BERRIEN COUNTY FARMER TESTIFIES IN HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING
The U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit held a hearing on Tuesday, April 26, entitled “Producer Perspectives on the 2023 Farm Bill”. Representing the U.S. Peanut Federation was Daniel McMillan of Southern Grace Farms in Enigma.
In McMillan’s testimony, he presented peanut priorities for the 2023 farm bill, namely an increase in the reference price for the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) Program. Over the last few years, peanut growers have seen a significant increase in the cost of production. The 2021 cost of production was $545.97 per ton, and the 2022 cost of production was approximately $668 per ton according to Dr. Stanley Fletcher of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and Professor Emeritus at the University of Georgia.
McMillan outlined the financial stressors peanut growers are facing on the farm, stating:
“In my home area, we saw fertilizer costs double from 2021 to 2022. Some products tripled in price. Currently, fertilizer prices are changing week to week preventing us from making informed management decisions. Commonly used fertilizers include diammonium phosphate (DAP), potash, and urea,” McMillan said.
McMillan also noted the following:
• Crop protectant prices remain high which can pressure farmers to look for cheaper options, sometimes to the detriment of the crop.
• Labor costs continue to increase.
“We use H2A workers and have seen a 14% increase in labor costs through the recent U.S. Department of Labor Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) changes,” he said.
• Farmers are still facing cost increases and business disruptions resulting from problems with the supply chain.
“This past week, we went to a local parts store to buy a bundle of small metal sweeps for a field cultivator,” McMillan said. “A simple wear part cost $2 each in 2021 but today is $6 each. This may not sound like much, but we are seeing this across hundreds of items totaling thousands of dollars in extra costs.”
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• Delays of up to six months in mechanical repairs for some tractors and trucks. Due to the short supply of tractors, even rental tractors have become scarce.
“We saw costs for one of our rental tractors move from $2000 per month in 2019 to $3500 per month in 2023 for the same tractor,” McMillan said. “These are all increases that make it difficult to plan and budget.”
McMillan also voiced the support of the U.S. Peanut Federation for a voluntary base update that includes growers with and without peanut base acres. While the 2014 farm bill allowed for base updating for peanut growers who already had base on their farms, it excluded many young farmers and new production areas.
Subcommittee Chairman Austin Scott (GA-08) opened the hearing.
“Title I programs, specifically the Agricultural Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage or ARC and PLC were established in the 2014 Farm Bill and the reference prices used to determine assistance were set using 2012 cost of production data,” Scott said. “Meanwhile, inflation has gone up significantly since 2012, and the price of most inputs have doubled or even tripled since 2021 alone. Farm sector debt is at record high levels, and net farm income is expected to fall 16 percent from 2022 to 2023. These warning signs underscore the importance of our work in the 2023 farm bill.”
In addition to McMillan, nine other representatives of commodity crop groups testified, including corn, cotton, dry pea and lentil, rice, canola, soybean, sugar cane, wheat, and sorghum. Rep. David Rouzer (NC-07) closed the hearing by asking each of the witnesses, if they had to choose, what would be the one thing that would be adjusted in the 2023 farm bill. McMillan provided the final answer of the hearing.
“If peanut producers could have one thing, within the PLC program, the framework works, but we need a reference price increase to have a viable safety net,” he said.
Watch the full hearing here
GA. DEPARTMENT OF AG HOLDING REFERENDUMS FOR CORN, PECAN ACCS
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is holding referendums on whether to continue assessments for the agricultural commodity commissions (ACCs) for corn and pecans through May 30. Funds from the assessments (1 cent per bushel for corn; 1 cent per pound for pecans) can only be used for research, education and promotion of the commodities.
Ballots for both referendums were mailed in late April. Ballots must be postmarked by May 30 to be counted. Corn or pecan growers who did not receive ballots should contact Andy Harrison at andy.harrison@agr.georgia.gov
Georgia Corn Commission-supported projects since 2020 have included: Monitoring diseases such as Southern Rust and Tar Spot; nutrient management; planter studies on down force micronutrient studies; soil microbiome; breeding projects for aflatoxin and insect resistance; education and promotion.
Georgia Pecan Commission-supported projects since 2020 have included: Research by Dr. Lenny Wells, UGA Extension pecan specialist and Dr. Patrick Connor, UGA pecan breeder; disease and insect management; heart health benefits; education and promotion.
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KEMP SIGNS BILL PUNISHING ATTACKS ON UTILITIES, PUBLIC SERVICES
On April 26, Gov. Brian Kemp signed legislation protecting Georgians from criminal attacks that interrupt transmission lines for electricity, water, telephone and internet.
“This legislation will ensure Georgians are safeguarded against wrongdoers who – for whatever reasons – seek to interfere with the critical services of modern life, from water and sewage to electricity and broadband,” said Dennis Chastain, president of Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (EMC), the trade association for Georgia’s 41 electric cooperatives. “Protecting these services is vital to keeping Georgia both a good place to live and a good place to do business.”
Georgia’s electric cooperatives led the effort to pass House Bill 227, the Criminal Damage to Critical Infrastructure Act, sponsored by Rep. Rob Leverett, R-Elberton. The Senate sponsor was Sen. Bill Cowsert, R-Athens. Besides utilities, it also protects public transportation, hospitals, ambulances, prisons and fire services.
It was prompted by the December attacks on two substations in Moore County, N.C., that left 40,000 customers of Randolph EMC and Duke Energy in the dark. Federal officials reported there had been a 77% increase in direct physical attacks on the electric grid in 2022 from the previous year. In 2022, there were 163 attacks across more than three dozen states, impacting about 90,000 customers.
This legislation provides penalties of up to 20 years in prison for those who deliberately damage critical infrastructure with the intention of disrupting service.
Other power companies and utilities groups – as well as the Georgia Chamber of Commerce
followed Georgia EMC’s lead in supporting the legislation which overwhelmingly passed the House and Senate during the 2023 session.
Georgia Chamber of Commerce President Chris Clark celebrated Wednesday’s bill signing as important to the state’s prosperity.
“These vital resources are fundamental to the continued success of Georgia’s business community and the overall well-being of our citizens statewide,” he said. “The Georgia Chamber applauds Governor Kemp, Rep. Rob Leverett, and members of the General Assembly for prioritizing public safety and ensuring the security of our state’s diverse critical infrastructure network through HB 227.”
The measure takes effect July 1. Kemp signed it in a ceremony during the Sherriff Association Conference at Lake Lanier Islands as part of a package of “law and order” bills.
BURN BAN IN EFFECT IN 54 GEORGIA COUNTIES
An outdoor burn ban is in effect in 54 Georgia counties, primarily in the northern half of the state. Affected residents are asked to refrain from burning yard and land clearing debris, whose smoke can negatively impact the state’s air quality during the hot summer months by contributing to high ozone levels. These conditions have been linked to lung and heart disease in humans.
“These restrictions are required by the state Environmental Protection Division so that less particulate matter is released into the air,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Protection Chief Frank Sorrells. “The risk of wildfires usually increases at this time of year, and we will be closely monitoring fire weather and activity to keep Georgians and their property safe.”
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Continued from previous page Banks, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Butts, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Columbia, Coweta, Crawford, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Fulton, Gordon, Gwinnett, Hall, Haralson, Heard, Henry, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Lumpkin, Madison, Meriwether, Monroe, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Paulding, Peach, Pickens, Pike, Polk, Putnam, Richmond, Rockdale, Spalding, Troup, Twiggs, Upson, Walker, and Walton.
Residents in Georgia counties not included in the annual burn ban will continue to be required to follow specific fire safety guidelines and any local ordinances governing debris burning. The five safety precautions now mandated by law include set spacing between fires and woodlands and structures, burn times from sunrise to sunset, burner attendance at the fire, and reasonable precautions such as weather awareness and suppression tools. Full details including video resources can be found at www.GaTrees.org/burn-permits-and-notifications/
“Humans are the number one cause of wildfires in Georgia,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Tim Lowrimore. “As outdoor recreation season begins, we need to lower the risk of wildfire by paying close attention to weather conditions and safety precautions. Everyone needs to work together to ensure an enjoyable and fire-free summer.”
For more information about annual summer burn restrictions visit the Georgia EPD website. For more information, burn permits, and services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit www.GaTrees.org
ANDERSON, CALLAWAY INDUCTED TO GEORGIA AG HALL OF FAME
An innovator in agribusiness and an exemplary public servant in Extension were inducted into the Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame on April 29 during the 67th University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) Alumni Association Awards in Athens.
The honorees are Raybon Anderson, the founder of Bulloch Fertilizer Company, Anderson’s General Store and president of Raybon Anderson Farms Inc., and John C. Callaway Jr., a 1969 CAES alumnus and longtime UGA Cooperative Extension agent who has had an outsized impact on the cattle industry and youth livestock programs in Georgia.
Established in 1972, the Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame honors individuals making extraordinary contributions to agriculture and agribusiness industries in the state.
Inductees are nominated by members of the public and selected by the awards committee of the UGA CAES Alumni Association. Those nominated must be of impeccable character, have outstanding leadership skills, have made noteworthy contributions to Georgia’s agricultural landscape and been recognized for achievements in agriculture as well as other areas.
Raybon AndersonDescribed as a steward and ambassador of the state’s No. 1 industry, Raybon Anderson was raised on a farm in Nevils, a small community southwest of Statesboro in Bulloch County. Just months after graduating from Bulloch County High School in 1956, Anderson joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture, building a strong network of agricultural leaders across the county, in surrounding areas and throughout the state.
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Continued from previous page needs, from fertilizer and agricultural chemicals to services and livestock products, in one location. From the beginning he has followed the simple advice his grandfather gave him when he started the business, “Be honest. Be sincere. Always serve your customer with a smile. Always do what you tell them you’re going to do.”
The company has garnered loyal customers over 60 years of operation, expanding to offer products and services to support the turfgrass market, an innovation introduced by Raybon Anderson’s son, Mike Anderson a 1987 agricultural economics graduate from CAES who joined his father in the business. In 2007, Anderson founded Anderson’s General Store, a retail operation supporting Bulloch Fertilizer Company and the community. Throughout this time, Anderson also has served as a “partner, investor and mentor” to numerous Georgia entrepreneurs.
John C. Callaway Jr.
John Callaway Jr. was born and raised on his family’s farm outside of Hogansville, Georgia, in the Corinth Community at the intersection of Troup, Heard and Coweta counties. It was at his family’s farm that his love for agriculture was born.
After graduating from CAES in 1969 with a degree in animal science, Callaway joined UGA Extension as an assistant county agent in Clarke County. After earning his master’s degree in business administration from UGA’s College of Business Administration, now the Terry College of Business, in 1973, Callaway moved to Haralson County to become an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent, a position he served in until his retirement in 1998.
In the 35 years under his leadership, Haralson County 4-H had a very active junior livestock program, producing numerous state championship-winning animals, showmen, county groups and state judging teams coached by Callaway. Callaway’s involvement in the Georgia Junior Livestock program has impacted hundreds of youth throughout the state. Upon his retirement from Extension, Callaway led efforts to build a county livestock pavilion for the 4-H and FFA youth of the community.
During his career and beyond, Callaway has maintained a herd of beef cattle with mostly Angus and Simmental concentrations. Most recently, he created the 366-page Georgia cattle history book “Herds and Heritage” with the help of an editor. Callaway’s herd and heritage extends far beyond his own cattle and pastures.
HENDRIX, MORGAN GRADUATE FROM AFBF COMMUNICATIONS BOOT CAMP
Congratulations to Cherokee County and Evans County Farm Bureau members Jodi Morgan and Melanie Hendrix on graduating from the American Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Communications Boot Camp! Hendrix and Morgan completed hands-on training related to public speaking, working with the media and ag policy messaging during the program held April 3-6 in Washington, D.C.
Hendrix, who represents Georgia Farm Bureau’s 7th District on the GFB Women’s Leadership Committee, raises commercial beef cattle and hay. Morgan volunteers with CCFB’s Ag in the Classroom Program and is the Southeastern Grasslands Institute youth outreach coordinator. They were two of 15 Farm Bureau members from across the U.S. to complete the 18th AFBF Communications Boot Camp.
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GA PEANUT COMMISSION APPROVES 2023-2024 RESEARCH FUNDING
During its March board meeting, the Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) Board of Directors approved $706,139 in research project funding for the 2023-24 research budget year. The approved research projects include 35 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 Donald Chase, GPC Research Committee chairman. “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 include research, promotion and education efforts. The research programs primarily focus on peanut breeding, conservation methods, irrigation and water management, as well as, pests, weed and disease management.
Additionally, GPC manages funding for the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative which includes research funding of $1,317,215 for projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. These projects are funded through the National Peanut Board checkoff dollars from farmers.
For additional information and a complete list of the research projects funded by the Georgia Peanut Commission visit www.gapeanuts.com
CULTIVATE CARE IN AG COMMUNITY DURING MENTAL HEALTH MONTH
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA), Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), and Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) are working together to promote resources for mental health and self-care.
“Cultivating care in your daily life and prioritizing mental health are vital to ensuring the success of Georgia’s agriculture industry and well-being of the farmers and producers who make up Georgia’s agricultural community” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “I’m proud that the Georgia Department of Agriculture is partnering with DPH and DBHDD to educate and spread awareness of the resources available to farmers and producers when it comes to ag stress and mental health. Links to these resources will be prominently displayed on the GDA website, and our team will be sharing recipes and wellness resources throughout Mental Health Awareness Month to nurture our communities across the state.”
Links to these resources can be found at the GDA website: https://agr.georgia.gov/mentalhealth-resources. The GDA promotes awareness of the ABCs of Stress and Mental Health: Awareness, Balance and Connections. Being aware of signs and symptoms, cultivating balance in your daily life, and connecting to those in your family and community are vitally important. Finding entertaining ways to get out to support family connections like finding a local agritourism site at https://georgia-agritourism.org/Find_a_Farm, or GFB Certified Farm Market at www.gfb.ag/cfm, or visiting your local State Park: https://gastateparks.org/ are valuable ways to connect with those you love.
Following the devastation of Hurricane Michael, GDA began developing mental health
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Continued from previous page resources to share with Georgia’s agricultural community and has continued to do so with a grant received from USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to promote farmer stress and outreach in the state. The Farmer Ranch Stress Assistance Network, State Departments of Agriculture (FRSAN-SDA) project is focusing on a “Georgia Healthy Farmer Mindset” that is taking a holistic approach to addressing stress and mental health challenges to the farming community. This is a collaborative initiative with project partners including GDA, The University of Georgia (UGA), AgriSafe, McClendon Law and Consulting, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), the Georgia PTA, Mercer Rural Health Innovation Center, HERO Agriculture in Calhoun, and STAG Vets in Milledgeville. The Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance has been established to support these goals: https://gafarmstress.org/ Georgia Farm Bureau and the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture are founding members of GAWA.
“Understanding symptoms of stress and mental health and the impacts of sleep and nutrition on your overall wellbeing is important. Georgia is making great strides in making mental and behavioral health services accessible to those who need them. If you are in need help, there is hope. Caring and compassionate support is just a phone call away. Find anonymous support from Georgia-based counselors by dialing 9-8-8 or calling or texting the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) 800-715-4225” said DBHDD Commissioner Kevin Tanner
Additional agriculture mental health resources can be found at https://agrisafe.org/healthcare/mental-health and at https://extension.uga.edu/topic-areas/timelytopics/Rural.html. For immediate assistance, call the Georgia Crisis and Access Line tollfree at 1800-715-4225 (language assistance available) or visit https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/access-services. People can DIAL 988 or go to the website at www.988ga.org if you are in distress, feel like there may be a risk of suicide, or are having a crisis related to mental health, substance use, or a developmental disability. For Veterans and Veteran Farmers, the Department of Veterans Affairs established 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) in 2020 to help Veterans, their family members, caregivers, and survivors understand and access the broad spectrum of VA benefits and services.
AFBF: FAMILIES DESERVE TRUTH IN FOOD LABELING
America’s families deserve to know what they’re buying when shopping in the dairy aisle. The American Farm Bureau Federation filed comments on April 24 with the Food and Drug Administration calling on the agency to enforce food labeling standards for dairy substitute products and enforce existing prohibitions on the misleading labeling of nut- and other plant-based beverage products as “milk.” The FDA requested comments on its draft Labeling of Plant-Based Milk Alternatives and Voluntary Nutrient Statements: Guidance for Industry.
AFBF supports a consumer’s right to access dairy-free products, but one in four Americans, 83 million people, are confused or have been misled about whether dairy alternatives contain milk, according to a survey used by FDA. Non-dairy beverages are sold in the milk case alongside traditional milk, very often with labeling that implies they are dairy products. Nut- and plant-based beverages do not include several important nutrients that are found in cow’s milk, however.
“Consumers know the healthiness of dairy labels such as ‘milk’ and may infer that any product
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Continued from previous page bearing this term possesses the same or an equivalent nutritional profile,” wrote AFBF Vice President of Public Policy Sam Kieffer. “In many other cases, consumers have been led to believe plant-based alternatives are healthier. As the draft guidance describes: ‘the research also suggests that a majority of consumers who purchase plant-based milk alternatives state they do so because they believe the products are healthier than milk.’ These conclusions demonstrate the dangers of utilizing the term ‘milk’ on non-milk products.”
AFBF is urging FDA to require non-dairy products to be labeled accurately, as is required in several markets outside of the U.S. For instance, “almond milk” is labeled “almond beverage” in Canada. Applying the same standards in the United States should not be a heavy or unreasonable burden on companies.
The FDA already requires truth in labeling for other foods. For example, products labeled as “jams” must contain a minimum amount of fruit, and products that don’t meet a minimum standard for cheese must be labeled as “cheese alternative” or “cheese substitute.” FDA’s proposed guidance for milk substitutes risks setting a precedent that could lead to many other dairy, meat, fruit and other food names to be misused for imitation products.
“The American Farm Bureau Federation believes that plant-based alternative milk products should adhere to current labelling laws and regulations and that consumers should be presented with accurate information on a product’s label so that they can make an informed choice about the wide range of attributes associated with milk and other dairy terms, including butter, ice cream, yogurt, etc.,” the comments continue. “We ask that FDA amend their draft guidance to prohibit the use of ‘milk’ or other dairy terms on non-dairy substitutes unless products follow proper use of imitation terminology, as defined by existing law. Allowing such changes runs the risk of undercutting the entire current FDA labelling framework for imitation products, to the detriment of farmers, honest processors, and all consumers.”
Read the full comments here
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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
NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION WORKSHOP
May 8
June 11-16
registration deadline
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 noon May 8 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.
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2022 CENSUS OF AGRICULTURE
The USDA is still accepting responses to the 2022 Census of Agriculture. The USDA has mailed survey codes to all known agriculture producers across the 50 states with an invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at www.agcounts.usda.gov. The ag census is the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and territory. Responding to the Census of Agriculture is required by law under Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113. The same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential, to use the data only for statistical purposes, and only publish in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation. NASS will release the results of the ag census in early 2024. To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit www.nass.usda.gov/AgCensus. On the website, producers and other data users can access frequently asked questions, past ag census data, special study information, and more. For highlights of these and the latest information, follow USDA NASS on twitter @usda_nass.
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.
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.
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CANCELED - TOXIC TALL FESCUE CONVERSION PASTURE WALK
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.
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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KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
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.
UPDATED REGIONAL WATER PLANS
May 15
deadline for public comments
Regional Water Planning Councils have developed draft updated regional water plans that are available for public review and comment through May 15. The state water plan calls for the councils to review the regional water plans every five years. The councils began a review and revision process in 2020 that resulted in the draft updated regional water plans. The councils considered updated water and wastewater demand forecasts and resource assessment analyses in their preparations of the draft updated Regional Water Plans. The draft updated regional water plans may be viewed here. (https://waterplanning.georgia.gov/regional-water-plan) Written comments are welcomed and should be received by May 15. Comments can be submitted via email to water.planning@dnr.ga.gov.
CROP INSURANCE FOR PECAN PRODUCERS
May 15 deadline to apply/renew
USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia pecan tree growers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2023 crop year is May 15. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the May 15 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 is available for pecan trees in select Georgia counties. Please contact your insurance agent to see if your county is covered. 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 www.rma.usda.gov/.
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INTEGRATIVE PRECISION AGRICULTURE CONFERENCE
May 18-19 UGA Center for Continuing Ed & Hotel Athens
Hosted by UGA’s Institute for Integrative Precision Agriculture, the conference will feature speakers who solve problems around the globe and offer new perspectives on common challenges in the field. The event will feature an exchange of these ideas from global thought leaders from industry and academia will share a vision for how integrative precision agriculture can be applied to solve critical issues facing crop and animal production. The two-day event will feature 25 speakers presenting a range of topics that offer new perspectives based on expertise and experiences specific to their local environments. Conference attendees will have opportunities to participate in post-conference events like a spray drone workshop, student hackathon and tour of UGA’s Sanford Stadium. Registration for the full conference and one Friday event will cost $100, while student registration will be just $25. Those interested in attending just the spray drone workshop can do so for $30. Register online here.
2023 GFB YF&R SUMMER LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
July 13-15
Jekyll Island Convention Center Jekyll Island
June 1 registration deadline
Registration is open for the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Summer Leadership Conference! This conference is open to any GFB YF&R members, ages 18-35. A children’s program will also be provided for kids, ages 12 and younger, as a convenience for attendees competing or participating in sessions. To register, visit https://gfb.ag/yfrslc. Registration fee is $150 per attendee. Attendees are responsible for their own hotel reservations. Room blocks have been secured at the Hampton Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn, Home2Suites, Villas by the Sea and The Westin If you have any questions about the conference, please contact your GFB District Federation Manager or Breanna Berry at bcberry@gfb.org.
GFB YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS COMPETITIVE EVENTS
June 1
Deadline to enter
Applications are now available for the Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award and Excellence in Agriculture Award. The application should be submitted online at https://gfb.ag/yfrcompete by the June 1 deadline. It is highly recommended that applicants work with their GFB District Federation Manager on the application well in advance of the deadline. State winners will be announced at the YF&R Leadership Conference, July 13-15 on Jekyll. A brief overview of each award: Achievement Award – This award is for an individual or couple involved in production agriculture with a majority of his/her net income subject to normal production risks. Following the deadline, district winners and three (3) state finalists will be determined. The state finalists will be contacted by June 15 for an on-farm interview the week of June 26; Excellence in Agriculture Award – This award is for an individual or couple who does not have the majority of his/her income subject to normal production risks. Following the deadline, district winners and three (3) state finalists will be determined. The state finalists will be contacted by June 15 in order to prepare for the presentation component of this award. If you have questions regarding the awards applications, please contact your GFB District Federation Manager.
GFB Field Notes page 14 of 15
SECOND ANNUAL GEORGIA AG TECH SUMMIT
June 7 Middle Georgia State University
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Macon Hear from AgTech leaders from across the state in the precision agriculture, controlled environment agriculture, and the food processing industries. The event is free to attend and includes the Georgia AgTech Startup Pitch Competition. Lunch will be served. Click here to register.
(https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-georgia-agtech-summit-tickets-616646645717)
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PHOTO CONTEST
June 9 deadline to enter
Entries are now being accepted for the Georgia Farm Bureau Photo Contest sponsored by the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee! This competition offers amateur photographers the chance to explore the many activities, seasons, triumphs, disappointments and faces of agriculture, our state’s key industry. The photos that win this competition will capture the image and spirit of agriculture and Farm Bureau in Georgia. All photos must highlight Georgia agriculture and have been taken in 2022 or 2023. An individual may enter three (3) photos, and only those of highest quality will be considered. All digital photos must be in a .jpeg format. For more information or to enter the contest, please submit photos at https://gfb.ag/yfrphoto by the June 9 deadline.
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
GFB Field Notes page 15 of 15
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.