According to published reports, more than 100 birds were humanely euthanized at Noah’s Ark, including peacocks, pea hens, emus, ostrich, Guinea fowl, chickens, turkeys and geese, one owl, one crow and one sandhill crane. State Veterinarian Janemarie Hennebelle said the remaining avian species housed at Noah’s Ark will be quarantined for a minimum of five months.
If you suspect your birds have avian influenza, call the AI Hotline at 770 766 6850. Testing is free through the Georgia poultry lab website. For more information about avian influenza, visit the GDA avian influenza webpage for biosecurity resources.
(www.gapoultrylab.org/avian influenza hotline/) August 31, 2022 www.gfb.org Vol. 4 No. 18
According to Hennebelle, Noah’s Ark reported increased mortality of wild vultures on Aug. 13. The concern was reported to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which has jurisdiction over wild birds. On Aug. 18, GDA received notification of domestic ducks exhibiting symptoms consistent with HPAI, and the department began collecting samples on Aug. 19 for testing. HPAI was detected through in state tests, and on Aug. 22 the National Veterinary Services Lab confirmed the results. The AJC reported that, in addition to the euthanized birds, approximately 700 wild vultures reportedly died or were euthanized following confirmation of the virus.
“Over these coming months, our staff will monitor the health of remaining animals onsite so the facility can ultimately be released from quarantine and safely resume operations,” Hennebelle said in a video posted to YouTube by the GDA. “In the meantime, for all of you that have birds, we encourage our flock owners to maintain vigilance and ensure that you have robust measures in place to protect your birds from AI.”
Avian influenza does not pose a risk to the food supply, and no affected animals entered the food chain. The risk of human infection with avian influenza is very low.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) & the USDA Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a non commercial flock located at the Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary in Henry County. This is the second confirmation of HPAI in Georgia in a noncommercial flock this year. HPAI was confirmed in a menagerie flock in Toombs County in early June.
AVIAN INFLUENZA CONFIRMED IN NON-COMMERCIAL BIRDS IN HENRY CO.
The flock owners reported an increased rate of wild black vulture mortality as well as sick domestic birds. Samples taken on Aug. 19 were tested for the presence of H5N1 avian influenza virus in the flock by the University of Georgia, Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (AVDL) and USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL).
GFB Field Notes 2 of 14
GDA ANNOUNCES SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT RECIPIENTS
More than 60% of the U.S. West, Southwest and Central Plains are experiencing ongoing severe drought, and agricultural producers in those areas are facing difficult choices as a result.
Texas is also the second ranked peanut producing state, behind Georgia. The Texas Peanut Producers Board reported that drought conditions have led to 40% losses in yield and abandoned -continued on next page
The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) announced the recipients of the 2022 USDA/AMS Specialty Crop Block Grant. The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funds projects that “enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.” Specialty crops are defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, horticulture, turfgrass/sod, nursery, and greenhouse crops
WESTERN FARMERS SUFFERING UNDER DROUGHT CONDITIONS
The National Agricultural Statistics Service August Crop Production report forecast Texas cotton production at 2.9 million bales, down 62% from 2021, when Texas growers produced 7.7 million bales. In terms of percentage, Oklahoma cotton growers are expected to sustain a similar drop, from 693,000 bales in 2021 to 270,000 bales in 2022, a decline of 61%.
According to results from a American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) survey of western farmers and ranchers, those in areas facing persistent, severe drought produce more than 80% of fruits, nuts and vegetables, more than 80% of wheat, more than 50% of dairy, and more than 70% of beef in the U.S. The impact of the drought could place added strains on the supply chain and overall economy as American jobs and food security depend on this region.
Across the surveyed region, respondents expected average crop yields to be down 38% this year because of drought conditions.
In Texas, some cotton growing areas have received virtually no precipitation in more than a year, and some farmers had to abandon irrigated cotton acres, according to Texas Farm Bureau.
Two thirds of the farmers and ranchers responding to the survey reported prevalence of selling off portions of their herds or flocks, with average herd sizes expected to be down 36% in the surveyed region.
Texas is the nation’s largest cotton producing state, and the 2022 crop is taking a big hit.
Georgia’s share of Specialty Crop Block Grant funding is approximately $1.43 million for 2022. These funds will be dispersed to projects that research or promote specialty crops in Georgia. This year, 14 projects were awarded to various organizations including the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA), the Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA), the Georgia Pecan Growers Association (GPGA), the Kennesaw State University Research and Service Foundation (KSURSF), and the University of Georgia Research Foundation (UGARF). These projects will enhance the marketing, education, and research impacts of a wide variety of specialty crops grown in Georgia. Click here to see details on the grant awards. Information about Georgia’s recipients begins on page 61. Please refer to the links available on the GDA grants webpage located at www.agr.georgia.gov/grants.aspx for more information on this grant. A specific list of all eligible specialty crops on the Agricultural Marketing Service website. The next request for applications (RFA) will be posted on GDA’s website on February 1, 2023. For additional questions please contact GDA’s SCBGP Coordinator at GrantsDivision@agr.georgia.gov.
GFB Field Notes 3 of 14
Bureaus planted pollinator gardens at their county offices (11), schools (5), various locations in their communities (5) such as a senior center, park, YMCA, community garden and local business; local library (2); and in private gardens of county staff or directors. Eleven of the county Farm Bureaus conducted Ag in the Classroom activities for students using their gardens, and all but two of the participating counties plan to maintain their gardens.
More than 50 Georgia libraries have planted pollinator gardens and are using these gardens as learning experiences as well as providing habitat for pollinators. Photos of many of the gardens are posted online at www.rosalynncarterbutterflytrail.org along with the list of every garden registered with the trail.
FARM BUREAUS PLANT GARDENS IN HONOR OF ROSALYNN CARTER
The Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail is a program inspired by Mrs. Carter to help increase habitat for Monarch Butterflies. The program, based in Plains, has expanded throughout the United States as well as Participatinginternationally.countyFarm
Continued from previous page acres, despite the state’s peanut fields being almost 100% irrigated. Western cattle producers are placing more cattle on feed in preparation for slaughter. According to the AFBF’s Aug. 2 Market Intel, the national cattle inventory was 98.8 million head, down 2% from 2021. More cattle are being sold for slaughter; in June, 2022, producers sold 2.06 million head of cattle, up 2% from June, 2021. Producers are putting more replacement heifers on feed for slaughter. The number of heifers and heifer calves on feed was 4.45 million on July 1, up 3% from July 2021, which could mean smaller cattle supply in 2023.
Almost 30 county Farm Bureaus across Georgia joined a nationwide effort to celebrate former First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s 95th birthday on Aug. 18 by planting pollinator gardens intended to increase habitat for Monarch butterflies.
The Georgia Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee planted a garden at the Foxfire Museum in Rabun County during a planning retreat in June.The Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail, which coordinated the project, set out to register 95 new gardens to its trail but far exceeded that goal with 240 new public and private gardens registered.
“County Farm Bureaus across Georgia were excited to help celebrate Mrs. Carter’s ninety fifth birthday by planting pollinator gardens, not only at their offices, but at schools and their local library,” said Georgia Farm Bureau Educational Programs Coordinator Lauren Goble. “Our local offices provided many items to create a garden, from seeds, plants, planters, raised beds, soil and mulch.”Inaddition to all the new pollinator gardens added in July and August, the Georgia Public Library Service placed the children’s book The Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail: A Journey Through Plains in all 420 libraries across the state. The book combines Mrs. Carter’s love of Monarch butterflies with her love of reading. Written by Annette Wise with a forward by Mrs. Carter, the book takes readers on a journey around Plains following a special Monarch butterfly that befriends a young Rosalynn Smith Carter.
In California, where the bulk of U.S. processed tomatoes are grown, the crop is tracking toward the state’s smallest since 2017. Some growers attribute the smaller crop to unseasonably hot weather in the spring. The California Tomato Growers Association estimates the crop could come in 5% lower than NASS projections.
In addition, special training programs are being redeveloped for public service employees, volunteers such as master gardeners, homeowners and anyone looking to learn more about the responsible and safe use of pesticides in Georgia.
GFB Field Notes 4 of 14
“I believe IPM is the most beneficial strategy for managing pests,” she said. “I think there is no better way to encourage safe and effective pesticide use than by adopting an integrated approach. Being smart about your management choices is better for your safety, the environment and your wallet.”Tolearn
As part of an already well developed program, Johnson hopes to increase accessibility by modernizing program materials to include webinar training, interactive presentations and having educational materials translated into multiple languages.
more about the Pesticide Safety Education Program, visit www.extension.uga.edu.
ALLISON JOHNSON TO LEAD UGA PESTICIDE SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM
“My mother was a teacher, and it has always been a part of who I am as well an educator at heart. When considering this position, I thought to myself, how am I going to make something as important as pesticide safety engaging?” Johnson said of her new role.
University of Georgia alumnus Allison Johnson joined UGA Cooperative Extension as the new Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) coordinator on Aug. 1.
UGA’s PSEP educational resources cover a broad range of pesticide safety topics including pest identification, personal safety, safe storage and disposal of pesticides, environmental protection, pesticide drift and runoff prevention, threatened and endangered species protection, pollinator protection, water quality protection, and feed and food safety.
Johnson hopes to revitalize connections with UGA Extension agents as well as the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the American Association of Pesticide Safety Educators and state trade associations.“Expanding communications with our stakeholders will be the best strategy for assessing needs from a programmatic standpoint,” said Johnson.
Johnson, a tried and true Georgia Bulldog, earned bachelor’s and doctoral degrees from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Department of Entomology. Throughout her undergraduate studies, Johnson participated in the Public Service and Outreach (PSO) Student Scholars Program, which she said kindled her desire to pursue a career in service to others.
Sketching out her first year plans as PSEP coordinator, Johnson believes collaborating with the UGA Integrated Pest Management Program will be a critical step in developing more competence and confidence with pesticide safety.
The public service position is responsible for creating educational resources and training materials to help private and commercial pesticide applicators obtain proper certifications for the safe and effective use of pesticides throughout the state.
“Learning the core content for private and commercial pesticide applicator certification and making sure to stay current on recertification credits post licensure can be overwhelming, so my goal is to restructure the way this information is disseminated to make it easier for people to obtain and maintain their certifications,” Johnson explained. “It’s important for all of us that the people who are applying pesticides are doing it in a way that is safe for themselves, for the people around them and for the environment.”
ACTION ALERT: TELL EPA FARMERS NEED ATRAZINE
If the rule is adopted, more than 72% of U.S. corn acres would be out of compliance, according to corn grower associations in Kansas and Missouri.
Collected in service to American agriculture since 1840 and now conducted every five years, the Census of Agriculture tells the story and shows the value of U.S. agriculture. It highlights land use and ownership, producer characteristics, production practices, income and expenditures, among other topics. Between ag census years, NASS considers revisions to the questionnaire to document changes and emerging trends in the industry. Changes to the 2022 questionnaire include new questions about the use of precision agriculture, hemp production, hair sheep, and updates to internet access questions.
“Census of Agriculture data are widely used by federal and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, extension educators, and many others to inform decisions about policy and farm programs and services that aid producers and rural communities,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “By responding to the Census of Agriculture by being represented in these important data producers are literally helping to shape their futures.”
USDA ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR 2022 CENSUS OF AGRICULTURE
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will mail the 2022 Census of Agriculture to millions of agriculture producers across the 50 states and Puerto Rico this fall.
Please take action now! Click here to be directed to the GFB action center where draft comments to EPA have been prepared for commenters to personalize or send as is.
GFB Field Notes 5 of 14
Areas predicted to exceed the limit would then be required to implement and document one or more mitigation practices from an EPA “picklist” and use a lower rate of atrazine.
Even in flat areas with little or no runoff, EPA’s prediction model would require growers to use mitigation practices like adding buffer strips and terraces. Meanwhile, with no input from USDA, other viable options like split applications were not included on the proposed picklist.
Additionally, EPA is proposing label changes that reduce atrazine application rates by 20 percent, banning aerial applications and applying the herbicide within 48 hours of a predicted rain event that could produce runoff.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture, conducted by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), will be mailed in phases, starting with an invitation to respond online in November followed by paper questionnaires in December. Farm operations of all sizes, urban and rural, which produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022 are included in the ag census.
To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit www.nass.usda.gov/AgCensus or call 800 727 9540. On the website, producers and other data users can access frequently asked questions, past ag census data, partner tools to help spread the word about the upcoming ag census, special study information, and more. For highlights of these and the latest information on the upcoming Census of Agriculture, follow USDA NASS on twitter @usda_nass.
GFB
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking public comment for its “Proposed Revisions to the Atrazine Interim Registration Review Decision.” Atrazine is an important tool for weed mitigation in several crops, including corn, sorghum and sugarcane. This proposal would severely limit how Georgia farmers can use Atrazine, which is an important tool for controlling broadleaf weeds, especially pigweed.
• Provide assistance with application materials and helping resolve heirs’ property and title issues.Partners target outreach and enrollment priorities supported by NRCS, including places impacted by natural disasters. Eligible partners include Tribes, state and local governments and non government organizations. WREP partners are required to contribute a financial or technical assistance fund match. This WREP funding is for fiscal year 2023, which begins on Oct. 1, 2022.
Restored wetlands help to improve water quality downstream, enhance wildlife habitat, reduce impacts from flooding and provide recreational benefits. The most sought after lands for the WREP program are referred to as “marginal,” meaning they do not produce to their full capacity due to repeat flooding or standing water. Removing marginal lands from production can provide economic benefits for agricultural landowners while also restoring the wetlands to accomplish their full functions and values.
WREP will continue to prioritize enrollment of historically underserved landowners in its ranking of proposals. This includes proposals that:
On Aug. 15, the USDA announced $19.5 billion in new conservation funding to support climate smart agriculture. This historic funding will bolster the new steps that USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced to improve opportunities for nutrient management.
• Target places with historically underserved producers;
Through WREP projects, eligible conservation partners protect, restore and enhance high priority wetlands on agricultural lands. WREP enables effective integration of wetland restoration on working agricultural landscapes, providing meaningful benefits to farmers and ranchers who enroll in the program and to the communities where the wetlands exist.
Through USDA’s conservation programs, America’s farmers and ranchers will have -continued on next page
NRCS will target funding, increasing program flexibilities, launch a new outreach campaign to promote nutrient management’s economic benefits, in addition to expanding partnerships to develop nutrient management plans. This is part of USDA’s broader effort to address future fertilizer availability and cost challenges for U.S. producers.
• Focus outreach to historically underserved producers;
Partners interested in applying should contact their NRCS state office for more information. Proposals are due by Sept. 23, 2022.
GFB Field Notes 6 of 14
On Aug. 3, USDA announced up to $20 million in funding for fiscal year 2023 to help conservation partners nationwide protect and restore critical wetlands through the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP). USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is prioritizing proposals that support efforts to mitigate climate change by restoring wetlands while also prioritizing assistance to underserved communities. Last year, NRCS funded $11 million in partnerships. Proposals from partners are due Sept. 23.
Partners looking to learn more about opportunities for WREP funding for fiscal year 2023 who didn’t have a chance to attend the virtual WREP workshop on Aug. 17 should contact Lisa McCauley at lisa.mccauley@usda.gov for information on how to access the recorded webinar
USDA INCREASES FUNDING TO PROTECT, RESTORE WETLANDS
Since May, the company, which filed for bankruptcy in 2022, has sold, closed or leased nine of its 14 processing facilities. The company still operates its facility in DeKalb County.
The Milkshedsblog post from Aug. 4 said the Southeast is quickly becoming a ‘milk desert,’ which is defined as a region of significant population with limited access to nearby farms which produce nutrient dense foods, in this case milk. Milk processing plant closings present a concern about food security for an area with 25% of the U.S. population.
• Streamlined Nutrient Management Initiative A streamlined initiative will incentivize nutrient management activities through key conservation programs, including the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), EQIP Conservation Incentive Contracts, and the Conservation Stewardship Program.
In Alabama, an estimated 100 school systems and government agencies have sought alternate sources of milk, according to multiple media reports.
BORDEN CLOSING DAIRY PLANTS IN ALABAMA AND MISSISSIPPI
A new outreach campaign will highlight the economic benefits of nutrient management planning for farmers. The potential net savings to farmers who adopt a nutrient management plan is estimated to be an average of $30 per acre for cropland, according to the NRCS.
On Aug. 3, Borden Dairy announced it would be closing its processing plants in Dothan, Alabama, and Hattiesburg, Mississippi by Sept. 30, along with associated distribution branches. The move left milk producers scrambling to access processing facilities and some school districts have had to work to avert potential supply interruption for school milk programs.
The Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division indicated that 38 school districts, primarily located in the south and southwestern portion of the state, have been affected by closure of the Dothan plant. However, Georgia State School Nutrition Director Linette Dodson noted in an email that many of these districts have found permanent or temporary distribution solutions to sourcing milk for student meals. The state agency is working with USDA and The Dairy Alliance to provide ongoing solutions.
Continued from previous page streamlined opportunities to improve their nutrient management planning, which provides conservation benefits while mitigating the impacts of supply chain disruptions and increased input costs.Specifically, NRCS efforts include:
According to Milkshedsblog, the Dothan and Hattiesburg closures also will affect dairies in Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. Borden products have a distribution area which covers a wide swath of the lower southeast, including the Gulf’s coastal tourist areas.
According to Georgia Milk Producers Inc. (GMP), about 20 Georgia dairies were producing milk for Borden, and GMP Executive Director Bryce Trotter said indications are all of them have found other co op groups to market their milk.
GFB Field Notes 7 of 14
• Nutrient Management Economic Benefits Outreach Campaign
GFB Field Notes 8 of 14
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.
NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE NOW ACCESSIBLE AT 988
SUNBELT EXPO ADVOCACY IN ACTION CONTEST
Sept. 1 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 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
#988Lifeline
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.
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. agtech machinery georgia
Sept. 9
UGA Agricultural & Environmental Sciences Labs researchers are asking for help in a three year study 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.
Sept. 1 deadline to submit samples
GFB Field Notes 9 of 14 GEORGIA CITRUS TREE NUTRITION SURVEY
ITALIAN TRADE AGENCY 2022 EAST COAST AGTECH TRADE MISSION
Fort Valley State University, 46 Camp John Hope Rd. 11 a.m. Fort Valley
COTTON & PEANUT FIELD DAY
GFB Field Notes 10 of 14
USDA CONSERVATION PRACTICES SURVEY
The Georgia Department of Agriculture and Georgia PTA will award 10 local Parent Teacher Student Associations (PTSAs) $500 grants to support mental health programming. Priorities will be given to PTSAs located in rural communities or those with a direct tie to agriculture. PTSAs must be willing to involve students in the design and implementation of the programming, which can include, but is not limited to, suicide awareness and prevention training, social media campaigns with calls to action, town hall meetings or panel presentations. Programing must be completed by Dec. 16, with a final report due by Jan. 13, 2023. To access the grant application, visit https://bit.ly/PTSAMentalHealthGrant. For more information, contact mentalhealth@georgiapta.org.
Sept. 9-10 Flat Creek Arena, 1516 Diamond Lane Royston
29TH ANNUAL FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO
PTSA MENTAL HEALTH GRANTS
Sept. 9 deadline to apply
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will continue collecting responses to the Conservation Practice Adoption Motivations Survey over the coming weeks. Survey recipients may respond securely online at www.agcounts.usda.gov, by phone or mail. A representative for NASS may call producers to set up an interview to assist in the completion of the questionnaire. In late May, NASS mailed the survey to nearly 2,700 farmers and ranchers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. A joint project between NASS and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), this survey is aimed at better understanding conservation practice adoption and the role of technical and financial assistance. The data will be used to guide the implementation of NRCS programs in the future. There are two versions of the survey this year one requesting information on crop conservation practices and one for confined livestock conservation practices. Data from both versions of the survey will be available later this fall on NASS’s website at www.nass.usda.gov. All information reported by individuals will be kept confidential, as required by federal law. For assistance with the survey, producers can call the NASS Southern Region Field Office at (800) 253 4419.
This annual rodeo, sanctioned by the Southern Rodeo Association, is presented by AG Parts Supply and hosted by the Harts’ 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, Bar H BBQ, 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.
Join Fisher Phillips attorneys Marty Heller and Josh Viau for the last episode of the GFVGA podcast series on COVID and Employment Law. The panelists will cover: CDC's new guidance that removes many safeguards previously required by employers; OSHA’s reaction to the CDC guidelines and what to expect from OSHA moving forward; an update on OSHA’s heat hazard as it impacts agricultural employers; new EEOC guidance and trends from the EEOC impacting your workplace. To register, click here
2022 PEANUT DISEASE TOUR
Sept. 20 Tifton Sept. 21 Headland, Alabama Sept. 22 TBA, Florida 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.
25TH ANNUAL INMAN FARM HERITAGE DAYS
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.
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.
Sept. 13-15 Multiple locations Tifton
Sept. 20 noon
GFB Field Notes 11 of 14
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.
NORTHEAST GEORGIA FIELD DAY
2022 GEORGIA PEANUT TOUR
GEORGIA FRUIT & VEGETABLE GROWERS SEPTEMBER WEBINAR
Oct. 7 deadline to submit comments
This workshop is being hosted by AgriSafe Network, the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety and the Great Plains Center for Agricultural Health. Leading experts will utilize hands on activities and small group discussions in discussing benefits and risks to youth working in agriculture, illness and injury prevention strategies, youth mental health, and parent/supervisor information and training. The workshop is free, but registration is required. Attendance will be limited to the first 50 registrants. To register, visit workshop SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
http://www.marshfieldresearch.org/cash
GFB Field Notes 12 of 14 YOUTH AG SAFETY WORKSHOP
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.
FOREST LANDOWNER CARBON WORKSHOP
EPA DEADLINE FOR ATRAZINE COMMENTS
Oct. 14 Mary Kahrs Warnell Forest Education Center 8:30 a.m. 4 p.m. Guyton This workshop is aimed at developing understanding of forest carbon markets, determining the economics of forest carbon payments, identifying emerging opportunities and providing feedback on socially acceptable forest management practices for increasing carbon stored on forestland. Registration is $15 per person and the deadline to register is Sept. 30. Visit https://bit.ly/3QnpYez to register.
Sept. 28 11 a.m. 3:30 p.m. online
EXTENDS
KEL-MAC
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.
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. 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. 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.
GFB 2022 HAY CONTEST
GFB Field Notes 13 of 14
2023 AFBF WHITE-REINHARDT GRANTS
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.
Oct. 15 deadline to apply The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is accepting applications for White Reinhardt scholarships and community/classroom grants through Oct. 15. White Reinhardt scholarships to the 2023 National Ag in the Classroom Conference are for full time educators and/or volunteers that actively participate in classroom ag literacy programs or events. This scholarship provides travel expense funds for educators to attend the national conference and use the information gained to expand their outreach to students regarding food, fiber and fuel. New for 2023, White Reinhardt scholarships are for $1,500 plus registration costs. Learn more and apply here. White Reinhardt grants fund projects that will increase agricultural literacy. County and state Farm Bureaus may apply for $1,000 grants for education programs for grades K 12 to initiate new ag literacy programs or expand existing programs. Learn more and apply here. Recent recipients of these grants include Banks County Farm Bureau (BCFB) and the Georgia Agriculture Experience (GAE) mobile classroom. BCFB will use its grant to add a vertical garden to the pollinator garden it sponsors at a local school and to buy cooking equipment for the teacher so students can prepare the food they grow. The GAE mobile classroom will use its grant to add a sensory based learning station for students with special learning needs.
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
Nov. 9-10 Georgia Museum of Agriculture Tifton This event, hosted by the Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association and sponsored in part by Georgia Farm Bureau, is suited for all owners, operators, office managers, personnel managers and service providers for the produce, nursery, landscape, dairy and cotton sectors, as well as any other agricultural professional dealing with agricultural labor relations. The Georgia Museum of Agriculture is located at 1392 Whiddon Mill Rd., Tifton, GA 31793. Contact Chris Butts, cbutts@asginfo.net or visit www.GeorgiaAgLaborForum.com for more information.
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.
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
UGA PILOT PROGRAM OFFERS FREE TELE-COUNSELING
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.
GFB Field Notes 14 of 14 2022 GEORGIA AGRICULTURAL LABOR RELATIONS FORUM