July
www.gfb.org
YF&R MEMBERS MEET ‘FOR THE LOVE OF AG’
In multiple ways, attendees at the 2023 Young Farmers & Ranchers Summer Leadership Conference learned what to look for, whether it is in weather patterns, credit scores or myths about meat.
As much as anything, they learned to look for each other. The annual event, held July 12-15 on Jekyll Island, drew approximately 300 young farmers and ranchers from around the state with the theme, “For the Love of Ag.”
GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee Chairman Colt Hart said that in addition to offering fellowship and bonding with peers, the conference shows attendees how to network and GFB’s strength as an advocacy organization.
“Farmers see maybe what you can do for me or what I can do for you, and see what we [Farm Bureau] are, so when they go to the legislative arena, they can see how strong we might be,” Hart said.
Nutrien Ag Solutions Weather Wizard Eric Snodgrass gave an entertaining and informative presentation on factors that affect weather. TikTok sensations Cody and Erika Archie from Bar 7 Ranch in Texas shared some of the experiences and approaches that have made their videos popular. Attendees also met Lucky, GFB’s spokesdog, and learned how she is helping the organization reach new members.
Breakout educational sessions included presentations on understanding credit scores, debunking meat myths and tips on how to run YF&R programs at the county level.
The conference included crowning the state winners of the YF&R competitive events and the Picture Agriculture in Georgia Photo Contest winner Caitlin Crispell of Tattnall County. Seth Scruggs of Bibb County won the adult category of the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture’s rainshortened putt-putt golf fundraiser. The Carithers Family of Walton County claimed victory in the kids’ category.
As an on-site service project, attendees formed an assembly line and put together 13,000
Continued from previous page prepackaged meals to be distributed in the Brunswick community.
The spin on weather
Snodgrass, a former professor at the University of Illinois, started with the idea of rotating weather elements.
Viewed from above the North Pole, the Northern Hemisphere spins counterclockwise Snodgrass said that when wind patterns also spin counterclockwise, the result is rain and cooler temperatures. If the wind patterns are clockwise, the result is warmer, dryer weather. These factors work in conjunction with water temperatures in the world’s oceans to generate major weather events. Warmer water generates energy that fuels tropical cyclones. Snodgrass noted that this year coastal water temperatures could generate tropical storms or hurricanes that are “homegrown,” that is, they don’t travel all the way across the Atlantic from Africa. At the time of the conference, the Atlantic Ocean along the Southeast coast was in the 90s (degrees Fahrenheit), while farther south between Florida and Cuba, the water temperatures were near 100 degrees.
Snodgrass also pointed out the importance of the Bermuda High, a high-pressure area that provides heat for weather systems. It is often located over Bermuda but moves around the Atlantic.
“If [the] Bermuda High is not nearby to pump in heat, you’re going to get cold,” Snodgrass said. He noted that forecasts more than two or three days out cannot be taken as givens. The weather in the later days of a 10-day forecast are typically accurate about half the time and beyond 10 days are usually a simple reflection of historical averages.
Snodgrass also offered four lessons on drought: First, farmers should stay current on their knowledge of the moisture in their soils; second, the U.S. Drought Monitor is designed to measure cumulative long-term effects and shouldn’t be viewed as a predictor; third, farmers should pay attention to forecasters who discuss momentum of weather elements. Generally, the desire is for weather systems to keep moving; and fourth, pay attention to the prevailing subtropical high pressure systems – the Bermuda High and its counterpart, the Pacific High.
Snodgrass recommended two alternative weather apps, WhatTheForecast and the Weather Underground. To subscribe to Snodgrass’ Weather Intelligence Report, visit https://info.nutrien.com/snodgrass_weather. For a comprehensive collection of weather data resources, visit www.ag-wx.com
Telling agriculture’s story
Cody and Erika Archie own and operate Bar 7 Ranch in Gainesville, Texas, just north of Fort Hood. They have attracted more than 932,000 followers on their TikTok channel. Their videos document their life in agriculture and the working dynamics of a family-run ranch operation.
Recently the covered their trip to the Southeast, which included the YF&R Conference, hunting pythons in Florid and why Cody’s headrest in his pickup is backward.
“We got started about two years ago. Cody quoted Denzel Washington and that video got 15,000 views,” Erika said. “That’s kind of what got us out there. Since then, we’ve gotten into YouTube. What changed for us, we posted funny content. Before that it was educational, but that was the -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page first time we kind of put our personalities on there.”
The couple had been active on other social media platforms, posting content on Facebook and Instagram.
“What we've picked up from a lot of those is you just have to start posting,” Cody said, noting that it’s important to recognize that each platform has its own unique audience. “So that's kind of really all it boiled down to is we just started putting stuff out there. And then the other thing is to put it on multiple avenues.”
Credit where credit is due
Farm Bureau Mortgage National Manager Christy Braford led a discussion on understanding credit scores.
Braford noted that about 70% of Americans have a credit card by age 25, making it the most common first experience with credit for young adults. One in 10 Americans are “credit invisible,” meaning they have no established credit history, she said.
“We'll have older folks that [are] sometimes in their sixties and they've never established credit,” Braford said. “Not having debt is a positive thing until you need to borrow money.”
It takes at least six months to establish credit, Braford said.
A person’s credit score is a three-digit number – ranging from 300 to 850 – that is calculated based on one’s credit history. It is used by lenders to gauge how likely a person is to repay a debt.
Braford discussed factors that affect a person’s credit score.
First, an individual’s credit score will not drop if they marry someone who has a lower score, though it may limit the couple’s ability to obtain a loan on a joint basis.
Credit scores can impact a person’s ability to get a loan. A poor credit rating often means the loan will cost more to repay. Braford said the costs associated with loans and insurance for mortgages and auto loans can be 25% higher for a person with poor credit than for one with excellent credit.
Braford pointed out that credit scores are dynamic, and individuals can control their score. She shared ways a person can improve their credit score: Pay bills on time, pay down revolving debt (for example, credit cards), close accounts wisely and be careful when opening new accounts.
“So, your credit, your credit payment history is the most important factor affecting your credit score,” Braford said. “A late payment could stay on your credit report, credit history for quite a while. So, we want to make sure that we've got the history going.”
One factor in calculating a person’s credit score is percentage of that person’s use of available credit. When closing an account, particularly revolving credit accounts, the percentage of use goes up and their credit score can decrease as a result.
Braford also shared information about the Farm Bureau Bank Financial Solutions Program (FSP). FSP is credit analysis and solution program offered for free to Farm Bureau members looking to improve their credit. For more information, contact a Farm Bureau Bank mortgage broker by calling 877-388-5354. A collection of financial resources, including various calculators, loan and credit card rates, and disaster relief information can be found at www.farmbureau.mortgage.
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MORGANS, ROPERS AND PAUL CLAIM TOP PRIZES IN YF&R EVENTS
David and Lindsey Morgan, Cole and Nicole Roper and Andy Paul won statewide honors in the 2023 Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) competitive events, held July 12-15 during the YF&R Summer Leadership Conference on Jekyll Island.
The Morgans won the Achievement Award. The Ropers won the Excellence in Agriculture Award. Paul won the Discussion Meet. All three contests are open to GFB members between the ages of 18 and 35.
The Achievement Award recognizes outstanding farmers who make the majority of their income from production agriculture. The Excellence in Agriculture Award honors agriculturalists who earn most of their income from something other than production agriculture. The Discussion Meet has competitors talk about agricultural issues and possible solutions in a committee-style forum. It’s conducted in tournament style, with all contestants going through two preliminary rounds. Then the top 16 competed to see who advanced to the final four.
Each state event winner received a John Deere Gator and a free trip to the 2024 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Salt Lake City in January, where each will compete for national honors.
Farm Credit Associations of Georgia sponsor the Achievement Award. Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance sponsors all the awards. Lasseter Tractor Company helps to sponsor the John Deere Gators for all three contests
GFB Achievement Award
The Morgans, from Pierce County, run a diversified operation on approximately 1,100 acres. David is a third-generation farmer who grows cotton and peanuts as well as vegetables and a variety of grains. He also owns timber land and provides land-clearing services. Lindsey teaches social studies at Ware County High School.
The Morgans co-chair the Pierce County Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee. David has been involved in the YF&R program since 2006 and Lindsey since 2011.
The couple lives in Waycross with their daughters Madison, Blythe and Landyn. They received a John Deere 590M four-seat Gator.
Chris and Paige Little of White County and Luke and Allie Andrews of Lamar County were the other finalist families in the Achievement Award competition. All three finalist families received $500 cash.
The Achievement Award finalists were evaluated by independent contest judges during on-farm visits.
GFB Excellence in Agriculture Award
The Ropers, from Franklin County, raise cattle and grow corn, which they sell in their GFB Certified Farm Market, Cole’s Sweet Corn. Cole works as a broiler supervisor for Fieldale Farms. Nicole is an agriculture teacher at West Oak Middle School in Westminster, South Carolina.
Cole is a Franklin County Farm Bureau (FCFB) director. He serves on the FCFB Scholarship Committee. Nicole serves on the FCFB Farmers Market Committee and is a member of the FCFB Women’s Leadership Committee.
The couple lives in Carnesville and has a daughter, Blakely. They received a John Deere 560E -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page two-seat Gator.
Jay Moon of Morgan County and Addie Tucker of Wilcox County were the other finalists for the Excellence in Agriculture Award. All the finalists received $500 cash.
Moon is a dairy farmer and works as executive director of the Putnam County Farm Service Agency. Tucker is an agriculture teacher with Wilcox County School.
The GFB Excellence in Agriculture Award finalists gave presentations at the YF&R Summer Leadership Conference.
GFB Discussion Meet
Paul advanced through the GFB Discussion Meet, which puts competitors in groups where they talk about agricultural issues and possible solutions in a committee-style forum.
Paul, of Oglethorpe County, works as a public relations representative for Georgia EMC. He is former state and national FFA president. He and his wife, Jordan, live in Winterville. Paul received a John Deere 560E two-seat Gator.
The other Final Four competitors were Heather Cabe of Franklin County, Rachel Dunaway of Floyd County and Bristol Wells of Wilcox County. All the finalists received $350 cash.
EEE DETECTED IN HORSES IN TWO SOUTH GEORGIA COUNTIES
The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) has confirmed a case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Cook County and two others in Charlton County. The GDA reported its findings to the Equine Disease Communications Center.
EEE was detected in a deceased quarter horse in Cook County in June and reported to www.equinediseasecc.org on July 7. The two cases in Charlton County were reported on July 20 and July 24.
Entomologists Dr. Nancy Hinkle with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences and Dr. Rosmarie Kelly with the Georgia Department of Public Health are urging horse owners to get their horses vaccinated for EEE and West Nile Virus. Kelly recommends that steps be taken for personal protection when outdoors, including using an EPAregistered repellent and dressing appropriately for the weather in lightweight long sleeves and long pants. Dumping out or treating standing water with larvicide will help prevent mosquito populations from developing.
EEE is also known as sleeping sickness. It is a viral disease for which there is no cure. EEE causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and regularly occurs between late spring and early fall each year. So far in 2023, EEE has also been detected in Florida, Alabama and Louisiana.
Humans are susceptible to EEE and there is no human vaccine for it, though human cases are rare. According to data from the CDC, fewer than 10 human cases occurred annually from 2003 to 2022.
For more information, visit www.equinediseasecc.org/eastern-equine-encephalitis.
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COTTON GROWERS CAN APPLY FOR CLIMATE SMART COTTON PROGRAM
U.S. cotton growers can apply now through Sept. 1 for the Climate Smart Cotton Program, a five-year initiative led by the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. The program aims to measure and improve the carbon footprint of the U.S. cotton industry while building on the four pillars of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices. Participating growers will receive technical and financial support as well as other benefits that can enhance their operations, profitability and environmental stewardship.
Applications will be approved on a first-come first-served basis. To be eligible growers must first complete enrollment in the Trust Protocol by Sept. 1 and upload their 2023 bales by March 1, 2024. Growers are encouraged to get started today to secure a spot in the program and maximize benefits.
The program’s goals are to: Provide technical and financial assistance to U.S. cotton farmers; advance adoption of CSA practices on 1.2M U.S. cotton acres; produce 4.2M bales of Climate Smart Cotton over five years; enroll 1,650 U.S. cotton farmers, including 330 farmers from historically underserved communities; and reduce CO2e emissions by 1.14M metric tons.
“The U.S. cotton industry has long focused on continuous improvement and the launch of the Trust Protocol in 2020 provided the opportunity to prove and measure our sustainability outcomes,” said Dr. Gary Adams, President of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. “The Climate Smart Cotton Program takes our industry to the next step utilizing the Trust Protocol’s foundational reputation and our program partners’ expertise so that growers can learn, grow and explore new opportunities for reducing climate impacts, as well as resources to aid with implementation.”
The Climate Smart Cotton Program brings together leaders and partners from supply chain outreach, academia and sustainability. Program partners include Cotton Council International, Cotton Incorporated, the Soil Health Institute, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Agricenter International, Alabama A&M University and North Carolina A&T State University.
Growers can apply for the Climate Smart Cotton Program and enroll in the Trust Protocol at www.TrustUSCotton.org. For a step-by-step video on how to enroll, growers can click here. For assistance email info@trustuscotton.org.
GA FOUNDATION FOR AGRICULTURE GETS GRANT FOR VIRTUAL AG GAME
The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) is receiving a $200,000 grant from The Partnership for Inclusive Innovation (The Partnership) over the next two years to develop an immersive game to teach students about agriculture. Using a virtual, 3D-based platform, the game is intended to ignite students' interest in farming. Students will play the game on tablets or computers.
“The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is grateful for the support of The Partnership for Inclusive Innovation. This funding will enable us to accelerate the implementation of our game project and make a significant difference in the lives of students, educators, and the agricultural community at large,” said Lily Baucom, Georgia Foundation for Agriculture executive director. “Students are nearly three to four generations removed from the farm. The need for agricultural education that excites students and showcases the future of farming is at an all-time high.”
Through its new game, GFA aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual -continued on next page
Continued from previous page environments to enhance students' understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and AgTech developments. GFA’s game will be developed over the next two years in partnership with educational gaming company STEMuli and Georgia Farm Bureau. If you are a teacher interested in participating in the pilot program phase of the GFA’s game development, email info@gafoundationag.org.
The game will use state approved, AgTech curriculum to provide experience and observation learning opportunities. In the game’s educational metaverse, students will engage in AI-powered, game-based learning to explore agriculture careers, acquire the knowledge and skills to grow food/fiber, and develop sustainable agricultural businesses.
“We are excited to equip students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the agricultural industry through immersive, game-based learning experiences powered by AI. This funding empowers us to contribute to shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for agriculture,” said Taylor Shead, STEMuli founder and CEO.
Based in Dallas, STEMuli is a gaming company that facilitates online and offline learning.
GFA will offer the game through its Georgia Ag Experience program, which includes a mobile classroom equipped with computer games and virtual experience stations that introduce third through fifth graders statewide to Georgia commodities such as chickens, cotton, peanuts, beef cattle, fruit and vegetables.
GFA’s game project was one of only three that The Partnership selected to receive a grant in its fifth selection process. This achievement highlights GFA's commitment to advancing inclusive entrepreneurship and driving positive change within the agricultural industry.
The Partnership’s highly competitive grant program is designed to empower innovators, entrepreneurs, non-profits and hybrid organizations with projects that generate scalable social impacts and sustainable economic opportunities. Supported projects receive comprehensive assistance, ranging from project funding and program management to marketing and promotion to foster connections with current and former project alumni. In addition to technical assistance, funded participants provide invaluable joint learning and networking opportunities.
"The Partnership for Inclusive Innovation believes that true progress is driven by collaboration and innovation. Our winning projects represent the inclusion, geographical scale, and impact that makes our public-private partnership model unique,” said The Partnership’s Economic Opportunity Manager Jamal Lewis. “Through these awarded projects, we aim to foster an environment where economic and community opportunities flourish and where the innovative spirit of our state shines brighter than ever before."
As the GFA moves forward with developing its innovative game, it remains committed to building an inclusive initiative that empowers aspiring students and teachers across diverse backgrounds, geographical locations and circumstances. Together with The Partnership and other visionary partners, GFA will continue to break barriers and foster a culture of opportunity in agriculture, enabling Georgia's farming industry to continue to thrive.
The Foundational Leadership and Entrepreneurship Experience (FLEX) and the Small Bites Adventure Club also received grants from The Partnership.
FLEX, created by the Fitzgerald-Ben Hill County Chamber of Commerce and the Fitzgerald-continued on next page
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Continued from previous page Ben Hill County Development Authority, aims to provide an inclusive platform for educating students from diverse backgrounds on the rewards, sacrifices and processes of small business ownership.
The Small Bites Adventure Club provides a digital platform to help teachers connect children with healthy food habits, life skills and academic advantages, ensuring every child in Georgia has the opportunity to experience the joys of cooking with fresh, nutritious ingredients.
For more information about the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation and its impactful programs, visit www.pingeorgia.org.
GA PECAN, CORN GROWERS APPROVE CONTINUATION OF ASSESSMENT
In balloting during May, Georgia pecan and corn growers approved the continuation of assessments they pay to support their respective agricultural commodity commissions.
The pecan assessment is one cent per pound and funds activities of the Georgia Pecan Commission. This assessment is applicable to growers with 30 acres or more of pecans in Georgia. The referendum passed with 82.7% of those voting in favor of continuing the assessment. Collections are authorized under the Georgia Pecan Commission Marketing Order which must be approved every three years. This assessment is separate from the Federal Market Order for Pecans Checkoff. The Georgia assessment of one cent per pound supports research and marketing activities of the Georgia Pecan Commission for the benefit of Georgia pecan growers. The marketing efforts focus on a targeted audience and increasing the awareness of Georgia pecans as a snack option over other nuts and snack items as well as promoting Georgia pecans at many trade events. Some of the research projects funded with The University of Georgia and the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) are on production practices, disease and insect control, variety development, water management, and health benefits of pecan included in diets.
The corn assessment is one cent per bushel as authorized in the Georgia Corn Commission Market Order. This assessment must be voted on every three years and is collected on corn grown and marketed for grain by Georgia producers. The referendum passed with 92% of those voting in favor of continuing the assessment.
Funds collected by the Georgia Corn Commission are used for research projects conducted by the University of Georgia, ABAC, and ARS/USDA. Some of the areas of research funded have been on water utilization and management, fertilizer uptake and utilization, minor nutrients, precision ag projects, insect, and disease management, as well as breeding research. Corn is a very important crop in Georgia for the poultry and dairy industry in their feeding programs but as a rotational crop for the other important row crops in Georgia.
GA DEPT. OF AG MAKES APPOINTMENTS TO COMMODITY COMMISSIONS
On July 25, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper announced appointments to 13 of Georgia's Agriculture Commodity Commissions. The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) administers the farmer-funded programs. Funds collected by the commissions under growerapproved market orders support research, education, and promotion of each commodity.
Commission members are appointed for three years and can be reappointed. They are producers of the commodity and represent it on behalf of the other producers. On July 17, the Georgia -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page
Agricultural Commodity Commission Ex Officio Committee made the following appointments:
Apple Commission – David Lillard of Fannin County and Janice Hale of Gilmer County were reappointed. Joshua Aaron of Gilmer County is a new appointee;
Blueberry Commission – Shane Wade, Steve Mullis, and Kevin Eason all of Bacon County were reappointed;
Corn Commission – Wallace Anderson of Gilmer County and Rodney Harrell of Lee County were reappointed. Jonathan Hitchcock of Washington County is a new appointee;
Cotton Commission – Chris Hopkins of Toombs County and John Ruark of Morgan County were reappointed. Greg Sikes of Bulloch County is a new appointee;
Equine Commission – Ron Smith of Spalding County was reappointed;
Milk Commission – Pete Gelber of Macon County and James Coble of Burke County were reappointed. Mark Rodgers of McDuffie County is a new appointee;
Peach Commission – Lee Dickey of Crawford County has been reappointed. Phillip Rigdon of Houston County and Tyler Wainwright of Houston County are new appointees;;
Pecan Commission – RG Lamar of Richmond County has been reappointed. Greg Leger of Crisp County is a new appointee;
Soybean Commission – Tony Smith of Baker County, Greg Mims of Seminole County, and Mark Arial of Franklin County were reappointed;
Tobacco Commission – Carlos Vickers of Berrien County and Brant Clifton of Bulloch County were reappointed. Bo Corbett of Echols County is a new appointee;
Vegetable Commission – Dick Minor of Sumter County and Glenn Heard of Decatur County were reappointed;
Wine & Grape Commission – Eric Seifarth of Towns County has been reappointed. Chris Paulk of Irwin County and Sam Zamarippa of Lumpkin County are new appointees. The Ex Officio Committee also appointed the commission's advisory members – Chris Hoetnick, Kris Lange, Larry Lykins, and Sharon Paul;
Citrus Commission - The Georgia Citrus Commission was created earlier this year. Ken Corbett of Echols County, Landon Herring of Lowndes County, Justin Jones of Lee County, Jaime Patrick of Tift County, and Lindy Savelle of Thomas County were appointed. The committee also appointed the following to serve as advisory members: Stephen Batten, Delbert Davis, Kyli Lamar, Bill Rentz, and Brent Strickland.
Each commission is an instrumentality of the State of Georgia. The ex officio committee that made the appointments comprises the commissioner of agriculture, the president of Georgia Farm Bureau, and two members appointed by the Georgia Senate and House Agriculture Committees. Russ Moon and Buddy Leger are the ex officio members of the Georgia Apple, Beef, Blueberry, Citrus, Corn, Cotton, Milk, Peach, Pecan, Soybean, Tobacco, Vegetable, Georgia Grown, and Wine & Grape Commissions. Moon was appointed by the Senate Ag Committee; Leger was appointed by the House Ag Committee. Harry Thompson, appointed by the Senate Ag Committee, and Jimmy Kowalsky, appointed by the House Ag Committee, serve as ex officio members of the Georgia Equine Commission.
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FROM FARM TO FLOAT: AG PRODUCTS KEY FOR PORT OF SAVANNAH SUCCESS
It is an interesting coincidence that the Port of Savannah’s main facility is the Garden City Terminal; farm exports of food, fuel and fiber make up a major portion of the port’s containerized shipments around the globe. The Port of Savannah
According to a story in the July issue of Georgia Trend Magazine, ag exports through the Port of Savannah came roaring back in late 2020 after slowing during the early stages of the COVID19 pandemic and have remained strong since. The Port of Savannah continues to be the leading east coast port for shipping agricultural goods.
Much of the agricultural commodities shipped through the port are produced in Georgia, though significant quantities of Midwest-grown grains and cotton from Arkansas and Tennessee also leave the U.S. through Savannah. Georgia ports top the nation in shipments of poultry, cotton and peanuts.
Forest products are the top ag export, with have the wood, pulp, pellet and paper products going to Canada, Mexico and China.
The poultry sector had a record year in 2022, exporting 1.25 million metric tons worth $6.2 billion, about $700 million more than in 2021. Poultry exports through Savannah went to approximately 120 countries in 2022.
BILLS IN CONGRESS WOULD FUND RESEARCH ON PRECISION AG, AI
U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) and Sens. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) have sponsored bills in Congress to provide grant funding for projects to enhance artificial intelligence (AI), mechanization and other research to develop solutions to the challenges facing America’s agricultural producers.
In the U.S. House of Representatives, Bishop is listed as a cosponsor for H.R. 4162, the Land Grant Research Prioritization Act of 2023. Scott Franklin (R-Fla.) is the lead sponsor.
The House bill, which was introduced on June 21, is supported by numerous agricultural stakeholder groups, including the Georgia Pecan Growers Association, the Vidalia Onion Business Council and the Georgia Blueberry Commission.
“We rely on America’s farmers to produce the safest, most abundant, and affordable food, fiber, and materials. Yet they face many challenges such as supply chain resiliency, workforce capacity, input costs, coping with invasive species and pests, as well as the fallout of climate change. We must ensure that we are on the cutting edge of technology that can assist our farmers and producers,” said Congressman Bishop. “For over a century, land-grant institutions – like Fort Valley State University – have been at the forefront of research, development, and extension which has allowed U.S. agriculture to thrive. I am pleased to work with Congressman Franklin through this legislation to harness the power of our 1862 and 1890 land-grant institutions to explore how mechanized harvesting and artificial intelligence can help improve U.S. agriculture.”
The Senate bill, S. 2316, was introduced on July 18 by Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and cosponsored by Ossoff and Warnock, as well as Rick Scott (R-Fla.).
The bill would authorize the USDA to make priority research grants available for land-grant universities including the University of Georgia and Fort Valley State University to increase their research on precision agriculture and help more farmers and specialty crop growers benefit -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page from new technologies. For example, precision agriculture can help farmers save money by using less water and fertilizer for their crops. The legislation would also authorize grants for invasive species control and aquaculture.
“Georgia growers have told me clearly: precision agriculture technology is key to Georgia’s agricultural future,” said Sen. Ossoff. “I’m pleased to partner with Sen. Rubio to advance the research and deployment of technology that will help feed the nation and create wealth in our states.”
To read H.R. 4162, click here. At press time, S. 2316 had not been published in the Congressional Record.
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CORN FIELD DAY
July 27 Vidalia Onion & Vegetable Research Center 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Lyons
This event, sponsored by UGA Extension, features a midseason agronomic update, information from variety trials and lunch with sponsors. Pesticide credits will be available. The Vidalia Onion & Vegetable Research Center is located at 8163 Hwy. 178 in Lyons. Please RSVP to Derrick Bowen at (912)-253-3515 or Aubrey Shirley at (912)-314-3698.
COMMENTS ON ALTERNATIVE MILK LABELING
July 31 deadline to submit
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the deadline for submitting comments on how nut and plant-based dairy alternatives should be labeled until July 31. FDA is proposing to allow plant-based beverages to use the term “milk” on their labeling so long as they provide a nutrition statement on the package’s principal display panel detailing the nutrition differences between real milk and the plant-based beverage if the fake milk has less Calcium, Protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Riboflavin, or Vitamin B12 than real milk. Georgia Milk Producers is asking its members and supporters to submit comments asking FDA to enforce its own regulations (Standards of Identity) and only allow real milk products to be labeled as milk. Georgia Farm Bureau submitted comments in April asking the FDA to prohibit the use of “milk” or other dairy terms on non-dairy products, which may be read here https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FDA-2023-D-0451-0561. Dairy Farmers of America has an action link that will help you submit comments in less than a minute at https://p2a.co/B6hKTpQ
CROP INSURANCE FOR 2024 FRESH MARKET SWEET CORN & PEPPERS
July 31 deadline to apply or renew
USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia fresh market sweet corn producers and pepper producers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2024 crop year is July 31. Current policyholders who want to make changes to their existing coverage have until July 31 to do so. Fresh market sweet corn coverage is available for producers in Colquitt, Decatur, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Tift and Worth counties. Pepper coverage is available in Brooks, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Grady, Lowndes, Thomas, Tift, Ware and Worth counties. Federal crop insurance helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and strengthens the rural economy. Growers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2024 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. Georgia Farm Bureau partners with Rain and Hail, Agrisompo, and Crop Risk Services to offer crop insurance. Contact your county Farm Bureau office or email GFB Crop Insurance Program Manager Michael Smith at crops@gfbinsurance.com to find a GFB crop insurance agent near you. 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/. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
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FSA ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR LOCAL COUNTY COMMITTEES
Aug. 1 deadline for nominations
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting nominations for county committee members for elections that will occur later this year. Additionally, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is unveiling a new GIS tool to make it easier for producers to participate in the nomination and election processes for county committee members, who make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally. All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by Aug. 1. Click here for complete information about FSA County Committee elections.
FREE ESTATE PLANNING WEBINAR
Aug. 3 10 a.m. online
Everyone needs estate planning, but most people don’t know when or why they should start. It’s never too early to plan for your future! Tune in to hear from guest panelists Tony Hutchins from Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance and attorney Will Thompson as they explain the resources available to you and your family. To register, visit https://gfb.ag/estateplanwebinar. Each registrant will receive a Zoom link via email for the webinar ahead of time. Registration is required to receive the link and view the webinar. This resource is made possible by Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance and the AgGeorgia Farm Credit. It is open to members of Georgia Farm Bureau and Farm Credit.
FOREST HERBICIDE MEETING
Aug. 15 Wayne County Extension Office, 1900 Sunset Blvd. 11 a.m. Jesup
This free meeting is offered by the UGA Cooperative Extension Southeast District and the UGA Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. Topics include herbicides for site prep, herbaceous weed control, mid-rotation woody control, pine straw production and mid-rotation release/fertilization. Warnell School Professor of Forest Productivity Dr. David Dickens will be the featured speaker. To register call or email Jennifer Anderson at 912-427-5965 or uge3305@uga.edu. Please register by Aug. 11. A minimum of 15 registered are needed to hold meeting. Organizers are working for approval of continuing education credits in logger education and Georgia pesticide credits.
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GFB TAKING NOMINATIONS FOR COMMODITY COMMITTEES
Aug. 18 deadline for nominations
Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) is accepting nominations until Aug. 18 from county Farm Bureaus for members to serve on GFB’s 20 commodity advisory committees. These committees serve in an advisory capacity to the GFB president, board of directors and staff to implement Farm Bureau policy. GFB Commodity Committee members also make recommendations to the GFB Policy Development Committee relative to their commodities. The chairman of each committee serves on the GFB Policy Development Committee. Nominees must be a Farm Bureau member and an active producer of the commodity for the committee(s) for which they are nominated. GFB has commodity committees for the following: aquaculture; beef cattle; cotton; dairy; direct marketing/agritourism; environmental horticulture; equine; feedgrain/soybean; forestry; fruit; goats and sheep; hay; honeybee; peanut; pecan; poultry; swine; tobacco; vegetables and water. Selected nominees will serve a two-year term. Each county Farm Bureau is encouraged to nominate members to serve on the 20 GFB Commodity Committees. County Farm Bureaus may nominate one of its members for each of the 20 committees as long as the nominee actively produces the commodity and is not nominated for more than two committees. Counties may recommend a nominee for up to two committees, however, a nominee will only be selected to serve on one GFB committee. Committee members are asked to participate in a spring committee meeting in person and to attend the annual GFB Commodity Conference in August where the committees meet again. If you are a Farm Bureau member who produces one of the 20 commodities represented by the committees and are interested in being nominated, please contact your county Farm Bureau office for more information.
JOINT CHAIRMEN AG ISSUES SUMMIT
Aug. 22 Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Perry
The summit will feature updates on agriculture-related legislative issues from Georgia Sen. Russ Goodman (R-Homerville) and Georgia Rep. Robert Dickey (R - Musella), chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, respectively. Leaders in the ag industry will provide coffee and lunch to attendees at no charge. Registration begins at 9 a.m., followed by the event at 9:30. An RSVP is required to ensure appropriate-sized meeting room and enough lunches for attendees. Please respond no later than Friday, Aug. 11. To RSVP, please send the attendee’s full name, organization name, and work phone number to Rachel Whitted at Rachel.Whitted@senate.ga.gov
HOUSE RURAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL MEETINGS
Aug. 29
Oct. 25
Nov. 16
Georgia Farm Bureau Macon
Georgia Southern University Statesboro
University of Georgia Athens
Specific meeting times, agendas and location information will be announced prior to each meeting. Meetings of the House Rural Development Council will be livestreamed and are open to the public. Established in 2017, the House Rural Development Council was renewed for the 2023-2024 by the unanimous adoption of House Resolution 488 during the 2023 legislative session.
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BEEF CATTLE 201 EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP
This workshop is designed for cattle producers interested in enhancing conservation on their farms and improving their economic production. Topics include economics, market outlook, forage & herd management, reproduction, Beef Quality Assurance (BQA), and more. Spots are limited. Registration is $50 by Aug. 1 and $100 between Aug. 1 and Aug. 15. Fee includes five meals and program materials. Register at the USDA Service Center, NRCS Office ,231 Hwy. 41 N., Suite B, Barnesville, GA 30204. For more information contact Lisa Minick, Lamar & Upson counties technician, at 770-358-0787, Ext. 3 or lisa.minick@usda.gov. If you need an accommodation to attend this event, please contact Lisa Minick.
GEORGIA CITRUS TREE NUTRITION SURVEY
Sept. 1 deadline for submissions
UGA Agricultural & Environmental Sciences Labs researchers are asking for help in a three-year study they are conducting to evaluate the nutrient health of Georgia citrus groves. This study seeks to identify any common nutrient issues Georgia’s emerging citrus industry has. The researchers will provide educational material to growers based on the study results. Citrus growers are encouraged to send up to 10 leaf samples from your groves for nutrient analysis AT NO CHARGE until Sept. 1. Growers will only pay for shipping costs. Visit https://gfb.ag/ugacitrussurvey for complete details on taking and submitting foliar samples and to download/print the sample form that must be completed and submitted with the samples. All samples will be analyzed for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, zinc, iron, boron, aluminum, copper, manganese. Results will be emailed to growers within 5-7 business days after receipt by the lab. A Georgia Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant is funding this survey. For more information about this project, please contact Daniel Jackson at djackso@uga.edu or 706-5429118.
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GFB POLICY DEVELOPMENT SUBMISSIONS
Sept. 8 deadline
Georgia Farm Bureau is accepting resolutions from county Farm Bureaus to be considered during the organization’s annual policy development process. This process is critical to maintaining the grassroots vision and goals of GFB and will provide direction for us in the legislative arena for 2024. County leaders are encouraged to consider issues of importance to your members and develop resolutions that will address your concerns. County Farm Bureau office managers can help county leaders access an electronic version of the 2023 GFB Policy Book to review. Having access to the book in an electronic format will help you search for existing policies/issues to see if they are already covered or if edits/policy deletions need to be made. If you have questions regarding the Policy Development process in general, please contact Keaton Walker at kgwalker@gfb.org or (478) 474-0679, ext. 5404.
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
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.
PINE STRAW PRODUCTION STAND MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS
Sept. 12-13 Bulloch County Ag Center 151 Langston-Chapel Rd.
Statesboro
This course will provide information necessary to effectively manage pine stands for pine straw. Topics include pine straw revenues vs. stumpage, factors affecting pine straw yields, cut-over and old-field pine straw studies, magnitude and duration of fertilization, weed re-growth with fertilization, using diagnostic tools soils, and yield information for determining effective recommendations, forest floor nutrients, and much more. Early registration fee through Sept. 4 is $250. Regular registration after Sept. 4 is $300. To register online visit https://conted.warnell.uga.edu/. To pay by regular mail, make check payable to Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. Mail payment to Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources, University of Georgia,180 East Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602.
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FOREST HERBICIDE MEETING
Oct. 3 Bulloch County Ag Center 151 Langston-Chapel Rd. 11 a.m. Statesboro
This free meeting is offered by Bulloch County Extension and the UGA Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. Topics include herbicides for site prep, herbaceous weed control, mid-rotation woody control, pine straw production and mid-rotation release/fertilization. Warnell School Professor of Forest Productivity Dr. David Dickens will be the featured speaker. Miracle; 912-489-8986 or email her at dmiracle@uga.edu Please register by Sept. 26 A minimum of 15 registered are needed to hold meeting. Organizers are working for approval of continuing education credits in logger education and Georgia pesticide credits.
USDA DISCRIMINATION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Oct. 31
Application deadline
Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs prior to January 2021 and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was subject to USDA discrimination occurring prior to January 1, 2021, have until Oct. 31 to apply for financial assistance. Visit the program website https://22007apply.gov to file an application and for more information on the program. Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law by President Biden in August 2022, directs USDA to provide financial assistance to producers who have experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs and has $2.2 billion for this program. Under the law, the Secretary of Agriculture is responsible for administering the assistance through qualified nongovernmental entities under standards set by USDA. Applications will be reviewed in November and December, with payments reaching recipients soon thereafter, according to USDA statements. USDA has become aware of some lawyers and groups spreading misleading information about the discrimination assistance process, pressuring people to sign retainer agreements, and asking people to fill out forms with private and sensitive information. The official application process, which began July is free and does not require an attorney.
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.
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CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER NO-TILL EQUIPMENT FOR RENT
Ongoing
Local Conservation Districts and their partners help farmers try a number of conservation practices by purchasing equipment and making it available to rent. Some districts offer no-till drills, PVC pond pipe systems and repair parts, as well as geotextile fabric for agricultural and road use. To see what equipment is available in your conservation district, click here.
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.