DEF, PROPERTY OWNERSHIP BILLS ADDRESS AG CONCERNS
The Georgia General Assembly adjourned its 2024 session on March 29 having passed a number of bills addressing agricultural concerns, including a Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption (GATE) provision for diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), a step to prevent adversarial nations from owning Georgia farmland, and a move to protect private property rights for owners of land next to navigable bodies of water.
Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) thanks members of the legislature who worked to promote and defend agriculture and to GFB members who took the time to advocate for the organization's issues, whether it was done through attendance of GFB Day at the Capitol or by contacting their elected officials to advocate on specific issues.
On March 26, House Bill 1172, introduced by Rep. James Burchett (R-Waycross) received final passage in the Senate. This bill has been the top priority of GFB this legislative session.
The bill removes the public trust doctrine from code and restores private property rights to landowners adjacent to navigable waters. HB 1172 addresses unattended consequences from SB 115, which passed in 2023, while still allowing the public to pass, hunt and fish on navigable waters, which was the original intent of the legislature. In a related matter, a resolution establishing a study committee on navigable waters.
Also on March 26, SB 420, introduced by Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R-Dallas) and championed by Rep. Clay Pirkle (R-Ashburn) in the House, received final passage in the Senate. This bill will prohibit the foreign acquisition of farmland within a 25-mile radius of a U.S. military installation by nonresident aliens, businesses based in, or governments of nations deemed foreign adversaries by the U.S. federal government. These include China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia and Venezuela. GFB has been a leading voice of support on this issue.
DEF, a fluid used to reduce air pollution from diesel engines, is required under EPA regulations for certain diesel-powered vehicles and machinery, including many used on farms. Senate Bill 340 adds DEF to the list of farm inputs eligible for GATE. SB340 passed on March 28.
Gov. Brian Kemp has 40 days to consider bills passed by the legislature and either sign them
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For a comprehensive rundown of ag-related bills from the 2024 legislative session, see the GFB Public Policy Department’s Legislative Session Report for March 29 at www.gfb.org/advocate/24legreportwk12.
HPAI CONFIRMED IN DAIRY COWS IN MULTIPLE STATES & TEXAS EGG FARM
As of April 3, dairy herds in Texas (7), Kansas (2), Michigan (1) New Mexico (1) and Idaho (1) have been confirmed to have cattle infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported April 3.
USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) is currently performing comfirmatory tests on test samples taken from cattle in Ohio and from more cattle in Kansas, New Mexico and Texas. USDA has created a webpage with recent announcements pertaining to HPAI detections in livestock along with biosecurity information and other resources. USDA will daily update the page by 4 p.m. ET with any new confirmed detections.
Wild migratory birds are believed to be the source of avian flu infections in the herds in Texas, Kansas and New Mexico. The Michigan dairy farm with infected cattle had recently received cows from Texas before HPAI was detected in the state. USDA’s NVSL has confirmed that the strain of HPAI found in the Michigan herd is very similar to the strain initially confirmed on Texas and Kansas dairies (H5N1, Eurasian lineage goose) on March 25.
Cows infected with HPAI are exhibiting symptoms that include: a significant decrease in milk production (10-30 lbs./cow), low appetite, and fever, according to the USDA. The affected cattle are being isolated from the healthy cows in their herds and most have recovered with little to no deaths, the USDA reported on March 29.
In related news, on April 2, Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., announced that one of its facilities located in Parmer County, Texas, tested positive for HPAI. This led to the depopulation of about 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets, or approximately 3.6% of Cal-Maine’s total flock as of March 2.
Cal-Maine has temporarily ceased production at the Texas facility per safety protocols prescribed by the USDA. Cal-Maine Foods says production from other facilities will minimize disruption to its customers.
In its statement, Cal-Maine said it remains dedicated to robust biosecurity programs across its locations. The company pointed out, however, that no farm is immune from HPAI since the virus is still present in the wild bird population with heightened risk during migration seasons that cannot be predicted.
Pasteurized Dairy Products, Cooked Eggs Safe for Consumers
While the USDA, FDA and CDC continue to work with state veterinary and public health officials to investigate any reports of sick cattle and poultry, the USDA and Food & Drug Administration (FDA) continue to assure the public that the commercial supply of pasteurized milk and dairy products is safe that the dairy cattle with HPAI pose no risk to consumer health.
Likewise, the USDA reports that HPAI cannot be transmitted through safely handled and properly cooked eggs. There is no known risk related to HPAI associated with eggs that are
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Federal and state food laws require dairy farms to send only milk from healthy animals into processing for human consumption; milk from the sick animals is being diverted or destroyed so that it does not enter the food supply. In addition, pasteurization has continually proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk. Pasteurization is required for any milk entering interstate commerce.
FDA has a longstanding position that unpasteurized, raw milk can harbor dangerous microorganisms that can pose serious health risks to consumers.
As of April 2, milk loss resulting from the sick cows is too small to have a major impact on the U.S. dairy supply, so there should be no impact on the price of milk or other dairy products, the USDA reports.
The Meat Institute says properly prepared beef is safe to eat and is not a food safety risk to humans.
“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and USDA food safety experts, properly prepared beef is safe to eat,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “HPAI cannot be transmitted to humans by eating meat or poultry products. The Meat Institute and its member companies will continue to be vigilant to aid in the efforts to stop the spread of the disease among animals in food production.”
On April 1, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that a person in Texas has tested positive for HPAI A(H5N1) virus; the CDC also stated in its announcement that this infection does not change the A(H5N1) bird flu human health risk assessment for the U.S. general public, which CDC considers to be low.
This person had exposure to dairy cattle in Texas presumed to be infected with HPAI A(H5N1) viruses. The patient reported eye redness (consistent with pink ey), as their only symptom, and is recovering. The patient was told to isolate and is being treated with an antiviral drug for flu. People with close or prolonged, unprotected exposures to infected birds or other animals (including livestock), or to environments contaminated by infected birds or other animals, are at greater risk of infection. CDC has interim recommendations for prevention, monitoring, and public health investigations of HPAI A(H5N1) viruses.
The NVSL has also confirmed that the strain of the virus found in subsequent states is very similar to the strain originally confirmed in cattle in Texas and Kansas that appears to have been introduced by wild birds (H5N1, Eurasian lineage goose/Guangdong clade 2.3.4.4b). Initial testing has not found changes to the virus that would make it more transmissible to humans.
Biosecurity resources for dairy farmers
The Georgia Milk Producers (GMP) organization reported in its April 3 newsletter that it is continuing to work with the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) Animal Health Division and the State Veterinarian’s office to monitor the situation. GMP and GDA are encouraging Georgia dairy farmers to follow these tips:
1. If you notice five or more dead birds on your farm, contact Georgia DNR or GDA Animal
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Health at 404-656-3667.
2. When disposing of dead birds or other wildlife, be sure to use gloves and other personal protective equipment that you can discard or disinfect. Bury any dead animals well to prevent other wildlife from finding it. Discard or disinfect anything that may have come in contact with dead animals before returning to barns or milking parlor.
3. Wash your hands and disinfect your boots often.
4. Disinfect equipment before and after working with animals
5. Maintain good barriers & fences between cattle and surrounding wildlife.
6. Empty and clean water troughs frequently.
At this time it’s important for Georgia dairy farmers to:
1. Contact your veterinarian if you notice unusual or persistent illness and the following symptoms: reduced feed intake, reduced rumination, reduced milk production, abnormal milk, lethargy, fever, pneumonia, loose or abnormal feces, and dehydration.
2. Practice sound biosecurity practices including limiting access to dairy cattle to essential personnel only, using Personal Protection Equipment and disposing or sanitizing boots and any equipment when interacting with wildlife or moving from hospital pens to the rest of the herd.
3. Remember that the milk supply and dairy food chains are secure and food safety regulations (namely the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance) are designed to both prevent abnormal milk from entering the food chain and pasteurization processes are proven effective in eliminating pathogens in milk.
Georgia dairy producers with any questions are encouraged to contact Bryce Trotter, GMP executive director, or GDA’s Animal Health Division at 404-656-3667 or animalhealth@agr.georgia.gov.
The National Dairy FARM Program (NDFP) offers several valuable biosecurity resources to provide dairy farmers with tools to keep their cattle and dairy businesses safe, including:
Everyday Biosecurity Reference Manual
(https://nationaldairyfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/FARM_Everyday-BiosecurityVersion-1_Reference-Manual_FINAL_101822_Web_pages.pdf)
Enhanced Biosecurity Prep Guide
(https://nationaldairyfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Enhanced-Biosecurity-PrepGuide-1.pdf)
Animal Movement Log
(https://securemilksupply.org/Assets/SMS_AnimalMovementLog.pdf)
People Entry Log
(https://securemilksupply.org/milk-producers/forms-sops/sms_peopleentrylog/)
If milk from cows showing symptoms of illness or exposed to those infected with avian influenza, is intended to be used to feed calves or other animals, FDA strongly encourages that it be pasteurized or otherwise heat treated to kill harmful bacteria or viruses, such as influenza, before feeding to calves. Food safety information from FDA, including information about the sale and -continued on next page
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While HPAI has not been detected in beef cattle, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is encouraging cattle producers to implement enhanced biosecurity measures on their farms and ranches to help protect their herds. Information on animal health protocols and developing an effective biosecurity plan can be found at www.bqa.org Producers can visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/fs-manage-wildlife-prevent-ai.508.pdf for information on how to manage wildlife to limit exposure to HPAI.
USDA TO HOST WORKSHOPS ON EXPANDED NURSERY INSURANCE OPTION
The USDA has expanded its Nursery Value Select (NVS) crop insurance program to all counties in all states, and the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) is encouraging interested nursery producers to learn more about the program through upcoming informational workshops. These sessions will be valuable for producers in the newly expanded areas and especially for the Nursery Field Grown and Container (FG&C) crop insurance program, which ends beginning with the 2026 crop year.
Nursery Value Select is a pilot program that enables nursery producers to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their risk management needs. Its expansion is part of RMA’s efforts to provide insurance options for a broader group of producers, including specialty crop producers.
There are three online Nursery Value Select workshops - two on April 18 (2 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET) and one on July 18 (3 p.m. ET). See more details here
RMA has administered the Nursery FG&C crop insurance program for nearly 30 years. However, the program relies on a partnership between RMA and a private contractor to update and maintain the Eligible Plant List and Plant Price Schedule and associated software packages. The private contractor will be closing after providing all necessary contractual obligations for the 2025 crop year. Without access to the price schedule and associated software, the Nursery FG&C program will no longer be available to nursery producers beginning with the 2026 crop year.
Nursery Value Select will be able to offer comparable but improved risk management options for those who currently have coverage with the Nursery FG&C program, making RMA’s informational workshops a valuable opportunity to learn more about Nursery Value Select and any required transitions.
Prior to the expansion, Nursery Value Select was only available in select counties in Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas and Washington. Beginning with the 2025 crop year, Nursery Value Select will be available in all counties in all states. The sales closing date for the 2025 crop year is May 1, 2024, or Sept. 1, 2024, as provided in the actuarial documents.
Nursery Value Select was first available in the 2021 crop year, and producers insured more than $460 million in liabilities in crop year 2023.
Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at www.rma.usda.gov/.
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Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance Company contracts with three companies - Rain & Hail, Sompo, and Crop Risk Services to offer crop insurance. GFB has more than 70 experienced crop insurance agents (and growing) across the state to help their members protect their investment. Find your local agent and learn more at www.GFBInsurance.com or email crops@gfbinsurance.com for more details. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
GEORGIA COTTON, PEANUT COMMISSIONS APPROVE RESEARCH FUNDING
The Georgia Cotton Commission (GCC) and the Georgia Peanut Commission (GCC) approved a combined $1.47 million in research funding at their respective March board meetings.
The GCC board signed off on $675,340 in research for the 2025 crop year, funding 17 projects that will be conducted by University of Georgia researchers and extension specialists. Funded projects include studies on resistant weeds, soil management practices, evaluating the economics of conservation production, irrigation management and many more. The goal of this producerfunded research is to help cotton producers by conducting research that can either raise yields, promote efficiency or open new markets.
All GCC projects are vetted by both the commission board of directors and State Support Committee, made up of cotton producers from across the state, and the commission’s research review committee, which is made up of researchers, crop consultants and local UGA Extension Agriculture/Natural Resource agents.
“I and the other producers on our board understand that due to high inputs and low markets, times are extremely hard on the farm, and we are committed to being good stewards of producers’ money by funding research projects that promote efficiency, increases yield, and ensures longterm sustainability for family farms in Georgia,” GCC Chairman Bart Davis said.
Georgia cotton growers pay a $1 per bale assessment to support GCC’s research, promotion and education work. For more information about the GCC, visit www.georgiacottoncommission.org
The GPC board approved $791,639 in research project funding for the 2024-25 research budget year. Projects approved include 40 project proposals submitted from the University of Georgia, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and the USDA Agricultural Research Service.
“As a peanut grower, I’m proud to invest in the Georgia Peanut Commission and in the future of the peanut industry by supporting research that continues to demonstrate a return on our investment,” said GPC Research Committee Chairman Donald Chase. “We are proud of our partnership with research institutions and look forward to seeing the results which will benefit farmers in the state and enhance the sustainability of our crop.”
Georgia’s peanut growers invest $2 per ton annually toward GPC programs which includes research, promotion and education. The research programs primarily focus on peanut breeding, conservation methods, irrigation and water management, as well as, pests, weed and disease management.
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projects are looking at utilizing high-oleic peanuts in poultry feed, converting peanut oil from a non-drying oil to a drying oil for timber oils and coatings, reviewing George Washington Carver’s peanut uses for application in today’s world and finding new non-food applications of peanuts and by-products.
Additionally, GPC manages funding for the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative which includes research funding of $1,557,580 for projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. These projects are funded through the National Peanut Board checkoff dollars from farmers.
For more information and a complete list of the research projects funded by the GPC visit www.gapeanuts.com.
USDA DESIGNATES 17 GA COUNTIES AS DISASTER AREAS DUE TO DROUGHT
On March 25, the USDA designated 17 Georgia counties as primary natural disaster areas due to severe drought conditions. The Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans.
“Our agency stands committed to providing support to our agricultural producers who are recovering from natural disasters,” said Arthur Tripp, state executive director for FSA in Georgia. “Drought conditions can be devastating for many agricultural operations. Through these designations, Georgia’s farmers and ranchers will have access to the emergency credit that is critical to their recovery from severe drought conditions.”
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the primary counties suffered from a drought intensity value during the growing season of 1) D2 Drought-Severe for more than 8 or more consecutive weeks, 2) D3 Drought-Extreme or, 3) D3 Drought-Exceptional. Producers in an additional nine contiguous Georgia counties are also eligible for disaster relief coverage. Producers in the following eligible counties will have until Nov. 25 to apply for FSA emergency assistance.
Primary counties eligible under this declaration are: Bartow, Chattooga, Cherokee, Dawson, Fannin, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Habersham, Lumpkin, Murray, Pickens, Rabun, Towns, Union, White and Whitfield Contiguous counties also eligible are: Banks, Catoosa, Cobb, Forsyth, Fulton, Hall, Paulding, Polk, Stephens, Walker, Columbia, Elbert, Franklin, Hart, Lincoln, Dade, Carroll and Haralson.
FSA emergency loans allow producers to borrow up to 100 percent of actual production or physical losses, up to a maximum amount of $500,000. These loans assist producers in meeting their various recovery needs, including the payment of essential family living expenses, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA considers each emergency loan application on its own merits, considering the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.
For more information about FSA’s disaster recovery options, producers can visit https://farmers.gov, where the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-aGlance fact sheet, and Loan Assistance Tool can help you determine program or loan options. Producers can also contact their local USDA Service Center to file a Notice of Loss and learn more about programs fitting their operational needs.
FORESTRY SECTOR GENERATES $42 BILLION IN ECONOMIC OUTPUT
For the 13th consecutive year, a Georgia Institute of Technology study shows an increase in revenue generated by Georgia’s forest industry. According to a new report by the institute’s Enterprise Innovation Institute, the total economic output of the forest industry rose to $42 billion in 2022, a 1.6% increase from the previous year. Total direct revenue generated by the forest industry rose 1.5% from 2021 to $25 billion in 2022. The annual report also shows forestry provided the state with $807 million in tax revenue for 2022.
Other highlights of the “2022 Economic Benefits of the Forest Industry in Georgia” report show:
• Urban and community forestry total impacts rose 12.7% from the previous year to $7.1 billion in 2022;
• Wages and salaries for forest industry workers were $4.4 billion in 2022, an increase of 0.7% from 2021;
• Georgia’s pulp and paper industry, including 11 pulp mills, continued to dominate all forest industry sectors.
“These numbers reflect stability,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Tim Lowrimore. “Our plentiful, renewable resource and strong work force make this possible, providing so many products we depend on, along with critical environmental services. We’re proud to be a Georgia sustainability success story.”
Highlights of the report can be found here. The complete report can be found here. : https://t.ly/yzuD4.
For more information about services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit www.GaTrees.org
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5TH ANNUAL WASHINGTON COUNTY AG CENTER RODEO
April 5-6 Washington County Ag Center, 882 Grady Mertz Rd. Tennille
Gates open at 5 p.m. and rodeo starts at 7 p.m. Sanctioned contest events are bareback riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, team roping, bull riding and break away roping. Admission at gate: Adults 18 and older $18, Youth 7 - 17 $12. Children under 6 get in free. Advanced tickets can be purchased at Smith Farm Supply. Advanced tickets are $12 Adults, 18 and older and $8 Youth, 7-17. Children 6 and under are free. There will be food and western wear vendors, rides and attractions for children. The event is family oriented and suitable for all ages. The rodeo brings professional competition sanctioned by IPRA and SRA. The contractor is Hedrick Rodeo Company from Madisonville, Tennessee. Washington County Ag center is a 501C5 corporation owned by Washington County Farm Bureau. The Ag Center’s mission is to support Ag in the community and Ag in the classrooms. The rodeo is the Ag Center’s major annual fundraiser.
GA DEPT. OF NATURAL RESOURCES DEER SURVEY
April 7 midnight deadline to complete survey
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input from Georgians regarding white-tailed deer as it prepares to write the State Deer Management Plan for the next six years. It's important for farmers and landowners to participate and submit their input about deer ag damage and deer population as this policy will be in place for multiple years. Visit https://georgiawildlife.com/deer-info to take the survey. The current & past deer management plans are posted along with other deer-related info. You may also call 770-918-6416 for more information.
GEORGIA PEANUT COMMISSION REFERENDUM
April 8
balloting deadline
The Georgia Peanut Commission is holding a referendum through April 8, giving peanut producers an opportunity to vote on reaffirming the commission. State law mandates a referendum be held every three years. Georgia peanut producers invest $2 per ton to fund the commission and its research, education, promotion and communication programs. The last referendum in 2021 passed with a 94.43 percent reaffirmation. Contact GPC Executive Director Don Koehler by email at don@gapeanuts.com or by phone 229-386-3470 if you are a peanut grower with questions about the commission’s activities or the referendum. Peanut producers who do not receive a ballot may obtain one by calling the commission. The commission requests that anyone who receives a ballot but is no longer farming to write, “no longer producing” on the certification envelope and return it to the commission. This will assist the commission in updating its mailing list. The commission’s address is P.O. Box 967, Tifton, Georgia 31793. The Certified Public Accounting Firm of Allen, Pritchett, and Bassett will count the votes.
GFB
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RESEARCH SURVEY TO BENEFIT GEORGIA VEGETABLE GROWERS
April 10 deadline to take survey
UGA Extension vegetable specialists based in Tifton are putting together and leading a USDA SCRI grant with colleagues from the University of Florida, North Carolina State University and Virginia Tech. The project is related to the conversion of agricultural waste products into valuable resources and the implementation of advanced labor-saving technologies to promote sustainability and competitiveness of vegetable farms. To support their grant submission, they need feedback from Georgia vegetable growers. It only takes 2 minutes to complete this survey. Take the survey at https://ugeorgia.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a5XisdWDWAY9alM .
USDA VALUE-ADDED PRODUCER GRANTS
April 11 deadline for electronic applications
April 16 deadline for paper applications
The USDA is accepting applications for grants to help agricultural producers maximize the value of their products and venture into new and better markets. USDA is making the grants available under the Value-Added Producer Grants program. The grants help farmers and ranchers generate new products, create marketing opportunities, and increase their incomes through value-added activities Eligible applicants include independent producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer or rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures. USDA may award up to $75,000 for planning activities or up to $250,000 for working capital expenses related to producing and marketing a value-added agricultural product Planning activities may include conducting feasibility studies and developing business plans. Working capital expenses may include costs associated with processing, marketing, advertising, inventory and salaries. To learn more, read the full Grant Opportunity Announcement. (https://www.rd.usda.gov/media/file/download/usda-rd-sa-vappg-foa-01172024.pdf)
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
April 13, May 18, Sept. 7 & Oct. 5
Morgan Co. Ag Center
Madison
These shows are open to equestrians of all ages and experience levels. Classes include hunter/jumper, western, gaited, trail obstacles, ranch riding, ranch reining, dressage on the rail, halter/showmanship, “small fry” and more. All shows begin at 9 a.m. - rain or shine. Show participants will enjoy an exciting jumping course and pattern changes, re-themed jumps and online registration/payment. Entry fee per class is $10 regular class and $12 for championship classes. Stall fees are $15 for club members & $20 nonmembers. All overnight stalls are $25. For more information about the shows, visit the KelMac Saddle Club Facebook page, or www.kelmac.com or call Arlene Williams at 706-431-8600. General admission is free and concession food and drinks will be available. The Morgan County Ag Center is located at 2380 Athens Hwy. (441), north of Madison. These volunteer-run shows generate funds to benefit Kel-Mac’s equestrian related charities. The Kel-Mac Saddle Club has donated more than $167,500 back to Georgia’s Piedmont region during its 48 years including: the Georgia Equine Rescue League, ReDux Equine Rescue, Sweet Olive Rescue, the Barbara Cumming Scholarship, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund, and the equestrian facilities of state & county parks such as A. H. Stephens, Hard Labor Creek, and Heritage Park.
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VIDALIA ONION PACK DATE
April 17 first date Vidalia onions can be packed and shipped Vidalia sweet onions are set to ship to grocery stores nationwide beginning April 17. Vidalia onions are available for a limited time each year between April through early September. The pack date is determined by soil and weather conditions during the growing season, contributing to high quality Vidalia onions. The Vidalia Onion Advisory Panel voted to recommend April 17 as the 2024 pack date to Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper.
EPD MEETINGS REGARDING SOUTHWEST GA WATER WITHDRAWAL PERMITS
April 18 Charles H. Kirbo Regional Center, 2500 E. Shotwell St., 39818 Bainbridge
May 23 Candy Room, 125 Pine Ave., 31701 Albany
June 13 Goolsby Farm Supply, 2943 Callis Rd., 39842 Dawson Meeting registration begins at 9:30 a.m. Meetings will start at 10 a.m. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Environmental Protection Division (EPD) is modifying the 2012 agricultural permitting suspension in Southwest Georgia to allow new and modified surface water withdrawal permits in the Suwannee and Ochlockonee portions of the suspension area. EPD is holding public meetings to receive feedback from stakeholders on potential changes to the 2012 suspension. More information about agricultural water withdrawal and the 2012 suspension is available at https://epd.georgia.gov/waterwithdrawal-permitting
CHEROKEE COUNTY CANDIDATE FORUM
April 25 Historic Cherokee County Courthouse 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Canton
This forum is sponsored by Cherokee County Farm Bureau. All local, state and national candidates running for office are invited to attend. Each candidate will have the opportunity to speak if they have opposition. Candidates running unopposed will be introduced. Current elected officials will also be introduced. Meet and greet opportunities will be available before and after the event. Water will be provided by Cherokee County Farm Bureau. The Historic Cherokee County Courthouse is located at 90 North St. in Canton. RSVP by April 5 to the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office by sending an email to dbforward@gfbco.org or calling 770-479-1481, ext. 0.
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FERAL SWINE WORKSHOPS AND TRAPPING DEMONSTRATIONS
April 25
Terrell County 4-H Pavilion, 2674 Albany Hwy. 5 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Dawson
May 22 Madison Co. High School, 600 Madison St. 5 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Danielsville
Feral swine have become increasingly detrimental in Georgia, causing significant damage to agricultural crops and natural resources throughout the state. The economic impact of damage caused by feral swine in Georgia is estimated at $150 million. A group of agricultural and natural resource organizations are partnering to bring Georgia’s top experts on feral swine together in a series of educational workshops for farmers and landowners. Topics will include disease issues, swine biology, economics, water quality issues, effective control techniques, transport issues, and regulations to be followed by a question-and-answer panel of experts. Each workshop will also include a feral swine trapping demonstration. Partnering agencies for this effort include the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Wildlife Services, Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division, Georgia Department of Agriculture, and University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources. There is no cost to attend the workshops, but space is limited. Pre-registration is required. More details and registration information are available at www.GACD.us/events
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB TRAIL RIDE & LUNCH
April 27 10 a.m.
South Oconee Co. Hwy. 441 Watkinsville
The Kel-Mac Club invites riders to bring their horses to enjoy a meet & greet trail ride and lunch at Heritage Park. The park, located at 2543 Athens Hwy (441) south of Watkinsville, has easy and beautiful trails. Contact Sharon Wood at bullet2525@aol.com to reserve your lunch and for more details about this event.
U.S. CLIMATE SMART COTTON & U.S. COTTON TRUST PROTOCOL PROGRAMS
April 30
Deadline to enroll in ’24 U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
Climate Smart Programs
Launched in 2020, the Trust Protocol was designed to set a new standard in more sustainably grown cotton. Producers enrolled in the voluntary Trust Protocol are eligible to participate in the Climate Smart Cotton Program, which will provide technical and financial assistance to 1,650 U.S. cotton farmers with acres available for Climate Smart practice changes. Growers also receive personalized data that can be used to help improve their sustainability efforts and yield, as well as gain closer communication with their end customer. Data growers provide is secure and remains confidential. It is used only in aggregate form. Crop consultants can be authorized to enter information on the grower’s behalf. Additionally, the John Deere Operations Center can prepopulate up to 40% of the data needed to complete the fieldprint analysis for those who utilize the platform. Growers can enroll and complete their data entry at TrustUSCotton.org. Enrollment for the 2024 crop is open. For help enrolling, contact info@trustuscotton.org
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GEORGIA CENTENNIAL FARM APPLICATIONS
May 1 deadline to apply
Centennial Farm applications are open to all qualifying candidates. Farms play a pivotal role in shaping the legacy of our state, serving as the bedrock for economic, cultural, and familial traditions for generations of Georgians. Several farms boast a legacy spanning more than a century, and Georgia recognizes their historical significance through the Georgia Centennial Farm program. Nominees must be a working farm with a minimum of 10 acres of the original purchase, actively involved in agricultural production, and must generate at least $1,000 in annual farmgenerated income. In addition, farms must have been continuously farmed by members of the same family for at least 100 years or be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Qualifying Georgia Centennial Farms are honored each October at an awards ceremony at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry. The Georgia Centennial Farm program is administered by the Historic Preservation Division of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs; Georgia Farm Bureau Federation; Georgia Department of Agriculture; Georgia EMC; Georgia National Fair and Agricenter; and University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. For more information, please contact Rose Mayo, Historic Preservation Division Outreach Coordinator, at 770-855-2586 or rose.mayo@dca.ga.gov. The postmark deadline for applications is May 1, 2024. Applications are available online at https://gfb.ag/centennialfarmsapply
(https://www.dca.ga.gov/georgia-historic-preservation-division/historicresources/centennialfarms)
GFB SPRING SHOOTOUT
May 17 Cherokee Rose Sporting Clays
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Griffin
Tickets for the GFB Spring Shootout are now available for purchase! Don't miss out, join us for a day of friendly competition, outdoor fun, and supporting agricultural education, scholarships, and farmer mental health through the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with a 9:45 a.m. safety meeting. Tournament begins at 10 a.m., with lunch and awards scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Cherokee Rose Sporting Clays is located at 895 Baptist Camp Road in Griffin. Regular Team Tickets are $550 for a team of four shooters, including event participation, equipment rental, breakfast, and lunch. VIP Team Tickets: $700 with additional perks such as tshirts, preferred parking, priority course access, and post-event beverages. Extras Available: Enhance your experience with optional add-ons like raffle tickets, practice shots, mulligan shots, gun rental, ammo, and more. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://gfb.ag/24GFBShootout The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is also accepting sponsorships through April 12. As a sponsor, your company will not only be aligning itself with a worthwhile charitable organization, but also gaining exposure to a passionate and engaged audience. With various levels of sponsorship available, there is an option for every budget. From t-shirts and signage recognition on the day of the event to branding on our website and social media channels, we are committed to ensuring that our sponsors receive maximum exposure and recognition. Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your brand and make a positive impact in Georgia agriculture! For more information, visit https://gfb.ag/24GFBShootoutSponsors
GFB
Notes page 14 of 15
NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION WORKSHOP
June 19-24 Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton
May 1 registration deadline
The Natural Resources Conservation Workshop (NRCW) is available to Georgia’s Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. This workshop focuses on the value, protection, and conservation of Georgia’s wildlife, forestry, soil, and water resources, including conservation in Georgia’s mining industry. The workshop gives students a taste of college life while delivering valuable insight into careers through their counselors and instructors. The workshop features field trips, classroom instruction, and recreational activities. Students scoring well on the workshop exam may be awarded a college scholarship. A limited number of scholarships are awarded based on exam scores and specific scholarship guidelines and criteria. Sponsorships are available through local Soil and Water Conservation Districts for students to attend at no cost. Transportation options are also available. Registration is available through May 1 at www.abac.edu/nrcw
UGA CITRUS ORCHARD NUTRITIONAL SURVEY
For the past three growing seasons, the UGA Agricultural and Environmental Services Labs (AESL) has been conducting a foliar nutrient survey of Georgia's citrus industry with funding from the USDA and Georgia Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. One of the conditions of the project’s grant funding is that researchers seek stakeholder feedback on the effectiveness of the program, and how this work may influence future grower decisions. The project researchers ask that you please complete this short (7 questions, 3-5 minutes) Citrus Nutrition Questionnaire here
(https://ugeorgia.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bgr8t6TWhUKNJ4i) These results will help UGA researchers demonstrate the importance of this work to their sponsors, which increases the likelihood of future funding in this area. If you would like to learn more about this project and the results of the study, please visit the project website.
GFB HAY DIRECTORY
GFB is accepting listings for its online hay directory. Farm Bureau members with hay for sale or who offer custom harvesting or custom sprigging services are invited to list their hay and/or services in the GFB Quality Hay Directory published on the GFB website. Hay for sale or services can be listed or removed from the directory throughout the year. To be included in GFB’s online hay directory, complete a submission form by visiting your county Farm Bureau office or online at www.gfb.ag/hay. Please include a $10 check made payable to Georgia Farm Bureau for each listing of hay, custom harvesting or custom sprigging. Multiple listings are allowed. Listings can be updated in the directory throughout the year as hay inventories change. Hay producers who entered the 2021 GFB Quality Hay Contest receive a free listing in the online GFB Hay Directory.
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER FERAL HOG CONTROL SERVICES
For a list of feral hog control services available in each GACD Conservation District, visit https://gfb.ag/feralhoggacdresources.
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CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER NO-TILL EQUIPMENT FOR RENT Ongoing
Local Conservation Districts and their partners help farmers try a number of conservation practices by purchasing equipment and making it available to rent. Some districts offer no-till drills, PVC pond pipe systems and repair parts, as well as geotextile fabric for agricultural and road use. To see what equipment is available in your conservation district, click here
988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE OFFERS SUPPORT
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 or chatting on 988lifeline.org. 988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. You don’t have to be suicidal to reach out. 988 trained crisis counselors can help you through whatever mental health challenges you are experiencing.