HLC magazine Agriculture, Agronomy, Seed, Crop Protection/Nutrition

1. COMMITTED TO OUR OWNERS’ SUCCESS
HARVEST LAND
Springfield
Expansion Update
Spring 2015
Youth Education
Recipes
Comfrey • Morgan • Morton • Springfield • Wabasso• Blomkest • Lake Benton
AFIS Certification

2. ContentsCheck us out at Harvestland.com
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Springfield Terminal
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Agronomy
Grain
Feed
Energy
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15-18
22 Safety
23-24 Community
AgQuest25-28
29-30 Family

3. Committed to our Owners’Success 3
Being “Committed to Our Owners’ Success”, is truly a TEAM effort. At
Harvest Land and AgQuest, we are fortunate to have a great team. As I have
mentioned in the past, it is an honor and privilege to be working for such a
great company. I am especially grateful for the Board of Directors who have
such a big responsibility in leading, supporting and guiding this unique,
diversified and growing company. One of our newer directors, Dan Tauer,
has been a valuable addition to the board.
As you read the article from Dan, and the other articles in this edition of
Harvest Land, I trust you will get a true sense of the unique company we
have. At Harvest Land, we do not worry or fixate on what the “competi-
tion” is doing. Instead, we continue to implement our strategy of building
a complete local relationship, which will be second to none in our industry.
Simply stated, it is a platform that is “Committed to Our Owners’ Success”.
Each of our employees bring their own level of commitment, experience,
passion and perspective to Harvest Land. From there, we continue to focus
on building a unified team which is dedicated to deliver exceptional service to each and every one of our valued
customers.
Once again, the entire staff thanks you for the privilege of being able to serve you. We do have an amazing story
to tell and we look forward to building on that story in 2015!
• Dave Stuk
• Roger Kettner
• Robert Liesenfeld
• Tim Sullivan
• Al Plotz
• John Schwartz
• Cole Trebesch
• Chad Edwards
• Terry Flesner
• Dan Tauer
Board Members
DAVE STUK
CEO

4. Dan Tauer
Rural Morgan farmer Dan Tauer considers himself fortunate to be a member of the Harvest Land board, a
place where he feels that his voice can make a difference. It’s a position he’s held since September 2012. Tauer
commented, “I support the cooperative way of doing business. After many years working for both a corpora-
tion and farming, I have come to appreciate it even more.”
Tauer sees this as a very challenging time in the Ag industry. He said, “One of the biggest challenges I see are
the numerous groups influencing farming and farming practices which affect our profitability, because of the
effects they have on how consumers view our products.”
On the other hand, Dan sees this as a time of opportunity. He explained, “The world demand for food and
renewable energy continues to grow and is projected to continue. Many opportunities will present themselves
that will allow farms to remain profitable, no matter what size the operation it may be. That is exciting.”
Dan and Mary, his wife of 32 years, own and operate a family farm just south of Morgan where they raise
corn and soybeans and market hogs. They have four children who will provide them with lots of excitement
in the coming year. Daughter Marisa and son-in-law Nate are expecting their first child and will move back
to the Morgan area to get involved in the family hog operation. Daughter Stephanie lives in Fargo and works
for Swanson Health Care in inventory control. Son Bryant works for Moorhead Public Utilities as an electrical
engineer and is engaged and planning an August wedding. And, youngest daughter Liz is finishing her degree
at Minnesota State University, Mankato in corporate finance/accounting and will move to St. Cloud in May to
start a new job. It looks like a busy year for the Tauers!
When Dan is not busy with his passions—farming, hauling hogs, or working outdoors—he enjoys spending
time snowmobiling, camping with the family, and water sports.
4
Board Profile

5. Relationships Deliver
5
As General Manager of HLC, I have always known that is it easier to run
a business built on sales than a company built on relationships. Over
the past 4 years, I have challenged my team to choose building rela-
tionships every time. Relationships is where the work truly begins. Our
culture continues to evolve and is based on truly getting to know our
customer’s individual needs.
Trust & transparency are two cornerstones essential in relationship
building. When we make a decision that affects our members, we’re go-
ing to communicate that decision honestly. While some decisions aren’t
always easy to make, or popular, our decisions will always be fair, and in
our judgment best for the entire organization.
Honest communication creates the trust on which strong, long-term rela-
tionships are built. Ultimately, our goal is to know you well enough that we can help you succeed on your
terms. We realize that everyone defines success in different ways. Each farming operation has their own
unique story, it is our goal to be with you each step of the way to offer our knowledge to help you succeed.
With this reality in mind, we are constantly working to improve in three areas: First, in understanding
your definition of success. Second, in communicating that definition to our team and, third, in utilizing
the resources we have within our organization to help you realize your goals.
Establishing relationships will continue to be our top priority as it has been in the past. Every day we are
working hard at it, you may be receiving phone calls to visit with new members of our team, or just re-
ceiving this magazine to let you know what is happening at HLC. We’re building a culture that prioritizes
relationships and empowers our employees to use their greatest judgment on behalf of you the patrons,
our member owners.
Again, thank-you for your dedication to Harvest Land Cooperative and we look forward to serving you in
2015 & beyond.
DENNIS SCHREIER
GENERAL MANAGER
News from the GM

6. 6

7. 15
Crop Protection
Building
Shop Facility
Seed Shed Expansion
Corn Bunker
Bulk Liquid
Fertilizer Storage
7

8. HLC Financials
show excellent results
By the time you read this article we will all be busy with the hustle and bustle
of spring rituals. Also, most of you should have received your patronage
dividend check. This is one of the benefits you receive by being an active
member with Harvest Land Cooperative. For this patronage we are grateful.
These checks are based upon the amount of business you had done with us
during the fiscal year ending August 31, 2014. Some of the financial high-
lights from the year ending August 31, 2014 include:
For year ending 2014, HLC returned $2,565,000 back to the current and past members. This equates to a
total of $25.5 million over the last 12 years.
As you can see, 2014 was a very successful year. Because of your business it allowed Harvest Land Coopera-
tive, your cooperative, to continue to aggressively retire equities and build state of the art facilities to help us
be of better service to you.
You have heard it many times before and we cannot say it enough, we want to thank you for your business
and we will continue to prove to you that doing business with Harvest Land Cooperative does benefit our
communities, our employees, and especially you, the member and producer.
PAUL WIENEKE
CONTROLLER
Sales $ 225,763,000
Local Earnings $ 4,017,000
Patronage Refunds Rec’d $ 2,401,000
Net Margin after Taxes $ 6,050,000
Patronage & Equity Distribution 2014
Cash Patronage 50% $ 1,677,000
Revolving Equity 50% $ 1,677,000
Age and Estate Equity Retired $ 873,000
Scholarships paid by Equities $ 15,000
Capital Projects/Purchases 2014
Springfield Agronomy Addition- $ 3,303,000
-Seed Warehouse Expansion
-Crop Protection Facility
-Shop Facility
-Bulk Liquid Fertilizer Storage Addition
Rolling Stock $ 587,000
8

9. Changes Continue at
Springfield Terminal
From staff to facilities, changes continue at Springfield. Recently, Joel Kretsch
returned to the Agronomy Operations team after 16 months away. It’s some-
thing that Scott Arnsdorf appreciates, as the crew has been busy with expansion
on the site.
Scott & Joel gave an update on the construction project, noting that the shop
was pretty much enclosed by mid-March. They are waiting for concrete work to
be finished so that interior work can be done. “We should be in by mid- to late
summer,” they said.
The seed warehouse is completed and in full use. The chemical warehouse is
complete and should be in full use by the time you read this. They also added
that, on the liquid side, plans are to include the liquid fertilizer plant into the
new chemical facility this summer.
In addition to Kretsch returning, there are a number of other new faces at the
plant. Steve Gatzlaff, Nick Meine, Garrett Jenniges and Mitchell Anderson are new applicators—and there may
be more as spring field work amps up.
As they anticipate the spring rush, they commented, “We ask that producers plan ahead for their application
needs. As always, the spring season will be busy. There’s a lot of things to get done in a short time. Pre-planning
and giving us advance notice for spring and summer spraying is greatly appreciated. Please plan!”
JOEL KRETSCH &
SCOTT ARNSDORF
AGRONOMY OPERATIONS
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Agronomy

10. To be honest, this article originated from the semi-annual debate that ensues when a
box or bag from Cabela’s “somehow” shows up at my house with a shiny assortment
of the latest fishing lures for the upcoming season. Not surprisingly, my wife and I
sometimes tend to disagree on the value or perceived need of that box(es). But it
started me thinking about some winter conversations I’ve had at work.
Oddly enough, I’ve had a few more questions posed to me the last few months about
starter fertilizer. This was an interesting change since I’ve usually answered questions
centered on chemicals, weeds, surfactants, and rotational restrictions in recent years.
After I had done my best to answer the questions from a value versus cost compari-
son (and yes, it went better than the discussion with my wife), I thought, “Why don’t
more customers ask what is it?” Or, more importantly, “Tell me why I need it.”
The reason the fertilizer starter question interested me was that it deals with both of
these questions. First, lower use rate starter blends say a 7-17-3 with trace amounts of
iron, copper, and manganese versus 10-34-0 plus a quart of Zinc. What are you actu-
ally getting for your money? And secondly, the need—or possible need—for certain micronutrients that may be included
in some of the low rate starters, and what the probable—or generally accepted—crop need is.
Once you know the weight, analysis, and cost of the products, it becomes fairly simple to compare two different programs
to arrive at the better value. Then, looking at the different micronutrients supplied in a starter, you can decide whether it’s
probable or even somewhat possible that the absence of these micros would be yield limiting.
Remember there are many sources of information you can turn to with questions on various agricultural topics like the
starter fertilizer comparison.
Harvest Land has always strongly recommended the macronutrients N, P, K, along with addressing sulfur and zinc defi-
ciencies. Many publications support potential yield limiting deficiencies without them.
I encourage you that—when faced with decisions about starter comparison programs, etc.—you search out second opin-
ions. You can find excellent unbiased resources from the university specialists at the Minnesota, Iowa State, and South
Dakota State agriculture departments. Although the three don’t always completely agree on each topic or question, the
answers—or at least a general consensus—aren’t very difficult to find, with a little research and time. More often than not, a
simple study of the percent of active ingredients on the label itself will answer most of your questions.
We believe that Harvest Land and its agronomy staff have proven to be a trusted advisor when questions about agricultural
products and practices arise. We sincerely hope that, if you have questions about a product we recommend—or want an
opinion on a product someone else recommends—that you won’t hesitate to ask us.
In this upcoming year of probable lower commodity prices and tightening margins, the last thing you want to do—or we
would want you to do—is spend money on inputs without receiving the value you thought you were getting or should
expect to receive.
Never be afraid to ask Harvest Land—or any other agricultural input provider— “What’s in it?” Or “Why do I need it?”
One thing is sure; my wife would definitely appreciate an unbiased second opinion on the contents of that Cabela’s box!
What is it? Why do I need it?
Agriculture and Cabela’s
TIM WOELFEL
CROP PROTECTION MANAGER
10
Agronomy

11. Looking Beyond the
2015 Crop Year
We’re barely into the 2015 crop year, but growers are already concerned about
2016. In discussions I’ve had with growers and what they see moving forward,
most mentioned concerns about commodity and input prices for the 2016 crop
year. Many mentioned that it’s going to come down to producing maximum
bushels to cover cash flows, and to be profitable.
So where are the opportunities? There are several investments that will offer
increased probabilities to raise the maximum yield. The first would be—once
this planting season is complete—that you spend the necessary time with your
account manager to put together your farm plans for the 2016 crop year. Taking
this proactive approach early this spring will help you identify and understand
your investments for next year. This will assist you in planning inputs for 2016
and putting together a more accurate marketing plan to help identify when to
market your crop.
Growers tell me there are usually several times during the growing season that a person can lock in a profit. Part
of this is knowing the investments to grow the crop. We want to help you identify your cash flow for next year,
so you can take advantage of opportunities that may arise in the market. You’re best marketing opportunity for
the 2016 crop may be early this summer—and we don’t want you to miss that opportunity.
The second thing we want to promote is smart investments in your crop. It’s hard to raise maximum yields if
you’re thinking of cutting back on inputs such as crop nutrients or using a cheaper seed variety with less genetic
potential. It’s understandable to become more conservative if the markets start to trend downward. That’s why
we encourage you to look at investments in your crop to achieve your yield goal, as opposed to looking for ways
to reduce costs and thus reduce yields.
So what is the best way to achieve this? We suggest that the best way forward is to utilize our precision division,
“Harvest Max.” It analyzes data information that exists in each of your fields, acre by acre, allowing you to make
more informed decisions on your individual farm to reach maximum yields while investing wisely acre by acre.
This will improve your odds of achieving maximum yields.
Over the past few years, many producers have made improvements in their equipment. A lot of those improve-
ments included monitors with the ability to collect yield data, do variable rate seed planting, and more. The ma-
jority of you have the capabilities to invest wisely, acre by acre. We’d like the opportunity to help you recognize
the best way forward for your farming operation.
JIM BOYLE
CROP NUTRIENT MANAGER
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Agronomy

12. As we enter another crop year, it’s important to talk about Harvest Max
and some of the things that Harvest Max growers and their account man-
agers are doing to maximize their yields. With new crop corn hovering
between $3.50 and $3.75 the past few months, it’s more important than ever
to be efficient with your inputs. Whether it’s seed or fertilizer, Harvest Max
growers have the ability to dig deeper into their operations and validate that
the dollars spent are going to the right places. Harvest Max growers track
hybrids, populations, soil types, fertility, and weather data across their op-
erations, and across more than 100,000 acres in Southern Minnesota. This
dataset of over 50 different operations allows us to pinpoint what works and
where it works, maximizing efficiency of today’s high priced inputs.
Harvest Max Offerings
– Yield Analysis
– Fertility, Hybrids, Soil Types, Population, Treatments
– Grid Sampling
– 2.5 acre - 3.3 acre - 4.4 acre - Zone
– Application Reports
– Site Specific Record Keeping
– Variable Rate Fertility Management
– Multiple Year Yield Analysis
– Variable Rate Planting Recommendations
– Hybrid Placement Recommendations
– Variable Rate Starter Recommendations
– Benchmark yourself against like operations
– Harvest Max Online
– Online Application Records
– Live Weather Data
MATT PIETIG
HARVEST MAX
Check Out
Your Options
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Agronomy

13. 13
One last item I’d recommend is to contact your account manager to see which fields need to be grid sampled—
many of your fields are up to be re-gridded after four years. Re-grid sampling is critical to a successful intensive
soil sampling program as it allows us to return to the original geo referenced points to re-test and evaluate your
fertility program.
This past year we had our interns sample a field utilizing three different sampling methods, as shown in the table
and pictures below. The methods used included a conventional soil sample, a 4.4-acre grid sample, and a 4.4-
acre grid/zone sample where we moved our sample points within the soil types that are historically poor or high
yielding.
Looking at the results, it becomes very clear that by fine tuning sampling methods, we can see what nutrients are
yield limiting and where they are deficient. Then we can apply nutrients accordingly. Harvest Max data shows—
year over year—that the grid-spread acres within our dataset have a five to nine bushel advantage over non-grid-
ded acres.
Agronomy

14. 14
Understanding
Seed Traits
Finding the line between economic and agronomic decisions is very challenging
and can cause us to lose a lot of sleep. With that being said, let’s talk about traits
for a while and compare platforms to each other on what they protect against.
For 2015, some producers are purchasing and planting trait packages that are
unfamiliar; most of those are the VT2P (Double Pro) platform. This package has
two modes of action above ground to protect corn from earworm, fall army-
worm, European corn borer, and southwestern corn borer. It does not have any
protection below ground to control corn rootworm. The Smartstax trait package
offers seven modes of action that expresses eight different proteins to protect
corn. It controls corn rootworm, southwestern corn borer, European corn borer,
black cutworm, fall armyworm, western bean cutworm, and corn earworm.
When positioning VT2P products, try to place them on rotated ground which
did not have a heavy corn rootworm pressure in the past.
We still have to consider northern corn rootworm beetle pressure on rotated farms because of extended dia-
pause. The northern corn rootworm beetles laid their eggs in soybean fields the previous year. When selecting
a VT2P, look for one with an excellent root score, and putting an insecticide on VT2P hybrids is highly rec-
ommended. The VT2P platform will continue to elevate in the future, along with the Smartstax platform. A
combination of both of these will allow you to plant the best genetics on your acres while keeping your bottom
line in mind.
Getting a healthy crop up and out of the ground is the first hurdle to jump on your path to big yields. Early
season scouting is important. When you’re out in a field, look for seed corn maggot, white grub, wireworm,
cutworm, rootworm larvae, pythium, phytophora, rhizoctonia, fursarium, and seedling blight. Talk to your
account manager to get more in-depth information on these pests and diseases.
Getting a picket fence stand is one of the most important goals for the year. Take extra time to make sure your
planter is ready for spring planting. Planters today are a lot different and much more complex than the ones
30 years ago. Then, a can of WD 40 and tube grease was all that was needed to make them run for the season.
Keeping your planter running in tiptop shape will drastically reduce skips and doubles, which are some of the
biggest yield robbers. Check your population and stand early and often. Use this chart to determine the correct
distance to measure, then simply count the kernels/plants in that distance to get your stand.
Looking ahead to 2016, we are hoping that the Extend and Enlist traits are approved and hit the market. If they
are approved for 2016, 10 to 15 percent of our supply will be Dicamba
or 2, 4-D tolerant. We are also testing several new seed treatments and
looking at new drought tolerant hybrids, as well as other products that
we hope will give us a yield bump. All of that data will be tracked and
processed through Harvest Max, Harvest Land’s precision program. We
have a great supply of the market’s best hybrids and varieties for your
in-season needs. Please let your account manager know if you have
questions about product placement, pests and diseases, or agronomic
practices.
BRETT BRAULICK
SEED DIVISION
Agronomy
Row Width Length of Row
38 inches 13 ft 9 in
36 inches 14 ft 6 in
30 inches 17 ft 5 in
22 inches 23 ft 9 in
20 inches 26 ft 2 in
15 inches 34 ft 10 in

15. Production & Marketing—
Two Sides of the Same Coin
If the past year has taught us anything, it’s probably that profits are going to be
a lot tighter than we’ve experienced recently. Old news, yes, but what does that
mean going forward? With the price environment we’re currently in, it’s become
more important than ever to know your numbers, and to know them well.
By numbers I’m talking about cost of production, or break even. Without having
a good idea of where you’re sitting, it makes marketing your grain a shot in the
dark and an emotional decision rather than a data-backed decision. That makes
grain marketing more difficult, something none of us need. Once you have your
COP nailed down, it allows you to start setting realistic sales targets and putting
in orders so that your price goal can be traded electronically any hour of the day,
so that no rallies are missed. Many producers also like to set time targets as well,
meaning that a percentage of grain needs to be sold by a certain date. This is just
another way to stay disciplined in your grain marketing, and to protect against
market downfalls without any sales, similar to the market slide late last summer.
Along with knowing your numbers and setting sales targets, it is also important to
understand your grain marketing options. Hedge-to-arrive contracts (HTA’s), basis fixed contracts, and simple
forward price contracts are all good options offered by Harvest Land Cooperative. Even if you’re used to using
the same contract in the past, it’s important to know the benefits and risks of many different kinds of contracts,
in order to find one that suits your farm’s current situation and matches the current market situation.
I think it’s important to look at futures and basis as two separate markets. They are related, but move based on
different factors. Supply and demand says that in times of high or rising prices when producer sales are high,
the basis is going to be wider. Adversely, in times of low prices, the end-user demand for grain is going to be
higher, resulting in a better basis. Because of this, HTAs and basis fixed contracts can be used to take advantage
of one market while waiting for the other to improve. Now this isn’t always true, of course, but being aware of
the current situation and understanding your options doesn’t hurt. If you are content with the cash price for
the delivery period you’re looking at, there’s nothing wrong with a good old forward contract as well.
Again, in a year like this one, it’s just important to know all of your options and implement them into a market-
ing plan. That’s something I’d be happy to assist you with.
In conclusion, I want to leave you with a thought. The production side of agriculture is becoming extremely
advanced and efficient. Everyone has some sort of production plan, and higher yields are being achieved with
every new growing season. However, that’s only half of the business. Having a detailed production plan with-
out a disciplined marketing plan leaves your business running on only half its potential. Yes, the markets are
as unpredictable as the weather, but just like various crop protection strategies and seed varieties, there are
different marketing tools and goals that can be adjusted to fit every farm’s needs. It all starts with knowing your
numbers—allowing you to be a proactive grain marketer rather than a reactive one.
“Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.” —Bobby Unser
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JALEN PIETIG
GRAIN MARKETING
ADVISOR
Grain

16. Looking ahead
16
Globally, South America has been harvesting what appears to be a very good crop. Just
recently, Brazilian corn production was estimated to be 1 mmt higher which brings it to
75 mmt. Also, the Argentine bean crop is expected to grow by the same amount. As for
the rest of the world, there has been very little as far as production threats, but it’s early.
With the March 31st report behind us, trade will be focused on the weather and plant-
ing progress. At this time there are no major threats for the vast majority of the U.S.
Yes, it is true that corn acres have been trimmed by 2%, but with favorable growing
conditions, we should produce adequate supplies. Also, the March stocks for corn were
in the top 4 largest stocks going back to 1985. It’s possible that we have seen the high-
est printed numbers for the year from the USDA. There has been speculation that the
southern U.S. is experiencing delayed corn planting and may switch to planting beans.
The USDA already has beans slated to increase by 1% to 84.7 million acres, which is a
record for the U.S. If an average crop is realized, and the possibility of more acres being
planted into beans, it will only pad our existing stocks, putting added pressure on the futures market.
KURT SOUPIR
GRAIN MERCHANDISER
In the last 31 years , we have ended the crop year at
or above the trend line 23 times(74%) and below 8
times(26%).
In the last 31 years, we have ended the crop year at or
above 18 times(58%) and below 13 times(41%).
Grain

17. 17
I put the chart below together to get an idea of what the prospective planted acres actually would mean at different
yields. As you can see, below trend line yields would be cause for some concern. Be aware of the near and long
range weather forecast, as well as the planting progress in the US. However, stay proactive with your grain mar-
keting.
On the home front, the corn and bean market for Harvest Land had been strictly a truck market. Even though ev-
erything we have shipped so far this crop year has been to the local processors, we have been able to keep up with
our shipments. Because of the adequate supplies, the export market has been satisfied without having to come
up to us to get it. The same can be said for domestic needs as well. The strength in the U.S. dollar has hurt our
export market, because the rest of the world is a cheaper source for grains and oilseeds.
Lastly, I would like to remind everyone to check your grain stored at home more often as the temperature outside
increases. You could take advantage of our free PL program and not have to worry about your grain spoiling. If
you have any questions on our Free PL program, please do not hesitate to call any one of our Locations-Morgan,
Morton, Springfield, or Comfrey.
Future Report Dates
May 12-Crop Production
June 10-Crop Production (winter wheat production forecast)
June 30- Grain Stocks (June 1) & Acreage for 2015
July 10- Crop Production (forecast for all small grains)
2015/16 Crop Year
CORN YIELD SOYBEANS YIELD
Trend Below Above Trend Below Above
Planted Acres 89.2 89.2 89.2 Planted Acres 84.7 84.7 84.7
Harvested Acres 82.2 82.2 82.2 Harvested Acres 83.9 83.9 83.9
Yield 165 160 170 Yield 45 42 48
Total Crop 13563.0 13152.0 13974.0 Total Crop 3775.5 3523.8 4027.2
Carry In 1777.0 1777.0 1777.0 Carry In 385.0 385.0 385.0
Total Supply 15340.0 14929.0 15751.0 Total Supply 4160.5 3908.8 4412.2
Usage 13695.0 13695.0 13695.0 Usage 3701.0 3701.0 3701.0
Carry Out 15 1645.0 1234.0 2056.0 Carry Out 15 459.5 207.8 711.2
Stocks/Use Ratio 12.01% 9.01% 15.01% Stocks/Use Ratio 12.42% 5.61% 19.22%
Note: Carry in and usage numbers are from March 10th
Grain

18. Getting to know the team
Every day is busy, but grain truck driver Clete Ludewig made time in his
schedule to pause long enough to tell us about his work with Harvest Land.
His route that day brought him to Morgan where he stopped to visit for few
minutes.
The days can be long, but Ludewig likes the freedom he has, and the fact
that he’s home every night. He told us about his daily routines.
“I check the truck over, then head out to where I’ve been dispatched. It
might be a farm pickup or it could be one of our facilities. I pick up grain
on the farm. I might haul it to a destination like a corn plant, or to one of
our own facilities. I usually start about 6:00 in the morning. How late I go
depends on grain lines where I’m hauling. I usually try to be parked by 5:00 p.m.—some days it’s earlier, some
days it’s later.”
Ludewig especially enjoys the independence he has as a driver. “We get dispatched and go do it. I like the farm
pickups and meeting patrons. The biggest challenges can be maneuvering in and out of farm yards.”
Clete completed two years at Harvest Land March 18. It’s a day that’s easy to remember, as it’s also his wedding
anniversary. Ludewig joined the co-op with 18 years of experience, working construction and driving a semi that
pulled side dump or belly dump units. He hauled gravel or “pretty much anything that would go in the box.”
That job kept him on the road, away from home, too much. “It was long days, six days a week. You do a years’
worth of work in seven months. That wears on family life. Here I’m home every night. I like it here—I love what I
do. I work with good people.”
Clete and his wife Julie live on a farm site four miles south of Sleepy Eye. They have two grown children—Trevor
and Tiffany—and a 12-year-old daughter, Trisha, who’s a sixth grader at Sleepy Eye Public, and a grandson Adri-
an-age 4. Clete enjoys camping, riding his Ranger,
and cutting wood.
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Grain

19. Feed Update
PIG SOURCING
Call us. We have seen sources of pigs
open up and these options include: Spot
Loads, Investor/Pig Coops, Select Flows
and Genetic Sources.
Harvest Land has placed groups of
quality pigs through multiple systems. If
you need something soon or even a year
from now, let us know as there systems
in the works that may fit your operation.
Getting your name on the list well in
advance is helpful to get what you want,
when you need it.
FUTURE PLANS
Do you have plans to expand or diversify? Maybe a
hog barn is a fit for you. Many quality area producers
are looking for facilities or you want to stay indepen-
dent. AgQuest and Harvest Land can help you.
ELECTROLYTES
PEDV is out there and some early breakouts have been
an issue across the country so no operation is immune.
Up your game by reviewing sanitation protocols and
keep your pigs hydrated with LOL Swine Electrolytes
that may be administered in the feed or water. Elec-
trolytes are very effective at restoring or maintaining
the water balance for those pigs about to be hauled or
just arriving.
CATTLE MINERALS
Cattle markets remain positive, you
improve genetics, and herd health is
important. You can boost immunity,
conception rates and performance just
$.10-$.15/head per day.
Wind and Rain Cattle Mineral is for-
tified to meet the needs of your cow
herd with a variety of drug options. The
larger particle size is unique as it resists
blowing away and is coated eliminate
bricking up after it becomes wet. Less
wasted $.
Minerals are too important. Skip somewhere else!
SUPPLEMENTAL TUBS
Are you grazing Corn Stalks and Pastures? How about
incoming cattle for the feedlot that may need an extra
boost?
Lick tubs offer convenience with proven results. These
low moisture, hard cooked tubs; 30-13 Protein, Stress,
Mineral and All Stock Tubs cover a variety of needs.
30-13 protein tubs are perfect for low quality pastures
and corn stalks and help better fiber digestion.
19
JEFF BERDAN
FEED SPECIALIST
Feed

20. TRAVIS WENDT
ENERGY SERVICE
SPECIALIST
Travis graduated from Springfield Public Schools in 2005. After High School, he
attended Minnesota West Community and Technical College for Auto Body. After
school, he started with Harvest Land in the Agronomy Division. Growing up on a
family farm, agronomy was always an interest.
After Harvest Land, he went to work with his uncle at his body shop in Springfield,
learning many tricks of the trade. While doing body work, he started a motorcycle
shop with his spare time. A year and a half ago, he decided to make the move back
to Harvest Land, where he is now your Propane Service Technician. He handles
all of the bidding, installation, and billing for propane involved projects. Trenching
lines, leak testing, and heater repair are just a few of the services that he can pro-
vide.
If you have questions about propane, or your propane system, don’t hesitate to call!
If he doesn’t have the answer, he knows where to find it.
Travis Wendt Cell: 507-227-7119
Email: twendt@harvestland.com
RUSS HACKER
Meet the energy team
20
Russ has been a part of the Harvest Land team for 21 years. Russ started in Agron-
omy when he arrived in 1994, he then took over the petroleum position in 2007.
Today, his duties include: Fuel pump repair and replacement, cardtrol maintenance,
monthly fire extinguisher reports, transferring LP from rail cars to storage tanks,
works with LP service department when needed, fill in for driver for fuel and LP
products, and also does bulk oil and package oil deliveries.
Russ enjoys getting to know each of you when he makes deliveries to your farm site.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, he is here to assist you with all your petroleum needs.
Energy

21. Taking Advantage of a
Volatile Petroleum Market
To say the least, the last three months have been a learning experience for me. That’s partly
because I accepted the Energy Sales Specialist position at Harvest Land Cooperative and
even more so because the petroleum market can’t make up its mind what direction it wants
to go.
The petroleum market has been very volatile of late, as are the grain and currency markets.
The correlations that we look for aren’t happening. If the dollar goes down, grain and energy
should go up & vise versa. But, that doesn’t always happen. On any given day, all three can
go up, down, or sideways. At one time, some speculators were screaming $30 for a barrel of
crude, while others were screaming $75 a barrel. Where is it really? It’s a little bit lower than
halfway between the two. Where is it going? If I knew that answer, I’d have my toes in the
sand on my own private island, and you would all be invited for BBQ and drinks.
I’ve certainly learned that patience is a virtue—that is, until you’re patient too long. There
is nothing more frustrating than standing on the dock, ticket in hand, waving goodbye to a
boat that you are supposed to be on.
Take a good look at your fuel usage; if you need to reduce your input cost per acre—and have not contracted any fuel for the
coming year—don’t miss your chance. As of April 6, you can fill your barrels with Ruby Fieldmaster for $2.049. That’s about
$1.36 per gallon less than last year. Our current contract price for fall 2015 is $2.299. That’s about $1.03 a gallon less than
filling off the truck during harvest 2014. These prices are of great value to you, the producer. Whether the price goes up or
down, right now is a great time to make sure that your barrels are full going into spring, and to lock in at least 50 percent of
your fuel needs for fall 2015. Like I said, patience is a virtue. Just don’t be the guy or gal waving goodbye to the party boat
you could have been on!
Don’t be afraid to offset your operating costs with a forward contract. Give me a call, and we can talk through
your options. Curty Meyers Cell: 507-430-1884 • Morgan Office:507-249-3196 • Email: cmeyers@harvestland.com
CURTY MEYERS
ENERGY SALES
SPECIALIST
Recently, Curty Meyers ‑accepted the Energy Sales Specialist position at Harvest Land Cooperative. His duties include,
but are not limited to: LP and fuel sales and contracting, lubricant sales, and LP and fuel equipment sales.
Curty has been a part of the Morgan Fire/Ambulance Department since November, 2004. He enjoys spending time with
his wife Claire and daughter Nadia. In his spare time, family motorcycle rides, evening drives in our 1951 Pontiac Chief-
tain, and softball keep me busy. Softball is a passion of his, but reoccurring injuries have placed him in a coaching role.
Whether it be home heat or full fuel and lubricant service for your farm and/or shop give Curty a call to discuss your op-
tions. Fuel prices are very consumer friendly, and look to remain that way for a while. Fuel contracts are well over a dollar
per gallon cheaper than last year. Curty looks forward to getting to know everyone and establishing a trusting relationship
to assist you with your petroleum needs.
Getting to know Curty Meyers
Energy

22. 22
Safety Tips about Propane
and Carbon Monoxide
Make time for safety
Propane is a safe, econom-
ical, clean-burning, and
versatile fuel when properly
used. Remember, only you
can keep your family safe, so
be sure that all family mem-
bers review this important
safety information.
Can you smell propane?
Propane smells like rotten
eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead
animal—but not everyone can
smell it. Older people may have
difficulty smelling, as their sense of smell may be less. Medical
conditions or the effects of medication, alcohol, tobacco, or
drugs may also reduce the ability to detect the smell.
On rare occasions, propane can lose its odor due to:
•The presence of air, water, or rust in a propane tank or cylinder
•The passage of leaking propane through the soil
Because of the possibility of odor loss, or problems with a sense
of smell, a person should respond immediately to even a faint
odor of gas.
If you suspect a propane leak, these are important things to
do—or not do.
• No Flames or Sparks! Immediately put out all smoking
materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, ap-
pliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from
these sources can trigger an explosion or fire.
• Leave the Area Immediately! Get everyone out of the build-
ing or area where you think that gas is leaking.
• Shut Off The Gas. If it can be done safely, shut off the main
supply valve on the propane tank. To close the valve, turn it
to the right (clockwise).
• Report the Leak. From a neighbor’s home or another nearby
building—away from the gas leak—call the propane retailer
immediately. If you can’t reach the propane retailer, call 911
or the local fire department.
• Do Not Return to the Building or Area until the propane re-
tailer, emergency responder, or qualified service technician
determines that it is safe to do so.
• Have the System Checked. Before you attempt to use any
propane appliances, a propane retailer or a qualified service
technician must check the entire system to ensure that it is
leak-free.
Should you light a pilot light that has gone out?
If a pilot light repeatedly goes out or is very difficult to light,
there may be a safety problem. Do not try to fix the problem
yourself. It is strongly recommended that only a qualified ser-
vice technician light any pilot light that has gone out.
If you light a pilot light yourself, you are taking the risk of start-
ing a fire or an explosion. If you feel that you must, carefully
follow all the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings con-
cerning the appliance before attempting to do so.
Carbon Monoxide and your safety
What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide is a very dangerous gas that can’t be smelled
or tasted. It is produced when any fuel burns. High levels of CO
can come from appliances that are not operating correctly, or
from a venting system or chimney that is blocked.
Monoxide Can Be Deadly!
High levels of CO can make you dizzy or sick. In extreme cases,
CO can cause brain damage or death.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
• Headache
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
If you suspect CO is present, act immediately!
1. If you or a family member shows physical symptoms of CO
poisoning, get everyone out of the building and call 911 or your
local fire department.
2. If it is safe to do so, open windows to allow entry of fresh air,
and turn off any appliances you suspect may be releasing CO.
3. If no one has symptoms, but you suspect that CO is present,
call your propane retailer or a qualified service technician to
check CO levels and all propane equipment.
AARON
GUGGISBERG
SAFETY DIRECTOR
Safety

23. 2015 Farm Safety & Wellness
& Emergency Response Day
On June 2, 2015, from 4:30-7:00 P.M., at Riverside Park, Harvest Land Cooperative & AgQuest Financial
Services will be hosting a Farm Safety & Wellness Day. This event will be open to the public and is not limited
to just the youth living on the farm. For the past 2 years the event has been hosted in Morgan. However, Harvest
Land & AgQuest are known through our 5 locations, and we feel it is beneficial to reach out to each of these
communities.
This year, we have incorporated all emergency response volunteers into this event, including: Springfield
Fire Department, Springfield Ambulance, MN State Patrol, Brown County Sheriff’s Department, and North-
Star K9 Services, LLC. The purpose of adding Emergency Volunteers into this event is for the youth to be able
to meet them, and also get familiar with the equipment in the event of an emergency. More importantly, it’s an
opportunity for the volunteers to get to know the youth of the community. Also included will be ATV Safety by
the MN Valley ATV Riders, healthy snack options from members of the HLC/AgQuest Wellness Committee,
and Parthenon Insurance will be hosting a grain bin simulator for all Emergency Service volunteers from the
area to train and educate them.
We are looking for support from all Springfield businesses, the community of Springfield, and all of our
Emergency Volunteers to make this event a complete success. While donations will be accepted to help fund a
meal, take home literature, and other items, we are mainly looking for volunteers to help keep the youth safe
from any accidents.
If you would like to support this educational event or have any questions, please contact Fawn Mc-
Namara, at 507-249-3196 (work), 507-430-1348 (cell) or fmcnamara@harvestland.com.
23
Community

24. Coops Yes! Leadership Conference
The Coops Yes! Youth Leadership Conference was held last month in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Harvest Land
& AgQuest Financial Services sponsored 22 students from the area schools including: Springfield, Sleepy Eye,
Morgan, Comfrey & New Ulm to attend the conference.
Students in grades 10-12 who are members of the FFA,4-H, DECA, FBLA, FHA/HERO, VICA, and HOSA, and
students whose parents/grandparents are members of Harvest Land, are eligible to attend. Those who attend the
conference develop new friendships and meet youth leaders from all over Minnesota and Wisconsin, learn from
exciting speakers with powerful messages about leadership and the value of cooperation, discuss important teen
issues, and solve challenging cooperative case studies.
During one of the presentations students are split into groups where they develop and build their own
cooperative. Students must work as a team and educate the group on what they will sell, who their customers are,
how will they market to their customers, will they have a board of directors, etc. The entire program is very edu-
cational for students who plan to pursue a career in the field of agriculture. For more information or to attend in
2016, please contact Fawn McNamara @ 507-249-3196 or fmcnamara@harvestland.com.
24
Community

25. Growing Team,
Growing Energy
AgQuest’s Business Relationship Management (BRM)
team is fairly new—and growing. Kari Scholtz joined
the team in May 2014, and Sara Compart and David
Luepke signed on in November.
“With this group, our goal is to take a team concept
out to our borrowers,” Scholtz said. “It’s kind of a new
concept at Harvest Land/AgQuest. Originally, we were
more territorial. Now we’re going out on joint calls to-
gether. Along with that, we’re trying to make ourselves
available at different locations—even if our primary
location is the Springfield Terminal site.”
Luepke added, “It’s multiple people serving customers.
That’s based more on the BRM skill set and how it fits.
We work with Harvest Land staff, especially the ac-
count managers, to help our clients.”
“Sara and David will help customers dig in and under-
stand the numbers. We know the cash flows are tight
for many of our producers and we are here to help, but
that takes hard work and trust for both the producer
and our team. That’s where we are to building our strengths. This is where AgQuest can separate itself from oth-
er lenders. We do ag all day, every day,” Scholtz explained.
Administrative assistant Melissa Robertson is the fourth member of the BRM team. She plays a key role as the
others redefine the team concept.
“Melissa is our go-to gal, whenever you call to schedule an appointment or need assistance, she’s always there to
meet your needs. She knows customers on a different level, with her two-and-a-half years experience, she has
been able to bridge the gap—she can do about anything. The customers have grown to trust her—she’s the first
one they call,” Scholtz said.
The team encourages anyone with questions to call or email. They’re available to help!
Kari Scholtz @ 507-430-9094; kscholtz@agquest.net
Melissa Robertson @ 507-723-7378; mrobertson@agquest.net
Sara Compart- 507-430-7748; scompart@agquest.et
David Luepke- 507-430-6831; dluepke@agquest.net
25
KARI SCHOLTZ, SARA COMPART,
DAVID LUEPKE, MELISSA ROBERTSON
AGQUEST BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP MANAGERS
AgQuest

26. Meet the Newest
Team Members
26
DAVID LUEPKE
AGQUEST BUSINESS
RELATIONSHIP MANAGER
SARA COMPART
AGQUEST BUSINESS
RELATIONSHIP MANAGER
David Luepke graduated from Southwest Minnesota State University with
majors in ag business and accounting in 2010, then worked in commercial and
agricultural lending in the metro area for four years.
“I enjoy getting back to rural Minnesota, working face-to-face with customers,
meeting their needs, and adding value to their operations,” Luepke said. “Every-
one’s operation is different—we figure out ways to help.”
Luepke continues to be involved in, and lives on, the family farm near Court-
land. He was involved in academic and fine arts and graduated from Minnesota
Valley Lutheran High School at rural New Ulm. At college, he was involved in
student government and academic organizations. He’s currently finishing a
master’s degree in business administration at the University of South Dakota.
David enjoys international travel and has been to Western and Eastern Europe
and Central America.
Sara Compart graduated from South Dakota State University with an ag busi-
ness major and animal science minor in 2013. She worked for a bank in south-
west Minnesota for 18 months before coming to AgQuest.
“It’s fun to be out with customers, getting to know their operations, and being
able to offer all the different aspects of AgQuest. We can make things work for
our customers,” Sara said.
Compart grew up on the family’s rural Nicollet hog farm but she and her
brother Dusty developed their own business, raising and showing rabbits lo-
cally, state-wide, and nationally. It’s something they still enjoy. Like Luepke, she
graduated from Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School. She took part in FFA
at Nicollet High School.
At SDSU, Sara was active in and held various offices in Block & Bridle, Little
International, and Swine Club.
AgQuest’s two newest Business Relationship Managers have parallel lives. Both grew up on Nicollet County
farms, both were 4-Hers, and both gained valuable experience by working in banks before joining the AgQuest/Har-
vest Land team last November.
AgQuest

27. AFIS Certification
Farming is not what it was 50 years
ago, or even 15 years ago. Innovations
in technology continue to change and
enhance how we farm. With those
changes can come new exposures and
risks. Making a simple call to your local
insurance agent to purchase a cookie
cutter plan may have worked in the
past, but today one size does not fit all.
That is where the experienced and
agricultural focused agents at AgQuest
come in. We recognize that each oper-
ation is uniquely different, and under-
stand that farmers expect and require
agents with a dedicated knowledge of
this ever-changing environment.
AgQuest has a deep-rooted commit
ment to the ag industry, and one way
we are able to achieve this is though our
agents continued training and designa-
tion as an Agribusiness Farm Insurance Specialist (AFIS). AFIS focuses specifically on agriculture and is the only
designation of its kind offered in the insurance industry. This designation is an intense and rigorous process of
learning, and understanding policy impact in the agricultural industry, with the ultimate goal of passing the bene-
fits of our knowledge on to the farmer. Of the 37,100 licensed insurance agents in Minnesota, just 22 hold this title,
two of whom are AgQuest agents. Tim Lewis received his AFIS certification in 2007 and Amber Weber received
hers in 2013. They are both Property & Casualty Specialists and are located right here in this area.
As each farmer and operation has unique needs, our agents sit down at the kitchen table with customers right in
their homes. This allows the best opportunity to understand what goes on at the farm first-hand that we could
never do in an office setting.
AgQuest is an advocate for farmers. In other words we are farming professionals FOR farmers. Our knowledge,
background and passion in this industry is not only a valuable asset to AgQuest and our retailer partners, but most
importantly, to our customers.
For more information and details contact one of our AFIS certified agents Tim Lewis (612-756-2903) or Amber
Weber (320-894-0663.) Email • insurance@agquest.net or visit us on our website- www.agquest.net
AgQuest Insurance Agency is an Equal Opportunity Provider.
AMBER WEBER
TIM LEWIS
P & C INSURANCE
27
AgQuest

28. Crop Insurance Dates
to Remember
It’s that time of year, spring planting, new Farm Bill decisions and deadlines… By now,
you should have been to the FSA office to make your elections for the 2014 Farm Bill,
not to mention make sure that all your AD-1026s have been filed. With the new Farm
Bill, these are two matters that you will want to address, so you will not lose out on a
potential 2014 payment and/or subsidy premiums on your crop insurance.
With the warm dry temperatures we’ve had this spring, please remember that the earli-
est plant dates to qualify for replant insurance payments are
Spring wheat: March 21 Corn: April 11
Sugar Beets: April 11 Soybeans: April 21
Before taking any action—destroying a damaged crop or replanting—it is essential
that you contact our office. This enables proper notification to the insurance company,
to make sure that you do not lose out on a potential replanting payment.
Also remember that Replanting = Planting back to the same crop. To qualify for a replant payment, you must meet
the 20 acre or 20 percent of the unit requirement.
We sure hope that Mother Nature takes a more favorable approach this year, keeping rains to a minimum during
planting. If not, and you are delayed in planting—please contact AgQuest to discuss late planting and/or prevent
planting options. For a prevent plant claim, 20 acres or 20 percent of an insurance unit unplanted would qualify.
The prevent plant payment would amount to 60 percent of your guarantee on qualifying acres.
Please make sure to contact your AgQuest agent within 72 hours after the final plant date, or within 72 hours after
you determine that you won’t be able to plant during the late period. The late plant period is the 25 days after the
final plant date, with a one percent reduction in your guarantee each day through the 25th day.
Final plant dates are:
Spring wheat: May 15
Corn: May 31
Sugar beets: May 31
Soybeans: June 10
Two final dates to remember:
—July 15 is acreage reporting date. This is the last date to report all of your acreage types, planted, replanted, and
prevent plant, as well as uninsured and uninsurable acres.
—Premium bill date is August 15. Payment must be postmarked by September 30, 2015 to avoid any accrued inter-
est.
For more information contact your local agent @ 866-259-3666 or at AQInsurance@aguest.net
AgQuest Insurance Agency is an equal opportunity provider.
KATHY MAINER
AGQUEST INSURANCE OFFICE
MANAGER
AgQuest

29. 29
What’s Cooking?
We know that our readers can really cook and are just as creative as anyone on the
Web, so we want to hear from you. If you have a do-it-yourself project or favorite
recipe you’d like to share, send it to media@harvestland.com or mail to us at: Harvest
Land Cooperative Attn: Fawn McNamara--711 Front St. PO Box 278 Morgan MN 56266
We’re looking for the best from the country to share in our next issue of Harvest Land
magazine.
This recipe is a favorite at Ingle Farm, not only because it’s delicious and filling but because
the recipe came from her children’s favorite babysitter. Karen’s recipe was a winner during
our Coop Month Casserole Contest. You too, can submit your articles to share with other
farm wives!
Family

30. Kid Friendly Taco Cups
30
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a regular sized muffin tin with non stick spray. Add two wonton
wrappers to each muffin cup (criss cross the wrappers).
Bake 5-7 minutes until lightly golden brown. Watch them carefully so they don’t get too brown.
Remove from oven and set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef or turkey until
browned. Drain off any grease.
Add the taco seasoning, water and drained beans. Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 5 minutes or
until heated through.
Spoon two tablespoons of the meat and bean mixture into each wonton cup. Top with shredded cheese. Return to
the oven and bake an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese melts.
Carefully remove the cups from the oven and garnish with your favorite taco toppings.
Recipe yields: 12-16 taco cups
1 - pound lean ground beef or turkey
1 - packet taco seasoning
1 - cup water
1 - can bush’s pinto, kidney or black beans,
drained and rinsed
24 - wonton wrappers
1 - cup shredded cheddar cheese
Taco toppings of your choice: lettuce,
tomatoes, sour cream additional cheese,
avocados , black olives, salsa and cilantro.

31. Eating on the Run
Spring planting is right around the corner
and to most of you this means long hours
in the field and eating on the run. Many
people grab a candy bar and a pop for the
energy needed to pull through but there are
many other choices that can help keep your
body fueled until the last seed is planted.
Let’s look at some alternatives to that oh-
so-sweet candy bar and pop.
Protein. Protein is a good source of nutri-
ents and is a key food that helps fill you up.
Healthy proteins in your lunch box might
include meat, poultry, eggs, cheese, grains
and unsalted nuts like walnuts, almonds and pistachios. Nuts may also
reduce the risk of heart disease (USDA.com). It’s like getting the protein
from a candy bar without the sugar crash later.
Fruits and Veggies. Fruits and veggies have lots of essential nutrients.
They are also low in calories and have no cholesterol. Fruits and veggies
are easy to grab along and throw in the truck, tractor or cooler. The vita-
mins and nutrients are sure to keep you from being run down and keep
your body regular. On top of all that, studies show that a diet rich in fruits
and vegetables may protect against certain types of cancers and reduce the
risk of heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Water. Just like your crops need water your body does too. Starting
the day with caffeine might be needed for many but you don’t need to
drink caffeine all day to keep going. Our bodies are composed of about
60% water, it is vital to replenish ourselves with water to keep our organs
functioning, to avoid dehydration and to help energize muscles. If water
seems boring to you check out the On the Go packets that you can add to
your water or add a slice of fresh lemon for a natural energy boost.
BETH OSLUND
WELLNESS COORDINATOR
31
Wellness

32. Morton: 507-697-6113
Morgan: 507-249-3196
Springfield: 507-723-7350
Comfrey: 507-877-2441
Wabasso: 507-342-5184