Sometimes, no matter how much hard work and dedication you put in during the growing season, Mother Nature will not cooperate. If you are anticipating your yields may fall below your guarantee, just know many producers have been there before.
While this is not the situation you’d like to be in, crop insurance provides an added layer of protection to your risk-management plans. If you do find yourself having to make a claim, here are some important things to remember that can help the process go a lot more smoothly. Don’t lose out on a potential indemnity because notification was not given on.
- Perils – Most naturally caused perils are included under multiple-peril crop insurance (MPCI) coverage. This includes but is not limited to adverse weather, failure of irrigation water supply, fire, insect damage or plant disease (unless you improperly or insufficiently applied pest or disease control measures) and wildlife damage. Those covered under Revenue Protection are also protected from a decline in market price as well.
- Timeframe – Insurance coverage generally begins at time of application or time of planting, whichever is later. The end of the insurance period is generally recognized as the earlier of total destruction of the crop, final harvest of the crop, abandonment of the crop or the end of the insurance period (which is December 10 for corn insured as grain and soybeans).
- Insured’s responsibilities – For planted crops, the insured must notify the insurance company within 72 hours of the initial discovery of the damage or production loss, but no later than 15 days after the end of the insurance period, even if the crop has not yet been harvested. If you have a revenue protection policy and have a claim based on strictly price, the insurance company must be notified within 45 days of the harvest price announcement for the crop.
- Appraisals – If you are going to harvest your planted crop in any non-traditional manner, a crop appraisal needs to be completed, otherwise you may lose out on a potential indemnity payment. The most common time an appraisal is needed is when you’re going to chop corn for silage that is insured as grain. If you have a corn policy, any acreage that is not harvested traditionally as dry grain should be appraised. You should contact your crop insurance specialist at least one week in advance of when you are planning on harvesting, so an adjuster can come out and perform the appraisals while the crop is still in the field.
If you harvest before an adjuster can perform appraisals, representative sample strips must be left in the fields so the adjusters can use them for appraisals. The strips must be at least 10 feet wide and run the entire length of the field. If you do not agree with the appraisals you’ve gotten from the adjuster, do not sign them. Call your crop insurance specialist right away and we can have another adjuster come out and perform a second appraisal.
If you have any questions throughout your claims adjustment process, please contact your crop insurance specialist.
Updates:
Fresh Apple Reviews
This is a reminder that your fresh apple policy can be signaled out for a fresh review at any time during the year or at claims time. You will be asked to prove that you have sold your apples as fresh and at what price they were sold at. The requirement is that 50% or more were sold as fresh, at a fresh price in at least one out of the last four years. Call us if you need more information regarding what documents can be submitted and what needs to be on those documents. If you cannot prove fresh sales, RMA requires your apples to be changed to processing for the current crop year.
Hail Insurance
It’s not too late to purchase hail insurance for 2025. Hail is a separate policy from your multi-peril crop insurance coverage. As a bonus, your hail policy can provide coverage for fire, lightning, vandalism/malicious mischief and transit to the first place of storage. Rates and coverage can vary by crop and county. Keep in mind, hail insurance must be purchased before damage occurs. Contact your crop insurance specialist today to set up an appointment to review your options.
Important Date Reminder
Late fees will be charged on any unpaid premium on October 1. Please make note of this important change as late fees cannot be waived. If you cannot pay your premium before the due date, please contact your contact your Approved Insurance Provider (AIP) to make payment arrangements. Payment is due regardless of whether you have an outstanding claim.
2025 Fall Wheat & Forage Claims
Appraisals are required when a customer plans to do something with the crop other than harvest in the normal manner. If you do not plan to take your wheat/forage to harvest, we must appraise the acres prior to destruction.
Forage Production
If you think you may be facing a forage production loss, make sure to contact your specialist to file a claim. If you didn’t have forage insurance for the 2025 crop year and are interested in coverage for 2026, the sales close date is the same as wheat, September 30.
Alert Before You Chop!
It won’t be long until it’s time to fill the bunker silo. Before chopping corn for silage, please call and arrange for an appraisal ahead of time. Every effort will be made to have your crop appraised before you chop. Otherwise, you will be instructed on how to leave samples in your field for later evaluation.
To view the summer 2025 issue of Partners magazine in its entirety, click here.
As we look at the factors driving the U.S. economy in the first half of 2025, one of the most prominent topics is tariffs. The threats of, implementation of, and retraction of tariffs have influenced stock market movements and business purchasing decisions, with many companies building up inventory in Q1. This surge in buying activity led to an increase in imports, as businesses attempted to get ahead of looming tariffs.
As a result, the spike in imports temporarily contributed to a contraction in real GDP growth. With negotiations still ongoing, the long-term impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy remains uncertain.
Another key issue is unemployment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a May unemployment rate of 4.2%, unchanged from April. Unemployment is expected to rise through mid-2026, peaking at 4.9%, before declining in 2027 as population and labor force growth slow.
Consumer Price Inflation decreased from 3.1% core inflation in Q1 2025 to 2.8% in April. Broad-based tariffs are expected to push inflation to 3.6% in Q3 2025, peaking at 3.8% in Q2 2026. As tariff effects filter through the economy, core inflation is anticipated to decline by the end of 2027.
The trajectory of the unemployment rate, along with the inflationary impact of tariffs, will be key factors in the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) approach to interest rate policy. With upcoming meetings scheduled in July and September, the Fed is being closely watched after holding rates steady since December 2024. Current estimates suggest the Fed will aim to reduce rates to a range of 3.25%–3.5% by mid-2026.
No discussion of the U.S. economy would be complete without mentioning The One, Big, Beautiful Bill. Having passed the House and now under debate in the Senate, the bill proposes to drive economic growth through tax policy changes, adjustments to Medicaid, and increased military spending. If enacted, its impact will be closely monitored—particularly regarding its promises of growth and the resulting implications for the federal deficit.
Dairy
In 2024, the U.S. recorded $8.2 billion in dairy exports, marking the second-highest export value on record. About 16% of all milk solids were exported, with Mexico and Canada accounting for more than 40% of total U.S. dairy exports. Current global prices for butter and cheese remain competitive, supporting continued export growth.
According to the USDA, the average price for a dairy herd replacement cow ready to enter the milk barn reached $2,870 in April, up from $2,120 a year earlier. With positive margins and a shortage of replacement heifers, producers are holding onto cows for longer lactation cycles. From January to April 2025, the U.S. dairy herd grew by 70,000 milk cows, driven by reduced slaughter rates.
Beef prices are expected to remain elevated, boosting both calf and cull cow prices—significantly enhancing revenue streams for dairy producers. However, if margins weaken, cull rates could rise.
The futures markets have seen volatility due to trade and tariff uncertainty, as well as ongoing reforms to the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO). Nonetheless, U.S. dairy margins are projected to rebound in the second half of the year. As of late May, the 12-month average futures prices for Class III and Class IV milk were $19.17 and $19.34 per cwt, respectively. April margins, calculated through the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program, were forecast at $10.31 per cwt—expected to be the year’s low, with margins projected to rise above $13 per cwt by year-end.
Pork
The market hog price rally and improved producer margins that began in the second half of 2024 have continued into 2025. The outlook for the remainder of the year presents strong opportunities for producers to lock in profits through hedging, with futures contracts for July and beyond reaching contract highs as of early June.
The Pork Cutout value has remained strong, sitting at $111 per cwt, while the Lean Hog Index reached $97 per cwt, its highest level since August 2023. Cash hog prices are currently over $100 per cwt. In contrast, prices for weaned pigs and feeder pigs have declined by roughly 50% from Q1 highs but are now within a more typical range.
April estimates from Iowa State University show positive hog profits for farrow-to-finish operations for the 13th consecutive month, though profitability continues to vary based on productivity, hedging strategy, and packer contract index.
While feed costs have been favorable, with strong corn and soybean meal margins, rising non-feed costs have limited profit potential. As of March 1, 2025, both the breeding herd and market hog inventories were down slightly year-over-year, supporting higher prices. The average number of pigs per litter held steady at a record 11.65, despite some disease challenges.
On May 6, the National Pork Board launched a new digital marketing campaign, Taste What Pork Can Do™, aimed at younger consumers. The campaign highlights pork’s flavor diversity, health benefits, and versatility, seeking to boost domestic demand, which remains a key focus alongside generally stable export demand, despite trade uncertainties.
Corn and Soybeans
The 2025 U.S. corn and soybean crops are now in the ground, and early reports from key producing states indicate strong crop conditions. The June 9th NASS report shows high ratings in Iowa and Illinois, though Michigan lags due to delayed planting and wet conditions.
The June WASDE report for corn shows little change from May. A record U.S. supply is forecasted, with 15.8 billion bushels of production, driven by more acreage and higher yields. If realized, the 95.3 million acres planted would be the highest in a decade. Despite strong domestic use and modestly higher exports, the season-average price remains steady at $4.20 per bushel.
The June soybean outlook also remains mostly unchanged. For 2025/2026, lower supplies and reduced exports are expected to be offset by higher domestic crush demand, resulting in lower ending stocks. Planted acreage is expected to shift from soybeans to corn. Based on trend yield, total production is projected at 4.34 billion bushels, with domestic crush up 70 million bushels from the prior year. Ending stocks are forecast at 295 million bushels, down 55 million from 2024/2025. The season-average price is estimated at $10.25 per bushel, up from $9.95.
Export uncertainty remains top of mind for grain producers. With the tariff pause against China set to expire on July 9, market watchers are awaiting clarity. Meanwhile, Brazil is expected to produce its second-largest corn crop on record. However, strong domestic demand may limit its export capacity, allowing the U.S. to maintain its position as the world’s top corn exporter.
To view the summer 2025 issue of Partners magazine in its entirety, click here.
Thank you to Michigan Farmers Market Association for sharing this tasty stir fry recipe! Using any fresh veggies you have available, this recipe is great as a main dish or a passing plate!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3 cups chopped seasonal, fresh vegetables
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Pepper to taste
Directions
Chop or dice vegetables. Heat frying pan or wok over high heat. Add oil to pan. Stir-fry onion for three minutes. If including chicken, add and cook. Add seasonal vegetables. Stir fry vegetables for three minutes or until all vegetables are tender-crisp. Add soy sauce and pepper and stir to blend. Serve over rice.
To view the summer 2025 issue of Partners magazine in its entirety, click here.
Do you find yourself dreaming about your own outdoor refuge to hunt, fish, camp, hike, or just spend time out in nature? When you envision your future, do you see yourself building a life out in the country? No matter what your reason for wanting a piece of land to call your own, one thing is for certain – they’re not making any more of it!
Land is a Low-Cost Asset
The demand for and value of land in Michigan seems to have steadily increased over the past few years. There is no reason to believe the trend won’t continue. Based on my experience over the last few years, people are seeking land for several reasons: as an investment, for recreational use, for future homesites, and the desire to have more space and privacy.
If you’ve been considering investing in property to call your own, there’s no better time than now. Trends show that land values have continued to increase. Owning land can be a low-cost asset that can add diversity to your investment portfolio.
You don’t necessarily have to make improvements to watch the value of your land increase. However, making improvements can increase its value even more. This is a benefit you cannot get through leasing land. Adding a pole barn, cabin, fencing, utilities, or really any sort of improvement to your land is going to help increase its value – and the best part is it’s all totally up to you what you want to do with it!
As a hunter, this can be incredibly valuable when it comes to building food plots or managing your deer herd, an opportunity you just can’t get when hunting on someone else’s land.
An Investment in the Future
There are other ways to add value to your land that can offset your cost of ownership (mortgage, taxes, etc.). Consider ways you can bring in an additional source of income. Growing your own fruits or vegetables, raising livestock, harvesting timber, or even beekeeping are all options. If you don’t plan to live on your property full time, the vacant cabin on your land could be used as a rental property. You can also consider leasing parts of your land to local farmers or hunters.
There may also be tax advantages that your land may qualify for. Land eligible for a Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) can become part of a conservation effort to protect environmentally sensitive land to enhance wildlife or improve things like water quality. There are also many sanctuary programs you can participate in (like setting up bat houses on your property) that can give you a tax advantage while also preserving wildlife.
Where to Start When Looking for Land
When you are ready to take that next step and start hunting for land, there are a few important steps that will help ensure a smooth process.
First, make sure you know what you’re looking for. Know what you want to use your land for, and the qualities of the land you’re searching for. Consider what you want to use your land for today as well as what you see yourself doing with it in the future. A great place to spend time enjoying your favorite outdoor hobbies now might end up becoming where you build your forever home in the future.
“Look into whether you can have power and utilities on your land. Is it easily accessible, or would you be able to build a road to it? How many building site locations are potentially on the land? Can you get a perc test done on the property to know if you will be able to install a septic system?” says Tim Lyzenga, agent and land specialist at Wildlife Realty, a brokerage based in Michigan that specializes in the sale of hunting land, farmland, and recreational property.
“These factors are all important in determining whether a property will fit your needs long term or not.”
Work with the Experts
Working with a lender who specializes in recreational land financing will greatly improve your experience. At GreenStone, we offer financing for recreational vacant land with no stipulation to build. This means you can enjoy your land just as it is for years to come or build whenever you’re ready.
Obtaining a letter of preauthorization from your lender plays a large role in determining how quickly you are able to put an offer in on a property. Once you have a letter of preauthorization, you are ready to start looking for properties.
As you are looking for land for sale online, “be wary of clicking on links for ads that have a ‘contact now’ button,” says Blake Ver Woert, broker, agent, and land specialist with Wildlife Realty. “Your best bet when looking for the perfect property is to work with a professional realtor who specializes in recreational properties.”
“A specialty brokerage will have the knowledge, experience, and expertise in helping you determine if a property meets requirements. They will also be able to help you determine if your land is eligible for a CRP or could be a part of a wildlife sanctuary program, something a traditional realtor typically would not be aware of.”
No matter where you are on your land hunting journey, working with a team of dedicated experts is the best way to secure the property that is perfect for you!
Contact your local GreenStone branch to learn more about financing for recreational vacant land.
A wet and cold May for Michigan and Wisconsin, compounded with the wildfire smoke from Canada, has made for abnormal growing conditions this year for growers.
“What is the normal weather here anymore? I don’t think anybody knows,” says Rich Dubke, vice president of traditional lending for GreenStone Farm Credit Services. “This definitely hasn’t been an average year so far.”
With corn, early development is more critical than with soybeans, which push for growth and yield development later into the summer.
“A lot of the top end is lost early (in corn) and then it’s just, ‘how much can you hold on to throughout the summer?’” explains Dubke, who reports from southeast Michigan. “I do feel like we have lost some top end at this point. Obviously, a good rainstorm at the right time throughout the summer, and some good pollination weather, can save us and push us through.”
With current prices favoring corn over soybeans, Wisconsin farmers intended to plant 3.95 million acres of corn for all purposes in 2025 according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Prospective Plantings report. That is up 200,000 corn acres from 2024, while producers intended to plant 1.90 million acres of soybeans in Wisconsin.
Michigan had a projected planting of 2.3 million corn acres and 2.15 million soybean acres for 2025, which is similar to 2024. The state has maintained approximately the same number of corn acres for nearly a decade.
“From what I’ve heard and from what I’ve seen, our crop is average to slightly above average for what’s in the ground right now,” says Dubke. “No one’s in love with it, but I don’t think anyone really hates it.”
Planting challenges early in the season
Planting started earlier than usual due to dry conditions, with 73% of the corn acreage planted by mid-May in Wisconsin, according to the Badger Crop Network. The initial dry spell was followed by timely rains, which helped with emergence and overall crop health.
While the season started with challenges, the recent rains and heat are setting the stage for a potentially strong growing season, and early planted fields may have a yield advantage, says the Badger Crop Network.
“In southeast Michigan, our crop went in the ground in various stages,” Dubke reports. “We had a good push in late April, followed by multiple short windows across the month of May and early June, with some areas experiencing some replant and weather-related issues in getting the crop started.”
Corn is quickly making up for its slow start in Michigan, with most around V6/7, although some fields are past V10, according to Michigan State University (MSU). Sidedress nitrogen applications continued. Tar spot has been confirmed in many counties throughout the Midwest, but the best timing for a single fungicide application is still between VT and R3-4, MSU advises.
The 2025 U.S. corn planted area is projected to increase by 4.7 million acres (+5.2%) from 2024 and is 1.1 million acres above the market’s expectation. USDA projects the 2025 U.S. soybean area will decrease by 3.55 million acres (-4.1%) to 83.5 million acres, which is near the market’s expectation.
Michigan has 96% of its corn emerged, while Wisconsin trails a bit at 88%, according to USDA’s June 23 report. Ninety percent of Michigan’s soybeans are emerging, while Wisconsin is at 89%. Soybeans are mostly V2-V4, however some early-planted fields have plants entering reproductive stages – both states are reporting less than 5% flowering.
Michigan’s corn crop is 57% good to excellent, and soybeans are 45%, while Wisconsin is at 76% in that category and soybeans are coming in at 63%.
Temperatures are expected to remain high throughout July, keeping crop water demand high.
In June 2025, Michigan’s corn crop is experiencing a mixed bag of conditions. While some areas are showing positive growth and recovery from a slow start, others are facing challenges from cool, wet weather and the potential threat of diseases like tar spot, which is being monitored, especially in northern Indiana and creeping towards Michigan’s southern border.
“I think we’re looking at it earlier and more often,” says Dubke about tar spot. “But with tight margins, the applications of fungicides must be more calculated. Growers can’t afford to just blindly treat for it. Many growers are a lot more involved in crop scouting and working with agronomists this year to make sure they know what’s going on in their fields to make timely applications.”
Uncertain market conditions continue
The USDA projects the 2025 season-average farm price for corn at $3.90 per bushel. “There’s a lot of uncertainty in the market,” Dubke says. “I’ve had a lot of growers, who have been doing this a long time, tell me they have the least amount contracted in a long time. Historically, June provides us some good contracting opportunities, and we have not seen that yet.”
The outlook on corn pricing is bleak, he says. “There’s just too much corn out there for what we’re using and what we’re exporting. Farmers may need to get comfortable with where the market’s at today.”
While the soybean crop, looks about average, some of the early planted beans didn’t tolerate May’s cold weather, Dubke notes from southeast Michigan where some beans were replanted. “The bean crop isn’t made early, it’s made late with rains in late July and into August,” he says. “There’s a lot of time to make up ground on the bean crop.”
With some weeds sneaking through the first herbicide application, some growers are eyeing a second application. “They will also be making decisions about double-crop soybeans as the wheat crop looks to be coming off in a timely fashion. Producers are looking to get all the money they can out of what they can do in an operating cycle, and that might be double crop beans this year.”
The USDA projects the 2025/26 U.S. season-average farm price for soybeans to be $10.25 per bushel, according to the USDA. This is an increase from the $9.95 per bushel forecast for the 2024/25 marketing year.
However, the U.S.’s traditional global trading partner, China, doesn’t seem to have the appetite for American soybeans that they once did.
While the current outlook is not ideal for growers, “Farmers are a savvy bunch and historically have shown the persistence and adeptness required to absorb blips like this,” Dubke says.
A group of 17 interns joined GreenStone this summer for an interactive internship program. Interns are positioned in a variety of different departments, each with specific roles and responsibilities.
Throughout this program, students are given a chance to work on projects and real-world scenarios equipping them for their future career path. Throughout the summer, interns are exposed to customer visits, volunteer events, and career development programs while working closely with professionals to enhance their growth. With the help from the teams at GreenStone, these students can align their interests and find the route that works best for them. Introducing this summer’s GreenStone interns:
Abigail MacKersie: Quality Engineering Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Computer Science
Interesting Fact: I found the Farm Credit industry really fascinating. I have realized how important it is that farmers get credit service which is something I wouldn’t have thought of before.
Aiden Kim: Systems Administration Intern
College: University of Michigan with a major in Computer Science
Interesting Fact: I’ve learned about the Farm Credit System and the important role it plays to farmers.
Ava Horvath: Capital Markets Credit Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Finance and minor in Actuarial Science
Why GreenStone? I was interested in the hands-on projects I would be working on, and the amount of support available to be received throughout the internship. I liked the balance between getting the help I need to learn and grow while being autonomous.
Beau Belkowski: Business Systems Analyst Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Statistics
Why GreenStone? I liked the idea of serving farmers because they sacrifice a lot for us to have quality food to eat. My experience growing up in a rural community motivates me knowing the work I am doing goes to support farmers.
Bella Brown: Creative Design Intern
College: University of Illinois with a major in Graphic Design and minor in Advertising
Why GreenStone? What stood out to me was GreenStone’s focus on mentorship and collaboration. Learning from experienced professionals in a dynamic environment is an incredible opportunity to grow. It’s exciting contributing to and strengthening a brand that cares so much about their interns’ development.
Ben Blanchard: Quality Engineering Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Computer Science Engineering and minor in Business
Interesting Fact: I do not have much background in agriculture, but I found it interesting to learn about the diversity of agricultural commodities produced in Michigan from being here at GreenStone.
Brooklynn Lattimer: Appraisal Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Agriculture Business
Interesting Fact: I’ve grown up on a farm my whole life. I did 4-H for about 12 years and helped my dad with his cash crops. This is applicable to my role at GreenStone because I’m familiar with farmland and I can understand the farmers.
Cassandra Bosworth: Marketing and Writing Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Communications and minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Interesting Fact: I grew up on a small-hobby farm showing animals and participating in agricultural education through 4-H and FFA. From my background, I know how important it is to promote agriculture and spread awareness which encourages me to share the impact GreenStone has on people.
Charlie Chambers: Appraisal Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Finance
Interesting Fact: I grew up on a farm, so it’s easy for me to relate to aspects of the Farm Credit industry. I also think I have a good understanding of what farmers might want/need from us.
Elena Medina: Finance and Accounting Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Finance
Why GreenStone? GreenStone stood out to me because of the learning experiences it provides to their interns. I have read about GreenStone and heard good things from other people and how they truly care for their employees.
Jamie Le: Data Analyst Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Computational Data Science
Why GreenStone? The culture really stood out to me from the application process to the interview. The culture at GreenStone is a great mix of professionalism, support, and genuine care. Everyone I interacted with seemed committed to growing together. That made it stand out to me as a place I feel I could ask questions and truly learn.
Kurt Geron: Information Security Intern
College: University of Mississippi with a major in Cyber Security and minor in Mathematics
Why GreenStone? I learned that GreenStone wants to help everyone, not just farmers. Their country living department is a large portion of the company and they have a lot to offer.
Mackenzie Strong: Crop Insurance Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Agribusiness Management
Why GreenStone? I chose to intern with GreenStone to get a deeper understanding of crop insurance. They also have a great reputation for serving their customers while providing resources to their employees.
Madison Cramer: Human Resources Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Human Resources and Labor Relations and a minor in Leadership of Organizations and Law, Justice, and Public Policy
Why GreenStone? From the previous interns’ stories and testimonials they had posted, GreenStone stood out to me. The program looked well put together and that those involved really wanted to work with interns and help guide them through this experience.
Randall Wagner: Application Developer Intern
College: Eastern Kentucky University with a major in Computer Science
Why GreenStone? I grew up in a family with agricultural history, and some of my family members work at a Farm Credit association. This has helped me understand the reason we do things here at GreenStone.
Samantha Stanke: Crop Insurance Intern
College: Michigan State University with a major in Crop and Soil Sciences and minor in Agriculture Business
Interesting Fact: I am from a fifth-generation family farm and participated in 4-H and FFA. This will aid me in customer visits, and meeting, speaking to, and relating to customers. It also helps me understand units, and other basic insurance principals.
Valerio Bello-Munoz: Credit Intern
College: Cornerstone University with a double major in Finance and Economics
Why GreenStone? I have enjoyed GreenStone’s values, especially the continuous encouragement for growth. They truly want us to learn and develop with the resources they provide.
If you or someone you know is interested in applying to intern with GreenStone, find out more information here!
GreenStone Farm Credit Services is proud to announce the recipients of both the GreenStone Scholarship and the Dave Armstrong Scholarship in 2025, totaling $60,000 in educational support awarded to exceptional students. Since 2010, GreenStone has awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships to students preparing to make a positive impact in the agriculture industry.
The GreenStone Scholarship Program selected 21 high school seniors who demonstrated outstanding dedication to coursework, extracurricular activities, leadership, and a strong commitment to pursuing careers in agriculture. Recipients received either a $2,000 or $1,000 award to support their education.
The 2025 awardees for the GreenStone Scholarship are: Allie Choate (Cement City, Mich.), Ava Totzke (Stevensville, Mich.), Blake Jauquet (Luxemburg, Wis.), Bryce Ritter (Byron, Mich.), Carter Lenzer (Valders, Wis.), Celina Eldridge (Stanton, Mich.), Chesaney Wenzlaff (Kingston, Mich.), Colby Tucker (Hopkins, Mich.), Darek and David Trzebiatowski (Waupaca, Wis.), Elayna Hawkins (Freeport, Mich.), Elizabeth Hartmann (Flint, Mich.), Jacob Rohm (Seymour, Wis.), Kaden Petroshus (Gobles, Mich.), Madison Wiese (Greenleaf, Wis.), McKenzie Voisinet (Laingsburg, Mich.), Owen Epple (Watervliet, Mich.), Owen Newland (Belding, Mich.), Patrick Priesman (Bellevue, Mich.), Rylee Nelson (Waupaca, Wis.), and Sydney DuRussel (Reese, Mich.).
In addition, four outstanding college students were awarded the Dave Armstrong Scholarship, named after GreenStone’s former CEO, who dedicated 41 years at GreenStone, advancing agricultural innovation and stewardship. This prestigious scholarship, $5,000 each, aims to recognize and support students continuing to pursue careers in agriculture, timber, and natural resources.
The 2025 awardees for the Dave Armstrong Scholarship are: Abigail Guza (Ubly, Mich.), Jenna Gries (Manitowoc, Wis.), Laken DuRussel (Munger, Mich.), and Lily Mendels (Holland, Mich.).
“At GreenStone, we have a deep commitment to investing in the future of agriculture by empowering the next generation of leaders,” said Travis Jones, President and CEO. “By providing financial support to these students, we aim to enable them to pursue their dreams and inspire a bright future in agriculture across Michigan and northeast Wisconsin.”
Each student selected for either of GreenStone’s scholarships met specific criteria, including residency within GreenStone’s territory, competitive GPA, and plans to pursue an agriculture or natural resources-related field. Additionally, awardees demonstrated active community involvement, leadership in school and a passion for agriculture.
Applications for the 2026 scholarships will be available on the GreenStone website in early 2026, providing another opportunity for aspiring agricultural leaders to apply for financial support.
While running his agricultural business and getting his Crop and Soil Science degree in Oklahoma, Logan Maher learned the value of partnering with Farm Credit after working with them on various projects. So, when he moved up to Michigan there was no hesitation when reaching out to GreenStone.
As newlyweds, Logan and Jenna Maher bought their first piece of land in April of 2024, consisting of 115 acres. Although not all of the acreage was tillable, the couple planned to utilize various methods to get the land exactly how they wanted!
Having sold his business in Oklahoma when he moved to Michigan, Logan faced an unexpected tax burden and noted, “I definitely learned my lesson from that and decided that planning is a pretty critical thing to do while running a business.”
This meant when starting fresh here in Michigan, he wanted to ensure his new operation was set up for success. That’s when he reached out about GreenStone’s CultivateGrowth grant. Logan utilized the grant to work with a business planning agency he trusted to make sure he and Jenna were on the right track.
The Mahers both come from strong agricultural backgrounds and currently operate the farm while working full-time off the farm. The tillable land houses a cucumber crop for this summer, and the Mahers plan to build a steady rotation in the future. GreenStone also helped them close on an equipment loan to purchase an excavator, so they can further clear their land and assist others in the surrounding area. Their goal is to get as much of their land fully tillable to allow them to increase the size of their crop.
With the couple’s dedication to their success and support of GreenStone, the Mahers are excited for their future on their land.
GreenStone aims to provide opportunities for all young, beginning, and small farmers and supports their educational and personal growth efforts with our CultivateGrowth grant. To learn more about GreenStone’s CultivateGrowth grant, click here.
Pictured above from left to right: Bruce Lewis, Michael Feight, Rick Snyder, and Paul Lindow.
Two current board members have been re-elected to the GreenStone Farm Credit Services Board of Directors: Michael Feight and Bruce Lewis.
Michael Feight of Lenawee County, Michigan, was reelected to a four-year term representing voting region 3, located in the seven counties covering the southeastern corner of Michigan. Feight farms corn, beans, and wheat alongside his father and brother on their family farm. He has served on the GreenStone board for the past four years, and most recently as a member of the Finance Committee.
Bruce Lewis of Hillsdale County, Michigan, was also reelected for another four-year term representing voting region 3. Lewis, a livestock and grain farmer, has served on the board since 2011 and most recently was a member of the Audit Committee.
GreenStone’s board of directors have also selected two new appointed directors to serve on the board: Paul Lindow and Rick Snyder. As a financial expert, Lindow will chair the board’s Audit Committee, while Snyder brings his expertise in technology and cyber security with him to the board and will chair a new, soon to be established Technology Board Committee.
“As a member-owned cooperative governed by our members, GreenStone recognizes that when our members are successful, so are we,” said Travis Jones, GreenStone President and CEO. “The re-election and appointment of these board members demonstrates their deep understanding of the values and needs of our cooperative. They have consistently shown their leadership and dedication to our mission of strengthening the rural communities we serve in Michigan and northeast Wisconsin.”
Along with the board positions, GreenStone’s 28,000 members elected individuals to serve on the cooperative’s 2026 nominating committee. The nominating committee is comprised of GreenStone members from throughout the organization’s territory who are tasked with recruiting candidates for next year’s board elections and nominating committee. The 2026 nominating committee includes:
Region 1 – Nathan Clarke (Midland County, MI), and Deidre Iciek (Gladwin County MI)
Region 2 – Ty Bodeis (Tuscola County, MI), and Grant Davidson (Sanilac County, MI)
Region 3 – Calby Garrison (Lenawee County, MI), and Jason Winter (Monroe County, MI)
Region 4 – Joseph Dykhuis (Allegan County, MI), Scott Hassle (Van Buren County, MI), and Benjamin S. Schilling (Berrien County, MI)
Region 5 – Michelle L. Nitengale (Montcalm County, MI), Ann M. Patin (Newaygo County, MI), and Tyler Wilson (Gratiot County, MI)
Region 6 – Damien Miller (Shiawassee County, MI) and Francis Trierweiler (Clinton County, MI)
Region 7 – Johna C. Brock (Oconto County, WI) and Kim Kinjerski (Kewaunee County, WI)
Getting Involved in Your Cooperative
As a member of GreenStone, you play a crucial role in determining the governance and leadership of our association! Make your voice heard by participating in elections and consider getting involved by submitting your interest in a nominating or director role.
Members from GreenStone’s voting regions 4 and 5 will gather in August to find candidates for open director and nominating committee positions for 2026’s elections. The remaining regions will meet in December to choose candidates for their nominating committee positions. This is your opportunity to take an active role in your cooperative’s future. We encourage you to consider participating in the governance process and submit your interest today!
The Importance of the Nominating Committee
Before a member can be elected to the board, our Nominating Committee identifies, evaluates, and nominates a qualified slate of candidates for stockholder election. The Nominating Committee holds a very pivotal role in determining who provides leadership to our association.
If you’re interested in furthering GreenStone’s role as an industry leader for agriculture and our rural communities, serving on the Nominating Committee might be a great opportunity for you!
Get Involved Today!
To learn more about the nominating and director roles, visit greenstonefcs.com/about-us/board-of-directors/governance-overview/. Complete a profile to express your interest or contact our corporate governance coordinator, Cheryl Motz at [email protected] or 517-318-9557, for more information.
As a young, beginning, or small farmer, how can you position yourself for success when seeking to work with a lender to grow your farming operation? The Five Cs of Credit are a steppingstone to get you there! Dive into what each of these “Cs” mean, and how a better understanding of each of them can help you along the way as you grow your business.
Character
The more information you can provide to your lender up front about yourself and your business, the better! Share with your lender who you are, your background, and what your business goals and aspirations are. Even if you don’t have every detail of your business plan worked out, sharing as much as you can about your goals for your business will go a long way in helping your lender get to know you.
Inviting your financial services officer to your farm is a great opportunity for them to learn more about you and your business. It will help strengthen your relationship with your lender.
Capital
Capital gives your lender a snapshot of your personal financial statement, better known as a balance sheet. A balance sheet is a list of all your assets and liabilities — what you currently own and what you owe on. If you don’t have a balance sheet completed, don’t hesitate to ask your financial services officer to walk you through filling it out. We’re here as a resource and would be more than happy to assist you in learning how to complete it.
Your lender will also evaluate if you have more assets than liabilities. If not, it is important to communicate with your lender what your debt management strategy is going forward.
Capacity
Your ability and plan to repay debt is your capacity. This can include any existing debt as well as any new debt you are planning on taking on. Providing your lender with your plan for managing your debt will go a long way. If you can provide projections for multiple scenarios to your lender on your debt repayment plan, that is even better.
This will help them get an idea of your management abilities and show them you are willing to go the extra mile to provide the most information possible to your lender. Again, the more information you can provide up front, the smoother the lending process will be, the stronger the relationship will be with your lender, and the more your lender will be able to support you!
Collateral
Collateral acts as a secondary source of repayment and is required with every loan you are applying for with GreenStone. If you do not have a lot of assets that could be used as collateral for your loan, it will be important to have a cash down payment up front. The more you can put down as a down payment, the less you will have to use as collateral.
It’s important to remember that any collateral you use towards your loan must be a tangible asset and have some relation to your loan. For example, if you are taking out a loan for a new piece of equipment, you might be able to use equipment you already own as collateral.
Conditions
Conditions are the terms of your loan that keep both you and your lender accountable to each other. A condition of your loan may be that your lender requires a balance sheet every year throughout the length of the loan to monitor the progress you’ve made and to make sure you are on track for full loan repayment. Think of it as a way to check in with your lender and keep an open line of communication. We want to know how we can continue to best support you!
The Five Cs of credit are a framework meant to work together to present a full picture of yourself and your business plan to your lender so they can assess a loan solution that works best for you. Understanding each and why they are important will prepare you for conversations with your lender about the plans you have to grow your business. Your local GreenStone branch is available to answer any questions you might have on the Five Cs of Credit or what your lender is looking for when applying for a loan.
This article was originally published in Michigan Farm News.