Arkansas Agriculture by Arkansas Farm Bureau

arfb.com

Spring 2013

Ag giants join HallofFame Q & Ag with

U.S. Sen. Pryor

County president leads Quitman H.S. FFA

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Arkansas Agriculture

Spring 2013

Inside...

VOLUME 10 Issue 2

Q&Ag with U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor by Gregg Patterson Six who made a difference by Ken Moore

Farm Bureau Perspective by Stan Taylor Faces of Agriculture — Jennifer James by Tara Johnson Policy Update by Michelle Kitchens Spotlight on Youth — Leading future history by Gregg Patterson Rural Reflections Photo On the cover — Toiling day to day on farms, in fields, in research laboratories and managing ag businesses most often goes unnoticed by the masses. However, the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame annually takes time to recognize the career sweat equity of leaders in the field.

4 10

Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Writers: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory

3 18 22 26 28

Farm Bureau

Arkansas Agriculture

Perspective

is an official publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation. Arkansas Agriculture is distributed to almost 42,000 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 Sherry Felts, Joiner Brent Lassiter, Newport Janice Marsh, McCrory 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.

by Stan Taylor, president Newton County Farm Bureau I’m a former hog farmer in Buffalo River country. Recently, I’ve read a lot of misinformation and some ugly things being said about C&H Farms, a family farm that is expanding its hog operation near Mt. Judea in Newton County. To say the rhetoric on this subject has been emotionally charged would be an understatement. Unfortunately, much of the conversation about the state’s approval process of this new facility has been inaccurate. I’m proud to say Newton County Farm Bureau supports C&H Farms and has adopted a board resolution saying so. It’s proud to stand with C&H Farms, because we know them — brothers Richard and Phillip Campbell and their cousin Jason Henson. Their families have lived in Newton County for eight generations. And they’ve raised hogs in this area for more than a dozen years without incident. They have a deep and abiding love for this beautiful land and its streams. Many don’t realize the extensive safeguards in place to avoid environmental mishaps on the farm. Their hog facility was designed by a licensed engineering firm and includes the latest technologies and efficiencies. In fact, because of their interest in protecting the Buffalo River watershed, the farm exceeds many of the standards set by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). At an April open house on the farm, Jason told a visitor, “My cousins and I are environmentalists at heart. We’ve grown up in the streams — the Buffalo River, Big Creek. That’s our heritage. Big Creek is where I learned to swim. To say we would do anything to contaminate it is ludicrous. Even if there were no laws or regulations whatsoever, we still wouldn’t want to pollute the Buffalo River or Big Creek, because this is where we live.” That kind of caring sentiment is true with any farmer. The land and water where we live is vital to agriculture and vital to where we live. It’s our heritage. I’m concerned about the future of our county and rural communities, particularly if farming is restricted because of unsubstantiated fears. I’m equally concerned about the future of the Buffalo

River watershed, but not because of family farms in the area. More than half the land

The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests.

because my hog farm was part of an EPA award for environmental stewardship. We all

Send comments to: arkansasagriculture@arfb.com

in the watershed is privately owned. No doubt, the majority of these land owners are farmers, who have done a great job protecting the streams here. I know that’s true, care about the river. The truth is agriculture existed along the Buffalo River long before it received national river status. There are hog farms, dairies, poultry houses and cow-calf farms scattered across the Buffalo River watershed. The environmental stewardship administered every day by these farmers should be a source of pride for all of those who love the Buffalo River – like we do – and not attacked. That’s why Newton County Farm Bureau stands beside Richard and Phillip Campbell

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and Jason Henson, farm families with a deep love for this land and this river. The families of C&H Farms are top shelf. They’re doing things the right way and are responsible stewards of the land.

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Arkansas Agriculture

Q&Ag with U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor Talking everything ag with the chairman of the Senate Ag Appropriations Subcommittee

Keith Sutton

by Gregg Patterson

Arkansas Agriculture

In January, U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor of

cuts and sequestration, our food inspection

Arkansas landed the position of chairman

facilities were faced with furloughing meat

of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations

inspectors, which would shut down the plants,

Subcommittee. Arkansas Agriculture

hurt our local economy and raise prices

wanted to know what that could mean

for consumers everywhere. I introduced an

for Arkansas farmers and ranchers, as well

amendment that restored funding for the Food

as what Senator Pryor thought about a

Safety and Inspection Service and protected over

potpourri of agriculture issues.

40,000 private-sector jobs in Arkansas alone.”

What role does Ag Appropriations play in farm policy? “The Agriculture Committee is responsible for developing agricultural policies. But the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee

Arkansas has two major irrigation projects. What role does the Ag Appropriations Subcommittee play in finding funding for these projects? “During my time in the Senate, I’ve been a

determines how the funding for these policies is

strong advocate for Grand Prairie and Bayou

allocated. This includes funding for the Farm

Meto (irrigation projects). In FY13 alone, I

Service Agency and Food Safety Inspection

provided these projects with $40 million of loan

Service; research dollars to help growers

authority through Rural Development. As these

develop best practices for farming, production,

projects look for funding in the future, I hope to

and conservation; and Rural Development

use my chairmanship on the Ag Appropriations

funding to support job growth and economic

Subcommittee to help them.”

development.” With the deficit issues and all the How can you use the position

Key player Arkansas’ senior U.S. senator, Mark Pryor, sits as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee. The subcommittee prioritizes funding of the Farm Services Agency, food safety inspections, rural development, agriculture research, production and conservation among other items.

discussion of cutting government

as chairman to leverage support of

spending, what role does the Ag

southern ag and policies, which will

Appropriations Subcommittee play

provide needed protection within

in reducing the federal budget?

the farm bill? “As Chairman of the Agriculture

“Like any Senate committee, Agriculture Appropriations will be looking for opportunities

Appropriations Subcommittee, I’ll help prioritize

to responsibly reduce and streamline our

funding for federal programs that benefit our

spending. As chairman, I’ll be looking closely

farmers, producers and rural communities. I’ll

at budget requests and enacted bills to ensure

also ensure taxpayers get the most bang for their

that we eliminate programs that aren’t working

buck by investing in programs that stimulate

and invest in programs that are. My priority

and grow southern agriculture.

is making the U.S. Department of Agriculture

“Here’s just one recent example. With the implementation of across-the-board spending

more cost-efficient while ensuring it works for American farmers and rural communities.”

Arkansas Agriculture

James Groves

Whereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the beef? Extended drought the past two years has beef cattle numbers in Arkansas and nationally at their lowest levels since the early 1950s. The development of the new farm bill needs to have livestock assistance programs that help ranchers during times of disasters like last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drought.

Arkansas Agriculture

NRCS & EQIP Often, EQIP money is taken from the program for other projects. As chairman, what is your position

How Countries Around the World Help Farmers Manage Their Risks

on EQIP? Can you help stop the

U.S. FARMERS receive

reduction of funding to this C

program?

“I’ve been a long-time supporter of the

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). In my new role, I’ll be looking deeper

into how this funding is used and why it’s

being spent on things outside the scope of the EQIP program.”

53% 52%

a higher percentage of their gross farm income from the MARKETPLACE, rather than from government supports.

CMY

18%

Farm bill

Korea

What is your position on the 2013 farm bill? “Agriculture is Arkansas’s top industry, providing 1 out of 6 jobs in our state alone.

Japan

14%

European Canada U.S. Union

Government Support Estimates as a percentage of gross farm income. AFBF infographic

We need a farm bill that will give agricultural producers the certainty they need to maintain

I want to see a farm bill that works for

and what assistance it would provide. But

and grow this vital industry. Unfortunately,

southern agriculture. We cannot afford to

I’ve always supported giving our farmers

last year’s bill didn’t fairly represent our state’s

take a ‘one-size-fits-all’ budget approach to

and producers disaster funds when they need

agricultural interests. With the help of Senators

our farm programs because, as we all know,

it. These dollars were especially critical after

(Thad) Cochran and (John) Boozman, I’m

this doesn’t work. We need to create safety net

the drought in Arkansas last year.”

confident we can pass a farm bill this year that

options for different types of producers, crops,

benefits southern farmers and ranchers.”

and areas of the country.”

How will Sen. Cochran’s position

What level of budget reductions

Immigration Immigration being so

change, if any, the discussion of the

do you think will occur in farm

polarizing, how does Congress

farm bill as to benefitting southern

policy?

make any meaningful reforms?

farmers?

“Many of these decisions will be made by

“As many Arkansans know, I’ve tried to

the Agriculture Committee as the 2013 farm

work with my colleagues across the aisle for

(R-Miss.) as Ranking Member of the

bill is written, but I think we will see some

the good of Arkansas and our country. This

Agriculture Committee. First, Thad is a

cuts.”

same principle applies when it comes to

“We’re lucky to have Sen. Cochran

veteran on this committee, and he knows the ins and outs of agriculture policy. But even better, he understands southern agriculture. He’s been — and will continue to be — a strong advocate for us.”

immigration reform. If Congress is unwilling Where are these savings going to occur? “As Congress works to pare down its spending, I think we’ll see some changes to

to come together and find common ground, then we won’t be able to reform immigration, farm policies or any other pressing issues.”

mandatory farm programs, as well as the The Senate version of the farm

elimination or streamlining of programs.

bill passed last year when the

We’ll know more about these decisions when

Congressional Budget Office scored

the Agriculture Committee marks up the farm

Title 1 at $3 billion over projection.

bill.”

How do we provide a safety net and still strike a balance with the present budget pressures? “This is a challenge for the Senate Agriculture Committee. As I’ve said before,

What is your position on immigration reform? “The so-called Gang of Eight just released their immigration reform proposal, and I’ve been studying the specifics of their

What is your position on a

plan. My goal is to enforce the laws on the

permanent disaster program?

books, and that includes strengthening our

“I’d first need to see the details of the

borders and implementing an employee

permanent program to see how it’s funded

verification system.”

Arkansas Agriculture

ARFB photo

Act now Congress extended the 2008 federal farm bill for another year when it failed to agree on new farm legislation last year. It’s imperative for Congress to develop a new farm bill, now, that provides an adequate safety net that ensures farming and ranching can continue efficiently meeting the food, fiber and fuel demands of a growing population nationally and throughout the world.

farmers. How can we make major

farmers, but what do you think

Will we see any meaningful

improvements in the federal

the chances are of changing the

reforms in the H2A program?

deficit?

regulations for on-farm fuel

What is your position on H2A?

“It’s clear from my conversations with

“We’ve already cut trillions of dollars

storage?

Arkansas agricultural producers that this

from our budget. And yes, some of that has

program needs some improvements. Under

been from agriculture. But discretionary

rules would force thousands of farmers to

the current program, the application

spending is only one piece of the puzzle.

pay for costly infrastructure projects —

process is extremely burdensome and

Congress needs to put everything on the

along with an extensive inspection and

takes an extraordinary amount of time

table.”

certification process — that they simply

“The EPA’s proposed fuel storage

to complete. As the Senate works on

don’t need. That’s why I’ve introduced the

immigration reform, I expect to see

FUELS Act, a bipartisan bill that amends

different proposals aimed at fixing this

Regulations Can you explain what the bill

process.” Agriculture must have a workforce. Many sectors depend

this rule, eases the regulatory compliance for small farms and saves Arkansas

will do that you sponsored with

farmers millions. With the backing of the

Sen.Rob Portman (R-Ohio)?

Senate and House, I’m confident we’ll

“Our regulatory reform bill ensures

be able to make significant changes to

on a migrant workforce. How can

regulations are made better, cheaper

regulations for on-farm storage. This is

we streamline this program?

and faster. Our bill encourages early

common sense.”

“We need to keep safety at the forefront

engagement between agencies and the

of this issue, but we also need to reduce the

private-sector, as well as a cost-benefit

burden on individuals who have worked in

analysis to prevent overly burdensome,

this industry before. My suggestion would

drawn-out regulations from negatively

be to give preference to those who have

impacting our economy. I’m confident our

will do in performing tax reform

worked here before”.

bill will give businesses the certainty they

that would benefit farmers in this

need to invest, expand and create new

Congress?

Federal deficit How do we get our fiscal house in order? Agriculture is willing to do its part, but we can’t balance the budget on the backs of

Arkansas Agriculture

jobs.”

Tax reform What do you think Congress

“There’s no question that Congress needs to do tax reform, but the outlook for

SPCC We thank you for your help in reducing the burden on our

this is unclear. Right now, it looks like we may tackle some tax issues, but it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to reach consensus on a comprehensive tax reform package.”

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Arkansas Agriculture

Six who made a difference Ag Hall of Fame accepts new members by Ken Moore

that her career was marked by, “innovative

specialist. Her leadership qualities were

educational initiatives and outstanding

so evident Alexander was named home

leadership skills that made a lasting impact

economist and program leader for the

in research laboratories and managing

on the quality of life for Arkansas families

Northwest District. Then, in Oct. 1980, she

ag businesses most often goes unnoticed

and on Arkansas’ agricultural economy.”

charted a future path for women when she

by the masses. However, the Arkansas

Now 94, Alexander remains active serving

was named the state’s first female district

Agriculture Hall of Fame annually takes

as treasurer of the Little Rock Departmental

director. She served the Northwest District

time to recognize the career sweat equity of

Club, a support organization for the

in this capacity for four years until her

leaders in the field.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

retirement in 1984.

Toiling day to day on farms, in fields,

Margaret P. Alexander Looking back on her 32-year-career,

College of Nursing, and as an advisory

Among her numerous accomplishments

board member of the Presbyterian Village

are the development of 4-H Youth Day

Retirement Community.

Camps in Ashley County, which reached

In her role as a home demonstration

large numbers of low income and minority

training women and young people to

agent, Alexander taught many

youth during a time when

become leaders and seeing them become

women and young people

these programs were first

successful in their careers was Margaret

to be effective educators and

being integrated. She left

Alexander’s greatest joy and contribution

leaders in their communities.

her leadership development

to agriculture. Alexander spent her career

She began her career in 1942

footprint in Stone and

as a Cooperative Extension Service home

with the White County

Cleburne counties, too,

demonstration agent for the University of

Extension Service and later

developing popular home

Arkansas Division of Agriculture, a home

served in Stone, Cleburne and

economics, camping and

management specialist, district program

Ashley counties. Alexander

recreational skills programs for

leader and Northwest District director.

moved to Little Rock in 1967

women and 4-H youth.

One of the many women Alexander mentored through the years commented

Arkansas Agriculture

after being promoted to Extension home management

Margaret P. Alexander

Dr. Lanny Ashlock

“Man of the Year in Arkansas Agriculture” Dr. Lanny Ashlock

award, Pioneer Award, Extension Specialist

the Middle East. In recognition of its success, the company

has been known as

Outstanding Career Award, and American

was awarded the Presidential “E” Award

“Mr. Soybean” in

Soybean Industry Merit Award, United

for excellence in exporting by the U.S.

Arkansas throughout

Soybean Board Award, and the U.S.

Department of Commerce and President

his career as Extension

Department of Agriculture Service Award,

George H. W. Bush in 1989.

soybean specialist

among others.

England has received numerous honors

with the University

for his efforts advancing the poultry industry.

of Arkansas Division

In January, he was inducted into the

of Agriculture. For more than 20 years,

Jack R. England

American Poultry Hall of Fame in Atlanta. Other honors include the Award of Merit

In the 1950s,

soybean growers

the poultry

for Expansion of Export Markets in Arkansas

throughout the state

industry was in

by Governor Bill Clinton and the National

looked to Ashlock because of his wealth of

its infancy in

Broiler Council Market Builder Award for 100

experience and complete knowledge of the

Arkansas. One of

percent support of programs that stimulated

crop.

the true pioneers

greater demand for broilers.

Dr. Lanny Ashlock

His field research led to the

who led its

implementation of many innovations,

development into

including successful use of the early planted

one of the leading

soybean systems and adoption of shorter

poultry-producing

season Group IV and Group V varieties. The

states in the nation

1980s were a difficult decade for soybean

is Jack England. He

growers, and Ashlock is pleased to have

entered the poultry

and winemaking

been a part of the team that led to growers

business in 1955, with four chicken houses

in Arkansas and

adapting to the early maturing varieties.

and a flock of turkeys. England Feed and

across the U.S. The

Because they could be planted and harvested

Equipment Company was established as he

six-generation farm

earlier, these varieties escaped much of

bought his own trucking fleet and built a

family has been

the harmful effects of the drought farmers

feed mill. The business was successful for a

growing grapes

contended with at the time. And, due in

time, but the industry struggled in the late

and making wine

large part to his efforts, statewide yields

1960s. To compensate, England devised a

in Altus since

improved. Today 65 to 70 percent of soybean

model for a business based on the brokerage

Mathew Post’s

acres are early maturing varieties. Ashlock

of hatching eggs. England began shipping

great-grandfather,

says that while he has been instrumental

and brokering fertile eggs, transporting them

Jacob, planted the first vineyard in 1872.

in other areas, that may be his greatest

to broiler growers across the United States.

Mathew and his father, James, purchased the

contribution to the industry. It has been said that Lanny Ashlock

Mathew J. Post The name Post is synonymous

Jack R. England

with grape-growing

Mathew J. Post

His innovation came at a key period

Altus Cooperative Winery in 1947, which

in the developing poultry industry. At the

provided some financial relief for smaller

never refused a request for help and traveled

time, no other poultry professional had built

wineries. Mathew was elected president of

as many miles as necessary to assist bean

a long-term, multi-million-dollar business

the co-op and served as head winemaker at

growers in producing a quality crop.

on the brokerage of hatching eggs, which

Post Winery.

Besides field research and advice, Ashlock

has since created hundreds of jobs for

contributed to many soybean publications,

southeast Arkansas. His model connected

worked closely with the University

including the nationally known Soybean

widely dispersed suppliers with markets in

of Arkansas on numerous grape and

Production Handbook and annual Soybean

different regions of the country having a

wine research projects, providing land,

Variety Update. Though now retired as

shortage of eggs. With this service, England

equipment, labor and grants. He was the

Extension Soybean Specialist, Ashlock spends

was able to curtail the restraining effects of

first to introduce several varieties of grapes

much of his time actively supporting and

shifts in supply and demand and spur the

to Arkansas, including the French-American

helping develop the burgeoning edamame

unparalleled growth of the poultry industry

hybrid Seyval Blanc and the American native

vegetable soybean industry in Arkansas.

at a crucial phase of its evolution. His

hybrid Steuben.

Ashlock has received numerous awards

company expanded this model globally and

During the following 60 years, Post

In the late 1950s, Post worked closely

and recognition for his service to the

became an international exporter of hatching

with Philip Wagner, who is known as

industry, including Progressive Farmer’s

eggs to Mexico, Canada, Europe and even

the “Father of the Hybrid Movement.”

Arkansas Agriculture

Through their professional association,

Federation of Wine Societies. The honor

responsibility for all aspects of live

Post introduced the French-American

is bestowed on only a few individuals

poultry production. Tollett held different

and American-native hybrid varieties on

nationally and is reserved for those who

management positions with increasing

a commercial scale to Arkansas. Though

are deemed to have made “monumental”

responsibilities until being promoted to chief

there are many, perhaps Post’s greatest

contributions to the industry.

operating officer in 1981 and president in

contribution to the industry was the

1983. The following year he was elected to

introduction of muscadine grape production

the board of directors. Tollett was named

on a commercial scale in 1970. Post says muscadines are a grape that can be grown

Leland Tollett

chief executive officer in 1991 and chairman of the board in 1995.

When Leland Tollett joined

Under Tollett’s leadership,

profitably in Arkansas. As far as he’s

Tyson Foods, Inc. in 1959,

concerned, muscadines are “the only grape

the company was known as

Tyson Foods successfully built or

you can compete with in America.” Because

Tyson’s Feed and Hatchery,

integrated 23 major production

of its worldwide popularity, Post Winery is

a small northwest Arkansas

facilities between 1981 and ’89.

now exporting and selling muscadine juice

broiler business struggling to

The company’s acquisition in

to customers in China.

grow and process chickens

1989 of Holly Farms with its 16

for local consumption.

processing plants consolidated

working with Third District Congressman

Tollett began his career with

its position as the world’s largest

John Paul Hammerschmidt to establish the

the company as director of

poultry producer. From 1990

Altus Viticultural Area in 1984. With 200

research and nutrition at a

acres of grapes under cultivation, Post has

time when Tyson had net sales

developed the largest vineyard in Arkansas.

of less than $11 million with one processing

another 15 poultry and food companies,

In 2004, he was awarded the prize of

plant.

including majority interest in what is known

Post’s other accomplishments include

Supreme Knight by the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, part of an international

Leland Tollett

In 1965, he was named general manager of the Broiler Division, assuming

through 1998 Tyson acquired interest in or the entire assets of

as Tyson de Mexico. At the time of Tollett’s retirement in

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Arkansas Agriculture

ArkAnsAs-grown insurAnce for ArkAnsAs growers

1998, net sales for the company had reached

Dale Bumpers College

Wray worked closely with

$7.4 billion. He continued to serve on the

of Agriculture. In 2012,

Leland Tollett during their more

board until 2008. His many honors include

Wray was named by

than 50 years together, along

being named Man of the Year by the Poultry

the Northwest Arkansas

with John and Don Tyson, to

Federation in 1989 and being inducted into

Community College

grow Tyson Foods into the global

the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame in 2011.

as a “Quality of Life”

company it is today. Through his

honoree, which recognizes

and Tollett’s joint leadership, the

John W. and Don Tyson in building a global

individuals for their

company has created thousands

company that now employs more than

leadership in building and

of jobs and become a worldwide

23,000 people in Arkansas with an annual

sustaining an excellent

leader in poultry production and

payroll of nearly $970 million. Tollett’s

quality of life in northwest

legacy at Tyson Foods will last for years as

Arkansas.

Tollett’s vision complimented that of

Donald (Buddy)Wray

processing.

Œ„´*

those he mentored lead the company in its continued global expansion.

Donald (Buddy) Wray Buddy Wray’s career at Tyson Foods, Inc. began in 1961 as a service technician, serving as a liaison between the company and contract family farmers to ensure their flocks were healthy and growing well. He progressed into management at Tyson’s second plant in Rogers and was soon made

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Wray was part of a small team of Tyson

the family.

principals who managed acquisition growth from 1963 through the turn of the century. He was instrumental in the company’s product development, sales and marketing that expanded Tyson’s offerings from fresh chicken into prepared foods such as chicken nuggets and patties through the 1970s and ‘80s. He held a variety of management positions through the years and was named chief operating officer in 1992, overseeing all operations including live poultry production, processing and sales. A year later, Wray was promoted to president and retained these positions until he retired in 2000. He was a member of the board of directors from 1994-2003 and came out of retirement in 2009 to serve as executive vice president – special assistant to the president and CEO. Among his many honors, Wray was named

Since 1976

the University of Arkansas’ “Distinguished Alumni of the Year” in 2000. In 2004,

AUTHORIZED DEALER

the University established the Donald “Buddy” Wray Chair in Food Safety in the

Arkansas Arkansas Agriculture Agriculture

13 13

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Arkansas Agriculture

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soybeans soyb eans

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Arkansas Agriculture

Faces of Agriculture compiled by Tara Johnson

Last year, I had the opportunity to

be a judge for the Miss Arkansas Rice Contest. I met Jennifer James through that opportunity, and I’m so happy to

USA Rice Federation

Jennifer James

In your own words, what is agriculture? “Agriculture is the science of raising food and fiber to sustain life.”

introduce her to you. She’s a farmer, hard worker and extremely funny. Jennifer spent a few moments sharing her thoughts on Arkansas agriculture and how she’s involved in our state’s largest industry.

agriculture? “I have a degree in agricultural business

its condition for today and future generations. Farming is not only an occupation but a lifestyle. It involves hard work, long hours, large financial

Why do you think agriculture is important? “1. Agriculture is important to sustain

investments and a love of the land and nature. Family farms exist in all shapes and sizes.”

and maintain the current status of our society. The majority of Americans do not

How are you involved in

it in the best condition or improving

You and your husband own and

have to raise their own food to sustain their

operate Auvergne Grain Company.

life. Food is readily available on any street

What do you think is different

corner in the local cafes, restaurants and

about the agriculture industry? “Agriculture is very different from

from the University of Arkansas. I am a

groceries stores. 2. Agriculture is important

fourth-generation family farmer and currently

to the economy of Arkansas. It is the

any other sector in the economy. In a

farm with my father, husband and brother.

backbone of the rural communities.”

manufacturing plant the management is able to produce the exact amount they

We raise rice, soybeans, corn and winter wheat on 6,000 acres in Jackson and Woodruff

What is the one thing you

plan for, know the cost to produce it and

counties. I am also a partner in a grain

want everyone to know about

adjust their prices to obtain a particular

elevator and specialty soybean business, Delta

agriculture and farming?

margin. This isn’t true for agriculture. Our

Soy. We contract with area growers to raise a

“Farmers are the first

input costs can fluctuate greatly during the

non-GMO specialty soybean. We then clean

conservationists. All farmers care deeply

time of production, and we have absolutely

the soybeans and export them to Japan.”

about the environment and maintaining

zero control over the price we receive.

Arkansas Agriculture

Œ„´*

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Arkansas Agriculture

Rural Reflections Photo Contest 2013

ront Porch’s fourth Rural Reflections Photo Contest 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.

$1,000 in prizes. Complete contest rules at: www.arfb.com/get-involved/contests

Arkansas Agriculture

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Policy Update by Michelle Kitchens

The 89th General Assembly recently

completed its regular session. Farm Bureau and our legislative partners were successful in enacting some beneficial new laws for agriculture.

Tax issues

The General Assembly wrangled with

tax cut affordability and which taxes to cut throughout the session. Legislative leaders and Governor Beebe agreed that responsible tax cuts could happen if the legislature also adopted the Private Option plan to

(Act 1354), which enhances penalties for

commitments from individual legislators

expand health care coverage to low-income

metal theft, prohibits sales of metal by those

for money to partially fund the program

Arkansans. A super majority of the legislature

formerly convicted of metal theft, establishes

through the General Improvement Fund.

adopted the private option, and millions of

a crime when buyers purchase metal they

dollars of tax cuts subsequently became law.

know or should know is stolen, creates more

The biggest win of the session is HB

stringent reporting requirements for scrap-

Commodity promotion and research boards

1039 (Act 1441). The bill championed by

metal dealers and requires a license for scrap-

Reps. Jeff Wardlaw and Jon Eubanks and

metal dealers. While this bill offers some

Sen. Larry Teague will provide a full sales-

remedies to limit metal theft and resale,

participation of any board member who was

tax exemption on natural gas, LPG and

we hope to add more deterrents in future

actively engaged in the industry under the

electricity used in the production of poultry,

sessions.

scope of a board or commission. It died in

HB 1786 would have limited the

swine, horticulture, aquaculture and dairy.

committee for lack of a motion. HB 1967, a

This $11 million annual utilities exemption

shell bill dealing with the rice checkoff, was

takes effect Jan. 1, 2014. The Timber Fire Suppression Fee was a

Water priority for agriculture

never amended.

The past two years of drought and the

necessary fee increase supported by Farm

pending State Water Plan revision prompted

Bureau and the timber industry. SB 5 (Act

this change in state law. Rep. Jeremy Gillam

1391) by Sen. Bill Sample raises this fee from

guided HB 2088 (Act 593) to final passage.

15 to 20 cents per acre on forested land.

It establishes agriculture as the first priority

control this destructive species. HB 1478

Funds from this fee support the fire-fighting

for water in a stream experiencing water

(Act 1104) prohibits the transportation and

efforts of the Arkansas Forestry Commission.

shortage.

release of feral hogs while increasing the

SB 11 (Act 1392) is a full sales-tax exemption for wrap/twine for cotton and forage. It will take effect on Oct.1, 2013.

Scrap metal theft and sales Reps. Kim Hammer, David Hillman and Walls McCrary united behind HB 1975

Arkansas Agriculture

Feral hogs Rep. McCrary led the charge to help

penalties for violating these laws. The law

Veterinary Tuition Repayment Program

allows one limited exception for tagged hogs transported to “terminal facilities,” such as fenced hunting ranches.

Reps. Gillam and Eubanks each worked to secure funds for this program. We were

Next time you meet with your legislators,

unsuccessful in getting dedicated funds

let them know you appreciate their votes in

through Revenue Stabilization but do have

support of agriculture.

Œ„*

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Arkansas Agriculture

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Spotlight OnYouth Leading future history Gordon Eichelberger leads Quitman H.S. FFA by Gregg Patterson

Eichelberger said. To enhance his own

accomplishments are chronicled in

leadership skills, Eichelberger

hallway trophy cases. The roll call of

became a member of

past class presidents is etched brass

Arkansas Farm Bureau’s

plates adorning a dusty wooden plaque

President’s Leadership

on a wall somewhere. An honor

Council.

roll recognizes individual academic

Keith Sutton

What is the true impact of a good

classroom teacher? School sporting

“I want to further

accomplishment. But has there ever been

develop my knowledge

a list that honors teachers for the famous

of leadership and

students they taught? Mark Twain, Bill

understanding of Arkansas

Gates, Ronald Reagan, Eleanor Roosevelt,

Farm Bureau,” he said. “I

Billy Graham. Who were the teachers

plan to use the leadership

who taught and influenced them?

skills attained to further

Leading by example Cleburne County Farm Bureau President Gordon Eichelberger leads Quitman High School’s FFA program. His greatest satisfaction comes from working with and watching students develop and put into practice leadership skills.

develop the Quitman FFA

high standards and expectations that the

students of today who will make future

Chapter, the students in my agriculture

students would strive to meet.”

history? Maybe one of them is someone

education classes, our county Farm

like Gordon Eichelberger.

Bureau board and to grow personally to

What teachers are leading the

One of those old faded schoolrelated documents hangs on the wall

better serve our community and state.” Eichelberger is well on his way.

Eichelberger believes it’s important to give back in the same manner. “It’s vital to give back what you have received. Part of the FFA motto is ‘Living

of Eichelberger’s classroom at Quitman

Last year, he was elected president of

to Serve’,” he said. “That portion is the

High School. It’s the framed original FFA

Cleburne County Farm Bureau.

one that I believe is the most important.

charter for the school. It’s dated Nov. 2, 1937. The 31-year-old Eichelberger is the agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor for the school. He takes

“Agriculture needs good leaders,” he

As an educator, it’s my job to impart

said. “The problems of the future will be

knowledge. As a Farm Bureau member

solved by the leaders being developed

and member of our agriculture society,

today.”

it’s my privilege and honor to give back.”

Like many leaders, Eichelberger

Seventy-five years later, that old,

his teaching responsibilities seriously,

benefitted from the positive influence of

stained FFA Charter on the wall still

especially when it comes to leadership.

those who came before him. The leader

speaks to the development of students

One of the courses he teaches is a

he admires most was Patrick Breeding, a

and tomorrow’s leaders.

leadership class.

retired ag education instructor and FFA

“Being around students and

“As a teacher, I take on leadership

advisor from Greenbrier. “The positive

young people every day has helped

roles on a daily basis. One of the best

influence he had on the FFA members

me appreciate the value and need for

moments is watching someone, who you

and students in each of his classes was

leadership,” Eichelberger said. “My role is

have taught, develop leadership skills and

truly unique,” Eichelberger said. “He

to develop my own leadership abilities to

take on a leadership role of their own,”

was able to develop leaders by setting

help train tomorrow’s leaders.”

Arkansas Agriculture

Œ„´*

Mollie Dykes

Arkansas Agriculture

RuralReflections

Optimism No doubt, new sprouts in a spring garden always gives us a sense of confidence in what’s to come. Farm Bureau member Ginger Sublett of Greenbrier captured that feeling of hopefulness in her photo she calls “Garden sprouts.”

Arkansas Agriculture

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Arkansas Agriculture

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Purchase or refinance the agricultural equipment you need today to grow your business for the future. Plus take advantage of your membership with dedicated service, special rates, flexible terms and payment plans up to 7 full years. We make financing easy!

Contact your local Arkansas Farm Bureau agent or visit farmbureaubank.com Existing Farm Bureau Bank equipment loans are excluded from this offer.

*Rate disclosed as Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and based on exceptional credit. Some restrictions may apply based upon the make and model of the 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 3/22/2013. Rates and financing are limited to farm equipment model years 2003 or newer and are subject to change without notice. A down payment may be required for new or used equipment purchases. 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. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license LENDER from, the American Farm Bureau Federation. EQUAL HOUSING