GFB OPENS POLICY DEVELOPMENT WITH 2022 COMMODITY CONFERENCE
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Georgia Farm Bureau’s Commodity Advisory Committees officially started the organization’s policy development process on Aug. 11, during the GFB Commodity Conference at the Stone Mountain Evergreen Resort. The committee members heard updates on GFB funded research, the a general economic outlook, the Freedom to Farm Act, Farm Service Agency (FSA) programs, funds for in state meat processing facilities, and water stewardship. The committees then met to consider changes to GFB’s policy stances relating to their respective commodities.
“Georgia Farm Bureau is committed to joining other ag organizations in supporting research that benefits Georgia farmers by addressing production, economic and marketing issues they are dealing with on their farms,” GFB President Tom McCall said. Recipients and their projects are as follows: Dr. Zilfina Ames: Develop a Sampling Method for Sap Nutrient Analysis for Blueberries & Blackberries to Increase Fertilizer Use Efficiency; Dr. Brent Credille: Evaluation of the Impact Mass Medication Has on the Health of and Antibiotic Resistance in High Risk Beef Stocker Calves; Dr. Mark Czarnota: Propagation of Pecan Trees using Nodal Propagation
Dr. Rachel Itle: Exploring Novel Frost Protection Strategies for Blueberry & Peach Production; Dr. Kevin Mis Solval: Improving the Post Harvest Practices of Fruit & Vegetable Packing Operations with Virtual Tours; Dr. Lawton Stewart: Grazing Cotton Residue to Decrease Hay Feeding (extension of ’21 project); Dr. Simerjeet Virk: Identifying Cost Effective Soil Sampling Strategies for Variable Rate on next 17, 2022 www.gfb.org Vol. 4 No. 17
; Dr. Darren Henry: Do Growth Promoting Implants Improve the Sustainability of Beef production?
The 2022 Georgia Farm Bureau Agricultural Research Initiatives grant recipients were announced during the GFB Commodity Conference. GFB has awarded $129,567 in grants to eight researchers at the UGA College of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences for studies addressing on farm production issues Georgia beef, blackberry, blueberry, peach, pecan, vegetable, and row crop farmers are experiencing.
GFB funds agricultural research
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In recent years the makeup of Georgia’s labor market has shifted with Georgians moving to better jobs, Dorfman said. “We’ve lost jobs in the government, leisure/hospitality, construction, and services sectors but continued on next page
Dorfman estimates farmers are experiencing inflation rates of 15 20% for prices of input costs for production agriculture. Dorfman says the chances of the U.S. entering a recession are less likely than people think because:
“People may not like gas and grocery prices, but we can still afford a better lifestyle than pre pandemic,” Dorfman said. “Savings stayed elevated for 18 months until a return to normal in September 2021. We can expect strong consumer spending to continue for a while. There’s still a lot of catch up spending to come.”
Most developed nations try to sustain an inflation rate of around 2 3% through fiscal and monetary policy, according to the U.S. DOL.
Dorfman: economic data indicates recession less likely than reported The U.S. employment rate, wages and consumers’ purchasing power are better indicators of whether we are experiencing a recession than inflation rates, State Fiscal Economist Jeffrey Dorfman said while speaking at the GFB Commodity Conference. Inflation is a general increase in the prices of goods and services accompanied by a fall in the purchasing power of money.
GFB Field Notes 2 of 17 Continued from previous page Liming and Fertilization in Georgia Row Crops.
This is the fifth year GFB has awarded grants to assist Georgia researchers working to find solutions to production, economic and marketing issues facing Georgia farmers. Since 2018, GFB has awarded about $522,165 in research grants that have addressed beef, blackberry, blueberry, cotton, forage, Christmas, fruit & pecan tree, peach, peanut, poultry, soybean, row crop, and vegetable production issues.
As of July, the U.S. inflation rate has averaged 8.33% for 2022 with a peak of 9.06% in June, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The U.S. annual inflation rate increased from 1.8% for 2019 to 4.69% for 2021.
The U.S. hasn’t seen inflation rates this high since 1981, when the U.S. annual inflation rate was 10.35%, U.S. DOL records show. The U.S. annual inflation rate was 13.58% in 1980 and 11.22% in“Inflation1979.
is at a 40 year high, and it will take time to return to normal,” Dorfman said. “It’s likely to be 4 to 5% by the end of 2022 and 3% by the end of 2023. We have to assume we won’t be back to 2% inflation until 2024. This is because inflation got into housing costs.”
1) on average, consumer incomes are higher than before February 2020, and are either even with or 3% ahead of inflation; 2) Americans saved a lot of money for 18 months during the pandemic; 3) debt levels are manageable to low; 4) household wealth is up as home equity is up 32% above inflation over the past two years; 5) employment rates are steady and businesses don’t want to fire workers because good employees are hard to find.
The Bureau of Economic Analysis reports the U.S. currently has $2.4 trillion in savings. Dorfman says flat consumer spending is the pessimistic case but isn’t the worst case that could happen. He predicts that government spending is very unlikely to fall.
GFB Field Notes 3 of 17
“Nobody really wants to fire workers right now because workers are hard to come by,” Dorfman said.Dorfman says any recession that occurs will be investment focused. He points out that stock market value is still 20% above inflation over the past two years. With the Federal Reserve raising interest rates, Dorfman estimates investment will only drop enough to make the gross domestic product shrink by 1%. Exports to Europe may decrease as European economies struggle with energy supplies and prices. According to the Trading Economics website, inflation rates for some European trading partners are as follows: France 6.1%; Germany 7.5%; Italy 7.9%; The United Kingdom 9.4%; Spain 10.8%; and Poland 15.6%.
Dixon said the new law also stipulates that only someone who owns property affected by an alleged nuisance can sue a farm owner. Coverage is also now based on “on the farm” instead of “off the farm” considerations.
“You can’t claim a nuisance just because you drive by a farm and don’t like a smell or some other action you experience,” Dixon said. New farms gain coverage once they are in operation for two years.
“Under the old law [Right to Farm], if you started a farm near existing homes you’d never have qualified for protection,” Dixon said The new law, however, doesn’t give farm owners the ability to drastically change their existing farm operation, Dixon said. “If you have been raising cattle but want to put in chicken houses, that could potentially be next
Continued from previous page gained jobs in the trade/transportation/utilities, professional/business services, information, finance, and education/health sectors,” Dorfman said. “There are 4.6% more people working in Georgia than when Gov. Kemp took office and in general, they are better paying jobs.”
Company inventory to sale ratios became low during the pandemic because workers were scarce, demand for some goods was high and due to supply chain issues. Dorfman says if consumer demand slows due to inflation, businesses may be able to rebuild inventories.
Dixon: Practical implications of Freedom to Farm Act
Dorfman estimates farmers are experiencing inflation rates of 15 20% for prices of input costs for production agriculture.
Lawyer Buck Dixon, who helped Georgia Farm Bureau and other ag organizations get the Georgia General Assembly to pass the Freedom to Farm Act this year, gave an overview of the new law at the GFB Commodity Conference. Dixon is with the Troutman Pepper firm.
“The most significant change with the Freedom to Farm Act is that it eliminated the “changed conditions” concept,” Dixon said. “The right to farm is no longer tied to how long you’ve been operating in relation to your neighbors. It’s just how long you’ve been operating [minimum of two years] and if you’re a good actor [following existing regulations].”
-continued on
The Freedom to Farm Act, which is now state law, protects Georgia farmers against nuisance lawsuits if they have been operating their farm for two years or more and are complying with all applicable state and federal requirements for their type of ag production.
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Under CFAP and other COVID related programs, FSA provided $476 million to Georgia producers, Tripp said. “We still had producers who did not know about it. That sort of thing just shouldn’t happen,” he said, noting that FSA staff is exploring ways to ensure producers know what federal programs are available to them.
To that end, the Georgia General Assembly agreed to convert $7.8 million originally allotted -continued on next page
Tripp asked farmers to help improve data available through the U.S. Drought Monitor by self reporting conditions on their farms. To self report, click here. (https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/850f937a1956425dab70cf3a79c64e8b).TrippdiscussedFSA’seffortstoadvanceagriculturethroughFarmtoSchool grants, which provided between $50,000 and $500,000 to schools looking to establish or expand existing agricultural programs. FSA also offers up to $5,000 to help students purchase animals to enter in livestock shows. “We have got to make sure that our young people have the opportunity to touch and taste and feel agriculture,” Tripp said. “It’s important. It’s the only way I feel that we will have the next generation of folks getting involved.”
Continued from previous page considered a new operation depending on the number of houses you build,” Dixon said.
FSA administers the USDA’s disaster assistance programs, including the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm raised Fish (ELAP), and the Emergency Relief Program (ERP), the ongoing version of the Wildfires and Hurricanes Indemnity Program Pluss (WHIP+).
For details on all of FSA’s programs, visit https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs and services/index Black on meat processing, trade and farm to foodbank Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black provided information about efforts to establish meat processing facilities in the state, the Department of Agriculture’s international trade work and the newly established farm to foodbank program.
Alleged nuisances resulting from negligent, improper or illegal operations are not protected by the Freedom to Farm Act, Dixon said.
GFB Field Notes 4 of 17
Black said that with Georgia’s population at 11 million and growing, the need for in state meat processing plants must be addressed.
Tripp: FSA is about much more than loans Georgia Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Arthur Tripp outlined the agency’s programs and encouraged Georgia farmers to participate. The FSA has two primary functions providing disaster assistance and offering access to capital for farmers. The agency provides a variety of loans, including farm ownership loans, operating loans, emergency loans, conservation loans, land contract guarantees and more.
“We’ve got to solve this,” he said. “We’ve got to solve it ourselves. We can’t wait for somebody to come in and help us. What’s been the major deal with that? It has been financing.”
Black mentioned in state co op processing organizations for peanuts could serve as a model for how producers could work together to establish meat processing plants.
Masters outlines water conservation projects
“We’re back open for business,” he said, noting that Georgia Department of Agriculture staff has made trade related visits to the Philippines and Taiwan, with another scheduled for Singapore in September. He emphasized that producers need to be involved in these trade missions.
“The most certainty we can get for producers, farmers in the lower Flint in terms of endangered species comes in the form of a habitat conservation plan,” Masters said. “All the stuff that I’ve talked about is going to go into doing that.”
The USDA grant project will support drilling for approximately 240 wells that will access deep aquifers. The use of these wells will be contingency based, when surface water stream levels fall below 50 cfs. At that point the farmers with access to the deep wells will tap into them to continue irrigating.
Georgia Water Planning & Policy Center (GWPPC) Director Mark Masters lauded Georgia farmers for their water conservation efforts, outlined the Georgia Flow Incentive Trust (GaFIT) and the GWPPC’s deep well project funded through a $50 million USDA grant.
Continued from previous page for forest cleanup following Hurricane Michael into lendable capital under the Georgia Development Authority, which is lending the money at the prime rate for development or expansion of meat processing plants. Loans are capped at $2 million.
Moving forward, Masters addressed support of endangered species habitat by ensuring ground water stream flows. In March, the GWPPC held its first auction under GaFIT. Producers in the Ichawanochaway Creek Basin bid for contracts to limit irrigation on their farmland. If stream flows fell below 50 cubic feet per second (cfs), the farmers would stop irrigating and receive payments from the GaFIT program as compensation.
GFB Field Notes 5 of 17
As evidence, Masters cited data gained from extensive water metering across the state, peer reviewed research and Georgia’s successful defense against a water lawsuit filed by the state of Florida in the U.S. Supreme Court.
Ichawanochaway was chosen because of its combination of water sources surface water, ground water and deep aquifers. As of Aug. 11, Masters said the water flows haven’t fallen low enough to trigger payments, though with the uncertainty of the weather, it remains possible. Another auction is being planned for 2023.
“I’m pretty excited to give y’all a presentation that I really would have liked to have given 15 years ago, but I get to give it today,” Masters said. “I want you to know that Georgia farmers continue to demonstrate outstanding stewardship of water.”
While addressing the meat-processing challenge at home, Black also noted the importance of continuously pursuing international trade.
The farm to foodbank program, funded with $800,000 in the state budget, is moving toward implementation, Black said. The process is being developed for implementation in the fall, and it will be set up so foodbanks apply for the funding to make purchases with Georgia fruit and vegetable growers. One key requirement will be that the foodbanks provide their purchase orders from Georgia growers.
In 1997, Dr. Guthrie began the Georgia Commercial Dairy Heifer Show, which has since introduced more than 6,000 Georgia youth to the dairy industry. Students borrow heifers from local dairies, which are generously loaned to keep the cost of raising and showing a heifer at a minimum. These are raised and trained by the students to participate in showmanship and conformation classes. Students can exhibit at local shows and the Georgia Commercial Dairy continued on next page
“Dr. Guthrie has been a dedicated and unwavering supporter of Georgia’s youth and dairy programs through 4 H and FFA. He has spent decades providing leadership and education to the dairy industry,” said GFB President Tom McCall. “His knowledge and passion for dairy has inspired and helped develop countless producers and youth nationwide. Georgia Farm Bureau is proud to present him with the 2022 Commodity Award.”
GFB Field Notes 6 of 17
Guthrie began his Extension career while attending Auburn University, where he earned a master’s degree in ruminant nutrition with a minor in biochemistry. He earned his Ph.D. from Louisiana State University (LSU) in ruminant nutrition. He then joined the faculty at LSU and was eventually recruited to the University of Georgia in 1977 as a professor in the Department of Animal and Dairy Science. “Dairy has always been special to me,” Guthrie said. “I’d like to thank the Farm Bureau commodity committees. This is a highlight of my career, being recognized.”
DR. LARRY GUTHRIE RECEIVES 2022 GFB COMMODITY AWARD
Guthrie grew up in Bullock County, Alabama, on his family’s livestock farm. He attended Jones Community College in Mississippi and McNeese State University in Louisiana. Guthrie earned his bachelor’s degree from McNeese State in 1961.
“Dr. Guthrie worked diligently to help Georgia dairy farmers develop protocol to advance into the 21st century,” GFB Dairy Committee Chairman Joel Keith said. “Through his guidance and interest, our industry has made great strides. Plus, he has mentored countless youth in education and leadership through his involvement with 4 H and FFA.”
As faculty with the University of Georgia, Dr. Guthrie was responsible for educational programs and outreach with the Cooperative Extension Service related to dairy cattle nutrition, management, replacement rearing, heat stress management, and 4-H dairy youth education. In addition, he conducted applied research and taught classes in the Department of Animal and Dairy Science. Guthrie is a major force behind the dairy youth programs in Georgia, including the development and oversight of the very successful 4 H and FFA Dairy Judging programs and the Georgia Commercial Dairy Heifer Program.
Long time dairy and youth advocate Dr. Larry Guthrie was presented as the 2022 Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Commodity Award during the GFB Commodity Conference held Aug. 11 at the Stone Mountain Evergreen Conference Center. The GFB Commodity Award, one of the organization’s highest honors, is given to individuals who have supported and promoted Georgia agriculture.TheGFB Board of Directors selects the award recipient from nominees submitted by the organizations’ commodity advisory committees. Guthrie was nominated by the GFB Dairy and BeefGuthrie,Committees.whoretired
as a professor in the UGA Animal and Dairy Science Program in 1999, has worked to advance dairy science and practices in Georgia for more than 50 years.
GFB Field Notes 7 of 17
Georgia Farm Bureau is calling all members who grow any variety of Bermudagrass hay to enter its annual hay contest. Hay entered in the 2022 GFB Quality Hay Contest will be tested at the UGA Feed & Environmental Water Lab using the Relative Forage Quality (RFQ) Test, which provides an analysis of the nutritional value of the hay. Winners will be determined by the RFQ analysis and announced in December at the GFB Convention. Prizes will be presented to the top five producers. GFB’s annual hay contest encourages quality hay production, which leads to higher quality livestock and more return to Georgia hay producers. Producers who have their hay tested every year can see improvements they make in managing their hay fields by looking at multi-year analysis. RFQ is the best method to compare forages. RFQ provides a number that gives producers an idea of how much digestible nutrients their hay contains. Fully mature alfalfa is given a base point of 100. Since the base price for hay sales and auctions in many parts of the world is the value of poor quality alfalfa, RFQ provides a mechanism for indexing quality to value. RFQ for Bermudagrass in Georgia typically ranges from 75 to 120 or higher. If a hay producer sells their hay based on its RFQ, a higher price can be demanded for the higher quality. Livestock producers are more likely to pay these premiums as this hay will yield higher weight gains and require fewer supplements. With quality in mind, it is a good management practice to test your hay after baling. RFQ and other analytical data can help you manage potential problems with moisture, nitrates or poor digestibility, especially in years with adverse weather. Entry forms outlining complete contest rules may be picked up at your county Farm Bureau office or downloaded from the GFB website www.gfb.ag/HayContest. There is a $20 fee for each entry to cover the cost of the lab test. Producers may enter more than one sample. Checks should be made payable to Georgia Farm Bureau. Contest participants will receive a detailed copy of their hay analysis and may choose to have a free listing in the ’22/’23 online GFB Hay Directory. Producers must be a GFB member to enter the contest or list hay for sale in the hay directory. The deadline to enter contest is Oct. 31. The cost to list hay in the directory alone is $10 and may be submitted at any time.
Continued from previous page Heifer Show in February as part of the Georgia Junior National Livestock Show
Thanks to Dr. Guthrie’s vision, this program introduces the dairy industry to many students from non farm families, inspiring many to be future leaders in the industry. Dr. Guthrie’s extensive involvement in all facets of the dairy youth programs includes serving three years as President of the Georgia Dairy Youth Foundation. He is a current member of the foundation’s board of directors and raises to support 4-H, FFA, and collegiate dairy educational programs.
In addition, Dr. Guthrie volunteered as dairy superintendent for the Purebred Dairy Cattle Shows at the Georgia National Fair for 25 years and continues as assistant superintendent. After he retired, Dr. Guthrie and his wife, Rachel, started a dairy youth leadership scholarship for Georgia 4 H and FFA students.
The Guthries live in Watkinsville and have two children, Dr. Larry Guthrie Jr. and Rochelle Guthrie Edmonds.
ENTER GFB HAY CONTEST FOR CHANCE TO WIN USE OF VERMEER BALER
GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANNOUNCES ACC APPOINTMENTS
• Equine Commission Cassie Harper and Beth Williams were appointed. Barbara Kelly chose not to be reappointed.
Appointees to the commodity commissions serve terms of three years and can be reappointed for additional terms. Georgia Agriculture Commodity Commissions receive funding from grower approved assessment of the commodity. These funds can be used for research, education, and promotion of that commodity.
• Tobacco - Chance Callaway was appointed. Jerry Wooten did not apply for reappointment.
• Soybean Commission - Brian Ogletree and Jesse Patrick were reappointed.
The courses will ultimately be available in all of Georgia's existing career clusters. They can serve as both a springboard to assist with elementary STEM/STEAM instruction and certification, and as preparation for middle and high school CTAE programs.
The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) is developing elementary Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) courses that will allow students to explore agricultural career interests and opportunities in the early grades
• Cotton Commission - Matt Coley and Steven Meeks were reappointed.
“Our mission in Georgia is to prepare students for life," State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “These elementary Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education courses will build into our middle and high school CTAE opportunities and give students the chance to learn about the many options they have for a successful future."
GEORGIA AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION EXPANDS INTO ELEMENTARY GRADES
The courses will provide early exposure to careers and will be developmentally appropriate for elementary students. The program will build on the success of Georgia's existing career clusters and pathways. The new program will complement the existing agricultural education courses in the early grades and expand opportunities and reinforce foundational skills outside the core content areas.The program has been offered through a pilot program in 20 schools across the state since the 2019/2020 school year. The Georgia General Assembly authorized the expansion with legislation during its 2022 session. GaDOE will work with business and industry, educators, and CTAE subject matter experts to develop the courses. Local school districts will be able to pilot the majority of the elementary CTAE courses as early as fall 2023.
Georgia is leading the nation in providing Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education courses in the early grades. The new courses will allow students to explore future opportunities throughout their K 12 education keeping a clear focus on every student's passion and potential.
• Beef Commission Allen Wiggins, Ernie Ford, Calhoun County, and Chuck Joiner were appointed. Chairman John Callaway chose not to be reappointed.
GFB Field Notes 8 of 17
On August 2, the Commodity Commission Ex Officio Committee made several appointments of individuals to serve on Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commissions (ACCs):
GACD OFFERS RENTAL EQUIPMENT, HOG CONTROL SERVICES AVAILABLE
Tobacco production is forecast at 13.3 million pounds, down 7.6% from 2021, when Georgia growers produced 14.4 million pounds Peach production is forecast at 26,000 tons, down 26% from 2021.
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The cotton production forecast, at 2.30 million bales, would represent an increase of 4% from 2021 production of 2.21 million bales. Georgia cotton growers made slight increases in acreage and are expected to have slightly higher yield in 2022 than in 2021.
Corn for grain production is forecast at 64.7 million bushels in 2022, down 20% from 2021. The corn yield is forecast at 166 bushels per harvested acre, down 16 bushels from 2021.
GFB Field Notes 9 of 17
Conservation tillage is a way to plant crops without plowing or with minimum tilling of the soil. The no till drill leaves the soil and crop residues undisturbed except for the area where the seed is placed in the ground. Using the no till method reduces soil loss, improves water quality, increases organic matter, reduces loss of nutrients, reduces energy consumption, reduces loss of soil moisture and improves physical and chemical properties of the soil. Some districts offer no till drills, PVC pond pipe systems and repair parts, as well as geotextile fabric for agricultural and road use. For a district by district list of what equipment is available, clickMeanwhile,here.
Following an Initiative spearheaded by the Brier Creek Conservation District, conservation districts throughout Georgia are partnering with GACD to acquire feral swine control equipment -continued
COTTON EXPECTED TO INCREASE PRODUCTION, OTHER CROPS TO DECLINE
Peanut production is forecast at 3.26 billion pounds in 2022, down 74 million pounds, or 2%, from 2021. The 2022 peanut yield is forecast at 4,500 pounds per harvested acre, up 50 pounds fromGeorgia2021.
Many farmers till during the fall. Tilling destroys soil aggregates and makes the soil more prone to erosion. The Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD) encourages farmers to improve soil health by utilizing the no till method, and local conservation districts and their partners to help farmers try out a number of conservation practices by purchasing equipment and making it available to rent.
the Ocmulgee River Conservation District is participating in the GACD Feral Swine District Initiative. Landowners located in Bibb, Crawford, Dooly, Houston, Macon, Peach, Pulaski, Taylor, and Wilcox counties are invited to participate in the District’s feral swine control services.Feralswine have become increasingly detrimental in Georgia, causing significant damage to agricultural crops and natural resources throughout the state. The economic impact of damage caused by feral swine in Georgia is estimated at over $150 million. Feral swine are one of the greatest invasive species challenges facing Georgia.
Georgia cotton producers are expected to increase production in 2022, but Georgia’s other major field crops are forecast for declines according to the August Crop Production Report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.
2022 soybean production, forecast at 5.50 million bushels, is down 11% from 2021. The soybean yield is forecast at 44 bushels per harvested acre, down 2 bushels from 2021
Cargo traffic from Ukrainian ports halted soon after Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. The two countries are among the world’s largest exporter of agricultural products, and the supply interruption resulting from the conflict sparked fears of a global food crisis, particularly in underdeveloped nations that depend on grain imports to feed their citizens.
If you are interested in hog control services, please contact the district’s Hog Control Custodians, Ryan Talton (706 897 0087; r_talton@hotmail.com) or Lane Spence (478 808 6362).
Cargo ship Razoni, carrying 26,000 tons of corn, left Odessa on Aug. 1 bound for Lebanon. The ship was escorted through waters mined with explosives by Ukrainian pilot ships. The Associated Press reported that three more commercial ships carrying 58,000 tons of corn departed on Aug. 7 By Aug. 10, a total of 12 vessels containing more than 370,000 metric tons of grain and other food stocks were authorized to depart Ukrainian ports, according to the United Nations.
GFB Field Notes 10 of 17 Continued from previous page and are contracting with local hog control custodians to eradicate feral swine within the district. Due to the tremendous financial and informational assistance of GACD, the Ocmulgee River Conservation District has been able to purchase a Pig Brig feral hog trapping system. Through this program, they hope to be part of controlling and eradicating these hogs.
-continued on next page
The first shipments of grain from Ukraine in more than five months set sail on Aug. 1, helping ease tight global grain supplies, according to multiple news outlets.
September wheat futures prices through the Chicago Board of Trade fell by 2.4% on Aug. 1, according to Business Insider. Even before the first ships departed, wheat prices in Asia dropped following the grain corridor agreement, according to Hellenic Shipping News.
The July 22 agreement also allowed Russian shipments of grain and fertilizer from Black Sea ports. According to the International Chamber of Shipping, 22 million tons of grain and other agricultural products stuck in Ukraine’s Black Sea ports due to the war will now be able to be transported out of the region via merchant ships.
UKRAINE RESUMES MARITIME GRAIN EXPORTS
Ukrainian and Russian officials signed an agreement on July 22 to allow for a grain shipping corridor on the Black Sea, clearing the way for commercial and humanitarian shipments from the Ukrainian ports of Odessa, Chernomorsk and Yuzhny.
INFLATION REDUCTION ACT PROVIDES NEARLY $40 BILLION TO AG
Senate passed the bill on Aug. 7 by a 51 50 vote, with the support of Georgia Senators Raphael Warnock and John Ossof. The U.S. House passed the bill on Aug. 12 by a 220 207 vote.
Georgia Reps. Sanford Bishop Jr. (D 2nd District), Hank Johnson D 4th, Nikema Williams (D 5th) , Lucy McBath (D 6th), Carolyn Bordeaux (D 7th), and David Scott (D 13th) voted in favor of the Accordingbill. to a fact sheet from the Senate Agriculture Committee, the new law provides more than $20 billion to help farmers and ranchers address climate change. This includes funds for
On Aug. 15, President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (HR 5376) into law. The act includes nearly $40 million in funding for agricultural conservation, energy and forestry projects.TheU.S.
Senate Agriculture Ranking Member John Boozman (R Ark.) voiced opposition to the bill beig passed through reconciliation, which is exempt from Senate filibuster rules requiring 60 votes for passage. Boozman said this sets a bad precedent for approving funding for farm bill programs without any hearings.
“If they go down this road, we very well might be looking at reconciliation as the only way future farm bills get written. Whoever holds the pen wields the fate for vital programs that farmers, ranchers and foresters depend on,” Boozman said in an Aug. 5 prepared statement, noting that the same condition would apply for farm bill nutrition programs.
GFB Field Notes 11 of 17 Continued from previous page implementation and expansion of conservation practices, providing incentives for practices like optimizing fertilizer use and planning cover crops, and expanding public private partnerships and supporting locally led conservation. The bill includes $14 billion for rural families and rural clean energy related jobs. Another $5 billion is designated for protecting communities from wildfires.
Analysis from Farm Progress notes that “the bill does remove for the new reconciliation funds the set aside requirement established in the farm bill that at least 50% of the funds made available be targeted at practices relating to livestock production, including grazing management practices. Livestock will still be eligible, but not subject to the 50% requirement.”
CROP INSURANCE FOR ONIONS
Aug. 31 deadline to apply/renew Georgia onion growers have until Aug. 31 to apply for crop insurance or make changes to their existing coverage. Coverage is also available for onions in Appling, Bulloch, Candler, Emanuel, Evans, Jeff Davis, Laurens, Long, Montgomery, Screven, Tattnall, Toombs, Treutlen, and Wayne counties. counties. 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 at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at www.rma.usda.gov.
Aug. 24 UGA Southwest Research & Education Center Plains UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental scientists will discuss work they are doing on cotton and peanut variety selection, pest management, cover crop management, precision ag and more using research funds provided by the Georgia Cotton & Peanut Commissions. Pesticide credits will be offered. Contact your county UGA Extension office for more details.
GFB Field Notes 12 of 17
Aug. 30 Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Perry
JOINT CHAIRMEN AG ISSUES SUMMIT
NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE NOW ACCESSIBLE AT 988
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline got a new name & number on July 16. 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 CAES PLAINS ROW CROP FIELD DAY
The summit will feature updates on agriculture related legislative issues from Georgia Sen. Larry Walker (R Perry) and Georgia Rep. Robert Dickey (R Musella), chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, respectively. Additional speakers will focus remarks on the economic outlook for Georgia’s farmers, water infrastructure funding, and integrated precision agriculture.
Sept. 1 registration deadline
Sept. 1 deadline to submit samples UGA Agricultural & Environmental Sciences Labs researchers are asking for help in a three year study th 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 706 542 9118.
GFB Field Notes 13 of 17
COTTON & PEANUT FIELD DAY Sept. 7 UGA Tifton Campus Tifton UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental scientists will discuss research they are doing on cotton and peanut variety selection, pest management, cover crop management, precision ag & more using research funds provided by the Georgia Cotton & Peanut Commissions. Pesticide credits will be offered. Contact your county UGA Extension office for more details or call 229 386 3696.
GEORGIA CITRUS TREE NUTRITION SURVEY
SUNBELT EXPO ADVOCACY IN ACTION CONTEST
High school and college undergraduate students with an interest in ag policy and advocacy are encouraged to form teams of three participants and enter the Advocacy in Action Contest sponsored by Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) in conjunction with the Sunbelt Ag Expo. Cash prizes in the following amounts will be awarded by Georgia Farm Bureau to the 1st through 3rd place winners in both the high school and college (undergraduate) divisions: 1st $1,000; 2nd $800; 3rd $600. Each participant will receive a contest t shirt available for pickup at Expo. The first place team in each division will be invited to attend Georgia Farm bureau Day at the Capitol on Feb. 14, 2023, in Atlanta. Visit https://gfb.ag/advocacyinaction
for complete contest rules & to register. Registration deadline is Sept. 1. This is a two part competition. After registration closes on Sept. 1, teams will receive an ag issue topic and are expected to prepare a 2 3 minute video addressing the issue to be submitted by Sept. 20. Each team member must participate in the video. The top three teams in each age division will be notified by Oct. 3 and given a second topic. All team members of selected teams must be able to attend the Sunbelt Ag Expo on Wednesday, Oct. 19 to participate in the next round of competition. In Round 2 of the contest, each team will be paired with an agricultural lobbyist or policy professional who will prepare the teams to discuss the assigned ag issue with three ag industry leaders they encounter as they travel the Expo grounds. Teams will be judged on how well they showcase their knowledge of the ag issue during five minute “elevator” interviews with the ag leaders. This part of the contest is intended to replicate “working the ropes” at the Georgia Capitol. Winners will be announced at a reception at Expo on the afternoon of Oct. 19. For more information, email: Alex Bradford at atbradford@gfb.org; Clay Talton at cstalton@gfb.org or Becca Turner at becca@sunbeltexpo.com
Sept. 13 15 Multiple locations Tifton The 34th Annual Georgia Peanut Tour will be held Sept. 13 15 in Tifton and the surrounding area. The tour brings the latest information on peanuts while giving a first hand view of industry infrastructure from production and handling to processing and utilization. Tour stops will be made in several peanut producing counties surrounding Tifton. Attendees can expect to see firsthand nearly every aspect of peanut production in the state. This year’s tour includes on farm harvest demonstrations and clinics, as well as research at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus. The Georgia Peanut Commission, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the USDA ARS National Peanut Laboratory coordinate the tour. Registration is $125 prior to Aug. 5. Visit www.georgiapeanuttour.com for more information.
29TH ANNUAL FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO
2022 GEORGIA PEANUT TOUR
25TH ANNUAL INMAN FARM HERITAGE DAYS
Sept. 16-18 Minter’s Farm, 283 Hill’s Bridge Road Fayetteville Mark your calendars for the 25th Annual Inman Farm Heritage Days, which offers fun for the whole family! Admission is free come out and spend the weekend looking at displays of antique tractors, engines, cars and trucks as well as working exhibits like our sawmill, grist mill, liquor still, syrup mill and much more! Visit www.mintersfarm.com for details. Crafters and vendors, call 770 296 8360 or email stephanie@mintersfarm.com for more information.
agtech machinery georgia.
ITALIAN TRADE AGENCY 2022 EAST COAST AGTECH TRADE MISSION
Sept. 9 10 Flat Creek Arena, 1516 Diamond Lane Royston
Sept. 9 Fort Valley State University, 46 Camp John Hope Rd. 11 a.m. Fort Valley
This annual rodeo is sanctioned by the Southern Rodeo Association and hosted by Hart’s Farm. Action begins at 8 p.m. each night. Advance tickets are $12 for ages 13 and $8 for children ages 6 12. Children ages 5 and under get in free. Advance tickets are available at Franklin County Farm Bureau, AG Parts Supply and Owen’s Farm Supply. Tickets at the gate are $15 for adults and $10 for children 6 12. For more information, call 706 498 2771.
The Italian Trade Agency the Italian governmental agency responsible for promoting Agriculture and AgTech business development and trade across the United States, is proud to display 11 industry leading AgTech companies on an official trade mission across the U.S. East Coast, including this stop in Georgia. Participating companies hope to expand their presence in the U.S. market, while building a foundation for strong, lasting, business relationships. Each stop of the trade mission will include a networking luncheon, where attendees will be able to meet with the traveling companies and hear remarks from a panel of industry experts. Any dealer, distributor, farmer or stakeholder in an agriculture is encouraged to attend this first of its kind event. To RSVP, click https://www.itahouston.com/events/italianhere
GFB Field Notes 14 of 17
This annual event will allow participants to see firsthand research being conducted by UGA and Auburn University into diseases that affect peanuts. RSVP to Dr. Albert Culbreath at spotwilt@uga.edu or 229 386 3156.
Join the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture on September 17 for a one of a kind agricultural and culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Georgia’s best chefs will fill the picnic baskets for GFA’s signature eventure, Picnic on the Farm. Guests will receive a blanket and picnic basket with a 3 course, chef created lunch to share with friends or family anywhere on the farm. The 2022 event is celebrating all things about Georgia’s wine and grape sector. Guests will enjoy beer and wine, live music, farm tours, silent auction, lawn games and other kids’ activities, against the beautiful backdrop of North Georgia’s wine country. Picnic on the Farm is perfect for families, couples, colleagues and clients or a fun girls’ trip with good food and friends. Make a weekend of it and explore what North Georgia has to offer. Engelheim Vineyard is one of Gilmer county’s most scenic vineyards, located just off Ga. Hwy. 52 aka Apple Alley. Tickets are $75 for a two person basket and $150 for a four person basket. VIP designated picnic areas are $600 with picnic baskets for up to eight people and wine included. VIP areas offer a scenic, themed picnic set up for your group and exclusive offers for additional activities. Attire for the event is farm chic. Learn more and sign up soon by visiting https://www.gafoundationag.org/picniconthefarm Events such as this help support the mission of the foundation. Any support is appreciated to help make this signature event a success! Sponsorship opportunities from $50 to $10,000 are available. Please inquire by emailing jmfarmer@gafoundationag.org.
GFB Field Notes 15 of 17 PICNIC ON THE FARM EVENTURE Sept. 17 Engelheim Vineyards 12 4 pm Ellijay Sept. 7 deadline to purchase tickets
All proceeds benefit the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture’s core program areas: elementary ag classroom learning, higher ag education, farm based mentorship, professional learning and farmer mental health. The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is on a mission to develop a pipeline for Georgia’s next generation of farmers and agricultural leaders. For more information, visit www.gafoundationag.org.
2022 PEANUT DISEASE TOUR Sept. 20 Tifton Sept. 21 Headland, Alabama Sept. 22 TBA, Florida
NORTHEAST GEORGIA FIELD DAY Sept. 28 UGA Campbell Research Center Watkinsville UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental scientists will discuss work they are doing on cotton variety selection, pest management, cover crop management, precision ag & more using research funds provided by the Georgia Cotton Commission. Pesticide credits will be offered. Contact your county UGA Extension office for more details.
The Environmental Protection Agency has extended the deadline for public comment on “Proposed Revisions to the Atrazine Interim Registration Review Decision” to Oct. 7. Atrazine is an important tool for weed mitigation in several crops, including corn, sorghum and sugarcane. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to tell EPA to use sound science and maintain farmers’ access to atrazine. Proposed mitigations would severely limit how farmers can use this product. Visit the AFBF Action Alert online to send a message with one click.
Oct. 7 deadline to submit comments
GFB Field Notes 16 of 17 GEORGIA FARM BUREAU DAY AT THE BRAVES
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
Sept. 17 & Oct. 8 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. 8 show. All shows begin at 9 a.m. rain or shine. Entry fee per class is $10 and $12 for championship classes. For more information call Susie 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 equestrian related charities. The Kel Mac Saddle Club has donated an estimated $157,050 back to Georgia’s Piedmont region through its 45 years including: the Georgia Equine Rescue League, the Morgan County Sherriff’s Empty Stocking Fund, the Calvin Center’s Horses & Warriors program, a student scholarship and the equestrian facilities of state & county Parks such as A. H. Stephens, Hard Labor Creek, Don Carter, Watson Mill Bridge and Heritage Park.
EPA EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR ATRAZINE COMMENTS
This will be a great time for Georgia Farm Bureau members, volunteers and employees from around the state to network, enjoy our national pastime and support a great cause! Tickets for the Braves Mets game are $28 each and proceeds will benefit the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture. Tickets can be purchased individually or as a group. Exclusive GFA Day at the Braves t shirts are $15. To purchase tickets and t shirts, click here.
Nov. 18 The Classic Center Athens The evening unites leaders from every agriculture sector and corner of the state in a festive salute to the industry. On November 18, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in the Live Auction, Silent Auction and Field of Dreams raffle, and listen to entertainment provided by The Swingin’ Medallions at the event’s new location, The Classic Center in Athens, GA! The cut off date to be listed in the Harvest Celebration program as a ticket purchaser or a table sponsor is Oct. 21. To register, visit https://www.ga agribusiness.org/Events.aspx, call the GAC office at 706 336 6830 or send an email to Maggie Wooten at mwooten@ga agribusiness.org
GEORGIA AGRIBUSINESS COUNCIL HARVEST CELEBRATION
Oct. 2 Truist Park 1:35 p.m. Atlanta Aug. 17 deadline to purchase tickets and t-shirts
GFB Field Notes 17 of 17
UGA PILOT PROGRAM OFFERS FREE TELE-COUNSELING
GFB HAY DIRECTORY
The past few years have been challenging. Sometimes it's hard to recognize the physical effects of stress and how it effects 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. Call 706 510 6930, email gaatelehealth@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 the program 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.
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.