Budget Deal has Implications on Agriculture

October 28, 2015 Leave a comment


This week, the White House and Congressional leaders struck a tentative budget deal that provides a framework and additional funding needed to allow Congress to complete the annual appropriations funding legislative process.
According to Traci Bruckner, Senior Policy Associate at the Center for Rural Affairs, the budget deal contains significant implications for agricultural and Farm Bill programs. “This bill takes a small step in reforming federally subsidized crop insurance programs by reducing the cap on the profits that crop insurance companies extract from administering the program from 14.5 percent to 8.9 percent,” said Bruckner. “In addition, it also indicates that the Standard Reinsurance Agreement must be renegotiated by December 31, 2016 and once every five years thereafter.”
“This is a small but a positive step forward,” noted Bruckner. “Insurance companies have been one of the largest beneficiaries of the subsidized crop insurance program. They witnessed double digit returns over the last decade or more, with one year being as high as 34%. During belt-tightening times, it is most appropriate to ask crop insurance companies to accept a reduction in the profits from federal subsidies that they receive.”
“Moreover, the budget deal scraps the Farm Bill provision that prevented taxpayers from benefiting from government negotiations with the private sector over the delivery of crop insurance,” added Bruckner. “This was an outrageous gift to the crop insurance lobby and it is a policy that should never have seen the light of day.”
Bruckner noted further that while there is a great deal more crop insurance subsidy reform needed to support and protect family farmers and the environment, renegotiation is a small but important first step toward much needed comprehensive reform.
“And with the additional funding the budget deal provides to the appropriators to finish the fiscal year 2016 funding bills, Congress has the opportunity to turn back the tide on cuts to conservation,” Bruckner continued. “Congress should move quickly to eliminate the 23 percent cut to the Conservation Stewardship Program in the pending House bill and the $300 million cut to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program that is currently included in both the House and Senate bills.”
“Opponents of cuts to crop insurance company profits have criticized ‘opening up the Farm Bill’ but those criticisms ring hollow when compared to how often Congress has opened up the Farm Bill to cut conservation programs,” concluded Bruckner. “It is disingenuous to use rhetoric about family farmers to protect crop insurance company profits while at the same time cutting the conservation programs that farmers and ranchers depend upon to improve soil and water quality, conserve water, and prepare for extreme weather events.”

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Medicaid Mythbuster #3: Medical Care When You Need It

October 21, 2015 Leave a comment


By Jon Bailey, Guest Writer

Another frequent complaint about Medicaid is that it provides substandard medical coverage. Once again though, the numbers tell a different story. Medicaid coverage provides health care financial peace-of-mind. Not surprisingly, few Medicaid beneficiaries experience financial issues related to health care.
Only 10% of those with Medicaid had problems paying medical bills, and 19% have at least one medical bill that is a problem or a debt. More people with private insurance had both (21% with problems paying or unable to pay a medical bill, and 33% with at least one problem medical bill or medical debt). The uninsured face even more serious health care-related financial difficulties. Over a third (35%) of the uninsured have problems paying medical bills. Nearly half of the uninsured (47%) have at least one problem medical bill or medical debt.
Medicaid out-performs private insurance or being uninsured for measures of obtaining health care when it is needed. Only 10% of those on Medicaid did not visit a doctor or clinic with a medical problem requiring treatment, compared to 17% of those with private insurance and 40% of the uninsured. Only 13% of those on Medicaid did not fill a prescription, compared to 15% of those with private insurance and 30% of the uninsured.
Moreover, less than a quarter of those on Medicaid (23%) had at least one cost-related health care access problem. Meanwhile 30% of those with private insurance and 54% of the uninsured had at least one cost-related health care access problem.
Jon M. Bailey is a rural policy and research expert and former Center for Rural Affairs Policy and Research Director. Contact him at jonmbailey1@gmail.com.

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October is Farm to School Month in Nebraska

October 16, 2015 Leave a comment


The Center for Rural Affairs is celebrating Farm to School Month by hosting three webinars filled with useful information for school staff and farmers and ranchers interested in starting or expanding Farm to School programs in their communities.

 

The hour long webinars taking place during October and November will cover a wide range of topics such as how food service staff have participated in local food procurement, key points farmers and ranchers should consider when working with schools as a market opportunity, and how Nebraska farmers, ranchers and food producers have made the school connection.

 

“These webinars are a free resource we are facilitating to bring together educators, food service directors, farmers, ranchers, parents, students, and others interested in Farm to School programs across Nebraska,” said Sarah Smith with the Center for Rural Affairs. “They will allow Nebraskans from across the Farm to School table to hear success stories, learn best practices, and most importantly connect with each other. This effort will grow market opportunities for Nebraska food producers, and healthy, delicious food options for our Nebraska students. Bringing the farm to school is a win-win for all of us.”

 

The first webinar, “Farm to School Case Studies for Nebraska Food Service Staff” will take place Thursday, October 22, 2015 from 2-3pm and targets Nebraska Food Service Staff.  Rural food service directors will share how and why they have participated in local procurement and farm to school activities. Their stories will address a range of topics like scratch cooking techniques, working with local farmers and ranchers, using produce from a school greenhouse (and planning for it),  incorporating local foods into salad bars; and bringing local beef onto the school lunch tray.

 

The second webinar, “Farmers and Ranchers: Reach a New Market with Sales to Schools” will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2015 from 2-3pm. This webinar, designed for Nebraska farmers, ranchers and food producers, will discuss key points for farmers and ranchers to consider when working with schools as a market opportunity. Participants will walk in a food service director’s shoes with Donna Handley, School Lunch Program Specialist with the Nebraska Department of Ed. She will answer what requirements and needs school food service staff face when serving school meals. Sarah Browning of University of Nebraska Extension will discuss the farm food safety procedures farmers and ranchers should consider, as well as helpful training resources that are available to address farm food safety topics. Finally, experienced farmer Ryan Pekarek, will discuss how and when to approach schools, and how to go about planning the growing season. This webinar will introduce food producers to the opportunities available when selling to schools, as well as considerations to take when planning for success.

 

The third and final webinar, “Farm to School: Farmers, Learn an Easier Way to Make the School Connection” takes place Wednesday, November 11, 2015, 2-3 pm. Participants will hear three unique stories on farm to school and how Nebraska farmers have made the school connection. Justin Jones, President of Lone Tree Foods, will share how Lone Tree connects food producers to eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa schools. Food Service Director Tini Van-Oehlertz of Pius X schools in Lincoln will explain her experiences purchasing local foods through the Nebraska Food Cooperative. And Dawne Price of Price Farms will describe how and why she directly connected with Lyons-Decatur Schools and the on-farm activities she organized for Lyons-Decatur elementary students. There are multiple ways to connect with schools, and this webinar will provide insight on Nebraska farm to school opportunities for the food producer.

 

For detailed registration details, interested participants should visit: http://www.cfra.org/farm-school-your-fingertips-join-our-fall-webinars.

 

The Center for Rural Affairs has many resources for helping bring the farm to the school. One such tool is the Farm to School Producers Map (found here: http://www.cfra.org/findfarmer), inspired by our online Nebraska Find-A-Farmer Tool designed to link a school or program with a farmer to work with directly.
Other Farm to School resources can be found at the main Farm to School page here: http://www.cfra.org/f2s

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Medicaid Myth Buster #1

September 24, 2015 Leave a comment


By Jon Bailey, Guest Writer

During debates over expanding Medicaid to uninsured, low-income families, expansion opponents argued it doesn’t provide quality healthcare coverage, and low-income residents would be better off uninsured.
Reports of organizations such as The Buckeye Institute (from Ohio, which has expanded its Medicaid program) make such claims. They have been repeated across the nation by anti-Affordable Care Act and anti-Medicaid expansion politicians and groups.
These arguments are nonsensical. Myriad economic and health benefits accompany health insurance. These are well documented in Center for Rural Affairs’ reports. To deny people those benefits and the security and well-being they bring and then tell them they are better off is absurd and immoral.
It’s also dishonest, as the Commonwealth Fund Biennial Health Insurance Survey shows. The 2014 survey found that Medicaid outperforms private health insurance in many respects. All measures show those receiving Medicaid are significantly better off than those without health insurance.
Medicaid is not a perfect source of healthcare coverage. Provider reimbursements are low, which makes many providers less likely to accept Medicaid patients. Physicians in rural areas, however, are more likely to participate in the Medicaid program and accept all or new Medicaid patients. Research shows practicing in a rural area is one of the factors associated with higher physician Medicaid participation.
Medicaid services are also susceptible to state budget cuts, private insurance is not. But to say Medicaid is not worthy health insurance and that low-income individuals and families and people with disabilities are better off being uninsured is simply false.
Jon M. Bailey is a rural policy and research expert and former Center for Rural Affairs Policy and Research Director. Contact him at jonmbailey1@gmail.com.

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Poetry and Folklore of Northeastern Nebraska

September 22, 2015 Leave a comment


The Center for Rural Affairs along with the Nebraska Humanities Council and the John G. Neihardt State Historic Site will host a community storytelling event with Twyla Hansen, Nebraska State Poet and area native.
“Twyla is a Lyons native whose books of poetry are filled with stories from her small farm upbringing in Northeast Nebraska,” commented Kat Shiffler with the Center for Rural Affairs. “Her presentation of poetry and folklore will portray stories of the land and it’s people; a region steeped in history. From Chief Blackbird to Logan Creek, from country schools to haunted houses, Hansen’s readings and stories will serve as an entertaining reflection on our region’s folklore and identity. After her presentation, the floor will be open for community members to share their own stories.”
The Center encourages everyone to attend to learn more about the regional culture unique to Northeast Nebraska and exchange memories they have to tell. “Folktales, colorful exaggerations and half-truths welcome,” added Shiffler. Light refreshments and treats will be provided.
Who:  Twyla Hansen, Nebraska State Poet
What: A community storytelling event with Nebraska’s State Poet and area native
When: Sunday afternoon, October 11th 4pm to 5:30pm
Where: 151 N Main St., Lyons, NE  (in the brick building adjacent to the Center for Rural Affairs office)
The event is free and open to the public. For more information contact Shiffler at kats@cfra.org.
Visit the Center for Rural Affairs event page for more information: http://www.cfra.org/events/stories-place-poetry-and-folklore-northeastern-nebraska.

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Nebraskans Discuss State’s Energy Future

August 25, 2015 Leave a comment


By Lauren Kolojejchick-Kotch, laurenk@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs 

When it comes to power, Nebraska is unique from every other state. That’s because our state is the only one in the nation with public power, giving Nebraskans the ability to elect board members that will represent our interests when it comes to powering our homes and businesses. To ensure that we are being properly represented, Nebraskans must be active in learning about energy in the state and what public power districts are planning for the future.

 

Nebraskans should be asking questions, and making their voices heard. Public Power affords all ratepayer-owners a say in our energy future.

 

This month, the Center for Rural Affairs organized a community conversation in Norfolk with Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) Director Virgil Froehlich, and several staff members from NPPD. The meeting provided residents with the chance to share their thoughts on energy in Nebraska, as well as learn more about NPPD and energy issues brought up by other participants.

 

The event was attended by educators, business leaders, farmers, advocates, elected representatives, and engaged citizens of all ages.

 

The community conversation was informative, and allowed local residents to get to know their board member better. Everyone came to the event with an interest in energy and what it means to their community, and had good questions for NPPD staff. One privilege of living in a state where power utilities are publicly owned, is having the ability to speak directly to your elected board representatives. We all have a responsibility to engage in discussions like these.

 

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Kids and Carrots

August 22, 2015 Leave a comment


By John Crabtree, johnc@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs

Nothing says happy and healthy like an image of children gardening, harvesting, and eating carrots, beets, cabbages, cucumbers, etc. The Summer “Out of School” Program students in Fremont, Nebraska got to do just that when they helped create an After School Garden at Linden Elementary in Fremont.
With the support of the school district and the Linden administration, and the help of local volunteers, two raised bed gardens were constructed. The students took ownership over the work of caring for the garden. In July, the students set up a produce stand to market their harvest. Word is they are still deciding whether to funnel the money back into the garden or donate it to a worthy local cause. I’ll be honest; I sort of hope they put it back into the garden.
These activities involved significant educational opportunities. Students learned about teamwork and shared decision-making as they negotiated what would be planted where. They learned about plant science, math skills and measurements in the garden, as well as learning math skills while handling money and making change at the produce stand, where each of the students took a half hour “shift” at the table. And they continue to learn about nutrition and healthy food choices.
Personally, I think growing a cabbage is one of the great educational opportunities available to anyone. And I hope children in after school and summer “out of school” programs everywhere get a chance to garden like the kids in Fremont have.

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Town Hall Meeting with Nebraska State Senators

August 21, 2015 Leave a comment


Lyons, NE – The Center for Rural Affairs, Nebraska Appleseed and The Center for People in Need will host a Town Hall meeting with State Senators Ken Haar, Matt Hansen, Adam Morfeld, Patty Pansing-Brooks, and Kate Bolz. Discussed will be issues that impact the daily lives of Nebraska’s  low income families and New Americans, including health care, fair tax policy and building wealth and inclusivity in our communities.

 

“Come talk with your Senators about the things you care about most, and help influence policy that benefits all Nebraskans,” said Lauren Kolojejchick-Kotch, with the Center for Rural Affairs.

 

“Whether you’ve never communicated with your Senator, or are in touch with them often, everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. This is a great opportunity to have face-to-face time with the individuals elected to the legislature to represent your needs, and hopes for your community. Bring ideas, concerns and questions,” added Kolojejchick-Kotch. “We are working to ensure that Spanish translation will be available.”

 

What:

Town Hall Meeting

 

When:

Wednesday, August 26

1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

 

Where:

Center for People in Need

3901 N 27th St #1

Lincoln, NE 68521

 

For more information, or to RSVP, contact Kolojejchick-Kotch at laurenk@cfra.org or 402-687-2100 ext 1032.  

 

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Zoned Out

August 3, 2015 Leave a comment


The Center for Rural Affairs released a report entitled Zoned Out: An Analysis of Wind Energy Zoning in Four Midwest States.
According to  Alissa Doerr, Center for Rural Affairs Legal Extern and author of the report, Zoned Out analyses different approaches to zoning commercial wind energy systems in four different Midwest states – Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. The report also broke down the advantages and disadvantages of these approaches, and what makes for effective zoning standards.
“Wind energy zoning remains generally uncoordinated and subject to state and local regulations, resulting in a piecemeal approach where zoning standards vary between states and within states,” Doerr said. “In order for wind energy development to continue increasing, there must be an effective approach to wind energy zoning implemented that reduces inconsistency and unpredictability caused by the patchwork approach that is currently in place.  The key is finding the right balance between local and state control.”
To view or download a full copy of the report go to:
“As wind energy continues to grow rural economies and expand across the Midwest, controversies have arisen as well as questions from local communities,” continued Doerr. “How will this affect my community? What are the rules for wind energy development?”
“Zoning authorities must aim for efficient and effective standards, incorporating considerations from the local areas where wind development would take place,” Doerr added.
Doerr explained further that, the key to effective wind siting and zoning regulation is to strike the right balance between local and state control, avoiding some of the pitfalls for either approach, while trying to capture the benefits. Authorities at the state and local level must consider the pros and cons that can result from difference ordinances. The ideal balance should be focused on consistent standards that still allow for local autonomy.
“As wind power continues to play a bigger role in meeting our energy demands, it’s important that we craft regulations that incorporate local preferences and address local concerns, while also providing clear and consistent standards for developers.”

 

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Macy Farmers Market Kicks off Season Friday

July 23, 2015 Leave a comment


The Macy Farmers Market kicks off its second year of operation on Friday, July 24 from 4-7 in the evening at Macy. The market will continue every other week in Macy, until early October. Market organizers plan to eventually host the market in Walthill on Thursdays, alternating between the two communities weekly.

 

Along with fresh, locally grown produce, much more will be available. Shoppers will find fresh baked goods, other prepared foods, canned and dried food,  jams and jellies, eggs, poultry, flowers, and arts and crafts.

 

“Not only is the Garden Market an opportunity for gardeners to sell extra produce, but we also welcome beaders, arts & crafts, bakers, and other community members to sell homemade and handmade items,” said Dave Farley, Food Access Specialist with the Center for Rural Affairs. Farley said he sees the market as an element of economic development and as a way to promote art and artisans. “There are so many arts and crafts people who don’t get the exposure they deserve,” Farley added. “ This is a new avenue for them. This is promoting economic development.”

 

WHAT: Uzhi Uthiwi (Garden Market) Macy Outdoor Market 2015

 

WHERE: Main Street in Macy, NE

 

WHEN: Friday, July 24 at 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Setup time starts at 3:30 p.m. Tables and awnings are limited and available on a first come first serve basis. Vendors are encouraged to bring their own chairs and tables.

 

“The Macy Garden to Market project is in it’s second year,” continued Farley. “Initial efforts helped get backyard gardens established on the Omaha Reservation. This year we provided tilling and starter plants to over 20 gardens in Macy, Walthill and Rosalie and homesites in between.”

 

The Macy Garden to Market Project, a partnership between the Center for Rural Affairs, and the Nebraska Indian Community College, started in 2013 and since then has held a series of workshops. The workshops focus on three areas; first assisting and training gardening techniques from planning to planting to maintaining to harvesting; second cooking demonstrations serving food prepared with items available from the gardens; and thirdly assisting growers in preserving their produce for use later or for sale.

 

According to Farley, “Canning, freezing and drying are ways people can make their gardens pay off well into the winter. Canning workshops were popular last year and we plan on a series of these starting in August.  The capstone event is our Christmas bazaar. Last year we had the first annual Macy Christmas Bazaar and hope to have another successful event in early December.”

 

All vendors are welcome, especially those from surrounding communities. Sign up for free booth space. Contact Lola Kearnes at (402) 922-1703 or Dave Farley at davef@cfra.org.

 

For more information visit www.cfra.org

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