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VOLUME 41,

NUMBER 1

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

JANUARY 2016

_____________________________________

Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Paul Looney, Athens Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Regina Carnes, Boaz Lance Miller, Snead

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In This Issue

Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.AlfaFarmers.org.

Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices.

Printed in the U.S.A.

12

16

Giving Spirit Shines

9

Young Farmers Honored

12 From The Battlefield

20 Calling Young Farmers 22 Measuring Pine Strength 28 Country Kitchen

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com

On The Cover

DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation.

JANUARY 2016

7

18 Changing Poultry Technology

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

Federation Elections

16 Sweet Satsuma Season

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.

www.AlfaFarmers.org

4

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John Maye picks sweet satsumas in Mobile County that are headed to homes and schools throughout the region. Photo by Debra Davis.

Misconceptions About Agriculture

MYTH: FACT:

All farmers are rich.

82 percent of farming operations have annual sales of $100,000 or less, and nearly 70 percent of family farm operators or their spouses have an off-farm job.

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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Leaders Elected To Serve State’s Largest Farm Organization

By Debra Davis

S

teve Dunn, a Conecuh County row crop and cattle farmer, was reelected secretary-treasurer of the Alabama Farmers Federation at the organization’s 94th annual meeting in Montgomery Dec. 7.

Elections were held during the Federation’s business session where almost 500 farmer delegates from all 67 counties chose officers and directors for the organization. Officers serve two-year terms.

Dunn, who is Conecuh County Farmers Federation president and former state Young Farmers chairman, was re-elected to his ninth term.

Voting delegates elected members to the Alabama Farmers Federation Board of Directors at a business session Central Area Vice during the organization’s 94th annual meeting in Montgomery. Front row, from left are Women’s Leadership President Dean Wysner Committee Chairman Regina Carnes of Marshall County, State Young Farmers Committee Chairman Lance Miller of Blount County, Southwest Area Vice President Jake Harper of Wilcox County and Central Area Vice of Randolph County and Southwest Area Vice Presi- President Dean Wysner of Randolph County. Back row, from left are Secretary-Treasurer Steve Dunn of Conecuh County, District 1 Director Brian Glenn of Lawrence County, District 4 Director Rickey Cornutt of Marshall dent Jake Harper of Wilcox County, District 7 Director Joe Lambrecht of Elmore County and District 10 Director Steve Stroud of Pike County.

County also were re-elected.

Wysner is a cattle and hay producer. The Central Area 10. Directors serve three years and County’s Richard Edgar, who served includes Autauga, Bibb, Calhoun, are limited to three consecutive three terms.

Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Fayette, terms.

Pike County poultry farmer and Greene, Jefferson, Lamar, Pickens, Brian Glenn, a row crop farmer county Federation President Steve Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talfrom Lawrence County, was reStroud was elected to the District ladega, Tuscaloosa and Walker elected as District 1 director. The 10 board seat. Stroud replaces Cofcounties. He was first elected vice district includes Colbert, Franklin, fee County’s Carl Sanders, who president in December 1999.

Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion and served six years and did not seek Harper, who is Wilcox County Walker counties. This is his second re-election. That district includes Farmers Federation president, is term.

Barbour, Bullock, Coffee, Covinga cattle and timber farmer. The Rickey Cornutt, a row crop ton, Crenshaw and Pike counties.

Southwest Area includes Baldwin, and cattle farmer from Marshall Elected to one-year ex-officio Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, County, was elected to the Disterms on the state board were Dallas, Escambia, Hale, Lowndes, trict 4 seat previously held by Don Women’s Leadership Committee Marengo, Mobile, Monroe, MontAllison of Winston County. The Chairman Regina Carnes of Margomery, Perry, Sumter, Washington District 4 director seat rotates shall County and State Young and Wilcox counties. Harper, who among Blount, Cullman, Marshall Farmers Committee Chairman served as a district director from and Winston counties.

Lance Miller of Blount County.

1988-1996, was first elected SouthMeanwhile, Elmore County Garrett Henry of Montgomery west Area vice president in Decem- produce farmer Joe Lambrecht was County served as Young Farmber 2003. elected to the District 7 seat repreers chairman in 2015, and Cheryl Elections also were held for senting Chambers, Coosa, Elmore, Lassiter of Choctaw County was Federation board of director seats Lee, Macon, Russell and Tallapoosa Women’s Leadership chair. n representing Districts 1, 4, 7 and counties. He replaces Elmore

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JANUARY 2016

Federation Honors Gregory With Cultivator Award

A

ttorney Stan Gregory, who has dedicated much of his career to drafting and defending Alabama’s property tax laws, was honored during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 94th annual meeting Dec. 7.

Gregory, a partner with Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP in Montgomery, attributed his motivation to help farmers to his rural roots.

“Both of my grandfathers were farmers,” he said. “I understand how hard farmers work and how important they are. The work we’ve done has been important for farmers and, therefore, it is important for the country and the world.”

Earlier that day, Alabama Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey received the organization’s highest honor — the Service to Agriculture Award.

Members also heard remarks from U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Birmingham, and U.S. Rep. Martha Roby, R-Montgomery.

Alvin Benn, a writer for the Montgomery Advertiser and Cooperative Farming News was honored with the Federation’s Agricultural Communications Award.

More than 1,200 farmers attended the meeting Dec. 6-7 at Montgomery Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center. Members also enjoyed a Christmas concert by country superstar Wynonna Judd. n

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, presents the Agricultural Communications Award to Alvin Benn, columnist with the Montgomery Advertiser and contributor to Cooperative Farming News.

JANUARY 2016

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, left, presents the Cultivator Award to Stan Gregory, a partner with Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP in Montgomery. Gregory was instrumental in drafting Alabama’s current-use tax law.

New County Presidents

Hope Cassebaum Baldwin County

Tim Whitley Blount County

Jack Robertson Chambers County

Jimmy Jimmerson Cleburne County

Luther Bishop Colbert County

David Bailey DeKalb County

Ray Duncan Hale County

John Morris Jefferson County

Chad Pitts Perry County

Richie Traylor Randolph County

Darrell Lee Winston County

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State Committee Members Elected

By Debra Davis

M

embers elected new leadership for the Alabama Farmers Federation’s State Young Farmers Committee and Women’s Leadership Committee during the organization’s annual meeting Dec. 6-7.

Blount County’s Lance Miller was elected State Young Farmers chairman, while Marshall County’s Regina Carnes was elected chairman of the State Women’s Leadership Committee.

New Young Farmers Committee members elected at the meeting were Jerry Allen Newby, Limestone County; Adam Wilson, Calhoun County; Cooper Holmes, Perry County; Matthew Gunter, Crenshaw County; and James Robert Parnell, Chilton County.

Fayette County’s Debbie Roberts was elected to the State Women’s Leadership Committee.

Re-elected to the committee were Blount County’s Nell Miller and Chambers County’s Mary Helen Benford.

Reagan Keynote Speaker Political commentator, author and radio show host Michael Reagan spoke about the importance of freedom and the need for strong leadership during the closing session of the Alabama Farmers Federation annual meeting Dec. 7.

More than 1,200 Federation members turned out to hear Reagan, son of former President Ronald Reagan.

“We have too many people in Washington who are so worried about getting credit that they get nothing done,” he said. “My father didn’t care about who got the credit; he looked at the big picture.”

Reagan said his father set an example by being trustworthy, likable and relatable. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

The 2016 State Young Farmers Committee members are, seated from left, Vice Chairman Jeremy Sessions, Mobile County; Chairman Lance Miller, Blount County; Secretary Cade Grace, Walker County; Garrett Henry, Montgomery County; and Federation Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Himburg. Standing, Cooper Holmes, Perry County; Jerry Allen Newby, Limestone County; Matthew Gunter, Crenshaw County; Adam Wilson, Calhoun County; James Robert Parnell, Chilton County; and Lee Haynes, Cullman County.

The 2016 State Women’s Leadership Committee members are, seated from left, Secretary Kathy Anderson, Jefferson County; Vice Chairman Nell Miller, Blount County; Chairman Regina Carnes, Marshall County; and Women’s Leadership Division Director Kim Ramsey. Standing, Cheryl Lassiter, Choctaw County; Debbie Roberts, Fayette County; Debra Bowen, Randolph County; Dot Stone, Wilcox County; Sharon Byrd, Dale County; and Mary Helen Benford, Chambers County.

“My dad stuck to his promises.

That’s one thing today we seem to not have in Washington,” Reagan said. “The rest of the world can’t afford for the United States to fail, because if we fail, the world fails.

What’s going to be best for the world? Electing leadership to Wash6

ington that can lead the world. We need to find our soul again.”

For more stories about the Federation’s 94th annual meeting, visit AlfaFarmers.org. See more photos on the Federation’s Facebook page or Flickr.com/AlabamaFarmers. n JANUARY 2016

Giving Spirit Shines Among Members

L

ive and silent auctions, along with a gun raffle, at the Alabama Farmers Federation annual meeting raised over $31,100 for the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

Federation board members donated items for the live auction, which raised $5,175 during the Foundation breakfast Dec. 7.

County Federations donated over 100 items for the silent auction.

Perry County farmer and Federation District 8 Director Dan Rob-

ertson won the Foundation shotgun raffle. Ticket sales raised $11,970 for the Foundation, which supports agriculture education through scholarship programs and various agriculture activities. Federation Women’s Leadership Committee members collected over 2,300 pounds of aluminum pop tabs for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama.

Elmore County collected the most pop tabs and turned in over 680 pounds.

Individual Leaders

Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan presented Individual Leader Awards to Elmore County’s Betty Barrett, above right, for the Women’s Leadership Division, and Franklin County’s Orval Pounders, below right, for Local and Community Services.

Senior Leaders

Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan presented Winston County’s Carl Godsey, above right, and Dallas County’s Sam Givhan, below, right, with Senior Leader Awards.

Thirty-four county Federations received an Award of Excellence for outstanding work in five program areas.

Thirty-eight counties were recognized for oustanding Women’s Leadership programs, and 13 counties were honored for outstanding Young Farmers programs.

JANUARY 2016

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Young Farmers Shine At 94th Annual Meeting In Montgomery

By A.J. Watson

F

our Discussion Meet finalists explored the future of agriculture at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s annual meeting Dec. 7.

The winner, Brittany Hill of Pell City in St. Clair County, won an all-terrain vehicle sponsored by First South Farm Credit.

“The competition was stiff; I thought it was anyone’s to win,” said Hill, an agriscience teacher in Pell City. “It’s always good as an ag teacher to be prepared and have the ability to explain and discuss questions students may have about agriculture.”

The Discussion Meet simulated a committee meeting where participants considered policy to protect livestock producers from false accusations regarding animal welfare.

Other finalists were Hunter Garnett of Morgan County, Luke Knight of Randolph County and Jerry Allen Newby of Limestone County.

The Excellence in Agriculture and Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) winners were announced earlier this year. They received their prizes at the annual meeting.

Montgomery County’s Garrett and Emily Henry and their children, Paige and Mason, were named Alabama’s OYFF. They received a

Brittany Hill of Pell City in St. Clair County, seated, received an ATV as the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Young Farmers Discussion Meet winner at the organization’s annual meeting. From left are sponsors Mike Pigg and Keith McCurdy of First South Farm Credit, Hill, and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. She will represent the Federation at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s January annual convention in Orlando, Florida.

prize package that included $35,000 from Alfa Insurance towards a new GM truck; a John Deere Gator from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and use of a John Deere tractor sponsored by John Deere, SunSouth, TriGreen Equipment and Snead Ag. Other OYFF finalists were Madison County’s Stewart and Kasey McGill and Blount County’s Lance and Stephanie Miller. Each couple received $500 courtesy of Alabama

Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit.

Excellence in Agriculture winner Abbie Keel of Calhoun County won a computer package from Valcom/CCS Wireless and a John Deere zero-turn mower sponsored

by Dow AgroSciences.

Young Farmers contest winners will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention this month in Orlando, Florida. n

Above left, Federation President Jimmy Parnell with Excellence in Ag Winner Abbie Keel of Calhoun County and Dow AgroSciences’ Cullen Wiggins.

Above right, Parnell and Outstanding Young Farm Family Garrett and Emily Henry of Montgomery County and their children Paige and Mason, with Ben Gore of Alabama Farm Credit and Doug Thiessen of Alabama Ag Credit.

JANUARY 2016

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Why Soybeans?

The United States is the top soybean producing country in the world. Soy is one of the few plants that provides a complete protein, containing all eight amino acids essential for good health. Soybeans grown in Alabama are primarily used for animal feed, but can be used in a variety of products including adhesives, ink, cosmetics and foam padding. More than 800 soy-based products have been developed with farmer checkoff dollars since 1990.

A DIVISION OF THE ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION

Paid for by Alabama Soybean Producers Checkoff.

“Soybeans work well in our farm’s crop rotation. New varieties are improving yields, which can translate into efficiency and profitability. ” — John Bitto, Baldwin County Soybean Farmer

Commodity Organizational Conference Set For Feb. 2-4 In Montgomery

By Jeff Helms

A

labama farmers who produce everything from honey and cotton to timber and hay will meet in Montgomery Feb. 2-4 for the Alabama Farmers Federation Commodity Organizational Conference.

Brian Hardin, director of the Federation’s Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department, said the annual conference attracts county leaders representing 16 commodities to elect state committee members and set priorities for 2016.

“This is one of the most important and valuable meetings the Federation holds each year,” Hardin said. “It gives farmers a chance to exchange ideas and discuss issues that affect their livelihoods. The state committees elected at this conference help shape Federation policy and, in many cases, deter-

mine how producer-funded checkoff funds will be used for research, education and promotion.”

About 800 farmers are expected to attend at least portions of the three-day meeting. In addition to

2016 Meeting Schedule

Tuesday, Feb. 2: Bee & Honey; Beef; Catfish; Cotton and Pork Wednesday, Feb. 3: Equine; Horticulture; Meat Goat & Sheep; Poultry and Wildlife Thursday, Feb. 4: Dairy; Forestry; Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod; Hay & Forage; Soybean; and Wheat & Feed Grains state committee elections, farmers will participate in commodity-specific workshops on topics ranging from animal health and the environment to emerging technologies and marketing options.

The conference agenda is struc-

tured so farmers can attend days focused on their primary commodities. The conference will be at Embassy Suites Montgomery. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. daily, and commodity workshops start at 9:30 a.m. Retiring state commodity committee members will be honored at luncheons each day.

Committee elections for peanut farmers will be held Feb. 11 at the Alabama/Florida Peanut Trade Show and Alabama Peanut Producers Association Annual Meeting in Dothan.

Online registration for the Commodity Organizational Conference ends Jan. 4.

For detailed commodity agendas and speaker information, visit alfafarmers.org/about/events. Onsite registration will be available, but space is limited.

For more information, email dhlong@alfafarmers.org. n

Melissa Palmer

Federation State Meat Goat & Sheep Committee Melissa Palmer works to ensure both her patients and livestock have the best care possible.

Palmer is a registered nurse and raises Boer goats, chickens and honeybees in Elmore County with her husband, Tommy, and twin boys, Andrew and Matthew, both 18.

“I wasn’t raised on a farm, but I’m so glad my children have been,” she said. “I wouldn’t trade the farm life for anything.”

Palmer is active in Santuck Baptist Church’s health and wellness program and Sunday School.

In addition to serving on the Federation State Meat Goat & Sheep Committee, she serves as River Region 4-H Livestock Club leader, Wetumpka High School FFA advisory board member, Alabama National Youth Goat Show chairman and River Region Livestock Expo chairman.

“I always enjoy working with the youth in 4-H,” she said. “I believe kids who grow up with livestock become responsible adults.”

JANUARY 2016

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The Journey From Battlefield To Produce Field

By A.J. Watson

T

he passionate twinkle in Gregg DeBoer’s eyes seemed to thaw the crisp Cullman County air as he described his journey from Army combat engineer to part-time farmer.

DeBoer, 36, went to boot camp 10 days after graduating high school, served tours in Kosovo and Iraq and later served as a recruiter during his 11 years in the Army.

But when he came home in 2009, the U.S. economy was treading water and civilian life looked daunting.

“I probably put in 75 resumes and never got a call,” he said.

Eventually, DeBoer started an entry-level position at a metal supply company. Within two months he became a supervisor, and eventually moved to his current position as an automotive supplier supervisor. But then life seemed to drop another bombshell.

“My appendix burst,” he said.

“They did emergency surgery to remove it, and I was given Oxycontin. I took it, and it was like the weight of the world was off my chest, which is exactly why I stopped taking it.”

DeBoer, in true warrior spirit, refused to take the pills and instead took his health into his own hands after waiting in the Department of Veterans Affairs slow lane.

“I had to figure out how to make myself right,” he said through his thick, bushy beard. “Through social media, I saw a lot of veterans were getting better through agriculture and farming. Animals don’t care if you have tattoos or had a bad day.”

Serendipitously, Limestone County Extension Coordinator Chris Becker heard the same thing around the same time.

“Last July, we had our national Extension meeting in Mobile,” Becker said. “We had some extra space, and I thought it would be

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Veteran Gregg DeBoer with his wife, Liz, and their sons, Max and Oliver, on their Cullman County farm.

cool to give a booth to the Wounded Warrior Project. They said they had a lot of vets interested in smallscale agriculture, but didn’t know how to get into it.”

Becker filled that need by obtaining a $7,000 Northwest Alabama Research Conservation & Development grant, called Operation Grow, to introduce veterans to 12

small-scale agriculture.

DeBoer, whose work schedule interfered with class times, tackled program material without attending a class and, along the way, expanded a raised bed to most of his backyard growing 12 different vegetables. DeBoer now has a consistent buyer for peppers and sells the rest of his produce at farmers markets JANUARY 2016

Public Notice By Alabama Pork Producers And National Pork Board The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2017 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will be Feb. 2, 2016, at 1 p.m., in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Alabama Pork Producers Association in the State Boardroom of the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center at 300 Tallapoosa Street in Montgomery, Alabama during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Commodity Organizational Meeting. All Alabama pork producers are invited to attend.

Any producer who is a resident of the state, at least 18 years old, is a producer of porcine animals or its representative, and has paid all assessments due, may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participant in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted. For more information contact: Alabama Pork Producers, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191-0001; (334) 612-5181; email ghall@alfafarmers.org.

with his wife, Liz, and two sons, Max, 3, and Oliver, 9. He recently signed a six-acre lease where he plans to add livestock to the mix.

While the program isn’t designed to churn out agronomists, the value of Operation Grow, both DeBoer and Becker said, is it scratches an itch.

“Gregg never attended a class, but he’s a success story,” Becker said. “We gave him some info, and he devoured it. But if you realize this isn’t what you want to do, then I consider that a success story, too.”

Luckily, Becker and Extension have the chance to create more success stories with part of a $711,213 U.S. Department of Agriculture Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program grant.

“In the coming months we’re going to plan two Operation Grow programs — one in Birmingham and one around Mobile,” Becker JANUARY 2016

said. “The following year we’ll be in Huntsville and Montgomery so we’ll cover all areas of the state.

There’s still a lot of planning and decisions to be made.”

DeBoer, meanwhile, serves as a testament to the program by keeping his boots on the ground and his mind on the mission.

“I eventually want to hire some veterans and expose them to agriculture and the therapy it’s given me,” he said. “I’d like to get a stand-alone building, find a homeless vet or two, and provide them with a place to live, work and help put money in their pockets. I want to give them a hand up and not a hand out; maybe that’s what they need.”

Interested veterans may contact Becker at cmb0034@aces.edu or (256) 232-5510. Contact DeBoer at greggory.deboer@gmail.com. n 13

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Prizes For Farm Of Distinction Include Gator, Cash

A

all winner will be announced at the Alabama FarmCity Awards Luncheon April 7 in Birmingham.

Alabama’s Farm of Distinction will receive a John Deere Gator from SunSouth, TriGreen and Snead Ag dealers; a $1,000 gift certificate from AFC; $2,500 from Swisher International and an engraved farm sign from Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. The overall winner will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets / Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 18-20.

Farm-City Week started in 1955 and is officially observed the week before Thanksgiving. Farm-City volunteers also will help celebrate National Agriculture Day March 15.

Farm of Distinction applications are available under documents at AlabamaFarmCity.org.

For more information about National Agriculture Day, visit AgDay.org. n

pplications are being accepted through Jan. 29 for the Alabama Farm of Distinction contest, which includes cash and prizes valued at more than $12,000.

Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms said the competition recognizes farms of all types and sizes that excel in production, management, stewardship and innovation.

“This will be the 30th year we’ve honored an exceptional agricultural operation with the Farm of Distinction award,” Helms said. “The list of past recipients includes some of the finest farms in the Southeast owned by families who are among Alabama’s greatest agricultural leaders.”

Up to four finalists for the award will be selected based on applications, and each will receive a $250 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC).

Judges will travel to the finalists’ farms, and the over-

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Sweet Satsumas Simply Delicious

By Debra Davis

D

espite back-to-back cold winters that heavily damaged Alabama’s satsuma crop, farmers along Alabama’s Gulf Coast have plenty of the sweet, juicy oranges ripe for the picking.

Similar to mandarins, such as Cuties and Halos, have been successfully marketed on a wider scale, but potential also is high for satsumas, which can be grown in south Alabama, said horticulture expert James Miles of Mobile who works for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

“They are naturally sweet, delicious, and easy to peel,” he said. “Even a small child can peel a satsuma and eat it; and there’s almost no seeds. Outside of the Gulf Coast, most people don’t know what a satsuma is, much less that they’re grown in Alabama. For the crop to be really successful, we’ve got to expose it to more people.”

Alabama’s Farm-To-School Program is introducing satsumas to a new crop of consumers. Served in selected schools around the state, farmers like Jeremy Sessions and his cousin Adam Sessions of Grand Bay predict more popularity for the fruit through the program.

Above, John Parker, Catherine Jane and Crawford Higginbotham enjoy easy-to-peel, juicy satsumas. Even 2-year-old Catherine can peel her own.

Photos Courtesy of Simply Jane Photography SimplyJanePhotography.zenfolio.com w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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JANUARY 2016

“Satsumas are so good that once you try them, you can’t wait to have another one,” Jeremy Sessions said smiling. “Or at least that’s sure what we’re hoping for.”

Primarily grown in Mobile, Baldwin and Houston counties, satsumas are sensitive to cold weather. They are generally protected by warm sea breezes, even when temperatures drop. Farmers also use irrigation systems to coat trees with water and form a layer of ice, which acts as insulation for the tender trees.

But several days of subfreezing temperatures in recent years proved to be too much for some plants, Miles said.

“South Alabama had a hard freeze in January 2013 when temperatures dropped to 19 F, and we had subfreezing temperatures for almost a week,” Miles said. “Even for growers with freeze protection in place, some trees broke from the weight of the ice, and some irriga-

tion systems failed.”

Another hard freeze hit the region in the spring of 2015. It was a vulnerable time for the trees, and many didn’t survive or sustained heavy damage, Miles said.

“I’ve talked to some growers who’ve lost as much as 60 percent of their trees; others maybe as little as 30 percent,” he said. “Most all of Want to buy satsumas?

For a list of growers, contact James Miles, Extension Horticulture Specialist at (251) 574-8445 or email milesjd@auburn.edu.

them had some damage.”

Miles said he’s not sure how many acres the state still has in production, nor is it clear how many growers replaced dead trees. He said the number of acres in satsuma production could be as little as 250-300, down from 500 just a few years ago.

For farmers who replanted, it will take three years for new trees to bear fruit. Despite setbacks, growers

like George Warden of Grand Bay said his harvest was good.

“We’ve been blessed,” said Warden, who has 2,000 trees spread across several fields on his farm.

“Our crop turned out better than I thought it would, and the fruit is sweet.”

Warden was among the first farmers to grow satsumas commercially. He sells much of his crop through the Farm-To-School program, wholesale distributors and a good bit right off the farm. He planted 1,000 trees in 1990 and has added trees all along since then. He said he continues to learn something new every year.

“Just when you think you’ve got things figured out, they’ll surprise you,” he said about satsumas. “For example, my best crop this year is from fields near my pine trees. The pine trees apparently provided more protection from the cold than we thought.” n

Clockwise, from upper left, satsumas are graded and sorted prior to packing; satsuma trees in south Mobile County grow well in pecan orchards on Sessions Farms; fruit is cleaned prior to sorting.; each orange is picked by hand, using clippers to nip the stem near the fruit.

JANUARY 2016

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Alfa Pledges $100,000 To National Poultry Technology Center Building

By Marlee Moore

A

lfa Insurance invested in the future of Alabama’s largest agricultural industry with a recent pledge to Auburn University’s (AU) National Poultry Technology Center (NPTC).

The Alfa Foundation’s $100,000 gift helps fund NPTC’s first equipment test house, part of the College of Agriculture’s poultry farm relocation to north Auburn.

“We have a long relationship with Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation,” said NPTC Director Jim Donald. “Alfa Insurance insures poultry houses, the Federation supports farmers, and we help design technologies that make poultry production more efficient.”

NPTC’s goal is simple — ­ improve profitability for Alabama poultry farmers. Through NPTC, which began in 2007, biosystems engineers and agricultural economists collaborate to create costeffective solutions for housing, ventilation, equipment, lighting, heating, feed, bedding materials and energy issues.

“When the building is finished, we can quickly and methodically test many different housing and equipment situations and technologies without the grower being the guinea pig,” Donald said.

According to 2013 data,

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

NPTC saves Alabama’s estimated 3,000 poultry farmers $30 million annually in expenses, as well as time and peace of mind.

State Poultry Committee Chairman Joe Roberts is no stranger to NPTC’s work. His Fayette County farm has been used for NPTC research, including recent poultry bedding material tests.

“Poultry has been good to many farmers in Alabama,” said Roberts, who was raised on a poultry farm.

“NPTC promotes research that affects growers and allows us to gain more with fewer inputs.”

The NPTC test house is part of the AU farm’s first phase, along with two Depart-

18

ment of Poultry Science research broiler houses. The houses will be adjacent to the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association Feed Mill and Animal Nutrition Building.

“We view this as an opportunity to build a world-class facility on campus,” said Paul Patterson, AU’s College of Agriculture associate dean for instruction. “We want our students to have the best possible education so they can, in turn, help growers save money.”

The NPTC test house will give AU biosystems engineering and poultry science students hands-on experience and skills with emerging technologies, which will be easily transferrable to the industry.

“Agriculture is constantly evolving, and our farmers need viable solutions,” said Alfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “We are excited to partner with Auburn and believe this partnership will enhance the poultry industry and allow our farmers to better provide for their flocks and families.”

The 16,500-square-foot test house is under construction and projected to welcome its first flock in the summer of 2016. n JANUARY 2016

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Young Farmers Conference Focuses On The Future

Register for the Young Farmers Conference by Jan. 25 at AlfaFarmers.org

By Jeff Helms

The conference begins Saturday with opportunities for young farmers to mix and mingle, including a performance by the Velcro Pygmies rock band. On Sunday, a variety of workshops are planned including a panel discussion on financial and estate planning; an American Farm Bureau Federation seminar on strengthening county Young Farmers committees; a workshop on the Federation’s new safety program with Area Organization Director Brad Cox; and an update on avian influenza from Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier.

Interviews for the Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) competition will be held during the conference.

Three finalists will be named at the closing banquet and will go on to compete for more than $60,000 in prizes.

Contest applications are available at AlfaYoungFarmers.org and will be accepted through Jan. 15. Other meeting events include a panel discussion with young legislators involved in agriculture.

Young Farmers also will learn about Aspire, a new, joint youth leadership conference planned by the Federation and other agricultural groups.

The Aspire conference is July 12-14 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana.

The Young Farmers conference concludes Sunday evening with a live auction benefiting the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation. Last year, the popular event raised more than $7,000 for the Foundation.

Register for the Young Farmers Conference by Jan. 25. at AlfaFarmers.org. n

E

merging trends in agriculture will be the focus as nearly 250 Alabama Farmers Federation members gather in Montgomery Feb. 26-27 for the annual Young Farmers Conference.

Federation Young Farmers Director Jennifer Himburg said the event provides an opportunity for young agricultural professionals to make connections, share ideas and develop skills that will benefit their farms and communities.

“This is the place young farmers from across the state can get together to build relationships and network with other people who share the same interests, opportunities and challenges,” Himburg said. “Participants also get tools they can use to strengthen their farm operations and county Young Farmers programs.”

The conference keynote speaker will discuss how computers, biotechnology, population growth and economic improvements are changing agriculture. Dr. Lowell Catlett is a regents professor in agricultural economics and dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at New Mexico State University.

“Dr. Catlett is an exciting futurist whose thoughtprovoking and entertaining presentations address a variety of technologies and their implications on the way we will live and work,” Himburg said. “He’s an award-winning scientist who speaks nationally and internationally to groups ranging from farmers to corporate executives.” w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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JANUARY 2016

Jeff Register Building & Truss

USDA Finalizes Catfish Inspections Rule

T

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he U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a final rule for domestic and imported catfish inspections Nov. 25.

The rule will take effect March 2016 with an 18-month transitional period for U.S. and international catfish producers.

“This new rule will help level the playing field by requiring imported catfish to meet the stringent safety requirements set by the USDA,” said Rick Oates, Alabama Farmers Federation Catfish Division director. “U.S. catfish farmers have been producing catfish under those strict standards for years.”

When the rule takes effect, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service will assume responsibility for inspections of catfish and similar fish.

The Food and Drug Administration will continue to regulate other types of fish.

Development of the new inspection rule was required by the 2014 farm bill.

A 2013 study showed Alabama’s catfish industry provides 5,289 jobs with an annual economic impact of $158.2 million. n

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Endangered Species Act Lawsuit Takes Aim At Alabama Landowners

T

said the Federation’s Rick Oates, who also serves as ATFA executive director. “It’s a win-win situation if we can help determine a species is not threatened or endangered. That would allow property owners to continue to manage their land as best meets their individual goals.”

From a biological diversity standpoint, Alabama is blessed, Oates said. The state has the fifthlargest number of species of plants and animals found in any state.

Unfortunately, Alabama also has the third-largest number of species on the Endangered Species List, and the greatest number of aquatic species on the list.

ATFA and the Federation will continue to keep members apprised of the situation, including necessary reporting as the determination surveys move forward, Oates said.

For more details, including a list of considered species, go to fws.gov/endangered/improving_ESA. n

he U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) is under a federal court order to determine if 111 species of plants and animals in Alabama should be listed as threatened or endangered.

The possible listings are the result of a recent lawsuit filed by the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) against FWS, which claimed 404 Southeastern species should be added to the Endangered Species List.

While the determination must be completed by 2027, the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA) are working with groups to help the FWS obtain the data needed for the determination.

Already, the number of species that could be listed has been reduced to 376.

“While there are certain risks associated with inviting the federal government onto your property to look for potentially endangered or threatened species, there are also risks in FWS not having accurate data to make the determination,” JANUARY 2016

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Auburn University Researchers Tackle Pine Board Strength

By A.J. Watson

A

uburn University researchers are working to develop a system to evaluate standing timber and determine potential board strength, which could improve lumber value.

As pine plantations shot up in Alabama, the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau (SPIB) downgraded visually inspected pine boards in 2013, leaving landowners and industry professionals wondering how to react.

Brian Via of Auburn University (AU) said shorter growing habits are to blame for weaker pine boards, but a team of university researchers is working to quantify the problem and make pine stronger and stiffer.

“As more farmers planted pine and extended harvest times, they realized it was more profitw w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Auburn University researcher Brian Via, left, and graduate assistants Dr. George Cheng and Charles Essien work to measure the density of a pine tree.

able to harvest and replant earlier for increased volume than wait for trees to mature,” said Via, director of the Forest Products Development Center. “The problem is during the first 15 years of growth, there isn’t a whole lot of density to the wood. But after that juvenile period, the tree grows a lot stronger and stiffer.”

Kenneth Real, who serves on the Alabama Forestry Commission, agreed with Via. “Primarily, our seedlings were developed for pulp and paper mills,” said Real, Marion County Farmers Federation president. “We seem to be generating fewer paper products because electronic storage has replaced some of the paper demand.”

Via, an associate professor in 22

Auburn’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, along with graduate students and researchers in AU’s Department of Biosystems Engineering is working to help landowners and companies by creating a new grading system to measure pine stiffness and strength.

“All the current density measurements parallel each other, but the systems can vary as much as 10 percent,” he said. “None of them provides consistent information, so we’re working to create a standardized method to get the same answer from each machine, every time.”

Via said going forward, landowners and industries could measure forests and determine which trees are higher or lower quality, and pay accordingly.

“If a machine could determine JANUARY 2016

one stand is 10 percent stiffer than another, as a land manager you could get a higher price for better quality wood,” he said.

Measuring stiffness in a tree depends on several factors, Via said.

After inserting two metal probes about 5 feet apart on the tree, researchers tap the bottom probe several times for a clear readout.

Cellulose, density, age and tree species all factor into the measurement.

Via said other countries use the technology, but the volume of U.S. trees makes it difficult to adopt a tree-by-tree measurement policy.

To make up for that, Via is working on a sample size to measure forests.

“If we separate higher quality stands of timber, eventually someone will see they can probably make more money by individually measuring trees,” he said. “The timber industry already uses sound waves in the milling process. We’re refining the process and testing the raw material.”

Auburn University researcher Brian Via measures pine boards for strength and stiffness in the laboratory.

In the meantime, Real said landowners should consult a forester about options to maximize profit margins.

“There are genetic traits you can

select to create better density,” he said. “Use a professional forester to make sure you plant the right trees on the right soil types to reap the benefits.” n

Apply Online for

Scholarships The Alfa Foundation will award 100 $1,000 scholarships for students attending Alabama colleges, universities and technical schools.

Applications available at AlfaInsurance.com February 1 through April 1.

The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation will award up to 67 $1,750 scholarships for students majoring in agriculture or forestry at Auburn University and Alabama A&M University.

Deadline April 1

Applications available at AlfaFarmers.org December 1 through April 1.

Applicants for Alfa Foundation scholarships must be members of Alabama Farmers Federation. Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation scholarships are available to Federation members and their children.

JANUARY 2016

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Farmers Federation Announces Candidate Endorsements

T

he Alabama Farmers Federation and its political action committee, FarmPAC, have endorsed candidates for the 2016 election.

“It’s important to be involved in the political process because elected officials shape public policy that has a direct impact on members,” said Jimmy Parnell, Federation president. “These endorsements include incumbents who have listened to Federation members and worked to address their concerns, and candidates who share our members’ values.”

Endorsements from the FarmPAC Advisory Trustees were approved by the group’s executive trustees at board meetings in October and December.

Office

Endorsed Candidate

U.S. Senator from Alabama

Richard Shelby

U.S. Representative, District 1

Bradley Byrne

U.S. Representative, District 2

Martha Roby

U.S. Representative, District 3

Mike Rogers

U.S. Representative, District 4

Robert Aderholt

U.S. Representative, District 5

Mo Brooks

U.S. Representative, District 6

Gary Palmer

U.S. Representative, District 7

Terri Sewell

Public Service Commission President

Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh

State Board of Education, District 1

Matthew Brown

State Board of Education, District 3

Justin Barkley

State Board of Education, District 7

Jeff Newman

Tommy Maples State Beef Committee Member Tommy Maples’ commitment to agriculture is surpassed only by his love of family.

“My grandfather started our farm with Angus cattle in 1937,” said Maples, a Federation State Beef Committee member from Limestone County. “My granddaughter is the eighth generation on the farm now.”

Maples, his wife, Melanie, and three children, Josh, Will and Sara, were the Federation’s 1997 Outstanding Young Farm Family. Maples previously served as Federation State Young chairman but admits his focus is more toward home and family these days.

“We pretty much work with our cows all the time,” he said of his 175 head of Angus cattle.

“We go to church, but everything I do revolves around our children or the cows. Chasing our granddaughter around is the thing I enjoy most now.”

The Maples attend Elkmont Church of Christ.

JANUARY 2016

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Edgeworthia, a deciduous shrub, flowers in February and March.

By Lois Chaplin

W

hat if you could add shrubs to a garden that bloomed with camellias in the winter?

The interesting shrubs that bloom while there is still a significant chill in the air may be surprising.

These are not commonly planted, but if they were, neighborhoods would be a lot more beautiful in February and March.

Mahonia may be known for its yellow flowers and holly-like evergreen leaves. The flowers borne at the top of sculptural stalks in midwinter are often a signature plant of an older garden, as this plant was fashionable 40 or more years ago.

Leatherleaf mahonia (Mahonia bealei) is the most common old variety seen blooming in gardens in February. Today, the plant is making a comeback, and there are several other species of mahonias available that bloom in either winter or very early spring. New varieties that do well here are available through the Monrovia Southern Living plant collection. Soft Caress has soft foliage that looks similar to bamboo and grows about three feet

tall. Marvel is another one from the collection that has a larger leaf, more like the old-fashioned leatherleaf mahonia. Both also do well in containers.

Another evergreen shrub widely planted in shady Alabama gardens is Japanese pieris, which bears strings of white blooms that dangle like pearls from the ends of the plant’s stems in February and March. Mountain Snow, also from the Southern Living collection, is a variety more tolerant of conditions in Alabama than some of the other forms of this plant. Japanese pieris is a graceful, elegant shrub that brings a surprise bloom at a quiet time in the garden. This is a good compact plant for containers, too.

Edgeworthia is a stunning deciduous shrub whose flowers steal the show in February or March. As the leaves drop in the fall, the silvery flower buds become more evident on the bare stems, gradually enlarging and developing through the winter to show their fragrant flowers with the very first hint of warmth in late winter.

Chinese paperbush (Edgeworthia chrysantha) has pale yellow fra-

grant flowers in January and February that smell as spicy-sweet as gardenia. The shrub grows about five feet tall. Edgeworthia papyrifera is taller, up to 10 feet, and its flowers tend to hang downward on their stems.

Winter daphne (Daphne odora), which is closely related to the paperbush, is also known for its intense fragrance. Proven to be more finicky and harder to grow, this is a plant for a gardener who likes challenges. Plant it in the right spot to begin with and leave it alone as it resents being moved.

The small, evergreen shrub grows 3 to 4 feet tall and equally wide.

It needs excellent soil drainage but consistent moisture during droughts. Its evergreen leaves may be either solid green or variegated with cream-edged leaves. Its strongly fragrant flowers, which are pale pink or white, typically open during late January and February.

All these shrubs appreciate some shade from pines or the dappled shade of hardwood trees, but avoid planting in the root zone of trees with competitive roots like maple and crape myrtle. They can be found by asking a good local garden center. n _______________________________ Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

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SLOW COOKER BEEF TACOS Start-to-finish: 8-10 hours (20 minutes active)

By Jill Clair Gentry

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ince the invention of slow cookers in the 1970s, life has been easier for busy cooks across the world. Throw a few ingredients into a pot, and after work, dinner is done.

They’re not just good for making soup — slow cooker recipes could fill each section of a cookbook, from soups to main dishes to desserts. What’s not to love?

Sharon Turner of Geneva County certainly knows the benefits of a convenient, easy dinner. After graduating from Auburn University and marrying her high school sweetheart, Charles, in 1962, she taught home economics for 35 years while raising two daughters and working alongside her husband on their peanut farm.

These days, Charles and Sharon are what she calls “semi-retired.”

“We still grow peanuts and

Slow cooker tip: Buy slow cooker liners (found on the same aisle as plastic wrap and aluminum foil) for easy clean up.

w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

corn and have a few cows, and we also have timber,” she says. “Every year, Charles says this is the last year he’ll plant peanuts, and I say, ‘I’ll believe it when I see it.’”

Sharon is the Geneva County Women’s Leadership Committee chairman and former State Women’s Leadership chair. She stays busy with her church and several other organizations.

“I cook a lot of meals for families when their loved ones pass away, and these slow cooker recipes are great for that, as well as any family function,” she says. “Since my mama passed away a few years ago, my home is usually where my family gathers.”

At those gatherings, the Turners’ six grandchildren love to gobble up Sharon’s potato soup, and she’s glad it only takes a few minutes to prepare — less time making supper means more time for memories.

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3-4 pounds beef chuck roast Salt Pepper Cooking oil 2 chipotles in adobo sauce, chopped (find in the Latin food section) 5 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon ground cumin 3 teaspoons oregano 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 cup beef broth 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 3 bay leaves

Serving preparations Flour/corn tortillas Cheese Sour cream Salsa Guacamole Rice Black beans

Cut roast into approximately six or eight large chunks. Season well with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat oil in large skillet and sear beef chunks (in batches if necessary) on all sides until browned.

Transfer seared meat to slow cooker.

In medium bowl, combine chopped chipotles, garlic, cumin, oregano, cloves, beef broth, vinegar, lime juice and additional salt and pepper. Mix well and pour over beef in the slow cooker. Add bay leaves.

Cover and cook on low 8-10 hours, until meat shreds easily.

Remove bay leaves. Remove beef from cooker and shred meat. Return beef to slow cooker to marinate at least 10 minutes or until ready to serve. Use for tacos, nachos, burritos or quesadillas.

JANUARY 2016

SLOW COOKER ROAST BEEF SANDWICHES 3-to 4-pound beef roast ½ cup brown sugar 1 package dry onion soup mix ½ cup water 1 chopped onion 1 pinch garlic powder Salt and pepper Onion rolls Sweet barbecue sauce (recipe below)

Place roast in slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in bowl, and pour over roast. Cook on low for 8 hours, turning and basting roast occasionally. Serve with sweet barbecue sauce.

SWEET BARBECUE SAUCE ½ cup ketchup 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 4 tablespoons water 4-5 drops hot sauce ¼ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons brown sugar ¼ teaspoon salt

SLOW COOKER POTATO SOUP Courtesy of Sharon Turner Start-to-finish: 8 hours Serves 6-8

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes. Stir frequently, especially last 10 minutes. Store in refrigerator. Use within two weeks.

1 32-ounce package hash browned potatoes 32 ounces chicken broth 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup 1 8-ounce package cream cheese Salt and pepper Grated cheese Bacon bits

SLOW COOKER BEEF TIPS Courtesy of Sharon Turner Start-to-finish: 6 to 8 hours, 5 minutes active Serves 6-8

Place hash browned potatoes, chicken broth and cream of chicken soup in slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours. Add cream cheese at the last hour. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with cheese and bacon bits.

2 pounds beef tips 1 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup 1 packet brown gravy mix 1 packet dried onion soup mix 1 can sliced mushrooms 1 cup water

SLOW COOKER BAKED APPLES ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup walnuts, chopped (can substitute pecans or granola) 4 tablespoons butter 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla, optional 6 small Gala or Macintosh apples, cored (use a grapefruit spoon, metal teaspoon or small knife to remove core, leaving ½ inch of apple at bottom) ½ cup apple juice or apple cider

Layer ingredients in slow cooker in listed order.

Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Serve over rice or noodles.

CROCK-POT CANDY Courtesy of Sharon Turner Start-to-finish: 2 hours, 30 minutes (30 minutes active) Yields 100 candy pieces 32 ounces dry-roasted peanuts 1 12-ounce package semisweet chocolate chips 1 4-ounce package German chocolate 1 32-ounce package white chocolate candy melts

In a large bowl, mix brown sugar, walnuts, butter, cinnamon and vanilla. Divide mixture evenly among apple centers. Place apples in slow cooker and pour apple juice or cider into slow cooker around apples.

Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the apples are soft. Serve warm or cold with vanilla ice cream or yogurt.

Layer ingredients in a slow cooker in listed order.

Cook on low 1½ to 2 hours. Do not open lid. Stir and drop by teaspoons on waxed paper.

JANUARY 2016

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