MASSACHUSETTS FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

The Voice of Agriculture

NEWS & VIEWS

Massachusetts Farm Bureau249 Lakeside AveMarlborough, MA 01752

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OTECTING THE RIGHTS

MASSACHUSETTSFARM BUREAU

MASSACHUSETTS FARMERS, LEGISLATORS CELEBRATE AGRICULTURE DAY ON BEACON HILL

The Official Newspaper of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation© Vol. 25 Issue 3 April 2018 1.866.548.MFBF

More than 200 farmers and students descended on Beacon Hill on March 27, 2018 to showcase locally-grown food and farm products and to hold meetings with their local legislators about the issues that matter most to them. This annual event, known

as Agricultural Day at the State House, is a collaborative effort between the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) and more than 35 other organizations. During the event, MFBF President and Concord Farm Manager, Mark Amato, spoke to attendees about the state of the Massachusetts agriculture industry and the future of the industry. Currently, there is legislation that could assist young farmers. “Currently, when the next generation inherits the family farm, they are often hit with an expensive estate tax that arises when farm land is taxed based on its highest and best use, typically real estate development,” Amato said. “Many times, the next generation of farmers have had to sell significant pieces of or, in some cases, the entire family farm to cover this death tax. The estate tax continuously contributes to the dwindling supply of farm land in our state and has increased our dependence on food imported from other states and other countries.” He said that HB 3915, which is sponsored by Representative Kate Hogan and supported by Representative Jay Kaufman, would establish an agricultural value for family farms that are being inherited. This type of legislation would help to ensure the next generation can inherit the farm, if they choose. Amato also spoke about the low prices that the dairy and cranberry industries are experiencing and urged the legislator to consider bills that would assist these industries. Those bills included:• HB 3908- An act relative to the dairy farm tax credit, which would

expand the tax credit dairy farmers received when the cost of production exceeds the price of milk;

• HB 4067 - an act relative to cranberry bog renovation tax credit, which would provide a tax credit to cranberry growers who invest in bog renovations; and

• HB 2152 - an act relative to a cranberry wetland mitigation bank, which would allow cranberry producers to offer their bogs as wetland mitigation areas to developers who impact wetland elsewhere.

The speaking program was wrapped up with MFBF presenting awards to long-time friends of Massachusetts agriculture. Honorees included:• UMass Deputy Chancellor Steve Goodwin;• Energy & Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton; and• Representative John Scibak

In addition, MFBF Executive Director Doug Gillespie awarded the Kent Lage Memorial Award posthumously to Henry Gillet. His widow, Susan, was present to accept the award on Gillet’s behalf. After the speaking program, locally-grown food and farm products were distributed to attendees during a Taste of Massachusetts reception. All food was prepared and served by Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School students under the guidance of Chef Margot Wilson. Farms that donated to the high school for this reception, included:

• Apex Orchards, Shelburne Falls• Azuluna, North Grafton• Barstow’s Longview Farm, Hadley

• Bashista Orchards, Southampton• Blossoming Acres, Southwick• Boyden Brothers Maple, Conway• C A Dowse & Sons, Inc., Sherborn• Cabot Creamery• Cabot’s Candy, Cambridge• Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association, Carver• Clark Brothers Orchard, Ashfield• Cooper’s Hilltop Farm, Rochdale• The Country Hen, Hubbardston• Coutts Specialty Foods Inc., Shirley• Diemand Farm, Millers Falls• Dufresne’s Sugar House, Williamsburg• Earle M. Parsons & Sons, Inc., Hadley• East Mountain Farm, Williamstown• Effie’s Homemade Products, Hyde Park• Five Way Foods, Dorchester• Four Star Farms, Inc., Northfield• Foxbard Farm, Shelburne Falls• Foxboro Cheese Co., Foxborough• Franklin County Community Development Corporation, Greenfield• Grant Family Farm, Essex• Great Hill Dairy, Marion• Greenwood Hill Farm, Hubbardston• Hager’s Farm Market, Shelburne Falls• Hilltown Pork Inc., Granville• Holiday Brook Farm, Dalton• Ioka Valley Farm, Hancock• Jekanowski Farms, Hadley• Jordan Dairy Farm, Rutland• Kinne Brook Farm, Worthington• Kitchen Garden Farm, Sunderland• Lilac Hedge Farm, Jefferson• Lightning Ridge Farm, Sherborn• Manheim Farm, South Deerfield• Maple Corner Farm, Blandford• Massachusetts Fishermen’s Partnership, Gloucester• Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association, Scituate• Mayval Farm, Westhampton• Merrimack Valley Apiary, Billerica• Mozzarella House, Peabody• New England Apiaries & Billy C’s Raw Honey, Westfield• Northeast Harvest, Topsfield• OutPost Farm, Holliston• Paul’s Sugar House, Williamsburg• Plainville Farm, Hadley• Riverland Farm, Sunderland• Robinson Farm, Hardwick• Sky View Farm, Sheffield• Smith’s Country Cheese, Winchendon• Stonegate Farm, Conway• Stony Farm, Holden• Trustees of Reservations• Twin Brook Farm, Weston• Verrill Farm, Concord• Wheel-View Farm, Shelburne Falls For a complete list of the issues MFBF members focused on during their visit to Beacon Hill, please visit: http://www.farmbureau.co/legislative-priority/

2 NEWS & VIEWS April 2018

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GOVERNOR BAKER DECLARES MARCH 27 ‘MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE DAY’ BY: MARK AMATO, MFBF PRESIDENT AND VERRILL FARM MANAGER

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker declared March 27, 2018, Massachusetts Agriculture Day during our annual Ag Day at the Statehouse. This event is made possible by 35+ agricultural organizations. Sourcing food for the reception, arranging legislative visits for membership and delivering ag day mugs to legislators helps to remind legislators that we are here,

and we need their help to remain variable.

One of Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation’s (MFBF’s) top priorities for Ag Day was the estate tax bill, which would establish an agriculture tax rate for family farms that are being inherited. Currently, farmers may be hit with a death tax when they inherit the family farm as the land is taxed at its “highest and best use” value or development vale. This has resulted in many family farms selling off pieces of land to pay the death tax.

By establishing an agriculture value for family farms, we hope to ensure that the next generation can keep the family farm profitable, utilizing the land for farming ventures. The proposed bill includes language that the land must be kept in agriculture for 10 years or back taxes must be paid, in order to receive this benefit.

Many of us at Ag Day spoke to our legislators about this bill and we are hopeful that we will see it pass this legislative session, which ends July 31. In the meantime, please watch your email. That is how we contact you to alert you about when to weigh in. Every voice that a legislator hears on an issue, helps to make a difference.

It’s important to remember that just because Ag Day at the Statehouse has concluded, that doesn’t mean your role as an agvocate has concluded for the year. Many bills reach fruition and become part of state law right at the end of a legislative session. Between now and July 31, MFBF will need your support.

Many times, legislators don’t hear from anyone on bills. We all need you to stand up and back legislation that is important to you and your business. Please don’t count on someone else to speak for you.

Other legislative priorities for MFBF during Ag Day included tax credits for the dairy and cranberry industries as they weather times of low prices; agricultural preservation restriction program reforms; and more. You can find a complete list on our white paper on www.mfbf.net.

I want to say “thank you” to everyone who came to Boston on March 27 and made this day successful. I also want to thank everyone who donated agricultural product to the reception and I especially want to thank Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School and Chef Margot Wilson for her work preparing the feast. I know that every legislator who came to this event was appreciative of the bounty presented to them and hope we inspired them to learn more about the agriculture industry in Massachusetts.

Finally, I enjoyed seeing many of you at the County legislative breakfasts in March. I hope that everyone has a successful planting season this spring with cooperative weather. As I am writing this in late March, we are long overdue for some warmer weather, and less snow.

Best of luck with spring planting!

Mark Amatomark@mfbf.net

APPLY TODAY FOR THE GREGORY FINN SCHOLARSHIPThe Gregory Finn Scholarship was established in loving memory of a good friend to agriculture. Gregory L. Finn was Massachusetts Farm Bureau information & public relations director, a religious and devoted family man, who died of a heart attack in 1983 at the age of 55.

Born in Hyde Park, Finn attended Boston College, Suffolk Law School and Leland Powers Broadcast School. He worked as the host of the WBZ “Countryside” program since its beginning, an announcer for WBET in Brockton and WORL in Boston. On air, he was the high-energy host responsible for introducing the latest hit music as well as news broadcasts, “live advertisements” and on-air interviews with a long list of movie stars, pop-stars and celebrities.

Though not a farmer himself, Finn possessed a unique ability to bridge the gap between agriculture and suburbia. He was a natural at interpreting and conveying the problems facing farmers in a way that non-agricultural communities could understand. Finn was well aware that a whole generation had grown up without exposure to perhaps the single most vital industry in the Commonwealth - agriculture.

This scholarship is awarded in Finn’s memory and is meant to foster an understanding and perhaps help to close the gap between the farm community and suburban Massachusetts.

Applicant must be a child or legal dependent of a regular member in good standing of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation. Applicant must be at least in their junior year of college when the scholarship is awarded. Applicant must be majoring in communications, journalism, music or an agriculturally related field.

Application must be submitted to “The Greg Finn Scholarship Fund” by Aug. 31. They must be accompanied by a sealed official copy of the applicant’s college transcript and a 250 word statement on why the applicant has chosen this particular field of study and projected career goals.

To request an application please contact Kelley Garufi at kelley@mfbf.net or via phone at 508.481.4766 or visit our website at: www.farmbureau.co/programs-scholarships/

April 2018 NEWS & VIEWS 3

The Department of Transportation has again extended the deadline for agricultural haulers to comply with the electronic logging device ELD mandate. DOT’s initial agricultural exemption was set to expire on March 18. The new extension, which carries the exemption through another 90 days, allows the department additional time to issue guidance on the newly interpreted 150 air-mile agricultural commodity exemption and the hours of service regulations.

While most farmers and ranchers should be exempt from the ELD mandate because they can claim covered farm vehicle status, drivers who haul livestock, live fish and insects are likely to fall under the requirements.

Drivers who have to use ELDs would be limited to current hours of service rules, which restrict a driver to only 14 “on duty” hours, with no more than 11 active driving hours. Once a driver hits those maximum hour allotments, he must stop and rest for 10 consecutive hours, which would be problematic when transporting livestock and other live animals.

Concerned about livestock haulers’ readiness to comply with the mandate, as well as how the mandate will affect the transported animals’ well-being, the American Farm Bureau Federation and seven livestock organizations last fall asked DOT for a waiver and exemption from the original Dec. 18 ELD implementation deadline.

In their petition, the groups pointed out livestock haulers’ strong commitment to ensuring the safety of both the animals they’re transporting and the drivers they share the road with. In addition, livestock haulers often receive specialized training beyond that required for their counterparts driving conventional commercial motor vehicles.

Another major roadblock to implementation for livestock haulers is their lack of awareness of the rule. Because the livestock hauling industry is small compared to the overall trucking industry, it isn’t well-represented before or strongly engaged by DOT’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. As a result, livestock drivers who are aware of the program have had difficulty researching the ELD marketplace and identifying cost-effective solutions that are compatible with livestock hauling.

In announcing the latest waiver extension, FMCSA said over the next 90 days it will publish final guidance on both the agricultural 150 air-mile exemption and personal conveyance, as well as continue its outreach to the agricultural industry and community regarding the ELD rule.

OMNIBUS LANGUAGE REGRADING LIVESTOCK CARRIERS AND ELDSSome of you may have heard that the recently enacted FY 2018 omnibus appropriations bill includes a provision that prohibits funds from being used to enforce the ELD regulation for livestock and insect haulers. The effect of this provision is outlined below.

• Currently, and through June 18, 2018, the existing waiver from the ELD requirements for all transporters of agricultural commodities, including livestock, will remain in place.

• Livestock (as defined in 49 CFR 395.2) and insect haulers are not required to comply with the ELD rule for the duration of the FY 2018 appropriations bill (September 30, 2018), and any subsequent continuing resolutions.

• Further guidance will be provided as we near the June 18, 2018 expiration for the existing waiver, and upon the publication of any new continuing resolutions or appropriations.

Current guidance for enforcing the ELD rule should continue to be followed. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Mahorney, Enforcement Division Chief at (202) 493-0001 or bill.mahorney@dot.gov.

** Remember that this exception is only related to the ELD portion of the rules, all the hours of service limits (11-14-60/70) still apply when you go outside the 150 miles when using a farm plated vehicle.**

Did you know that Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) works for small and hobby farms as well as larger, more established family farms? For more than 100 years, MFBF has been the go-to organization for farmers of all sizes and shapes. As we saw in the last U.S. census, farms in Massachusetts are increasing, but land is decreasing. This means we have more small farms in the Commonwealth than in the past.

However, we haven’t seen a correlation in our membership growth. Which is why I’m asking each of you to speak to these small and hobby farms about MFBF. Many of these operations, have owners who work off the farm and may not have the time to discover Farm Bureau. That’s why it’s critical that our farmer members talk to these individuals about joining our organization.

Just about every day, our office receives calls that a neighbor is complaining about noises that farm animals make, including dog’s barking, smells or other normal parts of living in the country. Many of these calls come from people who farm part-time, or as a hobby. By joining Farm Bureau, these individuals are able to take advantage of a 15 minutes free consultation with our legal counsel, who is well versed in agricultural matters.

Additional examples of how our organization has helped small and hobby farms, includes:• Farm Bureau developed draft model livestock regulations - MFBF

staff and livestock committee members developed and distributed draft model livestock regulations to local Boards of Health (BOHs). These model regulations are meant to assist BOHs that feel the need to regulate livestock. They are based on science and common-sense, which makes them workable for livestock producers.

• Farm Bureau released a study that estimated the state’s equine industry has a total annual economic impact of $386.6 million and employs more than 7,000 people in both full-time and part-time positions. This study is key to our equine members as it allows our organization to be better advocates on their behalf.

• In January 2016, the Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s farmland valuation advisory committee (FVAC) approved a dramatic 300 percent increase in Chapter 61a farmland values. MFBF appealed to the Governor’s office for relief from property tax increases and the FVAC reconsidered, resulting in a savings of $10+ million annually.

But our benefits to these farmers doesn’t end there. Thanks to our partnership with American National, these farmers can benefit from a discount on their special farm package insurance. Additionally, American National agents know agriculture and are generally able to provide farmers with the best coverage necessary to protect the business. More information on American National can be found on the back page of this newsletter.

Additionally, we offer a member benefit package, which includes useful discounts to John Deere and Padula Brothers on varying levels of equipment. When our members take advantage of these discounts, our membership typically pays for itself.

The next time you see that neighbor who farms on the side, please go talk to them about Farm Bureau. Not only are they supporting you, but they are also supporting themselves and their hobby by joining Farm Bureau. This is an organization that they can’t afford to not join.

For more information on Farm Bureau, please visit www.mfbf.net or follow us on social media, including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

I look forward to seeing our membership grow this year!

Katelyn Parsonskatelyn@mfbf.net

TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT EXTENDS ELD WAIVER FOR AG HAULERS

MASSACHUSETTS FARM BUREAU: FOR SMALL, HOBBY FARMS, TOO! BY: KATELYN PARSONS, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & MEMBERSHIP

4 NEWS & VIEWS April 2018

Calling all photographers: Submit your high resolution farm photos to MFBF for a chance to be featured on the front of News and Views! The photographer and farm will be mentioned in the photo cut line. This is your chance to be featured!

Rules:1. All photos must be submitted electronically to info@mfbf.net.

2. Preference will be given to photos of MFBF member farms. If you are unsure of a farm’s membership status, please call the office at 508-481-4766.

3. All photos must be high resolution, which generally means they are 5 MB or larger. Any low resolution photos will not be considered.

If you have any questions, please contact the office.

We look forward to seeing your farm photos and featuring them in this publication!

The 2018 joint MFA and MFT annual meeting to be held, once again, at MassWildlife’s Headquarters in Westborough on May 5, 2018. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available until April 15, for more information please email nletoile@massforestalliance.org.

Coffee & refreshments will be provided from 7:30am-8:30am and the speaking program will begin promptly at 8:30. If you registered for the bird walk, please arrive at 6:30am.

MASSACHUSETTS

FARM BUREAU FEDERATION, INC.

Toll Free-1.866.548.MFBF

President Mark Amato

Vice President Laura Abrams

Treasurer Wayne Smith

Immediate Past President Vacant

DIRECTORS:

Berkshire—Holly Aragi Bristol—Frederick Vadnais, Jr.

Cape Cod & Islands— Jeff Deck

Essex—Cliff Taylor Franklin—Nathan L’Etoile Hampden—Leon Ripley

Hampshire—Alan Everett Middlesex—Warren Shaw

Norfolk—Rudolph Medeiros Plymouth—Jack Angley

Worcester—Katie Carlson-Hardy

Budget Committee Charles Proctor Robert Parrish

Will Picard

Directors-at-Large Alex Dowse

Ryan MacKay Jamie Cruz

Young Farmers & Ranchers

Heidi Cooper

MFBF Staff: Douglas P. Gillespie Executive Director

Brad Mitchell

Deputy Executive Director

John Conners Communications & Technology

Katelyn ParsonsMarketing & Membership

Joan Monaco Office Manager

Kelley Garufi

Administrative Assistant

Kim Ashe

Database Administrator

Nicole Child

Administrative Assistant

PHOTO CONTEST! FEATURE YOUR FARM ON FRONT OF NEWS AND VIEWS

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (“MDAR”) seeks proposals for funding projects that will commercial urban food production in the Commonwealth.

MDAR’s Urban Agriculture Program is seeking to award grants statewide to promote strategies addressing food insecurity, to expand and create new economic opportunities and to increase access to fresh, local produce in urban neighborhoods. • Application deadline is 2:00 PM on May 15, 2018• A Bidder’s call will be held on April 3, 2018, 10:00-11:00 am, applicants please email Rose.Arruda@state.ma.us to rsvp for the call.• The bidder is responsible to refer to the COMMBUYS link for any changes or updates to the RFR. Direct link: www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-the-urban-agriculture-program

FY2019 MASSACHUSETTS FOOD VENTURES PROGRAM REQUEST FOR RESPONSE (RFR)POSTED TO COMMBUYS. Application deadline is 2:00 PM on May 1, 2018

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (“MDAR”) seeks proposals for funding projects that will advance the Massachusetts Food Ventures Program (“MFVP”), to increase access to fresh, local produce in urban and rural communities and provide economic opportunities that promote job creation enterprises or new businesses. MDAR is seeking to award grants statewide, primarily in communities of low or moderate income, to individuals or entities with experience developing and supporting food businesses. • Application deadline is 2 pm, May 1, 2018.• A Bidder’s call will be held on March 29, 2018, 1:00-2:00 pm, applicants please email Rose.Arruda@state.ma.us to rsvp for the call. Direct link: www.commbuys.com/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?bidId=BD-18-1002-1003-001-24545&parentUrl=activeBids

THE MA URBAN AGRICULTURE PROGRAM FY’19 RFR POSTED TO COMMBUYS

SAVE THE DATE-MA FOREST ALLIANCE ANNUAL MEETING

April 2018 NEWS & VIEWS 5

APRIL 5 AT 4 PM – TOUR OF SIGNAL ROCK FARM IN CHARLTONAPRIL 25 AT 10 AM – TOUR & POTLUCK AT CARLSON’S ORCHARDS IN HARVARDMAY 8 - TOUR OF ESSEX AGGIEJUNE 6 - LIVESTOCK ON THE COMMON JUNE 27 - TOUR OF HUNT’S FARM IN ORANGE SEPT. 6 AT 4 PM – TOUR OF SAUCHUK FARM IN PLYMPTONSEPT. 29 - TOUR OF IOKA VALLEY FARM IN HANCOCK (RAIN DATE: OCT. 13)

Young Farmer Events

HAVE YOUR YOUNG FARMERS JOIN US ON FARM TOURS BY: HEIDI COOPER, YF&R CHAIR AND ROCHDALE FARMER

The Young Farmer and Rancher (YF&R) committee has been very busy in March, touring farms across the state (and in New York) to see how other operations are managed. We started March on a sweet note with a tour of Maple Corner Farm in Blandford. Their sugaring operation was state of the art and we were able to sample many delicious value-added products. Leon and Joyce Ripley also gave an excellent – and historical – tour of the farm. We were also fortunate to have a small group who traveled to New York state for New York Farm Bureau Young Farmer Leadership Conference this March. They will be reporting back to you about what they learned in the next edition of News and Views. But from the verbal reports that I’ve heard, it was a great opportunity for our group. The final tour of March was a stop at J.P. Bartlett’s Wholesale Greenhouses in Sudbury. We were very fortunate to have MFBF’s Vice President Laura Abrams provide us with a tour of the greenhouses and learn about growing geraniums. Anyone looking to go into the nursey business should have attended this tour. Our farm tour calendar is already filling up for the rest of the year. In April, we have two tours coming up – one at Signal Rock Farm in Charlton and the other at Carlson Orchards in Harvard. These tours are the place where young farmers can learn what other farms have done to remain viable throughout the years. On April 5 at 4 pm, the YF&R is going to tour Signal Rock Farm in Charlton during lambing season. The group will see the management and oversight process of lambing, as well as discussing feeding and nutrition as the lambs grow. This tour is a great opportunity for young farmers to learn about animal management from a working farm. On April 25 at 10 am, we will be touring Carlson Orchards in Harvard. They are a diversified fruit farm that does pick-your-own and wholesale. They also have their own line of cider and hard cider. Following the tour, the group will have a potluck lunch. Please bring an item to share! If you have a next generation on the farm, please let them know about our farm tours. We’d love to have them meet the YF&R committee on these tours and decide how involved they would like to become. Not only do we become a network of friends, but we also become an network of business contacts. Many of the young farmers we’ve met have become involved with our business – whether its through idea sharing or by providing us with animals to finish out. These connections make a difference.

Additionally, we’d like you to keep in mind the majority of our events are family friendly! We know many farmers in our age group may have young families and we encourage folks to bring their future generations if they are comfortable. My 4 year old has been to a handful of tours/socials, including the tour at Bartlett’s most recently. Lastly, if you would like to host us on your farm, please let me know by emailing me at cooper.heidi.jo@gmail.com. We’d love to come visit and learn more about your business! Heidi CooperCooper.heidi.jo@gmail.com

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONMFBF, Inc. ∙ 249 Lakeside Ave., Marlborough MA 01752, 1-866-548-MFBF

Annual DuesVOTING MEMBERS: REGULAR MEMBER: $225 A member actively engaged in the business of agricultural production or service as described in the county and/or state by-laws.

GOLD CLUB MEMBER: $350 A regular member who makes a supplemental donation in support of agriculture. Receives special statewide recognition.

PLATINUM CLUB MEMBER: $500 Platinum members provide financial support to Farm Bureau at the highest level. May vote on issues & sit on committeesNON-VOTING MEMBERS:

ASSOCIATE MEMBER: $70 Must not receive agricultural income. Receive member benefits.

ALLIED BUSINESSES: $225 Supply companies and other service providers essential to agriculture.

STUDENT: $25 Ages 16-25, full-time.

Name: Farm Name: Mailing Address: Phone: Fax: Email: Referred by: Please indicate which commodity areas best fit the product(s) you produce:

Ag/Open Space Supporter Horticulture Aquaculture Livestock Equine Poultry Forestry Vegetables Fruits If not listed above please write in below:

______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________ I hereby make application for an annual membership in the

______________________________________________________________

County Farm Bureau and Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (which is a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation), whose purpose is to promote, protect, and represent the economic, social, and educational interests of Massachusetts’ farmers, as well as encourage the protection of agricultural areas and rural interest within the state. I am interested in promoting these objectives through membership. I understand acceptance or denial and classification of my membership are determined by the County Farm Bureau.

Contributions, gifts, or membership dues to a County Farm Bureau, or MFBF are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. However, they may be tax deductible under other provisions of the IRS code. Membership dues are non-refundable and non-returnable. A service fee of $15 may be assessed for a returned check.

Signature:

6 NEWS & VIEWS April 2018

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April 2018 NEWS & VIEWS 7

2019 HORSE FARM OF DISTINCTION DEADLINE MAY 31, 2018The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation’s “Horse Farm of Distinction” program was established to recognize and present to the public those Massachusetts horse farmers who set high standards and achieve a level of excellence in overall horse health, farm management, and compliance with public safety.

Program Overview:Awards are based on a number of criteria within the categories of horse health, farm management and public standards compliance. The suitability of the farm for the breed or type of activity conducted will be considered when scoring each farm. Farms are judged annually and the award may be promoted by the recipient or used in farm advertising for the duration of the award year, provided farmers who apply for the award agree to answer questions and grant access sufficient to allow judges to score the farm. Applicants must understand that scheduling for judges’ visits must be a shared responsibility between all parties. Recipients will receive a distinctive sign that should be mounted for public display throughout the year of the program. The words “Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation” appear in the advertising or promotion.

Program Rules:Applicants must be regular members in good standing with the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation at the time of judging. Awards will be mailed to winners after the MFBF annual meeting in December.

Applicants must have at least five years of involvement in the Massachusetts equine industry. Horse Farm of Distinction signs shall remain the property of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation and may be reclaimed at any time that Farm Bureau determines that the farm fails to maintain the standards of the program.

There shall be a non-refundable annual application fee of $50 for first-time applicants, and $25 for renewing applicants. Fees cover the cost of administering the program. No farm will be judged unless fees are paid.The sign shall not be displayed at or moved to other premises. Judges’ evaluation sheets will remain the property of Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation. The Judge’s decision is final.

Judging Criteria:Each farm will be judged upon the following criteria with the perfect score being 100 percent. Any farm scoring at 85 percent or higher will be considered a “Horse Farm of Distinction” and a recipient of the award. Two judges will evaluate new applicants.

Horse Health Management (possible 40 points)• General Appearance of Horses• Evidence of Equine Health ProgramFarm Management (possible 50 points)• Overall Condition of Farm and Facilities• Control of Pests and Vermin

• Condition of Stalls• Condition of Turnouts, Pastures, Riding Surfaces and Fencing• Condition of Tack and Equipment• Emergency Removal/Evacuation Procedure• Equine and Human First Aid• Fire Protection/Prevention• Manure Management ProgramPublic Standards and Compliance (possible 10 points)• Licensing (as applicable)

..................................................................................................................

Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation®2019 Horse Farm of Distinction— APPLICATION—

I hereby apply for the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation’s “Horse Farm of Distinction” program, to have my horse farm evaluated in accordance with the rules of the program contained herein.

I understand that the judges will contact me to schedule their visits with short notice sometime between June and August. The award is granted for the year beginning Jan. 1, 2019.

My application fee is enclosed, $50 if I am a new applicant; $25 if I have been a previous recipient.Farm name:_________________________________________________Name: _____________________________________________________Farm address:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Mailing address:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Phone:______________________________________________________FARM BUREAU MEMBERSHIP NUMBER#__________________________________________________________Required, must include FB# to apply___________________________________________________________Signature of owner/operator

Deadline for applications is May 31, 2018Make checks payable to: MFBF and mail to:249 Lakeside Avenue, Marlborough, MA 01752

$50 New Applicant ________$25 Renewing Applicant ______

OUR MISSION:

TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS, ENCOURAGE THE GROWTH AND BE OF SERVICE TO OUR MEMBERS

IN THE BEST INTEREST OF AGRICULTURE

For more than a century, Briggs Stable in Hanover, Massachusetts, has demonstrated excellence by providing the equine community with training, lessons, boarding, a tack shop, trailer sales and more. They also contribute to the local economy with 11 employees on-farm and three in the tack shop. The stable’s rich history and reputation has allowed it to stay in business, even during tough economic times like the 2008 recession.

“Briggs Stables opened in the 1920s,” said Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation Equine Committee Chair John Dougherty. “It was primarily a wood business with a general store and they had four teams of horses for their groceries, ice and lumber. This store went on until the mid-1920s, when my wife’s grandfather had enough of the general store and decided he just wanted to focus on horses, so he started taking in boarders.”

According to Dougherty, this lead to the formation of the Hanover Riding Club, who built a club house and ring at Briggs Stables. The family also offered lessons. This was successful, and Briggs currently has about 50 horses in the barn and the Hanover Riding Club is now celebrating its 86th year.

Dougherty and his wife were married in 1968 and have raised two daughters at Briggs Stables. Now they have families, and Dougherty enjoys sharing his equine passion with his five grandchildren.

When asked how they have achieved this level of success, he said “we have a fine bunch of boarders and we take good care of all of our horses. We’ve been known for taking care of our horses and maintaining a good safe environment for them and the riders.”

For this reason, Dougherty has routinely applied for, and received, Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation’s Horse Farm of Distinction award. This honor signals to the public that a stable is inspected by its peers in the industry, who feel that the stable is doing a good job and would recommend it to the public. According to Dougherty, it is a “stamp of approval.”

“It’s a very comprehensive test,” Dougherty said. “And when we pass that, it says that the public can trust us and that we take care of our animals.”

In order to apply for this honor, a horse farm must be a member of MFBF. However, Dougherty says that he is not just a member for this award.

“Many years ago, I found out that MFBF is a good organization to be a

part of as they are the only ones supporting our industry legislatively,” Dougherty said. “Massachusetts Farm Bureau is the only one who represents horsemen and horse farms with legislative problems, local problems and advancing the sport and livestock characteristics of it.”

For example, many years ago, MFBF pushed to include equine in the definition of agriculture. This designation allows the equine industry to partake in some of the benefits that other livestock owners and producers enjoy, such as enrolling stables and/or boarding facilities in Chapter 61a, which gives the equine industry a tax break on land.

According to Dougherty, when MFBF added the equine industry to its roster, “it made a difference in how the equine industry was included in the definition of agriculture.”

More recent examples of MFBF’s work for the equine industry include support of a bill that would change the Massachusetts horse riding instructor licensing program to be more in step with surrounding states’ licensing process. Currently, the Massachusetts licensing process includes a written test with questions focused on animal health, not on instructing riders. No other state has this test. The legislation that MFBF supports would require the licensing process be removed and CORI checks being made a requirement for all riding instructors. Additionally, MFBF also worked to revise helmet laws to make them more workable for adults on private properties and for equine show exhibitors.

“By being a part of MFBF, we receive the backing of almost 6,000 members,” Dougherty said. “They help us by supporting the equine industry on a local, statewide and national level.”

For more information on Briggs Stables, please visit www.briggsstable.com

MFBF will be featuring Horse Farm of Distinctions in future editions of News and Views. For more information on this opportunity, including how to apply for MFBF’s Horse Farm of Distinction, please contact the office at info@mfbf.net or 508-481-4766.

HORSE FARM OF DISTINCTION FEATURE: BRIGGS STABLE IN HANOVER

8 NEWS & VIEWS April 2018

2018 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE DAY AT THE STATE HOUSE...

April 2018 NEWS & VIEWS 9

Christopher C. Harding Commissioner of Revenue Sean R. Cronin Senior Deputy Commissioner

Supporting a Commonwealth of Communities mass.gov/DLS

P.O. Box 9569 Boston, MA 02114-9569 (617) 626-2300

FVAC CHAPTER LAND RECOMMENDED VALUE for FISCAL YEAR 2019

Per Acre Range of Values

Chapter Land 61 and 61A

Use Categories

Productivity Based on Dominate

Soil Ratings* Use Code Below

Average Average Above

Average Cropland Harvested: Vegetables, Tobacco, Sod and Nursery

711, 712, 719 $766 $958 $1150

Cropland Harvested: Dairy, Beef and Hay; Tillable forage cropland, etc. 713 $154 $192 $230

Cropland Harvested: Orchards, Vineyards, and Blueberries 714 $766 $958 $1150

Christmas Trees 602, 715 $108 $108 $108 Nonproductive Land: Wetland, scrub land, rock land 720 $48 $48 $48 Cropland pastured; Permanent pastured; Necessary and Related land—farm roads, ponds, etc. 716, 718 $154 $192 $230

Productive Woodland; Land Use Categories – Chapter 61Forest Land or 61A land with a Forest Management Plan West of the Connecticut River

601, 717 $79 $99 $119

Productive Woodland; Land Use Categories – Chapter 61Forest Land or 61A land with a Forest Management Plan East of the Connecticut River

601, 717 $62 $78 $94

Use Code Cranberry: Range of Production/ Barrels per Acre

710 <89 89≤125 125≤160 160<195 >195 Cranberry

Values $828 $1248 $1665 $2080 $2500

Cropland Harvested – This land represents the highest use of land in the agricultural enterprise. All land

from which a crop was harvested or hay was cut, in the current year falls into this category. This includes the land in vegetables, sod, nurseries, orchards, vineyards, other perennial plantings, and greenhouses.

Dairy, Beef and Hay; Cropland Pastured, Other Cropland & Permanent Pasture – Cropland used for pasture or grazing or land considered as tillable but is elected to be fallow or in cover crops. It can and often is used to produce crops, but its maximum income may not be realized in a particular year. This category also includes land planted in crops, which were to be harvested after the census year, and land is typically not tillable, best suited for grazing or possibly part of an erosion control program, plus necessary and related lands.

Nonproductive Land – The land on the farm which is nonproductive primarily due to slope, drainage capacity, soil type or topography.

Christopher C. Harding Commissioner of Revenue Sean R. Cronin Senior Deputy Commissioner

Supporting a Commonwealth of Communities mass.gov/DLS

P.O. Box 9569 Boston, MA 02114-9569 (617) 626-2300

Re: Farm Animal Excise — FY 2019 To Boards of Assessors: The Commissioner of Revenue, under the provisions of General Laws Chapter 59, section 8A, has determined the value of farm animals for the purpose of the Farm Animal Excise, as of January 1, 2018 for fiscal year 2019 to be as follows: MULES ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... $100.00 HORSES (BREEDING AND WORKING*) Prize Horses**.............................................................................................................................. $5,000.00-$10,000.00 Horses .............................................................................................................................................................. $1,000.00 Ponies ................................................................................................................................................................. $500.00 Miniature Horses…………..…………………………………………………………………………………...$700.00

DAIRY CATTLE Cows - Over two years……………………………………………………………………………… ................ $700.00 Bulls - Over two years………………………………………………………………………………. ................ $700.00 Yearlings - Less than two years…………………………………………………………………….. ............... .$400.00 BEEF CATTLE Cows, Bulls, and Steers ...................................................................................................................................... $700.00 Yearlings ............................................................................................................................................................ $400.00 OTHER LIVESTOCK Swine .................................................................................................................................................................... $80.00 Sheep .................................................................................................................................................................. $100.00 Goats .................................................................................................................................................................... $35.00 LLAMA & ALPACA………………………………………………………………………………………………$800.00

MISCELLANEOUS (BUFFALO, DEER, OXEN, ETC.)……………………………………………….……. $250.00-$700.00 DOMESTIC FOWL Chickens ................................................................................................................................................................. $2.00 Ducks...................................................................................................................................................................... $2.00 Geese ...................................................................................................................................................................... $2.00 Turkeys ................................................................................................................................................................... $5.00 Ratites (Emu, Ostrich, Rhea) ............................................................................................................................. $100.00 MINK .............................................................................................................................................................................. $35.00

*Horses not used for breeding or work should be valued as personal property. **Prize Horses are those with recognized bloodlines that have been inspected and registered by world-recognized breeding associations to excel in the sport of dressage, show jumping or possesses other athletic or genetic excellence. G.L. Chapter 59, section 8A is not affected by Chapter 89, Acts of 1976. Chapter 89 refers to neat cattle less than three (3) years old held for the personal use and consumption by the owner.

10 NEWS & VIEWS April 2018

Cape Ann Tree ServiceTen Fernwood Lake Ave., Gloucester MA 01930978-768-7700capeanntree.comcapeanntree@gmail.comProducts and Services: We improve the outdoor living spaces of our clients- from tree work, to lawn care, masonry to landscape design and installation... we can do it all.

Chickadee Hill Farm ServicesJeffrey Head366 Central StRowley, MA 01969chickadeehillfarmservices@hotmail.com978-948-8620http://www.chickadeehillfarmservices.com/ Products and Services: firewood, screened loam and compost, mulch, wood chips, lawn mowing and landscaping, pumpkins, Christmas trees and vegetables.

Eastern Solar Ken Nelson P.O. Box 60Wayland, MA 01778508-882-0102www.easternsolarservice.com/easternsolarservices@hotmail.comProducts and Services: Serving the solar industry for 40 years. Service, maintenance, training and repair of existing solar systems new and old.

Franklin Agway157 Cottage Street Franklin, MA 02038508-528-1333www.franklinagway.comfranklinurbanfarmstore@gmail.comProducts and Services: Feed/supplies for livestock and pets. Garden supplies, tools, seeds, plants, fertilizer & chemicals for organic gardening. Homebrew, cheese-making, canning and beekeeping supplies.

John S. Lane & Son730 East Mountain RoadWestfield, Ma 01086www.jslane.comjsalvon@jslane.comProducts and Services: Aggregates including crushed stone, gravel & sand

Major Landscaping626 Lindsey StreetAttleboro, MA 02703508-431-4336majorlandscaping508@gmail.comProducts and Services: Landscaping and construction

Massachusetts Nursery & Landscape Association P.O. Box 387Conway, MA 01341413-369-4731http://www.mnla.com/ mnlaoffice@aol.comProducts and Services: The Massachusetts Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. (MNLA) is a statewide association dedicated to advancing the interests of “green industry” professionals.

Mulch By The YardStoughton and Cape Cod MA781-341-2275jphorigan@me.comProducts and Services: Kiln dried bagged shavings trailer loads USA made. 60 days free storage on our trailer.

Otis Poultry Farm 1570 North Main RdOtis, MA 01253413-269-4438www.otispoultryfarm.com Products & Services: Selections of chicken and turkey pies with and without vegetables in an assortment of sizes. They also have a large selection of sheepskin slippers and sugarfree candy.

Paul Massad Landscaping338 Turnpike Road, Westborough, MA 01581508-869-6977http://www.paulmassadlandscaping.com/info@paulmassadlandscaping.com Products & Services: We are a full service design-build landscape and nursery company, who supplies specialty trees, shrubs, boulders and granite pieces.

Progressive Grower Inc.81 Charlotte Furnace RoadWest Wareham, MA 02576508-273-7358http://www.progressivegrower.comInfo@ProgressiveGrower.comProducts and Services: The company carries a full line of chemicals and fertilizers at competitive prices and an extensive stock of farm equipment, tools and clothing.

Resource Management, Inc. 1171 NH RT 175 Holderness, NH 03245 605-536-8900www.rmirecycles.comRMI@RMIrecycles.com Product and Services: We provide responsive, innovative and high quality organic residuals and recycling services to address our customer interests and needs.

Rice Fruit Farms757 Main StWilbraham, MA 01095413-596-4002http://www.ricefruitfarm.com/info@ricefruitfarm.com Products and Services: bakery, fruits and vegetables, coffee, homemade ice cream, milk, eggs, local products, honey and olive oil.

SEMAP, Inc. P.O. Box 80625South Dartmouth, MA 02748508-524-2601www.semaponline.org kschwalbe@semaponline.org Products andServices: local food promotion, sustainable farming education and healthy food initiatives.

Sirum Equipment Company310 Federal StreetMontague, MA 01351413-367-2481http://sirumequipment.com/ Admindept@sirumequipment.comProduct/Brands Sirum Equipment carries:LS Tractors, Ferris, Simplicity, Snapper, Stihl, Patz, Kuhn, Woods, Landpride, Ariens, Gravely

Soares Flower Garden Nursery1021 Sandwich RdEast Falmouth, MA 02536508-548-5288www.soaresflowergardennursery.com soaresfgn@gmail.com Products & Services: retail greenhouse featuring locally grown annuals, perennials, vegetables and herbs and shrubs, as well as a landscape design, build and maintenance firm.

SouthCoast Ag Consulting LLCSouth Dartmouth, MA774-269-6062http://www.southcoastagconsulting.com/ Products/Services offered: Certified Crop Adviser and Technical Services Provider/NRCS. Providing complete and comprehensive nutrient management and crop consulting for all agronomic crops.

Southcoast Agri Services, LLCDartmouth, MA774-263-0017sasagri63@gmail.comCustom agricultural spreading/spraying applications:Spreading services: Lime, Fertilizer, Cover cropsSpraying services: Herbicide applications for Pastures, Hay fields and Field corn

The Big Red Barn LLC182 Hope StN Attleboro, MA 02760 508-699-9400Products and Services: Boarding stable for horses

The Big E 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089413-205-5011http://www.thebige.com/p/agriculture info@thebige.com Products and Services: fairgrounds and annual fair

World Farmers Inc.769 Main StLancaster, MA 01523978-706-7935http://www.worldfarmers.org/info@worldfarmers.org Products and Services: education, beginning farmers and ranchers.

*Due to space limitations, products and services listings will be limited to 20 words or less.

DIRECTORY LISTING FOR BUSINESS ALLIED TO AGRICULTURE MEMBERS

April 2018 NEWS & VIEWS 11

2018 AD RATES AND GUIDELINES

CLASSIFIEDS

SERVICE

FOR SALE: 2 row cultivators w/hillers & 3-Pt. hitch, Chain Conveyor – bottom 3 feet raises to 6 feet (45-degree angle), 1 row planter with wheels pull behind, 2,600 plastic mulch layer hydraulic, 2 row cultivator w/top dresser 3-Pt. hitch, 3 Bottom Plow 3Pt. hitch, Tobacco Laths (8,000 laths w/hooks) enough for 3 acres & much more. Call (413) 665-4791.

FOR SALE: Goodrich Tubing Washing Machine $500, 1200 Gallon Galvanized Sap Tank 57 1/2” wide x 42” high x 11’ 10 1/2” long $500, Assorted small galvanized stock tanks 125-300 gallons $50-$150, Sap Buckets $5/each and Sap Bucket Covers .75/each, & Metal Spouts $1/each. John Deere 1010 Bulldozer as parts machine $800. John Deere tracks & blade for 1010 Bulldozer $800. Display cases 58” long x 20” wide x 30” high glass top & sides $100/each. PTO Driven WIN Power Generator 12000 kw $1,500. 2014 Polaris Ranger Snow Plow – used once $950 new we have no need for the plow, asking $750. Call (413) 357-8829.

FOR SALE: 96ft.x12ft.x8ft. Greenhouse/Cold Frame from Rimol. Can walk up to the sides. Complete with stakes, purlin & hardware. Great shape. $650 or BO. Call (508) 252-6389 or (508) 496-9873.

FOR SALE: Hay Rake Kuhn model# GA300 GM 3PT. PTO single axel good shape $3,500. Hay Tedder GF502THA nice shape $6,000. Two Farmer MFG Hay Wagons steel racks, front loading $2,500 each. 978-928-4292

FOR SALE: John Deer Model B 1950? stud motor; David Brown #995 1972 Diesel, stud motor, Int. Scout 1964, rough good snow plow; Int. Cub 1948; Misc. Farm Equipment - snow plow, harrow, saw rig, etc. Call Richard Lewis. Cell 978-877-2448; Home 978-448-2635.

FOR SALE: Pine Shavings bag or bulk Letendre Farm Ware MA. Call 413-967-6875 or 413-358-0630.

FOR SALE: Dry Apple Firewood split and stacked into apple bulk bins $180/cord. Apple bulk bins (15-bushel size) in good condition, always housed $5 each, volume discount available. Please text or leave message: 978-660-0980. FOR SALE: Hay – 1st, 2nd – no dust guaranteed. Wholesale & retail. Lg. Square or Round upon request. Now taking orders for fresh cuts pork, beef, lamb, goat & poultry. Homestead Farms 774-259-6960.

FOR SALE: Tires: Great prices, all sizes, tire repairs, road service, calcium chloride service. Hoey Tire, Worcester. Call 508-755-6666,vhoeytire.com

FOR SALE: Hay 1st and 2nd cutting. 4’ X 5’ round and small square bales. Conway Farms, Lakeville, MA. 508-821-0149.

SERVICE: Homestead Agricultural Services: Red brand certified fence installer, field reclamation, custom field works, brush hogging & manure removal. Seeking CDL driver Rehoboth area available 24/7 for snow removal. Visit www.homesteadagservices.com or call 508-386-6229.

SERVING THE FARMERS IN MASS: Helping farmers keep what they make. Experienced in dairy, beef, fruit & vegetable farming; experienced with APR, retirement planning, estate planning & taxation, tax free exchanges. Contact Donald E. Graves, CPA, MST, MPFP, or Alexander V. Siano, CPA, at: Donald E. Graves, CPA, LLC 377 Main Street, Suite 1, Greenfield, MA 01301-3332, 1-800-286-6036, info@donaldegravescpa.com

REAL ESTATE APPRAISER/CONSULTANT: Valuations and consulting for estate planning/gifting, buying/selling, APR/CR, Chapter 61, 61A, 61B tax appeals. William King 508-867-2600 or whking2005@gmail.com

WEBSITE DESIGN SERVICES: The Third Designs: Our focus isn’t on just making websites for your company, we create websites and also redesign your current website that can add value to your sales and business. All MFBF members receive a 10% off any new design agreement. Contact harland@thirdwebdesigns.com or visit: www.ttwdesigns.com

WANTEDWANTED: Boston’s Premier Asian & Indian vegetable distributor looking for Hothouse & Outdoor Farmers to grow vegetables for us. Please call 617-884-5921.

MEMBERS: Classifieds: First 20 words for $11.00, every word thereafter is $0.50. 2 Page Spread: $1150.00 Full Page: $690.00 (11” x 17”) Half Page: $500.00 (5.5” x 8.5” or 11”x 8.5”) Quarter Page: $335.00 (4” x 5”) Eighth Page: $220.00 (3” x 4”)

NON-MEMBERS: Classifieds: First 20 words for $13.00, every word thereafter is $0.60. 2 Page Spread: $1375.00 Full Page: $800.00 (11” x 17”) Half Page: $605.00 (5.5” x 8.5” or 11” x 8.5”) Quarter Page: $400.00 (4.5” x 5.5”) Eighth Page: $275.00 (3.5” x 4.5”)

All art should be CMYK (not RGB) Rasterized ads should be set at 600. Text or line art scans should be set at 600. Halftones/photos should be at 300 dpi. If 300 is not available, we encourage no lower than 170 dpi.

Back cover space is available at a 20% premium. All prices are on a PER ISSUE basis. When you prepay to run an ad in 10 issues, you receive a 10% discount.

SUBMISSIONS: Advertisements must be received by the Mass Farm Bureau office by the 12th of the month PRECEDING the month you would like the advertisement to run (i.e., for the September issue of News & Views, all ads must be received by August 12th). Call for deadline on next issue, as newsletter is not published every month. Ads may be submitted either by mail to:

Massachusetts Farm Bureau News & Views 249 Lakeside Avenue Marlborough, MA 01752

-or- electronically to: info@mfbf.net. Please included the words “News & Views” in the subject line, and send your check for payment via U.S. mail.

If you have any questions, please contact our office at (508) 481-4766.

FARM BUREAU RESERVES THE RIGHT NOT TO ACCEPT ADVERTISING IT DEEMS UNSUITABLE FOR ITS LITERATURE FOR ANY REASON

12 NEWS & VIEWS April 2018

Whether you own a cattle ranch or a dairy farm, specialize in horses or llamas or grow cash crops — you recognize that

a one-size-fits-all insurance policy isn’t the smart way to run a business. YOUR OPERATION IS UNIQUE AND WE

UNDERSTAND THAT.

Our agribusiness insurance can provide you with a flexible farm package that allows you to customize a policy to match

your specific needs. For more information, contact a local agent.

Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York, United Farm Family Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York, American National Life Insurance Company of New York, Glenmont, New York. 18-025.246349.V2.03.2018

Bob Sinopoli Great Barrington 413.528.1710

Tim Viles South Deerfield 413.665.8200

Diane Mason-Arnold Southwick 413.569.2307

Thomas Carroll Worcester 508.752.3300

Richard Simonian Northborough 508.393.9327

Don Ludwig Boxborough 978.467.1001

Andrew BrodeurMiddleboro 508.747.8181

Dale Johnson Topsfield 978.887.8304

Francis Bingham Norwood 781.255.2002

Kay SpencerAssociate Agent Middleboro 508.747.8181

Richard Blair Carver 508.866.9150

Mark Sylvia Centerville 508.957.2125

Maureen O’Mara Williamstown 413.458.5584

Steve Charette General Agent

Newburyport978.225.1511

Jeff Pichierri Northborough 508.393.9327

Kevin Sullivan Middleboro508.998.0512

Martin West Marlborough 508.485.3800

Jason Charette North Andover 978.208.4713

Dominic Sinopoli Great Barrington 413.528.1710

Sean RooneyWilbraham 413.887.8817

Kevin McCarthyAssociate Agent Marlborough 508.485.3800

Jonathan Stewart Framingham 508.283.1456

Josh Nadeau Easthampton 413.203.5180

Eric Mason Southwick 413.569.2307

Patrick Ofobi Worcester 774.530.6433

Kim Perry Williamstown 413.458.6037

Jacob Matthews Lee413.865.6917

YOU KNOW YOUR

BUSINESSWE KNOW HOWTO HELP YOU INSURE IT