MFBF's June/July 2013 News & Views

AgriculturAl leArning center updAte

MASSACHUSETTSFARM BUREAU FEDERATION

The Voice of Agriculture

The Official Newspaper of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation© Vol. 21 Issue 5 June/July 2013 1.866.548.MFBF

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Massachusetts Farm Bureau249 Lakeside AveMarlborough, MA 01752

Breaking new ground with old friends

Against the backdrop of a picture perfect spring day, a groundbreak-ing ceremony was held for UMass Am-herst’s new Agricultural

Learning Center on April 25 on the former Adams-Wysocki field at the north end of the campus. The guests included farmers, students, university officials, legislative representatives, neighbors, current and former staff and agricultural dignitaries from across the state.

A steady increase in interest in UMass’s agricultural pro-grams (up 80 students from a handful or two in 2003)

has led to the creation of this new hands-on learning lab-oratory. Plans are to begin planting the field this season with corn, pumpkins and soybeans for harvest, fall, 2013. The field will evolve and transform over time to include fruit trees and shrubs, a modular ecological cropping design, sports turf with a 2-hole golf area, landscaping plots, bee forages, solar panels for electricity and, eventu-ally the move of the horse barn to the site. The horse barn is the last remaining barn from the campus’ early days as Mass. Agricultural College.

Two members of the families that farmed the land until the University purchased it in the 1960’s, Alice Wysocki and Jane Adams Roys, were honored guests and featured speakers at the event. Speaking on what was once her father’s land, Alice Wysocki, now 88, recalled the lively farming activity that took place at this site.

...GROUND BREAKING CONT ON PAGE 2...

I want to take this opportu-nity to thank everyone who took the time to attend and to testify in Spencer on June 3 at the hearings on our agricul-tural bills. The personal

messages expressed by the farmers of Massachusetts on many issues were greatly appreciated by Chairman Gobi and her committee and far overshadowed the canned messages of those that opposed us.

On June 12, we held “Livestock Day on the Boston Common”. The event was developed to highlight our Livestock Care and Standards Bill sponsored by Rep-resentative Kulik. We all appreciate the work of Ryan McKay, the YF&R Committee, and Liz Smith for doing the lion’s share of the work. Ryan gave an impassioned speech to the group assembled on the Common. I noticed several onlookers with tears in their eyes as Ryan told the group about one of his orphaned animals that he cared for and bottle-fed.

I am hopeful that many of our bills will move forward this year including expansion of the Ag Board, expanded sales of raw milk, improved animal processing opportuni-ties, changes in the plumbing code, tax credits for infra-structure, and the Livestock care and Standards Board.We have seen a new effort by DAR to greatly limit non-farm activities on APR farms. This has caused us great concern. We, including DAR, all have worked over the past several years to expand activities on farms to include Agri-tourism and related activities in an effort to make farms more profitable and to further connect the public to agriculture. The new effort is tied to a concern that profitability makes farms less desirable to DAR because their goal is to keep farms affordable. What they fail to

realize is that an inexpensive farm with limited earning potential, no infrastructure, and no customer base is no bargain. Further, DAR is hiding behind an official front of soil compaction concerns by parked cars that appar-ently are of no concern if only agricultural activities are occurring on the farm. It appears that the soil can tell what the customer will be doing when they get out of their car; apple picking results in no compaction but running a race does. In addition, DAR legal counsel has been harassing the customers and business associates of farmers. I have directed our APR committee to review all of our policies related to APR and to recommend a course of action.

This is not the first time that legal counsel within the Ex-ecutive office of Energy and the Environment as well as within DAR is doing the “dog wagging”. This very activ-ity has all but eliminated the Forestry Viability Program and promises to destroy the Farm Viability Program as well.

On the national front, there has been good progress on the Farm Bill and Immigration Reform is beginning to move. We have been advocating for and supportive of both efforts. The Farm Bill contains many provisions that relate to the Northeast including funding for spe-cialty crops, reform of the Dairy program, and improved conservation and insurance programs. If enacted any-where close to what is proposed, immigration reform will provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented workers, secure the borders, and reform the Guest Worker programs that have been vital to many of our producers.

Please be mindful of our legislative alerts and respond as you are able.

As always, I appreciate your thoughts and criticisms. Contact me at any time if you want to talk.

Rich Bonanno, President [email protected] 9783615650

Strong FArmer turnout, Stronger FArmer teStimony

in SpencerJune 3 was a busy day at Prouty High School in Spencer the Joint Commit-tee on the Environment and Natural Resources and many members of the farm community. The Committee held a hearing at the Prouty High School in Spencer on a bill with a particular rel-evance to rural communities. Most of these had to do with agriculture. More than 50 farmers showed up to testify on 13 separate piece of ag-related legislation including:

HB 772 saw some animated testimony from APR land owners who feel that DAR has been unfairly limiting what they can do on their property. The bill would clarify what sort of activi-ties DAR does and does not have a say about. MFBF supports this bill.

HB 753 would create a Livestock Care and Standard Board at DAR to over-see the humane treatment of livestock. More than 25 farmers gave strong testimony on why they supported this legislation. Young Farmers Ryan McKay and Chris Grant were particularly com-pelling. Farmers were outnumbered by animal rights people who oppose the bill because it takes the wind out of the sails of their confinement bills. However the farmers were far more compelling and gave much more cogent testimony. Many of those speaking against HB 753 were barely coherent and none of-fered any substantive criticism of the bill. One woman went on and on about how “soes” were held in confinement for their entire lives. Not only did she know nothing about agriculture, she ap-parently hadn’t ever heard of the term “sow” before. It appeared she was just reading phonetically from the talking points HSUS provided her with.

President Bonanno and other Farm Bureau members spoke in favor of bills that would allow farmers to deliver raw milk off the farm, require that BOH ag regulations gain concurrence from Ag Comms, help expand available slaughter and processing facilities and help and other bills to help farmers keep farming successfully.

This is the way it’s supposed to work folks. Farmers show up at hearings to support or oppose good or bad bills. It’s one of the main ways elected officials can gauge support and concerns with pending legislation. We had a good turnout in Spencer, but we need to keep up the participation at future hearings.

MFBF President Richard Bonanno speaking at Livestock on the Common on June 3rd

preSidentS corner by Richard Bonanno, Ph.D

MASSACHUSETTS

FARM BUREAU FEDERATION, INC.

Toll Free-1.866.548.MFBF

President A. Richard Bonanno, PhD

Vice-president Edward Davidian

Treasurer Mark Amato

Immediate Past President Alex P. Dowse

DIRECTORS:

Berkshire—Andy Schmidt Bristol—Frederick Vadnais, Jr.

Cape Cod & Islands— Leo Cakounes

Essex—Lisa Colby Franklin—Ken Avery

Hampden—Leon Ripley Hampshire—Alan Everett Middlesex—Dwight Sipler

Norfolk—Rudolph Medeiros Plymouth—Jack Angley Worcester—Jon Nourse

Budget Committee

Rhett Proctor Wayne Smith Robert Parrish

Directors-at-Large Charles McNamara

Jim Larkin

Women’s Committee Joyce Ripley

Young Farmer Committee Jamie Cruz

MFBF Staff:

Douglas P. Gillespie Executive Director

John Conners Communication & Technology

Brad Mitchell

Director of Government Relations

Kent Lage Director of Forestry Programs

Cheryl Lekstrom Director of Member Relations

Joan Monaco-Office Manager

Liz Smith

Susan Cornelia

Kelley Garufi

Our MissiOn:TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS, ENCOURAGE THE GROWTH AND BE OF SERVICE TO OUR MEMBERS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF AGRICULTURE

2 news & views June/July 2013

“Small-scale and subsistence farm-ing didn’t always used to be some-thing you studied. It was a very real way of life.”

Miss Wysocki graduated from UMass in 1948 as a member of the first class of the newly-renamed University of Massa-chusetts. Now residing in New Hampshire, she lived with her

sisters and parents in the white farmhouse next door, helping to grow and harvest crops. Jane Adams Roys is the daughter of Robert C. Adams, owner of a bustling dairy farm that occupied about 20 acres adjacent to the Wysocki Farm. Roys travelled from Florida with her family for this event, recalling the milking activities her family was involved with for de-cades. Milk from their Jersey herd was delivered to families, restaurants and schools throughout Hampshire County. “It is a thrill for me to think that my heritage can be resurrected, to let others know there was a boom-ing farm at one time,” she added. Miss Wysocki concluded by saying, “I’m very pleased to be here today and see the way my father’s farm can be used for the good of the students.”

UMass Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy remarked, “The new center represents the spirit of our history and the cutting edge of agricultur-al understanding. It will be a showpiece and destination for people to learn about agriculture.” He said that he has officiated at many groundbreak-ings, but “never one for a barn raising.” Steve Goodwin, Dean of the Uni-versity’s College of Natural Sciences, said “We want to turn this place into a dynamic center for the hands-on study of agriculture.” UMass Center for Agriculture Director Stephen Herbert acknowledged that, although plans include moving an 1894 horse barn to the site and renovating for classroom use, “It’s not just about what happens in the barn, it’s really about what the students and professors are doing on the ground.” Rich Bonanno, President of Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, a major supporter of this project since its outset, noted that his organization has pledged $500,000 to help get the Learning Center launched.

Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy, Director of USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), also attended the groundbreaking ceremony. He presented the keynote address at another University sesquicentennial cel-ebration later that same day.

...ground breAking contiuned From pAge 1

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June/July 2013 news & views 3

The Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation recognizes the tragedy of the severe weather and tornadoes wrought upon our state on May 19 and 20. Our hearts and prayers go out to those affected by the storms.

As Oklahoma’s farmers and ranchers, who feed and clothe the world every day, we have established a fund to help those impacted by the events of May 20, 2013. The Foundation was established to improve lives of rural Oklahomans through education and outreach. The severe storms are a re-minder of how important it is to help others when tragedy strikes.

We are asking for your compassion and prayers during this difficult time. You may aid those in need by donating money, which will be directly used for recovery efforts. Checks can be made out to the Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation, 2501 N. Stiles, Oklahoma City, OK 73105.

If you have any questions, please contact Melisa Neal at (405) 523-2300.

Fund eStAbliShed For mAy 2013 tornAdo victimS

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A Sound FArm ProgrAm BeneFitting All AmericAnS The Farm Bill has passed the Senate, and the House is set to begin delib-erations this week.

As you know, a thriving agricultural economy benefits all Americans. And that is why we need to pass this Farm Bill.

Farm Bureau is fighting for a Farm Bill that helps you deal with the risks that can threaten your ability to produce the food, fiber and fuel we all need.

This bill provides an important step in that direction by:• Placing a high priority on crop insurance as a risk management tool,• Maintaining workable and viable commodity and conservation titles,• Offering flexibility for safety net options beyond crop insurance.

Farm Bureau wants a Farm Bill that meets the demands of farmers and ranchers today and for the future.

It is now time for you to act. Your contacts are needed now to ensure we have a Farm Bill that benefits you … and all Americans.

Learn more about the Farm Bill at http://www.fbactinsider.org/issues/farm-bill

take action

Below you’ll find a sample letter to your Representative. Provide your mes-sages on the impact the Farm Bill will have or has had on your operation.

This will help your Representative better understand its impacts and the need to take action.

Once you’ve finished your letter, enter your contact information and press

the “Send Message” button and your letter will go directly to your Representative.

_____________________________________________________

TO FULL HOUSE

SUBJECT LINE OF YOUR MESSAGE:Support the Farm Bill

TEXT OF MESSAGE:The Farm Bill provides a safety net to farmers and ranchers as well as pro-grams for conservation, food aid, forestry, rural development and food as-sistance. I urge you to oppose any amendment that would weaken the core principles of the House Agriculture Committee-passed bill and support final passage of the Farm Bill.

The comprehensive Farm Bill addresses agriculture’s short-term and long-term challenges by assisting farmers with balancing risk and productivity. Having a good, solid risk-management crop insurance program allows farmers to tailor their business strategies to fit their individual needs. And it does so in a fiscally-sound approach.

You might not realize that nutrition programs alone account for 78 per-cent of Farm Bill spending. These programs provide resources that allow individuals and families to go to the store and purchase food coming from America’s farms and ranches.

The Farm Bill and agriculture play an integral role in our nation’s economy. We need your support for final passage of the Farm Bill and opposition to amendments that weaken that assistance. Thank you for your consideration.

Action – FArm bill: ASk your repreSentAtive to pASS the FArm bill todAy


We are pleased to announce an exciting competitive event package from our sponsors for the 2014 YF&R Competitive Events.

Winners of the Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Ag awards will have a choice of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado or a 2014 GMC Si-erra pickup valued at $35,000. In addition, they will receive a paid registra-tion for the 2014 YF&R Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach.

Three finalists in Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Ag will receive a Farmall Tractor from Case IH and a $2,500 cash prize and $500 in STIHL merchandise from STIHL.

Qualification for AFBF YF&R Awards

Promoting the YF&R program and achievements is essential to the future of the program. We have an agreement with sponsors in which each state helps to promote the YF&R awards and sponsors to the state membership. Like last year, each state will be required to advertise the awards and sponsors one time during the year through a print advertisement or ad. These promotions will qualify your state YF&R Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture participants to receive the national awards, should they be the winner or finalist of one of the national competitive events. Our staff has developed two advertisements that are acceptable for you to use. These advertisements are available on the YF&R page on SILO or can be downloaded here. Should your state decide to create your own ad or ar-ticle to better relate to your members, we do need those ads or articles to be sent to AFBF before going to print to ensure proper logos are being used and that all necessary pieces are a part of the newly designed ad. All state created promotion must mention the sponsors of the program. The following are some suggested points to include in state specific ads or articles.

• The winner of the Achievement Award will get their choice of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado or 2014 GMC Sierra, courtesy of GM and paid reg-istration to the 2014 YF&R Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach Feb. 7-10. Three national finalists will receive a Case IH Farmall 65A, courtesy of Case IH, and a $2,500 cash prize and $500 in STIHL mer-chandise, courtesy of STIHL.

• The Discussion Meet winner will get their choice of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado or 2014 GMC Sierra, courtesy of GM and paid registration to the 2014 YF&R Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach, Feb. 7-10. Three national finalists will receive a Case IH Farmall 55A, courtesy of Case IH, and a $2,500 cash prize and $500 in STIHL merchandise, courtesy of STIHL.

• The winner of the Excellence in Agriculture Award will get their choice of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado or 2014 GMC Sierra, courtesy of GM and paid registration to the 2014 YF&R Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach, Feb. 7-10. Three national finalists will receive a Case IH Farmall 45A, courtesy of Case IH, and a $2,500 cash prize and $500 in STIHL merchandise, courtesy of STIHL.

• The winners will be determined during AFBF’s 95th convention in San Antonio, Tex., Jan. 12-15, 2014.

To ensure your state’s eligibility, please send Angela Black a hard or electron-ic copy of the printed advertisement from your publication so she can pass it along to the sponsors. For your winners to qualify, we must receive a copy of the advertisement by 11:59 PM Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013.

Please contact us if you have any questions about the awards or qualifica-tions for awards for this year.

2014 AFbF yF&r competitive event AwArdS And QuAliFicAtionS

october 1 deAdline For employerS to provide AcA inFormAtion toemployeeSISSUE:

In preparation for the January 2014 start up of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) health insurance Exchanges, employers must meet the October 1 deadline to provide notice to employees (full and part-time) about the Exchanges and their potential eligibility for premium tax credits. New employees hired after October 1 must be given this notice within 14 days of their start date. Guidance released by the Department of Labor (DOL) can be found here: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/newsroom/tr13-02.html

The requirement to provide notice applies to employers covered by the Federal Labor Standard Act (FLSA). In general, this means employers with one or more employee who have a volume of $500,000 of annual business. DOL guidance relating to the applicability of the FLSA can be found here: http://www.dol.gov/elaws/esa/flsa/scope/screen24.asp

Employers must notify workers about premium tax credits and eligibility requirements for the Exchange. An employee whose employer-provided insurance costs exceed 9.5 percent of their income are eligible for premium assistance and to enter the Exchange. To determine if an employee’s share of coverage exceeds 9.5 percent of income, a comparison is made between an employee’s W-2 Box 1 income and the employee contribution amount for the lowest cost for a self-only health insurance plan offered by an employer.

The notice for employers offering healthcare coverage can be found here: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/FLSAwithplans.pdf

The notice for employers without a healthcare plan can be found at here: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/FLSAwithoutplans.pdf

IMPACT:

The ACA assesses applicable large employers (more than 50 full time employees or their equivalent) who offer coverage but have at least one full-time employee receiving a premium tax credit the lesser of $3,000 for each employee receiving a premium credit or $2,000 for each full-time employee. The ACA assesses applicable large employers that do not offer coverage and have at least one full-time employee who receives a premium tax credit a fee of $2,000 per full-time employee, excluding the first 30 employees from the assessment. The attached Farm Bureau created documents explain how to determine if an employer is an applicable large employer.

In visits this week to Congressional offices, 12 representatives of Farm Cred-it East urged Congress to take action to establish an effective agricultural guest worker program and support a strong federal crop insurance program.

CEO Bill Lipinski noted, “Agriculture is a vibrant part of the economy in the Northeast and ensures that consumers have locally-grown, safe farm products. It is important that we have federal and state policies that allow agriculture to grow and provide opportunities for the next generation of farmers.”

Lipinski also noted the need to deal with the on-going farm labor problem, “To ensure that we continue to have a strong and diverse agricultural indus-try, Congress needs to approve creation of a new and efficient agricultural guest worker program. Failure to address this issue will cause farms to go out of business, jobs in the U.S. will be lost and we will import more food from other countries.”

Farm Credit East representatives also urged Congress to support a strong crop insurance program to help farmers to manage risk on their operations and make improvements to the Farm Service Agency loan guarantee pro-gram to allow more participation.

Farm Credit East, a customer-owned lender, serves farmers, commercial fish-ermen and forest products businesses in New York, New Jersey, Connecti-cut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island and provides over 70% of the credit to agriculture within the region served by the cooperative.

FArm credit eASt repreSentAtiveS urge Action by congreSS

the bolton FAir -AuguSt 9 - 11Lancaster Fairgrounds in Lancaster, MA. We want your cattle, we want your swine in our animal shows. We want your hertiage breeds for our rare breeds exhibit!EMAIL: [email protected] DEADLINE: JULY 12, 2013THE 2013 LIVESTOCK EXHIBITOR GUIDE IS ON OUR WEBSITE...WWW.BOLTONFAIR.ORG.The animal shows are the heart of The Bolton Fair ~ please join us!



liveStock on the common event to Support hb-753Hearkening back to a bygone era, on June 12th livestock could once again be found grazing on the Boston Common. Calves, sheep, goats and pig-lets were the living attractions at the event to Support HB – 753, an act to promote the care and well-being of livestock. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Stephen Kulik, would create a livestock care and standards board consist-ing of veterinarians, local humane groups, state agencies and farmers. Ryan MacKay, of Mass. Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Com-mittee, spearheaded the event which brought legislators and their staff down to the Common to meet with farmers and learn more about the proposed legislation from a speaking program that included Rep. Kulik, MFBF President Rich Bonanno, and Farmer MacKay.

Planning an event like this takes months of preparation and we were for-tunate to have both capable leadership (thank you Ryan) as well as the cooperation of the weather (no rain!). For those who were unable to at-tend, you missed an inspiring speech that captured the audience with its heartfelt message. (We’ve printed it in its entirety, below.)

Our thanks go out to the YF&R Committee and representatives from MFBF’s Livestock Committee, as well as a special thank you to Maple Valley Creamery of Hadley, MA, for donating ice cream to the event. (The invitations to the legislators included a ticket for a free ice cream as an ad-ditional means of enticing them to take time out from their day to attend the event.)

MfBf Young farmer Member, ryan Mackay emotional speech in its entirety:

Thank you everyone for attending today! My name is Ryan MacKay, I am the owner of Lilac Hedge Farm of Berlin Massachusetts. Here we raise grass fed beef and lamb as well as pastured pork and poultry. This event has been a big deal to me for the past few weeks. Massachusetts’s

farmers are held to a higher standard than anywhere else. We are a direct retail driven industry here, and consumers want to know about their food, how it is raised and treated from start to end. It is our job to provide our

customers with the most humane, sustainably raised meat possible. House Bill 753 is a practical way of assuring my customers that Massachusetts farmers care and are involved in farm animal welfare efforts, as compared to other bills which would insinuate we use. Practices that do not occur in this state. This board will consist of farmers, humane groups, and and veterinarians alike to address pertinent issues to this state. I think the fact that so many different organizations such as Farm Bureau, NOFA, Tufts Veterinary School and Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association came together to support one bill is a true testament to why this bill is such a no brainer. Animals are more than our livelihood, they are our life. Take that lamb in the green pen, her name is Ellie (Chosen by a “name the baby” contest amongst my Dewey Square Farmers market customers). She was born a twin, and her mother only had enough milk for one lamb. She was very weak, and I made the decision to bottle raise her. For the next week she slept in a box beside my bed. I would wake up every 3 hours to give her a bottle, and roll over to pat her every 10 minutes to make sure she was still breathing, or calm her while she was baahing to not wake my family. This is not a rare occurrence for a Massachusetts farmer. I could tell you a story about every animal here today, and I’m sure all of my fellow farmers could do the same regarding their animals.

While I’m flattered that HSUS protesters were able to take a day off to-day to speak ill of a Care and Standards board that’s sole purpose is to hold Massachusetts livestock producer to the highest standard, I have to remind myself that at the end of the day it is me who will go home, feed the animals, pack for markets, and do it all over again tomorrow. This isn’t just an event, this is my livelihood, this is my life. Massachusetts farmers know best, which is why I ask you to support House Bill 753.


liveStock on the common event to Support hb-753

2013 AgriculturAl AdventurerS AwArdS preSented At eSe AnnuAl meetingThe New England Fellowship of Agricultural Adventurers presented Marcus Thompson, Jr., of Chepachet, Rhode Island and the Szawlowski Potato Farms, Inc., of Hatfield, Mass., with the 2013 Agricultural Adventurers Award at the Annual Meeting of Eastern States Exposition (ESE), May 16, in West Spring-field, Mass.

Marcus Thompson, Jr.

Marcus Thompson, Jr., is the third generation of a textile family and, after earning his B.S. Degree in Textile Manufacturing from the Rhode Island School of Design, began his career operating Stillwater Worsted Mill in Che-pachet, Rhode Island, while farming part-time, raising Cheviot and Hamp-shire sheep and Hereford cattle on the family’s Seldom Seen Farm. After Still-water closed, Thompson became purchasing agent and later wool buyer at The Worcester Company, traveling the country meeting with “sheep people” from Texas, Arizona, Colorado and South Dakota to buy fine wools needed for the company’s manufacturing. When the company closed in the 1990s, Thomp-son became a full time farmer.

He and his wife, Barbara, began showing their Hampshires at ESE in 1952 and have attended and exhibited sheep at the Exposition every year since, only missing one year, 1958, when their second daughter was born on Hamp-shire show day! Through persistence and improved breeding, the Thompsons worked their way up placing within the top five consistently at local major fairs. In the 1970s, Thomson became Superintendent of the ESE sheep shows when there were only six breeds featured. He grew that number to 20 breeds which were split into two separate show weeks; one for meat breeds and the other for wool breeds. He was instrumental in connecting with the New Eng-land Sheep and Wool Growers (NESWGA), making an addition onto the original sheep barn a reality as well as creating the “Wool Nook” (now the “Fiber Nook”) which included a cooler for the lamb carcass display.

Upon the passing of Marcus Thompson, Sr. in 1979, Thompson became a trustee of ESE and served on its board of directors for many years. He is an honorary lifetime member of the NESWGA and has served as its president, wool pool manager and treasurer. He currently is the treasurer of the Rhode Island Sheep Cooperative where he is involved with the Rhody Warm Blanket Project, treasurer of the New England Hampshire Sheep Association and one of the founding committee members of the North East Youth Sheep Show held at the Exposition in July. He is past director of the Northern Rhode Is-land Extension service where he served as president and director.

One of Thompson’s greatest accomplishments is his role as mentor to the Rhode Island farming community. For years, people interested in farming in the Ocean State were told it was unrealistic, but he believed there was a role and continued to dedicate his life to “keep the fires burning.” His efforts led to agriculture in the state becoming the second largest growth industry (sec-ond only to the health industry) today. Young farmers are growing at a rapid rate and Thompson is recognized as a mentor who gave strength to this move-ment.

Thompson continues to run the Seldom Seen Farm raising sheep, cutting hay, mending fences, building additions to his barn, traveling to sheep sales and watching his grandchildren show sheep.

Szawlowski Potato Farms, Inc.

2010 marked the 100th anniversary of the Szawlowski Potato Farms in Hat-field, Massachusetts. From humble beginnings in 1910 when John Rupert Sza-wlowski emigrated from Poland and settled in Northampton, Mass., to farm 250 acres of potatoes, the business has grown to 2,500 acres in three towns

and is the largest potato grower in the state and a major potato supplier in the Northeastern United States.

Four brothers, third generation Szawlowskis, Frank, John, Chester, Jr. and Stanley lead today’s operation which includes growing Russet, Red, White & Yukon Gold potatoes for supermarket chains throughout the Northeast. They developed production practices that enabled them to successfully grow the various varieties to meet the demands of the market.

In 1972, 75 acres of the original farm in Northampton were taken by eminent domain to build an industrial park. The move inspired the brothers to invest in more land, equipment and buildings, expanding the acreage, packing and shipping capabilities at their new location in Hatfield. In the late 1980s, they expanded into states just south of New England and by emphasizing early planting dates, variety selection and agronomic adjustments, they have been able to serve this market. Refrigeration and a state-of-the-art grading and packing line produced consumer sized packages with the required quality re-tailers demanded.

The farm packs potatoes from growers from across the country year-round, which enables them to supply customers even after their harvest season is over.

The company employs approximately 50 full-time people, 20 of which are third, fourth and fifth generation family members, and during harvest season, their ranks grow to about 100 employees. In 2012, they farmed an additional 250 acres of potatoes in northern Connecticut, giving them an even earlier start to the season.

In celebration of their 100th anniversary, the family treated the town of Hat-field, friends, relatives and business partners to a parade along Main Street and a huge celebration including Polish bands, pony rides, games for kids and endless food and drink. They established the Szawlowski Farms Agricultural Foundation as a way to give back to the local community which had been so instrumental in their farm’s success. The Foundation gives scholarships to seniors from twelve high schools in their growing region as well as the Stock-bridge School of Agriculture who are continuing their education in the field of farming or agriculture.

Since then, they have hired a full time Environment Health supervisor, have become PrimusGFS, GFSI certified, completed a solar energy project enabling them to generate 65% of their power for the packing and cooling facilities, constructed a new maintenance building and energy efficient cooler storage. They also added a new harvester to the fleet.

Shelly Szawlowski-Smiarowski, of the fourth generation, was appointed to the Massachusetts Farm Service Agency State Committee by USDA Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack. Her appointment has provided representation for the farmers in the Connecticut River Valley of Massachusetts.

Information on the farm and all it has to offer is available at www.swazpotato.com.

Since 1953, the Fellowship of Agricultural Adventurers has honored outstand-ing leaders in New England agriculture. A special committee, appointed by the trustees of Eastern States Exposition, selects its annual fellow on the basis of innovation, pioneering and lifetime dedication to the betterment of agricul-ture.

The Big E, New England’s largest fair, takes place September 13–29, 2013 in West Springfield, Mass.

Planting is underway and the perennial crops are in bloom, famers are hopeful this year that the rainfall will be timely, the sun plentiful and the pests manageable. This is Massachusetts and in the last 5 years we have had droughts, excessive rain, tornados, ice storms and flooding. These events have caused significant crop losses and damage to farm land. USDA was able to assisted growers recover from these losses.

Growers are reminded of the importance of timely notifying their crop insurance agent or USDA when a weather event lowers yields or destroys crops on their farm. Farmers, with crops covered by a crop insurance policy, must notify your agent 72 hours of the event but no later than 15 days after the final harvest date. Crops covered by a Non-insured Disaster Assistance (NAP) policy through the Farm Service Agency, must notify or FSA within 15 days of a date they are aware of damage to a crop or within 15 days of the final harvest date. Failure to timely notify your crop insurance agent or for NAP the FSA may disqualify your loss claim for indemnity.

Many policies provide protection for prevented or late planting due to adverse weather. Growers prevented from planting a crop by the final planting date may be eligible for an indemnity payment. The specific details and dates are listed in your policy.

Insurance attaches to crops on different dates based on the type of crop is insured (Annual, perennial, shellfish, Nursery) and continues until the crop is destroyed, final adjustment of the crop, harvested or the final harvest date.

Growers are encouraged to review their policy and become familiar with the terms of the policy and important dates such;

• final planting date • acreage reporting date • final harvest date.

Also; Farmers may also suffer damage to crop land, conservation structures, trees, water supplies, etc. because of a natural disaster. USDA has a variety of programs to assist growers repair damaged cropland and structures. It is important growers notify their USDA office of any damage they sustain to their property as a result weather event. Reporting your losses before you start your repairs allows USDA to establish the level of damage and provide the local FSA committee with information they can use to request funds. Funds may not be available immediately as USDA requires states to document the extent of damage when requesting disaster assistances.

UMass Extension works in partnership with the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) to educate Massachusetts producers about Federal Crop Insurance and Risk Management Programs. For more information, please visit www.rma.usda.gov or contact UMass Risk Management Specialists Paul Russell at [email protected] or Tom Smiarowski at [email protected]

“This institution is an equal opportunity provider.”


when diSASter StrikeS………….


mASSAchuSettS eQuine economicimpAct & lAnd uSe Study updAteThe Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation is coordinating the efforts of a Massachusetts Equine Economic Impact & Land Use Study. We thank you, our donors, for getting us half way to our goal of raising $40,000.

Farm Credit East, Robert Haigh of Bobby’s Ranch, Polly Kornblith & Michael Newman of Wildstar Farm, Ed & Nancy Chute, Jim Knieriem, Melanie A. Burke, Leslie B. Spencer, Gary Saccocia, Sr., Chrislar Farm of Rowley, Thomas & Barbara Hastings of Gray Craig Farm, The Piazza Family of Reading, Essex County Co-Operative Farming Assoc. of Topsfield, Norma & P. Sean Gibney, The Lloyd Family & Taylor & Lloyd of Bedford, Western New England Professional Horsemans Association, Middleton Farm Supply, James Pl. Walsh, Hanover Hunt & Riding Club, North Shore Equine, PC of Newburyport, Sarah & Bruce Tomkins, Anne Bonazoli, Jennifer Sullivan, Jane Hewitt, Massachusetts

Morgan Horse Association, Plymouth County Farm Bureau, Bay State Trail Riders Association, Inc., White Acres Farm of Norwell, Andrea C. Ross, Massachusetts Horsemen’s Council, Laine Raia of The Ponderaia in North Reading, Marianne Folan, Indian Meadow Farm LLC, UPHA Chapter 14, Middlesex County Farm Bureau, Essex County Farm Bureau, Littleton/Lancaster Agway, Eastern States Exposition / The Big E, Bristol County Farm Bureau, Holly Hill Farm & Holly Hill West, Doug & Leslie Leasor of Leasor Quarter Horses, Charles F. Kane & Anne W. Eldridge, Equine Journal, Mara Lichoulas, Massachusetts Horse.

Checks – in any amount – may be made payable to the Farm Bureau Agricultural Preservation Corporation, a recognized 501 (c ) 3 charitable foundation, and sent to 249 Lakeside Avenue, Marlborough, MA 01752. eSSex county FArm bureAu &

eSSex county Fruit growerS ASSociAtion AwArdS ScholArShip Essex County Farm Bureau and Essex County Fruit Growers Association Awards Scholarship to Essex Agricultural & Technical High School honor student, Andrew Stasinos of Haverhill.

Andrew and his family are immersed in agriculture growing vegetables and raising animals. Andrew’s farm responsibilities include plowing fields, cultivating and picking crops and caring for livestock. In school Andrew has held positions in the Essex Chapter

FFA and competes in FFA and Career development activities such as Safe Tractor Operation and Natural Resources where he has exhibited leadership qualities and a strong work ethic. In his community, Andrew volunteers his time during the Topsfield Fair to work at the school’s cider stand and FFA parade float.

Congratulations Andrew!

gregg Finn ScholArShip inFoAMOUNT OF AWARD $500

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Applicant must be a child or legal dependent of a regular member in good standing of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation.

• Applicant must be at least in their junior year of college when the scholarship is awarded.

• Applicant must be majoring in communications, journalism, music or an agriculturally related field.

Application must be submitted to “The Greg Finn Scholarship Fund” by August 31st (unless deadline is extended by the Women’s Committee) of the scholarship year. Application must be accompanied by a sealed official copy of the applicant’s college transcript; and a 250 word statement on why the applicant has chosen this particular field of study and projected career goals.

Mail Application to: Gregory Finn Scholarship Fund Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation 249 Lakeside Avenue Marlborough, MA 01752

FArm bureAu county Summer picnicS BerkshireJuly 27th Time: 12:30 PM

Legislator’s Picnic will be at Ioka Valley Farm, Don & Judy Leab, RSVP by July 15 Judy Leab at 413-738-5915, [email protected] or Bruce Howden at 413-229-8481, [email protected]

franklinJuly 28, 2013Time: 12:30 to 4:30 PM

“Friends of Farmers” Chicken BBQHunt CampNorth Spec Road New Salem, MA 01364RSVP by July 12th to Vicki Vincent at (413) 475-5976

Cape & islandsAugust 11th (Sun.)Time: 3PM Not Enough Acres Farm in East Dennis Pot Luck Picnic


AmericAn FArm bureAu photo conteStWe are pleased to announce the second annual Farm Bureau® Photo Con-test. This contest is a coordinated effort between the American Farm Bureau Federation and the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture. It is open to all state and county Farm Bureau members and staff over the age of 18 at the time of entry, including professional photographers. We are holding this contest to obtain usable and appropriate photos that accurately portray today’s agriculture and safe practices of farmers and ranchers for future publications and promotions. All photos submitted must exemplify safe practices on the farm or ranch. Photos are being accepted in the following categories:• Sharing the Story - Photos submitted under the Sharing the Story cate-

gory should cover the following topics: consumer outreach, communities in action and Farm Bureau in action. These photos should tell the story of how farmers and ranchers interact with consumers, students, other farmers and ranchers, media and elected officials. Show us the diversity of agriculture and its people. This is a chance for our members and staff to share stories of outreach as well as show their pride in Farm Bureau.

• Working on the Farm or Ranch - Photos submitted under the Working on the Farm or Ranch category should cover the following topics: plant-ing, harvesting, irrigating, animal care, seasonal workers and working with machinery or tools. These photos should show action. All photos must exemplify correct and safe practices around the farm or shop.

• My Scenic Farm or Ranch - Photos submitted under the My Scenic Farm/Ranch category should be dynamic and visually appealing. Photos can cover a variety of topics including, but not limited to: farm/ranch house, barn, crops, farm animals and landscapes. People may be pres-ent in the photo but should not be the main focus. Please do not submit close-up photos of flowers or plants. We want to see what today’s mod-ern agriculture looks like through your eyes – small, medium or large; row crops, specialty crops or animal agriculture; Northeast, Midwest, Southern or Western region.

The contest begins at 12 a.m., Eastern Time (ET) on May 20, 2013, and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on Oct. 15, 2013. Late entries will not be accepted. Winners will be notified via email on Nov. 15, 2013.

Three photos will be selected from each of the three categories. Each winner will receive a cash prize and be featured on our websites and social media.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three photos in each category:• 1st place: $100• 2nd place: $75• 3rd place: $50

From the submitted photos, in addition to the prizes awarded in the catego-

ries above, we hope to select three photos for special awards. No separate entry or notation is necessary to be considered for these awards. They will be chosen from the regular entries. In order to recognize as many photos as possible, we plan to choose photos for these special awards that have not already won in one of the three contest categories. A special award in the amount of $200 may be given for each of three photos that highlight the following:• Animal Care: The winning photo should reflect modern livestock pro-

duction practices (e.g., caring for hogs or poultry indoors, cattle in a feedlot, dairy cows on an automated milking carousel) in an interesting and thought-provoking manner. Farm and ranch safety standards must be reflected in the photo.

• Safety: The winning photo should creatively reflect the safe practices that take place every day on farms and ranches. From ensuring all loca-tions on the operation are safe for youth to work and play, to showcasing proper safety gear being worn or emphasizing the importance of having slow moving vehicle signage on machinery, these photos should high-light the steps we take every day to ensure farmers, family members, workers and guests are safe on our farms and ranches.

• Farm Bureau Proud: The winning photo should exemplify the pride of Farm Bureau members, show Farm Bureau as a unified organization or show members creating tradition, engaging the collective voice of agriculture and/or preserving the farm/ranch way of life. Photos must include either members wearing the Farm Bureau logo on hats, shirts, jackets, etc. or signage showing the Farm Bureau logo.

This year we will also be awarding three Best in Show prizes for the most dynamic photos submitted across all categories. Judges will select these top finishers from the winners in the three contest categories. Prizes will be awarded at the following amounts:• Best in Show: $400• First runner-up: $300• Second runner-up: $250

In addition to monetary prizes, all winning photos will be featured on our websites and social media and during the AFBF Annual Convention in January.

Please visit http://www.fb.org/index.php?action=programs.photocontest2013 to see the full rules and learn how to enter the contest. For your conve-nience, a copy of the guidelines is attached to this message.

We hope you will help us promote this contest in your state. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

FArm bureAu memberS ShAre pASSion For beeS

Farm Bureau members, David Graves and his family from Berkshire Berries of Becket, shared their pas-sion for honey bees with the general public in a program sponsored by the Berkshire County Farm Bureau, Berkshire Grown and Keep Berk-shires Farming at the First Baptist Church in Pittsfield following the BCFB Board meeting on May 9th.

David is known for his New York City roof top hives – an optimum place-ment remedy to black bear and weasel destruction and human activity. At a time when there are more people wanting to become beekeepers, the bees are facing stresses and challenges of their own. Guests learned the modern day natural practices of beekeeping along with apiary terminology, the tools, parts and functions of the beehive, maintenance, bee navigation and where to purchase supplies.

Placement of hives was discussed with regard to bee foraging and being a good neighbor. There were plenty of tips to reduce bee stress for seasoned bee-keepers; if you can’t place a hive on a roof, talk show radio is good at keeping predators away from the hives (and out of the barn). The talk was peppered with anecdotal stories about swarm retrieval, proper disposal of a dead queen (not in the bushes), the life cycles and digestive systems (of bees). Safety around the hive was also discussed; basically, don’t cross in front of a hive, look like a bear or smell like bananas (their defensive odor).

There was discussion on other pollinators such as butterflies, or-chard mason bees, and wind.

Like all farmers, this beekeeper said that no matter what the chal-lenges he and the bees face, he will continue to think positive, never give up and try different things.

crop loSS reminder

Tropical Storm Andrea has passed through Massachusetts dropping up to 4 inches of rain in some areas. Growers may be experiencing flooded fields, ero-sion, and soils too wet to plant. Farmers concerned with potential crop losses are reminded to timely contact their crop insurance agent, for insured crops, or the Farm Service Agency (FSA) for non-insured crops or excessive soil ero-sion problems.

Most crop insurance policies require notification of potential crop losses within 72 hour of the event. Growers are reminded not to destroy damaged crops until inspected by a crop loss adjustor. It is extremely important that your crop insurance company have an opportunity to view and assess your damaged crops as part of the crop loss adjustment process. Destruction of a damaged crop prior to an inspection may disqualify a farmer from receiving a crop loss indemnity payment.

We advise growers to also report any losses, both crop and physical losses, to your local FSA office. USDA has a variety of programs available to assist grow-ers repair or restore damaged lands to pre-disaster conditions. FSA also has a variety of disaster and loan programs to help growers recover from natural disasters.

Growers of spring seeded crops are reminded the final date to report crop acreage is near. Most spring seeded crops have a final reporting date of July 15th, 2013.

UMass Extension works in partnership with the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) to educate Massachusetts producers about Federal Crop Insurance and Risk Management Programs. For more information, please visit www.rma.usda.gov or contact UMass Risk Management Specialists Paul Russell at [email protected] or Tom Smiarowski at [email protected]

“This institution is an equal opportunity provider.”


clASSiFiedS

SERVICEHELPING TELL YOUR STORY: I help farmers, commodity groups, and agricultural businesses get the attention they deserve and the customers they need, through websites, social media, earned media, newsletters, grant proposals and more. MFBF member. [email protected] 413-634-5728. SERVING THE FARMERS IN MASS: Helping farmers keep what they make. Experi-enced in dairy, beef, fruit & vegetable farming; experienced with APR, retirement planning, estate planning & taxation, tax free exchanges. Donald E. Graves, CPA, LLC, Masters Degree in Taxation & Financial Planning, Bentley College, 377 Main Street, Suite 1, Greenfield, MA 01301-3332, 1-800-286-6036, [email protected] FARM MAINTENANCE: All types arena work, construction & renewal. Paddock areas built, fencing new & repairs, hydrant work, & brush work. CRF Maintenance Services. www.cringfarm.com 508-234-9824. PASTURES: Let our expertise in pasture construction and design provide you with pastoral views, solutions for your equestrian needs and elimination of boarding fees. Reclaim your woodlands into pastures. Increase your property value. Call Woodridge Farm, Lincoln, MA. 781-259-0251. REAL ESTATE APPRAISER: for farm/forestry property. Reports provided for estate planning/tax returns, APR/CR or buying/selling. William King 508-867-2600 or [email protected].

Member to Member MarketplaceIsland Alpaca Company, www.islandalpaca.com, 10% discount to MA Farm Bureau Members off current retail prices for alpaca goods in the farm store (except spinning equipment). Martha’s Vineyard, 508-693-5554.Roberts Brothers Lumber, 1450 Spruce Corner Road, Ashfield MA 01330, 10% savings on current Lumber Price Sheet, excluding delivery, planning and any other services.Dowse Orchards, 98 North Main Street, Sherborn, MA 01770, 10% savings on farm produce. 508-653-2639, www.dowseorchards.com.

SALEFOR SALE: South Belchertown: Private 12 Acre Estate/Building Lot. Perc’d; Pass’d approved: engineered for septic/leaching field, well & stormwater runoff. Conser-vation Commission approved wetlands crossing. Great for log cabin in the woods, animals, hunting, hiking and snowmobiles. Power at street. Will require 650 ft. driveway & culvert. All plans go to buyer. Excellent school system. $85,000. Call Frank at 413-283-7355 or 413-455-9303.FOR SALE: Equipment: Sitrex Finishing Mower Model SM120 3-Blade PTO-driven $900.Fuerst flexible time Harrow 4ft. drawbar+ 4x5’ section $225. Call 978-779-6020.FOR SALE: 1944 FARMALL M, 1946 FARMALL M, 1950 FARMALL C. Original owner excellent condition, always housed. Attachments: Rotary & Cutterbar Mowers (6’ & 9’), Posthole Digger, Frontend Snowplow & Loader. Call 978-922-6903. FOR SALE: Kuhn Tedder, Kuhn 3 pt. hitch rake, N.H. 474 conditioned mower, N.H. 640 round baler. $10,000. Dexter Farms (508) 252-3521. FOR SALE: Overseeder Vineyard Drill Tye Series V. Please call cell 413-330-2865.FOR SALE: 8N Tractor 1203 Hrs. Deerborn Loader & side-mounted mower, new rubber, runs great, metal needs paint. In storage 25 years $3,200. Call 978-928-4292.FOR SALE: Hereford Calves for Sale: 9-10 months old, hand raised and tame, both Steers and Heifers, for your feed lot or pasture 617-840-2074. FOR SALE: 2 Burros. Mother and Son. Must go as pair. 35” tall, very loveable. $850. Call 978-635-0409.FOR SALE: Hay – 1st and 2nd cut – no dust guaranteed. Wholesale and retail. We deliver and unload. Work cell 774-259-6960 or office 508-252-3535. Skip & Tish at Homestead Farms. FOR SALE: Tires. Great prices, all sizes, tire repairs, road service, calcium chloride service. Hoey Tire, Worcester. Call 508-755-6666, www.hoeytire.comFOR SALE: Hay 1st and 2nd cutting. 4’ X 5’ round and small square bales. Conway Farm’s Lakeville, MA. 508-821-0149. FOR SALE: Bagged Shavings. Kiln-dried pine shavings, in clear plastic or paper bags, made in USA. Trailer loads, 1,000 plus free storage 30 days on our trailer. Worcester County to Cape Cod. Priced according to location. Call Jack at 781-589-8534.

mASSAchuSettS FArm bureAu pArtnerS with umASS AmherSt For new AgriculturAl leArning center

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF), partnered with University of Massachusetts (UMass) Amherst, is pleased to announce the groundbreaking for the new Agricultural Learning Center (ALC) which was held on April 25, 2013 at UMass Wysocki Field at 911 North Pleasant Street, just north of the Amherst campus.

The college’s historic horse barn, built in 1894, will be moved to the site with plans for preserving the original exterior of the building, and renovating the interior to include classrooms for students and a larger space designated for public gatherings and workshops. There will be areas devoted to livestock, fruits, vegetables, turf and landscape crops. MFBF has pledged a total contribution of $500,000 for the ALC which

will be known as Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Hall. “We’re seeing a resurgence of farming as a career choice in Massachusetts,” said Dr. A. Richard Bonanno, President of MFBF. “There’s a whole new generation of young farmers out there who will benefit greatly from the new facility and the opportunity for hands-on learning that it offers. The center will serve as a living classroom where undergraduates, graduate students and residents can gain practical farming experience. As more and more people are rediscovering the importance of local agriculture, the ALC will bring the state’s agricultural focus to Amherst where folks can take advantage of the scientific and intellectual resources of the University.” To make your contribution to the Campaign for the Future of Massachusetts Agriculture, in support of the Agricultural Learning Center’s Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Hall, please complete the pledge form and mail to the specified address.

Thank you for your generosity!

Gifts may be made at any level and may be an outright donation or a pledge for a period of up to three years. For information about different ways to give, contact Thomas Hastings, a Farm Bureau member and Director of Development at UMass Amherst’s College of Natural Sciences (413-577-4295 or email [email protected]). For more information about the campaign by Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, contact Edward Davidian (508-868-7841 or email [email protected]). For further information about the Agricultural Learning Center, contact Stephen J. Herbert, Associate Dean and Director of UMass Center for Agriculture (413-545-2890 or email [email protected]).

My/our gift to UMass Amherst Agricultural Learning Center iso As a Benefactor, with a gift of $____________o President’s Circle (Pledge at least $1,000 per year for three years)o A one-time gift of $_________________o A multi-year gift of $________________ per year for _________ years with the first payment made by the date of __________________, 20____.

Please remind me/us of this pledge: _____Annually _____Quarterly I/we plan to make this gift in the form of: _____Check _____Securities _____Other (please specify) ___________________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO UMASS AMHERST

Or use your _____VISA _____MasterCard _____Discover _____American ExpressAccount Number:____________________________________ Expiration Date:_________________Security Code:___________________ Signature:_____________________________________

o My gift will be matched! Many employers will match charitable contributions. If your employer does, ask for a matching gift form and enclose it with your payment.

Please complete:

How You Wish To Be Listed In Recognition: ________________________Name: (First, Middle, Last):_____________________________________Address: (Street, City, State, Zip)__________________________________

Please mail your pledge or payment to:College of Natural Sciences715 Lederle TowerUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst710 North Pleasant StreetAmherst, MA 01003

(All gifts will be acknowledged directly by Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation.)

mA FArm bureAu And umASS AmherSt pledge cArd

WANTEDWANTED: FARMERS/LANDOWNERS: MAKE MONEY With On-site Solar. We build & operate it for 20 years. Need 15+ acres open, fairly level & unobstructed, southerly exposure preferred, out of sight of neighbors, 3-phase power close by. Call Paul Marin 860-614-6306. WANTED: Do you own a Model H Farmall? I am trying to locate 2 trac-tors purchased new by farmer Bill (Hazen) Davis, North Sudbury Mass. One 1940 serial #FBH 18277 and the other – 1943 serial #FBH144626. Tractors came from Montgomery, Inc. a dealership in Ayer, Mass. Trac-tors left farm sometime mid 50’s. I would really appreciate hearing from anyone that may have these tractors or information that may help my search. Call (Troy) 978-857-6960 or email [email protected] Thanks.


Documents

MFBF's June/July 2013 News & Views