plant emissions, with a research station now being built next to this Basin Electric Power Cooperative plant in Wyoming. The International Test Center is also being supported by the state of Wyoming, and the Denver-based Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association cooperative. The Test Center is scheduled to be completed next summer, and will study ways to capture and develop uses for the carbon dioxide emitted as part of the coal-burning process.
AGRALITE NEWSPAGE 6 August 2016
By Allison GoldbergGood credit can be a valuable resource to a young
adult, helping them rent an apartment, buy a car or home and pass a background check when they apply for a job. As a parent, there are a few steps you can take to help your child get and maintain good credit.
Step 1: Get a free yearly credit report for your child.
To ensure your child starts with a clean slate, get a free annual credit report from annualcreditreport.com using their name and Social Security number. Monitor your child’s credit report for mistakes and signs of identity theft. Report errors and request corrections as soon as you find them. Do this together the first time, then encourage them to make this an annual practice. If you feel your child is too young to obtain credit, consider freezing their credit until the appropriate time. This ensures that no one can open credit in your child’s name.
Step 2: Decide the age at which you’ll begin building your child’s credit.
The correct age is dependent on your child’s maturity and your comfort with allowing them access to credit. (People under age 21 must have a cosigner age 21 or older, or be able to prove sufficient income to pay their balances.) Discuss responsible money management in age-appropriate language and detail. Ensure they have a basic knowledge of how credit cards work, the importance of paying bills on time and the lingering consequences of delinquency. Start them out by opening a checking or savings account in their own name. These accounts are often free at the parents’ bank.
Step 3: Discuss the different types of credit cards to find the right fit.
• Secured credit card: These cards usually require a security deposit. The larger the deposit, the higher the credit limit. Be aware of annual fees and penalties for missed payments and, if possible, find a card that doesn’t have an annual fee. Bills and other communications will be sent to your child, so this might not be the best option if you believe your child will miss payments.
• Authorized user card: By making your child an authorized user on one of your credit cards, you give them the benefit of your years of credit history on that card. You’ll also receive the charges for that card on your regular bill, so you’ll see their purchases and can ensure bills are paid each month. If you choose a card with a low credit limit, you’ll know your child cannot spend more than that each month.
• Retail card: Sign your child up for a retailer-specific credit card. These cards can be used only at the retailer that issues the credit. If your child drives, a gas card might prove an ideal way to familiarize them with revolving credit. Perhaps your child has a monthly clothing allowance? A department store or brand credit card might be a good option.
• Co-signed card: As a cosigner, you’re responsible for payments only if the primary user doesn’t make them, but your credit will be affected by the activity on the account. You’ll have little, if any, control over how your child uses the account.
• Card in their own name: This is perhaps the next step after one of the options listed above. Once a child is in high school or college, they may
receive solicitations to open an account. These offers may come with high fees and higher than average interest rates. Use this as an opportunity to teach your child how to evaluate the costs and benefits of applying for credit and to illustrate how unpaid balances can become unmanageable. Encourage them never to charge more than they can repay by the end of the billing cycle. Consider having the bills mailed to your home address or establish on-line access with your child’s approval so that you can assist them in monitoring their accounts. Charging and repaying small amounts monthly can help them establish a credit history and build a strong credit score.
Step 4: Monitor and provide guidance as necessary.
The impulse control regions of the brain are still developing in teens and young adults. Make it a habit to regularly discuss important financial topics like money management and budgeting, building credit, saving money and paying taxes. Even if your knowledge is imperfect, take the opportunity to learn together. Knowledge is empowering—and so is knowing that your parents care enough to provide the tools to help build a strong financial future.
FOR ALL OUTAGES:
Do not call the office for outages
August Energy Payment IS DUE SEPT. 20.*
*We accept Visa, Discover & Mastercard.
Day or Night1-888-884-3887
Building credit with your child
Electrical safety lessons for kids Determining if power lines should
be overhead or underground boils down to what is best for the situation. Underground lines might be ideal in situations where there is a desire to keep the poles and wires out of sight, such as a residential neighborhood, park or historical area. There are many cities and towns that construct only underground lines for a variety of reasons.
Overhead systems work well when appearance is not a major concern.
Examples include extremely long line distances across country, where the voltages are higher than the limitations set for underground lines.
The ultimate mix of underground and overhead construction used by Agralite Electric Cooperative provides you, our members, with the highest possible quality of service at the lowest possible price. Cost, appearance, reliability, maintenance and future upgrades will drive which is the better approach, overhead or underground.
Power lines...from page 1
By Meghaan EvansWe all know electricity plays a major
role in our everyday lives, and it is a powerful resource that should be respected. Unfortunately, our children often do not understand the dangers of electricity. At Agralite Electric Cooperative, we encourage you to share electrical safety tips and lessons with your little ones as often as possible. We also understand their attention spans run short, so here are a few creative ways to get them involved.
Depending on the age of your child, consider designating an “electronics deputy.” The deputy should be responsible for pointing out electronics in your home that are not in use and keeping appliances safe from liquids. Reward your deputy for pointing out overloaded outlets or other potentially dangerous situations.
E m p h a s i z e t h e importance of fire
prevention with your children, and create a family f i re d r i l l p l a n as an extra precaut ion.
I n c e n t i v i z e your children
b y r e w a r d i n g
those who followed the plan and made it safely out of the home.
While it is fun and engaging to turn safety into a game, it is important to ensure your children understand the risks they are facing if they do not practice electrical safety.
One of the most important safety tips you can give your kids is to avoid any downed power lines. In fact, it is best to avoid power lines, transformers and substations in general. A downed power line can still be energized, and it can also energize other objects, including fences and trees. Make sure your kids understand the potential dangers of coming in contact with a downed power line or low hanging wire. And, if they encounter a downed power line, ask them to tell you or another adult to call Agralite Electric Cooperative.
Here are a few other safety tips you can share with your kids:
• Never put metal objects in outlets or appliances.
• Do not overcrowd electrical outlets.• Never mix water and electricity.No matter how you choose to get your
kids interested in staying safe around electricity, Agralite Electric Cooperative is here to help. To learn more about electrical safety, visit www.agralite.coop
AUGERS & VEHICLES, WOODWORKING & SHOP TOOLS MUCH, MUCH MORE)
Watch for Henslin
Signs!
Auction to be held at: COMMERCIAL PROPERTY located on East Hwy. 7, 1/2 mile East of Cosmos, MN (south side of road)
Watch for Henslin
Signs!
AUCTION
The Private Collection ofThe Brad Preslicka Estate
For more pictures, auction information, buying and shipping terms, complete listing, online catalog and other auctions,
visit us at... www.henslinauctions.com
FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 • 6:30 P.M.
License 65-25320-365-4120 Office
LaDon HensLin • aLLen HensLin
320-290-8490 Frank roering 320-905-6226 Brad dallmann
HENSLIN AUCTIONS, INC. 100 Main Street, BIRD ISLAND, MN
WILLMAR, MN
GUN
LIVE ONSITE & LIVE ONLINE
68 EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY FIREARMS INCLUDING HANDGUNS, LEVER ACTIONS, SHOTGUNS
& RIFLES, AMMUNITION AND MUCH MORE!!COLT, RUGER, SAVAGE, BROWNING, WINCHESTERS,
REMINGTON, SMITH & WESSON AND OTHER BRANDS!! (GUNS ARE IN EXCELLENT CONDITION!!)
• BROWNING PROSTEEL GUN SAFE •
Gun Preview: AUCTION DAY ONLY STARTING AT NOON, 10% ONSITE BUYER’S PREMIUM WILL APPLY
Auction to be held at: WILLMAR CONFERENCE CENTER240 23RD ST. S.E. (HWY 12) , WILLMAR, MN
Seventy-eight percent of Minnesota’s corn acreage was in or beyond the dough stage, 12 days ahead of the five-year average and 5 days ahead of last year. Twelve percent of the corn acreage was in or beyond the dent stage.
Corn condition rated 85 percent good to excellent. Eighty-nine percent of the soybean crop was setting pods, a week ahead of average, but 6 days behind last year. Soybean condition rated 79 percent good to excellent.
Fifty-seven percent of the spring wheat acreage had been harvested, 6 days ahead of the five-year average. Spring wheat condition rated 69 percent good to excellent. Seventy-four percent of the oat crop was harvested for grain, 4 days ahead of average, but equal to last year. Sixty-one percent of the barley acreage had been harvested, 6 days ahead of average. Barley condition rated 63 percent good to excellent.
Seventy-five percent of the dry edible bean crop was fully podded. Dry edible bean condition rated 69 percent good to excellent, down 2 percentage points from the previous week. Sunflower condition rated 58 percent good to excellent. Eleven percent of the potato acreage had been harvested, 4 days ahead of average. Potato condition rated 92 percent good to excellent. Sugarbeet condition rated 83 percent good to excellent, down 4 percentage points from last week.
The second cutting of alfalfa hay was 94 percent complete. The third cutting of alfalfa hay was 58 percent complete, a week ahead of last year. Pasture condition rated 76 percent good to excellent.
Field activities for the week included cutting and baling hay, harvesting small grains, and applying insecticides as needed.
Minnesota farmers were limited to 3.7 days suitable for fieldwork as a large area of heavy rain moved across Minnesota during the week.
Soil MoistureAug. 14 V. Short Short Adequate SurplusTopsoil 0 2 72 26Subsoil 0 4 79 17
Crops still progressing despite heavy rains
Agralite Electric CooperativeMember Owned!
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AGRALITE NEWS August 2016PAGE 8
There was a lot of anticipation leading into Aug. 12 USDA Crop Report, due to the very favorable crop conditions that existed in many of the primary corn and soybean production areas in the United States.
Even though parts of southwest Minnesota, northwest Iowa, and eastern South Dakota dealt with very wet conditions and late planting this spring, and some areas of south central and central Minnesota had excessive rainfall amounts in June, the overall growing conditions in many portions of the Upper Midwest have been quite favorable.
The USDA repprt estimated the 2016 total U.S. corn production at an all-time record level of 15.15 billion bushels, which would be an increase of 11 percent from the 2015 level of 13.6 billion bushels. The 2016 projected corn production would best the previous record U.S. corn production of 14.2 billion bushels in 2014, and compares to 13.9 billion bushels in 2013, and 10.8 billion bushels in the drought-year of 2012.
Based on Aug. 1 conditions, USDA is estimating 2016 total harvested corn acreage in the U.S. at 86.6 million acres, which is unchanged from June USDA estimates, but is a substantial increase from the 2015 level of harvested corn acres at 80.7 million acres, or 83.1 million acres in 2014.
USDA’s report projects a record national average corn yield for 2016 of 175.1 bushels per acre, which is 4.1 bushels per acre higher than the previous record corn yield of 171.0 bushels per acre in 2014.
The 2015 national average corn yield was 168.4 bushels per acre, and other recent national yield levels were 158.8 in 2013, and 123.4 bushels per acre in the drought-year of 2012. The USDA projected national average corn yield was higher than the average national yield estimates of most grain marketing professionals.
USDA is estimating Minnesota’s 2016 average corn yield at 184 bushels per acre, which is 4 bushels below the record state average corn yield of 188 bushels per acre in 2015. Other recent State average corn yields are 158 bushels per acre in 2014, 160 bushels per acre in 2013, and 165 bushels per acre in 2012.
Prior to 2015 and 2016, the previous record average corn yield in Minnesota was
177 bushels per acre in 2010. USDA is now projecting Iowa’s 2016 average corn yield at the record level of 197 bushels per acre, which would surpass last year’s record State average corn yield of 192 bushels per acre. Other recent average corn yields in Iowa are 178 bushels per acre in 2014, 165 bushels per acre in 2013, and the drought-reduced yield of 137 bushels per acre in 2012.
The 2016 USDA corn yield estimates for the other major corn producing states are Illinois at 200 bushels per acre, compared to 175 bushels per acre in 2015; Indiana at 187 bushels per acre, compared to 150 bushels per acre in 2015; and Nebraska at 187 bushels per acre, compared to 185 bushels per acre in 2015. South Dakota’s corn yield is estimated at 147 bushels per acre, compared to 159 bushels per acre in 2015, with North Dakota at 135 bushels per acre, compared to 128 bushels per acre in 2015.
The August 12 report estimated total 2016 U.S. soybean production at a record level of 4.06 billion bushels, which would be slightly above the previous record U.S. soybean production of 3.929 bushels in 2015, and above the 3.927 bushel production level in 2014.
USDA is now estimating total 2016 harvested soybean acreage at 83.0 million acres, which compares to 81.8 million acres in 2015. Some experts again feel this number could be lowered in future months, due to the prevented planted acres and drown-out acres in portions of the Upper Midwest.
The U.S. average soybean yield for 2016 is estimated at the record level of 48.9 bushels per acre, surpassing the previous record yield of 48.0 bushels per acre in 2015, and also above the national average soybean yield of 47.5 bushels per acre in 2014.
Minnesota’s average soybean yield is estimated at 47 bushels per acre, which compares to a record state soybean yield of 50 bushels per acre in 2015. Iowa is projected to have a record average soybean yield of 57 bushels per acre in 2016, breaking last year’s State record soybean yield of 56.5 bushels per acre.
Other projected 2016 yields in major soybean producing States include Illinois at 57 bushels per acre, compared to 56 bushels
per acre in 2015; Indiana at 55 bushels per acre, compared to 50 bushels per acre in 2015; and Nebraska at 59 bushels per acre, compared to 58 bushels per acre in 2015. South Dakota is projected to have a 2016 soybean yield of 42 bushels per acre, compared to 46 bushels per acre in 2015, and the 2016 North Dakota soybean yield is estimated at 33 bushels per acre, compared to 32.5 bushels per acre in 2015.
AUGUST 12 WASDE REPORTThe updated USDA World Supply and
Demand Estimates (WADSE) were also released Aug. 12, which included the 2016 estimated U.S. corn production of 15.15 billion bushels.
The report had minor adjustments in the beginning corn stocks and showed increases in expected corn usage for feed, ethanol, and exports in 2016-17, resulting in projected corn ending stocks at the end of the 2016-17 marketing year of 2.4 billion bushels. This would be the highest level of corn ending stocks since the 1987-88 crop year.
By comparison, corn ending stocks are estimated to be near 1.7 billion at the end of the 2015-16 marketing year Aug. 31, which is similar to the 2014-15 ending stocks.
USDA is projecting an average on-farm corn price for the 2016-17 marketing year, which runs from Sept.1, 2016, through Aug. 31, 2017, in a range of $2.85 to $3.45 per bushel, with an average expected price of $3.15 per bushel.
The August estimated average 2016-17 corn price was lowered by $0.25 per
bushel from the July price estimates, and if achieved, would be the lowest national average corn price in over a decade. The 2015-16 national average corn price, which will be finalized Sept. 30, is now estimated at $3.60 per bushel, which compares to national average prices of $3.70 per bushel for 2014-15, $4.45 per bushel for 2013-14, and $6.89 per bushel for 2012-13.
The WADSE estimates are projecting a large U.S. soybean production of slightly over 4 billion bushels in 2016, with some increases expected the soybean crush and exports. If achieved, this would result in estimated 2016-17 soybean ending stocks at 330 million bushels, which is up 40 million bushels from the July WADSE estimate. USDA is estimating 2015-16 soybean ending stocks at 255 million bushels, which is considerably higher than the 2014-15 ending stocks of 191 million bushels.
USDA is now projecting an average on-farm soybean price for the 2016-17 marketing year in a range of $8.35 to $9.85 per bushel, with an average expected price of $9.10 per bushel.
Similar to corn, the August estimated 2016-17 soybean price was lowered by $.40 per bushel from the July estimate. The 2015-16 final national average soybean price is estimated at $8.95 per bushel, which compares to 12-month national average prices of $10.10 per bushel in 2014-15, $13.00 per bushel for 2013-14, and $14.40 per bushel for 2012-13.
By Kent ThiesseFarm Management Analyst
VP MinnStar Bank
Focus On Ag Record corn production, yields anticipated by USDA
Abner Sales 513 N. Hwy. 29 • Benson • 320-843-3699
• Abner Sales •Mick and Andy Abner started in 1983. Abner Sales has become one of the largest agricultural parts
distributors in the Upper Midwest.
We’re a major distributor for fertilizer & spray parts.
Have a Great WinterSports Season....
- Boys Basketball - Girls Basketball - Wrestling - Gymnastics Go Isabelle!
www.abnersales.comOrder your parts catalog on-line!
No ItemsRemoved
FromPremises
Until Settled For
BiddingOnlyBy
Number
NotResponsible
ForAccidentsSale Day
Real Estate • Household
AUCTIONSunday, September 11 • 12:00 Noon
Location: 423 S. Haven St., Appleton, MN. Watch for Signs!
NOTICE: Buyers are responsible for their own items after purchasing. As between auctioneers, clerks and buyers allitems are sold “AS IS” and the entire risk as to the quality and performance of the product is with the “BUYER.” The auctioneersand clerks expressly disclaim all warranties either expressed or implied. The buyer acknowledges being so informed prior sale. An-nouncements day of sale take precedence over printed material.
Phonograph/Radio20 Gal. Red Wing Crock2/4 Gal. Red Wing Crocks
CostumeJewelry
KeroseneLamp
Kay 6 String GuitarLoveri Accordian & Case
Description – Very nice single story 2 bedroomhome w/full basement (partial finish), 1 1/2 baths,kitchen, dining & living room, breezeway & sin-gle car attached garage. Vinyl siding & shinglesare like new. Nice large lot approx. 150’x75’ andgreat location. Home sells with appliances!
Terms – $2,500 Earnest Money on sale day (irrevo-cable). The remainder to be paid in full within 30days at Closing w/possession. Property sells “asis.” The real estate transaction & closing will beconducted by Nelson, Oyen & Torvik Law Office, Appleton, MN. 2015 taxes due will be prorated betweenSeller & Buyer. Closing costs will be shared.
VIEWING – Special viewing days: Saturday, August 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and Friday, August19, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. or by appointment. Call 605-880-2476 for viewing information.
Real Estate (Sells at 1:00 PM)
See website for more photoswww.brownandbaker.com
AGRALITE NEWS PAGE 9August 2016
Serving our customers since 1953
- ROLL OFF BOX -To handle the changing needs of our customers
-SERVICES-• Garbage Pickup • Demolition & Construction Pickup
Independent Financial Advice for Benson Residents Since 1990!
Contact us for a complimentary Review of your financial picture! 320-843-4855 or 800-250-0862
· Retirement Planning · Mutual Funds · 401(k) Plans · IRAs & Roth IRAs · Annuities · Long Term Care · Financial Plans · Tax Strategies · Estate Planning
Securities and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance and advisory services offered through Focus Financial Network Inc., a registered investment advisor not affiliated with Royal Alliance.
Let’s Talk Soon! Open 1-4 Wednesdays · or · Call for an appointment
Northstar Bldg., 1209 Pacific, Suite 106, Benson, MN
Sandra Keenan
LUTCF Financial Advisor
Savvy SeniorBy Jim Miller
Dear Savvy Senior,Does Medicare cover spouses who have
not worked? I have worked all my life, but my spouse worked only for a few years when we first got married but then quit to take care of our children fulltime. Will she be eligible for Medicare?
Inquiring Husband
Dear Inquiring,There are plenty of couples in your
situation when it comes to applying for Medicare. The answer generally is yes, your spouse can qualify for Medicare on your work record. Here’s how it works.
Eligibility RulesMedicare, the government health
insurance program for older adults, covers more than 55 million Americans age 65 and older, as well as those younger that have a qualifying disability or have End-Stage Renal Disease.
To be eligible, you must have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years to qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A hospital coverage when you turn 65. If you qualify, then your non-working spouse will qualify too, based on your work record when she turns 65.
Divorced spouses are also eligible if they were married at least 10 years and are single, as are surviving spouses who are single and who were married for at least nine months before their spouse died.
In addition to Part A, both you and your spouse would also qualify for Medicare Part B, which covers doctor’s visits and other outpatient services, but requires a monthly premium, not a work history. The premium for most Part B beneficiaries in 2016 is $104.90 per month, while new beneficiaries pay $121.80/month and higher earning couples – those with
Getting Medicare coverage for non-working spouses
incomes over $170,000 per year – pay even more.
There are also a number of other caveats you should know about depending on your wife’s age.
Older Spouse If your wife is older than you, she can
qualify for Medicare on your work record at age 65, even if you’re not getting Medicare yourself, but you must be at least 62 years old. You also must have been married for at least one year for your wife to apply for Medicare on your work record.
If you are still working and your wife is covered by your employer’s health insurance, she may want to enroll only in the premium-free Medicare Part A until you retire or your employer coverage ends. Part B – along with its premium – can be added later without penalty as long as your employer’s group health plan is your “primary coverage.” Check with your employers’ human resources department to find out about this.
If your wife is more than three years older than you and has no health coverage, you can buy her Medicare Part A until you turn 62 and the premium-free benefit kicks in. The Part A monthly premium is $411 in 2016.
Younger Spouse If your wife is younger than you, she will
need health insurance until she turns 65 and becomes eligible for Medicare. This may be through your employer if you are still working, through COBRA (see dol.gov/ebsa/publications/cobraemployee.html), or through the Health Insurance Marketplace (see healthcare.gov) or outside the marketplace through a private insurance company.
Other Medicare OptionsIn addition to Medicare Part A and
B, when you and your wife become Medicare eligible, each of you will also need to enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan if you don’t have credible drug coverage from your employer or union. And, you may want to purchase a Medicare supplemental (Medigap) policy too, to help pay for things that aren’t covered by Medicare like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. Or, you may want to consider an all-in-one Medicare Advantage plan.
For more information on Medicare choices and enrollment rules visit Medicare.gov or call 800-633-4227. You can also get help through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see shiptacenter.org), which provides free Medicare counseling.
Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
TOOLS, IRON, MISC, AND MOREIt gives Henslin Auctioneers great pride to be selected to conduct this large auction. After 41 years in the fabrication business, the Schweisses have decided to discontinue and have a complete liquidation. This is only a partial listing. Please be early. Real estate will be first item sold. Loading available for a limited time. Buyers please bring your trailers. Items must be removed in seven days. Thank you!
For More Pictures, Auction Information, Auction Terms, Complete Listing, Online Catalog, & More Visit us at:
WWW.HENSLINAUCTIONS.COM
Thurs, September 8, 20169:00 a.m. • Fairfax, MN
COMPLETE REAL ESTATE & LIQUIDATION OF
METAL FABRICATION
REAL ESTATE TO SELL AT 9 a.m.
Schweiss Welding, Inc.
Proof revised 8-5-16 CHL quarter
EQUIPMENT RETIREMENT A U C T I O N
• WHEEL LOADERS
• SKID LOADERS
• HOOK TRUCK
• ROLL OFF DUMPSTERS
• TRACTORS
• TRUCKS
• TRAILERS
• FARM & LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT
• LARGE GENERATORS & STARTING UNITS
• AUTOMOTIVE PARTS & SUPPLIES
For More Pictures, Auction Information, Auction Terms, Complete Listing, Online Catalog, & More Visit us at:
WWW.HENSLINAUCTIONS.COM
WED, SEPT 14, 20169:00 A.M. • COLD SPRING/
WATKINS AREA, MN
LARGE ONLINE & LIVE ONSITE
LOWRY, Mn • FARMLAnD REAL ESTATE
TUEsday, sEPTEMBER 13, 2016 • 10:00 a.M.±90 PRIME ACRES OF POPE COUNTY FARMLAND
LOCATED IN SECTIONS 7 & 8 IN WHITE BEAR LAKE PLAT, TOWNSHIP 125, RANGE 39
AUCTIONLAnD LOCATIOn:
- STARBUCK, MN -3 miles north on State Highway 114,
4 miles west on County Road 24, south a quarter mile on easment road.
- LowRy, MN -3 miles south on State Highway 114,
4 miles west on County Road 24, south a quarter mile on easment road.
(Watch For Harrison & Henslin Auctions Signs!!)
LAND HAS BEEN SURVEYED
Seller will Participate in a 1031 Exchange at No Extra Cost to Buyer
Buyers will Receive Possession of Land After 2016 Crop Is Removed
AUCTIOn LOCATIOn:Lowry Community Center206 Maple St. • Lowry, MN
(Watch For Auction Signs!!)
Zachary Johnson - Owner
±90 Prime AcresLand Has Been Surveyed
For informational booklet call Henslin Auctions at 320-365-4120; or
the Harrison Co. at 320-760-0150
Real Estate Terms: $20,000 certified funds down day of auction. Remainder due upon closing, 30-45 days following the auction. Buyer’s premium will apply. For more information call Henslin Auctions at 320-365-4120; or the Harrison Co. at 320-760-0150; or visit us at:
www.henslinauctions.com
Henslin Auctions, Inc. (320) 365-4120Bird Island, MN
LaDon Henslin 65-25Allen Henslin
Frank RoeringR.E. AGENT
Lora PoslAS S O C I A T I O N
NO R T H D A K O T A
AuctionToday’s
Marketing Advantage
Call Today For Your Auction!
IN ASSOCIAT ION WITH
www.theharrisonco.comBill & Kay Harrison 320.760.0150
Designed and Printed by the Cannon Falls Beacon 800.263.3991
Watch for Henslin
Signs!
KANDIYOHI/WILLMAR, MINNESOTAClean Late Model Farm Equip.
Live/Online
AUCTIONWed., Aug. 31, 2016 • 10:30 a.m.
(320) 905- 7391 Hwy. 12 NE, Kandiyohi, MN
Ron and Helen Hennes 751 90th Street SE, Kandiyohi, MN 56251
For more pictures, auction information, complete listing, online catalog and other autions...
Visit Us At www.henslinauctions.com
License 65-25320-365-4120 Office
LaDon HensLin • aLLen HensLin320-290-8490 Frank roering
320-905-6226 Brad dallmann 34-41
HENSLIN AUCTIONS, INC. 100 Main Street, BIRD ISLAND, MN
Auctioneer Notes: The heirs to the estate of Howard and Barbara Lang have made the decision to sell 875 + or - acres of good quality farm land, 710 + or - acres are irrigated, along with a great bin site, near new grain drier and other farm equipment. Call our office 320-843-3003 for details about this terrific land and personal property auction. Harold kept terrific records of service on the irrigators and wells. Our perspectus booklets are available with land and crop information for each parcel for your benefit. So mark September 8th on your calendar and join us at McKinney’s for the land auction and the Lang binsite one mile North of Benson on MN Hwy 9 for Parcel 5 & Personal Property auction. Thank you. Zielsdorf Auctioneers
www.zielsdorfauctions.com
AUCTIONEERS & CLERK:Zielsdorf Auction & Real Estate Service, 119 3rd Street North, Benson, MN 56215
320-843-3003Your Farm Equipment & Real Estate SpecialistTERMS: Cash or check. Nothing removed before settlement. Statements made sale day take precedence over all advertising.
Land Auction
Auction Location: McKinney’s on Southside, 300 14th Street So, Benson, MN 56215
Parcel 5: Clontarf Twp, Sec 36, 13 +/- acre bin site
Terms and Conditions: 10% down, non-refundable and sign Purchase Agreement Day of SaleClosing will be within 30 days or when paperwork is completed.Buyers premium will apply.
swift County, Mn
Parcel #2
Parcel #1
Parcel #3
Parcel #4
LAND INFORMATION:
Parcel #5
Personal Property
Don’t Miss this Opportunity to Expand Your Operation!
Trucks
Grain Equipment
Shop Equipment
’74 IH Fleet Star 2070A Twin Screw diesel, VIN:75797EGB12403, 13 speed Fuller Road-master, 20’ steel box and hoist, 3 piece end gate, roll tarp
’69 Mack R-600 Twin Screw, diesel, chas-sis #R685, ST-11091, Mack diesel and trans, 20’ steel box and hoist, roll tarp, 11R22.5, 14PR rubber, drill fill
Farm Fans CF/AB-370 grain dryer, Vision Net-work dryer control, set for natural gas, used 2 seasons
Westfield MK 130 Plus 71, 13”x71’, swing hop-per, w/remote control hopper swinger, like new
Westfield 8”x60’ auger w/electric 10 hp 3 phase motor
Cherry pickerWelding bench w/visePoly tool boxesLog chains220 cordsScrap iron
Lawn & GardenSimplicity ZT1850 hydro
lawn mowerHomemade 2 wheel trailer,
6’x8’Pull type lawn sprayerBriggs and Stratton 9hp
gas water pump, fuel injected, like new
Small Homelite XL chain saw
Set of aluminum ATV ramps
Misc. Equipment(2) irrigator Agri-Inject 50
pumps, like new5 Irrigation tires, 11-24.514.9x24 tire and rim @ 80%Acetylene torch setBin stiffeners(3) Sukup bin spreaders20 hp 3 phase electric
motorElectrical boxesGoodyear 5.50-16 tractor
tire, like newFlex hose3 very old seed screenersSeveral lengths of irriga-
tion pipe
Westfield 8”x56’ auger w/electric 10 hp 3 phase motor
Hutchinson 8”x approx 50’ auger w/10hp elec-tric 3 phase motor
Hutchinson 8’x approx 50’ auger w/10 hp electric 3 phase motor, adjustable wheels so auger can swing from bin to bin
275 bu gravity box on 10 ton gear
Gulf Stream 27’ camper, air conditioning
Parcel 5 as well as Personal
Property will be sold at 1:00 pm or at conclusion of land auction.
AGRALITE NEWS August 2016PAGE 12
201 Sanford Rd, Benson 2 BR/2 BA corner lot. Fireplace, 4 sea-son porch, deck. Hardwood floors, finished basement. $112,000506 Meadow Lane, Benson 4 BR w/ possible 5th, 3BA, open floor plan. New updates, master suite w/ jetted tub. $203,000 30676 State Hwy 29, Benson Wildlife paradise! 3 BR/2 BA, 45 acres of CRP w/income. LR w/fireplace, vaulted ceiling, awesome views. Walkout basement, Screen porch, deck. $289,500311 Sanford Road, Benson Lots of updates! 3 BR/2 BA home. Garage w/workshop. Finished basement. Great location! $125,000 511 Sanford Road, Benson Attention to detail! 4 BR/3 BA home on cul-de-sac. Granite counters, custom cabinetry, Sunroom w/fireplace. A must see to appreciate home. $299,500708 12th St S, Benson 4 BR/3 BA home, large dine-in kitchen/ family area. 2 sided fireplace. Detached 2 1/2 car garage. $165,000
1307 Oregon Ave, Benson Commercial 64’ x 48’ garage. Double corner lot. Newer roof. $69,500198 Hwy 9 NE, Benson 5 BR/2 BA on 2.5 acres. Fireplace, fin-ished basement, several outbuildings. Price Reduced! $159,900413 13th St S., Benson HISTORIC HOME w/ income potential. 4 BR/2 BA garage plus workshop. Upstairs apt. possible. $135,000913 AND 915 13th St. S., Benson Twin home, each unit is 2 BR/2 BA with attached garage. Fireplace. $147,900 each213 12th St S 2BR, 2BA One Level Condo. Great downtown loc, Lg master bed/bath w/ walk in shower. PRICE REDUCED! $85,000241 Grace Ave, Clontarf CORNER LOT. 1 1/2 story 3 bed/2 bath. Dine-in kitchen, full basement, storage shed. PRICE REDUCED! $39,900907 10th St. South, Benson 3 BR, 2 BA. 3 season porch and back patio, sprinkler sys. $154,900!319 Meadow Lane, Benson 4 BR, 2.5 BA, 2 fireplaces, mn floor laundry, 4 season porch, sauna. Price Reduced Again! $149,700!FARM LAND 187 Ac., 146 Tillable, (84+/- Irrigated) West of Hollo-way in Moyer Township, Swift County, MN. Price Reduced!FARM LAND 120 Ac Tillable Cropland/River Bottom Hunting Land Swenoda Township, Swift County, MN.LAkE LOtS! Glacial Acres Estates on Simon Lake, Sec. 5 Kerk-hoven Twp, Swift Co. 10 secluded lots available! Owner Financing available! Call For more details!
We have other properties available: · Hunting/farmland in Todd County · Farmland in Stearns County · Lynx Golf Course Lot - Sauk Centre · 14 ac. w/ home near Donnelly, MN · 40 ac. w/ 4 BR home near Cyrus, MN · and MORE... call us!
Cropland cash rent paid to Minnesota landlords in 2016 averaged $170.00 per acre according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Non-irrigated cropland rent averaged $170.00 per acre, down $11.00 from a year earlier. Irrigated cropland rent averaged $185.00 per acre, down $25.00 from last year. Pasture rented for cash averaged $30.00 per acre, up $2.00 from the previous year.
County level cash rent averages will be released on September 9, 2016.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) anticipates awarding up to $1 million through the competitive Value Added Grant Program. Funding for the grants was established through the Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation (AGRI) Program to advance Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy industries.
The goal of the Value Added Grant is to increase sales of Minnesota agricultural products by diversifying markets, increasing market access, and increasing food safety of value-added products.
“Value-added businesses benefit the state of Minnesota in lots of ways,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Dave Frederickson. “They utilize Minnesota grown agricultural products in creative ways and support our economy. It’s
exciting to watch Minnesota entrepreneurs improve their businesses with funding from the Value Added Grant Program.”
New or established for-profit businesses may apply for funding to stimulate development of value-added agricultural products through added processing, marketing, or manufacturing. Grant funds reimburse up to 25 percent of the total project cost with a maximum award of $150,000 and a minimum of $1,000. Equipment purchases and facility improvements are eligible.
Applications must be received no later than 4 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27. Applications are available at www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/grants/valueaddedgrant.aspx and may be submitted online, by mail, or in-person.
Now accepting applications for 2017 funding
MDA grants available to add value to Minnesota agriculture
Or call: burton Amundson 320-843-4068 Cell: 320-760-0230
EXCAVATINGbG AmUNDSON CONSTRUCTION, INC
By Kent ThiesseFarm Management Analyst
VP MinnStar Bank
Focus On Ag
Grizzly Buildings, Inc. 29307 Hwy 212
Danube, MN 56230 www.grizzlybuildings.com
Local: 320-826-2512 Toll Free: 866-892-3489
Fully Material Cold Storage Buildings Constructed Package 36’ x 56’ x 12’ ~ $21,281 $13,348 48’ x 80’ x 14’ ~ $34,790 $22,396 60’ x 105’ x 16’ ~ $54,311 $35,387 66’x 120’x 18’ ~ $69,558 $58,817 72’ x 120’ x 18’ ~ $79,719 $52,216 (Add’l sizes & options on SALE ~ Call for pricing)
COLD STORAGE BUILDINGS INCLUDE:
3 ft Steel Service Door All Steel Split Slider
(Large as Possible In End Wall up to 40’ Wide) 35# Trusses; 50# Ground Snow Load
Concrete Footings All Wind, Lateral, Catwalk, Corner,
and Knee Bracing Included Screw Fasteners
Nail-Laminated Columns Min 4’6” Column Embedment
(Subject to local building codes)
Fully constructed buildings include all labor, plus delivery
up to 100 miles (Slight up-charge for over 100 miles)
POST FRAME BUILDINGS
Material Packages are guaranteed complete. Labor, Sales Tax and
Delivery are NOT included.
Many agricultural experts and economists have been warning for the past few years that we could be headed for a significant correction in farmland values in the Midwest. Based on recent data, there appears to be evidence that a reduction in average land values has been occurring in some regions of the U.S., including the Upper Midwest.
Much lower corn and soybean prices in 2014 and 2015, and now again in 2016, have resulted in significant reductions in farm income levels, thus putting downward pressure on average land values in many areas.
In March, the Federal Reserve Bank in Minneapolis reported a decline in the average value of non-irrigated crop land of 3.5 percent in the north central states, compared to a year earlier. This included a 4.3 percent annual decline in farmland values in Minnesota, a drop of 4.6 percent in both Wisconsin and North Dakota, and a decline of 1.6 percent in South Dakota.
Montana had the largest year-to-year decline, with a drop in land values of over 24 percent. These land value results were based on a survey of agricultural banks in the listed states, conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank.
Iowa State University does a comprehensive land value survey each December, which is regarded as one of the best resources on trends in Midwest farmland sales. Iowa farmland values rose at an incredible pace from 2000 to 2013, with only one minor decline in 2009, before more significant declines of 8.9 percent in 2014, and 3.9 percent in 2015. This was the first time that the Iowa land value survey has shown two consecutive years of decline since 1998 and 1999.
The 2015 Iowa Farmland Value Survey showed a decline in land values in eight
Land values declining in many places
of the nine crop reporting districts, with the greatest decline at 6.7 percent in the north central district. Only the northwest district showed a slight increase of 0.7 percent in land values in December 2015, compared to December, 2014.
Trends in farmland values in southern Minnesota are probably fairly close to the trends shown in the Iowa land value survey, reflecting the lower crop prices, and tighter profit margins. Similar to Iowa, land values in portions of southeast and south central Minnesota have shown a greater decline than some other areas of the state, such as southwest Minnesota.
Some isolated land sales across southern Minnesota have still been reported at fairly high values per acre; however, the overall trend in the past 18 to 24 months has been a decline of 10 to 20 percent from the peak land values in 2013 and 2014.
One of the best sources of farm real estate values in Minnesota is the U of M’s “Land Economics” web site at: www.landeconomics.umn.edu. This web site is updated annually after Sept. 30, and accesses a data base of various land
values, based on farm land valuations reported to the Minnesota Department of Revenue by county assessors offices throughout the state each year, which are adjusted annually based on actual land sales in a given county. This web site allows for selected sorts by county, state economic regions, watersheds, etc., as well as by types of land.
Most likely, the future trends in crop prices, along with the level of 2016 crop yields, and profitability in livestock production, will determine if we see
further declines in land values later in 2016 and into 2017, or if land values begin to stabilize. An increase in interest rates by the Federal Reserve Bank in the next year or two would also likely have a negative impact on land values.
The good news is that long term interest rates have remained low, and there still seems to be fairly good demand by both farm operators and investors to purchase land, especially when prices drops to a certain price level.
AGRALITE NEWS August 2016PAGE 14
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service is contacting 25,000 farmers and ranchers now through August to take part in a national survey that will more accurately measure the environmental benefits associated with implementation and installation of conservation practices on agricultural land. The results of the National Resources Inventory Conservation Effects Assessment Project (NRI-CEAP) survey will help further develop the science-based solutions for managing the agricultural landscape to improve environmental quality.
“The survey gives farmers and ranchers the power to provide a more complete and accurate picture of the conservation practices on their operations,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “If contacted, I encourage farmers and ranchers to participate. Their collective responses can directly benefit themselves and all producers by helping leaders focus on what producers need to install conservation practices that are best for their operations environmentally and financially.”
The results of the survey will demonstrate the work of America’s farmers to conserve natural resources while producing the food, fuel and fiber the world requires, participating farmers and ranchers support our cause for continued science-based conservation programs that protect natural resources while supporting farm-related jobs. Survey results will guide USDA conservation policy and program development and help conservationists, farmers and ranchers more efficiently and effectively conserve natural resources.
In addition to helping determine the effectiveness of existing conservation practices, NRI-CEAP analysis provides estimates of resources farmers may need to further protect the soil, water and related resources. Additional information about CEAP is available at the Conservation Effects Assessment Project survey web page.
NASS conducts the NRI-CEAP survey under a cooperative agreement with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). NRI-CEAP results help determine not only the effectiveness of existing conservation practices but also what resources farmers may need to further protect the soil, water and related resources in selected watersheds and to document on-farm conservation accomplishments.
For example, a recent CEAP report for the Western Lake Erie Basin shows voluntary conservation is making significant headway in reducing nutrient and sediment loss from farms and that there is opportunity to improve conservation management across the basin with no single conservation solution meeting the needs of every field and farm. That report informed the development of the new Western Lake Erie Basin Initiative, which helps support farmers’ efforts to improve water quality in the region.
The NRI-CEAP survey will be conducted in two parts. In the first survey, which is shorter, NASS will determine eligibility for the more in-depth survey that will take place between October 2016 and February 2017. The privacy of all respondents is safeguarded, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified, as required by federal law.
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Report
Crossword Puzzle Answersfrom page 12
By Kathleen A. Olson, Program Director - Partnering for School SuccessUniversity of Minnesota Extension
It happens to almost every parent; your son or daughter brings home a report card that doesn’t meet expectations.
What are School Grades?Grades are numbers or letters that
show the quality of a student’s work. Most school grades are a summary of a student completing homework and participating in class, whether homework is turned in on time, regular attendance, and classroom observations. Report cards give you an idea of your child’s progress across subject areas.
How to Talk About Disappointing Grades
First ask yourself, “Do I have a reason to be disappointed?” Grades alone may not be the best way to judge performance. In some classes, a “C” or lower may be cause for celebration if the subject was challenging and your child gave their best effort.
If you feel your disappointment is legitimate, however, follow this outline for talking to your child:
Begin with the positive. Most report cards have a mixture of good and bad news. Recognize the good, especially if your child showed improvement or met a challenge.
Focus on the positive when reviewing a child’s grades
See Page 15
The Following Described Property Will Be Sold At Repair Shop Located At 101 Atlantic AveDeGraff, MN 56271 Along US Hwy 12 In DeGraff, MN On:
Auctioneers Note: In Case OfRain Sale Held In Large Shop.Thanks! Ziemer Auctioneers
AUCTIONEERSMark Ziemer, Lic. 34-46,
New London, 320-354-4312Cell: 320-979-4044
Brian Ziemer, New London 320-354-5308
Not responsible for accidentsLunch on grounds
Number system usedwww.ziemerauctions.com or
midwestauctions.com, click on Ziemer
Usual Terms of Auction (cash or approved check dayof sale). No items removed until settled for.
Everything Sold As Is.Ziemer Auction Service,
3176 198th Ave NWNew London, MN 56273
DEGRAFF, MN DEGRAFF, MNAUC ION
Saturday, August 27th2016 - 9:30 a.m.
ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLESNylint Fire Trucks, Tonka Toys, Metal Wash
FOR PARTS, REPAIR OR SCRAP IRONFord F-250 Extended Cab 4x4, Ford F-150 Lariat Extended
Cab 4x4 Pickup, Disc, JD 12 Ft. Digger, 3 Bottom Plow, SemiTractor w/Detroit Diesel Engine, 1991 Dodge Grand
Caravan, 2001 Ford Winstar LX Van, Chevrolet ConversionVan, Large Piles Of Scrap Iron, Cub Cadet 147 Lawn Tractor,
Poulan Pro 500 Lawn Tractor, Murray Garden Tractor
VEHICLES & MACHINERY
Dale Klassen EstateKathy Klassen Owner
500 Gallon fuel Barrel On Stand, LegVise, Several ladders, Knipco Heaters,
Fire Extinguishers, 200 Gallon PolyTank w/case, 55 Gallon Metal Barrels,
Angle, channel Iron, Metal Tubing,Oil Pumps, Extension Cords, SeveralHydraulic Cylinders, Large OrganizerFull Of Pipe Fittings, Large Bolt BinOrganizes Full, Pickup Box Trailerw/Topper, 20 Ft. Truck Feed Tank
FARM MISC.
Forester 15 Ft. Fiberglass Boat w/Nissan 40 HPOutboard & Trailer, Larson 16 Ft. Tri-Hull Boatw/115 HP Outboard Johnson & Trailer, Boat
60 Gallon Upright 2 Stage Air Compressor, Smithy MI-130-17 GMI Turning lath (Huge), ABSBrake System Testers, Snap-On Wireless Video Scope, Coats 20/20 Super Star Tire ChangerAir/Electric, Ammco Safe Turn Model 3000 Brake Drum Lathe Infomatic Feed & Adapters,Robinair Enviro Charge Series 17.700 Recovery Charging Unit, Gear Pullers, Greenerd #5Arbor Press, Snap-On Digital Oscilloscope, Logan Metal Lathe, Actylene Sets w/Gauges,
Hoses, Torches and Cart, Pro-Link Emission System K-D2632, Snap-On Electric Temp SensorGun, Vacuum Brake Bleeder, Snap-On Vacuum Pressure Gauge, Proto 6133 Tork Multiplier, 1”
Air Impact, Impact Sockets, Up To 2” combination Wrenches, Snap-On combination GearPuller Set, Snap-On 4 Ft. Tool Cabinet On Wheels, JD Tool Chest, Snap-On Tool Cabinetw/Top Work Bench On Rollers, Black & Decker Valve Grinder, Sand Blaster, Several Vises,Crows Feet Wrenches, Many Handy Man Jacks, Air Bumper Jacks, Several Jack Stands,
Daytona 10 Ton Porta Power, Miller Matic Vintage CV-DC Wire Feed Welder, Lincoln 250 ArcWelder, Steele Chop Saw, Murphy Large Heavy Duty Cherry Picker, Engine Stands, Craco AirPower Greaser, Max-40 Plasma Cutter, Miller matic 200 Wire Feed Welder, Murphy HC-4000
Cherry Picker, Battery Chargers, Metal Cutting Band Saw, Ridgid See-Smoke Bore Scope,Micrometers 5”-6” And 6”-9”, Air Tanks, Welding Tables w/Vises, Floor jacks, Transmission
Jacks, 20 Ton Press, Porta Powers, GM Diagnostic Tester On Cart, 1/2 Ton - 1 Ton ChainHoists, Orschelin 1/2 HP Drill Press On Stand, Air Rivet Guns, Angle Grinders, Parts Washers,Various Air Tools, Tool Boxes & Cabinets, Parts Cabinets, Several Automotive Specialty Tools,Gear Wrenches, Crows Feet Wrenches, Calipers, Hones, 3/4” Socket Set, Snap-On, Craftsman,Proto Combination Wrenches, Assortment Of Hydraulic Jacks, Lincoln Arc Welders, Portable
Air Compressor, Nylon Fuel Line Repair Kit, Many Other Specialty Tools
AGRALITE NEWS PAGE 15August 2016
WEST ACRESWATER SYSTEMSSales-Service-Rentals
Phone: (320) 843-2830Cell: 320-760-5280
“For the water we took forgranted 100 years ago.”
James OfferdahlWater Conditioning Contractor
Benson, MN 56215MN Dept. of Labor & Ind.
License # 03-2221WC
For all your waterconditioning needs &
water purification.ALL SYSTEMS
MADE IN THE USA
Understand your child’s point of view. Is she satisfied with the grades? Does she feel they can improve? If so, how? “Tell me about how things have been going lately” starts a safe, open discussion about any challenges she might be having with the subject.
Explain why you are unhappy. Let him know what you expect
Determine the real cause of the problem. It is generally study habits or a more particular problem? Is it something that can be changed at home?
Come up with a plan with your child. Make this plan as specific as possible. Include yourself in the plan: what can you do? If you are not sure how to help her, call the teacher to set up a conference.
Implement — and monitor — your plan. The next report card or progress report will almost certainly be an improvement. And, most importantly, it won’t be a surprise.
Set Up Your Child for SuccessAt the start of the year, talk to your child
about your expectations. Expectations are
what you hope your child will achieve: the quality and quantity of school work required and when it will be done. Set clear, consistent expectations about school work and behavior. Follow through with consequences if expectations are not met.
These three tips will help you set up yourself and your child for a pleasant conversation when report cards come home:
Pay attention to how your child is doing in school throughout the year. The
content of report cards or progress reports shouldn’t be a surprise. Most teachers work hard to talk with parents if a child is having difficulty in school. If that is not the case with your son or daughter, contact the teacher.
Let your child know that he is more that his report card. Remind him of all the things that make him special and important in your family.
Don’t shame or demean your child. It only reinforces poor self-esteem and
underachieving behavior. Show interest and try to listen and understand first.
Too much focus on grades may increase the amount of stress your child feels. An open, ongoing communication is the best way to manage everyone’s expectations.
This article was revised July 2014 by Silvia Alvarez de Davila, Extension Educator — Family Resiliency. Reviewed May 2016 by Lori Hendrickson, Extension Educator — Family Resiliency.
John Baker - 76-11- (320) 760-0478 • (605) 833-2020 • Jeff Enquist – Stockholm, SD - 06-43 - (605) 880-2476NOTICE: Buyers are responsible for their own items after purchasing. As between auctioneers, clerks and buyers all items are sold “AS IS” and theentire risk as to the quality and performance of the product is with the “BUYER.” The auctioneers and clerks expressly disclaim all warranties either ex-pressed or implied. The buyer acknowledges being so informed prior sale. Announcements day of sale take precedence over printed material.
COMBINE & HEADS1980 JD 7720 Com-bine SN 409709 (GoodCond)
5th Wheel Plate for PickupPortable Fuel TankElectric Fuel Pump for Fuel Tank300 Gal. Fuel Barrel on Stand
MISCELLANEOUS& HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
Insulated Fish House on Transport6 Rolls Telephone WireOld Farm Antiques incl.: Pump Jacks, Ce-
ment Mixer, Burr Mill Pat. 1830Large 4 Person US Camper Tent (Good)Household incl.: Kitchen Table w/4
Chairs, Small Elec. Appliances,Stoneware, Aquarium, Collector Plates,Milk Glass, Canning Jars, Some Tools,and Other Miscellaneous
TRACTORS• ACCESSORIES
1995 Case IH 5250MFD MAXXUMw/4615 hrs., 16.9R-38Rear, 14.9R-24 Front SN1046407
1950 VAC Casew/W.F. & Eagle Hitch SN5554084
Wood L-59 Belly Mower for VAC Case1946 VAC Case SN 50653373 (Parts)1943 SC Case SN 4706445 (Parts)Rear Axle for VAC Case16.9-34 Band Duals16.9-34 Rear Tires13.6-28 Rear Tire11-28 Rear TireTractor Chains (184” x 30”)
MACHINERY& EQUIPMENT
IHC 800 6R Air Planter 30” (Corn & BeanDrums)
IHC 6R 30” CultivatorJD 13 Shank Disc Chisel Model 1710 AIHC 710, 5/18”, On-Land, Auto Reset PlowJD 4/16” Semi Mtd. Ditch PlowTebben 3 Pt. Deep Till (5 Shank w/Leveler)Vicon 179 Model 26’ Field Cultivator
w/Wings, w/Mulcher and 200 Gal. ChemTank
Ford 19’ Tandem Disc5 Section Drag & CartCase 18’ Chisel Plow (Salvage)JD 27 Model 6 Row Stalk ChopperAllied 3 Pt. Blade 7’Blumhardt 500 Gal. Sprayer (50’ Boom)Flatbed w/1500 Gal. Poly Tank & Transfer
PumpRock Wagon w/Hoist10 Rolling Shields
BiddingOnlyBy
Number
Not Respon-sible For Ac-cidents Sale
Day
No ItemsRemoved
From Prem-ises Until
Settled For
LunchAvailable
Owners:
Richard & GayleTofte
320-596-2140
RETIREMENT FARM
AUCTIONSaturday, September 10 • 10:30 A.M.
Location: Correll, MNFrom Appleton, MN – 12 miles N on 119/5 to 60th St (Swift Co. 22), 3 miles W to 255th Ave., then 1 mile NFrom Morris, MN – 13 miles S on Hwy 59 to 60th St (Swift Co 22), 9.5 miles W to 255th Ave, then 1 mile NFrom Ortonville, MN – 13 miles E on Hwy 12, 7 miles N on Big Stone Co 25 to 350th St, then 2.5 miles E
From Chokio, MN – 11.5 miles S on Stevens Co 13/25 to 350th St, then 2.5 miles E Watch for Auction Signs!
GRAIN HANDLINGEQUIPMENT
Farm Fans-AB-12 B Grain DryerLowry 1200 Bu. Holding BinHandlair 566 Model Grain Vac w/HosesGrain ScreenerUFT Grain Cart (400 Bu.)5 Gravity Boxes 250-300 Bu. (1 w/Drill Fill
Auger) All In Good Condition w/GoodHvy Running Gears
Flare Box w/HoistSnowco 56’ x 8” Auger (PTO)Westfield 31’ x 8” Auger (Elec.)20’ x 6” Auger on Wheels w/MotorWestfield 51’ x 8” Auger (PTO)Westfield 52’ x 8” Auger (PTO)40’ Flight ElevatorFanning Mill
LIVESTOCK• HOG EQUIPMENT
Lorenz Grinder/Mixer 120 Bu.Cools Long Hopper Silage Blower & Silo
PipeRoller Mill w/3 H.P. Elec. MotorSmall Feed & Grain AugersSeveral Barn FansWooden & Steel Fence Posts12 Ton Bulk Tank3 Ton Bulk Tank w/Flex AugerPropionic Acid Applicator12 Stainless 3’ Hog Feeders6 Stainless 6’ Hog Feeders6 Round 6 Bu. Hog Feeders35 Hog Gates (Assorted Lengths)3 Pt. Hog Carrier (Complete)Concrete Hog Slats (56’ x 10’)Fiberglass Hog Slats 36 Sections 24” x
30”Centrifugal Manure Pump (PTO)Vacuum/Pressure Pump for Liq. Manure
WagonPlatform ScaleOther Miscellaneous
Auction NoteRichard and Gayle have retired from farming
after many years of operating a grain and hogoperation. They have done a great job of main-taining their equipment, All equipment is veryuseable. Plant to attend! Lunch will be available.
AGRALITE NEWS August 2016PAGE 16
By Erna FishhautUniversity of Minnesota Extension
Learning to make friends is one of the most significant tasks in a child’s early social development.
Friendships play an important role in a child’s perception of schools as well as school performance. Lack of friends or rejection by peers may negatively affect feelings about school, cause school avoidance or truancy, and cause lower school performance. This article covers what you can expect from your child and how you can set up him or her for success.
What to ExpectA child usually begins the process
of learning to make friends during the second year of life playing alongside another toddler. Although there is not much interaction, children notice that they are not much different from others and they are not the center of the universe.
During the preschool years, children develop social skills they’ll need to establish and maintain friendship. Though they’re still very self-centered, children of this age begin to initiate contacts with
strangers. They negotiate roles and learn to compromise. Somehow they manage rejection, claim their possessions, and learn ways to settle conflicts. Friends do things to reinforce each other’s acceptable behavior and even model behavior for one another.
How to HelpParents can help guide the social
development of their young children in several ways. First and foremost, model positive social interactions. Your child watches what you do. So how you manage social situations affects the way your child views social interaction.
Suggest words and actions your child can use. Encourage your child to smile and make eye contact with others. Suggest some words to use when a child wants to join others in ongoing play, and some ways to be sure she will be accepted, like “Can I be the visiting grandma?” instead
of “I want to play house, too.”Provide times when your child can
interact with peers through “play dates,” in a safe and appropriate environment such as your home or a playground setting. If you think he’s having a difficult time making friends, try to arrange special play activities with slightly older children. They’ll provide examples of effective social skills. If your child is anxious about using his social skills, give him an opportunity to play with a younger child. He can take a lead role and this may give his self-esteem a needed boost.
As your child gets a little older and is entertaining a friend at home, try to stay out of the way so they can negotiate conflict and manage the give and take of friendship. Step in only when there is imminent danger or a squabble has gone out of control.
Watch your language. Don’t categorize and don’t allow others to label your child
as “shy,” “bossy,” or “hard to get along with.” Social skills sometimes take a lifetime to perfect. We all know adults who are not experts at social interaction. Instead of referring to your child as “shy,” you can say he is “cautious in new situations.” This phrasing describes the behavior in a positive, context-specific way.
Encourage a child’s positive efforts to get along with others, even when such attempts fail. Acknowledge your child’s feelings by telling him you know it’s hard, especially if he’s cautious in new situations. Ask questions and help him think about what the other child may need in a friend. Remind your child that making friends sometimes takes a long time, so it’s important to keep trying.
Revised April 2016 by Lori Hendrickson, Extension Educator — Family Resiliency
Parents can help their children make new friends at school
E L E C T R I CMOTORSFEATURING:
• Dayton Motors • Winco Generators• Teel Shallow Well Pumps • Browning Pulleys
• Corn Dryer Motors and Parts• Complete Rewind Service to 250 h.p.
KENT ELECTRIC MOTOR REPAIRClontarf, Mn • 320-843-2418
• Weg Motors
trailers
e. HWY. 12 Willmar
(320) 235-4180
• HORSE • STOCK•CARGO • FLATBEDS
• DUMP • UTILITY• MOTORCYCLE, ATV
& LAWNMOWER• TRAILERS
• BOOTS • WESTERN WEAR
daHlberg boot & trailer sales
A5-1
81C
(Allow at least 2 working days for crews to mark all underground utility lines.)
Call before you dig!1-800-252-1166
Auctioneer Notes: Tim and Merrie have decided to do a little downsizing. Zielsdorf Auction team is excited to have been selected to sell their excess Guns, Farm Equipment, Hunting, Outdoor and Household Items. Add 4 great vehicles and it makes for a fun filled day for any auction enthusiast. Everything including the completely restored 1966 Buick Wildcat is very clean. So mark Monday, August 29th at 4:30 down on your calendar and join the Zielsdorf Auction team at the Bertrand Farm for this great auction! See you at the auction. –Zielsdorf Auction Team
’75 Dodge motorhome, 360 motor, auto trans, good rubber, 70,000 mi, 20’, original fridge with other small fridge (both work), stove, AC (works), sleeps 4, rear hitch, luggage rack, furnace
’78 Starcraft pop up camper, furnace, excel-lent shape
Guns, Vehicles, OuTdOOrs & hOusehOld
AUCTIONEERS & CLERK:Zielsdorf Auction & Real Estate Service, 119 3rd Street North, Benson, MN 56215
320-843-3003Your Farm Equipment & Real Estate SpecialistTERMS: Cash or check. Nothing removed before settlement. Statements made sale day take precedence over all advertising.
Guns selling at approx. 6:00 PM, Vehicles to follow
Household
Campers
Red Wing 3 gal crock, no cracks
Red Wing KO-REC feeder chicken water, no cracks
Glass kerosene bowlSpeed Queen wringer
washerBolt of fabric Plant table(2) Barometers Table lampHigh chair and metal folding
table w/electric plugCanning jarsMany boxes of booksOld school desk Nice wood and cloth chairWalking Cane pool cueWood 2 door microwave
standMetal folding tableBlue ottoman White sofa(5) Tomorrow’s Treasures
L.E. Budweiser SteinsDU Beam Bourbon Duck
Stamp Series Decanter(4) Sherwoods Magical
Christmas Collection Angels
Cherry wood entertainment center
Sony camcorder, 120x digital zoom, super steady shot handycam w/bluetooth
4’x8’ portable fish houseGarden hose on reelShovels, rakes, garden toolsChildren’s swingWinco 5300 watt gas
generator w/11hp B&S, 120/240 hookups
(4) cross country ski’s, poles, and boots
Small lawn packerATV/UTV broadcast
spreader with motorDive tank, regulator & books(2) Scott air tanksOld Schwinn bicycle seatPolaris snowmobile helmet
w/heated visor, nice Yard trellis, fence and
Sheppard hooksInsulated FR treated bibs
and jacketLeather jacket (L) & chapsReima Tech jacket (XL) w/
Klim bibs (XL) snowmo-bile suits (yellow / black)
Large dog kennels(2) paint ball gunsSet of car ramps
Vehicles
’82 Chevrolet Custom Deluxe 30 dump truck, 1 ton, 4x4, 350 gas engine, 4 speed, electric over hydraulic dump, 8’ dump box, 16” tires, rear hitch, 2 good spare’s
’78 Ford F-700 single axle truck, 8,800 miles, front winch, 391 gas engine with auto trans, 9.00R20 tires ! 90%, spare tire, very nice
’67 Jeep CJ5, all original (except seats, tach and tires), hyd transmis-sion PTO, 4 cyl engine, 3 spd, 4x4, no rust, 35x12.5x15 rubber, new water pump, starter, and fuel pump in last year
Set of (4) tires & rims, 15” tires off ’67 Jeep CJ5
Outdoor Equip
Norinco 1911 A1 pistol, .45 cal, semi automatic, 1 clip, extra set of grips
Ruger Old Army black pow-der revolver, .44 cal (.457 ball dia.), 7.5” barrel
Bond Arms, Inc. Cowboy Defender, .410 shot shell/.45 Colt pistol
H+R Inc. Model 939, .22 L.R. pistol, Made in Gardner, Mass. USA, 9 shot revolver
Millions of dollars2016 2015 2014 2013 2012NA $121,730 $123,025 $111,370 $97,240
Minnesota land valuesMinnesota’s farm real estate value, a
measurement of the value of all land and buildings on farms, averaged $4,700 per acre, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Land Values 2016 Summary. This is unchanged from last year’s level.
Cropland value decreased 1 percent from last year to $4,750 per acre. Pasture, at $1,650 per acre, decreased 3 percent from a year ago.
AGRALITE NEWS August 2016PAGE 18 AGRALITE NEWS PAGE 13MAY 2014
EQUIPMENT REPAIR
“Lenarz Farm & Auto”Auto & Farm Equipment Repair
Auto, Farm & Trucks Air Conditioning
- 2 WD Tractors - ASE Certi ed- Skidsteers & Other Farm Machinery
Located Hwy. 9 N.Auto Repair Engine & Electrical
New or Used Vehicle Repair
320-843-4699
DRAINAGE/TILING
320-264-3211 or 320-979-1522Still in business after 40+ years! Serving the Region.You can depend on us for a functional drainage system to remove
excess eld water and get you in the eld as soon as possible.
• Ken 320-264-3211 • Kevin 320-979-1522 Kerkhoven, MN 56252
320-264-3211 320-979-1522
• Call for an estimate.• Locally done, guaranteed work.
Van Heuveln - The ORIGINALFarm Drainage Company
DRAINAGE/TILING
AUTO SUPPLYThis could be your ad space.For more information, give Nancy or
Barb a call at320-843-4111 or 1-800-750-0166.
Swift County Monitor-News
“Taking Communications into the Future”• 24 Hour Answering and Dispatch Services• Promotional Calling Services• Directory Assistance• Operator Services
PO Box 6 Chokio, MN 56221 320-324-7530 1-800-933-1224 www.onvoy.com
Registered Representatives for securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. 27193 N10-11
• FURNACES • APPLIANCES• GAS FIREPLACES •
CRAIG’S• HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING • PLUMBING • REFRIGERATION
Classified ads are limited to 20 words per ad. Two ad limit per member; no gun or real estate ads.
Free Classified Ad form for all Agralite Electric Cooperative MembersAds must be received in our office by the 5th of the month to ensure being printed in the next issue of the Agralite News. No guns, no business or real estate ads please. Ads will be printed one time. Please print clearly or type your ad of 20 words or less on this form. We reserve the right to edit ad copy. *Limit 2 ads per member.
For Sale Wanted Give Away Community Event
Phone Number Account Number
Name
Clip and mail to Agralite Electric Cooperative, PO Box 228, Benson, MN 56215 or fax to 320-843-3738, or email your ad to [email protected]
Large containers, will hold many spaces for thread etc. $15. 320-843-3157------------------------------------------------4x4x8’ cords. Hardwood firewood, delivered $180. 16’ Sea Nymph boat/trailer, will separate, $525. 8 HP snowblower $125. Chevy rims/tires 265/70/17 $400. 320-760-4066------------------------------------------------York 10,000 bu bin, $500. 6,000 bu bin, $300. 6,000 bu dryer bin w/stirators, $700. To be moved. 320-815-1654------------------------------------------------16 outdoor flags. 15 of them Thomas Kincade. In very good shape. $320 for all. On hangers for storage. 320-567-2156------------------------------------------------1956 Ford 2 door, all original. $1,800. 320-589-2898------------------------------------------------Hay 4x5 round bales, grass mixture hay. 320-287-0896------------------------------------------------1995 Lund Pro V Deluxe SE 1660, 60 Johnson motor, single console steering wheel, Shorelander trailer, newer depth finder. $5,500 OBO. 320-392-5614------------------------------------------------4’x4’x8 cords firewood $180 delivered. 8HP snowblower $125. 265/70/17 tires & Chev rims. Dog boarding $14/night. 320-760-4066------------------------------------------------
GIVE AWAY
Northern Lights Trails Snowmobile Club Bingo Blast tickets for sale. $3,200 prize money. Friday September 16 at McKinney’s, Benson, MN, 7:00 pm. For tickets or ticket info call Mike 320-808-7496.------------------------------------------------Northern Lights Trails Snowmobile Club raffle tickets for sale, $10 ticket, 650 tickets sold. Drawing to be held Friday, November 18 at Patrick’s, Benson, MN. For tickets or ticket info call Mike 320-808-7496.------------------------------------------------
COMMUNITY EVENT
Kittens to give away. 320-843-3805------------------------------------------------
John Deere 7000 4 row 30 inch corn planter. 320-289-2607------------------------------------------------
20 head beef feeders, shots & poured. 320-808-6907------------------------------------------------John Deere model 1032 walk behind snowblower, fresh tune up, electric start. 320-589-3354------------------------------------------------2003 Monte Carlo, 3.4 liter engine, 165,000 actual miles, sun roof. $2,000 OBO. Evenings 320-843-4669------------------------------------------------First and second cutting of Alfalfa, no rain, approximately 1800 pound bales, $95.00 per ton. 320-235-2690 or 320-212-1556------------------------------------------------Pony. 320-808-6907------------------------------------------------
Right Light Guidefor General Use Bulbs
STEP 1 Decide How Much Light You Need
Today there are many lighting options available.The right bulb for you depends on how much light you need,what color light you want, and its costs and features.
Choose Light Appearance. You’ll be pleased with your new bulbby choosing a light appearance thatyou like. All of these colors are available for LEDs and CFLs and atmost brightness levels.
Note: Choose warm or soft white (2700-3000 K)to match the color of incandescent bulbs.
Different Colors, Same Brightness
Soft White, Warm WhiteLiving Room,
Bedroom
Bright White, Cool WhiteKitchen, Bathroom,
Dining Room
Natural, DaylightOffice, Laundry,
Workshop, Garage
2700K 3000K 3500K 4100K 5000K 6500K
Light Appearance
Focus on Brightness. Different amounts of light are needed for different uses. Instead of thinkingabout light bulbs based solely on the amount of energy they use, focus on their brightness level.
Watt (W) is the measure of power consumption.Lower wattage bulbs can lower your electric bills.
Brightness Incandescent CFL LED
450 lumens 40W 9-13W 4-8W
800 lumens 60W 13-16W 8-13W
1100 lumens 75W 17-23W 11-15W
1600 lumens 100W 23-28W 16-20W
Least Efficient Most Efficient
Lumen is the measurement of brightness.Higher lumen bulbs produce brighter light.
If you like your bulb’s currentbrightness, choose a CFL orLED with similar lumens to reduce your energy use. Youmay also consider a bulb thatis less bright to save more.
Note: Lumen output listed on packages may vary. Light bulbs listinganywhere from 800 to 860 lumens aresimilarly bright, for instance.
FOR RENTGrain bins. 320-808-6907------------------------------------------------
Recipe CornerSuccotash Salad
Ingredients2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
1 cup sweet yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 large onion)
1 1⁄2 cups beans (lima, edamame, fava), fresh or frozen, cooked al dente
5 cups kernels from 6 ears of sweet corn, fresh or frozen
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved1⁄4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice1⁄3 cup olive oil, cold pressed1⁄4 cup fresh basil chiffonade
3 teaspoons flaky sea salt1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
DirectionsIn a medium-size bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, 2 teaspoons of salt and pepper to make vinaigrette. Keep it covered at room temperature and reserve for later use. In a medium-size sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and 1 teaspoon of salt and cook for 5 minutes or until soft and translucent but not brown. Reduce heat, add the beans and continue to stir and cook for 2-3 minutes more. If the beans are fresh, they may need to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. If they are precooked, be careful not to overcook them. The beans should retain their shape and color and have a slight bite in texture. Remove from heat and place in a large mixing bowl. Add tomatoes, corn and reserved lemon vinaigrette to the beans; toss together until combined. Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in the basil and half of the feta cheese. Taste to adjust seasoning, then place the salad in a serving dish and top with remaining feta cheese.
Source: Carla Hall’s Southern Kitchen via J. Crew Blog, accessed 8/18/16. https://hello.jcrew.com/2016-07-july/in-the-kitchen-carla-hall
Makes 6 servings
AGRALITE NEWS August 2016PAGE 20
www.agralite.coopALSO ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER
Agralite Electric Cooperative Member Owned!
Send to or drop off at Agralite, 320 East Highway 12, PO Box 228,
Benson, MN 56215
For anyone who already contributes to Operation Round Up, we applaud you. Thank you for your support and confidence in our community – Round Up dollars make a difference. The Round Up program lets us support many different community organizations and charities - strengthening our community.
You can sign up here (form above) or you can give our office a call if you would like to know more. If you are interested in learning more about what Round Up does or how to be involved, call us today! Remember you can sign up any time – join today and help support our communities!
Operation Round Up
AGRALITE NEWS November 2014PAGE 16
in September. Customers pay $950 for each panel, man-ufactured in China by Canadian Solar.
“The vast majority are buying one (panel),” he said, al-though a group of three siblings purchased ten. Because solar gardens are so new the co-op has to take time to explain to customers how the system works, the bene ts, the investment payoff timeline (14 to 16 years) and other issues, Haller said.
Lake Region Electric Cooperative in Pelican Rapids built its 40kW project last fall and sold all 96 tenKso-lar panels — with a price tag of $1,500 each — by this October. The sales cycle began with great promise after the utility sold half the panels the rst month they were offered, said Dan Husted, vice president of energy ser-vices.
The rest of the sales occurred over several months and required more marketing than the initial rollout, in part because many customers are part-time residents with cabins.
After the slowdown in sales, Lake Region added an “easy pay” option to allow for on-bill nancing. Cus-tomers could pay for the panels over three years without interest.
“That helped, because $1,500 is a chunk of change,” he said. “I couldn’t even do it because I have other bills. That’s why we split it up.”
Unlike other co-op community gardens, Lake Region made its effort a for-pro t venture.
“The reason for that is we didn’t want the ratepay-er subsidizing it,” Husted said, noting the co-op earns a margin on every sale. “We wanted to demonstrate it could stand on its own and the business model could sup-port it — and that we don’t need a mandate.”
Lake Region is likely to do another solar garden proj-ect.
“It became a natural part of our marketing portfolio, just like selling off-peak and dual-fuel and heating pro-grams,” Husted said. “It’s become second nature…and I’m excited to do another one.”
However, sales are not as strong in other places.Opened formally in October, Kandiyohi Power Coop-
erative’s 140-panel solar garden in central Minnesota has attracted just 13 buyers.
“It’s been very slow,” said Diane Maurice, marketing and customer service manager. “We have an ag base and things aren’t what they were. That’s maybe made some difference, but I don’t know.”
The population of Kandiyohi’s area trends older and poorer than in other areas, making the tenKsolar panels priced at $1,250 each a tougher sell.
To make it easier, the co-op created a 24 month leasing
program with an interest rate of 5.98 percent, but Mau-rice said only one customer is using it.
The co-op’s board decided to create a solar garden to learn more about solar and “be on the forefront of what’s going on,” she said. Renewable energy isn’t totally for-eign to Kandiyohi Power, which has 255 kW of wind and solar on its grid being produced by members.
Maurice concedes to taking it “personally” when sales didn’t take off. The board continues to support the gar-den and she’s sanguine for now that it may take a bit of time to create a community willing to invest in commu-nity solar gardens.
“Do I see it selling out? No,” she said. “If I was asked this question three months ago I would have said we would sell it out in nine months. It’s not a losing sit-uation for us — instead of buying kilowatts from Great River Energy we’re produc-ing it ourselves and locking in those kilowatt hours. We still have something to gain.”
‘We’re feeling like this is a real technology’
In Iowa, too, increasing numbers of rural electric co-ops are taking the plunge into community solar – or at least planting their toes at the pool’s edge.
The Western Iowa Power Cooperative currently has plans to install 300 kW solar arrays at each of its head-quarters, located in Denison and Onawa. General man-ager Jeff Bean said the fu-ture depends somewhat on whether the co-op receives Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants, is-sued by the Department of Agriculture. He indicated that the rst project is highly likely to score a federal grant – and to be producing by the end of this year.
The utility began looking into community solar be-cause of member feedback.
“We’ve had a number of
members inquire about solar,” Bean said. “We’re seeing where solar is going. We’re feeling like this is a real tech-nology.”
The co-op is so sold on solar technology, in fact, that earlier this year it began to install solar panels for cus-tomers wishing to generate their own power. The co-op has installed two systems – both for livestock producers. A third one is in the works, and more customers are in-quiring about installation.
Solar “is just another form of energy,” Bean said. “We’ve always touted ourselves as energy experts, and we want to remain the energy expert.”
Reporter Karen Uhlenhuth contributed to this story.
Community solar Cont. from p. 1
Fall into Savings Promotion!Are you looking for an easy, convenient way to pay your electric bill every month?
Agralite has a special promotion to help you save time and money on your electric bill!
Starting October 1st until December 31st 2014, if you enroll into either our basic Automatic Payment Plan or Budget Billing combined with the Auto-matic Payment Plan, you will receive a free gift! ($10.00 value!)
Or, if you sign up for SmartHub and make your payments online you will also qualify for this special promotion!
*Free gift must be picked up from the Agralite of ce by 12/31/14. One gift per member.
These options are safe, easy and convenient. After the initial set-up, you won’t need to spend time paying your bill each month.
Simply enroll your electric account with your preferred payment source and your electric bill will be paid each month, automatically! You can have your payment automatically and electronically transferred from your designated checking account, savings account, debit card, or major credit card (VISA, MasterCard or Discover) FREE of charge.
There’s more!*Sign up for one of these programs now until December 31st and receive one FREE
month of your xed charge! (A value of $34.00!)*You must remain enrolled in the Automatic Payment Plan for 12 months, or make 12
consecutive on time, monthly payments through SmartHub in order to receive this bill credit. Credit will be applied January 2016. One credit per member.
How to get started?Logon to our website at www.agralite.coop and enroll online through SmartHub. Once
enrolled, sign up for the Automatic payment plan. It is fast and free! Or, stop in the Agralite of ce and ask how to get signed up today!
Plan to Attend Farm Rental Agreement Meeting Dec. 5 in Morris
By David Bau, Extension EducatorWhat is a fair and pro table farm rental agreement?
Landlords, farmers, agri-business professionals should make plans to attend one of the informative meetings being held across Central and Southern Minnesota. These free meetings are being provided by the University of Minnesota Extension.
Worksheets will examine 2015 costs and what is afford-able rent that a farmer will be able to pay in 2015, the rate of return to the landlord at current market values and exam-ine exible rental agreements.
The meeting will be held in Morris on Friday, December 5, at 9:30 a.m. at the West Central Research & Outreach Center. The meeting will last approximately two hours. There is no pre-registration.
Other meetings planned for West Central Minnesota include:
• Dec. 1 in Marshall 9:30 a.m. - Lyon Co. Govern-ment Center, 607 W Main St., Rooms 4 & 5, Marshall
• Dec. 5 in Willmar 2:00 p.m. - Mid Central Re-search & Outreach Center, 1802 18th St. NE, Willmar
For more information or if you have questions, call Extension Educator David Bau at 507-360-0664 or the
Stevens County Extension Of ce at 320-208-6575.
To take part in our Community solar investing opportunity, send this form to: Agralite Electric Cooperative, PO Box 228, 320 East Highway 12, Benson, MN 56215
Community Solar Opportunity
What is Community Solar? An Agralite Electric Cooperative Community Solar project allows members to purchase a portion of the output of the kilowatt hours generated from a centrally located photovoltaic system.
How does it work? Solar panels are installed at a location on AEC lines. Members purchase a share or multiple shares of the system production. Members are then credited on their monthly bills based on their portion of the system production. Participants do not own any of the panels or infrastructure.
What are the benefits?1. Nothing is installed on your home or property. You have nothing to maintain.2. You have the opportunity to directly invest in a renewable energy project and receive credit from it on your monthly bill.3. By purchasing a share or multiple shares in the project, a portion of your electric usage will have a fixed cost for 20 years.
What does it cost? Estimated costs are $900 to $1,400 per production unit. These costs are estimates based on similar projects. Size and demand for the project will determine the final costs.
What do I get? Participating members get a percentage of the total solar array production each month based on their contribution to the project. It is estimated that each purchased unit will produce 400 to 600 kWh’s per year. Members would get their share of production from the project for a period of 20 years.
If interested, please complete the form below and return it to AEC.………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Yes, I am interested in participating in a community solar project at Agralite Electric Cooperative. Each share of the project is estimated to cost between $900 and $1,400.
Member Name: _________________________________________________________ Shares Wanted: __________________
Send form to: Agralite Electric Cooperative, 320 East Highway 12, Benson, MN 56215Send form to: Agralite Electric Cooperative, PO Box 228, 320 E. Hwy. 12, Benson, MN 56215
What is Community Solar? An Agralite Electric Cooperative Community Solar
project allows members to purchase a portion of the output of the kilowatt hours generated from a centrally located photovoltaic system.
How does it work? Solar panels are installed at a location on AEC lines. Members purchase a share or multiple shares of the system production. Members are then credited on their monthly bills based on their portion of the system production. Participants do not own any of the panels or infrastructure.
What are the benefits?1. Nothing is installed on your home or property.
You have nothing to maintain.2. You have the opportunity to directly invest in a
renewable energy project and receive credit from it on your monthly bill.
3. By purchasing a share or multiple shares in the project, a portion of your electric usage will have a fixed cost for 20 years.
What does it cost? Estimated costs are $900 to $1,400 per production unit. These costs are estimates based on similar projects. Size and demand for the project will determine the final costs.
What do I get? Participating members get a per-centage of the total solar array production each month based on their contribution to the project. It is esti-mated that each purchased unit will produce 400 to 600 kWh’s per year. Members would get their share of production from the project for a period of 20 years.
If interested, please complete the form and return it to Agralite Electric Cooperative
Flipping the SwitchWORD SCRAMBLE
Do you know you can save energy every day in your home? By turning off appliances that are not in use, you have the power to save energy! For example, while the sun is shining, windows can allow sunlight into your house without having to turn on a lamp or a light switch.
Unscramble the letters to reveal the names of common appliances and electronics that you should turn off when not in use. Use the pictures below for clues.
APPLIANCES:
Answer Key: 1. CEILING FAN 2. THERMOSTAT 3. LIGHT SWITCH 4. TELEVISION 5. POWER STRIP 6. GAME CONSOLE
