“I'll “ I ' l l never n e v e r plant p l a n t another a n o t h e r variety variety of o f pinkeye p i n k e y e peas p e a s ifi f I can't c a n ' t have have Mississippi M i s s i s s i p p i Pinkeye P i n k e y e 2 .”. ” W RELEASE! NE Mississippi Pinkeye 2
UTILITY PATENT PROTECTED
Purplehull Purplehull
Mississippi Pinkeye 2 retains the most desirable characteristics of superior yield and disease resistance of Mississippi Pinkeye, with the additional benefit of improved emergence and survivability in cool, wet soils typical of early spring weather. “I'll never plant another variety of pinkeye peas if I can't have Mississippi Pinkeye 2. I don't want any other variety. I have tried other pinkeyes, but they don't yield, cook or taste like Mississippi Pinkeye 2. I like the size of this big pea and it shells out easy. It freezes pretty and tastes like you just shelled them. We planted late and it was a dry year, but the plants still got knee high loaded down with peas. Mississippi Pinkeye 2 - that's my pea.” - Lisa Holmes “Planted two varieties of pinkeye peas this year: Texas and Mississippi Pinkeye 2. I planted the second week of March. Mississippi Pinkeye 2 was the best pea by far. The plant was larger, had longer pods and more pods per plant than the Texas, and was taller and also grew off faster. The pods had a good purple color and shelled out better. They also freeze well. Again, there were more peas per bush than the Texas plant, plus you can pick all season long.” - Michael Anderson
“Our Mississippi Pinkeye 2 Purplehull peas were really good producers and our customers liked them. They made long pods and the peas were larger than the other varieties we planted. They mature more evenly which makes picking easier and more profitable. The new Mississippi Pinkeye 2 Purplehull will be a big part of my operation again next year.” - Bob Compton
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Cooperative Farming News
Seeds for Southern Soils
IN THIS ISSUE:
Editor-in-Chief: Samantha Carpenter Editor: Jessie Shook Contributing Editor: Jade Randolph Associate Editor: Mary Delph
pg. 28
CO-OP MATTERS 36 2019-2020 President’s Awards 38 84th Annual Membership Meeting: In Spite of Challenges, 2020 a Record Year 40 In Memory: Jimmy Newby
pg. 38
pg. 58
24 4-H Extension Corner: 4-H Recognizes Volunteers of the Year 28 FFA Sentinel: Jacey and Jessa-Lynn Adkins
AFC Officers Rivers Myres, President Ben Haynes, Chairman of the Board
AFC Board of Directors
Subscription $15 per year For subscription inquiries or change of address: P.O. Box 2227, Decatur, AL 35609-2227 or call 256-308-1623 Subscribe online at https://www.alafarm.com/magazine
To advertise:
On the Cover: Happy Easter! Remember to support farmers this Easter by dyeing Easter eggs with your family. (Photo Credit: AFC Publication Staff)
OUR REGULARS Letter from the Editor................ 4
How’s Your Garden?................... 47
Ag Insight.................................... 8
Simple Times.............................. 49
Business of Farming................... 12
Weed’em and Reap................... 52
Feeding Facts ............................. 14
Howle’s Hints.............................. 53
From the State Vet’s Office......... 16
The Magic of Gardening........... 56
What’s the Point.......................... 18
Food Safety................................. 58
On the Edge of Common Sense... 20
Grazing Grace............................ 62
Outdoor Logic with BioLogic.... 30
The Co-op Pantry....................... 64
Cooking with Stacy Lyn............. 33
What’s Happening in Alabama... 66
www.alafarm.com
121 Somerville Road NE Decatur, AL 35601-2659 P.O. Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609-2227 256-308-1618
Rickey Cornutt, Matt Haney, Brooks Hayes, Rick Hendricks, Bill Sanders, Jeff Sims, Mike Tate, David Womack
LIFE ON THE HOMEPLACE AND IN THE COMMUNITY 42 Mama Sue’s Southern Kitchen YOUTH MATTERS 22 PALS: Hidden Lake Elementary Learns About the PALS Program
Advertising, Editorial, Subscription and Publication Offices
Wendy McFarland 334-652-9080 or email McFarlandAdVantage@gmail.com Cooperative Farming News is published monthly by Alabama Farmers Cooperative, Inc. 121 Somerville Road NE, Decatur, AL 35601-2659 P.O. Box 2227, Decatur, AL 35609-2227 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and will not be responsible for copy errors or misprints in advertising or editorial material, other than to publish corrections of errors in fact. Feature articles, news items and columns are published for the information of our readers from qualified, reputable sources; however, the editors and publisher make no guarantees and assume no liability for any reader’s decision to implement any procedure, recommendation or advice printed in this publication. Photos are credited to author unless otherwise noted. Advertised sale items may not be stocked by every Quality Co-op store and prices may vary.
www.alafarm.com Postmaster: Please send notice of address change (enclosing latest address label) to publication office: Cooperative Farming News P.O. Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609-2227
April 2021
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Spring has arrived and it’s time for what seems to be the busiest season at the Co-op. From potting soil and plants to fertilizer and seeds, our stores are wide open serving farmers across the state – and happy to be doing it. This issue highlights AFC’s 84th Annual Membership Meeting, which was held in February. Though it was a smaller crowd than usual, we are thankful for the faces we did get to see for the first time since last March. In what was a challenging year in many ways, we were thankful to celebrate AFC’s historic success in 2020 and look forward to continued growth in 2021. We are also celebrating the life of Mr. Jimmy Newby, longtime AFC Board of Director. Mr. Newby will be missed by all and we send our deepest sympathies to his wife, Martha, and the entire Newby family. As Easter arrives, remember where those eggs came from and thank a farmer for allowing you the opportunity to dye them or enjoy them around the dinner table with family. Our Annual Spring Plant Sale is set for April 1-10, 2021, so head down to your local Co-op and pick up some garden plants for your backyard! As we dive headfirst into our 85th spring season, we hope you’ll join us by shopping at your local Co-op for all of your gardening and outdoor needs. Thank you for being a loyal reader, customer and part of the AFC family.
Samantha Carpenter Editor-in-Chief
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Cooperative Farming News
April 2021
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Serving gardeners, farmers and everyone in between
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Cooperative Farming News
DIRECTORY OF MEMBER COOPERATIVES ALTHA FARMERS COOPERATIVE James Lynn, Mgr. Phone 850-674-8194
FARMERS COOPERATIVE MARKET Doug Smith, Gen. Mgr. FRISCO CITY - William Womack, Mgr. Phone 251-267-3175 Fertilizer / Phone 251-267-3173 LEROY - Jeff Hughston, Mgr. Phone 251-246-3512
ANDALUSIA FARMERS COOPERATIVE Russell Lassiter, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-222-1851 FLORALA - Pete Blackwell, Mgr. Phone 334-858-6142 OPP - Brandon Bledsoe, Mgr. Phone 334-493-7715
FARMERS CO-OP OF ASHFORD Timothy Tolar, Mgr. Jerome Hinson, Asst. Mgr. Phone 334-899-3263
ATMORE TRUCKERS ASSOCIATION Todd Booker, Mgr. Phone 251-368-2191 BLOUNT COUNTY FARMERS COOPERATIVE Eric Sanders, Mgr. Phone 205-274-2185
FARMERS COOPERATIVE, INC. Todd Lawrence, Gen. Mgr. LIVE OAK, FL - Barry Long, Ag Div. Mgr. Phone 386-362-1459 MADISON, FL - Jerry Owens, Operations Mgr. Phone 850-973-2269
CENTRAL ALABAMA FARMERS COOPERATIVE Tim Wood, Gen. Mgr. SELMA - Thomas Reeves, Mgr. Phone 334-874-9083 FAUNSDALE - Bryan Monk, Mgr. Phone 334-628-2681 DEMOPOLIS - Tom Eunice, Mgr. Phone 334-289-0155
GEN CO. COOPERATIVE Ricky Wilks, Gen. Mgr. HARTFORD - Todd Smith, Mgr. Phone 334-588-2992 WEST GENEVA - Robert Pittman, Mgr. Phone 334-898-7932 ENTERPRISE Phone 334-347-9007 ELBA - Colin Morris, Mgr. Phone 334-897-6972
CHEROKEE FARMERS COOPERATIVE Andrew Dempsey, Gen. Mgr. CENTRE - Seth Eubanks, Mgr. Phone 256-927-3135 JACKSONVILLE - Tommy Thomas, Mgr. Phone 256-435-3430 PIEDMONT - Kevin Bobbitt, Mgr. Phone 256-447-6560
HEADLAND PEANUT WAREHOUSE CO-OP Jay Jones, Mgr. Chris Hix, Store Mgr. Phone 334-693-3313 JAY PEANUT FARMERS COOPERATIVE Ryan Williams, Mgr. Phone 850-675-4597
CLAY COUNTY EXCHANGE Jeff Kinder, Mgr. Phone 256-396-2097
LUVERNE COOPERATIVE SERVICES Perry Catrett, Mgr. Phone 334-335-5082
COLBERT FARMERS COOPERATIVE Daniel Waldrep, Gen. Mgr. LEIGHTON - Tommy Sockwell, Mgr. Phone 256-446-8328 TUSCUMBIA - Chuck Hellums, Mgr. Phone 256-383-6462
MADISON COUNTY COOPERATIVE Keith Griffin, Gen. Mgr. HAZEL GREEN - Phone 256-828-2010 MERIDIANVILLE - Matt Dunbar, Mgr. Phone 256-828-5360 NEW MARKET - Phone 256-379-2553 Ramsey Prince, Mgr. SCOTTSBORO - Phone 256-574-1688 Patricia Rorex, Mgr. STEVENSON - Phone 256-437-8829
DEKALB FARMERS COOPERATIVE Lance Ezelle, Gen. Mgr. RAINSVILLE - Andrea Crain, Mgr. Phone 256-638-2569 CROSSVILLE - David Tierce, Mgr. Phone 256-528-7188 ALBERTVILLE - Nicholas Byars, Mgr. Phone 256-878-3261
MARION COUNTY COOPERATIVE Steve Lann, Gen. Mgr. HAMILTON - Phone 205-921-2631 FAYETTE - Kellie Trull, Mgr. Phone 205-932-5901 HALEYVILLE - Jessica Steward, Mgr. Phone 205-486-3794
ELBERTA FARMERS COOPERATIVE William D. Carlew, Mgr. Phone 251-986-8103
MARSHALL FARMERS COOPERATIVE Brian Keith, Gen. Mgr. HOLLY POND - Phone 256-796-5337 ARAB - Mark Upton Phone 256-586-5515 MORGAN FARMERS COOPERATIVE Bradley Hopkins, Gen. Mgr. HARTSELLE - Phone 256-773-6832 DECATUR - Phone 256-353-4663 PIKE FARMERS COOPERATIVE Danny Dewrell, Gen. Mgr. GOSHEN - Phone 334-484-3441 TROY - Jeff Baron, Mgr. Phone 334-566-3882 QUALITY COOPERATIVE, INC. Daniel Salter, Mgr. Phone 334-382-6548 TALEECON FARMERS COOPERATIVE Scott Hartley, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-257-3930 WETUMPKA - Timothy Richardson, Mgr. Phone 334-567-4321 TALLADEGA COUNTY EXCHANGE Chris Elliott, Gen. Mgr. Phone 256-362-2716 ASHVILLE - Allen Bice, Mgr. Phone 205-594-7042 PELL CITY - Joseph Taylor, Mgr. Phone 205-338-2821 COLUMBIANA - Barry Keller, Mgr. Phone 205-669-7082 RANDOLPH Phone 256-357-4743 TENNESSEE VALLEY COOPERATIVE, INC. John Curtis, President ATHENS – Britt Christopher, Mgr. Phone 256-232-5500 LYNNVILLE, TN - Kyle Doggett, Mgr. Phone 931-527-3923 PULASKI, TN – Celena Williams, Mgr. Phone 931-363-2563 Reggie Shook, Vice Pres. FLORENCE - Robbie Neal, Mgr. Phone 256-764-8441 ELGIN - Wendell Walker, Mgr. Phone 256-247-3453 John Holley, Vice Pres. MOULTON - Greg McCannon, Mgr. Phone 256-974-9213 COURTLAND Phone 256-637-2939 TUSCALOOSA FARMERS COOPERATIVE Wayne Gilliam, Mgr. Phone 205-339-8181 WALKER FARMERS COOPERATIVE Cody King, Mgr. Phone 205-387-1142
*PLEASE CONTACT EACH STORE DIRECTLY FOR ALL OF THE SERVICES THEY OFFER* PEANUTS
PECANS
PROPANE
PEA SHELLING
CATFISH
April 2021
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AG INSIGHT COVID’s impact may be changing eating habits Since the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United States on Jan. 20, 2020, many aspects of daily life have changed, including the increased number of Americans working from home. The widespread impact of the pandemic raises an important question: Do Americans who work from home allocate their time spent on daily tasks differently than those who work away from home? While researchers do not have time-use data from the COVID-19 period, analyses from past studies may provide some insights. USDA’s Economic Research Service (ERS) used data from a 2017-18 time-use survey to study the amount of time respondents spent in food preparation and eating at home according to the location from which they worked the day covered by the interview. In particular, they compared prime working-age adults (25-54 years old) who worked exclusively from home to prime working-age adults who worked exclusively somewhere other than their home. In 2017-18, over an average weekday, 64% of prime working-age adults engaged in food preparation activities – food and drink preparation, food presentation, kitchen and food cleanup, grocery shopping, and travel to and from the grocery store – and they spent an average of 31 minutes engaged in these activities. When researchers broke down the overall sample by the worker’s worksite, they found differences in time spent preparing food. Prime working-age adults who worked from home were more likely to engage in food preparation activities (75% versus 63%) and to spend more time on these activities than individuals who worked away from home (41 minutes compared with 30 minutes). Turning to food consumption, a total of 78% of prime working-age adults reported eating at home on an average weekday over 2017-18, and they spent about 29 minutes doing so. Individuals were more likely to eat at home when they were working from home than when they were working away from home (89% versus 77%). Individuals who worked from home spent 49 minutes eating at home, which was nearly double the amount reported by individuals who worked away from home (27 minutes). If the greater time spent preparing food translates into eating more home-prepared meals and less eating 8
Cooperative Farming News
out, teleworkers may also experience a healthier diet. Previous ERS studies have found that home-prepared meals tend to be lower in calories and higher in positive nutrients than meals prepared away from home.
Pandemic prompts moratoriums on USDA loans The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced an extension of eviction and foreclosure moratoriums on USDA Single Family Housing Direct and Guaranteed loans through June 30, 2021. The actions are designed to bring relief to residents in rural America who have housing loans through USDA. The Biden Administration also is working with Congress to pass the American Rescue Plan to take
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced an extension of eviction and foreclosure moratoriums on USDA Single Family Housing Direct and Guaranteed loans through June 30, 2021.
BY JIM ERICKSON
more actions to bring additional relief to American families and individuals impacted by the pandemic. A recent Census Bureau survey showed that 8.2 million homeowners are currently behind on mortgage payments, and of that 8.2 million, 3 million homeowners behind on payments were Black or Hispanic. Early this year, USDA took action to bring relief to more than 12,000 distressed borrowers of USDA farm loans by temporarily suspending past-due debt collections, foreclosures, nonjudicial foreclosures, debt offsets or wage garnishments, and other steps. The moratorium does not apply in cases where USDA or the servicing lender has documented the property is vacant or abandoned. Lenders may continue to provide borrowers relief by offering forbearance of the borrower guaranteed loan payment for up to 180 days. In addition, the initial forbearance period may be extended up to an additional 180 days at the borrower’s request.
Virus’s adverse effects boost food insecurity worldwide
Per capita income in the coming decade is projected to increase 3.3% on average for the 76 countries studied. Although an overall improvement, it is 6% lower because of the impact of COVID-19. By 2030, the share of the population that is food insecure in the 76 countries is projected to fall to 11.6% (513 million people), which is a 44% drop from 2020. Even with the sharp decline, the 2030 estimate of food insecurity is almost 27% higher than the preCOVID-19 scenario.
CRP signup period extended
The number of food-insecure people around the world in 2020 is estimated at 921 million, a figure that would have been 21% smaller if it were not for income losses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that nearly one-fourth of a total population of 3.8 billion people living in low- and middle-income countries may not have consistent access to the daily caloric target of 2,100 calories.
USDA has extended the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) general signup period and will continue to accept offers while the Biden Administration evaluates ways to boost enrollment. The signup period earlier had been announced as ending Feb. 12. Under the previous administration, incentives and rental payment rates were reduced, resulting in an enrollment shortfall of more than 4 million acres. The program, administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provides annual rental payments for 10 to 15 years for land devoted to conservation purposes, as well as other types of payments. Before the General CRP signup period ends, producers will have the opportunity to adjust or resubmit their offers to take advantage of planned improvements to the program. The extended CRP signup period gives producers an opportunity to enroll land for the first time or re-enroll land under existing contracts that will be exApril 2021
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piring Sept. 30, 2021. All interested producers, including those on Indian reservations and with trust lands, should contact their local USDA Service Center for more information.
Americans expanding variety of vegetables they consume Americans are slowly expanding the variety of vegetables on their plates even though the total amount of veggies available has declined somewhat. From 2000 to 2019, dark green vegetables, red and orange vegetables (excluding tomatoes), and legumes increased their combined share of the vegetables available to eat in the United States from 16% to 22%. The vegetables food group is composed of five subgroups: dark green, red and orange, starchy, other vegetables and legumes (beans and peas). Each offers an array of important vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. Over the last two decades, the total amount of vegetables available decreased 4% percent from 417.4 pounds per capita to 400.1 pounds, rebounding from a low of 369.6 pounds in 2015. Food availability data for vegetables include fresh, frozen, canned and dried forms, all measured in fresh-weight equivalents. Some vegetable subgroups have increased in popularity, while others have seen declines. Those posting declines included white potatoes and “other vegetables,” a subgroup containing 16 different vegetables. Availability of white potatoes fell from 138.0 pounds per capita to 119.1 pounds between 2000 and 2019, and other starchy vegetables fell from 31.3 to 21.2 pounds. Availability of other vegetables fell from 93.6 pounds per capita to 83.7 pounds. Declines in head lettuce, cabbage, and beets in that subgroup were partially offset by increased availability of onions and cucumbers.
Other subgroups posted increases in supplies available to eat between 2000 and 2019. The red and orange subgroup (excluding tomatoes, for which availability remained flat) had the largest increase in availability, growing from 35.1 pounds per capita to 49.0 pounds. In terms of growth in availability, sweet potatoes, chili peppers, and bell peppers were the leaders, rising in 2019 to 7.9, 7.3 and 11.3 pounds per capita, respectively. Increased availability of dark green vegetables from 2000 to 2019 – led by a 47% jump in romaine and leaf lettuce – added variety to American’s vegetable choices. Higher supplies of kale, spinach, and broccoli also helped boost availability of dark green vegetables from 21.7 pounds per capita in 2000 to 27.5 pounds in 2019. Supplies of legumes available to eat grew from 8.5 pounds per capita to 11.1 pounds between 2000 and 2019. A 10% decline in availability of dry edible beans to 6.9 pounds per capita was overridden by a 420 % increase in availability of dry peas and lentils to 4.2 pounds.
Over the last two decades, the total amount of vegetables available decreased 4% percent from 417.4 pounds per capita to 400.1 pounds, rebounding from a low of 369.6 pounds in 2015.
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Cooperative Farming News
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April 2021
11
BUSINESS OF FARMING
Food Hubs Impact Communities If you were to go to your local grocery store, walk over to the produce section and pick up a tomato, would you know where it came from? There may be a sticker that lists the origin, or there may not. Imagine you go to eat at a local sandwich shop. You have no idea how far the tomato slice that is on your sandwich traveled to be put on your plate. Local food hubs shorten the distance from farm to plate, help keep the connection from farms to consumers, and help keep local dollars working in local communities. A report from the Economic Research Service within the USDA noted that one of the main constraints to the expansion of local foods is the “lack of distribution systems for moving local foods into mainstream markets.” Many farmers and ranchers, especially smaller operations, face challenges with the lack of distribution and processing infrastructure of a large-enough scale that would give them greater access to larger volume markets (such as grocery stores, restaurants, schools, hospitals and universities). Food hubs manage the aggregation, distribution and marketing of food products from local producers to satisfy larger buyers. They help solve logistical issues within the agricultural industry and create new markets where there are gaps. Some farms are too
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Cooperative Farming News
small to have the economies of scale to sell in large wholesale markets, but are also too large to profitably rely on direct-to-consumer marketing like farmers markets. Often an individual producer does not have enough product to satisfy larger buyers like local grocery chains, restaurants or schools. On the other hand, large buyers can have a hard time finding local producers that can provide a consistent supply of products on their own to meet the demand. Food hubs help satisfy the needs of both farmers and buyers.
Producer Services Food hubs function as a link between producers and markets. Along with the core functions (aggregation, distribution and marketing) provided by food hubs, they often assist producers with production and delivery planning. Some provide on-farm pickups and others require the farm to bring the products to the warehouse. Those efforts around logistics benefit both the producer and food hub. They can also provide training in topics crucial to producers such as post-harvest handling, food safety, season extension, value-added product development and business management.
BY JESSIE BOSWELL
Operational Services The basic operational functions of a food hub are aggregation, distribution and marketing. They provide infrastructure that most farms can’t afford, like trucking, refrigeration and processing. These operational services are essential to sell to large-volume buyers. Food hubs can also provide grading, packing and labeling services. The buyers have their own purchasing standards that can differ from that required in direct-to-consumer sales, and food hub services can assist the smaller producers with meeting those standards. Food hubs work on the supply side with producers, but also on the demand side with distributors, processors and buyers. They coordinate efforts with those institutions to make sure they can meet the demand for locally grown products. Also, small to medium farms often lack the staff or resources to market themselves effectively, and the marketing and brokering done by the food hub becomes quite valuable to the operation.
Community Services While providing services to producers, food hubs often perform several community services. They are engrained in the community along with the businesses and producers they work with in the area. They can function as an intermediary for the farms they serve and organize educational farm tours and farm apprenticeships. They often donate to food banks and work on programs or campaigns to increase consumer awareness of the benefits of buying local food. A food hub is committed to adding value to the food distribution system and to the area in which it is located. They are committed to buying from and assisting small to midsized local growers and allowing them access to large volume customers. They’re also
committed to working with large buyers and institutions in the area that want to buy regional products and connecting them to a steady and reliable source of those local products. The logistical support given by food hubs is vital for creating consistent supplies of regionally-produced foods between producers and wholesale buyers.
The logistical support given by food hubs is vital for creating consistent supplies of regionally-produced foods between producers and wholesale buyers.
The Alabama Cooperative Extension System provides resources for food hub entrepreneurs through its Farm to Food Opportunity Program. The program focuses on how food hub collaboration can benefit producers, consumers and the local economy. The program also provides the basic business planning information needed and describes the market opportunity. So far, the program has provided a six-week series over Zoom. We aim to have face-to-face workshops in late spring and an online course launching in 2021. As the ever-changing situation around COVID-19 progresses, those dates will be announced. More information about the Farm to Food Opportunity Program can be found by contacting Jessie Boswell at jab0170@auburn.edu or 256-223-4950.
April 2021
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FEEDING FACTS
Parasites and Nutrition Parasites are one of the largest obstacles to raising sheep and goats in the Southeast. Our warm, wet environment is parasite paradise and stomach worms, particularly Haemonchus contortus (the barber pole worm), can totally wreck a flock or herd of small ruminants. This is especially true when ewes or does give birth in late spring or early summer. Even though forages are generally at their best in April and May, the hormones associated with the birthing process will generally put the stomach worms into reproductive overdrive and we see a major increase in worm loads a short time after giving birth. This can create a vicious downward spiral for the females giving birth in the late spring or early summer.
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Cooperative Farming News
When a ewe or doe gives birth this time of year, grass is good but within a short time it will be getting mature enough to have a lower nutritional value. That can be added to the fact that the number of stomach worms is increasing rapidly both because of a hormonal trigger and the fact that our environment is usually ideal for them to reproduce and spread. Those things, along with an increased nutritional demand from producing milk for growing kids or lambs and increasing anemia caused by the adult stomach worm’s appetite for blood, tend to make for a very trying time. So, the weather is warming up, forage quality is decreasing, anemia is getting worse and the demand for milk production is growing all
B Y J I M M Y PA R K E R
As the weather heats up, anemia causes appetite loss and nutritional needs go up from increased lactation demands, it is usually necessary to provide additional calories and protein from supplements. at the same time. When we couple anemia and heat stress, we get a recipe for not feeling good and for eating less and less each day. Along with the increasing demands to feed babies and replace the massive amounts of blood that the worms are stealing, nutritional needs become very complicated and the animals tend to lose body condition rapidly. Even if the animals all survive this trying time, the reduced gain in the offspring and the use of body reserves by the adult females equal a lower profitability for the producer and smaller, weaker animals as fall approaches. Given the problems above, what can we do to make things better both for our animals and our bottom lines? While there are currently no silver bullets, there are things we can do to help, both management wise and nutritionally. From a management standpoint, dry lotting the ewes and does on hay and feed is one that works, though maybe a bit extreme for most producers. Rotational grazing and only grazing when the grass is fairly dry will help a great deal by lowering the worm burden. Feeding females that are nursing twins and triplets separately can help as their nutritional needs are significantly higher is also a good idea. Making sure that plenty of fresh clean water and shady areas are available at all times are also key management strategies to alleviate some of the heat stress and help with feed consumption. Creep feeding the lambs or kids is also a valuable option as it tends to reduce the nutritional stress on the ewes and does. When nutrition is considered, there are also a few things that we should keep in mind. As the weather heats up, anemia causes appetite loss and nutritional needs go up from increased lactation demands, it is usually necessary to provide additional calories and protein from supplements. A quality vitamin and mineral supplement is also something that needs to be
considered and constant availability is a key to animal health and to the animal’s ability to replenish the blood lost to the stomach worms. One of many other issues comes from the animal’s immune response to the adult stomach worms. Most animals will have an immune response to a heavy load of stomach worms and the body will try to fight those worms off. Any time the animal’s immune system becomes more active, there is a slight increase in protein needs, and providing some extra protein can at times yield a stronger immune response and give the animal a better chance to survive the challenge. The Purina High Fat Tub is a good option to add calories, protein and some vitamins and minerals and is one of many good options. The Co-op Sheep and Goat feed is another good option to help with the nutritional issues associated with parasites this time of year. No matter what management strategy you use, an increase in protein and calories can help your animals survive and will most likely add dollars to your bottom line when your kid or lamb crop is marketed in the fall. Steps to alleviate heat stress will make the process much easier and any thing you can do to cut down on the parasite load and parasite exposure will make for heavier weaning weights, healthier ewes and does and a more profitable and much better experience for you the producer.
April 2021
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FROM THE STATE VET’S OFFICE
Cleaning Up a Few Loose Ends
My first “From the Office of the State Vet” article appeared in this publication in April 2004. I can’t right off tell you, without a calculator, how many articles that amounts to, but it is quite a few. I cannot begin to thank the Alabama Farmers Cooperative enough for allowing me this platform to get out pertinent information to both producers and consumers. Occasionally, over the years, I have written a few multitopic articles because there was information I needed to put out, but the topic often didn’t deserve “whole article” status. That is the case today. I have a couple things I want to make producers aware of so I can get them off my plate. I like to think of it as cleaning out the cupboard or spring cleaning.
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Cooperative Farming News
Do Not Remove Official Identification Tags I am sure we have all seen the tag on the mattress that reads: “Do Not Remove Under Penalty of Law.” I am sure I have friends who like to live close to the edge that have covertly, in the dark of night, removed the tags. But I have never had anyone brag to me that they actually removed one of those tags. After all, none of us know what the penalty is. As it turns out, those tags go back to the early 1900s when there was concern that stuffing from old mattresses was being used in new outer material and could be spreading tuberculosis or smallpox or who knows what. Yuck! My research into that subject revealed that the “Do Not Remove” tag is meant for the mattress seller. So, you can go ahead and remove the tags without any feeling of guilt that you broke the law. That, however, is not the case with removal of official identification
BY DR. TONY FRAZIER
tags from livestock, mainly cattle, sheep and goats. Official identification devices include location-based tags such as those for goats and sheep that identify them back to a farm of origin for scrapie tracing. The official Animal Identification Number (AIN) tags have the 15-digit ID number and begin with 840. They also have “Unlawful to Remove” written on them. And finally, the silver and orange metal tags that have numbers and letters on the front and a U.S. shield and VS on the back. One more thing, auction market back tags can be used for official identification for animals going directly to be processed. If they are not processed within three days of the sale, an official tag must be placed in those animals. I am not saying you will be thrown into some federal prison, but I think most people want to do what is right. That is why most of us never removed one of those mattress tags. I am just putting it out there that this could get you into some trouble if you remove official livestock tags. Think of it like taking the tag off your car and driving around without one. It defeats the purpose of everything we identify for.
Change in Trichomonas Rule If you sell bulls, you are likely familiar with the trichomonas rule as it has existed. The following are changes that allow us to get positive bulls out of the breeding business and reduce the incidence of trichomonas. I am not including the whole rule because it is over 1500 words long and I don’t have that much room. 1. All positive test results for trichomoniasis shall be reported by the accredited veterinarian and the approved laboratory to the state veterinarian within 72 hours after receipt of positive test results. 2. Any bull testing positive for trichomoniasis shall be immediately separated from the herd, isolated, and shall be placed under official quarantine. A request can be made to the state veterinarian within five days to confirm the positive test result with official PCR testing performed by trained, accredited veterinarians from the state veterinarian’s office. If the confirming PCR test is positive, then the bull shall be considered infected and subject to the restrictions set out in these regulations. Three consecutive negative official tests performed at least 14 days apart by trained, accredited veterinarians from the state veterinarian’s office shall be
required for the bull to be designated trichomoniasis negative and have the quarantine released. All three, confirmatory tests must be completed within 90 days of the original positive test. Confirmed positive bulls shall be consigned to slaughter or permitted directly for slaughter and shall only be moved under an official permit issued by the state veterinarian or his/her representative. An infected bull accompanied by an official permit issued by the state veterinarian or his/her representative shall be moved directly to slaughter or permitted directly for slaughter through a licensed livestock market within 30 days from receipt of the positive test results of the original test or the results of the confirmatory PCR test, whichever is later. 3. All breeding bulls co-mingled with females that have been co-mingled with a trichomoniasis-positive bull for any period of time within six months before the receipt of a positive trichomoniasis test result shall immediately be separated from other cattle and shall be placed under official quarantine and tested for trichomoniasis by PCR. Test samples shall not be pooled. Each official test conducted on a bull shall demonstrate a negative result before the tested bull will be released from quarantine. 4. Females testing positive for trichomoniasis shall be separated from all breeding bulls. All breeding bulls commingled with a positive female shall be quarantined. The quarantine shall be released once the bulls have tested negative by PCR. Bulls testing positive shall be subject to the restrictions set out in these regulations. 5. Any trichomoniasis positive animal or herd shall be subject to a Trichomoniasis Response Herd Plan developed by the State Veterinarian in consultation with the owner’s accredited veterinarian and the state extension veterinarian. As always, if you have questions, please do not hesitate to call me at 334-240-7253 or email me at tony.frazier@agi.alabama.gov. By the way I figured how many “From the Office of the State Vet” articles have been published since April 2004. This will be article No. 205. Thank you for reading them and for your positive comments over the years. I plan to continue to use this venue to get information out as long as I am State Veterinarian and Cooperative Farming News allows me to. But I am pretty sure I won’t be good for anything close to another 17 years and 205 more articles. April 2021
17
WHAT’S THE POINT WITH GREENPOINT AG
Implementing 4R Management Practices on Your Acres From the GreenPoint Ag Agronomy Team
Maximizing nutrient use efficiency in a sustainable way has been a popular conversation topic throughout the ag industry in recent years. If you’ve had a chat with your GreenPoint Ag crop specialist about this subject lately, they might have mentioned 4R Nutrient Stewardship, which is centered on using the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time and in the right place. Even if this is the first time you’re hearing about 4R Nutrient Stewardship, you’re likely already well acquainted with the principal concepts. We all want to be as efficient as we can with our fertility efforts – not 18
Cooperative Farming News
just from an economical perspective, but also so we can be good stewards of the land we farm by minimizing losses and runoff. Here are some steps you can take to implement 4R fertility management practices in your operation.
R ight Source Practicing the 4R principles on your farm starts with having a well-balanced nutrient plan that’s based on the requirements of your soils and crops. When
B Y T H E G R E E N P O I N T AG AG R O N O M Y T E A M
seeking the right nutrient sources for your operation, make sure you select the formulations that best fit these needs. For example, there are several phosphorus (P) options to choose from. While each is an effective source of P, they also contain different nitrogen (N) levels that crops may or may not benefit from. Diammonium phosphate (DAP) contains 18% N and is used extensively as the basis for blended fertilizers. Often used in starter fertilizers, monoammonium phosphate (MAP) contains 11% N. Triple superphosphate (TSP) is commonly used in no-nitrogen blends. Both urea and ammonium sulfate are popular N sources, but you should base your selection on when the N is needed. Ammonium sulfate is more readily available than urea, which must break down to convert into a useable form. (Often these products can be used together proportionately depending on the needs of the crop.) Similarly, ammonium sulfate is best applied in the spring when delivering sulfur (S) to winter wheat, while elemental S is a better fit for fall applications because it takes longer to break down. Finally, utilizing the right nutrient stabilizers and controlled release products can help protect against environmental loss, while products like AVAIL® Phosphate Fertilizer Enhancer help minimize fixation and make more P available to your plants regardless of source or timing.
R ight Rate A good way to determine the right fertility rates for your crops is to consider research-driven nutrient uptake and removal rates as a starting point, followed by the incorporation of soil test results and plant tissue analysis. Using technology can help you become more reactive to nutrient deficiencies during the growing season. Examine in-season aerial imagery to help focus your tissue sampling efforts so you get an accurate representation of your crop’s needs. Then use the results to prescribe variable rate fertility treatments so you can provide exactly what’s needed in different areas of your field – nothing more, nothing less. Another way to fine-tune your application rates is to utilize crop models. Derived from huge segments of historical data collected over several years, these models can help you project nutrient needs based on current growing conditions. For example, if you’re re-
ceiving a lot of rainfall in a given year, a crop model based on similar wet seasons can help you determine how much N you need to replace due to leaching. Finally, it’s critical that you maintain the proper pH in your fields for any of these efforts to pay off. We have predominantly low pH levels in the Southeast. If your pH isn’t within the ideal range, applied nutrient availability will be reduced.
R ight Time It’s crucial to provide crops with the nutrients they need during key points in plant development. For example, since N is very mobile in the soil, consider planning application timings based on developmental stage needs – especially in crops like corn, cotton and wheat. Some of these timings commonly include, but are not limited to: 1. Applying pre-plant before the crop is planted. 2. Using starter fertilizer when planting your crop. 3. Making side dress applications with injectable sources like liquid N or anhydrous ammonia. 4. Making over-the-top application before the crop gets too tall or applying aerially.
R ight Place Advancements in technology continue to help determine fertility placement. We’re seeing more and more farmers geo-reference soil test results and crop removal so they can address nutrient needs spatially on a more detailed level. When you can identify what’s present in your fields and what’s been removed, you’ll have a road map to help you get nutrient levels where you need them to be. From a broader perspective, consider your soil type when applying fertilizer. Be mindful of where you’re placing nutrients with high mobility, like S, N and even potassium (K), as coarse soil types are more prone to leaching. The agronomy team at GreenPoint AG is well versed in the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship. If you’d like assistance implementing these best management practices on your farm, reach out to your crop specialist. You can count on us to provide the expertise you need. April 2021
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ON THE EDGE OF COMMON SENSE
The Horse Show Conversation
B Y B A X T E R B L A C K , DV M
“A fine lookin’ horse you’ve got there (if yer into modern art) I had a horse like that one time (but he wasn’t very smart) I’d guess that he’s part thoroughbred (and part Catahoula hound) You get him in a claiming race? (or at the lost and found)
Oh, really, you’ve got the papers (I’d use’em to train the dog) And he’s outta He’s California! (No wonder he smells like smog)
He seems a little bit feisty (to have one foot in the grave) Yup, I’ve used Ace myself sometimes (when there’s somethin’ left to save) What kinda bit have you got there? (it looks like a calving tool) Oh, you invented it yourself (Do them Vise Grips make him drool?)
Yeah, I’ll bet it sure does stop him (like runnin’ into a train) You must’ve built that tie-down, too (Never seen one made outta chain) And where did you get those leggin’s? (from a circus refugee) Well, most people like’m longer (At least down to the knee)
Good luck. I reckon yer up soon (I’d hate to be in that wreck) You’ve already finished your class? (And haven’t broken yer neck) Two firsts and honorable mention! (Whoa up! I’m way off the trail!) A fine lookin’ horse you’ve got there (maybe that sucker’s for sale...) www.baxterblack.com
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Cooperative Farming News
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April 2021
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PALS
BY JAMIE MITCHELL
Hidden Lake Elementary Learns About the PALS Program
A
labama PALS welcomes Hidden Lake Elementary School in Dothan, Alabama to the Clean Campus Program! I recently conducted an anti-litter Zoom session with the first-graders at Hidden Lake with a combination of their in-person students and virtual learners. We are so thankful that Zoom gives us a chance to reach everyone! During the Zoom session, students saw the same presentation that I would normally deliver in person, complete with learning about littering, landfills and recycling! Hidden Lake students will be reading articles and books on the environment as they gear up to Earth Day on ways to be litter-free, as well as on how to recycle. The boys and girls also recently created posters on community helpers which will be good practice for them as they prepare their posters for the Alabama 22
Cooperative Farming News
PALS Poster Contest! First-grade teacher Kristia Poland is planning to have the students incorporate their posters for our contest into their social studies lessons, as well as their art studies. The poster contest is always a great opportunity for cross-curriculum learning! After our discussion, I sent Hidden Lake students pencils and stickers as a thank you for taking the time to learn with me! These are also great ways for them to remember the anti-litter message all spring! If a school near you would like to set up a Zoom presentation, please have them give me a call or email at 334-263-7737 or jamie@alpals.org. The Clean Campus Program is free to all Alabama public and private schools and is a terrific way to teach litter prevention in your community! We look forward to hearing from you!
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marengo County #3285
384+/- AC - This is one of those rare properties that offers quality fishing opportunities, great deer hunting, and good turkey hunting. You might even be able to catch some ducks using the flooded timber in the back of the large lake. I do not know of a hunting property in the Black Belt currently on the market with newer and nicer amenities and improvements than this place. $1,200,000
randolph County #3084
707+/- AC - Just outside of the Rock Mills community in Randolph County, only two miles from the Georgia line. Features include: quality soils and gentle topography, mixed timber stands, Big Wehadkee Creek runs through this tract for over a mile, old farm pond and beaver ponds, wildlife food plots, abundant game, old farm structures like barns and silos are still standing. $1,302,060
talladega County #3124
174+/- AC - Cattle Farm located in Talladega County in Central Alabama. The farm is currently running beef cattle, but several acres have been row cropped in the past. The farm features gently rolling pasture, hay barn, cattle working pens, stream fed lake, cross fenced pastures, two rental houses, and mature hardwood timber. The farm can currently easily maintain 50 cow units with the capacity for more. $549,000
dallas County #3071
640+/- AC - 640ac cattle farm on the Cahaba River in Dallas County, Alabama. 3 bedroom home, 18 acre lake, and over 1 mile of river front. $1,472,000
chambers County #2947
595+/- AC - This tract is setup for hunting/recreation and has all the components to provide excellent recreational opportunities with a diversified timber investment. MUST SEE! $1,175,125
220+/- AC - This tract has it all! Approximately 1500 feet along the scenic Tallapoosa River, huge hardwoods and a well-managed pine plantation. This tract also has a 3 acre lake that is fully stocked and a landing on the river for canoe put in where the fish are plentiful along the shoals. Great turkey and deer hunting can also be had on the 220 acres of gentle rolling timberland. $550,000
perry County #2982
sumter County #2836
lamar County #3032
209+/- AC - The camp house has 4 bedrooms, a renovated bathroom, and a living room. A garage with an electric roll-up door is used for storing atv’s and equipment. The Sprott area is well known for good deer and turkey hunting. There are 6-8 food plots on the property for hunting, and miles of internal roads and four wheeler trails take you throughout the tract. $420,000
lownes County #3324
255+/- AC - This property has been managed to produce big deer, turkey, and ducks. There is a well established road system throughout the property making all areas easily accessible. $561,000
174+/- AC - The topography on the tract is primarily flat with a gentle slope on the acreage to the south. There is also a lake site on the property that is close to an acre in size, but could be made larger. Tifallili Creek crosses the southwestern corner of the property. Timber on the tract consist of hardwoods, cedar thickets, hackberry, and some pine stands, which when all combined make great wildlife habitat. $346,260
Lauderdale County #3083
227+/- AC - This tract is as versatile as it is beautiful, with multiple homesites perched on top of hills with spectacular views. Threet Creek runs through the mixed hardwood stand providing year-round water and multiple springs can be found throughout the tract. $726,173
THE PROOF IS IN THE SOLDS! SOLD
SOUTHERN STAR FARM 4 House Broiler Farm in Butler County, AL
RANDALL UPCHURCH PoultrySouth Co-Founder 256-239-5379 randall@selandgroup.com
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BOWDEN FARM
4 House Breeder Farm in Dale County, AL
ROBERT KING
PoultrySouth Co-Founder 844-855-0680 robert@selandgroup.com
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROCESS AT WWW.POULTRYSOUTH.COM April 2021
23
4-H EXTENSION CORNER
4-H Recognizes
Volunteers of the Year
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Cooperative Farming News
ci has served on the 4-H Adult Leadership Council, led the Horse Club, and helped with 4-H Archery and Shotgun Clubs. She also led the 4-H Cloverbud Club. Kerri Roberts, the 4-H agent for Winston County, stated, “Marci is that person in my county that is my ‘go to’ volunteer. Not only is she helpful, but she’s a heck of a human being too.” David Ramey of Etowah County represented Northeast Alabama. He has served as a 4-H Direct Volunteer for the past year and a Resource Volunteer for the previous five years. He worked as the Senior Coach for the Archery Program and provided leadership for the 4-H Fly Fishing Club. “If you were to look up ‘public servant’ in the dictionary, you would find David’s name in the definition,” said Michael Dillon, 4-H Agent for Etowah County. “David Ramey is more than just a 4-H volunteer; he is a vital extension of the local 4-H Team.” Ronnie Winters of Tuscaloosa County represented West Central Alabama. He has been a volun-
DAVID RAMEY
ETOWAH CO UNTY
MARCI BATCHELOR
WI NS TON C OUNT Y
4-H volunteers play a big part in helping young people develop into resourceful citizens and responsible leaders. Working with 4-H professional staff members, volunteers share their time, talent, skills and creative ideas to support youth in their communities. Alabama 4-H volunteers are parents, grandparents, neighbors, business leaders and other caring individuals who want to help kids and make a difference. Anyone who might be interested in becoming a 4-H volunteer should contact the local county Extension office at www.aces.edu. In 2020, Alabama had 4,330 4-H volunteers, serving 125,721 4-H members and participants in 3,108 4-H clubs at 736 Alabama schools. Recently, seven outstanding volunteers from all over the state were recognized as “Volunteers of the Year” for their outstanding service to the children of Alabama. Marci Batchelor of Winston County represented Northwest Alabama. A volunteer since 2016, Mar-
VERCILYA REESE
JEFFERSON COUNTY
teer since 2011. He has served as a 4-H Rifle Volunteer, 4-H Shotgun Volunteer and Lead Volunteer for the past seven years. He was also president of the 4-H Adult Advisory Board. “Ronnie is an amazing 4-H volunteer because his passion is contagious!” explained Laura Miller, 4-H REA for Tuscaloosa County. “He has a way of teaching youth that gives them confidence and a desire to keep working on their skills. He is extremely patient and encouraging to all
4-H’ers, and to me, and I appreciate his service so much!” Vercilya Reese of Jefferson County represented Central Alabama. She has been a volunteer since 2010. Vercilya led the 4-H Holy Family Club and has opened 4-H doors to Fairfield City Schools, local churches, fraternities and sororities. She is also mother to the 2019-2020 State 4-H Council President, Trey Reese. “I call on Mrs. Reese Cup to help with everything 4-H, and she always obliges!” said Izette McNealy, 4-H REA in Jefferson County. Betsy Jordan of Lee County represented East Central Alabama. Betsy has been a volunteer since 2010. She was instrumental in creating the 4-H History Seekers Community Club and the 4-H Club – Pioneer Living. She served as a Summer Camp Chaperone and a County & Regional Contest Day volunteer. “Betsy encourages her club members to be involved in other 4-H activities, which is why many of her club members are members of our 4-H Youth Council and other clubs in our community. She is incredible!” stated Deborah Stewart, Lee County 4-H REA. Tabitha Welborn of Washington County represented Southwest Alabama. A volunteer since 2014, Tabitha had been a 4-H Shooting Sports Leader, a Chick Chain Volunteer for six years and a Pig Squeal Volunteer. She also assisted with the 4-H Youth Council. “Tabitha is ALWAYS available and willing to help whenever she is asked,” explained Stacy Ferguson, Washington County’s REA. “She has a passion for the
BETSY JORDAN
LEE COUNTY
RONNIE WINTERS
TUSCALOOSA COUNTY
B Y C A R O LY N D R I N K A R D
April 2021
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WASHINGTON COUNTY
TABITHA WELBORN
LEE & DEBBIE HORTON 26
Cooperative Farming News
COFFEE COUNTY
youth in our county and truly wants to see the program continue to grow. Volunteers, like Mrs. Tabitha, are one of the many reasons why I love my job.” Lee and Debbie Horton of Coffee County were the Southeast Alabama Volunteers of the Year. They are grandparents who have volunteered for 10 Years. For the past seven years, they have led the Coffee County 4-H Archery Program. They served on the 4-H Adult Advisory Committee and volunteered for the 4-H State Archery Match and the Buckmasters 4-H Archery Contest Committee. “These two outstanding volunteers don’t know the word ‘no’ when it comes to serving, helping or leading, and endless youth are better individuals because of the Hortons’ love, care and guidance,” stated Annie Hendrix, Coffee County 4-H Agent.
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www.alafarm.com/magazine
April 2021
27
FFA SENTINEL
Jessa-Lynn learning showing skills and gaining confidence
Jacey and Jessa-Lynn Adkins Foley FFA has two nontraditional students who happen to be sisters, and they work hard to pursue their two passions – show calves and FFA. They both attend the Baldwin County Virtual School for their regular schoolwork and attend agriculture classes at Foley High School every day in person, so that they can learn and take advantage of all that agriculture classes have to offer. Jacey is a senior and has plans to use her cattle knowledge and show experience to build her herd and raise show calves for her business after she graduates from high school. She also aspires to help young students get started in showing livestock by sharing 28
Cooperative Farming News
Jacey representing Foley FFA and showing and winning!
her experiences and providing show stock from her personal herd to foster a love for cattle in others. She works hard every day, taking care of her animals, halter-breaking and feeding, cleaning and training, and setting an example of a strong work ethic to her siblings and friends. She is currently in equine science class at Foley High School and has completed animal science and veterinary science classes to further her livestock knowledge and apply it to her daily work.
J OY A N N A L OV E
She is the chapter secretary and is on the livestock judging team. She also helps to coach and mentor the Quiz Bowl team each afternoon after school. Jessa-Lynn is an eighth grader and caught the show-calf fever and passion from her older sister. She jumped head-first into FFA this year, taking on as many leadership roles as possible. She is the Foley FFA Creed Speaking candidate and has taken on a position as a Junior Adviser in the chapter. She is currently raising a market steer and has enjoyed learning about the process of finishing out a steer. She recently won the EMC Shining Star student of the month for Baldwin County and was recognized by Fox 10 news. Both students set an example for others in their strong work ethic, their integrity and their perseverance. Their maturity and personal responsibility go well beyond the classroom. They are an asset to the chapter and consider it a privilege to be involved in FFA. Their awards and accomplishments in the show ring speak for their dedication to their passion for livestock. They showcase the FFA model of agricultural education every single day with their SAE and almost-perfect grades and their activity in their local FFA chapter.
Jacey getting ready for a show
Halter breaking calves is a big part of showing
April 2021
29
OUTDOOR LOGIC WITH BIOLOGIC
Longing for those Good Gobblin’ Days How to Work Toms during Poor Weather
Sometimes those “good gobbling days” seem few and far between. If you hunt springtime turkeys for more than a few days you’re bound to run up against wind, rain or even snow. (Photo Credit: Todd Amenrud)
Ah…springtime – doesn’t it seem like those “good gobbling days” can sometimes seem few and far between. You know the ones - the sun is shining, high pressure, there’s little or no wind and the toms are fired up and “gobbling their heads off.” I’ve hunted many states for turkeys and oftentimes it seems like those days are too infrequent with the volatile weather spring typically ushers in. With the period’s fast changing, unpredictable weather hunters should be prepared to hunt in the rain, wind and sometimes even snow. It’s important to know how turkeys act when each phenomenon occurs. With rain, it really depends on the severity of the storm. With drizzle or a light rain, the turkeys really don’t seem to change their habits much. When it 30
Cooperative Farming News
comes to a downpour, they will head for cover. They seem to know ahead of time when harsh weather is going to hit. Their inner ear can probably sense the barometric pressure change. Once the grass, brush and foliage are wet, turkeys will frequent open fields, meadows and pastures. Probably for no other reason than so their feathers don’t soak up the water and they can dry off. In this situation, they probably aren’t going to be very vocal so you’ll need to use your optics and knowledge of the area to locate them. I’ll always advocate safety, but sometimes thunder can be helpful. If the lightning accompanying the thunder is close, please retreat. But I’ve killed several birds because they couldn’t resist gobbling when
BY TODD AMENRUD
the thunder cracked. Just like many locator calls will make a turkey “shock gobble,” the roar of thunder can induce a gobble out of a tom to let you know exactly where he is. With as much snow and cold as we’ve received this year, who knows what we might receive through turkey season. “Global warming,” he said sarcastically. If you hunt during the early part of the season, snow is a serious concern, especially in northern states. During a South Dakota hunt years ago we received a blizzard and were slapped with three feet of wet, heavy white stuff in two days. It made getting around more difficult but it also made fresh signs very easy
to see. Snow doesn’t seem to bother them as much as rain does. If it’s harsh, they’ll go to cover, but unlike rain, after, they don’t seem to need to search out the open fields and pastures as dependably as they do with soaking wet feathers. The snow doesn’t bother them that much but the severe temperatures that sometimes accompany snow can often make them so quiet it seems like they disappeared. If it’s later in the spring and the hens are nesting this may also cause the hens to abandon the nest. When it comes to wind, use some common sense… where do you want to be? Turkeys don’t like cruel winds either. They still need to go about their daily routine of feeding, breeding and all the other things that make a turkey’s life busy, but they’ll be doing it out of the wind somewhere. They typically won’t be far away from where you usually find them. Look for thick parcels of timber, pine plantations or search for a drainage or gully that runs perpendicular to the wind. Just use the brain God gave you. With these two weather phenomena, or even with the onset of low pressure without rain, the gobblers can become very quiet. They might still react to your calling, but there’s a good chance that they’ll come in totally silent. The key is to know for sure that the birds are there. After sitting for a period, how do you know whether it’s time to get up and move or change tactics if you have silent toms? Having confidence in the area is a key. This is why scouting is so important. You need to know the birds are in the immediate area. While pursuing turkeys it seems I use my optics more during harsh weather than at other times, obviously because they aren’t gobbling as much. Also, as said, if they’re out in the open fields and pastures they are much easier to see at greater distances. You may need to change your calling habits a bit, or simply change the call that you’re using. If you can’t hear as well in wind or rain, even with their superior sense of hearing, oftentimes, neither can a turkey. I like to use louder calls such as a box call, or slates made from aluminum or titanium when “sound-oppressing conditions” roll in. In most bad weather situations, gobblers aren’t going to be as vocal as they are during nice When locating birds, it’s a good idea to weather. Oftentimes you need to physically see the birds to know where they are. use the turkey’s excellent hearing to your (Photo Credit: Todd Amenrud)
April 2021
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Bad weather served to aid in this bird’s demise. A big thunderhead came rumbling through and every time it would thunder, the bird would gobble, giving away his location. (Photo Credit: Todd Amenrud)
advantage and position yourself downwind of a given parcel - because of their exceptional hearing they can more than likely still hear your locator call, but now you can hear their response much better with the wind helping you out. If you’re hunting with a partner make sure you stand a fair distance apart from one another when you locate so you can better triangulate a position on an answering tom. Blinds can also come in handy in bad weather of all kinds. I have several different blinds that I like to use for different situations. You can even fashion a blind from natural material from the area, but it’s much more comfortable in a blind that keeps you protected from the elements. You can also get away with much more movement in a blind. Lastly, decoys are a tool I wouldn’t be without, especially in bad weather. Often they aren’t as vocal when various weather phenomena hit, but they do still react visually. In rain, I’ve set up a small flock of decoys in a large agricultural field and never had to call at all. That’s the time of the year when turkeys want to get together with other turkeys so they react positively to your offering. A hunter should be prepared for the worst. With limited time to hunt, you need to make the best of any situation. If you experience bad weather on your hunt, don’t give up. The turkeys are still there somewhere and persistence does pay off.
Don’t give up if you get unfavorable weather during your hunt. The birds are still there. When snowing, the toms probably aren’t going to gobble as much as they do during nice weather, but seeing the birds becomes much easier and fresh sign becomes obvious. (Photo Credit: NWTF)
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Cooperative Farming News
Persian Braised Venison Stew
over Garlicky Cheese Mashed Potatoes Persian Venison Stew is intoxicating over creamy cheesy grits or garlicky mashed potatoes. Persian spices such as turmeric, mint and cilantro add an exotic flavor that pairs so well with venison. Because venison has an earthy flavor and is such a hearty meat, it is exceptional with the strong flavors of the herbs and spices in this dish. The “stew” part of this dish consists of tomatoes, garlic, collards and white beans, making this dish one of my all-time favorite comfort meals! 3 pounds venison hindquarter, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt and black pepper 1 large yellow or Vidalia onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 2 teaspoons lemon zest plus juice of 1 lemon 3-4 cups low sodium beef broth 1 14-ounce can Marzano stewed tomatoes 1 14-ounce can white beans, drained 2 cups collards 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped 1/4 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped 3 cups cheesy garlic grits or garlicky mashed potatoes 1 Tablespoon chopped chives April 2021
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1/2 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped goat cheese, for serving fresh mint, for serving 1. Heat the oven to 300 degrees F. 2. Generously season the venison with salt and pepper. 3. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil until it is almost smoking. Place 1/3 of the venison in the pot and brown on all sides. Remove the venison to a plate with a slotted spoon and continue with the rest of the venison. 4. Add the onion and cook about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic, crushed red pepper, turmeric, lemon zest and juice, and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes. 5. Add venison to the Dutch oven and pour in the 3 cups broth, along with the tomatoes. Bring to a boil and turn off the heat. Place Dutch oven in the preheated oven and cook covered for 3 hours or until the venison is tender. 6. Remove from the oven and place over low heat. Add any remaining broth to create the thickness you like. Stir in the beans, collards, cilantro and dill and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until the greens are wilted. 7. To serve, divide cheesy garlic grits or mashed pota-
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Cooperative Farming News
toes among the bowls and ladle stew over. Add toppings like chives, parsley, mint, jalapeño peppers and goat cheese. Enjoy!
About Stacy Lyn Harris Stacy Lyn Harris is a best-selling cookbook author, blogger, TV personality, public speaker, wife and mother of seven children. She currently lives in Pike Road, Alabama, with her husband Scott and their children. Stacy Lyn regularly appears on cable and broadcast television as a guest chef and sustainable living expert. Her critically-acclaimed “Harvest Cookbook” was published in 2017 and contains many of her family’s favorite recipes, along with stories from her life growing up in the Black Belt and tips she’s learned along the way.
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In Spite of Challenges, 2020 a Record Year for AFC By Mary Catherine Gaston
To open his report to the 84th annual membership meeting of Alabama Farmers Cooperative, AFC President and CEO Rivers Myres shared something that was in short supply most places around the world throughout 2020: good news. Myres was pleased to announce that despite the myriad challenges 2020 brought, AFC managed to record the cooperative’s highest net profits ever. “2020 will go down in history as a year that proved what AFC is made of,” Myres said. “Together we navigated through four storms in the Gulf [of Mexico] and a global pandemic—and came through even stronger than ever before.” Myres observed that the success AFC achieved in the midst of historically difficult circumstances further reinforced his confidence in the cooperative’s leadership and their ability to work strategically but compassionately through especially trying times. “I have never been prouder of AFC’s leadership. I am proud of who we are and what we do to serve our customers, teammates and communities with excellence and integrity,” Myres said. Before sharing highlights from the past year for each of AFC’s divisions, Myres first pointed out that 82 percent of AFC’s Member Cooperatives recorded profits in 2020, while 27 cooperative managers earned the President’s Award. The Bonnie Plants team distinguished itself in 2020 with their commitment to health and safety on 36
Cooperative Farming News
a national level. Mike Sutterer, Bonnie’s president and CEO, led the efforts to ensure that COVID-19 outbreaks were carefully managed through the creation of an Emergency Sanitation Response Team composed of Bonnie associates nationwide. Myres recognized Agri-AFC CEO Mike Malone’s retirement and expressed gratitude for his outstanding leadership. During Malone’s 14-year tenure at Agri-AFC’s helm, the joint venture’s annual net income grew from $1.3 million to $15.9 million. Malone’s retirement came at the end of another record-setting year for Agri-AFC. Still other divisions celebrated remarkable accomplishments notwithstanding 2020’s challenges. Frank Currie Gin ginned more than 50,000 bales, while a new joint venture between Purina and AFC Feed allowed for market expansion, new product offerings and improved customer service. In West Alabama, SouthFresh leased its processing facility to Consolidated Catfish Producers and its Feed division recorded a profit. Continuing the good news, Myres announced that AFC’s 2020 successes allowed for the retirement of $2.2 million in equity and patronage of nearly $8.6 million. As for next steps, Myres cast a bold, specific vision for AFC in 2021. “As we step into 2021 one thing is for certain: We will continue to focus on our strategic plan for success—our people, our partnerships and our profitability,” Myres said. “AFC’s people are the key to
the organization’s success and must never be taken for granted.” Referring to the 2021 focus on partnerships, Myres highlighted three that hold great promise for AFC’s future growth. In reconfiguring the Bonnie Plants joint venture to a 50/50 partnership with Scotts Miracle Gro, Myres stated that it “brings together the leader in live goods with the leader in lawn and garden,” securing both Bonnie’s and AFC’s future. As a result of this partnership, AFC’s board of directors approved the retirement of $21 million in equity, which brings AFC to within 10 years of equity outstanding. The $21 million in equity retirement will be paid to AFC’s members in April 2021. Effective August 1, 2020, AFC Farm and Home, TFC Farm Supply, Faithway Feed Company and Alliance Farm and Ranch joined together to form Faithway Alliance. The Faithway Alliance joint venture will improve purchasing power, logistics and customer service for feed, farm and home customers. Likewise, in September 2020, Agri-AFC, Winfield United, GreenPoint AG and TFC wholesale agronomy consolidated under the name GreenPoint Ag Holdings (GPAH). The resulting venture is a top 5 wholesale and retail agronomy company with sales of more than $1 billion annually. As a powerful new force in the agronomic supply and services field, GPAH has four main goals: Delivering total agricultural solutions, assisting manufactur-
ers with research and development, creating synergies among talent, technology, operations and supply chain and producing patronage for our members. Jeff Blair will serve as GPAH’s CEO. AFC Director David Womack ended his term as Board Chairman at the meeting, but before he passed the gavel to incoming Chairman Ben Haynes, he recognized Jimmy Newby for eighteen years of service on AFC’s Board of Directors. “Jimmy joined the board in 2003 and has been an exemplary board member,” Womack said. “Jimmy’s leadership, wisdom and service have been greatly appreciated.” In conclusion, Myres commended the AFC team for their hard work during 2020 and encouraged them to continue working hard in 2021. “No matter how successful we are, whether in business or in life, there will always be obstacles that challenge us,” Myres said. “Whatever they may be, do not fear them. Embrace them as opportunities to become your best. These are the very things that prepare us to run faster, stretch further, and grow stronger.” He expressed his pride in AFC and the AFC team, saying that the organization will continue to focus on what’s most important— “to have the right people in the right places, and do the right things for the right reasons.” With his signature closing, Myres reminded those gathered to “watch us win together.”
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April 2021
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2019 -2020 President’s Awards
Russell Lassiter
Todd Booker
Andalusia Farmers Cooperative
Doug Smith
Ryan Williams
Coffee County Farmers Cooperative
Cooperative Farming News
Altha Farmers Cooperative
Wayne Gilliam
John Curtis
Lauderdale County Cooperative
Ricky Wilks
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James Lynn
Geneva County Cooperative
Reggie Shook
Jay Peanut Farmers Cooperative
Cherokee Farmers Cooperative
Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative
Todd Smith
Farmers Cooperative Market
Andrew Dempsey
Tim Wood
Atmore Truckers Association
Tuscaloosa Farmers Cooperative
Limestone Farmers Cooperative
John Holley
Lawrence County Exchange
Chris Elliott Marian County Cooperative
Criteria: Positive local earnings and Net margin to sales ≥ 1.5%
Cody King
Brian Keith
Walker County Farmers Cooperative
Tim Brown
Todd Lawrence Farmers Cooperative, Inc.
Madison County Cooperative
Quality Cooperative, Inc.
Danny Dewrell
Perry Catrett
Randolph Farmers Cooperative
Keith Griffin
Daniel Salter
Marshall Farmers Cooperative
Goshen Farmers Cooperative
Luverne Cooperative Services
Lance Ezelle
Scott Hartley
Dekalb Farmers Cooperative
Bradley Hopkins
Taleecon Farmers Cooperative
Morgan County Cooperative
NOT PICTURED:
NOT PICTURED:
William Carlew
Steve Lann
Elberta Farmers Cooperative
Marion County Cooperative
April 2021
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Jimmy Newby 1945 - 2021
The board and staff of Alabama Farmers Cooperative dedicate the April 2021 Cooperative Farming News issue to the memory of Mr. James “Jimmy” Newby, Jr., who passed away February 27, 2021. Mr. Newby, of Athens, Alabama, served on the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Board of Directors since 2003. He served on the Limestone Farmers Cooperative Board since 1992 and was board president of the newly organized Tennessee Valley Cooperative. Mr. Newby received his Bachelor of Science degree from Athens State. He was a partner of Newby Farms and Moore & Newby Gin, Inc. He ran the 10,000-acre farming operation with his family, growing cotton, corn, soybeans, wheat, rye, and hay and raising Holstein cattle. A pillar of the community, Mr. Newby mentored many and always had time to listen to anyone seeking his guidance. Mr. Newby was humble, approachable and loved to talk to anyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His wisdom and knowledge will be greatly missed by all the lives he touched. AFC’s board and staff express their deepest sympathy to the Newby family. 40
Cooperative Farming News
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Photos by: Nadia Wilder Photography
SSouthern ue’s Mama
Kitchen
BY CA R O LY N D R I N KA R D
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Cooperative Farming News
S
ue Garrett does not know what the word “retirement“ means! For 20 years, she taught school at Vinson Elementary School and then became assistant principal, retiring in 2002. After this, she owned a fabric shop, where she sewed and monogrammed children’s clothes. Then, she became her church’s secretary and later, the “Mission and Outreach Minister.” She also taught Sunday school and played the piano for church services. “I’ve always worked,” she stated, “and I’ve always liked to work!” Since July, Sue Garrett has become a social media sensation, and her thousands of followers know her as “Mama Sue,” the sweet, gentle lady with the Southern “purr,” who welcomes everyone into her kitchen for some good home-cooked food. Mama Sue’s rise to social media stardom came about quite by accident. Everyone in her hometown of Harpersville, Alabama, already knew that Sue Garrett was a good cook. She often posted pictures of dishes she had made for her family and shared recipes with friends on her personal Facebook page. In June, Kate DeLoach, who owns DeLoach Farms with her husband John, saw some of those posts and approached Sue’s daughter, Amy Martin, about her mother possibly making a video, cooking vegetables from their farm. DeLoach Farms had just started taking orders for their farm to door seasonal vegetable boxes, which they delivered weekly in the area. They wanted Sue to make a video, showing how easy it was to cook the vegetables from one of their boxes. For Sue, this was a breeze! From her box, she cooked green beans, fried okra, squash and corn. Then she used the fresh peaches to make a peach cobbler. The box also contained tomatoes and cucumbers, and Sue shared how to use both in a meal. DeLoach Farms posted the video on their page, and hundreds more shared it. Sue Garrett was a big hit! Suddenly, she was besieged with requests to do more videos. In July, Amy Martin helped her mother create and post the page, “Mama Sue’s Southern Kitchen.” The page received over 50,000 views. Since July, Mama Sue’s Southern Kitchen has continued to grow, as followers have shared her page daily. With each video, she receives thousands of “likes” and “comments.” She now has viewers from all over the U. S., Canada and Australia. In January, her videos reached 3,500,000 people. Sue’s viewers relate to her calm, easy manner and kind, Southern voice. Many compare her to their mothers and grandmothers, sharing childhood memories of cooking with their loved ones. Her recipes are Southern staples that use ingredients found in most kitchens. However, Mama Sue quickly realized that
Sue loves to garden and canned over 200 jars of tomatoes, green beans, peas, okra and potatoes last year. In some of her videos, she has shown how to can homegrown vegetables, especially okra.
When viewers asked for a cookbook, Sue put one together with her own family recipes and a few other favorites. She ordered 1500 copies at first, but after showing the cookbook on a video, she sold 760 copies in the first 24 hours.
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Sue Garrett prides herself on being a country girl who was raised on a working farm and picked cotton. She still lives on family land, 30 miles south of Birmingham in Harpersville.
Sue has been married for 48 years to Harold Garrett, who coached football at Vincent High School for 28 years. Harold often films Sue while she cooks. The Garretts have two children and 9 grandchildren.
some followers, in other parts of the world, were unable to get common ingredients she had used in her recipes. For example, she once had to explain what “Rotel” was to fans in Canada and Australia. Viewers in northern states let her know that they could not find “self-rising cornmeal.” Still, Sue cooks her time-honored recipes the way she was taught. She once made easy dumplings with flour tortillas. She explained that there were many other ways to make dumplings, but this was a quick, simple way for young mothers to fix good Southern comfort food. Sue also shared her own Southern biscuit recipe, using cold butter, sugar, self-rising flour and sweet milk (which she later had to explain was just her Central Alabama way of saying, “milk”). “Now, I know this is different from what you may have done, “ she smiled, “and that’s all right. This is just what works for me!” Readers often ask Sue to show them how to make specific dishes. Some requests are nostalgic, like the one for Depression Pie. Others are comforting, like the young mother who asked Sue to teach her how to make Egg Salad. Some are humorous, like when her son, Chris, appeared on camera with her, making beanie weenies, a family favorite. Sue believes that cooking is an act of love, and there is no better way to show love for your family than to cook them a good meal. She explained that
there is no one way to cook Southern food, and she learns something new every day from her fans. “It’s the little things that most of us take for granted,” she said. “If they ask me, I try to show them how to
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Cooperative Farming News
After making a video for DeLoach Farms, cooking all the vegetables in their boxes, Sue was amazed! When Kate DeLoach posted the video, hundreds shared it. Sue received so many requests to do more videos that Amy Martin helped her mother create and post the page, “Mama Sue’s Southern Kitchen,” in July. The page received over 50,000 views.
do it, but I always tell them that someone else may do this differently, and that’s all right! This is what works for me!” After each video, Mama Sue posts the recipe. “It’s more work for me,” she stated, “but I want to make sure my followers have the right measurements.” When viewers asked about a cookbook, Mama Sue put one together with her own family recipes and a few other favorites. At first, she ordered 1500 copies, but after showing the cookbook on one video, she sold 760 in the first 24 hours. Needless to say, she had to reorder many times.
Sue Garrett prides herself on being a country girl, who was raised on a working farm. “We had a large family,” she laughed. “We grew a ‘patch of peas’ or a ‘patch of corn,’ and we picked and put up what we grew.” She still lives on family land, 30 miles south of Birmingham in Harpersville. Sue has been married for 48 years to Harold Garrett, who coached football at Vincent High School for 28 years. She has two children, Chris and Amy, who are both educators. She often talks about her nine grandchildren, and she has even made homemade soup with three of her granddaughters. When grandbaby Blake was born prematurely in December, thousands of her readers asked for daily reports and offered encouragement and support. Her shows are a family event with either Harold or Amy filming. Since Sue has now gotten a swish, her viewers are able to see even more. Besides cooking, Sue loves to garden and can her harvests. In 2020, she canned over 200 jars of tomatoes, green beans, peas, okra and potatoes. In some of her videos, she has shown how to can homegrown vegetables, especially okra. Mama Sue has now been doing her shows for nine months, but she has quickly realized that her videos are about much more than cooking. Each one has become a personal ministry. “I want to teach young mothers, who have so little time, that cooking is not hard, and it gives you such a wonderful opportunity to be with your family and enjoy a good meal together!” With each video, Mama Sue also encourages everyone to be “salt and light” to others. Using Mathew 5:1316, she urges her followers to “let your light shine so others can see Jesus through you.” This is exactly what Sue does in each video. Mama Sue (Sue Garrett) welcomes everyone into her Southern kitchen. With each dish, she brings light to thousands of viewers, struggling through some very dark times. She seasons each recipe with love, compassion, kindness and hope, Sue Garrett signs each cookbook ordered by her fans. She has had to reorder many times because something that everyone needs right the books are so popular. They contain practical, easy-to-follow recipes with ingredients most people now. have in their pantries. April 2021 45
t ’ n o d s e s s o l t n e Equipm oil the harvest. p s o t e v ha
AlfaInsurance.com 46
Cooperative Farming News
HOW’S YOUR GARDEN BY L OIS T R IG G C H A P L I N
Virginia Sweets, A Big Surprise
An Amaryllis that Returns
Gardeners who have the time and space to experiment with tomatoes often do. For the last few years I have tried, with various levels of success, a number of paste, beefsteak and cherry types. One recommendation came from a Huntsville gardener who had good luck with an heirloom called Virginia Sweets. The biggest tomatoes can be tricky because they take longest to mature, thus are subject to more chances for pests, bad weather and all the other things that plague America’s favorite homegrown crop. Tomatoes are among the most challenging crops to grow, but this one just sort of outgrew the leaf diseases that plague tomatoes in our area and it kept on producing late into the season. A yellow tomato with red streaks, it is milder than my favorite and most reliable heirloom, Cherokee Purple, but it is now a welcome addition to our table. The yellow slices have a nice, mild flavor and tomatoes appear until the end of the season.
In winter, potted amaryllis brightens dreary days indoors, but come spring, there is another amaryllis that brightens flower beds. It’s an old-fashioned plant, not found in the trade as much as in an old garden, but is easy to dig, divide and distribute. Known as hardy amaryllis because it is much more cold hardy than indoor hybrid types, this amaryllis looks much like the fancy hybrids, but it’s tougher. Although hybrid types are worth trying in the garden after they bloom, most can’t be expected to perennialize in Alabama. On the other hand, hardy amaryllis (Hippeastrum x johnsonii) thrives throughout the state year after year. For best flowering it needs full sun. Like most bulbs, it also needs good drainage. It also goes by the names Johnson’s amaryllis and St. Joseph’s lily. This is a pass-along plant, only to be found in specialty nurseries or in the garden of another plant aficionado.
Virginia Sweets tomato
Hardy amaryllis
SIMPLE TIMES
THE CO-OP PANTRY
April 2021
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Spot the Squash Vine Borer This little moth has ruined many a squash plant. Just about the time of the first harvest, a section of the plant wilts without warning. Upon close inspection one sees a destroyed section of stem where a big, fat, greasy-looking white caterpillar is eating away inside to cause the wilting. Protected inside, it is almost impossible to control the pest. The adult squash vine borer is a fast-flying, brightly-colored daytime moth (most moths are active at night). It flies more like a wasp than a moth. The female moth lays tiny, flat, light brown, shiny, single eggs along the stems of the squash plant anywhere from the base of the plant near the ground to the leaves. One way to fight the pest is to remove each egg and smash it. Of course, the other is to try to kill the flying moth. Some gardeners protect the plant with insecticides to hopefully kill the caterpillar when it first hatches from the egg, before it can bore inside. This helps, but requires very thorough spraying the base and all the stems with an approved insecticide, and the insecticide residue must remain present on the stem for the caterpillar to ingest when it hatches. It is easier to cover a few plants with a very fine netting such as tulle to deny the moth access to the stems. Remove the tulle when female squash
blooms appear so that bees can pollinate them. By that time plants are large enough so that they should at least bear a few harvests before the moths get the best of the plants. As an additional layer of protection, some gardeners place yellow sticky cards or a shallow yellow bowl filled with soapy water among the plants to trap moths.
Blossoms That Taste Good
Collard blossoms
Some cool season crops that flower in spring – collards, kale, arugula, radishes – produce a multitude of tasty flowers as they end their season. Sprinkle them on salads or any dish for color. Most taste like a mild version of the leafy crop, often with a hint of sweetness from nectar in the flower.
Discover Garden Podcasts Squash borer egg
Squash borer adultt
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Cooperative Farming News
Podcasts are a great way to learn from gardeners, farmers, researchers, suppliers, birders, beekeepers, and other experienced folks about many farm and garden topics. Scan through the search results for “farming,” “gardening,” “flowers,” and other keywords to find an assortment of related podcasts to peruse.
Podcast
SIMPLE TIMES BY SU Z Y Mc C RAY
THE CO-OP PANTRY
Planting and Living by the Moon Signs
Her best pair of sewing scissors and the Old Farmer’s Almanac always hung on a nail on the wall by her rocking chair. The little book was thinner then and the pages weren’t glossy, but in the late 1940s, it was almost the “bible” of the how-to’s and when’s of planting and completing other jobs around the farm, whether it was when to castrate a hog or the best time to plant peas. Going by the moon signs or working by the seasons wasn’t just considered folklore or superstitions in long years past. It was as calculated and carefully followed then as any modern science is now where GPS guides farmers in planting seed or distributing fertilizer. While many may scoff at the notion today, even those who are most skeptical seem to always have several remembered stories of how their grandparents or great-grandparents wouldn’t sow or reap unless “the signs were right” and how their crops always seemed to match their faith. This spring as my husband readied to plant potatoes in our now extended garden, he covered the
soil with plastic temporarily to deter the rainy season we were having (last year the first batch of potatoes planted tried to rot in the ground while those planted during a drier time flourished). Then he hunted an almanac to tell him just when to plant that first long row. Since our last year’s garden had increased fourfold in size, planting at the right times was even more important. Around here, most gardeners always said to plant your okra when the farmers around you planted their cotton. But there’s much more to it than that! As we’ve studied to go back to a simpler way of life, it’s hard not to believe that the way practiced by my grandparents, great-grandparents and great-great-grandparents right here on this patch of earth wasn’t based on some sort of truth! If you’re just trying to plant by the moon phases listed on a calendar (our bank calendar and the one from our insurance agent both show the moon signs), it may seem more complicated than it really is. That’s why I like to use an almanac to help my poor brain figure it out! April 2021
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The 2021 Farmer’s Almanac gives this simple explanation: plant flowers and vegetables that bear crops ABOVE GROUND during the light, or waxing, of the moon (from the day the moon is new until the day the moon is full). Plant flowering bulbs and vegetables that bear crops BELOW GROUND during the dark, or waning, of the moon (from the day after it is full to the day before it is new again)! That almanac and most others then feature a chart featuring different days that tell you when those best actual dates are for that year! If that still sounds too complicated for you (but I promise it isn’t) the almanacs have other charts showing such ways you can observe nature and still plant correctly such as “plant potatoes when the first dandelion blooms” or “plant corn when oak leaves are the size of a squirrel’s ear.” (And no I will not kill you a squirrel so you can measure its ear!) I interviewed a local Blount farmer famous for his giant juicy red tomatoes and other farm crops several years ago. He told me he never followed the signs but that statement, like so many other farmers I’d talked to, was ALWAYS followed by a big “But .…” He remembered that his grandparents always followed the signs religiously. A family member of ours recounted how she’d grown squash a few years ago and had bushy green 50
Cooperative Farming News
plants but almost no squash! A local farmer took one look, asked when she’d planted them, and simply shook his head … she plants by the signs now and has had no more trouble. Many almanacs and articles on the internet explain there are phases of the moon when you can cut your hair if you want more growth, cut your hair if you don’t want growth, set your hens when you want only girl chicks, castrate animals in order to not have extra-ordinary bleeding, when to wean calves (and human babies!), and more.There’s even some who will tell you there are better days to harvest your crops so that they “keep better!” If it still seems complicated, simply go to your local Co-op and ask THEM when the farmers around you plant whatever seed you are buying right then! We can’t eat at our dining room table right now; it’s covered in seeds: Seeds we bought at the Blount County Co-op last year when the seasons were ending and we wanted to be prepared for whatever might come this growing season in our unsteady world; seeds we saved from our heirloom plants from last year; and seeds sent to me by friends, such as the loofah seed a nearby friend gifted me to use in some of my goat milk soap for extra scrubbing! We’ve tried planting in our greenhouse again using the signs as our guide and so far, things are going well.
So, whether you’re planting in containers or have two acres of fertile soil, why not try an experiment? Plant some things by “the signs” and others just whenever the fancy strikes you, and then see which plants do the best. It might be a fun experiment for the kids! Charts utilizing the “signs” go back as far as 1300 B.C. And many old-timers, such as those interviewed in the Foxfire Books, quote Genesis 1:14 and Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 as how this is all biblical and not superstitious. As I am writing this on my laptop, the sun is shining and the warm fertile soil smell here is the same as my many grandparents enjoyed, the smell that set them to planting their gardens and even their cotton crops. Old Pete the mule (who worked in the nearby ore mines but plowed my uncle’s and my grandparents’ fields in the afternoons after his “real” job) has been replaced by a shiny green tractor. I wear my jeans and a tee shirt instead of long dresses and bonnets like my mama and others wore (but Mack may still sport a pair of overalls while he works!). So much has changed but what matters remains the same. “And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons and for days and years.” Genesis 1:14 (Suzy and Mack live on a small homestead in Blount County and can be reached on Facebook or at suzy.mccray@yahoo.com.)
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Tips for your 2021 Spring Garden for April - June PREPARE & MAINTAIN: Clean out the garden shed and storage area. Mow your lawn regularly. Replace old mulch around plants. TIP: In June, make PLANT: sure you are watering Start planting your hanging baskets and herb garden. containers more often. Finish planting any Due to hotter temperatures, they summer annuals. tend to dry out more Begin planting quickly. tomatoes and other vegetables. PLAN: Plant your different salad leaf varieties.
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PLAN: Place birdbaths in a shaded area, next to a tree or shrub. This keeps the water from evaporating too quickly, and encourages birds to use it.
Cooperative Farming News
HOWLE’S HINTS BY JOH N HOW L E
THE HERB FARMER April HOW’S YOUR GARDEN “Elections should be held on April 16th – the day after we pay our income taxes. That is one of the few things that might discourage politicians from being big spenders.”
sources too far away from their homes. Any time you can buy local, you are keeping the money and resources in your own community. This is extremely important if we are going to wean ourselves off foreign suppliers for our foods, goods and services. In a November 2020 article in Lawfare by Stephanie Kelemen called “Understanding Trump’s Invocation of the Defense Production Act for Meat,” the author talks about Donald Trump invoking the DPA when the meat processing plants were closing because of high rates of coronavirus infections of the workers. The DPA order designated meat and poultry as products “essential to the national defense.” Kelemen also makes a good argument that food is a “fundamental pillar of national security considerations in the modern era.” She shows through history how the lack of consistent access to enough food has caused civil unrest. From as recently as the Arab Spring to as far back as Hitler cutting off the food supply in the USSR to “starve out” the Russians with lower casualty rates for the outnumbered German
SIMPLE TIMES
- Thomas Sowell
April is a great time to be outdoors. The thick coat of winter has been shed, and it’s time to start the warm weather activities. At the top of the list is the family garden. A well-timed garden can provide food three out of four seasons of the year, and any time you can assert your independence and self-sufficiency, you should do so. Families across America have become too dependent on not only foreign sources of food but food
THE CO-OP PANTRY
April 2021
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troops. It even had a name. It was called the “Nazi Hunger Plan.” Finally, there’s another term to be familiar with, and that is agro-terrorism. This is defined by the Congressional Research Service as the “deliberate introduction of an animal or plant disease with the goal of generating fear, causing economic loss, and/or undermining social stability.” Kelemen states that since 9/11, our country has more than tripled its funding for agriculture-related homeland security activities. With these things in mind, it certainly makes sense to have at least a small garden for your own family or be willing to support your community’s “buy local” programs. America stayed strong through two World Wars, and a big part of that was the Victory Gardens that our leaders asked the patriots to plant for national defense. This is an excellent time to visit your local Co-op to start taking inventory of what you will need to begin preparing and growing your own food.
Midseason Plantings Midseason May and June plantings usually yield the biggest harvests. Beans, peas and okra are staples that will grow in any part of Alabama. Okra performs best when planted during a time when the soil is warm. Germination rates will be higher and early growth is rapid. This rapid, early growth helps the plant get quickly through the vulnerable sprouting stage when insects and birds can attack. If cut and picked regularly, okra and green beans will produce late into the season.
Early-Season Plantings If you want to get the most productivity from your garden, go with an early-season, midseason and late season planting. For the early season or spring planting, you can’t go wrong with tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, squash, corn and onions. You can be planting toward the last half of this month in most Alabama regions. Even if the soil is still a bit cold, these plants will grow once the last threat of frost is over for the year. They require minimal care. Just make sure your soil pH and fertilizer requirements have been met, and your subsequent season plantings will thrive as well. Just remember, plants like corn require higher amounts of nitrogen for best yields.
A section of bull-wire from your Co-op will secure plenty of running green beans.
Late-Season
Tomatos, peppers, and cabbage are great early season choices.
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Late season is the time you plant your winter greens. For the best results, plant in mid to late September so the plants have grown enough leaf matter for healthy photosynthesis. If you have plenty of leaf growth going into the first frost, the plants will continue to grow and even be enhanced by a sweeter flavor due to the frost. This planting of winter greens should provide you with healthy greenery throughout the winter.
Winter greens will provide greenery for the plate well into late winter.
A 7-quart canner will allow long-term storage of your green beans and other produce.
During the offseason of your garden in late winter, you can add leaves and other organic matter that will break down over the course of the cold months leading into spring. The more organic growth you
have in your garden, the better. If you are seeing earthworms, that’s a good sign your soil is healthy and aerated.
Satisfy your independent spirit with a garden.
Preserve the Produce Once you have your harvest coming in, you’ll hopefully have more produce than you can eat, so that makes long-term preservation an essential part of your gardening project. Freezing your produce in freezer bags is by far the easiest and fastest method of food preservation. For instance, if you make a big pot of peas and your family can’t eat all of it, it’s quite simple to put the remaining peas in freezer bags in the freezer for long-term storage. Canning is more time intensive but the big advantage is the food lasts a long time even if the power goes off. If you store your jars at room temperature out of the sun’s rays, you are looking at five years or more storage potential. This April, enjoy the feeling of independence as you prepare, plant and harvest your own vegetables. You are doing your part to make your community strong and self-sufficient. April 2021
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THE MAGIC OF GARDENING
April Fools
Many years ago I was asked to come up with a farm-related April Fool’s Day joke for a local TV station. I called a local strawberry farmer and got his permission to pull the prank on his farm. I then called a doughnut shop who donated 10 dozen doughnuts to the effort. Eight dozen regular doughnuts and two dozen strawberry-filled doughnuts. You can probably see where this is headed. We took the plain doughnuts and pushed both blooms and strawberries from green to ripe through the holes and mixed the filled doughnuts in amongst the plants as well. The TV reporter did the story as straight faced as if he was talking about a regular segment on the news. He interviewed the farmer about this new crop and he interviewed me about how the crop was de56
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veloped. I gave a professor in the horticulture department at Auburn University the credit. I had a handful of Cheerios that I held out to show they could be grown by any gardener from seed. The story aired the evening of April 1 and the next day our office received numerous calls (as did the TV station) asking where the seed could be ordered. I may have already known it was true but the quote of P.T. Barnum’s that “there’s a sucker born every minute” was proven once again. Over the years I have seen various versions of this prank with spaghetti trees and marshmallow shrubs. I never cease to be amazed at the number of folks who fall for these pranks. I believe it has a lot to do with our society’s distance from the farm and what is actually involved in food production. This was il-
B Y T O N Y G L OV E R
I puzzled just a second and then asked if the mother-in-law might have been telling her how much and not what kind of pepper to use?
lustrated to me when I was a youngster growing up on a farm in rural Cullman County. A Northern cousin of ours came to visit. At the time we had a crop of pimento peppers in the field being grown for a local cannery. We started one morning to the field and invited our cousin along to pick pimento peppers. He gave us a puzzled look and then said, “Do you mean to tell me that the red middle of an olive does not grow like that on the olive tree.” We all had a good laugh at his expense. As I mentioned, I grew up on a farm and also in a produce market my family owned. Over the years I have had a lot of strange requests for produce that does not exist. One time a man came in and asked for a seedless apple. I let out a little chuckle and said there was no such thing. He stomped out mumbling about how ignorant I was insisting that he regularly buys them from the grocery store. Now days you can buy pre-sliced apples without any seed so the joke may be on me. Although why people are willing to pay two or three times as much for a pre-sliced apple boggles the mind (P.T. Barnum would be proud). Of all the unusual requests, the one most humorous to me came from a young newlywed. She came into my produce market and walked around a minute and then approached me to ask if we had any “dash peppers.” When I asked for a little more of an explanation as to the type of pepper this might be she explained that her mother-in-law had provided her with a recipe. The recipe was for the favorite meal of her new husband and she was determined to make it as
good as his mom ever did. I puzzled just a second and then asked if the mother-in-law might have been telling her how much and not what kind of pepper to use? The young woman’s face turned as red as a seedless red delicious apple and she walked out. When I started this article, I think I had an interesting horticulture topic in mind but it appears that if that is what you expected, the joke is on you. April Fools.
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FOOD SAFETY
EGG SAFETY
for Easter and Other Times of the Year
Easter is just a few weeks away, and many children will find colored eggs nestled side by side with chocolate bunnies in cheerful baskets or lurking in hiding places waiting to be discovered. Always handle eggs properly to prevent foodborne illness. Consider the following when planning to buy eggs for Easter to dye.
What should you consider when purchasing eggs?
Always buy eggs from a refrigerated case. Choose eggs with clean, uncracked shells. Do not buy out-ofdate eggs. The USDA grade shield on the carton means that the eggs were graded for quality and checked for weight under the supervision of a trained USDA grader. State agencies monitor compliance for egg packers who do not use the USDA grading service.
What does the date on the egg carton mean?
Egg cartons with the USDA grade mark must dis-
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play a “Julian date,” the date the eggs were packed. Although not required, they may also carry an expiration date beyond which the eggs should not be sold but are still safe to eat. On cartons with the USDA grade mark, this date cannot exceed 30 days after the eggs were packed in the carton. Depending on the retailer, the expiration date may be less than 30 days. Eggs packed in cartons without the USDA grade mark are governed by the laws of their states.
How should eggs be refrigerated?
Refrigerate raw shell eggs in their cartons on the middle or lower inside shelf, not on the door, and away from any meat that might drip juices or any raw produce that might contact eggshells. Cover or wrap well any egg mixtures or leftover cooked egg dishes. For all perishable foods, including eggs and dishes containing eggs, allow no more than two hours at room tem-
B Y A N G E L A T R E A D AWAY
perature for preparation and serving, 30 minutes to one hour when it’s 85°F or hotter without refrigeration.
How long are eggs that have been refrigerated safe to eat?
Always buy eggs from a refrigerated case. Follow the same guidelines for refrigerator storage at home that you did in buying eggs from the store.
How long are hard cooked eggs that have been refrigerated, safe to eat?
A hard cooked egg, if keep in its shell, can be safely refrigerated for up to one week.
I just realized I left the egg carton on the kitchen counter overnight. Are the eggs safe to use?
Temperature fluctuation is critical to safety. After eggs are refrigerated, it is important that they stay that way. A cold egg left out at room temperature can sweat, facilitating the growth of bacteria. Refrigerated eggs should not be left out more than two hours.
Cooking With Eggs
What is an adequate temperature to cook an egg?
Eggs you serve immediately at home need to be cooked to 145 degrees and if serving in a serving line in a commercial kitchen they must reach 155 degrees. Please do not use raw eggs, unless they are pasteurized, in homemade ice cream because people can become infected with salmonella from raw eggs. Mix the
eggs with a little milk and sugar and heat quickly to 160 degrees to a custard state and then cool down and mix with your other ingredients when making homemade ice cream if you like that rich taste eggs give it.
How does salmonella infect eggs?
Salmonella bacteria are found in the intestinal tracts of animals, birds, reptiles, insects and humans. Salmonella may be found on the outside of the eggshell before the egg is washed or it may be found inside the egg if the hen was infected. It is estimated that one egg in 20,000 eggs may contain salmonella. Eggs contain natural antimicrobial substances in the egg white, and all eggs are washed and sanitized before they are packed. Egg recipes properly prepared in individual servings and promptly eaten are rarely a problem. Inadequate refrigeration, improper handling and insufficient cooking are all factors that have contributed to disease outbreaks. Salmonella is destroyed by heat. Eggs that have been handled and cooked properly should not cause human illness.
What usually causes salmonellosis?
Salmonellosis outbreaks are most often associated with animal foods, including chicken, eggs, pork and cheese, but have also been reported related to cantaloupe, tomatoes, alfalfa sprouts, orange juice and cereal among other foods. Human carriers play a big role in transmitting some types of salmonellosis. Salmonella bacteria can easily spread from one food to another and from the food handler to food if improper handwashing is practiced. The majority of reported salmonellosis outbreaks involving eggs or egg-containing foods have occurred in food service kitchens and were the result of inadequate refrigeration, improper handling and insufficient cooking. If not properly handled, salmonella bacteria can double every 20 minutes and a single bacterium can multiply into more than a million in six hours. Properly prepared egg recipes served in individual portions and promptly eaten are rarely a problem. You can ensure that your eggs maintain their high quality and safety by using good hygiene, cooking, refrigeration and handling practices.
Are eggs the only source of salmonella bacteria?
No. Salmonella bacteria are widely found in nature and easily spread. The bacteria can be found in the April 2021
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intestinal tracts of animals, birds, reptiles, insects and people. While the egg itself may not be contaminated when you buy it, it can become contaminated from various sources, such as hands, pets, other foods and kitchen equipment, too.
Dyeing and Handling Eggs you plan to Hunt
When dyeing eggs for Easter, be careful not to crack them because bacteria can enter the eggs through the cracks. Use food-grade dyes, such as commercial egg dyes, liquid food coloring or fruit drink powders. Hardcooked eggs should not sit out unrefrigerated for more than two hours. Keep eggs refrigerated until you put them into Easter baskets. Store eggs on a shelf inside the refrigerator rather than on the refrigerator door so they stay fully chilled. A good idea if the kids plan to eat their eggs is not to use the hard cooked eggs for hiding but replace with plastic eggs and save the hard cooked ones for them to eat later. If eggs are cracked or broken during the hunt, children may be disappointed when you have to throw them away. Therefore, it is better to keep the hard cooked eggs refrigerated until the hunt. Then, all can sit down and enjoy a safe Easter egg feast. For more Food Safety questions on this and anything else contact Regional Extension Agent Angela Treadaway from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at 205-410-3696 or contact your local County Extension Office.
February 2- Alabama Cottage Food Law March 2- Egg Safety April 6- Spring Cleaning in Your Kitchen May 4- Water Bath and Pressure Canning June 1- Tips for Summer BBQs July 6- Drying, Pickling, and Fermentation August 3- Starting a Food Business September 7- Food Safety for Groups October 5- Alabama Cottage Food Law November 2- Holiday Food Safety 60
Cooperative Farming News
Scan the QR Code or submit your questions at www.aces.edu/go/TableTalkTuesdays Our panel will answer them live on Facebook: @acesfoodsafety
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April 2021
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THOU ART WITH ME Many years ago, I was taking my daughter and son on a little Sunday evening stroll around our neighborhood. My daughter was eight years old at the time, and my son was six. Their little hands gripped tightly to mine as we began to cross a road several hundred yards down from our house. The little church on the corner had already started their evening service and we could hear them singing inside the building. We heard a “meowing” from behind us and turned around to see one of our kittens trying to follow us. So, after we crossed the road, we waited for the kitten to catch up with us. Just then, we heard tires squealing around a corner down the road from where we were standing. The guy in the car was driving like a maniac, quickly accelerating to a speed of about 50 miles per hour as he approached us. The kitten just barely made it across the road before the reckless driver got to where we were standing on the sidewalk. Out of frustration, I yelled out at the driver, “Slow down!” The driver stopped
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after he passed us. He pulled over into the church parking lot diagonally across from us. With anger in his voice, he yelled out, “What did you say Mister?” I replied, “Slow down coming through here. You almost ran over our kitten!” The driver replied with a string of expletives that would have made a sailor blush, then he drove off in the same reckless manner that caused the confrontation. It angered me that he cussed me out from that church parking lot during their worship service. But worse yet, he did it right in front of my two innocent, impressionable children. My kids immediately started crying. They were sobbing and pulling on me, saying, “Daddy, let’s go back home. We’re scared!” It upset me to see them so terrified and distraught. I guess what upset me the most about the incident was not that I got cussed out, but that my kids heard it and felt
unsafe and fearful, even though I was standing right there with them. Let me say that again … they were afraid, even though their father (their protector and provider) was standing right there next to them. That’s the incredible power that fear had over my children. It had the power to steal their confidence in the one who had always been there to keep them safe their entire lives. Fear has the same power over us “bigger children” as well. It has the ability to steal away our faith and confidence in our Heavenly Father who has promised to always be with us and protect us from harm. I’m reminded of a story about Jesus and His disciples found in the book of Luke, in Chapter 8. After a long, hard day of ministry, He told His disciples, “Let’s get in a boat and go to the other side of the lake” (Luke 8:22). They got in the boat and started their journey. Jesus was so tired that he fell asleep in the back of the boat on a pillow. If you remember this story, you know that a great storm arose, and the disciples thought they were going to drown. In total fear and panic, they woke Jesus from His sleep and said, “Master, don’t you care that we are about to die?” Jesus awoke from His sleep, rebuked the wind and waves, and the storm immediately died down. Then, He turned to His disciples and gave them a stern word of rebuke. “Why is it that you are so fearful? Where is your faith?” Why did Jesus rebuke His disciples that day? Because their fear had stolen away their confidence
and faith. Fear had so gripped their hearts that they questioned Jesus’ ability to save them from the seemingly hopeless circumstances that surrounded them. His presence in the boat with them should have given them sufficient courage to face the storm with fearlessness. We tend to be just like those disciples. We say “God is with us” with great conviction, but when the storms of life arise, fear steals away our confidence, and we fret and worry like He’s nowhere to be found. David, the young shepherd boy, however, completely understood the power of God’s presence when he said, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I WILL FEAR NO EVIL, for thou art with me.” This is where the children of Father God get their confidence. It comes from knowing that God is with us. If He’s standing by our side (or even sleeping in the boat we’re sailing in) there’s no reason for us to be afraid. Why are you fearful today? If you are a child of God, didn’t He promise you, “I will never leave you or forsake you”? If He is with you, just like He promised, is there any reason at all to be fearful? If you know the correct answer to that question fear will become a thing of the past. Romans 8:31 (NIV) If God is for us, who can be against us?
Join us for FEC2021! There is a $50 fee for this 2-day virtual conference to be held on Zoom. We will learn • How other food entrepreneurs made it to success • Rules from Department of Public Health representatives • Helpful financial information about how and where to sell your product
April 13 & 14 https://www.aces.edu/event/food-entrepreneur-conference-fecf2021/
April 2021
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THE CO-OP PANTRY BY M A RY DE L P H
National Grilled Cheese Month Grilled Cheese Soup 3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided 8 slices French bread 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 carrot, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 2 cans (14.5-ounces each) fat-free reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 cup milk 8 ounces Velveeta, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 4 ounces (1/2 of 8-ounce pkg.) cream cheese, cubed 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper 1/2 cup finely shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese Heat oven to 350 F. Brush 2 Tablespoons oil evenly onto both sides of bread slices; place on baking sheet. Bake 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Meanwhile, heat remaining oil in large saucepan on medium heat. Add vegetables; cook 10 minutes or until 64
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crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in broth and milk and bring to boil. Gradually stir in Velveeta, cooking on medium-low heat after each addition until melted. Add cream cheese; cook until melted, beating frequently with whisk. Stir in mustard and pepper. Heat broiler. Sprinkle toast slices with cheddar; broil 2 to 3 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with soup.
Ultimate Grilled Cheese 12 slices thick-cut bacon 1 cup good mayonnaise 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 white pullman loaf or sourdough bread, sliced 1/2inch thick (12 slices) 6 Tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature 6 ounces aged Gruyère cheese 6 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese
Preheat the oven to 400 F. Arrange the bacon in a single layer on a rack set over a sheet pan. Roast for 20 to 30 minutes, until nicely browned. Drain on a plate lined with paper towels and cut in 1-inch pieces. Combine the mayonnaise, mustard, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Lay 12 slices of bread on a board and spread each one lightly with butter. Flip the slices and spread each one generously with the mayonnaise mixture. Grate the cheeses in a food processor fitted with the largest grating disk and combine. Distribute the bacon evenly on half the slices of bread. Pile 1/3 cup grated cheese evenly on top of the bacon and top with the remaining bread slices, sauce side down. Meanwhile, heat an electric panini press. When the press is hot, cook the sandwiches for 3 to 5 minutes in batches until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Allow to cool for 2 minutes. Cut in half and serve warm. Note from Mary: If you don’t like the taste of Gruyère, you can substitute provolone, for a milder flavor.
Beer-Soaked Grilled Cheese Beer Batter 2 eggs 1 cup nutty, brown ale 1/8 cup flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Grilled Cheese Brunch Bake Cooking spray 6 Tablespoons mayonnaise 18 slices white bread 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided 12 slices deli ham 12 slices cooked bacon 8 eggs 1 cup milk Salt and ground black pepper to taste Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Spread an even layer of mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. Place 6 slices of bread, mayonnaise-side down in a single layer at the bottom of the casserole dish. Bake in the preheated oven until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove from oven and top each with 1 slice of cheddar cheese. Cover with 6 more slices of bread, mayonnaise-side up. Bake in preheated oven until bread is lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese on top. Arrange slices of ham on top; cover with another 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat with bacon slices, covering with another 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Arrange last 6 slices of bread, mayonnaise-side up, on top. Whisk eggs, milk, salt and black pepper in a large bowl. Pour evenly over bread. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese on top. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven until set, about 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking until cheese is bubbly and golden, 5 to 10 minutes more.
Sandwiches 1 loaf sourdough bread, cut into eight 1/2” slices 1 block mild or sharp cheddar cheese, sliced 2 Tablespoons butter, plus more if needed Op tional toppings: bacon, sliced ham, prosciutto, avocado In a large shallow bowl, whisk eggs, beer, flour, salt and chili powder. Dunk one slice of bread into the batter on both sides, giving it a second to fully absorb the batter. Let the excess batter drain back into the bowl. Move to another plate and top with cheese and additional toppings if desired (cooked bacon, sliced ham, etc.). Repeat with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Place the sandwich in the middle and let cook on each side 3-4 minutes, until it reaches a crispy golden brown with a gooey cheese middle. Repeat for all sandwiches. Plate, add garnishes and enjoy.
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Park Amphitheater - Admission 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Call 334-565-0854 EASTER EGG HUNT April 3, 2021 Tuscumbia - Alabama Music Hall of Fame - 10:30 a.m. - Noon Call 256-740-4141 BIG FISH BASS TOURNAMENT April 3, 2021 Wetumpka - Lake Jordan Admission - 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Call 334-285-0085
APRIL IN TALLADEGA April 1-30, 2021 Talladega - Various Locations Call 256-362-9075 MOBILE CHALLENGE OF CHAMPIONS TRACK MEET April 2-3, 2021 Mobile - Various Locations Admission Call 251-639-0303 HIGHWAY 22 YARD SALE April 2-3, 2021 Alexander City - Various Locations 6:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 334-863-6612 SIEGE OF BRIDGEPORT RE-ENACTMENT April 2-4, 2021 Bridgeport - 2361 Co. Rd. 255 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Call 256-495-3614 CIVIL WAR WALKING TOUR OF OLD CAHAWBA April 3, 2021 Orrville - Old Cahawba Archaeological Park Call 334-872-8058 SPRING FLING April 3, 2021 Foley - OWA - 11:00 a.m. Call 1-800-745-SAND
YORK HOMECOMING April 3, 2021 York - Hightower Community Center 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 205-392-5231 2021 MOUNTAIN TALES FILM FESTIVAL April 3-4, 2021 Enterprise - Enterprise State Community College Call 334-389-3319 MARKET ON THE SCOTTSBORO SQUARE April 3-4, 2021 Scottsboro - Courthouse Square 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 256-574-3100 CENTRAL ALABAMA CRAWFISH FESTIVAL April 6, 2021 Selma - Lion’s Fair Park Admission - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 334-493-2122 SYLACAUGA "MAGIC OF MARBLE” FESTIVAL 2021 April 6-17, 2021 Sylacauga - Various Locations Call 256-249-0961 COMIC & POP CULTURE EXPO April 9-11, 2021 Huntsville - South Hall VBC Friday: 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 256-533-1953
WILSON PICKETT MUSIC AND 2021 “TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD” ARTS FESTIVAL PRODUCTION April 3, 2021 April 9-22, 2021 Prattville - Pratt Park and the Pratt 66 Cooperative Farming News Monroeville - Old Monroe Co.
Courthouse - Admission - 6:00 p.m. Call 251-743-3386 DISCOVERY DAY AT THE ESTUARIUM April 10, 2021 Dauphin Island - Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Call 251-861-2141 TVHA SHOW #2 April 10, 2021 Florence - P & K Western Store Admission 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Call 256-740-4141 LAFAYETTE DAY FOR VALLEY HAVEN April 10, 2021 Lafayette - Courthouse Square 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Call 334-756-2868 SHADY LADY TRAIL RUN April 10, 2021 Rogersville - Joe Wheeler State Park 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Call 256-740-4141 CAMELLIA CLASSIC CAR SHOW April 10, 2021 Theodore - Bellingrath Gardens and Home’s Great Lawn 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Call 251-973-2217 U.S. TEAM ROPING CHAMPIONSHIP; SOUTH ALABAMA CHAMPIONSHIP April 10-11, 2021 Andalusia - Covington Center Arena Call 256-749-0541 PINEY WOODS ARTS FESTIVAL April 10-11, 2021 Enterprise - Enterprise State Community College Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday: Noon - 4:00 p.m. Call 334-406-2787 50TH ANNUAL CALICO FORT ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR April 10-11, 2021 Fort Deposit - Calico Spirit Drive 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 334-227-8589
ROSE BLOOM OUT AT BELLINGRATH April 10-30, 2021 Theodore - Bellingrath Gardens Admission 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 251-973-2217 NASA HUMAN EXPLORATION ROVER CHALLENGE April 15-17, 2021 Huntsville - U.S. Space & Rocket Center - Admission Call 256-837-0034 ALABAMA INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW April 15-18, 2021 Birmingham - BJCC Admission 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Call 205-980-0540 GARDENDALE MAGNOLIA FESTIVAL April 16-17, 2021 Gardendale - Gardendale Civic Center Complex Friday: 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 205-514-6799 2021 TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY ANNUAL GOAT DAY - VIRTUAL April 17, 2021 Tuskegee - Virtual 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m Registration online Call 334-727-8457 EARTH DAY MOBILE BAY April 17, 2021 Fairhope - Fairhope Municipal Pier 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Call 251-990-8662 2021 HERB DAY April 17, 2021 Montgomery - On the grounds of the Grace Presbyterian Church 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Call 334-245-3508 MONTEVALLO ARTS FEST April 17, 2021 Montevallo - Orr Park & Parnell Memorial Library 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 205-665-3766
GENEVA FESTIVAL ON THE RIVERS April 23-25, 2021 Geneva - Robert Fowler Memorial Park - Admission Friday: 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. 37TH ANNUAL BLOOMIN’ FESTIVAL Call 334-313-8177 April 17-18, 2021 Cullman - St. Bernard Prep School & INTERSTATE MULLET TOSS & GULF COAST'S GREATEST BEACH PARTY Abbey - Admission April 23-25, 2021 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Orange Beach - Flora Bama Call 256-739-6682 Admission FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR Call 251-980-5118 ENCAMPMENT GEICO 500 NASCAR CUP SERIES April 17-18, 2021 Wetumpka - Fort Toulouse/Jackson April 25, 2021 Lincoln - Talladega Superspeedway Park - Admission Admission 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 256-761-4976 Call 334-567-3002 21ST OLD 280 BOOGIE April 17, 2021 Waverly - Standard Deluxe Inc. Outdoor music and arts festival Admission Call 334-826-6423
RACKING HORSE SPRING SHOW April 21-24, 2021 Decatur - Morgan County Celebration Arena - 6:00 p.m. Call 800-524-6181 BERRY HERITAGE FESTIVAL April 23-24, 2021 Berry - Berry Heritage Park Friday: 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Call 205-689-4562 SMOKE ON THE WATER BACKYARD BBQ CONTEST AND FESTIVAL April 23-24, 2021 Florence - McFarland Park Call 256-740-4141 MAGIC CITY ART CONNECTION April 23-25, 2021 Birmingham - Linn Park Downtown - Admission Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Call 205-595-6306 PANOPLY ARTS AND MORE FESTIVAL April 23-25, 2021 Huntsville - Big Spring Park Admission Friday: 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sunday: Noon - 6:00 p.m. Call 256-519-2787
***Please note that some of these events may be postponed or canceled due to COVID-19. Please contact the event directly in order to find out more information about the event.*** “What’s Happening in Alabama” Policy The AFC Cooperative Farming News publishes event listings as space allows, giving preference to agricultural events of regional or statewide interest and those that are annual or one-time events. The magazine assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information submitted for publication and advises calling ahead to confirm dates, locations, times and possible admission fees. To be included in the calendar, send listings to: Cooperative Farming News Calendar of Events P.O. Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609 -oremail to Calendar of Events at subscribe@alafarm.com *Please include name of event, where it will be held (both town and physical location), a phone number for more information, and an email or website.* *Event Listings must be received at least two months in advance and will be accepted up to a year in advance.*
April 2021
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RESEARCH EQUALS
R E S U LT S
I M P E R I A L W H I T E TA I L P E R R E N I A L S
Scientifically designed to attract and grow bigger deer. Includes proprietary seeds developed by Whitetail Institute agronomists. Designed to last up to five years from a single planting.
Still the leader since 1988 WHITETAIL INSTITUTE Designed to last to five years from a single planting. 239 Whitetail Trail, Pintlala, AL up 36043 • 800-688-3030 • www.whitetailinstitute.com
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Ask your local Co-op Dealer
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4.5” Pots & 6 packs
4 for $10 th April 1 - 10 at participating co-ops
Assorted veggies, herbs, and flowers. Selections may vary..
www.BonniePlants.com www.Alafarm.com April 2021
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IMPROVING LIFE ON YOUR LAND SINCE 1945
Designed by farmers for farmers, Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment has been improving life on your land for over 75 years. With Tarter’s expanded line of 3-point implements, and the long lasting raised bed planters you’re sure to be ready for spring. For the full line of Tarter products visit tarterusa.com.
We’re rooted in our farmers. Whether you grow cash crops, raise livestock, or farm as a hobby, TriGreen Equipment has the John Deere agricultural machinery you need, with local farming knowledge you can trust.
Jeff Register Building & Truss
LOW-RATE FINANCING AVAILABLE*
It’s time to TriGreen. SHOP
GET A QUOTE
SCHEDULE SERVICE
40’ x 60’ x 12’ - Installed Roof only, closed gables or Roof only, open gables 30’ x 40’ x 10’ - Installed Roof Only, open gables
Office - 601-928-5309 and 601-928-5308 Jregister@registermetals.com Locations: 321 Madison Avenue, Wiggins, MS 39577
*Please call for pricing*
1Some restrictions apply. See dealer for details. †Manufacturer’s estimate of power (ISO) per 97/68/EC.
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RegisterBarns.com
“My Top Pick Pinkeye Peas just plain out-yield any other variety I have planted...”
k c i P p To UTILITY PATENT PROTECTED
Pinkeye Pinkeye P inkeye
Top Pick Peas gives you top yields plus pods on top of the plant.
Brown Brown B rown Crowder Crowder C rowder
Cream Cream C ream
“In the six plus years I have observed peas growing, the Top Pick Pinkeye’s and Top Pick Creams are two of the best peas. They have excellent germination; seedling vigor; high yielding and easy to pick. Plus their food quality is great. They are good for “U Pick” operations because the peas set on top and the outside of the plant making a real showy bush type plant, which makes it easy for picking by hand and by machine. They are also easy to shell by hand or by sheller and make a good shell out. There are also no problems with disease. If you have a market operations, you definitely need both types of peas – Top Pick Pinkeye’s and Top Pick Creams. These are by far the best peas on the market today. They are exceptional peas.” Jason Barkett - J.E.B. Agriculture Consultant “I grew up farming and I’m impressed with Top Pick Pinkeyed peas. We had early rains and the Top Pick peas loaded up. Some we planted late; some we no-tilled; plus we had more rain, but they really made peas. They pick great and shell out good and best of all they taste great.
Seeds for Southern Soils
We sold them at the Fresh Market, along with shelled peas. The customers came back asking for Top Pick peas. We will plant more Top Pick Pinkeyed peas next year and years to come.” Bo Levins - Planterville, Alabama “I first saw Top Pick Pinkeyed peas growing at the E. V. Smith Research Center and really liked the way they put out on top and around the outside of the plant. They were really loaded up with peas. I have been planting these pinkeyed for ten years now. They produce more than the old bush running pinkeyed purple hull peas. They just out produce any other pinkeyed on the market. They shell out great and taste great. Top Pick Pinkeyed peas work for me and there is no need to plant any other pinkeyed pea.” Rob Peacock - Pike Road, Alabama
April 2021
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SPRAYING MADE EASY AND AFFORDABLE 12 VOLT SPOT SPRAYERS REPAIR PARTS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL CO-OP
BRONZE
15 Gallon 404799 - $117.89 25 Gallon 404803 - $124.97
GOOD
SILVER
15 Gallon 404800 - $149.97 25 Gallon 404804 - $159.97
BETTER
12 Volt 45 Gallon - 454198 - $579.98* 12 Volt 65 Gallon - 454079 - $659.99*
*Boom Kits Sold Separately
15 Gallon 404801 - $179.99 25 Gallon 404805 - $189.99
BEST
110, 150 & 200 GALLON
UTV & 3 POINT SPRAYERS
UTV SPRAYERS
GOLD
BOOMLESS, 6 & 8 ROW BOOMS IN STOCK
55 GALLON 3 POINT Hamilton - 36’ Swath 404798 - $1,199.97 BXT - 36’ Swath 404848 - $1,357.59 7-Nozzle - 140” Swath 480442 - $1,269.97
1635 DELUXE NURSE WAGON
LOW PROFILE PASTURE SPRAYERS TR300E-MBXT22PS 300 Gallon 416791 - $3,799.00
With BXT Boomless Nozzles - 36’ Broadcast Sprays Left Or Right Or Both
CALL FOR PRICING
• 5 Year Frame Warranty & Powder Coat Paint • 10,000lb Toro-Flex Axles – 8 Bolt Hub – 12.5LX16 Implement Tires on 10” Rims • 35 Gallon Mix & Fill Tank System with 16” Lid and Tank Rinse • 5.5HP Honda & 2” Poly Pump • Black Tank with Site Gauge • 2” Quick Fill • Hose Hangers, Safety Chains, Adjustable Hitch
Visit A Co-Op Store Near You Or Email Jerry.Ogg@faithwayalliance.com for Participating Stores (Prices Subject To Change Due To Freight Cost)
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4 for $10 | April 1 - 10th at participating co-ops 4.5” pots & 6 packs
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