GEORGIA FARM BUREAU ELECTS 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
McCall reelected GFB president for third term
GFB South Georgia VP Johnson redesignated GFB 1st vice president
Caldwell reelected GFB Middle Georgia vice president
Sims continues serving as GFB North Georgia vice president
Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) voting delegates elected the organization’s 2025 board of directors Dec. 10 during the 87th Annual GFB Convention held on Jekyll Island.
GFB voting delegates reelected President Tom McCall for a third, two-year term. He was first elected in 2020. McCall and his family grow a variety of grain crops, sweet corn, hay and straw along with beef cattle, hogs and sheep on their farm in Fortsonia in Elbert County. He and his wife, Jane, have two adult living children: Al (daughter-in-law Rachel) and Katie M. Archer (son-inlaw Bristol), two grandsons and one granddaughter. Their oldest son, Bud, died in 2000. The McCalls are of the Methodist faith.
McCall has been a Farm Bureau member since 1978. His first leadership role with Farm Bureau was serving as the chairman of the Elbert County Farm Bureau (ECFB) Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee. He represented GFB’s 2nd District on the GFB YF&R Committee in 1981-82 and chaired the state committee in 1982. McCall represented GFB’s 2nd District on the GFB Board of Directors from 1984-1996. He also served as ECFB president for several years.
McCall served in the Georgia House of Representatives for 26 years from Jan. 9, 1995, when he was sworn into office, until he retired from the legislature at the end of his 2020 term. As a state representative, McCall represented Georgia’s House Dist. 33, which at the time included Elbert and Lincoln counties and portions of Madison, Wilkes and Columbia counties. McCall chaired the Georgia House Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Committee from January 2005-2020. He currently serves on the UGA Research Foundation Board of Directors. He earned an associate degree in agriculture from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from the UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences.
GFB voting delegates redesignated GFB South Georgia Vice President Daniel Johnson of Pierce County as the organization’s 1st vice president from among the organization’s three regional vice presidents, a position he has held since 2021. The GFB first vice president would be tapped to lead -continued on next page
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The organization should the president be unable to serve. Johnson begins the third year of his third, three-year term representing GFB’s South Georgia region that consists of 53-counties in the southern third of the state.
Johnson, who grows tobacco, corn, cotton and peanuts, previously represented the organization’s 10th District on the GFB Board of Directors from 2006-2016. He is vice president of Pierce County Farm Bureau and previously served as PCFB president for 25 years. Johnson chairs the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Tobacco. He and his wife, Patricia, have four children and four grandchildren.
GFB members in the organization’s middle Georgia region re-elected Ralph Caldwell of Heard County to a second, three-year term as GFB Middle Georgia vice president. Caldwell was first elected in 2021. The GFB Middle Georgia Region includes 56 county Farm Bureaus in the middle third of Georgia stretching from the Alabama line to the South Carolina line.
Caldwell and his wife, Kim, raise poultry and cattle while growing corn and soybeans. The couple’s son, Colton, who is married to Delayna, helps on the farm when he isn’t at his law practice. The Caldwells have one granddaughter. Caldwell, a preacher for more than 30 years, is currently serving as interim pastor at Gold Ridge Baptist Church.
Caldwell began serving as a Heard County Farm Bureau director in 1990 and has served as the HCFB president since 2002. He served on the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee from 1992-1994.
Bernard Sims of Catoosa County begins the second year of his sixth, three-year term as the GFB North Georgia vice president. Sims was first elected to the position in 2008.
The GFB North Georgia Region includes 49 county Farm Bureaus in the upper third of Georgia. Sims serves as the Catoosa County Farm Bureau president, a position he has held since 1979. Sims and his wife, Janet, grow turf grass, small grains, and hay, and raise cattle. The Sims have two surviving adult children and eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They are members of Burning Bush Baptist Church.
GFB voting delegates in the organization’s 3rd District elected Chad Carlton of Polk County to a two-year term on the GFB Board of Directors to represent the district’s 14 counties in the Metro Atlanta area. Carlton and his wife, Julie, own a diversified farm that produces dairy, eggs and meat (beef, pork, chicken, lamb and turkey) sold directly to consumers.
A Farm Bureau member since 2001, Carlton has served on the Polk County Farm Bureau Board of Directors for about 15 years. He is currently a county director and previously served a five-year term as county vice president and multiple years as the Young Farmer chairman.
Carlton served on the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee in 2005-2006, chairing the state committee in 2006.
He won the 2007 GFB YF&R Discussion Meet and advanced to the final four round in the 2008 American Farm Bureau (AFB) Discussion Meet. The Carltons won the 2011 GFB YF&R Achievement Award in recognition of their farm and leadership activities and were one of four -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page finalists for the 2012 AFB Achievement Award.
The Carltons have two daughters – Jersey and Wren, and one son, Atticus. The family attends Calvary Baptist Church where Carlton teaches Sunday School. Carlton earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science and an MBA from Berry College. He is a member of Rockmart Masonic Lodge #97.
The following were reelected without opposition to serve two-year terms on the Georgia Farm Bureau Board of Directors: Wesley Hall of Forsyth County, 1st District; Russ Moon of Madison County, 2nd District; Skeetter McCorkle of McDuffie County, 4th District; Matt Bottoms of Pike County, 5th District; James Emory Tate of Jeff Davis County, 6th District; Ben Boyd of Screven County, 7th District; Don Wood of Wilcox County, 8th District; Lucius Adkins of Baker County, 9th District; and Lamar Vickers of Berrien County, 10th District.
GFB directors beginning the second year of the two-year terms they were elected to in 2023 are: Bill Bryan of Chattooga County, 1st District; Gilbert Barrett of Habersham County, 2nd District; Brad Marks of Newton County, 3rd District; Russ Wilburn of Barrow County, 4th District; Leighton Cooley of Crawford County, 5th District; James Malone of Laurens County, 6th District; Gary Bell of Evans County, 7th District; Scotty Raines of Turner County, 8th District; Paul Shirah of Mitchell County, 9th District and David Lee of Bacon County, 10th District.
Allie Andrews of Lamar County was named chairman of the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee. Julie Hardy of Thomas County was selected to chair the GFB Women’s Leadership Committee. Each will serve a one-year term as committee chairmen and will sit on the GFB Board of Directors.
Appointed officers of the GFB Board of Directors include General Counsel Duke Groover, Chief Financial Officer & Corporate Treasurer David Jolley, Chief Administrative Officer Jeffrey Harvey, Corporate Secretary & Senior Counsel Jeanna Fennell, and Assistant Corporate Treasurer Rachel Mosely.
Delegates also voted on policy that will direct the organization’s stance on legislative issues pertaining to agriculture in the coming year.
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PRESENTS STATE AWARDS
In ceremonies during the 87th Annual Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Convention, the organization announced the recipients of its Rewarding Excellence in Ag Program (REAP), honored 10 Volunteers of the Year, presented the Ag In The Classroom Teacher of the Year Award and recognized the winners of the GFB Hay Contest.
GFB’s REAP award honors county Farm Bureaus for their organization/membership, advocacy, leadership development, education & outreach activities between Sept. 1, 2023, and Aug. 31, 2024. The REAP Awards are divided into three tiers – Harvester (1st), Planter (2nd) and Cultivator (3rd) with tier winners in each of GFB’s three membership categories – small, medium and large. County presidents and office managers listed are for the majority of 2024.
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The county winners in the top tier, HARVESTER, are:
Small Farm Bureau counties – Dooly (President Teel Warbington, Office Manager Angela Barton), Turner (President Ross Kendrick, Office Manager Karen McCurdy), Warren (President Tammy Cheely, Office Manager Lisa Smith) and Wilkes (President Danny Gunter, Office Manager Rebecca Griffin);
Medium Farm Bureau counties – Banks (President William Reems, Office Manager Julie Jackson), Berrien (President Parrish Akins, Office Manager Vanna Boykin), Clarke (President Dale Wood, Office Manager Katy Seagraves), Dawson (President Wayne Bennett, Office Manager Tammy Wood), Greene (President Jeff Eley, Office Manager Shirley Duvall), Harris (President Gilbert Andrews, Office Manager Linda Luttrell), Jeff Davis (President James Emory Tate, Office Manager Regina Barton), Polk (President James Casey, Office Manager Sue Cuzzort) and Worth (President Ronald Sumner, Office Manager Connie Melton);
Large Farm Bureau counties – Barrow (President Russ Wilburn, Office Manager Ashley Lowery), Carroll (President Doug Smith, Office Manager Jennifer Dixson), Cherokee (President William Grizzle, Office Manager Rhonda Stargel), Coffee (President Derek Pridgen, Office Manager Carla Palmer), Colquitt (President Trey Hart, Office Manager Greta Collins), Effingham (President Stuart Exley, Office Manager Theresa Peavey), Elbert (President Mandy Williams, Office Manager Haley Oakley), Franklin (President Michael Thomason, Office Manager Rebecca Whitfield), No. Fulton (President Dakota Martin), Haralson (President Jack Williams, Office Manager Kim Hindmon), Madison (President Cindy Jones, Office Manager Lauren Lord), McDuffie (President Mark Rodgers, Office Manager Kim-Cora Kay), Newton (President Chuck Berry, Office Manager Mary Corley), Paulding (President Trudy Sowar, Office Manager Krista Wilkes), Walker (President Mike Bunn, Office Manager Kyla Compton) and Walton (President Ken Boss, Office Manager Mandy Braswell);
Each Harvester County received a plaque & $1,500. Each county president received an embroidered jacket, and each county office manager received a $750 gift card.
The county winners in the second tier, PLANTER, are:
Small Farm Bureau counties – Bacon (President David Lee, Office Manager Jeanne Taylor), Crawford (President Edward Harris, Office Manager Lindsey Campbell), Echols (President Ronald Highsmith), Long (President Manuel Sneed, Office Manager Margaret Bess), Meriwether (President Kenneth Murphy, Office Manager Denise Todd);
Medium Farm Bureau Counties – Floyd (President Cleve Jackson, Office Manager Kelli Shaw), Monroe (President Bill Waldrep, Office Manager Sandi Williams), Oglethorpe (President Matt Hughes, Office Manager Maisie Carter), Screven (President Joe Boddiford, Office Manager Beth Reddick) and Troup (President Joel Keith, Office Manager Anna Rogers);
Large Farm Bureau counties – Habersham (President Chip Brooks, Office Manager Madison Bennett), Henry (President Daniel Welliver, Office Manager Jean Dykes), Jackson (President Swayne Cochran, Office Manager Jada Williams), White (President Stanley London, Office Manager Denise Loggins);
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Each Planter County received a plaque. Each county president received an embroidered vest, and each county office manager received a $500 gift card.
The winners in the third tier, CULTIVATOR, are:
Small Farm Bureau Counties – Ben Hill (President Glen Stokes, Office Manager Denise Coleman), Crisp (President Kenny Sheffield, Office Manager Macey Dennard), Jasper (President Scotty Dumas, Office Manager Loretha Gage), Lanier (President Paul Folsom, Office Manager Angie Watson), Marion (President Ray Rustin), Putnam (President Lois Schell, Office Manager Marjorie Hanson), Taliaferro (President Tucker West, Office Manager Melanie Finney), Treutlen (President Kim Thompson) and Upson (President Marcus South, Office Manager Judy Warren);
Medium Farm Bureau counties – Chattooga (President Bill Bryan, Office Manager Sandy Wheat); Decatur (President Judson Hornsby, Office Manager Lisa Green), Dougherty (President Laney Wooten, Office Manager Cindy Drew), Morgan (President Rachel Kinsaul, Office Manager Alison Jenkins), Oconee (President Albert Hale, Office Manager Martha Jo Dalton), Pike (President Ray Brumbeloe, Office Manager Rebecca Rolling), Spalding (President Brian Ogletree, Office Manager Cindy Vandiver), Tattnall (President Cliff Riner, Office Manager Erin Todd), and Toombs (President Chris Hopkins, Office Manager Shelby Galbreath);
Large Farm Bureau counties – Hart (President Larry Haley, Office Manager Tina Simmons).
Each Cultivator County received a plaque. Each county president received an embroidered shirt, and each county office manager received a $300 gift card.
Pringle named GFB Teacher of Year
Henry County teacher Erin Pringle was recognized as Georgia Farm Bureau’s 2024 Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year. Pringle is an instructional effectiveness coach at Unity Grove Elementary School in McDonough, where she has worked for the past 19 years.
Pringle has served as Henry County Farm Bureau’s educational liaison, attended the GFB Ag in the Classroom Workshop & Tour and the Georgia Peanut Tour. She is working toward a certification in ag literacy.
As a school leader, Pringle built in hands-on learning opportunities that introduced students to passions and tie to local careers. She coordinates special activities and student challenges to connect across all content areas to support and extend required curriculum topics.
In her current role as instructional effectiveness coach, Pringle collaborates with local high school students serving on the FFA education team to design lessons and activities for grades K-5 at Unity Grove, including gardening, animal care, crop planning, and environmental stewardship.
As the award winner, Pringle receives $500 and a trip to the 2025 National Ag in the Classroom Conference in Minneapolis next June. The prizes are sponsored by Georgia EMC, GFB & the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture.
GFB honors district Volunteers of the Year
GFB also recognized 10 district Volunteers of the Year for extraordinary efforts to promote agriculture in their local communities. The Volunteers of the Year are: 1st Dist. - Brian Hart, -continued on next page
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Walker Co.; 2nd Dist. - Cecil Oakley, Elbert Co; 3rd Dist. - Sarah Nichols, Newton Co.; 4th Dist. - Sammy McCorkle, McDuffie Co.; 5th Dist. - Cynthia Douglas, Upson Co.; 6th Dist. - Brad Mason, Jeff Davis Co.; 7th Dist. - Whitney Sheppard, Screven Co.; 8th Dist. - Robin Peavy, Dooly Co.; 9th Dist. - Julie Hardy, Thomas Co.; and 10th Dist. - Ashley Smith, Coffee Co.
Walton County farmer wins GFB Hay Contest
Walton County Farm Bureau member Neal Pannell won the 2024 GFB Quality Bermudagrass Hay Contest. Pannell won the contest with hay that had a Relative Forage Quality (RFQ) test score of 145.95. As the first-place winner, Pannell receives the free use of a Vermeer mower-conditioner for one year, courtesy of Vermeer. He will have the option to buy the equipment at a reduced price at the end of the year.
GFB also congratulates the runner-up winners: 2nd place – Will Cabe of Franklin Co.; 3rd place Tony Petty of Bartow Co.; 4th place – Paul H. Kelly Sr. of Jasper Co. and 5th place – Eddy Turner of Washington Co.
Cabe won second place and a $200 gift card and gift bag with hay that had an RFQ of 145.41. Petty won third place and a $100 gift card and gift bag with hay that had an RFQ of 139.20. Kelly won fourth place and a $100 gift card and gift bag with hay that had an RFQ of 138.20. Turner won fifth place and a $100 gift card and gift bag with hay that had an RFQ of 138.12. GFB sponsored the second through fifth place prizes.
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU MEMBERS GATHER FOR 87TH ANNUAL CONVENTION
Some 1,421 Georgia farmers and agribusiness leaders from across the state met on Jekyll Island Dec. 8-10 for the 87th Annual Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Convention. The three-day event included a trade show, awards presentations and educational sessions that briefed farmers on policy and production issues affecting Georgia’s major commodities.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tyler Harper, and American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall addressed convention delegates during the general session on Dec. 9.
GFB President Tom McCall delivered his annual address, and GFB Chief Administrative Office Jeffrey Harvey gave an update on the Weathered But Strong Hurricane Helene Relief Fund.
The convention’s theme, “Where You Belong,” emphasized the organization’s welcoming nature while marking the 60th time GFB has held its annual meeting on Jekyll Island.
McCall lauds GFB response to Hurricane Helene, charts course for future
Tom McCall highlighted the organization’s response to Hurricane Helene, noted an updated mission statement, and pledged to continue GFB’s commitment to leadership development and expanding membership.
Helene left about $5.5 billion in agricultural damage in Georgia, in addition to at least 33 deaths and massive catastrophic losses of personal property and public infrastructure.
McCall noted that GFB’s volunteers from across the state worked to help clear storm debris, provide food for humans and animals, and help fellow farmers to begin recovering.
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“People’s lives will never be the same,” McCall said. “We have to depend on those around us who understand what we do. We have to continue leaning on each other!”
McCall announced an updated mission statement for the GFB Federation: As the voice of Georgia farmers, we will enhance the quality of life for producers and consumers by being the champion of agriculture.
“We haven’t wavered from our founding purpose 87 years ago: To provide leadership and assistance to farmers, and to ensure agriculture is a thriving business in the future,” McCall said.
McCall praised efforts to increase membership and pointed out that 87 of GFB’s 158 county chapters increased their membership over the past year. He said Georgia Farm Bureau’s work through its political action committee helped increase farmer representation in the Georgia General Assembly.
The GFB president thanked the membership for entrusting the organization’s legacy and success to him.
“Your dedication and passion inspire me every day,” McCall said. “Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead, advocate for policies that benefit our members, and ensure the prosperity of Georgia's agricultural community.”
Kemp urges federal government to fund Hurricane Helene disaster relief
Gov. Kemp discussed the devastating effect Hurricane Helene had on Georgia agriculture and urged Congress to pass disaster relief funding.
“Our top priority this upcoming year will be securing the needed relief for our farmers and communities impacted by the devastation of Hurricane. This was truly like no storm our state has ever seen with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, placing the price tag of at least $5.5 billion on the preliminary damage to our agriculture and forestry industries alone,” Kemp said. “I continue to urge the current administration, the incoming administration, and those in Congress, to fund block grants to the states for disaster relief as quickly as possible.”
To help farmers and timber owners until federal aid is passed, the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission approved redirecting $75 million to the Georgia Development Authority (GDA) to provide disaster relief loans to farmers hit by Hurricane Helene. The Georgia Department of Agriculture worked with the GDA to establish the SAFETY 24 loan program, which is now accepting loan applications on a first-come-first serve basis.
Farm operators who suffered losses from Hurricane Helene and reside in a FEMA designated disaster area (https://gis.fema.gov/maps/dec_4830.pdf ) or adjacent county are eligible to apply for up to $500,000 at a 2% fixed interest rate.
Eligible uses of these loan funds include income replacement, operating capitol, repairing or replacing damaged farm structures, repairing or replacing damaged equipment, and the purchase of machinery or equipment necessary to recover from hurricane damage.
To apply, visit https://www.gdaonline.com/hurricane-helene-loan-program/ for the application form, loss verification form and all application details.
Kemp, who has two years remaining in his second term as Georgia’s 83rd governor, outlined -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page action he and state leaders have taken in recent years to support Georgia agriculture.
“We know the success of our state would not be possible without the number one industry in the state, agriculture, in our farming communities. This industry touches every aspect of the economy, and by its extension, every aspect of our own lives,” Kemp said. “That's why ensuring this industry has the tools that it needs for success is always one of our top priorities.”
Kemp cited suspending the state motor fuel and diesel fuel tax during the 2023 fall harvest and again in the weeks after Hurricane Helene as examples of support state government has shown farmers.
“I was proud to sign legislation addressing many of the concerns you raised in recent years, including adding diesel exhaust fluid to the GATE (Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption) program, increasing the penalty for livestock theft, expanding the definition of farm use vehicles, and putting new funding into the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Protection Division to help address backlogs, building new sheep, goat and swine barns at the National Fairgrounds, and supporting the Hunters for the Hungry program to help address nuisance deer populations by encouraging hunters to take more deer,” Kemp said.
Other highlights from this year include investing over $1.6 billion in Georgia Department of transportation projects statewide with 83% of projects being done outside the Metro Atlanta region to support rural economic development. Kemp said the state continues to invest in its ports to ensure producers can reach markets anywhere in the world.
Harper encourages farmers to seek help to deal with stress
Georgia Agricultural Commissioner Tyler Harper discussed the tough year farmers were having before Hurricane Helene hit, and the emotional impact the storm has had on Georgia farmers.
“Many farmers experienced a wet spring that led to late plantings or having to replant crops. Then it got really dry. We’ve got an ag economy that’s hurting from low commodity prices and high-input costs and a national ag trade deficit,” Harper said. “Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Debby have had a multigenerational impact that will take years to recover from. Almost a third of Georgia’s agricultural economic output was wiped out in one year.”
Harper encouraged farmers negatively affected by the storms to reach out to friends or take advantage of mental health resources offered by the Georgia Department of Behavioral & Developmental Disabilities. Anyone needing help may call or text 988 to reach a mental health crisis line that offers 24/7 counseling.
Other resources are available at https://agr.georgia.gov/mental-health-agriculture or https://www.supportgeorgiafarmers.org/resources-for-farmers
“There’s a lot of uncertainty right now and it can take a toll on even the strongest of individuals. That’s why it’s important to be checking on each other,” Harper said.
He said the suicide rate among U.S. farmers is second only to U.S. veterans.
In addition to addressing the fallout from Helene, Harper said the department’s Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Division led by Harlan Proveaux is tackling drug traffickers using imported ag commodities to smuggle illegal drugs into Georgia. This year GDA -continued on next page
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law enforcement officers seized 2,500 pounds of meth in a shipment of celery that came into the state from Mexico and busted a marijuana operation in Pierce County valued at $25 million that was falsely operating in a fish facility.
The GDA continues to work to identify, trap and eradicate the Yellow-Legged Hornet that poses a threat to Georgia honeybees and the many crops they pollinate.
A nest of the invasive hornets was first detected in the U.S. in the Savannah area in Aug. 2023. Since then, 45 YLH nests have been eradicated in the Savannah area as of Oct. 24. The GDA has set up 1,171 traps in the Savannah area and coastal Georgia counties. For more information or to report a YLH siting, visit GDA’s Yellow-legged Hornet webpage https://agr.georgia.gov/yellowlegged-hornet.
Harvey: Weathered But Strong Hurricane Relief fund accepting applications
GFB Chief Administrative Officer Jeffrey Harvey encouraged farmers who suffered losses to Hurricane Helene to apply by midnight Dec. 31 to be considered for money the Weathered But Strong Georgia Hurricane Relief fund will begin distributing in February 2025.
All farming operations impacted by Hurricane Helene may apply, but priority will be given to farmers in counties declared to be in a disaster zone. Eligible farmers must hold a current, valid GATE card number issued through the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Farmers must submit their applications online through the Support Georgia Farmers website. To apply, please visit: www.supportgeorgiafarmers.org/application
The relief fund was established by the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA), in partnership with the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and with support from more than 40 agricultural partners. The fund aims to raise $1.5 million by Dec. 31 to provide direct financial aid to farmers impacted by the storm. Over $1 million has already been raised, and donations will be accepted until the end of December. To make a tax-deductible donation, please visit: www.supportgeorgiafarmers.org.
“Generations of hard work were gone overnight and unfortunately many of you experienced that,” Harvey said. “There's never a good time for a storm like this, but Helene could not have come in a worst possible time considering our already shaky agricultural economy.”
Harvey assured members that GFB will continue to stand with them to ensure farmers’ voices are heard at the state and national levels.
“Achieving excellence is not a destination. It's a continuous process of improvements, striving every day to be better than we were yesterday,” Harvey said.
Duvall says AFBF continues to fight for farm bill
AFBF President Zippy Duvall said AFBF will continue to push Congress to pass a new farm bill and noted analysis showing that without a new farm bill, between 20% and 25% of producers nationwide won’t get operating loans for 2025.
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Continued from previous page said referring to the last year Congress passed a farm bill.
The biggest issue facing American agriculture, Duvall said, is finding agricultural labor. He said the U.S. food system allows American citizens to be free because the nation does not have to depend on imported food sources.
“Everywhere I go farmers tell me, ‘I can’t find any labor. I want to expand. My child wants to come home from college and go into business with me.’ We’ve got to have a modernized guest worker program that is fair for farmers and to the people who come here to work for us, and one we can afford to pay for.”
Duvall said he looks across American agriculture and sees unlimited potential and resilience.
“I've seen resilience that lives in the heart of the American farmer,” Duvall said. “I promise you everywhere I go, they know I’m from Georgia and they say, ‘what can we do to help them?’ The Farm Bureau family is there to help you and show you the resilience within our organization and that's what makes us great.”
Duvall emphasized the role county Farm Bureau presidents play, saying that they, along with county boards of directors, are the organization’s true value and strength.
“We accomplish what we accomplish because of what you do, which is so vitally important,” Duvall said of county presidents. “It is the most foundational position in this organization.”
Williams gives GFB members update on Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island Authority Executive Director Mark Williams welcomed convention guests during the opening session of the GFB 87th Annual Convention.
“It’s great to have our Farm Bureau friends back on Jekyll Island,” Williams said. “I want to thank your members for choosing Jekyll to have your convention year after year. As a member of Farm Bureau, I applaud all of the services you offer.”
Williams gave an update on improvements being made to the island saying that four new shops are open in the historic district with more expected to be open by spring. The Great Dunes golf course is being expanded to 18-holes and renovation of the Pine Lakes Golf Course is complete. He said a public safety complex has been completed and opened on Shell Road.
Williams said crews started putting up Christmas lights around the island back in October and encouraged everyone to take a trolley tour to see them or ride around the island.
Parker encourages GFB members to put faith over fear
While delivering the keynote speech at the GFB 87th Annual Convention, Tennessee native Nick Parker shared what he has learned about putting faith over fear and living with hope during his 10-year journey with Parkinson’s disease and two-year fight with esophageal cancer. As of August, he is one year cancer free.
Parker shared two Bible verses that have encouraged him as he has dealt with his health issues – Zephaniah 3:17 and Psalms 27:13.
“If life has taught me anything it’s danger is real, but our response is a choice,” Parker said. “I could get better or I could get bitter. Faith doesn’t deny reality. It masters it. We don’t get to dictate -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page where hurricanes go or commodity prices, but with faith you can move forward.”
Parker encouraged the audience to focus on others rather than themselves and to see obstacles as opportunities.
Parker, a Marine veteran, received a B.S. degree from East Tennessee State University, served in the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Drug Division and was a Tennessee Farm Bureau insurance agent for more than 20 years before medically retiring in 2023.
He and his wife, Trina, have two adult daughters.
To learn more about the Parker Family’s Our Hope Project or signup for his newsletter visit https://ourhopeproject.com/the-team.
GA EPD TO RESUME ISSUING WATER PERMITS IN LOWER FLINT & CHATTAHOOCHEE
Gov. Brian Kemp gave Georgia farmers in Southwest Georgia an early Christmas present when he announced Dec. 18 that the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has modified the 2012 suspension of agricultural water withdrawal permits in portions of the Lower Flint and Chattahoochee River Basins. This will allow the first new agricultural water withdrawal permits in this area to be issued in over a decade.
Beginning April 1, 2025, EPD will accept applications for groundwater withdrawal permits that will include drought-related measures to continue ensuring the long-term well-being of water resources essential to Georgia farmers.
“As Georgia farmers continue to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, I could not be more proud to deliver this good news,” said Kemp. “I am grateful to the EPD for their diligent and hard work in ensuring that our state is on a path that protects both Georgia farmers and our water resources.”
Since the 2012 suspension was enacted, EPD has gathered the technical data necessary to make modifications responsibly and with long-term impacts in mind.
“A lot of work has been done since 2012, especially over the last couple years” said EPD Director Jeff Cown. “EPD is confident with these updated recommendations, as our metering program has gathered extensive data strengthening our technical understanding of surface water and groundwater in the Lower Flint. The Regional Water and Habitat Conservation Plans support existing water users, including farmers, and set the stage to make room for new ones. We look forward to working with all water users as they obtain these newly, developed permits.”
In 2023, EPD began exploring limited modifications, including permitting for frost protection in portions of the suspension area. These efforts laid the groundwork for the new adjustments announced today and demonstrate EPD’s commitment to balancing water resource management with the needs of Georgia’s farmers.
“Georgia Farm Bureau appreciates the due diligence the Environmental Protection Division has put into studying the 2012 suspension of agricultural water permits in parts of the Lower Flint and Chattahoochee River Basins and its decision to modify the suspensions to give farmers access to water they need to grow their crops while simultaneously protecting our state’s water resources. -continued on next page
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Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp and EPD Director Cown, this long-awaited action will unlock vital resources for our southwest Georgia farmers,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall.
In 2012, then EPD Director Judson Turner issued a memo suspending the consideration of agricultural water withdrawal permits in portions of the Lower Flint and Chattahoochee River Basins from surface waters and the Floridan aquifer. The suspension allowed EPD time to improve the understanding of the condition of those resources and identify the management activities necessary for long-term sustainability. In that memo, then-Director Turner directed EPD staff to evaluate the suspension annually.
The EPD Watershed Protection Branch (WPB) staff has made the following recommendations for modifying the 2012 suspension.
1. WPB recommends maintaining the 2012 suspension on surface water withdrawals, except for surface water withdrawals from the Suwannee and Ochlockonee River Basins. While additional surface water withdrawals from the Suwannee and Ochlockonee River Basins would have no impact on stream flows in the Flint River Basin, surface water withdrawals from the Flint River and its tributaries would have a direct impact. Additional surface water withdrawals from the Flint and Chattahoochee River Basins in the 2012 suspension area could lead to negative effects on other users and the water resource.
2. WPB recommends permitting new or expanded withdrawals from the Floridan aquifer in the 2012 suspension area on the condition that the permits include all statutory and regulatory requirements and restrictions on withdrawals in times of drought. This modification to the 2012 suspension would be protective of existing users and the resource in times of drought, while allowing some opportunity for new acres to be irrigated under normal and wetter weather conditions. Technical assessment of this proposed change indicates virtually no impact beyond the 2011-2012 drought. WPB recommends accepting applications for new or expanded withdrawals from the Floridan aquifer in the 2012 suspension area for drought-restricted permits starting on April 1, 2025.
3. WPB recommends providing permits without drought restrictions to those agricultural water users with unpermitted acres and sources put into irrigation prior to the 1999 or 2012 suspension. The permits must be consistent with the 2006 Flint River Basin Plan and current statutory requirements, including irrigation efficiency and 25-year permit terms. For the red zone, only acres and sources put into irrigation before December 1999 will be considered. For the green and yellow zones, only acres and sources put into irrigation before July 30, 2012, will be considered. This approach maintains the same overall drought-time irrigated acreage as assessed in the US Supreme Court case of Florida vs. Georgia.
4. WPB recommends a strong emphasis on addressing noncompliance with agricultural water withdrawal requirements. The noncompliance with issued permits or withdrawing water without a permit creates significant risk not only for the person engaged in noncompliance, but for the entire agricultural community. Unpermitted acres or sources will be addressed through compliance -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page pathways that will reduce the load on the water resources, particularly in times of drought. Again, the successful implementation of this compliance program will help maintain the same overall drought-time irrigated acreage as assessed and affirmed by the Supreme Court’s 2021 decision.
5. WPB recommends continuing to support the Habitat Conservation Plan development, submittal, and approval process. The Habitat Conservation Plan process allows EPD the opportunity to build more knowledge about the 2012 suspension area and implement projects that will provide protection to existing users and the water resources. The acceptance of Georgia’s Habitat Conservation Plan and the issuance of an Incidental Take Permit by the US Fish and Wildlife Service will ensure the protection of endangered species while providing long-term stability and protection of Georgia’s agricultural permitting practice as well as the permitted farming community.
USDA BEGINS MILK TESTING STRATEGY TO ADDRESS H5N1 IN DAIRY HERDS
On Dec. 6, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the start of its National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS), which builds on measures taken by USDA and federal and state partners since the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in dairy cattle was first detected in March 2024.
The state of California announced on Nov. 24 that a sample of raw milk purchased at a retail outlet tested positive for H5N1. The producer, Raw Farm LLC, recalled batches of its milk at the state’s request.
The USDA issued a new federal order, as well as accompanying guidance, requiring that raw (unpasteurized) milk samples nationwide be collected and shared with USDA for testing. This guidance, which was developed with significant input from state, veterinary and public health stakeholders, will facilitate comprehensive H5N1 surveillance of the nation’s milk supply and dairy herds.
The NMTS is designed to increase USDA’s and public health partners’ understanding of the virus’ spread in the United States through a structured, uniform, and mandatory testing system that will help swiftly identify which states, and specific herds within them, have cases H5N1; support the rapid implementation of enhanced biosecurity measures to decrease the risk of transmission to other livestock; and importantly, inform critical efforts to protect farmworkers to help lower their risk of exposure. The USDA said this additional step is needed to proactively support effective biosecurity measures, which is key for states and farmers to contain and eliminate H5N1 infections from their livestock and to eliminate HPAI in livestock across the U.S. dairy population.
The federal order makes three new requirements. First, it requires the sharing of raw milk samples, upon request, from any entity responsible for a dairy farm, bulk milk transporter, bulk milk transfer station, or dairy processing facility that sends or holds milk intended for pasteurization. Second, the Federal Order requires herd owners with positive cattle to provide epidemiological information that enables activities such as contact tracing and disease surveillance. Finally, it requires that private laboratories and state veterinarians report positive -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page results to USDA that come from tests done on raw milk samples drawn as part of the NMTS. The first round of silo testing under the federal order and the NMTS was scheduled to begin the week of Dec. 16, 2024, although some states are already conducting testing compatible with the NMTS.
This new federal order does not override or supersede USDA’s April 24 federal order, which still requires the mandatory testing of lactating dairy cows prior to interstate shipment and requires that all privately owned laboratories and state veterinarians report positive test results connected with those tests. The new federal order is intended to complement and enhance this existing order.
National Milk Testing Strategy
As part of the National Milk Testing Strategy, APHIS will work with each state in the contiguous United States to execute testing in a way that works for the state and that aligns with the NMTS standards. Once a state begins testing under the NMTS, APHIS will place that state into one of five stages based on the HPAI H5N1 virus prevalence in that state. As states move to another stage, we will have a stronger picture of our progress towards eliminating HPAI H5N1 at state, regional and national levels. These stages include:
Stage 1: Standing Up Mandatory USDA National Plant Silo Monitoring
USDA will immediately begin nationwide testing of milk silos at dairy processing facilities. This national sample will allow USDA to identify where the disease is present, monitor trends, and help states identify potentially affected herds.
Stage 2: Determining a State’s H5N1 Dairy Cattle Status
Building on the results of silo monitoring, in collaboration with states, USDA will also stand up bulk tank sampling programs that will enable identification of herds in the state that are affected with H5N1.
Stage 3: Detecting and Responding to the Virus in Affected States
For states with H5N1 detections, APHIS will work quickly to identify specific cases and implement rapid response measures, including enhanced biosecurity using USDA’s existing incentives programs, movement controls and contact tracing.
Stage 4: Demonstrating Ongoing Absence of H5 in Dairy Cattle in Unaffected States
Once all dairy herds in a given state are considered to be unaffected, APHIS will continue regular sampling of farms’ bulk tanks to ensure the disease does not re-emerge. Bulk tank sampling frequency will progressively decline as the state demonstrates continual silo negativity (e.g., weekly, monthly, quarterly if continually negative). If a state becomes affected, USDA will reengage detection and response activities, and the state will return to Stage 3.
Stage 5: Demonstrating Freedom from H5 in U.S. Dairy Cattle
After all states move through Stage Four, APHIS will work with the states to begin periodic sampling and testing to illustrate long-term absence from the national herd.
Six states were included in the first round of states brought into the program for testing: California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. An additional seven states will be included in the second round of states to be brought into this testing strategy: Indiana, -continued on next page
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Maryland, Montana, New York, Ohio, Vermont, and Washington.
The remaining 42 states will work directly with APHIS to implement their state-oriented plans. In Georgia, State Veterinarian Janemarie Hennebelle and the Georgia Department of Agriculture Dairy Division are finalizing a plan with USDA with input from the dairy and ag industry. GDA anticipates testing in Georgia to begin in January.
As states begin testing under the NMTS and as they move through the five stages, their progress will be shared at USDA HPAI in Livestock Testing. While the majority of states will enter the NMTS at Stage 1, we anticipate states with ongoing testing may meet the testing requirements described above in Stages 2-4. USDA will work closely with states to determine each state’s status.
In the coming weeks, APHIS will include additional states in the NMTS. Throughout this process APHIS will continue to support and offer resources to states that develop bulk milk testing plans in a way that meets the needs of each state and the importance of the response. APHIS will work with each of the 48 contiguous states to participate in the program.
JUDGE HALTS CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT IMPLEMENTATION
On Dec. 3, a federal judge in Texas issued a preliminary injunction to halt implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) reporting requirements.
The CTA requires incorporated businesses to file reports detailing which individuals are “beneficial owners” of their businesses, with civil penalties and potential jail time for those who do not comply.
In the case Texas Top Cop Shop Inc. vs. U.S., Judge Amos Mazzan of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas found that the requirements are likely unconstitutional on the grounds that they are outside Congress’ power. Mazzan noted that the law is an attempt by the federal government to monitor companies created under state law and ends anonymity afforded to individuals in some states.
“For good reason, plaintiffs fear this flanking, quasi-Orwellian statute and its implications on our dual system of government,” Mazzan wrote.
Farm Bureau welcomed the ruling, which is effective nationwide until resolution of the case.
“Farm Bureau has long fought against the mandated disclosure of farmers’ private business information to the federal government in a number of different scenarios,” AFBF President Zippy Duvall said in a prepared statement. “For a second time this year, a federal court has ruled the CTA oversteps the Constitution on that front. We appreciate the temporary reprieve provided by the injunction and hope Congress can take a cue from the courts in the coming weeks to provide a more permanent resolution to this problematic policy.”
To read the ruling click here.
To read about CTA requirements, click here.
USDA PROVIDES COMPLIANCE FLEXIBILITIES FOR HURRICANE RELIEF
On Dec. 5, the USDA announced it is taking steps to streamline and provide flexibilities for environmental compliance requirements for relief programs for 2024 hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.
These flexibilities allow the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to expedite approval of payments and practice implementation for Emergency Conservation Program (ECP), Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP), and Tree Assistance Program (TAP) applicants impacted by these three named storms in 2024.
Additionally, USDA is waiving certain requirements for ECP and EFRP to provide restoration cost share assistance payments more quickly to producers impacted by hurricanes occurring Oct. 1, 2016, through Sept. 30, 2023. FSA is waiving the requirement that producers impacted by hurricanes submit receipts and documentation related to land restoration.
ECP provides financial and technical assistance to help agricultural producers rehabilitate ag land and conservation structures damaged by natural disasters. EFRP provides financial and technical assistance to eligible owners of nonindustrial private forestland to complete forest restoration activities to restore forest resources and forest health. TAP provides financial assistance to orchardists and nursery tree growers to help cover the cost of replanting or rehabilitating eligible trees, bushes and vines that produce annual crops that were damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster.
Environmental Compliance Flexibilities for
2024 Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton
In response to 2024 hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton, FSA provided flexibility for ECP and EFRP applicants to start non-ground disturbing activities like surface debris removal and fence restoration without FSA prior approval or on-site inspection. These additional flexibilities also apply to TAP to allow eligible orchardists and nursery tree growers to complete site preparations in order to replant eligible trees, bushes and vines and offset the costs of getting the land back into production.
Due to emergency circumstances, FSA received a categorical exclusions waiver that will allow alternative arrangements to meet National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance for seven ground disturbing activities. Because these activities occur in locations where the natural disaster event itself caused the ground disturbance, these restoration activities have low potential to adversely impact resources.
The exclusions wavier covers the following practices:
• Fence replacement
• Sediment removal, incorporation, grading, shaping and leveling
• Tree, root and stump removal
• Roads, bridges and culverts necessary to facilitate forest restoration
• Burning of woody debris
• Vegetation removal, including tree stumps, on 40 or more total acres
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• Clear cutting operations for timber on 100 or more total acres
The program flexibilities will allow FSA to more quickly complete an environmental review to determine the impact to natural and cultural resources for the disaster area as a whole rather than on an individual case-by-case basis.
These flexibilities also allow participants to restore private agriculture and forestland to predisaster conditions and prevent subsequent damage. They also address hazards to public health and safety, critical infrastructure, and mitigate hazards to natural resources like woody debris or sediments and removing downed vegetation and other debris. Once land has been restored to predisaster condition, producers can apply for TAP for financial assistance to replace damaged trees, bushes and vines to bring the land back into production.
Hurricane Relief Programs Signup & Information Session Recording
Farmers and landowners have until June 1, 2025, to apply for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) for Hurricane Helene recovery.
The FSA hosted a virtual information session regarding these two programs on Nov. 21. A recording of this session can be viewed here
Documentation Waiver in Nine States for Hurricanes Occurring 2016 - 2023
Typically, ECP and EFRP applicants must submit a cost share performance certification and payment request with supporting receipts and documentation after restoration activities are complete. To expedite emergency conservation program payments, FSA is authorizing a documentation waiver for approved applicants in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. This waiver applies only to hurricanes occurring between Oct. 1, 2016, to Sept. 30, 2023.
Through this waiver, approved ECP and EFRP participants are no longer required to submit supporting documentation to verify restoration activities. Instead, the technical agency, FSA, or the producer will certify that practices are complete and meet USDA practice standards. After verification is complete, FSA will issue the cost-share payment.
FSA spot check provisions still apply so program participants should still maintain all invoices, receipts and documentation. Participants selected for spot check will be notified in writing and will be required to supply receipts and other supporting documentation to justify the total installation cost claimed.
For questions on ECP, EFRP and TAP or to apply for disaster recovery assistance, producers should call their FSA county office. To find their FSA county office, visit farmers.gov/servicecenter-locator. For more information on hurricane recovery assistance and additional flexibilities, visit www.farmers.gov/hurricane.
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UGA SELECTS NEW GROUP OF 25 AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY LEADERS
By Jordan Powers, UGA
From the heart of rural Georgia to downtown Atlanta, the newest cohort of the Advancing Georgia’s Leaders in Agriculture and Forestry (AGL) program at the University of Georgia has been chosen from a broad field of applicants.
The 2025-26 cohort of 25 participants was selected from more than 90 nominations, 70 applications and 40 interviews for the innovative, 18-month leadership development program. AGL is offered by the Office of Learning and Organizational Development in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in partnership with the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources and College of Veterinary Medicine.
AGL has had more than 116 graduates since 2014, when it transitioned from the independent AgriLeaders program, which ran from 1989 through 2009 and has more than 334 alumni, according to Lauren Griffeth, program director for AGL and UGA Cooperative Extension leadership specialist.
“One hundred percent of participants in the last class said that the network they gained as a result of the program will be beneficial to their future career,” Griffeth said. “Sixty-two percent of participants changed jobs or received a promotion during the program and credit this success to their experience in AGL.”
Program results revealed that participants also showed an increase in their competency in conflict resolution, as well as in their knowledge of advocacy and interpersonal skills.
From across the globe to the heart of their communities
Participants in the 2025-26 cohort, who are professionals working in agriculture, forestry and allied sectors in Georgia, complete five Georgia-based institutes, a Washington, D.C., federal policy institute, and an international institute in Cortona, Italy.
“Their curriculum will include personality and behavior-based assessments, such as the DiSC and CliftonStrengths, as well as current issues in the agriculture, forestry and allied sectors,” Griffeth said. “They will also conduct a personal leadership project that often takes place in their home community.”
The institutes will focus on understanding Georgia’s emerging and existing markets, production and transportation, effective communication, state government, and economic development. The first institute will take place Feb. 4 to 7 on the UGA Athens Campus.
The 2025-26 AGL cohort
The incoming AGL cohort, all from Georgia and listed alphabetically by last name, includes:
• Thomas Barrett (BSFR – Forestry, ’01), Georgia Forestry Commission, Soperton
• Ward Black (BSA – Agricultural Economics, ’09; MS – Agricultural and Applied Economics, ’11), Solid Ground Services and Supply, Commerce
• Alec Brown (BSFR – Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, ’20), Alo Farms, Fayetteville
• Clark David (BSFR – Forestry, ’99), AgSouth Farm Credit, Bogart
• Ricky Dollison, Dollison Farms, Poulan
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• Dustin Evans (BSFR – Forestry, ’08; MFR – Forest Resources, ’09), Interfor, Watkinsville
• Griffin Evans (BSA – Agribusiness, ’06; BBA – Finance, ’06), RW Griffin Agribusiness Services, Douglas
• Will Ficklen (MFR – Forest Resources, ’16), The Westervelt Company, Valdosta
• Jessica Goodman (BSA – Agriscience and Environmental Systems, ’13), B.C.T. Gin Co., Quitman
• Adam Hammond (MA – Nonprofit Management and Leadership, ’24), Georgia 4-H Foundation, Watkinsville
• Julie Hardy, Kallie Ag, Ochlocknee
• Reaganne Hart (BSA – Agricultural Communications, ’20; MPA – Public Administration, ’23), Office of the Governor, Watkinsville
• Aries Haygood, A&M Farms, Lyons
• Sarah Houtsma (BSA – Horticulture, ’19), Ball Horticultural Company, Athens
• Scott Howell (BSFR – Forestry, ’01; MFR – Forest Resources, ’05), F&W Forestry Services, Leesburg
• Jay Ivey (BSA – Agricultural Communications, ’22), U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency, Athens
• Caroline Langdale (BSA – Agricultural Communications, ’21), The Langdale Company, Valdosta
• Jake Matthews (BSA – Agribusiness, ’20), Georgia Forestry Association, Macon
• Ben Parker (BSA – Applied Biotechnology, ’20), Georgia Farm Bureau, Macon
• Anna Reddish (BSA – Animal Science, ’08; BSA – Dairy Science, ‘08; MADS – Animal and Dairy Science, ’09), Hill's Pet Nutrition, Atlanta
• Keri Riddick, Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, West Point
• Becca Schaper, Forest Resource Consultants, Macon
• Matt Walker (BSFR – Forestry, ’01), Southern Forestry Consultants, Cairo
• Bailey Whiten (BSA – Animal Science, ’16; BSA – Dairy Science, ‘16, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Covington
• Krisha Whiting (MNR – Natural Resources, ’17), USDA National Resources Conservation Service, Athens
To learn more about the AGL program, visit www.caes.uga.edu/agl
USDA SEEKS NOMINEES FOR AMERICAN PECAN PROMOTION BOARD
The USDA seeks nominees for the American Pecan Promotion Board. Nominees are needed to fill six seats for members with terms beginning Oct. 1, 2025, and ending Sept. 30, 2028.
The deadline for nominations is Feb. 15, 2025, for three producer seats representing the Eastern region and three importer seats.
The Eastern region consists of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, plus any U.S. state with most of its land mass in the Eastern time zone, and any U.S. territories in -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page the Atlantic Ocean.
The board is made up of 17 industry members including 10 producers and seven importers. To serve on the board, producers and importers must have produced or imported more than 50,000 pounds of inshell pecans (25,000 pounds of shelled pecans), on average, for four fiscal periods. Producers who produce pecans in more than one region may seek nomination only in the region in which they produce the majority of their pecans.
More information about the board is available on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) American Pecan Promotion Board webpage or on the board’s website at www.eatpecans.com. For nomination information, contact American Pecan Promotion Board CEO Anne Warren at awarden@eatpecans.com or (817) 985-3034 or USDA Marketing Specialist Matthew Collins at Matthewb.Collins@usda.gov or (202) 720-8085.
AMS policy is that diversity of the boards, councils and committees it oversees should reflect the diversity of its industries in terms of the experience of members, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors, including but not limited to individuals from historically underserved communities, that will bring different perspectives and ideas to the table. Throughout the full nomination process, the industry must conduct extensive outreach, paying particular attention to reaching underserved communities, and consider the diversity of the population served and the knowledge, skills and abilities of the members to serve a diverse population.
Since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) provides oversight to 22 boards. The oversight ensures fiscal accountability and program integrity and is paid for by industry assessments.
HERBERT HODGES RECEIVES STATE AWARD FOR CONSERVATION EFFORTS
Herbert Hodges of Swainsboro has been named the 2024 Conservationist of the Year by the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD) for his outstanding contributions to natural resources conservation.
Hodges is an ordained minister and a strong conservation advocate. He helps connect minority landowners to resources in order for them to achieve their conservation goals.
Over the years, the Hodges family has hosted many groups to teach climate resilient land management techniques that reduce wildfire risk, sequester carbon emissions, and provide for a healthier and more diverse wildlife population. With assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service's (NRCS) Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program, 390 acres of longleaf pine were established with firebreaks to allow future prescribed burning, with more longleaf planting planned this winter. To maintain and improve low-lying bottomlands and stream crossings, water bars were installed to help combat soil erosion -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page and sediment loading.
Hodges has worked with a consulting forester and other professionals to reach his family’s goals for their land. Keeping the family estate intact has benefited the native wildlife, too. A sustainable population of the state's threatened gopher tortoise has been documented. Along with tortoises, aggregate species like the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake have been observed.
In 2021, he partnered with National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and NRCS Georgia to transform his farm into a “model farm” and provide mentorship to fellow landowners, specifically minority landowners. He has hosted several “Learn and Burns” with the NWF, NRCS, Pine Country RC&D, Georgia Forestry Commission and the Ohoopee River Soil and Water Conservation District.
“As farmers, it is our duty to be good stewards of the land that we are so blessed to work each day. This obligation is owed to our future generations,” said GACD President Jake Ford. “It’s great to see the spotlight on someone who is committed to conservation and sustainability. We congratulate Mr. Hodges on this honor and wish him luck as he competes to represent Georgia for the national Friend of Conservation award to be announced soon.”
Hodges worked closely with NWF, NRCS, The Longleaf Alliance, the GA Heirs Property Law Center, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and many other groups to develop a first-ofits-kind curriculum titled “Longleaf and the Landowner”, a three-day Longleaf Academy tailored to the minority landowner experience and history. 2024 has become an impactful year with additional workshops conducted, and NWF is working with Hodges to expand the mentorship program to additional states based on the success of his program in Georgia.
Hodges has sat on several panels with NWF and the U.S. Forest Service to share his experiences as a historically underserved landowner, as well as his experience as the first “Longleaf for All” Landowner Mentor. USDA-NRCS featured Hodges and his family accomplishments in the January 2024 publication of “Fridays on the Farm”, titled “Lifetime of Leadership and Longleaf Conservation.”
Hodges is committed to long-term sustainable forestry and wildlife management for himself, his family, and landowners in the community and region. The Hodges family farm serves as a demonstration site for other landowners, training and motivating that will inspire others.
“Herbert Hodges has worked tirelessly with his family, friends and other forest landowners to improve Georgia’s longleaf pine landscape,” said Georgia NRCS State Conservationist Terrance O. Rudolph. “This recognition is well deserved, and while we celebrate him this year, his dedication should be remembered for generations to come.”
GACD’s Conservationist of the Year award is chosen in conjunction with Georgia’s USDANRCS and recognizes producers who are conducting exemplary conservation work on their land and have demonstrated a strong commitment to soil and water conservation through stewardship, outreach and community interactions. Herbert was nominated for this award by the Ohoopee River Soil and Water Conservation District.
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GEORGIA PEANUT COMMISSION NOMINATION MEETINGS
Dec. 19
Dec. 19
District 2 Irwin County Farm Bureau 9 a.m. Ocilla
District 4 Bleckley County Farm Bureau 9 a.m Cochran
Dec. 19 District 5 Sumter County Farm Bureau 11 a.m. Americus Nomination meetings to fill three positions on the Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) Board of Directors will be held Dec. 19 in Ocilla, Cochran and Americus. The Georgia Farm BureauFederation will conduct the meetings during which peanut producers will nominate peers to represent the Peanut Commission’s Districts 2, 4 and 5. The terms of the commission members who currently represent these districts expire Dec. 31, 2024. The Georgia peanut production area is divided into five districts based on acreage distribution and geographical location with one board member representing each district. Each nominee must produce peanuts and live within the district for which he or she is nominated. The GPC District 2 nomination meeting will be held at the Irwin County Farm Bureau office located at 302 South Cherry St., Ocilla, Ga., 31774, at 9 a.m. on Dec. 19. Ross Kendrick of Turner County is the incumbent in the district. Counties in District 2 include Atkinson, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes, Thomas, Tift, Turner and Worth. The GPC District 4 nomination meeting will be held at the Bleckley County Farm Bureau Office located at 157 West Dykes St., Cochran, Ga., 31014, at 9 a.m. on Dec. 19. Rodney Dawson of Pulaski County is the District 4 incumbent. Counties in District 4 include Bleckley, Crisp, Dodge, Dooly, Houston, Laurens, Pulaski, Telfair, Twiggs, Wheeler, Wilcox and Wilkinson. The GPC District 5 nomination meeting will be held at the Sumter County Farm Bureau Office located at 141 Highway 27 East, Americus, Ga., 31709, at 11 a.m. on Dec. 19. Donald Chase of Macon County is the district incumbent. Counties in District 5 include Chattahoochee, Clay, Lee, Macon, Marion, Peach, Quitman, Randolph, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Taylor, Terrell and Webster. Any peanut producer may be nominated or make nominations at the meeting for the peanut district in which he or she lives. Incumbents are eligible for renomination. If more than one person is nominated, an election will be conducted by mail ballot at a date to be announced. Commission by-laws state that a person must receive a majority of the votes cast for a position to be elected to the board. If only one person qualifies for the position, no election is required, and the nominated person automatically becomes a member of the Georgia Peanut Commission Board. Commission members serve terms of three years.
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WEATHERED BUT STRONG HURRICANE RELIEF APPLICATION DEADLINE
Dec. 31 midnight deadline to apply for assistance
The Weathered But Strong: Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund is accepting applications from farmers affected by Hurricane Helene until midnight Dec. 31. The relief fund was established by the Georgia Department of Agriculture in partnership with the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and with support from more than 40 agricultural partners including Georgia Farm Bureau. This fund aims to provide critical financial assistance to those in need. Farmers across the affected areas who suffered losses are encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to the following counties declared to be in a disaster zone: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Stephens, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wheeler and Wilkes counties. Eligible farmers must hold a current, valid GATE card number issued through the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Farmers must submit their applications online at www.supportgeorgiafarmers.org/application 100% of the disaster relief funds will be distributed to farmers and ranchers impacted by Hurricane Helene guided by principles of impartiality, needbased selection, and community-focused support. Aid is available to all eligible applicants, with applications evaluated based on the disaster-related financial or resource needs, prioritizing those most affected to benefit the broader community. The fund aims to raise $1.5 million by Dec. 31 to provide direct financial aid to farmers impacted by the storm. Over $1 million has already been raised, and donations will be accepted until the end of December. To make a tax-deductible donation, please visit: www.supportgeorgiafarmers.org.
MARKETING ASSISTANCE FOR SPECIALTY CROP PRODUCERS
Jan. 8, 2025 application deadline
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) $2 billion Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program, aimed at helping specialty crop producers expand markets and manage higher costs, is now accepting applications through Jan. 8, 2025. Funded by the Commodity Credit Corporation, MASC was announced in November alongside the $140 million Commodity Storage Assistance Program for facilities impacted by 2024 natural disasters. For details, click here.
FARM SERVICE AGENCY ACREAGE REPORTING
Jan. 15 deadline for apples, blueberries, canola, peaches, rye, rapeseed, fall small grains Agricultural producers must file acreage reports with USDA to document the crops grown on their operation and their intended uses. Deadlines to file crop acreage reports vary by crop, state, and county. Filing an accurate and timely acreage report for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage and prevented planted acreage, can prevent the loss of benefits. Producers should contact their local USDA Service Center for more information on deadlines and to file acreage reports.
Field Notes page 24 of 27
SOUTHEAST REGIONAL FRUIT & VEGETABLE CONFERENCE
Jan. 9-11, 2025 Savannah Convention Center Savannah
Don’t miss the premier fruit and vegetable event of the year! This annual event features dozens of commodity-specific seminars, the Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course, the alwayspopular trade show and much more. Full conference registration is $225 until Dec. 9 and $275 from Dec. 10 to Jan. 7, 2025. Single-day registration is $135 and $165 after. Attendees who register on site do not receive lunch tickets. Concessions will be available for purchase on the trade show floor. For more information or to register, visit https://seregionalconference.org/.
48th ANNUAL GEORGIA PEANUT FARM SHOW
Jan. 16, 2025 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Tifton This one-day show is free and open to all farmers and industry representatives to attend. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with nearly 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. The Georgia Peanut Commission, in cooperation with OneBlood, will host a blood drive from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. At the close of the show, there will be nearly $10,000 in door prizes presented to farmers, as well as a Grand Door Prize, vendor products, certificates and equipment. For more information on the show, contact the Georgia Peanut Commission office at 229-386-3470 or visit www.gapeanuts.com
GFB DISTRICT 2 CATTLE SHOW
Jan. 18, 2025 Jackson County Ag Facility Jefferson
It's show time again! Registration is open for the District 2 Georgia Farm Bureau Cattle Show until Jan. 3, 2025. Competition in the show is available to cattle exhibitors who live in District 2 (Banks, Elbert, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Jackson, Lumpkin, Madison, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union, and White counties). Participating high school seniors may complete the scholarship application for the chance to receive a $1,000 scholarship! All entries, show details and scholarship applications are available at gfb.ag/district2cattleshow.
GEORGIA DAIRY CONFERENCE
Jan. 20-22 Marriott Savannah Riverfront Savannah
The Georgia Dairy Conference is the Southeast's premier dairy management conference featuring 16 guest speakers, the region's largest dairy trade show, and a pre-conference symposium highlighting the latest innovations in dairy production. The full conference agenda, registration information, and more can be found at the conference website www.gadairyconference.com. Early bird pricing ends Nov. 30.
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AMERICAN FARM BUREAU CONVENTION
Jan. 23-28, 2025 San Antonio, Texas
Registration is now open for the 106th Annual American Farm Bureau Convention in San Antonio! Don’t miss the educational workshops, exciting keynote speakers, innovative industry trade show, and world-class tours in the beautiful state of Texas! Attendees can register now! We encourage you to sign up with your individual state Farm Bureau office or register now through this link
2025 GEORGIA AG FORECAST
Jan. 24, 2025 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tifton
UGA’s annual seminar shares the latest research and information from UGA faculty to help farmers and agribusinesses in Georgia's No. 1 industry. The 2025 Ag Forecast report will give a detailed overview of more than a dozen agricultural sectors, published by UGA economists and collaborators. To register, click here. For more information, click here or contact Regina Fitzpatrick at regina@uga.edu.
GEORGIA COTTON COMMISSION ANNUAL MEETING
Jan. 29, 2025 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center 7:30 a.m. Tifton
This one-day annual meeting is held in conjunction with the UGA Cotton Production Workshop conducted by the UGA Research & Extension Cotton Team. The UGA Cotton Production Workshop will feature breakout sessions where attendees will learn the latest technical production strategies from the researchers whose projects are funded by the Commission’s research program. The Georgia Cotton Commission Annual Meeting will follow the breakout sessions and feature speakers from several industry organizations. The program speakers are William Kimbrell, President and CEO, Cotton Incorporated; Stanley Culpepper, Professor – Extension Weed Scientist, University of Georgia; and Jeff Kuckuck, Senior Government Relations Director, National Cotton Council. There is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested to help with meal plans. Register online here or call (229) 386-3416.
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2025 FLAVOR OF GEORGIA FOOD PRODUCT CONTEST
Feb. 13, 2025 deadline to enter
March 13-14, 2025 First round UGA Griffin Campus
April 17, 2025 Final round Athens Contestant registration for the 2025 Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest is now open! Some exciting new changes are coming to the competition this year, so be sure to mark your calendars! Each entry is featured in the digital product directory, including a professional product photo and brief overview, which gets seen by leading food industry buyers and media outlets. Finalists will receive branded press releases, the use of the Flavor of Georgia logo on their label and promotional materials, and the opportunity to present their product to a panel of food industry experts. Contestants who enter three products can get a fourth product entry free. The entry fee is $100 per product. The first round of judging is moving to the UGA Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center (FoodPIC) on the UGA Griffin Campus! There will be three days (March 10-12) of in-person product drop off at UGA FoodPIC. All contestants will receive feedback from our first-round judges: the Southern Crescent Technical College Culinary Arts program. Contestants who advance to the final round of the competition will be able to sell their products during the reception and awards ceremony! The reception and awards ceremony has a brand new name: Savor the State: A Flavor of Georgia Tasting Experience. For more information and to register, visit https://flavorofgeorgia.caes.uga.edu/.
63rd ANNUAL GEORGIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION CONVENTION
March 12-14, 2025 Augusta Marriott Convention Center Augusta GCA’s Annual Convention is the place to be to find the best program for education and networking in the cattle industry around Georgia! The convention features a phenomenal tradeshow, educational sessions, social opportunities and much more! There is sure to be something for everyone! For more information or to register, click here.
UGA CITRUS ORCHARD NUTRITIONAL SURVEY
For the past three growing seasons, the UGA Agricultural and Environmental Services Labs (AESL) has been conducting a foliar nutrient survey of Georgia's citrus industry with funding from the USDA and Georgia Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. One of the conditions of the project’s grant funding is that researchers seek stakeholder feedback on the effectiveness of the program, and how this work may influence future grower decisions. The project researchers ask that you please complete this short (7 questions, 3-5 minutes) Citrus Nutrition Questionnaire here. These results will help UGA researchers demonstrate the importance of this work to their sponsors, which increases the likelihood of future funding in this area. If you would like to learn more about this project and the results of the study, visit the project website.
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PIEDMONT CONSERVATION DISTRICT FERAL SWINE CONTROL SERVICES
Ongoing
The Piedmont Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has acquired a trapping system to provide control services throughout Piedmont SWCD which includes Morgan, Greene, Taliaferro, Putnam, Hancock, Baldwin, and Jones Counties. If you are interested in feral swine control services, please contact the District’s Hog Control Custodian, Kris Pope at kmpope@bellsouth.net or 404-402-2207. More information can be found at www.gacd.us/piedmont
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER FERAL HOG CONTROL SERVICES
For a list of feral hog control services available in each GACD Conservation District, visit https://gfb.ag/feralhoggacdresources.
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 2024 GFB Quality Hay Contest receive a free listing in the online GFB Hay Directory.
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.