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VOLUME 40, NUMBER 8
A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation
AUGUST 2015
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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 Don Allison, Arley Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Richard Edgar, Deatsville Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Carl Sanders, Brundidge Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Cheryl Lassiter, Silas Garrett Henry, Hope Hull
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In This Issue
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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.
A member of American Farm Bureau Federation AUGUST 2015
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A Million More Trees
8
Growing Tall
13 Testing Hay Matters 14 Big Heart Benefits
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ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com
www.AlfaFarmers.org
Farm To Fork
10 WOTUS Lawsuit
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.
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.
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19 Ag Grads Wanted 22 World Champion Chatter 27 Pepper Perks
On The Cover 27
Baldwin County Sheriffs Boys Ranch Director Jim Harmon and two residents walk in the pastures on the south Alabama farm. Photo by Debra Davis.
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Inaugural Lawrence County Farm-To-Fork Draws Hundreds
By A.J. Watson
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t was as if God smiled when the rain cleared and a gentle breeze cooled farmers, sponsors and guests at the inaugural Lawrence County Farm-To-Fork event July 27. A mouth-watering meal featuring locally grown food was the focal point of the event spearheaded by Lawrence County fruit and vegetable farmers Larry and Bonita LouAllen and the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce. “We always read about it, and when we went to Bon Appétit at Belle Chevre in Elkmont, everything clicked for us—we had to do it,” Bonita said. “After we decided Above, Juanita Baggett of Extension volunteered to set tables at the inaugural Lawrence County Farm-To-Fork event attended by children and adults of all ages. The event was at Larry and Bonita LouAllen’s farm in Moulton. Left, Maggie LouAllen and her sister, Emily, helped register guests for the event at their grandparents’ farm. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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AUGUST 2015
Above, Lawrence County farmers G.T. Hamilton, left, and Clinton Hardin swap stories before dinner. Left, Lawrence County native Brian Hardin addresses farmers, volunteers and sponsors after dinner. Hardin is Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs director.
to do it, we had to find a vehicle to accommodate it. That’s where the chamber of commerce came in.” The LouAllens and the local chamber of commerce recruited table sponsors, farmers, speakers and a local chef to help agriculture tell its story, but the event also held another purpose. “Farming is so much more than growing crops,” said Diane Scanland, Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce executive director. “We wanted to support our local FFA chapters and encourage kids to come back home and farm, so all county FFA chapters each received about $200 from the event.” Sawyer Kelsoe, an 11th-grade FFA member at Lawrence County High School, helped serve food at the event and said community support would go a long way. “It’s good to give recognition to our farmers, and we’ll use this money to help with the FFA greenhouse, which will hopefully help increase the number of agriculture students,” he said. The meal, prepared by Chef Jakob Reed, included grilled chicken breast with tomato and basil, smashed potatoes, vegetable medley, a salad crudité and strawAll four Lawrence County FFA chapters received about $200 from Farm-To-Fork event proceeds. FFA members helped serve food at the inaugural event. AUGUST 2015
berry cake with cream cheese icing. Reed, who grew up in Moulton and works at the Albany Bistro in Decatur, said the combination of coming home and preparing local food was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. “We always try to shop at local farmers markets,” Reed said. “I grew up here, and knowing where your food comes from and how it’s grown is at the top of my list as a chef. A lot of farmers use sustain-
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able practices, and I like knowing the money I spend for food is going back into the community.” Larry LouAllen said, ultimately, events like Farm-To-Fork promote farming, the community and help the local economy. “What we’re doing is taking food from the farm, getting the community together and saying ‘This is what we can do,’” he said. “This is us singing our song and telling our story.” n
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Fred Helms
District 12 Director Fred Helms’ attitude is a lot like the land he farms in Houston County—smooth and pleasant. “Surround yourself with good people, help those in need, and you will always be blessed,” said the Alabama Farmers Federation board member. He and his farm partner, J.P. Kelley, have a 2,500-acre peanut, cotton, grain and cattle farm. Helms said he appreciates the opportunity to raise his family on a farm. He and his wife, Mary, have five children, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. They attend Panther Creek Freewill Baptist Church. Helms is on the Houston County Soil Conservation Committee, Alabama Peanut Producers Association Board of Directors, National Peanut Festival Association board and is a Houston County Cattlemen’s Association member. He formerly served on the Alabama Pork Producers State Committee.
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AUGUST 2015
Alabama Timber Acreage Increases To 23 Million By Marlee Moore
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labama timberland is growing like words dripping off a Southern drawl – slow and steady. In 2014, Alabama timber acreage increased from 22 million acres to an all-time high of 23 million, according to Service Forest Inventory & Analysis (FIA) data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest. “That million acres of growth didn’t just happen,” said Greg Pate, Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) state forester. “We’ve seen a steady growth in Alabama’s timberland in the past 15 years.” Alabama’s forests are the third largest in America, behind only Oregon and Georgia. Timber acreage covers 69 percent of Alabama’s total area, Pate said. “Timber is a vital, renewable resource in Alabama,” said Rick Oates, Alabama Farmers Federation Forestry Division director. “This study shows landowners are successfully managing our forests with the future in mind.” Despite perceptions that trees and forests are vanishing in Alabama, FIA data show timber growth now exceeds the volume of timber harvested annually, Oates said. For every ton of timber harvested, 1.55 tons of new growth is added to Alabama’s forests. Since 2000, total timber volume increased 18.7 percent to 1.17 billion tons. Softwood timber volume, primarily pine species, increased 31.1 percent, and hardwood timber volume increased 7.6 percent. “By keeping Alabama’s for-
Forestland owner Jane Russell talks timber with State Forester Greg Pate.
ests working, we’ve show we can sustainably manage them and keep them growing,” Pate said. Working forests benefit Alabama’s economy through wood product manufacturing and the environment by maintaining clean water and air and providing wildlife habitat. Jane Russell and her husband Tom bought their first tract of timber 40 years ago and now own timberland in Butler, Lowndes and Montgomery counties. “Everything we’ve done with timber is a long-term investment,” said Jane Russell, 69. “There’s nothing better to leave your children.” Russell is one of seven AFC commissioners. She said Alabama timberland has a bright future, although economic tendencies and
population growth will eventually affect the industry. “I see a slowing of the growth down the road,” she said. Although timber acreage may decrease, Pate said he’s encouraged by research projects aimed at growing more timber on fewer acres. “We are working to keep forestry a frontline industry in Alabama,” Pate said. “Forestry contributes $21 billion to our state’s economy. Reaching this historic high of 23 million acres gives us great hope that our industry is secure.” Agriculture, forestry and related industries have a $70.4 billion annual economic impact in Alabama and employ over 580,000 Alabamians. n
Top five Alabama counties with timber acreage
Clarke – 746,693 acres
Baldwin – 736,807 acres
Tuscaloosa – 692,934 acres
Source: USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory & Analysis 2014 Report AUGUST 2015
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Washington – 638,138 acres
Monroe – 577,076 acres w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
By Mary Johnson
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ascading towers of lettuce, arugula, beans, peas and peppers create a marvelous sight in a Madison County valley surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains foothills. On a farm measuring less than 10 acres, Jimmy Sparks found a fulfilling second career growing produce with a unique hydroponic tower system. “I jumped into farming with both feet,” said Sparks, who left a 25-year career in the wine and catering business. “Call it crazy, but I’m glad I did. We are still experimenting every year, and that’s the fun of it. I think you need to learn something new every day.” J. Sparks Farms started as a U-pick strawberry operation. However, Sparks quickly discovered the market for vegetables was even better. “The demand for greens and tomatoes far outweighed the demand for strawberries,” he said. “We can’t grow enough tomatoes to meet the demand. We’re still a small-scale farm, but this is enough for us to handle and to make sure we’re doing it right.” The hydroponic tower system allows Sparks to grow an abundance of produce on just 1 3/4 acres. If planted directly in the soil, it would take about 15 acres of land to grow the same amount. Each vertical Styrofoam tower has five tiers with four planters per tier. Instead of soil, seedlings are planted in a 50-50 mixture of vermiculite, which holds water, and perlite, which helps with drainage. Sparks “feeds” plants three to five times per day, depending on the season, to ensure they receive needed nutrients. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Growing Tall Hydroponic towers provide plentiful harvest
Jimmy and Becky Sparks grow fruits, vegetables and herbs on their 10-acre farm in Gurley using hydroponic towers. 8
AUGUST 2015
Buy J. Sparks Farms Produce On-Farm Market, 312 Esslinger Dr., Gurley, AL, Tuesday - Friday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday - 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Farmers Market at Latham United Methodist Church, 109 Weatherly Rd. SE, Huntsville, AL Tuesdays Greene Street Market at Church of the Nativity, 208 Eustis Ave., Huntsville, AL Thursdays Bailey Cove Farmers Market at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 12200 Baily Cove Rd., Huntsville, AL Saturday mornings
“During the day, they’re just like a baby; you have to feed them every two-to-three hours,” he said. Nutrients are added to the water flowing through 14 miles of irrigation pipes. Sparks said he uses 5,000 gallons of water a day, but without the tower system he’d have to use 70,000 gallons. Seedlings are transplanted starting in May, which means produce is usually available from the beginning of June through mid-October, depending on frost. “We plant in stages, so we are constantly pulling and replanting to always have a crop,” Sparks said. “We don’t have any molting problems with our lettuce, kale, spinach or arugula, so we can actually grow those all season long.” Sparks said he has always enjoyed food, so the jump from serving food in Huntsville to growing food on the farm was a natural progression. With his two children grown, he and his wife Becky packed up and moved to the farm in Gurley. That was 12 years ago. AUGUST 2015
“I thought he was crazy,” Becky said. “It was a big change to move from a neighborhood to the country, but now we both love it. I can come and go as I please. It’s still a new adventure every day.” It’s an adventure they share with their family including son Brad, daughter Anna, son-in-law Matt, and granddaughters Ila, 2, and Lucy, 4 months. “Farm life is fun, and I’m looking forward to our grand babies working out here one day,” Becky
said. “Ila loves the tomatoes. We even call the small tomatoes Ila’s tomatoes, and she always wants to go see if they’re ready to eat.” In addition to tomatoes and greens, J. Sparks Farms grows green beans, purple hull peas, squash, okra, zucchini, cucumbers, eggplants, bell peppers and fresh herbs. They sell from the on-farm store Tuesday through Saturday and at three Huntsville farmers markets. Sparks said the most satisfying part of the job is knowing he provides consumers with healthy food. “I love our customer base,” he said. “We offer a product that was picked the same day or, at most, one day before they buy it. It’s rewarding to see the plants grow and to always learn new things. I can’t find any negatives with this kind of work. We’re extremely blessed.” For more information, visit jsparksfarms.com. n
DID YOU KNOW THE YIELD FROM...
1.75 = 15
acres planted at J. Sparks Farms using hydroponic towers acres of produce planted directly in soil
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States, Agricultural Groups File Suit Against EPA’s WOTUS Rule
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umerous states and agricultural organizations have filed suit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since it released a final Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule June 29. The following day, Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange
joined eight other states on a lawsuit asking a federal district court in Georgia to strike down the controversial rule. Farmers have been concerned about the rule since a first draft was introduced in April 2014. “The final WOTUS rule adds vague definitions to the Clean Water Act that could expand the administration’s jurisdiction to previously unregulated areas, including dry land,” said Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “We’re happy to see Attorney General Strange do what is in his power to stop this detrimental rule from being implemented.” Other states involved in the suit are West Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, South Carolina, Utah and Wisconsin. “This new rule would expand the reach of the federal government onto the property of homeowners, farmers and other businesses, potentially requiring them to obtain permits for the simplest
of changes to their land, including fence building, digging ditches or spraying fertilizers,” Strange said. “The phrase ‘government run amok’ may be overused, but it certainly fits in this case.” Michigan and Ohio have filed a separate suit in an Ohio court. The American Farm Bureau Federation and 13 other agricultural groups also filed suit in a Texas federal district court July 2 in an attempt to stop WOTUS rule implementation. The EPA formally published the WOTUS rule in the Federal Register June 29. It will take effect Aug. 28, unless Congress or the courts stop adoption of the rule. The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to prevent implementation, and a similar measure passed the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee June 10. However, President Barack Obama has defended the regulation. n
Steve Lake
President Cullman County Hard work and perseverance allowed Cullman County Farmers Federation President Steve Lake to raise his children on a family poultry, beef and hay farm. “It took a lot of sacrifice for us to get our farm started,” Lake said. “We did without a lot of things, but we ultimately accomplished our goal of a family farm.” Lake and his wife, Lisa, met in high school and have been married for 32 years. They have three children and four grandchildren. “We were able to raise our family on the farm, work at home and work together,” he said. “That’s my favorite part of about agriculture.” Lake previously served as Cullman County Federation secretary/treasurer and is active in the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association and Cullman County Cattlemen’s Association. Lake attends Bethlehem West Missionary Baptist Church where he is a deacon, Sunday school teacher and sings in the choir. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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Chambers County Cattleman Curbs Feed Costs Through Science By A.J. Watson
ing hay is a proven way to cut costs while hambers County getting the most from cattleman Jack Robertstored forage. son believes in getting “Buying hay based what he pays for, including on the actual nutritional hay he depends on to feed value is one more way his cows through winter. farmers can ensure Testing hay to deterthey are a high-margin mine its nutritional value business,” said Jaeger, is an answer to rising supFederation Hay & Forplemental feed costs and a age Division director. way to make his farm more “A $15 test could save efficient, said Robertson, thousands in feed costs, who is Chambers County and the best place to do Farmers Federation presithat is through the Soil dent. & Forage Testing Lab at Robertson, who manAuburn University.” ages a 5,000-acre cattle and Jack Robertson checks the weather forecast on his computer, above. He uses a Test probes, like the hay farm, said the farm one Robertson owns, probe inserted into the hay bale, below, to sample hay quality. buys a great deal of hay but cost between $100 and still produces about two-thirds of hay. Protein is an easy supplement $200. They are also available at the hay needed for the 1,700 cowfix, but TDN is the number that most county Extension offices. calf operation. really counts, he said. Robertson said he tests several “Our goal is to feed a cow“Using $110 a ton for 60 percent hay bales in one field by drilling calf pair through the winter with TDN and 10.5 percent protein as from the outside in, providing a betstraight hay,” he said. “According a starting point, I calculated the ter snapshot of the entire field. to experts at Auburn University, it price per pound of TDN to be the “You control hay protein with takes 10.5 percent protein and 60 same,” he said. “For example, if a fertilization, and the TDN is largely to 62 percent TDN (total digestton of hay is 55 percent TDN, then controlled by timing when it’s cut,” ible nutrients) for a cow to meet we’ll pay $104 a ton, but if it has 62 Robertson said. “It might be better its daily nutritional needs with no percent TDN we’ll pay up to $114 to cut more often and have better supplement.” a ton.” quality instead of quantity.” Using this knowledge, RobertAlabama Farmers Federation’s Jaeger encouraged farmers to son will pay more for higher quality Nate Jaeger said testing and weighutilize other cost-saving measures to shore up their bottom line. “Most farmers in Alabama use round rolls of hay from 800 to 1,200 pounds as winter feed for their cattle,” he said. “Storing hay in a barn saves farmers even more by reducing waste and retaining quality.” n
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To contact the Soil & Forage Testing Lab at Auburn University call (334) 844-3958 Mail samples to: Soil & Forage Testing Lab 961 S. Donahue Dr. Auburn University, AL 36849-5411 AUGUST 2015
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Boys Ranch Benefits From Bitto’s Big Heart By Debra Davis
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avid Bitto had a big heart. That’s the way Jim Harmon, ranch life director of the Baldwin County Sheriffs Boys Ranch describes the late Baldwin
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From left are John Bitto, Annette Bitto, Baldwin County Sheriffs Boys Ranch Director Jim Harmon and Baldwin County Farmers Federation President Hope Cassebaum visit the new David Bitto Memorial Cattle Barn at the ranch.
County Farmers Federation president who passed away in March. “David always seemed to show up at just the right time,” Harmon said. “The ranch has many needs, and we never really had to tell David what those were. He saw a need and suddenly the need was met, most of the time without so much as a word. But, I knew who was responsible.” Bitto, 67, served 25 years as county president and nine years as Alabama Farmers Federation District 11 director. Known as a successful farmer with a gregarious personality and quick wit, Bitto 14
had a softer side that included a love for the Boys Ranch located a few miles from his Elberta farm. Even after his passing, Bitto’s legacy of love continues at the ranch. Memorials made in his honor, along with donations from the Elberta Farmers Cooperative, Alabama Farmers Cooperative, Priefert Manufacturing, Baldwin County Farmers Federation and the Point Clear Rotary Club, were used to build the David Bitto Memorial Cattle Barn. The new 40-by-60-foot barn covers a modern cattle-working facility with a squeeze chute, sweep tub and livestock panels. It replaced an outdated and sometimes dangerous holding pen, Harmon said. The new facility is a fitting tribute to Bitto, he added. “David loved the cows, and AUGUST 2015
he would bring us one of his bulls every year to use free of charge,” Harmon said. “Last year, he brought us three heifers from his farm that were five months pregnant and donated them to the ranch. He was a generous man; that’s for sure. His son, John, recently brought us a Brangus bull and told us it was ours to keep. The Bittos have been very good to the ranch.” Harmon said the ranch has 17 cows, although he’d love to see the herd grow to 20. Calves raised there are sold to supplement the ranch’s annual food budget. Harmon said Bitto understood the mission of the ranch isn’t to make its residents into farmers but to teach them the importance of a good work ethic. Boys at the ranch attend local schools and First Baptist Church of Foley. They spend summer mornings doing chores like typical farm children and have most afternoons free to swim, fish, ride horses or participate in other recreational activities. The memorial barn was nearly finished July 1 when Bitto’s son and daughter, John and Annette, visited the ranch at Harmon’s request. John said the sign across the front of the barn is nice, but added his dad never sought recognition for what he did at the Boys Ranch. “He did it because it was the right thing to do,” John Bitto said of his father’s work for the ranch. “My family would like everyone to know how much we appreciate their donations to the ranch on his behalf. The barn will last a long time and will make a real impact for years to come for those young men at the Boys Ranch.” Annette Bitto said her father was passionate about agriculture, but he was even more passionate about helping people. “By helping Jim and the farm at the Boys Ranch, he was able to combine both loves,” she said. “He knew — and told us often — that the world is a better place due to the loving home provided at the Boys Ranch.” AUGUST 2015
The 180-acre ranch, run entirely on donations, started in 1984 and is part of the Boys and Girls Ranches of Alabama. The Summerdale ranch has two houses that can accommodate up to 14 boys from 6-18 years old. A third house is a transitional home for boys over 18 who’ve graduated high school and are attending a trade school or college. “Because we’re called the Sheriffs Boys Ranch, there’s a common misconception that the boys here are juvenile delinquents or have been in some kind of trouble,” Harmon said. “That’s not true at all. Our boys are here through no fault of their own. We provide them with a loving home where they learn manners, work ethic and responsibility, just like any family.” Baldwin County Farmers Federation President Hope Cassebaum said even though she’s lived near the Boys Ranch for years, it was Bitto who
introduced her and husband Todd to its mission. “David asked us to attend the annual pig roast and auction at the ranch a few years ago,” Cassebaum said. “It really opened our eyes to what they do here. Even though David would probably say he didn’t want a barn with his name on it, he’d be pleased the ranch is getting such a nice facility. He loved this place.” For a video about the Baldwin County Sheriffs Boys Ranch visit tinyurl.com/boysranch2015. n ____________________________________ For more information about the Baldwin County Sheriffs Boys Ranch, visit BoysandGirlsRanches.org/baldwin.html. Memorials are tax deductible and may be made to Baldwin County Sheriffs Boys Ranch, 21870 Co. Rd. 32, Summerdale, AL 36580.
Residents at the ranch spend their mornings performing typical farm chores like feeding cattle and picking peas. Their afternoons are free for recreational activities.
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Butler County Farm Named Finalist For National Tree Farm Award By A.J. Watson
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John Boutwell owns Cedar Creek Plantation in Butler County with wife Ann and his sister, Peggy Boutwell Autrey. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
wners of an Alabama forest operation stood tall over more than 82,000 tree farmers when they were named as the Southern Regional Tree Farmers of the Year July 1. The American Tree Farm System (ATFS) selected Cedar Creek Plantation in Butler County as one of four regional winners, automatically qualifying it for the honor of National Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year. Cedar Creek Plantation is operated by siblings Peggy Boutwell Autrey of Enterprise and John Boutwell and wife Ann of Prattville. “I feel humbled and honored,” John Boutwell said. “I know there are a lot of other places that are just as loved and just as pretty, so it’s a huge honor.” To claim the top spot, Boutwell must impress a panel of judges from the American Forest Foundation and the American public. In addition to a presentation to the panel of judges, the competition included online voting for the finalists, which was set to end July 31. The online vote winner receives an extra vote toward the final tally by the judges. Tom Martin of the American Forest Foundation, which operates ATFS, said tree farmers like the Boutwells are among the most environmentally conscious landowners on the planet. “Our tree farmers are contributing environmental, social and economic goods significantly beyond their own property boundaries,” Martin said. “Recognizing and honoring these top individuals who help all Americans realize the everyday needs from forests, like clean water and air, is the least we can do to thank them.” ATFS, which celebrates its 75th anniversary next year, has honored more than 150 exceptional Regional Outstanding Tree Farmers since the award’s inception in 1976. These individuals are considered the top tier of woodland owners for forest stewardship and the promotion of good land management within their communities. Woodland owners considered for the award must demonstrate exceptional efforts to preserve and enhance their woodlands. Boutwell said ATFS membership is one of the most valuable investments he’s made for his farm. “The Tree Farm System is about doing things right,” he said. “It doesn’t cost you anything. It makes you think out a plan for your farm, and it has certainly made me a better manager of our property.” For information about the National Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year contest visit the ATFS website at treefarmsystem.org/2015-otfy. n 16
AUGUST 2015
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Agriculture Graduates In High Demand Nationwide By Marlee Moore
M
uch like drought-ridden farmers desire soaking rains, the nation’s job market is demanding more agriculture-related college graduates. A recent U.S. Department of Agriculture report by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) said college graduates aren’t keeping pace with the trend. “Agriculture-related jobs are in high demand, from farmers and university faculty to private research and development,” said Paul Pinyan, Alabama Farmers Federation executive director. “Land-grant institutions are in a prime spot to capitalize on this opportunity to bring in skilled students who are seeking hands-on training.” An estimated 57,900 jobs in agriculture, food, natural resources and environmental fields are available annually. However, colleges of agriculture award 35,400 bachelor’s degrees annually, only 61 percent of graduates needed, according the NIFA report. The Auburn University Agriculture Alumni Association’s Drew Ratterman said he sees firsthand benefits in hiring agriculture graduates through his position as a Dow AgroSciences workforce leader. “We put a premium on agriculture degrees,” said Ratterman, a 1996 agricultural economics alumnus and alumni association board member. “We could hire someone
57,900 Annual ag-related college graduates
35,400
Montgomery County’s Caleb Hicks, left, discusses ag careers with Macon County farmer Shep Morris Jr. and Federation Area Organization Director Preston Roberts at a recent Young Farmers meeting.
with a non-agriculture degree, but the training time is twice as long. Therefore, we seek agriculture graduates at a higher rate.” Ratterman said agriculture’s scientific foundation and bright career opportunities were attractive during his time at Auburn and remain so today. “I’ve seen agriculture’s value throughout my career,” said Ratterman, an 18-year Dow employee who lives in Indianapolis. “There’s no doubt agriculture is a highly technological science critical to meeting the needs of a growing world.” Caleb Hicks transferred to Auburn from Troy University this year with the sole purpose of pursuing an agricultural communications
Annual demand for new workers in agriculture
Average starting agriculture salary
$ 5 1 ,2 2 0
Scholarships given by county Farmers Federation or Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation
AUGUST 2015
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degree. “The more time I spend around agriculture, the more I realize agriculture is an extremely important – if not the most important – global industry,” said Hicks, a sophomore from Montgomery County. “Communicating the truth about agriculture is my calling.” The NIFA report shows women comprise more than half of agriculture-related graduates. Favorable employment opportunities are expected for the next five years, even as enrollment in agricultural programs increases and the job market becomes more competitive. Pursuing a degree in agriculture pays off – literally. Careers in agriculture and natural resources are high paying, with average starting salaries of $51,220, according to a recent USA Today report. The Federation invests in agriculture’s future through scholarships for students in agriculture, forestry, natural resources and related programs. Hicks is among those scholarship recipients. In 2015, 140 students will receive scholarship assistance from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation or a county Farmers Federation. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Governor Signs Federation-Backed Catfish, Honeybee Bills By A.J. Watson
W
ith a smile and the stroke of a pen Gov. Robert Bentley signed two Federation priority bills dealing with country of origin labeling and the queen honeybee June 30. Bentley said the country of origin labeling law helps customers make informed decisions before ordering catfish in Alabama. “HB186 is an important consumer protection measure for Alabamians,” Bentley said. “The legislation ensures restaurants properly label the country of origin of catfish and catfish-like foods. Alabama catfish is important to the overall economy of Alabama, with our state’s catfish industry creating 5,800 jobs. “I appreciate the Alabama Legislature for passing this bill to guarantee the public knows the specific origins of catfish and catfish-like
foods that are eaten in Alabama restaurants.” Hale County catfish farmer Townsend Kyser said the law helps catfish farmers and consumers alike. “The country of origin label helps strengthen the catfish industry and the rural areas in which it is concentrated,” Kyser said. “People want to know where their fish comes from, and now they can feel confident getting answers they want.” Bentley also signed a bill making the queen honeybee Alabama’s official state agricultural insect. Several farmers and Federation staff members, including Madison County beekeeper Bill Mullins, attended the ceremonial signing. “If Alabama didn’t have queen honeybees, our agricultural industry wouldn’t be as successful as it is,” said Mullins, Federation State Bee & Honey Committee chairman. “This bill will encourage honeybee
education and awareness so more people will know where their food comes from.” Bentley thanked Federation members for attending the signing, adding he’s optimistic about educational opportunities the law brings. “Agriculture is the state of Alabama’s top industry, producing a yearly economic impact of $70.4 billion,” Bentley said. “HB286 will expand the important role the queen honeybee plays in Alabama and will educate our citizens about the honeybee through Agriculture in the Classroom and other educational efforts.” Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan said the new laws reflect months of work by Federation members and support from legislators who appreciate agriculture. “We are grateful to the sponsors of these bills and to the legislators who helped get them passed,” Pinyan said. n
Gov. Robert Bentley signs the country-of-origin labeling bill for catfish and catfish-like foods June 30. With the governor from left were Federation Area 9 Organization Director Robert Utsey; Dallas County farmer Travis Wilson and his sons, Trevor and Cole; Hale County farmer Townsend Kyser and his daughter, Laura; Federation State Catfish Committee Chairman Will Pearce of Dallas County; Lawrence County farmer Milton Taylor; Perry County farmer Catherine Brady; Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Director Brian Hardin; Perry County farmer Jim Brady; Federation State Senate Legislative Programs Director Matthew Durdin; and Federation Area 6 Organization Director Wallace Drury. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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AUGUST 2015
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With Gov. Bentley from left are Federation Bee & Honey Division Director Mac Higginbotham; Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Director Brian Hardin; Federation State Senate Legislative Programs Director Matthew Durdin; Limestone County beekeeper Lionel Evans; Morgan County beekeeper Lindsey Trousdale; State Rep. Jim Patterson, R-Meridianville; Federation State Bee & Honey Committee Chairman Bill Mullins of Madison County; Jefferson County beekeeper Jimmy Carmack; State Bee & Honey Committee Vice Chairman Joe Lambrecht of Elmore County; Calhoun County beekeeper Justin Hill; Tallapoosa County beekeeper Terry Martin; Walker County beekeeper Barry Banks; Cullman County beekeeper Hobson Hite; and Washington County beekeeper Andy Webb.
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w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
Neely Of Southside Wins World Livestock Auctioneer Championship By Mary Johnson
I
n just 29 short years on earth, livestock auctioneer and Southside, Alabama native Brandon Neely can already check “becoming a national champion” off his bucket list. Neely earned the top spot in the Livestock Marketing Association’s (LMA) 52nd World Livestock Auctioneer Championship (WLAC) held in Clifton, Texas June 13. When he heard his name called during the awards ceremony, Neely said he was overwhelmed with joy. “It made me feel accomplished, in both my goals in life and my career,” he said. “This is the first time in 33 years that someone from the South- Brandon Neely gaveled and chattered his way to a world championship in Clifton, Texas. east has won the contest, and I’m the “I grew up going to livestock auctions as a kid,” first ever from Alabama to win. It’s a pretty big honor Neely said. “I picked up a knack for auctioneering and to be from this area of the U.S. and win.” Neely has been a professional auctioneer for almost pursued it.” half his life, getting his start when he was 15. Thirty-one semifinalists qualified for the WLAC. They were judged on skills during a live auction, which made up the majority of the contestants’ scores, and an interview. Alabama was well represented at the competition. Other WLAC semifinalists from the state were Jeff Bynum of Attalla, Mark Lane of Russellville and Blake McDaniel of Tallassee. Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Executive Director Billy Powell congratulated the state’s contestants. “We were extremely pleased that four out of the 31 semifinalists were from Alabama,” Powell said. “We knew Brandon had great potential two years ago based off his performance during the WLAC in Montgomery, and we are excited he was able to bring home a world champion title to Alabama for the first time.” As champion, Neely got a customized 2015 GMC Sierra truck to use during his reign; $5,000 cash; a championship bronze sculpture; world champion Gist belt buckle and a hand-tooled leather briefcase from LMA; world champion ring sponsored by Clifton LivePole Barns, Hay Sheds 40 x 60 x 12 • Roof Only stock Commission; the Golden Gavel Award sponsored Agricultural Shops Special 50% off gables by the World Wide College of Auctioneering; and a Equipment Sheds Galvalume / 29 gauge James Reid, Ltd. money clip sponsored by CattleUSA. Deer Camp Buildings Price includes materials, com. 601-859-4000 (office) tax, delivery & install Neely will travel the country this year as an 601-573-9450 (cell) $10,715 ambassador for LMA and already has visits planned to Guthrie, Kentucky; Knoxville, Tennessee; and Billings, Examples Montana. 30x40x10 • 40x60x12 • 50x80x14 Visit tinyurl.com/auctionchamp for video of the WLAC finals. n
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AUGUST 2015
Integrity Farmers believe in straight talk and doing what’s right. At the Alabama Farmers Federation, we stand up for our members, even when it’s not popular. We expect honesty, ethical behavior and accountability from ourselves and our government.
AlfaFarmers.org
Alabama Farmers Federation is a membership organization built by farmers as an advocate for agriculture, family values and good government to improve life for all Alabamians.
County Annual Meetings AUTAUGA
Wednesday, Aug. 19th @ 7 PM Autauga County Ag Center 2224 Hwy. 14 West, Autaugaville
CULLMAN
Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6 PM Cullman County Federation Building 307 Main Ave. NW, Cullman
MADISON
Monday, Aug. 3rd @ 5:30 PM Burritt on the Mountain Auditorium 3101 Burritt Drive, Huntsville
BALDWIN
Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 7 PM County Federation Building 21332 Highway 59, Robertsdale
DALE
Monday, Aug. 10th @ 7 PM Dale County Government Building 202 Hwy 123 South, Ozark
MARENGO
Tuesday, Sept. 15th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 206 Shiloh St., Linden
BARBOUR
Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 7 PM Clayton Dime Store Restaurant 10 Eufaula Ave., Clayton
DALLAS
Tuesday, Sept. 8th @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 403 Broad St., Selma
MARION
Friday, Aug. 14th @ 6 PM Hamilton Recreation Center 340 7th Ave. SW, Hamilton
BIBB
Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 5:30 PM Alfa Service Center 1101 Walnut St., Centreville
DEKALB
Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Insurance Office Building 346 McCurdy Ave. South, Rainsville
MARSHALL
Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 7 PM Marshall County Federation Building 1333 Blount Ave., Guntersville
BLOUNT
Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 6:30 PM (BBQ served at 6 PM) Frank J. Green Building 415 5th Ave. East, Oneonta Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Greenway Sportman’s Club 2624 Hwy. 223, Union Springs
ESCAMBIA
Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 6 PM Ag Center 175 Ag Science Drive, Brewton
MONROE
ETOWAH
Monday, Aug. 10th @ 6:30 Etowah County Federation Building 125 Broad St., Gadsden
Monday, Aug. 17th @ 6:30 PM Ag Center 334 Agriculture Dr., Monroeville
FAYETTE
Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 6 PM Fayette Civic Center 530 North Temple Ave., Fayette
FRANKLIN
BULLOCK
BUTLER
Tuesday, Sept. 15th @ 6 PM Pioneer Electric Building 300 Herbert St., Greenville
CALHOUN
Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 6:30 PM Calhoun County Federation Office 1535 Pelham Rd. South, Jacksonville
CHAMBERS
CHEROKEE
CHILTON
CHOCTAW
Saturday, Aug. 8th @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 1006 Ave. A S.E, Lafayette Friday, Aug. 7th @ 6:30 PM Dean Buttram Senior Center 229 Dean Buttram Ave., Centre Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 301 1st. Street North, Clanton
MONTGOMERY Monday, Aug. 10th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Home Office 2108 East South Blvd., Montgomery MORGAN
Monday, Aug. 10th @ 6 :30 PM Best Western Plus Russellville 13770 Hwy 43, Russellville
Friday, Aug. 7th @ 7 PM Sparkman Civic Center 406 NanceFord Rd. SW, Hartselle
PERRY
GENEVA
Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 7 PM Geneva County Farm Center 2765 Hwy 52, Geneva
Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 11 AM Alfa Service Center 406 Pickens St., Marion
PICKENS
GREENE
Thursday, Sept. 3rd @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 101 Boligee St., Eutaw
Thursday, Aug. 27th @ 5:00 PM Pickens County Service Center 155 Reform St., Carrolton
RANDOLPH
Thursday, Sept. 3rd @ 1 PM Alabama Fish Farming Center 529 South Centreville St., Greensboro
Saturday, Aug. 15th @ 5:30 PM Randolph County Ag Center 2959 County Rd. 333, Wedowee
RUSSELL
Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 7 PM Wiregrass Research & Exp. Station 167 E. State Hwy 134, Headland
SHELBY
Monday, Aug. 17th @ 7 PM ET / 6 PM CT Historic Masonic Lodge 4497 US Hwy 80, Crawford Monday, Aug. 17th @ 6 :30 PM Old Courthouse 1854 North Main St., Columbiana
HALE
HENRY
Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6 PM Alfa Service Center 229 South Mulberry Ave., Butler
HOUSTON
Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 148 South Jackson St., Grove Hill
Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 1038 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan
ST. CLAIR
JACKSON
Monday, Aug. 10th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 32775 US Hwy 231, Ashville
Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6:30 PM Red’s Catfish Cabin 689 Catfish Rd., Cragford
Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 6:30 PM Jackson County Federation Building 23625 John T. Reid Pkwy, Scottsboro
TALLADEGA
JEFFERSON
Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 7 PM Alfa Service Center 314 East Battle St., Talladega
CLEBURNE
Tuesday, Aug. 11th @ 6:30 PM The Mountain Center 6751 Hwy. 78, Heflin
Friday, Aug. 28th @ 10 AM Birmingham Botanical Gardens 2612 Lane Park Rd., Mountain Brook
LAMAR
TALLAPOOSA
COLBERT
Monday, Aug. 31st @ 6:30 PM Northwest – Shoals Comm. College 800 George Wallace Blvd., Muscle Shoals Tuesday, Sept. 8th @ 6 PM David Burt Building 102 Liberty St., Evergreen
Monday, Aug. 17th @ 6:30 PM Vernon Civic Center 44425 Alabama Hwy 17, Vernon
LAUDERDALE
Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6:30 PM Agriculture Center and Ext. Office 802 Veterans Dr., Florence
Tuesday, Aug. 25th @ 6:30 PM Tallapoosa County Federation Building 111 North Tallassee St., Dadeville Thursday, Aug. 20th @ 7 PM Bobby Miller Activity Center 350 Bobby Miller Pkwy, Tuscaloosa
LAWRENCE
Tuesday, Aug. 4th @ 6 PM Farm Center Auditorium 13075 ALA-157, Moulton
CLARKE
CLAY
CONECUH
TUSCALOOSA
WALKER
Tuesday, Aug. 18th @ 6 PM Walker County Federation Building 903 Airport Rd. South, Jasper
WASHINGTON
Monday, Aug. 3rd @ 7 PM Walker County Federation Building 54 Court St., Chatom
COOSA
Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 6:30 PM Old Rockford Schoolhouse Nixburg Rd. & Co. Rd. 18, Rockford
LIMESTONE
Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Limestone County Veteran’s Museum 100 West Pryor St., Athens
COVINGTON
Thursday, Aug. 6th @ 6:30 PM Oakwood Lodge 13725 Brooklyn Rd., Andalusia
LOWNDES
Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 6:30 PM Southern Sportsman Lodge 9022 US Hwy. 80 West, Tyler
WILCOX
Thursday, Aug. 27th @ 7:30 PM Lower Coastal Experiment Station 1192 Earl Hillard Rd., Camden
CRENSHAW
Thursday, Sept. 10th @ 6:30 PM E.L. Turner Park 93 Ball Park Rd., Luverne
MACON
Tuesday, Sept. 1st @ 6 PM Beck’s Turf Farm 2858 County Rd. 53, Tuskegee
WINSTON
Thursday, Aug. 13th @ 6 PM Traders and Farmers Bank 10 Blake Drive, Double Springs
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
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AUGUST 2015
Alabama Century And Heritage Farm Applications Due August 28 By Marlee Moore
I
n the South, history is more than the past – it’s a family’s heritage. Honoring that heritage is as vital to Alabamians as the rivers that give life to the Heart of Dixie. Farm owners interested in honoring that heritage may apply for the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries’ (ADAI) 2015 Century and Heritage Farm program, available until Aug. 28. The Century and Heritage Farm program was established in 1976 to recognize and honor century-old family farms that played a significant role in Alabama’s history. Wilcox County’s Cook Timber and Wildlife Farm was named an Alabama Century and Heritage Farm last year, joining over 580 designated Alabama farms. “I feel so blessed we have been able to maintain ownership of this farmland my ancestors worked so hard to purchase almost two centuries ago,” said Bill Cook, who owns the property with his wife, Marsha. “I know there must have been many tough times over the past 180 years, but somehow they persevered and kept the farm in our family.” The Cook property entered the family’s history books when Daniel Cook Sr., Bill Cook’s great-greatgrandfather, purchased the land in 1831. ADAI guidelines allow farms to be both Century and Heritage Farms, although the two are not synonymous. Century Farms must have been in one family for at least 100 years and currently have agricultural activities on the farm. Heritage Farms must have been continuously operated as family farms for a minimum of 100 years, are at least 40 acres and have noteworthy historical and agricultural aspects, including a 40-year-old structure. The Century and Heritage Farm programs have recognized century-old family farms for almost 40 years and began when rural Alabama’s population and family farms were diminishing through urbanization, said Amy Belcher, ADAI communications director. ADAI Commissioner John McMillan will award qualified farms an Alabama Century and Heritage Farm sign and certificate early next year. Interested applicants should contact Belcher at (334) 240-7126 or amy.belcher@agi.alabama.gov. n
AUGUST 2015
Wilcox County’s Cook Timber and Wildlife Farm family members are, from left, Reynolds Cook, Sarah Cook, Marsha Cook, Bill Cook, Anna McKee, Graves McKee and children Ellis McKee and Lucy McKee.
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w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
By Lois Chaplin
A
ugust is a good month to buy houseplants and do “gardening” indoors. Use hot months to spiff up a room with a few good looking plants for decoration while enjoying the air conditioning. Houseplants can make a room feel cozy, in addition to filtering pollutants from indoor air. Some people say they can’t keep houseplants alive, but don’t give up hope. Most indoor plants have a limited time to look their best, typically from six months to two years. Houseplants are originally outdoor plants from tropical climates (often jungles) where the environment is humid with filtered sun — hardly the same as the low light and dry air of enclosed, airconditioned homes. However, some houseplants are tough and able to live well indoors. Christmas cactus is one often kept for generations, becoming an heirloom propagated from pieces passed on to others. Certain plants
GET
like dragon tree (Dracena marginata), lady palm (Rhapis exelsa), wax plant (Hoya carnosa), jade plant (Crassula ovata) and other large specimens may become nearpermanent fixtures, especially if they spend a little time vacationing outdoors in the summer where they are invigorated by the warmth and humidity. Two of the most foolproof houseplants are Zizi plant (Zamiaculcas zamifolia) and Sanseveria (Sanseveria sp.) because they are tolerant to low light and don’t seem to mind the dry air. Here are a few more plants that do well in low light indoors: Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema sp.), Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior), Dracena (Dracena sp.), Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum), Heart-leaf philodendron (Philodendron scandens oxicardium), Kentia palm (Howea fosterana sp.), Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans), and Spathiphyllum (Spathiphyllum sp.). Just remember even low-light plants need enough sunlight to
GROWING.
w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
manufacture food and keep a nice form. Moving these plants to a shady porch during warm weather will do wonders. Placing plants in the right place will certainly increase their longevity. They all need adequate light. A south-facing window is usually the brightest, unless it’s shaded by trees. Also, keep plants away from air conditioning or heating vents to avoid drying. The same goes for fireplaces and freestanding heaters. Over watering is the main reason houseplants don’t survive. Water only when needed. Stick a finger in the pot to the first knuckle to feel the soil. If it’s dry, water. If it’s moist, don’t water. Once a week is usually plenty. Plants reveal they are thirsty by starting to droop slightly. Fertilize plants in spring and summer once every four to eight weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer is usually enough, but avoid feeding in winter. Plants aren’t doing much growing then. In the spring, give plants a good shower to wash off the dust, and place them outdoors in the shade for a few weeks. However, don’t wet plants with fuzzy leaves such as African violets. Their leaves might develop brown spots. Finally, it seems like everybody loves ferns, especially the frilly Boston fern. But, if grown indoors, have the vacuum cleaner handy. They will shed, and there is nothing that can be done about it. If you want one that won’t make a mess, try one of these in medium light: Bird’s nest (Aspleinium nidus), Crisped blue fern (Polypodium aureum), Holly fern (Cyrtomium falcatum), Queen fern (Asplenium bulbiferum) or Rabbit’s foot (Davallia sp.). n _______________________________ Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.
WWW.ALAFARM.COM 26
AUGUST 2015
to perk up mealtime, pick
Peppers They’re sweet. They’re spicy. They come in thousands of sizes and range in colors from red, orange, yellow, green and even purple. Their culinary applications are endless, and
bring the heat
they can grow right in your
Scoville heat units (SHU) convey the heat of peppers and other spicy foods. Spiciness comes from the concentration of capsaicin in the pepper.
own backyard. Welcome to the wild, wacky world of peppers.
Carolina Reaper ghost
855,000
habanero, Scotch bonnet, Jamaican hot
100,000
cayenne, Tabasco
30,000
serrano, Chile de arbol
10,000
Chipotle, Guajillo
3,500
jalapeno, Peppaew, poblano, Anaheim
1,000
banana, paprika, Pimento bell AUGUST 2015
27
2,200,000
100 0 w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
CREAM-CHEESE STUFFED JALAPENO POPPERS Start-to-finish: 1 hour (30 minutes active) Makes 30 poppers 15 jalapeno peppers Cooking spray 1½ blocks cream cheese 1 pound bacon, sliced in half Brown sugar
Heat oven to 375 F. Line 2 baking sheets with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Slice jalapenos in half and use a spoon to scrape out seeds and membranes. Rinse jalapenos to reduce spiciness. Fill each pepper half with cream cheese. Do not overfill. Cream cheese should be level with sides of pepper. Wrap each jalapeno half with half a strip of bacon. Make sure bacon is snug under each popper, or use a toothpick to secure. Sprinkle each popper liberally with brown sugar. Bake for 30 minutes or until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly.
MILD MIRACLES Peppers get a lot of attention for their spiciness, but if you can’t take the heat, don’t worry — there are plenty of peppers that don’t pack a punch.
BELL PEPPER 0-SHU • Add to salads and sandwiches, dip in ranch or hummus, saute with mushrooms. BANANA PEPPER 0-500 SHU
· Add pickled banana peppers to pizzas, sandwiches and salads.
PIMENTO 0-500 SHU · Make
pimento cheese, add to salads or pasta.
pepperoncini 0-500 SHU · Add to pizza or salads.
By Jill Clair Gentry
J
eremy and Julie Calvert, along with their 12-year-old son, James, grow fruits and vegetables on their farm in Cullman — including sweet banana, bell, jalapeno and cayenne peppers. Julie’s favorite is the sweet banana pepper. She said she likes to mix it up and use banana peppers instead of jalapenos to stuff with cream cheese and wrap with bacon. The whole family loves them pickled. Because Jeremy and Julie both work full time on the farm, summer months are busy, and Julie doesn’t have much time for canning, but she still wants peppers for hearty winter meals. “I do more freezing than canning because it’s faster,” she said. “During our peak season, we are harvesting and selling six days a week, and we go to church on Sundays, so there’s not much time for anything else.” If you’re like Julie and need a quick way to preserve summer peppers,
Order yours today! w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g
28
freezing them is easy — simply wash them, remove the seeds and membranes and cut as desired. Spread cut peppers in a single layer on a cookie sheet and place in the freezer for at least an hour or until peppers freeze. Transfer to freezer bags or airtight containers and return to the freezer. As things on the farm slow down, Julie spends more time in the kitchen, and her family loves to gather around the table every night for dinner. “When we have more down time in the winter, I love to cook with what we’ve frozen in the summer,” she said. n
FarmingFeedsAlabama.com AUGUST 2015
PICKLED BANANA PEPPERS Courtesy of Julie Calvert Makes 8 pints 8 pint-sized jars with screw-on lids 4 quarts banana peppers 1 1/2 cups Mrs. Wages pickling and canning salt 1 gallon water 2 garlic cloves 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish 10 cups Mrs. Wages pickling and canning vinegar or other commercial white vinegar (5 percent acidity) 2 cups water 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Wash jars in hot, soapy water; rinse well. Hold jars in hot water until ready to use. Wash and drain peppers. Cut two small slits in each pepper. In a large container, dissolve salt in 1 gallon of water. Pour over peppers and let stand 12 to 18 hours in the refrigerator. Drain. Rinse again and drain thoroughly. In a large saucepan combine garlic, horseradish, vinegar, water and sugar. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove garlic. Pack peppers into jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Pour boiling liquid over peppers in jar, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and wipe rims. Adjust lids and process for 10 minutes, using boiling water-bath method. SPICY BURGERS Start-to-finish: 25 minutes Makes 8 burgers
2 pounds ground beef 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and minced 1 small poblano pepper, seeds removed and minced 1 habanero pepper, seeds removed and minced (optional for extra spiciness) 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon ground cumin
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Form into 8 burger patties. Lightly oil grill grate. Cook burgers 5 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness. AUGUST 2015
FREEZER JALAPENO PEPPER JELLY Makes 8 pints 6 cups jalapeno peppers, sliced in half lengthwise and seeds removed (leave a few to add heat) 1 1/4 cups apple cider vinegar 1.75-ounce box pectin powder 5 cups sugar Freezer safe jars with lids, washed
Place peppers and apple cider vinegar in a blender or food processor and pulse into small pieces,
but don’t puree. In a large saucepan, combine the jalapeno-vinegar mixture and pectin. Heat until boiling and add sugar. Bring back to a boil and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and ladle into freezer safe jars. Screw on lids and cool completely to set. Refrigerate for up to a month or store in freezer for up to a year.
CHILES RELLENOS Start-to-finish: 1 hour, 35 minutes. Makes 8 chiles rellenos Broth Dust chiles with flour and dip 2 medium white onions, diced quickly into batter. Lay 3-4 chiles 3 tablespoons lard, bacon grease at a time in hot oil. While one or butter side is cooking, baste the other 2 28-ounce cans tomatoes with side with hot oil. When chiles are juice, undrained and pureed golden on bottom, about 2 min1/2 teaspoon cinnamon utes, turn over and cook other 1 teaspoon black pepper side. 2 cups chicken stock Remove with a spatula and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Chiles 8 poblano peppers, peeled and Once all chiles have cooled at seeds removed * least 5 minutes (they can sit up 1 pound Monterey jack cheese, to 1 hour), place on a parchmentshredded lined sheet pan and bake at 400 F Vegetable oil (for pan frying) for 15 minutes. To serve, place a pool of sauce Batter in a bowl and top with a chile and 6 large cold eggs, whites and cilantro. yolks separated *To peel poblano peppers, spray 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons flour, plus extra for dredging cilantro to garnish
For the broth, in a large saucepan or Dutch oven, brown onions in lard, bacon grease or butter. Add tomatoes, cinnamon and pepper. Bring to a boil and cook briskly until sauce thickens, about 15 minutes. Add stock and simmer, partially covered, for 45 minutes. Meanwhile, stuff chiles with cheese and set aside. For the batter, beat egg whites to stiff peaks with salt, and beat in yolks 2 at a time until well incorporated. Beat in 2 tablespoons flour just until combined. To fry the chiles, pour about an inch of oil into a large frying pan and heat oil to 350 F. 29
each pepper with cooking spray. Place on foil lined baking sheet and broil on HI for 3-5 minutes on each side, until skin is dark and bubbly. Remove from oven and place in a bowl. Cover bowl with towel and let rest for 15 minutes. The skins will be easy to peel off. Cut around the cap using a small knife and remove cap and seeds. This can be done 1-2 days in advance.
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Rural Crime Unit And Etowah County Sheriff Officials Nab Thieves, Recover Cattle
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fter more than a year of search- is a top priority, Whitehead said. “Very few times do you actuing, authorities recovered a ally get stolen cattle back,” he said. majority of cattle reported sto“This is the first time in two and len from an Etowah County farm. a half years we’ve been able to get Alabama Agricultural and Rural the majority of cattle back to the Crime Unit (ARCU) and Etowah owner.” County Sheriff Office Whitehead suginvestigators arrested gested farmers post Michael Chad Stefarm property with phens, 34, of Etowah reward signs to preCounty and Martin vent cattle theft. Dennis Renfroe, 67, of “Even if you don’t Cherokee County for brand, mark or tag receiving stolen propyour cattle, you can erty, first degree. always take pictures Investigators recovof cattle or remember ered eight cows and Report suspicious unique markers about seven calves valued at activity in rural areas at your cattle,” he said. $12,000. arcu.alabama.gov Investigators ARCU Superviarrested the men after sory Special Agent Jay the original owner properly identiWhitehead said a tip to the Etowah fied cattle on Renfroe’s farm. County Sheriff Department helped The investigation is ongoing. n solve the case. Recovering property
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AUGUST 2015
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