May/June 2010 by Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation

MISSISSIPPI’S SWINE

INDUSTRY

Have you heard? about the many benefits of your Farm Bureau membership? You may not know that your annual membership fee includes many valuable member benefits. Highlighted below are a few of those benefits. To see a complete list, visit our Web site at www.msfb.com. Take advantage of the benefits available to Farm Bureau members ONLY. If you are not a member, joining is simple. Contact the Farm Bureau office in the county where you live, pay your membership dues, and start enjoying these benefits today! For more information, contact Member Benefits Coordinator Dedra Luke at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4169. ®

www.msfb.com

WYNDHAM HOTELS Receive an additional 20 percent off the "Best Available Rate" at participating locations. Advanced reservations are required. Offer is subject to availability at participating locations and some blackout dates may apply. Wyndham Hotel Group, Inc. is one of the world’s largest lodging companies under the Baymont Inn®, Days Inn®, Hawthorn Suites®, Howard Johnson®, Knights Inn®, Ramada®, Super 8®, Travelodge®, and Wingate Inn® brands. For reservations, call Super 8 at 1.800.889.9706; all other hotels at 1.877.670.7088.

NEVADA BOB’S GOLF All Mississippi Farm Bureau members receive 10 percent off all accessories and apparel, excluding golf balls. 5 percent off all hard goods such as irons, drivers, fairway, wedges, and putters. Excludes Ping & Callaway; see store for details. Not valid with any other offer. Offer valid at Jackson, Mississippi store.

MOSSY OAK

MFBF and Mossy Oak have teamed up to offer our members a 10 percent discount through the Mossy Oak online store. This discount does not apply to promotional or sale items.

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MISSISSIPPI FARM COUNTRY Volume 86 Number 3 May/June 2010

CONTENTS

Features

4 5 20 27

EDITOR Glynda Phillips

SWINE INDUSTRY Mississippi’s swine industry has changed in recent years as a result of major challenges within the industry. Read all about our state’s swine industry inside.

EMINENT DOMAIN Petitions are available at county Farm Bureau offices, or you may call 601.977.4242 to obtain extra copies. For more information, call 1.800.227.8244 and ask for petition assistance.

SOLVE THE MYSTERY Which Black Prairie town is the seat of county government for Clay County? This town is the hometown of blues great Howlin’ Wolf. Read the clues and make your guess

FARM BUREAU EVENTS We recap, through photographs, several major Farm Bureau events, including Ag Day at the Capitol, Women’s Day at the Capitol, Food Check-Out Day, the Winter Commodity Conference and the State Young Farmers and Ranchers Conference. Farm Bureau also annually participates in the Sale of Junior Champions.

Graphic Arts Coordinator Danielle Ginn Department Assistant Angela Thompson

FARM BUREAU OFFICERS

President - David Waide Vice President - Donald Gant Vice President - Randy Knight Vice President - Reggie Magee Treasurer - Billy Davis Corporate Secretary - Ilene Sumrall

FARM BUREAU DIRECTORS Dr. Jim Perkins, Iuka Kevin Simpson, Ashland B.A. Teague, New Albany Bill Ryan Tabb, Cleveland Coley L. Bailey, Jr., Coffeeville Dan L. Bishop, Baldwyn Jeffrey R. Tabb, Walthall Doss Brodnax, Starkville Wanda Hill, Isola Weldon Harris, Kosciusko William Jones, Meridian Max Anderson, Decatur Stanley Williams, Mt. Olive Mark Chaney, Vicksburg Moody Davis, Brookhaven Bill Pigott, Tylertown D.P. O’Quinn, Purvis Wendell Gavin, Laurel Clifton Hicks, Leakesville Tom Daniels, Gulfport Betty Mills, Winona Clint Russell, Cleveland

HONORARY VICE-PRESIDENTS Louis J. Breaux, David H. Bennett, and Warren Oakley Mississippi Farm Country (ISSN 1529-9600) magazine is published bimonthly by the *Mississippi Farm Bureau® Federation. EDITORIAL AND BUSINESS OFFICES 6311 Ridgewood Road Jackson, MS 39211 TELEPHONE 601.977.4153

Departments 4

President’s Message

Commodity Update: Forestry

Commodity Update: Corn

Farm Bureau members receive this publication as part of their membership benefit. Periodicals postage is paid at Jackson, MS, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to P. O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215.

*FARM BUREAU®, FB® and all Farm Bureau Logos used in this magazine are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation. They may not be used in any commercial manner without the prior written consent of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

ABOUT THE COVER Philip Brown, a Warren County independent pork producer, believes specialty markets are a wave of the future for growers like himself. Read his story, beginning on page 12. M AY / J U N E

ADVERTISING Call Paul Hurst at 1.800.397.8908

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Material in this publication is based on what the editor believes to be reliable information. Neither Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation nor those individuals or organizations contributing to the MFBF publication assume any liability for errors that might go undetected in the publication - this includes statements in articles or advertisements that could lead to erroneous personal or business management decisions.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

MISSISSIPPI NEEDS A STRONG

SWINE INDUSTRY By David Waide • President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation

have always enjoyed spring because it is that time of year when farmers begin the process of putting seeds in the ground that will ultimately lead to a mature crop. This mature crop means that harvest is approaching. It is something that we consumers all need to be mindful of because it reflects the ability we have as producers to grow the huge domestic food supply that this country needs. Our focus in this issue is not around row crop production but around the swine industry. One of the greatest battles ongoing in the United States is the ability we have to maintain a domestic food supply. The swine industry has probably come under more attack than most meat animal production because they have had to change and become more efficient by consolidating pigs in a small area to gain the efficiency to maintain an economic basis for producing the pork we consume. During the spring and summer, we certainly all enjoy the delicious barbeque from our grills. I am sure this spring and summer will be no different. In addition to enjoying fresh pork products, we will enjoy bacon and tomato sandwiches as they become available from homegrown tomatoes and delicious hickory-cured bacon. I am constantly reminded of how important domestic food production is to this nation. I have been reminiscing over the last few months about how fragile and threatened domestic food production is in this country. It is all a result of those consumers not being informed and believing they can simply go to the grocery store and find whatever food item they desire. This simply is not the case. I believe the swine industry is a prime example of what can happen in our nation as we move to secure that domestic food

production. As a result of not being able to grow the swine industry in Mississippi, we have seen one of the largest processing employers close in my hometown of West Point. Bryan Foods closed their doors because of the extreme high cost of having to ship the pigs they needed to keep their plant operating. We had an opportunity in our state to increase swine production that perhaps could have maintained the viability of that plant, but because of the issue of having permits issued, the plant that was processing the finished pigs was unable to sustain its operation and closed its doors, laying off 1,200 employees. This is very significant in Mississippi’s economy. We have always been an agricultural state, and I do not foresee that changing in the near future. We do a tremendous job in agriculture, producing an excess of the food we consume in this nation. As a result of that excess production, we make a huge reduction in our foreign trade deficit. This can continue if we have consumer support to see that we have regulation in agriculture that will ensure the viability of our farms and ranches. This is so essential, but it will take a huge effort on the part of policymakers and policy setters to see that we get included in our domestic production the ability to continue to produce those food items needed in this nation. As a result of not being able to get the necessary permits to increase the production of swine in Mississippi, we have seen at least a regional effect of the lack of the raw materials to sustain a huge number of jobs and also to allow an expansion in an industry that is Mississippi’s largest. While I think this is certainly devastating to Mississippi, I hope we never become lax enough to allow this to shutdown the swine industry in the United States.

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As we move toward the future, we must have the ability to maintain the regulations that cause us to be the prime producer of all those food items we consume. The pork industry is no exception. We have done numerous things to encourage the increase of animal agriculture in our state. We must continue to support that effort. Our best opportunity to work to achieve employment opportunities for Mississippi is certainly in agriculture. We need to capitalize on that in these times. As we move to the future, let us all resolve that we will try to inform ourselves about the issues surrounding a domestic food supply. The greatest threat to us as a nation is to become dependent on some other country to produce the food and fiber that we need. As we move forward, let us resolve to do our part as consumers to ensure that we will never sacrifice the ability we have as a nation to maintain that domestic food supply that continues to sustain us and ensure our sovereignty.

AITC WORKSHOPS The annual Ag in the Classroom Workshops will be held this summer at the following locations: • June 8 in Verona at the North Mississippi Research and Extension Building • June 9 in Collins at the Covington County Multipurpose Building • June 10 in Jackson at the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Building Mississippi Farm Bureau Women will offer a fun, educational day with workshops, resource materials and hands-on classroom activities. Teachers may receive a .7 CEU. For more information, contact Women’s Program Coordinator Clara Bilbo at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4245.

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AG IMAGE CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY By Greg Gibson, Director, MFBF Member Services Department

A statewide Ag Image Campaign was launched in mid-February with ads on WLBT and WAPT in Jackson. Billboards went up around the first of March. Cooking demonstrations featuring Mississippi commodities aired on WLBT in March and April. This ongoing effort, spearheaded by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation and joined by a growing number of other ag organizations (see page 11), will include promotional materials in a variety of media. A nonprofit organization, called Farm Families of Mississippi, has been formed as the fundraising and distribution group for this effort. The challenge of the Farm Families of Mississippi effort is to develop and implement a promotional campaign that reinforces a positive image of agriculture. Specific issues that the organization will be working toward emphasizing first include the following: - The affordability of food in America - Farmers are good stewards of the land - Buy American – read the label - Farmers take proper care of their animals This will not be a one-year program. To influence public perception, a consistent, sustained communication program is required and should keep in focus the long-term goal of creating a positive public perception of agriculture in Mississippi. The key to the success of this initiative depends upon the collective involvement and support of all agricultural industry segments in Mississippi. Getting your message out in the media is an expensive undertaking. Our nine-week multimedia campaign in just one media market costs approximately $200,000. A statewide effort will cost more than half-a-million dollars. So here’s what you can do to help with this effort. First, show your appreciation to the organizations that have already joined as partners of Farm Families of Mississippi. Second, help Farm Bureau identify other organizations that could become partners in this campaign. And third, consider becoming a partner yourself. All contributions are tax deductible and can be mailed to: MFB Foundation, P.O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215-1972. Please put Ag Image Campaign on the check. Agriculture is the single most important industry in our state. Help the Farm Families of Mississippi promote Mississippi agriculture. After all, the farmers of this state are actually Growing Mississippi. Visit our Web site at www.growingmississippi.org. M AY / J U N E

EMINENT DOMAIN CITIZENS’ INITIATIVE The right of an individual to own property is one of the basic principles upon which our great nation was founded. It is a right that must never be taken for granted. Mississippi has weak eminent domain laws. For the past three years, all of Farm Bureau’s attempts to get strong eminent domain legislation passed in the Mississippi Legislature and signed into law have been unsuccessful. But we are not giving up. Farm Bureau supports a citizens’ initiative sponsored by MFBF President David Waide to amend the Mississippi Constitution for eminent domain reform. In order to do this, some 90,000 Mississippi voters must first sign a petition to put the reform measure on the next statewide ballot. These petitions are available at your county Farm Bureau office, or you may obtain additional petitions by calling 601.977.4242. Please sign the petition, get others to sign it, then mail it to our offices as follows: MFBF Petitions P. O. Box 1972 Jackson, MS 39215-1972 The deadline is Aug. 1, 2010, to get them back. If you have any questions, please call 1.800.227.8244 and ask for Petition Assistance. It is imperative that we take part in this historic effort to protect private property. For more information, visit our Web site at www.savingmyland.org.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 28

Registration Deadline Youth Safety Seminar

June 1

Application Deadline FB Scholarships

June 8

AITC Workshop Verona

June 9

AITC Workshop Collins

June 10

AITC Workshop Jackson

June 14-17

Youth Safety Seminar Timber Creek Camp

COMMODITY UPDATE

J.B. Brown

Samantha Webb

FORESTRY

Forest Products Knowledge Can Benefit Growers J.B. Brown, MFBF Forestry Advisory Committee Chair Samantha Webb, MFBF Commodity Coordinator for Forestry

From furniture, paper and construction materials to wood pellets and biofuels derived from woody biomass, Mississippi’s forestry industry is evolving each and every day. A vast array of forest products are manufactured from the many types of timber grown across our state. In 2009 alone, Mississippi’s forestry industry contributed a total market value of $817 million to the state’s economy. A large portion of the industry’s economic contribution is made up of the timber that is marketed by forest landowners to mills that transform the rough timber into finished products. When making marketing decisions about timber, it is important for landowners to be well-informed about the types of trees they are producing and the products that can be made from that particular species. Having a good understanding of forest products can be beneficial to timber producers because timber prices differ based upon the type of finished product for which the timber will be used. Different varieties of pine trees, such as loblolly, slash, longleaf and shortleaf, are used to make plywood, timbers, poles, decking and structural lumber. Many hardwood species grown in Mississippi, such as sweet gum, red oak, pecan, white oak, yellow poplar and many more, are utilized in producing flooring, furniture, cabinets, lumber and caskets, as well as countless other specialty products. In addition, small-diameter, low-grade wood that may not be useful for other products, such as trees from a property’s first thinning, are being used more and more to make wood products to be employed in energy production. Examples of these products include wood pellets that are being manufactured here in our state to be burned for energy and heat production and wood chips that are being used by some coal-fired power plants in co-firing – a process where wood chips are burned along with the coal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A substantial amount of innovative research is being done on converting logging and mill residues and

low-grade wood into feedstock to generate cellulosic ethanol. Each product that is made commands a different price for the timber that is used to manufacture it. Buyers are willing to pay higher prices for trees that will be used to produce products of a higher value. Additionally, current market situations for supply and demand of the finished product play a big role in the price a buyer may be willing to pay by impacting the demand for a particular tree species. It is not uncommon for timber landowners to miss out on gaining full value for their timber because of a lack of forest products knowledge. Taking the time to learn everything you can about the types of timber in your forest, educating yourself on forest products, and keeping up-to-date on current markets for wood products before marketing your timber can be a great step toward realizing the best return on your investment once timber is sold. By taking these measures, you may help yourself get full market value for the timber you worked so many years to nurture and manage. The information in this article was taken from the Mississippi State University Extension Service’s publication number 1777, “Marketing Your Timber: Forest Products.” It was revised by Dr. David Jones, Assistant Extension Professor, Forest Products, from an earlier edition by Dr. Robert A. Daniels, Extension Professor, Forestry. The full publication with more information may be accessed at: http://www.cfr.msstate.edu/forestry_extension/.

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COMMODITY UPDATE

CORN Jan Hill

Terry Norwood

Farmers Are Often Unsung Heroes by Jan Hill, MFBF Corn, Wheat and Feed Grains Advisory Committee Chair Terry Norwood, MFBF Commodity Coordinator for Corn, Wheat and Feed Grains

I recently had a conversation with an area farmer. He told me that farming was not fun anymore. He complained about the weather, fuel prices, fertilizer costs, grain prices, rent and equipment. He even complained about a certain seed company, which I shall not mention. With that being said, I think we have all complained a great deal about 2009. It was certainly a challenging year for farmers to say the least. One of the challenges was corn yields being down from the previous year. Mississippi farmers harvested 126 bushels per acre, down 14 bushels from 2008 on 695,000 acres. Another challenge was that grain sorghum in Mississippi yielded only 770,000 bushels, down a whopping 87 percent from 2008. And who or what was to blame for this reduction in crop yields? You guessed it, the weather. Farmers experienced many related weather problems during planting and harvesting. It is now 2010, and this is a brand-new crop year. So far, the weather has not been promising. We can blame it on that groundhog in Pennsylvania, I guess! The long, cold winter has farmers eager for spring to arrive. It must be fairly close in North Mississippi because the grass fires have kept local firefighters busy. Spring planting is already taking place in the Delta and in the southern parts of Mississippi. Soon, those farmers in the north and east will also be involved in spring planting. How many acres will be planted is not known until NASS releases its report. Corn and other feed grains are very important to all Mississippi farmers and not just for those who row crop. Livestock producers are also watching with great intensity these commodities since they are the ones who use most of Mississippi’s production. They also use a lot of corn and other feed grains from different parts of the country to feed their livestock. Speaking of which, we all need to support and rally behind our livestock producers during this difficult time. It is no secret the agenda that various groups are trying to get approved, that of trying to stop all of our consumption of beef, poultry and pork. I guess they want all of us to eat turf! You read it right, TURF!

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The next big challenge facing farmers is being able to put enough food on America’s table. At a recent commodity conference in San Antonio, Texas, leaders were informed that the United States and the world population had nearly doubled in the last 50 years. It is a good possibility that in the next 50 years we could see the same trend. That means that there will be an increasing demand for farmers to produce more and more food. Feed grain crop yields will have to increase, and this means that the need for research and crop chemistry will be key in producing the needed yields. America and the world will need farmers more than ever to feed them. Now, back to my friend who always complains about the problems of farming. He will tell you that farming is all that he has ever wanted to do. He delights in tilling the soil and raising livestock, much like the writers of this article. Those folks who complain about farmers, the dust they make, the machinery noises, and the smell coming from livestock need to realize THESE are the guys who produce their food. Maybe they should consider not eating! Now, that’s a thought.

SUMMER COMMODITY MEETINGS Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) will again hold commodity-specific meetings across the state this summer. More information will run as schedules are firmed up. Contact Nancy Britt at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4230.

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A Family Hog Farm

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By Glynda Phillips ames Eric and Jim Blissard of Houston grow hogs for Prestage Farms, Inc., a family-owned North-Carolina-based company that produces pork and poultry. Prestage Farms operates a Mississippi division that grows pigs and features a state-of-the-art grain facility in West Point, Mississippi. “We’ve been growing for Prestage since 1997,” said Jim. “We started out finishing hogs, but when the Bryan Foods processing facility closed in 2007, Prestage changed the way that it operates in Mississippi. Now we grow hogs from wean to 70 pounds.” The Blissards get their pigs from Mississippi sow farms when they are about 18 days old and weigh about 12 pounds. They keep the animals for eight weeks before they are transported to Iowa to be finished out. The Blissards grow hogs four times a year. In order to accommodate the smaller animals, new equipment had to be installed in existing houses. Heaters are now used to keep the baby pigs warm. Prestage retrofitted existing feeders to make it easier for little pigs to get their meals. Panels were placed at the bottom of pens to keep the smaller pigs from crawling through. The Blissards were happy to make these changes. They enjoy working for Prestage Farms and hope that pork production will prove to be cyclical, like other agricultural commodities. They look forward to the day when the swine industry comes back strong again in Mississippi.

INDUSTRY ISSUES As chair of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Swine Advisory Committee, Jim says farmers are concerned with the following issues:

• ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS. “Today’s hog farmers must comply with a number of complex environmental rules and regulations, and we are monitored closely to ensure that we remain in compliance.” • ANIMAL ACTIVISTS. “Animal activists say that farmers mistreat their livestock. These activists have

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managed to change the way that hogs are raised in other states. The reality is that farmers must eliminate all stress in order to experience good livestock reproduction. Farmers shelter their hogs from predators and the elements; keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer; and keep them watered and fed.” • H1N1 INFLUENZA. “The mislabeling of the H1N1 Influenza as Swine Flu was definitely a problem until we educated people. You can’t catch the flu from a pig or by eating pork. Misinformation in the press hurt both our foreign and domestic markets.” • LOSS OF INFRASTRUCTURE. “We’ve lost our large hog packing plants in Mississippi. These facilities have gone up north to where the corn is cheaper and where farmers don’t have the kind of weather and environmental challenges that we have here in the South.” • HIGH COST OF FEED AND ENERGY/LOW MARKET PRICES. “The costs of feed and fuel have gone up while market prices have gone down. It’s hard for us to make a profit right now. The economy is not helping Mississippi hog farmers.” DIVERSIFICATION IS KEY The Blissards believe that diversification will prove to be an important key to surviving existing industry challenges. In addition to the hogs, they now raise a few cows. They plan to begin growing either corn or soybeans this season, and they run a truck for themselves and other farmers. “I row cropped when Jim was little, and he says it was a great way to come up,” said James Eric. “I knew he wanted to be a farmer when he was grown, but row cropping at that time wouldn’t support two households, so we went to hogs. Prices for soybeans and corn are much better now, provided the weather cooperates. “I put my retirement into this farm, and I hope it will be here for Jim and his kids. I would hate to see it disappear,” he said. “We’ve lost enough of agriculture in this state as it is. “As farmers, our family goes back many generations,” he concluded. “I hope that Jim and his son can continue that legacy. Maybe one day they will say that it was worth sitting it out until things got better.” FC

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USDA photo by Keith Weller

FUTURE TRENDS Crenshaw says Mississippi’s swine industry is in a state of transition due to a number of factors, including high input costs and low market prices, the loss of a supportive local swine industry infrastructure, complex environmental regulations, and the recent H1N1 Influenza scare. He says diversification and specialty markets will prove to be important keys to any future growth the industry experiences. “Mississippi farmers are beginning to raise other agricultural commodities in addition to their hogs,” he said. “We may see less large-scale and more small-scale production. A majority of state swine production may eventually become more of a means for earning supplemental income than a primary means of livelihood. “In my work with pork producers around the state, I am also seeing an interest in raising a few pigs to satisfy local markets,” he said. “Some producers are raising allnatural pork, and some are producing pigs using a pasture system. “There will remain some potential for large-scale contract production, even though large pork processing markets aren’t in the Southeast anymore,” he said. “But specialty markets definitely have potential to stimulate local pork production and markets in the future. “If farmers are to continue to successfully market their swine, they must change with the times,” he said. “They must be open to and investigate new ideas. “It would be nice to have more small processing facilities across the state and retail meat outlets,” he added. “We have the potential for those, but it takes capital investment and permits.”

SWINE INDUSTRY TRENDS

By Glynda Phillips Mississippi’s swine industry contributes approximately $55 million to the state’s economy each year, according to Mississippi State University Extension Swine Specialist Dr. Mark Crenshaw. He notes that this figure may be down somewhat for 2009 because of low market prices. The state swine industry can be divided into three segments: • Show pig production – A growing number of farmers are raising pigs to show. “The Delta and some counties in southeastern Mississippi are very much interested in raising show pigs,” Crenshaw said. “This is a good learning process for kids involved in 4-H livestock programs, and it is the only exposure that some of them have to livestock production. This type of production will be maintained or will continue to grow.” • Company contract swine production – These farmers grow hogs for family-owned 10

companies. “The companies control the types of pigs that are grown and the type of feed that is fed,” Crenshaw said. “Since they do not control the processing and marketing of the pork products, this process is not vertically integrated like the poultry industry.” • Independent swine production. A number of Mississippi farmers raise hogs for their own consumption and/or for sale to neighbors, local markets or the sale barn. “The number of independent pork producers in our state may grow,” Crenshaw said. “This type of farmer is in a unique position to target specialty markets on the local level. Many are already experimenting with growing hogs on pasture and developing all-natural pork markets. While the bulk of swine production in our state is located within a 75-mile radius of West Point, independent producers are scattered throughout the state. Home consumption is located in almost every county. Most of these producers grow pigs for local families and businesses.” M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M C O U N T RY

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Would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the 2010 campaign. Without them these efforts would not be possible.

FOUNDATION SPONSOR

PLATINUM BENEFACTORS

GOLD BENEFACTORS

SILVER BENEFACTORS

BRONZE BENEFACTORS

SPONSORS Amite County Farm Bureau Danny Holland

G. Paul Tedford Charles Weatherly

Carole Williams

For more information about this effort or to contribute, contact Greg Gibson at 1.800.227.8244 ext. 4242 or ggibson@msfb.com.

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SPECIALTY MARKETS: A Wave of the Future

Philip Brown intends to farm well into the future. With that goal firmly in mind, the Warren County independent hog farmer remains up-to-date on changes within the industry and makes a point of thinking outside of the box. He says all new ideas must be explored. “Our industry is constantly evolving, and I try to keep up with any changes that might appear on the horizon,” he said. “One wave of the future that I’m picking up on right now is specialty markets. A growing number of consumers want naturally-grown products. “My pigs are a Duroc-York-Hampshire cross, and I grow them with no antibiotics, no steroids and no animal byproducts in their feed,” he said. “It is as close to a natural product as you can get. “Next month, I plan to begin raising hogs on grass,” he added. “I guess I’m either the smartest or the dumbest farmer there ever was, but I’m definitely for trying new things.” INDUSTRY CHALLENGES Philip says today’s independent pork producers must successfully deal with a number of challenges. “Hog prices are low and fuel and feed prices are high,” he said. “It takes three pounds of feed to put one pound of weight on a pig. That equals about 900 pounds of feed per 300-pound hog, which is the size of most finished hogs. That’s about 45 cents a pound, and that’s about what farmers are getting for their animals at the current market prices.” The closing of the Bryan Foods processing facility in West Point dealt a decisive blow to state hog farmers. Large-scale processing markets aren’t in the Southeastern states anymore. It’s also difficult for farmers to get the supplies they need since our state doesn’t have many businesses that support the industry. “Most of the swine industry’s support businesses have gradually migrated north,” Philip said. “We must purchase our supplies from out-of-state dealers. “I grind my own feed and buy my grain locally, but other supplies and the processing facilities are located out West or in Midwestern states like Indiana and Iowa.”

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By Glynda Phillips

Brown markets his hogs to Jack Wilson in Crystal Springs and Attala Frozen Foods in Kosciusko. Domestic and foreign consumption of pork was down this past year after the H1N1 flu scare. In addition, animal activists have hurt the industry in other states by demanding changes in production facilities. Finally, state hog farmers must comply with a number of complex environmental rules and regulations. All of this takes money and time. THE FARMER’S STORY Brown says it is important now as never before in the history of state agriculture that farmers tell their story to the general public. “Most consumers are generations removed from agriculture,” he said. “They don’t understand the realities of farming and what it takes to provide our country with one of the safest, most abundant and more affordable food supplies in the world.” In the past, Philip has opened his farm to school children. He doesn’t do that now because of liability issues, but he’d like to. He knows it’s important to build industry support. “It’s not easy, but I’m going to hang in there. I will last until the end of the world,” he added, only half joking. “There used to be three of us working here, but now, there’s just me. My father D.D. Brown retired five years ago, and our hired help has since quit. “Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy growing hogs,” he said. “It’s a good way to make a living, provided you are open to change and you are willing to work hard and manage your farm like a business.” Philip is a big proponent of the “Buy Local/Eat Fresh” movement. As you read through this issue of the magazine, he wants you to remember one thing, if nothing else. “When you buy locally-grown foods, you are supporting Mississippi agriculture,” he said. “That’s important, not only to local farmers, but to the state of Mississippi as a whole.” FC Philip Brown is vice chair of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Swine Advisory Committee.

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for 4-h’er By Patti Drapala MSU Ag Communications

MSU Ag Communications

howing hogs has secured a college education for Lee County 4-H’er Taylor Scott. When Taylor, 17, was just a toddler, she often accompanied her grandfather, Terry Patterson, on the daily rounds on his farm near Nettleton. Her favorite place was the hog barn, where she enjoyed observing the behavior of these intelligent, social animals. “I loved being around animals and taking care of them, so it was natural for me to gravitate to the pigs because of my Papa Terry,” Taylor said. “Everything I know about them is because of him.” Patterson was not surprised when his granddaughter expressed an interest in showing pigs. When Taylor turned 8, she joined 4-H so she could participate in the program’s swine project. Her parents, Kerry and Carrie Scott of Nettleton, thought this would be a good way for their daughter to learn responsibility for taking care of live animals and to direct her energy toward accomplishing goals. Patterson, who currently is president of the Mississippi Pork Producers Association, saw another advantage that 4-H could offer his granddaughter. “Taylor and I were riding home in my old pickup after a county hog show, and she was counting the cash she had won,” Patterson said. “She told me she wanted to go to college, but she wanted to pay her own way instead of her mama and daddy having to do it, so I made a deal with her.” He told Taylor he would help with the pigs. She promised to put all prize money into a college savings account. Taylor kept her word and has won more than $12,000 in prize money at the Mississippi State Fair and the Dixie National Junior Roundup. At the 2009 state fair, Taylor won Grand Champion Hog with her pig. “Hogs are interesting animals, but they are not easy to manage,” Taylor said. “The most challenging thing is getting them to do what you want, not what they want. Once you train them, they will do what you want them to do.” Taylor has deposited her winnings in the Mississippi Prepaid Affordable College Tuition, or MPACT, plan offered through College Savings Mississippi. She will enter Itawamba Community College (ICC) in Fulton this fall as a freshman. “We have paid for two years of junior college and two years of senior college, so her future is set,” said Carrie Scott. “Taylor has been able to accomplish this goal despite competing only twice a year. Any money she earns from here forward will be used to pay other college expenses, such as books, dormitory fees and supplies.” Taylor’s unwavering enthusiasm for 4-H and affection for her pigs has allowed her to be successful in the show ring and outside of it. “Taylor does a great job and wants to do everything right,” said Lee County agricultural agent Belvia Giachelli of the Mississippi State University Extension Service. “She wins many of her classes in county competitions, usually wins the district shows and is almost always in the Top 5 in the showmanship class at the state level.” Even though Taylor’s primary focus has been the 4-H swine project, she also has excelled in the classroom and participated in many school activities and student groups. A senior at Nettleton High School, Taylor is a starting guard on the women’s basketball team. She also is

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on the tennis team and is a cheerleader for all sports. The youth group at her church keeps her involved with various community service projects. “It’s very hard to balance all these things,” Taylor said. “I love pigs, I love basketball and I love my life. I just have to make time for all of it.” The hogs are still No. 1 in her heart, and she enjoys spending time with them. “You can only feed them certain things at certain times, and you have to cut their hair and constantly teach them,” Taylor said. “Pigs are very smart, and I like to get out there in the pen and just have fun with them and see what they can teach me.” Taylor will have one year of eligibility left with 4-H when she begins her freshman year at ICC. She plans to compete one last time at the state fair and Dixie National. When she accomplishes that goal, Taylor will turn her attention toward completing her college education to become a physical therapist. “My experiences in 4-H have taught me to work hard to achieve greatness,” Taylor said. “I would definitely encourage young children to join 4-H because they will learn to develop their leadership skills and earn a way to a great education as well.” FC Kerry, Carrie and Taylor Scott are Lee County Farm Bureau members. Terry Patterson serves on the Lee County Farm Bureau Board of Directors. M AY / J U N E

“Sh e told m e sh e wanted to go to college, but sh e wanted to pay h er own way instead of h er mama and daddy ha ving to do it, so I made a deal with h er.”

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By Glynda Phillips

og farmers take good care of their livestock. Animals are raised inside environmentally-controlled buildings or outside on healthy pasture systems. They are fed and watered regularly, often with computerized feeders and drinkers, and the waste material is quickly removed and treated. Farmers must comply with a number of complex environmental rules and regulations, and they are closely monitored to ensure that they remain in compliance. “This is a business, and that’s the reality,” said Bob Power, an Ackerman contract hog grower for Prestage Farms. “There’s no way we could make a profit off mistreated livestock. We know better than anyone that healthy animals mean safe and healthy food for all consumers. “There are so many naysayers today,” he added. “The hog business could have grown and prospered in Mississippi, but there is so much ignorance and fear connected with this type of farming. It is not so much on the part of our neighbors as it is on the part of animal rights activists and the media. So much has been publicized that is simply not true.”

SPEAKING OUT Power is a powerful voice of support for Mississippi’s swine industry. He takes every opportunity he’s offered to educate consumers. One of the most effective tools at his disposal is the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Ag Challenges Initiative, a program that trains farmers to address not only the media but club meetings and other events. 16

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Hog Farmers Take Good Care of

LIVESTOCK “People have grown generations removed from farming,” he said. “It is important that we educate them about agriculture and build their support for our industry. “The thing that bothers me is that, up until now, we have been able to feed ourselves with a safe, abundant and affordable food supply,” he said. “If we lose our ability to grow our own food because of interference from others, we will end up relying on other countries for our food supply. When that happens, we will be in trouble. “I believe that whoever feeds me is in charge of me.” Power said. “As long as we can feed ourselves, it will be hard for another country to tell us what to do.” PROGRAMS THAT HELP Power says hog farmers rely on several programs that are designed to support their industry. The Pork Checkoff program, for example, provides funds for pork promotion, research and consumer information to enhance producers’ opportunities for success. All pork producers and importers of pigs and pork products contribute a portion of all sales. Since 2001, the National Pork Board has assumed responsibility for promotion, consumer education and research programs. The National Pork Producers Council, supported by a producer membership, is responsible for public policy affecting pork producers. Power says the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation has gone out of its way to support the state’s swine industry. The organization has a state swine advisory committee that surfaces programs and opportunities and helps shape the policy that guides Farm Bureau in the Mississippi Legislature. “I’ve been a member of Farm Bureau for 15 years, and I wish I’d joined earlier,” he said. “Farm Bureau does so much for the farmers and rural residents of Mississippi.” In addition to Farm Bureau’s Ag Challenges Initiative, Power is excited about the Ag Image Campaign that officially kicked off in February. Farm Bureau and other ag organizations have joined together to promote state agriculture by placing educational materials in a variety of media. “We want Mississippians to know that our farmers are the reason we have one of the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supplies in the world,” he said. “We can’t afford to jeopardize that status.” For more information about the Ag Challenges Initiative, or if you are interested in contributing to the Ag Image Campaign, contact Greg Gibson at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4242. FC M AY / J U N E

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By Glynda Phillips

he Pig Shack of Yazoo City is a longstanding Delta tradition that has captured the attention of foodies from across the state and nation. Since the tiny, family-owned barbecue place relies primarily upon word-of-mouth advertising, all of that interest is most gratifying. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We get truckers from the Gulf Coast, Hattiesburg and Arkansas,â&#x20AC;? said Jana Trillet. Jana and her husband own The Pig Shack, which is visible from Highway 49 as you near the Yazoo City exit. Just look for all those beautiful American flags fluttering about the roof. M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M C O U N T RY

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“The same vacationers stop by each year as do quite a few New York “snow birds” en route to warmer climes,” she said. “They are all like family to us.” The Pig Shack’s devoted customers include young and old alike. One 8-year-old boy so loved the establishment that his grandfather set up an account for him there. “He rode his bike here, and he kept losing the money out of his pockets,” she said with a grin. “So his grandfather decided to help him out. That little boy visited me recently, and he is now a grown man who is six feet tall. “Lots of local kids attending college come back to see me, bringing friends. They ask me to open Pig Shacks at Mississippi State and Ole Miss,” she said with a laugh. Family, friends and longtime customers are important to Jana. She calls The Pig Shack “a family thing.” Her two nieces, sister-in-law and husband help out, and she employs one part-time worker named Shirley. “I love them all, but my 17-year-old niece is a whole lot of fun and one of my favorites,” Jana said. “She’s been coming here since she was a little girl.” THE MENU The Pig Shack cooks up barbecue ribs, pulled pork, pork sausage and chicken (whole, halves or leg quarters). You may buy a plate lunch or a sandwich combo. If you opt for the sandwich combo, you get a sandwich and drink, and your chips are free. Jana smokes the barbecue ribs, pork and chicken herself. She says not many women do that type of thing, and she is proud of her product. Jana and her husband cook pork skins in a specially-constructed building at their home and sell those, too. Desserts include cheesecake with a pecan praline topping, triple chocolate cake, and apple pie, to name just a few. Diners may carryout or sit at one of the many outdoor picnic tables. “Even in the winter, we have folks who are willing to brave the cold to sit outside,” she said. “Hunters will sit out there in their camouflage.” Jana caters in her spare time and has cooked food for a number of Farm Bureau functions. Local Farm Bureau employees make a point of stopping by. “Farm Bureau members are my people,” said the Yazoo County Farm Bureau member. “I appreciate them so much.” In addition to the barbecue business and catering service, Jana sells spiral-cut honey-smoked hams (Jana makes the honey mixture) throughout the year and smoked turkeys at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.

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WE ARE UNIQUE Jana bought The Pig Shack from a Delta hog farmer named Roy Damiens about eight years ago. Roy started the business as a way of adding income to his hog operation. After Roy sold the business to Jana, he went into partnership with another businessman and opened Pig Shak franchises (notice the difference in spelling) in numerous other cities around the state. Those franchises are in operation today, but Roy is no longer associated with the endeavor. He sold his interest several years ago. The Trillets say their business is unique, and that has been an important key to their success. They chop their own hickory wood to fuel their butane and wood smoker, and Jana has tinkered with the original recipes for the slaw, baked beans and potato salad, making them her own. The base barbecue for the meat is also her own and so is the seasoning salt. “I pull my pork; we don’t use pork from bags,” she said. “I also use fresh chicken because frozen chicken doesn’t barbecue as well. People love our barbecue, but some of them come just for the slaw, beans and potato salad,” she said. “We have individuals who buy those items to serve at their own cookouts. “When you are not a part of a chain, you must work hard and be innovative to succeed.”

“When you are not a part of a chain, you must work hard and be innovative to succeed.” Jana says one of her funniest anecdotes is the following: “The head of the local Chamber of Commerce was attending a statewide Chamber meeting in north Mississippi when he noticed that some of the participants kept looking at their watches,” she said. “Finally, someone asked them what they were doing. They looked sheepish and replied, ‘We’d like to get through in time to drive down to The Pig Shack in Yazoo City before it closes.’” Enough said. FC

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SOLVE THE MYSTERY Which Black Prairie town is the seat of county government for Clay County? Government jobs and agriculture have historically played important roles in the growth and development of this town, but it is largely known and was founded as a railroad town. Back in its early years, this town boasted three railroads: the M&O (1857), the Illinois Central (1884), and the Georgia Pacific and later Southern Railroad, which became the Columbus and Greenville (1889). The excellent Sam Wilhite Transportation Museum chronicles the influence of the railroad and other forms of transportation on this town. Read the clues and name this town City Hall GOLDEN TRIANGLE Our mystery town is located in the northeast Mississippi Golden Triangle area, along with Starkville and Columbus. It is close to the cities of Memphis, Birmingham, Jackson and Tupelo. Our mystery town is a certified Main Street Community and boasts a downtown area that has maintained its historic architecture and charm and features quaint gift shops, antique stores, museums and renowned restaurants. Historic churches, a library and excellent schools add to the quality of life here. The bulk of Mississippi hog production is located within a 75-mile radius of this town. Our mystery town is the home of several industries and boasts some 300 successful small businesses. Among them are: • Mossy Oak – Mossy Oak manufactures and sells a brand of camouflage for hunting. The company got its start in our mystery town and maintains its corporate headquarters there. • International Military and Government – This business builds military vehicles. • North Mississippi Medical Center (NMMC) – NMMC is a division of the award-winning North Mississippi Medical Center based in Tupelo. • Old Waverly Golf Club – This golf course hosted the 2000 Women’s U.S. Open and has been named Mississippi’s #1 Golf Course and one of America’s Top 100 Courses by Golf Digest. • Prestage Farms – A Southeast-based family company, Prestage grows hogs and poultry. It operates a Mississippi division for growing pigs with a state-of-the-art grain facility in our mystery town. • Royal Trucking – Royal is one of the largest trucking firms in the U.S. • Ellis Steel – This business built many well-known buildings in the area, including Walmart. RECREATION/ARTS Hunting, fishing and camping opportunities abound in the area surrounding Clay County because of its close proximity to the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway, the Natchez Trace National Park and to Waverly Water, the home of a fishing lake (designed by Bill Dance) and picturesque cabins. The population of our mystery town numbers around 20,921. Families value the schools and the quality of life, and retired folks also love calling this town home. Military retirees enjoy the amenities of nearby Columbus Air Force Base. Our mystery town encourages the arts. It is home to the annual Prairie Arts Festival, which is regularly recognized as one of the Top 20 Events in the South. Our mystery town is the home of the late Chester Arthur Burnett, better known as 20

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Clockwise: Old Waverly Golf Club, Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, Prestage Farms, Mossy Oak, and downtown area.

“Howlin’ Wolf.” Wolf is one of Mississippi’s most influential bluesmen. He is honored by this town every year with a Howlin’ Wolf Memorial Blues Festival. You will also find the Howlin’ Wolf Museum here and a statue of Wolf in the downtown park. In the early to mid-1800s, farming in the Clay County area varied from the large, self-sufficient plantation of Waverley Village, dominated by Waverley Mansion, to small farms and families who lived in modest log homes. The family-owned Waverly Plantation Mansion stands today and is open to the public. Also of historical note, this town was the site of a Civil War battle. Name this town. A special thanks to Justin Estes with City Hall for his help with this article CORRECT GUESSES Mail guesses to Solve the Mystery, Mississippi Farm Country, P. O. Box 1972, Jackson, MS 39215. You may also e-mail your guesses to FarmCountry@MSFB.com. Please remember to include your name and address on the entry. Visit our Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Web site at www.msfb.com. When all correct guesses have been received, we will randomly draw 20 names. These 20 names will receive a prize and will be placed in the hat twice. At the end of the year, a winner will be drawn from all correct submissions. The winner will receive a Weekend Bed and Breakfast Trip, courtesy of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. Families may submit only one entry. Federation staff members and their families are ineligible to participate in this contest. The deadline for submitting your entry is June 30. MARCH/APRIL The correct answer for the March/April Solve the Mystery is Columbia. M AY / J U N E

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Cats Have

Never Forgotten By Glynda Phillips

“Cats are like potato chips. You can never have just one”. That old saying of unknown origin seems to sum up every true cat lover I’ve ever known, including my friend, Gordon Cotton, of the Redbone Community near Vicksburg. A retired curator at the Old Court House Museum in Vicksburg, Gordon now enjoys a life of leisure, traveling, cooking, gardening, writing and providing an excellent home for about a dozen cats of varying breeds, colors and temperaments. He loves them all. And they love him back. That type of mutual admiration society is important if you want to successfully live with a cat. As another friend of mine pointed out, “A dog will love its owner no matter who it is. Cats are more particular.” Gordon has filled his 1840 farmhouse on Campbell’s Swamp Road with lots of cat stuff, including figurines, teapots, paintings, photographs, etc. He’s also written and self-published a book entitled, “I Live in a Cat House.” The material in Gordon’s book was selected from among the many weekly Sunday features he’s written through the years for The Vicksburg Post. He generally writes history-related articles but sometimes deviates a bit, writing about interesting people and cats. “I Live in a Cat House” talks about his favorite felines and offers historical facts, including this gem: “The ancient Egyptians worshiped cats as gods. Cats have never forgotten this.” “Cats are independent, and I value that,” Gordon said with a smile. “I don’t like anything “cookie cutter” in life, and cats are like snowflakes. No two are alike.” Gordon’s latest homage to cats is a “totem pole” of sorts in his backyard. About 25 feet tall, the pole is covered with colorful M AY / J U N E

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cat faces. The faces were made with a mold given to him by his sister. He used concrete in the mold and initially intended to make only two or three faces. Ultimately, he ended up with about 14. When he finished making all those cat faces (only because the mold wore out), he was at a loss as to what to do with them. His sister suggested that he paint them, and that sparked his imagination. “One Saturday, I gathered a half-dozen artist friends of mine, and we sat out on the porch and painted cat faces,” he said. “Each face is different, reflecting the style of the artist who painted it.” Gordon and his friends talked about what to do next. “We considered making a wall and embedding the faces in it, but that would have been too much trouble,” Gordon said. “Finally, we came up with the idea of a cat pole.” The back of each concrete face holds two staples. A wire is threaded through the staples then around a 2x4 wooden peg jutting out from the pole to hold the face securely in place. Visitors will also notice a concrete dog sitting at the bottom of the pole looking up at all those cats. Hobbs Freeman, one of Gordon’s best friends, secretly ordered the dog. Soon after Hobbs’ unexpected death last June of pancreatic cancer, a package arrived on Gordon’s doorstep.

“The concrete dog was a complete surprise,” Gordon said. “But it was perfect. My godson, Lane Berg, an art student at Delta State University, painted it for me. And that was perfect, also.” On a crisp day in early spring, I visited Gordon to write about the infamous cat pole. It looked strikingly beautiful against the clear, blue sky. Cordalia, Walterine and Lizzie, the only resident cats in evidence that day, thought so, too. Gordon sent me on my way with the following musing: “As I wrote my book about cats, Cordalia curled up behind the typewriter and Walterine sometimes insisted on walking on the keyboard. Any typos are hers.” If you are interested in purchasing “I Live in a Cat House” (or a recipe book compiled by Gordon that contains recipes, old photographs and bits of Vicksburg’s history), they are for sale at the Old Court House Museum in Vicksburg. The recipe book is entitled “The Past … and Repast.” Simply call 601.636.0741. FC Gordon Cotton is very proud to be a longtime Warren County Farm Bureau member. 24

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F E E B

! d n e i r f t s e b s ’ l l i A Gr For great BEEF recipes and nutritional information go to:

msbeef.org

T ang y L i m e G r i l l e d T o p R o u n d S t e a k 1 beef top round steak, cut 3/4 inch thick (about 1 pound) 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 3 large cloves garlic, crushed 1. Combine lime juice, sugar, oil, Worcestershire and garlic in small bowl. Place beef steak and lime mixture in food-safe plastic bag; turn steak to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 6 hours or overnight; turning occasionally. 2. Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Place steak on grid over medium, ashcovered coals. Grill, uncovered, 8 to 9 minutes for medium-rare doneness, turning occasionally. (Do not overcook.) 3. Carve steak into thin slices. Season with salt and pepper, as desired. Total preparation and cooking time: 20 to 25 minutes Marinating time: 6 hours or overnight Makes 4 servings.

Mississippi Beef Council 680 Monroe St. Suite A • Jackson, MS 39759 •(601) 353-4520 Sponsored by Mississippi’s Beef Producers through the Beef Checkoff Program

EPA CLARIFIES OIL SPILL PREVENTION RULES FOR FARMERS From Andy Whittington, MFBF Environmental Programs Coordinator

The Environmental Protection Agency on Nov. 5 announced it had finalized changes to oil spill prevention rules that will apply to some farms and ranches with on-farm fuel storage. The deadline for farms to comply with the new rules is November 2010. EPA’s Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule requires any facility with a total above-ground fuel storage capacity of more than 1,320 gallons or a completely buried capacity of over 42,000 gallons to have an SPCC plan in place and show that it is following the plan if there is a chance that a spill could end up in navigable waters. The rules have been in place for years, but there has been confusion as to how – or even if – they applied to farms. The new rule in large part finalizes a rule promulgated near the end of the Bush administration. That proposal was the product of extensive public comment. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) submitted comments and, in the end, got some things but not everything it wanted. AFBF wanted only farms with 20,000 gallons or more of aboveground storage to be required to have a professional engineer-certified plan. While the final rule did not incorporate that recommendation, it did clarify the definition of a covered facility that allowed the owner to count tanks separately so they do not add up to the threshold amount, as long as the tanks aren’t right next to each other and used for the same purpose. Originally, EPA proposed that all facilities, including farms, be required to hire professional engineers to certify their prevention plans. By the time the agency came out with the December 2008 change, however, it proposed a tiered approach in response to industry feedback, with farms that hold no more than 5,000 gallons and have no recent history of discharges to navigable waters to be able to use a simplified template provided by EPA. In fact, AFBF thought that all farms should be able to self-certify. “Farms aren’t the problem here and never have been,” explained Paul Schlegel, AFBF environment and energy policy director. “Farms have had fuel storage tanks for decades without the kinds of oil spills that this regulation is supposed to prevent, so it isn’t necessary to subject them to the same level of regulation as other industries with more of a record of problems.” AFBF also asked for farmers and ranchers to have as much as five years to comply with the new rules. Instead, they get just under one year. The new rules follow existing law under the Clean Water Act, under which intrastate, non-navigable waters that aren’t significantly connected to navigable waterways don’t fall under federal jurisdiction. However, that could change if some in Congress get their way. A bill introduced by Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) and cosponsored by 24 other senators, S. 787 would expand federal jurisdiction to all waters of the United States. The bill has been approved by a Senate committee and a companion may soon be introduced in the House. If the legislation were to become law, many more farms might have to comply with the SPCC rule. 26

That’s the next big thing to watch on this issue,” says Schlegel. “Just about every farmer or rancher in the country has a pond, ditch or depression that can get wet for a part of the year on the land, so expanding the federal government’s authority to all water would ensnare a lot of operations, making the SPCC rule just one more reason we have to prevent that bill from passing.”

YOUTH SAFETY SEMINAR Registration deadline for the 2010 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Youth Safety Seminar is May 28. The event will be held June 14-17 at Timber Creek Camp in Scott County. Youth Safety Seminar offers young people entering 7th through 12th grades an opportunity to receive safety training, enjoy recreational activities and develop friendships that will last a lifetime. In 2009, approximately 47 students from across the state participated in training sessions that included CPR, Electrical Safety, ATV Safety, Fatal Vision and Tractor Safety. For more information about Youth Safety Seminar, contact you county Farm Bureau office or call Angela Thompson at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4242.

MCCORMICK APPOINTED TO BEEF BOARD On March 10, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that Mike McCormick will represent Mississippi on the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board. McCormick and the other 35 appointments will serve 3-year terms, beginning immediately. McCormick was nominated jointly by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association, and the Dairy Farmers of America. USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service oversees operations of the board. A beef cattle and timber producer, Mike is president of Jefferson County Farm Bureau, vice chair of the MFBF Communication Committee and a member of the MFBF Land Committee.

BROWN TO LEAD AFBF FORESTRY ADVISORY COMMITTEE J.B. Brown, a Stone County timber producer and chair of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Forestry Advisory Committee, has been selected to serve as chair of the American Farm Bureau Federation Forestry Advisory Committee. Brown is a member of the MFBF Land Program and president of Stone County Farm Bureau. J.B. and his son Kevin were featured in a past issue of Mississippi Farm Country magazine for their exemplary work in managing their timberland and wildlife.

HUMPHREYS COUNTY FARM BUREAU ANNUAL MEETING - Thursday, July 8, at 9 a.m. Humphreys County Farm Bureau Office, Belzoni

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AGRICULTURE: AGR A GRICUL ICULTURE: TURE: FEEDING FE EDING YOU TIMES 3 TIME S A DAY DAY

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Mississippi farmers turned out in large numbers for the first annual Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) and Farm Families of Mississippi Ag Day at the Capitol event on March 17. National Ag Week this year was March 14-20. Participants promoted agriculture while visiting with their lawmakers. Members of the House and Senate agriculture committees, including Rep. Greg Ward and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who chair the groups, addressed attendees and answered questions. Sen. Hyde-Smith was presented a framed pair of “asbestos underwear” in recognition of the powerful eminent domain speech she delivered on the floor of the Senate during the 2009 Session of the Mississippi Legislature. Farmers and their families were also recognized from the galleries of both houses. Colorful, factual displays in the Capitol Rotunda talked about agriculture’s many contributions to the lives of all Mississippians and demonstrated how much farmers pay for the equipment and supplies they use to efficiently produce our nation’s affordable, safe and abundant food supply.

AG DAY AT THE CAPITOL

IS SI

WOMEN’S DAY AT THE CAPITOL

State Women’s Committee members, MFBF staff, and others met with Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, Chair of the Senate Ag Committee, during their annual Day at the Capitol event. Below: Refreshments were served by the State Women’s Committee in the Rotunda of the Capitol.

Above: Commissioner of Agriculture Lester Spell visited with the group. Right: Rep. Greg Ward, Chair of the House Ag Committee, talked with the State Women’s Committee, MFBF staff, and others during their annual Day at the Capitol event.

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RECIPES PARMESAN PORK CHOPS WITH APPLES 1 lg. egg, beaten ¼ c. milk 1 c. all-purpose flour ½ c. Parmesan cheese 6 boneless pork chops Salt and pepper Oil 1 c. cooked apples

Combine egg and milk. Combine flour and cheese. Dip chops in milk mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Dip in flour mixture. Brown in non-stick skillet. Transfer to baking dish and top with cooked apples. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Cooked Apples: Combine all ingredients and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. By Judy Hill Chickasaw County

Cooked Apples: 10 cooking apples ½ c. water 2 c. sugar 1 T. lemon juice

These recipes were taken from “Country Cooking, Volume IV,” which is available at most county Farm Bureau offices. The cost is $15. If you order from the state office, it will cost you $15 plus postage. For more information, contact Women’s Program Coordinator Clara Bilbo at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4245.

Make The Connection Long-distance state-to-state rates are only 4.9¢ per minute Local in-state calls are only 6.9¢ per minute (Save even more wth the EZDIAL plan-4.9¢ per minute) Calling Cards are only 8.9¢ a minute state-to-state Monthly Fee is only $1.50 Incremental Billing at 6 seconds Fill out the form below and start saving TODAY!

Call toll-free 1-800-362-FARM Contact your state office or visit www.countryconnect.us for more information

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MAKE THE CONNECTION 1-800-362-FARM

FARM BUREAU

EVENTS

Radio personality, writer and speaker Trent Loos addressed the 2010 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Winter Commodity Conference. A sixth generation U.S. farmer, Loos enjoys taking a look at the people and places of Rural America. He also enjoys talking about today’s food production system and the importance of food as a matter of national security.

Miss Farm Bureau-Mississippi Kelly Langford of Madison County represented Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation in the Dixie National Parade in Jackson. Her driver is Ronnie West. Also pictured is Rance Bilbo.

American Honey Queen Lisa Schluttenhofer of Indiana stopped by the state office to visit with Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation President David Waide. Also in attendance were, from left, D. L. Wesley, a Foxworth beekeeper; Harry Fulton, state entomologist with the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce's Bureau of Plant Industry; Joan Gunter; and Stan Yeagley, president of the Mississippi Beekeepers Association.

Each February, in honor of Food Check-Out Day, the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation State Women’s Committee and volunteers around the state collect food, household items and cash donations for delivery to the Ronald McDonald House in Jackson. State Women’s Committee Chair Betty Mills is pictured presenting the cash donation to Ruth Ann Allen, Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House in Jackson. Also pictured is MFBF President David Waide, members of the State Women’s Committee, and MFBF Women’s Program Coordinator Clara Bilbo.

M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M C O U N T RY

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SALE OF JUNIOR CHAMPIONS Photos by MSU Ag Communications

Reserve Grand Champion, Champion Spotted and Mississippi Bred Grand Champion Hog exhibited by Virginia Davis, Tate 4-H. Pictured, from left, are Virginia, Craig Shideler, Gary Blair, David Waide and Joe Hayman for Hal and Linda Parker, William Adair, Southern Ag Credit, Mississippi Land Bank, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, Pride of the Pond, and Custom Care Cleaners (buyers).

Champion Oxford Lamb exhibited by Anna Beth Mayhugh, Lawrence 4-H. Pictured, from left, are Jack Williams, Robert Jarratt, Joey Stroble, Tico Hoffman and David Waide for Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance, Southern Farm Bureau Casualty, Southern Farm Bureau Life, Tico’s Steakhouse, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, Hilton-Jackson, TeleSouth Communications, Attala Foods, Matthew, Cutrer & Lindsay, PA, Southern Cross Underwriters, Copeland, Cook, Taylor & Bush, PA (buyers); Anna Beth Mayhugh. Champion Lightweight European Steer exhibited by Meagan and Tucker Thrash, Covington 4-H. Pictured, from left, are David Waide, Jack Williams, Joey Stroble, Tico Hoffman and Robert Jarratt for Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance, Southern Farm Bureau Life, Tico’s Steakhouse, Southern Farm Bureau Casualty, and Hilton-Jackson (buyers); Tucker and Meagan.

Reserve Champion Chester Hog exhibited by Anna Margaret Kilgore, Forrest 4-H. Pictured, from left, are Anna Margaret and Hayden Kilgore, Jack Williams, Tico Hoffman, Joey Stroble, Robert Jarratt and David Waide for Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance, Tico’s Steakhouse, Southern Farm Bureau Life, Southern Farm Bureau Casualty, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, Cimarron Mortgage, Attala Foods, Hilton-Jackson, Southern Cross Underwriters, Copeland, Cook, Taylor & Bush, PA (buyers). M AY / J U N E

Reserve Champion Mediumweight Goat exhibited by Anna Beth Mayhugh, Lawrence 4-H. Pictured, from left, are Jack Williams, Robert Jarratt, Joey Stroble, Tico Hoffman and David Waide for Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance, Southern Farm Bureau Casualty, Southern Farm Bureau Life, Tico’s Steakhouse, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, TeleSouth Communications and Hilton-Jackson (buyers); Anna Beth Mayhugh.

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YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Young farmers learn all about Greenwood-based Staplcotn, the oldest and one of the largest cotton marketing cooperatives in the United States.

Young farmers attending the 2010 Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation State Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Conference in Greenwood toured several Delta facilities, including Milburn Growers, a Ruleville seed company. The tour was led by Dekoka Davidson, Milburn Growers general manager.

Dr. Tim Walker with Mississippi State Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Delta Research and Extension Center in Stoneville talked to the group about state rice production.

Women conference attendees are pictured touring the Staplcotn facilities.

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FB CAN HELP YOU SAVE MONEY THIS SUMMER By Greg Gibson, MFBF Member Services Director By taking advantage of the many member benefits offered by Farm Bureau, you could save lots of money this summer when you take vacations and other trips. One of our most popular programs is our discounts on hotel rooms. Choice Hotels and Wyndham Hotels both offer Mississippi Farm Bureau members 20 percent discounts when staying at one of their hotels. Farm Bureau members saved over $20,000 on hotel rooms in 2009 using this discount. Farm Bureau also has deals with all the major rental car companies to save you money if you need to rent a car at your vacation destination. Of course, if you are in the market to BUY a new car this year for that great trip, don’t forget about the $500 discount on select Dodge vans, trucks and cars. How about protecting your identity while you are on your trip and using your credit cards more than usual? Farm Bureau’s relationship with LifeLock ID Theft Protection service will allow you to put your mind at ease as you travel this summer. Members receive a 10 percent discount on the already-affordable price that gives you peace of mind when using your credit cards. Mississippi Farm Bureau members also receive a 30-day free trial period in addition to the 10 percent OFF membership in LifeLock’s identity theft protection service. LifeLock, the leader in identity theft protection, helps protect your identity – even if your information falls into the wrong hands. As a LifeLock member, if you become a victim of identity theft because of a failure in LifeLock’s service, LifeLock will help you fix it at their expense, up to $1,000,000. (Restrictions apply. See lifelock.com for details. Due to New York state law restrictions, the LifeLock $1 Million Total Service Guarantee cannot be offered to residents of New York.) For more information on these or any of the other wonderful Member Benefits that come automatically with your Farm Bureau membership, visit our Web Site at www.msfb.com. Or call Member Benefits Coordinator Dedra Luke at 601.977.4169.

In today’s economy, wise purchases are more important than ever. With the skyrocketing price of fossil fuels, homeowners around the world have found that WaterFurnace is a smart choice. WaterFurnace geothermal comfort systems operate at a fraction of the cost of ordinary systems, saving you money every month. That’s because WaterFurnace geothermal systems use the clean, renewable energy in your own backyard to provide savings up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. For more information and an analysis of savings potential, contact your local WaterFurnace dealer. It’s money in the bank. CONTACT YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALER

Belzoni Donahoo Htg & Cooling Service (662) 247-3579 Carthage Carthage Htg & Cooling (601) 267-4611

M AY / J U N E

Corinth Harbin Htg & A/C, Inc. (662) 287-6809 Gulf Coast Adolph Bourdin (228) 255-3859

Gulfport Woods Htg & A/C Service, Inc. (228) 832-8945 Hattiesburg B.C.’s Htg, AIr & Sheet Metal Works, Inc. (877) 909-2918 (601) 731-1743

Meridian Sanders Htg & A/C (601) 693-4054

Ocean Springs Vaughan Htg & Cooling (228) 875-9961

Helbon Htg & Cooling (601) 483-8156

Pearl Comfort Designs, Inc. (601) 932-7555

Olive Branch Air & Heat Services Co., Inc. (662) 838-8088

M I S S I S S I P P I FA R M C O U N T RY

Members of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation are a part of one of the most influential organizations in the world.

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Farm Bureau offers many benefits that you may not know about. For more information, see page 2. Start taking advantage of the valuable benefits offered by your Farm Bureau membership!

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1-800-542-7395

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FLEET VEHICLES FOR SALE If you are interested in a used federation vehicle, please visit our Web site at www.msfb.com for more information. Click on the About Us link, then click the Fleet Vehicles for Sale on the drop down menu or contact Merlene Partridge at 1.800.227.8244, ext. 4233. These vehicles are late model, usually one - two years old. NADA retail, wholesale, and loan values are used to calculate price.

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