Georgia Farm Bureau's April 5 Field Notes

ATHENS TECH DEDICATES TOM MCCALL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE COMPLEX

Since 2014 Athens Technical College (ATC) has offered an agricultural science program to prepare students in Northeast Georgia for jobs in agriculture that need education beyond high school but not a bachelor’s degree. The program began on ATC’s main Athens campus, but last year moved to the new Tom McCall Agricultural Science Complex that was dedicated in a ceremony March 31 on ATC’s Elberton campus.

“Tom has always supported Athens Technical College. He understands the importance of what we’re doing for workforce development and worked tirelessly to support Athens Tech during his 26 years in the General Assembly,” ATC President Andrea Daniels said.

The ag science complex includes a 10,320-square-foot classroom building and a 17,091-squarefoot arena.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving to name this facility for,” said former Gov. Nathan Deal, who signed the state budget that allocated funds for construction of the complex. “I have an ag background and it makes me more appreciative of what I see here. This is a facility that will give students practical, hands-on training to secure jobs and make a living for their families.”

The classroom building includes four labs with lecture seating, four offices, one classroom, a conference room and a beautiful lobby and student workspace with windows that look out on a pre-existing pond that sits below an adjoining patio. A 5,400-square-foot greenhouse will be completed soon.

“It’s because of people like Tom McCall, who from his 26 years of service in the General Assembly to him serving as president of Georgia Farm Bureau, have ensured that Georgia agriculture is successful. Tom understands that our state can’t be successful if agriculture isn’t successful and that providing our own food and fiber is a national security issue,” Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said. “What better way to honor Tom’s legacy than with an arena and classroom building where new ag leaders’ minds will be shaped.”

The arena has a 5,841-square-foot show ring with bleacher seating for 274 people, a 4,725square-foot tie-out, multipurpose area and a 1,876-square-foot ag mechanic/construction lab. The first livestock show was held in the arena in January. Reservations for renting the arena can be -continued on next page

Photo by Logan Thomas

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Continued from previous page made by calling ATC at 706-369-5875.

“Thank you all for this today. It is a much, much undeserved honor, but I do appreciate it. Y’all are sitting on one of the most beautiful campuses in Georgia, and I’m looking forward to it turning out a bunch of agricultural graduates to go into the ag workforce,” McCall said. “I want to thank Gov. Deal for putting this facility in Elberton and Terry England, former chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, for allocating the money for it and everyone who supported it.”

ATC ag science program prepares students for ag jobs

Students who enroll in Athens Tech’s agricultural science program can choose to get an associate degree in agricultural science by choosing from one of three tracks for the degree - animal science, poultry science or horticulture. Each track requires four courses in the track subject area be successfully completed. Students must also earn 22 credit hours of general education courses (English, math, a humanities, etc.), 18 credit hours of core agricultural science courses: Introduction to Agriculture, Leadership in Agribusiness, Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Finance and Credit, an internship, and either Agricultural Mechanics or Agricultural Structures. Students also take two elective agricultural courses. Some students can complete two subject tracks within their program.

ATC also offers students the option of earning a technical certificate of credit (TCC) in animal science, poultry science or horticulture. TCCs require only essential courses for the area of specialization. In addition to the program track TCCs, ATC also offers an Agricultural Systems & Mechanics TCC, which allows students to complete the Agricultural Mechanics course, an Agricultural Structures course, Applied Surveying, and Leadership in Agribusiness.

“For the high school graduate who isn’t certain what they want to do for a career, Athens Technical College is a great place to explore vocational options. We want students to succeed and will help you find your niche,” said ATC Agricultural Science Program Chair Dr. Chris Morgan. “Many of our students entered the workforce directly out of high school but quickly found that the jobs available to them did not have the pay nor the opportunities they had hoped for, and we are able to equip those students with the skills they need to live a successful lifestyle. Many of our students would prefer to work rather than sit in a classroom.”

Morgan says the animal science program is the most popular track students choose to study.

“The program allows for several electives, so many students will study animal science and take poultry or horticulture courses as electives, making them better prepared for entering this diverse industry,” Morgan said.

Morgan, who developed ATC’s ag science program, says many jobs in agriculture need employees with some background in agriculture and business, but probably not a four-year degree

“I feel like we are filling this niche,” Morgan said.

Being able to enter the workforce without amassing student debt attracts many students to ATC’s programs, Morgan says.

“Many of our students juggle work and academics, so all our courses are currently streamed

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Continued from previous page synchronously during each class meeting,” Morgan said. “So, if a student desired, they could join each class online watch the lecture and class activities, and just come to the Elberton campus for laboratory activities and exams.”

Graduates of the ag science program have gone on to obtain jobs in the poultry sector as managers at processing plants, feed mills and egg laying facilities, or working as field technicians, Morgan said. Others work at greenhouses, and some go back to their family farms.

“Several students are employed by Pilgrims, one at the Georgia Poultry Lab, some work for USDA or the Georgia Department of Agriculture,” Morgan said. “We have several graduates at James Greenhouse in Colbert.”

The ATC website lists Classic Groundcovers, Centurion Poultry and Country Charm Eggs as employers of past students. ATC says ag science program graduates typically have starting salaries in the $30,000-$45,000 range.

This semester the ag science program has 20 students enrolled, but fall enrollment is typically higher, Morgan said. Enrollment in the program has been as high as 40 and the new facility could easily accommodate up to 80 students, Morgan said.

ATC welcomes conservation law enforcement program

In addition to housing the agricultural science program, the McCall Agricultural Science Complex is also home to a new program ATC is offering –conservation law enforcement (CLE).

This program combines fisheries and wildlife management and criminal justice courses that prepares students for a career as game wardens, park rangers, conservation technicians, or environmental protection technicians, ATC CLE Program Chair Alexia Goodman said.

“This program gives students a good background in wildlife and lets them know what they’re getting themselves into,” Goodman said.

CLE courses include hands-on labs and outdoor field work including surveying campus for wildlife, equipment operation and research projects.

Goodman said CLE students are utilizing the six-acre pond behind the McCall Center and the track of hardwoods adjacent to the pond to study wildlife.

“Our students will be working in the woods, so this campus allows us to give our students the experience of being in the woods,” Goodman said. “We’ve seen white tail deer, racoons, turtles, squirrels, possums, armadillos, a breeding pair of hawks, a blue heron and an osprey. We’ve also got a beaver that has built two dams and taken down some trees that we’re observing.”

The CLE program requires an internship with a conservation law enforcement agency or related position for graduation. This internship is completed over the summer. In addition to internships, students have many opportunities to network with current and former conservation law enforcement professionals.

Graduates of the program will have an associate degree to meet the minimum education requirement to apply for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Game Warden Academy. The average starting salary for game wardens is $50,000.

“Graduates of this program can apply to attend the GA DNR Academy. If we hire them, we’ll pay for them to attend an 11-week peace officer training and then our 15-week game warden

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Continued from previous page academy,” Ga. DNR Lt. Colonel Mike England explained.

Meagan Adkins is an ATC student pursuing the CLE degree.

“I knew I wanted to do something with animals. I wanted to be a vet but then realized it was a lot of school and money,” Adkins said. “My advisors told me about this program and it fit. I love this campus. I love the pond and the tree area we use for our studies.”

Adkins is also excited about not having student debt when she graduates.

“An advantage of attending a technical college is definitely the cost,” Adkins said. “Of all my friends who have gotten degrees, I’m the one coming out with no debt.”

The ATC CLE program is one of the two conservation law associate degree programs in Georgia. The other is offered at Ogeechee Tech in Statesboro.

The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture annually offers scholarships to students attending any accredited Georgia technical college and majoring in an area of agriculture or an ag-related field of study, such as welding, mechanics, culinary arts, commercial truck driving and wildlife sciences/management. Visit https://gfb.ag/gfatechscholarshipmajors for a list of eligible schools and majors. Scholarships have already been awarded for this year, but information is available at www.gafoundationag.org/scholarships Visit this website in October/November for information about the 2024 scholarships.

GFB MEETINGS COVER DEER DAMAGE, CDL EXEMPTIONS, WOTUS. FARM BILL

Georgia Farm Bureau continued holding spring meetings for its commodity advisory committees with the GFB Peanut, Equine and Feedgrain/Soybean Committees meeting in Macon the last week of March. The committees discussed production and policy issues affecting their respective commodities. Committee members also recommended speakers for the organization's upcoming commodity conference set for Aug. 10 in Athens and made nominations for the GFB Commodity Award, which honors a long-serving individual who has had a significant impact on Georgia agriculture. The award will be presented at the GFB Commodity Conference

Feedgrain/Soybean Committee discusses deer crop damage hunting permits

Crop yield and economic loss farmers are experiencing from deer eating row crop plants, especially soybeans, corn, wheat, cotton and peanuts was the main topic discussed at the GFB Feedgrain/Soybean Commodity Committee on March 30

Several farmers quantified the impact deer damage is having on their farms. One said deer destroyed 80 acres of his soybean crop last year, never letting the plants get above 3 inches tall. Another explained that having to replant seed after deer destroy a first planting costs at least $100 an acre.

Committee Chairman Jesse Patrick, of Putnam County, welcomed Charlie Killmaster, the state deer biologist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, to the meeting. Killmaster shared steps the DNR is taking to help farmers combat crop damage from

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Continued from previous page deer populations.

Farmers with a deer crop damage problem can visit www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com to apply for a "deer crop damage permit” that allows the applicant and up to six other people to shoot deer during the growing season caught in fields with a growing crop that the applicant has registered. Farmers can register up to 32 fields on one permit.

Killmaster encourages farmers to apply for the permits before they plant their crops, so they have the permits when their crops begin to emerge, and the deer start grazing their crops. but the DNR accepts permit applications throughout the crop growing season. Most of the permits expire before firearm deer season begins in mid-October.

When applying for a damage permit, farmers will supply information such as number of total acres under cultivation and a description of crop damage deer have caused in past years. Applicants will identify the locations of the fields they want to register on the permit using a satellite map feature that is part of the online application.

Most crop damage permits allow a farmer or his assistants to shoot up to 10 deer, but if you are still experiencing deer damage after meeting that limit, Killmaster said farmers can reapply for another permit.

Farmers who have had multiple years of crop damage and know they will need to shoot more than 10 deer may request a higher number within reason for the acreage they are registering. To do this, farmers should explain why they are requesting more than 10 tags in the section of the permit form where they describe their crop damage.

Farmers applying for a damage permit can list up to six assistants who will be allowed to shoot deer caught damaging crops in the registered fields under the permit. Applicants will need the legal name of each assistant as it appears on an official form of ID such as a driver’s license or social security card and the person’s ID number on the ID

Killmaster said DNR staff aim to review submitted permit applications within 24 hours during the work week. If the form isn’t correctly completed, DNR staff will reach out to you. Once the permit is approved, applicants and assistants listed on the permit must carry a printed copy of the permit with them any time they shoot deer in the registered fields during growing season to control crop damage.

Deer caught grazing harvested fields are not eligible to be shot under the damage permit. Farmers applying for the crop damage permit do not need to have a Georgia hunting license. During hunting season, landowners don’t need a license to hunt property they own but do need a free deer harvest record.

If a farmer or assistant listed on the permit drives by a permitted field adjacent to a public road at night and sees deer grazing a crop, the deer may be shot from a vehicle if it is more than 50 yards off the public road and the gun is not shot towards nor across a public road. Under the crop damage permit, spotlights may be used at night to control deer damage, however, this is illegal without a deer crop damage permit and is considered unethical under recreational hunting, -continued on next page

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Killmaster said.

While the application to receive a deer damage hunting permit must be completed online, Killmaster said people can call 1-800-366-2661 to request help with navigating the online application.

Equine Committee reviews CDL farm exemptions

Georgia Farm Bureau Equine Advisory Committee members discussed the need to increase awareness of the MAP-21 commercial driver’s license farm exemptions during its March 27 meeting. Committee Chairman Gary Walker, of Tift County, led the meeting.

Visit https://www.gfb.org/advocacy/map-21.cms for more information on the CDL exemptions for farmers, their employees or family members hauling commodities anywhere in Georgia and up to 150 miles from their farm outside the state.

The online form that must be completed for the Georgia Department of Public Safety to get the exemption is accessible at the weblink above. You must also keep a printed copy of the completed form in the truck for which an exemption is sought.

A covered farm vehicle that is eligible for the MAP-21 CDL farm exemption is a vehicle that:

1. Is operated by a farm owner, or an employee or family member of the farmer.

2. Transports agricultural commodities, livestock or machinery or supplies to and from a farm or ranch.

3. Is NOT operated for-hire (hauling for others for compensation).

4. Must NOT transport hazardous materials in quantities requiring the display of hazardous material warning placards.

Other MAP-21 CDL farm exemptions include:

• 26,000 pounds or less can be operated anywhere in the U.S. under the MAP-21 Exemption.

• Between 26,000-80,000 pounds can be operated anywhere in Georgia. Such vehicles may also be operated across state lines within 150 miles of the farm or ranch.

• Although the MAP-21 exemption allows for travel into other states, other states may not immediately adopt and implement the exemptions in the same way. Be sure to know the regulations before entering other states.

The MAP-21 farm exemptions do not exempt farmers from:

• Size and weight restrictions. Farm vehicles must abide by posted weight and load limits on roads and bridges.

• Covered Farm Vehicles remain subject to inspection by commercial vehicle enforcement officers and other law enforcement personnel. Vehicles must enter weight and inspection stations when they are open.

• MAP-21 does not exempt Farm Vehicles from registration, fuel tax and vehicle marking requirements.

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• U.S. DOT number is required.

• Although operators of a covered farm vehicle are not required to hold a CDL, a Georgia operator is still required to have the applicable Georgia driver’s license specific to the vehicle operated. (Proper Class)

Committees receive WOTUS update

GFB Public Policy Department Director Alex Bradford gave the committee an update on the ’23 session of the Georgia General Assembly, which ended March 29. Bradford discussed Senate Bill 220, the Georgia Farmland Conservation Act, which will create a program housed in the Georgia Department of Agriculture that allows state money, private donations and federal matching dollars to fund the purchase of development rights on farmland.

Bradford also discussed options Farm Bureau and other ag groups are pursuing to block the 2023 Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule that went into effect March 20. The latest rule, pushed by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and supported by President Biden, exceeds statutory authority originally granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution in the definition of navigable waters and given to the two agencies under the Clean Water Act. Farm Bureau and other ag organizations succeeded in getting the U.S. Senate to pass a Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval of the new WOTUS rule on March 29 as the U.S. House did on March 9.

AFBF is now encouraging President Joe Biden to accept the recommendation of Congress and repeal the newly implemented WOTUS rule. Although President Biden is not expected to repeal the rule, the resolutions of disapproval Congress passed could serve to strengthen the lawsuits several states, including Georgia, have filed to halt the implementation of the rule.

Portions of the new rule could be rendered non-applicable depending on how the U.S. Supreme Court rules in the case Sackett v. EPA, which will determine if the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit outlined the proper test for determining if wetlands are “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act.

Peanut Committee discusses farm bill, NPB & research techs

The Georgia Farm Bureau Peanut Commodity Committee, chaired by John Harrell of Grady County, met March 27, at the GFB office in Macon. Committee members discussed the upcoming farm bill, received an update on National Peanut Board (NPB) and Georgia Peanut Commission activities.

Committee member Andy Bell, of Decatur County, stressed the need for the peanut reference price in the new farm bill to be raised from its current $535/ton to $667/ton to account for the rise in production costs farmers have experienced since the last farm bill was passed in 2018. Bell traveled to Washington in March 21-23 with the Georgia Peanut Commission to discuss the peanut program in the upcoming farm bill.

The reference price that peanut growers seek in the new farm bill is based on production cost data Dr. Stanley Fletcher, who is professor of policy at the Georgia Rural Center for Prosperity & Innovation, has calculated based on aggregate data collected from all U.S. peanut producing states running from New Mexico thru Texas up to Oklahoma & Missouri and all Southeastern peanut -continued on next page

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Continued from previous page producing states up to Virginia.

“A guaranteed price of $535 a ton sounds pretty good, but not when everything we use to produce our crop has gone up,” Bell said. “We don’t need to raise the loan rate for peanuts and not raise the target reference price. I think we’ve got a lot of people who want to help us, we’ve just got to have everyone in Congress working together.”

Committee member Wesley Webb, who serves as Georgia’s alternate board member on the NPB, reported that the NPB is working to promote peanuts to consumers on multiple social media platforms and is working with Atlanta chefs to get them to feature peanuts or peanut butter in dishes served at their restaurants. He said the NPB is also working to educate parents and schools about peanut allergy research that show peanuts don’t have to be completely banned from school menus to protect those with allergies. Visit https://www.nationalpeanutboard.org to learn more about the work NPB is doing.

Webb said peanut growers benefit from research NPB has funded on crop diseases such as tomato spotted wilt virus and white mold. He encouraged farmers to vote to continue funding the NPB during the referendum to be held April 8-19, 2024.

“We do need a National Peanut Board,” Webb said. “It’s benefiting us as farmers with the work it does promoting the nutrition benefits of peanuts to consumers.”

Georgia Peanut Commission Project Coordinator Justin Odom said the GPC worked to secure funding in the state budget for three technicians to work exclusively with the UGA Peanut Team. The GFB Public Policy team reported in its March 31 Legislative Report that the final state budget included $245,000 for three research technicians to support the Peanut Breeding and Extension Team.

Odom reported that the GPC kicked off its month-long observance of March as National Peanut Month by hosting the 2023 PB&J Day at the Georgia Capitol on March 1. The GPC and National Peanut Buying Points Association served 1,200 grilled PB&Js halves, fried peanuts and peanut candy to legislators and capitol visitors.

“I don’t know how many people came up to us and told us this is their favorite day at the Capitol,” Odum said. “We also used peach jelly to stay with the Georgia theme and that got positive feedback.”

GFB’s CACs for tobacco, environmental horticulture, cotton, dairy, fruit, vegetables, honeybees, pecan and direct marketing/agritourism met earlier in March. Other committees are scheduled to meet into May.

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AFBF: AEWR METHODOLOGY CHANGE A BLOW TO FARMERS

The new methodology for calculating the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which took effect March 30, will take a toll on farms that rely on H-2A workers, particularly small farms. American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed the new AEWR in their latest Market Intel report.

Among concerns with the new methodology is how worker responsibilities are determined. For example, a worker who spends most of the day in the field, but also drives fellow workers to the farm will be required to be paid as a chauffeur. In the state of New York, that represents a 30% increased wage rate. According to the Market Intel, “applying the above changes to the sample farms would have a significant impact on the wage outlays of each farm, but particularly the small farm. Across a national average, on the small farm the new methodology would have increased wage outlays by 15.1%, 13.6%, 12.8%, 12.7% and 12% in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively, and an estimated 12.6% in 2023.”

The new rule will also make the H-2A program even more difficult to administer by introducing two dates for wage increases throughout the year instead of the current single date.

“We are disappointed in DOL’s final rule on the AEWR methodology,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “This administration says it wants to help family farms, but its agency largely ignored industry input in favor of a new calculus that will hurt small farms the most. Labor already accounts for almost 40% of total production costs on some farms, and the final rule will certainly continue to raise costs for farm families. Congressional action is the only way to deliver needed certainty and fairness to the farm economy.”

Lawmakers recognize the negative impact the new AEWR methodology will have on America’s farms. Nearly 600 farm organizations and agribusinesses, including AFBF and many state Farm Bureaus, have urged Congress to support a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act. It is expected to be introduced in the coming weeks. In the Senate, the bipartisan Farm Operations Support Act (S.874) would temporarily reset the AEWR at 2022 levels.

Read industry letter here.

Read the full Market Intel here.

GEORGIA FOUNDATION FOR AG AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS

Twenty-four Georgia students will receive a total of $70,000 in scholarships from the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) for the 2023-2024 academic year. The scholarships are awarded to students who have excelled academically and/or with their extracurricular activities. The selected students intend to pursue or are pursuing degrees in agriculture, forestry or family and consumer sciences at a school that is part of The University System of Georgia, Berry College, Emmanuel College or any accredited college/university in Georgia with an ag program or a Georgia accredited technical college.

“The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is committed to supporting Georgia’s next generation of agricultural leaders. Our 2023-24 scholarship recipients are passionate students pursuing various careers in agriculture,” said GFA Board Chairman and GFB President Tom McCall. “Georgia Farm Bureau is proud to support the foundation’s efforts. There are new, fascinating specialties in agriculture that our scholarship recipients are committing to. We look forward to -continued on next page

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following these deserving students and their agricultural careers.”

The scholarships are for graduating high school seniors headed to college or a technical college next fall, rising college juniors and seniors, and students enrolled in the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine who plan to care for farm animals.

Recipients listed below.

College Freshman Scholarship for Agriculture

Ten students planning to enter college this fall at Fort Valley State University (FVSU), Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) and the UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences (CAES) were awarded scholarships of $3,000 each: Jane Ashely Rowell, Coffee County; Elizabeth Sanders, Telfair County; Willow Waldrep, Monroe County; Ariana Collins, So. Fulton County; Lawson Mercer, Emanuel County; Payne Murphree, Early County; Jack Pringle, Henry County; Thomas Raley, Glascock County; Adam Stone, Carroll County; and Haigen Walker, Irwin County. The top three candidates –Rowell, Sanders and Waldrep– each received an additional $1,000.

These 10 students plan to pursue degrees in ag education, animal science, ag engineering, plant science, poultry science, avian biology and biological sciences.

Technical College Scholarship for Ag

Kiley Padgett, Hall County; Larson Newsome, Lee County; Addie Pierce, Barrow County; and Maley Dawkins, Franklin County were each selected to receive a $1,500 scholarship to attend North Georgia Technical College, South Georgia Technical College and Athens Technical College. These students plan to pursue biology, modern agriculture, robotics and veterinary technology degrees. The top two candidates –Padgett and Newsome– each received an additional $500.

Rising College JR/SR Scholarships for Ag

The foundation awarded ten $2,000 scholarships to these rising college juniors and seniors: Drew Hart, Bulloch County; Lexi Cindrick, Troup County; Bailee Tracy, Harris County; Emily Arp, Baldwin County; Gracie Grimes, Candler County; Hannah Williams, Telfair County; Katlyn Davis, Effingham County; Sage Barlow, Fayette County; Sarah Beth Kersey, Emanuel County; and Tyler Hunter, Bulloch County.

The students plan to attend UGA CAES and ABAC in the fall and are studying ag engineering, ag education, animal science, ag communications, pre-veterinary, and poultry science.

UGA College of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship

Joy Thompson, Fannin County and Morgan Rowan, Lowndes County will each receive scholarships of $5,000 as they study to become food animal veterinarians at the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine.

CORN, PEANUT, SOYBEAN GROWERS EXPECTED TO INCREASE ACRES

Georgia farmers are expected to plant more acres in corn, peanut and soybeans in 2023, while cotton acres are forecast to decline, according to the Prospective Plantings Report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Georgia: Corn planted area for 2023 is estimated at 490,000 acres, up 15% from 2022. Cotton planted intentions are down 7% from last year at 1.20 million acres. Peanuts are estimated at 740,000 acres, up 8% from 2022. Producers intend to plant 170,000 acres of soybeans, up 3% from last year. Tobacco acreage, at 7,000 acres, is up 17% from last year. Winter wheat planted area is estimated at 170,000 acres, down 15% from last year.

Nationally, NASS estimated corn planted area for all purposes in 2023 at 92.0 million acres, up 4% from last year. Soybean planted area is estimated at 87.5 million acres, up slightly from last year. All wheat planted area, at 49.9 million acres is up 9% from 2022. All cotton planted area for 2023 is estimated at 11.3 million acres, down 18 percent from last year.

Meanwhile, mid-March freezing weather is expected to affect yields of blueberries and early variety peaches, according to NASS’ April 3 Crop Progress Report.

Also from the Crop Progress Report: Corn fields across the state were being planted and beginning to emerge. Some farmers in central and southeast Georgia were delayed in planting corn due to cool and wet conditions the week of March 27-31. Tobacco planting was also noted to be progressing slowly due to the wet conditions.

Peaches and blueberries were blooming, although both were negatively impacted by freezing temperatures in mid-March. Early varieties of peaches are expected to have a significant loss, though peaches that survived the freezes were reported to be in good condition now. Wheat, oat, and rye began to head out and were treated with fungicide applications during the week. Powdery mildew and cereal leaf beetle were noted as issues in eastern Georgia wheat. Vidalia onions were nearing maturity as producers were applying fungicides to prevent diseases as the April 17 pack date nears.

SUMTER COUNTY FARM BUREAU HOSTS SAFETY EVENT

Four-year-old Lane Aldridge took the pilot seat in the AirEvac LifeTeam Bell 260 helicopter, under the watchful eye of pilot Don Heironimus. The boy’s face lighted up at the sight of all the switches, knobs and gauges aviation has to offer. The controls and the view through the chopper’s bubble windshield had the full attention of Aldridge, the grandson of Ware County Farm Bureau President Victor Aldridge, during the March 17 Sumter County Farm Safety Day in Americus.

To be sure, Sumter County Farm Bureau (SCFB), which hosted the event, wanted it to be an attention-getter that might prevent an accident, sidestep an injury or save a life. If Lane’s experience is any indication, SCFB hit its mark.

The event at the Sumter County Fairgrounds addressed stress (human and bovine), accident prevention and rescue operations in hopes that area farmers would come away with increased awareness on safety topics.

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Continued from previous page the event. “We have issues come up. There are always going to be accidents in the industry. My goal is for somebody to leave here with a different perspective that will help change that. At the end of the day if we save one person an accident or a death or injury, then we’ve won what we’re after.”

Organizers shared a video message from South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, whose father died in a grain bin entrapment incident, and Sumter County Fire and Rescue personnel staged a demonstration of a grain entrapment rescue.

Georgia Foundation for Agriculture Executive Director Lily Baucom and UGA Extension Southwest Health Agent Jennifer Dunn presented information about managing farm stress. Dunn talked about ways people cope with stress – some healthy, some not – and shared how breath control can help in stressful situations.

Dunn said studies have shown that deep breaths can shift the portion of the brain controlling behavior from the “fight-or-flight” portion of the nervous system to the more rational, higherfunctioning thought center (prefrontal cortex). One approach, endorsed by the Navy SEALs, is called box breathing, in which the individual inhales for four seconds, exhales for four seconds, inhales for four seconds, exhales for four seconds, and so on.

UGA Animal & Dairy Science Farm Manager Andy Dunn demonstrated how to prompt cattle to move without causing them stress by using the animals’ flight zones, areas in relation to their bodies that, when entered, prompt them to move away.

South Georgia Technical College Commercial Truck Driving Instructor Robert Cook and Georgia Motor Carrier Compliance Division Lt. Jonathan Schwendinger chatted with participants about road safety and rules pertaining to use of tractor-trailer rigs to transport farm goods.

Jim Reid of Reid Brothers Irrigation presented information on electrical and irrigation pivot safety.

AirEvac representative Laine Lee shared information about the company’s emergency evacuation operations, targeted at rescuing medical emergency victims from remote areas. Georgia Farm Bureau members get a discount on AirEvac subscription fees.

FARM STRESS SUMMIT: MENTAL & PHYSICAL HEALTH ARE CONNECTED

Farmers know difficulty.

Hard work, facing challenges and solving problems are essential traits for the farm mindset.

“You be relentless, you outwork whatever the problem is,” said Sumter County farmer Matt Berry, “But, it’s OK to say this is more than I can handle. The bigger man will admit when he’s got something going on that he can’t handle.”

The 2023 Farm Stress Summit, held March 20 at Mercer University, shed light on what farm stress is, why it is so hard to overcome and what can be done about it.

Keynote speaker Marshal Sewell, a Florida agriculturalist and founder of Mind Your Melon, defined stress this way: “Our body’s reaction to adverse circumstances.”

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“Understand that there’s no division between your physical health and your mental health,” said Erin Lepp, an associate professor at Mercer’s College of Health Professions. “Having depression is an independent risk factor for developing heart disease.”

Berry and Lepp were part of a panel discussion on farm stress, along with AgrAbility South Georgia Service Coordinator Mason Dean and April Bassett of the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia. The event also featured remarks from Georgia Department of Agriculture Operations Director Dominic Lariccia and Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Kevin Tanner.

Sewell set up Mind Your Melon to be a “hub for thoughts, concepts and resources that contribute to and encourage proactive choices and lifestyles.” The organization’s website, mindyourmelon.org, provides resources for nutrition, exercise & fitness and seeking help, as well as Sewell’s podcast. He has intertwined the mental with the physical in part because of stigma that accompanies mental health.

“Asking a farmer to jump over to talking to someone about mental health is like getting someone to get off a couch and go straight to running a marathon,” Sewell said

Smaller steps are necessary. Sewell said he talks to farmers about common-ground topics like farm labor, input costs and other challenges to facilitate farmers opening up about their struggles.

“If this is a catalyst where I can get them to open up and be vulnerable, that’s a step in the right direction,” he said.

Tanner said that getting help is easier now than it ever has been, noting the rollout last year of the nationwide 988 crisis hotline. Tanner said suicides in rural Georgia are up 10%, but the number of calls to the crisis hotline has increased significantly.

Tanner also emphasized the importance of talking about mental health to chip away at the stigma, and he said he’s working to address what he called a shortage of mental healthcare workers.

“There is no wait list for people in crisis,” Tanner said. “We have to be there when people need us.”

GEORGIA COTTON COMMISSION APPROVES 2024 RESEARCH FUNDINIG

The Georgia Cotton Commission (GCC) Board of Directors approved $740,609 in research for the 2024 crop year during its March board meeting.

The money will fund 19 projects that will be conducted by University of Georgia researchers and extension specialists. Projects include research on resistant weeds, evaluating the economics of conservation production practices, irrigation management and many more. The goal of this producer-funded research is to help cotton producers by conducting research that can either improve yields, promote efficiency or open new markets.

All projects are vetted by both the GCC Board of Directors and GCC State Support Committee, made up of cotton producers from across the state, and the commission’s research review committee, which consists of researchers, crop consultants and local UGA Extension

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Continued from previous page agriculture/natural resource agents.

“Our board is committed to providing the cotton farmer valuable research that will make a positive impact on the farm,” said GCC Chairman Bart Davis, a cotton farmer from Colquitt County. “It is important for us to be good stewards of producers’ money and make strategic investments by funding research that benefits our growers and their operations.”

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry. The commission began its work in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the commission to invest in programs of research, promotion and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about the Georgia Cotton Commission, call (478) 988-4235 or go to www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

FLAVOR OF GEORGIA GRAND PRIZE GOES TO BARLOW’S FOODS

Barlow’s Foods won the grand prize at the 2023 Flavor of Georgia food contest for its product, Barlow’s Peach Cobbler Syrup.

Barlow’s Foods is a packaged foods company located in Atlanta. The woman-owned business creates pancake mixes and assorted breakfast staples, including its Peach Cobbler Syrup.

Founder and CEO Tiffani Neal named the company after her grandfather, Arthur “Barlow” Harris. Neal said his passion for agriculture combined with her vision for food made with whole ingredients led to the launch of Barlow’s Foods.

“Stay the course – we entered Flavor of Georgia in 2022 but didn’t make it as a finalist. It’s important to keep moving forward, regardless of circumstances,” Neal said. “It’s important to us to respect local and respect farmers. My grandfather was a farmer; we need to know the people behind our food. It’s exciting to see UGA’s focus on local, on agriculture and their support of food entrepreneurs in Georgia.”

Barlow’s Foods was among 36 finalists narrowed down from 124 entries during the first round of judging on March 10. Judges for the contest include food brokers, grocery buyers and other food experts. Entries are evaluated by category based on their Georgia theme, commercial appeal, taste, innovation and market potential.

Flavor of Georgia, a University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) signature event organized by the CAES Department of Food Science and Technology (FST), has helped launch small, startup food companies while garnering recognition in new markets for established brands since 2007. The contest is supported by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Georgia Grown.

“The Department of Food Science and Technology would like to congratulate the winners of the Flavor of Georgia 2023 and the volunteers, faculty and staff for making this event a success,” said Manpreet Singh, FST department head and professor. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to connect with the contestants and winners during the competition and to work with them to -continued on next page

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Continued from previous page support our state’s food industry.”

This year’s winners represent all corners of the state and the best of Georgia’s diverse culinary heritage. Winners are listed by company, product name and city within the 12 competition categories.

Baked Goods: Honey Specialties, Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake, Millen

Barbecue Sauces: Oconee Creations LLC, Oconee Gold White Gold, Statham

Beverages: HIBO, HIBO Energize Original, Bishop

Condiments, Sauces and Seasonings: Braswell Food Company, Vidalia Onion Steak Sauce, Statesboro

Confections: Brittle Brittle Bakeries LLC, Pecan Brittle, Fort Gaines

Dairy Products: Dulce Gelato, Probiotic Kefir Gelato, Woodstock

Honey and Syrups: Barlow’s Foods, Barlow’s Peach Cobbler Syrup, Atlanta

Jams and Jellies: Georgia Jams LLC, Georgia Scorcher Pepper Spread, Williamson

Meats and Seafood: Jensen Reserve, Biltong Style Bresaola Make Your Own Charcuterie Kit, Loganville

Miscellaneous: Woodpecker Trail Olive Farm, First Press EVOO, Glennville

Pickled Vegetables, Relish and Salsas: Sully’s Salsa, Sully’s Slammin Mild Fresh Salsa, Roswell

Snack Foods: Caja Popcorn, Vadouvan Curry Popcorn

A People’s Choice Award, chosen by event attendees, went to the Savannah Bee Company for its Hot Honey BBQ Sauce.

More than a contest it’s a business booster

Each entry in the Flavor of Georgia contest is featured in the print and digital product directory, including a professional photograph and brief overview, which is seen by leading food industry buyers and media outlets. The 36 finalists received a personalized press release, use of the Flavor of Georgia finalist logo on their label and promotional materials, and the opportunity to present their product to a panel of food industry experts at the final judging event. Finalists also received a one-year Georgia Grown membership, courtesy of the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

The grand prize winner was awarded an exhibit space at the Georgia Food Industry Association annual convention (a $1,500 value) and three consultation sessions from the UGA Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center (FoodPIC) on product or process design, ingredient functionality, sensory testing or shelf-life determination (a $1,500 value).

“Starting a food company is challenging enough; navigating the technical and regulatory process adds additional stress to entrepreneurs,” said Jim Gratzek, FoodPIC director. “We are happy to help establish food safety planning, navigate the regulatory process and provide assistance in commercializing these products and more into the Georgia market.”

In his comments at the award ceremony, CAES Dean and Director Nick T. Place shared that Flavor of Georgia is an opportunity not only to showcase all that Georgia has to offer, but also to -continued on next page

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Continued from previous page propel individuals and businesses forward as leaders in food.

“Each product uniquely combines flavors to create something special for consumers. We’re glad to have played a role in bringing knowledge and awareness of these unique products,” Place said. “Our goal is that Flavor of Georgia is an opportunity for competitors to not only see improvements in their products and business plans during the competition itself, but that they would also make connections with other experts here at UGA.”

To learn more about the contest, visit www.flavorofgeorgia.caes.uga.edu

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KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS

April 8, May 13, Sept. 9 & Oct. 7 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, halter/showmanship, beginner, open, minis, & a costume contest at the Oct. 7 show. All shows begin at 9 a.m. - rain or shine. Entry fee per class is $10 and $12 for championship classes. General admission is free and concession food and drinks will be available. For more information about the shows, call Susie Cottongim at (706) 342-3775 or visit the Kel Mac Saddle Club Facebook page or www.kel-mac.com. These volunteer-run shows generate funds to benefit Kel-Mac’s equestrian related charities. The Kel-Mac Saddle Club has donated more than $163,500 back to Georgia’s Piedmont region during its 47 years including: the Georgia Equine Rescue League, the Calvin Center’s Horses & Warriors program, ReDux Equine Rescue, Sweet Olive Rescue, Madison County Mounted Drill Team, the Barbara R. Cummings Scholarship, the Morgan County Sherriff’s Empty Stocking Fund, and the equestrian facilities of state & county parks such as A. H. Stephens, Hard Labor Creek, Watson Mill Bridge and Heritage Park.

2023 USING PESTICIDES WISELY TRAINING

April 6 9 a.m. Mainstreet Theatre & Cultural Arts Center

April 6 1:30 p.m. Lowndes Co. Ext. Office

April 11 9 a.m. Ross Bowen Ag Bldg.

April 12 1:30 p.m. Tifton Campus Conf Center

April 14 9 a.m. Sumter Ext. Office

April 18 10 a.m. Morgan Co. Extension Office

April 18 1:30 p.m. Franklin Co. Extension Office

Pre-registration is required for some of these meetings. Contact the county Extension office hosting each meeting to pre-register. As mandated by federal labels, one must hold a private or commercial pesticide applicator license to purchase and use the restricted use herbicides Engenia, XtendiMax, and Tavium. Use is limited to ONLY those persons holding a private or commercial applicator certification. It is no longer permissible for non-certified applicators to apply these products under the direct supervision of the certified applicator. Prior to applying these products in 2023, ALL applicators must be trained according to the federal labels. In Georgia, applicators must complete the 2023 UPW classroom training with locations provided below. Individual and/or on-line trainings WILL NOT be available for 2023. Those needing pesticide credit but not applying Engneia, XtendiMax, or Tavium are welcome to attend. Bring your pesticide license; 2 hours of pesticide credit for private or commercial will be offered. The meeting will last about 1.5 hours; NO beverages or meals will be provided. Attendee’s names will be placed on a list posted to the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s auxin website at https://agr.georgia.gov/dicamba. Visit this website for more resources about dicamba use, endangered species county bulletins, record keeping forms and resources. Call your county Extension agent for more information.

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USDA RISK MANAGEMENT TRAINING GRANTS

April 24

Deadline for submitting proposals

The USDA has made $2 million available for risk management education and training programs that support farmers and ranchers, including underserved producers, small-scale farmers, organic operations and climate-smart farm practices. USDA's Risk Management Agency (RMA) is offering these funds to provide the needed resources for organizations - such as universities, county cooperative extension offices, and nonprofit organizations - to develop education tools that help producers learn how to effectively manage long-term risks and challenges. A broad range of risk management training activities are eligible for funding consideration, including training on crop insurance options, record keeping, financial management, non-insurance-based risk management tools and natural disaster preparedness among others. Partners can also train farmers at all levels on risk management options that help secure local food systems. Proposals are due April 24. The notice of funding has additional details at https://gfb.ag/fsarmaworkshop. Then click on USDARMA-MULTI-RMEPP-23-NOFO0001231, Opportunity Title: Risk Management Education Partnership Program.

GEORGIA AG EXPERIENCE STEM CHALLENGE

April 28

Deadline to enter

Georgia elementary classes in third through fifth grades are being challenged to put their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills to work to explore the real-world issues involved with water conservation in local communities. Elementary teachers and their students may enter the “Vermiculture: Wiggling into Ag” STEM Challenge Feb. 6 through April 28 for the chance to win a prize package totaling $350 for their class. The grade winner from the third, fourth and fifthgrade entries will win a prize package. Teachers interested in participating in the “Vermiculture: Wiggling into Ag” STEM may visit www.gfb.ag/stemchallenge for more information and to register for the program. Once teachers register their class, they can access a digital resource toolkit that equips the class for participating in the water conservation STEM challenge.

GRAIN BIN SAFETY TRAINING CONTEST

April 30

Deadline to Apply

The National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, Nationwide, and KC Supply are teaming up to award emergency first responders with grain rescue tubes and hands-on rescue training to help save lives. If you are interested in nominating your local fire department to win a grain rescue tub and a six-hour grain entrapment rescue training session, at the winner’s location, visit https://www.mynsightonline.com/grain-bin-safety/participate-partner/nominate. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central Time on April 30. Winners will be notified by mail or email on or about July 31.

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GEORGIA CENTENNIAL FARM PROGRAM

May 1 deadline to apply

The Georgia Centennial Farm Program was created to draw attention to historic farms and to encourage their preservation. Since 1993, the program has recognized more than 600 farms around the state. Farms may be recognized with one of three awards. The Centennial Family Farm Award recognizes farms owned by members of the same family for 100 years or more that are not listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The Centennial Heritage Farm Award honors farms owned by the same family for 100 years or more that are listed in the NRHP. The Centennial Farm Award does not require continual family ownership but farms must be at least 100 years old and listed in the NRHP. 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 farm-generated income. 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 farm-generated income. In addition, farms must have been continuously farmed by members of the same family for at least 100 years. Qualifying Georgia Centennial Farms are honored each October in an awards ceremony at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry. For more information, contact Rose Mayo, Historic Preservation Division outreach coordinator, at 404-486-6378 or at rose.mayo@dca.ga.gov. The postmark deadline for applications is May 1. Applications are available online at https://gfb.ag/centennialfarmsapply

CROP INSURANCE FOR NURSERY PRODUCERS

May 1 sales closing date

USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia nursery producers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2023 crop year is May 1. Growers who are interested in the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP) policy and are calendar year or early fiscal year filers, have until February 28 to apply for crop insurance. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the Feb. 28 sales closing date to do so. Federal crop insurance is critical to the farm safety net. It helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and strengthens the rural economy. Coverage begins 30 days after receipt of a signed application and approval of required documents. For Nursery Value Select coverage, a Nursery Value Report, Monthly Unit Value Plan, and two copies of the grower’s most recent catalog is required. More information on nursery crop insurance is available at RMA's Nursery Policy Web Page Growers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2023 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available online using the RMA Agent Locator. Producers can use the RMA Cost Estimator to get a premium amount estimate of their insurance needs online. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at http://www.rma.usda.gov/.

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GEORGIA AG IN THE CLASSROOM TEACHER OF YEAR

May 5 deadline to apply

Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) is accepting applications for its annual Georgia Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) Teacher of the Year until May 5. This award recognizes a Georgia educator for his or her excellence in incorporating agriculture into their lessons while meeting Georgia curriculum standards. Agricultural concepts can support the teaching of science, technology, engineering, math (STEM); science, technology, engineering, art, math (STEAM) and science, technology, engineering, art, math (STREAM). The award winner will receive a $500 cash award and a trip to the 2024 National Ag in the Classroom Conference. High school/middle school/elementary school ag teachers are not eligible for this award. Nominated teachers should have a close partnership with their local Farm Bureau.To apply, contact your local Farm Bureau office. Visit www.gfb.ag/contact to find your county Farm Bureau’s contact information. Applications must be submitted online. Visit www.gfb.ag/teacheraward for more information and to apply.

GROWMARK FOUNDATION OFFERS 55 SCHOLARSHIPS TO AG STUDENTS

May 12 deadline to apply

The GROWMARK Foundation is offering 55 scholarships of $2,000 each to students pursuing agriculture and business-related degrees or certificates at colleges, universities, and technical schools in the United States and Ontario, Canada. Students applying must be high school seniors or the equivalent of and enrolled in a university, community college, or technical school for fall 2023 or must be continuing students enrolled in good standing at a university, community college, or technical school. Scholarships will be scored by a committee comprised of industry professionals outside of the GROWMARK System.

The 2023 GROWMARK Foundation Scholarship Application may be found here. The application deadline is midnight (Central Time) May 12, 2023. Recipients will be notified by July 1, 2023. Scholarships will be awarded as described below.

20 Agriculture Scholarships (Bachelor's Degree or higher) Focus on Crop Sciences, Ag Business, Ag Communications, Ag Economics, etc... Does not include Food Science, Animal Sciences, Veterinary Medicine nor Research.

20 Agriculture Scholarships (Associate's Degree or Certification) Focus on Crop Sciences, Ag Business, Ag Communications, Ag Economics, etc... Does not include Food Science, Animal Sciences, Veterinary Medicine nor Research.

15 Business Scholarships (Bachelor's Degree or higher) Focus on Business Administration, Human Resources, Marketing, Accounting, IT, Communications, etc... Does not include majors with a specific agriculture focus/component.

GROWMARK is an agricultural cooperative headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois, serving almost 400,000 customers across North America, providing agronomy, energy, facility engineering and construction, logistics products and services, as well as grain marketing and risk management services.

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NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION WORKSHOP

June 11-16 Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton

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. 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. Partnering agencies for NRCW are Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Society, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, UGA Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources.

B. FRANK STRICKLAND SCHOLARSHIP FOR ABAC

May 4 application deadline

B Frank Strickland Scholarship for ABAC – In 2002, a scholarship was established by GFB and the Georgia Commodity Commission for Tobacco at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Foundation in memory of the late B. Frank Strickland Sr., a Lanier County farmer and a devoted advocate for tobacco farmers. The $1,000 B. Frank Strickland Scholarship is available for an entering freshman or rising sophomore from a tobacco-producing county who plans to attend ABAC fall semester. The scholarship will be paid at the beginning of the fall semester by the ABAC Foundation. Application is linked here.

AFBF AG INNOVATION CHALLENGE

May 12

deadline to enter

The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is looking to identify the top entrepreneurs who are addressing both traditional challenges farmers face on their operation, such as access to labor, optimizing yield and reducing operating costs, to entrepreneurs who are addressing new challenges facing farmers and rural communities. Farm Bureau will award $165,000 in startup funds to ten businesses, culminating at a live pitch competition and networking event at the AFBF Convention in January 2024 in Salt Lake City, UT. The Ag Innovation Challenge Winner will be awarded $50,000 in startup funds provided by our sponsors. Farm Bureau will award a total of $165,000 to ten businesses. For more information or to enter, visit www.fb.org/initiative/ag-innovation-challenge.

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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 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.

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE NOW ACCESSIBLE AT 988

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has a new name & number. It’s now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It 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. SAMHSA, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Communications Commission & other suicide prevention and mental health partners worked together to create 988 and its expanded services. #988Lifeline.

UGA PILOT PROGRAM OFFERS FREE TELE-COUNSELING

The past few years have been challenging. Sometimes it's hard to recognize the physical effects of stress and how it affects our lives. Talking to someone about your stress can help. The UGA Tattnall County Extension office is partnering with the UGA School of Social Work on a pilot program to offer farmers and members of the agricultural community access to up to six free online counseling sessions with a licensed counselor. Participants do not have to farm or live in Tattnall County to participate but should be farmers or members of a farming family. Call 706-510-6930, email gatelehealth@uga.edu for more information or visit https://gfb.ag/ugapilotaddressstress to complete a questionnaire to begin the enrollment process. Anyone who doesn’t meet the requirements for the grant funding will be provided appropriate counseling referrals. Symptoms of chronic stress include irritability, lack of focus, change in appetite, sleepiness or insomnia, aches/pains, headaches, emotional withdrawal, low energy, anxiety, increased alcohol/substance use.