South Georgia

Ag SceneSeptember 2019 The Moultrie Observer • The Tifton Gazette • The Valdosta Daily Times • Thomasville Times-Enterprise

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PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT AGRICULTURAL EXPO The Sunbelt Ag Expo features more than 1,200 exhibitors on 100 acres. Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition returns for 42nd year

STAFF REPORTS will see the latest innovation and technology that the agriculture MOULTRIE —The Sunbelt industry has to offer. Agricultural Exposition will cel- A highlight of the show is the ebrate its 42nd anniversary show naming of the Swisher Sweets Oct. 15-17 at the former Spence Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Field Air Base in Moultrie. More Farmer of the Year. After an PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT than 1,200 exhibitors will display intensive judging process, ten AGRICULTURAL EXPO and demonstrate products and state winners attend the show Two stages will feature welcome thousands of visitors to to learn who will be selected as cooking demonstrations the 100-acre show site. the overall winner. They’re each throughout all three days of Crowned as North America’s profiled elsewhere in this issue the show. The 9 a.m. Tuesday Premier Farm Show and the of Ag Scene. show at the Georgia Grown largest farm show in America Education is the key com- Marketplace Cooking Stage with field demonstrations, the ponent of the show with more in the Family Living Building Sunbelt Ag Expo brings together than 300 seminars and demon- will feature Georgia first lady all segments of agribusiness strations offered over the three- Marty Kemp and chef Holly including farmers, educators, pol- day event, according to Becca Chute making a bacon, apple, icy-makers, ag-enthusiasts and Turner, marketing director for kale, egg white and cheese families. All attending the show the Expo. These seminars and breakfast burrito. September 2019 Ag Scene Page 5 Page 6 Ag Scene September 2019

PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT AGRICULTURAL EXPO The American Grand Finals Stock Dog Trials are a perennial Expo favorite. This year features the largest field of competition in recent Expo history. MORE INFO For more information, see the show website at sunbeltexpo.com. demonstrations are taught Fresh, created by the Flint in exhibit areas for beef, River Soil & Water Conser- dairy, poultry, forestry, pond vation District (FRSWCD) management, equine and and run by Fredando Jack- cattle management. Farm- son, “Farmer Fredo,” will ers and ranchers attending organize the display that at- gain beneficial knowledge tracts hobby gardeners and on the latest in cutting edge enthusiasts alike. A bounty techniques from industry of information on garden- leaders and university spe- ing tips, tools and more will cialists. be offered in the Georgia The Expo works with Metals Pavilion and in the 21 different education demonstration garden. sponsors to host a strong “Basically, we offer a liv- seminar and demo sched- ing lab for planting and we ule, Turner said. These will have people who can education sponsors include speak in-depth about topics major universities and that are of interest to home colleges; six of the institu- gardeners and community tions have permanent ex- gardeners,” Jackson said. hibit buildings on-site. A crowd pleaser is the For the second year, the 600-acre research farm’s Expo will feature Youth field demonstrations, Turn- Educational Challenges for er said. These demos show- 6th-12th graders as a com- case harvesting and tillage petitive and fun opportuni- equipment for cotton, pea- ty for students to demon- nuts, corn, soybeans and strate their knowledge in hay. As in the past, cotton six different content areas. will be harvested during “The Youth Education the show. In addition, hay Challenges give us an op- demos will include all fac- portunity to interact with ets of hay harvesting from the next generation of our cutting to baling and will consumers,” said Expo Di- provide visitors the oppor- rector Chip Blalock. tunity to see 80 different The Sustainable Living types of hay harvesting Area focuses on topics equipment run in a true PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT AGRICULTURAL EXPO for the specialty garden- farm setting. A new collaboration with Flint River Fresh brings a yard full of opportunities for home gardeners, community farms and school er. This year, Flint River “The crops are looking children who are managing class gardens. September 2019 Ag Scene Page 7

PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT AGRICULTURAL EXPO Each day of the show ends with the Antique Tractor Parade. Page 8 Ag Scene September 2019 pretty good,” said Expo Farm man- tions this year will be one featuring ager Cody Mitchell. “The cotton is Georgia’s first lady, Marty Kemp, loaded up well. … We’re hoping to alongside Holly Chute, executive have good harvest weather — and chef for the Georgia Departments no hurricanes,” he said, a reference of Agriculture and Economic De- to Hurricane Michael, which hit velopment. Chute will be on stage Southwest Georgia about a week several times during the show, but before last year’s show. Kemp will join her at the 9 a.m. Expo is honored to have North Tuesday event on the Family Living Carolina as the 2019 Spotlight State. stage. The North Carolina Spotlight State Kemp has chosen the Georgia Committee has put together an Grown program for her particular all-encompassing exhibit themed support since her husband was “Mountains to the Sea, Diversified elected governor. in Agriculture, Unified in Vision.” “What Marty Kemp is doing for Chevrolet, a seven-year partner Georgia Grown speaks for itself,” of Sunbelt Agricultural Expo- said Blalock, an admitted fan of the sition, will feature an All-New first lady, who was his high school Chevy Truck Tour with multiple classmate. “The Governor’s Man- consumer engagement stations sion is 100% Georgia Grown in the and on-site product staff, Turner meals they serve.” said. The stations will highlight the There’s something for the entire versatility of Silverado, including family at the three-day show, Turn- capability, technology and design. er said. Engagements include an interac- “There is a daily rolling Antique tive strength test where visitors Tractor Parade, the American can gauge their strength against Grand Finals Stock Dog Trials the six different powertrains of the (the largest field of competition Silverado, a casting challenge, and in recent Expo history), and even a live demonstration that proves a Cow Milking Contest,” she said. the strength and durability of the “Add in rural lifestyle fun, truck, Silverado’s Durabed. tractor and ATV test drives, and the The Expo always features an venue is perfect for rural enthusi- array of aromas compliments of asts.” the delicious food sold within the The Sunbelt Ag Expo is open grounds during the show. In addi- Tuesday through Thursday, Oct. tion, many demonstration areas, 15-17, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on including the Georgia Ag Building, Tuesday and Wednesday and 8:30 the Aquaponics display, the Georgia to 4 on Thursday. Admission at the Peanut Commission building and gate is $10 per person per day. Ad- the newly enhanced Georgia Grown vanced and discount tickets can be Marketplace within the Family purchased online. The show site is Living Building, host segments four miles southeast of Moultrie on throughout the day with chefs and Highway 133. food enthusiasts alike. For more information, see the Among the cooking demonstra- show website at sunbeltexpo.com.

PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT AGRICULTURAL EXPO Three celebrities are scheduled at the Priefert Horse Arena. Wade Black, the 2019 Road to the Horse WildCard winner, will provide demonstrations each day at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Chris “Booger” Brown, star of the TV series “The Cowboy Way,” will meet fans at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. each day. Analise Granger, a professional Roman rider from Dothan, Ala., will demonstrate trick riding at 9:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. each day.

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PHOTO COURTESY SUNBELT AGRICULTURAL EXPO An FFA tractor driving competition is new to the Expo this year, but driving tractors is a staple. Visitors can check out trucks and various pieces of farming equipment either from the driver’s seat or while watching crops being worked and harvested on the Darrell Williams Research Farm.

There’s a wonderful world around us. Full of fascinating places. Interesting people. Amazing cultures. Important challenges. But sadly, our kids are not getting the chance to learn about their world. When surveys show that half of America’s youth cannot locate India or Iraq on a map, then we have to wonder what they do know about their world. That’s why we created MyWonderfulWorld.org. It’s part of a free National Geographic-led campaign to give your kids the power of global knowledge. Go there today and help them succeed tomorrow. Start with our free parent and teacher action kits. And let your kids begin the adventure of a lifetime. It’s a wonderful world. Explore!

We are not alone.

A National Geographic-led campaign Page 10 Ag Scene September 2019 296974-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 11

Meet your 2019 FARMERS OF THE YEAR From Sunbelt Agricultural Expo sunbeltexpo.com Page 12 Ag Scene September 2019 ALABAMA • HANK RICHARDSON

Facing challenges, pickup truck with a camp- dealing with disasters, er shell on top. We got a lot and toughing out hard of support from our friends times are not things Hank and neighbors in the com- Richardson enjoys, but he munity and just learned as is good at them. Born on we went along.” a modest farm in Centre, Building incremental Alabama, Richardson and success over those first his two older brothers, few years, they merged Harlan and Jerry, always in 1979 with another local worked together seam- greenhouse, Foliage Farms. lessly. But they needed to That’s when Dixie Green branch out from the family came into being. Richard- operation that grew row son says, “That first year crops and raised cattle and we had about three acres hogs because it wasn’t big of greenhouse and two de- enough to support them all. livery trucks but continued Gathering advice from a to expand our facilities and friend who owned a green- markets.” house and garden center, Today Hank Richardson the brothers came up with and his two sons, John a plan to go into the flower and Daniel, have 35 local growing business. employees and add more They started Richardson during the busy seasons. Greenhouse in 1974 with John is head grower; a quarter of an acre and Daniel is in charge of ir- some geranium and other rigation and trucking and cuttings from their grand- shipping; Dad Hank runs mother’s yard. Hank Rich- the office and keeps up ardson remembers, “We with invoicing. Altogether built a 28-by-96-foot green- they have twelve acres of house and started learning heated greenhouse space how to grow and sell plants and around eight acres and delivered them on a of outdoor pad growing Hank Richardson, Alabama Farmer of the Year The Preserve at Cobblestone “MOULTRIE’S PREMIER GATED COMMUNITY” • 186 Home Sites with Security Access Gates • Beautiful Clubhouse, Pool, and Fitness Center along with Bike & Walking Trails • Safe – Secure – Secluded! • BUY NOW & CHOOSE YOUR OWN: • GRANITE COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CABINETS • STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES • CUSTOM FLOORING PACKAGES • LIGHTING PACKAGES • LARGE WALK IN TILE SHOWER • FRONT & REAR COVERED PORCHES $ 181,900 PHASE III NOW OPEN! LOCATED AT 31ST AVE SE 1/2 MILE 264 COBBLESTONE BLVD SE EAST OF VETERANS PARKWAY. CALL LARRY FRANKLIN AT 229-589-0442! 113 COBBLESTONE BLVD SE 2 Bedrooms/ 2 Baths WWW.LARRYFRANKLINPROPERTIESINC.COM 4 Bedrooms/ 3 Baths 298134-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 13 space. Yields are as follows: fundraisers. Sometimes up, to stay humble, and to 250,000 poinsettia plants it’s a high school football ‘We worked and worked to grow plants among the collapsed greenhous- keep my eyes on the goal. yielding $56,440 per acre; or baseball team using our While one crop is growing, 250,000 fall mums yielding locally-grown flowers. They es. Through ingenuity and determination, we kept sales volume up near we’re working on the next $50,363 per acre; 325,0000 can pretty much double one. We can water, fertilize, caladiums yielding $116,667 their money on things like previous year levels, despite losing a third of our production area.’ and spray our plants, but per acre; 40,000 calla lilies spring ferns, variety bas- it takes God to help things yielding $152,925 per acre; kets, fall mums, and poin- grow. He is in control.” 15,000 ferns yielding $35,590 settias, and we deliver what Hank Richardson Hank Richardson was per acre; and 735,000 assort- they sell.” Alabama Farmer of the Year nominated for Alabama ed flowers and plants yield- The Richardsons have Farmer of the Year by Kyle ing $196,206 per acre. experimented over the Hayes. Of his old friend, Dixie Green grows years with as many as 80 320-foot structure was left.” County Farms Federa- ed in the region,” Hank Hayes says, “I have known annuals for national store to 90 different types of Another hunker down and tion, and has spent years Richardson adds, “one that him since he started the chains and produces up poinsettias. The so-called salvage effort was required helping coach local kids keeps listeners updated on greenhouse business many to half a million spring Picasso, for example, is to rebuild the business. baseball and soccer teams. weather events that are so years ago and have watched plants per year. Richardson known for its mixed color, Then, in March 1993, Hank and Sheila, his wife essential to an agricultural how he has overcome an says, “We sell our products a white leaf with red dots. at the beginning of the of nearly forty years, are community. They broadcast array of adversities and directly to wholesale con- The Jingle Bells is a red shipping season, Mother very active in their church, country music and gospel steadily grown the business sumers and contract grow leaf with white flakes. Nature decided to dump Providence Baptist. Both music on Sundays too, through hard work and a most of our production for Once the plants are rooted two feet of wet snow onto have been Sunday school which we enjoy.” refusal to take shortcuts. Young’s Plant Farm in Au- in July, they’re watered northeastern Alabama. It and Training Union teach- When it’s not all hands He is a man burn, Alabama. We antici- (using mostly overhead caved in about one-third of ers there Hank has served to the pump during the of devout faith, with an pate sales on non-contract irrigation) and treated for Dixie Green’s production as a trustee. slower times, the Richard- ever present smile and a crops based on previous aphids, fungus gnats, spi- space on four acres. The en- Sheila attends Alabama son’s enjoy going fishing servant’s heart. I believe year sales and expected der mites, and white flies. tire area was without pow- Farmers Federal State and hunting. Hank says, he is an awesome advocate growth in sales.” Since this Richardson comments, “We er, thus heat, light, and wa- meetings as well as annual “We schedule our deer, for agriculture and a won- is a soil-less growing me- keep a close eye on tem- ter. Richardson says, “We commodity meetings and squirrel, and rabbit hunt- derful representative for dium, plants are grown in peratures of course and the worked and worked to grow is known for her superior ing trips between mum and Alabama.” peat moss, a blended amount of sunlight plants plants among the collapsed Southern cooking skills at poinsettia shipping times.” As the Alabama winner soil with some additives get. You must have the greenhouses. Through in- the local and state levels. Nursery farming and of the Swisher Sweets/ that originates in peat bogs right day length to produce genuity and determination, For a number of years she the greenhouse business Sunbelt Expo award, in Canada. Richardson red leaves.” we kept sales volume up has also been the full-time have taught Hank Richard- Richardson will receive a notes, “That’s a lot of peat As to conservation near previous year levels, assistant manager at the son some valuable life les- $2,500 cash award and an moss—approximately fifty efforts, Richardson com- despite losing a third of local radio station, WEIS, sons: “Through the hard- expense-paid trip to the tractor trailer loads per ments, “We try to save our production area.” 990 AM. “It’s an enterprise ships and the good times, Sunbelt Expo from Swisher year.” energy by opening up In 2007 sales decreased that’s greatly appreciat- I’ve learned never to give International of Jackson- Over the last four de- greenhouses section by because of severe drought cades Dixie Green has section as space is needed, conditions, and in 2011 obtained some high-profile and heat only what must be Hank and Jerry’s brother, accounts, including being heated. We recycle plastics Harlan Richardson, then a major poinsettia supplier and use a steam generator company president, passed Let Us Help You Meet for Walt Disney World in to sterilize pots and trays away. “Every year we face Orlando, which purchas- so they can be reused. We new challenges,” says es over 80,000 plants per also utilize old greenhouse Richardson. And every EPA FUMIGANT year — poinsettias and poly tops as divider walls year he and his sons donate caladiums — mostly used inside the greenhouses, considerable time and ef- at the Magic Kingdom and which were built to con- fort to their local Ellisville Epcot Center. The varieties serve energy, and use some Volunteer Fire Department REQUIREMENTS can come in half a dozen electric vehicles. Most of where Richardson is now colors. They also sell to the our structures are natural chief. Both John and Daniel • The EPA is requiring that farmers and Gaylord Opryland Hotel in flow ventilation houses that are also paramedics. laborers wear respirators when handlinglinng Nashville and to the home don’t require fans to cool When fires break out soil fumigant pesticides. of university president at them. We’ve also built a in lightly populated rural Jacksonville State, as well two-acre pond to store wa- areas with a lot of timber- • All soil fumigant handlers must also bbee as independent garden ter that catches rain water land, they can be caused by evaluated and medically-cleared to weareae r a centers. runoff from an adjacent a number of events, both respirator. Because the business hillside.” natural and human. The • WorkSmart can provide quick assessmentsmentn s owns six tractor trailer As with most agricultur- Richardsons have used trucks, five straight trucks al enterprises through the tankers to haul lifesaving and assist in meeting EPA and OSHA with van boxes, and a small ages, Dixie Green has had water to house, cotton bale, requirements. van, they deliver their its fair share of ups and hay baler, and woodland own flowers all across the downs. In November 1983, fires. “It can be a little southeastern US. Seventy in the early years of the inconvenient at times,” Call 229-353-63200 to eighty percent of what’s joint venture, the brothers Richardson says, “but it’s For an appointment or more information.on. grown is pre-sold and the had to deal with a devastat- rewarding to be able to help other 20 percent is used for ing warehouse fire. “The our neighbors in times of annual fundraiser sales. structure,” Richardson need.” 4468 Union Road | Tifton, Georgiaia Richardson adds, “We recalls, “was wood frame Hank Richardson is a are proud of our sales to with fiberglass sides and member of the Cherokee West of I-75, Exit 60 schools, churches, service double-decked. It was full County Chamber of Com- www.discoverworksmart.com organizations like FFA, of spring supplies. After- merce, past secretary/ and clubs for their various ward, nothing of the 40-by- treasurer of the Cherokee 298192-1 Page 14 Ag Scene September 2019 ville, Florida, a $500 gift certificate from Southern States cooperative ARKANSAS • CHRIS ISBELL and a Columbia vest from Ivey’s Outdoor and Farm Supply. Rich- ardson is now eligible for the $15,000 cash prize awarded to the overall winner. Other prizes for the overall winner include use of a tractor for a year from MF Prod- uct, another $500 gift certificate from Southern States, a Columbia jacket from Ivey’s Outdoor and Farm Supply, a smoker-grill from Hays LTI, and a Henry Repeating Arms American Farmer Tribute edition 22 rifle from Reinke Man- ufacturing Co., Inc., the irrigation company, through its partnership with Henry Repeating Arms. Swisher International, through its Swisher Sweets cigar brand, and the Sunbelt Expo are sponsoring the Southeastern Farmer of the Year awards for the 30th consecutive year. Swisher has contributed some $1,120,000 in cash awards and other honors to southeastern farmers since the award was initiated in 1990. Previous state winners from Alabama include: Ricky Wiggins of Anderson, 1990; George Kiser, Sr. of Foley, 1991; Allen Bragg of Toney, 1992; Sykes Martin of Courtland, 1993; David Pearce of Browns, 1994; Glenn Jones of Blountsville, 1995; Raymond Jones of Huntsville, 1996; Dan Miller of Greensboro, 1997; Homer Tate of Meridianville, 1998; Eugene Glenn of Hillsboro, 1999; George T. Hamilton of Hillsboro, 2000; Chris Isbell, Arkansas Farmer of the Year Bert Driskell of Grand Bay, 2001; Charles Burton of Lafayette, 2002; Curiosity, innovation, and sustainability fewer inputs of water and fertilizer, making bell says, “Sustainability is the same thing Bruce Bush of Eufaula, 2003; John are the hallmarks underlying the success of it more eco-friendly. Isbell Farms has on- as survivability. If it’s sustainable, it should B. East of Leesburg, 2004; James Isbell Farms, a six-generation family enter- farm storage and markets to mills as well make you money.” A. Wise of Samson, 2005; Glenn prise with 3,000 acres of rice production in as brokers. When others refer to sustainability, Forrester of Columbia, 2006; Billy Humnoke, Arkansas. Chris Isbell, Judy Is- Using the expertise of researchers at Isbell prefers to use the word “steward- Gilley of Holly Pond, 2007; Lamar bell, Mark Isbell, Shane Isbell, and Jeremy the University of Arkansas, Arkansas ship.” For his family’s efforts in this envi- Dewberry of Lineville, 2008; David Jones form the company’s partnership that State University, and Cornell University, ronmentally critical area, Isbell Farms Wright of Plantersville, 2009; Shep has three other full-time employees. They Chris Isbell applies AWD (alternate wetting was awarded the 2016 Commitment to Qual- Morris of Shorter, 2010; Andy do business as Zero Grade Farms. and drying) as well to many of his acres, ity Award from the American Carbon Reg- Wendland of Autaugaville, 2011; In the early 20th century, a couple of thereby reducing water usage by another 20 istry. It also has a GOLD ranking in Sam Givhan of Safford, 2012; An- generations of Isbells grew cotton and percent. the SAI sustainability platform. As a busi- nie Dee of Aliceville, 2013; Phillip harvested timber for railroad crossties. He explains, “When our rice is flooded ness they are committed to transparency, Hunter of Birmingham, 2014; When Chris’s dad, Leroy Isbell, returned to 100 percent, it is grown big enough to shade collaboration with the research community, Ricky Cornutt of Boaz, 2015; Wen- Lonoke County from his World War II Navy the ground. Then we let it dry until the soil and safety and respect for their workers, dell Gibbs of Ranburne, 2016; and service, he used his GI Bill income to pay is exposed, giving oxygen to the roots of the their local community, and their consum- Chris Langley of Camp Hill, 2017; for his first crop of rice. Intent on increas- plant. In this way microbes do not change ers. John Deloach of Vincent, 2018. ing yield and efficiency, he water seeded his organic matter into methane, which causes In his continuing quest for crop health A distinguished panel of judges rice crops and pioneered zero-grading of greenhouse gasses that stay in the atmo- and efficient farming practices, Isbell has visited Dixie Green, along with rice fields, allowing his fields to drain water sphere for 30 years — worse than carbon received a grant to study the use of algae the farms of the other nine state more quickly in four directions rather than dioxide.” in collaboration with the University of finalists, during the week of Aug. the sloped direction found in traditional Over the last six years, the University Arkansas. Isbell says, “After fighting algae 5-9. The judges this year include rice levee systems. The result was a 30 per- of Arkansas has installed Eddy towers that for years, we noticed rice seeded into algae Cary Lightsey, Lake Wales, Florida, cent reduction of water usage. measure methane emissions in real time. could be encouraged to emerge from algae who was the overall winner of the This conservation method is now ap- These combined applications have im- after drainage. Upon rooting through the award in 2009; John McKissick, plied on 100 percent of Isbell Farms acre- proved sustainability and have resulted in algae, the rice would then be protected from long-time University of Georgia age that produces its special varieties of a reduction of methane by 62 percent. Isbell grass and weeds by the thick algae mulch, agricultural economist at Athens, Japanese and sake rice, as well as its staple Farms has also been a pioneer in the field thereby possibly reducing or even eliminat- Georgia; and David Wildey, Manila, long grain rice. In recent years they have of producing and selling negative carbon ing the use of herbicides.” Arkansas, the overall winner of the focused on naturally cross-pollinated (hy- offsets or credits. In 2017 Microsoft Corpora- Additional benefits would be another award in 2016. brid) rice that produces more grain with tion purchased those carbon credits. As Is- large reduction of water use, carbon emis- September 2019 Ag Scene Page 15 sions, and methane emis- breeding for taste,” he says, is invaluable. And since of trade wars.” On a philo- trip to the Sunbelt Expo awards and other honors to sions with no loss of yield. “even it if takes almost a he has a master’s degree sophical level, the Lonoke from Swisher International southeastern farmers since This is possibly a viable al- decade for that first bite.” in technical writing and County native who grew of Jacksonville, Florida, the award was initiated in ternative to current organ- Another innovative area teaches speech and writing up on a farm and never left a $500 gift certificate from 1990. ic rice production which is of focus is the installation online at the University of says, “I’ve learned that you Southern States coopera- Previous Arkansas “far too impractical due to of a new 300 kilowatt solar Arkansas, we know that can’t depend on immedi- tive and a Columbia vest winners include Michael its extremely high volume field consisting of 946 solar our website information ate results to be happy or from Ivey’s Outdoor and Simon of Conway, 2007; of water use,” according to panels hooked up to the and correspondence are go- satisfied. Immediate grati- Farm Supply. Isbell is now Brian Kirksey of Amity, Isbell. He adds, “Further grid. Isbell says, “When ing to be correct, clear, and fication is not an attainable eligible for the $15,000 cash 2008; Orelan Johnson of studies will be made to test net metering is done, the eminently readable.” reality in agriculture. Your prize awarded to the overall England, 2009; Bill Haak of if blue green algae, which meter runs backwards. Both Mark Isbell and answers may come four or winner. Other prizes for the Gentry, 2010; Michael Ox- fixes nitrogen, can benefit The amount of energy pro- Jeremy Jones, Chris and five years down the road by overall winner include use ner of Searcy, 2011; Heath the rice plant.” duced is subtracted from Judy’s son-in-law, are circuitous routes.” of a tractor for a year from Long of Tichnor, 2012; Being a lifelong student the total electric bill. The graduates of the Rice Chris Isbell was nomi- MF Product, another $500 Phillip DeSalvo of Center of agricultural science, electric coop that Isbell Leadership Council and nated Farmer of the Year gift certificate from South- Ridge, 2013; Nathan Reed Chris Isbell discovered Farms uses gives a penny travel extensively, contrib- for Arkansas by the Lonoke ern States, a Columbia of Marianna, 2015; and Da- years ago, through an ex- for penny rebate up to 11 uting their expertise and County Farm Family of jacket from Ivey’s Outdoor vid Wildy of Manila, 2016; change with a Japanese cents per kilowatt hour. leadership to a number the Year committee. Com- and Farm Supply, a smok- Mark Morgan of Clarks- businessman in California, We’re also planning a pilot of industry associations. mittee member Josh Cun- er-grill from Hays LTI, and ville, 2017; Luke Alston of that premium sushi rice, plant for bio gas, using Jeremy manages much of ningham is the Ag Lending a Henry Repeating Arms Mena, 2018. known as Koshihikari, was straw to produce methane, the irrigation of the fields Officer for AgHeritage American Farmer Tribute A distinguished panel of grown at the same latitude which goes back into the during the growing season Farm Credit Services. He edition 22 rifle from Reinke judges visited Isbell Farms, as his native county. Ac- natural gas line clean.” and oversees the drying comments, “The Isbells Manufacturing Co., Inc., along with the farms of the cepting the challenge that For Chris Isbell, the key and storage of the rice af- represent what the family the irrigation company, other nine state finalists, “Koshi” could not be grown ingredient to this long-term ter harvest. He is currently farm really is. Besides through its partnership during the week of Aug. 5-9. outside of Japan, Isbell ob- recipe for success is family. serving on the Asia Trade being remarkably innova- with Henry Repeating The judges this year include tained the coveted seed and At the ceremony present- Policy Subcommittee and tive, they are consistently Arms. Cary Lightsey, Lake Wales, planted a few acres of the ing the Arkansas Farmer the Sustainability Com- generous in their efforts to Swisher International, Florida, who was the over- variety. of the Year award, he ac- mittee. Daughter Whitney educate others about their through its Swisher Sweets all winner of the award in He says, “It wasn’t the cepted humbly by saying, Isbell Jones oversees the challenges as well as their cigar brand, and the Sun- 2009; John McKissick, long- easiest to grow or harvest, “We have the best crew you Children’s Ministry at Lo- successes.” belt Expo are sponsoring time University of Georgia but we managed. Then, can possibly imagine, and noke Baptist Church. As the Arkansas winner the Southeastern Farmer agricultural economist at after some considerable it’s our family.” Judy Isbell, Nephew Shane Isbell of the Swisher Sweets/ of the Year awards for Athens, Georgia; and David effort, we found a trading his wife of 44 years, does has been working on the Sunbelt Expo award, Isbell the 30th consecutive year. Wildey, Manila, Arkansas, company that would sell all of the bookkeeping for farm since he was 14 and will receive a $2,500 cash Swisher has contributed the overall winner of the it both here and in Japan. the farm and spends a lot took over his father’s sickle award and an expense-paid some $1,120,000 in cash award in 2016. When we marketed our of time dispensing meals business, specializing in Koshi rice to the Japanese, to visitors from all around cutting lodged or fallen they put our family picture the US and the far reaches rice. Shane and his wife, on the package and the of the globe. They’ve ar- Lisa, have continued to first order sold out in two rived from Russia, Japan, operate this enterprise for GUNS & weeks!” Uruguay, Argentina, Guate- 24 years, now with the help Isbell Farms also grows mala, Panama, Costa Rica, of their sons, Colton and 100 acres of Yamada Nishi- and more recently, Cuba, Nathan. Every partner is ki, the world’s premium a country both Chris and a Patron of AgHeritage GEAR sake rice. It’s not suitable Mark Isbell have visited and a member of the Farm as table rice, but is consid- over the last few years. Bureau. Shane has his ered to be the best rice for Judy also helped start dad’s talent to visualize making sake, according to their local non-traditional and build, modify, or repair Isbell. He adds, “It has to church, Stuttgart Harvest, anything on the farm. be milled down to the cen- where she plays keyboard Chris Isbell adds, “Our ter of the grain in special to Chris’s guitar in the three full-time employees, mills; the one we use is band. Chris comments, “We Carl Hill, Oscar Gonzalez, in Minnesota, where sake wanted to build a safe place and Emilio Cham, are craft breweries are spring- for people to worship God, essential contributors to Largest Gun & Ammo ing up just like the recent a place to attract those who daily farm operations. Carl trend in craft beer. And we may have stopped going to has been with us since the work with Takara Sake in church for one reason or early 1980s and is consid- Selection in Town Berkeley, California, the another. We simply wel- ered an honorary family Find great prices on quality sporting arms, ammo, gear and accessories largest sake company in come everyone to be part member. He plays an inte- the US. of our Christian commu- gral role in crop irrigation, Using Isbell’s rice, they nity and contribute, if land preparation, and ma- Always a great selection on: have earned the Gold they like, to a number of ny other important tasks.” • Electronics • Guitars • Power & Hand Tools award for sake in this outreach programs we As for ongoing challeng- country. It’s sold under the maintain.” es, Isbell has to wonder • Game Stations • Games • DVD’s • TV’s brand name Sho Chiku Bai Son Mark handles the what’s coming next. He Dai Ginjo.” business side of the op- says, “Since our soil is low Being an avid reader eration, making sure the and heavy clay, not so good American Pawn Shop and researcher, Isbell is farm stays in compliance for anything except grow- 1235 1st Avenue SE • Moultrie • 985-7296 a lifelong experimenter with things. Dad Chris ing rice, I have to wonder with his own cross variet- notes, “His contribution to how we will continue to OPEN: Mon.-Sat. 9-6 ies of rice. “We’re always all aspects of the business stay competitive in an era Other Locations: Thomasville, Cairo, Bainbridge, Americus 298127-1 Page 16 Ag Scene September 2019

There is no time clock or closing bell to with determination and commitment. end your workday. Your days last as long We honor your hard work and thank you as it takes to get the job done. You face for farming America. Swisher Sweets is whatever the conditions may bring in a proud sponsor of the Sunbelt Expo every row on every acre in every season Southeastern Farmer of the Year award. 297356-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 17 FLORIDA • CHARLES W. OBERN

To be successful in land share of ten acres just farming requires a good outside Immokalee, and deal of stamina, flexibility, that was the beginning of and determination, along an enterprise that would with a love of the art of progressively expand in growing things. Charles acreage and diversity over “Chuck” Obern, owner of the years. C&B Farms, Inc., embod- C&B Farms, Inc. grows, ies all these qualities, in both conventionally and addition to curiosity — an organically, 30 different instinctive awareness that vegetables and herbs on its research can provide pre- 1,500 acres. Their staple is viously undiscovered or specialty produce: organic underutilized methods to green beans, eggplant, baby improve crop health and bok choy, green cabbage, yields. and an assortment of Graduating from the peppers, greens, radishes, University of Florida’s and herbs such as basil, IFAS program (Institute cilantro and other culinary for Food and Agricultural varieties. Yields are as fol- Sciences) in 1979 with a lows: 300 acres of cilantro major in vegetable crop yielding 1,000 cases per production and a minor in acre; 200 acres of bunch tropical agriculture, Obern radish yielding 1,200 cases began his career by work- per acre; 200 acres of or- ing for a few farmers in ganic green beans yielding southwest Florida to learn 150 cases per acre; 150 acres the commercial produce in- of green cabbage yielding dustry. He applied his aca- 1,000 cases per acre; 100 demic studies and previous acres of basil yielding 6,450 hands-on experiments to lbs. per acre; 90 acres of help grow their businesses. culinary herbs yielding In 1986, he was offered a 7,500 lbs. per acre; 60 acres Charles W. Obern, Florida Farmer of the Year

227268-1 Page 18 Ag Scene September 2019 of Napa yielding 650 cases A landmark event in control program to reduce search Project with involved in many activities, Swisher International, per acre; and 60 acres of the growth of C&B Farms, pesticide use. Use of flood- Rupp Seed, the Florida including the year book through its Swisher Sweets bok choy yielding 700 cases Inc. happened in 1992 when ing and cover crops in the Nurseryman & Growers, and student government. cigar brand, and the Sun- per acre. Obern obtained a contract summer increases organic UF/IFAS Lettuce Advisory She also has a very high belt Expo are sponsoring Obern says, “We market from Pace Foods, the Tex- matter and reduces weed Committee, and the IFAS GPA. Issai is a freshman the Southeastern Farmer our farm as a diverse pro- as-based salsa producer, and nematode populations, Immokalee SW Florida and is involved in FFA and of the Year awards for ducer, branding our prod- to grow jalapeno peppers. thereby decreasing the Vegetable Advisory Com- loves the outdoors, partic- the 30th consecutive year. ucts and custom growing Obern recalls, “They ad- need for fumigants and mittee. ularly fishing in his john Swisher has contributed and packing them based on vanced the initial cash to herbicides. One of the most reward- boat after school. We take some $1,120,000 in cash the individual customer’s grow the crop and helped Over the years Obern ing aspects of farming occasional family trips to awards and other honors needs and requests. In 2006 me establish credit and has also invested in custom for Obern has been, in Trujillo, Peru, where Roxa- to Southeastern farmers we established the organic implement needed setup computer software for map- his words, “Working in na is from.” since the award was initiat- sector to meet the increas- operations.” ping crop plantings, payroll an industry I love with Chuck Obern was nom- ed in 1990. ing demand for organic With his strong interest management, scheduling like-minded people: farm- inated Farmer of the Year Previous state winners food and to provide healthy, in environmentally sound of all farm production ers, buyers, university by Eva Webb, District Field from Florida include: Er- sustainable vegetables to practices and sustain- activities, and putting researchers, and consul- Representation, Florida nie Nunez of Dade City, the East Coast food supply. ability, Obern has worked systems in place to track tants. We speak the same Farm Bureau Federation. 1990; Ernie Nunez of Dade We market directly to retail with researchers at a large receiving, inventory, sales, language, have the same She says, “Chuck was a City, 1991; Wayne Wiggins customers, wholesalers, number of agricultural in- and shipping of products. interests, and pursue the worthy candidate because of Plant City, 1992; Leroy repackers, and processors stitutions and companies, Challenges — of the same types of goals. We’re of his outstanding service Baldwin of Ocala, 1993; through our in-house sales including Rutgers Uni- mother nature-related always reaching into the to agriculture through his Billy Long of Apopka, 1994; team.” Large retail custom- versity, IFAS, USDA, and and economic sort — have future to hopefully make dedication, curiosity, and Richard Barber of Ocala, ers include Publix, Winn Rupp Seeds. He has hosted been regular visitors to it a better one.” Obern innovative farming meth- 1995; Al Bellotto of Lake- Dixie, and WalMart. Obern numerous experimental C&B Farms over its long, has also been involved in ods. He did not come from land, 1996; Rex Clonts of adds, “Everything we sell trials on his farm dealing interesting history. Obern community education ef- a farming background but Apopka, 1997; John Hoblick is either sold or committed with a wide array of proj- notes, “We’ve seen our forts that include hosting has a passion for the land of DeLeon Springs, 1998; before it is planted.” ects, such as developing share of hail, hurricanes, Hendry County agriculture and for research, which he Doug Holmberg of Valrico, C&B Farms, Inc. em- mildew resistant basil, freezes, market dips, and tours and being a presenter has generously shared with 1999; Damon Deas of Jen- ploys 30 full-time staff trials of methyl bromide foreign competition, not at Hendry/Glades County others. Chuck has worked nings, 2000; Gene Batson in administration, sales, alternatives and weed con- to mention the ongoing Leadership Farm Tours. with scientists and univer- of Mount Dora, 2001; Wil- and tractor driving posi- trol, chemical treatment visits and demands of state He also helped lobby for the sity faculty from California liam Putnam of Alturas, tions and hires up to 250 of farm discharge water and federal regulators and Country of Original label- to Florida on projects to 2002; Sonny Williamson planting and harvesting to reduce phosphorus dis- agencies. Labor — its avail- ing of produce legislation improve his growing tech- of Okeechobee, 2003; Dale workers during the height charge using alum, and ge- ability, skill level, and cost passed by the US Congress niques. He began with very Sauls of Anthony, 2004; of the season, roughly a netic testing, selection, and — is always a challenge, in 2002. few resources, but through Louis “Red” Larson of quarter of which is H2A measuring of Eucalyptus along with things like plant What’s on the horizon at sheer determination and Okeechobee, 2005; Damon labor. Obern’s son, Charles Torelliana as wind break diseases, harmful insects, C&B Farms, Inc. is finding great effort, created a farm- Deas of Jennings, 2006; A. “Boots” Obern, works and wood source trees. Ad- profitability issues, and a facility to allow consoli- ing legacy to pass on to his Alto “Bud” Adams of Ft. alongside his dad each day ditional sugar cane wind sheer survival.” dation so that it can better children who share his love Pierce, 2007; Randy Strode and has done so since he breaks have created a shel- But since Obern is a serve its customers by re- of farming.” of Longwood, 2008; Cary was a boy. Boots is respon- ter for beneficial insects in dedicated problem solv- ducing freight costs during As the Florida winner Lightsey of Lake Wales, sible for managing the pro- many of the natural areas er and knows first-hand the summer months. Plans of the Swisher Sweets/ 2009; John Hundley of duction portion of the farm in and around the farm nature’s whims, he has di- are in hand to add addition- Sunbelt Expo award, Obern North Palm Beach, 2010; and assists with sales and fields. All of this effort goes versified crop plantings, deal cooler and office space will receive a $2,500 cash Ron St. John of Trenton, marketing. toward helping solve prob- veloped a hoop/freeze cloth as well to accommodate award and an expense-paid 2011; Dale McClellan of Obern comments, “My lems affecting food produc- system to protect crops, the amount of product and trip to the Sunbelt Expo Thonotosassa, 2012; John son’s knowledge is invalu- tion in south Florida. and spent money on an keep up with compliance from Swisher International Scott Long of Palm City, able, and I am grateful Obern says, “New bed- extensive canal system and and management issues. of Jacksonville, Florida, 2013; C. Dennis Carlton of for his commitment to ding geometry has reduced dewatering pumps of high Obern adds, “We want to a $500 gift certificate from Tampa, 2014; Vic Story, Jr., the farm. A bonus for us our carbon footprint by 5 to capacity to protect against construct new housing to Southern States coopera- of Lake Wales, 2015; Paul came in 2016 when his 10 percent and has reduced floods. C&B Farms also meet the increased demand tive and a Columbia vest DiMare of Coral Gables, wife, Miranda, joined the costs. In 1998 we began a has a tail water recovery for H2A labor, and add from Ivey’s Outdoor and 2016; and Mark Wilson family business. Because new composting facility system, the primary water products to our existing Farm Supply. Obern is of Homestead, 2017; and she brings with her over 15 that turns yard waste into source, but has many wells product line, thereby en- now eligible for the $15,000 Lynetta Usher Griner of years of experience in fi- nutrients to improve the that can be used when sur- hancing our brand value cash prize awarded to the Chiefland, 2018. nancial management, she’s farm’s weak soil.” He has face water dries up. Obern for retailers and consum- overall winner. Other priz- A distinguished panel making a tremendous con- also expanded and altered notes, “It doesn’t do any- ers. We also want to cones for the overall winner of judges visited C&B tribution to our financial existing water detention one any good to complain tinue our work with IFAS include use of a tractor for Farms, Inc., along with the security. She also played a areas with internal dikes about things when you can and other local researchers a year from MF Product, farms of the other nine state key role in putting in place that have the added benefit choose to put yourself in to solve problems affecting another $500 gift certificate finalists, during the week our H2A program.” of attracting a large quan- the place of finding solu- food production in our re- from Southern States, a Co- of Aug. 5-9. The judges this Son Michael Obern, tity and diversity of birds, tions instead.” gion.” lumbia jacket from Ivey’s year include Cary Lightsey, who lives with his family including the endangered On an industry-wide lev- In those spare moments Outdoor and Farm Supply, Lake Wales, Florida, who in Sarasota, also started snail kite. He says, “The el, Obern is a member of when Chuck Obern isn’t a smoker-grill from Hays was the overall winner of working at the farm at a National Audubon Society many organizations. They working, he enjoys reading, LTI, and a Henry Repeating the award in 2009; John young age and is a talent- does their Christmas bird include: the American swimming, and spending Arms American Farmer McKissick, long-time Uni- ed mechanic. Obern says, count here because of this Farm Bureau, the Florida time with his wife, Roxana Tribute edition 22 rifle versity of Georgia agricul- “He can get anything with healthy habitat.” Farm Bureau Federation, Vilela Guerra-Obern, a na- from Reinke Manufactur- tural economist at Athens, an engine to run. He now Obern employs tech- Hendry Glades County tive of Peru, and their two ing Co., Inc., the irrigation Georgia; and David Wildey, works with a large tractor nology through GPS rate Farm Bureau, the Ameri- children, Maria and Issai. company, through its part- Manila, Arkansas, the over- dealer, keeping central controllers and incorpo- can Horticultural Society, Obern notes, “Maria is a nership with Henry Repeat- all winner of the award in Florida’s tractors going.” rates an integrated pest the Pumpkin Breeding Re- senior in high school who’s ing Arms. 2016. September 2019 Ag Scene Page 19

Robert L. Dickey, III, Georgia Farmer of the Year GEORGIA • ROBERT L. DICKEY, III

Since 1897, Dickey degree, saying that he inghouse facility and gen- of June and finish by June orchards are spread out wonderful, meaningful in- Farms has been produc- could always teach him erated additional income. 20. They are a hybrid peach over 1,000 acres of land in teraction with people from ing high quality peaches. more about the land, but “We’ve since more than fused between the Cling- several counties with over far and wide, particularly Today, Robert Lee Dickey that mastering the econom- quadrupled our volume,” stone and the Freestone. 100,000 peach trees — all to church, senior, and hobby II (“Mr. Bob”), Robert Lee ics of agriculture would he notes. “Forty years ago Freestone peaches are the ensure that they’re grow- groups,” says Dickey. Dickey III (“Robert”), and be of key importance we were packing about last and most widely antic- ing the very best fruit. Dickey is quick to ac- Robert L. Dickey IV (“Lee”) to the future. So Robert 75,000 packages a year and ipated of the season, char- Over the last five to knowledge the immense combine their skills to car- earned his degree in 1977 this year we expect to pack acterized by their hallmark ten years, Dickey Farms contribution his wife of 41 ry on the farming legacy of in finance from the Univer- around 400,000 half-bushel juiciness and sweet flavor. has expanded into the years makes to their enter- growing the tastiest peach- sity of Georgia, thinking boxes.” Freestone peaches have the agro-tourism business, prise. es in the South. Calling on perhaps he might enter Thirty different variet- longest run, spanning from applying great ideas from “Cynde is the farm’s deep family experience, the banking industry. For- ies of peaches are grown early to mid-June through all members of the family. chief financial officer they are planting year- tunately, for the long-term on Dickey Farms from August. They use the space of a and started the retail and round, inspecting every prospects of Dickey Farms, early May through late Au- Dickey Farms sells generations-old wooden mail-order business a cou- detail. This multi-genera- those jobs were scarce, and gust. The primary types are primarily to Genuine packinghouse and a gener- ple of decades ago. Now, tional experience makes Dickey returned home, Clingstone, Semi-Free, and Georgia Group, a sales and al store where ripe peaches with the expertise of our them some of the most armed with educational Freestone. The Clingstone marketing firm with a solid and peach ice cream can be children and daughter-in- knowledgeable and skilled tools that would prove to be are the first peaches of the foundation in the peach savored by tourists, local law and the website they’ve growers in the industry. innovative and expansive. season to be harvested, growing industry. Dickey school groups, and general developed, the online sales And they love what they do. One profitable initia- typically ripening around Farms yields are: 218 bush- passersby. Many visitors are booming. And people All during his growing tive was Robert’s idea to the second week of May. els/acre of peaches on 890 also come to pick straw- come from all over Georgia up years, Robert worked offer packing services to Semi-Free peaches, a new- acres; 10,000 pounds/acre berries and vegetables and many other states to on the farm part-time. Af- neighboring farmers, a er variety, are the second of strawberries on two when they’re in season. tour own farm, sample our ter graduating from high decision that not only met peaches of the season to acres, and has 2,200 acres “It’s brought in consistent peaches, and purchase our school, his father urged their needs but utilized in a be harvested and typically of varied timber as well return for us, but beyond homemade general store him to pursue a business maximum way their pack- ripen around the first week as 100 pecan trees. Their that, we’ve enjoyed some products (“Mr. Bob’s Mar- Page 20 Ag Scene September 2019 ket”). These include baked over the years, Dickey They are an innovative, Timothy McMillan of goods, mixes, butter, can- has bought irrigation ‘I thought we needed more agriculture progressive, amazing Enigma, 1990; Bud Butcher dy, cider, cookies, drinks, equipment and added farm that has lasted over of Senoia, 1991; James Lee honey, jams and jellies, gift lakes, wells, and piping and business people in the House with generations. They are also Adams of Camilla, 1992; boxes, dressings, pecans, that helped mitigate the outstanding community John Morgan of Mystic, pickles, preserves, relish effects of dry conditions. conservative philosophy. I’d been involved members who contribute 1993; Alan Verner of Rut- and salsa.” He has also transitioned to to the health and benefit of ledge, 1994; Donnie Smith At 91, “Mr. Bob” is chief low-volume drip irrigation locally in the Chamber of Commerce and the entire county.” of Willacoochee, 1995; cheerleader, mentor, over- without sacrificing quality As the Georgia winner Armond Morris of Ocilla, seer, and encourager, ar- or yield amounts. Areas Economic Development Board but wanted of the Swisher Sweets/Sun- 1996; Thomas Coleman, Jr. riving first in the morning between the peach tree belt Expo award, Dickey of Hartsfield, 1997; Glenn with a list of instructions rows are planted with sod, to do more.’ will receive a $2,500 cash Heard of Bainbridge, 1998; for everyone. Son Robert L. preventing soil erosion, award and an expense-paid Bob McLendon of Leary, “Lee” Dickey helps manage giving improved traction trip to the Sunbelt Expo 1999; James Lee Adams the entire enterprise. He’s for equipment, providing a Robert L. Dickey from Swisher International of Camilla, 2000; Daniel also in charge of the farm’s habitat for helpful insects, Georgia Farmer of the Year of Jacksonville, Florida, Johnson of Alma, 2001; food safety program and and adding soil moisture. a $500 gift certificate from Armond Morris of Ocilla, the planting of new peach Dickey follows EQIP (US so that I could be away at the lessons of the past and Southern States coopera- 2002; Jim Donaldson of trees and crops. Lee’s wife, Department of Agricul- the capitol periodically. present to prepare for the tive and a Columbia vest Metter, 2003; Joe Boddiford Stacy, lends assistance ture’s Environmental Qual- It’s worked out well, espe- future — is important, from Ivey’s Outdoor and of Sylvania, 2004; Jim- in sales and marketing ity Incentives Program) cially with the fortunate even critical, in farming. Farm Supply. Dickey is my Webb of Leary, 2005; through social media, em- recommendations for re- balance between me being Planting seedling trees now eligible for the $15,000 Gary Paulk of Wray, 2006; ployee training, and adver- ducing scale on peach trees the big-picture planner and always gives me hope. It’s cash prize awarded to the Daniel Johnson of Alma, tising. Lee and Stacy also by applying oil instead of Cynde being the absolute about discipline, patience, overall winner. Other priz- 2007; Wayne McKinnon of have a two-and-a-half-year- chemicals. Fallow field and best implementer.” hard work, reinvestment, es for the overall winner Douglas, 2008; Bill Brim of old daughter to represent crop rotations also improve From the state House and long-term perspective. include use of a tractor for Tifton, 2009; Robert Dasher the next generation. Mar- soil fertility and structure. Dickey has been successful It’s been such a blessing to a year from MF Product, of Glenville, 2010; Carlos jie, the Dickeys’ daughter, Dickey notes that timber- in promoting the Georgia have my children be part another $500 gift certificate Vickers of Nashville, 2011; is the Ag Water Project land is now going to be Grown movement, one of all this. I’ve also enjoyed from Southern States, a Co- Barry Martin of Haw- Manager for Georgia EPD professionally managed, that receives tremendous watching youngsters vis- lumbia jacket from Ivey’s kinsville, 2012; Will Harris and a graduate of the UGA adding, “Harvesting and support from Gary Black, it us over the years and Outdoor and Farm Supply, of Bluffton, 2013; Philip College of Agricultural and thinning of the timber has the Commissioner of Agri- learn about farming and a smoker-grill from Hays Grimes of Tifton, 2014; and Environmental Sciences. become and will continue culture. Dickey comments, stewardship. This type of LTI, and a Henry Repeating James Lyles of Ringgold, An avid cook, she creates to be more strategic.” The “Since being elected eight educational experience is Arms American Farmer 2015; John McCormick of exciting recipes for the farm staff has planted years ago, he has done a something we’re passionate Tribute edition 22 rifle Sylvania, 2016; and Everett farm’s bakery and initiated wildlife habitats in their great job on branding and about at Dickey Farms.” from Reinke Manufactur- Williams of Madison, 2017; the paperwork for their en- forest and timber areas and expanding the program. Robert L. Dickey III was ing Co., Inc., the irrigation James Vaughn of Forsyth, try into the H2A program. makes concerted efforts to He’s taken it to a whole nominated for Georgia company, through its part- 2018. H2A labor is a federal ensure protection of hard- new level.” Farmer of the Year by Sar- nership with Henry Repeat- A distinguished panel program operating for the woods. Dickey has also been ah Greer, ANR & 4-H Youth ing Arms. of judges visited Dickey last 25-30 years that allows With regard to ongoing a long-term member of Development Agent/Coun- Swisher International, Farms, along with the agricultural enterprises to improvements, Dickey has the Georgia Peach Coun- ty Extension Coordinator. through its Swisher Sweets farms of the other nine state bring in legal (with pass- purchased a new condens- cil and National Peach Of Dickey she says, “When cigar brand, and the Sun- finalists, during the week ports and visas) seasonal er, added cold room space, Council, founder and past Crawford County lost its belt Expo are sponsoring of Aug. 5-9. The judges this labor. For Dickey Farms and remodeled the packing board member of Georgia only grocery store in De- the Southeastern Farmer year include Cary Lightsey, they pick and pack peaches line with a new Autoline Agri-Leaders Forum, board cember 2016, Dickey Farms of the Year awards for Lake Wales, Florida, who and do pruning on the vast sizer. He plans to expand member of SunTrust Bank stepped up and provided the 30th consecutive year. was the overall winner of orchards. The laborers strawberry and fresh veg- of Middle Georgia, Flint fresh produce in season to Swisher has contributed the award in 2009; John are transported, housed, etable production for the Energies, and Gordon Col- meet the county’s needs. some $1,120,000 in cash McKissick, long-time Uni- and fed throughout the farm’s retail operation and lege Foundation, as well After strawberry season awards and other honors to versity of Georgia agricul- harvest period, and many to provide Georgia Grown as a long-standing, active ended, they planted various southeastern farmers since tural economist at Athens, have been coming for years produce to area schools. member of Musella Baptist vegetables to sell in their the award was initiated in Georgia; and David Wildey, from the same small town On top of all this diz- Church. On vacations, the market. Dickey Farms ex- 1990. Manila, Arkansas, the over- in Mexico to work for the zying activity, Robert L. Dickey family likes to go emplifies all that it means Previous state winners all winner of the award in Dickeys. Dickey III is a Georgia state hiking in state parks. They to be a steward of the land. from Georgia include: 2016. “They know us and we legislator, having been especially enjoy taking know them after so many elected and returned to the trips to the north Georgia years of working together,” state’s House of Represen- mountains, kicking back says Dickey. “Two of our tatives for District 140 four on the beaches of the Ford Flying crew leaders who organize times. About this aspect of Barrier Islands, and just the labor pickers originally his career, Dickey says, “I generally enjoying the vast came to the US with noth- thought we needed more and varied beauty of their ing. Today they have their agriculture and business home state. Services. Inc citizenship and have raised people in the House with Robert L. Dickey III’s children who are going to conservative philosophy. ambition is to carry on Give us a call for all your spraying, college. We’re a family here I’d been involved locally in the farm’s legacy and take seeding and fertilizing needs! of 12 full-time employees the Chamber of Commerce care of the land for the and up to 112 seasonal and Economic Develop- generations to follow. He 564 Highway 270 West full-timers.” ment Board but wanted to notes, “As my forebears P.O. Box 489 Phone: 229-782-7166 In terms of meeting do more. Fortunately, I’m always said, ‘Take care of the ever-present challenge blessed with a supportive the trees, and they will take Doerun, Ga. 31744 229-881-1253 of weather events, partic- family who’ve made sac- care of you.’ Seeing the big ularly periodic drought rifices in time and energy picture — incorporating

35 years of aerial experience provided by Michael Ford. 298333-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 21 KENTUCKY • DANNY CUNNINGHAM

Danny Cunningham no-till. Cunningham also grew up on a 60-acre dairy has a drying facility to dry farm in Calloway County, 100 percent of the corn he Kentucky. At 13 he learned grows and a 300,000 bushel to drive an old pickup truck grain facility so that he to school on back roads can handle 100 percent of because his dad figured the grain he produces. He that by letting him drive, harvests the entire crop he could get home at least with one large combine, a an hour earlier than if he 40-foot header for bean and took the bus. And that hour wheat harvest and a 12-row could be spent on farm header for corn harvest on chores. a Class 8 Case I-H combine. Tasked with a lot of He also put in place the the milking, Cunningham first set of terraces to help wasn’t thrilled about that control water run-off and part of agricultural life. He help conserve the soil. He recalls, “I loved working installed natural gas lines the land, so I started rent- to grain dryer ad bins to ing ground for row crop- decrease cost and seeded ping and growing tobacco. a cover crop on the land I bought my first farm in in the fall to decrease soil 1964 and built our family erosion. The farm also uses farm house in 1967. My tractors and semi-trucks wife, Judy, was my num- with emissions standards ber-one hand on the farm. to decrease air pollution. She could do anything I Cunningham has been a could do — drive tractors, long-term member and of- combines, and grain trucks fice holder in the Calloway — while doing a wonderful County Farm Bureau, an job of raising our three organization that named daughters.” him Calloway County The Cunningham girls Farmer of the Year in 2018. were active in 4-H, softball, He says of this association, church, and school-related “They do a remarkably activities and automatical- fine job of advocating for ly helped with farm chores. farmers in this county, Judy, who passed away in state, and country. I’m very 2016, had been a member of grateful for their hard work the Calloway County Farm Danny Cunningham, Kentucky Farmer of the Year on behalf of families like Bureau, a 4-H leader, a Girl responsible for the tech- marketing, saying, “The soil and healthy products lost around 50 percent of mine that just love raising Scout leader, a Sunday nology equipment used basis is already set with they go into.” Besides his its farm operations. Cun- the best crops possible, no school teacher, and a mem- by the farm and is the corn, making it easier to contracts, Cunningham ningham recalls, “Friends matter what the economic ber of the Calloway County assistant payroll manager. market independently. Now, notes that the local ethanol and neighbors of ours fluctuations might be.” Homemaker Group. Brad King, her husband, with smart phones and plant has been of great val- had to forsake their land As to certain farming Family has always been provides assistance during computers, technical help ue to him and other grow- to go find work in nearby stereotypes, Cunningham the heart and soul of this planting and harvesting and information is at your ers with overages. His dark towns just to survive. And says, “Some people think enterprise. Oldest daugh- season, driving tractors fingertips. White corn gar- tobacco is sold to Conwood, the weather was a major farmers are like the old Mr. ter, Deana Cunningham and trucks as needed. ners a $1.00 premium that now known as the R.J. factor because of droughts Greenjeans character on Chadwick, maintains the Cunningham currently has helped keep the bottom Reynolds Company. in 1978-80, 1983, and 1985. the 1950s TV show, ‘Captain farming books. She is the rents 4,290 acres and owns line healthy.” He can sell in About the tobacco crop, You can plant and fertilize Kangaroo.’ But we aren’t bookkeeper, payroll manag- 75 and has been farming 5,000 bushel corn, soybean, Cunningham says, “All of as skillfully as you’re able, caricatures. Equipment, er, and the purchasing and now for nearly 60 years. and wheat contracts. His my daughters, sons-in-law, but it takes rain to make fertilizer, fuel, and feed all accounts payable manager. He grows 2,400 acres of dark tobacco crop is labor grandchildren, and even a crop.” Luckily, Cunning- cost money, so we have to She also weighs the trucks food-grade white corn intensive (80 to 85 percent the great-grandchildren ham was able to hang on be careful business people and completes the receipts. with a yield of 156 bush- of the work is by hand) and have assisted with the by selling 300 acres of land who keep a close eye on Her husband, Ricky Chad- els per acre; 1,900 acres is grown with the help of tobacco crop, either by pre- to keep the family farm of everything. And it’s a good wick, works full-time on the of soybeans with a yield H2A labor. paring the land for tobacco, 75 acres. The next day he idea to not overspend in farm, driving tractors and of 48 bushels per acre; 25 Cunningham has been pulling tobacco plants, leased back the same 300 the good years because trucks. Middle daughter, acres of dark tobacco with dealing with ADM Milling, setting tobacco, hoeing acres, land he still farms to you know the lean ones Dana Cunningham Martin, a yield of 3,850 pounds one of the largest grain tobacco, oiling tobacco, this day. may be around the corner. works with marketing and per acre; and 400 acres of buyers in the world, since suckering tobacco, cutting Through the years Cun- Debt can quickly become publicity for the farm. Her wheat with a yield of 80 1989. He started with 75,000 tobacco, firing tobacco, ningham has practiced unmanageable, so it’s not husband, Terry Martin, is bushels per acre. He has bushels and today produces stripping tobacco, or haul- good stewardship of the always the best option, in the regional sales manager the capacity to store 300,000 255,000 bushels. He adds, ing tobacco.” land. He constructed wa- my opinion.” at H&R Agri-Power; he bushels of grain, storing “We are on a field to mar- It hasn’t always been a terways and placed filter Cunningham’s biggest oversees the purchasing everything he grows and ket bookkeeping system. smooth row to hoe, howev- strips around creeks and reward has been raising and leasing of equipment. shipping corn throughout Buyers are aware of the er. Back in the 1980s, when streams. Since 1978 he his family on the farm. His Youngest daughter, Denese the winter to the mill. fertilizers, chemicals, and interest rates topped 18 has been a no-till soybean six great-grandchildren Cunningham King, is He also does his own seed we use and the good percent, Calloway County farmer; today he is at 95% (five boys and one girl) love Page 22 Ag Scene September 2019 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 23 Page 24 Ag Scene September 2019 to come to fish, hunt, ride horses, and help out when ‘Danny is an outstanding farmer and person. they’re needed. He says, “It’s a joy to watch them A dedicated family man, he has always stayed Want an office doing healthy, active things and not sitting on a couch strong in his Christian faith. As with all farm- glued to a laptop or a smart phone.” ers, he has had years that weren’t as good as Since losing his beloved with a view? wife, Judy, in 2016, Cun- others, but he always came through with a ningham taught himself to cook so that he could con- smile and a positive attitude.’ tinue the family tradition of Sunday dinner on the farm after church, West- Don Overbey side Baptist, where they Nominated Danny Cunningham are involved in Sunday school teaching and efforts to provide food assistance, sibility of sharing with my partnership with Henry financial aid, and Christ- family the importance of Repeating Arms. mas assistance to families farming and caring for his Swisher International, in the local community. creation.” through its Swisher Sweets As to the Sunday meal, Cunningham was nom- cigar brand, and the Sun- Cunningham says, “I don’t inated Kentucky Farmer belt Expo are sponsoring do desserts (one of my of the Year by Don Over- the Southeastern Farmer daughters is great at that), bey, co-owner of Overbey of the Year awards for but I can fix just about any- Farms of Murray, Ken- the 30th consecutive year. thing now: ham, meatballs, tucky, and, at the time of Swisher has contributed greens, potatoes, and fresh Cunningham’s nomination, some $1,120,000 in cash corn we put up every year.” president of the Calloway awards and other honors to In his spare time Cun- County Farm Bureau Fed- southeastern farmers since ningham, a movie buff, eration Board. He says, the award was initiated in loves to watch action films “Danny is an outstanding 1990. — anything with Kevin farmer and person. A ded- Kentucky farmers be- Costner, Clint Eastwood, icated family man, he has came eligible to compete Robert Duvall, or Tommy always stayed strong in his for the Farmer of the Year Lee Jones. He also attends Christian faith. As with all award in 2006. Previous various regional vintage farmers, he has had years state winners from Ken- car events and shows his that weren’t as good as tucky include Sam Moore restored vehicles: a 1961 others, but he always came of Morgantown, 2006; Scott Dodge cross ram, a 1962 through with a smile and a Travis of Cox’s Creek, Dodge Polaris (with a positive attitude.” 2007; Loretta Lyons of 413 wedge motor), a 1958 As the Kentucky winner Tompkinsville, 2008; Doug Chevrolet Delray, and a of the Swisher Sweets/ Langley of Shelbyville, 1941 Chevy Coupe. He com- Sunbelt Expo award, Cun- 2009; Joe Nichols of Cadiz, START HERE ments with a chuckle, “But ningham will receive a 2010; Jim Sidebottom of I may be about done with $2,500 cash award and an Greensburg, 2012; Scott NASCAR. They’ve taken expense-paid trip to the Travis of Cox’s Creek, the redneck out of it and Sunbelt Expo from Swisher 2013; Ray Allan Mackey of made it a little too white International of Jackson- Elizabethtown, 2014; Jack collar for my taste.” ville, Florida, a $500 gift Trumbo of Simpsonville, Land, Forest, Wildlife Management Danny Cunningham certificate from Southern 2015; Keith Lowry of Wa- counts among his proudest States cooperative and a ter Valley, 2016; and Mike @ SRTC is offered at both the accomplishments his lov- Columbia vest from Ivey’s Batch of Owingsville, 2017; ing, 54-year marriage to Ju- Outdoor and Farm Supply. Darren Luttrell of Beaver dy and their parenting of Cunningham is now eli- Dam, 2018. Thomasville & Tifton Locations. three cherished daughters. gible for the $15,000 cash A distinguished panel He says, “Our first date, prize awarded to the over- of judges visited Cunning- between seventh and all winner. Other prizes for ham Farms, along with the eighth grade, was when I the overall winner include farms of the other nine state asked her to go on a hay- use of a tractor for a year finalists, during the week Don’t Wait, Enroll Today! ride. Our marriage was from MF Product, another of Aug. 5-9. The judges this the best partnership any- $500 gift certificate from year include Cary Lightsey, one could hope to have. Southern States, a Co- Lake Wales, Florida, who Judy shared my love for lumbia jacket from Ivey’s was the overall winner of the smell of fresh dirt, Outdoor and Farm Supply, the award in 2009; John newly cut hay, and hon- a smoker-grill from Hays McKissick, long-time Uni- eysuckle in spring time. I LTI, and a Henry Repeating versity of Georgia agricul- was fortunate enough to Arms American Farmer tural economist at Athens, find my true vocation early Tribute edition 22 rifle Georgia; and David Wildey, on and never wanted to do from Reinke Manufactur- Manila, Arkansas, the over- www.southernregional.edu • 229-225-4096 anything else. I love that ing Co., Inc., the irrigation all winner of the award in A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia/Equal Opportunity Institution God granted me the respon- company, through their 2016. 298304-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 25 MISSISSIPPI • TED PARKER

Forty years ago Ted This helps reduce my cost Parker borrowed $5,000 to of gain per pound, and I’m rent 40 acres in Oloh, Mis- able to turn over my cattle sissippi. He now spends his inventory faster. So I now days operating six farms have the capacity to feed in six different locations in 2500 head of cattle under six counties in the piney roof, which has reduced the country of south Missis- cost of gain.” sippi. Parker has taken timber He recalls, “In those by-products from paper early times I continued mills to spread on the land to borrow money to pur- to improve soil quality and chase more cattle. My wife has spread chicken litter worked full time and I also and cow manure to create worked two jobs. We put lush pastures and help everything into the busi- prevent erosion. He’s also ness to make it grow. It was fenced off creeks to keep something I was passionate the cattle from accessing about, and I felt blessed to natural water sources. find this lifelong calling as An interesting sideline a young man. Fortunately, I of Parker’s is the contract- was also able to eventually ing out of yearling cattle to find a lender who under- the National Cutting Horse stood cattle financing and Association and several this type of agriculture.” other cutting groups in Recognized as the Cov- Mississippi and Louisiana. ington County Cattleman He says, “It gives the cows of the Year in 2015 and the some low stress exercise National Beef Stock Award and provides additional in- Winner of the Year in 2018, come and cash flow. Being Parker finds fulfillment in smart animals, however, it getting his animals healthy only takes them one time to and producing the highest figure out the game.” quality beef he possibly A common challenge can for consumers. On a Ted Parker, Mississippi Farmer of the Year Parker faces on a regular combination of owned, basis is farm labor, which, leased land, and contract For the past ten to fif- with. Ted says, “I used to Association. He’s also a He says, “We get health- according to him, is becom- grazing over a number of teen years Parker’s been raise and train these dogs, founding director and mul- ier cattle, and the farmers ing more increasingly dif- states, it takes about 45 buying cattle in large num- but now Gent does it.” tiple committee member come away with a check ficult. “We’re just grateful days to straighten out the bers 50 weeks a year from Janet, Parker’s wife of of The First, A National without having to pay we have such a dedicated cattle, getting them healthy his own state, Alabama, 32 years, has worked in the Banking Association and a a commission or extra group of employees work- through the weaning stage. Georgia, Florida, and some Parker Farms LLC office member of the Seminary shrink fee.” In January ing with us now. Surround- They don’t gain weight from Tennessee. He sells for 20 years, overseeing the Baptist Church building 2019 he built another buying yourself with good and quickly over this period primarily to feed yards in business end of the cattle and finance committee. ing station in Lumberton able people guarantees that of time. But over the next the Texas Panhandle and operation. She helps keep He’s also been involved in in Pearl River County and good things will happen. 150 days they start to gain western Kansas and a few everything ship-shape and the activities of the Farm sales are booming. It’s an I see that first-hand every two to three pounds from to Nebraska. He notes, organized and serves on Bureau, 4-H, FAA (county enterprise that will likely single day and emphasize grass or cheap feed. Parker “None of this would be the Mississippi Beef Coun- level), and has participat- expand in the future. He the importance of it to my purchases calves weighing possible without the invalu- cil Board as well as the ed in Mississippi State adds, “Stockyard quality sons.” from 250-550 pounds and able contribution of our 25 local Farm Bureau County Extension services trials has declined pretty dra- As with every agricul- sells them when they weigh employees, our two sons, Board. Ted comments, and research. Janet is a matically over the last tural undertaking, the 700-800 pounds. Gent and Carl, and my “We really appreciate the board member of the Farm few years, so farm fresh weather and the market Ted Parker Farms LLC wife, Janet.” mission of the Farm Bu- Bureau, a member of the yearlings are healthier and are two very unpredictable plants several thousand Gent, 28, and Carl, 26, reau in our area. They’re Republican Women’s Asso- start growing faster than factors. “Both,” Parker acres of rye grass and crab have worked with their the best at promoting and ciation, and a teacher and stockyard cattle.” says, “are so volatile and and Bermuda grass and dad all through their grow- protecting rural American finance committee mem- Needing more room variable. My cattle are mar- supplements this source ing up years. Now Carl enterprises. I’m in no way ber of Seminary Baptist (a yearling grow yard) to keted by forward contract, with feed that’s a mix of operates the cattle buying political, so I’m glad they Church stockpile cattle for short hedged in the futures mar- corn, cottonseed, and other station and manages the are willing to throw their Three years ago Parker periods of time until they kets, and sold on a weekly ingredients. Parker also Seminary Farm. Gent is in hat in the governmental started a buying station were ready to sell or ship, cash basis to feedlots in incorporates the Wal-Mart charge of all the trucking, policy ring and act as advo- in Seminary where local Parker recently purchased some of the plains states. waste fruit and vegetables the shipping of the cattle, cates on our behalf.” farmers can bring their a defunct dairy in Ed- Getting the best possible into his feed ration on a and helps manage the grow Parker is a member of cattle to be sorted by sex wards, Mississippi that price for the cattle is one daily basis, finding that yard in Edwards, Missis- a number of industry as- and quality, then weighed, was next to land he rented of the biggest challenges. the cattle perform well on sippi. Both are involved in sociations that include, but and priced. This operation and planted rye grass on. There are certainly never this combination. He adds the Farm Bureau Young aren’t limited to, Covington has grown from 50 head “I currently put up about any guarantees in this type with a chuckle, “It’s fun to Farmers and Ranchers County Cattlemen’s Associ- per week to around 400 per 15,000 tons of corn silage of work. All you can do is watch a cow bite down on Leadership program. The ation, the Mississippi Cat- week. It’s been a successful annually, purchased from your best and hope for a a whole onion and savor Parkers also have border tlemen’s Association, and alternative to purchasing a local farm that supplies positive outcome.” every bite.” collies they use to pin cattle the National Cattlemen’s from a stockyard. the feed to the grow yard. But the rewards of own- Page 26 Ag Scene September 2019 ing a successful stocker different from the equally a premier cattleman who Fork, 2005; Brooks Aycock cattle operation are consis- beautiful rolling hill topog- has selflessly contributed ‘It’s so rewarding to see our sons taking own- of Belzoni, 2006; Tom Rob- tent and tangible. Parker raphy of the pine belt,” he his time and expertise to ertson of Indianola, 2007; says, “Getting to do what adds. the community through ership of the family business. It’s not just a job Gibb Steele III of Hollan- you enjoy is such a gift and Looking back at his 40 many different agricultural dale, 2008; Donald Gant of not all that common these years in the cattle business, avenues. He has wonderful for them, but a way of life that they earn and Merigold, 2009; Dan Batson days. It really doesn’t seem Parker says, “Circumstanc- farms that use cutting edge of Perkinston, 2010; Scott like work when you’re es, conditions, and events technology and is always appreciate.’ Cannada of Edwards, 2011; so invested in producing are always changing, so looking for ways to im- Bill Spain of Booneville, a good product, the best you’ve got to be flexible and prove his operation.” 2012; Abbott Myers of you’re able to create. I’m change with them. Time As the Mississippi win- Ted Parker Dundee, 2013; Danny Mur- always looking for new op- never stands still, especial- ner of the Swisher Sweets/ Mississippi Farmer of the Year phy of Canton, 2014; Allen portunities and better ways ly where technology Sunbelt Expo award, Park- Eubanks of Lucedale, 2015; of providing high quality is concerned. I tell my er will receive a $2,500 cash Paul Good of Columbus, beef for consumers while boys to get up early and award and an expense-paid American Farmer Tribute from Mississippi include: 2016; and Mike Sturdivant improving the efficiency of go to work on time every trip to the Sunbelt Expo edition 22 rifle from Reinke Hugh Arant, Sr. of Ru- of Glendora, 2017; Lonnie my farms.” day, and the good Lord will from Swisher International Manufacturing Co., Inc., leville, 1990; Bill Hawks of Fortner of Port Gibson, During those few rela- bless their efforts. That of Jacksonville, Florida, the irrigation company, Hernando, 1991; Kenneth 2018. tively slow periods of time routine involves patience, a $500 gift certificate from through its partnership Hood of Gunnison, 1992; A distinguished panel of in the Parker family sched- gratitude, and persistence.” Southern States coopera- with Henry Repeating Tol Thomas of Cruger, judges visited Ted Parker ule, they like to hunt deer, He adds, “It’s so rewarding tive and a Columbia vest Arms. 1993; Rick Parsons of Farms, LLC, along with the turkeys, and alligators. to see our sons taking own- from Ivey’s Outdoor and Swisher International, Vance, 1994; Ed Hester of farms of the other nine state They also enjoying fishing ership of the family busi- Farm Supply. Parker is now through its Swisher Sweets Benoit, 1995; Bill Harris finalists, during the week and cooking. “We’re big ness. It’s not just a job for eligible for the $15,000 cash cigar brand, and the Sun- of Benton, 1996; Robert of Aug. 5-9. The judges this beef eaters here, of course, them, but a way of life prize awarded to the overall belt Expo are sponsoring Miller of Greenwood, year include Cary Lightsey, so there’s a lot of steak and that they earn and appre- winner. Other prizes for the the Southeastern Farmer 1997; Ted Kendall, III of Lake Wales, Florida, who brisket at our house.” They ciate.” overall winner include use of the Year awards for Bolton, 1998; Wayne Bush was the overall winner of also enjoy taking the occa- Ted Parker was nom- of a tractor for a year from the 30th consecutive year. of Schlater, 1999; William the award in 2009; John sional trip out West to en- inated for Mississippi MF Product, another $500 Swisher has contributed Tackett of Schlater, 2000; McKissick, long-time Uni- joy the big mountain coun- Farmer of the Year by gift certificate from South- some $1,120,000 in cash Willard Jack of Belzoni, versity of Georgia agricul- try and visit New Mexico Ellen Russell, Extension ern States, a Columbia awards and other honors to 2001; Hugh Arant, Jr. of tural economist at Athens, where Parker Cattle LLC Agent/County Director of jacket from Ivey’s Outdoor Southeastern farmers since Ruleville, 2002; Rick Par- Georgia; and David Wildey, grazes some of its herds. Mississippi State Universi- and Farm Supply, a smok- the award was initiated in sons of Vance, 2003; Sledge Manila, Arkansas, the over- “It’s beautiful out there ty Extension Services. She er-grill from Hays LTI, and 1990. Taylor of Como, 2004; all winner of the award in and something a little comments, “Mr. Parker is a Henry Repeating Arms Previous state winners Laurance Carter of Rollins 2016.

274717-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 27 NORTH CAROLINA • JOHNNY WISHON

Johnny Wishon didn’t Today he has three suc- grow up on a farm, but his cessful companies: Wishon father, a game warden, did. Evergreens, wholesale Wishon remembers, “We Christmas tree and green- had a little over five acres ery products; Appalachian of land, and my dad always Produce Company, pump- had the biggest garden in kins and fall products; and the county. He would let the Christmas Tree Com- me grow extra vegetables pany, online Christmas tree to sell to the local grocery and greenery sales. Web- store.” In high school he sites for all three entities became involved in Vo-Ag, are important in attracting FFA, and agriculture class- new customers, along with es, all of which steered him various social media out- toward a farming career. lets. Wishon Evergreens Majoring in agricul- also exhibits at MANTS tural education at North (Mid-Atlantic Nursery Carolina State University, Trade Show) each year in Wishon spent summer Baltimore. “This allows us breaks working on a local to meet prospective custom- farmer’s Christmas tree ers,” Wishon says, “as well farm and developed a as visit and network with passion for growing trees. current customers.” After graduating in 1988, he The Choose and Cut started Wishon Evergreens, side of Wishon Evergreens planting a few hundred takes place on weekends trees on family land. It took just after Thanksgiving ten years of working two until Christmas. Wishon jobs — as a tree farmer and says, “Our Facebook page as an agricultural science gives folks who pick and teacher at Alleghany High purchase their trees from School — for Wishon to be us the chance to post pic- able to farm full time. tures of them doing so and Johnny Wishon, North Carolina Farmer of the Year

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296967-1 Page 28 Ag Scene September 2019 again in their homes. This Midwestern states. Land- To help make all this board.” Though years of care- wholesale business.” The marketing effort has al- scaping varieties include happen Wishon employs 15 Wishon met his wife, ful, strategic planning and building purchase also gave lowed us to gain 30 percent all of the above as well as full-time H2A workers and Linda, through a mutual hard work have certainly Wishon the ability to be in growth the last couple Serbian Spruce, Emerald hires another 50 around friend when they were paid off, it hasn’t been in the pumpkin business, of years. QR (Quick Re- Green Arborvitae, and harvest time as field labor- both attending different without its challenges. with warehouse space sponse) codes on all of the Green Giant Arborvitae. ers along with an addition- colleges. They’ve just cele- Wishon recalls, “We took a and room to operate the tree tags take customers to Other holiday items made al 50 wreath and garland brated their 28th wedding major financial hit in 2007- Christmas Tree Company, our website and video via and sold are garland, makers contracted from anniversary. Wishon says, 08 when one of the people the online tree/wreath en- smartphone.” wreaths, grave blankets, local labor suppliers. Wis- “As an elementary school who bought a lot of trees terprise. He adds, “This is the mailbox swags, mantle hon’s two sons also pitch in guidance counselor, it’s from us failed to pay and Between 2007 and 2017, fun season when we give pieces, hearts, and crosses. as their schedules allow. impossible for Linda to be went bankrupt. We lost Wishon’s farm recovered hay wagon rides and hot Pine cones (West Coast Oldest son, Brad, is a involved in the day-to-day over $300,000 but fought fully, expanded its custom- cider to customers who Ponderosa pine cones) are 2017 graduate of North farm operations, but the hard to stay afloat during er base to over 150 whole- come to our farm for their sold by the bag or box. Carolina State University farm wouldn’t exist with- one of the worst economic salers, and diversified its holiday trees, garlands, The yields from these with a degree in agri-busi- out her. She has always periods in our country’s products. He adds, “A lot and wreaths. It’s a family various enterprises are im- ness management. He cur- been there to pick up my history, accompanied by of times, good things will adventure that’s rewarding pressive. Fraser Fir Christ- rently works in technology slack when I couldn’t be the lowest historical Christ- come from bad, and I try to and meaningful for us too mas trees: 420 acres with development at Gregory home in time to help the mas tree prices ever.” remember this as obstacles because something we took a yield per acre of 1,500 Poole Caterpillar while boys with their homework. After 2008 Wishon de- arise.” Last year, an ice years to nurture is now the trees; White Pine Christ- keeping up with the family She is a constant source of cided to take the trees they storm hit in the middle of centerpiece of their homes mas Trees: 20 acres with a operation in anticipation wisdom and support. Every always had to burn at the tree harvest, shutting down during Christmas.” yield per acre of 1,500 trees; of joining it full time in the successful farmer needs a end of rotation and turn the entire operation. “But Cut Christmas tree Spruce Christmas Trees: 10 next six months. Youngest rock at home, and she’s it them into cash. It was the we just persevered. That’s varieties include Fraser acres with a yield per acre son, Garrett, has finished for our family.” beginning of their green- what you have to do when Fir, Concolor Fir, Canaan of 1,500 trees; Concolor his freshman year at UNC Linda Wishon is al- ery business. He says, “At you’re dealing with re- Fir, White Pine, Colorado Christmas Trees: 10 acres at Wilmington, major- so very involved in her first we subcontracted with curring problems like bad Blue Spruce, Black Hills with a yield per acre of ing in communications. church, Sparta United another grower to make weather, pests, deer, and (White) Spruce, and Nor- 1,500 trees; and Pumpkins: “Time will tell,” Wishon Methodist, and is the pro- wreaths for them, operat- fertility issues — things way Spruce. Balled and 125 acres of with yield comments, “but I think gram coordinator for the ing in a rented building. We which all farmers have to burlap (B&B) nursery stock per acre of 42 bins. As to Garrett’s communications Food Backpack program. also began making our own cope with.” are shipped directly from greenery products: 200,000 major would be a great She’s a member of the Del- garland. So we eventually To keep his companies the farm in North Caroli- wreaths, 25,000 garlands, compliment to Brad’s busi- ta Kappa Gamma teacher moved out of the rented healthy and ensure their na during the spring and 1,500 centerpieces, and ness and production skills fraternity, the Character building and purchased future viability, Wishon em- fall to garden centers and 1,000 fall wreaths. Total at Wishon Evergreens. I’m Education team, and is the one in 2012. The greenery ploys environmentally sus- re-wholesale nurseries all acres worked is 585 (445 excited to have a second Alleghany Schools counsel- business now is approxi- tainable practices and uses across the east coast and rented and 140 owned). generation coming on or committee coordinator. mately 20 percent of our genetically improved seed/ Don’t just meet your hot water needs. EXCEED THEM.

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There’s more Swisher International, Porter, Jr. of Concord, 2006; computerized mapping sys- going on in trees.” than one reason why people through its Swisher Sweets Bill Cameron of Raeford, tem, crops on the Wishon his industry. He’s a mem- A life of diversified around here call him ‘Mr. cigar brand, and the Sun- 2007; V. Mac Baldwin of acreage are scouted period- ber of and holds positions farming has taught Johnny Christmas.’” belt Expo are sponsoring Yanceyville, 2008; Fred ically and crew members in a number of profession- Wishon this: “If you take As the North Carolina the Southeastern Farmer Pittillo of Hendersonville, are trained to spot any al organizations care of your farm, your winner of the Swisher of the Year awards for 2009; Bo Stone of Rowland, problems early on. They (too many to list here), that environment, your crops, Sweets/Sunbelt Expo the 30th consecutive year. 2010; Thomas Porter, Jr. of only use pesticides when include being the chair of they will take care of you. award, Wishon will receive Swisher has contributed Concord, 2011; Gary Blake necessary, and encourage the Alleghany County Ag- Being stewards of the land a $2,500 cash award and some $1,120,000 in cash of North Wilkesboro, 2012; beneficial insects to help riculture Committee, vice is a privilege as well as a an expense-paid trip to the awards and other honors to Wilbur Earp of Winnabow, control the “bad bugs.” president of the Alleghany responsibility. I hope that Sunbelt southeastern farmers since 2013; Frank Howey, Jr., of In the mountains there’s County Farm Bureau, a what we’re doing on our Expo from Swisher Inter- the award was initiated in Monroe, 2014; Danny Kor- a need to maintain a low board member of the Al- farm contributes to our national of Jacksonville, 1990. negay of Princeton, 2015; groundcover to prevent leghany County Hospital overall purpose here on Florida, a $500 gift certifi- Previous state win- Jerry Wyant of Vale, 2016; soil erosion and reduce soil Foundation, finance com- earth, which is to help each cate from Southern States ners from North Carolina and Van Hemrick of Hamp- temperatures for Fraser mittee chair of the Sparta other.” cooperative and a Colum- include John Vollmer of tonville, 2017; Howard Firs. So Wishon sows nat- United Methodist Church, Johnny Wishon was bia vest from Ivey’s Out- Bunn, 1990; Kenneth Jones Brown of Andrews, 2018. ural Dutch White clover in and the committee chair of nominated for North Car- door and Farm Supply. Wis- of Pink Hill, 1991; John A distinguished panel his fields to choke out other the North Carolina Farm olina Farmer of the Year hon is now eligible for the Howard, Jr. of Deep Run, of judges visited Wishon weeds and to produce ad- Bureau Nursery/Green- by Callie Birdsell Carson, $15,000 cash prize awarded 1992; Carlyle Ferguson of Evergreens, along with the ditional nitrogen. He uses house Advisory Commit- Field Representative, North to the overall winner. Other Waynesville, 1993; Dick farms of the other nine state the lowest possible rates of tee, as well as a long-term Carolina Farm Bureau Fed- prizes for the overall win- Tunnell of Swan Quarter, finalists, during the week glyphosate that clover will member of the National eration. She says, “Johnny ner include use of a tractor 1994; Allan Lee Baucom of of Aug. 5-9. The judges this tolerate. Christmas Tree Associa- has such a unique opera- for a year from MF Prod- Monroe, 1995; Scott Whit- year include Cary Lightsey, Wishon is experiencing tion. Wishon tion as a sole proprietor, uct, another $500 gift certif- ford of Grantsboro, 1996; Lake Wales, Florida, who double-digit growth in is also a board member of growing Christmas trees, icate from Southern States, Williams Covington, Sr. of was the overall winner of pumpkin and tree sales his local electric co-op, Blue pumpkins, gourds, and a Columbia jacket from Mebane, 1997; Phil McLain the award in 2009; John annually, so he’s planning Ridge Energy. greenery. I’ve always found Ivey’s Outdoor and Farm of Statesville, 1998; Earl McKissick, long-time Uni- and planting for the future When the Wishon family him to be a laid back, high- Supply, a smoker-grill from Hendrix of Raeford, 1999; versity of Georgia agricul- by building a new loading isn’t hard at their labors, ly intelligent, well-respect- Hays LTI, and a Henry Reid Gray of Statesville, tural economist at Athens, facility and will be the first they enjoy taking vacations ed man in the community Repeating Arms American 2000; Rusty Cox of Monroe, Georgia; and David Wildey, tree farmer in NC to con- together to North or South who enjoys sharing his Farmer Tribute edition 22 2001; Craven Register of Manila, Arkansas, the over- struct large acreage fencing Carolina beaches, rivers, knowledge and love of agri- rifle from Reinke Manufac- Clinton, 2002; Frank Howey, all winner of the award in (nine miles of 8′ tall woven and lakes and to places like culture with others. Grow- turing Co., Inc., the irriga- Jr. of Monroe, 2003; Eddie 2016. Georgia - Florida Seamless Gutters Family Owned & Operated Since 1999. We Install All Gutters We Serve Moultrie/Thomasville & Surrounding Counties

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Sidi Limehouse (pro- to help build soils, and em- nounced “sigh dye”) is a ploy drip irrigation to save man with deep Lowcountry water.” roots. His early mercan- As huge supporters of tile ancestors settled in Clemson University, Lime- Charleston in the 1700s house and his staff rely on and spread out from there. the Extension Service and When he came into the have partnered with them world on Johns Island in and the Clemson Vegetable December of 1938, his fa- Researchers in hosting ther celebrated by purchas- on-farm research projects ing Mullet Hall Plantation such as grafted tomato on Johns Island across variety trials, disease and from Kiawah Island. It was insect monitoring, and a child’s paradise, growing resistance screenings. He up in that fairly remote en- supported the Lowcountry vironment that even lacked Local First Apprentice electricity early on. An Farmer Program, provid- environment far from to- ing technical expertise, day’s nearby mix of luxury equipment share, and homes, golf resorts, and el- labor to new farmers. He’s egant vacation destinations also trained a number of in Seabrook and Kiawah. apprentices who’ve be- Limehouse studied come successful in both agricultural engineering traditional and organic at Clemson University agriculture. All over the and graduated in 1960. He county he lends equipment started his career growing to other farms and donates corn and soybeans on the space in his packing shed family farm but eventual- and cooler. ly transitioned from row Limehouse is founder crops to truck farming. and president of Friends of From 1967-68 and 1971-72 the Kiawah River, an orga- he served in the South nization formed to protect Carolina state legislature the Kiawah River Basin but found that politics took from the hazards of devel- too much time away from opment. It works closely farming. “I soon realized,” with the Coastal Conserva- he says, “that one could not tion League and the South be both a good legislator Carolina Environmental and a good farmer. I believe Law Program protecting I chose the nobler profes- the barrier islands. sion.” Sidi Limehouse, South Carolina Farmer of the Year Being from the “old Today Limehouse op- flowers, and other products potatoes: 410 bags; 6 acres honey, eggs, and even received the Jane Elizabeth school” that advocates erates Rosebank Farms at many farmers markets of sweet corn: 20 cartons; shrimp and fish caught Lareau Environmental never wasting food or on 60 acres of leased land around the county and 3 acres of beans: 200 bush- nearby. Stewardship Award in 2018. knowingly letting one’s that produces over 50 crops currently sell at the Folly els; 3 acres of peas – sugar, Limehouse adds, “We In 2015, Rosebank Farms fellow human beings go including fruits, vegetables, Beach Market during the snap, and English: 180 car- have a local baker who was the recipient of the hungry, Limehouse says, flowers, and herbs. Most summer months. tons; 1 acre of Jerusalem makes banana nut bread Charleston County Soil and “For years we donated to of the crops are sold to Limehouse says, “We artichokes: 10,000 lbs.; 4 that flies off the shelves. Water Conservation Dis- the Lowcountry Food Bank. GrowFood Carolina, a local focus on local and sell ev- acres of watermelons: 400; Homemade pimiento trict’s Conservationist of Today we support the Wad- food distributor specializ- erything we grow: arugula, 3 acres of peppers: 3,000 cheese, cocktail sauce, and the Year award. We protect malaw Community Center, ing in selling directly to basil, lettuce, English peas, crates. tomato pies are regular native pollinators, thereby the Hebron Jewish Center, Charleston restaurants and snow peas, sugar snaps, Limehouse was a pio- favorites.” At Christmas reducing our overall insec- Rosebank Farms Senior local grocery stores and asparagus, seasonal greens, neer in growing crops that the staff at Rosebank ticide use and increasing Citizens Center on Johns suppliers. Limehouse says, potatoes, hot and sweet no one else in South Caro- Farms sells North Carolina our yields.” Island, and the Stone Fruit “Rosebank Farms is known peppers, eggplant, cucum- lina wanted to explore or Christmas trees and makes On Rosebank Farms, Soup Kitchen in Charles- throughout our area and by bers, green beans, summer invest in. He experimented custom wreaths and gar- eight flower varieties — an- ton, all of which provide chefs as a unique farm that and winter squash, sweet and had great success land from native materials. nual and perennial — are cooked meals to people in displays consistency and corn, beets, carrots, broc- growing “California” crops Limehouse adds, “We sell planted along the ditch need.” quality.” coli and broccolini, okra, such as mesclun, arugula, other local products that in- banks, drive rows, roads, None of this success For the last 30 years cantaloupes, watermelons, and basil. He also considers clude Clemson Blue Cheese and in every unused space would have been possible Rosebank Farms has also heirloom pumpkins, toma- it a priority to support the and Geechie Boy grits and on the farm. Limehouse without the dedicated help operated its road-side stand toes, and seasonal cut flow- entire local agricultural rice. After all, what’s a says, “I actually have 3,000 of Sidi Limehouse’s life- in various sequential lo- ers. Zinnias are a summer community and often de- Southern market without hydrangea plants growing long partner, Louise Ben- cations, open from April mainstay and hydrangeas pends on neighbor family grits and rice?” around the house.” This nett, and their long-term through December; sales in the late spring and early farmers for produce in the For this dedicated farm- practice has resulted in ex- staff of five employees at represent 80 percent of the summer.” busiest seasons and helps er, being a good steward of tremely effective pollinator Rosebank Farms. Sidi and enterprise’s total revenue. Rosebank Farms’ yields them sell theirs. Rosebank the land has always meant and monarch butterfly hab- Louise met at a party in Over the last several de- are: 4 acres of tomatoes: Farms sources strawber- protecting and improving itat. “We also practice crop the 1960s. She was the one cades they’ve sold produce, 1,500 cartons; 4 acres of ries, blueberries, peaches, soil quality. He says, “We rotation, use cover crops preparing the outstanding September 2019 Ag Scene Page 31 food the guests were sam- relationship.” Arms. Lawn, 2004; Chalmers Carr pling. He said he wanted to At 80, Limehouse re- ‘The last day of my life I want to die penniless, Swisher International, of Ridge Spring, 2005; meet the cook, and that was members, “I used to hunt through its Swisher Sweets Steve Gamble of Sardinia, the beginning of a happy deer, turkey, and ducks. I but not the day before.’ cigar brand, and the Sun- 2006; William Johnson of 50-year relationship and still go fishing sometimes, belt Expo are sponsoring Conway, 2007; Kent Wan- partnership. but, generally speaking, the Southeastern Farmer namaker of St. Matthews, Raised in Manning, I outgrew killing things.” Sidi Limehouse of the Year awards for 2008; Thomas DuRant of South Carolina, Louise Though he can’t always do South Carolina Farmer of the Year the 30th consecutive year. Gable, 2009; Marty Easler came from a family that the heavy lifting he used to, Swisher has contributed of Greeleyville, 2010; Kevin had farmed tobacco, corn, he comments with a chuck- some $1,120,000 in cash Elliott of Nichols, 2011; and soybeans. Through le, “I do a lot of pointing.” and stay on it in this way to the Sunbelt Expo from awards and other honors to Monty Rast of Cameron, her avid love of flowers But he continues to work of life.” Swisher International of southeastern farmers since 2012; James Cooley of and innovative cultivation six (and sometimes seven) Sidi Limehouse was Jacksonville, Florida, a the award was initiated in Chesnee, 2013; Walter Dan- practices, she’s become days a week because he nominated for Farmer of $500 gift certificate from 1990. tzler of Santee, 2014; Tom a sought-after speaker enjoys it. “I kept saying, the Year by Zack Snipes, Southern States coopera- Other previous state Trantham of Pelzer, 2015; on gardening and flower ‘I’m going to retire one who works for Clemson tive and a Columbia vest winners from South Caroli- and Kerry Owen of Pick- arranging and currently day.’ Well, I did retire for University Cooperative from Ivey’s Outdoor and na include: Earl Thrailkill ens, 2016; Kemp McLeod of demonstrates cooking one day, and the next day I Extension Service. Zack Farm Supply. Limehouse is of Fort Lawn, 1990; Charles McBee, 2017; and Kevin Yon with local vegetables to got up and said, ‘The heck comments, “Working with now eligible for the $15,000 Snowden of Hemingway, of Ridge Spring, 2018. small groups in private with this; I’m going back to Sidi Limehouse over the cash prize awarded to the 1991; Robert E. Connelly, A distinguished panel homes. work!” He adds, “The last last six years has helped overall winner. Other priz- Sr. of Ulmer, 1992; Henry of judges visited Rosebank Rosebank Farms’ four day of my life I want to die me grow as an agent in ma- es for the overall winner Elliott, Sr. of Andrews, Farms, along with the field workers — a family penniless, but not the day ny ways. He’s so receptive include use of a tractor for 1993; Ron Stephenson of farms of the other nine state unit originally from Gua- before.” to ideas from others and, in a year from MF Product, Chester, 1994; Greg Hyman finalists, during the week temala — work the land On the lessons that his humble way, gives gen- another $500 gift certificate of Conway, 1995; Randy of Aug. 5-9. The judges this and stock the farm stand farming has taught him, erously to the community from Southern States, a Co- Lovett of Nichols, 1996; Da- year include Cary Lightsey, daily during the season. Limehouse says, “You have out of the goodness of his lumbia jacket from Ivey’s vid Drew of Mullins, 1997; Lake Wales, Florida, who Limehouse says, “Our to pay attention. To every- heart. He’s also one heck Outdoor and Farm Supply, Jerry Edge of Conway, was the overall winner of staff is made up of loyal, thing. And stay ahead of of a talented farmer, a pio- a smoker-grill from Hays 1998; Blake McIntyre, III the award in 2009; John hard-working, trustworthy the game. First thing each neer, and a real leader.” LTI, and a Repeating Arms of Marion, 1999; Raymond McKissick, long-time Uni- people who have been with morning, I get on my trac- As the South Carolina American Farmer Tribute Galloway of Darlington, versity of Georgia agricul- us for a long time. We’re tor and go look at all the winner of the Swisher edition 22 rifle from Reinke 2000; W. R. Simpson of tural economist at Athens, like a family,” he adds, “and crops, inspect all the plant- Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Manufacturing Co., Inc., Manning, 2001; Gill Rogers Georgia; and David Wildey, we look after each other ings, and see what needs award, Limehouse will the irrigation company, of Hartsville, 2002; Harold Manila, Arkansas, the over- in ways that go far beyond help and what’s alright. receive a $2,500 cash award through its partnership Pitts of Newberry, 2003; all winner of the award in just an employer/employee You’ve got to get up and go and an expense-paid trip with Henry Repeating Earl Thrailkill of Fort 2016. B.C.T. GIN CO., INC. “The Farmers Gin” 800-352-0573

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In his 45-year career as member and/or held office a diversified farmer, Jerry in a number of profession- Ray has never worked for al organizations including anyone but himself. This the Farm Service Agency, means that when things the Co-op Board, Moore go well — in the ordinary County Livestock Associ- course of fat years and lean ation, the Moore County — he earns the rewards. Agricultural Committee, And when they don’t, he and the Moore County accepts the full weight Farm Bureau. He has been of responsibility. It’s an a youth coach for the Boost- old-fashioned ethic that er Club and Hoops Club defines his approach to life and served on the finance, in general. parish, and parsonage com- Jerry Ray’s success has mittees of his church. He’s earned him the honor of also been extremely active being selected as the Swish- with FFA and 4-H Clubs on er Sweets/Sunbelt Expo the local level. On the state Southeastern Farmer of level he is a member of the the Year for Tennessee in Lower Middle Tennessee 2019. He also garnered that Cattlemen Association and title in 2008. He joins nine the Tennessee Cattlemen other individuals as final- Association. He also won ists for the overall award to the Tennessee Cattlemen be announced during the Association Stocker of the Sunbelt Expo farm show, Year Award in 2017 and was Oct. 15-17, in Moultrie, named Conservation Farm- Georgia. er of the Year for Moore Ray’s farm operation County in 2019. in and around Tullahoma, One of Ray’s biggest Tennessee, encompasses career challenges has been 1,900 total acres with 1,780 availability of good crop- acres rented and 120 acres land in his native area, owned. His business is Jerry Ray, Tennessee Farmer of the Year adding, “Many farms in the 50 percent cattle (stocker county have been divided calves) and 50 percent Most of the corn is sold to forward priced. The latter Program. resulting in impressive up and sold in small lots for crops. He says, “We live a local chicken processor method made possible a In his early years of water conservation, less residential and commercial in a rapidly urbanizing to be used in chicken feed, price of over $10 per bush- farming, Ray enrolled in soil erosion, and improve- development. This has cre- area between Lynchburg with this market paying el last year. He also uses the Rapid Adjustment ment of soil quality. He al- ated a situation of reduced and Chattanooga, where a premium of about 35 to basis contracts as a tool program sponsored by Ten- so uses a global positioning acreage available for farm- buying land to farm is not 50 cents. About 5,000 bush- in marketing his grain. nessee Extension and the system for his sprayer ing while increasing the viable, given current land els of corn is feed for the Wheat is sold as flour and Tennessee Valley Authority. and yield monitors for his purchase prices.” prices.” The overwhelming stocker calves. The total milling wheat to end users, This training introduced grain harvesting equip- His primary solution majority of his rented land cost for producing a stock- with about a 50 cent mar- him to efficient principles ment. He adds, “I do soil has been to rent land and contracts harken back to er calf is approximately ket premium. The wheat of record keeping, farm tests for my cropland every diversify both crop and former times and to some- $200, including feed, vet- straw is either sold or fed management, and financial other year and practice livestock enterprises to thing he is comfortable erinary supplies, fix cost, to the stocker cattle. Straw planning. crop rotation. In February maximize returns per acre. with; they are agreed upon land, hired labor, my labor, is baled in small squares “Since records are a I seed a heavy rate of rye- And he’s answered the call by a handshake. interest, and death loss. I and sold to wholesalers and vital part of my business,” grass in my cattle feeding to educate those who are Last year his per acre turn 2.5 groups of stockers retailers. Ray says, “I keep crop, areas to prevent soil ero- new to the rural environ- yields were 180 bushels per acre with a stocking Ray notes, “I started livestock, and financial sion and runoff in streams. ment about the nature of of corn from 600 acres, rate of 5 head per acre. My farming full time in 1976 records. Maintaining good This practice also main- production agriculture 61 bushels of full season total return over time for after graduating from the accounting practices allows tains the natural beauty of so that it can continue to soybeans from 600 acres, my stocker operation has University of Tennessee, me to analyze data and the area.” thrive. He has presented 55 bushels of double crop been $150 per head overall where I majored in plant make actionable decisions Such beauty is shared talks about stocker pro- soybeans from 200 acres, 70 cost. Using these methods and soil science. My grand- that increase farm produc- with many groups who duction, marketing, and bushels of wheat from 200 also allows me to keep two father was my inspiration tivity and profitability. I come to Ray’s farm for feeding distiller grains in acres, and 3 tons of grass full-time, year-round em- and guide to working the read, study, attend meet- educational tours. He has Kentucky, Tennessee, and hay from 300 acres. His ployees, Shawn Adams and land. I began farming with ings, conferences, and sem- hosted the Farm City Day Virginia. stocker calves enterprise Nathaniel Lewis, on my about 300 acres and a net inars, and ask questions in Moore County for first Ray’s wife, Barbara, has yielded 1,420 head produced farm.” worth of $130,000. Today to continually learn more grade students for the last been a constant source of per year with 2.8 lbs. of Ray changed his calf I farm about 1,900 acres, about how to improve my 25 years, giving children support throughout their gain per day. feed ration to include corn feed 1,420 stockers, and farm business. This in- an opportunity to visit a 40-plus-year marriage, ful- Ray says, “My stocker instead of a purchased my net worth has grown cludes regularly accessing working farm and learn filling the roles of “chief calves are sold in trailer commodity feed, a decision considerably.” He has also information from the Uni- about animals, equipment, go for” and office worker, truck load lots on a local that resulted in a savings completed the University versity of Tennessee Exten- grains, hay, and experience as well as homemaker video board sale. The of $24,000 a year, with the of Tennessee Master Beef sion Service.” a petting zoo. and mother. She is active average weight is about rate of gain remaining the program, Advance Master Ray applies technology As part of his local in their local church and 900 pounds and purchase same. His soybeans are Beef Program, and the such as variable rate seed- leadership and community outreach charity work weight is about 550 pounds. stored, sold at harvest, and Beef Quality Assurance ing and no-till planting, service, Ray has been a and yearly assists with the September 2019 Ag Scene Page 33

Moore County Farm City Day. and a sense of accomplishment. certificate from Southern States $1,120,000 in cash awards and oth- Richard Atkinson of Belvidere, The couple has two children. Growing things, even at times on cooperative and a Columbia vest er honors to southeastern farm- 2009; Brad Black of Vonore, 2010; Son Christopher, who’s married small profit margins, has brought from Ivey’s Outdoor and Farm ers since the award was initiated Mac Pate of Maryville, 2011; to Lacey, works full-time at the its own special joy. I’ve learned Supply. Ray is now eligible for in 1990. Steve Dixon of Estill Springs, Jack Daniels Distillery in nearby patience and humility from the $15,000 cash prize awarded to Previous state winners from 2012; Richard Jameson of Lynchburg and, on the side, feeds Mother Nature and made strides the overall winner. Other prizes Tennessee include: James R. Brownsville, 2013; John Keller about 400 stocker calves a year, in the art of getting along with for the overall winner include Graham of Newport, 1990; Burl of Maryville, 2014; George Clay sharing equipment on the fam- others, mellowing out, and not use of a tractor for a year from Ottinger of Parrottsville, 1991; of Pelham, 2015; and James ily farm. Daughter Jacqueline sweating the small stuff.” MF Product, another $500 gift Dwaine Peters of Madisonville, Haskew of South Pittsburg, 2016, works as a bookkeeper at a local Dallas Manning, University certificate from Southern States, 1992; Edward Wilson of Cleve- Mike Robinson of Belvidere, 2017, accounting firm and enjoys a of Tennessee Extension Area a Columbia jacket from Ivey’s land, 1993; Bob Willis of Hills- and John Verrell of Jackson, steady relationship with Joe-Joe Farm Management Specialist, Outdoor and Farm Supply, a boro, 1994; Bobby W. Vannatta of 2018. Dobson of Tullahoma. The Rays nominated Jerry Ray for Farmer smoker-grill from Hays LTI, and Bell Buckle, 1995; George McDon- A distinguished panel of are thrilled to have a 14-month- of the Year. He admires his friend a Henry Repeating Arms Amer- ald of Riddleton, 1996; Jimmy judges visited Jerry Ray’s farm, old grandson, Jackson, to dote on. and colleague for his excellent ican Farmer Tribute edition 22 Gaylord of Sharon, 1997; Jimmy along with the farms of the other Since Jerry Ray doesn’t consider job management, record keeping, rifle from Reinke Manufacturing Tosh of Henry, 1998; Eugene nine state finalists, during the farming to be actual “work,” it’s and community involvement and Co., Inc., the irrigation company, Pugh, Jr. of Halls, 1999; Harris week of Aug. 5-9. The judges this not surprising that much of his describes Ray as just “an overall through its partnership with Armour of Somerville, 2000; Mal- year include Cary Lightsey, Lake so-called leisure time is spent go- great farmer and great guy.” Henry Repeating Arms. colm Burchfiel of Newbern, 2001; Wales, Florida, who was the over- ing to industry-related seminars, As the Tennessee winner of Swisher International, Ed Rollins of Pulaski, 2002; John all winner of the award in 2009; sometimes accompanied by his the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo through its Swisher Sweets cigar Smith of Puryear, 2003; Austin John McKissick, long-time Uni- son. award, Ray will receive a $2,500 brand, and the Sunbelt Expo Anderson of Manchester, 2004; versity of Georgia agricultural About this long and fulfilling cash award and an expense-paid are sponsoring the Southeast- John Litz of Morristown, 2005; economist at Athens, Georgia; and farming career, Ray says, “I enjoy trip to the Sunbelt Expo from ern Farmer of the Year awards Bob Willis of Hillsboro, 2006; David Wildey, Manila, Arkansas, what I do so much because it’s Swisher International of Jack- for the 30th consecutive year. Grant Norwood of Paris, 2007; the overall winner of the award given me a life of independence sonville, Florida, a $500 gift Swisher has contributed some Jerry Ray of Tullahoma, 2008; in 2016.

VIRGINIA • MICHAEL MCDOWELL

Nestled in the rolling tagging newborn calves, hills and timberland of processing cattle, and the southern Piedmont clerking sales.” Through area of Virginia, Locust the years, Wanda has also Level Farm is in a part served on the boards of of the state where, histor- Halifax County Public ically, fields of two to 15 Schools and Halifax County acres produced tobacco, Regional Health Services, supplemented by row and been a Halifax County crops. Michael McDowell 4-H volunteer. is the fourth generation to The McDowell family practice stewardship on grew to include three chil- this land — designated a dren, all of whom are doc- Virginia “century” farm — tors in different specialties. but he has taken some Angela McDowell Collins is decidedly different direc- a veterinarian married to tions from those of the Jon Collins, another veter- past. inarian. Bridget McDowell At the age of 16, Mc- Brown is a dentist, married Dowell says that his father to husband, Derek Brown, offered him three acres of also a dentist, and Michael flue-cured tobacco under a Weston McDowell is an ER sharecropper arrangement doctor, married to Amanda, to produce funds for future an optometrist. Collectively college expenses. “I can’t they’ve given Mike and say how important it was Wanda eight grandchil- to take that step. It taught dren, all of whom live near- me early on the value of re- by within Halifax County. sponsibility and about the McDowell notes, “We are challenges and rewards of truly blessed that our chil- working the land to provide dren have carried the work for my needs.” He went on ethic and servant’s heart the graduate from Virginia from agriculture with Tech in Blacksburg with them.” a double major in animal Returning to Locust science and agronomy. Michael McDowell, Virginia Farmer of the Year Level after college, McDow- His sophomore year of ell garnered experience college in 1976 saw another graduated from a technical computer science. Mc- early tech companies. But and mother and has been with land management and important landmark when college in North Carolina Dowell remembers, “She we talked it over, and she superb at all of these roles. saw, with tobacco quota he married his high school with a degree in what was achieved a 4.0 GPA and decided to take the career She has always worked by cuts approaching, another sweetheart, Wanda. She then the nascent field of was sought after by some path of wife, homemaker, my side, harvesting crops, opportunity for future Page 34 Ag Scene September 2019 viability and revenue in SWCD Stockpiled Forage what we do matters. The ing Arms. purebred cattle. “I decided Field Day. care and effort we give to Swisher International, to develop an Angus seed- All of this hard work crops and livestock have through its Swisher Sweets stock operation and began has paid off in high-qual- ‘This enterprise was one of the first to deal a real and direct effect. cigar brand, and the Sun- making connections, doing ity, award-winning Angus Farming is life science.” belt Expo are sponsoring research, and implement- heifers and bulls. McDow- with high tensile fencing and enabled us to Michael H. McDowell the Southeastern Farmer ing slight changes in man- ell has embraced new tech- was nominated Virginia of the Year awards for agement.” niques for producing pure- greatly expand infrastructure of farm facilities Farmer of the Year by the 30th consecutive year. Over time he seeded breds from commercial Rebekah Slabach, Agricul- Swisher has contributed more land with permanent herds that include genetic at reasonable costs because we headquartered ture Extension Agent for some $1,120,000 in cash grass cover and instituted selection, ultrasonic eval- Halifax County. She com- awards and other honors to a wide use of over- and uation for yearling bulls on our own land here.’ ments, “Mike McDowell Southeastern farmers since inter-seeding with forage and heifers, evaluation of has successfully overcome the award was initiated in systems; stockpiling fescue genomic rankings, and Michael McDowell challenges and intelligently 1990. was also part of that oper- embryo transfer programs Virginia Farmer of the Year adapted over time to make Previous state winners ation. Steadily converting with veterinary consulta- Locust Level Farms a lead- from Virginia include: acreage to novel endophyte tion. ing Virginia herd of regis- Nelson Gardner of Bridge- fescue became more im- He says, “Our veteri- tered Angus cattle. He and water, 1990; Russell Inskeep portant after livestock loss narian daughter and son- er role as owner/partner in McDowell has long been his family have made great of Culpepper, 1991; Harry with fescue toxicosis. He in-law have been at the Southside Fence Builders & involved with the opera- strides in improving cattle Bennett of Covington, 1992; also minimized tillage pro- forefront of our intensive Supplies increased McDow- tions of the Red House Bull genetics and reproductive Hilton Hudson of Alton, duction to the point where AI and embryo transfer ell’s base of useful knowl- Evaluation Station and health and have grown the 1993; Buck McCann of Car- today 95 percent of his program. Having them in edge. It was a retail outlet sales. He also volunteers at bull development market- son, 1994; George M. Ash- acreage is in no-till or sod. the family and contributing of fencing, cattle handling, the Halifax County Junior ing enterprise. man, Jr. of Amelia, 1995; Locust Level has 50 acres to the farm drives our herd and fencing equipment that Livestock Show and Virgin- “Throughout their stew- Bill Blalock of Baskerville, of alfalfa yielding 2.4 tons/ health and success.” Locust employed custom fence ia Angus Breeders Show at ardship of the family farm 1996; G. H. Peery III of Ce- acre; 145 acres of mixed Level currently has 120 construction crews work- ODAC. they have instituted benefi- res, 1997; James Bennett of grass hay yielding 3.1 tons/ head of purebred Angus ing in two states. “This The McDowell family is cial conservation practices, Red House, 1998; Ernest Co- acre; 25 acres of annual cows, 50 head of purebred enterprise,” he notes, a close-knit unit that pitch- transforming the poor penhaver of Meadowview, hay yielding 2.4 tons/acre heifers, and 70 head of “was one of the first to deal es in to help out during tobacco-era soil and water- 1999; John Davis of Port and 400 acres of pasture. purebred sale bulls. with high tensile fencing farm sale dates, clerking ways into productive for- Royal, 2000; James Huffard Total acreage under op- Locust Level’s crops and enabled us to greatly paperwork or processing ages and grazing systems. III of Crockett, 2001; J. Hud- eration is 1,200 with 250 are currently marketed expand infrastructure of cattle. A few of the grand- Instituting these methods son Reese of Scottsburg, acres rented and 950 acres through the cow herd and farm facilities at reason- children are beginning has proven beneficial for 2002; Charles Parkerson of owned. excess hay is marketed able costs because we head- their own 4-H experience. present and future sustain- Suffolk, 2003; Lance Everett He adds, “Recently, ex- through the Halifax County quartered on our own land All 16 of them take vaca- ability. Mike McDowell has of Stony Creek, 2004; Monk tensive stream exclusion, Cattlemen’s Association’s here.” tions together to places like also taken many opportu- Sanford of Orange, 2005; stream crossings, and Hay Producer List. Bulls A long-term board mem- the Tennessee mountains nities to facilitate agricul- Paul House of Nokesville, rotational paddock graz- are marketed through orga- ber of Mecklenburg Elec- and South Carolina beach- tural education and build 2006; Steve Berryman of ing have been integrated nized farm bull auction and trical Cooperative, McDow- es whenever their busy grass roots and cooperative Surry, 2007; Tim Sutphin into the operation. The sales in conjunction with ell is currently involved in schedules allow. relationships within the of Dublin, 2008; Billy Bain pond has been rebuilt, two other breeders. LLF their ongoing initiative to Mike McDowell says, community.” of Dinwiddie, 2009; Wallick maintained, and managed bulls are also marketed bring broadband with su- “We just kick back, play As the Virginia winner Harding of Jetersville, according to conservation private treaty and females perior fiber optics to the re- board games, go out to eat of the Swisher Sweets/Sun- 2010; Donald Horsley of guidelines for watershed through a combination of gion, straight into people’s together, and generally en- belt Expo award, McDowell Virginia Beach, 2011; Max- purposes. Numerous wells private treaty, bull sales, homes, allowing farm fam- joy each other’s company.” will receive a $2,500 cash well Watkins of Suther- and plumbing infrastruc- and a spring consignment ilies in more remote areas They also all attend County award and an expense-paid land, 2012; Lin Jones of tures are in place to protect auction. A catalog is pro- access to internet-related Line Baptist Church, found- trip to the Sunbelt Expo New Canton, 2013; Robert T. water sources.” duced yearly. educational resources. He ed in 1771, where Mike Mc- from Swisher International “Tom” Nixon II of Rapidan, These practices are all McDowell is quick to says, “Cooperatives of this Dowell is now the full-time of Jacksonville, Florida, 2014; Donald Turner of part of a comprehensive say that his agricultural type serve the interests of pastor. He says, “In 2011 I a $500 gift certificate from North Dinwiddie, 2015; Ty- Farm Conservation Plan career has been aided their members first, unlike felt the call to evangelize Southern States coopera- ler Wegmeyer of Hamilton, and Grazing Plan, devel- enormously by his early some public utilities. Let’s and preach about the love tive and a Columbia vest 2016; and Robert Mills, oped with the help of re- off-farm professional expe- not forget that electricity of God and his presence from Ivey’s Outdoor and Jr., of Callands, 2017; Paul searchers at both Virginia rience in agricultural gave rural America the in our lives. I’m now an Farm Supply. McDowell is Rogers, Jr. of Wakefield, Tech and North Carolina financing. He recalls, chance to catch up with the ordained minister and still now eligible for the $15,000 2018. State University. McDowell “Working for Dominion rest of the country. And farm full-time.” cash prize awarded to the A distinguished panel also earned his Beef Quali- Farm Loan Corporation this is just the next step.” As to lessons learned overall winner. Other priz- of judges visited Locust ty Assurance Certification in the late 1980s and early Over the years McDow- over his service-filled life, es for the overall winner Level Farm, along with the & Trainer status and has 1990s, I covered six coun- ell also took advantage McDowell says, “Patience include use of a tractor for farms of the other nine state been twice named Virginia tries as an agribusiness of the H2A law to allow comes from longsuffering; a year from MF Product, finalists, during the week Seedstock Producer of the representative, while still migrants to legally work rain always follows drought another $500 gift certificate of Aug. 5-9. The judges this Year. He became one of the working more or less full on Virginia farms on a sea- at some point, and spring from Southern States, a Co- year include Cary Lightsey, founders and is now direc- time on the farm. It was sonal basis. He notes, “We follows winter. The aim lumbia jacket from Ivey’s Lake Wales, Florida, who tor for the Halifax County rewarding to help bring put a lot of effort into re- is to stay calm during the Outdoor and Farm Supply, was the overall winner of Cattlemen’s Association ag-financing to areas where cruiting skilled labor from challenging times and find a smoker-grill from Hays the award in 2009; John and is active in a number lenders had not previously places where the workers peace and comfort in the LTI, and a Henry Repeating McKissick, long-time Uni- of local and state industry seen farms as favorable in- had their own small farms knowledge that there will Arms American Farmer versity of Georgia agricul- associations. Locust Lev- vestments. I also made and were clearly qualified always be unknowns in Tribute edition 22 rifle tural economist at Athens, el Farm has also hosted a lot of helpful contacts to do excellent work. They farming. And most impor- from Reinke Manufactur- Georgia; and David Wildey, Virginia Angus Field Day, and friendships along the became an invaluable com- tantly, realize that living ing Co., Inc., the irrigation Manila, Arkansas, the over- VFGC Grazing School, way.” ponent of our ability to things are highly respon- company, through its part- all winner of the award in VCE Cow Calf College and From 1987 to 2000, anoth- succeed.” sive to management. So, nership with Henry Repeat- 2016. September 2019 Ag Scene Page 35

Witches Night Out Miss BOstON PageaNt kick-OFF tO christMas September 19 6 PM- 9 PM October 19, 7 PM November 9 Black Friday sideWalk sale 40th aNNual BOstON November 29 September 28 MiNi-MarathON aNd Festival October 25-26 christMas iN BOstON December 1, 6 PM high cOttON PleiN air PaiNt Out October 17 thru October 20 Wiregrass caMellia sOciety’s BOstON caMellia shOW November 2-3

298300-1 Page 36 Ag Scene September 2019 UGA-Tifton’s Wayne Hanna honored with achievement award

BY CLINT THOMPSON Over the past 16 years, University of Georgia he has developed seed sterile ornamental grasses, TIFTON — University ornamental peanut, cold of Georgia scientist Wayne tolerant citrus, and cone- Hanna has received his less pine trees. share of awards, but he Hanna is a member of says there’s something ex- the NAPB, Golf Course tra special about the Superintendents of Amer- Lifetime Achievement ica, Georgia Golf Course Award he received at the Superintendents Associa- National Association of tion, Turfgrass Producers Plant Breeders (NAPB) of America, American annual meeting on Wednes- Society of Agronomy and day, Aug. 28. the Crop Science Society of “I think the biggest sat- America. isfaction that comes from He has received multiple winning the award is that awards during his illus- the efforts in Tifton are trious career, including recognized and acknowl- induction into the Georgia edged,” Hanna said. Agricultural Hall of Fame Hanna has served as a in 2011 and into the Agri- part-time professor in the cultural Research Services Department of Crop and Science Hall of Fame in Soil Sciences on the UGA 2006. He was named In- Tifton campus since 2003. ventor of the Year by the This followed a successful UGA Research Foundation 32-year career as a research in 2003, the same year he geneticist and research received the C. Reed Funk leader with the U.S. De- Achievement Award from partment of Agriculture the Turfgrass Breeders As- Agricultural Research Ser- sociation. vice (USDA ARS) in Tifton, These awards recognize Georgia. his impressive body of Hanna, whose specialty work, but Hanna is most is crop genetics and plant proud of the impact his breeding, has authored or UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA career has made on con- co-authored more than 670 Jim McFerson, director of Washington State University’s Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center, presents famed USDA sumers. scientific papers. He’s de- turfgrass breeder Wayne Hanna, UGA professor of crop and soil sciences, with the National Association of Plant Breeders “Say, a lady calls me veloped and released 31 cul- (NAPB) Lifetime Achievement Award at the NAPB’s annual meeting in Pine Mountain, Georgia. from north Atlanta and tivars and 35 parental lines, says, ‘Wayne, ‘TifBlair’ inbreds and improved ger- staging the World Cup and the University of Georgia, McFerson said. “Dr. Hanna During the first 32 years of has given me the prettiest mplasms of turf, ornamen- Olympics. Dr. Hanna has assembled is exactly the kind of sci- his career, Hanna studied lawn I’ve ever had.’ That’s tal and forage genera; this Hanna was well deserv- and distributed forage entist, mentor and human male sterility systems, the best award you can includes 27 plant patents ing of the award, according and turfgrass germplasm, being the NAPB seeks to reproductive and chromo- get,” Hanna said. “Or you and four plant patents in to Jim McFerson, professor developed and released honor with its prestigious some behavior, radiation have a cattleman from final review. His cultivars of horticulture at Washing- highly successful turf- Lifetime Achievement and plant improvement, Texas that says, ‘This grass are planted across the ton State University and grass varieties, published Award.” hybridization, gene action, that you developed has world as forage for summer chairperson of the NAPB hundreds of papers on A native of Texas, linkage and inheritance made me more money than grazing and on landscapes, Awards Committee. breeding and genetics, and Hanna earned a doctorate analyses, alien germplasm anything I’ve ever done.’ golf courses and athletic “For more than 50 years trained numerous graduate in genetics from Texas transfer, and forage quality Those are really good feel- fields — including those at both the USDA ARS and students and postdocs,” A&M University in 1970. components. ings.” September 2019 Ag Scene Page 37

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA Georgia farmers will soon be harvesting their cotton crop. It’s important for cotton producers to know when to defoliate to speed up the crop’s maturity process. Cotton defoliation timing is important decision for growers

BY CLINT THOMPSON “The way cotton grows, bolls MORE INFO the best decision that we can,” University of Georgia are going to open up in the bot- Freeman said. tom first because those are the For more information about cotton production in Georgia, see the Due to weather-related issues, With harvest season right oldest bolls. As you move up the Georgia Cotton News website. Georgia’s cotton crop looks spo- around the corner for some plant, the bolls are younger,” radic across the state, Freeman Georgia cotton farmers, knowing Freeman said. “We have to take said. Areas that have had rainfall when to defoliate is an import- all of the leaves off of the plant recommendations for how to de- permost harvestable boll. If there look promising, while other areas ant decision all growers have to try to open up those younger termine if a crop is ready to be are four or less nodes between have struggled due to inadequate to make, according to Mark bolls. We try to do it at the best defoliated. the two, it is likely safe to defo- rainfall in July and August. Freeman, University of Georgia time to optimize yield and qual- 1.Percentage of open bolls: liate. “The irrigated crop looks Cooperative Extension cotton ity. We want all the bolls on the Typically in Georgia, when a 3. Sharp knife method: The good. I wouldn’t say it’s excellent, agronomist. plant open and ready for harvest crop has about 70% open bolls, safest method is to cut repre- but there’s going to be good yields Before cotton can be harvest- at the same time.” it’s safe to defoliate. If the crop is sentative bolls open at a cross from the irrigated part. Dryland, ed, the plant’s leaves must be If farmers apply a defoliant uniform without fruiting gaps, it section. Check the seed for a ful- on the other hand — some areas removed through a process called too early, they could lose yield is likely mature enough. ly-developed dark seed coat and look good, but more areas do not defoliation, which helps speed because of a lack of maturity. If 2. Number of nodes above lint that strings out. look so good,” Freeman said. up the plant’s maturity. Farmers defoliant is applied too late, loss- cracked bolls: With this method, “The (sharp knife method) is For more information about apply a chemical treatment and, es from boll rot and weather can farmers find the highest cracked really the best indicator of matu- cotton production in Georgia, approximately two weeks later, occur. boll and then count the number rity, but we want to use all three see the Georgia Cotton News the crop is ready for harvest. Freeman offers farmers three of nodes up the plant to the up- methods in conjunction to make website. Page 38 Ag Scene September 2019

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA PHOTO Second-grade students at Colham Ferry Elementary School in Oconee County work to stay focused on their plants during UGA Extension’s inaugural Great Georgia Pollinator Census on Aug. 23. Georgians log 4,567 counts during first Great Georgia Pollinator Census

BY MERRITT MELANCON “I think the story now utes to look at the insects those 15 minutes and then — from southwest Georgia Georgia economy each University of Georgia is how excited people were was eye-opening. recorded and reported the woodlands to downtown year, according to a 2015 to participate,” said Becky “I am so very, very grate- type of plant they selected, Atlanta — participated in study by UGA economists. More than 4,000 Geor- Griffin, school and com- ful for all of the Georgia the time of day, the weather the count. Once analyzed, Griffin modeled the gians in 133 counties par- munity garden coordinator citizens who were willing and their location. the results should provide program on the Great ticipated in the nation’s for University of Georgia to give up their time to sup- Griffin is working with a needed benchmark for Backyard Bird Count, a first statewide pollinator Cooperative Extension and port our pollinators.” other pollinator experts the state’s native pollinator citizen science program census, logging more than the pollinator count orga- Each participant spent to crunch the data to look population. Future census- run by Cornell University 133,963 insect interactions. nizer. “I have heard several 15 minutes focusing on one for trends about which es will help track the health that asks people to count Georgians logged 4,567 times that people will never individual blooming plant. pollinators were most pop- of Georgia pollinators. the birds they see in their counts during the ground- look at their gardens the They tallied the number of ulous in different parts of Pollinators, both domes- backyard on a given winter breaking citizen science same way again and that insects and the types of in- the state. Citizen scientists tic and wild, contribute day. Hopefully, the Great exercise Aug. 23-24. slowing down for 15 min- sects they witnessed during from every corner the state about $367 million to the Georgia Pollinator Census September 2019 Ag Scene Page 39

will become an annual tra- Earth, including the tiniest dition for families and gar- insects,” Parr said. dening groups, much like While it was hard to the backyard bird count. stay still and count for 15 In addition to the data minutes, each student came generated by the census, away with a new apprecia- Griffin wanted the count tion of the tiny world that to serve as an educational exists on the plants in the experience for Georgians. school garden, Parr added. After spending 15 minutes “The educational part focused on one plant to of this project is just as im- count pollinators, many portant as the data,” said participants reported hav- Kris Braman, professor ing a new respect for their and head of the Depart- backyard or garden ecosys- ment of Entomology at the tems, Griffin said. UGA College of Agricultur- In addition to hundreds al and Environmental Sci- of adult volunteers, thou- ences, after finishing her sands of school children on-campus count Aug. 23. participated in the count. “It’s a wonderful chance for At Colham Ferry Elemen- people to learn more about tary School in Watkinsville, the pollinators in their Georgia, STEM teacher yards, what’s really hap- Diane Parr’s students prac- pening to them, and how ticed for two weeks leading they can support them.” up to the count. When the Griffin plans to publish day came, they were ex- insights from the census cited to make history, but on the Great Georgia Pol- they ended up wowed by linator Census website as what they witnessed in the well as in traditional aca- garden. demic journals. To keep up “The pollinator count with the latest news from opened the eyes of my the census, join the Great UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA PHOTO students to the importance Georgia Pollinator Census A UGA student participates in UGA Extension’s inaugural Great Georgia Pollinator Census on Aug. 23, 2019. of every living thing on Group on Facebook.

297775-1 Page 40 Ag Scene September 2019 God Looked Down On His Planned Paradise And Said, “I need a caretaker.” so God Made A Farmer.

- Paul Harvey

QUITMAN VALDOSTA

229-263-2277 229-242-1540297337-1 297337-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 41 Land judging competition SCORE South Georgia and teaches Georgia 4-H’ers USDA Mentorship Initiative critical thinking skills

BY CRISTINA DEREVERE cated in the University of Judging Program offers University of Georgia Georgia Whitehall Forest youth the chance to build in Athens, Georgia. Teams critical-thinking skills, sci- Sixty-five Georgia from eight counties all over ence-based knowledge, and 4-H’ers participated in the Georgia competed, a 23% life skills in soil science. 2020 State Land Judging increase in participation The youth analyze north Contest held Aug. 24 at from previous years. and south Georgia soils Flinchum’s Phoenix, lo- The Georgia 4-H Land in pits and trays at four

SCORE South Georgia’s Collaborating To Support New and Existing Farmers SCORE and USDA are working together to offer free mentoring, training, and resources to farmers and agribusiness owners.

MENTORING WORKSHOPS RESOURCES

SCORE South Georgia AG mentors: PL Jowers, Thomas Coleman, Stan Savage and Harry Thompson.

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA PHOTO The senior Liberty County Land Judging Team won first place in Georgia 4-H’s 2020 State Land Judging Contest. The team will now represent Georgia at the 2020 National Land Judging Contest in May in Oklahoma. The team is comprised of Makayla Nash, Kelly Lachowsky, Jonathan Woolf and Melvin Kimble. 297626-1 Page 42 Ag Scene September 2019

different stations. At each top county individuals. The Nelley McCommons, Ca- station, they must identify First Place Senior Team mille Stephenson, Oconee soil characteristics and de- Winners will represent County. termine best soil manage- Georgia at the 2020 Nation- • Third place team: Kai ment practices for crops, al Land Judging Contest in Thomas, Thane Nye, Aman pastures or forestry uses. May in Oklahoma. Boricha-Masand and Zoe “Youth learn practical Junior division winners Economides, Bibb County. skills related to soil science are: • Senior high individual: and agriculture,” said • First place team: Cassi- Makayla Nash, Liberty Craven Hudson, UGA dy Roberts, Kye Lachowsky County. Cooperative Extension and Kyra Lachowsky, Lib- Georgia 4-H’s Land 4-H specialist. “When they erty County. Judging Program is grow- become adults, these skills • Second place team: ing as newly certified will help them understand Venya Gunjal, Sandhya coaches help establish new if their home could have a Rajesh, Aarsheya Gunjal teams in many counties. basement, or the workings and Prayushi Padhi, Cobb This event was made pos- of home septic systems. County. sible by the collaboration This is very practical ma- • Third place team: Eli and support of land judg- terial.” Sapp, Jacob Sowards, Wes- ing coaches, 4-H Extension The State Land Judging ley Duncan and Nicholas staff, UGA soil science stu- Contest consists of two Wilson, Brooks County. dent volunteers and other competition brackets. The • Junior high individual: volunteers. junior competition is for Cassidy Roberts, Liberty As the largest youth youth in fourth through County. leadership organization eighth grades, and the Senior division winners in the state, 4-H reaches senior competition is for are: more than 175,000 people ninth through 12th grades. • First place team: annually through UGA A county may bring up Makayla Nash, Kelly La- Extension offices and 4-H to 20 youth in up to three chowsky, Jonathan Woolf, facilities. For more infor- teams. The youth compete Melvin Kimble, Liberty mation, visit georgia4h. individually for the high County. org or contact your local individual winner and as • Second place team: UGA Extension office at a team by combining the David Han, Alicia Carnes, 1-800-ASK-UGA1.

“PROVIDING QUALITY PRODUCTS AND SERVICE SECOND TO NONE... WHILE PUTTING OUR CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS FIRST.” WE OFFER A COMPLETE LINE OF BRANDS & PRODUCTS TO TAKE CARE OF ALL YOUR NEEDS. Sutton System Sales, Inc. 184 South Baker Street Ellenton, GA 31747 (229) 324-3141 or 1-800-729-3141 www.suttonsystemsales.com 297065-1 September 2019 Ag Scene Page 43 Of Take-All Root Rot in St. Augustinegrass

With St. Augustinegrass giving the appearance of tom of the disease is usu- circles. cut from 2-4 inches tall and disease. it can be difficult to guess a nice green lawn again ally yel- This naturally occur- Centipede should be cut 1-2 After cultural measures what is going on since through much of the sum- lowing of ring fungus affects roots inches tall. Only remove have been taken, fungicide there are numerous possi- mer. In mid-August the yel- individual first. Infected roots will 1/3rd of the grass blade at applications may be of bilities. Problems could be low or dying areas slowly blades of darken and can turn black one cutting. some benefit, but they are caused by fungus such as reappear up until the turf grass that before they rot off com- Take-All Disease wors- by no means a cure. Fall Brown Patch, Gray Leaf goes dormant. are easy pletely. Runners such as ens as pH climbs above and early spring are the Spot, or Take-All Disease. Take-All Root Rot or to pull stolons and rhizomes will 6.2 so liming is not recom- best times to apply fungi- It could be chinch bugs, Take-All Disease is a dis- out. Most become infected next and mended. Use fertilizers that cides. Fungicides such as sod webworms or army- ease that is a problem in people do eventually foliage will die have slow release nitrogen Heritage, Banner Max, Bay- worms. Mole crickets or Lowndes County and much not notice as well. and lots of potassium. Po- leton, and Cleary’s 3336 can grubs are possibilities as of Georgia. This fungal dis- this and There is no silver bullet tassium is the last of the be used. well. ease is caused by the patho- only be- JAKE to stop Take-All Disease. three numbers on the bag. A soil test may be your This time of year is a gen, Gaeumannomyces gin to be PRICE If you irrigate your lawn Avoid high nitrogen appli- best defense against Take good possibility the prob- graminis var. graminis concerned too much your chances cations in the fall. All Root Rot. Correcting lem could be from a disease and can be as destructive when the grass begins dy- of having problems with Core aerating will help nutrient deficiencies (es- called Take-All Root Rot. as the scientific name is ing out. Take-All Disease are much reduce thatch and com- pecially Potassium) and This disease becomes more scary. Once you notice visible greater. Only irrigate when paction and relieve grass decreasing the pH are two active starting mid to late Take-All Disease is most symptoms of the disease, turf begins to show signs stress. Healthy turf may important steps in combat- August and it may or may severe on St. Augustine- it has been active for a few of drought stress. have the pathogen but ing this disease. not kill the grass. grass. This disease also weeks destroying the turf ’s Cultural controls are may not show symptoms A typical pattern with affects centipedegrass, ber- root system. The irregular the best way to manage of the disease. UGA re- Jake Price is the UGA exten- Take-All disease is as fol- mudagrass, and all other pattern of grass dieback is Take-All disease. Turn search has indicated that sion agent/coordinator for lows. In the spring some warm season turfgrasses. one of the ways it can be your sprinklers off and topdressing with ¼” of Lowndes County. He can be parts of the grass green up Once established, Take-All distinguished from “Brown water only when needed. sphagnum peat moss or 2 reached at 2102 East Hill nicely while other areas Disease is very difficult to Patch”, which is another Make sure your turf is cut pounds of manganese sul- Avenue, Valdosta, GA 31601 remain yellow and weak. control. common turf disease in to the proper height. St. fate per thousand square or 229-333-5185. His email is By May, new grass emerges The first visual symp- the fall that typically forms Augustinegrass should be feet may help suppress the [email protected].

Give us a call or stop by to discuss your 2019 cotton crop needs. Tom Sumner General Manager

Ray Battle Gin Superintendent 298114-1 Page 44 Ag Scene September 2019

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