October/November 2021 - Southeastern Peanut Farmer

A communication service of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation.

CONTENTS//

October/November 2021

In This Issue 10 / Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey The Georgia Peanut Commission and GPB Education launched the Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey in September which is online at gpb.org/peanuts.

12 / Alabama Harvest Tour Food bloggers and culinary experts learned more about peanuts during a tour of farms, research farm, peanut buying points and shelling facilities in Alabama.

20 / Southern Peanut Growers Conference Review Check out this review of the 22nd annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference.

Departments 8 / Checkoff Report Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission and Mississippi Peanut Growers Association 24 / Washington Outlook 26 / Southern Peanut Growers Update

Joy Carter Crosby Editor joycrosby@gapeanuts.com 229-386-3690 Director of Advertising Jessie Bland jessie@gapeanuts.com Contributing Writers Abby Himburg Richardson Becky Mills Southeastern Peanut Farmer P.O. Box 706, Tifton, Ga. 31793 445 Fulwood Blvd., Tifton, Ga. 31794 ISSN: 0038-3694

6 Quail Forever recognizes Davis Farm Family The Davis Farm Family of Doerun, Ga. was recently recognized by John Deere and Quail Forever with the 2021 Precision Farmer of the Year Award.

Cover Photo Alabama farmer Ed White, answers questions about peanuts from food blogger Katrina Adams and Auburn University’s culinary professor Mark Traynor, during the 2021 Alabama Harvest Tour. Photo by Abby Himburg Richardson.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer is published six times a year (Jan./Feb., March, April, May/June, July/Aug., and Oct./Nov.) by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. The publisher is not responsible for copy omission, typographical errors, or any unintentional errors that may occur, other than to correct it in the following issue. Any erroneous reflection which may occur in the columns of Southeastern Peanut Farmer will be corrected upon brought to the attention of the editor.

(Phone 229-386-3690.)

Postmaster: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Southeastern Peanut Farmer, P.O. Box 706, Tifton, Georgia, 31793.

Circulation is free to qualified peanut growers and others allied to the industry. Periodical postage paid at Tifton, Georgia and additional mailing office.

Editorial Content: Editorial copy from sources outside of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Southern Peanut Farmers Federation policies. Publication of material does not necessarily imply its endorsement by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. For editorial concerns call 229-386-3690. No portion of this or past issues of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer may be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the written consent of the editor. By-lined articles appearing in this publication represent views of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher.

Advertising: The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Corrections to advertisements must be made after the first run. All billing offers subject to credit review. Advertisements contained in this publication do not represent an endorsement by the Southeastern Peanut Farmer or the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. Use of trade names in this publication is for the purpose of providing specific information and is not a guarantee nor warranty of products named. For advertising concerns call 229-386-3472.

October/November 2021 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Editorial

Calendar of Events

Cooperation is the Key

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ummer came and went so fast this year and now farmers are in the midst of harvest time. One thing for certain is that this year has tried the patience of every farmer with the amount of rainfall we have received. Some days, it seemed like the rain was never going to end but, in the end, sun shiny days are always ahead.

During the summer, some farmers were able to attend the annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference. This was the 22nd annual event and it always a great time for farmers to gain education while enjoying a break from the farm. The conference has always been a family-oriented event and this year was no different with programs for the farmers, their spouse and children. Check out highlights from the event starting on page 20.

During the conference eight outstanding farm families were recognized through the Peanut Efficiency Awards program. The winners from 2020 and 2021 were both recognized since the 2020 conference was postponed due to COVID-19. Cooperation was a key ingredient in the success of these farmers. Whether it be through cooperation from research or other farmers, all of the farmers said that it has helped them.

One family in particular, the Dill family, witnessed cooperation last fall from their neighbors and other farmers when Tony passed away due to complications from COVID-19. Many neighbors and area farmers showed up to help Tony’s family harvest his peanuts and cotton crop. In fact, his peanut yields in 2020 were his personal best crop touting nearly 7,000 pounds per acre. It was awesome to see his family at the conference and see the legacy that live on through the Dill family farm.

Recently, the Southeastern Peanut Farmer sent a survey to our subscribers requesting your feedback on the future direction of the magazine.

Thanks to all of you who provided feedback to help us determine future articles, design elements of the publication and our future with social media.

We are now in the midst of planning for our new look which will be coming to you in 2022. I hope you enjoy the new elements and ideas we plan to bring to you!

As you wrap up harvest this year, I pray you will have the warm sun shiny days needed to complete harvest, so you are able to rest, refocus and enjoy the holidays with your family! 

Joy Carter Crosby Editor

 National Peanut Festival, Nov. 5-14, 2021, Dothan, Ala. For more information visit nationalpeanutfestival.com.  American Peanut Shellers Assocation & National Peanut Buying Points PostHarvest Meeting, Nov. 10, 2021, The Bindery, Leesburg, Ga. For more information visit peanut-shellers.org.

 Georgia Agribusiness Council Harvest Celebration, Nov. 19, 2021, Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta, Ga. For more info visit ga-agribusiness.org or call 706-336-6830.  Alabama Farmer’s Federation Annual meeting, Dec. 5-6, 2021, Montgomery, Ala. For more information visit alfafarmers.org.  Georgia Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Dec. 5-7, 2021, Jekyll Island, Ga. For more information visit gfb.org.

 American Peanut Council Winter Conference, Dec. 8-9, 2021, Fairmont, Washington, D.C. For more info visit peanutsusa.com.  American Farm Bureau Convention, Jan. 7-12, 2022, Atlanta, Ga. For more information visit fb.org.  Georgia Peanut Farm Show, Jan. 19-20, 2022, University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center, Tifton, Ga. For more information, gapeanuts.com or call 229-386-3470.  Mississippi Peanut Growers Association Annual Meeting, Jan. 26-27, 2022, Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

For more information visit misspeanuts.com or call 601-606-3547.  Alabama/Florida Peanut Trade Show, Feb. 3, 2022, National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan, Ala. For more info visit alpeanuts.com or flpeanuts.com.  Georgia Peanut Research Report Day, Feb. 9, 2022, University of Georgia NESPAL Seminar Room, Tifton, Ga. For more info visit gapeanuts.com or call 229-386-3470.

(Let us know about your event. Please send details to the editor at joycrosby@gapeanuts.com.

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

News Briefs Odom joins Georgia Peanut Commission Justin Odom joined the Georgia Peanut Commission in September as project coordinator for farm and field services. In this role, he will be Justin Odom responsible for education programs for farmers as well as working with agriculture organizations and promotions across the state.

“I am very thankful for this opportunity with the Georgia Peanut Commission and I look forward to meeting and working with the peanut producers and industry members of this great state, as well as the nation,” Odom says. “I am very excited to promote all things Georgia Peanuts and will work diligently so that Georgia can continue to be the No. 1 peanut producing state in the nation.”

Odom was raised in Donalsonville, Georgia, where he was active in 4-H and FFA. In college, he was a founding father of the Kappa Sigma Rho-Rho Chapter. He graduated from ABAC with a bachelor’s degree in Diversified Agriculture and previously worked with the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

American Peanut Shellers Association announces new officers The American Peanut Shellers Association has elected new officers for the 2021-2022 association year. Elected officers exercise personal leadership in the motivation of APSA board members, committee members, and membership and influence the establishment of goals and objectives for the organization during their term of office. Newly elected officers include Jamie Brown, chairman (Olam Peanut Company); Clint Piper, president (Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts); and Charles Birdsong, vice president/ president-elect (Birdsong Peanuts).

The American Peanut Shellers Association will be hosting their annual post-harvest meeting Nov. 9, 2021, at The Bindery in Leesburg, Ga. For more information visit peanut-shellers.org.

Premium Peanut expands to South Carolina Premium Peanut, an innovative, grower-owned peanut shelling company, recently announced plans to establish operations in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. The $64.3 million investment will create 130 new jobs.

Founded in 2014, Premium Peanut operates one of the largest peanut shelling facilities in the world. The company began shelling peanuts in January 2016, with about 140,000 tons in shelling capacity. Through investments, efficiencies and growth, the company now has a plant capacity of 300,000 tons, which is about 10 percent of the U.S. peanut crop. Premium Peanut has made additional investments in cutting-edge technologies and enhancements, and added an oil mill, which was opened in 2018.

“Premium Peanut is proud of the value we have been able to create for over 400 grower-owners, in addition to providing quality products to customers around the world.

We are thrilled to expand our operations and establish our footprint in South Carolina,” says Karl Zimmer, Premium Peanut CEO.

Premium Peanut establishes operations in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Premium Peanut CEO Karl Zimmer speaking; seated on stage from left to right: Kent Fountain, chairman, Premium Peanut Board of Directors; South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster; Ken Middleton, chair, Orangeburg County Development Commission; Commissioner Hugh Weathers, S.C. Department of Agriculture; Danny Mixon, president, Palmetto Peanut; Johnnie Wright, chair, Orangeburg County Council.

Premium Peanut’s new facility will provide more capacity and allow South Carolina peanut growers the opportunity to be a part of a cooperative model. This facility will build on the company’s existing model, creating maximum value of every peanut for its grower-owners. Premium Peanut’s customers consist of the major snack, candy and peanut butter manufacturers domestically, as well as customers in more than 30 countries around the world.

“Today’s announcement by Premium Peanut is a huge win for our state’s agribusiness sector,” says South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. “We congratulate this great company on their investment that will create 130 new jobs for our citizens, and we look forward to supporting them every step of the way.”

Portions of the new facility are expected to be operational by spring 2022.

Growers interested in learning more should contact the Palmetto Peanut Buying Point.

Individuals interested in joining the Premium Peanut team should visit the company’s website at www.premiumpnut.com.

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Quail Forever recognizes Davis Family Farm as 2021 Precision Farmer of the Year Recognizing innovative use of precision ag to identify profitable solutions for agriculture and wildlife habitat conservation

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he Davis Family Farm of Doerun, Georgia, was recently recognized by John Deere and Quail Forever with the 2021 Precision Farmer of the Year Award.

The annual award recognizes the innovative use of precision ag technology and utilization of data to identify profitable solutions for agriculture and wildlife on working lands throughout America.

Bart and Paula Davis, along with their three children - sons Trey and Jedd, and daughter Lakyn - have made the farm a true family business focused on implementation of sustainable farming practices. Their agricultural operations, which include registered beef cattle in addition to cotton, peanut, winter wheat, oat hay, sorghum hay and corn production, are centered on the adoption of precision ag technology and the use of expert resources to improve efficiency, profitability, and wildlife resources across each acre.

The Davis Family Farm employs 15 farm staff ranging from field equipment crews to on-farm data analysts and offers a visionary approach for growing delicious beef, healthy crops, and bountiful wildlife.

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The Davis Family Farm from Doerun, Ga., received the 2021 Precision Farmer of the Year Award.

Pictured left to right: Lane Arthur, vice president of data applications and analytics at John Deere, Bart, Lakyn, Trey and Jedd Davis, Chaz Holtz, precision ag and conservationist specialist with Quail Forever, and Chris Kalis, director of corporate partnerships with Quail Forever.

Chaz Holt, Quail Forever’s precision ag and conservationist specialist, worked closely with the Davis family to help enroll 1,274 acres into the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). CSP enhancements including conservation tillage, cover crops, and pollinator habitat on irrigation pivot corners have helped the family address revenue-negative zones throughout the farm.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

Other 2021 Precision Farmer of the Year Award considerations included: • Implementing other conservation programs such as EQIP, CSP, and CRP to control erosion, maintain soil health through cover crops, practice minimum till, and manage timber lands.

• Utilizing Quail Forever’s precision program to address low productivity acres through upland bird habitat.

• Using Lasseter Tractor Company service staff and precision ag managers,

UGA research extension faculty, multiple crop advisors, and other agribusiness personnel to make informed decisions.

• Planting 17.5 acres of dryland pivot corners with a high-diversity pollinator planting mix which is helping quail populations while improving ROI throughout entire fields.

• Future plans for Davis Family Farm are to continue incorporating biologically diverse areas on non-irrigated corners and field edges, utility rights-of-way, and rotational pasture grazing. Their hopes are to increase carbon sequestration and potentially offer other ecosystem services like increased predatory insects and of course, more wild quail!

Trey Davis explained how the use of new technology is helping his family and staff make the best decisions possible on the farm.

“These days, farmers need to be businesspeople,” Trey Davis says. “The use of John Deere’s Ops Center and Quail Forever’s precision ag analysis on peracre management has the potential to help our APH (actual production history) over time, lower current risk on investments, and increase biodiversity on the landscape that has ecosystem services to offer future crops.”

While these goals are personal, they are also helping the farm address goals set forth by the Cotton Trust Protocol for an industry-wide effort.

“The experience Quail Forever has had working with producers in the cotton and quail range across the Southeast has been great,” Holt says. “I am very proud to be working with family farms like the Davis’ to help preserve agricultural legacies and southern hunting heritage alike. It’s been my pleasure to know and work with them.”

Preserving agriculture for future generations is a goal at Davis Family Farms.

“Every farmer I know in the south loves the land they have and are proud of the crops they grow,” says Bart Davis.

“We’ve got a lot better equipment and technology these days making us better farmers, too good in some cases. There was a time when quail were everywhere, but some of what they need has been changed. If a farmer can keep their land and crop while improving bottom lines, natural resources, and quail populations, we’ll sure give it a try.”

The implementation of precision

agriculture by Davis Family Farm, John Deere, and Quail Forever is contributing to Quail Forever’s Call of the Uplands campaign, an ambitious and visionary initiative to conserve America’s uplands and working lands for the next generation.

Learn more at www.CalloftheUplands. org.

Farmers interested in learning more about the Quail Forever program should first figure out if it is a right fit for them.

Holt recommends for farmers to visit with their crop consultants, the local National Resources Conservation Service field office, Quail Forever Precision Ag and Conservation Specialist and biologist about the program.

According to Holt each project is a

team effort and every scenario is specific to each farm’s needs. Data for each farms inputs and yields will be reviewed to help determine the places causing harm to the farm’s bottom line, no matter how small or large. Once areas that should be taken out of production are identified, then the Quail Forever specialists will recommend what actions need to be taken to improve the habitat for wildlife, in addition to water and soil quality on the farm.

Quail Forever’s mission is to conserve quail, pheasants, and other wildlife through habitat improvements, public access, education, and conservation advocacy. Farmers can learn more online at www.quailforever.org. 

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Checkoff Report Investments Made by Growers for the Future of the Peanut Industry.

Georgia Peanuts promoted with Atlanta Braves

FPPA announces scholarship winners

The Georgia Peanut Commission kicked off a brand new partnership with the Atlanta Braves in August at their Back to School game in Truist Park. GPC staff distributed peanut packs and copies of our children’s book “A Home Run For Peanuts” in the Hope and Wells Sandlot area during the kid’s club fun run. Later that afternoon, GPC Braves baseball fans enjoyed staff distributed peanuts to fans entering at samples of Georgia peanuts the 3rd base gate. GPC was also represented from the Georgia Peanut throughout the stadium on in-park TV Commission. monitors and a digital ad on the bullpen LED during the 3rd inning. This partnership also includes two additional on-site activations at Truist Park, located inside The Battery Atlanta as well as radio ads through the spring.

The Georgia Peanut Commission is continuing their promotion of Georgia Peanuts through post-season radio spots with 680 The Fan following the Braves clinch of the National League East title.

The Florida Peanut Producers Association continues the tradition of awarding students with scholarships who demonstrate high academic achievement, involvement in community and extracurricular activities and have personal agricultural experience.

“This year’s 10 applicants were all worthy of being awarded our scholarship and it was difficult for the scholarship committee to narrow it down to two individuals,” says Michael Davis, president of Florida Peanut Producers Association.

Congratulations to Whitnie Yoder of Altha, Florida, and Tristan Ellison of Jay, Florida.

Yoder graduated from Altha High School and recently started her freshman year at Chipola College in Marianna where she is working towards a business degree. She plans to transfer to ABAC in Tifton to obtain a Whitnie Yoder degree in agri-business.

Altha, Florida “I am so grateful to have been awarded the Florida Peanut Producers Scholarship. American agriculture is my passion, and I am proud to say I have grown up with the crops and cattle that made me who I am today,” Yoder says. “The lessons I have learned on the farm are unique in that they cannot be learned just anywhere. They have perfectly prepared me for the life ahead of me.”

Tristan Ellison is currently attending the University of Florida pursuing a major in Natural Resource Conservation.

He hopes to graduate in 2022 and work in the field of Natural Resource Conservation/Forestry. Tristan Ellison “Growing up I was always Jay, Florida around farming, helping my father on the farm. I learned the value of good work ethic at a young age,” Ellison says. “I have taken that work ethic and worked full time in the landscaping business while attending the University of Florida. Thanks to the Florida Peanut Producers Association for awarding me one of this year’s scholarships.”

NASCAR Cup Series Driver Anthony Alfredo finishes 10th at Talladega with Georgia Peanuts The Georgia Peanut Commission returned to support Anthony Alfredo and the No. 38 car with the Front Row Motorsports team in October at Talladega Superspeedway for the YellaWood 500. The Commission continued their sponsorship after running their colors with Alfredo twice earlier this year in Atlanta.

The race was postponed due to rain, but when the checkered flag ended the race, Alfredo finished his personal best in 10th place.

Banks and financial institutions celebrate peanuts during Georgia Peanut Bank Week in October The Georgia Peanut Commission and the Georgia Bankers Association joined forces Oct. 11-15, 2021, to promote the 45th annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week. Financial institutions and local banks across the state will offer a tribute to Georgia’s 4,500 peanut farm families and the sustainability they provide to Georgia’s state and local economies.

The 2021 theme, “Georgia Peanuts: Bringing Balance to Your Life!” showcases the affordable and nutritious peanut. Recent research studies indicate and highlight regularly eating peanuts can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

Reports from the: Alabama Peanut Producers Association Florida Peanut Producers Association Georgia Peanut Commission Mississippi Peanut Growers Association

APPA attends Sweet Grown Alabama Farmers Market in Huntsville The Alabama Peanut Producers Association joined Sweet Grown Alabama at their farmers market at Big Spring Park in downtown Huntsville July 23, 2021, where north Alabamians were able to purchase locally grown products and connect with farmers in their surrounding areas. Fourteen vendors were on hand, and sold their locally grown products to over 200 people during the three-hour event. APPA handed out roasted peanuts, recipes, and educational information on how peanuts are grown and their nutritional value.

APPA sponsors “Take me out to the Ballgame Night” at the Montgomery Biscuits The Alabama Peanut Producers Association was the game sponsor at the Montgomery Biscuits game against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos on September 4, 2021. “Take me out to the ballgame” was the theme for the evening.

Biscuit baseball fans enjoyed Over 2,600 baseball fans were in attendance. peanuts, fans, recipes and From Aug. 26 – Sept. 4, baseball fans could drop off more at the APPA table. a jar of peanut butter in exchange for a free ticket to the Sept. 4 game. Two hundred jars were collected to donate to the Montgomery Area Food Bank.

Garrett Dixon, a peanut and cotton farmer from Lee County, represented APPA and threw out the ceremonial first pitch of the game. Fun peanut-inspired games were played between innings, and fans were able to take their photo with APPA’s peanut butter and jelly sandwich sign.

Baseball fans picked up roasted peanuts, pb spreaders, coloring books and more at the APPA table. Fans in the suites enjoyed cans of APPA’s roasted salted, honey roasted and butter toffee peanuts. One lucky fan received a gift basket full of peanut goodies and swag.

APPA donates peanut butter in Houston and Henry counties The Alabama Peanut Producers Association in conjunction with Houston County Farmers Federation, donated peanut butter to Vivian B. Adams School in Ozark, Alabama on July 30. Vivian B. Adams School currently serves 124 individuals from the Wiregrass with cognitive and developmental disabilities. A few weeks Abby Richardson with later, the school hosted a peanut butter and jelly day and APPA and Representative invited APPA back out to join Steve Clouse and Ronnie Davis with the Wiregrass the fun. The jelly had also been Resource Conservation & donated by a local store, Todd’s Development Council, hands Syrup Farm in Headland. out PB&Js to students at Also in July, APPA along Vivian B. Adams School. with Henry County Farmers Ed White, president of Federation, donated a whole pallet of peanut butter to Overflowing Ministries in Headland, Alabama. Overflowing Henry County Farmers Federation and APPA Ministries is a food ministry of the Judson Baptist board member, delivers a Association. This pallet of peanut butter will help feed pallet of peanut butter to Overflowing Ministries. families in need in Henry County.

Mississippi Peanut Growers participates in Field Day A peanut field day was held in George County, Mississippi on Sept. 10, 2021.

Farmers in George County grow the most acres of peanuts in Mississippi and Heath Steede, county Extension agent hosted the field day.

Growers attending the event were able to see peanut maturity of 4 different varieties during a pod blasting demonstration and how to determine Peanut farmers learn from at the peanut the maturity using experts field day held in George the maturity County, Mississippi. profile board.

Growers then moved to Brendan Zurweller’s variety trial plots where he explained the varieties growing in the plots compared to GA-06G, pointing out days to maturity, growth habits, and high oleic traits. Alan Henn, Mississippi State University plant pathologist addressed the growers on disease control needed to carry the peanuts on to maturity, with recommended fungicides. Jeff Gore, MSU entomologist, responded to insect control that might be needed due to armyworm pressure, indicating armyworms were more prevalent this past summer.

As a conclusion to the field day growers were treated to a sponsored catfish lunch where Malcolm Broome, executive director of the Mississippi Peanut Growers Association, presented a report on recent association activities and plans for the remainder of the year.

Broome gave the growers informational cards on The Perfectly Sustainable Peanut from the National Peanut Board. MPGA is using this card to give to visitors at the Mississippi State Visitor Centers along with a complimentary pack of peanuts.

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Georgia Peanut Commission and GPB Education launches Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey

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he Georgia Peanut Commission and GPB Education launched the Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey in September. This interactive journey, available at gpb.org/ peanuts, offers students a unique learning experience as they explore the impact peanuts have on Georgia and beyond.

“We are excited to partner with GPB Education in development of this new virtual educational resource,” says Tim Burch, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission Education and Information Committee. “The resource targeted for teachers and students provide an overview of the value of the peanut industry to the state of Georgia and captures the many career opportunities available within the peanut industry.”

Aligned to the Georgia Standards of Excellence, Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey targets learners in third through eighth grades. In the journey, a variety of concepts are divided into four main sections: History and Origins; Cultivation and Uses; Technology and Economy; and Working with Peanuts.

The first three sections include interactive elements, videos, writing prompts and activities, virtual reality experiences, photo galleries, vocabulary lists, and informative text.

The final section, Working with Peanuts, highlights 13 different career

The Georgia Peanut Commission and GPB Education held a live exploration on peanuts Sept.

30, 2021, which provided 27,000 school children the ability to learn more about Georgia Peanuts.

Pictured left to right Ashley Mengwasser, GPB show host; Keith Rucker, technical service representative with Bayer CropScience; Donald Chase, peanut farmer from Oglethorpe, Ga. and GPC board member, and Holly Thaw, Farm to School specialist with the Georgia Department of Education.

profiles for students to learn about the various jobs in the peanut industry. Hear from individuals who create delicious peanut products, others who grow peanuts, and even those who design and develop robots for farming peanuts!

“This Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey will allow students from all over the state to learn about Georgia’s state crop and the importance it plays in our history, economy, and even diets,” says Laura Evans, GPB director of education. “As Georgia’s leading provider of digital learning resources, we appreciate the opportunity to work with new partners like the Georgia Peanut Commission to add great new resources to our library of content.”

In addition to the launch of the virtual learning journey, GPB Education produced a live exploration on The Georgia Peanut Commission and GPB Education launched the Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey in September. This interactive peanuts that aired journey is available online at gpb.org.

Sept. 30, 2021.

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

Viewers were able to watch live online at gpb.org/peanuts-live or on their local GPB-TV channel.

During the live exploration on peanuts, viewers were able to hear firsthand how peanuts grow from Oglethorpe, Georgia, farmer Donald Chase. Keith Rucker, technical service representative with Bayer CropScience, answered specific questions relating to nutrient management, pollinators, careers in ag and more. Holly Thaw, Farm to School specialist with the Georgia Department of Education, wrapped up the show with nutritional information about peanuts and peanut butter.

The host of the show, Ashley Mengwasser, shared questions from some of the 665 registered classrooms participating in the event. Additional questions were answered by GPC staff through Twitter and direct messages to the teachers. There were approximately 27,000 school children throughout Georgia focused on Georgia Peanuts during the hour long live feed.

The live exploration is also available for viewing on the Georgia Peanuts Facebook page.

Learn more about and explore Georgia Peanuts Virtual Learning Journey at gpb.org/peanuts. 

A group of food bloggers and culinary experts learned more about peanuts while touring Alabama peanut farms, the Wiregrass Research and Extension Center, a buying point and shelling plant during the 2021 Alabama Harvest Tour.

Ed White, (left), APPA board member, answers questions about peanuts from food blogger Katrina Adams and Auburn’s culinary professor Mark Traynor.

Alabama Harvest Tour Food bloggers learn more about peanuts

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group of food bloggers and culinary experts learned about peanuts, from farm to flavor, during the Alabama Peanut Producers Association (APPA) Harvest Tour held Sept. 19-22, 2021.

The seven participants visited southeast Alabama peanut farms, toured the Wiregrass Research and Extension Center in Headland and experienced the inner workings of a buying and shelling facility in the area. They also heard from Dr. Samara Sterling of The Peanut Institute who discussed peanut nutrition and research relating to peanut consumption and cognitive benefits.

“Learning that peanuts contain many nutrients that help support our immune systems certainly makes me want to incorporate more peanuts into my diet,” says blogger and recipe developer Stacey Little of Prattville, Alabama.

Little, a contributor to Neighbors magazine’s Farmhouse Kitchen, said the experience equipped him with tons of great information he’ll pass along to his readers.

“Being able to share about peanut harvest and processing, along with the

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health benefits of adding peanuts to your diet, will certainly allow my readers to make better informed decisions,” he says.

“This tour has also helped me refocus on how important our farmers are. So many times, we lose sight of the work that goes into a product on the grocery store shelf.

Seeing the level of effort and care each of these farmers puts into producing a healthy, nutritious and affordable crop has given me a new appreciation for something I often overlook.”

Lynda Self, a food and travel blogger from Decatur, Alabama, shared Little’s appreciation for the tour.

“I might have seen peanuts driving down the road, but I had never actually been in a peanut field until now,” Self says. “The entire tour has been a great experience for me. Learning about the nutrition and health benefits of peanuts was especially fascinating. If I can eat a handful of nuts, instead of taking a pill to improve my health, who wouldn’t want to do that?”

Auburn University’s Dr. Mark Traynor was on the tour. He is a culinary science associate professor and program coordinator in the College of Human Sciences. He said he was fascinated

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

by the research that’s being done to improve peanut production and studies to determine the health and nutritional benefits of peanuts.

“There’s a lot of work that goes into the humble peanut before consumers get them,” Traynor says. “It’s been interesting to profile the flavor from raw, fresh-fromthe field peanuts and then them prepared in several ways.”

Peanut farmer Ed White of Headland, Alabama, was a tour host. Attendees observed his GPS-guided tractor dig and turn peanuts that they picked from the vines.

“I think they were especially interested in the technology we use on the farm,” White says, who is an APPA board member and Henry County Farmers Federation president. “I hope they help spread the good news about peanuts, and now they have some good first-hand experience to share.”

The Alabama Farm-to-Table Peanut Harvest Tour was sponsored by the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, The Peanut Institute and National Peanut Board.  Bਙ Dਅਂ਒ਁ Dਁਖਉਓ A਌ਁਂਁ਍ਁ Fਁ਒਍ਅ਒ਓ Fਅ਄ਅ਒ਁਔਉਏ਎

Georgia Peanut Farm Show and Conference set for Jan. 19-20

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roducers can fine-tune their farming operation with information gained at the 45th annual Georgia Peanut Farm Show and Conference, held at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center in January. The event will be held Wednesday, Jan. 19 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 20, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Peanut farmers and those involved in the peanut industry will be able to learn more about the latest products, services and peanut research at the 2022 Georgia Peanut Farm Show and Conference. The show is sponsored and coordinated by the Georgia Peanut Commission.

The two-day show offers farmers the opportunity to view the products and services of nearly 100 exhibitors and continuing education for the 2022 production season. The Georgia Peanut Farm Show Committee decided to transition to the two day format for 2022 to allow more room for social distancing.

Farm Show chairman Rodney Dawson is looking forward to the 2022 show.

“I encourage farmers to attend this two-day show in Tifton,” Dawson says.

“The knowledge they will gain from industry representatives and seminars is an investment in the future of their farm.”

NEW FORMAT - TWO DAYS Peanut farmers and those involved in the peanut industry will be able to learn more about the latest products, services and peanut research at the Georgia Peanut Farm Show set for Jan. 19-20, 2022, at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center.

The University of Georgia will present an educational peanut production seminar on Wednesday afternoon from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. and on Thursday morning from 9:00 until 10:30 a.m.

An industry seed seminar will also be held Wednesday afternoon from 3:05 to 4:05 p.m. and Thursday morning from 10:35 to 11:35 a.m. This event is sponsored by the American Peanut Shellers Association Committee on

Georgia Peanut Farm Show January 19-20, 2022 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center Tifton, Georgia Jan. 19, 2022 1:00 p.m. - Show Opens 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. - UGA Peanut Production Seminar 3:05 - 4:05 p.m. - Industry Seed Seminar 5:00 p.m. - Show Closes

Jan. 20, 2022 8:00 p.m. - Show Opens 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - Blood Drive 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. - UGA Peanut Production Seminar 10:35 - 11:35 p.m. - Industry Seed Seminar Noon - Awards Luncheon 2:00 p.m. - Grand Door Prize 2:30 p.m. - Show Closes

Check out www.GaPeanuts.com for more info!

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

Variety & Seed Development, Peanut Foundation, Southern Peanut Farmers Federation and the Georgia Peanut Commission. Growers will be able to learn about farm-saved seed, peanut varieties available for 2022 and varieties on the horizon.

Farmers will also have the opportunity to earn credit toward their private or commercial pesticide applicator certification.

On Thursday, a free luncheon begins at noon for all attendees, with an opportunity for farmers to win more than $40,000 in door prizes afterward. The Georgia Peanut Commission will present a short program beginning at 12:15 p.m. that will cover award presentations and other special recognitions.

The Georgia Peanut Commission, in cooperation with One Blood, will hold a blood drive from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center during the show on Thursday.

For more information on the show, contact GPC at 229-386-3470 or online at www.gapeanuts.com.  Bਙ Jਏਙ C਒ਏਓਂਙ

Georgia Peanut Achievement Club Announces High Yield Farmers

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ourteen farmers were recently announced by the University of Georgia Peanut Team for their high yielding peanuts in 2020. The high yields ranged from 4,452 to 6,632 pounds per acre.

According to Donald Chase of Oglethorpe, Georgia, the overall state winner for 2020, he always tries to be timely in everything he does on the farm.

“I am always cognizant of the fact that if we didn’t have good weather and good blessings from the Lord then it probably wouldn’t happen then,” Chase says.

Chase Farms 2020 yield topped the state at 6,632 pounds per acre.

“Many of the state winners combine their management practices of crop rotation and critical timing of applications to reach these high yields,” says Scott Monfort, University of Georgia Extension peanut agronomist. “The yields are counted for the entire farm, irrigated or dryland; and they continue to increase year after year.”

Another component of the Chase’s success is following recommendations from the Extension service to a tee and asking questions.

“Everything they (Extension service) do is directed to helping us all achieve higher yields. I try to follow and pay attention to the recommendations about weed control, disease control and variety selections.” Chase says. “We try to do, what I consider, best management practices.”

According to a presentation by Monfort during the Georgia Peanut Achievement Club production session, 53 percent of the winners use a 3-year rotation plan while 47 percent use a 4-year rotation.

Another trait among the high yield winners is cultivar selection with 100 percent of the winners planting the Georgia 06-G cultivar. Two other cultivars planted by the winners include Georgia 12Y and Georgia 18RU. In terms of tillage, 87 percent

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The 2019 and 2020 Georgia Peanut Achievement Club state winners were recognized at an awards ceremony Aug. 14, 2021, at Jekyll Island, Ga.

use conventional methods while 13 percent us conservation tillage methods.

Additionally, 93 percent of the winners plant in twin rows while 7 percent use single rows.

In terms of preplant herbicides 93 percent of the winners use Valor followed by Prowl at 47 percent. For post emergence herbicides, 87 percent of the winners use Cadre while 67 percent use 2,4-DB. The 2020 Georgia Peanut Achievement Club overall state winners are Donald Chase, Macon County with 6,632 pounds per acre in the 100-299 acreage category; Hulin Reeves, Irwin County with 6,181 pounds per acre in the 300-699 acreage category and Jimmy Webb, Calhoun County with 6,279 pounds per acre in the 700-plus acreage category.

The District 1 winners are Wesley Webb, Calhoun County, with 5,686 pounds per acre in the 100-299 category; Rodney Locke, Terrell County, with 5,023 pounds per acre in the in the 300699 acreage category and Neil Lee, Terrell County with 4,452 pounds per acre in the 700-plus acreage category.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

The District 2 winners are John Gaines Jr., Baker County with 6,382 pounds per acre in the 100-299 acreage category and Eddie Miller Farms, Seminole County, with 6,017 pounds per acre in the 700-plus acreage category.

The District 3 winners are Larry Ray Walker, Ben Hill County with 6,288 pounds per acre in the 100-299 acreage category; Daniel Newberry, Jefferson County, with 6,017 pounds per acre in the 300-699 acreage category and Ken Hall Farms, Worth County, with 4,980 pounds per acre in the 700-plus acreage category.

The District 4 winners are Bucky Tyler, Irwin County, with 5,713 pounds per acre in the 100-299 acreage category; Andrew Grimes, Tift County, with 5,618 pounds per acre in the 300-699 acreage category and ABC Dorminy III, Irwin County with 5,999 pounds per acre in the 700-plus acreage category.  Bਙ Jਏਙ C਒ਏਓਂਙ Due to COVID, the 2019 state winners were recognized along with the 2020 Georgia Peanut Achievement Club winners. The 2019 winners were announced in an article which appeared in the October/November 2020 issue of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer.

Georgia Peanut Restaurant Week Georgia chefs create special peanut-inspired dishes

Smoked Pad Thai Chicken Wings Chef Alex Friedman Bistro Off Broad, Winder, Ga.

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he Georgia Peanut Commission selected 13 chefs from across the state to create special Georgia Peanut-inspired dishes for the firstever Georgia Peanut Restaurant Week in October. Each chef used ingredients including raw or roasted peanuts, peanut oil, or peanut flour, to name a few.

The selected chefs and some of their featured dishes can be found below.

• Athens Chef Jessica Rothacker, Heirloom Café, peanut-inspired dishes included Cajun Boiled Peanut Hummus, Peanut Noodle Salad, West African Inspired Peanut Stew, and Black Bottom Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie • Atlanta Chef Deborah VanTrece, Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, featured Spicy Peanut-Crusted Quail, Country Captain Chicken Stew, and Cajun Fried Turkey Monte Cristo • Atlanta Chef Todd Richards, Lake & Oak, featured Boiled Peanuts, Moked Peanut Hummus with Pork Rinds, and Peanut Crusted Catfish over Collard Green Fried Rice • Atlanta Chef Nick Leahy, Nick’s Westside, featured Chile Smoked Boiled Peanuts, Pinock Crest Catfish and Boiled Peanut Succotash, Peanut Crusted Schnitzel with Spaetzle Mac, and a Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream Sammie • Atlanta Chrysta Poulus, Ford Fry Restaurants, featured Peanut Pie, Peanut Brittle Ice Cream, and a Peanut Butter and

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Peanut Sweet Potato Pear Salad Chef Matt Basford Canoe, Atlanta, Ga.

Jelly Kolache • Atlanta Chef Drew VanLeuvan, Ecco Buckhead, featured Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Peanuts, Celery, Apple & Peanut Salad, and Salted BBQ peanuts • Atlanta Chef Matt Basford, Canoe, featured Peanut Butter Cheesecake, Savory Peanut and Coconut Panna Cotta, Roasted Berkshire Pork Tenderloin with Peanut – Cabbage Crepe, and a Georgia Peanut and Apple Salad • Atlanta Chef Parnass Savang, Talat Market, featured Thai Style Snapper Ceviche with Green Peanut Oil, Crispy Rice Salad with Raw Peanuts, and Massaman Beef Shank with Potatoes, Fried Shallots, and Raw Peanuts • Blue Ridge Chef Mellman, Harvest on Main, offered Peanut Butter Panna Cotta with Peanut Brittle, Thai Peanut Melon Salad, and Georgia Peanut and Collard Stew.

• Columbus Chef Keating, Epic Restaurant, created Foie Gras and Peanut Butter on Brioche, Arugula & Charred Endive Salad with a Peanut Vinaigrette, Peanut-Urfa Dusted Pork Loin, and more, including a signature cocktail.

• Savannah Chef Zach Shultz, Cotton

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

Peanut Butter Panna Cotta with Peanut Brittle Chef Danny Mellman Harvest on Main, Blue Ridge, Ga.

& Rye, created three dishes including Boiled peanut spread, pickled raisins, celery relish, pretzel cracker, Chicken confit, house-made bacon; Chaurice sausage, stewed peanuts, and herb crumb, and a decadent dessert dish, We All Scream for…Peanuts • St. Simons Chef Dave Snyder, Halyard’s Restaurant, created several different dishes including Boiled Peanut Succotash with Cheshire Pork and Oregano, Beef Tenderloin Eggroll with Spicy Peanut Sauce and Lime, and Georgia White Shrimp Taco with Roasted Peanut Salsa • Winder Chef Alex Friedman, Bistro Off Broad, special dishes included Smoked Pad Thai Chicken Wings, Seared Sockeye Salmon with Peanut Flour Rigatoni, and Peanut Butter Cookie & Chocolate Ganache Pie Georgia Peanut Restaurant Week took place in select markets across Georgia October 4-11. For more information on the featured recipes visit the GPC website at www.gapeanuts.com. 

22nd Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference Review

22nd Annual

Southern Peanut Growers Conference in Review

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he 22nd Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference was held July 15-17, 2021, at the Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort, Panama City Beach, Florida.

The theme for this year’s conference, “Emerge - Bringing Vision to Peanuts,” plans to highlight the future value of peanuts, the future of grading, processor needs and the future of farm automation.

The first general session focused on the future of peanut value and grading.

The speakers included T.E. Moye, president and CFO of the Georgia Federal State Inspection Service, Karl Zimmer, president and CEO of Premium Peanut, and Marshall Lamb, research leader at the USDA ARS National Peanut Research Laboratory.

The second general session provided a Vision for Farm Automation in the Future. Three panelists spoke on that topic, including Chad Carney with Blue River Technology/John Deere, Wes Porter from the University of Georgia and Joby Czarnecki from Mississippi State University. The panelists shared information relating to precision agriculture, on-farm automation and unmanned aerial vehicles and groundbased autonomous vehicles to help with efficiency on the farm.

During the third general session, U.S. Senator John Boozman, R-Arkansas, provided remarks with a focus on topics like infrastructure proposals, rural broadband and more. Following his remarks Stanley Fletcher with Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, provided an update on the cost of production and Bob Redding with The Redding Firm, provided a legislative update. Leaders from each state checkoff organization conducted a farm bill listening session to wrap up the conference.

To view conference photos, speaker interviews and presentations, visit the blog at southernpeanutfarmers.org. 

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The 22nd annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference brought in more than 500 attendees from across the Southeast to learn more about peanut production and issues impacting the industry.

U.S. Senator John Boozman, R-Arkansas, provided remarks on infrastructure proposals, rural broadband and the farm bill during the third general session of the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July.

Bob Redding, The Redding Firm, leads a panel discussion on the peanut program with the Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi state executive directors and chairmen and presidents during the third general session of the Southern Peanut Growers Conference.

Children search through their buried treasure on the annual Pirate Ship hosted by FMC during the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July.

General Session II presenters left to right, Joby Czarnecki, Chad Carney and Wes Porter discuss the future of farm automation at the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

22nd Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference Review

Syngenta sponsors Conference Illustrations During the 22nd annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference, Syngenta brought in Wade Forbes, chief illustrator with RedTale Communications, to cover the meeting through his illustrations. Forbes listened to each of the speakers during the conference and brought to life the speakers words through a variety of illustrations. The illustrations cover every topic covered through the conference including the future of peanut value and grading, future of precision agriculture and an update on the Farm Bill and additional legislative priorities.

Valor Award

Peanut Proud receives Valor Award The Southern Peanut Farmers Federation recognized Peanut Proud with the Valor Award during the 2021 Southern Peanut Growers Conference.

The award is also sponsored annually by Valent.

Peanut Proud is the humanitarian relief organization for the peanut industry.

The organization spearheads the donation efforts of peanut butter to food banks and humanitarian relief organizations during natural disasters. Through the past 11 years, Peanut Proud has donated nearly 3 million jars of peanut butter across the U.S., the Bahamas and Haiti. The peanut butter has been delivered by naval ships, Carnival cruise lines, Southern

Ag Carriers, Early Trucking Company, individuals and more.

Peanut Proud receives Valor Award. John Altom (left), Valent, presents the 2021 Valor Award to Gregg Grimsley (right), president of Peanut Proud, during the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July.

Conference Blog

Sponsors and exhibitors were on hand showcasing some of their latest products to attendees during the conference. Vantage Southeast continues to sponsor the conference blog where interviews, speaker presentations and photos are included online at www.southernpeanutfarmers.org/blog.

Entertainment

Three on a String entertained conference attendees during the Thursday evening dinner sponsored by Birdsong Peanuts and KMC.

Conference attendees celebrated the Roaring 20s during the Saturday evening dinner sponsored

by Syngenta. Attendees also danced the night away from the tunes of The American Flyers.

October/November 2021 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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22nd Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference Review

For Peanuts, Cooperation is a Big Part of Success Peanut Efficiency Award winners have a lot in common including a spirit of cooperation.

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t seems the one theme that runs through all peanutgrowing regions of the U.S. is cooperation. Whether it be information on seed variety, advice on row configuration or even harvesting the crop, the cooperative nature of peanut farmers shines, especially for the 2021 Farm Press Peanut Efficiency award winners.

The 2021 winners are Dan Ward, Upper Southeastern states; Armond Morris, Lower Southeastern states; Dan West, Mid-South states and Tony Dill, in the Southwest.

Upper Southeast Emphasizing efficiency is an approach that the Ward family has used since Wilbur Ward planted his first peanut crop in 1968, and it is an approach that son Dan Ward continues today on their farm in Bladen County near Clarkton, N.C. The Wards farm 2,050 acres of corn, soybeans, and peanuts. This year, the family is growing 340 acres of Virginiatype peanuts as seed peanuts for Birdsong Peanut Company and North Carolina Foundation Seed Producers. Dan Ward is the 2021 Peanut Efficiency Award winner for the Upper Southeast.

The Ward family has a long history of stellar peanut yields. In the 1970s, Wilbur Ward was able to achieve remarkable yields of 5,500 pounds per acre when most North Carolina peanut farmers were making just over 2,000 pounds per acre. Wilbur credits the use of Furadan to control nematodes as the reason for the remarkable yields, but his commitment to efficiency certainly played a role.

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The 2021 Peanut Efficiency Winners were recognized during the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July. Pictured left to right, Erica Dill Hogue, Donna, Ryan and Haylee Dill, Dan West and Armond Morris.

Throughout the years, the Wards did beat the state average yield due to their commitment to efficiency. Dan Ward notes that their 10-year average is 5,300 pounds per acre since 2011. Both Wilbur and Dan Ward emphasize that job one for achieving good yields is disease management.

Lower Southeast As he starts his 20th year as chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission, Armond Morris is well known throughout the U.S. peanut industry. But he’s still a peanut farmer, too.

The Irwin County, Ga., farmer owns about 1,000 acres. At 77, he has scaled back in recent years the acres he works.

He now rents out more acres to others.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

He farms about 450 acres on a cottoncotton/oats or wheat-peanut rotation. In 2020, he averaged 5,424 pounds per acre on irrigated peanuts and 3,762 pounds per acre on non-irrigated with highquality grades. Morris primarily plants the Ga-06G variety but has planted some 12Y. He has used strip tillage for many years.

He typically finishes by May 17 planting his 250 irrigated peanut acres and 60 or so non-irrigated peanuts, but this year that was the date he started planting.

Spring was wet in his part of Georgia, pushing back wheat harvest and spring planting.

Morris says cooperation, whether on the farm or throughout the peanut industry, contributes heavily to the

22nd Annual Southern Peanut Growers Conference Review sustainable efficiency of all farms, not just peanut farms.

“Armond Morris is a hardworking successful and very efficient peanut farmer who is also a tremendous advocate for all aspects of the peanut industry from farmer to consumer,” says Phillip Edwards, University of Georgia Extension coordinator in Irwin County, who nominated Morris for the award.

Mid-South When Dan West started looking at peanuts as an alternate crop for his rotation, it was just that, a rotation crop.

At that point he had no intention of making peanuts the major focus of his operation. Sixteen years later it is the crop that provides the financial stability and viability for his operation that all growers strive for.

West shoots for 750 acres of peanuts on his north Mississippi operation and averages approximately 5,500 pounds per acre. All his peanuts are dryland farmed.

The grades for the Georgia-06G variety he favors on his drouthy ground average in the high 70s.

He has farmed for the last several years with his grandson, Pallas Fair, 24, who ran the planter this year with

a tablet application, in addition to the GPS guidance system.West has noted that much of the success of his operation has come with the cooperation of other successful peanut growers who have helped him refine his operation.

He said the advice he got from former Peanut Efficiency Award winners Joe Morgan and Van Hensarling, was some of the best advice he received.

Brian Atkins of Birdsong Peanuts says, “He is a pioneer in peanuts in north Mississippi…He was the innovator that started to grow them here and then showed other farmers that we could grow peanuts in this area.”

Southwest In 2020, Tony Dill produced a careerbest in peanut production, yielding nearly 7,000 pounds to the acre on one of his Terry County, Texas, farms. Not only was it a record crop for him but at his buying point as well.

But Tony never got to harvest that personal best peanut crop. Tony Dill lost his life to COVID-19 on Oct. 23, 2020.

While Dill was in the hospital and in the days following his death, his community, family and friends converged on his fields, digging and combining his

peanuts — an act of love repeated in November as more than 100 volunteers also harvested his cotton.

“He set records at our buying point for the most peanuts ever made, the most peanuts harvested,” says his son Ryan Dill. “He always wanted to be the best and he got one last kick. He’s the best there is.”

Last year, Tony grew 360 acres of peanuts with Runner types Georgia 09B and GA-16 and Virginia’s, Wynne and ACI 442. His average yield per acre was 5,353 pounds.

Timing and clean fields were a priority to Tony. “He was big on timing,” Ryan said.

Important ingredients to Tony’s peanut production were inoculants, preseason fertilizer, Sonalan, fungicides to treat pod rot, Velum and crop rotation.

Water management also was key, concentrating his irrigation on his peanut acres during last year’s drought.

“He gave 100 percent every year, every time,” said his wife, Donna Dill.

“He would have been shocked (at the yields). He didn’t think it was going to be a very good year because it was so dry.”  Rਅਐ਒ਉ਎ਔਅ਄ Wਉਔਈ Pਅ਒਍ਉਓਓਉਏ਎ F਒ਏ਍ Fਁ਒਍ P਒ਅਓਓ

2020 Peanut Efficiency Winners The 2020 Farm Press Peanut Efficiency winners were announced last year but unable to be recognized in person by Farm Press, due to COVID-19, until the 2021 Southern Peanut Growers Conference.

The 2020 winning growers follow finely tuned production systems tailored to specific growing conditions. The winners all practice sustainable production practices and take advantage of every system available to improve production efficiency.

The 2020 winners include Mark, Tim and Michael Mullek, Lower Southeast Region winners from Summerdale Alabama; Kirk Jones, Upper Southeast Region winner from Windsor, Virginia; Van Hensarling, Mid-South Region from Richton, Mississippi; and Aaron and Glen Martin, Southwest Region winner from Wellman, Texas.

The 2020 Peanut Efficiency Winners were recognized during the 2021 Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July. Those in attendance pictured left to right, Michael, Mark, Joe and Betty Mullek, Aaron and Glen Martin, and Kirk Jones.

A full story on the 2020 winners appeared in the October/November 2020 issue of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer.

October/November 2021 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Washington Outlook

by Robert L. Redding Jr.

Meredith McNair Rogers represents USPF at General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Subcommittee

U.S. House of Representatives Approves Peanut Projects

Meredith McNair Rodgers, Camilla, Georgia, spoke at the round table hosted by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Subcommittee. Representing the U.S. Peanut Federation, Rodgers provided feedback from the 2018 Farm Bill policies and their effect on U.S. peanut growers and the peanut industry.

“Today I am representing the United States Peanut Federation. USPF is comprised of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation, the American Peanut Shellers Association, and the National Peanut Buying Points Association.

The Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program, included in the 2018 Farm Bill, works for U.S. peanut growers and the peanut industry.

Today, I want to update you on the state of peanut growers as it relates to the current PLC program. In addition to the yearly increases in input costs, my family farm has experienced significant cost increases this planting and harvesting season. The cost of fertilizer for our peanut crop has doubled this year.

Along with these unforeseen expenses, our heavy machinery has also spiked in both cost and demand. As many of you know, the equipment necessary for growing peanuts can only be used for the planting and harvesting of peanuts, such as a digger, shaker and a picker.

The Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, in Tifton, Georgia, maintains the U.S. Representative Peanut Farms database covering all the peanut production regions. A preliminary examination of the Georgia representative farms indicates that variable costs per acre, for irrigated peanut production, have increased approximately 6.4 percent since 2017. In contrast, the whole farm costs for repairs-maintenance have increased approximately 33 percent since 2017. In addition, the part-time labor costs that are needed during planting and harvesting of the crops has seen an increase of approximately 95 percent since 2017. These additional unaccounted operational costs have a significant impact on family farms.”

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a continuing resolution which includes the Fiscal Year 2022 package with two important research initiatives for peanuts. U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop, D-Georgia, chairman of the House Subcommittee on Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies led the effort for funding of both initiatives. The U.S. Peanut Federation supports Chairman Bishop’s efforts to resolve aflatoxin issues for the peanut industry through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and land grant efforts. In addition, the USPF has been working with The Peanut Institute to assure peanuts are utilized, as best possible, in the various federal feeding programs.

Included for the USDA Agricultural Research Service are the following initiatives in the FY 2022 legislation:

House Ag Committee holds hearing on “Voluntary Carbon Markets in Agriculture and Forestry” U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott, D-Georgia, asked members of the committee to consider whether federal policymaking can help to fill the gaps and provide the certainty and confidence needed to produce high-quality carbon credits.

In Chairman Scott’s opening statement, he said, “Voluntary carbon markets could help to capture the significant mitigation potential available within the agriculture and forestry sectors. To capitalize on these opportunities, carbon markets must rest upon a transparent and reliable accounting and verification framework to ensure they are delivering true economic and climate benefits.

However, given the significant variation that exists in today’s markets, serious questions remain over the quality of some of the carbon credits that are currently generated. Likewise, many questions remain about producer participation in markets – including how to fairly compensate producers, the ability of small farms to participate, and how to reward existing stewardship, among others.”

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2021

Peanut Nutrition Research — The committee recognizes the need for more research to identify how peanut consumption contributes to overall health, wellness, and reduces chronic disease risk in various groups and across the lifespan. The committee encourages research topics to include chronic diseases, nutrition and wellness across the lifespan, health disparities, dietary patterns for optimal health, and nutrition for the future. The committee provides $1,000,000 to implement this peanut nutrition research.

Peanut Research — The committee provides an additional $1,500,000 above the fiscal year 2021 level to support research activities to mitigate aflatoxin contamination in peanuts. The committee directs the USDA ARS to enhance ongoing collaborations with land grant institutions to further advance research efforts.

House Committee on Agriculture’s Budget Reconciliation The Senate kicked the budget reconciliation process “to consider a proposal to satisfy the Committee’s reconciliation instructions required by S. Con. Res. 14” to the House. The $3.5 trillion budget framework instructs a slew of committees to draft their pieces of the reconciliation proposal.

The House Committee on Agriculture then met to designate funds under the subsections handed to them from the Senate. Following two days of amendment consideration, the final legislation passed out of committee fell on party lines with a 27-24 vote. This legislation will be folded into a proposed $3.5 trillion Build Back Better spending plan to be voted on the House Floor.

The largest makeup of the legislation includes: • $28 billion for conservation programs • $7.75 billion for agricultural research aimed at addressing climate change.

• $2.6 billion for USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture, which funds research at colleges and universities.

• $18 billion for rural development programs.

• $9.7 billion for renewable energy through rural electric cooperatives and rural communities.

• $960 million for biofuel infrastructure, including upgraded pumps and tanks.

• $40 billion for forestry programs designed to help prevent wildfires and improve forest health.

U.S. Trade Representative Chief Agriculture Negotiator Appointment comes from the Tree Nut Industry The Biden Administration appointed Elena Trevino, the current president of the Almond Alliance of California, as the as the Chief Agriculture Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Trevino has a diverse background.

She’s previously served as a deputy secretary at the California Department of Food and Agriculture under Governors Gray Davis (Democrat) and Arnold Schwarzenegger (Republican). In both roles, she was responsible for the oversight of the international export and trade programs, specialty crop block grant funding, division of marketing services, plant health and pest prevention.

The U.S. Peanut Federation joined over 50 agriculture groups in a joint letter to the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance urging the Senate Finance Committee to advance Elaine Trevino’s nomination as soon as possible.

The letter stated, “We especially value Ms. Trevino’s demonstrated advocacy, regulatory, and international trade experience for California, a leading agriculture producing state. She is eminently qualified to be a successful Chief Agriculture Negotiator in addressing the most pressing food and agriculture trade policy issues.

Such issues include the critical importance of opening up new markets, the need to address growing trade challenges with China, the continual erection of new barriers to trade by the European Union, and the management of an expanding set of trade issues with Mexico, the enforcement of existing trade agreements and the imperative of tackling non-tariff barriers to trade around the world. We believe that Ms. Trevino has the experience and expertise to secure greater market access for U.S. products and ensure enforcement of clear and fair rules with our trade partners so U.S. food and agriculture workers and our industry sectors may fairly compete in the global economy.”

The U.S. Senate Finance Committee will schedule a hearing on Trevino’s nomination once the committee has received her official paperwork from the White House. Her nomination is the last of six Senate-confirmed positions in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative that Biden needs to fill.

The Biden Administration has yet to nominate an Under Secretary for Trade at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

SNAP Updates and the Peanut Industry The Biden administration has released a detailed plan increasing SNAP benefits.

One important change includes the formula which will take into account convenience foods like chopped frozen vegetables, bagged salads and canned beans, which are much more common now than when the plan was last updated in 2006.

The average SNAP benefit – excluding additional funds provided as part of pandemic relief – will increase by $36.24 per person, per month, or $1.19 per day, for Fiscal Year 2022 beginning on Oct. 1, 2021.

While the increase does not dictate specific spending, USDA’s new formula allows for a higher protein diet.

EPA issues final rule August 30 to ban the use of chlorpyrifos The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will stop the use of the pesticide chlorpyrifos on all food to better protect human health, particularly that of children and farmworkers.

In a final rule released Aug. 30, 2021, EPA is revoking all “tolerances” for chlorpyrifos, which establish an amount of a pesticide that is allowed on food. The ban takes effect Feb. 28, 2022.

Chlorpyrifos is a granular insecticide peanut farmers use for control of

rootworm, lesser cornstalk borer and burrower bugs.

Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension peanut entomologist, has been working to find alternatives to chlorpyrifos. He has found some options for growers to control lesser cornstalk borer and rootworm but hasn’t found an option for peanut burrower bug yet.

Abney hopes to be able to provide more updates and recommendations at the peanut production meetings held in Georgia during the winter.

“According to the final rule, growers are not allowed to buy up existing stock,” Abney says. “Any residues on the crop would make that crop adulterated and it couldn’t be sold.”

The U.S. Peanut Federation joined 30 agricultural industry organizations to send a letter to the EPA Administator Michael Regan requesting more clarification on the ruling.  Bਙ Jਏਙ C਒ਏਓਂਙ

October/November 2021 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Southern Peanut Growers Georgia Peanuts Featured at Memorial Health University Medical Farm 912 Truck Event

Southern Peanut Growers Sponsored the Chef Reception at the Sweetest Chefs Competition

Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah works with the local farmer’s market to host a Farm 912 Truck in front of the Children’s Hospital every Thursday during the summer. This event is designed to help staff and patient families gain access to fresh, local produce. The Farm Truck accepts Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Leslie Wagner promotes cards and utilizes additional funding peanuts at the Farm 912 through USDA to double the value Truck in front of Memorial of all produce purchased using EBT Health University’s Medical cards. Peanuts are included in this Center in Savannah, Ga. extra value purchasing.

Leslie Wagner, executive director of Southern Peanut Growers, had the opportunity to meet with a number of people in the Children’s Hospital who deal directly with infant nutrition. The dietitian who works with families who had children in the Neo-Natal ICU has her first visit with the family when the baby is six months old where she is focused on introducing food. She was thrilled to take Early Introduction posters and How to Introduce cards for usage at that first visit where she already talks about introducing peanuts and other food allergens. Two pediatricians, most notably one who works with new residents and interns, were also glad to take a stack of the How to Introduce cards for their usage.

Southern Peanut Growers hosted the Chef Welcome Reception for the 6th Annual Sweetest Chefs competition on Sept. 17, 2021, in Orange Beach, Alabama. The chef welcome reception at Fisher’s Orange Beach Marina featured Executive Chef Bill Briand’s boiled peanuts, which were presented two ways, and his Peanut Butter Parfait, a salty and sweet dessert with a crunchy peanut butter cookie base topped by Lennon Harrison peanut butter mousse, chocolate mousse presents his Old Fashioned Peanut and slightly spiced candied peanuts on Butter Layer Cake with top.

Bourbon Cheesecake One of the chefs had her first taste Mousse at the Sweetest Chefs competition. of boiled peanuts and already was contemplating a boiled peanut hummus appetizer as she snacked. She mentioned that her restaurant focuses on fresh local ingredients where she believes her work builds on the excellent work of farmers who spend months nurturing the food she serves.

The competition on Friday night had two peanut entries: (1) Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Layer Cake with Bourbon Cheesecake Mousse by Lennon Harrison in Orange Beach, Ala. and (2) The Breakup by Tonya Mays-Cronin in Lexington, Kentucky. About 300 attendees voted on the three prizes for Flavor, Creativity, and Presentation.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Whiskey Peanut Pie Directions: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line a deep-dish pie plate with the pie crust and set aside.

Ingredients: 1 9-inch deep dish pie crust 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup light corn syrup ¼ cup butter ¼ cup peanut butter 3 large eggs, beaten ¼ cup peanut butter whiskey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¾ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped roasted peanuts

Combine sugar, corn syrup, butter and peanut butter in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.

Remove from heat and cool slightly.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whiskey and vanilla extract. Whisk a small amount of the warm sugar mixture into the egg mixture to temper the eggs.

Continue to slowly add the sugar mixture while whisking to keep the eggs from cooking. Add the chocolate chips and peanuts and stir well to mix.

Pour mixture into the pie crust. Use foil or a pie shield to protect the crust edges.

Bake for 50 – 55 minutes (removing the foil or shield for the last 15-20 minutes) until the pie is set and the top is golden.

Tip: It is ideal to make this pie a day ahead. Allow the pie to cool thoroughly then cover with plastic wrap until serving. Once cut, remaining pie should be refrigerated. Whipped cream is an excellent topping for this pie.

Southern Peanut Growers

1025 Sugar Pike Way · Canton, Georgia 30115 Phone: (770) 751-6615 email: lpwagner@comcast.net Visit our website at http://www.peanutbutterlovers.com

Georgia’s Largest Commodity Show

January 19-20, 2022 Wednesday: 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center Free farmer lunch Pesticide applicator certification Nearly 100 Exhibits Door prizes

Learn more about the 2022 Georgia Peanut Farm Show by visiting

www.gapeanuts.com

For more information contact: Georgia Peanut Commission P.O. Box 967, Tifton GA 31793 Phone: 229-386-3470 Fax: 229-386-3501 Email: info@gapeanuts.com