Inside:

Agralite NewsHarvest workers urged to take

time to reap safe harvest

It can be an exciting and exhausting time, the culmination of a season of hard work. However, the rush to harvest can also yield tragic outcomes. Each year, dozens of farm workers are killed and hundreds are injured in accidents involving power lines and electrical equipment.

“Things people see every day can fade from view and in the busy-ness of harvest time, it’s easy for farm workers to forget about the power lines overhead,” says Richard McCracken of the Safe Electricity Advisory Board. “But failure to notice them can be a deadly oversight.”

Review with all workers the farm activities that take place around power lines. Inspect the height of farm equipment to determine clearance. Keep equipment at least 10 feet away from power lines – above, below and to the side – a 360-degree rule.

“Always lower grain augers before moving them, even if it’s only a few feet,” says Bob Aherin, PhD, CSP & University of Illinois Professor

and Agricultural Safety & Health Program Leader. “Variables like wind, uneven ground, shifting weight or other conditions can combine to create an unexpected result Also use extreme caution when raising the bed of a grain truck.”

Farm workers should take these steps to ensure a safer harvest season:• Use carewhen raising augers or

the bed of grain trucks around power lines. • Useaspotterwhenoperatinglarge

machinery near power lines. Do not let the spotter touch the machinery while it is being moved anywhere near power lines. • Aswith any outdoor work, be

careful not to raise any equipment such as ladders, poles or rods into power lines. Remember, non-metallic materials such as lumber, tree limbs, ropes and hay will conduct electricity

depending on dampness, dust and dirt contamination.• Neverattempttoraiseormovea

power line to clear a path! • Don’tusemetalpolestobreakup

bridged grain inside bins. Know where and how to shut off the power in an emergency.• Usequalifiedelectriciansforwork

on drying equipment and other farm electrical systems.

Operators of farm equipment or vehicles must also know what to do if the vehicle comes in contact with a power line: Stay on the equipment, warn others to stay away and call 911. Do not get off the equipment until the utility crew says it is safe to do so.

“If the power line is energized and you step outside, touching the vehicle and ground, your body becomes the path and electrocution is the result,”

continued on page 3

Photo above is by Lisa Slaughter, our August Calendar Contest Winner

Page 2• July Meeting Minutes• Kory johnson, Manager

Page 3• Efficient Kitchen Lighting• Harvest Safety (cont.)• Energy Efficiency Tip of the

Month

Page 4• Safety: Be Safe, Not Sorry at

Work and at HomePage 5• Electric co-ops concerned with

president’s budget proposal

Page 6• Not all air filters are created

equal• SmartHub Program• Paying your bill

Page 15• Classifieds• Energy Explorers

Page 16• Infographic: Electricity Remains a

Good Value• Infographic: Ceiling Fans• Community Solar

Agralite Electric Cooperative • Benson, MN 56215 • 843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375Volume XCIV • AUGUST 2017

Back by Popular Demand! Agralite is seeking local photographs for our 2018 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 24th. 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 2018. 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: mthompson@agralite.com

Agralite Cooperative

Calendar Photo

Contest

Please note: Agralite’s Officewillbeclosed

Monday, September 4.

SummerOfficeHours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017

A Report to Patrons From the Board RoomMinutes of Meeting • Board of Directors • July 2017

Board Chairman Orvin Gronseth called a meeting of the Board of Directors of Agralite Electric Cooperative to order at 8:30 a.m., July 28, 2017. 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.

James Pachan, Manager of Member Services, reported on activities of his department for the month. He discussed AMI (Automated Metering Infrastructure), key accounts, load management, and CIP.

Jenny Stryhn, Manager of Finance, discussed Agralite’s margins, KRTA analysis, capital credit checks, and RUS Cushion of Credit. Staff has

reviewed the ERP (emergency response plan). Jenny brought forth Work Order #450, Work Order #451, and Special Equipment WO June 2017 and the Board approved them.

The financials were given by Jenny with a PowerPoint presentation.

Jenny gave a PowerPoint presentation on KRTA (key ratio trend analysis).

Tom Hoffman, Manager of Engineering & Operations, reported on activities of his department for the month. He discussed line crew projects and outages. He discussed the Hancock substation and transformer, and the Board approved the purchase of a new 10 MVA transformer.

Tom gave the safety report.

Director Rau reported on the 2017 Energy Transition Berlin Seminar on Energy Policy that he attended.

Kory Johnson, General Manager, reviewed his report to the board. He discussed recent meetings that he attended, record electrical loads, and transmission. The strategic planning meeting was discussed.

The unclaimed capital credit list was discussed. Director Gronseth will be the 2017 Basin Electric

voting delegate. Director Hufford will be the alternate.

The August board meeting was set for the 24th. Being no further business came before the Board,

the meeting was adjourned.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Tofile aprogramdiscriminationcomplaint, complete theUSDAPro-gram Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.htmlandatanyUSDAofficeorwrite 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.DepartmentofAgriculture,OfficeoftheAssistantSecretaryforCivil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

Agralite Electric CooperativeHOURS ARE: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., M-F

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-SwiftCountyMonitorNewsPostmaster send address changes to:AgraliteElectricCooperative,P.O.Box228,Benson,MN56215Secondclasspostage,paidat320EastHighway12,Benson,MN56215(USPS543-040)

PAGE 2

Manager Kory Johnson

Local Democracy, Local Decision-MakingThe month of July saw electric usage increase due

to the high temperatures and dry conditions across our service area. During this time, the cooperative saw loads reach extremely high levels in some areas with large irrigation loads. On July 17th, Agralite saw a system peak of 46,408 kilowatts. For the month of July the cooperative energy sales exceeded 24,800,000 kilowatt-hours. During the high load times the cooperative did see some overloading of individual substations. On July 7th, the cooperative used the load management system toreduceloadingonspecificsubstations.Onthe8thof July the line crews switched some line sections to different substations as a temporary solution. Agralite Electric Cooperative will be ordering a larger transformer for the Hancock substation. The upgrade of the substation will happen spring of 2018 as delivery times on this type of equipment can be up to 6 months.

As we approach the end of summer and start to look at autumn approaching, I want to remind you to contact Agralite if you have changes coming to your grain drying load or if you have added additional

grain storage or aeriation fans. If you will need an upgrade in your electrical service, please give us a call so this can be scheduled and we can meet your needs for the upcoming harvest season.

As I mentioned in last month’s edition of the AgraliteNews,theBoardofDirectorswillconsiderthe adoption of this part of the new state law. Directors and staff will be reviewing the applicable law (MN216B.164) and discussing a resolutionand rules implementing the section of statute. The purpose of this change is to secure local decision-making, not to substantively change the way your cooperative interacts with distributed generation.

Local Democracy clarifies that the boards of directors of electric cooperatives in the State of Minnesota are responsible for regulating their electric cooperative under Minnesota Statute 216B.164, as they do elsewhere under Minnesota Law. This Local Democracy provision applies only to electric cooperatives, and only to Minnesota Statute 216B.164. Local Democracy does not exclude electric cooperatives from any legal obligations under Minnesota Statute 216B.164. The provisions

that the legislature recently passed, and the Governor signed, allow for electric cooperatives to adopt the authority to implement this section of Minnesota Statute 216B.164.

Under these new rules, the cooperative staff and CEO will talk with the member to hear their concerns. After the staff and manager have had a chance to hear the concerns and time to consider the issues, they will attempt to reach a resolution with the member. If a resolution is not agreeable to the member, the matter can be brought to the Board of Directors for their consideration. After consideration by the Board of Directors and the board has made a determination on the issue, the member has the right to request their concerns be heard by a mediator. The cost of the mediator will be paid 90% by the cooperative and 10% by the member. If the member is still not satisfiedtheycanpursuelitigation.

A copy of the draft rules are available at the cooperative or on our web site if members have questions regardingMN216B.164. Please feelfree to contact your electric cooperative if you have questions.

AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017 PAGE 3

Efficient kitchen lightingBy Anne Prince

K i t c h e n s i z e s , s t y l e s a n d conf igu ra t ions have changed dramatically through the years. As consumer lifestyles and tastes have changed, kitchen lighting has evolved to reflect these shifts. In the past, asimple florescent ring placed in thecenter of the ceiling operated by a single switch was the norm for a typicalAmerican kitchen.Now, theproliferation of TV networks and shows devoted to every aspect of home decorating, remodeling, building and sales reflect current consumers’higher standards and expectations for a home’s appearance. Lighting, once considered an afterthought, is now an integral part of home décor and function – particularly in a focal area such as the kitchen.

Layering effectThe effect of a single overhead light

source can be too much light in one area and not enough in others. Layering different types of light from different sources is not only a smart plan, but it makesgoodsensefromanefficiencyperspective.

Task lighting, such as under-counter lighting illuminates a particular work surface without a shadowing effect. Energy efficient options typically feature LED-powered puck lights that can be placed precisely where they are most needed under the cabinets. Another option is the thin-diameter fluorescent tube that use about 25 percent of the electricity of halogen or incandescent bulbs and have a much greater life span. Regardless of the type of light selected, when installing the lights, place them toward the front of the cabinet so they illuminate the

whole countertop rather than the wall. Most types of under-counter lights can be plugged into a standard outlet. Overhead lights, whether from a centralfixture,tracklightsorrecessed,can offer indirect illumination and complement the task lights. Where possible,utilizeENERGYSTARandLED options.

Shining a light on flexibilityEfficientlightinginthekitchendoes

not necessarily mean more lights, but rather more versatile lighting.

Dimmer switches create more flexible lighting options for existinglights. There are times when maximum

illumination is required for tasks such as food preparation or clean-up. At other times, it makes more sense to turn down the lights to create a cozier ambiance. By placing different sets of lights on dimmer switches, you increase your options, minimize the energy used for lighting and thereby allow for greater energy efficiency.However,when installingdimmer switches, make sure they are compatible with LED lights.

Lighting accounts for up to 15 percent of a home’s energy budget, and since the kitchen still remains the heart ofthehomeandisahightraffichub,it makes good sense to focus here. For basicenergyefficiencyinthekitchen

and elsewhere, sometimes small adjustments can make a big impact.

The simplest area to focus is on the light itself. LED lights use a small fraction of the energy of CFL, halogen or traditional incandescent bulbs and they are known for their longevity and efficiency.ENERGYSTAR-ratedLEDbulbs typically are the most energy efficient.

At its best, a good kitchen lighting plan is functional, attractive and energy efficient. Whether your kitchen is large or small, old or new, one reliable recipe for energy savings is utilizing moreefficientlightingintheheartofthe home.

Aherin said. “Even if a power line has landed on the ground, the potential for the area nearby to be energized still exists. Stay inside the vehicle unless there’sfireorimminentriskoffire.”

If this is the case, jump off the equipment with your feet together, without touching the ground and vehicle at the same time. Then, still keeping your feet together, hop to safety as you leave the area.

Once you get away from the equipment, never attempt to get back on or even touch the equipment. Some electrocutions have occurred after the operator dismounts and, realizing nothing has happened, tries to get back on the equipment.

It is very important that all farm workers and seasonal employees are informed of electrical hazards and trained in proper procedures to avoid injury.

For more information on farm e l ec t r i ca l s a fe ty, v i s i t www.SafeElectricity.org (Spanish versions of this information are also available on the website).

Safe Electricity is the safety outreach program of the Energy Education Council, a non-profit organization with more than 400 electric cooperative members and many others who share the mission of creating a safer, smarter world.

Harvest safety...from 1

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017PAGE 4

Be Safe, Not SorryAt Work and At Home

Safety: Carl HenningCLCP, Safety Coordinator

The responsibility for your personal safety begins and ends with you. Follow these safety essentials to help you identify common safety problems and develop good safety habits.

Look At the Big Picture• Recognize that accidents hurt everyone.An accidental injury can have

far-reaching effects, not only on you, but also on your family, co-workers, and employer.• Take responsibility for keepingyour home,workplace, and recreational

areas as safe and risk-free as possible.

Follow the Golden Rule• Whenatwork,athome,orouthavingfun,actassafelyaroundothersas

you would want them to act around you.• Recognizeandreportorrepairsafetyhazards.• Beforeyoutakeunsafe“shortcuts,”rememberthatthiscouldbethetime

that you cause an accident.

Know the Most Common Hazards• Beawareofthefourmaincausesofaccidents:

- Physical overload – lifting too much, straining, twisting, or making the body move in unnatural ways

- Unexpected impact – being hit by or hitting an object- Slips and falls – falling from a height or falling during a slip- Machine accidents – getting caught in moving machine parts

Think About Safety• Accidentsdon’tjusthappen.Theyarealwayscausedbyacombinationof:

- Unsafe attitudes – coming to work angry, not taking safety rules seriously, not paying attention to the task at hand

- Unsafe acts – failing to follow safety procedures, fooling around, refusing to wear protective clothing

- Unsafe conditions – a work area cluttered with debris, spills, broken equipment

Protect Your Back• Stretchandstrengthenyourback.Exerciseyourbackandstomachmuscles

to protect yourself from injury.• Usesafeliftingtechniquestoavoidstrainsandinjuries.

Avoid Chemical Hazards• Knowhowtoprotectyourselffromthehealthhazardsofthechemicalsyou

use.• Readthewarninglabelsonanychemicalbeforeyouuseit.• Rememberthatanunlabeledchemicalisadangerousone;neversniffor

smell an unlabeled chemical.• EmployersarerequiredtoprovideSafetyDataSheets(SDS)forallhazardous

chemicals used in the workplace. SDSs describe the contents, hazards and applications of these chemical products. They also provide guidelines for using the chemicals safely and for treating dangerous exposures. Before handling hazardouschemicals,learnhowtoreadandunderstandSDSandfindoutwhereyou can access them in your workplace.

Use Protective Clothing and Equipment• Protectiveclothingandequipmentcankeepyousafefrommanyhazards–

but they only work if you wear them and use them correctly.• Knowtherighttype

of protective clothing for the task.• Inspectallpersonal

protection clothing and equipment regularly and replace damaged or worn pieces when necessary.

Respect Machinery• Modernmachinery

can be very dangerous if you don’t operate or repair it properly.• Alwaysleavemachineguardsinplaceandfollowinstructionsforoperating

machinery.• Avoidwearingloosesleeves,gloves,ringsorotherjewelrythatcouldget

caught in a machine.

Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls• Everywhereyoulook,therearehazardsthatcouldcauseyoutoslipandfall.

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid situations that put you at risk.

Be Prepared for Emergencies• Knowing how to react in an emergency can oftenmean the difference

between life and death. Develop emergency plans for common situations in your home or work life and make sure that you know:

- Thelocationoffireextinguishers,firstaidkits,flashlights,andexits,etc.

- Whattypeoffireextinguishertouseonafire- Medical first-aid procedures, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation

(CPR)- What to do if you inhale a hazardous chemical or get a dangerous

substance on your skin or eyes

www.agralite.coop ALSO ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER

Agralite Electric Cooperative Member Owned!

AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017 PAGE 5

By Dan RiedingerEvery year, the president sends Congress a proposal for funding the government

duringtheupcomingfiscalyear,whichCongressconsidersasitweighsitsownbudgetpriorities.Thepresident’sbudgetrequestforfiscalyear2018includesseveral proposals that threaten to handcuff rural families and businesses. While Congress isn’t required to adopt them, electric co-ops have an obligation to stand up for the interests of their members by alerting our elected leaders of our concerns.

That’s why Agralite Electric Cooperative and other co-ops have been vocal in Washington about several areas of the president’s budget that would hurt America’s electric cooperatives and their 42 million members.

Rural economic developmentThe U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development program provides

loans, grants and guarantees to support economic development and many essential services in rural communities. But the president’s budget proposes to eliminate funding for the Rural Business Service, including the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program (REDLG), Rural Cooperative Development Grant and Rural Energy for America programs.

Power Marketing AdministrationsThe federal government provides clean, low-cost electricity to more than 600

co-ops from federal hydropower projects operated by four Power Marketing Administrations (PMAs). But the administration proposed selling off the transmission assets of three PMAs. This would jeopardize affordable, reliable power for more than 100 million people and have a devastating impact on rural economies. Both Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill have joined co-ops in speaking out against this proposal.

Low-income energy assistanceThe Department of Health and Human Services proposes eliminating the

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a valuable tool that electric cooperative consumers use to help pay their energy bills in times of severe weather or economic crises. Co-ops have joined others in the power sector each year in asking Congress for robust LIHEAP funding to help those in need pay their home heating and cooling bills. The program has had a strong track record of success since 1981.

International electrificationThe president’s budget proposes a 32-percent cut to the U.S. Agency for

International Development, a major funding source for electric cooperatives’ work to promote electrification in other countries.Thepressure to cut ruralelectrificationprogramscouldbothhaltongoingsuccessfuleffortstoprovidemillions more people access to reliable and affordable electricity and stall the growth of global trading partners.

Department of Energy programsFour Department of Energy (DOE) applied energy research and development

(R&D) programs are targeted for a $2.15 billion cut under the president’s budget. Among those, funding for solar energy would be cut from $238 million to $134 million, reducing the potential for future co-op solar R&D projects. Further cuts to DOE cybersecurity programs would reduce electric sector coordination and collaborationwiththeDepartment’sOfficeofElectricityDelivery.JimMatheson,CEOoftheNationalRuralElectricCooperativeAssociation

(NRECA),summedthebudgetproposalupthisway:“AhealthyruralAmericacan be the rising tide that lifts the nation’s economy and the standard of living in countless communities. Rather than shifting funds away from critical programs that have a record of success, the administration should be working with co-ops and other stakeholders to jump start rural America’s economic engines.” That’sthemessageNRECAanditsmemberco-ops,includingAgraliteElectric

Cooperatives, are delivering to federal policymakers.

Electric co-ops concerned with president’s budget proposal

(Allow at least 2 working days for crews to mark all underground utility lines.)

Call before you dig!

1-800-252-1166

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017PAGE 6

Not all air filters are created equalBy Tom TateForced air heating, ventilating and air

conditioning (HVAC) systems require effective air filtration for optimum energy efficiency, maintaining clean(ish) ductwork and good indoor air quality. Air filters should be changed regularly. How often they need changing depends upon a number of factors including, but not limited to:• Presenceofpetsthatshed• Amount of carpeted versus

hardwoodfloors

• Whereyoulive–amountsofdust,pollen, etc.• Useofwood-burningsupplemental

heat sources• PresenceofcigarettesmokeThe air inside our homes is full of

particles originating from inside and outside sources. As the name “forced air” implies, conditioned air is blown into the house through ductwork. In order to operate efficiently, the air supplied is returned to the system for reconditioning, taking with it

all the particles in the air and the occasional “tumbleweed” of pet hair that many of us are familiar with.

This junk-laden air flows through a filterbefore encountering the HVAC equipment. For cooling, there is usually an A-frame arrangement of what look like car radiators. For hea t ing , i t i s generally a combustion chamber. Without a filter,thecoolingcoilswould get clogged and the heating side would burn off whatever was in the air. Ah, the smell of burnt hair in the morning…

Airfilters trap a lot of debris thatotherwise would end up back in the house, stuck in ductwork, clogging HVAC equipment – or in our lungs. But enough with the HVAC and air quality primer.Let’stackletypesofairfilters.

Filters have more choices than you can shake a stick at. Fortunately, they can be broken down into two nicelydefinedcategories,makingtheselection process manageable. The two are:• Permanentordisposable• Flatorpleatedmedia(withahandy

MERV rating)Disposable are the most prevalent.

Someintheflatmediagrouplooklikethey will stop only particles larger than agolfball.Theyhaveflimsycardboardframesanda thin,flatmeshyoucaneasily see through. While they are cheap, don’t waste your money. Your HVAC system and lungs deserve better.Pleatedfiltersperformbetterusing

media you cannot see through. While they look impervious, air can move through under pressure leaving its airbornecargotrapped.Pleatedfiltersare better, in my experience.

Remember MERV? That is a rating system that tells you how effective a filterisattrappingparticles.Standingfor Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, it’s a measure of efficiency. The scale runs from one to 16 (higher

is better) and is based on trapping particles 3-10 microns in diameter. Researchshowsthatresidentialfilterswith a MERV rating between seven and 13 are likely to be as effective as trueHEPA(high-efficiencyparticulatearrestance)filters.Thisclassoffilterisused in clean room manufacturing and at the extreme end can trap particles much smaller than the diameter of a human hair, as small as 1 micron.

So, should you jump in and grab a supply of highMERVfilters?Notwithout some research. All filters increaseresistancetoairflow.HVACsystems are designed to operate at a particular pressure and should support MERV ratings of one to four. A higher MERV value increases resistance, making the system work harder. It losesefficiencyandincreaseswearonoperating components.

So, how do you decide which level of filter to use? If you have your system’s operating manual or can grab it online, check for recommendations. Otherwise, my advice is to go with a decent (MERV three tofive) pleatedfilterandcheckitonceamonthtoseehow it is performing. Also check to see if the dust inside abates.

Spend a little more and breathe a lot easier with a regular schedule of air filterreplacement.Asimplechangethatpays big dividends.

1. Pay with Automatic Bank Pay–Nomorecheckstowriteorbillstomail. 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 toAgraliteElectricCooperative,POBox228,Benson,MN56215.

5. Pay in Person–Youcanpayyourbillsatourofficeoruseourdrive-updrop 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!

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”.

AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017 PAGE 7

Auctioneer Notes: The Zielsdorf Auction Team are excited to conduct the Farm equipment Retirement Auction for Gordon Gerdes. After a lifetime of farming in the Kerkhoven area Gordy has decided to retire and sell at public auction his well maintained and always shedded farm equipment. He will not be moving so he’s keeping his tools and enough equipment to maintain his yard year around. There will be no small items. Our auction will begin with the main line of machinery promptly at 10:00 am. Plan to arrive early for this awesome auction. Thank You, Zielsdorf Auction Team

www.zielsdorfauctions.com

AUCTIONEERS & CLERK:Zielsdorf Auction & Real Estate Service, 119 3rd Street North, Benson, MN 56215

Office: 320-843-3003 Robert Zielsdorf, MN 76-22, 320-760-2006Aaron Olson, MN 76-29, 320-808-8947Brad Feuchtenberger, MN75-14, 320-287-0501Janel Tolifson, Bus. Manager

AWednesday, August 23, 2017 - 10:00 am

Gordon GerdesKerKhoven, Mn • 320-264-2101

320-843-3003Your Farm Equipment & Real Estate SpecialistTERMS: Cash or check. Nothing removed before settlement. Statements made sale day take precedence over all advertising. Lunch on grounds. Not responsible for accidents.

Auction Location: 7075 130th Avenue NE Kerkhoven MN 56252 – South on County Road 35, Turns into County Road #2 at Chippewa County Line, to 80th Street, then 1 Mile East & ½ Mile South; Willmar MN – 12 Miles West on MN Highway 40 to 130th Ave., then 1 ½ Miles North; Clara City MN – County Road 2 North to Highway 40, then East 2 Miles to 130th Avenue, then 1 ½ Miles No.

• Watch for Zielsdorf Auction Signs! •

uctionFarm retirement

Live Onsite/OnLineAuction

Collectible Tractor

Tractors

JD 4850 MFWD, 18.4x42 Du-als, 14.9R30 Front New, Front Fenders, Power Shift, 3 Hyd., SN#10221, 3pt Quick Coupler, PTO, 8810 Hours, Rock Box, 1800 hrs on Complete Engine Overhaul

JD 4640, SN#001291, Quad, 3pt, PTO, 3 Hyd., Quick Coupler, 18.4x42 Duals, Rock Box, Cab Air/Heat, 6665 Hours, (Needs Cab Kit)

Tillage

Case IH 28’ 3900 Tandem Disc, Cushion Gang, Rear Hitch, 9” Spacing, SN#183143

Allis Chalmers 4000 16’ Notch Blade Disk, 11” Front Spacing, 9” Rear Spacing

JD 100 16 Shank Chisel Plow Dakon 5 Shank Ripper w/Cover

ShanksWilrich 24’ Field Cultivator, Walking

Tandems, Hyd. Fold, Four Bar Harrow, Anhydrous Kit & Hitch

IH 720 6-18 Auto Reset Plow, Semi Mounted, w/Coulters

IH 720 5-18 Auto Reset Plow, Semi Mounted, Poor Molboards

JD 100 12’ Chisel Plow w/2 Section Drag

(2) 6 Section Flex Drag on Folding Cart

4 Section Flex Drag on Folding Cart5 Section Drag on Folding Cart,

Adjustable Sections

Misc.Century 200 Mig Wire Feed Welder

(Like NEW)JD 27 Chopper, Original Hoods, 4

Wheel, Near New KnivesDemco Sprayer 45’ Boom, Rebuilt

Pump, New Tires, PTO Pump, 500 Gallon

Case SC, SN#5319365, Hasn’t Ran In 5 Years, Was Shedded, Excel-lent Tin Work, Good Rubber

Hay & Livestock

Gravity BoxesBradford Model 250-316 Gravity

Box, 12.5Lx15.5L Tires (One New Spare To Be Sold Separate)

Flair Box on Running Gear w/Hyd. Hoist

JD 336 Square Baler, Gear Box Rebuilt, New Front Seals, Plunger Bearings, Always Shedded

Row CropJD 7100 12 Row 30”, Herb & Insect,

Corn & Bean Units, Lift Assist, Yetter Row Cleaners

JD 400 Rotary Hoe 8 Row 30”Westgo 2010 12 Row 30”, Dakon

Shields, Hyd. Fold, Stine Shanks

Combine & Heads

JD 9510, SN#675792, 2405 Engine Hours/1684 Separator Hours, 24.5x32 Tires, Harvestrak Moni-tor System, For-Aft, Reel Speed, AHH, Mauer Hopper Extension

JD 7700 Turbo Hydro, SN#265505, Good Motor, Good Transmission, Good Tin Work, 18.4x38 Duals, Some Parts Missing

JD 922 Flex Header, SN#631345, Plastic Fingers, New Wobble Box, Bolt on Sections

JD 643 High Tin Corn Head, Built Up Rolls, Near New Deck Plates, Earsavers

Grain HandlingWestfield 61’x8” w/Assist Wheel,

PTO DriveFeteral 31’x7” w/Electric 3hp MotorFeteral 64’x8” PTO DriveFeteral 54’x8” PTO Drive(2) Portable Augers 16’x4” on Cart18’x8” Auger on Cart, 3hp Electric

MotorSnowco Grain Screener, Soy Bean

Screen, 1hp Electric MotorSnowco Grain Screener, Corn

Screen, 1hp Electric MotorPioneer Fanning Mill Co., MPLS

MN, w/Screens, Nice Machine

Trucks

1976 Ford F-600, V-8 330 XD w/ 4 & 2 Transmission, 9.00-20 New Rear Tires, Double Core Radia-tor, New Fuel Pump, New Clutch, Master Cylinder Replaced & Carb Kit, 14’ Box, New Front Brake Shoes, 36,803 Actual Miles, 3rd Owner

1966 Ford 600 Single Ax Truck w/12’ Box & Hoist, V-8 330 En-gine, 4 & 2 Transmission, 9.00-20 Tires, VERY NICE, New Paint, Plugs, Water Pump, 1 OWNER

New Holland Stack Liner 1010 Very Good Condition, Always Shedded, 64 Bale Machine

JD 40 Manure Spreader, Good Floor, Excellent Tires, Near New Chain, PTO

Allis Chalmers, Pull Mower, 7’ Bar

Auction CalendarTUES., AUG. 22 - 9 a.m. AgIron Sioux Falls event, Larch-

wood, IA. Steffes Group Inc.TUES., AUG. 22 - 4:30 p.m. 3 JD tractors, very clean

equipment and household auction. Marshall, MN. Dick and Dodie Ladwig, owners. Deutz Auctioneers.

WED., AUG. 23 - 10 a.m. Jim and Jean Putman, Tintah, MN. Farm retirement. Steffes Group Inc.

WED., AUG. 23 - 10 a.m. Farm equipment, hay equipment, trucks. Gordon Gerdes, Kerkhoven, MN. Zielsdorf Auction and Real Estate Services.

THURS., AUG. 24 - 10:30 a.m. Large equipment consign-ment auction, Buffalo Lake, MN. Farm/Construction equip., tractors, combines, trucks, trailers, new items including skid loader attachments, dumpsters, fish houses, storage buildings and much more. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

THURS., AUG. 24 - Greenbush Implement Co., Green-bush, MN. Retirement auction. Steffes Group Inc.

FRI., AUG. 25 - 10 a.m. Meeker County, MN Land Auction, Litchfield, MN. 108 +/- lakeshore property and tillable land multi-tract auction. Steffes Group Inc.

MON., AUG. 28 - 11 a.m. Real estate, golf cart, lawn tractor, boat and trailer, misc. Myron and Loretta Flann, Lake Lillian, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

TUES., AUG. 29 - 10:30 a.m. Clean JD farm equipment retirement auction. Virgil Swenson, Willmar. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., AUG. 30 - 11 a.m. Prime multi-parcel Kandiyohi Co. farm land auction. 240 acres +/-, Willmar, MN. Donavon and Kathleen Monson. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., AUG. 30 - 10 a.m. Redwood Falls Consignment Auction located at Kerkhoff Auction Center, Redwood Falls, MN. Assortment of vehicles, machinery, wagons, mowers, snowblowers, trailers, tools and more. Kerkhoff Auction and Real Estate.

WED., AUG. 30 - 10 a.m. Secured Lender Farm auction, Manvel, ND. Potato equipment, livestock and tillage. Steffes Group Inc.

THURS., AUG. 31 - 10 a.m. Clean farm equipment re-tirement auction. Willmar, MN. Donavon and Kathleen Monson. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

THURS., AUG. 31 - 10 a.m. Business Liquidation Auction of the Overson Lumber Co., St. James, MN. Real Es-tate, vehicles and equipment, large inventory listing, etc. Hallberg Auction.

AUG. 31 - SEPT. 12 - Litchfield Farm Equipment, Litchfield, MN. Timed online auction. Steffes Group Inc.

AUG. 31 - SEPT. 12 - Dassel, MN. Excess inventory, Dassel, MN. Timed online auction. Steffes Group Inc.

FRI., SEPT. 1 - Metal to Money consignment auction located: Hoffman, MN. Farm machinery, livestock and sporting equipment, ATVs, snowmobiles, fish houses, campers, etc. Hanson Auctioneers, LLC.

SEPT. 1 thru SEPT. 11 - Online only sporting goods consignment auction. Zielsdorf Auction and Real Estate Services.

SEPT. 1 thru SEPT. 14 - Jim Halstead farm retirement, Litchfield, MN. Timed online auction. Steffes Group Inc.

TUES., SEPT. 5 - 10 a.m. Exceptionally clean late model J.D. farm equipment retirement auction. Clarkfield/Montevideo, MN. Wayne and Patricia Virkus. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

SEPT. 5 - 10 a.m. thru SEPT. 14 - 10 a.m.: Timed online farm equipment auction. Mike Anderson, Clarkfield, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., SEPT. 6 - 11 a.m. Kandiyohi County Land auc-tion. Atwater/Kandiyohi, MN. 90 Acres +/- located in Gennessee Twp. Carlson Anderson family. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

SEPT. 6 thru SEPT. 13 - UFC inventory reduction, Gaylord, MN. Timed online auction. Steffes Group Inc.

SEPT. 6 thru SEPT. 13 - September Online Auction, Upper Midwest Locations. Steffes Group Inc.

THURS., SEPT. 7 - 10 a.m. AgIron Litchfield Event, Litch-field, MN Steffes Group Inc.

FRI., SEPT. 8 - 10 a.m. Farm, trucking and household equipment estate auction. Kerkhoven/Murdock, MN. Jerry D. Henry Estate. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

FRI., SEPT. 8 - 11 a.m. Harvey Peterson Estate, Litchfield, MN. 5 +/- acre home, guns and personal property. Steffes Group Inc.

SAT., SEPT. 9 - 8:30 a.m. Fall consignment auction. Long Prairie, MN. Tractors, combines, farm machinery, trucks, trailers, ATV’s, livestock equipment, etc. Mid American Auction Co.

MON., SEPT. 11 - 10 a.m. Meeker County Land auction, Eden Valley, MN. 200 +/- acre multiple tracts to include a dairy farm. Steffes Group Inc.

TUES., SEPT. 12 - 10 a.m. Clean farm equipment estate auction. Douglas E. Anderson Estate, Grove City, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

FRI., SEPT. 15 - 10 a.m. Robert Koehn farm retirement, Holdingford, MN. Steffes Group Inc.

TUES., SEPT. 19 - 10 a.m. 6.64 acre farm site. 2009

Be part of this Auction Calendar by calling 1-800-750-0166. Advertise in advance of your event and you’ll be included in the Peach, Canary, Monitor-News, Extra, Agralite and on-line!

Chevy, 2007 Toyota van, camper, JD Gator, large toy train set, lots of shop tools and misc. Marvin and Marion Bohlson Estate. Clara City, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

TUES., SEPT. 19 - 11 a.m. Perry and Kittly Ellingson farm retirement, Borup, MN. Steffes Group Inc.

WED., SEPT. 20 - 10 a.m. Robert “Sonny” Johnson antique engine and collectibles, Enderlin, ND. Steffes Group Inc.

FRI., SEPT. 22 - 2:30 p.m. Absolute prime Kandiyohi Hunting Land. 151.29 acres +/- located in Edwards Twp., Prinsburg/Raymond, MN. Melvin Kleinhuizen Trust. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

SAT., SEPT. 23 - 10 a.m. Large annual autumn inventory reduction auction. American Surplus & Mfg., Montevi-deo, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

SAT., SEPT. 23 - 10 a.m. WWII memorabilia and firearms auction. Steffes West Fargo facility. Steffes Group Inc.

THURS., SEPT. 28 - 10 a.m. Clean equipment and recre-ational auction. Sturgeon Lake/Willow River, MN. Semi trucks, equipment trailers, construction equipment and other items. Greg and Gail Waldhalm, Sturgeon Lake, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

FRI., SEPT. 29 - 10 a.m. Gerry Beck estate, Long Prairie, MN. Steffes Group Inc.

MON., OCT. 9 - 10 a.m. Multi purpose land auction. Three tracts of land in Diamond Lake Twp., Lincoln County, MN. Walentyna Andersen Trust, owners. Deutz Auctioneers.

TUES., OCT. 17 - 10 a.m. Gun and ammo auction. Approx. 40+ guns including rifles, shotguns and handguns. Former Northern Grain and Swift Mfg. Co., Clara City, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., OCT. 18 - 9 a.m. Huge commercial real estate and industrial equipment auction. Approx. 10 A. manufac-turing facility and offices. Former Northern Grain and Swift Mfg. Co., Clara City, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

OCT. 18 thru OCT. 25 - Doug Halle farms inventory reduction, Devils Lake, ND. Timed online auction. Steffes Group Inc.

WED., NOV. 1 - 11 a.m. Prime multi-parcel Swift County farm land auction. 141 acres, Kerkhoven Twp. Jerry D. Henry Estate, Ellamae Henry, owner. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., NOV. 1 - 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Norman County, MN. Land auction. Hendrum, MN. 155 +/- acres in Lee and Hendrum Twp. Timed online auction. Steffes Group Inc.

NOV. 3 thru NOV. 13 -November 2017 Online only equip-ment consignment auction. Zielsdorf Auction and Real

Estate Service.NOV. 7 thru NOV. 14 - Seed equipment dispersal and

excess inventory timed online auction. Kallevig Agri Products, Willmar. MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., NOV. 8 - 11 a.m. Prime Redwood Co. farmland auc-tion. 92 Acre +/- located in Morgan Twp., Morgan, MN. Lorraine Ziegenhagen Estate. Henslin Auctions Inc.

THURS., NOV. 9 - 11 a.m. Bottineau County, ND. Land auction, 1,240 +/- contiguous acres. Multiple tracts in Chatfield Twp. Steffes Group Inc.

THURS., NOV. 16 - 11 a.m. Stearns County, MN Land auction. 90 +/- acres, multiple tracts in Paynesville, MN. Steffes Group Inc.

SAT., NOV. 18 - 9:30 a.m. Western Prairie Farm Collectors 2017 Fall consignment auction. Appleton, MN. Farm, ranch, construction, recreational. Brown and Baker Auction Co.

THURS., NOV. 30 - 10:30 a.m. Exceptionally clean late model Case IH farm equipment retirement auction. Tim and Suzanne Milbeck, Dawson, MN. Henslin Auctions, Inc.

WED., DEC. 13 - 10 a.m. Farmer Dealer Consignment auction #62 located at Zielsdorf Auction Facility, Ben-son, MN. Zielsdorf Auction and Real Estate Services.

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017

• Arctic Cat 440 snowmobile* 1972 Polaris SS 340 Colt, runs great, col-

lectors item• Erskin post hole digger w/12” diamond bit,

fits skid loader• Wood splitter w/8 hp. motor• 7 1/2x 12 ft. fish house• Simplicity 23 hp. 52 ZTR mower• Ariens 15 hp. 40” lawn tractor• Exmark 29 hp. 60” commercial zero turn

mower• Exmark 24 hp. 52” commercial ZTR mower• Toro Z-Master Pro 60” commercial w/

bagger vac.

COMBINE HEADS• 1999 JD mod. 9510 combine w/2912

sep. hours, green star ready, 2 years on concave, etc., long auger, chaff spreader. Call Jon for more info. 320-287-1187.

• 2010 8 row 22” Geringhoff roto disk w/JD mounts

• JD mod. 9500 combine, 2313 separator hours, service records. Call Eugene at 320-760-6848 for more information.

• JD mod. 7720 combine• Gleaner mod. M-2 combine• Gleaner 4 row wide corn head• Gleaner 18 ft. flex head• JD 6620 combine • JD 18 ft. bean head• JD mod. 643 corn head • JD pickup head• JD mod. 925F flex head and air reel• JD 6 row 30” corn head • JD 922 flex head• JD 12 ft. straight head, looks new• Case IH 1020 flex head, 20’, nice field

tractor• IH 844 corn head, 4 row, narrow• JD 6 row all crop head •Hopper auger• Many header trailers including one for

two 30 ft. heads, w/brakes. D.O.T.• IH mod. 810 pickup head, 5 belt• (6) JD stalk chompers, complete* Unverferth 42 ft. header trailer, all wheel

steer, big rubber, like new• 3 pt. head mover • Grain screener • 4 wheel PMC header trailer• 1993 JD 8 row, 22” corn head w/poly

snouts, oil bath, field ready, excellent cond.• Adapter to mount JD head to Case IH• JD mod. 8820 w/rear wheel assists, rebuilt

hydro• JD mod. 930 flex head• 20.8.38 JD straddle duals w/ladder exten-

sion, Good Year radial, excellent• IH 843 corn head• Mauer 38 ft. header trailer w/dolly wheels

in front

• One horse open sleigh • (3) vintage fire hydrants• Wood carpenters tool box w/many vintage

tools• Antique 2-row corn planter• Lincoln 250 wire feed welder• 3 pt. type no-till drill, 8 ft., used for grass seed• Restorable 1952 IH truck with wood box, nice

body, not runningH.D. SCAFFOLDING: Many sets of good

scaffolding and misc. including: • (21) 5’ end panels • (6) 3’ end panels • (8) 19” extensions • (8) 10’ wood planks • (14) 10’ aluminum planks • 10’ and

7’ side arm braces • Many 5’ and 7’ safety panels • Jacks, wheels, steps, pulleys and pulley brackets, starter post.

Just a partial listing, all professional grade

MOWING, SPORTING, SKID LOADERS

• JD walk behind snow blower, 32”, 8 hp., electric start, like new

• Compost barrel tumbler• 2014 Arctic Cat mod. 500 ATV, 2200 miles,

2 sets of wheels, one owner*2007 Caterpillar Skid Loader, mod. 277C,

on tracks, 3550 hours, heat and AC*• Rounder L-600 skid loader w/cage• Arctic Cat ATV 90, like new• Gas powered lawn sprayer • McCulloch generator • Grass sweep• Husqvarna 345 chainsaw • Lawn V rake• 8 hp. wood chipper• Cub Cadet lawn tractor, front wheel as-

sist, 60” deck, 25 liquid cooled motor, 3 pt. hitch, pto clutch, needs some work

• Polaris snowmobile, 550

• 12 and 15 ft. auger on wheels• 19 diameter 7-ring Cenex bin, disassem-

bled w/bolts• PTO DK Vac-U-Vator w/pipe• Feterl 10x60 and 8x56 PTO augers• 7-ring 24 ft. Butler bin, dismantled• Westfield Power Walker w/10” & 13” bands

& remote control• Westfield 130’ x 71’ swing auger

TRUCKS, TRAILERS• 2010 Volvo UNL semi tractor, 485 hp, 13

speed, engine brake, all aluminum wheels, 704x miles, beautiful truck. Call Scott for more details, 320-760-2766.

• 1994 Freightliner mod. FL70 bulk fuel truck w/Cummins diesel, 6 speed transmission

• 2002 Mack CX613 semi trac. 460 Mack, 13 spd• 2007 ProStar 8600 (twin screw) semi w/

Cummins/10 spd. Automatic, day cab• 2009 Wilson Pacesetter w/elec. roll tarp, all

alum., ag hopper• 1989 IH 8300 L-10 Cummins, 9 spd., day cab• 1986 Timpte 42” hopper bottom• 1983 Chamberlain 42 ft. hopper bottom

grain trailer, aluminum, roll tarp• 2000 Volvo 730 semi tractor, low sleeper,

alum. wheels, 465 motor, 10 speed trans.• 1976 38 ft. Tempte hopper bottom grain

trailer• 12 ft. skid loader trailer w/ramps• Tilt bed implement trailer for antique trac-

tors w/hand winch• 1993 Chev pickup 1500 reg. cab long box,

350, 4x4, rust free.• Ford F-350 service truck w/service body• Bulk fuel trailer for hauling water with back

storage• Lufkin implement trailer, 80,000 pound.• 45 ft. dry van made into race car hauler• 1991 Buick LeSabre 4 door car, new tires• 1974 Ford mod. 800 twin screw grain truck

w/18 ft. box and roll tarp, 390 engine and 5 & 2 trans.

• 2007 PJ Sparks 22 ft. deckover trailer w/Beavertail and ramps

• 30 ft. semi flatbed trailer• 16 ft. Towmaster tilt bed trailer• 2 place snowmobile trailer• 20 ft. flatbed trailer, oscillate tandems• 1978 Ford F-150 w/300 bcy motor, 4x4,

new tires and spoke rims, p.s. and brakes• Dakota snowplow fits Ford• 1993 16 ft. Featherlite enclosed trailer• 1972 Ford grain truck, power steering, w/

steel grain box• 1992 IH dump truck snowplow, 5000 series,

diesel, township truck• 1999 Ford 350 w/service body extended

cab• 2001 5x8 enclosed trailer• 2003 Delta 17 ft. deckover trailer• 1983 Chev. 1/2 ton w/dump box, 4x4

ITEMS OF INTEREST• H-D pipe bender w/dies• Heavy duty scaffolding• Antique 2-person water bike• Horse tack, saddles, bridles, misc.• Refurbished bob sled

LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT• New Holland silage wagon tan. axle, 16’, w/ roof• New Holland silage wagon, 14 ft., w/roof• Gehl 640 silage box, 14 ft., w/roof• Cobey silage box, tandem, 16 ft., w/roof• JD tandem silage box, MF silage box, w/roof• JD mod. 240 hydro swing haybine• New Holland 273 square baler w/thrower• New Holland 499 haybine, hydro swing, 12 ft.• New Holland hayliner, mod. 315 square

baler, always stored inside• New Idea mod. 3739 manure spreader, tan-

dem axle w/end gate • Gehl silage blower• New Holland 850 round baler• Badger silo blower, short hopper• Lorenz feed grinder w/scale• IH #55 spreader w/hyd. apron• Bale feeder for 2 bales• 1000 gal. Badger honeywagon w/3 injectors• Lorenz mod. 100 feed mill w/scale• Heli foil AHP-22 corn blower• New Holland #55 rake • 18 ft. hay rack• 9 cement H bunks • 8 cement J bunks• 3 pt. round bale fork • Side delivery rake• Badger silo blower w/shaker pan• (2) feed bins, one poly, Chore-Time 9 ton• (4) HD free standing 24 ft. cattle gates• (15) cow stanchions • 10 ft. grass seeder• Loader, fits JD 20 series• Vermeer round baler, mod. 605G• MF feed wagon w/running gear• Berg 100 ft. belt conveyor• Silage dump cart • OMC 596 Round Baler• Hesston Model 7150 forage chopper, hay

and cornhead.• 2 - H&S forage wagons, excellent, 14’

GRAIN CARTS, AUGERS• Sold off-site. Approx. 4000 bu. Friesen

hopper bin, epoxy lined. Call Lee for direc-tions, 320-528-2257.

• Never used MK 130x74 Westfield swing hopper auger

• Westfield 10x31 auger w/electric mount• Feterl 10x34 w/20 hp gas motor• Feterl 8x34 w/13 hp gas motor, Honda• Adrian driver over dump pit, hyd. drive• Westfield 13x71 swing auger, low profile• Westfield 10x61 swing auger, low profile• Westfield 10x61 swing auger, low profile• Westfield 8x61, electric mount• Parker gravity box w/auger* Unverferth mod. 7250 grain cart w/roll tarp,

nice, Diamond tires• Westfield end gate drill fill, brush auger• Handlair mod. 1500 grain vac, self contained• Mayrath 6x51 pto auger• Kwik Kleen grain screener w/2 sets of

screens • Many bin fans• 16 ft. Hutchinson auger •Slide gate• (2) Sukup Spredway grain spreaders• (2) 40 ft. and (2) 30 ft. 6” roof augers• Westfield 10x71 swing auger• Parker 250 bu. gravity box w/10 ton gear• Dakon 231 bu. gravity box w/8 ton gear• 18 ft. Bin sweep • Power sweep• TR 100x61 Westfield swing auger• Westfield WR 80x41 w/electric motor• Westfield 10x61 swing auger, nice

TRACTORS• JD mod. 6400 MFWD w/duals, only 2927

hrs., always shedded • Versatile mod. 835 four wheel drive tractor

w/5883 hrs. Good 18.4R38 Firestone tires, 3 pt, 4 hyd.

• I-H Farmall mod. H, narrow front• JD mod. 770 road grader from Lund Town-

ship, $6000 of new tires, runs and works great; also has wing plow.

• Mechanic special IH mod. 1466 diesel tractor, runs good but has water in oil

• Minneapolis Moline mod. U, wide front• 1981 Versatile mod. 555 4-wheel drive

tractor w/5630 hours, PTO, 3 pt. Call Lowell for info at 320-760-6194.

• 1935 Farmall F-20, like new 13.6x36 Firestone tires, runs excellent

• Owatonna 880 payloader articulating loader completely rebuilt front to back quick attach forks, bucket and snowblade

• MF lawn tractor w/mower, snowblower, & tiller. 24 hp, 4 wheel drive, diesel

• JD 4020 diesel tractor, Synchro range, new batteries

• LP Fork Lift - runs good, hard tires

TILLAGE & PLANTING• IH mod. 800 plow, 12 bottom, 18” with

coulters, reset• JD mod. 2700 plow, 6x18 bottom with

coulters, reset• Case IH 496 disk, 22 1/2 ft. w/rock gangs

and 3 bar harrow• IH viber shank digger, 18 1/2 ft. w/drag• Rhino batwing mower, 15 ft.• 8 ft. Farm King snowblower, 540 PTO• 2-bottom sulky plow• 3-bottom P & O plow• Flexi-Coil mod. 65 w/windscreen sprayer• Demco tandem sprayer w/50 ft.boom• 6 ft. snowblower• Flexi-Coil 31 ft. chisel plow• Two DMI 42 ft. anhydrous applicators• Two JD 25 ft. chisel plows, mod. 610• Oliver # 272 tan. disk, 30 ft. w/rock cushions• Bush Hog plowing disk, 16 ft.• Lucky 7 ft. snowblower• IH 4 row wide corn planter, mod. 400• Brady mod. 1680, 6 row narrow stalk chopper• Lundell 6 row narrow stalk chopper• JD 610 27 ft. chisel plow w/3 bar summers• JD 331 24 ft. disk, notched blades• DMI Echo-Tiger 730B disk ripper, 7 pt. w/

c shanks• Rebuilt & painted 12 ft. mounted digger,

looks new• JD 5 ft. brush mower, looks new• IH 710 plow, onland 3 pt. hitch, 7 bottom• IH 800 plow, onland pull type, 8 bottom, 18”• Balzer 20 ft. stalk chopper, good knives• 3-bottom IH plow, pull type• JD 26 ft. chisel plow w/new points and 3

bar harrow• IH #45 digger, 15 1/2 ft. pull type w/drag, nice• JD 1100 digger, 15 ft. w/drag• Kewanee 730 disk, 20 ft. w/rock gangs• 2-bottom 3 pt. JD plow, restored, nice.• Melroe 60 ft. drag• Fork type rock picker • Saddle tanks• 3 pt. 5 row ammonia applicator• IH 6x16” on-land plow• IH 720 plow 6x16” on-land plow• JD 2, 3, and 4 bottom antique plow• IH plow, 2 bottom, ground lift• IH digger, 10 ft., ground lift• DMI Tiger II, 5 shank ripper• Rath 7 ft. snowblower• JD mod. 9300 grain drill, 30 ft.• IH mod. 475 disk, 18 ft. • Krause 16 ft. disk• C-P 712 chisel plow, 12 ft.• IH 710 5-bottom plow• Fargo 2 wheel hydo pump • IH 3-14 pull type plow• IH 1-bottom plow• Glencoe 28 ft. w/3 bar harrow• 6 row White corn planter w/dry fertilizer• JD 30 ft. Rotary hoe #400• IH Model 800 9/18 bottom, black springs

Hanson Auctioneers, LLCJerome Hanson - 26-12 Romie Gessell - 77-37

Charlie Oachs - 26-13 Roger CerollHoffman, Minnesota Cell 320-760-5485

“The Most Important Auction is Yours!” NOTE: Make plans to attend Metal to Money Fall 2017! We will sell in 2 rings starting at 9:00 a.m. with 2 racks of good, misc. items.

Rain or shine the sale goes on! NO INTERNET BIDDING. Bidding numbers will be available starting Tuesday, August 29.

Thank you, Jerome www.midwestauctions.com or www.globalauctionguide.com

✰

ALL VEHICLES: SALES TAX AND REGISTRATION DONE ON SALE DAY!

More items added next week. Check the Classy Canary for additional ads, or go to

www.classycanary.net

From Hoffman, MN 1.5 miles west on

State Hwy. 27

METAL TO MONEYMETAL TO MONEYHANSON AUCTIONEERS, LLCHANSON AUCTIONEERS, LLC

FALL 2017

FRIDAY, SEPT. 1st

Start time

9 a.m. AUCTIONItems from Wayne Gust Heavy Equipment Shop

• Taylor Dyno 2000 hp, w/air starter • 6000 lb. engine revolver • Two heavy load parts cabinets • Hicklin transmission test stand and Dyno w/diesel hydro. drive unit, used for testing heavy power shift transmissions, Cat, Allison, Clarke, Funk, etc. • A W Neb450 PTO 500 hp Dyno w/all adapters for all farm tractors and Cum-mins, Detroit, etc. • Anderson parts washer, hot water, 3 phase • Hyd. pumps, hoses, U joints, air hoses and reels, spools of wire for welding, turbos, engine parts • Engine running stand • 1989 RV Southwind 32 ft. GM drivetrain w/45,000 miles • 1999 Chev. 2500 pickup, long box, reg. cab, no trans. or motor • Owatonna 880 payloader, completely rebuilt • Triple axle trailer w/pin to hitch, new oak flooring • 1 ton electric hoist

• Rebuilt Allison power shift trans. mod. CRT 3331-1 • Brake riveting and lining machine • 1972 IH grain truck w/box • 1991 Ford F-450 dually w/box, rebuilt 7.3 diesel • Chev. 8 ft. pickkup box • K.O. Lee manual sur-face grinder w/lube attachment. For more information call Wayne at 612-619-6832

ALAN BRUTLAG ESTATE• Wil-Rich mod. V957 DDR 9 shank ripper, low acres• Wil-Rich mod. DRD 9 shank ripper, low acres• Flexi-Coil mod. 820 35 ft. chisel plow w/3 bar summers harrow• Two matching Freightliner semi tractors, both 1996 w/Cummins motor, 9

speed trans., both have sleepers• Water tanker w/added storage• 45 ft. dry van used for race car

NOTE: Alan was very active with Wil-Rich Mfg., helping with engineering machines. They have hauled many loads of misc. not listed. ALSO: Iron buyers: On Wednesday, Sept. 6 we will be conducting an iron auction west of Wendell, MN for the Alan Brutlag estate. More details will be available at the Metal to Money sale.

PAGE 8

AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017

CARS CASH‘12 Dodge Charger, gray, 64m, V6, CD ......................$11,995‘09 Chrysler PT Cruiser, silver, 4cyl, 124m, CD ........... $2995‘08 Chevy Impala LTZ, red, sunroof, lth, Bose ............ $5995‘08 Cadillac DTS, black, DVD, sunroof .......................$5995‘08 Saturn Vue XR, V6, blue, htd seats ......................$3995‘07 Buick Lucerne 4Dr, 3800, V6, 138m ....................$5395‘07 Buick LaCrosse, white, 3800, 143m, CD ............$4795‘06 Chrysler 300C, hemi, teal, 153m, loaded .........$6795‘06 Chevy Impala, 4Dr, gray, 3.5 V-6, cloth ..............$3395‘06 Ford Taurus SEL, blue, 127m .................................$2995‘05 Chevy Monte Carlo, yellow, 87m, CD ................. $5795‘04 Saturn Ion 2 Quad Coupe, blue, 5sp, 117m ..... $3595‘95 Chevy Camaro Convertible, V6, red, 124m ....... $4495

TRUCKS, VANS & SUV’S‘11 Ford F-150 SuperCrew 4x4, EcoBoost, CD ...... $11,995‘10 Dodge 1500 Quad Cab 4x4, Red, CD ..............$10,795‘10 Mazda CX-7, black, 156m .........................................$6795‘08 Dodge Nitro SXT, silver, CD, 128m .........................$5995‘08 Honda Odyssey Van, leather, sunroof, CD ..........$4995‘06 GMC Envoy XL SLE, charcoal, 3 rows, cloth ........$4995‘06 Chevy Equinox LT, white, new tires .......................$2995‘05 Cadillac SRV, blue, Bose CD, V6, 119m ..............$6795‘05 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab, SLT, V8, CD ...............$4995‘03 Chevy Trailblazer LT, 3 rows, cloth, CD ..............$3995‘01 GMC Sonoma Crew Cab, 4x4, 4.3, topper ........$5295

R.D.J. Auto SalesHwy. 12 East, Kerkhoven

www.rdjauto.comDave Peterson, 320-264-2211

TRADE - LAYAWAY - CASH DISCOUNTS

BUFFALO LAKE, MNTHURS, AUGUST 24, 2017, 9:00 A.M.

LARGE EQUIPMENT CONSIGNMENT AUCTION!

FARM & CONSTRUCTION EQUIP., TRACTORS, COMBINES, TRUCKS, TRAILERS, NEW ITEMS INCLUDING

SKID LOADER ATTACHMENTS, DUMPSTERS, FISH HOUSES,

STORAGE BUILDINGS AND MUCH MORE!! 2 AUCTION RINGS!!

BUFFALO LAKE EQUIPMENT LOT53053 E HWY 212, BUFFALO LAKE

LAKE LILLIAN, MNMON. AUGUST 28, 2017, 11:00 A.M. REAL ESTATE, GOLF CART, LAWN

TRACTOR, BOAT & TRAILER& MISCELLANEOUS

MYRON & LORETTA FLANN141 OAKDALE AVE. • LAKE LILLIAN

BLOMKEST/WILLMAR, MNTUES, AUGUST 29, 2017, 10:30 A.M.

CLEAN JD FARM EQUIPMENT RETIREMENT AUCTION!!

JOHN DEERE 9100 4WD TRACTOR, JD 7810 2WD TRACTOR, JD 4240

TRACTOR, JD 9550 COMBINE, GRAIN TRUCKS, TILLAGE &

FARM EQUIPMENT, NO DRIVE-ON INSPECTIONS UNTIL ONE WEEK

PRIOR TO THE AUCTION. VIRGIL SWENSON

US HWY 71, WILLMAR, MN

WILLMAR, MNWED., AUG. 30, 2017, 11:00 A.M.PRIME MULTI-PARCEL KANDIYOHI

CO. FARM LAND AUCTION 240 ACRES +/- OF PRIME

KANDIYOHI FARMLAND IN WILLMAR TWP, SECT 33,

KANDIYOHI CO.DONAVON & KATHLEEN MONSON

AUCTION LOCATION:THE OAKS AT EAGLE CREEK,

1000 26TH AVE NE,WILLMAR, MN 56201

WILLMAR, MNTHURS, AUGUST 31, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

CLEAN FARM EQUIPMENT RETIREMENT AUCTION!!

CASE IH 9350 4 WD TRACTOR, CASE IH MX 220 & 305 MFWD TRACTORS, GRAIN TRUCK,

SEMI TRUCKS, GRAIN TRAILERS, FARM & TILLAGE EQUIPMENT

DONAVON & KATHLEEN MONSON5301 22ND ST. S.W. • WILLMAR,

CLARKFIELD/MONTEVIDEO, MNTUES, SEPTEMBER 5, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

EXCEPTIONALLY CLEAN LATE MODEL JD FARM EQUIPMENT

RETIREMENT AUCTION!!WAYNE & PATRICIA VIRKUS

2959 440TH ST. • CLARKFIELD, MN

CLARKFIELD, MNTIMED ONLINE

FARM EQUIPMENT AUCTION!BIDDING OPENS: TUESDAY,

SEPTEMBER 5, 2017, 10:00 A.M.JOHN DEERE 6620 HYDRO

COMBINE, JOHN DEERE 4430 TRACTOR, IH H TRACTOR, GRAIN TRUCKS, FARM EQUIPMENT, ETC.

MIKE ANDERSON3309 HWY 59 • CLARKFIELD, MN

ATWATER/KANDIYOHI, MNWEDS, SEPT. 6, 2017, 11:00 A.M.KANDIYOHI CO. LAND AUCTION

90 ACRES +/- LOCATED IN GENNESSEE TOWNSHIP,

SECTION 6, KANDIYOHI COUNTYCARLSON ANDERSON FAMILY

KERKHOVEN/MURDOCK, MNFRI, SEPTEMBER 8, 2017, 10:00 A.M.FARM, TRUCKING & CONSTRUCTION

EQUIPMENT, TRUCK PARTS & HOUSEHOLD ITEMS AUCTION! TRACTORS, TRUCKS, SEMIS,

TRAILERS, FARM EQUIPMENT, SHOP & MUCH MORE!! 2 AUCTION RINGS!! NO DRIVE-ON INSPECTIONS UNTIL

1 WEEK PRIOR TO AUCTION! JERRY D. HENRY ESTATE

1380 20TH ST. N.E. • MURDOCK

ATWATER/GROVE CITY, MNTUES, SEPTEMBER 12, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

FARM EQUIP ESTATE AUCTION! CLEAN CASE IH MFWD TRACTORS,

LIKE NEW CASE IH TILLAGE, RIDGE-TIL EQUIPMENT, FARM

EQUIPMENT, SHOP ITEMS AND MUCH MORE!! NO DRIVE-ON

INSPECTIONS UNTIL 1 WEEK PRIOR TO AUCTION! THANK YOU!!

DOUGLAS E. ANDERSON ESTATE51080 298TH AVE • GROVE CITY

CLARA CITY/BUNDE, MN TUES, SEPT. 19, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

±6.64 ACRE FARM SITE, VERY NICE WELL KEPT RAMBLER,

OUTBUILDINGS, 2009 SILVERADO, LOTS OF SHOP TOOLS AND MISC.

MARVIN BOHLSEN ESTATE15040 50TH ST. S.E.

CLARA CITY, MN 56222

PRINSBURG/RAYMOND, MNFRI., SEPTEMBER 22, 2017, 2:30 P.M.

ABSOLUTE PRIME KANDIYOHI HUNTING LAND AUCTION!!!

151.29 ACRES +/- LOCATED IN EDWARDS TOWNSHIP,

TAR ROAD ACCESS!MELVIN KLEINHUIZEN TRUST

AUCTION LOCATION: PRINSBURG COMM. CENTER

PRINSBURG, MN

MONTEVIDEO, MNSAT, SEPT. 23, 2017, 10:00 A.M. 10+ ICE CASTLE FISH HOUSES,

NEW PORTABLE STORAGE BUILDINGS, TOOLS, FURNITURE,

CARPET & FLOORING, ICE FISHING SUPPLIES, BUILDING SUPPLIES &

MUCH MORE!!!AMERICAN SURPLUS & MFG

3134 E HIGHWAY 7 • MONTEVIDEO

STURGEON LAKE/WILLOW RIVER, MN

THURS, SEPT. 28, 2017, 10:00 A.M. CLEAN EQUIPMENT &

RECREATIONAL AUCTION!SEMI TRUCKS, EQUIPMENT TRAILERS, CONSTRUCTION

EQUIPMENT AND OTHER ITEMS!!GREG & GAIL WALDHALM

3263 LAKETOWN ROADSTURGEON LAKE, MN 55783

CLARA CITY, MNTUES, OCTOBER 17, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

GUN AND AMMO AUCTIONAPPROX 40+ GUNS INCLUDING

RIFLES, SHOTGUNS, HANDGUNS AND AMMO OF VARIOUS CALIBERS! FORMER NORTHERN GRAIN AND

SWIFT MFG COMPANYUS HWY 7, CLARA CITY, MN

CLARA CITY, MNWEDS, OCTOBER 18, 2017, 9:00 A.M.HUGE COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

& INDUSTRIAL EQUIP. AUCTIONAPPROX 10 ACRE MANUFACTURING

FACILITY AND OFFICES, APPROX 36,000 SQ FT FACILITY, SERVICE

AND PICKUP TRUCKS, TRAILERS, SKID LOADERS, ATTACHMENTS,

WELDERS, INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT FORMER NORTHERN GRAIN AND

SWIFT MFG COMPANYUS HWY 7, CLARA CITY, MN

KERKHOVEN/MURDOCK, MN WEDS, NOVEMBER 1, 2017, 11:00 A.M.

PRIME MULTI-PARCEL SWIFT CO. FARM LAND AUCTION

141 ACRES LOCATED IN SECTION 33 & 34, KERKHOVEN TWP,

LAND HAS BEEN SURVEYED!! JERRY D. HENRY ESTATEELLAMAE HENRY, OWNER

WILLMAR, MNTIMED ONLINE AUCTION!

BIDDING OPENS: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

SEED EQUIPMENT DISPERSAL & EXCESS INVENTORY

KALLEVIG AGRI PRODUCTS4020 1ST ST N, WILLMAR, MN

MORGAN, MNWEDS, NOVEMBER 8, 2017, 11:00 A.M.PRIME REDWOOD CO. FARMLAND

92 ACRES +/- LOCATED IN MORGAN TWP, SECTION 13, REDWOOD CO.

AUCTION TO BE HELD AT THE;REDWOOD AREA COMM. CENTER

REDWOOD FALLS, MNLORRAINE ZIEGENHAGEN ESTATE

DAWSON/MONTEVIDEO, MNTHURS, NOVEMBER 30, 2017, 10:30 A.M.

CLEAN LATE MODEL CASE IH FARM RETIREMENT AUCTION!!

CASE IH 550 HD 4WD, & CASE IH 215 MFWD TRACTOR, CASE IH 7088

COMBINE & HEADS, TILLAGE & FARM EQUIPMENT

TIM & SUZANNE MILBECK3450 230TH ST. • DAWSON, MN

Henslin Auctions, Inc. (320) 365-4120Bird Island, MN Allen Henslin 65-57

LaDon HenslinFrank RoeringBrad DallmannLefty Norling

Mark MolenaarLaura Posl

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Savvy SeniorBy Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior,What resources can you refer me to

for long-term care financial help? My 84-year-old mother needs assisted living or nursing home care, but we don’t have a lot of money and she doesn’t have long-term care insurance.

Searching Daughter Dear Searching,If your mother does not have a long-

term care insurance policy, depending on her circumstances, here are several other sources you should check into that can help pay for her care.

Medicaid: The first thing you need to understand is that Medicare (the government health insurance program for seniors 65 and older and those with disabilities) does not cover long-term care, which includes nursing home care, the costs of assisted living facilities and home aide services, unless your mom is receiving skilled nursing or therapy services too. It only provides limited short-term coverage, up to 100 days for skilled nursing or rehabilitation services after a hospital stay.

However, Medicaid (the joint federal and state program that covers health care

Finding Money for Long-Term Carefor the poor) as it currently stands, does cover long-term care facilities and it covers in-home care too. But to be eligible for coverage, your mother must be very low-income. Her countable assets can’t be more than around $2,000, including investments.

Note that most people who enter a nursing home don’t qualify for Medicaid at first, but pay for care out-of-pocket until they deplete their savings enough to qualify. Contact your state Medicaid office (see Medicaid.gov) for eligibility details.

Veterans aid: If your mom is a wartime veteran, or a spouse or surviving spouse of a wartime veteran, there is a benefit called Aid and Attendance that can help pay between $1,153 and $2,127 a month toward her long-term care.

To be eligible, your mom must need

assistance with daily living activities like bathing, dressing or going to the bathroom. And her yearly income must be under $13,836 as a surviving spouse, $21,531 for a single veteran, or $25,525 as a married veteran – after her medical and long-term care expenses. Her assets must also be less than $80,000 excluding her home and car.

To learn more see Benefits.VA.gov/pension, or contact your regional VA office, or your local veterans service organization. Call 800-827-1000 for contact information.

Life insurance: If your mom has a life insurance policy, find out if it offers an accelerated death benefit that would allow you to get a tax-free advance to help pay for her care.

See Page 11

PAGE 9

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017

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PAGE 10

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LAND FOR SALE

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Pope County Farm Land For Sale196.97 Deeded Acres (173 Tillable) in Sec. 27 of Langhei Twp., Pope Cty, MN.

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Minnesota’s farm real estate value, a measurement of the value of all land and buildings on farms, averaged $4,750 per acre, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Land Values 2017 Summary. This is up $50 per acre from last year’s level.

Cropland value increased 1 percent from last year to $4,800 per acre. Pasture, at $1,700 per acre, increased 3 percent from a year ago.

Land values 2013-2017

Average 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017Cropland 4,390 4,870 4,800 4,750 4,800Pasture 1,580 1,600 1,700 1,650 1,700Farm real estate 4,300 4,750 4,700 4,700 4,750Value land&bld 111,370 123,025 121,730 121,730 NA

Cash rentsCropland cash rent paid to Minnesota landlords in 2017 averaged $166 per acre

according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Non-irrigated cropland rent averaged $166 per acre, down $4 from a year earlier. Irrigated cropland rent averaged $185 per acre, unchanged from last year. Pasture rented for cash averaged $30 per acre, unchanged from 2016.

County level cash rent averages will be released on Sept. 8.

Cash rent 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017Cropland $178 $186 $181 $170 $166Irrigated $205 $210 $210 $185 $185Non-irrigated $177 $185 $180 $170 $166Pasture $28 $26 $28 $30 $30

A man was able to walk out of a grain bin in southeastern Minnesota after getting stuck in corn for nearly two hours.

David Greibrok was rescued by first responders and his family Tuesday in eastern Freeborn County.

Greibrok’s brother, Allan, tells the Albert Lea Tribune that the corn had reached the top of his brother’s head.

Chief Sheriff’s Deputy Todd Earl says

first responders used grain rescue tubes and an auger to relieve the pressure of the corn off David Greibrok. A hole was cut in the bin to allow the corn to spill out onto the ground.

Allan Greibrok said he and his brother were breaking up rotten corn when David Greibrok became stuck.

Firefighters from six departments took part in the rescue.

Minnesota land values Man rescued after getting stuck in SE Minnesota grain bin

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AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017 PAGE 11

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View From A Prairie HomeHege Herfindahl

August is well underway. If months had colors, I would color August yellow, not bright yellow, but more subtle yellow. The grass has taken on a different hue than the bright green of June. The leaves are also less bright in color, the ash and box elders in particular have turned a greenish yellow. The air is less intensely hot, there is a hint of coolness in the air. And the garden! It is exploding with produce; onions, cucumbers, carrots, yellow and green peppers, zucchini by the bushels and then, there are the tomatoes! Bursting with flavor.

I do love August. I get up every morning with more energy brought on by the cooler air. And I look at the counter where the night before, Grant and I made pickled relish and I am reminded of when the kids lived at home and the house was a buzz with all the energy and creativity the Herfindahl family could muster as we all pitched in to get ready for the county fair.

All our three children belonged to 4-H. They had monthly meetings, project reports, demonstrations and completed records, all designed to show what they had learned, not only about the projects they had chosen, but also about civic pride, community involvement and Robert’s Rule of Order. As a participating adult and proud mother who herself had never even heard of 4-H as a child, I was impressed and excited about the opportunity 4-H offered my dear children.

The fair, though, was the culmination of all the work they had done the past year. They each had chosen many project. In each project, they had to give an oral report and a demonstration where they would teach the other 4-H members about their projects. They also had to complete

a record, preferably with photos to show what they had done with the projects and what they had learned. And then, they had to make an exhibit or demonstrations for the county fair. Part of the exhibit was an interview by a local expert in the field. If the project earned a purple ribbon, they could go the state fair.

Through 4-H, my children learned skills that set them on a path for life. Reuben developed his computer and leadership skills. He now owns his own IT business where he employs many people.

Ingvild enjoyed science, reading and sewing. Through 4-H, she developed a love of rocks and majored in geology at Macalester, where she sewed costumes for the drama department as her work study. She later got a MA in library science and is now the head librarian in Dodge Center.

Erland was shy as a child. 4-H taught him how to talk in front of people. At the fair, he had to explain his projects to experts. He now lives in DC and works for the US government as a trade negotiator.

Looking at my dining room table, I remember the August chaos. The table had posters and half-finished exhibits of rocks and leaves. On the chairs hung Ingvild’s sewing projects. Reuben was typing away at his computer. Erland was finishing his records which had to look good for the fair. As a teacher, I was happy and amazed of the learning taking place.

Now, when I go to the fair, I head straight for the 4-H building. Then, I go to one of the barns and watch 4-H’ers and their animals. The August sun sends warm rays down, but the wind keeps me from getting too hot. It seems all is well with the world.

The Fair

Or, consider selling her policy to a life settlement company. These are companies that buy life insurance policies for cash, continue to pay the premiums and collect the death benefit when she dies. Most sellers generally get four to eight times more than the policy cash surrender value.

If you own a policy with a face value of $100,000 or more and are interested in this option, there are various companies you can turn to like GWG Life (GWGLife.com), which offers some of the highest cash payouts for life insurance policies.

Tax breaks: If you’re helping out your mom financially, you may also be able to claim her as a dependent on your taxes and reduce your taxable income by $4,050, which you could use for her care. To qualify, you must pay at least half of your mom’s yearly expenses, and her

annual income must be below $4,050, not counting Social Security. For more information, see IRS Publication 501 at IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p501.pdf.

If you can’t claim your mom as a dependent because her income is too high, you may still be able to get a tax break if you’re paying at least half her living expenses including her medical, dental and long-term care costs, and they exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. You can include your own medical expenses in calculating the total. See the IRS publication 502 (IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf) for details.

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.

Long-Term Care...from 9

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017PAGE 12

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By Kent ThiesseFarm Management Analyst

VP MinnStar Bank

Focus On Ag

There was a lot of anticipation leading into Aug. 10 USDA Crop Report, due to weather concerns that existed in many of the primary corn and soybean production areas in the United States.

Parts of Illinois, Indiana, and the Eastern Corn Belt dealt with very wet conditions and late planting this spring, and portions of North and South Dakota have been experiencing a major drought during the past couple of months.

There has also been a growing dry weather pattern in western Iowa and Nebraska in recent weeks, which has caused some grain marketing analysts to lower their 2017 corn and yield prospects; however, based on crop conditions Aug. 1 USDA apparently does not agree with that analysis of U.S. crop conditions.

The USDA estimated the 2017 total U.S. corn production at 14.15 billion bushels, which would be a decrease of 7 percent from the 2016 record U.S. corn production of 15.2 billion bushels. The 2017 projected U.S. corn production would be the third highest on record, and would compare to corn production levels of 14.2 billion bushels in 2014, and 13.9 billion bushels in 2013.

USDA is estimating 2017 total harvested corn acreage in the U.S. at 83.5 million acres, which is unchanged from June USDA estimates, but is down 4 percent from the 2016 harvested corn acres of 86.7 million acres, and is slightly above the 83.1 million harvested acres in 2014.

It projects the 2017 national average corn yield at 169.5 bushels per acre, which

is a decline of 5.1 bushels from the record U.S. average corn yield of 174.6 bushels per acre in 2016, The estimated 2017 U.S. corn yield also trails the average corn yield of 171.0 bushels per acre in 2014, but is slightly higher than the 2015 average yield was 168.4 bushels per acre. The USDA projected average corn yield for 2017 was higher than the highest average yield estimate by any of the grain marketing analysts, who had an average estimated U.S. corn yield of 166 bushels per acre.

USDA is estimating Minnesota’s 2017 average corn yield at 183 bushels per acre, which is 10 bushels below the record State average corn yield of 193 bushels per acre in 2015. Other recent state average corn yields are 188 bushels per acre in 2015, 158 bushels per acre in 2014, and 160 bushels per acre in 2013.

It projects Iowa’s 2017 average corn yield at188 bushels per acre, which is well below last year’s record state average corn yield of 203 bushels per acre. Other recent average corn yields in Iowa are 192 bushels per acre in 2015, 178 bushels per acre in 2014, and 165 bushels per acre in 2013.

The Aug. 10 report estimated total 2017 U.S. soybean production at a record level of 4.38 billion bushels, which would be slightly above the previous record U.S. soybean production of 4.31 bushels in 2016.

USDA is estimating total 2017 harvested soybean acreage will be a record level of 88.7 million acres, which is up 7 percent from 82.7 million acres in 2016. Some

Aug. 10 USDA report surprises experts experts feel that this number could be increased in future months, due to the prevented planted acres and drown-out acres in portions of the Eastern Corn Belt.

USDA projected the 2017 U.S. average soybean yield at 49.4 bushels per acre, which again surprised the grain trading experts, who had projected the 2017 average soybean yield closer to 47.5 bushels per acre.

The 2017 estimated soybean yield compares to the record national average soybean yield of 52.1 bushels per acre in 2016, 48.0 bushels per acre in 2015, and 47.5 bushels per acre in 2014. Minnesota’s 2017 average soybean yield is estimated at 49 bushels per acre, which compares to the record State soybean yield of 52.5 bushels per acre in 2016. Iowa is projected to have a soybean yield of 56 bushels per acre in 2017, well below last year’s State record soybean yield of 60.5 bushels per acre.

WASDE reportThe updated USDA World Supply and

Demand Estimates (WASDE) were also released Aug. 10, which included the 2017 estimated U.S. corn production of 14.15 billion bushels, showed a slight reduction in the 2017-18 corn ending stocks, compared to the July estimate.

The report showed a slight decrease in expected corn usage for feed, ethanol, and exports in 2017-18, and resulted in projected corn ending stocks of 2.27 billion bushels. This would be a slight reduction from the estimated 2016-17 corn ending stocks of 2.37 billion bushels. By comparison, corn ending stocks were near 1.7 billion at the end of the 2015-16 marketing year.

USDA is projecting an average on-farm corn price for the 2017-18 marketing year, which runs from September 1, 2017, through Aug. 31, in a range of $2.90 to $3.70 per bushel, with an average expected price of $3.30 per bushel.

The August estimated average 2017-18 corn price is the same as the July price estimates. The 2016-17 national average corn price, which will be finalized Sept. 30, is now estimated at $3.35 per bushel, which compares to national average prices of $3.61 per bushel for 2015-15, $3.70 per bushel for 2014-15, and $4.45 per bushel for 2013-14.

The recent WASDE estimates are projecting a large U.S. soybean production of over 4.38 billion bushels in 2017, with some increases expected in the soybean crush and exports in the coming year. This would result in estimated 2017-18 soybean ending stocks at 475 million bushels, which would be at the highest level in decades. USDA is estimating 2016-17 soybean ending stocks at 370 million bushels, which compares to the 2015-16 ending stocks of 255 million bushels.

USDA is now projecting an average on-farm soybean price for the 2017-18 marketing year in a range of $8.45 to $10.15 per bushel, with an average expected price of $9.30 per bushel. The August estimated 2017-18 soybean price was lowered by $.15 per bushel from the July estimate.

The 2016-17 final national average soybean price is estimated at $9.50 per bushel, which compares to 12-month national average prices of $8.95 per bushel in 2015-16, $10.10 per bushel in 2014-15, and $13.00 per bushel for 2013-14.

AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017 PAGE 13

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Honey bee colonies for operations with 5 or more colonies in Minnesota as of April 1, 2017, totaled 34,000 colonies. This is 26 percent above the 27,000 colonies both last year and last quarter. Producers boosted their April 1 inventory by moving colonies into Minnesota and adding colonies to a maximum of 128,000 during the April-June 2017. The quarter of July-September 2016 had the largest maximum number of colonies, with 138,000, while January-March 2016 had the smallest maximum number of colonies with 38,000.

Honey bee colonies lost for operations with 5 or more colonies for the April-June 2017 quarter was 5,000 colonies or 4 percent. This was down 62 percent from last year, but 43 percent above last quarter. The quarter of July-September 2016 had a loss of 26,000 colonies or 19 percent of the maximum colonies, the highest honey bee colony loss of the 6 quarters. The quarter January-March 2016, at 3,500 colonies, had the smallest loss.

Varroa mites were the number one stressor for operations with 5 or more colonies during the April-June 2017 quarter. Mites have been leading the stressors affecting colonies in 4 of the last 6 quarters. Pesticides were the number 2 stressor for bee colonies in the April-June quarter and 4 of 6 of the quarters since the start of 2016.

UNITED STATES HONEY BEE COLONIES

Honey bee colonies for operations with five or more colonies in the United States on January 1, 2017 totaled 2.62 million colonies, down slightly from January 1, 2016. The number of colonies in the United States on April 1, 2017, was 2.89 million colonies. During 2016, honey bee colonies on January 1, April 1, July 1, and

October 1 were 2.62 million, 2.80 million, 3.18 million, and 3.03 million colonies, respectively.

Honey bee colonies lost for operations with five or more colonies from January through March 2017, was 362 thousand colonies, or 14 percent. The number of colonies lost during the quarter of April through June 2017 was 226 thousand colonies, or 8 percent. During the quarter of October through December 2016, colonies lost totaled 502 thousand colonies, or 17 percent, the highest of any quarter in 2016. The quarter in 2016 with the lowest number of colonies lost was April through June, with 330 thousand colonies lost, or 12 percent.

Honey bee colonies added for operations with five or more colonies from January through March 2017 was 586 thousand colonies. The number of colonies added during the quarter of April through June 2017 was 653 thousand. During the quarter of April through June 2016, 737 thousand colonies were added, the highest number of honey bee colonies added for any quarter of 2016. The quarter of October through December 2016 added 125 thousand colonies, the least number of honey bee colonies added for any quarter of 2016.

Honey bee colonies renovated for operations with five or more colonies from January through March 2017 was 240 thousand colonies, or 9 percent. During the quarter of April through June 2017, 806 thousand colonies, or 28 percent, were renovated. The quarter in 2016 with the highest number of colonies renovated was April through June with 561 thousand colonies renovated, or 20 percent. The quarter in 2016 with the lowest number of colonies renovated was October through December 2016, with 60.4 thousand or 2 percent. Renovated colonies are those that

were requeened or received new honey bees through a nuc or package.

Varroa mites were the number one stressor for operations with five or more colonies during all quarters of 2016. The quarter of April through June 2016 had highest percentage of colonies reported to be affected by varroa mites at 53.4 percent. The percent of colonies reported to be affected by varroa mites during January through March 2017 and April through June 2017 are 42.2 percent and 41.6 percent, respectively.

Honey bee colonies lost with Colony Collapse Disorder symptoms on operations with five or more colonies was 84.4 thousand colonies from January through March 2017. This is a 27 percent decrease from the same quarter of 2016. Colonies lost with Colony Collapse Disorder Symptoms were reported to meet all of the following criteria: 1) Little to no build-up of dead bees in the hive or at the hive entrance 2) Rapid loss of adult honey bee population despite the presence of queen, capped brood, and food reserves 3) Absence or delayed robbing of the food reserves 4) Loss not attributable to varroa or nosema loads.

Honey bee colonies in Minnesota

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017PAGE 14 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

COMMUNICATIONS1-8

00-93

3-122

4

1-800-933-1224

HEATING - COOLINGELECTRICALSince 1950

“For bright ideasin electricalcontracting”

(320)843-4636

Commercial • Industrial• Farm • ResidentialDESIGN • BUILD

2110 Hall Ave.Benson, MN 56215

www.loenelectric.com

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

ALL SYSTEMSMADE IN THE USA

• Septic Systems

• Backhoe Work• Roto-Rooter • Septic Tank

Pumping

“Serving the Agralite Area Since

1974”Danielson

(320)239-4339

Paul

Clip & Save!

Danielson Excavating

(Located in the former Cloverleaf Supper Club bldg.)

320-842-5960 • 320-842-5990 (Fax)

170 Hwy. 9 NW, Benson, MN

56215

EMAIL: hhvetservice@earthlink.net

CVT • Technician

For all your veterinary &

grooming needs!

VETERINARY SERVICESH & H Veterinary

Service, LLP

SMALL ENGINE REPAIREric’s Motor Sports • 320-842-4853Your local dealer for Engines, Mowers, ATV’s, Sleds,

Motor Cycles & Power EquipmentYour Mower Store & Sooo Much More...

Adly Moto ATV & Scooter Dealer2 Year Scooter Warranty - LOW Prices!!!

Dealer for • Simplicity • Snapper • Hustler • KohlerGrass Hopper • Briggs & Stratton • Full Line Stihl

Honda & Kawasaki Engines • Tillers, Throwers & Walk Behinds

ericmotorsports.com • www.ericsoutdoor.com

BUSINESS &SERVICE DIRECTORY

Michael Berreau, FIC Financial Associate 218 1/2 14th Street SouthBenson, MN 56215 320-843-2981 Toll-Free 800-211-3406

See me for all your

investment &insurance needs.

INSURANCE - PRE PLANNING This 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-News101 12th St. S. • Benson, Mn 56215

Nancy VollmerBenson, MN

320-314-8400E-Mail: nancyv@travelleaders.com

320 314 8400

TRAVEL

Vollmer Travel

This 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-News101 12th St S • Benson Mn 56215

Nancy VollmerBenson, MN

320-314-8400E-Mail: nancyv@travelleaders.com

Vollmer Travel

Final Expense

Benson Agency

Email:

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

• APPLIANCES • GAS FIREPLACES

2015 Minnesota Ave. • W. Hwy 12 • Benson, MN 56215(320) 843-4385 • Emergency 314-2665

Factory Authorized Dealer – 100% satisfaction guarantee. NATE Certied.

S• General Electric • LG Appliances • Hotpoint • Fireplaces • Holland Grills

ELECTRICALSince 1950

“For bright ideasin electricalcontracting”

(320)843-4636

Commercial • Industrial• Farm • ResidentialDESIGN • BUILD

2110 Hall Ave.Benson, MN 56215

www.loenelectric.com

Email: hhvetservice@embarqmail.com

Whether it beBig or Small...

909 13th St. North • Benson • 842-5291

E&M Electric, LLP

If you’re building or remodeling this fall...call the professionals at E&M Electric

• Farm & Residential • Commercial Wiring• Controllable Electric Heat

E&M Electric, LLP

AUTO & TRUCK SALES

R.D.J. Auto SalesHwy. 12 East, Kerkhoven

www.rdjauto.comDave Peterson, 320-264-2211

CARS, TRUCKS, SUVS,VEHICLES OF ANY KIND....

GET YOUR “WHEELS” HERE!!

200 13th St. South, Benson • 843-4848

“Your Professional Contractor” serving you for over 45 years.

• DEPUTY REGISTRAR •

(320)843-4636

Commercial • Industrial• AG

DESIGN • BUILD

2125 Minnesota Ave.Benson, MN 56215

“For bright ideas in electrical contracting”

ELECTRIC, INC.L ENSince 1950

ElEctrical

www.loenelectric.com

For all your veterinary needs.

• Kathleen Jost, DVM• Jaclyn Carlson, DVM• Melissa Nelson, DVM• Paul Syverson, DVM

If you’re building or remodeling...

SMALL ENGINE REPAIREric’s Motor Sports • 320-842-4853

ericmotorsports.com • www.ericsoutdoor.com

Dealer for • Odes UTV • Altoz • Simplicity • Snapper • Hustler • Grass Hopper • Full Line Stihl

• Honda & Kawasaki Engines • Tillers, Throwers & Walk Behinds

Your Mower Store & Sooo Much More...

Your local dealer for Engines, Mowers, ATV’s, Motor Cycles & Power Equipment

Still in business after 50+ years! Serving the Region.You can depend on us for a functional drainage system to remove

excess field water and get you in the field as soon as possible.

320-264-3211 320-979-1522

• Call for an estimate.• Locally done, guaranteed work.

Van Heuveln - The ORIGINALFarm Drainage Company

DRAINAGE/TILING DRAINAGE/TILING

• Ken 320-264-3211 • Kevin 320-979-1522• Kordell 320-894-8519 • Klinton 320-979-0793

Kerkhoven, MN 56252

Be a part of our Business Directory....

843-4111 or 1-800-750-0166or e-mail: ads@monitor-news.com

Promote your business with our directory!

AGRALITE NEWSAugust 2017 PAGE 15

Classified AdvertisingFOR SALE

Classified ads are limited to 20 words per ad. Two ad limit per member; no gun or real estate ads.

1942 A John Deere, running, wide front with trip bucket, 12V wiring, lights, cat. 1 - 3 pt hitch. $900. 320-441-8353---------------------------------------------------Trailer top hay rack. All aluminum with snap on/snap off waterproofed canvas cover. Measures 6ft X 6ft overall; 6ft X 4.5ft hay area with slanted, aerodynamic front. Removed from 4-Star horse trailer. Gilchrist township. 320-424-2658 ---------------------------------------------------Grain bin. 13,500 bu. 33 ft dia heavy ga. 25¢ a bu. Taken down, in storage. Would also make a cheap storage building. Might consider a trade of equal value. 320-273-2220---------------------------------------------------Fat butcher hogs. Ready in October. 320-239-2382---------------------------------------------------Farm fans AB 8. Corn dryer. Evenings 320-843-4913---------------------------------------------------1948 A John Deere. New tires, gas tank, steering wheel & seat. Paint is fairly new. $3,300. 320-366-3474---------------------------------------------------1962 4010 John Deere with loader. Two Hayfeeders on wheels. 320-366-3782---------------------------------------------------8950 Case Magnum front wheel assist, 9200 hours, tires 70% front 60% rear, nice tractor, runs very well, ac works. 612-991-5556---------------------------------------------------1946 M-Farmall, new battery, good paint, wide front, wheel weights. Best offer. 320-760-0544---------------------------------------------------Full 4x4x8 cords split dry hardwood, $180 delivered, $150 pickup. Dog boarding $14/night. 320-760-4066---------------------------------------------------New three tires mounted on rims 4.8-8, camper/boat trailer. $60. 320-354-2686---------------------------------------------------Metal 1.5 inch chain link. Can be used for light log chain or border fence. 60¢ per foot. 320-354-2686---------------------------------------------------4 Milestar tires LT275/70R 18 in. 7,000 miles. $400. 320-808-4997---------------------------------------------------Allis Chalmers manure spread, PTO drive, model 180-S, box is 12 ft x 4 ft 6 in., $525. 320-760-1769---------------------------------------------------Round bale hay feeder. $75. 320-239-2450---------------------------------------------------12-1825 pound Alfalfa/fescue grass bales. $85 per bale. 320-235-2690 or 320-212-1556.---------------------------------------------------2011 Chevy Traverse, 116,000 miles, excellent condition, new tires. $10,500. 320-235-2690 or 320-212-1556.---------------------------------------------------Large round net wrapped alfalfa bales. 320-567-2125---------------------------------------------------Round bale spear with adjustable mounts, can be used with 3 point or front loader, $375. 320-760-1769---------------------------------------------------1954 Ford 600 & 1941 Ford tractors. Restored, 90% rubber. 1954 Ford restored, new battery, $5,000. 1941 Ford & Plow has weights too, $5,400. Text or call 320-349-0188

wAntEdSomeone to help and sit with elderly lady in her home. Days & overnights. 320-760-1769---------------------------------------------------

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 mthompson@agralite.com

AGRALITE NEWS August 2017PAGE 16

What is Community Solar?

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: __________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________

Phone Number: __________________________________________________________ Account Number: ___________________

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

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 multi-ple 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 infra-structure.

What are the benefits?1. Nothing is installed on your

home or property. You have nothing to maintain.

2. You have the opportunity to di-rectly 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 usagewill have a fixed costfor 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 fortheprojectwilldeterminethefinalcosts.

What do I get? Participating mem-bers 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 Agralite Electric Cooperative.

2017 Rebate Forms are available online at:www.agralite.coop

Agralite Electric Cooperative

Consumer: Coupon valid on your purchase of any GE ENERGY STAR® certified LED lighting product (offer not valid on GE reveal® LED lighting products). You pay sales tax. Coupon may not be reproduced or combined with another offer and is non-transferable. Void if transferred, exchanged, sold or reproduced. Offer limited to one purchase in U.S.A., its territories and military exchanges. Retailer: GE will reimburse you the face value plus 8¢ handling provided you have accepted this coupon in accordance with GE’s Coupon Redemption Policy. Void where prohibited. Cash value 1/100 of 1¢. For copy of policy and/or coupon redemption mail to: General Electric Company 1012, NCH Marketing Services, P.O. Box 880001, El Paso, TX 88588-0001.GE reveal® is a registered trademark of GE.ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR® logo are registered U.S. trademarks.© 2017 GE.

on ONE GE ENERGY STAR® certifiedLED lighting product(offer not valid on GE reveal® LED lighting products)

MANUFACTURER’S COUPON • EXPIRES AUGUST 31, 2017 • D204023 49014

SAVE $3.00VOID VOID VOID

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OUTAGES:For all

Do not call the office for outages

August Energy Payment IS DUE SEPTEMBER 20.*

*We accept Visa, Discover & Mastercard.

DayorNight1-888-884-3887