central livestock association a company of genex cooperative,...

Sheep

Cattle

Hogs

Corn

farm

sli

vest

ock

crop

s

2011Now

1969Then

MinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesota

2011Now

1969Then

NorthDakota NorthDakota NorthDakota NorthDakota

Wheat

Soybeans

FARMS79,800

AVERAGE SIZE336 acres

ACRES8.1 million

FARMS110,747


ACRES3.83 million

FARMS31,900

AVERAGE SIZE1,241 acres

FARMS46,381


2.36 million 3.63 million 1.69 million 2.03 million

150,000 521,300 73,000 433,590

7.8 million 3.295 million 151,000 295,000

ACRES2.23 million

ACRES128,970

ACRES7.1 million

ACRES2.66 million

ACRES4 million

ACRES183,550

ACRES1.58 million

ACRES829,800

ACRES6.8 million

ACRES6.935 million

AgricultureNow & ThenNow & Then

*STATISTICS FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE - CENSUS OF AGRICULTURE

A Look at the IndustryBy Jeff Reed, Vice President, Central Livestock Association

September 20131

MARKETINGSFall has finally arrived. County and state fairs are winding down, and the Central Livestock special feeder cattle sales season is upon us. With the very difficult spring we experienced in much of our trade area, chances of a good crop seemed out of reach just three months ago. Yet, as the summer took hold, very good to excellent crops developed through most areas of the Midwest. Improved yields and ultimately the feed grain supply have led to feed prices becoming once again affordable for livestock feeders. We are hearing the term “walking corn off the farm” once again. A number of farmers, with the ability and know how, will again contemplate feeding livestock as a way to maximize their profit potential. It’s looking like a great time to be in the livestock business.

After celebrating the five-year anniversary of the Rock Creek market on July 17, 2013, we will celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Zumbrota market on September 12, 2013. This celebration will be in conjunction with the first Zumbrota Special Feeder Cattle Sale of the fall season. Please join us as we celebrate the market and thank our customers, buyers and staff.

Livestock sales volumes have been excellent at all four Central Livestock auction markets again this year; thank you for choosing our staff, auctioneers and auction facilities to market your stock. We have a deep, committed staff of marketing professionals who understand their responsibility to sell your livestock in the best way possible. We are prepared to market your cattle, hogs, sheep and goats, source feeder livestock, hedge your stock and provide marketing advice to help you maximize value. Remember our staff is here to help you, so don’t be afraid to utilize them to help you make your livestock marketing decisions.

In this Issue2-3 Livestock Trailer Safety3 Auction Schedule4 Photo Contest Winners5 Rock Creek Highlights5 Scholarship Winner6 Special Feeder Cattle

Sales Schedule6 Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply7 History of Zumbrota8 Agriculture Now and Then

Editor: Brenda SisungContributing Writers: Jeff Reed, Brenda Sisung

Send comments or suggestions to: [email protected]

CRI Mission StatementProvide products and services as effectively as possible to maximize the profitability of members and customers worldwide while maintaining a strong cooperative.

Central Livestock Purpose The purpose of Central Livestock Association is to assist livestock producers in production and marketing by providing competitive prices, superior service and broader outlets through a profitable and innovative organization.

Central LivestockAssociation

A Company of Genex Cooperative, Inc. 2013

©2013 CRI N-05731-13

When it comes to auction markets there is a deep running tradition rooted in them. There is something about sitting in those bleachers, listening to the auctioneers chant, hearing the sound of the gavel when the sale is final and tasting the café food that makes coming to the auction market a tradition for generations young and old. Like any auction market throughout the U.S. there is history and a story behind it, the Central Livestock Zumbrota market is no different.

Prior to Central Livestock owning the Zumbrota market it was owned at various times by families and once by Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association. The Art Tostrud family began the history of the market in 1962 being the first family to own and operate it. Shortly after, in 1964, the Webster family of Don, Pat, Tom and Jerry took over the market until 1974 when Equity bought it from the family. It was not long after that the Webster family bought it back from Equity and continued to own and operate it until early 2003. In July of 2003 Central Livestock purchased the facility naming it Central Livestock Zumbrota Market and making it what it is today.

Today the Zumbrota market is the largest auction facility in the Central Livestock family handling over 300,000 head of livestock annually. In the 10 year span of Central Livestock owning the Zumbrota market there have been three managers and countless improvements and renovations. Under Central Livestock the Zumbrota market was first managed by the late Rich Voltz until his passing in 2004 when Kevin Altendorf took over management. Kevin managed the market from 2004-2008 before becoming a field representative. In 2008 Bob Young began his tenure as the Zumbrota Market Manager and remains in this role today.

With the market under new management, 2009 marked the year major facility renovations were completed. With increased safety and environmental standards needing to be met the market received a major facelift. Gutters and a brown water collection pit were installed to prevent runoff and increase storage for animal waste. Finally, roofs were built over all the livestock pens to help accommodate and protect the animals from various weather conditions.

Throughout the years there have been many changes to the Zumbrota market, but whether it was the facility or ownership, the market is still thriving. This past July marked the 10th anniversary of Central Livestock owning the market and on Sept. 12, 2013 this will be celebrated. Central Livestock would like to thank the Zumbrota market’s customers, buyers and staff for their dedication and support through the years by hosting a Customer Appreciation 10th Anniversary Special Feeder Cattle Sale. Everyone is invited to the event and we hope you will help celebrate the history of the Central Livestock Zumbrota market.

Albany (800) 733-6828 • Zumbrota (877) 732-7305 • Rock Creek (320) 629-1122 • West Fargo (800) 733-4620CENTRAL LIVESTOCK ASSOCIATION • www.centrallivestock.com • South St. Paul (800) 733-1844

2 7

Livestock Trailer Safety

Towing a livestock trailer is a common practice on most farms and ranches. Livestock trailers, also referred to as stock trailers, are used to move livestock between locations, haul show animals to county fairs and transport animals to processing plants.

To safely tow a livestock trailer, your truck must be capable of towing the weight of the trailer plus the added weight of the livestock. Check with the manufacturer to determine the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCVW), which includes the tow vehicle’s weight plus the loaded trailer weight. The GCVW rating can be located in the vehicle’s serial number or in the operator’s manual. When calculating the weight, remember to include the weight for fuel, passengers and cargo.

The manual for the trailer should specify a maximum tongue weight – the amount of the trailer’s weight that presses down on the truck’s trailer hitch when using a bumper pull trailer or the truck’s bed when using a gooseneck trailer. The majority of the weight, 85% to 90%, should be carried over the axles so that only 10% to 15% of the weight is carried on the tongue.

Before using a livestock trailer, check both the truck and the trailer to ensure they are in good working condition. In addition, take the following actions:

• Latches and Safety Chains: Double check latches and the safety chains and cables between the truck and trailer to make sure they are fastened securely. Make sure you are using a ball that is the correct size for the trailer.

• Trailer Brakes: Inspect the breakaway cable or brake system. Manufacturers recommend that any trailer exceeding 1,000 pounds have its own brake system, but you should also check state regulations regarding brake system requirements.

• Wheel Bearings: Repack the wheel bearings on a regular basis and replace as necessary.

• Electric Wiring and Connections: Make sure all wiring is in good condition. Trailer connectors should match the truck connectors. Check to make sure all the lights, brake lights,

turn signals, and tail lights, on both the truck and the trailer are working. Make sure the electrical connection is securely plugged into the truck.

• Tires: Examine the tires for signs of dry rot, wear or damage, and make sure all tires, including the spare and inside dual tires, have the correct air pressure. Consider replacing tires at least every five years, regardless of use.

• Lug Nuts: Inspect the lug nuts regularly to ensure they are properly tightened.

• Trailer: Inspect the trailer floor to make sure it is sturdy and clean. If more traction is needed, install rubber matting. Consider replacing floor boards that are showing signs of wear or rot.

• Battery: If you use battery-powered accessories, ensure your emergency battery is charged and ready for use.

• Brake Controllers: Test your brake controllers and make adjustments as needed depending on the weight of your trailer.

o The first step in testing your electric brakes is to locate the controller or adjustor, which is typically located beneath the instrument panel on the tow vehicle. The controller has an adjustment button (+ or -) and sliding lever. You may need to use the controller to increase braking power (+) for heavier loads or decrease braking power (-) for lighter loads.

o Once you have located the controller, slowly move forward on a level surface and shift the tow vehicle transmission to neutral. Use the slide lever on the brake controller to bring the load to a stop using the trailer brakes.

o If the trailer brakes cause the truck to jerk, your trailer brakes are adjusted too high. Lower the braking power on the trailer until the trailer comes to a smooth stop. If the truck and loaded trailer do not slow to a stop, the brake controller must be adjusted to a higher level.

History of the Zumbrota Market By Brenda Sisung, Public Relations Specialist

New roof and gutter system to prevent runoff.

Drive-thru unloading area built after Central Livestock purchased the market.

Bob Young, Market Manager


6 3

Loading the Trailer Loading animals into a trailer can sometimes be a frustrating task, but there are steps you can take to make the task safer and, ideally, easier. For example, lower the back of the trailer as much as possible so that animals may step into the trailer without having to step up. Remember to be patient and calm during the loading process so that you do not scare or stress the animals. Additional recommendations include the following:

• Weight Distribution: When using a bumper pull trailer, place the heaviest animals in front of the axles. Load older and larger animals first, followed by younger and smaller animals.

• Ties: When tying animals in the trailer, use slip knots and tie securely at head height in the trailer.

• Visibility: Make sure animals can see you when you enter and exit the trailer, when you are in the trailer, and when you tie or untie them.

• Squeeze and Pinch Points: Remain alert to the danger of being pinned between animals and trailer sides and being pinched by the trailer gate.

• Gates: Once the animals are loaded into the trailer, quickly close the gates and ensure that they are secure.

• Protrusions: Inspect the trailer for broken or sharp objects protruding into the trailer. These items should be repaired immediately to prevent an injury to an animal or operator.

Traveling

When driving on any roadway, always maintain a safe speed, keep your headlights on and stay alert. Braking time increases when you are towing a full trailer, so maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and leave adequate room to stop. Plan travel time carefully, and be aware that weather can cause delays by impacting road conditions and animal comfort.

Do not lock the trailer when transporting animals. In the event of an emergency, rescue workers will be able to more quickly gain access to an unlocked trailer. For your animals’ safety, do not allow them to hang their heads out of the trailer, where they could be injured by flying objects.Source: Livestock trailer safety. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/64391/livestock-trailer-safety.

Central Livestock Association Special Feeder Cattle Sales ScheduleZumbrota MarketSpecial Feeder Sales Thursday at 10 a.m.• September 12, 2013 – Customer Appreciation 10th Anniversary Sale

• September 26, 2013

• October 10, 2013

• October 24, 2013

• November 7, 2013


• December 5, 2013

• December 12, 2013 –Bred Beef Cow Sale


• January 9, 2014

• January 23, 2014

• February 6, 2014


• February 27, 2014 –Bred Beef Cow Sale

• March 6, 2014

• March 20, 2014

• April 10, 2014

• May 15, 2014

• June 5, 2014 –Bred Beef Cow Sale

Rock Creek MarketSpecial Feeder Sales Wednesday at 10 a.m.• September 11, 2013


• October 9, 2013

• October 23, 2013





• January 8, 2014

• January 22, 2014



• March 5, 2014

• March 19, 2014

• April 9, 2014

• April 23, 2014

• May 14, 2014

• May 28, 2014

• June 18, 2014

• July 16, 2014 – Customer Appreciation 6th Anniversary Sale

West Fargo MarketCattle Sales Every Wednesday at 10 a.m.• September 11, 2013 –Big Iron Sale

Sheep Sales Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.• September 4, 2013


• October 2, 2013

• October 16, 2013

• October 30, 2013


• December 4,2013


• January 8, 2014

• January 22, 2014

Fall Round-Up Horse Sale• October 25, 2013 - 11 a.m. Tack Sale - 3 p.m. Horse Sale

Albany MarketSpecial Feeder Sales Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.• September 11, 2013



• January 8, 2014


• March 12, 2014

• April 9, 2014

• May 14, 2014

Conveniently located at the Central Livestock Zumbrota market, Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply is a full service livestock equipment and farm supply store. Earlier this year, Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply released a product catalog available on the Central Livestock website. It includes over 50 pages of livestock equipment and products, most of which are in stock at the store or can be ordered to fit your needs. Hundreds of products are on hand from all the main livestock supply manufactures such as Easy Way, Smidley, Real-Tuff, Behlen, Common Sense, For-Most and Applegate. To view the supply catalog visit www.centrallivestock.com and click on the catalog cover on the right side of the page. For questions about pricing or availability call Phil Olson, Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply Manager, at 507-732-7860.

Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply Catalog Available©

2013

CR

I

A-0

5259

-13

Albany Market (800) 733-6828Monday & Wednesday: 7 a.m. to noon - Hogs and SheepTuesday & Thursday: 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. – Hogs10:30 a.m. – Fed Cattle, Slaughter Cows & Bulls along with Baby & Started Calves on ThursdaySpecial Dairy Sales: First Wednesday & third Friday of the month, 10:30 a.m.Special Feeder Sales: Second Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m.

Rock Creek Market (320) 629-1122Monday: 8 a.m. – Market Cows, Fed Cattle, Feeder Cattle, Hogs, Sheep & GoatsWednesday: 10 a.m. – Market Cows, Fed Cattle, Feeder Cattle, Hogs, Sheep & Goats Special Feeder Sales: 10 a.m. - Every other Wednesday from Sept. 11, 2013 - May 28, 2014

Zumbrota Market (877) 732-7305Monday: 8 a.m. – Overnight Market Cows/Bulls10 a.m. – Fed Cattle, Stock Cows & Breeding Bulls1 p.m. – Feeder Cattle, Day Delivered Market Cows/Bulls4 p.m. – Baby CalvesTuesday: 8 a.m. – Sheep, Goats & Feeder PigsWednesday: 10 a.m. – Market Cows/Bulls & Fed CattleSpecial Dairy Sales: Second & fourth Tuesdays, noonSpecial Feeder Sales: 10 a.m. - Every other Thursday from Sept. 12, 2013 - April 10, 2014

West Fargo Market (800) 733-4620Wednesday: 10 a.m. – Feeder & Slaughter CattleSheep Sales: Designated Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m.

www.centrallivestock.com

View the catalog online: Scan the QR code or visit: http://tinyurl.com/n4g7m8o





CENTRAL LIVESTOCK ASSOCIATION Auction Schedules


LIVESTOCKFIRST PLACE “The Ladies” Tesa Klein, LaMoure, N.D.

RUNNER UP “McKenzie Livestock” Tina Frey, Pine City, Minn.

KIDS AND LIVESTOCKFIRST PLACE “Precious Hugs” Rachael Guertin, Grand Rapids, Minn.

RUNNER UP “Snuggled up with Trixie Peanut” Anna Westerman, Sauk Centre, Minn.

FARM LIFEFIRST PLACE “What do you think about this snow?” Jennifer Kiefer, Taopi, Minn.

RUNNER UP “Practicing” Corri Bell, Fordville, N.D.


4 5

Rock Creek Highlights

Central Livstock Scholarship Winners

THANK YOU to everyone who participated in the ninth annual Central Livestock photo contest. Look for these photos and many others to appear in the 2014 Central Livestock calendar.

WINNERS!

9th Annual Central Livestock

PHOTO CONTEST

1st

1st

1st

runner up

runner up

runner up

New Market Manager NamedCentral Livestock Association is pleased to announce the promotion of Dave Vandenheuvel to Manager of the Central Livestock Rock Creek market as of April 2013. In his new role he is in charge of daily operations and management at the Rock Creek market location. Dave lives in Farmington, Minn. and has been with Central Livestock for 30 years. He started with Central Livestock at the previous South St. Paul market in the sheep

department, and then transitioned into the cattle department. Dave has been working at the Rock Creek market since opening day in July 2008. His depth of experience in successful livestock marketing has prepared him well for this promotion.

Virtual Market Tour

The virtual tour of Central Livestock Association’s Rock Creek, Minn., market is available for viewing. Access the video via the Central Livestock website, www.centrallivestock.com, or via the Genex Cooperative, Inc. YouTube channel. The video details the entire process of marketing livestock at the auction market and gives a closer look at the facility and staff.

Watch the Rock Creek market virtual tour on YouTube Scan the QR code or visit: http://tinyurl.com/n8knyef

Fifth Anniversary Sale Held

The Central Livestock Rock Creek market held its fifth anniversary sale and customer appreciation day July 17, 2013. The day included a special cattle sale, lunch and door prizes. Thank you Rock Creek customers and buyers for your support over the past five years.

Janna Sorg – Hastings, Minn. Sorg is a junior at the University of Minnesota majoring in animal science. She is actively involved with the campus dairy club and has participated in various 4-H and FFA events. She is the daughter of William and Juanita Sorg of Sorg Farms in Hastings, Minn.

Branden Zuck – Ladysmith, Wis.Zuck is currently a senior at Iowa State University majoring in animal science pre-veterinary medicine. He is extremely involved on campus as a member of the Alpha Zeta Agricultural Honorary Fraternity, Block and Bridle Club, Pre-Veterinary Club, Collegiate Beef Team and various other organizations. Zuck is the son of James and Kathleen Zuck of Ladysmith, Wis.


6 3

Loading the Trailer Loading animals into a trailer can sometimes be a frustrating task, but there are steps you can take to make the task safer and, ideally, easier. For example, lower the back of the trailer as much as possible so that animals may step into the trailer without having to step up. Remember to be patient and calm during the loading process so that you do not scare or stress the animals. Additional recommendations include the following:

• Weight Distribution: When using a bumper pull trailer, place the heaviest animals in front of the axles. Load older and larger animals first, followed by younger and smaller animals.

• Ties: When tying animals in the trailer, use slip knots and tie securely at head height in the trailer.

• Visibility: Make sure animals can see you when you enter and exit the trailer, when you are in the trailer, and when you tie or untie them.

• Squeeze and Pinch Points: Remain alert to the danger of being pinned between animals and trailer sides and being pinched by the trailer gate.

• Gates: Once the animals are loaded into the trailer, quickly close the gates and ensure that they are secure.

• Protrusions: Inspect the trailer for broken or sharp objects protruding into the trailer. These items should be repaired immediately to prevent an injury to an animal or operator.

Traveling

When driving on any roadway, always maintain a safe speed, keep your headlights on and stay alert. Braking time increases when you are towing a full trailer, so maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and leave adequate room to stop. Plan travel time carefully, and be aware that weather can cause delays by impacting road conditions and animal comfort.

Do not lock the trailer when transporting animals. In the event of an emergency, rescue workers will be able to more quickly gain access to an unlocked trailer. For your animals’ safety, do not allow them to hang their heads out of the trailer, where they could be injured by flying objects.Source: Livestock trailer safety. (2012) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/64391/livestock-trailer-safety.

Central Livestock Association Special Feeder Cattle Sales ScheduleZumbrota MarketSpecial Feeder Sales Thursday at 10 a.m.• September 12, 2013 – Customer Appreciation 10th Anniversary Sale


• October 10, 2013

• October 24, 2013




• December 12, 2013 –Bred Beef Cow Sale


• January 9, 2014

• January 23, 2014



• February 27, 2014 –Bred Beef Cow Sale

• March 6, 2014

• March 20, 2014

• April 10, 2014

• May 15, 2014

• June 5, 2014 –Bred Beef Cow Sale

Rock Creek MarketSpecial Feeder Sales Wednesday at 10 a.m.• September 11, 2013


• October 9, 2013

• October 23, 2013





• January 8, 2014

• January 22, 2014



• March 5, 2014

• March 19, 2014

• April 9, 2014

• April 23, 2014

• May 14, 2014

• May 28, 2014

• June 18, 2014

• July 16, 2014 – Customer Appreciation 6th Anniversary Sale

West Fargo MarketCattle Sales Every Wednesday at 10 a.m.• September 11, 2013 –Big Iron Sale

Sheep Sales Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.• September 4, 2013


• October 2, 2013

• October 16, 2013

• October 30, 2013


• December 4,2013


• January 8, 2014

• January 22, 2014

Fall Round-Up Horse Sale• October 25, 2013 - 11 a.m. Tack Sale - 3 p.m. Horse Sale

Albany MarketSpecial Feeder Sales Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.• September 11, 2013



• January 8, 2014


• March 12, 2014

• April 9, 2014

• May 14, 2014

Conveniently located at the Central Livestock Zumbrota market, Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply is a full service livestock equipment and farm supply store. Earlier this year, Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply released a product catalog available on the Central Livestock website. It includes over 50 pages of livestock equipment and products, most of which are in stock at the store or can be ordered to fit your needs. Hundreds of products are on hand from all the main livestock supply manufactures such as Easy Way, Smidley, Real-Tuff, Behlen, Common Sense, For-Most and Applegate. To view the supply catalog visit www.centrallivestock.com and click on the catalog cover on the right side of the page. For questions about pricing or availability call Phil Olson, Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply Manager, at 507-732-7860.

Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply Catalog Available

©20

13 C

RI

A

-052

59-1

3






View the catalog online: Scan the QR code or visit: http://tinyurl.com/n4g7m8o





CENTRAL LIVESTOCK ASSOCIATION Auction Schedules


When it comes to auction markets there is a deep running tradition rooted in them. There is something about sitting in those bleachers, listening to the auctioneers chant, hearing the sound of the gavel when the sale is final and tasting the café food that makes coming to the auction market a tradition for generations young and old. Like any auction market throughout the U.S. there is history and a story behind it, the Central Livestock Zumbrota market is no different.

Prior to Central Livestock owning the Zumbrota market it was owned at various times by families and once by Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association. The Art Tostrud family began the history of the market in 1962 being the first family to own and operate it. Shortly after, in 1964, the Webster family of Don, Pat, Tom and Jerry took over the market until 1974 when Equity bought it from the family. It was not long after that the Webster family bought it back from Equity and continued to own and operate it until early 2003. In July of 2003 Central Livestock purchased the facility naming it Central Livestock Zumbrota Market and making it what it is today.

Today the Zumbrota market is the largest auction facility in the Central Livestock family handling over 300,000 head of livestock annually. In the 10 year span of Central Livestock owning the Zumbrota market there have been three managers and countless improvements and renovations. Under Central Livestock the Zumbrota market was first managed by the late Rich Voltz until his passing in 2004 when Kevin Altendorf took over management. Kevin managed the market from 2004-2008 before becoming a field representative. In 2008 Bob Young began his tenure as the Zumbrota Market Manager and remains in this role today.

With the market under new management, 2009 marked the year major facility renovations were completed. With increased safety and environmental standards needing to be met the market received a major facelift. Gutters and a brown water collection pit were installed to prevent runoff and increase storage for animal waste. Finally, roofs were built over all the livestock pens to help accommodate and protect the animals from various weather conditions.

Throughout the years there have been many changes to the Zumbrota market, but whether it was the facility or ownership, the market is still thriving. This past July marked the 10th anniversary of Central Livestock owning the market and on Sept. 12, 2013 this will be celebrated. Central Livestock would like to thank the Zumbrota market’s customers, buyers and staff for their dedication and support through the years by hosting a Customer Appreciation 10th Anniversary Special Feeder Cattle Sale. Everyone is invited to the event and we hope you will help celebrate the history of the Central Livestock Zumbrota market.


2 7

Livestock Trailer Safety

Towing a livestock trailer is a common practice on most farms and ranches. Livestock trailers, also referred to as stock trailers, are used to move livestock between locations, haul show animals to county fairs and transport animals to processing plants.

To safely tow a livestock trailer, your truck must be capable of towing the weight of the trailer plus the added weight of the livestock. Check with the manufacturer to determine the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCVW), which includes the tow vehicle’s weight plus the loaded trailer weight. The GCVW rating can be located in the vehicle’s serial number or in the operator’s manual. When calculating the weight, remember to include the weight for fuel, passengers and cargo.

The manual for the trailer should specify a maximum tongue weight – the amount of the trailer’s weight that presses down on the truck’s trailer hitch when using a bumper pull trailer or the truck’s bed when using a gooseneck trailer. The majority of the weight, 85% to 90%, should be carried over the axles so that only 10% to 15% of the weight is carried on the tongue.

Before using a livestock trailer, check both the truck and the trailer to ensure they are in good working condition. In addition, take the following actions:

• Latches and Safety Chains: Double check latches and the safety chains and cables between the truck and trailer to make sure they are fastened securely. Make sure you are using a ball that is the correct size for the trailer.

• Trailer Brakes: Inspect the breakaway cable or brake system. Manufacturers recommend that any trailer exceeding 1,000 pounds have its own brake system, but you should also check state regulations regarding brake system requirements.

• Wheel Bearings: Repack the wheel bearings on a regular basis and replace as necessary.

• Electric Wiring and Connections: Make sure all wiring is in good condition. Trailer connectors should match the truck connectors. Check to make sure all the lights, brake lights,

turn signals, and tail lights, on both the truck and the trailer are working. Make sure the electrical connection is securely plugged into the truck.

• Tires: Examine the tires for signs of dry rot, wear or damage, and make sure all tires, including the spare and inside dual tires, have the correct air pressure. Consider replacing tires at least every five years, regardless of use.

• Lug Nuts: Inspect the lug nuts regularly to ensure they are properly tightened.

• Trailer: Inspect the trailer floor to make sure it is sturdy and clean. If more traction is needed, install rubber matting. Consider replacing floor boards that are showing signs of wear or rot.

• Battery: If you use battery-powered accessories, ensure your emergency battery is charged and ready for use.

• Brake Controllers: Test your brake controllers and make adjustments as needed depending on the weight of your trailer.

o The first step in testing your electric brakes is to locate the controller or adjustor, which is typically located beneath the instrument panel on the tow vehicle. The controller has an adjustment button (+ or -) and sliding lever. You may need to use the controller to increase braking power (+) for heavier loads or decrease braking power (-) for lighter loads.

o Once you have located the controller, slowly move forward on a level surface and shift the tow vehicle transmission to neutral. Use the slide lever on the brake controller to bring the load to a stop using the trailer brakes.

o If the trailer brakes cause the truck to jerk, your trailer brakes are adjusted too high. Lower the braking power on the trailer until the trailer comes to a smooth stop. If the truck and loaded trailer do not slow to a stop, the brake controller must be adjusted to a higher level.

History of the Zumbrota Market By Brenda Sisung, Public Relations Specialist

New roof and gutter system to prevent runoff.

Drive-thru unloading area built after Central Livestock purchased the market.

Bob Young, Market Manager

Sheep

Cattle

Hogs

Corn

farm

sli

vest

ock

crop

s

2011Now

1969Then

MinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesotaMinnesota

2011Now

1969Then

NorthDakota NorthDakota NorthDakota NorthDakota

Wheat

Soybeans

FARMS79,800


ACRES8.1 million

FARMS110,747


ACRES3.83 million

FARMS31,900

AVERAGE SIZE1,241 acres

FARMS46,381


2.36 million 3.63 million 1.69 million 2.03 million

150,000 521,300 73,000 433,590

7.8 million 3.295 million 151,000 295,000

ACRES2.23 million

ACRES128,970

ACRES7.1 million

ACRES2.66 million

ACRES4 million

ACRES183,550

ACRES1.58 million

ACRES829,800

ACRES6.8 million

ACRES6.935 million

AgricultureNow & ThenNow & Then

*STATISTICS FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE - CENSUS OF AGRICULTURE

A Look at the IndustryBy Jeff Reed, Vice President, Central Livestock Association

September 20131

MARKETINGSFall has finally arrived. County and state fairs are winding down, and the Central Livestock special feeder cattle sales season is upon us. With the very difficult spring we experienced in much of our trade area, chances of a good crop seemed out of reach just three months ago. Yet, as the summer took hold, very good to excellent crops developed through most areas of the Midwest. Improved yields and ultimately the feed grain supply have led to feed prices becoming once again affordable for livestock feeders. We are hearing the term “walking corn off the farm” once again. A number of farmers, with the ability and know how, will again contemplate feeding livestock as a way to maximize their profit potential. It’s looking like a great time to be in the livestock business.

After celebrating the five-year anniversary of the Rock Creek market on July 17, 2013, we will celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Zumbrota market on September 12, 2013. This celebration will be in conjunction with the first Zumbrota Special Feeder Cattle Sale of the fall season. Please join us as we celebrate the market and thank our customers, buyers and staff.

Livestock sales volumes have been excellent at all four Central Livestock auction markets again this year; thank you for choosing our staff, auctioneers and auction facilities to market your stock. We have a deep, committed staff of marketing professionals who understand their responsibility to sell your livestock in the best way possible. We are prepared to market your cattle, hogs, sheep and goats, source feeder livestock, hedge your stock and provide marketing advice to help you maximize value. Remember our staff is here to help you, so don’t be afraid to utilize them to help you make your livestock marketing decisions.

In this Issue2-3 Livestock Trailer Safety3 Auction Schedule4 Photo Contest Winners5 Rock Creek Highlights5 Scholarship Winner6 Special Feeder Cattle

Sales Schedule6 Zumbrota Stockman’s Supply7 History of Zumbrota8 Agriculture Now and Then

Editor: Brenda SisungContributing Writers: Jeff Reed, Brenda Sisung

Send comments or suggestions to: [email protected]

CRI Mission StatementProvide products and services as effectively as possible to maximize the profitability of members and customers worldwide while maintaining a strong cooperative.

Central Livestock Purpose The purpose of Central Livestock Association is to assist livestock producers in production and marketing by providing competitive prices, superior service and broader outlets through a profitable and innovative organization.

Central LivestockAssociation

A Company of Genex Cooperative, Inc. 2013

©2013 CRI N-05731-13

central livestock association a company of genex cooperative,...

Documents