Neighbors Magazine October 2020

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October 2020 | Volume 45 | Number 10 Debra Davis | Editor Marlee Moore | Associate Editor Laura Unger | 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 Jon Hegeman | Vice President | Central, Anniston George Jeffcoat | Vice President | Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper | Vice President | Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn | Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn | Hillsboro Mark Byrd | Danville Donald Sewell | Southside Tim Whitley | Horton Joe Anders | Northport Phillip Hunter | Birmingham Joe Lambrecht | Wetumpka Jimmy Holliman | Marion Junction Bill Cook | Montgomery Steve Stroud | Goshen Mark Kaiser | Seminole Chris Carroll | Ariton Kathy Gordon | Dadeville Jonathan Sanders | Brundidge 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. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Neighbors P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001 MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com 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.

11

In This Issue 5 | Unusual Legume Gains Popularity With Goats

28 | Beef Up Dinnertime

11 | Largest Peanut Boil

Celebrates Half-Century

14 | Alfa Pavilion At Auburn Receives Major Facelift

19 | Farmers, Forest Owners

Qualify For CARES Funds

16

16

On The Cover

Agritourism operations like 4D Farm in Cullman County offer opportunities for families to socially distance and enjoy outdoor activities this fall.

28

Photo By Marlee Moore

www.AlfaFarmers.org

EDQAM A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

alfafarmers.org

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Sericea Lespedeza Gains Niche Market With Goats

By Debra Davis

riving by Sims Brothers Inc. in rural D Bullock County, a valuable crop could be overlooked as a field of weeds, except by the experienced eye.

Sericea lespedeza, considered by some to be an invasive species of weeds, has been cultivated by Sims Brothers for almost 80 years.

The family seed business near the Fitzpatrick community grows a selection of sericea lespedeza developed by Auburn University (AU) with help from Sims Brothers. The AU Grazer variety is gaining popularity among small ruminant breeders who value the plant for its ability to reduce parasite loads in sheep and goats.

“My father and his brothers used sericea here in the ‘40s, but I think the (USDA) Soil Conservation Service originally planted it to help control soil erosion and reclaim areas that had been strip-mined,” said Tom Sims, who operates the business 10 miles west of Union Springs with his sister, Cynthia Smithart, and brother, Robbins Sims. “It’s a legume, and it actually helps build the soil. Some people used to call it the poor man’s alfalfa.”

Sims Brothers has about 800

Jackson County farmer Phillip Wilborn raises Kiko goats and uses AU Grazer sericea lespedeza as part of his grazing rotation to help reduce parasite problems.

Tom Sims, left, and his sister, Cynthia Smithart, examine a field of AU Grazer sericea lespedeza on their farm in Bullock County. Sims Brothers Inc. has 800 acres of the legume developed by Auburn University.

alfafarmers.org

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Tom Sims developed AU Grazer sericea lespedeza pellets for small ruminants to reduce internal parasites.

Langford Farms of Autaugaville has 300 acres of AU Grazer sericea lespedeza, including 150 acres harvested as hay. Jessica Langford is shown with a bale of AU Grazer valued by goat owners for its natural anti-parasitic properties.

acres of AU Grazer sericea lespedeza.

Plants grow to about 3 feet tall, but optimum harvest is 12-18 inches, Sims said.

AU owns the patent for AU Grazer, and Sims Brothers is the licensed dealer under that patent.

A silage chopper is used to harvest the plant to help retain its leaves, which are considered the most palatable part.

Through trial and error, Tom developed a milling process that creates a hard pellet made with sericea lespedeza and molasses. He sells the supplement in bulk to companies that repackage the pellets and sell them under retail brand names of Faithway Feeds and New Country Organics. The pellets retail from $25-35 for a 50-pound bag, Tom said.

The biggest problem for Sims?

Keeping up with demand.

“Right now, we can sell all the pellets we make,” Tom said. “It’s hard to mill the pellets when humidity is high, and if you cut sericea and it gets rained on, you can’t use it for pellets.”

Tom is optimistic about other uses for the AU Grazer variety. He said he’s fed it to his cows, and they flourished and had virtually no internal parasite 6

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October 2020

issues.

States like Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Missouri consider some varieties of sericea lespedeza grown there to be a noxious weed because it interferes with natural rangeland grasses.

The same tannins that make sericea valuable as a natural antiparasitic can give the plant a bitter taste that becomes unpalatable if it grows too large. The plants do well in poor soil, but cattle only graze it in spring when they are young and tender. As it grows and gets stemmy, the tannins become stronger, and cattle won’t eat it, Tom said.

“The AU Grazer variety has tannins, but it is more palatable and tender,” he added. “It is still best to cut it or graze it while it’s tender.”

AU Grazer seed typically sells for $5 a pound with a seeding rate of 20-25 pounds per acre. A stand usually lasts 10 years, Tom said.

Sims Brothers Inc. is still primarily a seed business, growing Bahia grass, partridge peas and switch grass for customers around the country. But Tom believes the natural anti-parasitic

properties of the AU Grazer variety hold unlocked potential.

Farmers like Phillip Wilborn of Langston agree. He grazes sericea lespedeza and feeds it for hay to his 200 head of Kiko goats in Jackson County.

He purchased his AU Grazer seed from Sims Brothers.

“Parasite control tests show that sericea lespedeza greatly reduces the fecal egg count in goats,” said Wilborn, who serves on the Jackson County Farmers Federation board. “The AU Grazer sericea is the only variety I have because it’s hardy. Some of the old varieties died out if you grazed them too much.”

Langford Farms of Autaugaville planted 300 acres of AU Grazer with seed they bought from Sims Brothers in 2013. In addition to providing grazing for the Langford’s beef cattle herd, they also cut and bale the legume for hay and grind it for custom feed blends that are in high demand among goat producers. The bales usually sell for $8 in the field or $10 stored in the barn.

“Sericea lespedeza is another way we could diversify our farm, and it helped allow me to come back to the farm,” said 24-year-old Jessica Langford, who farms with her dad, Trey. “People seem to really like the AU Grazer hay we sell — especially goat producers. We have customers who drive several hours to buy our hay, and I have one customer who lives on the Tennessee line I’ll be delivering a load of hay to soon.” alfafarmers.org

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Scholarship Honors Cattle Farmer, Helps Future Leaders

Michael Morrison, right, received the inaugural George Michael Henry Memorial Scholarship at Auburn University. State Beef Committee members, including Chairman Phil Slay, helped organize the scholarship honoring Montgomery County cattleman Mike Henry who died last fall.

By Marlee Moore

At Auburn, Morrison is involved in the Collegiate Cattlemen’s chapter and works at the Meats Lab. He’s also ne Montgomery County a former Alabama Farmers Agriculture cattleman’s legacy of hard work, Foundation scholarship recipient. humor and hospitality is tangibly The Lineville native grew up around affecting the next generation of cattle, but his industry interest beefed livestock industry leaders. up in middle school when he became Organized by the Alabama Farmers involved in livestock judging and Federation State Beef Committee, showing cattle through FFA and 4-H. the inaugural George Michael Henry While completing classes at Gadsden Memorial Scholarship at Auburn State Community College, Morrison University (AU) was awarded this fall worked part-time at the local Piggly to Michael Morrison of Clay County.

Wiggly, which piqued an The endowed scholarship interest in meat science. honors Mike Henry, a cattle It’s a career choice farmer and former State Henry would have Beef Committee chairman supported, said State Beef who died last fall.

Committee Chairman Phil The $1,000 scholarship Slay of Chambers County. will annually benefit a Slay’s relationship with College of Agriculture Henry spanned decades. students majoring in animal In the early ‘90s, Henry science. and other AU livestock “This scholarship is judging team members a huge plus because it Henry frequented Slay’s farm near helps take stress off me LaFayette to practice for competition. worrying about finances and paying Henry earned an undergraduate degree my way through school,” said Morrison, in agricultural economics from AU 21, whose studies concentrate on meat before attending graduate school at the science. “It’s helped tremendously so I University of Florida. While in Florida, can focus on my classes.”

O

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October 2020

he coached the university’s dairy cattle judging team.

“As the Beef Committee, we wanted to honor Mike,” Slay said. “He was interested in promoting livestock judging and helping kids have an opportunity to further their education. I know Mike would be proud of Michael.”

The owners of Pintlala Cattle Co. in Hope Hull, Henry and wife Denise have five children. The Henrys established a bull development operation and a successful catering business. They were Alabama’s 2005 Outstanding Young Farm Family. Henry was a former Montgomery County Farmers Federation president and State Young Farmers Committee chairman.

Denise said the Henry family is humbled by the generosity of those who funded the scholarship in her husband’s name.

“Cattle and farming and Auburn meant so much to Mike,” she said. “He had a heart for helping young people. If they were interested in showing cattle, he would do anything to try to help.

This scholarship helps someone go to college, have a good future and follow their dreams. Mike would have loved this.” alfafarmers.org

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TOGETHER WE GROW.

Peanuts Pack Powerful Following In Crenshaw County

Crenshaw County volunteers Billy Schofield and Debbie Massey bag hot boiled peanuts at the 50th annual World’s Largest Peanut Boil in Luverne.

By Debra Davis sign leading into Luverne proudly A proclaims it as “The Friendliest City in the South” and “Home of the World’s

Largest Peanut Boil.”

Both assertions appear true based on turnout for the 50th anniversary of the Crenshaw County Shrine Club’s Labor Day peanut boil.

“I can remember the first peanut boil they ever had,” said 60-year-old Luverne native Kyle Richburg. “My family had a tire store, and they boiled the first ones in a lot next to it. They started with a pickup truck full of peanuts right out of the field. They picked the peanuts off the vines and washed and boiled them in No. 3 washtubs. They were delicious then, and they still are.”

Shriners who started the project as a fundraiser probably couldn’t have imagined how popular it would become.

The group sold 36 tons of peanuts

Volunteers dump a hot batch of boiled peanuts into cooling trays. alfafarmers.org

Labor Day weekend. All but a few hundred pounds of them were boiled in salty water and served up hot in paper bags. A few customers, who prefer their peanuts parched, also left satisfied.

Held along busy U.S. Highway 331 at the Luverne Industrial Park, hundreds of volunteers pitched in to help with what has become a community project.

Peanuts were cooked in five 10-foot long metal tanks heated by propane burners. Each had 720 pounds of peanuts, 250 gallons of water and a generous serving of salt. The group used 2 tons of salt over the weekend.

A wench system lowered and lifted cages filled with peanuts into the hot water. Four hours later, peanuts were spread onto a drying table in front of giant fans to cool slightly before being bagged and sold to waiting customers.

And customers don’t mind the wait.

“I’ve been coming for years,” said one customer who drove from nearby Troy and waited in line almost an hour.

“But you have to come early because they might sell out.”

He’s right.

Although it’s a Labor Day event, the boiling began the Wednesday before, and peanuts sold out by Sunday afternoon.

“We cook almost constantly once we start on Wednesday,” said Crenshaw County Shrine Club President Andy Compton. “This is a community event.

There’s no way we could it do it without the volunteers who donate their time.

And we appreciate our loyal customers.

We had guys who drove here from Tallahassee just to buy our boiled peanuts.”

The Shrine Club contracts with Jay, Florida, farmer Bruce Holland to grow the peanuts they sell. They’re picked and washed before being bagged in 40-pound sacks and stacked in a refrigerated truck that hauls them to Luverne.

“Originally the peanuts were bought from local farmers, but we don’t have many peanut farmers in our area anymore,” Compton said. “The runnertype peanuts we use are planted early so we can have the peanuts ready by Labor Day.” Proceeds from the event help fund Shriner charities like Shriners Hospitals for Children.

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Alabama AgCast: Information For Farmers On The Move Federation’s Alabama AgCast.

The weekly podcast features interviews with Federation staff and experts on topics ranging from farm programs and trade to animal nutrition and pest management. Federation Communications Director Jeff Helms said Alabama AgCast grew out of a need to provide members detailed information when COVID-19 hampered in-person meetings.

“We’ve been talking about the possibility of starting a podcast for a few years,” Helms said.

“The coronavirus pandemic helped us define its mission and target audience.

When meetings were suspended, the Federation began holding conference

calls with county leaders to update them on rapidly changing agricultural markets and programs. AgCast meets the ongoing need for timely agricultural information.”

The Federation’s

Governmental and Agricultural Programs (GAP) Department is taking the lead in developing podcast content.

“Our directors work closely with

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Alabama AgCast is available through iTunes and Google Play.

Each episode is about 15 minutes long. Episodes will be available each Wednesday.

“The audio podcast format is ideal for providing busy farmers in-depth information,” Helms said.

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Alfa Pavilion At Auburn Reopens After Renovation Students at Auburn University helped revamp the Alfa Pavilion at Ag Heritage Park. Renovations have catapulted the iconic red structure to the top of competitive rental venues in the area.

Pavilion at Auburn University’s Twithhe(AU)a Alfa Ag Heritage Park has reopened new design but continues to pay

homage to Alabama’s rich agricultural history.

The pavilion first opened on South Donahue Drive in 2006, and its bright red, barn-like exterior immediately attracted visitors from campus and beyond. Initial construction was made possible through donations from the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. It closed for improvements in December 2019.

“Thanks to recent renovations, the Alfa Pavilion is once again the crown jewel of Ag Heritage Park,” said Jimmy Parnell, president of the Federation and Alfa. “It’s a modern, open, comfortable venue that will easily flex with the needs of various events. We look forward to seeing others enjoy the newly renovated Alfa Pavilion, while remembering the importance of agriculture to Alabama and Auburn University.”

Ag Heritage Park is a joint venture of AU’s College of Agriculture and the Agricultural Alumni Association.

It is located on about 30 acres at the southwest corner of Samford Avenue and Donahue Drive.

Improvements replaced the pavilion’s original garage doors with 14

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October 2020

The Alfa Pavilion at Ag Heritage Park recently underwent an extensive renovation. Initially constructed thanks to the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance, the distinctive red pavilion is a modern, open, comfortable venue that will easily flex with event-space needs.

large windows overlooking the park’s pond and green space; added a floor-to-ceiling, stone-clad electric fireplace; and upgraded lighting, flooring, furnishings and finishes throughout the venue.

As of July 2016, the College of Agriculture and The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center share operation of venues at Ag Heritage Park, including the pavilion.

For the pavilion project, interior design students worked with a professional designer to submit potential designs for the space. Aspects of five students’ designs were used in the final renovation.

The renovations catapulted the pavilion — ­ which already has booked a number of weddings in the coming months — to the top of the list of competitive rental venues in the area.

“We know Ag Heritage Park is a destination of choice for many College of Agriculture alumni, friends, faculty and staff and the public — whether they are attending events in the pavilion or weekly farmers markets in the summer,” said Paul Patterson, College of Agriculture dean and Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station director.

“We are thrilled to see our mission at Ag Heritage Park continue through the revitalization of this important venue.”

For information, contact the sales department at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center at (334) 321-3177 or visit agpark@auhcc.com. alfafarmers.org

Autumn Activities Abound At Alabama Farms

Agritourism operations offer opportunities for socially distanced fun this fall, such as zip lines, corn mazes, oversized slides and pumpkin patches.

By Marlee Moore ntsy Alabamians seeking outdoor A autumn activities will find open spaces perfect for social distancing at

agritourism operations across the state.

These pumpkin patches, corn mazes and apple orchards showcase agriculture thanks to farmers like Rusty and Beth Daniel of 4D Farm in Cullman.

They’re taking precautions to ensure a safe space where families can explore kid-friendly attractions while interacting with agriculture.

“I’m optimistic that this October will be wonderful,” said Beth, mom to Lane, Brac, Colt and Navi Jane. “People are ready to enjoy the outdoors. The farm is so spread out that it allows people to spread out, too.”

Field trips form the bulk of 4D’s agritourism business, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought spring visits to a screeching halt. Field trips for 3,000 schoolchildren were canceled this spring. Beth would usually have 6,000 children booked for fall field trips but had just 100 as of September.

Attractions include a cow train, zip

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Rusty and Beth Daniel usually welcome thousands of schoolchildren for field trips to 4D Farm in Cullman each fall — most of which were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Daniels and children Lane, Brac, Colt and Navi Jane are hopeful families will view their agritourism operation as an escape this autumn.

line, giant slides, pipe swings, low ropes course, animated educational chicken show and mechanical bull. That’s in addition to their roller coaster, pumpkin patch and corn maze. Festive food fills visitors’ stomachs and flavors the air with smells of doughnuts, kettle corn

and pizza.

It’d be easy for the Daniels to turn pessimistic about 2020 (a tornado destroyed their chicken houses in April), but Beth has a sunny outlook. The former kindergarten teacher, whose colorful, whimsical decorations cater alfafarmers.org

to children, is hopeful families will seek adventures at the farm starting Sept. 26.

Over 200 miles south in Eufaula, Craig Hawkins is no stranger to catastrophes causing change. The 2008 recession helped produce Paradise Pumpkin Patch when visitors dwindled at Hawkins Ridge, his decades-old hunting lodge in Barbour County.

Hawkins and his children, Becky and Jake, will hold special events this fall, including a military day for nearby Forts Benning and Rucker and a day catering to children attending virtual school.

“We don’t have a single field trip booked,” Hawkins said. “That’s thousands of dollars lost.”

That reality mobilized the Alabama Farmers Federation. Staff created socialdistancing signs, sent out media kits and produced social media graphics for agritourism venues. The Federation also worked with Sweet Grown Alabama, the state’s agricultural branding program, to list agritourism operations at SweetGrownAlabama.org.

Hawkins’ biggest draw is a plethora of animals — such as camels, zebras, ponies, donkeys, goats, chickens and Watusi cattle.

Because of the pandemic, he has increased personnel and will implement special cleaning before opening the first weekend in October.

At Cornutt Farms in Marshall County, autumn agritourism arrives earlier. The row crop and cattle operation opens its Sunflower Patch in September, preceding an October Pumpkin Patch.

Cara Cornutt planted the first sunflowers and pumpkins three years ago after graduating from Auburn University. It’s her way of diversifying the multi-generation family farm and helping kids enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of agriculture.

Cara said families are always occupied, with moms snapping pictures in the sunflower field, kids enjoying the tractor playground and grandparents cooling off under a multipurpose barn.

“You have to have teamwork to make

It’s the third year Cornutt Farms is opening its Sunflower Patch and Pumpkin Patch in Marshall County. Cousins Cara and Nathan Cornutt are helping diversify the row crop and cattle farm by inviting families to enjoy its wide open spaces.

something like this work,” said Cara, referencing parents Rickey and Connie, uncle Chris and cousin Nathan.

Professional photographers are welcome during the week and weekends for special sessions, with the Cornutts lowering rates because of the pandemic. Cornutt Farms is open

Animals, such as camels, zebras and goats, are a big draw at Paradise Pumpkin Patch in Eufaula, according to owner Craig Hawkins. alfafarmers.org

weekends to the public, subject to change.

Although the Daniel, Cornutt and Hawkins families farm year-round, they know the importance of opening their farms to others. It’s especially critical this year — ­­ in part because of the challenges they and others have faced.

“Our place is so big we can have several hundred people at a time and look like no one is here,” Hawkins said.

“Agritourism is like farming: You’re not always going to make money. But it’s been good to us.”

Visit Facebook to learn more about 4D Farm, Paradise Pumpkin Patch and Cornutt Farms.

Find other agritourism destinations at SweetGrownAlabama.org.

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Alabama Farmers, Forest Owners Welcome State CARES Relief

labama farmers and forest owners A hit hard by low prices from the coronavirus pandemic welcomed the

announcement of $36 million in state assistance.

Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the state’s largest farm organization worked with state officials to quantify economic losses suffered by farmers and landowners.

“We appreciate Gov. Kay Ivey, Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate and State Forester Rick Oates working with our members and other stakeholders to assess losses resulting from market disruption and identifying the urgent needs for stabilizing Alabama’s agricultural and forestry economy,” Parnell said. “The Federation’s staff, county leaders and state commodity committees were instrumental in developing plans to address immediate needs while strengthening our infrastructure for the future.”

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In mid-August, Ivey announced the $26 million Alabama Agricultural Stabilization Program (AASP) package. It includes: l Direct Payment Business Stabilization Grants to Cattle Producers — $10.5 million l Meat Processing Plant Reimbursement Program — $1.5 million l Poultry Farmer Stabilization Grant Program — $4 million l Catfish Processor Reimbursement Program — $500,000 l Fruit & Vegetable Processor Reimbursement Program — $500,000 l State Supplemental Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) Grants — $8 million l Nursery Grower Reimbursement Program — $1 million Applications and eligibility requirements for AASP are available on the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries website at agi.alabama. gov.

Cattle producers must apply by Oct. 9, while nursery growers and those applying for state supplements to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program have until Oct. 15. Poultry farmers may sign up between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31.

The $10 million Assisting Alabama Timber Owners Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic program provides payments to landowners who harvested timber from March through July 2020.

The payment rate is $1 per ton of timber sold. Initial payments are limited to not more than $10,000 per applicant, pending evaluation of program participation and available funding.

The Alabama Forestry Commission is developing application and payment procedures.

Visit forestry.alabama.gov for updates.

Alabama received approximately $1.9 billion of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) funding to respond to and mitigate COVID-19.

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FERALHOGS HOGSININALABAMA ALABAMA FERAL ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Are Feral Hogs Costing You?

Feral hogs have been sighted in all 67 Alabama counties Illegal transport by humans is the key factor in the distribution of feral hogs across Alabama Hogs are highly adaptable and can live in many different landscapes and climates Feral hogs have high reproductive potential and a low natural mortality rate, leading to rapid overpopulation

THE PROGRAM ▪

▪

FERAL HOG DAMAGE INCLUDES ▪ ▪ ▪

▪ ▪

▪ ▪

Over $44 million a year in agricultural damage in Alabama Consumed and trampled crops. Rooting and wallowing behaviors further damage crop fields Tree damage caused by intense rubbing of bark layers making pine and hardwood trees susceptible to harmful insects and pathogens Pine plantation and hardwood forest destruction caused by direct consumption, rooting, and trampling Competition for food and space with native and endangered wildlife and plant species. Popular game species such as turkey, deer, and quail sometimes suffer predation of their eggs and young Soil compaction, which disrupts water infiltration and nutrient cycling Increased turbidity and bacterial contamination in streams causing water quality to exceed human health standards

▪

▪

Alabama Association of Conservation Districts (AACD) will identify, contact and educate landowners on the destruction feral hogs cause Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee (ALSWCC) and partners will provide an incentive program to engage, educate, train and outfit landowners with the tools necessary to control the feral hog population during and after the program Qualified landowners can receive assistance to purchase traps including high tech traps, directional antennas, and data service through the program USDA Wildlife Services will work with landowners to trap and eradicate feral hogs on private lands in Henry, Baldwin, Escambia, Houston and Sumter counties

FERAL HOG DISEASES ▪ ▪

Known to carry at least 45 different parasites and diseases that can be transmitted directly or indirectly May affect humans or other animals

FERAL HOG MANAGEMENT ▪ ▪ ▪

For more information and to find out if you qualify visit www.alconservationdistricts.org or contact your local Feral Swine Coordinator

USDA’s Wildlife Services will trap and remove feral hogs on qualified local landowners’ property for free Wildlife Services along with AACD will provide training to landowners on trapping hogs Landowners may qualify for financial assistance to purchase traps through ALSWCC’s Conservation Incentive Program Information cited from A Landowner’s Guide for Wild Pig Management, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources & Alabama Feral Hog Council

H

BAMA DIRT

e was a dirt farmer, last of his kind,” she said. “Poor as a church mouse. We never had money.”

Back then, few Alabama farms did.

After a Depression, a world war and losing acres of cotton to the boll weevil, she says they were almost licked. Then he started growing tobacco.

“His daddy was a cripple,” she said.

“Not only did we farm, we cared for my husband’s daddy, fed him meals, bathed him.”

When her husband wasn’t doing that, he was supervising seven field workers. Or maybe it was ten. She can’t remember.

“He was good to ’em,” she went on.

“Remember once, this little old man came running and said, ‘My wife’s sick, boss. Think she’s dying.’ Right in the middle of a work day, they took her to the hospital. My husband paid for everything, even her funeral. It was sad.”

But farming wasn’t all sadness and poverty. There were high moments.

“Tobacco’s gotten a bad name over the years, but we thanked God for the money. I used to string leaves with the women all day. We sang work songs.

You wanna hear one?”

Why not.

She hummed a somber melody, tapping her fingers to keep rhythm.

Her voice was old, but if you listened close, you heard the entire South.

“When the crops got sold, we’d throw parties. Folks came from everywhere. We ate and drank until the sun came up.”

She laughed.

“Thing about farmers is they work twice as hard for half as much. My kids’re surprised when I tell’em how poor we were. ‘Course everyone was poor then. But we never got so down we lost our morals.”

God forbid.

These were decent men with good values. Men like her husband. Who paid workers before himself. Who bought them new clothes and shoes.

Who attended their baby dedications, hat in hand.

He was one of the men you won’t read about in history textbooks, even though their faces ought to be on the covers. A man who was above nothing, beneath no one.

Who slaughtered his own hogs, sweat in his own fields, sharpened his own tools and still had time to kiss his kids goodnight. Who ate family suppers, doled out whippings, darned his own socks and birthed his own son in the living room.

“When he died,” she said, “it kinda felt like a whole generation went with him. He was a good man.”

But as it happens, she made a grave understatement. He was more than good.

He was a farmer. ■

Columnist and novelist Sean Dietrich shares tales of common people, the human spirit, traditional regional music and life in the American South through his podcast series at SeanDietrich.com. alfafarmers.org

Nichols Joins Federation For Fall Internship

Alabama Farmers Federation Auburn University (AU) Tseniorhewelcomed Dallas Nichols for a fall internship

beginning Aug. 27.

The Monroe County native and senior in agricultural business and economics will assist the Federation’s Governmental & Agricultural Programs (GAP) Department through November.

“We look forward to having Dallas work with us as he wraps up his senior year,” said GAP Department Director Brian Hardin. “He will learn about the importance of serving in a memberfocused organization, while helping staff be more efficient.”

Projects include updating Alabama Farm & Land Expo exhibitor Nichols information; assisting with Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association virtual education, the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association landowner liability program and the Federation’s centennial celebration planning; and preparing for the Policy Development Meeting.

“I grew up in a row crop community and saw the positive impact the Federation had on farmers across Alabama,” said Nichols, 22. “I am excited to be part of the Federation and projects taking place this fall.

At Auburn, Nichols is pursuing a minor in supply chain management and will graduate in December. He was previously an ambassador at Coastal Alabama Community College and is involved in a social fraternity. Earlier this year, Nichols interned with Yara North America, where he worked with cotton, corn and soybean farmers. He’s also worked on research trials with AU’s Dr. Steve Li. Nichols graduated from Monroe Academy in 2016 and is the son of Myra and Jeff Nichols of Monroeville.

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Photo: Syngenta Flowers

Blooms open from bottom to top of the flower spike. When the bottom blooms start forming seed pods, it’s time to cut off the flower spike to bring another flush of blooms.

Some gardeners cut off existing blooms when plants are first set out to encourage branching; this results in slightly smaller but more numerous flower spikes and encourages the plant to fill space in a flower bed. Popular selections such as Sonnet, which grow to 2 feet tall, respond well to initial topping. They are suited to flower beds, large mixed containers and for cutting.

Carole Barton of Barton’s Greenhouse in Shelby County described the Sonnet series of snapdragons as “doing like they are supposed to.”

“They’re good soldiers,” she said. “They stand up straight and have good strong stems when they get enough sun.”

Other uprights include Liberty, Snaptastic and Classic. Gardeners who want extra-long flower stems for cutting often choose from the many colors of the Rocket series because of tall flower spikes on 4-foot plants; staking helps them withstand bad weather.

According to Jeff Bennett of Bennett’s Nursery in Huntsville, too much water in winter can cause problems, which can be hard to distinguish from cold damage. The plants look puny and potentially show leaf spot. The solution: plant snaps in a sunny spot with excellent drainage.

When setting out snapdragon transplants this fall, fertilize with a product that contains nitrate, as it is the most readily available in cool soil.

Snapdragons will surprise you by how well they respond to fall planting and care.

By Lois Chaplin love snapdragons because you can Iof Wright’s make them talk,” said Heather Wright Nursery & Greenhouse in

“

Plantersville. “That’s what I used to tell our kids.”

Nicknamed for the way each blossom opens and closes like a jaw when pinched from the sides, snapdragon blossoms fascinate preschoolers. In the garden, they’re a delight for children of all ages. The plants provide beautiful spring color, fragrance and tall spikes of flowers for vases.

In north Alabama, they bloom in fall, pause in winter and bloom again in spring. In south Alabama, snapdragons bloom through winter, too. If you haven’t planted snaps in a while, you may be surprised at how they continue blooming into late spring and

Alabama

early summer with good care. Today’s hybrids are much tougher than those of decades past. In some cases, they live through to the next year.

Although the main flower show isn’t until spring, the best time to buy and set out transplants of snapdragons is October and into early November. Like pansies, fall-planted snapdragons will look better and last longer than any planted in spring.

Snapdragons come in three forms: trailing, dwarfs and upright. Trailing types such as Candy Showers are for baskets and containers. Dwarfs such as Magic Carpet grow from 4-10 inches high and wide for bedding and containers. Dwarf and trailing types stay low and spreading, but all other snaps form an upright, tall, central flower spike studded with individual blossoms.

Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

Fall Into Savings Through A Local Co-Op! E ALAFARM.COM 22

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GROWING OUR BUSINESS

unitedsoybean.org

with Sustainability

SELLING

sustainability, OUR BEST INGREDIENT

Customers all over the world want a sustainable ingredient. And few crops can deliver sustainability like U.S. soy. It’s a huge selling point we use every day to entice more and more customers for more and more #Cropportunity.

#CROPPORTUNITY

Sources: U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol, 2018 and Soy Stats, 2018

JUST WATCH US

Apple Crunch Day Brings The Farm To School For Students

to

Crunch Day. In addition to enjoying farm-fresh fruit, learners will get to the core of agricultural education thanks to a virtual farm tour.

“October is National Farm to School Month. To celebrate, students across the state will be able to ride along with Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate and State Superintendent of Education Dr. Eric

Mackey for an informative and fun day or time in October that works for virtual field trip at Scott’s Orchard in you.”

Hazel Green,” said Alabama Farmers Farm to School is a growing national Market Authority trend that encourages Director Don Wambles. schools to use their “Students will also food purchasing dollars enjoy a virtual apple lab to buy from local farms. that explores several Resources help varieties of apples, how schools enhance they grow and much their curriculum with more.” nutrition education and The Alabama gardening activities.

Farmers Federation is producing the Wambles said develop Join us onstudents the virtual field trip as a member of the a deeper relationship with food, and farm to school Alabama Farm to School Alliance. alabama the purchase of farm-fresh products facebook page for a live Alabama Ag in the Classroom also bolsters local economies.

It also helps is promoting the online event while family farms thrive, he said. encouraging students, parents and To be counted in this year’s crunch Octoberresources, 21 at 11am educators to share their Apple CrunchWednesday, and for additional register at Post your pics on social media and use these hashtags: Day experiences on social media.

AlabamaFarmtoSchool.org. #ALCrunchDayWambles #SweetGrownAlabama #ALF2S “This is our 4th annual Apple Crunch encourages families, Day, and we are excited to Visit be featuring classrooms, businesses and anyone alabamafarmtoschool.org to register and go on a virtual field trip to the virtual farm tour,” Wambles said. who wants to “crunch” to share “The main event will include a collective pictures or videos using the hashtags crunch via Facebook Live Oct. 21, but #ALCrunchDay #SweetGrownAlabama you are welcome to crunch an apple any and #ALF2S. R be egi co ste un r te d!

labama teachers, students and A families are invited to bite into Farm to School Month Oct. 21 during Apple

statewide crunch!

Will Scott of Scott’s Orchard bites into a crisp apple picked from a tree on his farm in Hazel Green.

Federation Revamps Website Alabama Farmers Federation launched a faster, more Theuser-friendly website this month at AlfaFarmers.org.

Federation Communications Director Jeff Helms said

the new site is geared toward mobile devices and built on a customizable platform to accommodate changing user preferences.

“It’s been six years since the Federation’s last website overhaul,” Helms said. “During that time, the way people use websites has changed. Browsing lengthy webpages has been replaced by targeted search and a greater reliance on social media for information. The simple, attractive design of the new website gives visitors quick access to the information they want whether they’re on a desktop computer or mobile device.”

The site features an upgraded DTN page with more market, weather and news for farmers. It boasts an engaging design and more intuitive navigation. Page load speeds also have improved. Behind the scene, the website’s new platform supports future enhancements, including more targeted email communication with members and e-commerce.

“We built the new website based on usage data and analytics,” Helms said. “Member benefits and DTN are among the most popular sections of the website, so these have been enhanced. We will continue to fine tune the website in the coming months and welcome feedback.”

Check out the new site at AlfaFarmers.org, and send feedback to Mike Moody at mmoody@alfafarmers.org.

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New Website Brings Soybean Research To Farmers

he soy checkoff’s latest collaboration TBoards brought Qualified State Soybean (QSSBs) together to maximize

the results of checkoff-funded research projects in the most effective way possible: bringing the findings to farmers.

The redesigned Soybean Research & Information Network (SRIN) website — soybeanresearchinfo.com — was launched through a joint effort by the North Central Soybean Research Program (NCSRP) and the United Soybean Board (USB) to give farmers a virtual resource full of information and toolkits for more efficient soybean production.

This is a one-stop shop for all the information the checkoff has discovered through farmer investments regarding key problem areas in production, such as tolerance and resilience. Each article on the SRIN website provides insight and explanation on the research findings and links directly to the study in the overall database for further exploration.

“The soy checkoff and QSSBs have worked together to find solutions, best practices and data on key issues and have made that available for all farmers to use,” said Tim Venverloh, USB Vice President of Sustainability Strategy.

The farmer-leaders of USB and QSSBs determine which research is funded, geared toward addressing farmers’ specific and most pressing needs and uncovering opportunities

alfafarmers.org

Dee

Yeager

to build profits for soybean farmers.

Two Alabamians are among USB’s 78 farmer-directors. Pickens County’s Annie Dee and Dallas County’s Wendy Yeager join other USB members to achieve maximum value for their soy checkoff. These volunteers invest and leverage checkoff funds in programs and partnerships.

“The investments made by farmers through their checkoff help generate new markets for soybeans and expand existing markets,” Dee said. “Our checkoff dollars help on national projects, and they also help in Alabama through such projects as the high oleic blacktop used on the national test track in Auburn and development of an engineered wood product using soy flour and particleboard.”

Other projects are clear and actionable, such as providing data on what fungicides will provide good disease control based on the most prevalent diseases that can threaten yields.

Tolerance and resilience are two issues farmers know too well, and they have been the focal points for the latest research.

Additional projects have sought

to combat numerous challenges, from obstacles associated with unpredictable weather patterns to insect management and variety performance.

Yeager said having data available in a single location benefits all farmers.

“The soybean checkoff funds research and technology innovations that farmers in the field don’t physically have time for,” Yeager said. “The dollars focus on maximizing our profits in areas we never imagined and can help us maintain our focus in the field and on increasing our yields. When we are allowed to focus on the field and let the research increase our margin, it’s a win-win for all of us.”

And the work hasn’t stopped at creation of the website. The soy checkoff continues its investments in new research toward new best practices, solutions to problems and innovations to help farmers contend with rising challenges.

“State and national checkoff programs working together help make every farmers’ investment go further,” Dee said.

To learn more about the latest research and the soybean industry, visit soybeanresearchinfo. com or unitedsoybean.org.

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Trick Or Treat Toward A Healthier Halloween

By Dustin Duncan ne fall tradition many look forward O to is Halloween. It’s a time filled with trick-or-treating, costumes and, of

course, candy.

It may seem difficult to eat healthy during this time, but Katie Funderburk, an Alabama Extension specialist and registered dietitian, said Halloween can be a great time to introduce new foods to children through kitchen crafts and themed snacks.

“Letting kids play with food or participate in cooking or preparation can actually help picky eaters try new fruits and vegetables,” Funderburk said.

Fun project ideas include making little pumpkins from clementine oranges or spooky ghosts from banana halves.

Toothpicks or nut butter can be used to hold raisins or chocolate chips in place for the eyes.

Watch Halloween Candy Portions

For most kids, the best Halloween memories include going trick-or-treating and sorting through their new candy stash. While this may seem like fun, it’s important to keep portions of treats small and spread out over time, rather than allowing immediate consumption.

This can help children avoid filling up before meals or getting a stomachache.

It can also extend the Halloween fun over several days.

Funderburk offers the following tips to make Halloween candy last.

Serve a few pieces of Halloween

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candy as dessert after nutritious meals or offer pieces on a snack tray along with healthier options like fruit slices, cheese and crackers, or veggies and dip.

Create a snack bowl children can eat from when hungry.

Include nutrient-rich foods like fresh fruit, granola bars, whole-grain crackers or trail mix with fruit and nuts.

Throw in a few pieces of Halloween candy each day, waiting to restock the bowl until the next day.

Keeping candy out of sight will often cause younger children to forget about it. Store the candy in a safe place and pull out a few pieces at a time when appropriate. Avoid using candy as a reward or withholding it as a punishment, as research shows this can make the product more desirable.

Limit Sugar In Other Ways

Because of the increased opportunity for candy-snacking during the Halloween season, Funderburk said it’s a good time to think about other ways to limit added sugars and increase nutrient-rich foods and beverages in a child’s diet.

To introduce children to new foods, enlist their help preparing fun, healthy snacks such as banana ghosts. Live Well Alabama encourages everyone to Eat Better, Move More and Make a Change this Halloween.

Offering water or milk instead of sugary beverages is one option, as is moving other sugary snacks to the back of the pantry or to a higher shelf.

Additionally, incorporating a vegetable the child likes with dinner could help boost their nutrient intake.

Have Fun And Get Moving

No matter how it’s done, Funderburk said it’s important to have fun and enjoy family time, especially during the holidays.

“Cooking and crafting together in the kitchen and dancing to silly Halloween songs are great ways to make healthy food fun and keep moving during the holiday,” she said.

For more tips on nutrition, visit LiveWellAlabama.com or follow Live Well Alabama on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

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Hamburger Steaks Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time Servings 20 mins 4

Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon ground mustard 1 small onion, thinly sliced 1 (10.5-ounce) can French onion condensed soup 1 (.87-ounce) packet brown gravy mix 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

ctober is Beef Month in the grand O ol’ state of Alabama and has been since 1964 when it was first declared by

the then governor. Beef is a big deal in Alabama. In fact, cattle are produced in every single county and represent a $2.5 billion industry here.

The state’s climate and land are ideally suited for growing forages and raising cattle. Right now, there are about 1.34 million head of cattle and calves on Alabama farms.

October is the perfect month to add a few great beef recipes to your recipe box, and I’ve got a few for you to try.

Some folks call perfectly seasoned ground beef patties swimming in a delectable gravy hamburger steaks.

Others call them Salisbury steaks. We just call them delicious. While some argue there are a few minor differences between the two, most use the names interchangeably. Regardless, there’s something comforting about hamburger steaks and brown gravy. And we could all use a little extra comfort, right?

Tomato Grits are the perfect landing place for a heaping serving of Slow Cooker Pot Roast. The combination might sound unfamiliar, but tomatoes

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are a tart complement to super tender beef and savory gravy. What makes this delicious dish even better is its ease.

This restaurant-quality meal is on your table in no time at all.

Sloppy Joes are a childhood classic everyone loves, but they don’t have to start with a can.

My Homemade Sloppy Joes call for ingredients you probably already have on hand and taste so much better than the canned stuff.

For something a little different, fill sweet bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake in a casserole dish wrapped tightly with aluminum foil for 20 to 30 minutes; top with cheese.

Easy Hamburger Stroganoff is a quick skillet meal that will make just about everyone happy. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, stick-toyour-ribs meal. If mushrooms aren’t your favorite, simply leave them out.

When you add beef to your meals, you’re adding an excellent source of protein that supplies 10 essential nutrients including B vitamins, zinc and iron that support an active and healthy lifestyle. These delicious recipes will make it even easier. Y’all enjoy!

Crumble ground beef in a large bowl and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper and ground mustard. Blend well. (I like to use a fork. It keeps you from overworking the mixture, which can produce a tough hamburger steak.)

Divide the mixture into 4 equal amounts (or more if you want smaller steaks) and form into patties.

Place a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, place steaks in the skillet and allow them to cook without touching them for about 4 minutes. Flip them over and cook an additional 4 minutes. (Get a nice dark brown color on them; that’s where the flavor is.) Remove from the pan and allow the steaks to rest on paper towels.

Drain all but about 2 tablespoons of grease from the pan. Put the pan back on the heat and add sliced onions. Cook until just translucent — about 3 minutes. Add undiluted onion soup, gravy mix and water; stir well.

Bring to boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and stir in Worcestershire sauce. Add hamburger steaks to the pan and cook until they are done to your liking.

Stacey Little is a foodie, recipe developer and cookbook author whose Southern Bite blog helps families put simple, down-to-earth food on the table while preserving Southern cooking for future generations. See more recipes at southernbite.com. alfafarmers.org

Easy Hamburger Stroganoff

Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 25 mins

Stacey’s Recipe Notes If the gravy isn’t thick enough, mix about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water or broth. Remove meat from the slow cooker and whisk the cornstarch slurry into the gravy. Turn the heat up to high, cover, and cook about 20 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.

Add the meat back and mix to combine.

Servings 5

Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 2 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, chopped 1 (8-ounce) package sliced mushrooms 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 (14-ounce) can beef broth (about 1 1/2 cups) 1 (.85 to 1-ounce) packet brown gravy mix 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup 1/2 cup sour cream 1 (16-ounce) package wide egg noodles, prepared per package instructions

Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Tomato Grits Prep Time Slow Cook Time Servings 30 mins 8 hrs 4 to 6

Instructions In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef. Drain and set aside. Return pan to heat and add butter.

Once the butter has melted, add onion and mushrooms and cook until onions are translucent and mushrooms start to brown on the edges. Add garlic and cook about 1 minute, being careful not to burn.

In a small bowl, combine broth and gravy mix. Pour into the skillet and add undiluted mushroom soup. Stir in sour cream and cooked ground beef. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until sauce has thickened — about 8 minutes. Serve over hot egg noodles.

Roast Ingredients

Homemade Sloppy Joes

Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

5 mins

25 mins

4 to 5

Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 1/2 a small onion, finely chopped 1/2 a small green bell pepper, finely chopped 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1 cup ketchup 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons yellow mustard 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon soy sauce Hamburger buns

Instructions Brown ground beef with onion and green pepper over medium heat until meat is cooked through and vegetables are soft.

Drain grease and return mixture to pan.

Over medium-low heat, add garlic powder, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar and soy sauce. Mix well and simmer 5 to 10 minutes.

Serve on hamburger buns. alfafarmers.org

2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 (2 to 2 1/2 pound) chuck roast 1 (.87-ounce) packet brown gravy mix 1 (1-ounce) packet au jus mix 1 1/2 cups water 1 (8-ounce) package sliced mushrooms

Grits Ingredients 5 1/2 cups water 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups quick cooking grits 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, drained

Instructions In a large skillet, heat oil over medium high heat. Add roast and sear both sides 5 to 8 minutes, or until golden brown.

Lightly spray the crock of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Add roast and sprinkle with dry gravy mix and au jus mix. Pour the water in and add the mushrooms. Place the lid on and cook on low about 8 hours, or until the roast shreds easily and is fork tender.

To make the grits, heat water to boiling; stir in salt. Whisk grits into boiling water, being sure to break up any lumps. Reduce heat to low and cover. Cook, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes or until grits are tender to your liking. Stir in drained tomatoes and cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Add salt to taste.

Serve grits topped with roast and gravy.

October 2020

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NEIGHBORS

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