March 2012 - Tennessee Farm Bureau News

FARM BUREAU NEWS TENNESSEE

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WHAT’S INSIDE: Tennessee Farm Bureau is awarded for excellence during the 93rd Annual Meeting of the American Farm Bureau

PAGE 2 Trucking rules extended

The Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation was recognized for excellence in membership achievement and for implementing outstanding programs serving Farm Bureau members in 2011 at the 93rd Annual Meeting of the American Farm Bureau Federation. Tennessee Farm Bureau President Lacy Upchurch received the Pinnacle Award on behalf of all Tennessee Farm Bureau members for overall outstanding program achievement combined with membership growth. This is the highest honor a state Farm Bureau can hold and American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman presented the award to President Upchurch.

Tennessee Farm Bureau also received five Awards for Excellence and three President’s Awards, which are the “best of the best� awards presented for excellence in five different program areas to state Farm Bureaus by membership size.

PAGE 7 Farewell from a friend

PAGE 8 2012 AFBF highlights

The Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers program brought home two national awards from the 93rd Annual Meeting of the American Farm Bureau Ben and Jennifer Moore of Weakley County won the Achievement Award. The Achievement Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who have excelled in their farming or ranching operations and exhibited superior leadership abilities. Participants are evaluated on a combination of their agricultural operation’s growth and financial progress, Farm Bureau leadership and leadership outside of Farm Bureau. They are the winners of either a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado or 2012 GMC Sierra, courtesy of GM. They are pictured with their son Miller and Bob Briedis of General Motors.

Andy and Ellie Holt of Weakley County won the Excellence in Agriculture competition. They will receive their choice of either a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado or 2012 GMC Sierra, courtesy of GM. The Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who do not derive the majority of their income from an agricultural operation, but who actively contribute and grow through their involvement in agriculture, their leadership ability and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations. They are also pictured with Bob Briedis of General Motors.

Official newspaper of Tennessee Farm Bureau

FARMBUREAUNEWS TENNESSEE

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announces TFBF staff changes FARMBUREAUNEWS Upchurch King assigned to different role, Hensley added to staff TENNESSEE

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Pettus Read, Editor Lee Maddox, Assistant Editor Melissa Burniston, Feature Writer Stacey Warner, Graphic Designer Misty McNeese, Advertising P.O. Box 313, Columbia, TN 38402-0313 (931) 388-7872 Issued bi-monthly by the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation located at 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, Tennessee 38401.

Non-profit periodical postage paid at Columbia, TN and additional entry offices.

Send address corrections to: Tennessee Farm Bureau News Offices, P.O. Box 313, Columbia, TN 38402-0313.

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Advertising Policy: Advertising is subject to publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume all liability for content of their advertising. Publisher maintains right to cancel advertising for non-payment or reader complaint about advertiser service or product. Publisher does not accept political, dating service or alcoholic beverage ads, nor does publisher pre-screen or guarantee advertiser service or products.

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5&//&44&& '"3. #63&"6 '&%&3"5*0/ BOARD OF DIRECTORS Lacy Upchurch Danny Rochelle President

Vice President

Tennessee Farm Bureau president Lacy Upchurch has announced the change in the current responsibilities of one employee, along with the appointment of that staff member’s replacement.

Upchurch announced that TFBF Regional Field Service Director Ryan King will be moving to the Columbia main office to become involved in the Department of Public Affairs in the position of associate director effective June 1. “Ryan has been a great asset to the organization in the field. His abilities in working with the details of farm issues at the local level and being a liaison for our volunteer leadership has made him an ideal candidate to work in Public Affairs. We are so glad he is a part of our TFBF team,� Upchurch said in making the announcement.

King, a native of Wilson county, began his Farm Bureau career in 2008 after graduating from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in plant and soil science. He was active in FFA and student government at MTSU and served as agricultural student body president.

He was an intern with the Farm Bureau during the summer of 2007. He is a member of the Delta Tau Alpha National Honorary Society. For the past four years he has served the Farm

King Bureau district stretching from Sevier County in the east along the southern Tennessee border to Marion County.

He and his wife Amy will be moving to Columbia in the near future.

Hensley

Taking over King’s spot as regional field service director is Roane County native Kevin Hensley. Hensley has also served as a former intern in the Farm Bureau organization as well as intern in the Tennessee State Legislature during the 2011 session. He will be graduating from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in May. “Kevin Hensley as a new staff member has much to offer to our Farm Bureau programs. I feel confident he is armed with the necessary personal and professional skills to perform outstanding service for our organization,� said TFBF President Lacy Upchurch in making the announcement.

He is a former president of the Tennessee 4-H State Council and a former member of the Tennessee 4-H Foundation Board of Directors. As a student at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Kevin has achieved academic success while majoring in food and agricultural business, with a minor in political science. He has been named to the Dean’s List for the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and is a distinguished member of the National College Senior Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, and National Society of Collegiate Scholars. �

%JSFDUPST BU -BSHF Jeff Aiken Charles Hancock Catherine Via %JTUSJDU %JSFDUPST Malcolm Burchfiel Dan Hancock James Haskew David Mitchell Eric Mayberry Jane May "EWJTPSZ %JSFDUPST Brandon Whitt Dr. Larry Arrington OTHER OFFICERS AND STAFF Joe Pearson Chief Administrative Officer

Rhedona Rose

Executive Vice President

Wayne Harris

Tim Dodd

Treasurer

Comptroller

$PNNPEJUJFT Tiffany Howard

$PNNVOJDBUJPOT Pettus Read

0SHBOJ[BUJPO Bobby Beets

Lee Maddox

Assistant Director

Director

Bryan Wright

Associate Director

4QFDJBM 1SPHSBNT Charles Curtis Director

Chris Fleming

Associate Director

Kristy Chastine

Associate Director

Director

Associate Director

Melissa Burniston Associate Director

1VCMJD "òBJST Rhedona Rose Director

Stefan Maupin

Associate Director

3FHJPOBM 'JFME 4FSWJDF %JSFDUPST Matt Fennel, Jim Bell Melissa Bryant, Eddie Clark, Ryan King Joe McKinnon

SERVICE COMPANIES 5FOOFTTFF 'BSNFST *OTVSBODF $PT Matthew M. (Sonny) Scoggins, CEO 5FOOFTTFF 3VSBM )FBMUI Lonnie Roberts, CEO 'BSNFST 4FSWJDF *OD Tim Dodd, Director of Operations 5FOOFTTFF -JWFTUPDL 1SPEVDFST *OD Darrell Ailshie, Manager

Executive order to extend recently suspended truck rules aimed at helping farmers Gov. Bill Haslam recently extended an executive order to allow haulers of hay to carry larger loads in their trucks as long as they observe safety requirements. The order is in response to drought and extreme weathers conditions in Texas and across the Southeast, which has left some farmers without access to hay for livestock. “Last year was a tough year for farmers across the Southeast, and we want to be responsive to their needs,� Haslam said. “This order will continue to ensure that much needed hay can be shipped safely and without delay through Tennessee and along our interstate corridors.�

The order allows for an increase in gross vehicle weight to 95,000 pounds, not exceeding 20,000 pounds per axle load, for semi truck/trailers. The order also increases the height of trailer loads to 13 feet, 6 inches and the width to a maximum of 14 feet during daylight hours. The increase in width allows haulers to transport standard six- to seven-foot round hay bales side by side, increasing the capacity being hauled per truck without a permit.

The executive order extension will expire on May 13. “The governor’s order will continue to help farmers in our own state who may need hay, and it will ensure that market supply and demand is met,� said state Agriculture Commissioner Julius Johnson. “I applaud the governor for recognizing that farming is a tough but important business in our state

and across the region.�

Tennessee is a major producer of hay, ranking fifth in the nation.

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service forecast that Tennessee farmers produced 1.9 million acres of hay last year, excluding alfalfa, for a total of 4.3 million tons. For more information on farm production in Tennessee, visit www. nass.usda.gov/tn. Â?

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McMinn County High School receives Farm Credit gift Kevin Edwards is one of three vo-ag teachers and FFA advisors at McMinn County High School in Athens, Tenn.

He’s excited about the school’s new livestock learning center, which after years of dreaming, planning, and preparation, will soon become a reality. Now, with the help of a $5,000 gift from Farm Credit Services of Mid-America, final preparations for the center are one step closer to completion. “We’ve needed this center for a long time. It will be a really great expansion of our program and allow kids to have a lot more hands-on activities in their classes,� said Edwards.

“The ag teachers, our chapter, FFA alumni, and community all very much appreciate Farm Credit for this large and generous donation.�

The 100’ x 45’ steel frame structure, which is located on the high school’s campus and received primary financing through a grant from the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, is scheduled to open this spring. When operational, the multipurpose facility will serve as a lab space for the vo-ag program and will include animal pens, livestock handling facilities, and a corral system.

There will also be space for small ani-

State’s first lady highlights nursery industry Tennessee First Lady Crissy Haslam met recently with nursery growers and industry leaders and toured local nurseries to highlight Tennessee’s horticultural industry.

Mrs. Haslam met with a small group of nurserymen at Boskey’s Grille in Manchester for a brief discussion on industry issues and to enlist their support for the landscape renovation project at the Tennessee Residence in Nashville. “Tennessee has a reputation worldwide as a producer of high quality horticultural products, so it’s only natural that we turn to Tennessee growers first to help with the landscape renovation project at the Tennessee Residence,� Haslam said. “I hope this project also brings much needed attention to an important industry that has had its difficulties in recent years.�

State Agriculture Commissioner Julius Johnson joined Mrs. Haslam as they met with industry leaders and toured Randall Walker Farms and Hale and Hines Nursery in Warren County, which is known as the “Nursery Capital of the World.� “Nursery and greenhouse products are among our state’s top agricultural commodities, generating nearly $300 million annually in farm income,�

Johnson said. “We appreciate the First Lady highlighting this important industry sector by involving them in this project and recognizing the value of quality, locally grown products.�

Terry Hines of Hale and Hines Nursery in McMinnville said he welcomes the First Lady’s visit. “We’re happy that Mrs. Haslam has come to McMinnville to learn more about our industry. We’re honored that she’s looking to us for help with the Tennessee Residence landscape project. We have a great local industry with good people who produce a great product, so any attention is appreciated as we look to expand markets for our products.�

For help finding Tennessee nursery and greenhouse products, visit www.picktnproducts.org. Â?

mals and some wildlife projects, with plans to raise quail and wild turkeys from eggs. Some plant projects will be transferred from the current greenhouse to the new facility.

Farm Credit financial services officer Shane Williams, of the ag lending cooperative’s Athens office, knows firsthand about the opportunities FFA can provide to young people. “FFA was one of the most impactful things that happened in my life,� he said. “I had some great role models who encouraged me, and I eventually worked my way up to being a state officer. FFA opened doors I didn’t pre-

viously know existed. For me, it was the key to a very successful college experience and business career.�

As a result of his experience, Williams has maintained close ties with FFA and was glad to be able to help secure Farm Credit’s participation in the final phase of the fundraising for the learning center. “We like to invest some of our earnings in ways that impact the community, and we especially have a heart for anything that engages youth, like 4-H and FFA,� he said. “This program has been very dynamic and successful for the last twenty years.� �

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Read All About It

By Pettus Read Editor

Today’s kids: Taters come from freezer, not ground “Trends around this country continue to indicate that we Americans are buying more expensive convenience food items for preparation at home, as well as more food away from home.�

An economist made that comment during a special session on nutrition at a Farm Bureau convention awhile back. I hadn’t really thought that much about it until recently when I was standing in line at a local grocery store behind a young father with two small children. Of course, having been a father shopper myself several years ago and understanding what it is like to have two small children in tow as you cover the grocery store aisles, my observation would hold no scientific substance, but from the items I witnessed in his cart, this modern-day family has never turned on the oven in their electric range. The items they were going to consume in a future meal could only work in a microwave.

As I stood there with tomatoes, fresh baking potatoes, flatiron steaks and all the trimmings, one of the children in front of me pointed to my sack of baking potatoes and said, “What is that?�

I answered the child and said, “They are potatoes for my supper.�

I’m sure this was a “dinner� and not a “supper� family like me, but the child still was amazed with the round and brown tubers I had laying on the grocery counter to be checked out.

The little guy reached his little hands in his father’s stack of purchases and pulled out a frozen bag of french fries and held them up

to me and remarked while shaking his head, “No they’re not! These are potatoes. My mommy cooks these for us all the time.�

After the child’s conversation and what I saw in their shopping cart, it caused me to think about how we all have started depending on convenience foods and more often than not stop for a meal at an

buying less-nutritious foods that lack important vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients. Becoming aware of the right things to eat and at a reasonable cost is something we all must undertake. The Tennessee Farm Bureau Women committees across our state attempted to make consumers aware of better food choices during their annual Food

area restaurant. And as we do so, we complain about how food is costing us more and our society has to increase the size of seats at major sporting events due to the way we broaden our horizons.

As the economy continues to have its problems as well, public health experts are concerned that today’s tough economic times could lead consumers, many of whom are already overweight, to cut costs by

Check-Out Week during the month of February. Food Check-Out Week is a time when Farm Bureaus at the county, state and national level celebrate the abundance and safety of food. It began back in 1998 and was an effort to establish a day for food similar to “Tax Freedom Day� and would also honor the contributions of farmers who supply our food.

This year, in recognition of current economic conditions, the focus was

Looking for bargains – Farm Bureau Women’s Committee members from Montgomery and Hickman counties joined together to shop for the Ronald McDonald House in Nashville. With a suggested list from the House and careful shopping, a lot of food was gathered.

“Stretching Your Food Dollar with Healthy, Nutritious Food.�

Many county Farm Bureaus held events throughout the month and promoted the subjects of stretching your food dollars. They passed out literature at their local stores that provided consumers solutions to eating healthy on a stretched budget. They also explained to area shoppers how America’s farmers and ranchers are committed to producing safe, abundant and healthy food.

They also make charitable donations to local charities during Food Check-Out Week, recognizing the need everyone has to find solutions to feeding families healthy foods on a tight budget. This year, Farm Bureau Women committee members around the state joined together once again in presenting a significant monetary donation to the local Ronald McDonald Houses in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Knoxville and Johnson City. The houses provide a “home-away-fromhome� for the families of seriously ill children being treated at nearby hospitals. Donations provide families staying at the houses with needed staple foods, so they are able to focus their attention on taking care of their children.

It is time we all start stretching our food dollar with healthy, nutritious food and take a close look at what we all are putting in our shopping carts. Food in Tennessee is still very affordable if we shop wisely.

Thanks to Tennessee’s farmers our food supply is safe, as well as very affordable. �

Shopping for Ronald McDonald House – This group of ladies provided a lot of help for families at the Ronald McDonald House in Nashville during Food Check-Out Week. With the help of coupons the grocery bill was greatly reduced and more supplies purchased.

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Top county fairs honored

The Ag Agenda

By Bob Stallman American Farm Bureau President

Who knows best about protecting our farm kids?

As a boy growing up in southeast Texas, I not only worked on my family’s farm, I lived and breathed it. What many people outside of rural America don’t understand is that farm work for a kid is not just a chore or a job—it’s a way of life. Learning to drive a tractor comes as natural as riding a bike and there’s nothing that teaches a kid more discipline and commitment than milking a cow. It was ‘American Gothic’ painter Grant Wood who once said, “All the good ideas I ever had came to me while I was milking a cow.�

Farm work has always played a significant role in the lives of rural youth across the country, whether they are milking cows on their grandparents’ farm or harvesting apples as a summer job. But, because of general misunderstanding and over-zealous activists, the ability of rural kids being able to perform traditional farm chores and jobs is in serious jeopardy.

WAY OF LIFE A proposed rule released by the Department of Labor would have detrimental effects on farm families. No longer would kids be allowed to do many chores on their grandparents’ farms, nor would kids under 16 be allowed to get a typical summer job at their neighbor’s farm—even with their parent’s consent. Under the DOL rule as it was proposed in September, a child can only work on a farm that is ‘wholly owned’ by his or her parents.

Farm Bureau is hopeful that the recent decision by DOL to re-propose the ‘parental exemption’ will be a positive step, but we simply don’t know.

If DOL decides to, it could interpret the parental exemption in a way that would make it much more difficult – if not impossible – for nieces, nephews and grandchildren to work on the family farm.

Let’s take a look at Missouri hog producer Chris Chinn, who grew up doing chores on her grandparent’s

farm. As she testified before Congress earlier this month, she never would have had those life-shaping experiences if the DOL rule had been in place back then. Even more disturbing is that her two children won’t be allowed the same experiences of doing routine chores on their grandparents’ farm if DOL goes forward with its initial plan.

HAZARDOUS RULEMAKING The DOL rule would also put strict limits on what hired youth can and can’t do. In updating its ‘hazardous occupation orders,’ DOL is saying that a youth under the age of 16 would be mostly prohibited from working with livestock or operating equipment that’s not driven by hand or foot power. Read literally, the DOL proposal would mean a 15-year old could not operate a hand-held, battery-powered screwdriver to mend fences or be hired to mow lawns.

Farm and ranch families are more interested than anyone else in assuring the safety of our farms. We have no desire at all to have young teenagers working in jobs that are inappropriate or entail too much risk. But, regulations need to be sensible and within reason – not prohibiting teenagers from performing simple everyday farm functions like operating a batterypowered screwdriver.

Members in the House and Senate, on both sides of the aisle, have called for the rule to be withdrawn, and Farm Bureau agrees. But if DOL proceeds, as seems likely, we will be working actively to assure that any final regulation makes sense, does not infringe on the traditional rights of family farms and does not unnecessarily restrict the ability of young people to work in agriculture. In other words, we need a rule that respects the significance of youth farm work in America and the importance it plays in our system of family-based agriculture. Â?

Tennessee Department of Agriculture Commissioner Julius Johnson recently presented awards to 56 of the state’s top county agricultural fairs. They were recognized with the Merit Award for outstanding achievement during the 2011 fair season. More than 950 people attended the Fairs Merit Awards recognition dinner at the 90th Annual Tennessee Association of Fairs convention held January 19-21, in Nashville.

The top award went to the Cumberland County Fair in Crossville when it was named the Champion of Champions Fair for 2011. The Cumberland County Fair was also recognized by TDA and TAF President Tommy Wheatley, with the “Award of Merit� based on overall operations, educational value and promotion of local interest in agriculture and community spirit. “Fairs are a tradition in the agricultural industry and showcase the best our farms and communities have to offer,� said Johnson. “Our Tennessee fairs have a positive impact on local economies as well as the agriculture contributions and education that they provide to visitors.�

The annual awards are sponsored

by TDA and TAF, the state organization representing Tennessee’s fair industry.

In 2011, almost three million visitors attended county and regional agricultural fairs in Tennessee. Fairs in Tennessee generated more than $11 million in gross receipts last year. More than 14,000 volunteers from 62 fairs in the state devoted time and energy to fairs which had approximately 29,000 agricultural exhibitors showcasing livestock, farm crops and other agricultural exhibits.

The 14th Annual Fair Showcase competition, another competition held during the convention, consisted of 547 entries in 45 categories. Fairs competed for prize money, trophies and ribbons sponsored by the TDA and the TAF. Categories ranged from fair catalogs, websites and educational displays, to fair shirts, posters, scrapbooks, creative ideas and table-top exhibits. To see a list of these winners, visit www.picktnproducts.org or www. tennesseefairs.com.

For more on 2012 Tennessee fair dates, visit http://www.tn.gov/agriculture/marketing/fairs.shtml. Â?

Many of America’s family farms have been handed down for generations. Our farmers work the land with respect and pride to provide safe, plentiful food for our families and others around the world. As you walk the aisles of your local grocery store, please remember their story, the AMAZING story of the American farmer.

There’s more at agday.org.

CELEBRATING AG DAY TENNESSEE National AgIN Day − March -8,MARCH 2012 20, 2012

Farmers, ranchers tally contribute to hunger program The farm and ranch families of Farm Bureau last year raised more than $556,273 and donated more than 10 million pounds of food to assist hungry Americans as part of Farm Bureau’s “Harvest for All� program through Feeding America. Combined, the monetary and food donations provided nearly 13 million meals.

Members of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers program spearhead Harvest for All across the country, but all facets of Farm Bureau contribute to the effort. For the first time, 20 state Farm Bureaus heeded the call to action. The joint effort between Farm Bureau and Feeding America is a national community action program

through which farmers and ranchers can help ensure every American enjoys the bounty they produce. “The Harvest for All initiative is one of the most important community service efforts undertaken by Farm Bureau members, especially in these tough economic times,� said American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob

Stallman. “I am proud that so many states—a record 20—participated this year. By joining together, we can help feed and nourish those who need help the most.�

Additionally, farmers and ranchers also tallied 10,159 volunteer hours assisting hunger groups through Harvest for All in 2011. Â?

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Innovative Agriculture

By Melissa Burniston Associate Director of Communications

Little Bo Peep’s loss becomes good fortune of others When I hear the word sheep, I do what most people do and think of the nursery rhyme Little Bo Peep‌ and while I sure hope she found her lost little sheep, the reality of sheep production today is a far cry from a shepherdess wandering the hills with a staff looking far and wide for some missing sheep.

Association President Reyes Rich raises Suffolk, Hampshire and cross bred hair sheep and says the industry is definitely on the rise at present. He says this can be attributed to farms trending toward smaller acreages and former tobacco farmers looking for options to replace that enterprise. “It is fun and enjoyable because

My own experience with sheep came, as did many who participated in the 4-H program, when I raised two sheep for a 4-H project back in fourth grade. I have fond memories of Bronco and Billy, and after raising them all summer with my sisters and showing them around East Tennessee, it came as somewhat of a shock to me at the end of show season to learn that I wasn’t to keep them but send them off to become lamb chops! My Dad sat down and had a talk with me about the facts of farm life, after which I agreed to let them go‌I didn’t go with him to drop them off, but I sure did eat the lamb chops and steaks that came home! It was an important lesson for me to learn as a young child, and remembering that keeps me grounded in today’s society where it is very easy to confuse livestock animals with pets.

I’m not sure if 4-H influenced a lot of people to raise more sheep or if it is just becoming a more popular livestock option, but sheep production in Tennessee is growing. In fact, in 2010, Tennessee was ranked number two in the nation for percentage growth in the industry. There are a variety of breeds being raised in the state, including wool and hair sheep. Both are used for meat production; hair breeds don’t require shearing.

Tennessee Sheep Producers

sheep production is unusual and a novelty to most folks and therefore promotes some interesting conversations!

Most people have a bit of a nostalgic perception of sheep, and many in the general public assume sheep are raised for wool production only, in actuality, we provide lean, luscious lamb that appears on dinner tables and in restaurants all over the country and around the world,� says Rich.

Rich farms in Clay County and his farm dates back six generations. In the mid-1800’s Elisha Rich founded the family farm, and eventually handed down a portion of it to his daughter, Virginia. That area became known as “The Ginny Ridge� and through the years, generations of Rich descendants produced cattle and small quantities of grains, fruits and vegetables. Today, the sixth generation of the Rich family is still operating “Ginny Ridge Farms� and now produces beef cattle, broiler chickens, goats and sheep. But sheep, Rich says, are his passion. “Sheep are amazing creatures.

Even though I farm many animals, I am the most passionate about sheep. They are extremely efficient, versatile, and manageable animals that compliment small acreages, work profitably within many different production systems and mix well with Tennessee’s beef cattle,� he says.

Rich adds that animal care is always important for sheep producers across the state. “We have to help people understand that animal welfare is the top priority for farmers. As an industry, we take the responsibility of livestock stewardship very seriously. We work hard every day to meet the needs of our animals and make good management decisions on their behalf. We have a common goal: healthy, highquality livestock on our farms today will be healthy, high-quality food on their tables tomorrow, and that is beneficial to everyone,� said Rich.

With the recent rise in popularity of sheep, Rich says parts of the industry have changed, but some will always be constant. He says sheep will always be vulnerable to predators, and parasites can be a problem, “Fortunately though, producers now have more options to fight predators, and more choices in breeds and management practices to combat parasite issues. Sheep are excellent grazers and one of the most efficient animals at converting grass to meat.�

And not an industry to sit back and wait for opportunity to present itself, the American Sheep Industry Association is taking advantage of sheep entering the spotlight to launch a new program called twoPLUS, an initiative to increase the total number of sheep in the U.S. They have three main goals with this initiative: Encourage producers to increase the size of their operation by two ewes per operation or by two ewes per 100 by 2014; encourage sheep producers to

increase the average birthrate per ewe to two lambs per year; and encourage producers to increase the harvested lamb crop by 2 percent - from 108 percent to 110 percent.

Rich says this a great chance for producers to grow their operations and for the public to not have to depend on other sources for it, “Many of Tennessee lambs are marketed through nontraditional channels.

However, it is important to maintain the viability of traditional markets and ensure that we fill the rising demand with American lamb.�

And for those interested in perhaps beginning their own herd of sheep and starting a new tradition on their own farms, Rich has this advice to give, “Read, investigate, and discuss! There are many opportunities in the sheep industry. I would encourage them to explore each of those, and visit with other sheep producers. These folks are very passionate about what they do and are very willing to talk about this industry. Membership in the Tennessee Sheep Producers Association is also helpful, as it provides access to many educational opportunities throughout the year: guest speakers, field days, tours, newsletters, magazine articles, and more.�

To get more information on the sheep industry in Tennessee, visit the Tennessee Sheep Producers Association website at www.tennesseesheep.com and, the next time you are out for a dinner on the town, check and see if they have lamb on the menu‌and give it a try! �

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Retiring friend to Farm Bureau shares parting thoughts

By Buddy Mitchell It has been my privilege to serve a small role in advancing this marvelous and incredibly productive entity that we call the University of Tennessee.

Land-grant universities such as UT were created to transmit research discovery and proven information to the people of our state and nation. The core of our mission is to conduct cutting-edge research that serves society and solves major problems that our citizens face. Approximately 40 percent of the research discoveries that flow from UT’s Research Foundation to the private sector come from the Institute of Agriculture. Our research does not remain within our laboratories. UT Extension specialists assemble this information and deliver it to our Extension offices in every county of the state where that information greatly benefits farmers, families, communities and local citizens, helping them make wise decisions based on the best information. Wise decisions lead to productive lives and an enhanced Tennessee economy.

The UT College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources prepares work-ready employees who both transmit and receive this information.

The result has been a remarkably productive agricultural system that has increased yields of food dramatically. Corn yields hovered around 20 bushels an acre at mid last century and have multiplied to more than 160 bushels per acre today. Similar gains

have occurred in cotton and soybeans, as well as in cattle production. Our highly productive agriculture system has often created major surpluses of food crops that have kept retail food costs down and put more disposable income in the pockets of all citizens. However, the number of acres available for agriculture production continues to shrink through development and the degradation of farmland in other countries. Therefore, we must continue to increase the productivity of every acre of farm and forest land in Tennessee to meet the rapidly increasing needs of world demand.

The emerging middle class in China and India is growing at an unprecedented rate, and they are demanding more and more high quality food. In the years ahead, American agriculture will be asked to provide not only food but also a portion of our energy needs, all from that same acre of land. For this reason, we must better fund UT agricultural research and extension that today achieves a 10-to-1 return on investments. It is important that agriculture production take place here in Tennessee because that economic return is not just to agriculture and forestland owners, but also to our state economy and the well being of our citizens.

The Institute of Agriculture serves far beyond the food industry and its consumers. The Institute is deeply engaged in veterinary medicine with its important role in serving our companion and farm animals and ensuring

the safety of our food supply. We serve families and communities. We aid in the positive development of youth in our 4-H programs, and we excel in sustainable and environmentally sound practices that preserve Tennessee natural resources. These collective achievements of UTIA teaching faculty, research scientists and extension leaders are the core of UT’s land-grant status and are a cornerstone of our nation’s productivity, food security and outreach service to all citizens.

In my view, the Institute is better poised today to achieve our mission than ever before. We are fortunate to have an exceptional chancellor, outstanding deans, department heads, directors and a truly dedicated faculty and staff. We are considered internally and externally as an employer of choice. This reputation allows us to attract exceptional faculty, staff and administrators, even as our funds have been significantly cut in recent years.

Our future is unlimited.

Yet our greatest challenge continues to be funding. If reductions continue, they will greatly erode and marginalize our programs in the years ahead. We must work with our legislative leaders in Nashville and Washington, D.C., to increase the investment in high-return enterprises like the Institute of Agriculture. These investments must be made even as there is great and undeniable need to cut governmental spending. The 10-to-1 return on investments that the institute provides stimulates the economy and will achieve more balanced budgets in the future as these economic benefits flow to our citizens.

This is the message we must deliver to the leaders of our state and nation, and we must then respond with greater productivity, greater service and greater accomplishments. I retire into half-time status with great confidence in our leadership, the dedication of our employees and the mission we will continue to fulfill. Â?

Always Buddy - Over the course of his 28-year career at the UT Institute of Agriculture, as

chief development and government relations officer and three-time interim vice president or chancellor, Buddy Mitchell was a familiar and friendly face across the Institute and state.

(Photo of Mitchell from Ag Day 2011, by Lorna Norwood.)

..) WNĂ…KMZ[ ^Q[Q\ - The Tennessee State FFA officers stopped by the Tennessee Farm Bureau

Federation headquarters on their annual Goodwill Tour across the state during National FFA Week. The theme this year is “I Believe� and each officer shared with the business and industry leaders present an inspirational story of a person or experience in their life that led them to believe in dedication, diversity, faith, happiness, individual spirit, service, opportunity and agriculture. As a token of admiration, TFBF presented each officer with a pink Farm Bureau hat that they proudly wore to show their appreciation.

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2012 AFBF CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

YF&R group - We had an outstanding group of Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers Number 48 wishes to speak – Actually number 48 is Sevier County Farm Bureau President Roger Radel who was a voting delegate at this year’s AFBF Annual Convention representing Tennessee during the organization’s business session. The sign was used to gain recognition from the chair during resolution discussion.

Discussion Meet - Kim Holmberg represented Tennessee well by making it to the Sweet 16 in the Discussion Meet at the 93rd Annual Meeting of the American Farm Bureau Federation. The Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting in which active discussion and participation are expected.

Participants are evaluated on their ability to exchange ideas and information on a predetermined topic.

attend the 93rd Annual Meeting of the American Farm Bureau Federation. During one day of the convention all YF&R members attending wore bright orange shirts to support their fellow YF&R competitors and also to show pride in their home state.

Tennessee’s voting delegates – These first two tables contain a few of TFBF’s voting delegates during the annual business session at this year’s American Farm Bureau Convention.

Rutherford County displays as a top 15 county in the nation – Each year during the AFBF convention 15 county Farm Bureau’s are selected as winners of the County Activities of Excellence Contest to display an outstanding program of work from their county. Rutherford County Farm Bureau was chosen this year for its Lil’ Acres program. Shown is county President Marvin Whitworth and his wife, who is the county Women’s Chairman, Francille Whitworth; along with Jolena and John Duke receiving their honors from AFBF President Bob Stallman.

Teaching local children about farmers - Tennessee young farmer and American Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher committee member Mary Margret Chester talks to local school children about farmers during a special visit by young farmers to their classroom.

Dave Barry addresses annual AFBF Convention – Humor columnist Dave

Checking out the trade show – Each year at convention, the trade show is a major

highlight for delegates to learn more about the latest ideas in agriculture and commodity production. Shown on the left is TFBF state board member and Humphreys County farmer Eric Mayberry visiting the Monsanto booth.

Barry was a keynote speaker during the annual convention. His work appears in more than 500 newspapers and he is a Pulitzer Prize winner for commentary.

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Tennessee Pork Producers poster contest winners for 2012 – This is the 2012 winners of Tennessee’s “Pork Be Inspired� poster contest sponsored by the Tennessee Pork Producers organization. Winners selected during the annual Junior State Market Hog Show were Aaron Lay, Monroe County, first place winner and Isaac Smith, Clay County, third place winner. In the picture to the right is Haley Brazel, Sumner County, second place winner and Caly Prater, Warren County, first place winner.

Sevier County’s Jared Bruhin has Grand Champion - Jared Bruhin from Sevier County had the Grand Champion Market Hog during state competition. The Reserve Champion was exhibited by Heath Kimes from Clay County who also had the Champion Pen of 3. The Reserve Pen of 3 went to Jed Coley from Macon County.

Taste of Elegance chefs - This outstanding group of chefs from around the mid-state

competed for top honors in this year’s Taste of Elegance contest sponsored by the Tennessee Pork Producers at their annual meeting recently. Shown here front row from left: Garrett Pittler and Joe DeGuira, both are chefs at Loews Vanderbilt Plaza, Aaron Thompson, from the The Blue Porch in Readyville; Derek Fulton from the Chefs’ Market and Take Away; in very front Mike Osborne from Manchester Coffee County Conference Center; Chef J. David Maxwell from Miel in Nashville; Chef Seth Kondor and Chef Jason Carty from Gaylord Opryland were this year’s winners. In the back row: Wanda Thompson of the Blue Porch; assistant to Chef Derek Fulton; Jennifer Maxwell, assistant to Chef David Maxwell; and assistant to Chef Jason Carty. Not available for the picture was Chef Emily Sharp of Five Senses in Murfreesboro.

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Beef Cattle Outlook

YF&R REPORT

Mary Margaret Chester - 2012 YF&R Reporter

By Dr. Emmit L. Rawls

Tennessee cattle numbers are lowest in 61 years Tennessee’s cattle herd totaled 1,970,000 head, down 1 percent based on the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service yearly inventory report and the smallest in 61 years (1961). The beef cows fell by 40,000 at 950.000 head, a 4 percent reduction. This is the smallest cow herd since 1980. Beef replacement heifer numbers were unchanged at 150,000.

However, non replacement heifers over 500 pounds were up 25 percent over a year ago. Some of these heifers could end up getting bred and sold as bred replacement heifers in sales later this year. States like Texas and Oklahoma will need to restock herds when needed rains restore pastures there. The 2011 calf crop was 3 percent smaller than 2010. According to the USDA and Tennessee Department of Agriculture Market News Service, cattle receipts on reported auction markets were down 10.2 percent last year. Some of this decline could be due to cattle being sold through other marketing channels.

With prices for feeder cattle up about 20 percent in 2011, one might ask, “Why are producers marketing their cows and not saving heifers?�

Several reasons come to mind. Cow prices were also up about 20 percent, so it was a good time to cull deep from a revenue standpoint. For some producers, heifer calves seemed too valuable to save as replacements.

Other producers checked out due to high land values, high fertilizer and other input costs. In addition some were reaching the age to retire from beef cattle production. No doubt high prices for corn and soybeans caused some pasture and hay ground to go to row crops. The reduction in inventory will impact markets and farm suppliers

who provide services and products for the beef cattle business in the state.

At the national level the cattle herd was down 2 percent, with beef cows down 3 percent. Ninety-eight percent of the reduction in the U.S. herd came in the states of Texas and Oklahoma. The beef cow herd is the smallest since 1952, and we have reduced the beef cow herd in 14 out of the past 16 years. Again despite high prices for feeder cattle, the devastating drought in the Southern Plains left many producers with little choice but to market their herds, place them in a feedlot or send them to nearby states with good grass. Beef cow harvest last year was up 122,000 head and the largest since 1996.

What are the implications for Tennessee beef producers? Prices for all classes are expected to remain strong for the next 2 to 3 years and should top the record levels set in 2011. When producers begin to save large numbers of females as replacements, cattle on feed will decline, further tightening the beef supply.

There is a limit to what some consumers will pay. We have seen considerable shifting to cheaper beef products such as ground beef and chuck. Market price volatility will continue due to sensitivity to national and international news, as well as the crop situation.

Involvement of commodity funds add to volatility in futures prices. Margin operators such as backgrounders and those finishing cattle will need to manage the price risk for purchased inputs and market prices for their cattle.

Become familiar with the tools for managing that risk before the time comes to need to use the tools.

It should be a bumpy but mostly profitable ride. Â?

USDA Farm Service Agency 2012 program sign-up deadlines DCP Direct and Counter–Cyclical and ACRE Program: This program makes program payments for established grain bases on approved farms. The 2012 sign-up deadline is June 1, 2012.

CRP Conservation Reserve Program: This program allows farm owners to compete for a sign-up for new CRP lands. This general sign-up begins on March 12 and ends on April 6, 2012.

2010 SURE Supplemental Revenue

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Assistance Payments Program: The SURE program is authorized for crops grown in 2010. The program deadline for 2010 Sure Program is June 1, 2012.

Crop reporting deadlines: Fall and winter planted crops is May 15, 2012.

Spring and Sumner planted crops is July 15, 2012.

To meet these 2012 deadlines contact your local FSA office for more information and to make an appointment to sign-up. Â?

Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers started off 2012 full steam ahead! It began with 35 young farmers attending American Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting.

Kim Newsom Holmberg made it to the Sweet 16 round of the Discussion Meet Competition and was a top notch competitor. She represented Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers extremely well.

Then on Monday, January 9, 2012, at the General Session, Andy and Ellie Holt of Weakley County were named the national winners of the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Contest. Ben and Jennifer Moore of Weakley County were named national winners of the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement Award Contest. Tennessee Young Farmers continue to show their strong leadership, excellent communication, and diligent work ethic.

American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting is an excellent opportunity for Tennessee Young Farmers to network and learn from other young farmers and ranchers all across the nation.

After the annual meeting adjourned those YF&R members in attendance had the opportunity to tour some local plantations, a goat dairy, and other aspects of agriculture. It was an amazing learning experience for all in attendance.

Tennessee Young Farmers just recently gathered in Jackson for our

annual Young Leaders Conference.

Highlights from the conference were Cowboy Dan on Friday night and a general session speech by Dennis Avery on Saturday. Saturday night featured the annual Agriculture in the Classroom and John Willis Memorial Scholarship Auction which was a huge success!

As we kickoff the Tennessee YF&R meetings all across the state, your 2012 Tennessee YF&R State Committee hopes to see you at each event! District meetings begin with District I on February 28 in Jackson, District II on March 1 in Nashville, District III on March 5 in Chattanooga, District V on March 6 in Greenville, and District IV on March 12 in Cookeville. Be sure and attend your district’s meeting and join Brandon Whitt and the 2012 State Committee as we continue to promote agriculture across Tennessee!

Here are a few events going on with county Young Farmers and Ranchers across the state: In Bledsoe County they will host their annual Ag Scholarship Benefit Auction on Saturday, February 25 at 6pm at the local high school. Rutherford County YF&R will be heading up a trip to Louisville, Ky. to the Farm Machinery Show and it is open to all Rutherford County Farm Bureau members.

We hope everyone is off to a great start in 2012 and encourage you to contact your elected officials, be very involved in legislative decisions and be a voice for agriculture.

Agriculturists to be inducted into Agriculture Hall of Fame The sixth Wilson County Agricultural Hall of Fame banquet will take place on April 3, 2012 at the Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon. Plans are in place to recognize the following individuals as the fifth annual class of inductees into the Hall of Fame: Paul Agee, Betty Freeman, Newell Jenkins and Charles Willoughby. “The purpose of the Wilson County Agricultural Hall of Fame is to recognize citizens of Wilson County who have made a significant impact on agriculture in Wilson County, Tennessee, nationally or worldwide,� states Hale Moss, chairman of the Wilson County Agricultural Hall of Fame. “We felt the time was right to pay tribute to these very deserving individuals. Each has made significant contributions to Wilson County agriculture, as well as Wilson County in general.

Other members of the board of directors of the Hall of Fame are Ben Powell, vice chairman; Keith Harrison, secretary; Diane Major, treasurer and Ruth Correll and Stratton Bone. The

organizers have established a nonprofit status for the organization to enable them to raise money to be used to the establishment of a building on the Ward Agricultural Center to be dedicated to the individuals inducted into the Wilson County Agricultural Hall of Fame. “Any funds raised over and above the costs of putting on the annual banquet will be set aside for the building,� states Diane Major, treasurer of the Hall of Fame.

Tickets for the banquet can be purchased for $15 each by calling 444-1890 ext 3. Jordan’s Catering will be preparing the meal that evening, which is another reason to join in on the festivities. Area businesses interested in becoming sponsors of this event should also contact Diane Major. “We want the entire agricultural community in our county to come together to recognize these deserving individuals on April 3,� says Moss. “We owe these folks a great deal of gratitude for everything they have done for agriculture.� �

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Tennessee’s Agri-Events UT hosts Cotton Focus at Gin Show

West Tennessee Grazing Conference set

There’s a slight change to the annual University of Tennessee Cotton Focus.

This year it will be held in conjunction with the Mid-South Farm and Gin Show in Memphis. The Gin Show takes place on March 2-3, with the UT Cotton Focus scheduled for Friday, March 2 from 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. The events will be held in the Memphis Cook Convention Center.

With the new location, the Cotton Focus schedule has expanded to include presentations from regional experts from the University of Arkansas, Mississippi State University and the United States Department of Agriculture, as well as UT Research and Extension specialists. These speakers will cover topics like new Bt technologies, glyphosate-resistant weed management and cotton variety per-

Producers who are looking for additional ways to make their cattle operations more profitable should take a closer look at their forage production and management. Attention to the details of your forage offers the greatest opportunity to cut costs and improve cattle performance, says University of Tennessee Extension Forage Specialist Gary Bates.

Dr. Bates recommends that those interested in learning the latest information on forages for livestock production make plans to attend the West Tennessee Grazing Conference on March 19, 2012. The conference offers producers an opportunity to learn from and interact with several well-known forage experts, including Dr. Don Ball, internationally-known

formance. The complete schedule is available online at www.utcrops.com or west.tennessee.edu. “Cotton Focus serves as a valuable learning opportunity for many area producers and industry employees,� says UT Extension Cotton Specialist Chris Main. “Visitors have the chance to hear the latest findings in cotton research, and have their questions answered by university specialists before planting begins.�

Pesticide points and certified crop advisor points will be available to participants.

The Memphis Cook Convention Center is at 255 North Main Street in Memphis. For more detailed information concerning Cotton Focus visit the website west.tennessee.edu, or contact Dr. Chris Main at cmain@utk.edu. Â?

UT announces Junior Bull Test Sale Prospective buyers will have their pick of more than 80 performancetested Angus bulls at the University of Tennessee Junior Bull Test Sale on Thursday, March 8. The sale begins at noon at the Middle Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center.

Having recently completed an 84-day gain test, these bulls have met strict qualifications in average daily weight gain, frame score and reproductive soundness.

The Junior Bull Test Sale is a public auction. All bulls are between the ages of 12-15 months, and represent breeding programs from purebred herds in Tennessee and Kentucky. You will have the opportunity to bid on these outstanding bulls at the Bull Evaluation Center or at the two televideo centers located at the Knoxville Livestock Center and the 4-H Camp in Greeneville.

The overall average daily gain for all bulls on test was 4.37 pounds

per day. The high-gaining bull was consigned by Jimmy Mathis and Sons Angus of Duck River, Tenn. This Sydgen C C & 7 sired son finished the gain test at 5.68 pounds per day. He had an adjusted 365-day weight of 1309 pounds and a frame score of 6.

Second high honors in the gain test went to a Sitz Upward 307R sired son consigned by Williams Angus of Gray, Tenn. He gained 5.29 pounds per day with an adjusted 365-day weight of 1505 pounds and a frame score of 7.

Complete test reports are available online at animalscience.ag.utk. edu/Beef/BullTestingProgram.html. A video copy of these reports can also be found online at animalscience.ag.utk. edu/ExtensionOutreach.html or at UT Extension offices across the state.

For catalogs and additional information, contact Dr. F. David Kirkpatrick at 865-974-7294 or email at fkirkpat@ utk.edu. Â?

Vet College offers horse owner conference The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (UTCVM) will host “Management Strategies in Equine Health Care� Saturday, March 17, 2012. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., and the conference lasts until 4:30 p.m. It will be held in Hollingsworth Auditorium on the UT agricultural campus.

Since a good horse owner is an educated horse owner, the day is dedicated to the health and management of the horse. Preventive healthcare in horses helps keep your equine companion healthy and protects your investment. The conference is designed for those who have owned horses for years or are new to the horse world. Speakers for the confer-

ence include board-certified faculty of the UT Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences and UT Extension.

Topics include down horses, dental care, stem cell therapy, nutrition, Cavalor products, immunology, equine welfare and neonatal care.

The fee for the conference is $30 for the first family member and $15 for each additional family member.

This covers lunch, refreshments, and materials. Visit www.vet.utk.edu to download a brochure and registration form. Advance registration by March 10 is requested to ensure adequate food and supplies. To register online or for more information, visit www. vet.utk.edu/continuing_ed, email cvmce@utk.edu, or call 865-974-7264.

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forage specialist and co-author of the book “Southern Forages� as well as Mr. Raymond Cooper, cattle producer known across the state as “No-hay Ray.�

Dr. Ball will present sessions on stocker cattle performance and pasture costs as well as opportunities to profit using tall fescue. Dr. Bates will discuss new forage species for use on Tennessee pastures.

The conference will be held at the UT’s West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Jackson.

Registration is $20 and includes dinner and a membership in the TFGC. Registration will begin at 3:30 p.m. CT, with the program beginning at 4 p.m.

For more information contact your local Extension agent or Dr. Gary Bates at gbates@utk.edu or 865-974-7208. Â?

WCCA Spring Heifer and Bull Sale The Washington County Cattlemen’s Association (WCCA) will be having their 3rd Annual Spring Heifer and Bull Sale on April 13, 2012 at the Kingsport Stockyards in Kingsport, Tennessee. The sale will begin at 6:00 pm. Producers are encouraged to come early to view the cattle and register for a buyer number.

The association is offering 72 heifers that are either bred or have a calf by side. Also, the association will be offering 6 registered bulls that all meet TDA cost share guidelines. The bulls include Angus and Simmentals. The cattle have been screened and are excellent cattle for anyone who is interested in improving his or her herd. Information

pertaining to vaccinations of the cattle will be provided on sale day. The heifers will be pregnancy checked the day of the sale by a licensed veterinary. The bulls have passed a breeding soundness exam and will be 2 years old or younger. All cattle will need to be paid for and loaded out on the same day of the sale.

The WCCA Spring Heifer Sale will also have concessions by local FFA organizations as a fundraiser. All proceeds benefit scholarships that are given annually to two outstanding youth who are interested or involved with agriculture. For more information contact the Washington County Extension office at 423-753-1680. Â?

National Tapestry coming to Tennessee Needle work and quilts have been one form of telling Tennessee history over the years and the Upper Cumberland area of the state has its share of quilt trails and needle artists to keep this art form alive for future generations. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Iris Chapter located in Cookeville and in celebration, the Guild will exhibit their stitched “works of art� at the Cookeville Art Center during April.

Along with approximately 150 individual works by current and past members of the Iris Chapter, a national traveling exhibit called simply “The Tapestry� will have its first showing in Tennessee as a part of this celebration. The five panel tapestry depicts the United States and was stitched

by Embroiderers’ Guild members from every state. A grant from the Cookeville Arts Council and donations by area businesses are helping to make this exhibit possible. The exhibit will be free and open to the public Monday-Friday from noon-4 p.m. and Sundays from 1-4 p.m.

Other events of interest during April for needle artists include lectures by national and regional needlework

teachers. On April 17 national teacher Marion Scoular will present a lecture on her studies at “The Royal School of Needlework� and conduct a one-day workshop in Blackwork. On April 24, past Tennessee Valley Regional Director Gwen Nelson will be at the Art Center in Cookeville with several pieces of needlework from the Embroiderers’ Guild national archives. They will be at 10 a.m. at the Cookeville Arts Center and are free to members of the Embroiderers’ Guild and $5.00 for non-members. The Cookeville Arts Center is located at 186 South Walnut Avenue in Cookeville.

For more information, contact Gwen Ray, president of Iris Chapter, EGA at 931-526-7024, 931-261-8350 or exhibit chairman Nancy Pardue at 931-5267041 or find us on Facebook at “Iris Chapter, EGA�.

On April 6 will be the chapter’s Quilt Tour along with a book signing

by Suzi Parron, author of Barn Quilts and the American Quilt Trail. Tickets for the quilt tour are $39.00 and reservations can be made by calling 931-372-6047 or 423-605-7241. Ms. Parron will hold another book signing at Granville on Saturday, April 7. Â?

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+TI[[QĂ…ML )L[ ANIMALS

CATTLE

For Sale: Longhorn bull Blue roan. From Wichita Mtns. preserve herd. Dandridge, TN 865-607-2468 For Sale: Registered Angus Bull 14 months old.

Qualifies for TN Ag. Enhancement money. Johnny Wheat, Clifton, TN 931-589-2759 For Sale: Registered Angus Bulls/Heifers. Excellent Bloodlines and E.P.D available. A & N Stock Farms, Summertown, TN 38483 931-242-0179 Red Angus, Simmental & SimAngus Bull and Female Sale, March 17, 2012, meet TAEP requirements. Bart & Sarah Jones, Lafayette, TN 615666-3098; www.redhillfarms.net Registered Angus Bulls for sale. 12-18 months old. T.A.E.P. Qualified. Bloodlines include Newday, Alliance 6595, Final Answer, Pendleton. Clean Herd Vet tested for 5 years. Starting at $2500. Call Brian 931-397-9937 or bmclerran@twlakes.net www.diamondmfarms.com Registered Angus cows for sale. 3-5 yrs old A.I. Bloodlines confirmed bred. Call Brian 931-3979937 bmclerran@twlakes.net

www.tnfarmbureau.org

Angus (Black) Angus Bulls and Heifers for sale various ages.

Miles Collier, McMinnville, TN 931-668-3131 Angus Bulls for Sale. 12 to 24 months of age. A.I. Sired, good EPD’s. Centerville, TN Ship’s Bend Angus Farms 931-729-0017 home; 931-982-0389 cell FOR SALE: Angus bulls - 20 months old and ready for service. Low birth weights and milk in their genetics. Good selection to choose from.

Norman Amonett, 99 Amonett Lane, Byrdstown, TN 38549. 931-864-6481 FOR SALE: Registered Black Angus bulls and heifers, excellent bloodlines. Rock Haven Angus, Lewisburg, TN Day Time 931-703-9894; 931364-3670 after 6PM FOR SALE: Registered Black Angus Bulls. Excellent EPD’s qaulify for TAEP Enhancement Program.

Jimmy Mathis & Sons 931-729-3864 For Sale: Registered Black Angus Bulls. Ready for service. Low birth weights. Qualify for TAEP Incentive money. Larry Garrett Jamestown, TN 931-879-2970

Angus (Red) For Sale: AI and naturally sired registered Red Angus young bulls and heifers. Also 3 year old proven herd sire. 931-858-2429

NEXT ISSUE IS MAY. AD DEADLINE IS APRIL 10.

Name ________________________________________________________________

Registered Red Angus- Service Age Bulls and bred Heifers available. Low birth weight, gentle, lots of milk. Shady Bottom Ranch, Crossville, TN 931-200-0036

Beefmaster Good, gentle BBU bulls & heifers for sale. Visitors welcome. James & Carolyn Vaughn, 9512 Bates Trail, Lyles, TN 37098. 931-670-4605 Polled Bulls/heifers. Our guarantee since 1972: If after the sale of his first calf crop you are not satisfied, return any bull purchased from us for full refund. HUDSON BEEFMASTER, 3140 Buffalo Road, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464. 931-829-2637; 931-629-5246 cell

Charolais Charolais Heifers. Woodbury, 615-684-3833

Chiangus Chiangus bulls and heifers. 865-856-3947

Gelbvieh FOR SALE: Gelbvieh & Balancer Bulls, Heifers - black, polled, excellent bloodlines, gentle disposition, TAEP qualified. 931-433-6132; cell 931625-7219

Hereford Middle Tennessee Hereford Association Annual Spring Sale - April 28, 11:30 AM, KY-TN Livestock Market, Cross Plains, TN. Selling Polled, Horned and Hereford influenced cattle. For more information call Dale Stith, 918-760-1550; Billy Jackson, Assoc. Secretary, 615-672-4483 or 615-478-4483 03-16

Hereford (Polled) 67th Tennessee Polled Hereford Association Agribition Sale, Saturday March 10, 2012, 10AM - Pre-Sale Show, Friday March 9, 12 PM Contact/ Info: Sale Manager Glenda Rickman, 731-6873483; glendar@centurytel.net; www.tpha-06.org FOR SALE: Registered Polled Hereford bulls.

Good selection. Practical cattle for practical cattlemen. Earl Moore, 3594 Craig Bridge Road, Williamsport, TN 38487. 931-583-2353 Registered Polled Hereford bulls and females for sale, priced reasonably. Stan Webster, Chestnut Mound, 615-897-2333 Registered Polled Hereford bulls, bred cows and heifers. EPD’s available great disposition Offspring of leading AI Sires. Matt McClanahan Crossville TN 931-210-8674 Registered Polled Hereford bulls. Quality Sires, great EDP’s, Herd improving genetics. KBee Herefords, Shelbyville, TN 931-684-6582; kbartley@bellsouth.net

Limousin FOR SALE: Limousin bulls and heifers - black, red, polled and homozygous black. Riverside Valley Farm, Hohenwald, TN, 931-628-6730 Limousin Bulls: Registered purebreds and commercial. Proven pedigrees, balanced EPD’s.

Seedstock. Dreamtime Limousin Farm, Mosheim, TN 423-422-6099, bullroarer1@peoplepc.com

Santa Gertrudis DOUBLE-POLLED gentle Santa Gertrudis, registered bulls and heifers. kelsoclough@aol.com; 256-566-7878

Address _______________________________________________________________ City_________________________________ State _______ Zip _________________ Phone (_________)______________________________________________________ County of Farm Bureau Membership _______________________________________ Place Ad Under Which Heading? ___________________________________________ Place in Which Issue(s)?: R Jan. R March R May R July R Sept. R Nov.

Please print the copy for your ad in the spaces provided.

Clip this form and mail with correct payment to: 5FOOFTTFF 'BSN #VSFBV /FXT t 1 0 #PY t $PMVNCJB 5/

AUCTION MARKET SERVICES

5/ -JWFTUPDL 1SPEVDFST Hwy. 64E, Fayetteville Sale Every Tuesday

Bobby Eslick, Manager 931-433-5256/931-433-4962

4PNFSWJMMF -JWFTUPDL .BSLFU Hwy. 59, Somerville Sale Every Tuesday Sheep/Goat 2nd Friday Don Terry, Manager 901-465-9679/731-695-0353

$PMVNCJB -JWFTUPDL $FOUFS Cattle Sale Every Thurs.

Sheep/Goat 2nd & 4th Fri. thru March, then 2nd & 4th Mon. Frank Poling, Manager 931-223-8323/931-212-9962

VIDEO CATTLE SALES

Management provided for Lower Middle Tennessee Cattle Assoc.

Consignment information contact: 2012 Sale Dates 9 AM Central Frank Poling 931-212-9962 Mar. 2; Apr. 13; May 4; June 1; Aug. 3; Richard Brown 931-239-9785 Sept. 7; Oct. 5; Nov. 2; Dec. 7

SHEEP & GOAT SALES

COLUMBIA - Every 2nd & 4th Friday thru March: March 9, 23 Beginning in April Columbia Sheep & Goat Sale will move to 2nd & 4th Monday: April 9, 23; May 14, 28; June 11, 25 SOMERVILLE - Every 2nd Friday

Number of words in ad ____________ X 50¢ or $1.00 = ____________ X Number of issues ____________ = TOTAL COST OF AD____________

: AMOUNT ENCLOSED WITH AD

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF CLASSIFIED ADS: 1. FARM BUREAU MEMBERS - selling items that they make, produce, or raise themselves; or surplus equipment. Each member ad costs 50¢ per word.

2. NON-MEMBERS or COMMERCIAL MEMBER ADS - in which the member is acting as an agent or dealer (real estate, health products, mail order business, etc.). Each ad costs $1.00 per word.

Price, phone number, e-mail address and website count as one word each.

ADS NOT ACCOMPANIED BY PAYMENT WILL BE RETURNED TO SENDER. ADS RECEIVED IN OUR OFFICE AFTER DEADLINE WILL BE HELD FOR NEXT ISSUE.

SPECIAL SALES Graded Sales every Tuesday in Fayetteville Weaned Sale 1st & 3rd Thursdays in Columbia Spring Cow Sales being planned for all barns.

SEE WEBSITE FOR CURRENT LIST

March 9, April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13

ORDER BUYING H.M. Eslick Frank Poling Bobby Eslick David Alexander Ronnie Trump

931-433-5256 931-212-9962 931-433-5256 615-300-3012 270-705-0768

PRODUCER GENETICS Alliance Development, Herd Sire Purchasing, Cattle Breeding & Marketing Consultation

Richard Brown John Woolfolk

931-239-9785 731-225-2620

Darrell Ailshie, General Manager 1 0 #PY t $PMVNCJB 5/ t UFOOFTTFFMJWFTUPDLQSPEVDFST DPN

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+TI[[QĂ…ML )L[ Santa Gertrudis - Myers Farms - Poll bulls & heifers for sale. 144 Sub-Station Road, Unionville, TN 37180. 931-294-5653

Shorthorn Registered Shorthorn bulls and heifers for sale - top international blood lines, EPDS available.

Charles Curtis, Rickman, TN. Home 931-498-2847; office 931-388-7872, ext. 2215

HORSES

Baby Horses and Burros For Sale To Good Homes, $25.00 to $200. www.carrranch.com; rpcarrfarm@aol. com 615-654-2180; 615-430-7777; 615-594-8480 Two TWH for sale, Mare and gelding. Call 423745-8804 Athens, TN

Mules & Donkeys For Sale: Mammoth Jack and Jennet, Colts, yearlings, Breeding Jacks, Draft Weanling Horse mule colt. Richard Choate 931-879-6853

GOATS & SHEEP

For Sale: Purebred Kiko goats. 931-987-2826 Culleoka, TN

For Sale: Commercial Meat Goats. Savanna/Boer Cross Wethers Does approximately Ten w/show potential. Ron Cheatham, Martin, TN 731-819-4211 GOAT/SHEEP SALE: 2nd & 4th Friday January-March 2012. Beginning April 9, 2012 sale will move to 2nd & 4th Monday. Tennessee Livestock Producers, Columbia, TN. 931-212-9962; 931-982-9086

HOGS

FOR SALE: Purebred Duroc, Yorkshire and Landrace boars and gilts. Bart Jones, Lafayette, TN, 615-666-3098 For Sale: Purebred Hampshire boars and gilts.

David Chester, Clarksville, TN 931-358-2879

BIRDS Poultry POULTRY HOLLOW HACHERY, located 45 miles east of Nashville, can fill all your poultry needs starting with over 57 breeds of chickens, bantams, turkeys, guineas, ducks, geese, rare breeds.

Day-old-sexed-pullets start at $2.25 NPIP CERTIFIED! Visit our website at www.poultryhollow.org or call 615-318-9036 or 615-477-7936

UT JUNIOR BULL TEST STATION SALE 7KXU 0DUFK ‡ 1RRQ &67 0LGGOH 7HQQHVVHH 5HVHDUFK (GXFDWLRQ &HQWHU 6SULQJ +LOO 71

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Fescue

Black & mute Swans, Oriental Pheasants, Phoenix, Seabright Chickens, Pea Fowls. Woodbury 615684-3833 CANARIES $75-$100 731-934-4119

Grass Seed For Sale: Ky-31 Fescue Seed Cleaned, bagged and germed (95%). 70¢/pound K-31 Fescue Seed Combine Run; bagged 50¢/lb. Tom Calvert 308 Pleasant Valley Road, Ethridge, TN 38456 931-242-6717

DOGS

Border Collie Pups Registered Excellent Stock dogs and pets $250.00; $350.00 Dan Vickers 931-939-2426; 931-607-2426 Border Collie Pups Registered out of working stock. Ready January $250.00 Billy Brown 615763-2299 Ladybug Kennel Big Sandy TN. Border Collie and Dachshund puppies Registered W&S, $200 each.

731-593-3807. For pictures e-mail: bettyewatkins @bellsouth.net

EXOTIC/OTHER ANIMALS

Legal Pet Raccoon Babies. State and USDA Licensed. Email - ringoscrossingpetfarm@yahoo. com 931-268-0739 Make Great Pets, Ringo’s Crossing Pet Farm

PLANTS

GRASSES

For Sale Sericea Lespedeza Seed. 931-934-2745 Get Vaughn’s #1 Bermuda Grass from the original farm where developed. High Yields- High Digestibility- High Quality- High Palatable. Finish freezer beef without grain, grassfed and get proven excellent taste- Permanent stands with proper management- Have planter will travel to your farm and plant from April to August. Call for additional information. 931-657-2584

HAY & STRAW

FOR SALE: Vaughn’s #1 Hybrid Bermuda Hay. Premium Quality Hay available in small squares or 4x5 rolls. Jerry Roach, Linden, TN. 931-593-2673 Top Quality Horse and Alpaca Hay. Square bales, barn kept Bermuda, Tiffany Teff, mixed grass. Sun Fresh Farms. Located in the Lebanon/Carthage/ Hartsville area. Contact Jim 615-390-2787; 615374-4029

VEGETABLES & FRUITS

ANTIQUE APPLE TREES - Summer Rambo, Virginia Beauty, Yellow Transparent. Catalog $3.00. Write: Urban Homestead, 818-G Cumberland Street, Bristol, VA 24201. www.OldVaApples.com. 03-08 Tomato Plants - 65 varieties including Heirlooms.

Also pepper and vegetable plants, garden seed, flowers and herbs. Sweetlips Greenhouses, 3705 Sweetlips Rd, Henderson, TN 38340. 731-9897046 sweetlipsgreenhouse.com

LAWN & GARDEN

Morton’s Horticultural Products, Inc. Free Catalog - Greenhouses & Growers Supplies. Drip Tape, Irrigation Supplies. We Manufacture our Greenhouses. Online Catalog - www.mortonproducts.com 800-473-7753; mortonprod@ blomand.net 03-05

SELLING APPROX. 70 ANGUS BULLS 7HOH 9LGHR VLWH DW *UHHQHYLOOH + &DPS .QR[YLOOH /LYHVWRFN &HQWHU )25 &$7$/2*6 &217$&7 'U ) 'DYLG .LUNSDWULFN 0RUJDQ &LUFOH % 0F&RUG +DOO ‡ .QR[YLOOH 71 ‡ (PDLO INLUNSDW#XWN HGX &DWDORJ 9LGHR KWWS DQLPDOVFLHQFH DJ XWN HGX

“My beef checkoff can KHOS UDLVH FRQVXPHU FRQĂ€GHQFH LQ EHHI Âľ

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“Simply put, our beef checkoff promotes safe, nutritious beef. All beef producers invest in the checkoff — so folks like you and me decide how to allocate these dollars to keep our product top-ofmind with consumers,� says Ronnie Yeargin, a cowcalf and stocker producer from Greenfield, Tenn.

The checkoff is working to build demand for beef by educating consumers about beef’s role in healthful diets.

My beef checkoff‌reaching consumers with the benefits of beef.

Ronnie Yeargin Yeargin Farms *UHHQĂ€HOG 7HQQ

Hear more from Ronnie at 0\%HHI&KHFNRII FRP or scan this QR code

Funded by the Beef Checkoff.

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+TI[[QĂ…ML )L[ FORESTRY

Panther Creek Forestry: Forestry, Timber, Wildlife Managers. Receive top timber prices. Hunting leases available - Cumberland Plateau & Land Between the Lakes. 931-474-6203; benmyers@ panthercreekforestry.net 03-15

EQUIPMENT

1991 Melroe Spra-Coupe 230, 1870 Hours $12,000. 7000 JD 6 row narrow planter $4500.

Both good condition. 615-654-3514 Antique Mule Drawn Equipment For Sale Several Pieces. Call 615-446-6816

For Sale: 1982 John Deere 6620 Combine with 18ft Bean Header and 4 Row Corn Header $15,500 phone 731-559-4311 Want to Buy: 24ft Livestock Trailer. 615-714-3894

TRACTORS & IMPLEMENTS

135 Massey Ferguson Gas Tractor and yard box $4,000. 865-933-3528 140 International Tractor with Plows and Fertilize distributor $3,600.00 423-956-8344 986 International Tractor 3311 hours $9,000 865475-8341; waab4ut@aol.com

NATIONAL PARKS OF THE GOLDEN WEST TOUR

Farmall Tractors 200, 240, 340 disc and Plows.

865-376-5442 New Holland 256 Dolly Wheel Hay Rake $1,500.

10’ International Wheel Disk, cylinder, Ball Bearing Scrapers. $1,000. 731-422-5282; 437-0196 Original Owner. TW20 Ford Tractor, Cab, Heat, Air, 135H.P. Duals, 2 year Quick Attach Loader, Hay Spear, Bucket never used, 5500 Hrs. $20,000.

731-422-5282; 437-0196 Two Rear Antique Steel Wheels fit A.52 John Deere tractor $500.00 Firm. 731-782-3592 No Fri. night or Sat. calls

Farm House - near Rock Island Park - furnished, daily-weekly rates. 931-668-4554; 931-235-8054; www.vrbo.com/89925 03-07 GULF SHORES CONDO- 2BR, pool/beach access.

Spring $600/week, Summer $800/week, Fall $500/week. 931-296-4626 03-11 PIGEON FORGE cabins, chalets, cottages, units sleeping 1 to 36 people. Near Dollywood.

Middle Creek Rentals, 1-800-362-1897; www. mcrr93.com 03-09

TRUCKS & TRAILERS

Hunting Lease Wanted: 2 experienced, middle aged hunters need to lease farmland or timberland for deer and turkey hunting. Prefer Middle TN area. 865-659-8816 Responsible hunter would like to lease land for deer and turkey hunting. 423-479-4149; 423-7158936

1972 Dodge D600 Grain Truck, twin cylinder Dump. $4,250. 1977 1 Ton Dodge Dual Wheels, Flat Dump, 30� sides. $1,750. 731-422-5282; 4370196

OTHER EQUIPMENT

Used portable sawmills! Buy/Sell. Call Sawmill Exchange 800-459-2148; US & Canada; www. sawmillexchange.com 03-01 For Sale: 5000’ of 4� Al irrigation pipe, Redi-Rain some webstermatics. Ray Tidwell, Spring City, 423-365-5012

Start your tour in Las Vegas. Explore From Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Visit Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe and Virginia City. Stay in Salt Lake City and Moab, UT. Enjoy the sights at Arches and Canyonlands PPDO. Includes Taxes and National Parks. Continue on to Capitol Services Fees.

Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks.

Call for Low-Cost Airfare.

Visit Grand Canyon National Park before cruising the Las Vegas Strip. End your amazing trip with an optional tour Join other Tennessee farmers... choose from 6/15, 7/13, 8/3, or of Zion National Park.

$1348

8/24/2012 Departures.

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS & INFORMATION 1-800-888-8204 Providing affordable fun-filled travel since 1967!

SPECIAL COW SALE

PROPERTY

HUNTING LEASES

HOME IMPROVEMENT Construction ATTENTION MOBILE HOME OWNERS: Take a punch at inflation with our super insulated roof over system by Roof King. No more leaks, never roof coat again, save $$ on heating and cooling costs, maintenance free, 100% watertight guaranteed. Call 1-800-276-0176, Roof King. 03-04

Home Security

REAL ESTATE

Easttennesseefarmsforsale.com View online listings for farms, homes, mountain land in North East Tennessee. East Tennessee Realty Services, Greeneville TN 423-639-6395 03-12

VACATION RENTALS

CABINS ON COSBY CREEK - Gatlinburg, Smokies area. Hot tub, Jacuzzi, Fireplace, Kitchen, Porches, CATV. Comfy! Cozy! Clean! 423-487-2646; www. cosbycabins.com 03-06

DRIVEWAY ALARMS, $209.95, 1000 feet, no wiring. TN DRIVEWAY AND DOOR CHIME CO 1-800342-9014 03-13

BUSINESS INSURANCE STOCK

Buying TN Farmers Life and Assurance stock.

731-285-1424

CHOICE HOTELS

Same Great Savings New Discount Code

SATURDAY, APRIL 28 APPROXIMATELY 1:30 P.M. All From One Farm 15 Cows and Calves 135 Bred Cows 3-8 Mo. Bred Cow Age 2-5 Years 130 Will Be Black and Black White Face Rest Will Be Charolais Cross and A Few Solid Red Cows Will Be Aged and Pregnant Checked CONTACT: David Gregory (615) 418-6480 – Barn (615) 735-2780 Tommy Gregory (615) 714-1738 Steven Kemp (615) 489-6277 P.S. - You can drive the wheels off your vehicle before you can find this many young cows for sale.

Smith County Commission 510 Carmack Ave. Carthage, Tennessee

To make reservations call (800) 258-2847 or go to www.choicehotels.com

New Farm Bureau ID# 00214480 *Reservations required before check-in. Discount subject to availability at participating Choice Hotels and cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Blackout dates may apply.

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+TI[[QĂ…ML )L[ Wanted to buy TN Farmers Life and Assurance stock. 931-381-3580

FINANCIAL SERVICES

We are outstanding in our field... OF TAX SERVICE!

CASH! Holding a mortgage on property you sold? Sell it for CASH! 615-898-1400 Murfreesboro; 1-800-862-2744 nationwide 03-03

MISCELLANEOUS

25,000 mile oil change: www.lubedealer.com/ rust 03-14 Bamboo roots poles. 865-933-3136 BUYING old comics and old toy collections.

615-897-2573 CURRENTLY FARMING WITH A DISABILITY? The Tennessee AgrAbility Project is a state-wide non-profit service that provides assistance to agricultural workers with disabilities. For further information, please call 731-855-7656 “PLAY GOSPEL SONGS by ear!� Add chords.

10 lessons $12.95. “LEARN GOSPEL MUSIC�.

Chording, runs, fills - $12.95. Both $24. “LEARN CHORD PLAYING�. Piano -$12.50 Davidsons, 6727HT Metcalf, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66204 913-262-4982 03-02 SAWMILLS- Band/Chainsaw - Cut lumber any dimension, anytime. MAKE MONEY and SAVE MONEY. IN STOCK ready to ship. Starting at $995.00 www.NorwoodSawmills.com/651 1-800-578-1363 Ext: 651 03-10 Storage and Road Trailers: For Sale or Rent.

Delivery Available. 615-714-3894 WANTED: I collect World War I and II military relics - American, German, Japanese. Helmets, metals, knives, bayonets, guns, swords, daggers, etc.

423-842-6020 WANTED: Old millstones, cash paid, will pick up.

423-727-6486

Available to all Farm Bureau members.

Farm Bureau TAX SERVICE ÂŽ

Tennessee

Contact your county Farm Bureau or go online at www.fbtaxservice.com

Leave it to the kids, not the tax man.

You’re not the first generation to farm the place. You don’t want to be the last.

You need a plan to make sure your family can continue the tradition.

Farm Bureau Insurance has affordable life insurance plans to make sure your farm will live on after you.

Talk to your Farm Bureau Insurance agent today.

569131V1

The most dangerous animals in the forest don’t live there.

ONLY YOU CAN PR E VE N T W I L D FIRE S. w w w. s m o k e y b e a r. c o m

NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR I.D. ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAS. Wildfire Prevention - Magazine (4 5/8 x 4 7/8) 4/C WFPA01-M-03258-C “Animals� 120 screen Film at Schawk 212-689-8585 Reference #:569131

Tennessee  Turns  To  Us  Ž

Get a free life insurance quote any time at fbitn.com

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2012 Ford Focus

2012 Ford F-150

2012 Lincoln MKT

EXCLUSIVE $ 500 SAVINGS FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS Now Tennessee Farm Bureau members can get $500 Bonus Cash* savings off vehicle MSRP toward the purchase or lease of any eligible 2011/2012/2013 Ford or Lincoln vehicle.

Enjoy valuable savings on your choice of vehicles from our hard-working, technologically advanced new lineup of cars and trucks—including the 2012 Ford F-150 with available 4.2-inch productivity screen and 11,300 lbs. maximum towing capacity (when properly equipped).

Take advantage of this special offer today. Visit: www.fordspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/tn

* Program #33834: $500 Bonus Cash offer exclusively for active Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee Farm Bureau members who are residents of the United States. Offer is valid from 1/04/2012 through 1/02/2013 for the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2011/2012/2013 model year Ford or Lincoln vehicle (not available on Shelby GT/GT500, Mustang Boss 302, Focus Electric, Edge SE AWD, F-150 Raptor and Taurus SE). This offer may not be used in conjunction with other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZDPlans. Some customer and purchase eligibility restrictions apply. You must be an eligible Association member for at least 60 consecutive days and must show proof of membership. Limit one $500 Bonus Cash offer per vehicle purchase or lease. Limit of five new eligible vehicle purchases or leases per Farm Bureau member during program period. See your Ford or Lincoln Dealer for complete details and qualifications.

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