November 17, 2023
www.gfb.org
Vol. 5 No. 21
WOMEN IN AG SUMMIT EQUIPS ATTENDEES TO DIG IN FOR AGRICULTURE Women representing numerous sectors of Georgia agriculture had a blast at the Georgia Farm Bureau Women in Agriculture Summit where they spent Nov. 2-3 “Diggin’ In” to gain advocacy, relational and professional skills. Held in Savannah, the event drew farmers, Extension agents, ag teachers, USDA staff, county Farm Bureau staff and volunteers, showing the many roles women have in the industry. The range of farm commodities attendees produce and ag sectors represented at the summit indicate how varied Georgia’s agriculture community is. Most of the attendees enjoyed a pre-conference tour of the UGA Marine Education Center & Aquarium on Skidaway Island the afternoon of Nov. 2. UGA holds the designation of being a Sea Grant University, which means it is tasked with doing research and education outreach about coastal issues just as the UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences & Fort Valley State University are land-grant universities that study issues pertaining to agriculture. Tour attendees learned about research UGA Marine Extension is doing to develop oyster farming in Georgia, toured the center’s aquarium and learned about the four types of reptiles found in our state. That evening, the summit kicked off with a “Desserts & Dancing” social. Attendees vied for a variety of delicious desserts in a cake walk. Some enjoyed line dancing. Ranch-themed props were available for attendees to take souvenir photos in front of a backdrop of a herd of cattle. Workshop presenters gave tips for giving an effective television interview, advocating for agriculture with legislators & consumers, and teaching students about agriculture. Other workshops covered working with school nutrition staff to integrate local food or produce from school gardens into school meals; myths about meat; and how to work effectively with coworkers from other generations. “I hope this is just the beginning of a chain reaction in our Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership programs,” said Kathy Sanders, who chairs the GFB Women’s Leadership Committee, which hosted the event. “Please take the things you have learned here back to your counties and share what you have learned.” -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 2 of 19 Continued from previous page Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall praised the ladies attending the Women in Agriculture Summit for everything they do to promote agriculture. He thanked his wife, Jane, for the role she plays in serving as GFB First Lady and on their Elbert County farm. "I get it as to how important ladies are in farmers' lives and running the farms across the state," McCall said. "I couldn't do this without Jane." He encouraged women to run for local and state elected offices saying many of his most effective colleagues in the Georgia General Assembly were female when he served. "We need people in the legislature who understand agriculture. I'd even like to think that one day one of you may hold my office as GFB president," McCall said. "Y'all are doing so much stuff across the state promoting agriculture and we appreciate your efforts. Ten Principles for Living Inspirational speaker Lisa Smartt delivered the keynote speech at the summit. The room was rolling with laughter as Lisa shared her 10 principles for living. Each principle was illustrated with an anecdote funnier than the last. “The people business is a lot like losing weight,” Smartt said. “It’s an easy thing to understand but a hard thing to apply.” To understand Smartt’s heart, consider that the Tennessee Farm Bureau member lists friend on her business card before her titles of being a speaker and author. Smartt’s 10 Principles for Living are: 1) Never think you’re superior to anyone else. Even if you think it, DON’T treat anyone as being inferior. “Wealthy and poor people face the same four basic problems: troubles with relationships or marriages; rebellious children; addiction issues; and financial problems,” Smartt said. 2) Realize there are two types of people: Type A who push people to get things done & Type B who forget to turn things in on time. “The two types of personalities need to respect each other. God gives us each other so we can help each other,” Smartt said. “We need the Type A people, so we have completed projects, and we need the Type B people to love on us and encourage us.” Each type of person, Smartt said, needs to extend grace to the other. 3) Don’t replay hurtful or untrue things people have said about you in your mind. “When we’re sad or get down, we have a tendency to replay negative, hurtful things people have said about us,” Smartt said. “To get along well with others we have to be able to walk into a room with confidence. PBS has lied to children by telling them ‘If you can dream it, you can be it.’ That’s not true. We can’t all be professional athletes or super models. We can only be the people God intended us to be. Be the best YOU that you can be. Be the person God destined you to be.” 4) Assume the best when you communicate with others. “Don’t be oversensitive. If you’re a person who gets your feelings hurt 10 times a day the way to solve this is to wake up and be about other people. I promise you won’t get your feelings hurt so easily,” Smart said. “Society tells us to think about ourselves, but we need to think about others. When people say something to us that’s a little snappy, filter it through love.” -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 3 of 19 Continued from previous page 5) People will disappoint you. Help them anyway. “Sometimes you have to help people even when they did something stupid and messed up,” Smartt said. “Do it because it’s about your integrity and not theirs.” 6) Own your mistakes. “You can’t grow from a position of an excuse,” Smartt said. “Yes, there are reasons why we struggle with things, but you and I are the ones responsible for our lives.” 7) Do your best, but DON’T LOSE YOUR SOUL FOR SOMEONE WHO WON’T BE AT YOUR FUNERAL. “This is for all of you workaholics out there. Picture your friends and family who will sit in the front row at your funeral,” Smartt said. “When it comes to work and commitments outside your family, ask yourself, “Am I jeopardizing my relationships with the people who will sit in the front row at my funeral for someone who won’t even attend my funeral?” 8) No gossip. “It doesn’t matter what name you give it, don’t do it,” Smart said emphatically. 9) If you can’t forgive & forget, forgive every time you remember. “There are some things people do to us that we can’t forget,” Smartt said. “Choose to forgive every time you remember so you don’t drink the poison of unforgiveness.” 10) Be merciful & gracious. “Be the person who gives second chances,” Smartt said. “Everybody who has an addiction wishes they had chosen a better way to deal with their struggles than choosing their addiction,” Smartt said. “I’m not saying live and let live. I want you to love me enough to hold me to a standard, but be merciful about it. If you’re good with something that’s the area where you’ll tend to be judgmental of others.” Smartt ended her speech by encouraging the audience to follow American basketball coach John Wooden’s advice to “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” Workshops cover A to Z topics Elise Stoddard Cruce, AFBF Sr. Director of Media & Advocacy Training, provided tips for “Tackling Tough Topics” with friends & family who may think differently than we do about GMOs, eating meat and how farmers produce their crops. Taking time to listen to the other person’s point of view and concerns and asking them what they want to know about how their food is raised is an important first step to building trust with someone who has a different view about agriculture and food than you have. “You’ve got to show that you are genuinely interested in their concerns first and find common ground before you start telling them what you want them to know about farming and trying to change their mind,” Cruce said. WTOC-TV Producer/Reporter Simone McKenny shared tips on how to promote your farm or agribusiness during an interview. She said interviewees should stand still but not rigid, should look at the reporter instead of the camera and should not move their hands about while doing the -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 4 of 19 Continued from previous page interview. Dr. Alex Stelzleni, with the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Animal Science Department, debunked some of the common misconceptions consumers have about eating meat. Kennedy Elementary School Teacher Monica Massei shared how she uses Ag in the Classroom curriculum in her classes to teach students about agriculture while meeting curriculum standards. Monica was the 2022 GFB Ag in the Classroom Teacher of the Year and she was one of four teachers nationwide to be recognized as a 2023 National Ag in the Classroom Teacher. Anna Leigh Peek, with Nutrien Ag Solutions, delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the strengths each generation brings to the workplace or Farm Bureau. She also discussed how each generation has different communication preferences and how to bridge the gap between our differences to benefit our workplaces and volunteer organizations. Anna Leigh represents GFB's 3rd District on the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee. She grew up on a cotton farm in Alabama. Visit www.gfb.ag/generationalperspectives to read more about the different perspectives each generation has and how they can work together. Georgia Farm Bureau Advocacy & Policy Development Specialist Keaton Griner Walker encouraged conference attendees to advocate for agriculture when interacting with others as we go about our daily lives in our roles as parents with other parents, at church and when talking to our non-farming neighbors and friends. GFB Governmental Affairs Specialist Adam Belflower gave conference attendees an overview of issues the GFB Public Policy staff are working on such as raising awareness of the economic loss deer eating crops is costing farmers and efforts to control deer. Donna Sapp, School Nutrition Manager for the Laurens County School District, shared her experience of working to integrate fresh, locally grown food into school cafeteria menus. Kudos to GFB Leadership Programs Coordinator Breanna Berry & the GFB WLC Committee for hosting such a wonderful conference! CONGRESS PASSES APPROPRIATIONS BILL THAT EXTENDS FARM BILL On Nov. 14, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6363, (the Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024) a funding bill that included an extension of the 2018 farm bill until fall 2024. “We are grateful Congress passed a farm bill extension to avoid serious program disruptions and we encourage President Biden to sign it,” American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall said. “However, we urge both the House and Senate to stay focused on a new, modernized farm bill that recognizes the many changes and challenges of the past five years. The current farm bill was written before the pandemic, before inflation spiked, and before global unrest sent shock waves through the food system. We need programs that reflect today’s realities. So much work has been done by the agriculture committees in both the House and Senate over the past 18 months to prepare to craft a smart and effective farm bill. Congress must keep that momentum going.” The bill passed in the House by a 336-95 margin. Georgia Democrats Sanford Bishop (2nd District), Hank Johnson (4th District), Lucy McBath (7th), David Scott (13th) and Nikema -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 5 of 19 Continued from previous page Williams (5th District) joined Republicans Rick Allen (12th District), Buddy Carter (1st District), Drew Ferguson (3rd District), Barry Loudermilk (11th District), Richard McCormick (6th District) and Austin Scott (8th District) in supporting the measure. The Senate passed the bill by an 87-11 count on Nov. 15. Georgia Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock each voted in support. GDA ERADICATES THREE MORE YELLOW-LEGGED HORNET NESTS On Oct. 27, the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) announced the discovery and eradication of three additional Yellow-Legged hornets’ nests in the Savannah area. In addition to these new eradications, the department is announcing a new biweekly newsletter, the YellowLegged Ledger, to provide the public with important updates on its efforts to prevent the establishment of this invasive pest. Since the initial detection of the yellow-legged hornet (YLH: Vespa velutina) occurred on Aug. 9, the GDA has found and eradicated a total of five nests. GDA staff continue to work overtime in coordination with its partners the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the University of Georgia (UGA) to eradicate the Yellow-Legged hornet from our state and protect Georgia ’s #1 industry - agriculture. “Our Plant Protection Division team has been very busy, and I’m proud to report that in the last two weeks [of October] we have found and eradicated three additional yellow-legged hornets’ nests thanks to their tireless efforts,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “While each nest located and destroyed represents a win for our state and our agriculture industry, we will continue to work overtime to achieve our goal of full eradication. We continue to ask for the public’s help in this fight, and we encourage Georgians to sign up for our new newsletter, the Yellow-Legged Ledger, to receive the latest updates from our team.” All three nests were located by GDA staff, who worked with local pest management professionials and aborists to eradicate the nests. Discovery & Eradication of YLH Nests Nest 3 - The 3rd yellow-legged hornets’ nest was located by GDA staff on Oct.11 in Thunderbolt. This nest was located approximately 60 feet high in a pine tree, and despite being the largest nest discovered in Georgia so far (roughly the size of an exercise ball) it was well camouflaged. This nest was located using a combination of electronic tagging as well as capturing, releasing, and tracking of hawking hornets. Nest 4 – The 4th yellow-legged hornets’ nest was located by GDA staff on Oct. 18 at a private residence in Thunderbolt approximately one mile north of the location of nest 3. This nest was located approximately 90 feet high in a pine tree and was located by capturing, releasing, and tracking hawking hornets that were seen in the area. Nest 5 – The 5th yellow-legged hornets’ nest was located by GDA staff on Oct 25 near a private residence on Skidaway Island. This nest was located approximately 90 feet high in a pine tree and was located by capturing, releasing, and tracking hornets back to the nest. While this is the first nest found on Skidaway Island, this location is well within the GDA search area and GDA does not believe the hornets migrated outside of the Savannah area. Upon initial inspection, none of these nests appeared to have begun the production of queens or -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 6 of 19 Continued from previous page reproductive males. Samples of dead hornets and larvae from nests 3 and 4 have been sent to UGA for further analysis and DNA testing. Samples from nest 5 will be sent to UGA, the University of Florida, and USDA. In order to minimize the risk to citizens in the area, all eradications have taken place at night, and the GDA has utilized the same arborist and team of pest management professionals to assist with each eradication. In each case, the eradication process took less than one hour, and no injuries, stinging or otherwise, have been reported by GDA staff or partners on the ground. cypermethrin has been used in each eradication. Yellow-Legged Ledger The public plays a vital role in the fight against the yellow-legged hornet, and the GDA is launching a biweekly newsletter, The Yellow-Legged Ledger, that is available to all Georgians to provide important updates. Sign up for the Yellow-Legged Ledger here or on the yellow-legged hornet page on the Department’s website. Ground Operations The GDA continues to have two teams of four deployed in the Savannah area that are actively trapping and surveying for additional nests. , and These teams have placed 170 traps in the area around the initial detection. The Department is currently using bucket traps, which are typically baited with a combination of grape juice and brown sugar, but it has also used fish meal and fish fillets. These traps are checked 1-2 times per week by a combination of GDA staff and USDA staff. It is important to note that trapping is not an elimination tool but a monitoring tool to help locate additional nests. The primary methods include electronic tagging and tracking of hornets as well as capturing, releasing, and tracking hornets by sight. Both methods have been used to successfully locate yellow-legged hornets’ nests. The GDA is asking the public to report any suspected sightings via this readily accessible form. Beekeepers have been key in reporting yellow-legged hornets, and we encourage them to continue monitoring their hives and contact us with any suspicious activity. Georgians with additional questions or concerns are encouraged to email us at yellow.legged.hornet@agr.georgia.gov. AVIAN INFLUENZA CONFIRMED IN TWO ALABAMA FLOCKS The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in two commercial flocks, resulting in euthanization of approximately 344,000 bids. One of the flocks was at a commercial pullet farm in Marshall County, Alabama, about 80 miles west of Rome, Georgia, the ADAI announced on Nov. 3. A total of 47,900 birds were euthanized at this location. Samples from the Marshall County flock were tested at the Alabama State Diagnostic Laboratory, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, and confirmed positive at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa. The viral disease was also confirmed in a commercial upland gamebird farm in Chilton County -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 7 of 19 Continued from previous page on Oct. 27. Chilton County is in the middle of the state between Birmingham and Montgomery. All poultry (a total of 296,500 pheasants, quail, ducks and chukars) on this premise were euthanized. According to published reports, Alabama officials are considering requesting assistance from the National Guard. As part of existing avian influenza response plans, Alabama and federal partners are working on additional surveillance and testing in areas around the affected flocks. The United States has the strongest AI surveillance program in the world. ADAI and USDA are actively monitoring for the disease in commercial poultry operations, backyard flocks, live bird markets and in migratory wild bird populations. HPAI is considered low risk to human health according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, but is highly contagious to other birds, including commercial and backyard flocks of poultry. While the virus is also not considered a food safety threat, infected birds do not enter the food supply. Poultry and egg production are the largest agricultural sector in Georgia, accounting for more than $4 billion worth of farm gate value annually. The Georgia Department of Agriculture recommends the following measures to protect flocks from exposure: • Moving birds with outdoor access indoors or covering their enclosures to reduce exposure to wild birds that might be shedding the virus; • Review biosecurity practices with a veterinarian or Extension Agent, or • Visit the GDA avian influenza webpage for biosecurity resources. Poultry flock owners are encouraged to closely observe their birds and report a sudden increase in the number of sick birds or bird deaths to the Avian Influenza Hotline at 770-766-6850. HPAI symptoms include: • Sudden increase in bird deaths in your flock; • sneezing, gasping for air, coughing and nasal discharge; • watery and green diarrhea; • lack of energy and poor appetite • drop in egg production or soft or thin-shelled, misshaped eggs • swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles, and hocks • purple discoloration of the wattles, comb and legs • ruffled feathers, listlessness and lethargy. Commercial and backyard flock owners are urged to increase biosecurity measures to protect their operations from HPAI. Biosecurity measures can include: • Cleaning vehicles and equipment; • limiting unnecessary visitors; • sanitizing shoes in clean foot baths; • changing clothes upon contact with birds and more. People should avoid contact with sick/dead poultry or wildlife. If contact occurs, wash your hands and change clothing before having any contact with poultry and wild birds. For information -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 8 of 19 Continued from previous page on biosecurity measures, visit http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov. For more information about HPAI or detections click (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-diseaseinformation/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-2022/2022-hpai-commercial-backyard-flocks)
here.
USDA ISSUES DISASTER DESIGNATIONS FOR CROP LOSS TO IDALIA, DROUGHT On Oct. 30, Nov. 3 and Nov. 13, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack issued natural disaster declarations that cover a total of 42 primary counties and numerous contiguous counties in Georgia. These secretarial natural disaster designations allow the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability. Vilsack issued a natural disaster declaration on Oct. 30 for four primary counties and an additional three contiguous counties in Georgia which have sustained 8 or more weeks of severe, extreme, or exceptional drought conditions. The primary Georgia counties under this drought declaration are: Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade and Walker. Contiguous Georgia counties under the Oct. 30 declaration are: Floyd, Gordon and Whitfield. The application deadline for assistance under this declaration is June 30, 2024. On Nov. 3, Vilsack issued a disaster declaration for 27 counties and an additional 20 contiguous counties that sustained agricultural losses due to Hurricane Idalia on Aug. 30. The 27 primary counties are home to more than 7,800 agricultural operations farming more than 2,300,000 acres with a farm gate value of over $3.5 billion. The Georgia Department of Agriculture licenses and regulates approximately 6,700 entities across these counties, including livestock and poultry operations, retail grocery stores, meat processing facilities, gas stations, animal shelters, and others. The total economic loss caused by Hurricane Idalia is still being calculated by the Farm Service Agency and UGA Extension. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of Hurricane Idalia. Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures in these counties. Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. The primary counties under this declaration for losses to Hurricane Idalia are: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bulloch, Candler, Clinch, Coffee, Cook, Echols, Evans, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Lanier, Lowndes, Montgomery, Pierce, Tattnall, Telfair, -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 9 of 19 Continued from previous page Thomas, Toombs, Ware, Wayne and Wheeler. The contiguous counties under this declaration are: Bryan, Camden, Charlton, Colquitt, Dodge, Effingham, Emanuel, Glynn, Grady, Jenkins, Laurens, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Mitchell, Screven, Tift, Treutlen, Turner and Wilcox. The application deadline for assistance under this declaration is July 3, 2024. On Nov. 6, Vilsack declared 11 North Georgia Counties as primary disaster areas because of extended periods of drought conditions. Producers in an additional 11 contiguous counties are also eligible to apply for relief. The primary counties under this declaration are: Bartow, Cherokee, Dawson, Fannin, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Lumpkin, Murray, Pickens and Whitfield. The contiguous counties under this declaration are: Catoosa, Chattooga, Cobb, Forsyth, Fulton, Hall, Paulding, Polk, Union, Walker and White. The application deadline for assistance under this declaration is July 26, 2024. On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Loan Assistance Tool can help you determine program or loan options. To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local USDA Service Center. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. GEORGIA FOUNDATION FOR AG OFFERS $65,000 IN AG SCHOLARSHIPS The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) is offering $65,000 in scholarships to Georgia students pursuing a degree in agriculture, veterinary medicine, family and consumer sciences or a related field. The GFA will award scholarships in the following four categories: Scholarship for Agriculture – This scholarship is for high school students who plan to enter a college that is part of the University System of Georgia, Berry College, Emmanuel College or any accredited college/university in Georgia with an ag program during the 2024-25 academic year to pursue an undergraduate degree in agricultural and environmental sciences, family and consumer sciences or a related agricultural field. The GFA will award 10 scholarships of $3,000 each. The top two ranked applicants will be eligible for an additional $1,500. Technical College Scholarship for Agriculture – This scholarship is for students who will be enrolled in a Georgia accredited technical college and major in an area of agriculture or an agrelated field of study, such as welding, mechanics, culinary arts, or commercial truck driving. The GFA will award four scholarships of $1,500 each. Visit https://gfb.ag/gfatechscholarshipmajors for a list of eligible schools and majors. Rising College Junior/Senior Scholarship for Agriculture – This scholarship is for college students who have at least two semesters of college remaining to receive an undergraduate degree from a unit of The University System of Georgia, Berry College, Emmanuel College or any accredited college/university in Georgia with an ag program. Applicants must be majoring in agriculture and environmental sciences, family and consumer sciences or an ag-related field. -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 10 of 19 Continued from previous page The GFA will award eight scholarships of $2,000 each. UGA College of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship - This scholarship is for students currently enrolled in the UGA Veterinary Medicine program specializing in large animal/food animal practice. The GFA will award two $5,000 scholarships. Visit www.gafoundationag.org/scholarships for a list of eligible majors/schools for all scholarships, applications and instructions to apply. All applications must be submitted online by March 1, 2024. Transcripts and letters of recommendation must be submitted online with the application. The scholarship recipients will be announced in spring of 2024. Scholarship checks will be sent to the qualifying college/university the recipient is attending and placed in their school account upon verification the student has met all qualifications for the scholarship. Scholarships awarded to graduating high school seniors will be distributed for spring 2025 upon receipt of first semester college transcript indicating the recipient is pursuing an ag-related course of study and has at least a 3.0 GPA. The GFA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preparing the next generation of leaders for success in Georgia agriculture. To make a tax-deductible donation or learn more about the foundation, visit www.gafoundationag.org or contact GFA Executive Director Lily Baucom at 478-405-3461 or info@gafoundation.org. HARPER: GEORGIA FARMLAND IS FOR GEORGIA FARMERS In an Op-Ed piece, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper voiced his full support for legislation in the upcoming 2024 legislative session to restrict adversarial foreign nations and their agents from purchasing Georgia farmland. This legislation, he wrote, is essential to protect Georgia farm families and their livelihoods. The text of Harper’s Op-Ed: Georgia Farmland for Georgia Farmers, Not Adversarial Foreign Nations When you go to the grocery store or pick up a new pair of jeans at the mall, you probably don’t put much thought into where that product came from—much less who produced it. But if the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that our supply chains and food production are far too dependent on foreign countries—and producing more of our own food, fiber, and shelter here at home will be critically important over the coming years. Over the past few years, dozens of states have passed legislation restricting or banning foreign adversaries from purchasing American farmland, and I believe it’s past time for Georgia to lead the charge by adding its name to the list. As Georgia’s 17thAgriculture Commissioner, I look forward to working with our Legislature to do just that during the upcoming legislative session to protect our farmers, our farmland, and our state’s #1 industry. While it may not be top of mind for most Americans, agriculture and food security are vital parts of our national security. Americans have access to the safest, most affordable, and most abundant food supply in the world thanks to the tireless work of American farmers who provide the food, fiber, and shelter we all rely on. Here in Georgia, agriculture is our number one industry, generating more than $70 billion in economic impact annually and employing more than 400,000 -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 11 of 19 Continued from previous page Georgians. Our state is also one of the most agriculturally diverse. Our farmers grow a wide variety of crops on more than 9.9 million acres that account for more than two percent of all U.S. agricultural sales. However, if we cannot produce that food, fiber, and shelter right here at home, within our own borders, we’re less safe as a community, less safe as a state, and less safe as a nation. Chinese ownership of U.S. agricultural land is increasing at an alarming rate, and this increase poses a significant threat not only to the livelihoods of American farmers and producers but to America’s national security. In the past decade, Chinese investors and business entities have increased their holdings of American farmland by over 1,000%, from $81 million in 2010 to more than $1.9 billion in 2021. Chinese landowners currently control 383,000 acres of US farmland, and their investments are only growing. Earlier this year, Fufeng Group, a Chinese company with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party, attempted to build a wet corn mill in North Dakota – 12 miles away from Grand Forks Air Force Base. In 2021, officials in Texas blocked a similarly concerning development when a Chinese billionaire with close ties to the CCP attempted to purchase 100,000 acres near McLaughlin Air Force Base. It’s clear that China’s end goal is to buy up U.S. farmland, control the nation’s food supply, and force us to be fully reliant on the Communist regime for our food production. We cannot let this happen in Georgia. Our agriculture industry is the lifeblood of our state’s economy and a pillar of American food production. We must act swiftly and decisively to protect our state’s number one industry and our farmland. Here at home, restricting or banning adversaries from purchasing American farmland is the first step in fighting back, protecting our food supply, and keeping Georgia’s number one industry successful for generations to come. GEORGIA HAS 12 NATIONAL CHAMPIONS AT NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION The Georgia FFA Association’s success at the 96th National FFA Convention was highlighted by 12 national champions. Among Georgia’s national winners were five national proficiency award winners, three national Agriscience Fair award winners, and four national Career Development Event (CDE) and Leadership Development Event (LDE) winners. Jack Lingenfelter of Coffee County (Agricultural Communications), Joseph Ledford of Jackson-Empower (Ag Mechanics Repair & Maintenance-Entrepreneurship), Jamin Miles of Appling County (Fruit Production), Adam Stone of Bowdon (Service Learning), and Thomas Dehoff of Screven County (Wildlife Management) were each named national FFA proficiency award winners for success in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs. Only four students in the nation are named National Finalists in each of 45 proficiency areas. Georgia had 18 national proficiency award finalists and five proficiency winners. Georgia FFA’s three winners in the national Agriscience Fair included Erin Keith of Franklin County Middle (Food Products and Processing – Division 1); Emi Walker and Hazel Brubaker of Malcom Bridge Middle (Plant Systems – Division 2); and Makena Blalock of Sonoraville (Social Science – Division 3). Four Georgia chapters earned 1st place finishes in national Career/Leadership Development -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 12 of 19 Continued from previous page Events at the convention. Georgia CDE/LDE success was highlighted by the following chapters: Banks County (Forestry CDE), Bleckley County (Agricultural Technology & Mechanical Systems CDE), Madison County (Agricultural Communications CDE), and Denmark (Veterinary Science CDE). Georgia’s other top-5 finishers in CDE/LDEs include Jesse Cronic of Jackson-Empower (2nd place –Employment Skills LDE), Banks County (2nd place – Environmental / Natural Resources CDE), Perry (3rd place – Floriculture CDE), and Madison County (5th place – Poultry Evaluation CDE). The National Chapter Award Program is designed to recognize FFA chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. Georgia was represented well by four chapters who were chosen as finalists in this award program. Commerce Middle FFA was named as a finalist (top 3) in the Premier Chapter – Growing Leaders division. Golden Isles Career Academy FFA was named as a finalist (top 10) in the Premier Chapter – Building Communities division. The Denmark chapter was a finalist (top 10) in the Premier Chapter – Strengthening Agriculture division. Thirty-nine Georgia chapters received a national 3-Star ranking, the highest ranking offered in the National Chapter Award program. Georgia’s 3-Star chapters are Apalachee, Atkinson County, Berrien County, Bonaire Middle, Cambridge, Central Middle, Commerce, Commerce Middle, Denmark, Eastside, Etowah, Franklin County, Franklin County Middle, Golden Isles Career Academy, Hahira Middle, Haralson County, Islands, Jackson-Empower, Jefferson City, Madison County, Newton College and Career Academy, Northside Middle, Oglethorpe County, Rabun County, Russell Middle, Screven County, Screven County Middle, Winder-Barrow, and Youth Middle. Five Georgia FFA members performed as a part of the National FFA Band, Chorus, and Talent program. The National FFA Band, Chorus, and Talent feature musically talented FFA members from across the nation who showcase their skills throughout general sessions, luncheons, and other events throughout the convention. Georgia FFA members who performed as talent participants include Ian Edge of Crisp County and Emma Lawrence of Emmanuel County Institute. Ella Jenner of Ben Hill FFA represented Georgia as a member of the National FFA Chorus while Jeffery Hendricks of Madison County FFA and Molly Huff of Winder-Barrow FFA represented Georgia in the National FFA Band. One hundred and fifty-seven Georgia FFA members received the prestigious American FFA Degree, the highest degree offered to an active member. These students spent years developing their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs to reach this honor. Less than 1% of FFA members receive the prestigious American FFA Degree. To see a complete list of Georgia’s 2023 American FFA Degree recipients, click here. (https://www.georgiaffa.org/docs/76762_2023%20American%20Degree%20Recipient%20Lis t%20-%20GA%202023.pdf) Nine Georgians received the Honorary American FFA Degree for their outstanding contribution to Agricultural Education and the FFA. Georgia’s recipients of the Honorary Degree included: Rob Jackson, Travis Sertich, Veronica Sanders, Chad Crews, Audrey Pickren, Gene Sutherland, -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 13 of 19 Continued from previous page Jr., Randy Odom, Ricky Wheeler, and Ben Lastly. A complete set of results and a variety of highlights from the 96th National FFA Convention can be found here. (https://www.georgiaffa.org/docs/sidemodules/17494_Results%20from%20Georgia%20FFA %20-%20National%20Convention%202023.pdf) AFBF: THANKSGIVING DINNER COST DOWN SLIGHTLY FROM 2022 Gathering around the table for a Thanksgiving dinner won’t take as much of a toll on your pocketbook this year compared to 2022, but the meal still reflects historically high costs. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 38th annual survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of this year’s classic holiday feast for 10, which is $61.17 or less than $6.20 per person. This is a 4.5% decrease from last year’s record-high average of $64.05, but a Thanksgiving meal is still 25% higher than it was in 2019, which highlights the impact high supply costs and inflation have had on food prices since before the pandemic. The centerpiece on most Thanksgiving tables – the turkey – helped bring down the overall cost of dinner. The average price for a 16-pound turkey is $27.35. That is $1.71 per pound, down 5.6% from last year. Farm Bureau “volunteer shoppers” checked prices Nov. 1-6, before most grocery store chains began featuring whole frozen turkeys at sharply lower prices. According to USDA Agricultural Marketing Service data, the average per-pound feature price for whole frozen turkeys declined further during the second week of November. Consumers who have not yet purchased a turkey may find additional savings in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. “Traditionally, the turkey is the most expensive item on the Thanksgiving dinner table,” said AFBF Senior Economist Veronica Nigh. “Turkey prices have fallen thanks to a sharp reduction in cases of avian influenza, which have allowed production to increase in time for the holiday.” The shopping list for Farm Bureau’s informal survey includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream, all in quantities sufficient to serve a family of 10 with plenty of leftovers. “While shoppers will see a slight improvement in the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner, high inflation continues to hammer families across the country, including the nation’s farmers,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Growing the food families rely on is a constant challenge for farmers because of high fuel, seed, fertilizer and transportation costs, just to name a few. While high food prices are a concern for every family, America still has one of the most affordable food supplies in the world. We’ve accomplished that, in part, due to strong farm bill programs. Although our focus is sharing time with family and friends this Thanksgiving, our thoughts also turn to encouraging Congress to double down on a commitment to passing a new farm bill with a modernized safety net to support those who raise the crops and livestock that supply Thanksgiving dinner and every dinner.” In recognition of changes in Thanksgiving dinner traditions, the Farm Bureau price survey also includes boneless ham, Russet potatoes and frozen green beans, in an expanded menu. Adding -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 14 of 19 Continued from previous page these foods to the classic Thanksgiving menu increased the overall cost by $23.58, to $84.75. This year’s national average cost was calculated using 245 surveys completed with pricing data from all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers checked prices in person and online using grocery store apps and websites. They looked for the best possible prices without taking advantage of special promotional coupons or purchase deals. The AFBF Thanksgiving dinner survey was first conducted in 1986. The informal survey provides a record of comparative holiday meal costs over the years. Farm Bureau’s classic survey menu has remained unchanged since 1986 to allow for consistent price comparisons. Individual Prices 16-pound turkey: $27.35 or $1.71 per pound (down 5.6%) 14-ounces of cubed stuffing mix: $3.77 (down 2.8%) 2 frozen pie crusts: $3.50 (down 4.9%) Half pint of whipping cream: $1.73 (down 22.8%) 1 pound of frozen peas: $1.88 (down 1.1%) 1 dozen dinner rolls: $3.84 (up 2.9%) Misc. ingredients to prepare the meal: $3.95 (down 4.4%) 30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix: $4.44 (up 3.7%) 1 gallon of whole milk: $3.74 (down 2.6%) 3 pounds of sweet potatoes: $3.97 (up .3%) 1-pound veggie tray (carrots & celery): $.90 (up 2.3%) 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries: $2.10 (down 18.3%) Regional Averages AFBF analysis revealed regional differences in the cost of the meal. The cost for the classic meal was the most affordable in the Midwest - $58.66, followed by the South - $59.10, the West $63.89, and the Northeast - $64.38. The expanded meal (classic meal plus boneless ham, Russet potatoes and green beans) was the most affordable in the Midwest - $81.83, the South - $82.61, the West - $87.75, and the Northeast - $88.43. AFBF also conducts an annual summer cookout survey in advance of the 4th of July holiday. Be sure to watch for that in late June 2024.
GFB Field Notes page 15 of 19 CROP INSURANCE FOR FRUITS, WHOLE-FARM REVENUE Nov. 20 deadline to apply or renew The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia apple, blueberry, and peach growers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2024 crop year is November 20. Growers who are interested in the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection policy and are late fiscal year filers have until November 20 to apply for crop insurance. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the November 20 sales closing date to do so. Federal crop insurance is critical to the farm safety net. It helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and strengthens the rural economy. Coverage is available for apples in Fannin, Gilmer, and Rabun counties. Coverage is available for blueberries in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Berrien, Brantley, Burke, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Jeff Davis, Lanier, Long, Pierce, Ware, and Wayne counties. Coverage is available for peaches in Bacon, Banks, Bleckley, Brooks, Crawford, Dooly, Hall, Henry, Macon, Meriwether, Monroe, Morgan, Oconee, Peach, Pierce, Pike, Schley, and Taylor counties. Coverage is available for Whole-Farm Revenue Protection in all Georgia counties. Growers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2024 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at rma.usda.gov. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. The Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance Company contracts with three companies -Rain & Hail, Sompo, and Crop Risk Services to offer crop insurance. GFB has over 70 experienced crop insurance agents (and growing) across the state to help their members protect their investment. Find your local agent and learn more at GFBInsurance.com or email crops@gfbinsurance.com for more details. GA FOUNDATION FOR AG FARM TO FUTURE ONLINE CHARITY AUCTION Nov. 27-Dec. 6 online Join us for the GFA Online Charity Auction opening on Cyber Monday! Our goal is to raise at least $25,000. Support GFA programs such as the mobile ag classroom while getting a head start on your Christmas shopping. With more than 150 items up for grabs, you'll find something for everyone. This year's auction will feature great items such as sporting tickets, local experiences, overnight stays, tech gadgets, home decor, family activities and more. Consider a donation or just purchasing a raffle ticket to support our organization. You can be entered to win one of three raffle items, like 50 half chickens! GFA is seeking sponsors and item donors. Follow the GFA Facebook page for updates!
GFB Field Notes page 16 of 19 FERAL SWINE WORKSHOP & TRAPPING DEMONSTRATION Nov. 28 Lincoln County Extension Office 5 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Lincolnton A group of agricultural and natural resource organizations are partnering to bring Georgia’s top experts on feral swine together in a series of educational workshops for farmers and landowners. Partnering agencies will host a workshop and trapping demonstration on Nov. 28 at UGA Extension located at 2080 Rowland- York Drive, Lincolnton, GA 30817. The workshop will be in the evening from 5 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. with dinner provided and is sponsored by the Columbia County Conservation District, Lincoln County Conservation District and McDuffie County Conservation District. Topics will include disease issues, swine biology, economics, water quality issues, effective control techniques, transport issues, and regulations to be followed by a question and answer panel of experts. Each workshop will also include a feral swine trapping demonstration. Partnering agencies for this effort include the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Wildlife Services, Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division, Georgia Department of Agriculture, and University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources. There is no cost to attend the workshops, but space is limited, so preregistration is required. More details and registration information is available at www.GACD.us/events. CROP INSURANCE FOR PASTURE, RANGELAND, FORAGE AND APICULTURE Dec. 1 deadline to enroll or renew The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia forage, livestock, and honey producers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2024 crop year is December 1. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the December 1 sales closing date to do so. Federal crop insurance is critical to the farm safety net. It helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and strengthens the rural economy. Acreage intended for grazing and haying is insurable under the Pasture, Rangeland and Forage (PRF) program, and colonies of bees are insurable under the Apiculture program. The PRF and Apiculture programs for 2024 are under the Rainfall Index insurance plan. Coverage is available for PRF and Apiculture in all Georgia counties. For more information regarding coverage, producers can access RMA Apiculture Grid ID Locator and the PRF Support Tool online. Growers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2024 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at rma.usda.gov. The Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance Company contracts with three companies -Rain & Hail, Sompo, and Crop Risk Services to offer crop insurance. GFB has over 70 experienced crop insurance agents (and growing) across the state to help their members protect their investment. Find your local agent and learn more at GFBInsurance.com or email crops@gfbinsurance.com for more details.
GFB Field Notes page 17 of 19 NOMINATIONS FOR OUTSTANDING GA YOUNG PEANUT FARMER AWARD Dec. 1 deadline for nominations Nominations are open for the Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award. The state winner will be announced at the Georgia Peanut Farm Show on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Tifton, Georgia. The award is sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission and BASF. The Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award is based upon the applicant’s overall farm operation; environmental and stewardship practices; and leadership, civic, church, and community service activities. The award is open for any active Georgia peanut farmer who is not over 45 years of age, before Jan. 18, 2024. An individual may receive the award only once. There is no limit on the number of applicants from each county in Georgia. Applications are due to the GPC office by Friday, Dec. 1, 2023. The award application is available online at www.gapeanuts.com or by contacting Joy Crosby at 229-386-3690 or joycrosby@gapeanuts.com. 2023 GEORGIA FARM BUREAU ANNUAL CONVENTION Dec. 3-5 Jekyll Island Convention Center Jekyll Island Georgia Farm Bureau members trek to the Georgia coast for this annual must-attend event featuring the always-popular trade show, finalization of GFB’s 2024 policy stances, board elections, renewal of long-time friendships and much more! Speakers will include Gov. Brian Kemp via video, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tyler Harper and motivational speaker Matt Lohr. A full slate of speakers will discuss a variety of policy & production issues affecting Georgia’s major commodities during breakout sessions to be held Monday, Dec. 4 at 2 and 3:30 p.m. Outstanding County Farm Bureaus will be recognized for their work throughout the year to promote agriculture. A new event will be the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture’s Christmas on the Farm Bingo to be held Sunday, Dec. 3 from 1-2:30 p.m. at the convention center. Colquitt County Farm Bureau Office Manager Greta Collins and the Farm Monitor’s John Holcomb will emcee the event. For $20, guests will get 10 bingo cards, and enjoy door prizes, a raffle, music, Christmas goodies, and a pop-up shop visit from Jekyll Island women's clothing boutique Brittney's Closet. Visit https://www.gafoundationag.org/bingo for complete details & to buy advance bingo tickets. Tickets for Bingo will be sold at convention but advance ticket purchases are encouraged. 2024 SOUTHEAST FRUIT & VEGETABLE CONFERENCE Jan. 11-14, 2024 Savannah Convention Center Savannah A must-attend event for fruit and vegetable growers, the Southeast Fruit & Vegetable Conference is sponsored in part by Georgia Farm Bureau. The event features educational workshops on federal rules compliance, production tips, limiting risk and managing pests, as well as one of the south’s largest trade shows for specialty crops. Attendees also have the opportunity to earn pesticide CEU credits. For more information, visit https://seregionalconference.org/. To register, click here.
GFB Field Notes page 18 of 19 14th ANNUAL GFB DISTRICT 2 STEER & HEIFER SHOW Jan. 27, 2024 Jackson County Agricultural Facility Jefferson The show will be a one-day show. Check-in will be 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Jan. 27. The barn will be open on Jan. 26 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. for early arrivals. Show will begin at 9:30 a.m. with showmanship classes. Entries are non-refundable/non-returnable. The entry fee is $25 per animal for Farm Bureau members or $35 per animal for non-members. Membership must belong to the exhibitor and/or their immediate family. Membership can be obtained at your local County Farm Bureau office or online for $35. There will be a $10/head late fee for late entries. T-shirts will be available for purchase: short sleeve - $20, long sleeve - $25. The show is open only to Junior Beef Cattle exhibitors of the counties listed above. For the purposes of show communication, please make sure the correct mailing address and email address is listed in your registration. Directions to the Jackson County Agricultural Facility can be found via GPS at 1869 County Farm Rd., Jefferson, GA 30549. Entry forms are available at https://gfb.ag/district2cattleshow. Deadline for registration is Jan. 12, 2024! Senior exhibitors, don't forget out our senior scholarship! Applications are available on the website. USDA DISCRIMINATION FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Jan. 13, 2024 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 Jan. 13, 2024, 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) 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 is free and does not require an attorney. GEORGIA PEANUT FARM SHOW Jan. 18, 2024 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center Tifton This annual show is free and open to all farmers and industry representatives to attend. The show is sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with more than 100 agribusinesses and organizations in the peanut and agricultural industry. Farmers will be able to earn private and commercial pesticide applicator certification, as well as learn about cutting-edge research and developments during the University of Georgia Peanut Production Seminar and industry-wide sponsored Peanut Seed Seminar. More details at https://bit.ly/49jHWIU.
GFB Field Notes page 19 of 19 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.