GEORGIANS ASKED TO WATCH FOR YELLOW-LEGGED HORNETS
The yellow-legged hornet, which attacks and destroys honeybees, has flown into Georgia. In early August, a Savannah beekeeper reported an unusual hornet he found on his property to the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA).
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the University of Georgia’s (UGA) identification of this insect as a yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina), the GDA announced Aug. 15. This is the first detection of a live yellow-legged hornet (YLH) on U.S. soil.
GDA is asking the public to report possible sightings of the non-native species. Visit www.gfb.ag/reportyellowleggedhornet for the latest GDA reports or to report a potential sighting.
Georgians with additional questions or concerns are encouraged to email yellow.legged.hornet@agr.georgia.gov
YLHs can be dangerous, and everyone is encouraged to use caution in the event of a sighting. If you see a suspicious hornet, try to take a photo to send to the GDA but keep your distance.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper warns that the YLH could potentially threaten honey production, native pollinators and Georgia crops that depend on pollination, such as blueberries, fruits and vegetables, if it is allowed to establish a population in the state.
“Georgians play an important role in helping identify unwanted, non-native pests. I want to thank the beekeeper who reported his sighting to us, as well as our partners at the University of Georgia and USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service for working swiftly to confirm its identity,” Harper said. “Our experienced team of professionals will continue to assess the situation and are working directly with USDA APHIS and UGA to eradicate the yellow-legged hornet in Georgia.”
The YLH constructs egg-shaped paper nests above ground, often in trees. These nests can become large, housing an average of 6,000 workers.
The YLH is native to tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia and is established in most of Europe, parts of the Middle East, and parts of Asia where it isn’t native.
The GDA Pest Program is collaborating with USDA and academic experts to develop a plan to trap, track, and eradicate the yellow-legged hornet in Georgia. APHIS and GDA will set out traps
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Continued from previous page and survey to determine if additional YLHs are in the area.
If a colony is discovered, it will be eradicated. APHIS is providing technical expertise, technology, and outreach support as well as analyzing the hornet’s DNA to determine if it is related to European populations of this species.
“The hornet is a voracious predator of honeybees. Even if it fails to kill a colony, its threatening behavior at hive entrances can intimidate bees from foraging and cause the colony to decline,” UGA Entomologist Keith Delaplane said. “Its nickname is the ‘bee hawk’ for good reason. They're very agile they can swoop down and capture honeybees in the air and from the front of their hives, and in this manner, a few individuals can depopulate an apiary over a matter of days. This is an aggressive problem. This will be something that beekeepers will have to learn to deal with, whether through trapping or through methods of excluding them from their hives.”
Beekeeper-oriented information on the yellow-legged hornet is available on the UGA Bee Program website.
There are many hornet species native to the U.S. that look similar to the YLH that do not pose a threat to honeybees. Many of these are valuable pollinators. To see photos of other pollinator species that may be mistaken for yellow-legged hornets and for more info visit www.gfb.ag/yellowleggedhornetinfo
The YLH is a relative of the Northern giant hornet, sometimes referred to as the “murder hornet” for its ability to quickly kill honeybees. This invasive species was last reported in Washington State in 2021.
PESTICIDE SUITS, FOREIGN AG LAND OWNERSHIP KEY ISSUES FOR FARMERS
Thousands of court cases with potential for eight-figure penalties make it vital that the agricultural sector keep abreast of legal developments. The National Agricultural Law Center (NALC), funded through federal appropriations via the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service, performs that function and works with a wide variety of farm stakeholder groups, including Farm Bureau, to help them develop policy stances.
NALC Director Harrison Pittman provided an update on pesticide litigation and a survey of state laws addressing the ownership of American agricultural land by foreign entities during the Georgia Farm Bureau Commodity Conference in Athens on Aug. 10.
Pittman gave an overview of the federal regulatory process and the EPA’s pesticide registration process under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). He said the EPA in the past approved many products as a matter of routine, but in the last two decades it has become increasingly difficult to get pesticides approved, in part because of increasing attention being paid to how FIFRA relates to requirements under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
“I rank this at the top of issues confronting production agriculture. Products like Roundup, Dicamba, and other things that are commonly used in farming operations are critically important to maintaining, the level of productivity that everybody's depended upon,” Pittman said.
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Continued from previous page warnings. Courts are currently being tasked with determining whether FIFRA preempts state law in those cases. If it does, most cases essentially go away, Pittman said. If FIFRA does not preempt state failure to warn laws, then many cases can proceed.
“This preemption question is a really huge deal, and really it’s one of the most critical issues to watch because it is going to be a huge factor in the availability of [pesticide ] products going forward depending on how this all plays out,” Pittman said.
Monsanto has already paid out nearly $11 billion in damages too approximately 100,000 plaintiffs, and an additional 30,000 plaintiffs’ cases are currently being considered.
Pittman also discussed the evolution of state laws banning foreign ownership of agricultural land.
“Georgia's had an experience with this. There were a couple of proposals,” Pittman said. “They did not make it out of the legislature. I know that it’s likely to come back up.”
Currently, no state has a ban on foreign ownership. There are 24 states that have laws that restrict foreign ownership of agricultural land. Five states have no restrictions, and 21 states, including Georgia, have laws that allow foreign ownership.
In 2023, 12 states (Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia, Ohio, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho and Utah) enacted foreign ownership laws.
On Dec. 31, 2021, the latest date for which official data was available, there were 40,031,308 acres of U.S. private agricultural land owned by foreign entities, which was 2.4 million fewer acres than on Dec. 31, 2020. In 2021, China owned 383,935 of U.S. agricultural land.
In Georgia, 3.9% of agricultural land is under foreign ownership. The two largest portions of that are 271,189 acres owned by German interests and 217,684 by Canadians. Rounding out the top five nationalities of foreign owners of Georgia ag land are the United Kingdom (43,035 adcres), the Netherlands (28,556 acres) and Italy (7,816 acres). Entities from all other countries combine to own 647,008 acres of Georgia ag land.
In another legal development, the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) act was introduced in the U.S. Senate on June 15 and the U.S. House of Representatives on June 30. The bill would prohibit state and local jurisdictions from interfering with production of commodities in other states.
The bill was introduced by Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) in the House and Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) in response to the Supreme Court decision upholding California’s Proposition 12. the California law requires animal products sold in the state to come from animals raised under conditions that conform with California’s standards for humane animal treatment.
MAP-21 PROVIDES CDL FARM EXEMPTIONS
There are exemptions for farmers to some federal and state road regulations that many aren’t aware of, Captain Kristopher Bowen with the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) says.
In compliance with the federal Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) signed into law in 2012, farmers can drive farm vehicles without a commercial driver’s license (CDL) under several scenarios, Bowen said while speaking at the 2023 Georgia Farm Bureau Commodity Conference on Aug. 10.
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Continued from previous page a CDL while operating a farm vehicle over 26,000 lbs. within 150 miles of the farm. Now, farmers may drive covered farm vehicles (CFV) between 26,001-80,000 lbs. anywhere in Georgia and across state lines into a neighboring state if the vehicle is within 150 air miles of the farm.
Under MAP-21, a covered farm vehicle is a vehicle that:
1. Is operated by a farm owner, a farm employee, or family member of the farmer;
2. Is transporting agricultural commodities, livestock, machinery or supplies to and from a farm or ranch;
3. Is NOT operated for-hire (hauling for others for compensation);
4. Is NOT transporting hazardous materials in quantities requiring the display of hazardous material warning placards.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an air mile is equivalent to 6,076 feet making 100 air miles equivalent to 115.08 statute miles. Bowen said one can use Google Maps or other computer programs to determine how far 150 air miles is from his or her farm.
Bowen said there are two ways to obtain a covered farm vehicle status for qualifying vehicles:
1) When you buy the tag for your farm vehicle, purchase a Georgia specialized farm tag; or 2) Visit the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s Motor Carrier Compliance Division website and complete the Covered Farm Vehicle Designation Form (DPS TR0025) for your farm vehicle. This form must be completed online and may be accessed at http://gamccd.net/FarmVehicle/FarmVehicle.aspx You must have the vehicle identification number (VIN) to complete the DPS TR0025 form. There is no cost to complete the form. The completed form must be printed and kept in the cab of the covered farm vehicle at all times to be available to show law enforcement if requested.
Although someone driving a certified covered farm vehicle is exempt from needing a CDL, Bowen said the driver must still have either a Class E or Class F Noncommercial License to prove they are capable of safely driving the equipment.
A Class E license is required for a combination vehicle with a combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, provided the GVWR of the towed unit is more than 10,000 lbs.
A Class F license is required for a single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs or more. The vehicle may tow a trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 lbs. or less.
Bowen said someone driving a farm vehicle within 150 air miles of the farm or ag operation to which it belongs doesn’t have to: 1) meet the minimum age requirement of 21 years a CDL requires (but must be at least 16); 2) doesn’t have to be proficient in English; and 3) doesn’t have to have a medical certificate stating that they are physically qualified to drive.
If the driver is operating a combination farm vehicle (cab with an attached hopper or trailer), Bowen said the driver must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid medical certificate stating they are physically able to drive the farm vehicle. If an 18-year-old is driving a registered covered farm vehicle they aren’t required to have the medical certificate.
Bowen said any transportation of agricultural commodities including for-hire transportation is exempt from hours-of-service regulations, as long as the commodities are being transported within 150 air miles from the source of the materials. Any carriers that meet the definition of a covered -continued on next page
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farm vehicle are exempt from hours of service completely, Bowen said.
Farm and agricultural transportation will always be subject to rules of the road, speed limits and traffic laws, Bowen said. Farm drivers must also maintain a safe vehicle, with properly operating lights, brakes, tires and load securement.
For more information about MAP-21 exemptions and requirements visit https://gfb.ag/map21
HARPER: FARMERS TAKING ON CHALLENGES, WHAT’S NEW AT GDA
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper says that American agriculture is under attack both on the policy front and in international criminal enterprises.
Speaking at the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Commodity Conference on Aug. 10 in Athens, Harper praised GFB while noting changes and challenges at the Georgia Department of Agriculture and a new exhibit at the fair.
“What’s happening to some of our fellow farmers and ranchers across the world, they're being told that they can't have so many cattle on so many acres of land, they're told that they can't do other things when it comes to agricultural production, those are the same things that are starting to make their way here,” Harper said, noting the imposition of limits on pesticides, medications and water, to name a few. “The fight we have in this industry right now, that’s a lot of what it's over.”
Harper discussed the restoration of the GDA Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Division. The division, under the direction of Harlan Proveaux, has already begun tackling drug trafficking tactics where illegal drugs are hidden within imported shipments of agricultural commodities.
“When you're using produce as cover loads for illegal items, and you sell that produce at the farmer's market below cost, it undercuts your ability as a producer to compete,” Harper said. “I can promise you, the folks that are delivering that produce, they don’t care what price they get at the market because it’s not about the produce for them.”
Meanwhile, the GDA is working to get fully staffed. Harper said at the time of the GFB Commodity Conference, the department had approximately 60 job openings, some of which have been open for more than a year.
“If you know anybody that would like to come work for the Department of Agriculture, we're hiring,” he said. “The last thing that I want to do as commissioner is tell a business that I can't issue you a license because I don't have an inspector to send you. And believe it or not, I've had that. We've had to have that conversation in the last six months with businesses across the state, with individuals that want to expand their operation. And they may need an inspector instead of once a week, they may need somebody two or three times a week. Right now, where we are, unfortunately, there's some of that that I just can't do.”
With the Georgia National Fair just weeks away, Harper said a new exhibit in the Georgia Grown Building will show a Georgia commodity from its beginning, through its development and harvest, all the way to delivery to consumers. This year, the featured commodity will be cotton.
He also pointed out the GDA is partnering with the Atlanta Braves on a sponsorship deal to take agriculture’s story to audiences who might not otherwise hear it.
GA DNR OFFERS OPTIONS TO FIGHT DEER & FERAL HOG CROP DAMAGE
While speaking at the 2023 Georgia Farm Bureau Commodity Conference on Aug. 10, Charlie Killmaster, a deer and feral hog biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), outlined steps the agency is taking to help farmers control deer and feral hog populations to prevent crop damage.
Killmaster says feral hogs may be hunted year-round, day or night with no bag limits on privately owned land.
“It’s open season on feral hogs,” Killmaster said. “No one wants hogs.”
The DNR also offers permits that allow hunters to shoot feral hogs from a vehicle on private roads. Killmaster said these permits may be obtained by calling a regional DNR office.
To prevent hunters from creating feral hog herds, the Georgia General Assembly passed legislation several years ago that requires one to get a very restrictive permit from the Georgia Department of Agriculture to transport live hogs, Killmaster said.
“We’ve cracked down really hard on the transport of hogs. You’ll get a huge fine and it’s a misdemeanor if you’re caught doing it without the required permit,” Killmaster said. “Your Farm Bureau President Tom McCall was instrumental in getting this legislation passed when he was serving as a state legislator.”
Killmaster said the USDA is increasing its aerial gunning efforts to kill feral hogs.
“We’re working with USDA trying to move the needle on controlling populations, Killmaster said. “We currently share a helicopter with other states, but we’re working to get one just for Georgia.”
Killmaster encouraged farmers and landowners to research the control programs and eradication services the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts offers in cooperation with the Georgia Soil & Water Conservation Commission. Visit www.gacd.us/feralswine to learn more about these programs.
For a list of feral hog control services available in each GACD Conservation District, visit https://gfb.ag/feralhoggacdresources
Killmaster also discussed changes DNR has made to Georgia deer hunting regulations for the 2023-24 season to control Georgia’s deer population. These include expanding the number of doe days in north and southeast Georgia and extending deer season in southwest Georgia.
“We recognize significant monetary damage is occurring when deer eat crops as they emerge and farmers have to replant” Killmaster said.
To help farmers fight deer crop damage that occurs in the early spring as row crops emerge and during the growing season, the DNR allows farmers to apply for a deer crop damage permit. In the months outside of deer season, this permit allows the applicant and up to six other people to shoot deer caught in growing crop fields the applicant has registered.
Killmaster estimates the DNR issues 800 to 1,000 deer control permits statewide in a year. Most of the permits are issued in South Georgia in an area ranging below the fall line from the South Carolina line to the Alabama line. Permits have also been issued for Northeast, Northwest, and West Central Georgia.
Visit www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com to apply for a deer crop damage permit from late February through the summer. On the DNR website, first select the Licenses & Permits icon which will take -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page you to a box titled Online Licensing Features. Select Purchase/Reprint a License/Obtain Permits. If you have an exisiting Go Outdoors Georgia account you will log into it to access the crop damage control permit application. If you don't have an account, select the Enroll Now! icon to create an account. While the application to receive a deer damage hunting permit must be completed online, applicants may call 1-800-366-2661 to request help with navigating the online application.
Visit www.gfb.ag/deercropdamagepermits to learn more about deer crop damage and the permits.
TERRY ENGLAND RECEIVES 2023 GFB COMMODITY AWARD
Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) presented Terry England with its 2023 GFB Commodity Award during the annual GFB Commodity Conference held Aug. 10 at the Classic Center in Athens. England is a former Georgia representative who chaired the House Appropriations Committee for 12 years.
The GFB Commodity Award, one of the organization’s highest honors, is given to individuals who have supported and promoted Georgia agriculture. The GFB Board of Directors selects the award recipient from nominees submitted by the organization’s commodity advisory committees.
During his 18 years in the Georgia General Assembly, England secured funds for UGA Extension and research positions, assisted with the state agricultural water metering program, enhanced Georgia’s agricultural education programs, secured funding for cabins and other buildings at Georgia 4-H and FFA camps, and secured relief for farmers and rural communities devastated by Hurricane Michael in 2018.
“Terry was instrumental in bringing our state’s bank account from basically nothing to having billions in reserve. He worked for the benefit and protection of Georgia agriculture and our farmers throughout his time as a state legislator,” GFB President Tom McCall said. “I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to work with Terry while I was previously serving in the General Assembly. Farm Bureau is thankful for all he has done for Georgia.”
England, from Barrow County, was first elected to represent the 108th District in 2004 and took office in January 2005. He represented the 108th district until 2012 when redistricting put him in the 116th District, which he represented through 2022, when he opted to not seek reelection.
In addition to chairing the House Appropriations Committee from 2010-2022, England served on the following House committees during his time in office: Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Education, Natural Resources & Environment, Industry & Labor, and as an ex officio member of the Ways & Means Committee. He was co-chair of the Agricultural Education Advisory Commission as well as co-chair of the House Rural Development Council.
On Aug. 1, England began working as chief of staff for Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns.
Growing up, England was an active FFA member. In 1989 he joined the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) program in Barrow County. He won the GFB YF&R Discussion Meet in 1991. Terry and his wife, Cindy, served on the GFB YF&R Committee in 1992 and 1993, when he chaired the committee. The couple served on the American Farm Bureau YF&R Committee in 1994 and 1995. Terry served as a director and county president of the Barrow County Farm Bureau.
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He is a past member of the GFB Vegetable Commodity Committee.
The Englands have been married for 35 years and are active members of Auburn First Baptist Church, where Terry is a deacon and Cindy works in the nursery.
MEASURE IN APPROPS BILL WOULD THREATEN CHECKOFF PROGRAMS
An amendment to H.R. 4368 (The Agriculture, Rural Develoopment, Food and Drug Administration and Related Appropriations Act of 2024) would prevent checkoff programs from being administered by the USDA.
Georgia Farm Bureau is encouraging its members to voice opposition to the amendment, which was introduced by Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Indiana).
These programs are vital to the success and longevity of agriculture in the United States. GFB is asking for help to ensure that Georgia’s congressional delegation is aware of the importance of checkoffs to the future of agriculture in Georgia.
GFB maintains that this amendment is simply an attempt to disrupt agricultural prosperity. Checkoff programs are managed by producers elected by their peers, functioning under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and are funded solely by the producers of a commodity not taxpayer dollars. The money willingly paid straight from the pockets of producers is used for marketing of commodities, educating consumers on their benefits, and funding of research to advance production practices. Checkoff-funded programs ensure consumers continue supporting American farmers while also supplying the country with the highest quality products and preserving farmers' way of life for future generations.
Individuals can contact their representatives in Congress through the GFB Public Policy Action Center at https://www.gfb.org/advocacy/action-center.cms#/.
GACD NAMES 2023 AWARD WINNERS
The Georgia Association of Conservation Districts held is annual Hall of Fame Banquet on Aug. 8 during its annual meeting to honor and award those individuals who have gone above and beyond to further conservation efforts. The awards are Superior Professional Support, District of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, Urban Conservationist of the Year and Conservationist of the Year.
Conservationist of the Year
GACD recognizes farmers and landowners that are conducting exemplary conservation work on their land and have demonstrated a strong commitment to soil and water conservation through their land stewardship, outreach, community interactions, and/or education. The recipient of GACD’s 2023 Conservationist of the Year award is Brian Ponder.
Ponder is a fourth-generation farmer from Tift County where he farms 3000 acres of peanuts, cotton, corn, watermelons, pecans, and pine timber.
Soil health, conserving water, and reducing diesel emissions are a few of the factors that go into the management of his farm. All of the peanuts and cotton on the farm are strip-tilled into cover crops which reduces soil disturbance and erosion. He utilizes terraces and waterways to reduce erosion. To conserve water, all of the irrigation systems have drop nozzle technology, regulators, are low pressure, and almost all have been converted from diesel pumping systems to electricity.
Brian also received the National Association of Conservation Districts’ Friend of Conservation
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Continued from previous page award and serves as a local district supervisor for the Middle South Georgia Conservation District and on the GACD Board. He was nominated for this award by the Middle South Georgia Conservation District.
Urban Conservationist of the Year
GACD has a new award this year to recognize urban conservationists for their exemplary work and strong commitment to soil and water conservation through their land stewardship, outreach, community interactions, and education in urban areas of Georgia. The recipient is Dr. Jacqueline Echols.
Dr. Echols has been at the forefront of environmental change in the Atlanta area, serving as the president of the South River Alliance Watershed where she leads efforts to restore the health and integrity of the South River. She also leads advocacy and community engagement efforts to raise awareness of water pollution issues affecting Atlanta and Dekalb County and was successful in having the DeKalb County sewer overflows to be corrected by the county.
Echols’ more than two decades of work to improve water quality in Atlanta’s waterways and protect the city’s tree canopy earned her the 2017 Environmental Hero Award, the 2016 Community Hero Vanguard Award by Dekalb County, and the 2014 Park Pride Award by the City of Atlanta. She was nominated for this award by the Dekalb County Conservation District.
District of the Year
The District of the Year award was established by GACD and the Tennessee Valley Authority in 2001 to recognize the conservation district in Georgia which best plans, implements, and reports a conservation program in a given year. GACD recognized the Coastal Georgia Soil & Water Conservation District as the 2023 District of the Year.
The Coastal Conservation District has been a consistent leader in its community by providing conservation-based educational opportunities for local producers and students. The district has led and hosted multiple workshops including Level 1A renewal course, estate planning, conservation practices field day at Fort Stewart, and a feral swine control workshop. The district also participates in GACD’s feral swine trapping program and offers trapping services to landowners throughout the district. The district supports local youth conservation education by mentoring FFA students and providing them with opportunities to learn more about forestry, supporting 4H pollinator habitat efforts, and participating in GACD’s Poster and Photo Contest.
Supervisor of the Year
GACD presents a Supervisor of the Year award annually at its annual meeting. The award recognizes exemplary achievements, leadership, and service to GACD, NACD, and local communities. Sonny Turner, district supervisor representing Walton County Conservation District, is the 2023 Supervisor of the Year.
Turner has been a district supervisor since 2010. His efforts toward conservation in Walton County begin with the youth. He is known for mentoring high school students and giving them resources to succeed in the agriculture and conservation fields. He spearheads scholarship opportunities and is a fierce supporter of sending students to the Natural Resources Conservation Workshop every year.
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Continued from previous page gives tours on his family farm in Greene County to highlight the use of conservation practices such as erosion control, invasive species management and pond management. He serves on many state and local leadership positions including alternate vice president for GACD Group 2. Sonny is completely dedicated to the success of the conservation district and conservation efforts in Walton County. Turner was nominated for this award by the Walton County Conservation District.
Superior Professional Support
Each year, GACD presents an award to an individual recognized as providing superior support to soil and water conservation districts in Georgia. This year the GACD Superior Professional Support recipient is Tixie Fowler with the Gwinnett County Conservation District.
Fowler has written and received funding for two large grants for the district; one called the ‘Urban Conservation Toolbox Grant’ for $166,000 and the other ‘The Bridge Grant’ for $195,500. Fowler involved the district with a partnership with Mercer University that led to the creation of an AgSTEM project.
One of her biggest accomplishments has been the leadership she has shown with developing district sponsorship and involvement in the very successful Crayfish Creek Restoration Project. Fowler has created educational videos for students and has hosted numerous educational workshops for youth, adults, and educators. Her dedication to the district and her community is to be commended. Fowler was nominated for this award by the Gwinnett County Conservation District.
RABON APPOINTED NEW COMMISSIONER FOR GEORGIA DNR
On Aug. 22, Gov. Brian Kemp announced that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Board voted to appoint Walter Rabon as the DNR Commissioner, effective immediately. Rabon has served as interim commissioner for the department since July 1, following the departure of former Commissioner Mark Williams.
“Throughout his many years of service to the State of Georgia and our Department of Natural Resources, Walter Rabon has dedicated himself to the mission of protecting hardworking Georgians and their ability to enjoy our outdoor spaces,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “I look forward to DNR's continued success ensuring our state is a good steward of its natural resources as he continues to lead the department.”
Rabon began his career with DNR in 1993 as a conservation ranger, now referred to as game wardens, and worked his way up through the Law Enforcement Division, serving as a major before becoming deputy commissioner. Rabon earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Brenau University and a master’s degree from Columbus State University. He and his wife have three sons and five grandchildren, and they reside in Mansfield.
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HOUSE RURAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL MEETINGS
Aug. 29 Georgia Farm Bureau Macon
Oct. 25 Georgia Southern University Statesboro
Nov. 16 University of Georgia Athens
August 29 meeting will run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Speakers from Georgia Farm Bureau, Center for Georgia's Rural Prosperity & Innovation, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Environmental Protection Division, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Georgia Department of Audits, Georgia Department of Labor and Fort Valley State University College of Agriculture, Family Sciences & Technology will give updates on their respective organizations or agencies. The full agenda for the Aug. 29 meeting is available here. Specific meeting times, agendas and location information for other two meetings 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.
3RD ANNUAL SUNBELT EXPO/GFB ADVOCACY IN ACTION CONTEST
Sept. 8 registration deadline
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 will be awarded by GFB to the 1st through 3rd place winners in both the high school and college (undergraduate) divisions. 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. 13, 2024, in Atlanta. Visit https://gfb.ag/23advocacyinaction for complete contest rules & to register. Registration deadline is Sept. 8. This is a two-part competition. After registration closes on Sept. 8, teams will receive an ag issue topic and are expected to prepare a 23 minute video addressing the issue to be submitted by Sept. 18. Each team member must participate in the video. The top three teams in each age division will be notified by Oct. 2 and given a second topic. All team members of selected teams must be able to attend the Sunbelt Ag Expo on Wednesday, Oct. 18 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 state capitol. Winners will be announced at a reception at Expo on the afternoon of Oct. 18. The contest is open to students from any of the Southeastern states that participate in Sunbelt Expo (Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia). For more information, email Keaton Walker at kgwalker@gfb.org or Becca Turner at becca@sunbeltexpo.com.
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30TH ANNUAL FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO
Sept. 8&9 Flat Creek Arena, 1516 Diamond Lane Royston
This annual rodeo is sanctioned by the Southern Rodeo Association & the National Cowboy Pro Rodeo Association. Hart’s Farm hosts the event. Action begins at 8 p.m. each night. Advance tickets are $18 for ages 13 & older 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, Bar-H BBQ, and Owen’s Farm Supply. Tickets at the gate are $20 for adults and $10 for children 6-12. For more information, call 706-498-2771. Anyone who would like to compete in the rodeo may call 337-427-6336 on Sept. 5 between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Standard Time or complete an online entry the same day and time period at www.rodeosportsnetwork.com.
GFB WOMEN IN AG SUMMIT
Sept. 1 deadline for early registration fee of $75
Oct. 1 final registration deadline
Nov. 2-3 Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa Savannah
Registration is now open for the GFB Women in Ag Summit! This conference is open to any woman with an interest in agriculture – female farmers, agriculture industry professionals, Farm Bureau volunteers, etc. This event will be a time of fun, fellowship, and personal and professional development. To register, visit https://gfb.ag/WomeninAgSummit. Early registration by Sept. 1 is $75 per attendee. Final registration by Oct. 1 is $100 per attendee. Attendees are responsible for their own hotel reservations. A block of rooms has been secured at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa (912-201-2000). Information is also located under the “Lodging and Hotel” tab at the top of the registration page. Note: Farm Bureau employees should only attend if accompanying a volunteer or group of volunteers. For more information about the conference, please contact your county Farm Bureau office, or Breanna Berry at bcberry@gfb.org.
AFBF COUNTY ACTIVITIES OF EXCELLENCE
Sept. 1
deadline to submit applications
The American Farm Bureau Federation is currently accepting applications for its County Activities of Excellence program. Up to 24 innovative county Farm Bureau activities from across the nation will be selected to display at the 2024 AFBF Convention and Trade Show. Multiple county Farm Bureaus working together to plan and carry out an activity may submit a joint CAE application. Sept. 1 at 5 p.m. Eastern is the deadline for counties to submit applications online for state CAE coordinator review; coordinators will forward approved applications to AFBF. Additional information, including rules for submission and the application link, are available at www.fb.org/CAE. Each county Farm Bureau that wishes to apply must create a unique login. State CAE coordinators will be provided with a separate username and password to access the online system to approve applications submitted from their respective county Farm Bureaus. Winners will be announced the first week of October. Individual county and multicounty CAE winning entries will receive four complimentary registrations and a $2,250 cash award to be used toward travel and display costs to attend the 2024 AFBF Convention and Trade Show, Jan. 20-22, in Salt Lake City. For more information, contact Clay Talton at cstalton@gfb.org or 478-4748411, ext. 5128.
GFB Field Notes page 13 of 16
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, contact Daniel Jackson at djackso@uga.edu or 706-542-9118.
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.
GFB Field Notes page 14 of 16
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://www.warnelloutreach.org/conted/#gsc.tab=0. 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.
35TH ANNUAL GEORGIA PEANUT TOUR
Sept. 12-14
Registration deadline is Sept. 7
Bainbridge
The thirty-fifth annual Georgia Peanut Tour will be held September 12-14, 2023, in Bainbridge, Georgia, 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 in Southwest Georgia. Attendees can expect to see first-hand nearly every aspect of peanut production in the state. This year’s tour hosts many exciting stops including on-farm harvest demonstrations and clinics, as well as, research at the University of Georgia Attapulgus Research and Education Center. The Georgia Peanut Commission, University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the USDA-ARS National Peanut Laboratory coordinate the tour. Lodging for the tour will be housed at the Hampton Inn in Bainbridge. Please call 229-246-1341 and ask for the Georgia Peanut Tour room block when reserving rooms. A standard room is $125 plus taxes and breakfast is included. Tour registration ends Sept. 7 and is $150 Visit www.georgiapeanuttour.com for more info.
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.
GFB Field Notes page 15 of 16
BEEKEEPING SHORT COURSE
Oct. 28 Henry Co. Farm Bureau Office
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. McDonough
The Henry County Beekeepers are hosting this workshop scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The course will cover: Introduction to Beekeeping; Hive Assembly; NUC’s, Packages & Swarms; Hive Manipulation; Extracting Honey; and beekeeping issues. Early registration by Oct. 27 is $25 or $30 at the door day of the event. The registration fee includes a one-year membership to the Henry County Beekeepers. The Henry County Farm Bureau is located at 117 Racetrack Road, McDonough, Ga. 30253. To register or receive more information please contact Tom Bonnell by calling 678-983-7698 or e-mail Tom at tombonnell@bellsouth.net.
2023 GFB HAY CONTEST ACCEPTING ENTRIES
Oct. 31 deadline to enter
Georgia Farm Bureau is calling all members who grow any variety of Bermudagrass hay to enter its annual hay contest. The contest winner will receive the free use of a Vermeer Mid-sized Trailed Mower for one year, courtesy of Vermeer Manufacturing. The winner will have the option to buy the mower at a reduced price at the end of one year. Additional prizes will be awarded to the top five producers. Hay entered in the 2023 GFB Quality Bermudagrass 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. Entry forms outlining complete contest rules may be picked up at your county Farm Bureau office or downloaded at 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.
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 Field Notes page 16 of 16
GFB HAY DIRECTORY
GFB is accepting listings for its online hay directory. Farm Bureau members with hay for sale or who offer custom harvesting or custom sprigging services are invited to list their hay and/or services in the GFB Quality Hay Directory published on the GFB website. Hay for sale or services can be listed or removed from the directory throughout the year. To be included in GFB’s online hay directory, complete a submission form by visiting your county Farm Bureau office or online at www.gfb.ag/hay. Please include a $10 check made payable to Georgia Farm Bureau for each listing of hay, custom harvesting or custom sprigging. Multiple listings are allowed. Listings can be updated in the directory throughout the year as hay inventories change. Hay producers who entered the 2021 GFB Quality Hay Contest receive a free listing in the online GFB Hay Directory.
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER NO-TILL EQUIPMENT FOR RENT
Ongoing
Local Conservation Districts and their partners help farmers try a number of conservation practices by purchasing equipment and making it available to rent. Some districts offer no-till drills, PVC pond pipe systems and repair parts, as well as geotextile fabric for agricultural and road use. To see what equipment is available in your conservation district, click here
988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE OFFERS SUPPORT
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 or chatting on 988lifeline.org. 988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. You don’t have to be suicidal to reach out. 988 trained crisis counselors can help you through whatever mental health challenges you are experiencing. 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.