A Look Inside
Tim Brenneman shares a 40-year overview of changes and advancements made in peanut disease management.
16 | PLA MEETS IN D.C.
Peanut Leadership Academy holds session in Washington, D.C. focusing on the farm bill and legislative issues.
18 | FPPA ANNUAL MEETING
A review of the 49th annual Florida Peanut Producers Association annual meeting in Marianna, Florida.
20 | USDA EXPEDITES
FUNDS
USDA is expediting $10 billion in direct economic assistantce to agricultural producers. Sign up by Aug. 15, 2025.
2025 PEANUT DISEASE & INSECT GUIDEBOOK
The Peanut Disease & Insect Guidebook offers insights into adopting a proactive approach to disease management in 2025, including updates to Peanut Rx and guidance on understanding insect management risks for the year.
Tim Brenneman, University of Georgia plant pathologist in Tifton, Ga., has studied peanut diseases for 40 years. Photo by Joy Crosby.
Editor’s thoughts Events
Preparation for the Future
April marks a critical time for peanut growers—a season defined by careful preparation, strategic decision-making and the anticipation of what lies ahead. As fields are readied and seeds are selected, every choice carries the weight of experience and the hope of a successful growing season and harvest.
In this issue of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer, we focus on disease and insect management for 2025. Peanut farmers have many decisions to make in order to be proactive when it comes to disease and insect control. Also, decisions made throughout the growing season need to be timely when the weather cooperates.
One plant pathologist, Tim Brenneman, has been tackling peanut diseases for 40 years. During those years, he has learned some lessons, observed new techniques, discovered new recommendations for growers and more. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Brenneman and learn more about his career. Be sure to check out the article on page 6 in this issue about his 40 years of tackling peanut diseases.
This past month has been full of peanut promotions and events celebrating National Peanut Month. Peanut organizations have been busy with a variety of promotional events, advertising and more to help promote peanuts. All of the avenues used help to increase consumer demand for peanuts.
Also, National Ag Day was held in March and provided a way for consumers to learn more about agriculture during the month. National Ag Day generated more than 6,400 news stories which reached 750 million people.
Here are a few quick facts from the National Ag Day website that was used to promote agriculture.
• One farmer can feed more than 165 people.
• Farmers made up 4.3 percent of America's labor force in the early 1970s compared to 1.3 percent today.
• Farmers are proud stewards of our land, water and air.
Peanut farmers are the foundation of the peanut industry, and your resilience, knowledge, and stewardship continue to drive it forward. As the growing season begins, we are committed to delivering information that educates, informs and honors the work you do. Thank you for choosing to be a farmer and growing our tasty peanuts. I hope you have a successful planting season!
Joy Carter Crosby SEPF Editor
USA Peanut Congress
June 9-12, 2025, Nashville, Tenn. For more information call 229-888-2508 or visit peanut-shellers.org.
American Peanut Research and Educational Society
July 15-17, 2025, Richmond, Va. For more info visit apresinc.com.
Southern Peanut Growers
July 23-25, 2025, Edgewater Beach Resort, Panama City Beach, Fla. For more info visit southernpeanutfarmers.org.
American Peanut Shellers Association and National Peanut Buying Points Association Pre-Harvest Meeting
Aug. 19-20, 2025, Albany, Ga. For more information call 229-888-2508 or visit peanut-shellers.org.
Brooklet Peanut Festival
Sept. 20, 2025, Brooklet, Ga. For more information visit the festival's website at brookletpeanutfestival.com.
Plains Peanut Festival
Sept. 27, 2025, Plains, Ga. For more information call visit the festival's website at jimmycarterfriends.org.
Georgia National Fair
Oct. 2-12, 2025, Perry, Ga. For more info visit georgianationalfair.com.
Sunbelt Ag Expo
Oct. 14-16, 2025, Moultrie, Ga. For more info visit sunbeltexpo.com.
Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting
Oct. 27-29, 2025, Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, Daytona Beach, Fla. For more information visit floridafarmbureau.org.
American Peanut Council's Insights Summit
Dec. 10-11, 2025, Washington, D.C. For more info visit peanutsusa.com. Let us know about your event. Please send details to the editor at joycrosby@gapeanuts.com.
Southern Peanut Growers Conference Set for July
Mark your calendars for the 26th Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference, July 23-25, 2025, at the Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort, Panama City Beach, Florida. This year’s conference offers farmers an opportunity to learn more about legislative issues, peanut promotions and production issues.
The registration fee for growers is $275 which includes all conference events and meals. The registration deadline is June 15. The registration fee increases by $75 on June 16.
The theme for this year’s conference, “Ridin' out the Storm,” plans to focus on EPA's new herbicide strategy and a Washington update.
The conference schedule and registration information is available at www.southernpeanutfarmers.org
Schedule of Events
Wednesday, July 23
3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Conference Registration
6:30 p.m. Welcoming Reception
7:00 p.m. Welcome Dinner
Thursday, July 24
7:00 a.m.
8:30 a.m.
Prayer Breakfast
Jeb Smith, founding pastor of God’s Way Baptist Church in Hastings, Florida and President of Florida Farm Bureau
General Session I
EPA's New Herbicide Strategy
Dr. Taylor Singleton, University of Georgia
Dr. Mark Abney, University of Georgia
Dr. Wilson Faircloth, Syngenta
10:00 a.m. Refreshment Break
10:30 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
Ladies Program
Cookie Decorating
General Session II
Farmer's Attitudes
Dr. Scott Monfort, University of Georgia
Noon Luncheon
Feturing the World's Most Famous Peanut Farmer
Billy Senkbeil, Sylvester, Georgia
Friday, July 25
7:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m.
Farm Press Peanut Efficiency Awards Breakfast
General Session III
Peanut Policy & Economics
Bob Redding, The Redding Firm
Peanut Producer Panel
10:15 a.m. Refreshment Break
Noon Lunch on your own and afternoon free!
7:00 p.m. Reception
7:30 p.m. Dinner & Entertainment
In a Nutshell: 40 Years of Tackling Peanut Diseases
Brenneman wraps up career as plant pathologist at UGA
by Joy Crosby
Lessons like knowing where to park your truck, phrases to never say and how to expect the unexpected are all lessons University of Georgia plant pathologist Tim Brenneman found valuable during his 40-year career. The career also led him to help farmers develop disease management plans and discover pecan truffles.
One of the most important lessons Brenneman learned through his years of research is where to park his truck in a field with an irrigation pivot. Also, he
learned to never assume that a pivot will not be moved, even right after peanuts are dug.
Brenneman recalls parking his truck in Jud Greene’s field in Decatur County and walking through the field to capture disease ratings. Greene was planting a winter cover crop, so he was moving the pivot in the field. Brenneman noticed the pivot moving right towards his university truck, so he had to take off running through the field to move his truck before the pivot walked over it.
Through the years, Brenneman has learned that biological systems like peanut fields are constantly changing and nothing is constant. Also, biological systems like peanut fields are extremely complex, he adds.
Brenneman has also learned to never say never, especially when discussing Cylindrocladium Black Rot (CBR). The disease was first found in Terrell County, Georgia, in 1965 and could be devastating to peanut fields that had not been fumigated. Brenneman told farmers that the
Tim Brenneman, University of Georgia plant pathologist, will be retiring Sept. 1, 2025, after dedicating 40 years to peanut and pecan disease research.
microsclerotia that form can live in the soil a long time and spreads from field to field.
"I would tell the farmers that if you get CBR in your fields, then it will be there until you die," Brenneman says. "However, I've learned to never say never, since that ended up not being true."
Through research, plant pathologists discovered that CBR was seed transmitted. New fungicides were developed and applied infurrow to help manage the disease. There were also biological reasons that CBR went away. According to Brenneman, CBR is no longer a significant problem and mostly gone now for most all the Southeastern states.
However, the disease is now an issue in the Midwest and known as red crown rot and an emerging threat to soybean production.
"What truly excites me is walking into a field, identifying a serious disease issue, and working with the farmer to find a solution."
Tim Brenneman Plant Pathologist University of Georgia
Another issue concerning peanuts Brenneman was critical in solving involved seed disease issues in 2020.
"The foundation of our industry begins with the seed," Brenneman says. "We need good stands to get good crops, and good seed equals good stands."
Seed treatments are critical to the success of the peanut industry. When fungicide-resistant Aspergillus threatened the 2020 seed supply, Brenneman was at the forefront of introducing new seed treatments and in-furrow sprays to control it. He also helped develop the first polymer coating for peanut seed in Georgia.
White mold is a disease Brenneman has carefully researched for many years. Brenneman reminds growers that controlling white mold
takes a package approach of rotation, partially resistant cultivars, late planting and fungicide applications.
Brenneman recalls when he first came to Georgia in 1986 how growers used 100 pounds per acre of a granular product called Terraclor which only provided 20 to 30 percent control of white mold. According to Brenneman, the granular product was very expensive and time consuming to apply down through the canopy of the peanut plant.
Then in 1994, a game changer came along for farmers by the name of Folicur.
"Folicur was the first sprayable fungicide offered to control foliar and soilborne diseases," Brenneman says. "This was a new paradigm for growers."
Through the years more fungicides were developed including products with different chemistries and modes of action, and growers today have a variety of options.
However, Brenneman warns growers that new fungicides are great, but they are not bullet proof. One of the main reasons fungicides do not control white mold is through application where the fungicide may never reach the target site.
According to Brenneman, there are two methods of getting fungicides down to where white mold infects the plant and that is through night spraying when the leaves are folded and/or washing it down with irrigation.
Brenneman first observed night spraying in Nicaragua and decided to try the technique in the United States on his research plots. Through his research, Brenneman discovered that if farmers apply fungicides for white mold control just before daylight with dew on the leaves, then the fungicide will be able to get more to the crown of the peanut plant to control white mold. This is especially important for dryland growers.
One of Brenneman’s favorite studies of his career was conducted with Jason Woodward, PhD student in 2006. Through the study, they looked at how to wash fungicides down for white mold and still maintain
control of leaf spot on the foliage. The results from their study resulted in the recommendation of applying irrigation about 18 to 24 hours following a fungicide spray to achieve maximum redistribution of the fungicide for the best control of both leaf spot and white mold.
"The greatest advance coming down the road is the miracle of resistance with genes from the wild species," Brenneman says. "Resistance genes from wild species in South America have paved the way for breeders to incorporate many valuable traits into our commercial peanuts."
These new genes opened the door to all of the nematode resistant lines farmers use today such as Georgia 14-N, TifNV-HiOL and TifNV-HG. These have revolutionized nematode control, replacing expensive nematicides, and even better ones are on the way.
As retirement draws near for Brenneman, he reflects on his 40-year career involving disease management for peanut and pecan farmers.
"What truly excites me is walking into a field, identifying a serious disease issue, and working with the farmer to find a solution. I feel incredibly blessed to have worked with some amazing colleagues in an industry I've loved being a part of," Brenneman says. "Hopefully, the impact of all of these different pieces coming together will give farmers some tools to help manage diseases and stay profitable."
Tim Brenneman, University of Georgia plant pathologist, discusses night spraying for white mold management at a field day in 2011.
Checkoff Report
Investments Made by Growers for the Future of the Peanut Industry
APPA exhibits at Birmingham Home Show
The Alabama Peanut Producers Association exhibited at the Birmingham Home Show, Feb. 21-23, 2025, at the BJCC Exhibit Hall. The association attended the event for the first time this year, and was glad to share peanut recipes and giveaways with a new crowd. APPA distributed peanut samples, recipes, peanut butter spreaders and stress peanuts to attendees. The peanut trivia board provided an exciting way for attendees to learn more about peanuts.
Donna Sanders and Laura Hixon, APPA board member spouses and peanut producers, greeted attendees and answered a variety of questions with insight straight from the peanut field. Kaye Lynn Hataway, APPA promotions coordinator, also took the Hometown Flavor Cooking Stage in the afternoons for an exciting peanut recipe demonstration featuring a Thai Peanut Veggie Dip recipe. The recipe adds a savory twist to peanut butter combined with your favorite vegetable.
Alabama Commissioner Pate signs National Peanut Month Proclamation
The Alabama Peanut Producers Association celebrated National Peanut Month, March 18, 2025, in Montgomery, Alabama. The day kicked off with Rick Pate, Commissioner of Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, signing a proclamation declaring March as Peanut Month in Alabama. APPA then hosted Peanut Day at the Alabama State House, allowing peanut farmers to visit with legislators and pass out peanuts.
APPA partners with Medders Family Farm
The Alabama Peanut Producers Association partnered with Medders Family Farm to highlight National Peanut Month. APPA joined the Medders family on their farm in Montevallo, Alabama, to film a video showcasing their impact on Alabama peanuts and homemade peanut butter. The Medders family started their natural peanut butter business to support their daughter with Celiac Disease, but their delicious recipes have grown increasingly popular with the public. They even stock retail stores all over Alabama. The video is available to watch on the Alabama Peanut Producers Association Facebook page and YouTube channel.
FPPA sponsors Florida Row Crop Short Course
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Regional Row Crop Short Course held annually in Marianna, Florida, is a highly anticipated event that draws over 140 participants. The course covers crucial topics such as crop varieties and performance, managing herbivory in row crops, and the latest product updates.
The Florida Peanut Producers Association values the opportunity to sponsor this event each year and connect with peanut producers. We invite you to save the date for the UF IFAS Peanut Field Day on Aug. 14, 2025.
Georgia Peanut Commission promotes peanuts in Chicago
The Georgia Peanut Commission promoted peanuts in Chicago during National Peanut Month in March. GPC teamed up with registered dietitian Annessa Chumbley for a segment on Spotlight Chicago on WGN9 News. During the segment, Chumbley highlighted peanuts by showcasing peanut recipes including the Thai Peanut Cups. Chumbley also had Oliver Farms Green Peanut Oil and JamSpread Farms peanut butter spread in chocolate, coffee and butterscoth flavors for the hosts to sample. The segment reached 140,000+ impressions.
Kaye Lynn Hataway, Donna Sanders and Laura Hixon exhibit at the Birmingham Home Show in February.
Rick Pate (center), Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries, signs the 2025 National Peanut Month proclamation for Alabama.
Jackson county producers Larry Ford (center) visits with Dave DeFelix (left) and Tommy Hamilton (right) during the row crop short course in Marianna, Fla.
Georgia Peanut Commission hosts PB&J Day at State Capitol
The annual Georgia PB&J Day was held March 4, 2025, at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta. Exhibitors from the peanut industry served grilled PB&Js, country-fried peanuts, peanut candy and more. During the special program, Sen. Russ Goodman and Rep. Robert Dickey presented resolutions highlighting the importance of peanuts to Georgia’s economy. Gov. Brian Kemp proclaimed the month of March as Georgia Peanut Month in the state with a proclamation. Exhibitors and sponsors of the event include the Georgia Peanut Commission, National Peanut Buying Points Association, Kroger, Georgia Farm Bureau, National Peanut Board, Peanut Proud, Atlanta Community Food Bank, The Peanut Insitute and the University of Georgia Peanut Team.
GPC donates peanut butter to Atlanta Community Food Bank
The Georgia Peanut Commission donated 10,080 jars of Peanut Proud peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank to celebrate National Peanut Month in March. The Atlanta Community Food Bank provides food and grocery products to more than 700 nonprofit partner agencies with hunger relief programs throughout 29 counties in metro Atlanta and north Georgia.
According to Kyle Waide, president & CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, the need for food assistance is not going away.
"The Food Bank has seen a 60 percent increase in the need for food assistance over the past three years. We are distributing food in record volumes to 240,000 households each month," Waide says. "Peanut butter is a proteinrich food that can be a versatile pantry staple for a family or individual in need. We are grateful to the Georgia Peanut Commission and Peanut Proud for this generous donation that will help serve the 13 percent of the state's population and 1 in 5 Georgia children who are food insecure."
GPC approves FY25-26 funding of research projects
The Georgia Peanut Commission board of directors has approved $764,189 in research project funding for the 2025-26 research budget year. The research projects approved include 40 project proposals submitted from the University of Georgia, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Kennesaw State University, North Carolina State University and USDA Agricultural Research Service.
The research programs primarily focus on peanut breeding, conservation methods, irrigation and water management, as well as pests, weed and disease management. The GPC board of directors approved additional projects focusing on non-food uses of peanuts. The new projects are looking at utilizing normal-oleic peanuts in poultry feed, an economic feasibility and performance evaluation of pastureraised broiler chickens in peanutbased farming systems and converting peanut oil from a non-drying oil to a drying oil for timber oils and coatings.
Additionally, GPC manages funding for the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative which includes research funding of $1,460,202 for projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. These projects are funded through the National Peanut Board checkoff dollars from farmers.
For a list of the research projects funded by GPC visit gapeanuts.com.
Georgia Peanut Commission promotes peanuts for National Peanut Month
The Georgia Peanut Commission promoted peanuts throughout the month of March through a variety of promotions. GPC sponsored a special series, "Proud to be a Georgia Farmer," with WALB-TV in Albany. The program featured a special 30-minute show about the Georgia peanut industry including farmer interviews and information on production, research, peanut nutrition and more. GPC provided peanuts and recipes to the state's 11 welcome centers for tourists. Throughout the month, GPC promoted peanuts through television and radio ads, social media influencer campaigns with This Baking Life and The Feast Kings, social media contests and more. Through past partnerships, Georgia Peanuts were also highlighted complimentary in March on an episode of The VeryVera Show and a digital billboard in Times Square. The VeryVera Show, currently in its 13th season, airs in 47 metropolitan markets across 23 states. The Times Square billboard reached an estimated 9 million impressions in March.
Georgia peanut farmers and industry representaives visit with the Georgia Speaker of the House of Representatives Jon Burns and state senators and representatives during the Georgia PB&J Day held March 4, 2025, in Atlanta, Ga.
The Georgia Peanut Commission donated 10,080 jars of peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank.
2025 Peanut Disease & Insect Guidebook
implementing a Proactive approach to peanut disease management Strategies for prevention and control
By Joy Crosby
Peanut growers face numerous challenges when it comes to disease management, as fungal, bacterial and viral pathogens can severely impact yield and quality. A proactive approach is crucial to minimizing losses and maintaining a healthy crop throughout the 2025 season.
"Depending on weather conditions, diseases could result in severe yield losses in 2025. To minimize impacts, peanut growers should choose disease-resistant varieties when needed, rotate away from peanuts as needed and implement effective fungicide programs," says Amanda Scherer, Auburn University Extension plant pathologist.
Tomato spotted wilt, white mold and late leaf spot could have negative impacts across the Southeastern peanut production region in 2025. Nematodes, both the peanut rootknot and, perhaps, the lesion could also be a problem in a number of fields across the Southeast.
"It is important to remember that once the furrow is closed, all of the management decisions to protect your crop from tomato spotted wilt disease have been made and nearly all of the decisions to protect your crop from root-knot nematodes have
been made," says Bob Kemerait, University of Georgia Extension plant pathologist. "The same is true for seedling disease, and in-furrow use of a fungicide. Once the furrow is closed, growers watch the struggles with tomato spotted wilt, nematodes, and seedling diseases from the sidelines."
Scherer and Kemerait agree that when it comes to protecting the peanut crop in 2025 from leaf spot and white mold diseases farmers need to be timely with fungicide applications, have good coverage, choose appropriate product and apply at the appropriate rate.
Leaf spot
Peanut leaf spot diseases, especially late leaf spot, were problematic in 2024 but were not as severe as in 2021. Leaf spot diseases remain a critical threat to profitability.
Critical components of a leaf spot fungicide program include variety, crop rotation, timeliness of fungicide application, selection of fungicide and rate of fungicide applied.
Factors that increase threat to leaf spot diseases include environmental conditions (rain followed by more rain) favorable for development and spread of disease, which can also affect a grower's ability to make timely
Leaf spot disease
fungicide applications, and short crop rotations. Combinations of these factors put tremendous pressure on some fungicide programs.
To prevent losses to leaf spot, especially late leaf spot, it is imperative to stay on a timely, proven program. It is recommended that growers select fungicides or mixtures of fungicides based upon threat of disease in the field and continue appropriate management programs through the end of the season.
Growers are advised to carefully consider extended spray if fields are at high-risk as from short rotations and/ or a more susceptible variety. Lateleaf spot was severe in some fields in southwestern Georgia, Kemerait notes.
"I encourage growers there to consult with UGA Extension and with
your ag-chemical representatives to best understand modifications to fungicide programs during the 2025 season." Kemerait says.
Micronized sulfur can be mixed with tebuconazle (Foilcur) and azoxystrobin (Abound) for management of leaf spot. Some sulfur formulations, at rates of 3-5 lbs. per acre, have significantly improved control of leaf spot when tank-mixed with products azoxystrobin (Abound), Headline, Umbra, Excalia and tebuconazole.
Sulfur formulations at 5 lbs. per acre to include Microthiol Disperss, Microthiol 80W, Drexel Sulfur 80W, Drexel Suffa 6F, TechnoS 90W, Optimas Sulfur and Accoidal 80 WG, performed similarly when mixed with either azoxystrobin or tebuconazole. Kolla 6F performed well; however it was not as effective as the products mentioned above.
White mold
White mold was generally less severe in 2024 than in 2023, but yield losses were observed in some fields across the Southeast. Also, with peanuts "staying in the ground" for nearly 160 days, more attention must be given to protecting the crop from white mold even after the traditional "4-block-60-to-104-days-afterplanting" window ends.
Critical components of a white mold fungicide program also include timeliness of application and timelines of irrigation or rainfall following applications, preferably within 12-24 hours.
According to Kemerait, farmers should note that there will be several generic formulations of Provost Silver available in 2025 and these include Prozio BWP and Taj. Another product Vantana (fluazinam) will also be available for white mold control in 2025.
One of the most important management decisions with white mold management is crop rotation.
"White mold is a soil borne pathogen, which can survive for long periods in the soil," Scherer says.
"Growers should lengthen their crop rotation away from peanuts to a nonlegume crop such as cotton, corn or grain sorghum, as it reduces fungal populations, especially in severly infested fields."
There are some good varieties that have resistance to white mold which include Georgia 12Y, Georgia 18-RU, FloRun T61 and Georgia 14N. Also, planting later helps to reduce risk of white mold.
Overall management of white mold can be improved by an earlyseason banded application of Proline, protecting the crop during the critical time 60-105 days after planting and using products known to be more effective against white mold such as Convoy, Elatus, Excalia and others.
To improve fungicide efficacy against white mold, timely irrigation between 8-24 hours after a fungicide application and applying fungicides at night in order to get the fungicide product down to the crown of the plant.
Growers also need to make sure they are initiating a program prior to 60 DAP and extending beyond 105 DAP when conditions favor development of white mold or where disease is active in the field later in the season, Kemerait adds.
Nematodes
Losses to nematodes, both the peanut root-knot nematode and lesion nematodes, occurred across the Southeast in 2024. Management of nematodes include variety selection, crop rotation and selection of nematicides. Products for management of nematodes in 2025 include Telone II, AgLogic, Velum, Propulse, Vydate CLV and Return XL.
Growers should recognize that important management options for the root-knot nematode include crop rotation, resistant varieties (example TifNV-HiOL, Georgia-14N, TifNV-HG, and Georgia-22MPR), and use of nematicides as a pre-plant fumigant (Telone II) or at planting (example Velum, Vydate-CLV, or AgLogic 15G). A later application of Propulse can be used to reduce damage to the pods and pegs, but does not replace management decisions made before the furrow is closed. Propulse and Vydate-CLV are labeled for application later in the season.
White mold
2025 Peanut Rx Updates
By Joy Crosby
Researchers are urging farmers to utilize Peanut Rx as a tool to help guide their management decisions going into the 2025 planting season. Peanut Rx is designed to assist growers in modifying their production practices to effectively reduce risks to diseases in the field.
Having been developed in 1996, Peanut Rx was originally intended to combat increasing grower concern for Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV). Today, Peanut Rx can be referenced for guidance concerning TSWV, leaf spot and white mold.
The 2025 Peanut Rx has been updated by researchers at the University of Georgia, University of Florida, Auburn University, Mississippi State University, Clemson University and North Carolina State University.
There have been a few updates to Peanut Rx 2025 from the 2023 version. All changes that have been made can be found in the cultivar/variety section of Peanut Rx. Minor updates have been included in the discussion of the use of Classic herbicide.
As in previous versions of the Disease Index, growers will note that attention to variety selection, planting date, plant population, good crop rotation, tillage and other factors, has a tremendous impact on the potential for diseases in a field.
"I encourage growers to stay on a timely, proven program because once the furrow is closed, the die is cast for management of spotted wilt," says Bob Kemerait, University of Georgia Extension plant pathologist. "Growers should continue to use Peanut Rx to develop strategies to reduce risk from spotted wilt, white mold and leaf spot in their peanut crop."
In 2024, losses to tomato spotted wilt across the peanut production region of the Southeastern United States were estimated to be 3 percent, down from an estimated 5 percent in 2023 and 7 percent in 2022. While
Arnie1
Bailey2,3
Florida Fancy2
FloRun™'52N'1,2
FloRun™'331'2 202015Susceptible FloRun™'T61'1,2 102515Susceptible
Georgia-06G102020Susceptible
Georgia-09B2 202525Susceptible
Georgia-12Y5 51510Susceptible
Georgia-14N2,4 101515Resistant
Georgia-16HO2 102520Susceptible
Georgia-18RU 1525 20Susceptible
Georgia-20VHO1,2 1020
Georgia-21GR1 102020 Susceptible Georgia-22MPR1,2,4 102020Resistant
Georgia Green6
Sullivan2
TifCB-71,2,7
TifNV-HG1,2,4 102020Resistant TifNV-HiOL2,4 101515Resistant TUFRunner™ '297'2 102520Susceptible TUFRunner™'511'2,6 203015Susceptible
1 Adequate research data is not available for all varieties with regards to all diseases. Additional varieties will be included as data to support the assignment of an index value are available.
2 High oleic variety.
3 Variety Bailey II is similar in characteristics to 'Bailey' but is a high oleic chemistry. It also has increased resistance to Cylindrocladium black rot (CBR) as compared to other varieties commonly planted in Georgia.
4 Tifguard, TifNV-HiOL, TifNV-HG, Georgia-14N and Georgia-22MPR have excellent resistance to the peanut root-knot nematode.
5 Georgia-12Y appears to have increased risk to Rhizoctonia limb rot and precautions should be taken to protect against this disease.
6 These varieties are rarely grown commercially but remain embedded in Peanut Rx as historic examples of how resistance to tomato spotted wilt disease and other diseases have changed over time.
7 We continue to evaluate CB7 for full understanding of its leaf spot resistance as data has been variable in some peanut production areas in the Southeast.
the severity of tomato spotted wilt varies across the peanut production region of the Southeastern U.S., this disease has significant impact on the majority of acres in the region planted to peanuts.
"If a grower totals their points and are at high risk for tomato spotted wilt virus then they should
consider altering their planting date or using less susceptible varieties to help reduce their risk," says Scott Graham, Auburn University Extension entomologist.
To learn how Peanut Rx can help reduce disease risk during the 2025 growing season, visit the website at peanutrx.org.
Peanut Rx Variety1
Understanding Risk
Managing insect pressure in 2025
By Joy Crosby
Every peanut field in the Southeast will have insects in 2025.
Understanding the risk of insect pressure and the cost to yield will help a farmer make the right decisions and not spend money when it is not needed for insect management.
"Many times, farmers will spend money trying to control insects that may not actually cost the farmer yield loss," says Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension peanut entomologist. "Farmers need to understand the risk that insects pose and make decisions that preserve profit for this crop year."
University Extension specialists encourage farmers to scout and monitor their fields weekly for overall insect management in 2025.
"Scouting is the only way to know what insects are present and at what level," says Scott Graham, Auburn University Extension entomologist. "Farmers should treat pests only when at certain thresholds."
Scouting is best accomplished by vigorously shaking peanut vines and foliage to dislodge the insects onto the ground or beat sheet. In a 40-to-80-acre field, sampling three feet of row at ten locations in the field is sufficient.
"No matter what problem a farmer has, in this economy farmers need to scout their crop," Graham says.
Rootworms
Southern corn rootworm is native to the Southeast and has always affected peanuts. This insect requires moist soil to survive. The immature stage, which feeds on the peanuts below ground cannot survive in dry soil.
In 2025, farmers face the banded cucumber beetle, also a type of rootworm, though this species is not native to the Southeast. It is native to the tropics and has gradually moved north over time. According to Abney, many times growers do not realize their crop has been damaged by rootworm because the insects feed on immature pods. The damaged pods often rot long before the crop is harvested.
The best management option today is granular chlorpyrifos. Food use tolerances for the product were revoked and then reinstated by the USA EPA in recent years because of court orders. Peanut growers can use granular chlorpyrifos in 2025. It is important to note that liquid chlorpyrifos cannot legally be applied to peanut foliage in Georgia. Farmers in other states should check product labels to determine the status of liquid chlorpyrifos in their area.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if a farmer has existing stock of chlorpyrifos then it can be used until June 30, 2025. The sale and distribution deadline is April 30, 2025.
A new product from Syngenta is on the horizon but is still awaiting registration from EPA, so it is not likely to be available for rootworm control in 2025.
If a farmer has additional questions, Abney recommends contacting their local county Extension agent.
Foliage Feeding Caterpillars
In some cases, farmers may overestimate the risk posed by caterpillars and spray when treatment is not needed. Caterpillars can cause yield loss, Abney adds, but spending money on insecticides when they are not needed is also a concern.
In research conducted at Mississippi State University, yield was reduced only when defoliation was 100 percent prior to flowering. Similarly, defoliation less than 50 percent between 80 and 100 days after emergence had no effect on yield.
According to Abney, all caterpillars should be counted, and their size and species composition should be noted. The threshold is 4 to 8 foliage feeding caterpillars per foot of row. If vines are small or stressed, then use the lower threshold. The higher threshold can be employed when vines are healthy and foliage is rank.
Thrips/Spotted Wilt
For every 1 percent of tomato spotted wilt at harvest, a farmer is
Banded Cucumber Beetle
Velvetbean Caterpillar
going to lose about 20 pounds of Georgia-06G.
"Growers need to consider how much they can lose to tomato spotted wilt, and every decision they make about how much money they are going to spend and how much aggravation they are willing to endure to manage thrips and TSWV should be based on that consideration," Abney says.
Before planting, growers should think about how to reduce the risk associated with TSW by using the Peanut Rx risk assessment tool available at county Extension offices and online.
According to Graham, the most important step a grower can take to reduce the risk of spotted wilt virus is to avoid planting too early.
"I'm a big proponent of planting when you have soil moisture," Graham adds. "But don't plant everything too early. Save some of your crop until May when we're at the lowest risk of thrips pressure and spotted wilt."
Through his research, Graham has observed a consistent return on investment for at-plant insecticides applied to peanuts planted in April. Over the past four years in Headland, Alabama, his studies showed an 843-pound increase in yield, translating to $210 per acre. All trials were planted during the last week of April with the Georgia-06G variety. Graham treated the trials with imidacloprid, Thimet, Vydate
and AgLogic infurrow and had an untreated check.
"The data showed that regardless of when you plant in April, we see a yield advantage to having an at-plant insecticide go out in the furrow," Graham says.
Lastly, Abney and Graham both agree one of the best recommendations for growers in 2025 is to stay in the loop by following University Extension recommendations. There are podcasts, websites and newsletters sent out through the Extension service to aid farmers throughout the growing season.
Online Education
Podcasts
Alabama Crop Extension - Alabama Crops Report UGA Peanut Team's Podcast - All About the Pod
Websites
Alabama-insects.blogspot.com
https://site.extension.uga.edu/peanutent/ http://extension.msstate.edu
https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/
Chlorpyrifos Available in 2025
By Joy Crosby
Farmers facing issues with peanut burrower bugs or rootworms in peanut fields can use granular chlorpyrifos until June 30, 2025. The United States Environmental Protection Agency released the proposed tolerance rule in December 2024.
Chlorpyrifos has been under scrutiny for several years and in 2021 EPA revoked all food use tolerances of the pesticide. However, the Eighth Circuit’s mandate issued on December 28, 2023, finalized the court’s judgment, and vacated the Agency’s 2021 rule revoking chlorpyrifos tolerances.
On Feb. 5, 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency published a final rule amending its regulations to reflect the current legal status of the chlorpyrifos tolerances following a court order vacating the Agency's revocation of those tolerances. This decision allowed farmers to utilize any existing stock of chlorpyrifos, with a current label, during the 2024 season.
Growers can use currently registered chlorpyrifos products on all crops with reinstated tolerances, consistent with directions for use on those product labels. However, such uses may be subject to restrictions by individual states.
According to Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension entomologist, growers who need to use chlorpyrifos will be able to do so until June 30, 2025, but they should not plan to save any of the product for later use.
Chlorpyrifos is an important tool used to combat peanut burrower bugs and rootworms in peanut fields. Peanut producers who need additional information about which products containing chlorpyrifos are available and legal to use on peanuts in 2025 should contact their local county Extension agent.
Thrips injury
Peanut Leadership Academy visits capitol hill
by Jessie Bland
Members of Class XIII of the Peanut Leadership Academy (PLA) visited Washington D.C. March 2-6, 2025, for the fourth and final session of the leadership program. New this time, the group began their visit with a Virginia tour, where they learned more about Virginia peanut production and peanut related industry in the area. Upon arrival to D.C., attendees had the opportunity to hear from industry representatives and discuss the 2025 Farm Bill, state of the agricultural economy, policy development and conduct congressional office visits.
The session began on Capitol Hill with a state of the agricultural economy presentation by John Newton, executive head of Terrain. A panel discussion on agricultural policy followed with Bryan Dierlam, director of government relations with Archer Daniels Midland Company, John Walt Boatright, director of government affairs with the American Farm Bureau Federation and Robbie Minnich, vice president of Washington operations with the National Cotton Council. These gentlemen gave an update on commodity policy, particularly as it pertains to the 2025 Farm Bill.
Lastly, Brad Weddelman, chief economist with the United States Senate Committee on Agriculture, and Justin Benavidez, cheif economist with the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, discussed the 2025 Farm Bill outlook.
Academy participants concluded the Washington D.C. visit with a day of meetings on the Hill. Here, class members were able to visit with their respective state senators and representatives from the peanutproducing areas in the Southeast, Arkansas, Virginia/Carolina region and Texas. Their meetings consisted
of discussions related to concerns in their states, as well as expressions of gratitude for their delegation’s service and support.
Additionally, leaders shared the peanut industry’s farm bill priorities with members of Congress. Conversations focused on the need for a farm bill as soon as possible, which should include an increase in the reference price for the peanut Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program and a voluntary base update that will assist newer growing regions and younger growers.
The Peanut Leadership Academy, coordinated by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation and sponsored by Syngenta Crop Protection and the American Peanut Shellers Association, provides leadership training for young farmers and sheller representatives in the peanut industry. Through the training, participants gain valuable leadership skills to be used in the future and insight into many different issues the peanut industry faces.
Additional information on PLA is available online at southernpeanutfarmers.org.
Peanut Leadership Academy Class XIII held their legislative focused session in Washington, D.C. While in the area, participants learned more about the legislative process, visited with elected officials and listened to a commodity and industry panel regarding the state of the agricultural economy and the 2025 Farm Bill.
Peanut Leadership Academy members participate in a classroom session on Capitol Hill, where industry and commodity representatives and House and Senate Agricultural Committee staff members discuss the upcoming 2025 Farm Bill.
Peanut Leadership Academy members tour Hubbard Peanut Company in Sedley, Va. Hubs began operations in 1954 and today sell a variety of Virginia peanuts, peanut brittle and more at their storefront and online through their website.
integrative Precision Agriculture Conference
The 2nd Integrative Precision Agriculture Conference will take place in Perry, Georgia, May 1-2, 2025, to coincide with the UGA Grand Farm groundbreaking ceremony. The conference will focus on developing strong private and public partnerships to advance precision agriculture in the Southeast.
The program offers a combination of industry and university presentations as well as networking opportunities. The industry presentations are from companies working on emerging technologies that will make agricultural production more efficient. They range from companies developing robots for autonomous weeding to companies offering fertilizer prescriptions from remotely sensed satellite images.
Presenters from the University of Georgia, the Georgia Tech Research Institute and North Dakota State University will describe how they are working closely with industry partners and growers to promote adoption of these emerging technologies. A panel of commodity group representatives will discuss pressing problems facing growers that could be solved by adopting precision agriculture practices and technologies. At the end of the day, there will be a reception combined with a graduate student poster competition with graduate
students from UGA, Georgia Tech and Fort Valley State University.
On the afternoon of May 2, participating companies and university researchers will demonstrate their equipment at the site of the UGA Grand Farm. Among others, the demonstrations include the John Deere See & Spray™ Ultimate, the Solix Ag Robotics autonomous sprayer and the Monarch MK-V electric tractor.
The conference is also designed to leverage the opportunities offered by the UGA Grand Farm.
The UGA Grand Farm which is located adjacent to the grounds of the Georgia National Fair in Perry, will serve as a hub for research, education and sustainable agriculture practices. By harnessing the power of precision agriculture, robotics and data analytics, researchers from the University of Georgia and industry partners will increase productivity, conserve resources, and ensure food security for future generations.
Grand Farm representatives on the conference program will discuss the opportunities offered by the UGA Grand Farm.
Photo credit: University of Georgia.
UGA technician Rodney Hill and UGA student Logan Moore collect reflectance data in a peanut maturity study.
Florida Peanut Producers Association holds 49th Annual Meeting
by Joy Crosby
The Florida Peanut Producers Association held their 49th Annual Membership Meeting Feb. 27, 2025, in Marianna, Florida. During the meeting, farmers elected new board members and received a report on activities of FPPA and the National Peanut Board.
The new member elected to serve on the FPPA Board of Directors is Jeff Pittman from Dellwood, Florida. He is eligible to serve two consecutive three-year terms. Pittman replaces retiring director Larry Ford of Greenwood, Florida.
Phillip Melvin, Altha, Florida, was elected for another three-year term on the board of directors. Officers elected during the meeting include Melvin from Altha, Florida, as president and David DeFelix from Campbellton, Florida, as vice president, and Pittman from Dellwood, Florida, as secretary/ treasurer.
Brittany Peacock, FPPA program coordinator, provided a report highlighting some of the promotional and educational activities the association has been involved in over the past year. Lauren Highfill Williams, director of communications of the National Peanut Board, gave a report on national promotions and research funding.
The highlight of the evening included the presentation of the Farm Credit/FPPA Young Peanut Farmer Award presentation. Monica Colvin, vice president and relationship manager III with Farm Credit of Florida presented the award to Cody Robinson from Williston, Florida.
Robinson, a fourth-generation farmer, decided at a young age that he wanted to farm. Robinson has been farming with his family’s peanut farm, Robinson Peanut Farms, for 10 years. Robinson’s family farm is unique in
that they grow peanuts continuously year after year with only a cover crop in between peanut crops.
Robinson is a member of Class XIII of the Peanut Leadership Academy and serves as chairman of Levy County Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee.
Robinson is always looking for new ideas and ways to help his family’s farm thrive and succeed. Even though farming is hard work, Robinson thoroughly enjoys every aspect of
Cody Robinson of Williston, Fla., receives the the Farm Credit/Florida Peanut Producers Association Young Peanut Farmer Award during the 49th FPPA annual meeting held Feb. 27, 2025, in Marianna, Fla. Pictured left to right: Monica Colvin, vice president and relationship manager III with Farm Credit of Florida, Cody Robinson and Kaylee Robinson.
The FPPA board pictured left to right are Scott Robinson, Williston; Tyler Brown, Jay; Phillip Melvin, Altha; Jeff Pittman, Dellwood; and Rollin Hudson, Chiefland. Not pictured are Nick Marshall, Baker; Jim McArthur, Malone; David DeFelix, Campbellton, and Ernest Fulford, Monticello, Florida.
FPPA president Larry Ford (center) receives a retirement plaque from incoming president Phillip Melvin (left) and Ken Barton (right), FPPA executive director.
growing peanuts from start to finish.
Robinson is married to Kaylee and they are expecting a baby girl in June.
Also, during the annual meeting, PeopleSouth Bank and FPPA presented the Grower of the Year, to Henry McCrone of Blountstown, Florida. McCrone serves as a state board member with the Florida Farm Bureau. McCrone's past service includes board memberships with the Florida Peanut Producers and the Florida Cotton Growers Association.
As a graduate of the University of Florida's Class III Agricultural & Natural Resources/Wedgworth Leadership Institute, McCrone has represented agriculture extensively. His contributions have been recognized by numerous counties and the Northwest Florida Research Center. Notably, in the 1990s, he was among the first agricultural advocates to address water consumption issues in the Apalachicola River system.
A significant aspect of McCrone’s career has been his work with and advocacy for farmers in Florida,
particularly in the northwest region. Growing up on a peanut farm, he has remained passionate about peanut cultivation and continues to grow them at the age of 65.
As part of the award, PeopleSouth Bank presents FPPA with $500 and a non-profit organization of the winner's choice with a donation of $1,000.
McCrone selected the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement in Blountstown, Florida, as the recipient of the donation. The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement highlights the history of life in Calhoun County and the Florida Panhandle between the 1820s and the 1940s.
Henry McCrone of Blountstown, Fla., receives the Grower of the Year Award during the 49th FPPA annual meeting held Feb. 27, 2025, in Marianna, Fla. Pictured left to right: Felicia DeLoach, vice president, and Blake Donaldson, lender, with PeopleSouth Bank, McCrone, Howard Johnson, CFO of Panhandle Pioneer Settlement in Blountstown, Fla., and Ken Barton, FPPA executive director.
USDA expediting $10 billion in direct economic assistance to agricultural producers
Sign-up period is open until Aug. 15, 2025
By Joy Crosby
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for up to $10 billion in direct payments to farmers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program for the 2024 crop year. The new market-based assistance program will help agricultural producers mitigate the impacts of increased input costs and falling commodity prices.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins made the announcement on National Agriculture Day. The ECAP was approved as part of the American Relief Act 2025 passed by Congress on Dec. 21, 2024.
"Producers are facing higher costs and market uncertainty, and the Trump Administration is ensuring they get the support they need without delay," says Secretary Rollins. "With clear direction from Congress, USDA has prioritized streamlining the process and accelerating these payments ahead of schedule, ensuring farmers have the resources necessary to manage rising expenses and secure financing for next season."
Applying for ECAP
The economic relief payments are based on planted and prevented planted crop acres for eligible commodities for the 2024 crop year. FSA will begin sending pre-filled applications to producers who submitted acreage reports to FSA for 2024 eligible ECAP commodities after the signup period opens March 19, 2025.
However, producers do not have to wait for their pre-filled ECAP application to apply. Farmers can visit fsa.usda.gov/ecap to apply or contact their local FSA office to request an
application. Producers must submit ECAP applications to their local FSA county office by Aug. 15, 2025. Only one application is required for all ECAP eligible commodities nationwide.
Eligible producers must report 2024 crop year planted and prevented planted acres to FSA on an FSA-578, Report of Acreage form. Producers who have not previously reported 2024 crop year acreage or filed a notice of loss for prevented planted crops must submit an acreage report by the Aug. 15, 2025, deadline.
If a producer does not receive a pre-filled ECAP application, and they planted or were prevented from planting ECAP eligible commodities in 2024, they should contact their local FSA office.
ECAP Payments and Calculator
ECAP payments will be issued as applications are approved. Initial payments will be factored by 85 percent to ensure total payments do not exceed available funding. If additional funds remain, FSA may issue a second payment.
ECAP assistance will be calculated using a flat payment rate for the eligible commodity multiplied by the eligible reported acres. Payments are based on acreage and not production. For acres reported as prevented plant, ECAP assistance will be calculated at 50 percent.
For ECAP payment estimates, producers are encouraged to visit the website, fsa.usda.gov/ecap, to use the ECAP online calculator.
More Information
To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Producers
can also prepare maps for acreage reporting as well as manage farm loans and view other farm records data and customer information by logging into their farmers.gov account.
FSA implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees. For more information, visit fsa.usda.gov.
Georgia Peanut Farmers Donate Peanut Butter to Capital Area Food Bank
More than 5,000 jars of peanut butter donated during USPF Washington, D.C., fly-In
By Lorene Parker
The United States Peanut Federation leaders combined advocacy with service during their March 2025 Washington, D.C. flyin. The Georgia Peanut Commission, in conjunction with USPF, proudly partnered with Peanut Proud, the peanut industry's humanitarian relief organization, to donate 5,760 jars of peanut butter to serve the nation's capital and surrounding areas. This donation was made to recognize and celebrate National Peanut Month in March.
"We are grateful to provide this donation of peanut butter to the Capital Area Food Bank to help ensure that those affected by food insecurity in this area can have access to safe, nutritional food," says Joe Boddiford, GPC chairman.
USPF representatives were able to visit the Capital Area Food Bank and hear firsthand how this donation will positively impact families in the local community. According to representatives at CAFB, the peanut butter donated will be distributed as quickly as this week to children, families, and the elderly in the community.
Molly McGlinchy, Deputy Chief of Programs and Innovation at CAFB, expressed appreciation to the peanut industry representatives in attendance.
"Protein is a critical nutrient at all ages and all stages of life for the individuals that we serve, and peanut butter is a great way to provide that nutrient," McGlinchy says. "It's shelfstable and kid-friendly, and always in high demand among our clients. We're grateful for this donation, which will be distributed to neighbors across our region."
CAFB works to address hunger today and create brighter futures tomorrow for the half a million neighbors across the region experiencing food insecurity. As the anchor in the area's hunger relief infrastructure, they provide over 60 million meals to people in need each year by supplying food to hundreds of nonprofit organizations. They also work in partnership with organizations across the region to address hunger's root causes by pairing food with other critical services.
March is also National Nutrition Month – a great time to recognize the nutritional value of peanuts. One serving of peanuts is a good source of protein, vitamin E, niacin, folate, phosphorus, and magnesium. Peanuts are naturally cholesterol-free and low
in saturated fat.
The USPF is comprised of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation, the American Peanut Shellers Association, and the National Peanut Buying Points Association. USPF serves as a unified voice in Washington D.C. for all sectors of the peanut industry and advocates actively for strong agricultural policy.
Peanut industry representatives donate 5,760 jars of Peanut Proud peanut butter to the Capital Area Food Bank. The donation was made during the U.S. Peanut Federation's Spring 2025 Washington, D.C. Fly-in and in recognition of National Peanut Month in March.
Washington Outlook
By Robert L. Redding Jr.
U.S. Peanut Federation responds to USTR request for comments on unfair trade practices
U.S. Peanut Federation (USPF) Chairman Jamie Brown recently signed a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer in response to USTR's "Request for Comments to Assist in Reviewing and Identifying Unfair Trade Practices and Initiating All Necessary Actions to Investigate Harm from Non-Reciprocal Trade Arrangements." The Southern Peanut Farmers Federation and Georgia Peanut Commission are members of the USPF.
Read the full letter below:
Dear Ambassador Greer, The United States Peanut Federation represents peanut growers, shellers and buying points. USPF is comprised of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation, the American Peanut Shellers Association, and the National Peanut Buying Points Association, and serves as a unified voice for all sectors of the peanut industry. Peanuts are grown in thirteen states across the U.S. The U.S. is the fourth largest producer of peanuts with China, India and Nigeria leading global production. We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on non-reciprocal trade arrangements and unfair trade practices.
Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring chemical found in nut and grain crops across the world. Several factors can contribute to aflatoxin being present and the U.S. peanut industry has multiple protocols in place to manage its impact on the industry. The current U.S. Department of
2025 Farm Bill update
The one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate in December 2024 is set to expire on September 30, 2025.
U.S. Peanut Federation leaders
Agriculture standard for total aflatoxin in raw edible products is 15 parts per billion (ppb) or less CFR 996.11), while the European Union (EU)'s standard is 4 ppb or less (EU Commission Regulation No 2023/915).
The EU has been a long-time importer of U.S. peanuts. In recent years, approximately 20-25 percent of the U.S. peanut crop has been exported, with Canada, Mexico, China, and the EU being the top four export markets, respectively. In 2007, the U.S. peanut industry obtained Pre-Export Certification from the EU, meaning that a USDA inspection in the U.S. is recognized by the importing country in the EU.
In 2017, the U.S. lost Pre-Export Certification due to higher amounts of peanut imports failing to meet the thresholds for aflatoxins set by the EU. In 2019, U.S. peanuts were placed on the Official Controls at Border Control Post and Control Points Emerging Risk Annex 1 list (EU Regulation 2019/1793) and peanuts were sampled at a 10 percent rate. In 2021, EU Regulation 2021/1900 increased the U.S. peanut sampling rate to 20 percent, the current rate in which U.S. peanuts are sampled when imported into the EU.
Since the initial 2019 regulation, the U.S. peanut industry has implemented several voluntary measures to satisfy the requirements of the EU. Additionally, the U.S. peanut industry partnered with EU officials to conduct a Paste Sample Pilot Study, which determined that testing of products in the U.S. and the EU is
similar and that rejections occur simply because aflatoxin is not homogeneous throughout a load of peanuts. As a result, the potential to find aflatoxin is higher when the sampling rate is higher.
Despite these efforts, and data showing that the percentage of loads rejected at EU ports for failing to meet the aflatoxin requirements has decreased, U.S. peanuts going into the EU are still sampled at the 20 percent rate. The major competitors to U.S. peanuts in the EU are Argentina, Brazil, and China. All of these countries' peanuts are inspected at much lower rates – Brazil and China at 10 percent and Argentina at 5 percent. This disparity puts U.S. peanuts at a significant competitive disadvantage over our export competitors.
Our request is that U.S. peanuts be inspected at a much lower rate, one that is comparable to that of our export competitors, with the goal of re-obtaining Pre-Export Certification in the EU. This would level the playing field for U.S. peanuts exported to the EU.
We greatly appreciate USTR investigating this issue on behalf of the U.S. peanut industry. The U.S. peanut industry is resilient and has proven to be innovative throughout its history. We look forward to working with USTR on this issue with the goal of fair-trade practices in the EU market.
Sincerely,
Jamie Brown Chairman, U.S. Peanut Federation
and Peanut Leadership Academy class members recently visited Washington, D.C. to share the peanut industry’s Farm Bill priorities with members of Congress. Discussions focused on the need for a Farm Bill as soon as
possible, which should include an increase in the reference price for the peanut Price Loss Coverage program (PLC) and a voluntary base update that will assist newer growing regions and younger growers.
U.S. Peanut Federation signs in support of legislation to improve USDA loan programs
The U.S. Peanut Federation recently joined over 25 agricultural associations and commodity groups to support the Producer and Agricultural Credit Enhancement (PACE) Act, recently introduced by U.S. Senators John Hoeven, R-N.D., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. The senators hope to include this legislation as part of the next farm bill.
The PACE Act would increase loan limitations for the Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Direct and Guaranteed Loan Programs for Farm Operating Loans and Farm Ownership Loans by the following amounts:
• Direct Operating: Increase from $400,000 to $750,000
• Guaranteed Operating: Increase from $2.25 million to $2.6 million
• Direct Ownership: Increase from $600,000 to $850,000
• Guaranteed Ownership: Increase from $2.25 million to $3 million
Additionally, the PACE Act would change the inflation benchmark for guaranteed ownership loans to the National Ag Statistics Service Agriculture Land Values survey, increase loan limitations for the FSA microloan program from $50,000 to $100,000 and direct FSA to promulgate rules allowing distressed borrowers to refinance guaranteed loans into direct loans.
"It's essential that the loan limits in these programs reflect the real-world costs faced by our ag producers. Our legislation makes needed updates to these loans so they can properly meet the needs of farmers, and we will continue our efforts to pass it as part of the next farm bill," says Sen. Hoeven, chairman of the U.S. Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
"Too many American farmers and producers operate on razor-thin margins. Having access to credit can often mean the difference between economic viability and financial hardship. By expanding credit opportunities for producers and farmers, this legislation will strengthen the rural economy across Minnesota and the country," says Sen. Klobuchar, ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
U.S. Rep. Brad Finstad, R-Minn., and U.S. House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig, D-Minn., have introduced a companion to the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
U.S.
Peanut Federation signs letter to President Trump on Checkoff Programs
The U.S. Peanut Federation recently signed a letter with other commodity organizations to President Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of continuing the success of commodity checkoff programs. These programs are vital to the peanut industry, helping to increase product demand, expand markets and conduct industry research.
The letter states, "Research and promotion boards exist to develop new markets and strengthen existing channels for specific commodities while conducting important research and promotional activities. They also work to educate consumers on behalf of a particular commodity to expand total demand to the benefit of all producers. Using the pooled resources and stakeholder investments obtained through checkoff assessments, they promote the product as a whole to create an industry-wide benefit through increased sales, consumer awareness, and higher overall demand. For every dollar invested into a commodity checkoff, producers see several more in return."
Emergency Commodity Assistance Program funding available for peanut growers
On March 19, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency published a notice in the Federal Register on availability of funding for the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP), which will provide economic assistance payments to eligible producers of eligible commodities for the 2024 crop year. ECAP is a new program authorized by the American Relief Act passed by Congress in December 2024. USDA estimates the peanut payment rate is $75.51 per acre.
The U.S. Peanut Federation (USPF) played a crucial role in securing this vital economic assistance funding. In 2024, USPF leaders made multiple visits to Washington, D.C., including with other commodity groups, to meet with legislators and express the importance of quick economic assistance.
Applications for ECAP can be submitted at fsa.usda.gov/ecap, or in-person at the local FSA offices. Payments will be disbursed on a rolling basis. Applications must be submitted by Aug. 15, 2025.
FY25 Appropriations update
In December 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed a Continuing Resolution, which included an extension of Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations funding, a one-year farm bill extension, and funding for agricultural disaster aid and agricultural economic assistance.
On March 14, 2025, just before the expiration of FY25 Appropriations funding, the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed a new CR to extend FY25 Appropriations funding through Sept. 30, 2025. All previously approved appropriations funding projects will operate at Fiscal Year 2024 levels through Sept. 30, 2025.
Southern Peanut Growers highlights peanuts through guest chef program at Lakeside High School Culinary Program
Southern Peanut Growers offers free turn-key curriculum for culinary instructors which can be downloaded from PeanutButterLovers.com. The curriculum has lesson plans, preand post-assessments, PowerPoint presentations, and videos.
During the 2024-25 school year, SPG added a replicable guest chef program where a local chef presents information on peanuts, on entering the culinary profession, and then works with students to make peanut sauces from around the world to showcase
the versatility of peanuts and peanut butter. Students receive a passport with peanut information and the recipes to keep. Chef Duane Nutter, chef/owner of Southern National in Atlanta, Georgia, delivered the program to the Lakeside High School Culinary Program on March 4.
The curriculum for Food Science and Hospitality programs combined with the guest chef program provides students with peanut specific information and real world experiences from the guest chef.
SPG and GPC exhibit at the Georgia Family, Career and Community Leaders of America Annual Conference
The Georgia Chapter of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America hosted more than 2,000 students and advisors at its annual conference in Columbus, Georgia, March 24-26. Middle and high school students from across the state had the opportunity to expand their leadership potential and develop skills for life planning, goal setting, problem solving, decision making and interpersonal communication necessary in the workforce. Activities at the conference included personal and professional development workshops, competitive events, and motivational general sessions.
Leslie Wagner staffed the Georgia Peanuts exhibit during the conference. Food & Nutrition, Culinary and Early Childhood teachers and students visited the exhibit to get classroom materials on nutrition, early introduction to prevent peanut allergy, and new high school peanut curriculum as well as peanuts and promotional items. Students received a recognition tab for their name badges when they visited at least 10 exhibitors during the conference.
Georgia Peanuts at C.J. Hicks Elementary School
First grade students at C.J. Hicks Elementary School in Conyers, Georgia, learned all about Georgia Peanuts during National Peanut Month in March. Joe Boddiford, chairman of Georgia Peanut Commission, and Leslie Wagner, executive director of Southern Peanut Growers, taught the school’s first grade classes all about how Georgia peanuts are grown and the importance of the crop to the state of Georgia. Sarah Davie, the agriculture and sustainable teacher for the elementary school, attended the Georgia Peanut Tour on a grant from the Georgia Peanut Commission in coordination with Georgia Farm Bureau in 2022 and continues to include peanuts in her curriculum. 1025
Chef Dwayne Nutter taught the Lakeside High School culinary students about international flavors featuring peanuts.
Leslie Wagner, Southern Peanut Growers executive director, visits with attendees at the Georgia Family, Career and Community Leaders of America annual conference in March.
Joe Boddiford, GPC chairman, discusses how peanuts grow to first grade students at C.J. Hicks Elementary School in Conyers, Ga.
