As profit margins tighten and the cost of new and used equipment continues to climb, many producers are leveraging financing to spread out their machinery costs and reduce the financial burden of keeping their equipment up to date.
For more than a decade, GreenStone has partnered with AgDirect®, one of the fastest growing equipment financing programs in the nation, to offer competitive loan, lease and refinancing* options.
Through this partnership, GreenStone customers can count on attractive rates, fast decisions and flexible terms no matter where you choose to buy. Because AgDirect has no manufacturer rebate or financing restrictions, customers can also take advantage of manufacturers’ cash payment discounts and still finance though the AgDirect program, allowing you to leverage the best of both worlds.
“One of the reasons AgDirect has been successful is its connection to the Farm Credit System,” says Scott Welden, an AgDirect Territory Manager in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. “As part of the Farm Credit System, customers can count on a lender that has been serving agriculture just as long or longer than some of the major equipment manufacturers. It’s rewarding to play such a critical role in helping producers afford the equipment they need so they can remain competitive and profitable. And AgDirect earnings help offset the operating expenses of participating Farm Credit System associations which helps pay their eligible customers patronage.”
Celebrating 25 years of simple, fast and flexible financing
Since 1998, AgDirect has been serving customers and dealers by offering loan, lease and refinancing options for both new and used equipment purchases completed at the dealership, at auction or through private party transactions.
The AgDirect model scales back the length of the application and accelerates credit decisions. Customers can complete their loan application and have a credit response within minutes.
At the dealership, 70% of AgDirect’s credit decisions are made in less than 30 seconds, allowing customers to count on quicker closing and funding for their equipment needs. To apply, participating AgDirect dealer salespersons simply enter the customer’s financing application online.
A dedicated financing team and network of AgDirect territory managers are available to assist with auction and private party purchases and can help both dealers and producers with quoting and selecting the best financing solutions. And when it comes to customer service, 100% of calls are answered by a live person during business hours.
Dedicated to the customer experience
As part of AgDirect’s evolution, the technology used to support customers and dealers through the transaction process has evolved. Online tools like a built-in payment calculator allows dealers to provide customers with accurate pricing options and financing comparisons were introduced.
An online application, electronic signatures and a mobile app also contribute to the ease of use and provide anytime access. Thanks to these tools, customers can now submit secure financing applications 24/7, sign documents remotely and run different scenarios before making a purchase decision all from their mobile phone.
“It goes back to our focus of serving agriculture’s machinery and equipment financing needs,” says Scott. “All of our digital tools serve a fundamental purpose of maintaining that focus while creating flexibility, faster turnarounds and a sense of convenience.”
*Farm Credit System debt is ineligible for refinance.
**Excludes leases over $500,000.
Nobody finances ag equipment like AgDirect
Subject to approval, there are several other advantages to choosing AgDirect equipment financing:
- As low as $0 down
- 2-7 years terms on most equipment – up to 10-year term on pivots
- Competitive variable and fixed rates for new and used equipment
- Delayed payments up to 15 months
- No prepayment penalties**
When you are in the market to buy, lease or refinance equipment, be sure to ask for AgDirect financing. Call your financial officer with any questions or contact AgDirect at agdirect.com or 888-525-9805.
AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered by Farm Credit Services of America and other lenders, including participating Farm Credit System Institutions.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
Eric Vandivier
10 years of service
Senior Tax Accountant
Little Chute, WI
How does your role carry out GreenStone’s mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture?
My role as a tax accountant is crucial for our customers, particularly as they approach year-end or look to make changes in their business (creating, selling, expanding, transitioning, etc.). I try to take the knowledge I have in tax, accounting and payroll law and pass that on to customers so that they can make the best financial decisions for their particular situation.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I enjoy being the go-to person for one of the most complicated issues our customers deal with. Taxes aren’t fun but they don’t have to be the headache that some people think they are. Tax accountants can be as trusted of an advisor as doctors or therapists. I enjoy building that personal relationship with my customers as well.
What changes have been incorporated to meet evolving customer needs?
Tax laws and regulations change on an almost annual basis. So, no tax year is ever the same. My role requires me to stay on top of all these changes so I can educate and serve my customers to the best of my ability.
How do you see GreenStone moving forward?
Our department has gone through a good deal of changes since I started back in 2013, but every change has been made to make our lives as tax accountants, and the lives of our customers, easier. We’ve used automation in our software to allow us to provide better financial reports in a timelier fashion to our customers. We’ve educated ourselves on ever-changing financial programs like PPP loans and Employee Retention Credits to try to get as much money back in our customers pockets as possible. We’ve used better technology to streamline how information flows back and forth between our department and our customers.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I most enjoy spending time with my family. My wife and I recently welcomed our second child, Tristan, to the world back in November. With my 2-year-old daughter, Addison, loving her role as big sister, we spend as much time as possible making irreplaceable memories. Of course, when there is a moment to catch our breath as parents you might find us golfing, at our cabin up north or relaxing and watching a movie.
Mark Buuck
20 years of service
VP of Lending
Adrian, MI
How does your role carry out GreenStone’s mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture?
In my role, I’m able to provide reliable products and services to farmers that assist them in running an efficient and profitable business. Their success is GreenStone’s success, giving me the opportunity give back through donations and volunteering to support the rural community and be involved in local agriculture.
What do you enjoy about your role?
What I enjoy about being a part of GreenStone is the people I get to work with and the people we serve together. Whether it’s buying a piece of farmland or receipting a loan payment, it’s all of us working together towards a common goal.
What changes have been incorporated to meet evolving customer needs?
Improvements in technology have allowed me to be more flexible in my role. It also allows me to be more accessible to customers, and improving our ability to meet their needs that much faster.
How do you see GreenStone moving forward?
Moving forward at GreenStone, I’m in a position to grow with our customers in good times and in times of stress. Building strong relationships with customers and being involved in the rural community positions me to be a reliable resource that understands what is happening on a local level.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family, whether at our kids sporting and school events, or going to the lake.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 25 mins
Additional Time: 8 hrs 5 mins
Total Time: 8 hrs 30 mins
Servings: 4
Yield: 8 kebabs
Ingredients
- ¾ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 pound tri-tip sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into 32 chunks
- 16 button mushrooms
- 16 cherry tomatoes
- 1 small bell pepper (any color), cut into 16 pieces
- 16 (1 inch) chunks red onion
Directions
- Whisk vinegar, oil, mustard, oregano, rosemary, garlic, salt and pepper together in a small bowl.
- Skewer beef, mushrooms, tomatoes, bell pepper pieces and onion chunks, alternating evenly, on 8 metal or wooden skewers. Place the kebabs in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Refrigerate (or store in a cooler packed with ice) for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Remove the kebabs from the dish; discard the marinade. Grill the kebabs, turning once, to desired doneness, 6 to 8 minutes total. To grill over your campfire, hold the skewers over the flames (but do not let the flames touch the food), turning regularly, until the meat is cooked to your liking, about 15 minutes for medium.
Source: eatingwell.com
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
For Gary and Roxanne Pedersen, family means everything. After spending years in their Houghton Lake, Michigan home located closer to the center of town, they were ready for something more private.
After another financial institution was unable to help Gary and Roxanne, they made their way to GreenStone where, now retired, Financial Services Officer Brian Peariso was ready to help.
“They came to me back at the beginning of 2018 to inquire about doing a self-build. When you’re able to help someone after they haven’t had success with another financial institution, it’s very rewarding. We were able to appraise it and move forward,” said Brian.
And move forward, they did. The two broke ground on a new piece of property in West Branch, Michigan which would soon become their brand-new four-bedroom paradise.
Gary has a background in construction, but this was the first time his wife Roxanne has worked with him on a build.
“Gary is a handyman so it’s always awesome to work with people who have a background in construction,” said Brian.
A learning curve for her, the two made the most out of the experience together.
“I worked for a builder to put me through college, but this is the first time Rox and I worked on something together,” Gary explained.
“I pretty much learned on the fly, but I had a good teacher,” said Roxanne.
Gary and Roxanne had some help from contractors, but built about fifty percent of the home entirely on their own. Roxanne jokes that being able to go to her job during the day and only work on the house in the evening is what kept her going.
“He worked day and night on this place, but I had the luxury to go to work during the day,” said Roxanne.
As expected, there were some compromises along the way.
“One of the best decisions we made was on the back porch,” Roxanne explained. “It’s half covered. I get to be in the sun and he gets to be in the shade.”
That compromise was important – because of their work arrangements.
“I work outside, and she works in the office, so we flip-flop when we get home,” said Gary.
Among many of their projects, one thing Roxanne is happy to show off is their beautiful stone fireplace.
“That was a fun project,” Roxanne remarked. “It was like playing Tetris because I got to pick out the rocks and he got to place them together.”
But the thing they’re most proud of is having a space where they can host their family.
“It’s a house built for a family of twelve, but there’s two of us,” Roxanne joked. “It’s awesome because when our granddaughter comes up to visit, there’s room to play.”
That extra room was the goal all along.
“We always hosted family, but now, we actually have the room,” said Gary. “The kids can go outside during the winter time. During the summer, there’s a slip-and-slide going down the hills. There’s a little creek out back to cool off. There’s plenty of room depending on where you want to visit at.”
Gary and Roxanne said this would not have been possible without the help of Brian and GreenStone.
“GreenStone has been really easy to work with,” said Gary. “Everyone requires certain amounts of documents, but GreenStone makes it easy. It’s nice that they are family-oriented and blue-collar-oriented.”
Gary also appreciates GreenStone’s commitment to giving back to our member-owners through our Patronage program. In 2023 alone, GreenStone returned $120 million of profits to our members.
“The Patronage program helps out,” said Gary. “It’s awesome to get a bonus check in March to get caught back up in the winter.”
Gary and Roxanne enjoyed their experience with GreenStone so much that when they decided to put up another building on their property, they knew exactly who to call.
“Gary called me not too long ago, and said they wanted to build a barn,” said Brian. “We had such a good relationship with them, and I was happy to assist them.”
After a quick process, Gary and Roxanne were able to begin building their dream barn.
“The construction loan was pretty darn easy. Everything went smoothly,” said Gary.
The barn will be used for storage, a game room, and Gary and Roxanne’s newfound passion – his woodworking business.
“It’s kind of a hobby and a stress reliever, and I thought we could make some money at it, and we have.”
If that business ever needs an expansion, Gary knows exactly who to reach out to.
“I’m not just a number at my branch, they know my name,” said Gary. “We tell everyone to call GreenStone.”
And our staff, like Brian, will always be ready to take that call. “If something sounds like a solid plan, GreenStone will try to make it work.”
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
Each season farmers face growing environmental challenges and the need to adopt more sustainable practices on their operation continues to rise.
Luckily, farmers seeking guidance along their journey in creating a more sustainable operation can turn to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP).
Responsible for promoting the growth and sustainability of the state’s agricultural sector, MDARD is committed to supporting agricultural businesses, ensuring food safety and security, protecting animal and plant health, and promoting environmental stewardship. The department oversees various programs and initiatives related to agriculture, including crop and livestock inspection, pesticide regulation, food and dairy inspection, and promotion of local food systems. In collaboration efforts with farmers, industry stakeholders, and local community members, MDARD is working to advance Michigan’s agricultural economy while preserving natural resources and supporting rural communities.
Newly appointed in March 2023 as the Director of MDARD, Dr. Timothy Boring brings years of industry knowledge from prior leadership roles, his education on crop and soil sciences and experiences growing up on a dairy farm. His focus on conservation will be at the helm of MDARD’s goals and program development moving forward. This focus on conservation mirrors the same values farmers have: both provide vast benefit to the farm operation and surrounding communities.
“The value of conservation is around resiliency and sustainability, not only for the farms but for rural communities too,” Dr. Boring explains. “Building stronger, more resilient systems, being able to weather increasing climate challenges, having increased biological capacity, more diverse cover crops and less tillage.”
MDARD continues to be a sound resource for farmers looking to implement conservation practices on their operation. One notable program, the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP), assists farmers in environmentally conscious practices and being good stewards of the land.
“MAEAP has improved management of farms in a variety ways and has increased the overall average production capacity and environmental protection on farms today,” says Dr. Boring. “[MDARD’s goal] is to increase the understanding of how agricultural investments are consistent with improving conservation. You can’t grow different things if you don’t have the infrastructure or processing to support different things being grown in your community.”
While there are a plethora of both internal and external resources MDARD connects farms with, such as Farm Bill and state-level programs, much of the focus is on educating growers on the importance of it all. Conservation is here to stay and MDARD plans to continue offering support by defining what good management looks like and helping farms get there.
“The environmental conditions we are dealing with are not getting any less challenging and these challenges are becoming more consistent with farms looking to build and expand,” explains Dr. Boring. “The department is prioritizing connecting with growers and producers one-on-one and we recognize the importance those connections are. There are lots of face-to-face local workshops and field day meetings for growers to attend.”
As you begin to implement environmentally-conscious changes and conservation practices on your farm, turn to MAEAP and the programs available through MDARD. These resources are here to support your conservation journey and streamline your process.
GreenStone recognizes the proactive work of our agricultural community and the efforts of farmers n embracing environmentally conscious practices. For more information on becoming MAEAP verified, conservation practices to implement and how they can bring long-term value to your farm, visit www.maeap.org.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
Crop insurance continues to be the number one method used to mitigate the financial risks involved with growing a crop, and this year Margin Protection and the Enhanced Coverage Option deserve a closer look.
Both programs are quality tools to reduce financial risk on the farm as 95% coverage is available with higher subsidy percentage than other alternatives. Let’s compare and contrast the programs.
Margin Protection is an area-based insurance plan for corn and soybeans that provides coverage against an unexpected decrease in operating margin (revenue less input costs), caused by reduced county yields, reduced commodity prices, increased prices of certain inputs, or any combo of these. Coverage is available up to 95%. It is important to remember that Margin Protection is an area-based insurance product. This means an individual’s actual performance in the 2023 crop year will not be a determining factor in how an indemnity is calculated.
Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) is also an area-based insurance plan for corn, soybeans and wheat producers that provides coverage against an unexpected decrease in county revenue. Losses are caused from lower revenue from reduced county yields and/or reduced commodity prices. This area-based supplemental shallow-loss coverage shields loss from 86% up to 90% or 95%.
Both programs offer up to 95% protection. Margin Protection covers from 95% (the coverage you select) the entire way to down to $0, if both the Margin Protection and underlying policy have a claim then the Margin Protection policies claim is reduced. For ECO the protection is from 95% down to 86% and a producer could be paid for the full amount from 95% to 86% and it does not impact the underlying policy claim.
Do I need to purchase an underlying policy?
For Margin Protection an underlying policy is not required, however most producers still purchase their normal Revenue Protection policy. For ECO an underlying policy is required for which most producers purchase Revenue Protection. A producer could also purchase yield protection, but then the ECO policy is focused on county yield.
A producer can select Margin Protection with the Harvest Price Option or without. ECO matches the underlying policy, for most producers that is Revenue Protection, which includes the harvest price option.
Timeline to sign up
Margin Protection selection is different than you might expect – the sign up period for the 2024 corn and soybean crop is currently underway with a sign up deadline of September 30, 2023.
Enhanced Coverage Option sign up deadline for corn and soybeans is March 15, 2024, while the wheat deadline is September 30, 2023.
Since you can only pick one program, here are a few considerations to think about when deciding to purchase Margin Protection vs. waiting for ECO.
- Does the current Margin Protection guarantee provide you with the floor you need for 2024?
- Do you think prices could fall between now and February? Is so, Margin Protection would provide more protection.
- Do you think prices will rise higher going into February? If so, waiting for ECO and deciding then could be the better alternative.
How are guarantees set up?
Margin Protection Liability is county based with the producer selecting the “protection factor” to choose if they are a better producer than the county average or lower than county average. The producers can choose from 1.2 to .8 protection factor. If a producer selects 1.2 then they would receive $1.20 for every $1.00 the county has a loss.
ECO is triggered with a loss in the county, but the liability/guarantee is established based on a producer’s Actual Production History (APH). If a producer has a higher APH, then they have a higher liability.
So Why Should Producers be Looking at Margin Protection for 2024?
2024 Corn and soybean market prices are now at a price that allows most producers to operate at a profit. These prices could go up, but they also could go down. Margin Protection is unique in that it allows you to set a price for corn and soybeans now.
It’s important to note that Margin Protection is normally bought in tandem with the more popular and well-known Revenue Protection product. A premium credit is even applied lessening the cost of Margin Protection when a Revenue Protection policy is purchased in tandem. Revenue Protection will gather prices for 2024 crop in February of 2024. If the price continues to go up, a producer’s Revenue Protection policy could secure that higher price in February. If prices go down, a producer may have established a much higher amount of coverage per acre than their respective Revenue Protection policy would afford them.
So How Does Margin Protection Work?
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) is the governing arm of crop insurance. RMA has determined the average expected yield for each county for the 2024 crop year. This bushel per acre average is multiplied by the 2024 projected price for the applicable crop creating an expected revenue. The projected price is determined by collecting the closing trading price of 2024 futures from August 15 to September 14 (December futures for corn and November futures for soybeans) and averaging them out. RMA then subtracts both fluctuating costs (diesel, interest, urea, potash, etc.) and fixed input costs (depreciation, labor, etc.) creating a margin. The fluctuating costs are given a projected price just like grain with the same time period being used for most.
Come harvest, the price of grain is established again, referred to as the harvest price, along with the actual county average yield. The fluctuating costs are also gathered again but with the harvest price discovery period being from April 1 to April 30, 2022 for most fluctuating inputs. If the harvest margin is less than the expected margin minus deductible, an indemnity is due.
This can be simplified with the following:
Margin Protection- Expected Margin (expected yield x projected price – input costs) x coverage level = Trigger Margin
Harvest Margin- (actual county average yield x harvest price – actual average input costs).
Trigger Margin- Harvest Margin = any applicable indemnity
Should you Purchase Margin Protection for the 2024 Corn and Soybean Crop?
GreenStone’s Optimum quoting software can greatly help producers evaluate the options and answer this question by looking at how this product would have performed historically for their operation, as well as offering the ability to perform “what if” scenarios, and profit and loss matrixes.
Be sure to contact your local GreenStone crop insurance specialist to see how Margin Protection would fit your individual farm.
If you want more certainty for 2024, consider purchasing one of these insurances which gives you up to 95% coverage.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
During the summer months in southeast Michigan, you can count on at least one thing: four bright orange produce stands in Dundee, Ida, Milan, and Maybee will be stocked with fresh vegetables ready to feed a community on the honor system.
The man behind the stands is Tye Thompson – but his story starts long before these stands attracted lines of people waiting for their fix of his popular produce.
Tye didn’t grow up on a farm, but he always knew that being in the fields is right where he belonged. Many of Tye’s neighbors and family friends who babysat him were farmers, and watching the tractors and combines from his window sparked his childhood curiosity.
“For as long as I can remember, I have always liked growing plants and watching farmers in the field harvesting crops,” said Tye. “From the time I was a kid, I always wanted to farm.”
That curiosity turned into a drive to get started. By the time Tye was an early teenager, he was kickstarting his career in agriculture by working on his neighbor’s farm. When he realized that his neighbor had an acre he wasn’t using, Tye asked if he could rent it out and grow some crops.
From that point, Tye began to grow produce to sell – and he hasn’t stopped since.
“I rented that acre from him, built a little greenhouse, grew some plants, and bought my first tractor for $600,” said Tye.
That tractor was a bright orange Allis-Chalmers B — the inspiration behind the orange produce carts he still uses today.
“My first sale was a quart of jalapeños and a quart of banana peppers,” Tye recalls proudly.
When Tye was finishing up his senior year of high school, he knew he still had more to learn about agriculture before tackling it fulltime. He decided to pursue a degree in horticulture at Michigan State University. During his time there, he continued his farm operation on the side selling produce out of his stand.
After receiving his diploma in 2019, he began his dream of farming fulltime.
From Dreams to Reality
As a young farmer, Tye worked with GreenStone to secure financing to expand his operation – so he could turn a profit and remain a full-time farmer long-term. He worked with Rich Dubke, who, at the time, served as a financial services officer in GreenStone’s Monroe branch.
Rich already knew of Tye because of his signature orange produce stands, and he was excited to work with a young farmer ready to grow his operation.
“His work ethic is second to none,” Rich explained. “He asks the right questions, and he puts the right people around him. The presence he has in the community is huge. You have a hard time not seeing multiple cars lined up at his produce carts in the summer.”
“It has been nice to talk to Rich and hear about different options he has for me,” Tye explained. “He has helped me weigh the pros and cons of buying things.”
Rich was able to utilize GreenStone’s CultivateGrowth resources to assist Tye in expanding his operation. The CultivateGrowth program provides flexibility in the loan approval process for young, beginning, and small farmers.
“GreenStone has really helped out a lot, especially when I was starting out on my farm,” said Tye. “They have been there to help me make improvements on my property.”
Tye has expanded from one produce cart to four – all bright orange, of course. He now has four greenhouses and 39 acres of farmland. His popularity has also expanded – as he became a staple in the community.
“It’s a hard job, so for the community to be so appreciative, it’s really nice,” said Tye.
Producing the Next Generation
Because so many people helped Tye follow his dreams in agriculture, he now gives back by investing in even younger aspiring agriculturalists. Aside from farming full-time, Tye began working in the classroom fulltime in 2021 at Dundee Community Schools teaching classes like agriculture business, botany, and zoology as part of their agriscience program at the school and leading their FFA Chapter as the advisor.
“It makes life extremely busy, but I enjoy teaching and I enjoy the kids. I like helping expand their knowledge on agriculture,” said Tye.
“I know Tye is aware of how important young farmers are, as an agriculture educator himself,” said Rich.
Recently, his students helped open a greenhouse at the school for a full hands-on experience. Tye hopes to continue in the field of agriculture education in hopes to inspire more people to get into the field.
Tackling Transition
Tye and Rich have built a close relationship working together. GreenStone takes great pride in the type of quality service we provide our members. That’s why when Rich recently made the choice to move from GreenStone’s Monroe branch to the Ann Arbor branch, he didn’t make that decision lightly.
“The hardest decision I’ve made in my six years at GreenStone was moving on to a new opportunity knowing that I’m leaving my customers, but I know they’re in good hands with Mark, so it made that decision easier,” said Rich.
When these transitions happen, customers like Tye are certainly not left in the dark. GreenStone’s leadership team thoughtfully considers the right partnership and communicates those staffing changes with any affected customers.
Long time Financial Services Officer Mark Buuck now works with Tye to help him continue growing his popular operation. It’s a transition that Rich and Mark have worked together on to make sure these vital relationships with our customers remain informed and strong.
“I’ve talked to Rich almost every day during the transition to make sure there are no hiccups,” said Mark. “When I take on new customers, I like to get on their farm, answer questions about the transition, and ask questions about their operation.”
As far as working with Tye, Mark is more than ready to get started.
“I know the success he has had, and I’m looking forward to working with him on his next steps,” said Mark.
A Bright Future
Tye’s future is as bright as his produce stands. He has a long list of goals he wants to accomplish including the addition of a farm store and dipping his toes into agri-tourism.
He also hopes to add a pole barn and more greenhouses in the future to be sure he’s able to provide produce even when the weather outside is unfavorable.
“Every year, I always try to expand in some way. I believe if you’re not growing, you’re dying,” said Tye.
“People like Tye are the future of agriculture,” said Rich.
Through it all, GreenStone will be there to help him grow.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
In GreenStone’s 2022 annual report released earlier this year, we explored the ways our customers and co-op alike are moving forward to meet the needs of our farms, families and customers.
Here, three GreenStone directors take a minute to reflect on where they see the focus of GreenStone moving forward, and how they themselves are embracing the future on their own farms. Together, we are moving forward for a strong future!
Bruce Lewis
As we think about the future of GreenStone, there are many things that come to mind. We need to continue to build relationships between GreenStone and our membership, and between GreenStone and other Farm Credit associations. The personal engagement between GreenStone’s staff and the customer is what I value most in working with GreenStone. They know me and my farm, my priorities and future goals, and they are always ready to stop by and help me explore options. That’s something GreenStone will continue to provide as we move forward. That same relationship is just as important when we think of our peers across the Farm Credit System. Being able to brainstorm and collaborate together creates even better results. And having those existing relationships makes future transitions of associations even stronger.
We need to continue to be advancing the ease of use for members, from DocuSign for electronic document sending and signatures to online banking for customers to have instant access any time, and securely doing business digitally. As we leverage technology, we must be mindful of the efficiencies we can create.
When we look to the future, GreenStone must remain a reliable and consistent source of credit for our customers now and in the future.
Ed Reed
GreenStone is moving forward with a new CEO! Travis Jones has been leading the management team for almost a year now; it feels and looks like the same team with a few new teammates. Our goal was a seamless transition and I am confident we are accomplishing just that.
Farmers are a tough bunch, I can say that now that I’ve just turned 60. I am optimistic about the future of agriculture, and the next generation of farmers who have grown up using technology. We are retrofitting hog buildings with a distributed control system and internet connection allowing us to control all facets of the barn in real time. Irrigations have electronic valves and can be changed and started all from your phone. With advanced vision technology, it has been demonstrated with AI the ability to score the health of animals. Michael Bloomberg couldn’t be more wrong with his take on how a modern farm works.
This technology comes with a cost and GreenStone is here to assist with all your capital needs. I see a much different agricultural industry; we are doing more with less. Human capital is a limiting factor on most operations, we must embrace technology to maximize returns on our operation’s assets. I can’t wait to see what AI programs like ChatGPT and Watson will provide agriculture.
Let’s move forward!
Scott Roggenbuck
In this fast paced ever changing world we live in, few things change as fast as agriculture. And GreenStone is “moving forward” to meet the needs of our members. GreenStone’s hardworking and talented information services team has recently launched Journey+, a cloud based loan origination system; your board and management team just entered into a capital markets collaboration with three other Farm Credit associations – AgHeritage Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Services of Mandan, and Farm Credit of Western Arkansas. These are only two examples, as our team works hard to stay ahead of change and continue to move forward.
Your board is always working diligently with management to monitor credit quality, loan growth, hold positions and adjusting to the ever changing regulatory environment.
We are moving forward on our own farm also. We, like many of you, have enjoyed several years of good commodity prices and low interest rates. We have put some of this away having learned some hard lessons back in the 80s.
Yes, I have learned some lessons over the last 40 years in this business we love. Good times don’t last for ever, neither do bad times. Get strong when you can, to weather the storms ahead. Keep good books – you don’t want to be the last one to find out the money’s gone. Never stop building relationships, you never know when you will need them, and people that trust you will have your back. And finally, don’t let pride get in the way of making the right decision, that’s why football teams have punters.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
For many people, especially self-proclaimed or “want to be” grill masters, summer is the best time of the year.
Instead of spending the evening indoors isolated over a stove, you get to embrace the outdoors with family and friends, and enjoy the options of making dinner outdoors.
The sounds of laughter as kids play in the yard and the smell of the fresh barbeque on the grill is what makes the memories of a great summer!
A little prep work and planning can go a long way to ease the stress and focus on the fun. Here are a few tips and tricks to help!
Of course, the best way to start is usually the most dreaded task: cleaning. It’s important to take the time to clean your grill and cooking tools after they have sat unused all winter. A mixture of dish soap and water can help break down any leftover residue and ease the scrubbing. Some experts suggest the final step of rubbing vegetable oil on the cooking grates to help prevent rust and avoid food sticking.
Along with the cleaning the cooking area is the yard prepping. A fresh lawn cut is nice to avoid overgrown grass to walk in and can help limit bug hideouts. Cutting a day or two before your gathering not only ensures an appropriate grass length but also avoids fresh clippings from gathering on your guest’s feet.
Bugs seem to enjoy parties too. Be sure to test out the area a few days before the party to know what to expect from these uninvited guests. Sitting outdoors at the same time as your party is planned will give you an accurate picture to be able to plan accordingly. Bug repellent, citronella candles or other tools may be appropriate to have on hand to keep pesky bugs away.
If you’re grilling, make sure you have enough propane, wood chips or pellets, or charcoal to supply your grill of choice. And of course, if a bonfire is in the plan, be prepared with ample dry wood in various sizes, including kindling and larger pieces for extended burning and warmth.
Lighting and sound are great additions to the ambiance. For lighting, you may consider solar powered lights or light strings. Timers on your lighting is another great touch to automatically come on at dusk and turn off at a predetermined time for consistency and energy conservation. Sound can be sourced from a variety of different music boxes and, if necessary, spread throughout the area using Bluetooth speakers. If you plan to leave them outdoors, ensure they are designed for the elements.
And while a back yard gathering is a perfect summer experience, Mother Nature doesn’t always agree. So the final tip is to always have a back-up plan – whether it means you’re now hosting a garage or barn party, converting to the comforts of the indoors, or possibly popping up a few tents.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
As a GreenStone intern, students gain exposure to real-world projects and experiences aligning with their career goals.
Jourdyn Armstrong
Real Estate Appraisal Intern
College: Attending Central Michigan University with a major in Business Administration.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I enjoy going out on the farm and doing construction inspections. I like having a first look into real estate and land values. I find it interesting to watch those markets and I like having that knowledge.
Jason Juengel
Appraisal Intern
College: Attending Oakland University with a major in Business Economics and a minor in Business Analytics.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I’m most looking forward to farm inspections.
Jaxson Gray
Business Analyst Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Finance and a minor in Information Technology.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Learning about the corporate world.
David Rocendo
Client Support Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Information Science.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Develop skills, network and job shadow other roles.
Harshil Chaudhary
Client Support Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Data Science.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I look most forward to working closely with likeminded people while learning from one another and gaining knowledge that will continue to help me throughout my life and career.
Ali Willenborg
Credit Intern
College: Attending Murray State University with a major in AgriScience Technology and a minor in Finance.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I’m mostly look forward to learning more about every department and networking with other interns throughout the summer. I am also excited to see all the different aspects of agriculture that Michigan has to offer.
Dakota Spink
Credit Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Education.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Learning more about the agriculture industry and more specifically farm credit and understanding how ag professionals can expand their operations.
Eric Gumz
Credit Intern
College: Attending the University of Alabama with a major in Finance and a concentration in Banking & Financial Services.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I am most looking forward to having the opportunity to speak with customers about their specific experiences and operations, because every farm or business is different in ways that are often not represented on their financial statements.
Luke Harry
Credit Intern
College: Attending Northwood University with a major in Finance.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Learning from experienced professionals and applying knowledge learned in the classroom to something that has an impact.
Holly Lashua
Crop Insurance Intern
College: Attending UW-River Falls with a major in Agribusiness and a minor in Crop Science.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I look forward to applying what I know from my agricultural background at GreenStone.
Kirsten Langmaack
Crop Insurance Intern
College: Attending Olivet College with a major in Insurance and Risk Management and a minor in Claims Investigations.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Learning how to do crop insurance and what crop insurance consists of.
Haniah Kring
Data Analyst Intern
College: Attending Hope College with a major in Computer Science.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Being able to work with messy data which I can transform using my skills into useful insights and analysis for the company.
Alexander Shaltry
Finance & Accounting Intern
College: Attending Northwood University with a major in Accounting.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I look forward to learning from everyone I work with. We have many people who have been in the accounting profession for a long time so being able to tap into their knowledge is something I think will really benefit me.
Ashby Henderson
Human Resources Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Human Capital and Society and a minor in Leadership of Organization.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I most look forward to learning about the functions of Human Resources outside of school, and networking with the other interns and departments.
Tomas Ruiz
Information Security Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Computer Science and minor in Philosophy.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Learning a lot with cybersecurity and learning how to protect not just an organization but to learn the craft and be able to teach others how to protect themselves.
Grace Hull
Legal Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Agribusiness Management and a minor in Agronomy.
What do you look forward to in your internship? To continue learning more about the different sides of farm credit.
Mia Vander Hoff
Marketing, Events, & Sales Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Agribusiness Management and minor in Food Industry Management.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I look forward to learning from and working with everyone in both the marketing and sales departments.
Olivia Gallt
Marketing & Graphic Design Intern
College: Attending Lansing Community College with a major in Graphic Design.
What do you look forward to in your internship? I most look forward to making connections within this internship and gaining knowledge about agriculture.
Samuel Koresky
Project Management Intern
College: Attending Arizona State University with a major in Organizational Leadership Project Management.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Learning how other project managers work and execute projects within the Farm Credit System.
Alex Rolls
Quality Engineering Intern
College: Attending Davenport University with a major in Computer Science.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Gaining valuable real-world experience in software development.
Pratham Pradhan
Service Desk Intern
College: Attending Michigan State University with a major in Computational Data Science.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Assisting in projects that can ultimately change the interactions between the employees and technology for the better.
Andrew McGovern
System Administrator Intern
College: Attending Illinois State University with a major in Computer System Technology.
What do you look forward to in your internship? All the learning and meeting cool people.
Brian Lapetina
Tax & Accounting Intern
College: Attending Western Michigan University with a major in Accounting.
What do you look forward to in your internship? Experiencing what summer work is like as a Tax Accountant, and how it differs from busy season.
To view the article in the online 2023 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.