2016 Agriculture

Agricultur

e 2016

2 Agriculture

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Ag Expo returns to convention center

The 42nd annual Ag Expo is coming to Owensboro Jan. 27.

The event includes seminars, a vendor show and lunch.

Attendees who want lunch, must register by 10:30 a.m. and tickets are limited.

Sessions are 9-9:30 a.m., 10:1510:45 a.m., 11-11:30 a.m. and 1-1:45 a.m. 2016 speakers include Todd Davis, Extension Grain Marketing Specialist at UK, Josh McGrath, Extension Soil Specialist at UK, Tim Stombaugh, Extension Agricultural Engineer at UK, Joe Cain, Commodity Division Director at KY Farm Bureau and others such as Carl Bradley, Matt Dixon, John Grove, Greg Halich, Dan Reynolds and Chad Lee. The keynote address will be given by Kentucky Ag Commissioner Ryan Quarles.

Roger Thomas, left, of Pfister Seeds in Owensboro, talks with David Winchell of Winchell Farms out of Hawesville while looking at a Case Quad Track farm tractor at the 41st annual Ag Expo organized by the local Grain Day Committee on Wednesday at the Owensboro Convention Center. The two were discussing the outlook for next year’s farm prices.

“It’s going to be tight,” Thomas said.

Most of the panelists at the expo are af filiated with the University of Kentucky. The UK Cooperative Extension Ser vice ser ves the region with educational agriculture programs.

The annual Ag Expo was founded in 1975 as the Green River Area Grain Day. It originally star ted out at the Dugan Best Community Center and has since moved to the National Guard Armor y, Sportscenter, Executive Inn River mont, Hines Center and, it’s current location, the Owensboro Convention Center.

The expo attracts farmers from Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union and Webster counties, as well as from south, central and western Kentucky and southern Indiana.

DEVELOP HIGHER CROP YIELDS BY TILING GPS MAPPING & LASER EQUIPPED

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

WARD

IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC.

Hwy. 56 • Beech Grove, KY • 1-800-264-0206 wardimplementco.com

“Celebrating our 62nd Year” Your Local Dealer for . . .

2050 Interdrain CALL JOHN OR BRENT AND SEE HOW THEY CAN HELP YOU INCREASE YOUR CROP PROFITS!

229 Highway 136 Calhoun, KY • (270)-499-0393

Macdon

WOODS® Geringhoff NEW & USED EQUIPMENT Service & Parts for All Makes & Models

H&S

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Agriculture

3

AG EXPO 2016 PROGRAM January 27, 2016 Registration starts at 7:30 a.m.

Register by 10:30 a.m. to receive lunch tickets – tickets are limited.

Attending both sessions 10:15 and 11 a.m. in Ballroom C will qualify for Private Pesticide Applicator Certification

Jeff Nalley WBIO Farm Director, broadcasting live 7:30 a.m. Registration in Lobby

SESSION I: 9-9:30 a.m.

East Ballroom: A/B Grain Market Outlook Speaker: Dr. Todd Davis Moderator: Vicki Shadrick - Webster CES East Ballroom: C Yield Technology: Applications for Variable Rate Corn Nitrogen Speaker: Dr. Josh McGrath Moderator: Cary Hicks - McLean CES

Meeting Room 230: Farm Jobs Drones Might Help With Speaker: Dr. Tim Stombaugh Moderator: Curtis Dame - Hopkins CES Meeting Room 231: National Ag Legislative Update Speaker: Joe Cain Moderator: Brian Newman - Ag Expo Committee 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. Break the view exhibits

SESSION II: 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.

East Ballroom A/B: Grain Risk Management Tools Speaker: Dr. Todd Davis Moderator: Rankin Powell - Union CES East Ballroom C: Frogeye Leafspot in Soybeans and Southern Corn Leaf Rust in Corn Speaker: Dr. Carl Bradley Moderator: Annette Meyer Heisdorffer - Daviess CES Meeting Room 230: Long Range

Weather Forecasting Speaker: Mr. Matt Dixon Moderator: Tyler Miller - Ag Expo Committee Meeting Room 231: Nutrition Input Do’s and Don’ts For High Yield Wheat (Co-author Dr. Edwin Ritchey) Speaker: Dr. John Grove Moderator: Darrell Simpson Muhlenberg CES 10:45 - 11 a.m. Break the view exhibits

SESSION III: 11-11:30 a.m.

East Ballroom A/B: Income and Expense: Are You Ready for 2016?

Speaker: Dr. Greg Halich Moderator: Jesse Horn - Ag Expo Committee East Ballroom C: Lessons from Weed Resistance in the South Speaker: Dr. Dan Reynolds Moderator: Camille Lambert Henderson CES Meeting Room 230: Late Season

Nitrogen Application in Corn Speaker: Dr. Chad Lee Moderator: Philip Anderson - Ag Expo Committee Meeting Room 231: Biological Treatments for Corn and Soybean Seed, Leaves, Soil Speaker: Dr. John Grove Moderator: Scott Kuegel - Ag Expo Committee 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. LUNCH in West Ballroom A - E 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. Keynote Address — Ryan Quarles Kentucky Ag Commissioner, The vision for Kentucky Agriculture

SESSION IV: 1-1:45 p.m.

East Ballroom A/B Agriculture and Water Quality: The Next Big Thing for Grain Farmers Panelists: Pete Cinotto, Adam Andrews, Josh McGrath, Brent Burchett Moderator: Dr. Chad Lee - Extension Grain Crops Specialist

People buy and sell land for many reasons.

People choose Kurtz Auction for one reason.

The best result.

kurtzauction.com Q 800-264-1204

4 Agriculture

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Migrant farmers ‘become family’ to local farmers

By Angela Oliver messenger-Inquirer

M

igrant farmers in the U.S. deser ve a lot for credit for agricultural success, said longtime farmer Joe Elliott.

“This country would be in a mess without them,” he said. “There’s just not enough people here willing to work.”

Of 600,000 “H visas” granted to temporar y migrant workers in the U.S. in 2012, according to data from the Brookings Institution online, 65,345 were for agricultural jobs.

Kentucky is among the top 10 states that most request migrant workers, with about 10,800 migrant workers across 1,400 farms in the state, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture Census 2012, the latest census year available.

Many local farmers, like Keith Riney of Riney Farms, seek guidance from the Agriculture Workforce Management Association, which educates farmers on the H-2A visa program, acts as a liaison between the hiring farmers and government agencies and “provides a voice for farmers on labor issues,” the group’s website states.

Through the federal program, employers can apply for nonimmigrant workers for any type of sea-

sonal farm work for a maximum of 10 months. Local migrant workers are usually on the job from March or April to December.

Communication was difficult for him and Riney 18 years ago when Fernandez came to Owensboro for the first time. Riney spoke no Spanish, Fernandez spoke no English.

“Over the years, we’ve gotten much better, he’s taught me a little, I’ve taught him a little,” said Riney.

He farms about 400 acres of produce, with about 250 acres and cattle on his main land in West Louisville. The widowed father of four — his wife, Cathy Riney, passed 15 years ago — did his first jobs on the farm with his father, F.G. Riney, 98, who also hired migrant workers.

Riney has hired about 15 migrant workers over the years.

When he works with other farmers — he, Joe Fischer and Jimmy Gilles formed FROG Farms (Fischer, Riney or Gilles) — or if they need extra help, he and the workers go together.

“We might do 10 or 15 different jobs in one day; I think they enjoy that, it doesn’t get boring,” he said.

“They’re not afraid of hard work, and they take a lot of pride in their work. That’s hard to find.”

Fernandez, 50, said he misses Maria, his wife of 31 years, and his five grown children, but technology

The Voice of Kentucky Agriculture

Daviess County Farm Bureau members receive recognition at the 2015 Kentucky Farm Bureau Annual Meeting held in Louisville in December……

ATTENTION Happy Retirement and Thank You - Dan Turley!

Dan Turley, the Agency Manager of the South Office for over 44 years, is retiring. Dan has been a great asset to Farm Bureau and without all of his hard work and years of dedication; it would not be what it is today! We congratulate and wish him the best on his retirement!

We now have four offices to better serve our members!

For all your insurance needs visit any of our four locations:

South Office 3329 Wathens Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301 270-683-1715

Central Office 2645 Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42301 270-926-9600

East Office 3230 Kidron Valley Way Owensboro, KY 42303 270-685-5300

has helped.

“They FaceTime each other all the time now; 15 years ago, it was harder to keep in touch with his family, mostly phone calls on Sundays,” Riney said.

Back home, Fernandez is a carpenter — those skills have also come in handy around the farm, Riney said. Fernandez said he likes everything about farming. He has a small garden in Mexico and has also taken some of Riney’s practices back to his neighbors there.

“He tells me a lot of people come to him now, and he shows them what works, some of the methods we use here,” Riney said. “He’s tickled that they do.”

But Riney, Fernandez and other migrant farmers share more than physical labor.

“They’ve become family,” Riney said. “Luis has been with us a long time; he’s watched our children grow up, we learn from each other, play pranks on each other. He’s really been there for us.”

He and other migrant workers are always guests during Thanksgiving and other holidays the Riney’s celebrate together. The family has also thrown birthday parties for some of the migrants, or gatherings in their tradition.

“My wife really enjoyed that,” Riney said. “She always wanted to make everyone feel welcome.”

Elliott retired from their farm five years ago. He

North Office 4565 Hwy 2830 Owensboro, KY 42303 270-684-3227

Wes & Jennifer Poole received 3rd place in the KFB Outstanding Young Farm Family Contest. This award is presented to a couple, under the age of 35, who have exhibited the strongest farm management skills, most consistent financial growth and highest level of involvement in both Farm Bureau and their community.

Clint Hardy received second place in the Excellence in Agriculture Award.

This award is presented to individuals or couples under the age of 35 who contribute to and exhibit leadership growth from consistent involvement in Farm Bureau and other agriculture and civic oriented organizations.

Congratulations!!!

Save the date……….

The 37th Annual Farm/City Breakfast “The Best Breakfast in Daviess County” Saturday, February 27, 2016 Daviess County High School – 7:30a.m.

Tickets $6.00

**Tickets will be available at all Daviess County Farm Bureau offices, the Chamber of Commerce or you may purchase your ticket at the door.

Agency Manager Stuart Anderson

Agency Manager Gavin Roberts

Agency Manager Wes Mills

Agency Manager Chris Hoskins

Farm Bureau Membership Doesn’t Cost – It Pays!

Visit our website at daviess.kyfb.com for all your local Farm Bureau information or kyfb.com for all your statewide information.

3329 Wathens Crossing • Owensboro, KY • 683-1715

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

and his wife, Mar y Sue, are still involved, but their children “run the show.”

Though he’s out of the fields now, he said he still cherishes the friendships he had with migrant workers. He and Mary Sue have visited Mexico to meet their farmers’ families and share cultural traditions.

“We’ve missed them,” said Elliott, who also often assists Sister Fran Wilhelm, Ursuline Sister and director of Centro Latino. She has gettogethers for migrant workers from time to time, and they can go to her for any type of guidance.

“It’s important we support them. They bring a lot of value to Daviess County agriculture, and we’re blessed to have them.”

“Without extra people during the season, especially with the labor tobacco takes, our local industr y wouldn’t be as economically sound,” Riney said. “We’re able to gain larger incomes on smaller areas, we’re able to grow more. (Migrant workers) have saved a lot of small farms.”

Luis Fernandez, right, pets Jasper, a 11⁄2 year-old labrador, as Fernandez smiles toward Keith Riney on Thursday at Riney’s West Louisville farm. Fernandez is one of the migrant farmers that has been coming to work with Riney and other Daviess County farmers for many years. Having them in Daviess County, “has really saved a lot of family farms,” Riney said.

“We would have been lost without them,” he added.

Photo by Jenny Sevcik, Messenger-Inquirer

822 EAST SECOND STREET OWENSBORO, KY 42302-1787 (270) 926-2032 (800) 874-0305

Thank you to all the farmers & customers who have made Owensboro Gr ain a prominent institution in the soy processing industry.

Owensboro gr ain company produces a vast arr ay of soy products including protein meal, hull pellets for animal feeds, crude and degummed oil, lecithin, various blends of refined vegetable oil for human consumption, biodeisel and glycerin.

For further details, please call Mike Strehl, John Shearn, James O’Bryan, or Ronnie Edge.

Agriculture

5

6 Agriculture

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Williams explains the need for modern farmer

B

iologist. Chemist. Geneticist. about their food?

Accountant. Agronomist.

Daviess County has an incredibly Mechanic. rich agricultural history and yet, with Individually, all impressive careers a population exceeding 98,000, less — together, they are the modthan 2 percent of those people ern farmer. Before you discount are employed on 837 farms. this as the wool being pulled Those numbers are dropping over your eyes, think about yearly. The average age of the what we, as Americans, have local farmer is 57. Only 40 asked of the farmer. We want a people in this county are under safe, abundant, cheap, pest-free the age of 35 and running a food supply that is continuously farming operation. available, regardless of Mother Nationwide, the statistics are Nature and fickle weather. much the same. chelsea We expect perfection and The great question looming williams is “Who will take their place?”. our farmers do an amazing job Nationwide, 60% of farmland is of rising to the occasion. expected to change hands in the next Farmers are such unsung heroes 20 years. In two decades, most of the that many school children think chocfarmers currently farming will have olate milk comes from brown cows, retired. Do we have young farmers bacon comes from the grocery all wrapped in plastic and carrots appear ready to meet the need? I don’t know, in the produce section perfectly clean but I’m doing my best to make sure and ready to eat. Even scarier when the young farmers in this area are you realize that most of today’s Ameri- ready to meet the challenge. can children are growing up at least Super Bowl 2013 had one of the three generations removed from the greatest ads in recent memory; The farm. How will they learn the truth Dodge Ram truck “God Made a

Farmer” commercial. I was so proud to be a part of an industry that shaped and formed America. That commercial (and agriculture) went viral, attracting the attention of news outlets and social media nationwide. Unfortunately, America has already forgotten that commercial and the farmers that labor on behalf of every single American every day of the year.

2013 was the year of the farmer. I’m encouraging Daviess County to make 2016 the year of the local farmer. January provides us with a unique time of reflection on the previous year and planning for the year to come. January always brings a host of New Year’s Resolutions; make this year’s Resolution to support the men and women that feed us daily. The options are many, and they will all be appreciated.

Here are five easy resolutions you can make with your family and friends.

First, shop local. Daviess County is a treasure trove of local farmer’s markets, roadside stands, farm stores, and local meat shops. Even in winter months, options are there. Second,

buy Kentucky Proud. Many shops in this community supply products made from Kentucky farmers, ranchers, and artisans. Third, be patient on our roadways. It takes large and cumbersome equipment to feed the world. Yes, it is frustrating to get stuck behind a slow moving tractor, but they are providing for our dinner table. Fourth, be informed. There are many food choices you can make for your family. The greatest appreciation you can show to the agriculture community is education and awareness. Make informed choices. Fifth, encourage new and beginning farmers or gardeners in their career path.

The Cooperative Extension offices in every country can provide advice, the Agricultural Studies Program at Owensboro Community and Technical College can provide education, and the local Young Farmers Chapter can provide support.

Agriculture is one of the greatest careers in the world. Use 2016 to encourage those who work for you 365 days a year, every year.

Specializing in Agriculture Insurance Since 1980

HELTON Insurance Agency, Inc. 235 MAIN STREET • CALHOUN, KY 42327

270-273-3252 • 800-264-3251 HELTONINS.COM

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Agriculture

2016 Daviess County Extension Events Jan. 22: 2016 Row Crop Risk Management Meeting, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Daviess County Extension Office Jan. 26: Gate to Plate, 6:00 p.m., Owensboro Convention Center Jan. 27: 42nd Annual Ag Expo, Owensboro Convention Center Jan. 27-28: KY Nursery & Landscape Training & Showplace, Ramada Plaza Hotel, Louisville Jan. 29: Private Pesticide Applicator Training, 8:00 a.m., Daviess County Extension Office Feb, 1: Commercial Vegetable Production Meeting, 5:30 p.m. Daviess Co. Extension Office Feb, 2: Private Pesticide Applicator Training, 6:00 p.m., Daviess County Extension Office Feb, 3: Kentucky Intensive Soybean Management Workshop, 9:00 a.m.–noon, Henderson County Extension Office Feb, 4: Chamber of Commerce Agriculture at Rooster Booster, 7:30 a.m., Owensboro Convention Center Feb, 4: Green River Area CPH45 Sale Feb. 9, 16, 23: Annie’s Project Farm Management for Spouses, Sessions I, II, III Feb. 10-13: National Farm Machinery Show, Louisville Feb, 22: Tobacco Production Update and GAP Training, 10:00 a.m., Daviess Co. Extension Office

Feb, 22: Private Pesticide Applicator Training, 6:00 p.m., Daviess County Extension Office Feb. 23-25: UK Turf & Ornamental Short Course, Shepherdsville, KY Feb, 25: Beef Cattle Nutrition and General Management Update, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Daviess County Extension Office Feb, 27: Farm City Breakfast, 7:30 a.m., Daviess County High School March 1, 8, 15: Annie’s Project Farm Management for Spouses, Sessions IV, V, VI March 8: Optimizing the Nutrient and Economic Opportunity of Poultry Litter, 9:00 a.m.–noon, Henderson County Extension Office March 12: Ohio Valley Small Farm and Garden Conference, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Henderson County Extension Office March 24: Countywide 4-H Science Fair June 4: Take a Kid Fishing, Panther Creek Park June 6–9: Daviess County 4-H Camp at Dawson Springs June 10: Kick-off to a Safe & Healthy Summer, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Friday After 5, RiverPark Center July 27-30: Daviess County Lion’s Club Fair, Philpot Aug. 18-28: Kentucky State Fair Aug. 19: Ag Appreciation Night, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Friday After 5, RiverPark Center

AG EXPO 2016 Who’s Who Adam Andrews- Director of Programs, KY Corn Growers Association Dr. Carl Bradley- Extension Grain Crops Disease Specialist, University of Kentucky Brent Burchett- Director of Value Added Plant Production Division, Kentucky Department of Agriculture Joe Cain- Commodity Division Director, KY Farm Bureau Pete Cinotto- Deputy Director, USGS KY-IN Water Science Center Dr. Todd Davis¬- Extension Grain Marketing Specialist, University of Kentucky Matt Dixon- Agricultural Meteorologist, University of Kentucky Dr. John Grove- Director of University of Kentucky

Research and Education Center Dr. Greg Halich- Extension Farm Management Specialist, University of Kentucky Dr. Chad Lee- Extension Grain Crops Specialist, University of Kentucky Dr. Josh McGrath- Extension Soil Specialist, University of Kentucky Ryan Quarles- Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Dan Reynolds- Extension Weed Scientist, Mississippi State University Dr. Tim Stombaugh- Extension Agricultural Engineer University of Kentucky

7

THE POWER TO GET YOU MORE BE READY.

EQUIPMENT

WIDE SELECTION OF TOUGH, RELIABLE EQUIPMENT

SERVICE

EXPERIENCED, MANUFACTURERTRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIANS

w w w. h r

PARTS

THE AREA’S LARGEST PARTS INVENTORY

VALUE

THE BEST DEAL FOR YOUR DOLLAR!

a g r i p o w e r. c o m

THE POWER TO GET YOU MORE OWENSBORO

7274 US HIGHWAY 431 • OWENSBORO, KY 42301

270-926-2627 Case IH is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

8 Agriculture

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Dress eco-friendly with sustainable clothing

BY Metro Creative Connection

C

onsumers who have adopted a greener way of living may include organic foods and beverages in their eco-friendly plans.

Such men and women may be ver y familiar with the way organic foods are produced, including how these foods are made without the use of chemical pesticides or artificial growth additives.

Organic items are not limited to just food and drink. Organic and sustainable clothing has exploded in popularity, providing yet another way to help preserve the environment.

Currently there are no global or even domestic standards for organic or sustainable textiles like there are for organic produce. According to Organic Clothing, an eco-fashion resource, any product sold in the United States — regardless of where it was grown or produced — that carries the USDA Organic logo must have been inspected by a certified agent of the USDA certification program. Textiles do not need to

be 100 percent organic to carry organic labeling, according to the USDA. Other labeling standards may be overseen by The International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements, The Organic Trade Association, and EKO/KRAV, a Scandinavian organization.

Clothing fibers that do not meet strict organic requirements may fall under a broader umbrella term of “sustainable” fibers. These may include garments made from recycled materials or eco-friendly, man-made fibers. These, too, have their share of benefits.

There are many advantages to choosing sustainable or organic fabrics and clothing. These materials may have been produced using less water, fewer pesticides and fewer herbicides than conventional farming methods. Organic cotton, for example, is produced from nongenetically engineered seed. These factors combine to help keep unnecessary chemicals from entering the environment.

Clothing produced from recycled materials, such as plastics, keeps

materials that are slow to decompose or those that do not break down from reaching landfills. The company ECOALF repurposes discarded fishing nets, plastic bottles, used tires, post-consumer coffee, and post-industrial wool, among other materials into functional clothing. The company notes that one backpack made from recycled plastic bottles can keep 135 bottles from littering the environment.

In addition to choosing sustainable options, consumers may want to research locally-produced clothing.

Keep in mind that the benefits of organic and sustainable fibers may be negated by energy consumption of long shipping routes and transportation choices.

Check labels to see where merchandise is produced and research the manufacturer to verify its production processes.

Choosing sustainable clothing is another way to live an eco-friendly lifestyle. What may have started out as clothing produced from cotton, silk, hemp, and jute has expanded to include many upcycled materials as well.

FOR ALL YOUR FARMS NEEDS!!

Phone: 859-233-7845 • email: h2a@awmalabor.com www.awmalabor.com 620 South Broadway • Lexington, KY 40508

Miller Tire Tires/Batteries * Check locally first

Mon. - Fri. 7:30-5:00 pm Sat. 7:30am - 12:00 pm 675 Main Sacramento, KY 42372

Phone: 270-736-2254 Fax: 800-332-2254.

Well Pumps Ground Bury Hydrants All Sizes PVC Pipe & Fitting

Frank’s Offers

Complete Bath Remodeling, Plumbing, Heating & Air, Service & Installation

FRANK’S

PLUMBING & HEATING 270-685-1949 209 Sutton LN

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Agriculture

9

Annual Farm City Breakfast connects farm, business

By Meghann Richardson

T

he 37th annual Far m City Breakfast retur ns to Daviess County High School for its second year.

The breakfast, co-hosted by the Daviess County Farm Bureau and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, is 7:30-9:30 a.m. Feb. 27.

Clint Hardy, Daviess County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources, said the purpose of the breakfast is to bring together urban business and farm business owners, as well as, other interested community members to discuss and identify common ground issues and concerns each party should be aware of.

“It is always an enjoyable atmosphere that ever yone leaves feeling encouraged about our community,” Hardy said.

At the breakfast, there is also a presentation of the humanitarian award. This award is presented to a man or woman who have gone above

and beyond in the unselfish ser vice to others.

Brent Burchett, director of the Kentucky Depar tment of Agriculture’s Division of Value-Added Plant Production, will be the keynote speaker this year and will be delivering a speech called, “Food and Farming Myths Busted - What Kentucky Farmers Want You to Know About Agriculture.”

A native of Murray, he grew up farming soybeans, corn, wheat and tobacco.

Burchett said Daviess County is an agriculture powerhouse, and the way the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce champions farmers and the agribusiness economy is remarkable.

He said the annual Farm City Breakfast is a prime example of the type of collaboration that keeps local agriculture communities strong and growing.

“I am no stranger to Daviess County agriculture,” Burchett said. “Three

of my good friends and classmates from the Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program are leaders in Daviess County. Jason Strode of Strode Farms, Suzanne Cecil White of Cecil Farm Produce, and the indisputably best county agent in the history of the UK Cooperative Extension Ser vice, Clint Hardy.”

Burchett said working for the Kentucky Soybean Association and the Kentucky Livestock Coalition, taught him how important grain production, biodiesel and animal agriculture are to Owensboro and to the state at large.

“There’s so much confusion and misinformation about farming around the world and sadly, also in Kentucky,” he said. “I call it food fearmongering, because most of the talk is ill-informed and designed to sell you a new product.”

While he said there are exciting new things going on with production practices like organic and with specialty crops, agriculture has to adapt to changing customer demands.

“We absolutely need to have a conversation about food, but too often, production agriculture is not at the table,” Burchett said.

Burchett said the Farm City Breakfast is an opportunity to discuss issues like genetically modified organisms (GMOs), antibiotic treatment for livestock, water quality, pesticide use and environmental sustainability, as well as emphasize the economic significance of agriculture.

Burchett has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture and a master’s from the Martin School for Public Policy and Administration.

In 2011, Burchett joined the Kentucky Soybean Promotion Board as program director for the Kentucky Livestock Coalition.

The Farm City Breakfast ser ves local food prepared by the DCHS cafeteria staff. For more information contact the chamber of fice at 270691-1860 or the Daviess County Farm Bureau at 270-683-1715.

Growing Toward Tomorrow

Supply Company, Inc. Your Place for Pipe, Valves, & Fittings 1611 West 7th Street Owensboro, Ky. 42301

270-685-4919 800-787-6803 WWW.PVFSUPPLYCO.COM

Apollo Automated Valve Service Center Electric & Pneumatic Actuated Valves Stainless, PVC, CPVC, Carbon, and Special Alloys Pipe, Valves, Fittings

Agriculture and farming has changed a lot over the years. In this day and age farmers and growers need to communicate quickly with their employees in the office and in the field. They need to get their products to market quickly, a delay could cost thousands of dollars. Ohio Valley 2-Way Radio has the experience to provide farmers and growers in Kentucky and nationwide a comprehensive wireless communications program.

270-683-4963

www.ovradio.com

2035 East Parrish Ave., Owensboro, KY

10 Agriculture

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Quarles eager to take on ag commissioner role Messenger-Inquirer

Ryan Quarles, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture cation in FFA, 4-H, the classrooms,� he said. “If they’re doing a lesson on photosynthesis, we’ll encourage them to grow a plant or take the students to visit a farm for the day to see it up close.�

But agriculture education isn’t limited to the classroom. “There’s a disconnect between growers and consumers,� he said. “We want to educate people on where their food comes from and the whole process.�

Quarles — the University of Kentucky alum holds bachelor’s degrees in political science, agricultural economics and public service and leadership, and master’s degrees in agricultural economics and diplomacy and international commerce, all of which he completed in four years before earning a master’s in higher education at Harvard, then returning to UK to finish his law degree — also

"//ĂŠ ,

-6.#*/( )&"5*/( $0 */$

EVTUSJBM $PNNFSDJBM 3FTJEFOUJBM uirer Inq CHOICE er’ ng RS

Me

plans to work more on agribusiness legislation and international trade. “Kentucky is already an expor tdependent state, so when the international trade discussions happen, it’s important Kentucky has a seat at the bargaining table,� he said.

As for challenges, Quarles hopes to confront declining commodity prices, and what he and many farmers see as federal overreach, namely the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers’ ruling earlier this year defining the scope of “waters of the U.S.� and expanding federal jurisdiction over smaller bodies of water under the Clean Water Act. “These water regulations will hurt farmers, especially small, family farmers, and developers,� he said. “In Kentucky, and nationwide, it allows the EPA jurisdiction over areas that are already conservation-oriented.�

Longtime Daviess County farmer Rod Kuegel, a member of Quarles’ transition team, said he was able to express the challenges of tobacco farmers during a team meeting. Each person on the team represents either the head of an agricultural group or farms a certain commodity and spoke on behalf of it. “He wanted to make us aware of the length and width of the (Kentucky) Department of Ag and his plans, but he also wanted to hear our perspective on our commodity,� Kuegel said. “In the absence of a growers organization, (tobacco farmers) don’t have a way to deal with companies. “Individually, if we become outspoken or criticize tobacco companies, they can just decide we don’t get a contract the next year,� he said. “We need a force to help us. We’re voiceless and powerless

TIRE & SERVICE CENTER

A

We keep you rolling!

2015 PLATINUM WINNER

Phone 683-6427 Lic. #MO1723

1911 Old Henderson Road One Block South of 9th & Crabtree

as individuals.�

For instance, when Philip Morris International decided to eliminate direct contact with tobacco growers and changed its buying process in 2014, Kuegel said, about 400 of those growers, many in Kentucky, were left out of contracts and “couldn’t support their families, couldn’t keep up their farm payments, they lost ever ything, and these are folks who had been farming tobacco all their lives.�

Kuegel said he’s grateful for groups like the Daviess County Agriculture Development Council, which has spoken up on behalf of tobacco farmers.

And, he said he thinks Quarles will also provide solutions. “I think he’ll be honest, he’ll act with integrity, just as Jamie Comer has,�

Kuegel said. “Jamie has been one of the best ag commissioners we’ve had — I’m a Democrat and I’m saying that!

And Ryan is the same caliber individual.

He’s a student, he listens and studies an issue before he makes any moves on it and that helps him do what’s right. I’m looking forward to more of that.�

There’s been some praise of Quarles and Allison Ball, 34, who will be swornin as state treasurer, given that she will be the youngest woman in state office in the U.S., and he will be the youngest overall.

His age has never been a hindrance, he said. In fact, it’s an advantage. “It’s unique that Kentucky has two of the youngest state officers,� he said. “While campaigning, people saw the interest among young voters. Millennials will eventually inherit the issues that have lingered in Kentucky and it’s important we have a network of young political leaders to navigate that.�

JONES INSURANCE AGENCY

ARDS W

or the 2016 Ag Expo, Kentucky Ag Commissioner Ryan Quarles will be giving the keynote address on his vision for the state’s agriculture.

Quarles’ family has farmed in central Kentucky for more than 200 years. He said he’s ready to take the lessons he learned on the farm as a child into his role as Kentucky’s agriculture commissioner. “Kentucky deserves an ag commissioner with a farm background,� he said during a phone inter view. “The farm taught me work ethic, how to maintain relationships, how to be inclusive, and how to have productive dialogue even when you might disagree on things. All of that helps me to be an effective leader.�

Quarles, 32, was sworn in on Jan. 4.

The Georgetown Republican defeated Bowling Green Democrat Jean-Marie Lawson Spann and succeeds Republican James Comer, who ran for governor, but lost to now Gov. Matt Bevin in the primary election. “I’m honored to follow someone like James Comer, he’s outstanding,� Quarles said.

And Quarles is no stranger to public office. He’s served in the Kentucky House of Representatives, representing District 62 since 2010. In that role, he sponsored legislation in favor of sales tax parity and tax credits for farmers who sell to food banks, among other efforts on the Agriculture and Small Business and other committees. “Running a statewide campaign versus campaigning in three counties (Scott, Owen and Fayette) was a lot more exhausting, but for the past year, I’ve been very humbled to meet so many Kentuckians, not just in rural areas, but urban areas, too,� he said.

Traveling around the state also helped him recognize Kentucky agriculture’s strengths and weaknesses. “We have a strong, vibrant agriculture industry that’s well-organized and inclusive,� he said. Meeting with farmers on the campaign trail “was like being with family. You can travel to any county and find farmers supporting each other.�

Quarles said his goals include continuing promotion of Kentucky Proud and applying it to the equine industry, and expanding agriculture education. “We have to reach kids at a young age, so we’ll encourage agriculture edu-

READ sse E

F

By Angela Oliver

724 Time Dr. • Owensboro, KY

270-691-9100 www.joneswoolfolkins.com

AUTO-HOME-FARM-BUSINESS LIFE-HEALTH

813 E. 18th Street • 685-4444 Mon.-Fri. 7am-6:00pm, Sat. 7am-3pm

Me

READ sse E

2015

Locally Owned & Operated • Towne Square N. • 270-686-7508 OPEN 9 AM - 9 PM Monday - Saturday • 11 AM - 6 PM Sunday

PLATINUM WINNER

109 99

• 1600 GRAMS OF THINSULATE

60542 RATED UP TO -40º F

$

$

REG. $139.99

GET WARM! CLASSIC HIGH

RKY5063

REG. $189.99

A

ARDS W

uirer Inq CHOICE er’ ng RS

99 $ 99

SEE STORE FOR COUPON

9999

WITH COUPON

RATED TO -20º F

4X ALPHA 16’’

WETLAND

376101

119

$

REG. $109.99

99

REG. $139.99

12 Agriculture

Thursday, January 21, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer

Amendments can help produce healthy soil

M

other Nature provides plenty to grow healthy lawns, gardens and landscapes. But as many homeowners know, some lawns sometimes need a little extra boost to complement nature. Soil sometimes must be amended so plants can thrive. Only after the right composition is created can plants take root and perform to the best of their abilities.

The Colorado State University Extension defines a soil amendment as any material added to soil to improve its physical properties. The goal is to provide a better environment for roots. Depending on what you are starting with, any number of ingredients must be added to the soil recipe. Water retention, permeability, drainage, aeration, nutrients, and water infiltration are some of the things amendments can improve when added to soil.

Before homeowners add anything to the soil in their yards, it is first important to determine what that soil needs. Homeowners may notice if soil is overly sandy or full of clay, but further testing can confirm what the soil is lacking. Soil tests are often available through local cooperative extension offices or private laboratories.

Speak with a nursery or garden center about where you can get your soil tested.

A comprehensive test may cost between $5 and $10 and can provide invaluable information that saves you hundreds of dollars in wasted plants and materials, not to mention effort. Some labs also can tailor their recommendations based on the type of planting you will be doing. For example, a vegetable garden may need different amendments than a row of azalea bushes.

Organic matter is a preferred soil amendment used by professional and novice gardeners alike. The decaying remains of plants release nutrients that are absorbed into the soil and used by microorganisms and bacteria, creating a healthy environment for plants. Organic material may break up compacted soil to increase drainage. In sandy soil, organic material serves as a sponge to keep water from washing away. Compost and manure are two examples of frequently used organic materials. Both of these materials are readily available at little cost.

Compost can be produced at home from food and plant scraps. Raked leaves and small amounts of grass clippings can be added to compost. Over time, the decomposition process will turn scraps

into a nutrient-rich, dark brown substance that provides many plants with all they need to thrive. Compost is particularly useful in vegetable gardens.

Manure should come from herbivores, or those animals that sustain themselves on grass and other plants. Carnivores can produce harmful bacteria in their waste, which is not safe to use in gardens, particularly food-bearing gardens. Manure can be commercially purchased, or avid gardeners can work out arrangements with nearby livestock owners and farms.

These people may be more than willing to give you manure for little to no cost if you cart it away. Dried manure is preferred because it will have minimal odor.

Additional forms of organic amendments include wood ash, sphagnum peat, wood chips, sawdust, and worm droppings.

Inorganic amendments also may be used, and are usually relied on to improve water retention and drainage. Vermiculite, perlite, pea gravel, and sand are examples of inorganic amendments. A combination of organic and inorganic amendments can create the perfect mix for your needs.

Soil amendments typically are added to new and unplanted beds. Peat moss and shredded bark take years to decompose and will serve as long-term amendments in the soil. Compost breaks down quickly and may need to be worked in more frequently.