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SPRING 2012
THE
Agency ProďŹ le: Arkansas Forestry Commission Cotter FFA Warriors Fight Hunger
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Arkansas Agriculture
3
®
SPRING 2012
Inside...
VOLUME 9 ISSUE 2
F
E
A
T
U
R
E
S
The new Arkansas ax men Taking a new approach to timber in Arkansas by Gregg Patterson Bringing back a legend The quest to restore the Ozark Chinquapin by Johnny Sain
C
O
L
U
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Farm Bureau Perspective by Randy Veach Faces of Agriculture P. Allen Smith by Tara Johnson arfb.com
Policy Update by Michelle Kitchens
Spring 2012
The
Ag Profile Arkansas Forestry Commission by Gregg Patterson
Agency profile: Arkansas Forestry Commission Cotter FFA Warriors Fight Hunger
On the cover – Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Forestry Division and its chairman, Grant Pace of Monticello, are looking for new export markets to open up more opportunities for landowners to sell their timber. Photo credit: Keith Sutton
4 14
Spotlight on Youth Warriors fight hunger by Mollie Dykes Rural Reflections Photo Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Writers: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory
3 18 22 24 26 28
Farm Bureau
Arkansas Agriculture
Perspective
is an official publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation. Arkansas Agriculture is distributed to almost 32,000 farming and ranching households in Arkansas. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Included in membership dues. ARKANSAS FARM BUREAU OFFICERS: President Randy Veach Manila Vice President Rich Hillman Carlisle Secretary/Treasurer Tom Jones Pottsville Executive Vice President Ewell Welch Little Rock DIRECTORS: Richard Armstrong, Ozark Troy Buck, Alpine Jon Carroll, Moro Joe Christian, Jonesboro Terry Dabbs, Stuttgart Mike Freeze, England Bruce Jackson, Lockesburg Tom Jones, Pottsville Johnny Loftin, El Dorado Gene Pharr, Lincoln Rusty Smith, Des Arc Allen Stewart, Mena Mike Sullivan, Burdette Leo Sutterfield, Mountain View EX OFFICIO Sue Billiot, Smithville Janice Marsh, McCrory Kirk Meins, Suttgart Brian Walker, Horatio Arkansas Agriculture is published quarterly by the Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation, 10720 Kanis Road, Little Rock, AR 72211. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Arkansas Agriculture, P.O. Box 31, Little Rock, AR 72203. Publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests. Send comments to: arkansasagriculture@arfb.com Created by Publishing Concepts, Inc. Virginia Robertson, Publisher vrobertson@pcipublishing.com 14109 Taylor Loop Road Little Rock, AR 72223 501.221.9986 or 800.561.4686
For advertising information contact:
Tom Kennedy at 501.221.9986 or 800.561.4686 tkennedy@pcipublishing.com
By Randy Veach, President, Arkansas Farm Bureau I admit to being sometimes uneasy when facing those in the media, but Stewart Doan taught me it was actually very easy to trust a reporter. He was the best I ever encountered, the consummate professional, fair, thorough and very knowledgeable about agriculture. I learned from Stewart that “reporter” didn’t have to be a bad word. We lost Stewart far too early, the victim of a heart ailment that claimed his life May 10. He was only 52. Stewart was kind, down to earth and a good friend to all. He was the type of person you could tell just about anything and trust he would use that information in the appropriate way. I first came to know him when he was assistant farm broadcaster at KAIT-TV in Jonesboro. He later went to work for John Philpot at the Arkansas Radio Network and succeeded John as Ag Director there in 1985. He also covered Mid-South agriculture for the Yancy Ag Network. In 2008, Stewart went to work for Agri-Pulse, a Washington, D.C.-based news outlet, where his focus was on national agriculture policy. “He loved everything about agriculture and had a particular talent for deciphering ag policy,” Philpot said. “His contribution to understanding among our agriculture community can never be measured, can never be valued.” Stewart was respected nationally, having served as president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting in 1998 and selected in 2006 as the national Farm Broadcaster of the Year. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack praised his work, saying, “Stewart was a voice people depended on and people listened to. And he used his voice to advocate on behalf of America’s farmers, ranchers and producers.” Rep. Frank Lucas, our neighbor from Oklahoma and chairman of the House Ag Committee, also offered his praise and condolences. “Beyond being a talented journalist and broadcaster, Stewart was just a quality person,” Chairman Lucas said. “His passing is a tremendous loss to all of us who appreciated and respected his fair storytelling and analysis. His brand of reporting on farm policy and his role in our community will be missed.” Stewart spoke at our state convention last November, discussing the current political climate and its impact on agriculture policy. He followed that with a presentation at the American Farm Bureau convention in Hawaii in January, discussing presidential candidates and their positions on a wide variety of agricultural issues. I always learned something when I was around Stewart. And as much as he knew, he was never one to suggest what Farm Bureau policy should be. He understood the process through which Farm Bureau policy was defined, and he respected that process. I believe that’s because of his deep respect for farmers and ranchers. He was one of us, in fact, still maintaining control of his family’s farming interests in his home state of Kentucky. Those who had the opportunity to deal with Stewart returned that respect, and it showed in the quality of work he produced. While his voice is silenced, his legacy lives on. My prayers to his wife, Leslie, and their daughters, Lauren and Sara. A fund is now established to help pay for the girls’ college education. To help, send contributions to: Stewart Doan’s Children’s College Fund, c/o Peoples Bank, 20409 Arch Street, Little Rock, AR 72206 Rest in peace, Stewart Doan, and thank you for the things you taught me. Arkansas agriculture has lost a true friend.
Edition 25
Arkansas Agriculture
3
THE Taking a new approach to timber in Arkansas by Gregg Patterson photos by Keith Sutton
Ax man Arkansas Farm Bureau Forestry Division Chairman Grant Pace is helping develop new national and international export markets for Arkansasgrown timber.
4
Arkansas Agriculture
drained and converted to farmland; its
industry when the converting of raw
in Arkansas. How big? Number 5 in the
rich soils needed to fulfill the nation’s
cotton into clothing and household
nation, that’s how big. Arkansas’ timber
insatiable demand for cotton and then
items disappeared to cheaper labor in
industry generates more than $2 billion
other row crops. As professional forest
foreign countries, so too is the timber
in annual forest products sales, as well
management began to take hold in
industry going through a sea change of
as providing the largest percentage
the early 20 Century, the realization
its own – overseas that is.
of agriculture-related jobs that keep
of a renewable and sustainable forest
Arkansans working. Arkansas doesn’t
took hold in many areas of the rest
Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Forestry
have to watch a TV show to know how
of the state where it made more sense
Division. He says no new mills have
things are done in the timber cutting
to cut and replant forests rather than
been built in Arkansas in more than 30
business. It’s happening in real life every
trying to replace them with row crops.
years. Instead, King says the newer mills
day in our forests.
Everything from small, local lumber
are being built overseas, particularly in
mills to modern, large-scale paper and
Brazil where environmental regulations
Almost 53 percent of the state
container mills took in all trees from
are less stringent and labor is cheaper
is classified as “accessible” and
grandpa’s back 40, as well as the bounty
than it is here. So the belief that a log
“productive” forestland. The state is also
from professionally managed multi-
cut down on grandpa’s back 40 will
blessed with a variety of tree species in
section tracts of industrial forestland.
become a finished product here in
both the hardwood (oaks, hickories) and
That process continued with most of the
Arkansas is changing.
softwood (pines) classifications.
timber taken here feeding the in-state
The timber industry is big business
Arkansas is blessed with forests.
Arkansas’ timber industry has a long history, the beginning of which dates
th
mills. However, change has swept across
Matt King is the coordinator of
Not only that, King believes the idea that that log should remain in Arkansas needs to change too. There’s a whole
back to settlement. The vast bottomland
Arkansas’ timber industry the last 20
world out there with specific needs and
hardwood forest of the eastern half of
years – and particularly in the last 10.
specialty markets outside of Arkansas
the state was systematically clearcut,
Much like happened to the U.S. textile
that forest landowners need to identify
Arkansas Agriculture
5
Tax cut To keep Arkansas as a national Top 5 timber state, it’s important to eliminate the sales tax on forest products equipment like this buncher.
6
Arkansas Agriculture
to get top dollar for their logs.
an overseas market. “Europeans have
production in Arkansas following in the
regulated themselves into the use of
footsteps of what farmers and ranchers
population lives outside of the U.S.,”
wood chips or compressed wood pellets
here are already doing in providing
King said. “A growing consumer class
as a heat source,” he said. He says it’s
food to the world. “Arkansas, along
of people in other countries wants U.S.-
also a popular choice in the Northeast
with other states, already helps feed the
grown wood. It’s a status symbol for
states.
world,” he said. “One day, we’ll also
“Some 96 percent of the world’s
them.”
Identifying these markets and
help with raw products such as wood
establishing ways for Arkansas forest
pellets for heat, pulp for paper, logs for
Consumers outside of the U.S. want
landowners to take advantage of
furniture and just about any other need
flooring for their homes made from U.S.-
them is critical to keeping the timber
a country has.”
grown hardwood. “Asia is demanding
industry strong here. With that in
flooring and hardwood lumber.”
mind, King says Arkansas Farm Bureau
as a Top 5 timber producer nationally
is teaming up with surrounding states
with a worldwide export approach and
reverse is true too. U.S. homeowners
to host the “Forest Product Export
if it continues favorable state policies
want flooring made from Brazilian-
Conference” Oct. 30-31 in Vicksburg,
that encourage continued harvest of
grown wood or Asian bamboo. The point
Miss. The conference will help provide
timber resources. He says what’s needed
is there’s a global market out there now.
information to mills, loggers and others
now is tax savings legislation that’s
on how they can take advantage of the
competitive with what surrounding
export market.
states offer.
He mentions flooring as an example.
Ironically, King points out, the
Grant Pace agrees. He is chairman of Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Forestry Division and runs his own forestry consulting business.
“Mills, loggers and forest landowners
King says Arkansas can sustain itself
“The timber industry is strong
are going to have to continue to look
in Arkansas, but we’re missing key
for new markets and tailor production
legislation to maintain the industry in
the product out to the changing
practices to meet what the market
the future,” he said. “Surrounding states
markets around the world,” Pace said.
demands,” King said.
offer sales tax exemptions on forest
“What’s important today is getting
“Improvements to rail, highways and
Pace sees the future of timber
product equipment. However, Arkansas
river ports have made it easier to haul products to different mills across the U.S. and even to other countries.” He says these improvements have opened up different markets for timber products. King says Pace has identified and developed one of those markets. He ships veneer-grade southern red oak logs to a Michigan facility that produces the veneer then ships it to Italy to be used in furniture making. The furniture then comes back to the U.S. for sale. That quality red oak log fetches a much better price to the forest landowner when it’s used to its fullest end-product use as
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veneer then if it were simply cut down and sent to a local mill that doesn’t produce veneer. According to King, more and more furniture-grade hardwoods grown in the U.S. are being shipped overseas to be made into furniture; then it’s shipped back to the U.S. for sale. King says the wood biomass market in Europe – wood chips and pellets – as fuel for heating is another example of
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7
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-
only exempts the first $50,000. That
also work to maintain voluntary best
often is only the equivalent of 10
management practices in Arkansas and
percent of machinery costs.”
help protect private landowner rights. Pace says it’s a big, wide world out
Pace agrees. “Starting a logging operation today
Keep on truckin’ A load of logs doesn’t necessarily go to the local mill anymore. Raw logs are often trucked to other states or shipped overseas for processing and return to the U.S. as finished products.
there, and it’s important to get the
costs around $1 million. The high cost
product out to the changing markets
of fuel, insurance and equipment make
in the U.S. and worldwide. “Doing it
it very challenging to survive. Profit
the way daddy or grandpa did it just
margins on logging jobs are small due
doesn’t work anymore,” he said. And it’s a little more complicated
to these high costs,” he said. King says Arkansas Farm Bureau will
then what you see on some TV show.
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Arkansas Agriculture
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Arkansas Agriculture
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Arkansas Agriculture
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Picture this!
Dust off your cameras and take part in Rural Reflections, FB’s Front Porch photo contest.
F
arm Bureau members now have the opportunity to spotlight their creativity, their perception and their flair for the dramatic — or the comical or even the tragic — in Front Porch’s third Rural Reflections Photo Contest. This competition offers amateur photographers the chance to explore the many activities, seasons, triumphs, disappointments and faces of agriculture, our state’s key industry. The photos that win this competition will capture the image and spirit of agriculture, and Farm Bureau, in Arkansas. The contest includes two divisions, High School (ages 14–18) and Adult (19 and older). The winner of each receives $250. In addition, one entry will receive a Grand Prize of $500. The winners and honorable mentions may have their works published, with credit, in Front Porch and Arkansas Agriculture magazines, on Farm Bureau’s website, arfb.com, and in other publications. 12 8
Arkansas Farm Bureau has the final decision on any and all questions or concerns regarding rules, judging, eligibility,
Arkansas Agriculture prizes awarded or anything else that may arise pertaining to the Rural Reflections Photo Contest. Arkansas Agriculture
Rules • Any photo taken between Jan. 1, 2012 and Oct. 31, 2012 may be entered. • Files must be high-resolution jpegs (at least 300 dpi). • Each entrant may enter only one photo. • Enter by uploading your photo at: arfb.com/get-involved/contests/ . • All entries must be submitted by midnight Oct. 31, 2012.
• The Rural Reflections Photo Contest is open to members of Arkansas Farm Bureau and their immediate families. Employees of Farm Bureau, its affiliated companies and service companies are not eligible. • Winning or honorable-mention photos also may be published on Arkansas Farm Bureau’s website, arfb. com, and in other Farm Bureau publications, as appropriate.
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Bringing back a legend
The quest to restore the Ozark Chinquapin by Johnny Sain
Ozark Mountains resident describing
tree in the Beech Family not to be
and we waited for them to fall like you
the role the Ozark chinquapin
confused with the chinkapin oak
would wait on a crop of corn to ripen. They
(pronounced CHINK-a-pin) played in
(Quercus muehlenbergii) found in these
were that important. Up on the hilltop
the life of rural people. The chinquapin
same mountains. It was the preferred
the nuts were so plentiful that we scooped
was more than part of the landscape;
food source for wildlife in the
them up with flat-blade shovels and loaded
it was a vital part of the ecosystem and
Ozark and Ouachita mountains,
them into the wagons to use as livestock
the life of early Arkansas settlers
as well as the Arkansas River
I’d never heard of an Ozark
Valley of western Arkansas. It
“Ozark Chinquapin nuts were delicious,
feed, to eat for ourselves and to sell. Deer, bears, turkeys, squirrels and a variety of
chinquapin until just a few years ago.
was also common in the Missouri
other wildlife fattened up on the sweet crop
I doubt many of you reading this have
Ozarks and found in a few other
of nuts that fell every year. But starting in
either. The odds are if you were born
surrounding states. Like most
the 1950s and ‘60s, all of the trees started
after 1950, you never knew the tree
chestnuts, the nutritious mast
dying off. Now, they’re all gone, and no
existed. It’s kind of a sad story.
dropped from the tree in a spine-
one has heard of them.” This is a quote from a 91-year-old
14
Arkansas Agriculture
The Ozark chinquapin (Castanea ozarkensis) is a variety of chestnut
covered casing. All of the forest herbivores and omnivores would
is probably an understatement. The closest thing to catastrophic tree species loss we’ve almost experienced was the oak borer infestation back in the 1990s. Luckily, our forests and wildlife averted disaster, and the oak trees recovered. That wasn’t the case for the chinquapins. The chestnut blight was the downfall of the chinquapin. The result of a fungus brought into our country on imported Asian trees around the early 1900s, the blight almost wiped them out. The infected trees were logged – along with some healthy ones – and today, any wild chinquapins are growing out of those stumps. The wild saplings don’t make it; most succumb to the blight in about five years. But there is hope. Organizations such as the Ozark Chinquapin Foundation (OCF) supply landowners with chinquapin seedlings to plant on their property. The OCF is also working with foresters to produce a blight-resistant chinquapin and one day restore this towering food source to its native Arkansas habitat. Landowner Kevin Baker of Pottsville.
Stephien Bost
recently joined the OCF. “I joined because from what I’ve read about the tree, it sounds like the perfect food source for wildlife. It grows well in rocky, upland soil which is what makes up most of the 40 acres I own and hunt on in Pope County.” Baker says he manages his property
ignore white oak acorns to get to them.
it changed them forever. Forestry
As a deer hunter, having watched
experts say that the loss of this vital
for more and healthier wildlife.
whitetails munch on acorns like I do on
food source lowered the population
“The chinquapin is fast growing and
peanut M&Ms, this astounds me.
densities of many animals native to
produces mast in just a couple of years.
the mountain ranges and river valley.
If the foundation succeeds with their
readily grew on the rocky, acidic soils
However, the local animals weren’t
goal of producing a blight-resistant
found in the mountains of Arkansas.
the only ones that suffered when the
strain of the chinquapin, it will do
They were towering trees, sometimes
chinquapin began to die.
wonders for our native wildlife.”
The trees were drought tolerant and
more than 60 feet tall and 3 feet in
Early settlers in this region, the
If interested in finding out more
diameter. The chinquapin bloomed
Ozark Highlands in particular, used
about the campaign to save the
in late May and early June, after the
the mast for livestock feed and for
Ozark chinquapin or for information
spring frosts, and provided a mast crop
food themselves. The nuts taste sweet,
about planting chinquapins on your
without fail every autumn.
not bitter like tannin-filled acorns. To
land, contact the Ozark Chinquapin
Losing the chinquapin changed the complexion of our forests, and
say that chinquapins were important
Foundation at ozarkchinquapin.com. Œ„´*
to a homesteader back in the 1800s
Arkansas Agriculture
15
Enter the YF&R Achievement Award Contest Winner will drive home a brand new Chevrolet 1500 4x4 Quad Cab
A
rkansas Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award Contest is for outstanding producers, 18-35 years old, who are Farm Bureau members in good standing. Contestants are judged on the strength of their farming operation, as well as their involvement in Farm Bureau and the community. The winner will be named at ARFB’s 78th Annual Convention, which takes place Nov. 28–30 in Hot Springs. In addition to a pickup truck, the winner will 2011 Winners (at left): The Allens of Bismarck receive an expense-paid trip to the American Farm Bureau Convention in Nashville, where they will compete nationally. Entry deadline is July 16. Applications are available at http:// www.arfb.com/get-involved/young_fr/achievement/default.aspx. For additional details, call 501-228-1247.
16
Arkansas Agriculture
Truck provided by Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co.
There are more than 6 million Farm Bureau member-families in the United States, with more than 210,000
Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Mission • advocate the interests of agriculture in the public arena;
member-families in Arkansas.
www.arfb.com www.facebook.com/ArkansasFarmBureau twitter.com/ARFB www.youtube.com/arkansasfarmbureau
• disseminate information concerning the value and importance of agriculture; and • provide products and services which improve the quality of life for our members. 17
Faces of Agriculture compiled by Tara Johnson
P. Allen Smith How are you involved in agriculture? I’m proud to be part of Arkansas’ farming heritage. I love the land, my farm and sharing it in many different ways with Arkansans and the world. Agriculture at its best is derived from a diverse gene pool of both plant and animal genetics. Every year we trial hundreds of varieties of fruits and vegetables on my farm. Additionally, as a child I was competitively involved with 4-H, a great organization, and the FFA. Those experiences sparked one of my farming loves, my love of Heritage Poultry. Knowing that many of the old breeds were in decline, I founded the Heritage Poultry Conservancy (
) in 2009 P. Allen Smith Hortus Ltd.
to raise awareness of the need for genetic diversity in all heritage poultry (i.e., chickens, ducks and turkeys). Did you know that the Alyesbury Duck has amazingly tasty meat, and its fat is highly sought after by chefs for cooking? The fat is often called “duck butter” and renders down into the most delicious cooking liquid, adding a subtle richness and depth of flavor to whatever you are preparing.
Ag lifer P. Allen Smith is a lifetime lover of all things ag. From an FFA and 4-H youth spent showing swine, cattle and poultry at county and state fairs to his present prominence as TV host of three nationally popular shows promoting his garden-home lifestyle, he is immersed in sharing his love of the land and his farm with the public.
So I’m happy to report that the current cooking show craze has directed some limelight on farmers, and the importance
I happen to love to eat, and therefore,
of recognizing the need for getting back
I love good food. I personally enjoy the
the great tastes in the foods we eat. The
delicate differences in taste between
best way to do this is to keep more genetic
lettuces, for instance. I grow 12 different
diversity in our food chain. I think it’s safe
varieties. “Butterhead” is different in taste
to say this trend has gained more traction
and texture than “Butter Crunch,” which
over the last 10 years, having now become
is totally different from a romaine. I do the
a mainstream topic of discussion.
same thing with tomatoes and English peas.
18
Arkansas Agriculture
So you see farming is a huge part of my everyday adult life. In your own words, what is agriculture? I suppose agriculture could be summed up as the production of food, whatever
forms it takes. It is a complex marriage
You are one of America’s
vegetables. I still get excited seeing those
between science and art. Agriculture
most recognizable gardening
first squash seeds germinate in the spring
therefore is the science and art of
experts and designers. How has
to this day!
producing crops, livestock and poultry.
agriculture influenced your life
Farming is also an occupation as
So much of agriculture can’t be learned
and career choices?
in a book. It requires a hands-on approach and regular work in the field to become a
well as a desirable quality of life. It cultivates family ties, forms strong bonds
successful farmer. Just like with the best
My family has been involved in
with the community and society, has an
American agriculture since the 1690s. I
gardeners, often the best farmers are those
ethical or moral purpose for the farmers’
personally have fond memories of farm life
who have farmed the longest. I hope to
lives and, as for the farm itself, farmers
as a child, and I perpetuate those memories
continue gardening and farming for a long
provide stewardship of their lands and
on my own farm today. My first memories
time. Every year I feel I get a little better
communities.
of gardening were centered on growing
at it.
Œ*
Why do you think agriculture is important? Agriculture is the foundation and cornerstone of civilization. Without a reliable, dependable and safe food system, there could never have been the opportunity for any other professions or pursuits to evolve or to even flourish. It seems we have, as a society, forgotten this. Consecutive generations of my family
August 21–22 • North Little Rock • The Wyndham Riverfront Hotel Contact Debbie Moreland at 501-682-2915 for details.
have farmed this country since before its founding. They were strong-willed (a nice way of saying stubborn), independent and resourceful people. As they carved forests into fields and fields into crops, these pioneers were at the same time establishing communities as they created their farms. The importance of community is something that has stayed with me over the years, and when I was in the early stages of planning Moss Mountain Farm, I knew that establishing a sense of community was of an essential component.
i Ronnie Yearg
“My beef checkoff can help raise consumer confidence in beef.”
n
“Simply put, our beef checkoff promotes safe, nutritious beef. All beef producers invest in the checkoff — so folks like you and me decide how to allocate these dollars,” says Ronnie Yeargin. The checkoff is working to build demand for beef by educating consumers about beef’s role in healthful diets. My beef checkoff…reaching consumers with the benefits of beef.
You see, it is my belief that we must
Ronnie Yeargin Yeargin Farms Greenfield, Tenn.
reconnect to and stay connected to our agrarian past. What is the one thing you want everyone to know about agriculture and farming? We all need to support farmers and farming. Knowing where my food comes from and how it was raised or produced, helps me make informed decisions on what I eat, and therefore impacts my health and well-being. The same can apply to everyone.
Hear more from Ronnie at
MyBeefCheckoff.com Funded by the Beef Checkoff.
Arkansas Agriculture
19
hunter: another word for conservationist
Hunters do more to conserve habitat than any other group. And they have achieved great things for wildlife and wild places by supporting conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited. With their support, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres of habitat across the continent. Come share our vision of skies filled with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever. To find out more go to www.ducks.org
Farm Drainage, Irrigation & Culvert Pipe • Heavy - Wall Stell, 4” thru 96”, up to 50’ Lengths • Used High-Pressure Line Pipe and Gas Line Pipe • New Structural Steel Piple, 2” thru 20” • Large Diameter Pipe - 60”, 78”, 96” Will Deliver for Small Cost. ADS plastic pipe dealer and Corrugrated pipe dealer. 1-800-553-1373
NORTHSIDE STEEL Highway 63 Bypass Jonesboro, AR
20
Arkansas Agriculture
SponSored by Kubota
2012 YF&R State Discussion Meet Competition Winner gets a Kubota tractor for one year
A
rkansas Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Discussion Meet is a discussion contest related to issues that affect U.S. agriculture. The contest will be Nov. 28 in Hot Springs. Call toll free 888-9095949, ext. 1247 or 1306 for further details. Deadline for entry is Nov. 20. The state Discussion Meet winner will win the use of any Kubota tractor for one year. Kubota continues to introduce new models of rugged, dependable, userfriendly tractors in their 43–118 pto horse power M series tractors. The new Grand X Cab boasts one of the largest cabs in its class. Kubota has increased both interior height and width to provide a more spacious feel. Wide opening doors provide easier access while the unobstructed ceiling and fully flat floor guarantee more head and legroom for a higher level of comfort even during long hours 2011 Winner: Kevin Smith (left) of Benton County behind the wheel. Go to www.kubota. com to learn more about the products, services and finance packages offered by Kubota. Discussion Meet questions are available at www.arfb.com/get-involved/young_fr/discussion/default.aspx. The YF&R State Discussion Meet winner also receives their choice of a Kawasaki Mule or a Honda 500 4x4 ATV. This prize is sponsored by Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.
division.uaex.edu
Ag Solutions
Rising production costs, herbicide resistance, drought, disease, pests, stormwater runoff, biofuel opportunities, safe food, marketing strategies, emerging technology and research ... whatever the issue, the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture offers real solutions.
Supporting Arkansas Agriculture for more than 100 years
Arkansas Agriculture
21
PolicyUpdate By Michelle Kitchens, Arkansas Farm Bureau
Are we there yet? It’s a common question for summer vacation travelers, but it easily could be asked about a number of farm-related issues. Arkansas Farm Bureau wants to keep you updated on the issues pending on a state and national level, particularly those we’ve discussed in this space. Here are some quick updates. 2012 farm bill House Committee Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) and Rep. Rick Crawford (R-AR) hosted a farm bill field hearing
review of the state tax code,
and define needs use into the future.
in Arkansas in early spring. Arkansas
beginning with the state’s sales tax
ANRC plans to use resources from UALR
Farm Bureau President Randy Veach
exemptions. Department of Finance and
Bowen Law School and the Clinton
offered testimony in support of a
Administration staff offered testimony
School of Public Service to support the
safety net that includes price and yield
and provided explanations of the code,
effort. ARNC will update arkansaswater.
risk protection. Veach stressed to the
enforcement of the exemptions and
org for information dissemination about
committee that the next farm bill needs
revenue loss projections. Several entities,
the water plan going forward.
to serve all regions and crops, saying
including Arkansas Farm Bureau,
“a one-size-fits-all program will not
submitted comments to the committees
work effectively for all regions.” Most
about the importance of exemptions. A
farm groups have urged the committees
date was not set for a follow-up meeting.
September, there’s a lot of work left to
The state primary election was May 22. Now come the long campaign runs up to the November elections.
to put forth a new farm bill this year. With the 2008 farm bill expiring in
Elections
Arkansas State Water Plan revision
Farm Bureau members are strongly
Public meetings for the State Water
encouraged to evaluate candidates
do to get another bill in place before
Plan rewrite should begin this summer.
with an eye toward their views on
then. Both the House and Senate
The Arkansas Natural Resources
agriculture. Farm Bureau has video
Agriculture committees finished their
Commission (ANRC) has selected CDM
interviews and questionnaires
field hearings process. It’s possible that
Smith/FTN as the engineering firm that
from candidates for the 1st and 2nd
the Senate and House will have bills
will provide support services for the
Congressional Districts posted at arfb.
ready for consideration in June.
project. The United States Geological
com. Check out those resources for more
Survey will compile all available
information on candidates’ positions
State sales and use tax exemptions
groundwater information and synthesize
on agriculture issues. How farmers cast
review
existing data and reports to publish a
their ballots can make a big difference
report on the quantity, quality, and
in the outcome of many agriculture
Revenue and Taxation committees met
sustainability of groundwater in the
policies, so vet your candidates
April 19 to begin their comprehensive
state’s major aquifers to assess problems
thoroughly.
The Arkansas House and Senate
22
Arkansas Agriculture
Œ„´*
Come Play with Us The Ozark Folk Center is a great place for your whole family to experience the crafts, music and herbs of the Ozarks. The Craft Village is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Concerts are at 7 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday. Check out the down-home good cooking at the Skillet Restaurant and stay in our comfortable Cabins at Dry Creek. To plan your getaway, visit OzarkFolkCenter.com for a listing of workshops, events and concerts. Come learn a craft, listen to music and enjoy the gardens. Come play with us!
SEASON EVENTS 15-16: Irish Music & Dance with St. Louis Irish Arts
17-21: Women of the Ozarks 21: The Women of Mountain Music 23-27: Day Camp 26-28: Mountain Dulcimer Workshops
JU LY
AUGUST
JUNE
4: Donkey Days & 4th of July Celebration 5-7: 9th Annual National Shape Note Gathering 7: Cool Foods Cooking Class 9-13: Day Camp 12-14: Great Smoky Mountain Cloggers 13: Handcrafted Evening in the Park
2-4: Hammered Dulcimer Workshops 4: Exotic Influences on Ozark Cooking 9-11: Old Time String Band 17-19: Mountains, Music & Motorcycles 25: Carter Family Tribute 31: Tribute to Grandpa Jones
M O U N T A I N V I E W, A R K A N S A S
Information: 870-269-3851 • Cabin Reser vations: 800-264-3655 • OzarkFolkCenter.com
Glover Truck & Trailer Sales 8608 Hwy. 70, No. Little Rock, AR 72117
Office: (501)945-1550 (501) 607-0103 Or (501) 960-3935 Fax: (501)945-1552
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(10)2006 Mack Vision CXN613 Mack 427 & 380, 9 & 6 spds, air ride, 4 .11, 190” WB, alums, 600&700K,1owner .$28,750-36,500
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2002-2000 STERLING SINGLE AXLE (Qty. 10) 1 Onwer, Lease, Cummins, ISM, 300 HP, 10 Spd, Air Ride, 320K550K, 150” WB, . . . . . . . . . . . $16,900
2005 Freightliner Columbia, 14L DET., 515HP, 579K, 1 Owner, Lease Maint., 10 Spd, Jake, Air Ride, Very Nice, Southern Clean, . . . . . $36,750
2005 VOLVO VNL Cummins, ISX, 450 HP, 499K, Jake, 10 Spd, Air Ride, 3.70 Ratio, 226” WB, 1 Owner, Lease Maint., Mid Roof,NICE!!! . . . . $38,750
2005 INTERNATIONAL 9400i Cummins, ISX, 435 HP, Jake, 10 Spd, Air Ride, 181” WB,11R22.5 . . . . .$39,750
2005 VOLVO VNL Volvo V12, 435 HP, 1 owner, Lease Maint ., 800K, Jake, 10 Spd, Air Ride, 3 .58 Ratio, 190” WB . . . $23,750
2005 TRAILSTAR Full Frame End Dump Aluminum, 28’ x 102”, Heavy Duty Spring, Good Condition, Southern, . . . . . . $26,900
2006 KENWORTH T800, 296K, 1 Owner, Lease Maint ., C-15 Cat, 435+ HP, Jake, 10 Spd, Air Ride, Very Nice!!!, . . . . . $63,750
Arkansas Agriculture
23
AgProfile Arkansas Forestry Commission Arkansas Forestry Commission
Growing and protecting Arkansas’ forest land by Gregg Patterson
The Arkansas Forestry
Friend or foe? Fighting destructive forest fires and using fire as a forest management tool are both part of the Arkansas Forestry Commission’s job description. Forest fires destroy millions of dollars worth of timber each year. However, the wise use of fire as a management tool, like in this photo, to prepare a site for regeneration of trees is also useful.
Commission is a state agency dedicated to working with agencies, communities, organizations and residents to prevent and suppress wildfires; control forest insects and disease; grow and distribute trees for planting; and gather and disseminate information concerning the growth, use and renewal of forests. It got its start in 1931 and is
than 1,150 landowners since 1991,
now part of the Arkansas
helping them earn Forest Stewardship
Agriculture Department.
recognition. This service is free. Other services like prescribed burns,
The Arkansas Forestry Commission (AFC) State Forester is the
federal grants and provides interest-
timber marking and construction
agency’s top position. Joseph Fox was
free loans for purchasing equipment to
of fire breaks are fee-based. Natural
recently hired as its eighth-ever State
these rural fire departments.
resources professionals from other
Forester.
Rangers also partner with AFC
state and federal agencies also can
county foresters to work with private
provide help. A registered professional
activity for AFC. Since 1935, its
landowners to help them manage
forester should be part of all forest
crews have suppressed more than
forested property. Following a forest
management plan development.
225,000 wildfires. Fire safety is a
management plan improves the health
critical education component, and
and vigor of trees. Forest management
its nursery tree program. Landowners
AFC forest rangers conduct programs
plans identify landowner goals and
can order low-cost tree seedlings from
with school children, teaching them
objectives, as well as specific forest
AFC’s Baucum Nursery in North Little
how to prevent wildfires. The agency
practices to reach them. Landowners
Rock. AFC has distributed more than
also assists some 1,000 rural volunteer
can make money through timber sales
1.23 billion trees since 1935. Go to
fire departments, helping them with
and/or provide improved wildlife
forestry.arkansas.gov and click on “AFC
organization, training and equipment.
habitat, as well as other benefits.
Seedlings” for ordering information
As part of this service, AFC administers
AFC foresters have worked with more
and deadlines.
Wildfire suppression is a major
24
Arkansas Agriculture
Another important AFC service is
Œ*
Kittler Construction, Inc. 318 W. Durkee St. Carlisle, AR. 72024 Office (870) 552-3831 Sid Sheets (501) 690-0220 Don L Kittler (501) 690-6534 Sales, Service and Parts for all your Grain Storage Needs
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leidoscope Grief Center is a nonprofit organization ering fun and rewarding volunteer and sponsorship opportunities:
Hands-On Program Assistance Fundraising Office/Clerical Kaleidoscope Resale Boutique Assistance Marketing / PR
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oad • Little Rock, AR 72205 437 • 877-357-5437 eidoscopekids.org
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Kaleidoscope Grief Center 1600 Aldersgate Road Little Rock, AR 72205
Call or e-mail Tom Kennedy 1.800.561.4686 tkennedy@pcipublishing.com
Share Your Thoughts • www.facebook.com/ArkansasFarmBureau • www.youtube.com/arkansasfarmbureau • twitter.com/ARFB • www.arfb.com (now ‘Share This’ enabled)
501-978-5437 • 877-357-5437 www.kaleidoscopekids.org
Arkansas Agriculture
25
Spotlight OnYouth Warriors fight hunger
Keith Sutton
Cotter FFA plants hope against hunger by Mollie Dykes
World hunger is an ever-growing issue, but the Cotter High School FFA is doing its part to help. In April, members of the Cotter community gathered to receive
“Warriors fight hunger” Cotter FFA Chapter front row (l to r): advisor Brandy Hughes, Jordan Wallis, Kaylee Denmark, Cody Rowe, Christa Burns, Justin Harris and student teacher Carley Calico. Back row (l to r): Scott Benke, Dylan Harig, Austin Hamilton, Clayton Franks, and Coulter Keisler.
free EarthBoxes complete with plants of their choosing that will produce fruits or
vegetable four-packs. Valley Springs FFA
families are taking full advantage of their
vegetables for them to eat.
also provided vegetables.
fruits and vegetables, students in the FFA
EarthBoxes allow families with limited
chapter will post recipes on the school
Upon arriving at the event, families
yard space to grow vegetables, fruits and
completed a short survey about their
website. There are also links available for
herbs. These boxes take away the hassle of
eating habits and provided contact
families who might have questions about
digging and weeding a garden and require
information. When the EarthBox plants
their EarthBox, along with links for the
less water and fertilizer.
begin producing, the families will fill out
follow-up surveys.
The Cotter FFA Chapter was one of
Families can keep the EarthBox and
the survey a second time. To ensure the
140 chapters across the nation to receive
reuse it every year. This is exactly what the
a $2,500 grant to fund the EarthBoxes.
students want them to do. “Hopefully, they can improve their
Carley Calico was a student teacher this year at Cotter High School under
eating habits, gain the experience of
agriculture instructor Brandy Hughes. She
growing their own vegetables and, in some
heard about the National FFA’s “Food for
cases, provide food to families with little
All” grant and applied.
resources,” Hughes said. Not only did the “Warriors Fight
“The students were excited and ready to help out their community and provide
Hunger” project benefit the 60 families
healthy eating options for families,” Calico
who participated, but it also benefited the
said.
students. They experienced themselves making a difference in their small
The $2,500 allowed the chapter to
community.
purchase 60 EarthBoxes at a discounted
“This has been a great experience for
price along with educational materials and planting guides. Several other businesses
our FFA chapter,” Hughes said. “We have
along with the Valley Springs FFA Chapter
66 members, and the ones who stepped up
offered help to make sure the event was
to help with this project gained a valuable
successful.
lesson on helping out the community. This is an experience they will never forget, and
nursery tape, vegetable stakes and several
26
Arkansas Agriculture
Keith Sutton
Hughes says Lowes in Mountain Home offered a discount on potting soil, fertilizer,
Cotter FFA member Kaylee Denmark puts plants in an EarthBox.
I know they will continue to seek out other opportunities to help those in need.”
Œ*
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Have your Farm Bureau Membership number and discount code CUO88430 in your email, or ready if calling.
All manufacturer warranties apply with the option to purchase extended Sears Protection Agreements. Installation is not included with delivery.
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for special requests and details contact John Speck 847-622-4892 jspeck@promac.com
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Step 2: Members email the product number(s) to Farm Bureau’s designated contact at Sears Appliance Select : ron.rowe@searshc.com for a quote. To receive this pricing a member must include their Farm Bureau membership number and Farm Bureau discount code CU098430 in the email.
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Arkansas Agriculture
27
RuralReflections
Farm Bureau member Nancy Abernathy took this photo of twin-row beans in a ďŹ eld located between Arkansas City and Rohwer in Desha County.
28
Arkansas Agriculture
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Ask your Agent how ArkAnsAs FArm BureAu memBers sAve with A FArm BureAu BAnk loAn todAy! Existing Farm Bureau Bank equipment loans are excluded from this offer. Normal credit criteria does apply. * Rate disclosed as Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and based on exceptional credit. Some restrictions may apply based upon the make and model of equipment offered as collateral. Up to 90% financing for new and 85% for used equipment. Loans subject to credit approval. Rates are accurate as of 04/13/2012. Rates and financing are limited to farm equipment model years 2002 or newer and are subject to change without notice. A down payment may be required for new or used equipment purchases. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. Financial information required for loan requests over $50,000. Commercial vehicles and trailers may be subject to an additional documentation fee. Farm Bureau Bank does not provide equity or cash-out financing on commercial vehicles and equipment. Banking services provided by Farm Bureau Bank, FSB.