Heartland Magazine April 2012

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APR MAR 22012 012

HEARTL A AND Way of Life.

A Natural Florida Treasure: Babcock Ranch

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863-­357-­0500

www.okeechobeedcj.com

Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep 4224 US Hwy 441 S. Okeechobee, FL. 34974 April 20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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APR 2012

HEARTL A AND Way of Life. What’s Inside 36

A Natural Florida Treasure: Babcock Ranch

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Index of Advertisers

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Heartland’s Youth Hunting Spotlight

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Arcadia Stockyard

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Home Gardening

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Florida Farming

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Citrus Update

24

Dakin Dairy: A Model of Sustainability

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Women In Ag: Danielle Larson

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Farmer and Rancher: Roger Butler

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Grub Station: Dutch Oven Cooking

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Florida Cattlewomen’s Recipe: Confetti Beef and Spinach Pie

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In Season Now: Florida Sweet Corn

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FFA Spotlight: Okeechobee Jr.

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Fair Updates

70

Ag Calendar

36 A Natural

Florida

Treasure: Babcock Ranch 4

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

. . .

Free-choice supplement for beef cattle on pasture or with all-roughage rations Scientifically balance to be fed free-choice to cattle All mineral & vitamin ingredients are selected for high biological availabilty and stability

Central States Enterprises, LLC, 668 NW Waldo Street, Lake City, FL 32055, 800-275-4429, www.csefeeds.com.

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HEARTLAND A Way of Life.

Phone (813) 708-3661 Fax (813) 283-4978 Publisher Rhonda Glisson Rhonda@heartlanditf.com Karen Berry OHFIVV]$MRXLI½IPHQEKE^MRI GSQ Executive Editor Morgan Taylor Norris Morgan@heartlanditf.com

Editor’s Note As  Earth  Day  is  approaching,  we  are  reminded  of  the  importance  of  conserving  the  resources  with  which  we  have  been  blessed.   This  month,  we  are  featuring  agriculturalists  in  the  Heart-­ land  who  are  doing  just  that.   Through  sustainability  and  conservation  efforts  now,  generations  to  come  will  be  able  to  enjoy  the  very  land  and  animals  that  we  are  harvesting  and  hunting  today.   Our  cover  story  this  month  will  take  you  back  in  time  to  the  â€˜old  Florida’  that  some  of  you  original  Cracker  Cowboys  may  remember.   Babcock  Ranch  and  Preserve  is  a  natural  Florida  treasure  tucked  away  in  Charlotte  County.   Read  about  the  rich  history  of  the  ranch  and  their  efforts  at  sustainable  practices.   If  you  haven’t  already,  take  a  trip  to  the  ranch  and  ride  along  on  an  eco  tour  where  you  will  see  Florida  wildlife  and  the  Telegraph  Cypress  Swamp.  Don’t  forget  to  stop  by  the  Gator  Shack  for  a  Florida  favorite,  gator  bites.  Â

Business Manager 0M^^IXXI 7EVVME Art Directors Allie Schotanus .YER %PZEVI^

As  a  model  of  sustainability,  Dakin  Dairy  uses  innovation  and  state  of  the  art  technology  to  produce  world-­class  products.   Read  more  about  their  industry  leading  practices  on  page  24.  Â

Staff Writers James Frankowiak Ron Lambert Morgan Taylor Norris Justin Smith Robbi Sumner

This  month  is  the  All  Florida  Ag  Show  hosted  by  the  Highlands  County  Farm  Bureau  and  Meister  Media.   It  will  be  held  at  the  Highlands  County  Convention  Center  in  Sebring  on  April  25  and  26.   The  two-­day  event  is  a  program  and  tradeshow  targeted  for  the  success  of  all  DJULFXOWXUDO VHJPHQWV <RX FDQ ¿QG RXW PRUH E\ YLVLWLQJ $OO)ORULGD$J FRP

Contributing Writers Chass Bronson Russell Hancock Jay Houston Tanner Huysman Brenda Valentine Lindsey Wiggins Dee Dee Jacobson Brian Norris

As  we  spring  into  this  new  season,  I  know  that  gardening  is  fresh  on  everyone’s  mind.   When  you  start  to  plan  your  own  garden,  give  Fresh  from  Florida  a  more  personal  meaning  by  read-­ ing  tips  from  Buckhorn  Nursery’s  Ron  Lambert.   Also,  be  sure  to  read  extension  agent  Dee  Dee  Jacobson’s  article  about  Florida  friendly  landscaping  on  page  20.  Â

Photography Jim Davis Photography Sharon Glisson Russell Hancock Morgan Taylor Norris Brian Norris Amber Johnson Kelley Baker

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Happy  Easter  from  all  of  us  at  the  Heartland.

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I’d  love  to  hear  from  you!  Please  send  any  comments  or  questions  to  morgan@heartlanditf.com  Â

Graphic Design Intern Allison Kenny Heartland  in  the  Field  Magazine  is  published  monthly  and  is  available  through  local  businesses,  restaurants  and  other  local  venues  within  Hardee,  Highlands,  DeSoto,  Charlotte,  Glades,  Hendry  and  Okeechobee  Counties.   It  is  also  distributed  by  U.S.  mail  to  a  target  market,  ZKLFK LQFOXGHV PHPEHUV RI WKH )DUP %XUHDX DQG WKRVH ZLWK DJ FODVVLÂżFDWLRQ RQ WKHLU ODQG /HWWHUV FRPPHQWV DQG TXHVWLRQV FDQ EH VHQW WR +HDUWODQG ,Q WKH )LHOG 0DJD]LQH 3 2 %R[ 3ODQW &LW\ )/ RU \RX DUH ZHOFRPH WR H PDLO WKHP WR 5KRQGD#KHDUWODQGLWI FRP RU FDOO Advertisers  warrant  &  represent  the  description  of  their  products  advertised  are  true  in  all  respects.   Heartland  In  the  Field  Magazine  assumes  no  responsibility  for  claims  made  by  their  advertisers.   All  views  expressed  in  all  articles  are  those  of  the  authors  and  not  necessarily  those  of  G  Five  Publications,  Inc.  Any  use  or  duplication  of  material  used  in  Heartland  In  the  Field  Magazine  is  prohibited  without  written  consent  from  Berry  Publications  and  G  Five.  Â

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COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HARDEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HIGHLANDS COUNTY FARM BUREAU

1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266

1017 US Highway 17 N Wauchula, FL. 33873

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876

2I¿FH +RXUV Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

2I¿FH +RXUV Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

2I¿FH +RXUV Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

3KRQH

3KRQH 863. 773. 3117 Fax: 863. 773. 2369

3KRQH: 863. 385. 5141 Fax: 863. 385. 5356

CHARLOTTE/DESOTO

863.494.3636 &KDUORWWH /LQH 941.624.3981 Fax: 863.494.4332

:HE VLWH www.highlandsfarmbureau.com

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND

OFFICERS AND

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President…………....Jim Selph

President……David B. Royal

President………Scott Kirouac

Vice President……….Jeffrey Adams

Vice President…Greg L. Shackelford

Vice President…Doug Miller

Sec./Treasurer......Bryan K. Beswick

Sec./Treasurer……..Bo Rich

Secretary………..Carey Howerton Treasurer……..Mike Waldron

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-­2011

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-­2011

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-­2011

Jim Brewer John Burtscher

Joseph B. Cherry John Platt

Sam Bronson Steve Farr

Mike Carter Steve Fussell

Corey Lambert Daniel H. Smith

'UHZ 3K\SHUV &KDUOHV /DQ¿HU

Lindsay Harrington

Steve A. Johnson Bill Hodge

Mike Milicevic Jeff Williams

Richard E. Harvin Ann H. Ryals

David B. Royal Greg L. Shackelford

Frank Youngman Marty Wohl

Mac Turner Matt Harrison

Bo Rich

Jim Wood Lindsey Sebring

&RXQW\ 6HFUHWDU\ Susan Chapman

&RXQW\ 6HFUHWDU\ Janet Menges

Ken Harrison &RXQW\ 6HFUHWDU\ Katherine Ryals

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$JHQF\ 0DQDJHU Cameron N. Jolly

$JHQF\ 0DQDJHU N. Jay Bryan

$JHQF\ 0DQDJHU Chad D. McWaters

$JHQWV Dawn A. Hines

$JHQWV George L. Wadsworth, Jr.

$JHQWV Joseph W. Bullington

1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266 (863) 494-­3636

1017 US Hwy 17 N. Wauchula, FL 33873 (863) 773-­3117

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876 (863) 385-­5141

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

District 6 Update From the Desk of Andy Neuhofer

The  Florida  Legislature  ended  the  session  on  time  this  year.   Agriculture  was  well  represented  and  Farm  Bureau  was  highly  successful.    Farm  Bureau  members  worked  to  reduce  regulatory  burdens  and  taxes  this  year.   Keep  in  mind,  as  of  this  writing;;  we  are  waiting  for  the  Governor  to  sign  the  legislation. ‡7KH )ORULGD 'HSW RI $JULFXOWXUH ZLOO KDYH H[FOXVLYH DXWKRULW\ WR UHJXODWH WKH EHH LQ-­ dustry.   Beekeepers  have  faced  many  burdens  placed  by  counties  and  local  municipalities.   This  law  is  designed  to  reduce  those  burdens. ‡)DUP VLJQV ZLOO QRZ EH DOORZHG RQ \RXU ODQG LI \RX ERUGHU D FRXQW\ URDG SURYLGHG they  do  not  cause  a  safety  hazard. ‡$OO ORFDO JRYHUQPHQWV DUH QRZ LQFOXGHG LQ WKH $J /DQGV 3UDFWLFHV $FW LQ UHJDUGV WR storm  water  preemption. ‡&LWUXV KDUYHVWHUV PD\ XVH RII URDG GLHVHO ZKLOH PRYLQJ KDUYHVWLQJ HTXLSPHQW EHWZHHQ groves  and  are  exempted  from  having  a  state  issued  tag.   Â‡,PSURYHPHQWV ZHUH PDGH LQ WKH 'HSW RI $JULFXOWXUH¶V )DUP :LQHU\ SURJUDP ‡3RVLWLYH SURJUHVV LV EHLQJ PDGH ZLWK WKH 1XPHULF 1XWULHQW &ULWHULD LVVXH :H DUH working  towards  a  state  run  program  vs.  a  federal  program  which  is  what  we  have  had  for  many  years. ‡$ PDQGDWRU\ LQVSHFWLRQ RI VHSWLF WDQNV ZDV UHSHDOHG ‡2II IDUP SDFNLQJKRXVHV IRU IUXLWV YHJHWDEOHV EHHI DQG SRUN ZLOO EH H[HPSW IURP electric  taxes.   The  corporate  income  tax  exemption  will  now  be  $50,000.   That  will  help  all  Florida  businesses. ‡ $ SURSRVHG FRQVWLWXWLRQDO DPHQGPHQW WR LQFUHDVH WKH H[HPSWLRQ IRU WDQJLEOH SHUVRQDO property  taxes  will  be  forthcoming. ‡)DUPHUV WUDQVSRUWLQJ DJULFXOWXUH SURGXFWV VXSSOLHV RU HTXLSPHQW WR RU IURP WKHLU farms  will  not  need  a  commercial  driver’s  license. ‡7D[ FUHGLWV ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH IRU UHQHZDEOH HQHUJ\ DQG XWLOLWLHV ZLOO QRW EH DEOH WR recover  costs  from  customers  for  such  projects.   Â‡/DQGRZQHUV ZLOO KDYH OLDELOLW\ SURWHFWLRQ LI WKH\ HQWHU D ZULWWHQ DJUHHPHQW ZLWK WKH state  for  their  property  to  be  used  for  outdoor  recreation. ‡3HRSOH ZKR VWHDO FRSSHU DQG RWKHU PHWDOV ZLOO IDFH PRUH VWULQJHQW SHQDOWLHV 0HWDO dealers  will  be  required  to  improve  record  keeping. 7KHVH QHZ ODZV ZLOO KHOS DJULFXOWXUH VWD\ FRPSHWLWLYH DQG SUR¿WDEOH $JDLQ WKDQN \RX to  the  Farm  Bureau  members  who  made  these  accomplishments  successful! &KDQJLQJ WKH VXEMHFW EULHÀ\ 7KH +LJKODQGV &RXQW\ )DUP %XUHDX KDV EHHQ ZRUNLQJ diligently  with  Meister  Media  to  promote  the  inaugural  All  Florida  Agricultural  Show.   It  will  be  in  Sebring  on  April  25th  and  26th.   The  All  Florida  Agricultural  Show  welcomes  those  involved  in  any  commodity  grown  in  Florida.   There  will  be  speakers  and  many  exhibitors  to  enhance  your  attendance,  to  learn  about  other  commodities  and  to  meet  pro-­ ducers  from  other  areas  of  the  state.   For  more  detailed  information,  you  may  go  to  the  ZHEVLWH ZZZ DOOÀRULGDDJ FRP As  always,  please  contact  me  with  any  questions,  comments  or  concerns  you  may  have.   My  information  is  listed  below.

Andy  Neuhofer      Florida  Farm  Bureau  District  6 352.318.2506 Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org ZZZ ÀRULGDIDUPEXUHDX RUJ

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APR 2012

HEARTL A AND Way of Life. Index of Advertisers 2 26 31 47 47 29 9 69 17 57 53 65 5 71 51 72 60 70 8 27 27 12 42 66 69 45 55 8 31 16 63

All Florida Ag Show Agro Culture A & K Development Arcadia Stockyard ATP Logistics Buck Daniel Ranch Big T Tire Burns Citrus Callaway Farms Carlos Ramon CPA Cattlemens Livestock Market Center State Bank Central States CF Industries Chemical Containers Cowpoke’s Watering Hole Delaney Photography DeSoto Machine Shop DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau DeSoto Memorial Hospital Fields Equipment Florida Fence Post Glade and Grove Glisson’s Animal Supply Goin’ Postal +VMJ½R´W 'EVTIX 1EVX GSI Supply, Inc. Hardee County Farm Bureau Helena Chemical Hicks Oil Highlands Farm Bureau

69 49 7 62 21 69 56 59 53 3 43 22 57 19 61 65 11 66 22 13 69 69 67 35 70 23 69 49 51 52 69

Highlands Soil Holland Pump KeyPlex LaBelle Feed Layes Tire Michael G. Kirsch Miller’s Central Air Mosaic Newton Crouch Okeechobee Dodge Pathway Peace River Citrus Precision Safe and Lock River Pasture Metal Art Seacoast National Bank Sky Power Sports Smith’s Ranch & Garden Spring Lake Hardware Sorrel’s Grove Care Spurlows Outdoor Sunshine Family Denistry 7YTIVMSV 1YJ¾IV Tater Hill Fun Shoot Taylor Oil The Andersons Tree T Pee Triangle Hardware Trinkle Redman Coton Wauchula State Bank Wicks, Brown, Williams & Co. Wild Turkey Tavern

Sales Team Danny Crampton HERR]$MRXLI½IPHQEKE^MRI GSQ Rhonda Glisson rhonda@heartlanditf.com Morgan Taylor Norris morgan@heartlanditf.com

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Wyatt Holmes wholmes@embarqmail.com Tina Richmond XMRE$MRXLI½IPHQEKE^MRI GSQ

Karen Berry OHFIVV]$MRXLI½IPHQEKE^MRI GSQ Chass Bronson GLEWW$MRXLI½IPHQEKE^MRI GSQ Ron Brown VSR$MRXLI½IPHQEKE^MRI GSQ

Heartland InTheField Magazine

MORE THAN A FEED STORE One Stop-Shop for all your Gardening, Lawn Care & Hardware Needs Feeds Garden SuppliesHerbicides,Pesticides, Fertilizers Leather Goods Boots & Hats Pet Supplies Fishing Tackle Ammo

Featuring:

ere! H e r a ays D k c i h C 117 W. Magnolia St. Arcadia, FL 34266

Monday-Friday 7:30am to 6pm Phone: 863-494-2142 Saturday 7:30am to 2pm Fax: 863-494-5359 Closed on Sundays

The  National  Wild  Turkey  Federation’s  outreach  program,  Women  in  the  Outdoors,  is  introduc-­ LQJ WKRXVDQGV RI ZRPHQ WR RXWGRRU IXQ YLD FDPSLQJ KLNLQJ ÂżVKLQJ ND\DNLQJ VKRRWLQJ DQG much  more. Since  1998,  the  NWTF’s  Women  in  the  Outdoors  program  has  worked  to  provide  women  the  opportunity  to  enjoy  the  outdoors  by  providing  expert  instruction  and  hands-­on  education  WKURXJK HYHQWV GHVLJQHG IRU ZRPHQ VXFK DV WUDLQLQJ LQ KXQWLQJ ÂżVKLQJ VKRRWLQJ DQG RWKHU VNLOOV The  Women  in  the  Outdoors  program  is  about  encouraging  women  to  try  new  outdoor  activities  in  a  safe  environment  that  makes  them  feel  at  ease.   The  events  are  an  opportunity  for  women  from  all  walks  of  life  to  spend  a  weekend  outdoors,  having  fun  and  making  new  friends.   NWTF  chapters  have  hosted  more  than  3,000  Women  in  the  Outdoors  events  since  the  program  began.  Cherie  Smith,  the  2009  Annie  Oakley  Award  Winner  said,  â€œWomen  in  the  Outdoors  has  given  PH FRQÂżGHQFH DQG LQGHSHQGHQFH DQG KDV PDGH PH D EHWWHU SHUVRQ E\ VKDULQJ WKH RXWGRRUV ZLWK others.â€? The  6th  Annual  Women  in  the  Outdoors  event  hosted  by  Quail  Creek  Plantation,  NWTF  and  the  Okeechobee  County  Tourist  Development  Council  will  be  held  April  27-­28  in  Okeechobee.   Courses  offered  include  Archery,  Baubles  and  Beads  Jewelry  Making,  Canoe  and  Kayaking,  Couponing  101,  Cracker  Living  and  Cowboy  Roping,  Duct  Tape  Totes,  Dutch  Oven  Cooking,  Florida  First  Aid,  Hand  Gun  Safety,  Leave  No  Trace,  Let’s  Go  Fishing,  Outdoor  Digital  Photography,  Self  Defense,  Shotgun  and  Sporting  Clays,  Stretches  for  the  Outdoor  Woman  and  Traditional  Swamp  Cabbage  Cooking.   As  you  can  see,  there  is  truly  something  for  everyone!  For  more  information  on  this  event  and  to  sign  up,  contact  Event  Coordinator  Denise  Helms  at  772-­475-­1158,  Instruction  Coordinator  Kelli  +LOWHUEUDQG DW RU \RX FDQ H PDLO ZLWRTXDLOFUHHNĂ€#\DKRR FRP You  can  also  check  out  updates  on  special  events,  links  to  gear  retailers  and  uplifting  stories  at  www.womenintheoutdoors.com 7KH 1DWLRQDO :LOG 7XUNH\ )HGHUDWLRQ LV D QDWLRQDO F QRQSURÂżW FRQVHUYDWLRQ RUJDQL]D-­ tion  that  is  dedicated  to  the  conservation  of  the  wild  turkey  and  the  preservation  of  our  hunting  heritage.   Together,  the  NWTF’s  partners,  sponsors  and  grassroots  members  have  spent  more  than  $306  million  in  the  conservation  of  nearly  14  million  acres  of  wildlife  habitat. Â

"The  NWTF  Women  In  the  Outdoors  program  is  about  learning,  sharing,  empowerment,  experiencing  and  confidence  as  it  en-­ ables  women  a  hands-­on  opportunity  to  learn  a  variety  of  outdoor  skills.  So,  step  out  of  your  everyday  life  and  learn  something  new  and  interesting  with  other  women  in  a  noncompetitive  environment.   Have  fun  at  Quail  Creek  in  Okeechobee,  ladies!â€?   -­Brenda  Valentine,  The  First  Lady  of  Hunting

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

April’s Hunting Spotlight brought to you by Spurlow’s Outdoor Outfitters 1  East  Wall  Street  Frostproof,  FL  33843    spurlows.outdoors@hotmail.com   863-­635-­0240  www.spurlows.com  Addyson  Smith,  daughter  of  Mitch  Smith  DQG .HOO\ .QLJKW NLOOHG KHU ÂżUVW GHHU RQ November  19,  2011  and  her  second  turkey  on  March  10,  2012.  Her  turkey  had  a  9.5-­ inch  beard,  1Âź-­inch  spurs  and  was  about  18  pounds.  Addyson  and  her  Daddy  love  noth-­ LQJ PRUH WKDQ KXQWLQJ RU ÂżVKLQJ WRJHWKHU RQ the  weekends.  He  claims  he  may  just  have  to  start  leaving  his  guns  at  home.  Addyson  has  hunted  with  her  Daddy  since  the  age  of  3.  Since  then  she  has  put  in  a  great  amount  of  time  in  the  woods.  She  loves  it  just  as  much  as  he  does  and  has  showed  the  poise,  patience  and  understanding  of  a  true  sportsman  since  a  very  young  age.   Â

7KLV LV %REE\ %LVESLDN -U ÂżUVW *REEOHU I  always  laugh  that  boys  never  smile,  but  he  was  truly  THRILLED  to  get  this  Tom.   He  has  been  hunting  deer,  turkey  and  exotics  with  Brandon  6WRUH\ IRU \HDUV DQG KDV H[SHULHQFHG KLV ÂżUVW NLOOV all  with  Brandon.   It  has  been  a  lot  of  fun  watch-­ ing  him  grow  up  and  enjoy  hunting  more  and  more  every  year. -­Amy  Storey Submit  your  children’s  hunting  pictures  for  the  Monthly  Hunting  Spotlight  to  morgan@heartlanditf.com

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Arcadia Stockyard In 2005, Carl McKettrick saw a need to build a new WXSGO]EVH MR %VGEHME ERH WIX SYX XS JYP½PP NYWX XLEX 14

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

   As  a  23-­year  order  buyer  for  Thomas  Cattle  of  Williston,  he  had  been  through  many  sale  barns  as  he  traveled  for  the  company  buying  and  selling  cattle.   The  old  Arcadia  State  Livestock  Market  had  been  around  since  1939  and  after  years  of  history,  the  auction  was  moved  to  Arcadia  Stockyard,  Florida’  s  newest  sale  barn.   They  opened  for  business  on  September  14,  2005  and  the  rest  is  history.   Owners  Carl  and  Libby  McKettrick  and  Joe  and  Chelsa  Hilliard  II  started  the  Arcadia  Stockyard  with  a  goal  to  be  friendly-­oriented  and  they  have  continued  to  run  their  busi-­ ness  that  way.   Long-­time  employee  Kathy  Tanner  said,  â€œWhat  is  important  at  this  market  is  the  service.   We  are  hands-­on  and  Carl  is  here  visiting  with  the  customers.â€?   Kathy’s  grandfather,  John  D.  Kelly,  was  one  of  the  manag-­ ers  of  the  old  market  so  she  has  been  around  the  industry  and  seen  many  changes  over  the  years.  :KHQ SXOOLQJ LQWR $UFDGLD 6WRFN\DUG WKH ÂżUVW WKLQJ WKDW catches  my  eye  is  the  welcoming  wraparound  front  porch  where  buyers  gather  to  visit  and  talk  about  the  cattle  indus-­ try.   They  also  may  enjoy  a  hot  juicy  hamburger  from  the  cafĂŠ  and  a  sweet  tea  as  they  watch  the  hustle  and  bustle  of  sale  days.   The  cafĂŠ  has  delicious  country  cooking,  daily  specials  and  is  always  packed;Íž  which  is  a  sign  of  a  great  cook! When  you  walk  through  the  doors  of  the  stockyard,  one  special  wall  stands  out-­ the  Wall  of  Brands.   When  building  the  stockyard,  they  put  up  one  wall  of  wood  behind  the  ring.   Carl  said  they  put  it  up  then  tried  to  come  up  with  a  way  to  deco-­ rate  it.   The  wall  eventually  became  the  branding  wall  that  now  boasts  about  300  brands;Íž  mostly  local  but  also  some  from  customers  even  out  west.   There  is  plenty  of  room  and  they  are  still  branding  today  so  all  you  need  to  do  is  bring  in  your  brand  and  you  can  place  your  family’s  mark  on  the  historic  wall  at  the  stockyard.   Since  Hurricane  Charley  swept  out  the  remains  of  the  old  Arcadia  State  Livestock  0DUNHW FRQVWUXFWLRQ VWDUWHG RQ WRGD\ÂśV $UFDGLD 6WRFN\DUG ([WUHPH JURZWK KDV EHHQ VHHQ WKURXJKRXW WKH SDVW \HDUV DV WKH ÂżUVW \HDUÂśV KHDG of  cattle  sold  has  increased  to  the  105,000  head  sold  in  2011.   McKettrick  says  they  cannot  take  all  of  the  credit  as  cattle  are  at  an  all-­time  high  right  now  and  he  sees  it  remaining  very  good  for  another  two  to  three  years  until  numbers  are  built  back  up.  Kathy  Tanner  adds,  â€œI  have  never  seen  it  like  it  is  right  now.   We  saw  high  prices  in  the  70’s,  but  this  is  amazing.â€?

The stockyard holds sales every Monday and Wednesday at Noon. Sale  days  are  busy  as  the  number  of  employees  to  run  the  show  increase  from  the  six  full-­time  staff  to  30  people  needed  to  kick  off  the  sale.  With  all  the  help,  Arcadia  Stockyard  is  able  to  sell  200-­225  KHDG RI FDWWOH SHU KRXU WKH IDVWHVW LQ WKH VWDWH /XFN\ 0DQVÂżHOG a  long-­time  employee  put  this  speedy  rate  of  sale  into  perspective  as  he  said  that  they  were  only  selling  about  150  head  per  hour  at  the  old  market.   I  asked  Carl  to  share  with  me  the  process  from  when  the  loads  of  cattle  arrive  to  when  they  are  leaving  on  another  truck  to  head  out.   The  process  begins  when  the  producers  bring  in  their  cattle.   They  can  unload  them  on  the  day  of  the  sale  or  bring  them  in  the  day  before.  They  check  in  the  cattle  at  the  west  end  of  the  barn.   Arcadia  Stockyard  has  a  user-­friendly  drive  thru  unloading  facil-­ ity.   This  is  helpful  to  all  who  don’t  want  to  back  up  a  trailer;Íž  all  they  have  to  do  is  pull  right  through  and  unload  with  ease.   At  check-­in,  they  are  given  a  lot  number  including  a  head  count.   April  20 1 2

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From  there,  the  cattle  are  moved  to  holding  pens.   The  stockyard  is  equipped  with  fans,  sprinklers,  and  a  misting  system  to  keep  the  livestock  cool  in  our  hot  summer  months.   As  the  sale  starts,  they  are  moved  to  the  hot  corner  area  that  leads  into  the  auction  ring  where  they  are  weighed  and  sold.   After  the  producer’s  cattle  are  sold  they  can  pick  up  their  check  within  5  to  10  minutes  and  they  are  on  their  way  with  the  assurance  that  Arcadia  Stockyard  assumes  all  the  risk.   That  is  the  auction  way.   Upon  the  sale  of  the  animal  and  as  it  leaves  the  auction  ring,  it  immediately  becomes  possession  of  the  buyer.   The  cattle  are  then  placed  in  individual  pens  for  the  buyer  to  load  out.   Most  of  the  cattle  leave  the  same  day,  but  some  slaughter  cows  and  bulls  are  held  until  the  packer  is  ready.   Any  livestock  held  are  put  on  feed  and  water.  &XUUHQWO\ WKHUH DUH DERXW ÂżYH WR VL[ VODXJKWHU EX\HUV DQG WR FDOI EX\HUV ZKR DW-­ tend  the  sales.   The  buyers  are  grading  cattle  as  they  come  through  the  ring  as  a  number  RQH RU WZR WR ÂżW WKHLU RUGHUV DFFRUGLQJ WR SULFH DQG TXDOLW\ The  calf  buyers  are  buying  for  different  companies  and  then  shipping  out  west.   Carl  said  that  about  90-­95%  of  calves  in  Florida  are  shipped  out  of  state.   The  majority  of  slaughter  animals  could  be  going  to  one  of  the  two  slaughterhouses  in  Florida,  Central  Beef  and  Dairymen  Marketing  Service,  or  to  houses  in  Georgia  and  North  and  South  Carolina.   Over  the  years  from  when  the  old  market  started  in  1939  to  now,  there  have  been  many  FKDQJHV LQ WKH PDUNHW DV ZHOO DV WKH LQGXVWU\ 0DQVÂżHOG VDLG WKDW KH KDV VHHQ WKH FDWWOH LP-­ prove  100%  over  the  years  and  improvement  all  around.   He  says  that  the  industry  is  more  competitive  now  and  that  there  are  better  quality  cattle  and  better  marketing  facilities  than  in  decades  past.   Kathy  Tanner  mentioned  that  she  has  seen  huge  growth  over  the  years  in  both  customer  base  and  head  of  cattle  sold.   For  example,  sales  used  to  only  be  one  day  a  week  and  because  of  demand,  they  have  increased  to  both  Monday  and  Wednesday.   Everyone  is  welcome  to  come  enjoy  the  thrilling  sale  days  at  Arcadia  Stockyard.   Sales  start  at  noon  and  run  until  the  last  animal  is  sold.   The  fall  is  busier  as  they  average  3,000  head  per  week  versus  the  spring  when  they  are  selling  about  1,500  head  a  week.   You  can  stop  in,  grab  a  great  lunch  and  watch  what  is  sure  to  be  an  exciting  sale.  Â

For more information about the Arcadia Stockyard, industry news and current price trends, you can visit their web site at www.arcadiastockyard.com or call 863-494-3737. See you at the market!

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Home GARDENING by Ron Lambert

W

ell here we are already in the middle of windy March. Those of us who are outdoors all dread the effects of March winds. Here at our nursery, you can expect to have a battle to keep plants straightened up and watered. We also usually have some damage to our shade house from strong winds. This is all part of the grand scheme of things and you just have to go forward. Since it is a perfect time to plant I thought that I would write this month on the topic of home gardening. I have grown up in a family that has always planted a garden, both spring and fall every year that I can remember. I expect that most of you have tried to grow at least some form of a garden at home, especially in the spring of the year. Vegetable plants and seed displays seem to pop up everywhere. There are many communities that may have an area set aside on a local farm where you can rent a small plot for your very own garden. These farms often have tools available to help make the jobs a little simpler. For example, the ground may be tilled already and prepared for planting. Whether you take advantage of a community garden or go at it on your own property, be assured that it will require a lot of work to make it a success. Weeds will come up and compete with the vegetables for both space and nutrients. You can’t let the weeds get ahead of you and that is likely the main reason for a failure in the home garden. Once you have your spot cleaned up and ready to plant, you can use mulch, bark, pine needles or plastic to reduce weed pressure. Mulch also helps keep moisture in the ground and thereby saves water as that is very important today. You also must be sure to provide a well balanced fertilizer to your garden. This must be spread on the ground and worked in to ensure that your plants will get a healthy start. If you are around plants enough you will notice that some plants in a group seem to be more attractive to insects such as aphids. You can choose from control methods ranging from dish washing soap to insecticide of many different types. You must keep insect population in check, for they will do a great deal of damage to your harvest. Over the past few years, my parents have been growing a wide range of winter vegetables in nursery plant containers. They have had very good results with a wide range of cool weather vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, carrots, spinach, onions, potatoes, squash and collard greens. Every day at lunch there will be something on the table that was harvested that day and put on the noon table. This culture in pots is somewhat easier than growing in the ground and also takes up less space. The quality is good and yields are high for the area used. We have also found that you can continue to add other varieties in the pots as the season changes. With spring weather you can grow to-­ matoes, eggplant, peppers, okra and other warm weather vegetables. Believe me you can succeed at this! Your young children will love to go out and eat fresh vegetables. It is healthy as well as a great out-­ door activity to draw families together. Enjoy this months article and if you have any questions call me at (863) 381-­9406. I will be glad to try to help you. Go ahead;; give Fresh From Florida a more personal meaning. 18

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Flo rida Farming by Ron Lambert In the month of March 1949 the following was found on the pages of the Diary of Porter Lambert. We are really having winter weather here and have for the last two weeks. We had a little frost this week. Our crop looks bad, we have had so much windy weather and it is dry. We picked ninety-­six crates of cucumbers this week. (March 14th-­21st) They brought as high as $5.85. We picked 153 crates of cucumbers this week (March 21st 28th) they brought $517.73. We are watering grove all along. We picked 156 crates of tomatoes and they brought $365.70 (April 25th to May 2nd) Tomatoes were very cheap this week. We have nice tomatoes and they are a good size. We sure had to work hard this week. Dry weather makes things look very bad. Powell Jones put down a well in Baillods grove this week. I think it is a good one. We had a nice rain Friday and Saturday. We ate dinner at Lillian’s Sunday (Lillian was my grandparents oldest daughter) I, Esther and Lillian went to Cora’s Sunday evening. Cora was an Aunt and the mother of former Sheriff Newton Murdock. We picked 115 crates of tomatoes this week. We got $440.00 for last picking. I got Baillod’s grove fertilized this week. It took 11 ½ tons. I put 25 lbs. to large pineapples, 20 lbs. to large Valencias and the Hamlins in the Stewart block and 15 lbs. to small Valencias. Esther and I went to McMillan’s Sunday. I traded for a 1948 truck Monday morning. It cost $875.00 and old truck. It is a nice truck. The family named McMillan was lifelong friends of my Grandparents. A descendant of the McMillan’s recently contacted me. I had an enjoyable chat with him and his name is J.N. Stancil, he lives in Charlotte County. Thank you Mr. Stancil for your interest and encouragement.

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

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Going Green‌What does it all mean? We  are  in  a  world  where  you  hear  on  everyone’s  lips  global  warming,  going  green,  sustain-­ ability,  and  yes,  even  water  shortages.   Floridians  as  a  whole  are  more  aware  of  environmental  impacts  and  saving  our  resources.  However,  I  wasn’t  even  aware  of  the  water  impacts  facing  our  state  due  in  part  to  population  increases,  tourists,  and  current  drought  conditions.  Irrigation  of  lawns  and  landscaping  in  Florida  represents  the  single  largest  use  of  water  from  our  municipal  water  supplies.  This  water  use  has  seriously  impacted  the  aquifer,  which  is  a  source  of  our  drink-­ ing  water  and  water  that  supports  our  ecosystems.  In  addition,  fertilizers  and  pesticides  used  on  lawns  are  major  sources  of  pollution  in  our  lakes  and  rivers.  To  combat  the  problem  with  so  many  homeowners  that  â€œain’t  from  around  here,â€?  I  devel-­ oped  a  threefold  plan:  introduce  plant  material  on  a  weekly  basis  through  a  local  newspaper  on  landscape  plants  that  do  well  here  in  Highlands  county,  design  a  demonstration  garden  to  show  homeowners  a  typical  example  of  what  a  â€œFlorida  friendlyâ€?  landscape  looks  like,  and  introduce  a  mobile  irrigation  lab  to  help  homeowners  with  their  irrigation  systems  and  clocks.   According  to  Michael  Dukes,  University  of  Florida  Irrigation  Specialist,  regular  irrigation  checks  with  installation  of  rain  sensors  constitute  up  to  a  50%  savings  of  water  use  in  your  landscape  and  since  80%  of  Highlands  County’s  population  has  never  used  an  irrigation  system,  education  is  the  key.  So  to  reduce  Highlands  County’s  potable  drinking  water  usage  and  pollution  to  our  water  systems  a  volunteer  mobile  irrigation  lab  (MIL)  was  formed.   The  MIL  visits  homeowners  by  VFKHGXOLQJ DQ DSSRLQWPHQW WKURXJK WKH H[WHQVLRQ RIÂżFH DW :KDW WKH 0,/ ZLOO GR IRU KRPHRZQHUV LV WZRIROG WKH YROXQWHHUV check  the  condition  of  the  landscape,  and  observe  and  document  the  existing  irrigation  system.  The  goal  is  to  achieve  the  highest  distribution  XQLIRUPLW\ DQG HIÂżFLHQF\ DV SRVVLEOH ZKLOH PDLQWDLQLQJ D )ORULGD )ULHQGO\ /DQGVFDSH 7KLV LV DFKLHYHG E\ SURYLGLQJ UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV IRU improving  the  design  of  the  homeowner’s  landscapes,  and  design,  installation,  operation  and  maintenance  of  the  irrigation  system.  The  MIL  to  date  has  provided  a  water  savings  of  102,720  gpd  (gallons  per  day)  of  potable  water.   An  added  bonus  is  that  the  volunteers  have  discovered  35  low  volume  lateral  line  breaks  saving  an  additional  1,512,000  gpd  (gallons  per  day)  of  potable  water.  What  the  MIL  volunteers  found  is  that  93%  of  the  irrigation  systems  had  unmatched  precipitation  rates  (mixed  head  types)  and  72%  of  the  homeowners  had  their  clocks  set  on  the  wrong  duration,  time  of  day,  not  adjusted  to  seasonal  needs  or  didn’t  know  how  to  set  their  irrigation  clocks  at  all.  If  you  need  help  with  your  irrigation  system,  don’t  hesitate  to  call. 7KLV VSULQJ ORRN IRU RXU GHPRQVWUDWLRQ JDUGHQ VKRZLQJ EXWWHUĂ€\ SODQWV VKDGH JDUGHQ LUULJDWLRQ V\VWHPV DQG PRUH

Dianne  Dilger  Jacobson  Horticulture  Extension  Agent University  of  Florida  Faculty 20

April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

Okeechobee Cattleman’s Spring Rodeo Spunk  Sasser  took  home  the  All-­around  Cowboy  title  at  the  *DUUHWW %HDFK EHVWHG WKH ÂżHOG RI 7LH GRZQ &DOI 5RSHUV LQ VHF-­ Okeechobee  Cattlemen’s  Spring  Rodeo,  winning  a  total  of  $789  in  the  onds,  while  Will  Lane  and  Seth  Rodriguez  tied  for  second  with  9.0  Steer  Wrestling  and  Team  Roping  competitions.  Over  $25,000  in  prize  HDFK ,Q IRXUWK ZDV :DGH 6WUD\HU ZLWK D %UDG +DUWW LQ ÂżIWK ZLWK money  was  paid  out  to  the  top  cowboys  and  cowgirls  at  the  annual  9.5,  and  Clayton  Shaw  taking  sixth  in  9.6  seconds. PRCA  sanctioned  event  held  March  10th  and  11th  at  the  Okeechobee   Agri  Center. Competition  was  stiff  in  the  Barrel  Racing,  with  less  than  eight-­tenths  RI D VHFRQG VHSDUDWLQJ ÂżUVW DQG WHQWK SODFH &KULVW\ 'DYLGVRQÂśV Announcer  Jerry  Todd  called  the  action  and  the  crowd  was  enter-­ VHFRQG UXQ WRRN ÂżUVW ZLWK /D\QD .LJKWÂśV VHFRQG DQG &KULVW\ WDLQHG E\ WKH DQWLFV RI URGHR FORZQ DQG EXOOÂżJKWHU .HLWK ,VOH\ 7LP +RQVEHUJHUÂśV LQ WKLUG )RXUWK ZDV +DQQDK )RUG ZLWK ÂżIWK Lepard  and  The  Ghost  Riders,  a  dog  and  monkey  specialty  act,  pro-­ Christi  Torborg  17.81,  and  sixth  Laura  Kennedy-­Silver  17.82.   Lorie  vided  additional  family  fun.  Stock  was  provided  by  the  Silver  Spurs  Manning  and  Jewels  DeNapoli  tied  for  seventh  with  17.86,  while  Lara  Club  and  Five  Star  Rodeo. Dewees’  17.89  placed  ninth,  and  Alexa  Schweiger  placed  tenth  with  a  17.95. Other  event  winners  included  Matthew  Smith,  earning  77  points  in  the  Bareback  Riding  on  Silver  Spurs  Club’s  â€œRomeoâ€?,  Blade  Elliott  Only  three  Bull  Riders  made  the  eight-­second  buzzer,  with  Clint  who  placed  second  with  a  76,  and  a  third  place  tie  for  Dusty  Whidden  Craig  earning  76  points  on  Silver  Spurs  Club’s  â€œNo.  8-­68â€?  to  win  the  and  Zack  Kiestler,  with  each  scoring  74. event.  Winston  Cheek  and  Cole  Long  tied  for  second,  each  scoring  72  points. Chris  Bradley  won  the  Steer  Wrestling  in  4.2  seconds,  while  Ben  Goodman  had  a  close  second  with  4.4.  There  was  another  third  place  tie,  this  time  between  Casey  Harmon  and  Bucky  Harmon,  each  clock-­ ing  4.6.  Fifth  place  went  to  Spunk  Sasser  with  4.7,  and  Tyler  Wagues-­ pack  took  the  sixth  place  money  in  4.8  seconds. The  team  of  Justin  Morgan  and  Jerry  Wayne  Courson  won  the  Team  Roping  in  a  smoking  4.8  seconds,  while  T.J.  Smith  and  Jimmy  Hen-­ dricks  took  second  with  a  5.3.  Jacob  Locke  and  Zak  Richardson’s  5.8  won  third,  Spunk  Sasser  and  Casey  Smith  took  fourth  with  6.4,  Travis  'RUPDQ DQG 3HWH +D\V -U ZHUH ÂżIWK ZLWK DQG .XUW 0DOSKXUV DQG $ODQ )ULHUVRQ ÂżQLVKHG VL[WK LQ VHFRQGV In  Saddle  Bronc  action,  Chuck  Schmidt  scored  88  points  on  Silver  6SXUV &OXEÂśV Âł3URP 4XHHQ´ IRU ÂżUVW SODFH 7RZQVHQG 3ULQFH SODFHG second  with  an  84,  and  Curtis  Garton  and  Andrew  Counts  tied  for  third  with  82  points  each.

April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

21

Citrus Update

by  Justin  Smith Â

A Strong Spray Program

Winter  has  come  and  gone  and  spring  is  evident  everywhere.   With  the  lack  of  cold  weather  this  past  season  spring  got  a  little  jump  start.   Hope-­ fully,  if  you’re  a  citrus  grower,  you  were  ready  for  it.   The  bloom  started  out  slow,  but  turned  out  to  be  very  impressive.   As  things  begin  to  gear  up  for  the  extra  long  season,  one  of  the  top  priorities  for  growers  must  be  a  strong  spray  program.   This  year  we  are  armed  with  more  information  than  we  ever  have  been,  on  the  importance  of  that  fact.   A  study  from  the  University  of  Florida  IFAS,  which  was  released  on  January  24th,  states  greening  alone  has  cost  Florida  $3.6  billion  in  the  ODVW ÂżYH \HDUV 7KDW QXPEHU DOVR LQFOXGHV RYHU MREV ZKLFK KDYH EHHQ ORVW VRPHWKLQJ WKH LQGXVWU\ ZLOO QRW JHW EDFN $W WKLV SRLQW RXU EHVW practices  to  combat  greening  lie  in  two  parts.   Number  one  is  to  reduce  the  number  of  the  Asian  Citrus  Psyllids.   Number  two  is  to  give  the  trees  anything  they  need  to  keep  them  as  strong  as  possible. The  strategy  of  managing  the  number  of  psyllids  has  been  embraced  by  the  USDA,  the  Florida  Department  of  Agriculture  and  Consumer  Ser-­ vices  and  by  a  large  number  of  growers.   There  are  Citrus  Health  Management  Area’s  (CHMAs)  with  coordinators  in  almost  every  citrus  produc-­ tion  area  in  the  state.   Both  of  the  government  agencies  have  been  monitoring  programs  for  psyllids  and  many  growers  are  participating  in  both  of  these.   The  goal  of  everyone  is  to  simply  keep  the  number  of  psyllids  as  low  as  possible.   The  fewer  psyllids  the  less  ability  greening  has  to  spread.   7KHUH LV D JUHDW EHQHÂżW LQ FRRUGLQDWLQJ ZLWK QHLJKERUV LQ WKH HIIRUW WR ORZHU SV\OOLG SRSXODWLRQV 3HVWLFLGHV DUH WKH RQO\ RSWLRQ WR GHIHDW WKHVH FULWWHUV 3URGXFWV VXFK DV ÂżVK RLO KDYH SURYHQ PXFK OHVV HIIHFWLYH DQG DQ\RQH ZLWK D QHLJKERU ZKR LV QRW RQ D SHVWLFLGH URWDWLRQ FDQ DWWHVW WR WKDW Because  we  have  a  relatively  small  number  of  pesticides  available  and  psyllids  can  become  resistant  to  over  use,  it  is  imperative  for  as  many  as  possible  to  get  on  the  same  cycle.   There  is  also  low  volume  as  a  less  expensive  option  for  pesticide  application.   Low  Volume  allows  for  more  frequent  and  faster  applications  in  between  regular  sprays.   7KH VHFRQG VWUDWHJ\ RI QXWULHQW PDQDJHPHQW DORQJ ZLWK RWKHU EHQHÂżFLDO KHDOWK VSUD\V LV WKH SURGXFW RI JURZHU H[SHULPHQWDWLRQ 7KH UHVHDUFK-­ HUV DUH VWLOO WHVWLQJ WR VHH ZKDW ZRUNV DQG ZK\ EXW IRU QRZ DOO ZH NQRZ LV LW VHHPV WR EH ZRUNLQJ LQ WKH ÂżHOG 0DQ\ JURZHUV DUH DOVR SDUWLFLSDWLQJ in  this  method  of  combating  greening.   Pest  management  and  nutrient  management  are  both  pieces  of  the  same  puzzle  but  make  no  mistake  they  have  separate  functions.   In  the  war  on  greening  neither  of  these  components  are  completely  autono-­ mous.   The  end  result,  of  effectively  combating  greening,  will  only  be  as  strong  as  the  least  of  these  two  methods.   It  may  not  be  evident  in  one  season  but  if  both  of  these  management  practices  are  not  followed,  SURÂżWDELOLW\ ZLOO VRRQ GHFOLQH Unfortunately  greening  is  not  our  only  concern  either.   We  still  must  think  about  canker.   Since  the  winter  was  extremely  dry  there  is  not  a  lot  of  sign  of  it  yet,  but  make  no  mistake,  it  is  there  just  waiting.   Hopefully,  the  citrus  production  areas  will  soon  begin  to  see  a  reprieve  from  the  drought.   If  adequate  protection  from  canker  is  not  in  place  it  will  spread  OLNH ZLOG ÂżUH 2I FRXUVH WKLV SURWHFWLRQ FRPHV LQ WKH IRUP RI VSUD\V DV well,  primarily  copper.   IFAS,  through  their  Florida  Automated  Weather  Networks  (FAWN),  has  a  wonderful  copper  application  scheduler.   This  WRRO DOORZV JURZHUV WR FXVWRPL]H WKHLU VSHFLÂżF ORFDWLRQV ZLWK UDLQ IDOO and  amount  of  copper  used.   The  goal  is  to  empower  growers  with  the  NQRZOHGJH RI WKH OHYHO RI SURWHFWLRQ WKH\ FXUUHQWO\ KDYH LQ WKH ÂżHOG If  greening  and  canker  weren’t  enough,  now  black  spot  has  come  into  play  for  many  growers  in  South  Florida.   Although  it  seems  to  be  somewhat  isolated  to  certain  geological  locations  for  now,  if  history  has  taught  us  anything  in  this  business,  we  must  get  prepared.   Black  spot  is  more  than  likely  headed  right  for  all  of  us.   There  is  extensive  research  going  on  and  hopefully  there  can  be  some  better  solutions  for  this  ail-­ ment  as  it  spreads.   Now  the  statement,  a  strong  spray  program  must  be  a  priority,  makes  a  little  more  sense.   Growers  everywhere  are  banning  together  to  co-­ ordinate  spray  programs.   Government  agencies  and  researchers  are  spending  huge  amounts  of  money  and  time  to  help  growers  make  the  best  decisions  for  their  individual  program.   Ultimately  each  grower  is  responsible  for  their  own  grove,  but  remember,  the  decisions  and  plans  you  make  may  also  affect  growers  around  you.    22    Â

April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

Whit Now  e  T  Pees  Avail able!

treetpee.com

tm

863-­990-­2095 Johnny  Georges

Buck  Daniel  Ranch  to  Offer  Quality  Quarter  Horses Looking  for  a  quality  ranch,  performance,  or  just  solid  all-­around  horse?  Don’t  miss  the  upcoming  Buck  Daniel  Ranch  online  live  auction  to  be  held  on  Saturday,  April  21st  at  2:00pm.  Live  bidding  will  also  take  place  at  the  Okeechobee  Livestock  Market. 7KLUW\ ÂżYH KHDG RI UHJLVWHUHG 4XDUWHU +RUVHV LQFOXGLQJ $4+$ World  Champion  Jr.  Tie-­down  Roping  Horse  â€œPeppers  Paniolaâ€?  will  be  fea-­ tured.  Colts  carrying  the  bloodlines  of  2008  World  Champion  Calf  Roping  horse  "Mega  Buck  Boonâ€?,  who  is  currently  being  hauled  by  Professional  Roper  Shane  Hanchey,  will  also  be  offered. Choose  from  two-­year  olds  with  10  rides,  three-­year  olds  started  and  ready  to  be  trained  in  any  discipline,  or  four-­year  olds  on  up  to  aged  mares  that  are  all  making  amazing  horses.  Barrel  racing  prospects  with  proven  siblings  and  ranch/working  horses  are  all  part  of  the  mix. &XUUHQW VDWLVÂżHG DQG VXFFHVVIXO RZQHUV RI %XFN 'DQLHO 4XDUWHU +RUVHV LQFOXGH FDOI URSHUV 6HWK 5RGULJXH] :LOO /DQH -LPP\ )XVVHOO -RVK .HHVH and  Andy  Dyer;Íž  barrel  racers  Crystal  McIntire,  Bob  Haberlandt,  Ashley  Lott,  and  Heather  Clemons;Íž  team  penner/sorter  Cheryl  Kirton;Íž  and  ranchers  Buck  Lee,  Gene  Fulford  and  Buddy  Adams. You  must  pre  register  to  bid  at  http://www.producerscattleauctions.com.  The  live  bidding  will  also  take  place  through  the  site. All  horses  are  available  for  viewing  by  appointment  prior  to  the  sale  day  at  the  Buck  Daniel  Ranch  in  Okeechobee.  For  more  information  contact  Kristin  Hanchey  at  863.634.2121  or  Jason  Hanchey  863.801.9953.

April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

23

Dakin Dairy A Model of Sustainability By:  Justin  Smith

S

ustainability  is  one  of  the  most  important  concepts  in  agri-­ culture.   The  idea  of  being  sustainable  is  simple  in  theory  but  PXFK PRUH GLIÂżFXOW LQ SUDFWLFH %XW LQ WKH OLWWOH FRPPXQLW\ of  Myakka  City  there  is  a  couple  who  have  made  their  operation  as  sus-­ tainable  as  any  around.   Jerry  and  Karen  Dakin  are  the  owners  of  Dakin  Dairy  Farms.   This  farm  uses  innovation  and  state  of  the  art  technology  to  produce  world  class  products.    There  are  very  few  dairies  left  in  Florida  and  Dakin  is  one  of  the  last  three  dairy  farms  in  Manatee  County.   Some  of  the  reasons  for  this  operation’s  long-­term  achievements  lie  in  careful  planning,  precise  execution  and  a  dedicated  family.   Sustainability  is  no  accident.   Even  before  purchasing  the  land  to  start  this  operation  there  was  a  consider-­ able  amount  of  time  invested  into  planning  for  success.   The  Dakin’s  own  approximately  350  acres  and  lease  another  3,000  acres  adjacent  to  their  operation.  They  also  employ  75  full-­time  workers.  The  primary  350  acres  houses  the  production  cattle  and  milking  facilities  while  the  3,000-­acre  lease  is  for  heifers  and  growing  much  of  the  feed  that  aids  in  the  farm’s  sustainability.   On  site,  the  Dakin’s  produce  hi-­protein  grasses  and  corn  year  round.   Having  the  ability  to  produce  the  feed  the  dairy  needs  ensures  consistent  production,  quality  and  costs.

24

April  20 1 2

 The  dairy  business  is  nothing  new  to  this  family.   Jerry  spent  his  childhood  growing  up  on  his  father’s  dairy  in  Parrish,  Florida.  His  fa-­ ther,  Romanus  (Pete)  Dakin,  had  been  a  dairy  farmer  in  Maine  before  moving  to  Florida  and  trying  his  hand  at  chicken  farming.   After  a  few  years  Pete  decided  to  return  to  what  he  knew  best  and  converted  their  operation  into  another  dairy  farm.  When  Pete  retired  he  sold  the  family  farm  to  Jerry  and  one  of  his  brothers,  Rodney.   Eventually  Jerry  and  Rodney  split  their  operation  so  each  would  have  their  own  dairy.   After  a  few  years  Jerry  and  Karen,  who  had  since  married,  decided  the  family  farm  was  not  able  to  progress  with  the  changing  regulatory  climate.   The  couple  knew  if  they  wanted  to  continue  in  the  dairy  business  it  was  time  to  make  some  changes.   Af-­ ter  careful  consideration,  they  chose  the  property  in  Myakka  City  and  began  their  project.   Dakin  Dairy  Farms  in  Myakka  has  now  been  in  business  for  10  years  and  there  is  no  sign  of  slowing  down.   Since  their  move  to  the  new  farm  Dakin  has  expanded  into  bottling  their  own  milk  and  public  eco  tours. Much  of  the  reason  for  this  farms  ability  to  stay  competitive  has  been  in  their  dedication  to  sustainability.   The  entire  farm  has  been  de-­ signed  to  reuse  as  many  of  their  resources  as  possible.   Water,  manure,  and  even  methane  gas  is  recycled  for  further  use  at  Dakin  Dairy.  Heartland InTheField Magazine

“It’s all in their fresh grass salads that the cows get served twice a day.â€? One  of  the  most  limiting  factors  of  any  agricultural  operation  is  water.   $W 'DNLQ GDLU\ WKH\ KDYH ÂżQH WXQHG ZDWHU XVDJH VR WKHUH LV DOPRVW QR waste.   Fresh  water  is  used  for  cleaning  milking  barns  and  any  other  nec-­ essary  area.   The  water  is  then  gravity  drained  into  holding  areas  along  with  manure  and  soil,  deposited  by  the  cattle  as  they  move  in  and  out  of  the  barns.   At  this  point  there  are  three  main  components  in  the  settling/ holding  area:  liquids,  solids  and  sandy  soil.  The  sand  is  removed  and  used  for  cattle  bedding  where  it  can  start  the  process  all  over  again.   The  solids  or  solid  manure  is  taken  and  made  into  compost  to  apply  to  the  soil  to  increase  its  organic  content  and  make  it  (the  soil)  more  productive.   The  water,  which  is  now  extremely  nutrient  rich  from  the  manure,  is  ap-­ plied  to  the  grasses  used  for  feed.  Because  of  the  high  nutrient  content  and  almost  constant  water  supply  the  Dakin  grasses  grow  vigorously  and  are  intensely  managed.   This  allows  for  the  freshest  feed  for  the  cattle.   3OXV DV DQ DGGHG EHQHÂżW RI WKH LQ-­ tense  management,  there  is  much  less  pest  damage,  which  reduces  the  need  of  pesticide.   So,  not  only  does  all  of  the  effort  of  recycling  reduce  usage,  but  it  also  saves  money  and  has  much  less  impact  on  the  environ-­ ment.   Another  goal  of  Dakin  Farms  is  to  produce  the  best  tasting  milk  avail-­ DEOH 7KH\ KDYH WUXO\ VXFFHHGHG DV WKH Ă€DYRU RI WKHLU PLON LV GLVWLQJXLVK-­ ably  sweet  and  creamy.   Karen  says,  â€œIt’s  all  in  their  fresh  grass  salads  that  the  cows  get  served  twice  a  day.â€?   The  â€œsaladâ€?  is  a  blend  of  hay,  grains,  fresh  grasses  and  minerals.  Â

April  20 1 2

This  is  not  something  that  is  just  thrown  together  to  look  appealing  WR WKH FRZV ,W LV VFLHQWLÂżFDOO\ GHVLJQHG DQG EDODQFHG LQ RUGHU WR keep  the  livestock  at  the  peak  of  health  and  producing  the  highest  quality  milk  possible.   The  bottling  facility  has  taken  off  since  its  inception,  just  a  few  years  ago.   The  Dakin’s  have  marketed  themselves  to  restaurants  and  stores  locally.   There  is  an  impressive  list  on  their  web  site  of  both  stores  and  restaurants  that  carry  Dakin  Dairy  Farms’  products.   Sustainability  was  also  designed  into  the  bottling  at  Dakin.   This  was  simply  by  placing  the  bottling  plant  right  next  to  the  milking  facility  and  eliminating  the  need  of  transportation.   All  of  the  milk  is  piped  over  next-­door  and  bottled  right  there.   This  not  only  removes  the  uncertainty  of  transportation  cost,  but  also  ensures  the  freshest  product  is  attached  to  the  Dakin  name.   And  that  is  a  lot  of  product,  too.   Currently  Dakin  produces  80,000  gallons  of  their  rich  and  fresh,  creamy  goodness  every  week. If  the  dairy  itself  was  not  enough  for  Jerry  and  Karen  to  keep  up  with,  they  also  offer  educational  tours  at  the  dairy.   Every  year,  from  October  thru  April,  the  gates  at  the  dairy  JHW RSHQ WR WKH SXEOLF DQG IRU VFKRRO ÂżHOG WULSV IRU HGXFDWLRQ DQG fun.   The  Dakin’s  have  a  passion  for  teaching  the  importance  of  where  food  comes  from.   Children  and  adults  can  learn  where  milk  DFWXDOO\ FRPHV IURP WKH EHQHÂżWV RI D IUHVK JUDVV GLHW IRU PLONLQJ FR

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ws, how pasteurization works and how to make the different per-­ centage levels, skim 1%, ect. of milk. The Dakin’s also understand the best way to educate is to keep it entertaining. While visiting the farm, there are several fun activities. There’s an animal barn where you can feed and pet the animals, swings, slides, a sand mountain to climb and a fossil dig. But, a favorite seems to be the hay ride, which covers much of the farm ending with a pig race and bottle feeding a calf. There is also a farmers market to visit while at the dairy. They have many locally produced goods to choose from and a concessions area with homemade pulled pork. One thing you do not want to forget to do while there is to taste some of the fresh Dakin milk. A trip to the dairy is a great way to learn and make lasting memories. Dakin Dairy Farms has become a model for sustainability. This operation proves, a well designed infrastructure can make an agri-­ FXOWXUDO RSHUDWLRQ ERWK HQYLURQPHQWDOO\ IULHQGO\ DQG YHU\ SUR¿WDEOH The task, however, is not completed. As with any good business there is always a look to the future and what other possibilities await. Currently they are experimenting with different methodologies to capture methane gas from the farm run-­off to produce electricity. Just think one day the dairy may be able to produce everything it needs to operate with no other inputs. One area Karen particularly wants to explore is expanding into the cheese industry and add more Fresh from Dakin products to their line-­up. Jerry and Karen have spent so much of their life developing this farm and they have, graciously, opened it up to teach everyone about all of its aspects. So, get the family together one day and head out to Myakka City to learn all about the Dakin Dairy Farm and how sustainable agriculture works.

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

WHEN  IT’S  REALLY  AN  EMERGENCY,  THERE  IS  NO  WAIT!  900 N Robert Avenue, Arcadia, FL. 34266

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April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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Woman

E R U T L U In AGRIC Lar son

D

Danielle

by Robbi Sumner

anielle Larson spent most of her early years in the Orlando suburb of Winter Garden but that did not hinder her love of agriculture. “My mom and her parents are from Mississippi and I spent a lot of time there on my grandparents’ dairy farm,” she explains.

For a “city girl” Danielle took advantage of every opportunity to expand her exposure to, and knowledge of, all things agriculture. She says that she was fortunate to have “really great FFA advisors” and was able to keep her hog and cattle projects at the school, another huge EHQH¿W She developed a love of Angus cattle during her involvement in the Junior Angus Association. “They have a great youth program, with very supportive people who were accepting of my largely non-­agriculture background. It was easy to get involved.” Danielle completed her Associates degree at Valencia Community College during which time she says she “had many different jobs -­ everywhere from Disney to the Orlando airport -­ that sealed the deal that I did not want to stay in the city!” So she continued her education at the University of Florida, earning an Animal Science de-­ gree with a minor in Ag Education. She credits Rose Cameron with “taking me under her wing” and allowing her to OLYH RQ WKH &DPHURQ $QJXV 5DQFK LQ +DZWKRUQH KHU ¿UVW VHPHVWHU DW 8) ³6KH OHW PH show several of their cattle and helped me learn a lot,” Danielle says. She later had the opportunity to live at the Horse Teaching Unit, which expanded her knowledge of the equine industry. During her time in Gainesville, Danielle served as President of Block and Bridle, a club for college students with an interest in animal agriculture. She participated on the livestock and horse judging teams, was President of the Gator Collegiate Cattle-­ women’s Association, and was named Outstanding Collegiate Cattlewoman in 2001.

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

She completed her teaching internship under Roger McWaters at Okeechobee High School, but after graduation, there were no local Ag teaching positions available so Danielle joined the Okeechobee Soil and Water Conservation District as a Technician for two years. Her primary responsibilities were to share information on cost shar-­ ing programs with producers, attend South Florida Water Manage-­ ment District meetings, and act as a liaison with various governmen-­ tal agencies. From there she joined the USDA working in the Bovine Spongi-­ form Ecephalopathy (BSE) program. The next two years were spent collecting brain samples from down and dead cattle in order to prove the non-­existence of BSE locally, and help to improve foreign markets for beef. Since her goal was to work with live animals, she transferred to an Animal Health Tech position when it became available and spent the next three years focusing on import/ export inspections on everything from cattle and horses to exotic birds. Danielle is married to dairy-­ man Jacob Larson and as their family expanded (they have three beautiful children, Luke age 6, Lilly 4, and Levi 2), Danielle’s focus was drawn to their children. These days she stays busy with home schooling, raising Angus cattle and breeding yellow labs. “I just love the Angus breed. They are so gentle and easy to work with, they make great 4-­H and FFA projects,” she shares. Their cattle are also bred to perform well in the harsh Florida climate. A few years ago, she and Jacob purchased property in

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Mississippi, so they travel there several times a year to work the cattle there and on her family’s dairy. After establishing a website to market their Angus and selling live steer calves to the public, Danielle sought out a different approach to market their grass fed Angus steers. They now also do cooperative work with Terra Verde Farms, a local Community Supported Agricultural Program (CSA). “We have started to supply grass fed Angus beef for their customers. This niche market is new to us and really gives us an opportunity to both educate and supply the local community,” she shares excitedly. “Grass fed Angus is a high quality, value added prod-­ XFW WKDW ¿WV ZHOO LQ WR WKHLU SURJUDP ´ Danielle is a local “MOPS” Coordinator (Mothers of Pre-­Schoolers), is a member of the Okeechobee Cattlewomen’s As-­ sociation and the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, participated in the Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Leadership Group 2009-­ 2010, is a Farm Bureau Women’s Committee member, and judges various beef cattle showman-­ ship shows. It’s a lifestyle that involves the entire family, and the kids enjoy playing with the dogs and checking the cattle during their study breaks. She and Jacob look for-­ ward to the kids becoming involved in 4-­H and showing cattle of their own. You can learn more about the Larson’s Registered Black An-­ gus by visiting www.southernpointangus.com.

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THE HEARTLAND’S FISHING REPORT

m

by  Captain  Mark  King

Captain  Mark  King  is  a  full  time  guide  and  tournament  angler  guiding  out  of  the  world  famous  Roland  Martin’s  Marina  and  Resort  in  Clewiston  Florida  and  also  in  the  Florida  Keys  out  of  Marathon  area.  Mark  is  an  ,*)$ &HUWLÂżHG &DSWDLQ DFWLYH PHPEHU RI WKH )ORULGD *XLGH $VVRFLDWLRQ and  the  Florida  Outdoor  Writers  Association.  Captain  Mark  is  sponsored  by  Ranger  Boats,  Evinrude  Outboards,  Roland  Martin’s  Marine  Center,  Power-­Pole,  Minn  Kota  trolling  motors,  Charlie’s  Worms,  Okuma  Fishing,  AFTCO  clothing,  Smartshield  Sun  Protection  Products,  RMR  Industries,  Fuel  Medic  Ethanol  Treatment,  and  Yeti  coolers. Mark  can  be  contacted  to  book  a  guide  trip,  seminars,  personal  appearances,  WHVW ULGHV LQ KLV (YLQUXGH SRZHUHG 5DQJHU RU WR ÂżVK D WRXUQDPHQW ZLWK KLP DW RU DW ZZZ PDUNNLQJÂżVKLQJ FRP DQG ZZZ WDUSRQLQWKHNH\V FRP

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KH ÂżVKLQJ IRU EDVV RQ /DNH 2NHHFKREHH FRQWLQXHV WR EH DZH-­ some  and  it  doesn’t  seem  like  it  is  going  to  slow  down  anytime  VRRQ , KDYH EHHQ FDWFKLQJ EDVV RQ ERWK DUWLÂżFLDO OXUHV DQG RQ wild  shiners,  and  the  wild  shiner  bite  has  been  off  the  hook  with  eight  dozen  shiners  only  lasting  until  noon.  The  water  level  is  at  12.59  feet  above  sea  level  and  going  down  but  still  a  foot  higher  then  it  was  last  year  at  this  time.  The  bass  have  spawned  and  are  still  spawning  on  WKH RXWVLGH UHHG OLQH FORVHVW WR WKH ODNH WKLV \HDU WKH ZDWHU KDV ÂżQDOO\ cleared  up  enough  to  start  seeing  the  beds. , DP VWLOO ÂżVKLQJ IURP 3HOLFDQ %D\ WR &RFKUDQÂśV 3DVV MXVW GHSHQGLQJ on  which  direction  the  wind  is  blowing.  But  the  main  thing  to  keep  in  mind  is  that  most  of  the  bass  are  either  in  the  reeds  closest  to  the  lake  or  out  in  open  water  up  to  one  hundred  yards  out  from  the  reed  line.  I  have  been  catching  some  schooling  bass  out  in  open  water  in  the  morn-­ ing  on  spinnerbaits,  look  for  the  birds  diving  on  bait  and  that  is  where  \RX QHHG WR EH ÂżVKLQJ $V IDU DV ÂżVKLQJ LQ WKH JUDVV RU UHHGV , KDYH EHHQ XVLQJ D ä RXQFH EODFN DQG EOXH MLJ WR FDWFK PRVW DOO RI P\ ÂżVK EXW , KDYH DOVR FDXJKW D IHZ WH[DV ULJJLQJ D &KDUOLHÂśV :RUPV /DUJH &UDZÂżVK LQ D GDUN FRORU <RX QHHG WR ÂżVK VORZ WR JHW WKH ELWHV DQG GRQÂśW H[SHFW D lot  of  bites  but  the  ones  you  get  will  be  good  ones.  The  spinnerbait  bite  KDV DOVR UHDOO\ SLFNHG XS WKH SDVW FRXSOH ZHHNV ÂżVKLQJ PDLQ ODNH SRLQWV LV \RXU EHVW EHW 7KH ÂżVKLQJ KHUH RQ 2NHHFKREHH KDVQÂśW EHHQ EHWWHU DQG LI \RX DUH WKLQNLQJ DERXW FRPLQJ KHUH DQG JRLQJ ÂżVKLQJ WKHQ QRZ LV WKH time  to  make  it  happen.  The  bluegill  will  be  going  on  the  beds  soon  and  the  bass  will  be  hanging  around  eating  them  like  candy.  I  love  to  throw  a  wake  bait  in  a  bluegill  pattern  over  the  beds  to  catch  bass  during  this  time  of  the  year.  All  of  the  guides  here  on  the  south  end  of  the  lake  out  of  Roland  Martin’s  Marina  and  Resort  have  been  having  a  great  year  catching  lots  of  bass  and  making  clients  happy,  while  the  tournaments  have  been  setting  record  catches  with  lots  of  big  bass  making  it  to  the  VFDOHV 7KH ZHDWKHU LV JUHDW DORQJ ZLWK WKH ÂżVKLQJ KHUH LQ )ORULGD SODQ D IDPLO\ ÂżVKLQJ YDFDWLRQ VRRQ

Roland  Martin  Marine  Center  is  a  full  service  marina  including  boat,  motor,  and  tackle  sales  and  boat  and  motor  service  by  one  of  the  top  service  crews  in  South  Florida.  Are  you  looking  for  a  new  or  used  Ranger  boat  or  maybe  you  just  need  a  new  outboard  to  put  on  a  boat  you  already  have  well  than  a  new  Evinrude  E-­Tec  would  put  you  right  back  out  on  the  water.  They  have  the  hottest  tackle  on  the  market  in  the  story  with  names  like  Gambler,  Reaction  Innovation,  Charlie’s  Worms,  Duck-­ ett  rods,  Lews  Reels,  and  Live  Target  Kopper.  They  also  have  all  your  boating  needs  from  oils  to  anchors  and  everything  in  between.  With  two  full  time  mechanics  and  a  fully  stocked  parts  room  getting  your  boat  back  out  on  the  water  will  be  no  problem.  They  also  have  minnows,  worms,  crickets,  sodas,  beer,  and  ice  at  all  times.  If  you  are  looking  for  a  one  stop  marina  than  Roland  Martin  Marine  Center  is  the  place  to  go.  They  are  conveniently  located  just  before  the  ramp  in  Clewiston  on  world  fa-­ mous  Lake  Okeechobee.  Stop  in  and  see  my  wife  Diane  in  the  parts  department  and  she  just  might  give  away  a  IHZ RI P\ ÂżVKLQJ VSRWV

  I  still  have  a  few  open  days  in  April  for  here  on  Lake  Okeechobee  DQG WKHQ VRPH WDUSRQ ¿VKLQJ RSHQLQJ IRU LQ WKH )ORULGD .H\V LQ 0D\ and  June.  Until  next  time  good  luck,  tight  lines,  and  I  hope  to  see  ev-­ eryone  on  the  water  soon.

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

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16  LANE  GRIMWAY  STYLE  PRE-­CLEANER  used  in  citrus  to  remove  trash,  stems  and  any  other  debris  (Also  available  in  4  Lane,  8  Lane  and  12  Lane) Â

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A glimpse into the covert world of FWC investigations

2Q 1RY 2I¿FHU -XVWLQ $OOHQ DQQRXQFHG WKDW KH ZDV UHVLJQLQJ from  the  Florida  Fish  and  Wildlife  Conservation  Commission  (FWC)  to  work  in  the  private  sector.  What  his  fellow  employees  and  peers  didn’t  know  was  WKDW $OOHQ KDG DVVXPHG D QHZ UROH DV DQ XQGHUFRYHU RI¿FHU LQYHVWLJDWLQJ WKH LOOHJDO ¿VK DQG ZLOGOLIH EODFN PDUNHW LQ 1RUWKHDVW )ORULGD 7KH XQGHUFRYHU investigation  was  named  Operation  Smorgasbord,  and  within  24  hours  of  Al-­ len’s  new  assignment,  he  made  contact  with  a  Putnam  County  resident  who  ZDQWHG WR SXUFKDVH LOOHJDO GHHU ¿VK DQG D JRSKHU WRUWRLVH D WKUHDWHQHG VSH-­ cies.  Allen  had  been  reassigned  to  the  FWC’s  Covert  Investigations  Section,  which  is  operated  out  of  headquarters  in  Tallahassee.  One  of  the  unit’s  mis-­ sions  is  to  protect  Florida’s  natural  resources  from  illegal  commercialization.  ,OOHJDO SURGXFWV LQFOXGLQJ ¿VK ZLOGOLIH DQG RWKHU QDWXUDO UHVRXUFHV ¿OWHULQJ into  the  private  sector,  undercut  law-­abiding,  legitimate  businesses.  Businesses  are  required  to  work  under  strict  health  code  regulations,  quality  control  standards,  handling  requirements  and  also  must  report  harvest  infor-­ PDWLRQ &RPPHUFLDO ¿VKHUPHQ DQG SULYDWH JDPH IDUPV DUH DGYHUVHO\ DIIHFWHG ZKHQ LOOHJDO EXVLQHVVHV FRQWLQXH WR RSHUDWH Legal  commercial  businesses  invest  hundreds  of  thousands  of  dollars  in  equipment,  traps,  fencing,  supplies,  insurance,  land,  boats,  taxes,  em-­ ployee  salaries  and  commercial  licenses,  and  they  work  long  and  hard  hours  to  make  a  living.  However,  black  market  prices  truly  undercut  legal  EXVLQHVV HIIRUWV DQG SUR¿WV )RU H[DPSOH OHJDO YHQLVRQ GHHU PHDW VHOOV IRU SHU SRXQG 2Q WKH EODFN PDUNHW YHQLVRQ FDQ EH VROG IRU a  pound.  Legal  red  snapper  sells  for  $10  per  pound,  while  the  black  market  price  is  $3  per  pound.  7KH ):& DWWHPSWV WR HOLPLQDWH LOOHJDO PDUNHWV DQG HQVXUH WKDW ZKHQ \RX VLW GRZQ IRU GLQQHU DW \RXU IDYRULWH UHVWDXUDQW \RX DUH HDWLQJ ¿VK RU wildlife  that  came  from  a  clean,  healthy  and  legal  source.  The  public  safety  and  health  concerns  for  seafood  are  no  joking  matter.  Products  like  R\VWHUV ¿VK DQG VKULPS DUH FRPPRQO\ HDWHQ UDZ VR FRPPHUFLDO GHDOHUV PXVW DGKHUH WR VWULFW KDQGOLQJ UHTXLUHPHQWV Another  bad  aspect  of  poaching  is  that  it  robs  the  average  citizen  by  steal-­ LQJ ¿VK ZLOGOLIH DQG QDWXUDO UHVRXUFHV IURP OHJDO VSRUWVPHQ DQG WKH RXWGRRU enthusiasts  who  follow  harvest  limits  and  seasons.  )LYH \HDUV DJR WKH ):& KHOG LWV ¿UVW XQGHUFRYHU VFKRRO GHVLJQHG WR WUDLQ RI¿FHUV WR LQ¿OWUDWH WKH LOOHJDO PDUNHWV WKDW XQGHUPLQH FRQVHUYDWLRQ HIIRUWV DQG OHJDO EXVLQHVV 6WDWH FHUWL¿HG ):& ODZ HQIRUFHPHQW RI¿FHUV JR WKURXJK D ULJRURXV WUDLQLQJ SURFHVV WKDW KHOSV EXLOG FRQ¿GHQFH DQG QHHGHG VNLOOV WR become  a  covert  operative.  When  Allen  attended  the  FWC  covert  school  in  2009,  he  stood  out  among  his  peers.  He  was  clearly  the  right  choice  for  Op-­ eration  Smorgasbord. Florida’s  black  market  for  natural  resources  is  statewide  and  enters  many  arenas.  For  example,  grouper  and  red  snapper  are  illegally  caught  and  shipped  to  markets  out  of  state;;  prohibited  species  like  piranha  and  turtles  are  sold  on  the  Internet;;   protected  elk  horn  corals  are  illegally  harvested  and  sold  IRU WURSLFDO ¿VK WDQNV GHHU DUH LOOHJDOO\ NLOOHG DQG VROG LQ VSHFLDOW\ PDUNHWV

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oysters  are  harvested  from  closed  waters  and  shipped  to  unsuspect-­ ing  buyers;Íž  Native  American  mounds  are  looted  and  the  artifacts  sold  internationally;Íž  and  freshwater  turtles  are  illegally  harvested  and  shipped  to  Asian  markets.  The  list  goes  on.  7R HIÂżFLHQWO\ DOORFDWH IXQGLQJ DQG SHUVRQQHO WR DGGUHVV WKHVH LV-­ sues,  the  FWC  Investigations  Section  prioritizes  initiatives  through  a  process  called  the  Test  of  Five.   This  is  a  basic  system  to  establish  priority  investigations  through  their:  1)  Impact  on  public  health  and  safety  and  other  disease  concerns;Íž  2)  Public  perception  and  the  public’s  expectation  of  the  FWC;Íž  3)  Effects  on  other  species  and  the  environment;Íž 4)  The  status  of  the  natural  resource  involved;Íž  and  5)  Commercial  impact  on  legal  business.  When  Operation  Smorgasbord  was  assessed  using  the  Test  of  Five,  it  was  an  easy  decision  to  undertake  the  operation.       Allen  assumed  a  false  identity  and  quickly  established  himself  within  the  local  communi-­ ties  of  Putnam,  St.  Johns,  Alachua,  Flagler  and  Marion  counties.  Within  several  months,  the  FWC  decided  to  merge  a  parallel  investigation  from  Volusia  County  that  had  a  covert  operative  by  the  name  of  Investigator  James  â€œVanâ€?  Bar-­ row.  Both  Barrow  and  Allen  quickly  became  WKH G\QDPLF GXR DV WKH\ LQÂżOWUDWHG WKH EODFN markets  of  Northeast  Florida.  Lt.  Don  McMil-­ len,  their  case  agent  and  a  30-­plus-­year  veteran  of  the  FWC,  provided  direct  support  and  local  supervision  of  the  operation,  while  Capt.  Rett  Boyd  and  Capt.  Gregg  Eason  provided  direc-­ tional  oversight.   Several  months  after  the  investigations  merged,  criminal  charges  started  to  mount.  The  level  of  exploitation  of  illegal  product  would  amaze  the  average  citizen,  and  would  even  DPD]H PRVW H[SHULHQFHG FRQVHUYDWLRQ RIÂżFHUV 7KH VXVSHFW OLVW FRQ-­ tinued  to  grow,  and  violations  varied.  They  included  illegal  selling  DQG SXUFKDVLQJ UHGÂżVK UHG VQDSSHU WURXW VKHHSVKHDG JURXSHU EDVV FUDSSLH EUHDP FDWÂżVK VRIW VKHOO WXUWOHV JRSKHU WRUWRLVH EODFN EHDU Ă€RXQGHU PXOOHW DOOLJDWRUV YHUPLOLRQ VQDSSHU VWULSHG EDVV EOXH FUDE VKULPS DQG WXQD SRVVHVVLRQ RI D ÂżUHDUP E\ D FRQYLFWHG IHORQ DQG possession/solicitation  of  cannabis. Â

The  investigation  determined  that  multiple  loosely  connected  poach-­ LQJ ULQJV ZHUH RSHUDWLQJ LQ ÂżYH GLIIHUHQW FRXQWLHV (YHQ WKRXJK WKHVH rings  were  not  directly  connected  with  an  organized  structure,  they  all  displayed  the  same  disrespect  for  conservation  laws  and  for  their  fellow  citizens’  rights  to  the  natural  resources  they  were  poaching.  After  15  months  of  investigation,  the  FWC  had  34  felonies  and  280  misdemeanor  violations  on  56  suspects.  The  decision  was  made  to  bring  the  operation  to  an  end  and  move  into  the  takedown  phase.  On  Feb.  28  RI WKLV \HDU ):& RIÂżFHUV PHW DW WKH 0DULRQ &RXQW\ 6KHULIIÂśV 2I-­ ÂżFH IRU D WDNHGRZQ EULHÂżQJ &DSW (DVRQ OHG WKH WDNHGRZQ RSHUDWLRQ designating  teams  to  apprehend  the  violators.  On  the  following  day,  during  the  early  morning  hours,  18  separate  teams  descended  upon  six  counties  to  arrest  felony  suspects.  Those  who  were  charged  with  misdemeanor  violations  received  mandatory  notices  to  appear  in  court. The  operation  was  an  overwhelming  success  and  will  certainly  help  to  deter  future  violations.  Covert  investigations  such  as  Operation  Smor-­ gasbord  are  exceptionally  rare,  and  the  risk  as-­ sumed  by  the  covert  operative  can  be  great.  Despite  common  misconceptions  portrayed  by  Hollywood  spy  movies  and  TV  shows,  there  is  no  glory  or  glamour  in  the  undercover  world.  These  operatives  are  required  to  work  long  hours,  day  and  night,  behind  the  scenes,  associate  with  poachers  and  earn  low  wages.  Barrow  and  Allen  volunteered  for  the  assignment  for  the  right  rea-­ sons;Íž  they  did  it  for  a  higher  calling.  With  that  be-­ ing  said,  we  are  extremely  proud  and  grateful  for  WKH ÂżQH ZRUN WKH\ KDYH GRQH WR SURWHFW )ORULGDÂśV natural  resources.  Poachers  are  stealing  from  you,  the  business  RZQHU WKH OHJDO KXQWHU DQG ÂżVKHUPDQ WKH ZLOG-­ life  viewer,  the  landowner  and  the  average  Flori-­ da  resident  and  visitor.  Please  join  us  in  protecting  Florida’s  resources  by  reporting  violations  to  Wildlife  Alert  at  888-­404-­3922,  online  at  MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert,  or  text  tip@myfwc.com.  You  can  remain  anonymous  and  receive  a  reward  of  up  to  $1,000.

Maj.  Curtis  Brown Investigations  and  Captive  Wildlife,  Section  Leader Florida  Fish  and  Wildlife  Conservation  Commission  Â

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 s r e h c n a R  Farmers  & Roger  Butler  by  Robbi  Sumner Â

M

ost  people  who  know  him  associate  Roger  Butler  with  dairy  farming,  but  there  are  many  more  dimensions  to  this  High-­ lands  County  farmer.

Roger’s  family  relocated  from  Broward  County  in  1965,  bringing  But-­ ler  Dairy,  Inc.  with  them.  The  youngest  of  three  sons,  Roger  explains  that  he  was  a  shareholder  in  the  family  dairy  before  he  turned  16,  so  it  was  only  natural  that  he  would  continue  the  tradition. After  high  school,  Roger  spent  a  year  at  Troy  State  University  where  he  played  football  before  transferring  to  Abraham  Baldwin  Agricultural  College.  There  he  earned  his  Associates  Degree  and  did  some  rodeoing  before  returning  home  to  assist  with  expansion  of  the  family  dairy. After  college,  Roger  also  completed  the  Cattle  Management  and  Breeding  course  at  the  Graham  School  in  Garnett,  Kansas.  â€œIt  was  the  WRS QRWFK SURJUDP IRFXVHG RQ EUHHGLQJ DUWLÂżFLDO LQVHPLQDWLRQ DQG SUHJ-­ nancy  checking.  Dad  made  sure  all  three  of  us  boys  attended,â€?  he  shares. In  1995,  his  late  father  Robert  K.  Butler  decided  to  take  a  proactive  approach  to  estate  planning  and  the  Butler  Dairy  and  Butler  Operations  HQWLWLHV ZHUH ÂżUVW PHUJHG DQG WKHQ GLYLGHG LQWR HTXLWDEOH SDUWV %URWKHU R.D.  took  over  the  beef  cattle  operation  at  what  is  now  known  as  Ar-­ buckle  Creek  Ranch,  and  Roger  and  brother  Bob  split  the  dairy  property,  developing  what  are  now  known  as  B-­4,  Inc.  and  Butler  Oaks  Farm,  Inc.,  respectively. 2Q -DQXDU\ % ,QF RIÂżFLDOO\ EHJDQ LWV DFUH RSHUDWLRQ LQ WKH RULJLQDO %XWOHU 'DLU\ RIÂżFH WKDW ZDV EXLOW LQ ,Q IDFW 5RJHU still  uses  the  same  desk  that  his  father  moved  here  from  Hollywood.  â€œBut,â€?  he  offers,  â€œto  tell  you  the  truth,  I  don’t  spend  much  time  at  it  -­  I’d  rather  be  outside.â€?

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B-­4  is  currently  milking  approximately  750  cows,  and  raises  its  own  UHSODFHPHQW KHLIHUV 7KH\ UXQ D PRGLÂżHG JUD]LQJ RSHUDWLRQ RI -HUVH\ Brown  Swiss,  and  Holstein  cows.  As  Rogers  explains,  â€œWe  still  feed  a  lot  of  commercially  purchased  feed,  but  our  cows  eat  mostly  forage  and  hay  and  we  don’t  give  silage  like  with  free  stalls.â€?  They  have  14  full-­time  employees,  of  which  Roger  and  wife  Zoe  are  two.  While  Roger  has  the  title  of  Manager,  he  says  that  Zoe’s  â€œquite  capable  of  taking  care  of  things  around  the  farm,â€?  which  is  a  good  thing,  as  Roger  is  active  in  a  number  of  organizations  that  require  him  to  travel  off  the  farm  periodically. He  currently  serves  as  a  board  member  of  Florida  Dairy  Farmers,  Inc.,  our  state’s  milk  promotion  organization.  Through  consumer  pro-­ motions  and  education,  FDF  works  to  enhance  the  industry’s  image  and  thereby  increase  milk  and  dairy  product  consumption  statewide.  Roger  is  also  an  alternate  board  member  for  Southeast  Milk,  Inc.,  the  cooperative  responsible  for  marketing  the  majority  of  milk  in  Florida.  After  serving  approximately  6  years  as  a  Florida  Dairy  Farmers  rep-­ resentative  on  the  Florida  Beef  Council,  Roger  was  asked  to  serve  as  Chairman  and  is  in  his  second  term  in  that  position.  The  Beef  Council  is  comprised  of  representatives  from  Florida  Cattlewomen,  Farm  Bu-­ reau,  University  of  Florida,  Allied  Trade,  FDF  and  the  Florida  Cattle-­ men’s  Association.  The  Beef  Council  receives  its  funding  through  the  USDA  mandated  Beef  Check  Off  program,  and  the  primary  function  of  the  Council  is  to  determine  which  educational  and  promotional  programs  will  be  funded.  As  Chairman  of  the  Beef  Council,  Roger  also  serves  on  the  Executive  Committee  of  the  Florida  Cattlemen’s  Association  and  the  National  Cattlemen’s  Beef  Association. Heartland InTheField Magazine

As  Secretary  of  United  Feed  Co-­Op  in  Okeechobee,  Roger  explains  that  the  purpose  of  the  co-­op  is  to  provide  a  small  farmer  with  the  same  purchasing  power  as  that  of  larger  or-­ ganizations.  In  August  2011,  the  mill  suffered  GDPDJH IURP D ÂżUH FDXVHG E\ VSRQWDQHRXV FRP-­ bustion  of  cottonseed.  â€œWe  lost  our  milling  ca-­ pacity  but  with  the  help  of  good  friends  in  the  industry,  namely  those  at  Dairy  Feeds,  Syfrett  Feed,  and  Gator  Feed,  we’re  able  to  continue  providing  feed  for  our  members.  And,  we  are  committed  to  rebuild  in  the  same  location,â€?  he  stated. After  about  12  years  of  competitive  Hare  Scramble  motorcycle  racing,  Roger  remains  active  with  the  Treasure  Coast  Trail  Riders  as-­ sisting  with  local  races.  â€œBut,â€?  he  says,  â€œI’ve  al-­ ways  been  a  hunter  and  these  days  really  enjoy  deer  hunting  at  our  place  in  Southwest  Geor-­ gia.â€?  He  beams  when  describing  his  15  point  buck  that  green  scored  167.25  points,  and  says  his  family  also  enjoys  boating  and  lobstering  in  the  Keys.  Roger  and  Zoe  have  two  children,  24-­ year  old  Ryan  and  21-­year  old  Jamie.

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A Natural Florida Treasure: Babcock Ranch

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April  20 1 2

by Justin Smith

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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ow  many  people  have  ever  seen  the  â€œrealâ€?  Florida?   Mil-­ lions  of  tourists  visit  our  state  every  year  and  many  know  Mickey  Mouse  or  the  pristine  coastlines  with  gorgeous  homes  and  yachts.   But,  how  many  ever  really  get  to  know  what  Florida  is  all  about:  the  abundant  wildlife  and  the  beautiful  scenery  adorned  with  wild  irises  and  Spanish  moss.   Only  a  select  few  of  the  actual  native  Floridians  know  the  tranquil  bliss  of  sitting  in  an  oak  hammock  watching  the  sunset  over  the  Florida  landscape.   There  is  that  special  moment  when  the  air  changes  from  the  intense  Florida  heat  to  the  peaceful  evening  calm.   About  the  same  time  the  birds  stop  singing,  the  frogs  and  crickets  begin  competing  for  the  evening  airwaves.   Listen  closely  and  the  sound  of  a  turkey  going  to  roost  may  be  heard;Íž  watch  intently  and  a  group  of  deer  or  wild  hogs  can  be  seen  in  the  distance  as  they  set  out  on  a  nocturnal  quest.   All  of  these  wondrous  things  abound  in  our  state,  but  very  few  have  the  privilege  of  experiencing  them. Luckily  there  are  places  that  still  preserve  some  of  the  true  Flori-­ da.   These  glorious  refuges  from  concrete,  water  parks  and  shopping  malls  are  great  in  shear  size  but  not  in  accessibility.   There  are  some  places  that  are  available  to  those  who  don’t  have  the  opportunity  to  see  the  Florida  beauty  on  a  daily  basis;Íž  many  times  they  are  tucked  DZD\ LQ UHPRWH ORFDWLRQV EDUHO\ YLVLEOH EHFDXVH WKHUH DUH QR Ă€DVK\ neon  signs  to  light  the  way.   One  of  these  places  is  Babcock  Wilder-­ ness  Preserve.   If  you  have  lived  in  Florida  very  long,  you  have  undoubtedly  heard  the  name  Babcock  Ranch  before.   The  original  ranch  was  purchased  by  the  Babcock  family  in  1914  and  consisted  of  156,000  acres.   At  that  time,  Edward  Babcock  lived  in  Pennsylvania  and  operated  Bab-­ cock  Lumber  Company.   Edward,  an  avid  hunter,  found  his  Florida  paradise  while  on  a  hunting  expedition.   The  property  was  full  of  native  timber  ready  to  be  harvested,  which  was  one  of  the  original  draws  for  this  purchase.   Between  the  extreme  beauty  of  the  location  and  the  desire  he  had  for  agriculture,  Edward  could  not  pass  up  the  opportunity. Â

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Over  the  next  few  years  as  the  Babcock’s  progressed  with  timber  cutting,  a  small  community  grew  on  the  property.   Comprised  mostly  of  workers,  there  was  also  housing  for  the  Babcock  family,  a  school-­ teacher  and  a  medical  doctor  who  doubled  as  the  local  barber.   The  timber  harvesting  continued,  and  the  tiny  little  community  was  rather  happy.   Being  great  stewards  of  the  land,  the  Babcock  family  knew  only  cutting  timber  was  not  sustainable.      Every  effort  was  made  to  best  manage  the  natural  resources  of  the  ranch.   In  the  30’s  cattle  were  brought  to  the  ranch,  thus  expanding  the  agricultural  endeavors  of  the  family  into  new  areas.   Once  these  cattle  were  introduced,  the  small  community  began  to  be  transformed  from  logging  crews  into  cowboys.   Axes  and  tow  straps  were  exchanged  for  bullwhips  and  cur  dogs.   Quarter  horses,  with  their  keen  sense  of  cattle  behavior,  became  the  preferred  method  of  transportation.   The  endeavor  to  improve  the  pastures  and  create  the  best  cattle  ranch  pos-­ sible  was  undertaken  and  the  Crescent  B  Ranch,  the  Babcock  family  brand,  thrived  for  many  generations.    Over  the  years  many  things  have  changed  for  the  ranch.   It  survived  the  great  depression,  many  economic  ups  and  downs  in  the  industry  and  countless  environmental  changes.   Great  ranchers  have  come  and  gone  on  this  land  as  well  as  some  of  the  greatest  agriculturalists  the  state  has  ever  seen.  Â

Throughout all of the changes, the idea of preserving the natural beauty and resources of the land and its wildlife has been the constant. The  evidence  of  this  can  be  seen  in  the  land  itself.  Its  pristine  condition  seems  as  though  it  has  scarcely  been  touched  in  the  last  100  years.   (YHQ DZDUGV DERXQG DV FRQÂżUPDWLRQ RI DOO WKLV 7KH UDQFK DQG WKH IDPLO\ KDYH EHHQ UHFRJQL]HG IRU HIIRUWV LQ HQYLURQPHQWDO VWHZDUGVKLS 2QH RI WKH ÂżUVW PDMRU FKDQJHV WKH UDQFK XQGHUZHQW ZDV LQ WKH ÂśV ZKHQ DFUHV ZHUH WUDQVIHUUHG WR WKH VWDWH RI )ORULGD DV D SUH-­ serve.   Fred  Babcock,  Edward’s  son,  was  the  donor  of  the  property.   After  his  death  in  1997,  the  property  was  renamed  the  Fred  C.  Babcock/ Cecil  M.  Webb  Wildlife  Management  Area.   This  left  the  Crescent  B  Ranch  with  91,000  acres,  still  a  sizable  operation  and  one  of  the  largest  single  operations  in  the  state.   In  perspective,  the  91,000  acres  or  143  sq.  mi.  is  6  times  larger  than  Manhattan  Island  at  only  15,168  acres  or  23.7  sq  mi. Again  the  ranch  underwent  a  major  change  in  2006  when  the  Babcock  family  sold  the  entire  property  to  a  private  developer.   As  a  condition  of  the  sale,  the  developer  sold  73,239  acres  to  the  state  of  Florida  and  kept  only  18,000.   The  development  company  of  Kitson  &  Partners  has  future  plans  of  developing  a  community  on  the  prop-­ erty.   Deemed  the  city  of  the  future,  it  is  planned  to  run  completely  off  of  solar  and  renewable  energy  sources.  The  purchase  of  the  73,000+  acres  by  the  state  of  Florida  for  use  as  a  preserve  was  monumental.   There  was  a  special  legislative  provision  made  in  order  to  procure  and  fund  the  project.   It  also  HQDFWHG WKH YHU\ ÂżUVW SXEOLF DQG SULYDWH SDUWQHUVKLS E\ WKH VWDWH This  allows  for  the  ranch  to  continue  operating  on  a  business  basis  under  private  management.   There  is  still  a  massive  cattle  operation,  along  with  a  timber  business,  eco  tourism  and  leased  property.   The  money  made  by  the  operations  is  what  funds  the  entire  ranch. Â

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The cattle operation of Crescent B is not so different as that of years’ past. There are still thriving herds of Charolais, Brangus and Braford scattered throughout the ranch. There is even a herd of the original Florida Cracker Cattle. These are the descendants of the oldest known bovine inhabitants of the state. Originally, cattle were introduced to Florida by Ponce de Leon on his second voyage when he landed in Charlotte Harbor. These rare speci-­ mens are of the toughest and hardiest cross breeds known. They can thrive on very little for sustenance and, unlike many other English breeds, take little notice of intense heat and humidity. The original Florida Cracker Cattle are superb for the Florida cli-­ mate, however, as they are not greatly sought after for their meat nor do they “grow off” vigorously, they are of little use as com-­ mercial cattle. Nonetheless a beautiful herd of these auspicious beasts are maintained on the preserve as a remembrance of the old Florida. Like the cattle themselves, the cowboys are very little changed. There are subtle differences such as the addition of cellular phones, but the mode of transportation for a Babcock cowboy is still the quarter horse and the primary tools used during round-­ups are still the cur dog and bullwhip. A hand full of cowboys including the ranch manager still live on the premises as well. The timber operation is managed by means of the latest forestry technology and the cutting and burning of the timber areas are carefully planned and executed. However, cypress removal is all but non-­existent. Although at one time in the early history of the ranch, cypress logging was done, developments in ecology have proven it had negative environmental impacts. For that reason, the cutting of cypress trees ceased many years ago on the Babcock property. There are also large areas of leased property on the preserve. The leases are for farming, sod and hunting purposes. The acreage associated with Babcock’s leases provides a wide variety of vegetables, fruits and all sorts of products. There are countless families fed by the food produced on the ranch. Hunting is also an important portion of the ranch’s business plan. Although Babcock is now a preserve, without hunting there would be no way to stop over-­population of certain species. When over-­ population occurs, there are many negative impacts to the en-­ vironment. Food sources can be devastated, which can destroy entire ecosystems or disease can become a problem, which has the potential to eliminate entire populations of species. There are also invasive species, such as wild hogs that must be kept in check by hunters. Another business operated from Babcock is that of an alligator ranch. There are very few licensed alligator ranches in the state of Florida, and Babcock is one of them. Given its superb envi-­ ronment, it is a perfect place for gators to thrive. Gator ranching allows a safe area for mother gators to hatch their young and for them to grow to maturity. In the wild the survival rate of a hatchling is only about 10%;; in open captivity it is 90%. This also allows for a way of providing gator meat and skins with out impacting the wild populations. The Babcock Preserve has kept true to the intent of the Bab-­ cock family in preserving the land and its natural resources. There is one further aspect, which is education in the form of eco tours.

The experience of a Babcock tour is hard to describe. For anyone who is not accustomed to native Florida land and the absolute beauty it has to offer, there is no accurate portrayal, less seeing it for yourself.

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When  heading  to  a  Babcock  eco  tour,  the  idea  of  being  far  removed  from  the  urban  environment  is  set  on  the  journey  to  get  there.   Although  it  is  not  too  far  from  Ft.  Myers  DQG , LW LV GHÂżQLWHO\ QRW ORFDWHG RQ D PDMRU KLJKZD\ 2QFH WKH HQWUDQFH KDV EHHQ located  and  your  vehicle  turns  onto  the  ranch  property  there  is  still  a  2  and  a  half-­mile  ride  just  to  get  to  the  parking  lot.  Along  the  way  you  begin  to  be  transported  into  an-­ other  land.   A  land  we  natives  call,  â€œThe  Real  Florida.â€?   For  anyone  not  familiar  to  this  â€œreal  Florida,â€?  it  is  a  true  experience.   A  rather  narrow  roadway  goes  through  the  heart  RI D VRG DQG YHJHWDEOH RSHUDWLRQ $JULFXOWXUH DW LWV ÂżQHVW VXUURXQGV \RX WKH IUHVKHVW air  abounds  and  the  unmistakable  surge  of  energy  produced  by  the  activity  of  growing  plants  encompasses  the  entire  area.   Upon  reaching  the  parking  area  there  are  simple  signs  marking  the  directions  of  travel.   The  visitor  area  consists  of  the  gift  shop,  rest-­ rooms,  a  small  museum  and  the  Gator  Shack  restaurant.   There  is  plenty  of  covered  area  to  enjoy  a  picnic  or  just  sit  and  take  in  all  of  the  wonders  surrounding  you.   In  the  gift  shop  there  are  numerous  items  like  t-­shirts,  gator  jerky  and  even  locally-­ SURGXFHG KRQH\ $W WKH *DWRU 6KDFN \RX FDQ ÂżQG DOO VRUWV RI OXQFKWLPH IDYRULWHV LQ-­ cluding  a  Florida  favorite,  gator  bites.   The  museum  may  seem  just  a  little  familiar  in  some  strange  way,  which  would  be  because  it  is  somewhat  famous.   It  was  the  set  prop  XVHG LQ WKH ÂżOPLQJ RI WKH PRYLH Âł-XVW &DXVH´ LQ 7KH PRYLH WKDW VWDUUHG 6HDQ &RQQHU\ DQG /DXUHQFH )LVKEXUQH ZDV ÂżOPHG RQ WKH UDQFK DQG WKH OLWWOH KRXVH ZDV GR-­ nated  once  the  movie  was  completed.   $IWHU ORRNLQJ DURXQG D ELW D ODUJH UHWURÂżWWHG EXV ZLOO SXOO XS :DWFK RXW DV LW LV FDPRXĂ€DJHG WR ÂżW LQ ZLWK WKH VXUURXQGLQJV \RX PD\ QRW VHH LW ULJKW DZD\ <RX ZLOO EH greeted  by  your  tour  guide  and  asked  to  board  your  transportation.   As  there  are  no  win-­ dows  on  this  transport,  your  feeling  will  be  one  of  great  openness  to  the  environment.  Â

As the expedition gets underway you will experience a certain thrill of anticipation. The guide, extremely knowledgeable of Florida history, will keep you informed and entertained from the moment you begin. She will continually TSMRX SYX I\LMFMXW SJ XLI REXYVEP žSVE ERH JEYRE Although  there  is  not  a  dull  portion  of  the  trip  and  the  90  minutes  seems  to  pass  all  too  quickly,  there  are  a  few  highlights.   One  such  is  stopping  on  the  lower  portion  of  a  spillway.   With  swamp  on  either  side  of  you,  and  the  vehicle  sitting  in  a  lowered  position,  you  will  have  the  feeling  of  be-­ ing  in  a  boat  gliding  down  a  Florida  river.   The  rendezvous  with  the  Cracker  Cattle  herd  will  delight  many,  as  a  few  of  the  cows  will  come  right  over  to  the  bus  and  the  guide  will  feed  them  out  of  her  hand.   All  the  while  you  will  be  inundated  with  stories  of  history.   Upon  turning  into  Tele-­ graph  Cypress  Swamp  there  is  a  wondrous  feeling,  as  the  temperature  will  drop  just  a  few  degrees  and  the  air  will  be  freshened  with  a  brisk  clean  breeze,  as  it  intertwines  through  the  native  foliage.   The  history  of  the  telegraph  wires  will  be  relayed  to  you  as  you  pass  by  and  see  a  few  of  the  wires  still  hanging.   This  is  the  very  same  telegraph  wire  that,  at  one  time,  ran  between  Cuba  and  Washington,  D.C.    The  variety  of  messages  that  passed  through  those  cables  and  their  importance  is  immeasurable.   The  equivalence  of  today’s  World  Wide  Web  is  still  preserved  in  this  10,000-­acre  swamp  in  Southwest  Florida.  A  couple  of  special  surprises  wait  just  ahead.   A  short  boardwalk  tour  into  a  cypress  bay  head  reveals  one  of  nature’s  largest  cats  in  all  of  its  gracefulness.   Getting  back  aboard  the  tour  transit  there  will  be  an  added  passenger.   This  visitor,  of  the  reptilian  species,  is  a  real  crowd  pleaser.   No  more  will  be  revealed  on  this  subject,  as  there  should  be  a  few  sur-­ prises  to  entice  your  appetite.  Â

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The next turn will take you right down Tucker’s Grade, the same one that can be taken as an exit off of I-­75 between Fort Myers and Port Charlotte. This joint of the corridor is slightly bumpier than the one more frequently traveled off the interstate, but the vehicle you are traveling in is well equipped for its environment and you will not notice the difference. The stop coming up however is not for the faint of heart. Af-­ ter a slight turn in the road there is a bridge. Upon traversing roughly half the span of this wooden structure the driver stops. The next bit of information told may increase the hemoglobin pressure to slightly higher than your normal level. You are now sit-­ ting over the deepest portion of the swamp in the area. You may be thinking, it’s just a swamp and you’re on a bridge, no big deal. Then you get the second tidbit of information. Within just a few yards of your present location and encompassed on all sides, you are sur-­ rounded by over 200 alligators. Suddenly your mind begins to reel with the understanding you are over water, whence they (the gators) can undoubtedly swim much faster than you. Luckily the structure is very sound, and never has an expeditioner been lost. Even with this understanding there is a certain sigh of relief when the bridge has been exited fully by the transport. A few more areas of interest are pointed out for the remainder of the voyage. The cross roads by where the afore mentioned movie had sev-­ HUDO VFHQHV 7KHUH DUH DOVR FHUWDLQ RWKHU VSHFL¿F ORFDWLRQV RI QRW RQO\

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“Just Cause,” but also a few other cinematic ¿OPLQJV WKDW KDYH WDNHQ SODFH RQ WKH UDQFK Upon returning to the visitors’ area you will be amazed at the time. You will be-­ lieve your tour was cut short for some rea-­ son. But, on inspection of what ever time piece you use, you will be assured your adventure indeed spanned the allotted time. Luckily you do not have to end your stay only your ride. You are free to hang around and enjoy the scenery as long as you wish. To say you entered into another world as you tour the preserve is not doing it justice. This experience is one for all ages young and young at heart. Anyone who has never seen Florida as it was, or anyone who does not get to often enough, will enjoy this af-­ ternoon trip. For more information or to schedule a tour, go to www. babcockwilderness.com. The beauty of the Crescent B Ranch is second to none. Its history is amazing and will enthrall any who listen. This piece of property has seen such changes and only because of the dedication of its owners has it remained in this wondrous condition. Since it is now, technically, the property of the people of Florida, there should be a certain amount of pride, which is taken in its radiance. Any visitor to our Sunshine State should not pass up the opportunity to visit such a place as Babcock Ranch.

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Commissioner  Putnam  and  Attorney  General  Bondi  Paddle  St.  Johns  River  with  Florida  Wildlife  Corridor  Expedition  Team  Putnam  and  Bondi  Join  Explorers  to  Explore  Florida's  Wildlife  Corridor,  a  Connection  of  Natural  Lands  and  Waters  throughout  Florida  Agriculture  Commissioner  Adam  Putnam  and  Attorney  General  Pam  Bondi  joined  four  explorers  of  the  Florida  Wildlife  Corridor  Expedi-­ tion  today  for  Day  63  of  the  team’s  1,000-­mile,  100-­day  trek  from  the  Everglades  to  the  Okefenokee.  Commissioner  Putnam  and  Attorney  General  Bondi  started  the  day  in  the  St.  Johns  National  Wildlife  Refuge,  paddling  several  miles  north  on  the  St.  Johns  River. “The  Florida  Wildlife  Corridor  Expedition  team  is  braving  through  Florida’s  natural  lands  and  waters  to  showcase  the  fragile  ecosystem  that  depends  on  the  connections  that  make  up  the  wild-­ life  corridor,â€?  said  Commissioner  Putnam.  â€œFlorida’s  working  farms  and  ranches  are  a  critical  component  of  Florida’s  wildlife  corridor.  In  connection  with  natural  lands  and  waters,  they  help  protect  a  functional  ecological  corridor  for  the  health  of  people,  wildlife  and  watersheds.â€? "Florida  abounds  with  beautiful  natural  lands,  waterways  and  wildlife,â€?  said  Attorney  General  Bondi.  â€œIt  was  great  to  appreciate  all  that  Florida  has  to  offer  from  a  kayak  on  the  St.  Johns  River,  and  this  type  of  excursion  is  a  perfect  way  for  families  to  enjoy  time  together." The  Florida  Wildlife  Corridor  Expedition  Team,  comprised  of  photographer  Carlton  Ward,  Jr.,  biologist  Joe  Guthrie,  conservation-­ LVW 0DOORU\ /\NHV 'LPPLWW DQG ÂżOPPDNHU (ODP 6WROW]IXV DUH KLN-­ ing,  biking  and  paddling  the  1,000-­mile  journey  to  raise  awareness  for  the  Florida  Wildlife  Corridor  â€“  a  visionary  project  to  connect  natural  lands  and  waters  throughout  Florida  into  South  Georgia. The  group’s  10-­mile  paddle  today  highlighted  the  history  of  the  St.  Johns  River’s  in  Florida.  From  providing  food,  water  and  trans-­ portation  for  the  Timucuan  Indians  to  ferrying  tourists  and  goods  to  towns  and  trading  posts  along  its  banks,  the  St.  Johns  River  played  a  vital  role  in  the  state’s  development.  For  more  information  about  the  Florida  Wildlife  Corridor  project,  visit  www.FloridaWildlifeCorridor.com.

Welcome New FCA Staffer Dusty Holley  Dusty  Holley  will  begin  working  in  the  role  of  Field  Services  Director  for  FCA  on  March  5.  Dusty  is  the  son  of  Rebecca  Finley  and  Donald  Holley.   He  is  a  seventh  generation  Floridian,  and  his  family  has  been  in  the  cattle  business  since  the  1800's.  Dusty  has  always  been  involved  in  his  family's  cattle  operation,  but  has  spent  the  last  four  years  in  Washington,  DC  as  a  Senior  Policy  Advisor  for  Congress-­ man  Tim  Mahoney  (110th  Congress)  and  Congressman  Larry  Kissell  (111th  and  112th  Congress).  While  he  handled  many  different  issues  while  in  DC,  his  main  focus  was  on  the  Agriculture  Committee  (both  the  Members  of  Congress  he  worked  for  were  members  of  the  House  Agriculture  Committee).  He  handled  the  agriculture  committee  portfolio  and  was  the  chief  agriculture  advisor  for  both  members.  Dusty  JUDGXDWHG IURP WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI )ORULGD 6XPPD &XP /DXGH ZLWK D GHJUHH LQ $QLPDO 6FLHQFH %HHI ,QGXVWU\ 6SHFL¿F VHUYHG DV D WHDFK-­ ing  assistant  in  both  undergraduate  and  graduate  level  Animal  Science  classes  while  in  Grad  School,  was  the  Animal  Science  Grad  Student  $VVRFLDWLRQ 3UHVLGHQW D PHPEHU RI $OSKD *DPPD 5KR DQG )ORULGD %OXH .H\ 'XVW\ LV DOVR D IRUPHU 6WDWH ))$ RI¿FHU DQG 1DWLRQDO ))$ Committee  Chairman.  Email  Dusty  at  dustyholley@gmail.com

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Grub Station 46

ď „ď ľď ´ď Łď ¨ ď€ ď ?ď śď Ľď Ž ď€ ď ƒď Żď Ż by  Dave  Colman

Say,  isn’t  there  something  else  we  can  cook  when  we  go  camping  besides  hamburgers  &  hot  dogs?   You  bet  there  is!  All  you  need  is  an  outdoor  camping  oven  called  a  Dutch  oven. Dutch  oven  cooking  can  be  as  simple  or  complicated  as  you  want  it.   Anything  that  you  can  cook  in  a  regular  oven  you  can  cook  in  a  Dutch  oven.    In  the  pioneering  day,  you  KDG WR FRRN ZLWK UHJXODU FDPSÂżUH ZRRG DQG WKDW WRRN D ORW RI VNLOO DQG \RX KDG WR ÂżQG GU\ ÂżUHZRRG 1RZ PRVW Dutch  oven  cooks  use  charcoal  to  heat  their  black  pots,  most  made  of  cast  iron.   When  cooking  with  cast  iron,  al-­ ways  remember  low  and  slow.   That  is,  medium  low  heat  and  cook  it  slower.   The  pot  I  recommend  everyone  to  start  with  is  a  12-­inch,  6-­qt.  Dutch  oven.   It  is  the  easiest  WR ÂżQG DW \RXU VSRUWLQJ JRRGV VWRUHV DQG HYHQ VRPH RI WKH GLVFRXQW VWRUHV 0DVWHULQJ WKH WHPSHUDWXUH RU ÂżUH IRU WKH pot  is  made  a  lot  easier  by  using  a  charcoal  chart.   It  tells  you  haw  many  pieces  of  charcoal  to  put  under  the  pot  and  on  the  lid.   That’s  right,  I  said  the  lid.  Â

Pineapple  Upside-­Down  Cake

ď Ťď Šď Žď § by  Robbi  Sumner Â

$ FDPS 'XWFK RYHQ LV Ă€DW RQ WKH WRS ZLWK D ULPPHG HGJH VR you  can  apply  heat  to  the  top  of  the  pot.   You  can  see  the  tem-­ perature  chart  below. Use  the  KISS  (Keep  It  Simple  Silly)  method  when  starting  out.   I  recommend  using  pre-­seasoned  pork  tenderloin,  and  sweet  potatoes.   You  place  the  meat  in  the  pot  with  the  potatoes  around  the  meat.   Cook  at  the  recommended  temperature  for  the  meat  for  one  hour.   Depending  on  the  brand  of  charcoal  you  may  have  to  replace  the  charcoal  after  35-­45  minutes  to  keep  you  temperature  up.    One  of  the  simplest  deserts  is  a  pineapple  upside  down  cake;Íž  just  follow  the  recipe  below.   You  can  make  this  ahead  of  time  and  it  will  be  ready  when  dinner  is  done. The  best  way  to  learn  how  to  use  your  oven  is  to  practice.   So  try  it  in  your  back  yard  before  heading  out  to  the  woods  or  the  beach.   That  way  if  it  doesn’t  turn  out  like  you  planed,  McDonalds  is  just  down  the  road.   Happy  trails  and  keep  those  black  pots  warm.

Baking  Tempera ture Dutch  Oven  Coo  Chart  for  king Â

2  Tbsp   butter  or  Margarine,  melted  1  (16oz)  can  pineapple  slices,  drained 1  (8oz)  jar  maraschino  cherries ½  cup  brown  sugar 1  (18.25  oz)  box  yellow  cake  mix,  prepared  ac-­ cording  to  directions Line  the  bottom  of  a  12  in,  6qt  Dutch  oven  with  heavy-­duty  aluminum  foil.  Add  butter  or  marga-­ rine  and  arrange  pineapple  slices  on  top.   Set  a  Maraschino  cherry  in  the  center  of  each  slice,  and  sprinkle  brown  sugar  evenly  over  the  fruit.   Pour  prepared  cake  batter  on  top  of  the  fruit Place  the  Dutch  oven  over  8  hot  coals.   Cover  with  Dutch  oven  lid  and  place  17  hot  coals  on  top.   Bake,  covered,  for  30  minutes  or  until  golden  brown  and  a  toothpick  inserted  in  the  center  comes  out  clean. Lift  the  cake  out  of  the  Dutch  oven  using  the  alu-­ minum  foil  lining  and  set  it  on  the  table.   Cover  the  top  with  aluminum  foil,  and  tuck  the  edges  under  the  cake.   Cool  for  10  minutes;Íž  turn  upside  down  and  peel  away  the  foil.   Serves  10-­12 Recipe  was  taken  from  the  book  â€œCamp  Cooking  100  yearsâ€?  by  the  National  Museum  of  Forest  Service  History.   The  recipe  was  submitted  by  Dian  Thomas,  from  â€œRecipes  for  Roughing  it  Easyâ€?. Â

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

FARMLAND FOR LEASE Up to 500 acres available with main lines Permitted wells in place, consisting of Qty 3 – 10” wells Qty 2 – 12” wells Qty 1 – 8” well Located on Hwy 17, Hardee County Adjacent to a large produce packing facility with coolers

Please contact Andrew at 863-781-1318

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Florida Cattle Women , Inc. &RQIHWWL %HHI DQG 6SLQDFK 3LH 6HUYHV

Total  Recipe  Time:  55  to  65  minutes  Ingredients

Instructions

1 pound ground beef 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, defrosted, drained well RXQFHV KHUE Ã DYRUHG IHWD FKHHVH crumbled 2 eggs, slightly beaten WHDVSRRQV GULHG RUHJDQR OHDYHV crushed 1 large onion, chopped (about 2 cups) 4 to 8 sheets frozen phyllo dough, defrosted, cut lengthwise into 1/2inch thick strips (4 cups) WDEOHVSRRQV H[WUD YLUJLQ ROLYH RLO

Instructions  +HDW RYHQ WR “) 6TXHH]H VSLQDFK WR UHPRYH DQ\ H[FHVV PRLVWXUH &RPELQH VSLQDFK FKHHVH HJJV DQG RUHJDQR LQ PHGLXP ERZO 6HW DVLGH +HDW ODUJH RYHQSURRI QRQVWLFN VNLOOHW RYHU PHGLXP KHDW XQWLO KRW $GG JURXQG EHHI DQG RQion; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Pour off GULSSLQJV 6HDVRQ ZLWK VDOW DQG SHSSHU DV GHVLUHG $GG EHHI PL[WXUH WR VSLQDFK PL[WXUH PL[ well. Wipe out skillet. &RPELQH SK\OOR VWULSV DQG RLO LQ PHGLXP ERZO WRVV WR FRDW ZHOO 6SUD\ VDPH VNLOOHW ZLWK nonstick cooking spray. Place 1/2 of phyllo strips in bottom of skillet; top with beef mixWXUH SUHVVLQJ ZLWK EDFN RI VSRRQ RU VSDWXOD WR à DWWHQ 7RS ZLWK UHPDLQLQJ SK\OOR VWULSV %DNH LQ “) RYHQ WR PLQXWHV RU XQWLO EHHI LV KHDWHG WKURXJK DQG WRSSLQJ LV JROGHQ EURZQ /HW VWDQG PLQXWHV &XW LQWR ZHGJHV WR VHUYH

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Trinkle,  Redman,  Swanson,  Coton,  Davis  &  Smith,  P.A. Attorneys  at  Law

Our  Practice CORPORATE  &  BUSINESS  LAW

REAL Â ESTATE

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FAMILY  LAW ‡ 'LVVROXWLRQ RI 0DUULDJH ‡ $OLPRQ\ &KLOG &XVWRG\ 6XSSRUW ‡ $GRSWLRQV

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LITIGATION  &  LAWSUITS ‡ &RPPHUFLDO /LWLJDWLRQ &ROOHFWLRQV ‡ &UHGLWRU 5HSUHVHQWDWLRQ LQ %DQNUXSWF\ ‡ 5HDO (VWDWH ‡ 3HUVRQDO ,QMXU\ ‡ 3URSHUW\ 'DPDJH ‡ 3UREDWH

*The  hiring  of  a  lawyer  is  an  important  decision  that  should  not  be  based  solely  upon  advertisments.  %HIRUH \RX GHFLGH DVN WKH ODZ\HU WR VHQG \RX IUHH ZULWWHQ LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW WKHLU TXDOL¿ FDWLRQV DQG H[SHULHQFH

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IN SEASON NOW! Florida  Sweet  Corn

One  of  the  joys  of  springtime  in  Florida  (yes,  niece  in  Chicago,  we  do  have  seasons  down  here)  is  fresh  sweet  corn.  The  harvest  is  going  VWURQJ XQWLO LWV JUDQG ÂżQDOH EHIRUH 0HPRULDO 'D\ ZHHNHQG ZKHQ WKH nation  will  celebrate  with  yummy  fresh  sweet  corn  on  the  grill. Some  people  don’t  realize  that  Florida  grows  more  sweet  corn  than  any  other  state  in  the  U.S.  And  it’s  not  to  be  confused  with  the  type  of  corn  that’s  grown  in  the  Midwest  for  miles  and  miles  in  every  direc-­ WLRQ 7KDWÂśV ÂżHOG FRUQ 6ZHHW FRUQ LV KDUYHVWHG ZKHQ WKH NHUQHOV DUH DW their  peak  of  tenderness.  Field  corn,  generally  destined  to  be  animal  IHHG LV KDUYHVWHG DW D GU\HU VWDJH 0XFK PXFK PRUH ÂżHOG FRUQ WKDQ sweet  corn  is  grown  in  the  U.S. This  year,  the  Florida  growers  got  together  to  offer  a  branded  sweet  corn  that  emphasizes  its  Florida  roots.  Members  of  the  Florida  Sweet  Corn  Exchange  are  rolling  out  the  Sunshine  Sweet  brand  this  month  with  a  â€œFresh  from  the  Sunshine  Stateâ€?  slogan.  The  branding  will  help  retailers  plan  promotions  and  appeal  to  consumers  looking  for  fresh  and  delicious  vegetables  that  are  grown  in  the  U.S.  The  Exchange,  which  represents  about  95  percent  of  Florida’s  spring  corn,  plans  to  place  U.S.  Department  of  Agriculture  inspectors  on  shippers’  docks  to  HQVXUH RQO\ WKH FRUQ WKDW TXDOLÂżHV VKLSV XQGHU WKH ODEHO $OO VKLSSHUV PXVW EH WKLUG SDUW\ FHUWLÂżHG Sweet  corn  (and  all  corn)  didn’t  exactly  spring  from  the  ground  orig-­ inally  in  the  form  it  takes  today.  Corn  or  maize  descended  from  a  type  of  wild  grass,  which  early  Americans  cultivated  thousands  of  years  ago.  Today’s  varieties  stay  fresher  and  sweeter  longer  than  the  corn  of  decades  ago.  It’s  best  to  eat  it  as  soon  as  possible  after  purchase,  but  it  will  retain  its  freshness  for  several  days  if  refrigerated.  Wrap  the  ears  loosely  in  a  plastic  bag  or  damp  paper  towels  before  refrigerating.  If  it’s  still  in  the  husk,  remove  any  dry  leaves. $ JRRG VRXUFH RI ÂżEHU VZHHW FRUQ DOVR SURYLGHV YLWDPLQ & YLWDPLQ A  and  a  splash  of  iron.  It  can  be  prepared  boiled,  roasted  or  in  the  microwave.  You  can  also  add  cooked  or  raw  kernels  to  salads,  salsas,  soup  and  relishes. Â

Fresh  Corn  Salsa Â

4  ears  fresh  sweet  corn,  kernels  removed 1  cup  green  pepper,  chopped 1/2  cup  red  onion,  chopped 2  tomatoes,  chopped 2  garlic  cloves,  chopped 2  tablespoons  lemon  juice  or  vinegar 1/2  teaspoon  black  pepper 1/4  teaspoon  salt

Preparation Combine  all  ingredients  in  a  large  bowl.  Refrigerate  for  at  least  an  hour  before  serving  with  chips  or  as  @ SNOOHMF ENQ {RG ONTKSQX NQ LD@S -@JDR @ANTS RHW servings.

Roasted  Corn  on  the  Cobb  4  ears  fresh  sweet  corn  with  husks  removed 2  tablespoons  of  melted  margarine 2  garlic  cloves,  chopped 2  teaspoons  black  pepper g ! SD@RONNM R@KS Preheat  oven  to  350  degrees  F.  Tear  off  four  pieces  of  aluminum  foil  (enough  for  each  piece  to  VQ@O NMD D@Q NE BNQM ,@X D@BG BNQM BNA NM SGD aluminum  foil.  In  a  small  bowl,  combine  melted  margaQHMD F@QKHB AK@BJ ODOODQ @MC R@KS 0NTQ LHWSTQD DUDMKX over  each  corn  cob.  Wrap  each  cob  in  foil  and  place  on  baking  sheet.  Bake  15-20  minutes,  turning  once.  -@JDR @ANTS ENTQ RDQUHMFR

Recipes  are  from  the  USDA  Household  commodity  Fact  Sheet Â

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Hendry County Cattlemen’s 3rd Annual Ranch Rodeo was a Huge Success! The  rodeo  was  held  in  conjunction  with  LaBelle’s  notorious  Swamp  Cabbage  Festival  the  last  weekend  in  February.   Over  1,000  spectators  ¿OOHG WKH JUDQG VWDQGV WR ZDWFK WHDPV YLH IRU D VSRW LQ WKH )ORULGD Cattlemen’s  Association  Ranch  Rodeo  Finals  this  Fall‌.and  the  win-­ ner  was:  Audubon  Ranch,  consisting  of  Dennis  Carlton  Jr.,  Jay  Bel-­ Ă€RZHU 3HFN +DUULV :LOOLDP 3HUU\ DQG 'DOODV 5REHUWV 7KH ZLQQLQJ team  was  awarded  $750,  trophy  buckles  sponsored  by  Multi-­Min,  and  their  entry  fee  at  the  State  Finals.  Contestants  participated  in  the  following  six  events  on  Friday  and  Saturday  nights:  Calf  Branding,  Double  Mugging,  Cowhide  Drag,  Team  Branding,  Team  Sorting,  and  Bronc  Riding.   7KH $XGXERQ 5DQFK SXW XS D WRXJK ÂżJKW EHLQJ WKH RQO\ WHDP WR VFRUH in  every  event,  and  behind  them,  in  2nd  place,  was  Stevens  Land  &  Cattle  consisting  of  Charles  Robert  Stevens,  Billy  Adams,  Marshel  Godsee,  Christi  Pryor,  and  Cody  Story.   The  second  place  team  won

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$500.   In  third  place  was  B&S  Cattle  consisting  of  Beau  Anastasio,  Ladd  Bass,  Justin  Feagle,  Jenny  Schueller,  and  David  Yates  â€“  they  won  $250.   Event  winners  were  paid  $200.   Syfrett  Ranch  won  two  events:  Calf  Branding  and  the  Cowhide  Drag;Íž  KL  Bar  won  Double  Mugging;Íž  Lonesome  G  Ranch  won  Team  Branding;Íž  and  Inmate  Ranch  also  had  2  victories:  Team  Sorting  and  team  member  Cole  Fulford  won  Bronc  Riding  with  an  amazing  ride.   The  total  payout  for  the  weekend  was  $3,200!   This  would  not  have  been  possible  without  the  support  of  Multi-­Min,  Top  Draw  Bar  &  Grill,  LaBelle  Dodge,  Devil’s  Garden  Mud  Club,  Okeechobee  Livestock  Market,  Seminole  Youth  Ranch,  Triple  W  Airboats,  and  the  Swamp  Cabbage  committee. The  Hendry  County  Cattlemen’s  Association  is  grateful  for  every  team  that  competed  and  hope  to  see  them  next  year:  A  Bar  L  Cattle  Co,  Audubon  Ranch,  B&S  Cattle,  Babcock  Ranch,  Bar  Diamond,  Carl-­ ton  Ranches,  Diamond  K  Cattle,  Flint  Cattle  Co.,  G7  Ranch,  Hilliard  Brothers  /  Lazy  JB,  Inmate  Ranch,  J&E  Fencing,  JTF  Performance  Horses,  J.L.  Shewmaker  Ranch,  KL  Bar,  Lonesome  G  Ranch,  Stevens  Land  and  Cattle,  and  Syfrett  Ranch. Many  thanks  to  the  sponsors  and  the  volunteers  who  donated  their  time,  trucks,  trailers,  and  sweat  to  help  make  the  rodeo  a  success.   Pro-­ ceeds  will  support  local  youth  â€“  the  Hendry  County  Cattlemen’s  As-­ sociation  awards  scholarships  to  local  students  studying  agriculture,  exceeding  $1,500  annually  and  the  Hendry  County  4-­H  program  also  EHQHÂżWV IURP WKH URGHR SURFHHGV Speaking  of  youth‌the  1st  Youth  Ranch  Rodeo  was  held  in  conjunc-­ tion  with  the  above  mentioned  rodeo.   Five  kids,  between  the  ages  of  8  and  17,  formed  a  team  to  compete  in:  Trailer  Loading,  Calf  Branding,  Team  Sorting,  and  Steer  Decorating.   Team  names  were  very  creative:  Swamp  Boys,  Bad  News  Bears,  Young  Guns,  Red  Liners,  and  Top  Draw!   The  winning  team  was  the  Red  Liners:  Aubrey  Lee,  Alejandro  Madrigal,  Kyle  McClure,  DJ  Nelson,  and  Windall  Tindall  â€“  each  won  a  trophy  buckle.   HCCA  thanks  all  Youth  Ranch  Rodeo  participants:  Blain  Albritton,  Blake  Crawford,  Aubrey  Lee,  Alejandro  Madrigal,  Kyle  McClure,  DJ  Nelson,  Adam  Reinbott,  Tyler  Sweet,  Windall  Tin-­ dall,  Carl  Willis,  and  Wyatt  Woodruff.  Â

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To create and nurture a partnership between a visually impaired MRHMZMHYEP ERH E KYMHI HSK JEGMPMXEXMRK PMJI´W NSYVRI] [MXL QSFMPMX] independence and dignity. In  sunny  Palmetto,  FL  lies  a  bucolic  campus  where  Southeastern  Guide  Dogs  breeds,  raises,  trains  and  matches  guide  dogs  with  the  visu-­ ally  impaired.   Through  their  programs  Paws  for  Independence™,  Paws  In  2002,  the  Gifted  Canines™  program  was  started  as  an  outlet  for  for  Patriots™,  and  Gifted  Canines™  they  serve  more  than  600  active  dogs  who  did  not  meet  the  stringent  guidelines  for  guide  dog  work.   guide  dog  teams  across  the  nation.   Every  year,  more  than  70  teams  are  Dogs  from  this  program  have  gone  on  to  work  for  law  enforcement  and  added.   All  of  Southeastern’s  services  are  provided  at  no  charge  to  the  as  therapy  dogs.   The  new  â€œCanine  Connectionsâ€?  program  pairs  gentle  recipient,  thanks  to  the  generous  support  of  donors  and  volunteers.  companion  dogs  with  visually  impaired  children  to  introduce  them  to  How it all started the  joys  and  responsibility  of  dog  ownership  in  preparation  for  a  future  guide  dog. The  idea  for  starting  a  guide  dog  school  in  the  South  came  about  be-­ Paws  for  Patriots™  was  started  in  2006  and  pairs  visually  impaired  cause  there  was  a  need  for  working  guide  dogs  that  were  already  condi-­ veterans  with  professionally  trained  guide  dogs.   In  addition  to  provid-­ tioned  to  the  sometimes  brutal  heat  and  humidity  we  endure.   Therefore,  if  they  were  bred,  raised  and  trained  here,  they  would  be  more  comfort-­ ing  guide  dogs  to  blinded  soldiers,  the  organization  also  provides  Vet-­ able  with  the  weather  than  would  a  transplant  from  the  North.   South-­ eran  Assistance  Dogs  to  veterans  suffering  from  post  traumatic  stress  eastern  began  with  humble  roots  taking  advantage  of  loaned  land  and  disorder  (PTSD).   In  addition,  Southeastern  has  placed  therapy  dogs  at  donated  golden  retrievers  to  start  the  program.   As  the  program  grew,  so  the  Walter  Reed  National  Military  Medical  Center  in  Bethesda,  MD  to  did  the  push  to  provide  the  highest  quality  guide  dog,  leading  to  cultivat-­ spread  encouragement  to  soldiers  during  their  grueling  physical  therapy  ing  their  own  breeding  colony  of  dogs  that  contained  all  the  qualities  as  they  learn  to  recover  from  their  injuries. needed  to  be  successful  guides. Location, Location, Location Throughout  the  years,  land  was  purchased  and  facilities  created  to  where  they  are  today.   Kennels  were  built  to  house  100  dogs-­in-­training  plus  the  approximate  200  puppies  that  are  born  on  campus  each  year  (the  puppies  are  sent  to  live  with  volunteer  Puppy  Raiser  families  at  9  weeks  of  age  until  them  come  back  for  harness  training  at  approximately  1  ½  years).   Dormitories  were  built  on  campus  for  the  students  to  stay  for  a  26-­day  training  period,  during  which  they  learn  to  function  as  a  team  with  their  new  guide. Â

Southeastern  Guide  Dogs’  campus  is  a  23-­acre  site  in  Palmetto  that  includes  the  Administration  Building/Student  Dormitory,  Receiving  Kennel,  Training  Kennel,  Puppy  &  Breeding  Kennel,  and  the  â€œFreedom  :DON´ Âą D SODFH ZKHUH WKH VWXGHQWV ÂżUVW OHDUQ WR ZRUN ZLWK WKHLU QHZ guides.

Southeastern  Guide  Dogs  Downtown  Training  Center  is  located  in  downtown  Bradenton  and  is  a  base-­camp  for  students  and  trainers  dur-­ Southeastern  has  created  more  than  2,600  guide  dog  teams  since  in-­ ing  the  initial  phases  of  their  training.   Visitors  and  those  who  work  ception,  providing  mobility  and  independence  to  people  in  need.   They  downtown  have  become  accustomed  to  seeing  the  trainers  in  their  blue  are  one  of  only  twelve  guide  dog  schools  in  the  United  States  and  the  shirts  putting  their  charges  through  their  paces  throughout  the  down-­ town  area. only  one  in  the  southeast. Another  location  was  opened  in  Sarasota  in  September  2010.   It  is  Important Milestones a  place  where  the  public  can  visit  to  learn  all  about  guide  dogs  and  VDZ WKH ¿UVW PDMRU IXQGUDLVHU ¹ :DONDWKRQ D WUDGLWLRQ WKDW KDV the  amazing  service  they  provide.   They  also  host  weekly  educational  continued.   March  3,  2012  marked  the  26th  Annual  Walkathon.   It  was  seminars  on  a  variety  of  dog-­related  topics  and  puppy  hugging  sessions.   held  at  Vinoy  Park  in  St.  Petersburg  and  had  a  record  number  of  people  It  also  includes  a  unique  pet  boutique  where  the  discriminating  shopper  (4000)  and  dogs  (+700)  and  it  is  projected  to  have  raised  $425,000  by  FDQ ¿QG XQXVXDO LWHPV IRU WKHLU IRXU OHJJHG IULHQGV 7UDLQHUV ZLWK JXLGH dogs-­in-­training  use  the  facility  as  a  home-­base  while  working  the  dogs  the  time  all  funds  are  tallied. in  the  hustle  and  bustle  of  downtown.   Students  also  utilize  the  location  1993  saw  the  creation  of  the  Graduate  Panel;͞  a  group  of  past  graduates  during  the  second  phase  of  their  training  while  learning  to  negotiate  who  provide  input  on  their  experience  and  aid  in  improving  the  program  Main  Street  and  all  its  hazards. for  incoming  students.

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

April  20 1 2

A Caring & Nurturing Culture Southeastern  Guide  Dogs’  94  employees  and  350+  volunteers  are  guided  by  a  Board  of  Directors  made  up  RI D ZLGH UDQJH RI LQĂ€XHQWLDO businesspeople  along  with  CEO  Titus  Herman.   The  QRQSURÂżW LV UXQ DV D ZHOO functioning  business  that  is  FRPPLWWHG WR PDNLQJ ÂżVFDOO\ sound  decisions. The  atmosphere  at  South-­ eastern  is  one  of  camaraderie  and  teamwork  where  every-­ one  is  working  for  the  greater  good.   They  understand  the  impact  a  guide  dog  can  have  on  a  visually  impaired  person’s  life  and  are  mind-­ ful  of  that  in  all  interactions.   Approximately  368  people  have  a  hand  in  breeding,  whelping,  raising  and  training  each  successful  guide  dog  team.  You,  too,  could  have  a  hand  in  the  activities  at  Southeastern.   If  you  are  in  or  visiting  the  Tampa  Bay  area,  they  are  the  only  guide  dog  school  to  invite  the  general  public  in  to  help  socialize  their  6-­9  week  old  puppies  during  Puppy  Hugging  Sessions.   Every  day  (except  Thursday  and  Sunday)  residents  and  visitors  alike  are  invited  on  campus  9:00  â€“  11:00  am  to  interact  with  the  puppies  in  the  puppy  kennel  and  walk  the  guide  dogs-­in-­training.   There  are  also  volunteer  opportunities  at  many  different  levels  of  commitment  and  that  need  not  be  in  the  immediate  area  of  the  school.   For  more  information,  visit  www.guidedogs.org  or  call  941-­729-­5665,  they  can  also  be  found  on  Facebook  and  Twitter  (@ SEGuideDogs  and  @DogGuideTrainer).

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28 Years Experience

Johnny Georges 863-­990-­2095 johnny@treetpee.com

April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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Desoto Ag Venture Learning  by  doing‌DeSoto  County  4-­H  along  with  community  sponsors  and  volunteers  held  their  1st  annual  AgVenture  program  on  March  9th.   Over  four  hundred  4th  grade  students,  teachers  and  parents  were  provided  with  in-­ formation  and  hands  on  activities  related  to  many  of  our  agricultural  com-­ PRGLWLHV KHUH LQ )ORULGD DQG 'H6RWR &RXQW\ WKURXJK WKLV IUHH LQWHUDFWLYH ÂżHOG WULS 7KURXJKRXW WKH SDVW IHZ PRQWKV ÂżIWHHQ DJULFXOWXUDO FRPPRGLW\ JURXSV and/or  local  farmers  were  recruited  to  conduct  workshops  for  the  children  us-­ ing  materials  donated  by  the  commodity  group,  farmers  themselves  and  com-­ PXQLW\ GRQDWLRQV (DFK VWXGHQW SDUWLFLSDWHG LQ HLJKW RI WKH ÂżIWHHQ KDQGV RQ learning  stations  that  were  placed  within  two  separate  learning  tracts.   Over  sixty  volunteers  donated  their  time  to  chaperone  groups,  assist  at  learning  stations,  pack  lunches  etc.   This  event  was  a  wonderful  opportunity  for  our  DeSoto  County  students  to  gain  an  appreciation  of  where  their  food  comes  from,  as  agriculture  is  a  large  part  of  the  county’s  economy,  culture,  and  his-­ tory.   Making  students  aware  of  this  truly  helps  to  insure  that  we  will  preserve  the  value  of  agriculture  in  years  to  come.   DeSoto  County  4-­H  as  well  as  the  AgVenture  committee  would  like  to  thank  all  of  our  supporters,  volunteers,  and  community  members  who  helped  make  this  event  possible.  It  did  not  matter  if  the  children  were  learning  about  bees  and  making  bees-­ wax  candles  with  Mark  Negley,  planting  veggies  with  Anna  Beswick  and  Laurie  Langfang,  learning  about  Peaches  with  Nicole  Adams  from  Florida  Sweet  Peaches,  digging  for  Fossils  with  Heather  Nedley  from  Mosaic,  plant-­ ing  a  garden  with  Brad  Burtscher  of  Fields  Farm  Equipment,  learning  about  caring  for  cattle  with  Justin  Fussell,  or  juicing  oranges  with  Barbara  Carlton  of  Peace  River  Valley  Citrus  Growers  Association,  they  seemed  to  be  hav-­ ing  loads  of  fun  on  Tract  A.   The  same  went  for  Tract  B,  where  the  students  made  butter  and  taste-­tested  milk  with  Dakin  Dairy  Farms,  planted  sod  with  Jonathan  Brown  from  Bethel  Farms,  learned  about  cane  syrup  with  Mike  Williams,  played  in  the  water  while  learning  about  different  types  of  irri-­ gation  with  Ed  Johnson  from  United  Irrigation,  learned  about  poultry  and  WULHG RPHOHWV ZLWK &LQG\ .LQDUG LGHQWLÂżHG 1DWLYH )ORULGD SODQWV WKURXJK D scavenger  hunt  with  Kathleen  Roehm  from  Sandhill  growers,  learned  about  composting  and  received  pet  worms  from  DeSoto  County  Extension  Director  .HQ -RKQVRQ DQG LGHQWLÂżHG WKH E\SURGXFWV RI EHHI DQLPDOV E\ SOD\LQJ %HHI O  Bingo  with  DeSoto  County  Cattlewoman’s  Association  members  Joyce  Hunter  and  Janet  Harvin.   If  you  have  any  questions  about  AgVenture  or  4-­H,  please  contact  Kristie  3RSD WKH + $JHQW DW WKH 'H6RWR &RXQW\ ([WHQVLRQ 2IÂżFH DW 4846.  Â

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April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

CenterState  Bank  Celebrates  Grand  Opening 7KH 2NHHFKREHH VWDII RI &HQWHU6WDWH %DQN RIÂżFLDOO\ ZHOFRPHG WKH public  at  their  Grand  Opening  celebration  held  Friday,  March  16th.  Af-­ WHU WKH RIÂżFLDO ULEERQ FXWWLQJ FHUHPRQ\ D %%4 OXQFK ZDV VHUYHG WR hundreds  of  well-­wishers  in  attendance. A  live  radio  remote  hosted  by  True  Country  100.9  DJ  Charles  Murphy  entertained  the  crowds  who  were  encouraged  to  register  for  giveaways  WKDW LQFOXGHG D ´ Ă€DW VFUHHQ WHOHYLVLRQ DQG D )RUG 0XVWDQJ FRQ-­ vertible.  â€œSwitch  Agentsâ€?  were  available  to  assist  customers  with  mov-­ ing  their  banking  relationship  and  receiving  â€œThree  Freeâ€?  â€“  a  free  gift,  free  checking  and  free  debit  card  with  new  qualifying  accounts.  Conveniently  located  at  2100  S.  Parrott  Avenue  (across  from  WalMart),  CenterState  Bank  offers  â€œbanking  services  that  bring  togeth-­ HU VLPSOLFLW\ FRQYHQLHQFH DQG Ă€H[LELOLW\ ´ )UHH EXVLQHVV DQG SHUVRQDO checking  accounts  include  free  debit  cards,  online  banking  and  bill  pay,  DQG PRELOH EDQNLQJ $V D IXOO VHUYLFH EDQN WKH\ RIIHU D QXPEHU RI Âż-­ nancial  services  including  trust  and  investment  services,  cash  management,  merchant  services,  leasing  and  more.  Personal,  residential,  and  com-­ mercial  loans  are  also  available. Okeechobee  Area  President  John  Williams  shared  that  he  is  excited  to  have  the  opportunity  to  work  with  newly  named  Community  Advisory  Board  members  Frank  Altobello,  Susan  Clemons,  Roland  Durrance,  Frank  Irby,  Kelly  Owens,  Phoebe  Raulerson,  Chuck  Syfrett,  Emory  Walker  DQG :HV :LOOLDPVRQ Âł7KHVH IRONV KDYH WKHLU ÂżQJHUV RQ WKH SXOVH RI RXU FRPPXQLW\ DQG ZH DSSUHFLDWH WKHP DJUHHLQJ WR VHUYH ZLWK XV ´ “We’d  like  to  thank  the  people  of  Okeechobee  for  their  support,  and  we  look  forward  to  serving  the  community  for  years  to  come,â€?  stated  Bank-­ ing  Center  Manager  Tabitha  Trent. CenterState  Bank  is  a  Florida-­based  community  bank  providing  online  banking,  commercial  lending,  residential  mortgages  and  investment  services  from  69  branches  throughout  the  state.  For  more  information,  please  visit  www.centerstatebank.com. Â

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April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

57

FFA Spotlight Okeechobee Jr. FFA Chapter

by Robbi Sumner

While the Okeechobee Jr. FFA Chapter was just chartered in the 2010-2011 school year, Advisor Brian Dryden is no rookie to FFA. An Okeechobee High School graduate and former FFA member, Brian earned his Bach-­ elor of Science degree in Agriculture from the University of Florida, and then began his teaching career at Clewiston Middle School. After three years, he took the opportunity to return to Okeechobee, teaching Ag at Osceola Middle School for two years before moving to the high school. After his first year at OHS, the Freshman Campus was opened and Brian became the Ag teacher there. He explains that while the 9th graders always had their own officers and separate ac-­ tivities, they were still technically part of the Senior Chapter. While this arrangement had its benefits, the decision was made to start their own Chapter, a move that also held several benefits, among them being able to have more voting delegates from Okeechobee and being able to field two separate teams in various contests. “There were freshmen who wouldn’t try out for teams because they were intimidated by the upperclassmen. Now they can work among their peers and be better prepared and more experienced to participate when they join the Senior Chapter,” says Brian. This year the Chapter has teams in Food Science, Parliamentary Procedure, Prepared Speaking, Creed, Tractor Driving, Veterinary Assistance, and Livestock, Horse, Land, Meat, and Vegetable Judging. Okeechobee Jr. Chapter Officers for 2011-­2012 include President Taylor Pearce, Vice President Julie Sharpe, Secretary Payton Byrd, Treasurer Brittany Baker, Re-­ porter Bailey Kirton, Sentinel Matthew Evans, and Parliamentarian Shayla Pendry. “We’re still a work in progress,” Brian says humbly. But it sounds to me like they are well on their way to success! Brian and his wife Donna have two children, ten-­year old Kevin and 14-­year Kristen, both of whom have been active in 4-­H. Now that Kristen is in middle school, she is also a busy FFA member. With their father’s influence, odds are that they will both excel in FFA!

Member Julie Sharp According to Mr. Dryden, Chapter Vice President Julie Sharpe “has taken on a lot of leadership responsibilities this year and is one of the most reliable, most active members we have.” This is the well-­spoken 9th grader’s fourth year in FFA, and while she has shown hogs in the past, being an officer and participating in the Parliamentary Procedure, Creed, and Meat, Land, and Veg-­ etable Judging contests has kept her busy this year. She also participated in a Quiz Bowl competition and a History of FFA contest where she placed second. Mr. Dryden praises Julie for often organizing and running the Chapter meetings when others are absent, and shares that she also planned and acted as emcee for a special Veteran’s Day program that was held. “I like helping people,” Julie shared when I caught up with her at the recent Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show where she was helping her younger sister, 8th grader Jeri, with her hog project. 58

April 20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

When asked what she likes most about FFA, Julie responded, “I really appreciate the leadership opportunities, and have seen great improvement in myself and others who participate.” She has a fantastic role model in older brother James, whose name many of you may recognize as the current District VI State FFA Vice President. The daughter of Bo Sharpe and Staci Sharpe, Julie is also active in a Book Club that meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays to discuss and debate current readings. “I read everything but mostly focus on science fiction and books that involve medical topics.” She shared that she really enjoyed reading The Hot Zone, a non-­fiction bio-­thriller about the origins and incidents involving viral hemorrhagic fevers, particularly Ebola and Marburg viruses. As for her plans beyond high school, Julie says that she is interested in a career as a medical researcher in genetics and disease. “I want to contribute my verse to the world’s poem.” Given her high levels of dedication and professionalism, she will no doubt succeed in whatever path she chooses.

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April 20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

59

Benst i w h S o

Fair Updates

Hardee County brought to you by

Delaney Photography

(863) 471-3284 www.delaneyphotography.com

'HODQH\ 3KRWRJUDSK\ ¿UVW EHJDQ RIIHULQJ ZHGGLQJ DQG SRUWUDLW SKRWRJUDSK\ VHUYLFHV LQ /DNH 3ODFLG LQ under  the  direction  of  Mark  Delaney,  Sr.  Now,  nearly  forty  years  later;;  they  are  still  here  to  meet  your  photog-­ UDSK\ QHHGV 7RGD\ 0DUN 'HODQH\ DQG .DUO +RJOXQG RSHUDWH 'HODQH\ 3KRWRJUDSK\ ZLWK DQ RI¿FH PDQDJHU marketing  director,  and  graphic  artist  on  staff.   Their  equipment  is  high  quality  and  staff  is  professionally  trained  offering  only  the  best  in  photographic  products.      Â

328/75< :,11(56 5$%%,7 :,11(56  Best  of  Show:  Parker  Sasser Grand  Champion:  John  W  Roberts Reserve:   Dylan  Lambert

 Best  of  Show:   Cade  Roberts Reserve:  Hunter  Atchley  Standard  Division  Grand  Champion:   Hunter  Atchley Reserve   Aaron  Bunch  Bantam  Division  Grand  Champion:   Cade  Roberts Reserve   Hunter  Graham  Waterfowl  Grand  Champion:  Avery  Bunch Reserve   Dalton  Bryant  Showmanship: Senior:   1st:  Danielle  Weeks              2nd:  Garrett  Ham              3rd:   Ryan  Ham Junior:   1st:  Cade  Roberts              2nd:  Avery  Bunch              3rd:   Elizabeth  Weeks Mini:      1st:  Aiden  Thomas              2nd:  Hunter  Graham              3rd:  Blake  Rucker

%5((',1* :,11(56  Grand  Champion  Angus  Bull  :  Abby  Clark Reserve  Colton  albritton  Grand  Champion  Angus  Female:   Chase  DeBoard Reserve  Victoria  Braddock  Grand  Champion  Brahman  Bull:   Aaron  Bunch Reserve  Dawson  Cantu  Grand  Champion  Brahman  Female:   Avery  Bunch Reserve   Kipp  Copper  Grand  Champion  Chimaine  Female:  Morgan  Crews  Grand  Champion  Hereford  Bull:  Eric  Klein *UDQG &KDPSLRQ %UDKPDQ ,QÀXHQFH +HLIHU Cameron  Cantu Reserve   Laina  Durrance  Grand  Champion  Commercial  Female:   Seth  Durrance Reserve  Allison  Farr  Supreme  Champion  Female:  Seth  Durrance Reserve   Allison  Farr Â

60

April  20 1 2

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 Grand  Champion:   Laina  Durrance Reserve    Morgan  Crews Third   Taylor  Pohl Fourth    Kramer  Royal Fifth    Abby  Clark  Showmanship: Senior:  1st   Allison  Farr             2nd  Dillard  Albritton             3rd   Kramer  Royal Interm:  1st   Laina  Durrance             2nd  Ellie  Palmer             3rd   Hayden  Lindsey Junior:  1st   Seth  Durrance             2nd  Chase  DeBoard             3rd   Hunter  Little

 Best  of  Breeds: Andon  Whaley  -­  Mini  Rex Dylan  Lambert  -­  Holland  Lop John  W  Roberts  -­  Netherland  Dwarf Katie  Henderson  -­  Dutch Parker  Sasser  -­  English  Lop Sarah  Gibson  -­  Mini  Lop Christopher  Castaldi  -­  Chinchilla Haley  Grice  -­  Himalaya Kale  Henderson  -­  Polish Samantha  Shackelford  -­  Jersey  Wolsey  Showmanship: Junior:   1st:  Jack  Driskell       2nd:  Addison  Smith 7  &  Under:  1st:  Cason  Gough2nd:  Luk  Holt

6:,1( :,11(56  Grand  Champion:   Riley  Kate  Albritton Reserve   Jansen  Walker  Showmanship: Senior:   1st   Dillard  albritton              2nd  Wyatt  maddox              3rd   Kaitlyn  Shaw Interm:   1st   Willie  Baker              2nd   Taylor  Roberts              3rd    Faith  Hays Junior:   1st   Gage  Cough              2nd  Racheal  Garland              3rd   Joelynn  Carver

Heartland InTheField Magazine

Benst i Show

2012

Okeechobee County brought to you by

Seacoast National Bank

(800) 706-9991 www.seacoastnational.com Okeechobee, Arcadia, Wauchula, Lake Placid, LaBelle, Moore Haven and Clewiston

Held in conjunction with the Okeechobee County Fair, the 2012 Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show and Sale kicked off with the Rabbit and Poultry shows on Saturday, March 10th. The Small Animal (rabbits, poultry, goats, and lambs) shows were sponsored by St. Lucie Battery & Tire. Rylee Lopez’s English Spot doe was named Grand Champion Rabbit. Showmanship winners were Junior Grace Luna, Intermediate Rebecca Corby, and Senior Kaylie Corby. Cody Deloney’s Jersey Giant rooster was selected as the Poultry Grand Champion. On Sunday, an exhibition Poultry Showmanship class was held, with Johnny Sprouse sharing his time and knowledge with participants. Pee Wee Aiden Scalf, Junior Dylan Hodges, Intermediate Jarred Corby, and Senior Kaylie Corby each won their respective class. The Goat and Lamb shows were held on Monday. In this inaugural year of Boer Goat competition, Sarah Hel-­ en Davis’ goat was chosen as Grand Champion with Jessica Humphrey’s entry Reserve Grand Champion. Junior Shelby Kirton, Intermediate Bailey Kirton and Senior Sarah Helen Davis were chosen as Showmanship winners. In the Lamb show Katlynn Lawrence took Grand Champion honors, with Carolanne Lundy as Reserve Grand Champion. Showmanship awards went to Junior Will Conner, Intermediate Tyffani Zeller, and Senior Taylor Poiter. The Dairy show, held on Tuesday and sponsored by J&J Ag Brand, saw Megan Perona and her Jersey cow named as Overall Grand Champions. First place Showmanship awards went to Junior Makalyn Jones, Intermedi-­ ate Alex Pluskot, and Senior Raychel Rabon. With over 140 entries, the Swine show was split with Showmanship, sponsored by Gilbert Chevrolet, held on Wednesday and the Market Hog show, sponsored by Tree Locators, Inc., on Thursday. Showmanship winners included Junior Joseph Fanizzi, Intermediate Emily Crews, and Senior Cody Phillips. Justin Ray’s hog won Grand Champion and Shyanne Prescott’s won Reserve Grand Champion. The Steer and Beef Breeding shows on Friday were sponsored by Seacoast National Bank. The Grand Championship steer was shown by Shelby Kirton. Sarah Helen Davis’s steer took both Reserve Grand Cham-­ pion and County-­Bred Champion honors.Josie Stratton’s steer was chosen as Reserve County-­Bred Cham-­ pion. Junior Shelby Kirton, Intermediate Maria Grisales, and Senior Sarah Helen Davis were named as Steer Showmanship winners. In Beef Breeding, the Grand Champion Bull was shown by Felipe Soto, with Raybon Carrier showing the Reserve Grand Champion Bull. The Overall Female Grand Champion was shown by Sarah Helen Da-­ vis. Showmanship winners included Junior Shelby Kirton, Intermediate Carolanne Lundy, and Senior Sarah Helen Davis. At the sale Saturday, prices held strong in all categories. During the dinner break, Linda Syfrett was named as the 2012 OYLS Distinguished Service Award recipient. Mrs. Syfrett is well known throughout the state for her dedication to youth programs. Just a few of her volunteer activities include serving as President of the Okeechobee County Fair Association since its inception in 2005, being Secretary of the Florida State Fair, being a 4-­H leader since 1989, being named the 2000 Florida 4-­H Volunteer of the Year, and having served on the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show committee from 1990 to 2011. According to Linda, “It’s nice to know that your work is recognized. I did it for the kids and will keep doing it for the kids.” Herdsman Award buckles were presented to Shyanne Prescott and Taylor Beal for Swine, Shiloh Anuez for Dairy, Cody Mars for Beef Breeding, and Josh Lea for Steers. In the all-­new Triple Crown contest, which recognizes exceptional performance across three different catego-­ ries, Sarah Helen Davis was named the high-­point winner. Over $2,000 was raised for FFA through the “Kiss the Pig” contest. Shyanne Prescott and Brad Lundy tied as top money raisers earning the right to kiss the pig, which was then auctioned to high bidder Gilbert Chevrolet. Congratulations to all participants, and a big “thank you” to all sponsors and buyers without whom the show and sale would not be a success! Heartland InTheField Magazine

April 20 1 2

61

LaBelle Youth Livestock Show

Benst 20 i 12 Show

brought to you by

Labelle Ranch Supply Inc.

(863) 675- 4240 281 South Bridge St Labelle, FL 33935 Photography By Jerri Lynn www.photographybyjerrilynn.com Not just a feed store! Find all your needs here from Feed, Animal Health, Saddlery, Fencing Supplies, Archery, Guns and Ammo, and Hardware! Come see us, we have even more new items coming in daily!

Kayla Hood – Grand Champion Swine LaBelle Youth Livestock Steer Winners Rachael Reinbott, Grand Champion Steer and Grand Champion County Bred Steer

LaBelle Youth Livestock Goat Winners Back Row – Alexas Caputo, Cassidy Willis, Harley Yates, Kim Kemp Middle Row – Lauren Glenn, Han-­ nah Bechtel, Emilee McNeal, Madelynn Childers Front Row -­ Shirley

LaBelle Youth Livestock Rabbit Winners Ciara Rutter (Best of Show), Roy Beckford (Judge), and Lane Rutter (Best Opposite)

LaBelle Youth Livestock Steer Winners Leah VanWagner, Reserve Champion Steer, Re-­ serve Champion County Bred Steer, and 1st place Senior Showmanship

LaBelle Youth Livestock Swine Winners $VKOH\ 6FKRH¿HOG ± 5HVHUYH &KDPSLRQ 6ZLQH

LaBelle Youth Livestock Heifer Winner $VKOH\ 6FKRH¿HOG ± 5HVHUYH &KDPSLRQ 6ZLQH Windall Tindall, Grand Champion Heifer and 1st place in Junior Showmanship

LaBelle Youth Livestock Poultry Winners Left to Right – Justin Mickelsen, Standard Breed Best Opposite;; Dustin Padgett, Standard Breed Best of Show.

62

April 20 1 2

LaBelle Youth Livestock Rabbit Winners Harley Yates (2nd place Junior Showmanship), Dustin Padgett (2nd place Junior Fitting and Groom-­ ing), Dakoda Rutter (2nd place Senior Showmanship and 1st place Senior Fitting and Grooming), Alexas Caputo (1st place Senior Showmanship and 2nd place Fitting and Grooming) and Brittney Harrell (1st place Junior Fitting and Grooming)

LaBelle Youth Livestock Steer Winners Blake Crawford, 1st place Junior Showmanship

Left to right-­ Justin Mickelsen, Bantam Breed Best of Show;; Harley Yates, Bantam Breed Best Opposite

LaBelle Youth Livestock Poultry Winners Left to Right – Dakoda Rutter (2nd place Senior Showmanship), Alexas Caputo (1st place Senior Showmanship), Dustin Padgett (2nd place junior Showmanship), and Maggie Gacula (1st place Junior Showmanship)

Heartland InTheField Magazine

Hendry County

Benst 20 i 12 Show

brought to you by

Labelle Ranch Supply Inc.

(863) 675- 4240 281 South Bridge St Labelle, FL 33935

The 2012 year started out with a bang for the 4-­H and FFA members of Hendry County that show livestock in the Hendry County Fair and the LaBelle Youth Livestock Show. The LaBelle Youth Livestock Show was held at the LaBelle Rodeo Grounds from February 11th through February 17th and the Hendry County Fair and Livestock Show was held at the Clewiston Fairgrounds from Febru-­ ary 18th through February 24th. In the LaBelle Youth Livestock Show there were 3 bulls, 1 heifer, 7 steers, 69 swine, 66 rabbits, 4 cavies, 42 poultry and 12 goats. The highlights of each of the shows: Payton Conly -­ Cutest Pet;; Vivianna Rodriquez -­ Happiest Pet;; Justin Mickelsen -­ Best Pet Trick;; Emma Willis – Most Look A Like Child & Pet;; Marisa Burchard – Most Unusual Name of Pet;; Kaylee Cabana – Best Dressed Pet;; Windall Tindall – Grand Champion Heifer and 1st place Beef Breeding Showmanship, Fitting and Grooming;; Rachael Reinbott – Grand Champion Steer and Grand Champion County Bred Steer;; Leah VanWagner – Reserve Champion Steer, Reserve Champion County Bred Steer and 1st place Senior Steer Showmanship;; Blake Crawford – 1st place Junior Steer Showmanship;; Kayla Hood ± *UDQG &KDPSLRQ 6ZLQH $VKOH\ 6FKRH¿HOG ± 5HVHUYH &KDPSLRQ 6ZLQH 'HULN 5RVH ± VW SODFH Junior Swine Showmanship;; Trace Burchard – 2nd place Junior Swine Showmanship;; Ryan Howard – 1st place Senior Swine Showmanship;; Herod Spangler – 2nd place Senior Swine Showmanship;; Evan Farless – 1st place Swine Average Daily Gain;; Marshall Platt – 2nd place Swine Average Daily Gain;; Dustin Padgett – Standard Poultry Breed Best of Show, 2nd place Junior Poultry Showman-­ ship, Best of Show Cavy, and 2nd place Junior Rabbit Fitting & Grooming;; Justin Mickelsen – Standard Poultry Breed Best Opposite, Best of Show WaterFowl and Bantam Poultry Breed Best of Show;; Harley Yates – Bantam Poultry Breed Best Opposite, 2nd place Rabbit Showmanship and 1st place Senior Dairy Goat Fitting & Grooming;; Maggie Gacula – 1st place Junior Poultry Showman-­ ship;; Alexas Caputo – 1st place Senior Poultry Showmanship, Best Opposite Waterfowl, 2nd place Senior Rabbit Fitting & Grooming, 1st place Senior Rabbit Showmanship, 1st place Senior Dairy Goat Showmanship and 2nd place Senior Dairy Goat Fitting & Grooming;; Dakoda Rutter – 2nd place Senior Poultry Showmanship, 1st place Senior Rabbit Fitting & Grooming and 2nd place Senior Rabbit Showmanship;; Ciara Rutter – Best of Show Rabbit and Best Opposite Cavy;; Lane Rutter – Best Opposite Rabbit;; Brittney Harrell – 1st place Junior Rabbit Showmanship, Fitting & Grooming;; Cassidy Willis – Best of Show Dairy Goat and 2nd place Senior Dairy Goat Showmanship;; Hannah Bechtel – 1st place Junior Dairy Goat Fitting & Grooming;; Emilee McNeal – 2nd place Junior Dairy Goat Fitting & Grooming and 1st place Junior Dairy Goat Showmanship;; and Madelynn Childers – 2nd place Junior Dairy Goat Showmanship. In the Hendry County Fair and Livestock Show there were 2 heifers, 12 steers, 65 swine, 9 goats, 5 chickens, and 2 rabbits. The highlights of each of the shows: Kyle Mann – Grand Champion Heifer and 1st place Senior Beef Breeding Showmanship, Fitting & Grooming;; Lane Keen – Reserve Champion Heifer, Grand Champion Hendry County Bred Grand Champion Steer, 1st place Junior Beef Breeding Showmanship, Fitting & Grooming and 1st place Junior Steer Showmanship;; Dylan Abowd – Grand Champion Steer and 2nd place Senior Steer Showmanship;;;; Joshua Santiago – Re-­ serve Champion Steer and 2nd place Junior Steer Showmanship;; Ryan Nesbitt – Hendry County Bred Reserve Champion Steer;; Landon Sutton – 3rd place Junior Steer Showmanship;; Jimmy Davis -­ 1st place Senior Steer Showmanship;; Hunter Abowd – 3rd place Senior Steer Showmanship;; Bryce Lawson – Grand Champion Swine;; Tylan Tarter – Reserve Champion Swine and 1st place Junior Swine Showmanship;; Zoie Cotton – 2nd place Junior Swine Showmanship;; Jenna Hernandez – 3rd place Junior Swine Show-­ manship;; Linda Atkinson – 1st place Senior Swine Showmanship;; Kelsey Mata – 2nd place Senior Swine Showmanship;; Micah Murphy – 3rd place Senior Swine Showmanship;; Carlie Lawson – Best of Show Goat, 3rd place Junior Goat Fitting & Grooming, Best of Show Poultry and 1st place Junior Poultry Fitting & Grooming;; Luke Lawson – Reserve Champion Goat, 1st place Junior Goat Fitting & Grooming and 2nd place Junior Poultry Fitting & Grooming;; and Madisyn Thomley – Grand Champion Goat, 2nd place Junior Goat Fitting & Grooming, Best of Show Rabbit and 1st place Junior Rabbit Fitting and Grooming. All of the exhibitors enjoyed their week and the many memories obtained from participating in the Hendry County Fair and the LaBelle Youth Livestock Show.

Heartland InTheField Magazine

April 20 1 2

63

Benst i Show

2012

Glades County

Photos  by  Calinda  Chapman  and  Picture  this  Photography The  Livestock  Shows  and  Sale  are  part  of  a  busy  week  leading  up  to  the  Chalo  Nitka  Festival.  This  year  will  go  down  as  another  success  for  all  the  exhibitors  involved.  Mr.  Gator  Sapp  was  our  wonderful  an-­ nouncer  and  Pastor  Charley  Watts  from  the  United  Methodist  Church  of  Moore  Haven  opened  with  Prayer  and  led  the  Pledge  of  Allegiance  for  the  Shows  and  Sale  all  week.  The  Dairy  Show  started  the  week  off  on  Monday,  February  27th. There  were  14  exhibitors  displaying  19  animals.  These  animals  were  classed  according  to  age.  The  Judge  for  the  evening  was  Mrs.  Deb-­ bie  Clements  from  Okeechobee.  She  praised  all  of  the  exhibitors  and  awarded  all  of  their  entries  with  blue  ribbons.  The  Jr.  Calf  Grand  Cham-­ pion  was  awarded  to  Chloe  Ahern  with  her  Brown  Swiss,  â€œDineroâ€?.  Jessica  Smith  took  Jr.  Calf  Reserve  Grand  Champion  with  her  Holstein,  â€œDelilahâ€?.   Sr.  Calf  Grand  Champion  was  awarded  to  Kelsey  Ahern  with  her  Holstein  â€œSnickersâ€?.  Chloe  Ahern  took  the  honor  of  Sr.  Calf  Reserve  Grand  Champion  with  her  Brown  Swiss  named  â€œToodlesâ€?.   The  Overall  Grand  Champion  was  Kelsey  Ahern  with  â€œSnickersâ€?  and  the  Overall  Reserve  Grand  Champion  was  Chloe  Ahern  with  â€œToodlesâ€?.  Jesse  Espinosa  won  Jr.  Showmanship  and  Sr.  Showmanship  was  award-­ ed  to  Cooper  Bartley.   The  Dairy  Exhibitors  are  members  of  the  â€œUd-­ derly  Uniqueâ€?  4-­H  Club  led  by  Tycee  Prevatt  and  the  Moore  Haven  FFA  Chapter  led  by  Phillip  Cosby. On  Tuesday  night  February  28th  the  Swine  Show  was  held.  The  swine  were  classed  according  to  their  weights,  and  there  were  8  classes  ranging  from  226  lbs-­309lbs.  There  were  45  entries,  including  1  swine  for  the  4-­H  Chapter  raised  and  exhibited  by  Tanner  Mathis  and  1  swine  for  the  FFA  Chapter  raised  and  exhibited  by  Kaleb  Langdale.   Mr.  Pat  Hogue  of  Okeechobee  was  the  Show  Judge  for  the  evening.  He  awarded  all  the  exhibitors  with  blue  ribbons  for  their  great  looking  swine  entries.  Alexis  â€œAlleyâ€?  Auler  was  awarded  Grand  Champion  Swine  with  her  283-­pound  Yorkshire  X.  Brice  Prowant  was  awarded  Reserve  Grand  Champion  for  his  Yorkshire  X  weighing  in  at  284  pounds.  Dr.  Paul  Bry-­ ant,  DVM  was  our  Showmanship  Judge  for  the  evening.  Kasey  Estes  won  Jr.  Showmanship,  and  Jordan  Drayton  received  Sr.  Showmanship.   The  exhibitors  are  members  of  the  4H  Club  â€œRootersâ€?  led  by  Ragen  &  Laura  Mathis,  and  the  Moore  Haven  FFA  led  by  Phillip  Cosby.

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One  of  the  crowd’s  favorite  events  of  the  week  was  the  Pee  Wee  Show,  which  was  held  on  Wednesday,  and  Thursday  nights  just  prior  to  the  Steer  Show  and  Livestock  Auction.   The  Pee  Wee  exhibitors  paraded  their  animals  around  the  ring  for  the  judge  and  all  in  attendance  to  see.  There  were  22  exhibitors  altogether.  Two  had  a  goat,  three  showed  rab-­ ELWV WKUHH KDG OLWWOH SLJV ÂżYH VKRZHG GDLU\ FDOYHV DQG QLQH VKRZHG EHHI calves.  They  all  did  a  wonderful  job  and  received  blue  ribbons  and  me-­ dallions  for  their  efforts.  Vivian  Hart  is  the  leader  of  the  â€œLittle  Rascalsâ€?  Pee  Wee  group. Wednesday  night  February  29th  was  the  Steer  &  Commercial  Heifer  Show.  21  steer  exhibitors  proudly  displayed  their  animals.  The  steers  UDQJHG LQ ZHLJKW IURP WR SRXQGV DQG ZHUH GLYLGHG LQWR ÂżYH classes  according  to  their  weights.   Mr.  Jim  Selph  from  Desoto  County  presided  as  judge  over  the  show.   He  awarded  all  the  entries  blue  rib-­ bons  for  their  great  looking  animals.  Gracie  Goodwin  won  Grand  Cham-­ pion  with  her  1,230  pound  steer.   Bronson  Bass  was  awarded  Reserve  Grand  Champion  as  well  as  Home  Grown  Grand  Champion  with  his  1,380  pound  Sherri  Petti  Ranch  bred  steer.  Home  Grown  Reserve  Grand  Champion  went  to  Amery  Bass  with  his  1,120  pound  steer  bred  by  B  &  S  Cattle  Company.   Amery  Bass  also  received  the  Jr.  Showmanship  award  and  Bronson  Bass  the  Sr.  Showmanship  award  for  their  skill  in  showing  WKHLU DQLPDOV 7- %DUÂżHOGÂśV VWHHU KDG DQ DYHUDJH GDLO\ ZHLJKW JDLQ RI pounds,  which  earned  him  the  Weight  Gain  award.   The  Commercial  Heifer  Show  followed  with  5  exhibitors  and  their  5  great  entries.  Grand  Champion  was  awarded  to  Dustin  Chapman.  Reserve  Grand  Champion  went  to  Nathan  Simmons.  We  also  had  a  Showmanship  competition  in  the  commercial  heifer  division  and  those  awards  went  to  Dustin  Chap-­ man  for  Sr.  Showmanship  and  Jr.  Showmanship  went  to  Lacy  Green.  These  exhibitors  are  members  of  the  â€œThe  Beefmakersâ€?  led  by  Calinda  Chapman  and  the  FFA  Chapter  led  by  Mr.  Phillip  Cosby.  Throughout  the  week  we  were  graced  with  the  presence  of  our  2012  Chalo  Nitka  Royalty.   The  Chalo  Nitka  Queen  Haley  Stephens,  Jr.  Miss  Chalo  Nitka  Megan  Whitehead  and  Chalo  Nitka  Princess  Lacy  Green  did  an  excellent  job  presenting  all  the  exhibitors  with  their  ribbons  and  the  winners  with  their  ribbons  and  belt  buckles.  Glades  County  Youth  Livestock  would  like  to  thank  all  of  those  who  helped  make  the  2012  Livestock  Shows  a  great  success!

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Highlands  County  4-­H  Receives  Generous  Donation Scott  Kirouac,  president  of  Highlands  County  Farm  Bureau,  presents  a  check  for  $1,500  to  Highlands  County  4-­H  agent,  Lauren  Hrncirik  .  The  donation  is  made  possible  from  the  many  Highlands  County  Farm  Bureau  fundraisers  that  are  supported  by  Highlands  County  business  owners  and  residents.  Lauren  accepts  the  gift  on  behalf  of  the  Highlands  County  4-­H  Foundation  whose  main  function  is  funding  local  4-­H  clubs  and  their  activities.  For  more  information  on  how  you  can  support  4-­H,  call  863-­471-­ DW WKH +LJKODQGV &RXQW\ ([WHQVLRQ 6HUYLFHV RIÂżFH DQG DVN for  Lauren.  Highlands  County  Farm  Bureau  and  Farm  Bureau  Insurance  are  located  at  6419  US  27  South,  Sebring.  863-­385-­5141    Â

SPRING  LAKE  HARDWARE PARTS  SALES SERVICE Tom  Culverhouse-­  Manager  8955  US  Hwy  98 Sebring,  FL  33876

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(863)  655-­2600/  Fax  (863)  655-­1344 springlakehardware@gmail.com Â

April  20 1 2

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Journal Whoa!  This  last  month  has  been  jam  packed  for  my  teammates  and  I!  We  started  off  this  busy  time  with  our  work  at  the  Florida  State  Fair.  We  were  there  throughout  the  whole  fair  and  assisted  with  the  live-­ stock  shows,  the  skillathon  competition  and  everything  in  between!  :H HYHQ JRW WR Ă€LS WKH VZLWFK WR EHJLQ WKH IDLU ZLWK WKH &RPPLVVLRQHU RI $JULFXOWXUH WKH *RYHUQRU RI )ORULGD WKH &KLHI )LQDQFLDO 2IÂżFHU and  the  Attorney  General.  It  was  quite  an  experience.       Following  our  exciting  time  at  state  fair,  we  traveled  to  Haines  &LW\ WR SUHVHQW WKH 6WDWH 2IÂżFHU &DQGLGDWH :RUNVKRS DQG WKH State  Leadership  Summit  Conference.  At  SLS,  we  begin  the  delegate  process  and  selected  the  committee  issues  that  will  be  reviewed  and  voted  on  at  State  Convention  in  June.  During  the  conference,  we  also  spent  a  day  touring  the  Dun-­  D  Citrus  Groves  as  well  as  the  Florida’s  Natural  Visitors  Center.  It  was  an  amazing  weekend   and  the  members  greatly  appreciated  the  agricultural  tours.  Thank  you  to  those  who  made  it  happen!      Our  next  great  adventure  led  us  to  Tallahassee  for  Ag  On  The  Hill  2012.  Many  of  Florida  FFA’s  members  attended  the  event.  While  there  we  had  the  opportunity   to  speak  with  Commissioner  Putnam,  DV ZHOO DV QXPHURXV RWKHU RIÂżFLDOV :H DOVR KDG WKH JUHDW RSSRUWXQLW\ to  sit  in  on  a  session,  where  representatives  discussed  and  voted  on  issues  facing  Florida  today.  Ag  On  The  Hill  was  an  experience  that  I  will  never  forget!       In  the  upcoming  months,  our  team  will  continue  doing  chapter  programs  as  well  as  begin  attending  end  of  the  year  banquets.  If  your  FKDSWHU ZRXOG OLNH WR KDYH D VWDWH RIÂżFHU DW \RXU EDQTXHW FRQWDFW XV DW Ă€DIID RUJ :H ZRXOG ORYH WR FRPH VSHDN WR \RXU PHPEHUV DQG celebrate  your  accomplishments  with  your  chapter  over  this  past  year.  As  I  close,  I  would  just  like  to  remind  you  all  that  each  day  is  a  gift.  Live  it  to  its   fullest  potential  and  never  take  it  for  granted,  because  life  is  not  about  the  number  of  breaths  you  take,  but  about  the  number  of  moments  that  take  your  breath  away.  God  Bless!

Until  next  time, Haley  Webb State  FFA  Secretary +DOH\ :HEE#Ă€DIID RUJ Heartland InTheField Magazine

Classifieds NEW  HOLLAND  REPOS TN60A  2WD  2007  models  w/front  brooms  and  box  blades.  Never  used,  sold  POLLINATION  SERVICES Strong  bees  when  you  want  them.  We  also  have  new  $31,270.  Sell  $27,000,  balance  of  honey  and  skin  care  products  made  with  honey  warranty.  813-­623-­3673 and  ingredients  from  the  hive.  Cantu  Apiaries,  863-­735-­1679

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Building  Supplies CHEAP  METAL  ROOFING Discount  Metal  Mart  8’X10’  sheets  in  stock!  Prices  from  $5  to  $12.  Custom  lengths  avail-­ able.  If  you  buy  elsewhere,  we  both  lose.  Call  813-­752-­7088

Equine  Services DISCOUNT  EQUINE  SERVICE  BUNDLE &RJJLQV YDFFLQDWLRQ WHHWK ÀRDW &DOO 0224  or  813-­951-­0118 Â

Farm  Equipment  1952  JOHN  DEERE  TRACTOR  M  MODEL Runs  Good!  $1,985  OBO Jim  863-­858-­2226 1984  KUBOTA  B6200 2wd,  w/4  ft.  Finish  Mower  $3,000 Call  863-­698-­2967 2004  MASSEY  FERGUSON  461-­2-­55  pto  hp,  2  wheel  drive,  shuttle  shift,  hydraulic  remotes.  $10,500.  Call  813-­752-­8722 42’  REACH  FORKLIFT 3,952  hours.  $29,469  Call  863-­698-­4114 ALL-­PRO  FLATBED  TRAILER 7X20  with  beavertail  and  ramps.  Tandem  7,000  pd  axels  $2,500  Call  Hank  863-­559-­8718

ANGUS  FREEZER  BEEF $2.75/lb.  cut  and  wrapped.  Whole,  Half  or  Quarter.  Cash,  Mastercard  or  Visa 863-­206-­2828

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3  BARNS  W/  27  STALLS  FOR  RENT Ft.  Ogden  area.  Call  Lisa  941-­234-­7660. 2003  CATERPILLAR  MT225  CHAL-­ LENGER  TRACTOR  23  HP  with  4  wheel  drive  making  it  much  stronger  and  more  ver-­ sitile.2  ptos  rear  and  middle.   Used  for  mowing  only  so  light  wear-­  833  hrs.   $5,  199 Excellent  tractor  for  a  small  farm.   Great  cond-­ tion-­barn  kept.   email  for  more  pix:gwhnsh@ hotmail.com813-­299-­1635  Arcadia,  Fl  ***Lake  Placid  Christian  School  Stu-­ dents:  Have  Your  Parent(s)  Sign  Here:  _____________________  and  please  return  to  Mr.  G. Â

Account Executives

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April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

Heartland’s Growing Businesses

Sunshine Family Dentistry For your complete family dental care. ~ Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry ~ Extractions ~ Implants ~ Root Canals

~ Dentures and Partials ~ Implant Denture Stabilization ~ Wisdom Teeth Removal ~ Financing Available

James E. Oxer, D.M.D. (863) 465-­2037

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

AG Calendar March  28th-31st Â

Big  â€œOâ€?  Birding  Festival throughout  Glades  and  Hendry  (863)  517-­2136 April  5th

Sebring’s  Centennial  Celebration Sebring  Chamber  of  Commerce April  10th

Herd  Health  Management 'H6RWR &RXQW\ ([WHQVLRQ 2I¿FH $UFDGLD CALS  Gator  Gathering,  Sebring  6  pm  Bert  J  harris  Agricultural  Center April  13th  -15th

20th  Annual  BB  &  T  Venice  Sharks  Tooth  Festival Venice  Airport  Festival  Grounds April  13th-15th Â

26th  Annual  Clewiston  Sugar  Festival,  â€œRaising  Caneâ€?  www.clewistonsugarfestival.com  April  14th

Highlands  County  Farm  Bureau  Cracker  Shoot Quail  Creek  Plantation  Okeechobee (863)  385-­5141 April  14th-15th

Ranch  Rodeo—Arcadia  Rodeo  Arena April  19th-21st Â

City  of  Pahokee’s  Annual  Q  Fest  and  City  of  Pahokee  Fair April  20th Â

Moore  Haven   4-­H  Archery  Club  Bbq

What’s going on In the Field? April  21st Â

2012  Horse  Short  Course  &  Trade  Show  8:30  -­2:00  Parrish  Equestrian  &HQWHU²3DUULVK²FRQWDFW KRUVHO#XĂ€ HGX Punta  Gorda  Block  Party  get@puntagordblockparty.info April  21st Â

(34th  Annual)  Black  Gold  Jubilee  Festival Belle  Glade April  21st

 â€œSpring  North  American  Migration  Count  Teamsâ€?  and  Bird  Watching  Tours  at  STA5  and  surrounding  areas  led  by  Hendry  Glades  Audubon  Clewiston April  21st

Youth  Rodeo  Finals Arcadia May  1st

Ag  Literacy  Day May  2nd-4th

UF  Beef  Cattle  Short  Course  â€“Gainesville KWWS FRQIHUHQFH LIDV XĂ€ HGX EHHI LQGH[ KWP May  4th  â€“May  6th

Sandy  Kuhn  Memorial  El  Clair  Ranch  Ride sponsored  by  the  Putnam  Family  and  the  Florida  Cracker  Trail  Association  8290  Martin  Lane,  Zolfo  Springs  (863)  441-­2139 May  19th Small  Farms  Livestock  Production  Conference DeSoto  Turner  Center  Exhibit  Bldg 22nd  Farm  Safety  Day  Immokolee  IFAS  Center,  Cost  is  $15  pp  nd  includes  educational  sessions,  handouts,  pencils,  refreshments,  lunch,  and  a  cap. 7KH GHDGOLQH IRU UHJLVWUDWLRQ LV 0D\ WK 0D]#XĂ€ HGX RU

Custom  Blended  Foliar,  Suspension  &  Solution  Fertilizers Â

Barney  Cherry  863-­441-­1482  Bruce  Hutcheson  863-­441-­2018  70

April  20 1 2

Heartland InTheField Magazine

Celebrating Earth Day by conserving and protecting natural resources Every Day. ENERGY EFFICIENCY. At our Plant City Complex, we convert excess steam into power to provide for all of the complex’s electrical demands, reducing the need to build more conventional power plants and reducing our dependency on foreign oil.

WATER. We are one of the largest re-users of reclaimed water. We recycle 95 percent of the water used in our phosphate mining process and have pioneered a project in Hardee County that will help to recharge Florida’s aquifer.

ENVIRONMENT. We protect the most sensitive areas, including pristine wetlands and other habitats, from our mining impacts. We work to protect wildlife, and to maintain the integrity and functionality of key habitats. And after we mine, we reclaim the land, guided by a commitment to restore the land for future generations.

CF Industries

Phosphate Rock Mine & Beneficiation Plant | 6209 County Road 663 | Wauchula, FL 33873 Phosphate Fertilizer Manufacturing Plant | 10608 Paul Buchman Highway | Plant City, FL 33565 Tampa Terminal and Warehouse | 2520 Guy Verger Blvd | Tampa, FL 33605

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