South Georgia Ag Scene November 2017 The Moultrie Observer • The Tifton Gazette • The Valdosta Daily Times • Thomasville Times-Enterprise
Feeder cattle markets stronger
than expected...Page 4 Page 2 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 3
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26167-1 Page 4 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 5 Something for everyone in current feeder cattle markets Ready To Work... When You Are!
By Derrell S. Peel Oklahoma State University Livestock Marketing Specialist 1205 Veterans Parkway N. 2815 Gillionville Rd. FARM TALK — You know that old saying about a gift Moultrie, GA Albany, GA horse and its mouth — this is no time to be checking the teeth on current feeder cattle markets. Feeder cattle (229) 985-3882 (229) 435-2212 markets have stayed stronger than expected this fall and www.southerntractorandoutdoors.com offer a number of opportunities for all types of cattle pro- ducers. Calf prices have dropped very little this fall from Ready To Work... When You Are! summer levels — much less than the normal seasonal de- cline. Oklahoma calf prices this October are about 27 per- cent higher than this time last year. Cow-calf producers are selling weaned calves for $150 to $200 per head more than last year. Heavy feeder cattle prices have not declined seasonally rather they have increased this fall. Seven-weight steers are up about six percent in October from August and are 25 percent higher than last year. An increase in heavy feeder price relative to stocker price increases the value of gain and is a stocker signal to put more weight on cattle in the country. For example, adding 250 pounds to a 500-pound steer currently has a value of gain of about $1.35 per pound at current prices. Feedlots are bidding heavy feeders higher and that increases the signal for stockers to add weight to cattle prior to feedlot placement. Of course, current value of gain is only the buy signal and does not include the market risk between now and when the 750-pound steer in the above example will be sold. However, Feeder Cattle futures have been remark- ably strong and currently offer an opportunity to lock in good margins for feeders sold in the March to May time period. The 750-pound steer will likely have a breakeven of $140-$145 per cwt in March, depending on gain and costs. March Feeder futures at the time of writing this article were about $153 per cwt suggesting a rare margin opportunity for winter grazing. Stocker producers, and cow-calf producers with potential to retain weaned calves as stockers, should pencil out the opportunities depending on beginning weight and expected timing and weight of later sales. While cash market fundamentals are solid, spring Feeder futures are arguably overpriced and subject to correction at any time. The best opportunities may be fleeting! Earlier in the fall, feedlots were losing some money and appeared to be paying too much for feeder cattle and thus jeopardizing feedlot margins for the coming months. How- ever, cash fed cattle prices have improved recently, increas- ing current margins. Cost of gain is expected to stay very favorable for the foreseeable future. Moreover, Live Cattle futures prices have pushed higher recently to levels that come close to supporting current feeder prices for cattle finishing through next April. As with Feeder futures, the Live Cattle futures pricing opportunity may be short-lived. Strong demand is what makes all of this possible. Boxed beef prices have recovered about $10 per cwt from the early fall lows. Retail beef prices are holding close to year ago levels despite a 4 percent increase in beef pro- o Work... When Y duction in 2017. Demand is strong in both domestic and in- ternational markets, with year to date exports up over 14 percent. Strong demand is the key to allowing all sectors y N. of the industry to have decent margins simultaneously and will be the key as beef production continues to grow Feeder cattle prices increased this past fall in 2018.
28362-1 Page 6 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 7 Torrance named new Grady SUNBELT AG EXPO North America’s Premier Farm Show® County extension agent www.sunbeltexpo.com By JOrDAN BArelA [email protected]
CAIRO — There’s a new extension agent INNOVATION, in Grady County. Ty Torrance began as Grady’s University of Georgia extension agent on Oct. 1. Now a month in, Torrance said he is SCIENCE Local Retailer for “still learning the county and getting out and meeting farmers and clientele.” Valley Pivots Torrance made the short trek from Deca- tur County, where he also was an extension EDUCATION & agent. The difference between the two counties, Torrance noted, is Decatur has larger-scale Skilled service farms, while Grady farmers has small- TECHNOLOGY er-acreage farms. Torrance pointed out the team for all difference of Decatur farms generally aver- age 20,000 acres and Grady between 5,000 to brands 6,000 acres. Trust Valley and Shades of Green The experience in large-scale farming of center pivots is something Torrance hopes to bring as for all of your center pivot needs. Grady County’s extension agent, along with ways “to help farmers be the most economi- and all of your cal as possible.” Torrance also noted a great number of agricultural Grady County farmers are passing the reins Ty Torrance and plans to work with “the next generation irrigation needs. and helping with that transition.” Research is key, Torrance said, to finding 229-300-5658 ‘I like farming. I enjoy being around solutions. “That’s the only way to find out the best farming.’ ways is to continue to research,” he added, #SUNBELT18 also noting the importance of finding profit- Full Service Landscaping able solutions to problems. Ty Torrance Torrance plans to conduct two different Grady University Extension Agent vegetable researches, one centered around for Businesses and Homeowners! nematodes and the second on vegetable va- riety testing. Cotton and corn variety trials the county. Design ~ Creation ~ Maintenance are already scheduled and will take place Also a former extension agent in Marion during the summer months, the extension County, Torrance said many of his family agent said. members were extension agents, also noting In the spring, Torrance will conduct a growing up involved in farming. meeting in Grady County to present and “I like farming, I enjoy being around discuss what agriculture is being done in farming,” he said.
Servicing Quitman, JOIN TODAY! Valdosta & Lake Park MOUTRIE, GA • OCT. 16-20, 2018 ducks.org Continental Conservation: Top Notch Service, Design 800-45-DUCKS You Make it Happen (229) 985-1968 and Maintenance for your location! A CFC participant - provided as a public service 29208-1 27652-1 Page 8 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 9 Lowndes High attends FFA convention INDIANAP- OLIS, Ind. – Ian Bennett, Lowndes High School gradu- ate and FFA mem- ber, was elected to serve as the South- ern Region vice president at the National FFA Con- vention, which had more than 67,000 in attendance. During his year- long commitment, he will represent the national FFA Ian Bennett organization, which has more than 650,000 members, nationally and internationally, according to a school press release. After finishing the current semester at the University of Georgia, Bennett will re- side in Indianapolis for the remainder of the year of service. He is a junior in agri- science and environmental systems – plant breeding and genetics. He is the son of Dr. Marshall and Mary Beth Bennett. From Lowndes Schools, 43 FFA mem- bers and family members attended the na- tional convention. Many of these students were involved in national competitions. Lowndes had two agricultural profi- ciency winners. Landon Herring won the diversified crop production proficiency based on his work at Herring Farms, according to the press release. Herring has worked six years in this supervised agricultural expe- Swisher International rience, growing nine different crops. would like to congratulate Courtney Cameron won the agriscience research – plant systems proficiency based on her use of the scientific method in using aspirin to control tobacco mosaic vi- Robert Mills Jr. rus. TMV is the number one viral crop dis- SUbMITTED PHOTO Callands, Virginia ease worldwide, according to the press re- Jaylin Johnson, Gabriella Daugherty, Zach Daw, Ty Parks, Zach Gay, Shaw Wacter, Dawson Peek, Alexis Herring, Levi Herring and Cedric lease. Cameron is a freshman and research Montgomery were at awarded the National FFA Convention. scholar at the University of Georgia. 2017 Swisher Sweets Also competing in proficiency was and Avery Fletcher, 10th. Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Chandler Kudyk in the agriscience re- Clay Parker served as a delegate of the search – integrated systems division. Georgia FFA Association to the National Winners from Lowndes County Farmer of the Year Lowndes Schools had 10 FFA members Convention. Parker served on committees win the National Agriscience Fair: Food to help give input on future directions and Food Systems: Zach Daw, Alexis Herring and Jaylin Johnson Systems: Zach Daw, Alexis Herring and operations of the national FFA organi- Jaylin Johnson; Environmental Systems: zation, according to the press release. He environmental Systems: Zach Gay and Cedric Montgomery Zach Gay and Cedric Montgomery; Plant also voted on issues from the floor of the Systems: Ty Parks, Dawson Peek, Gabri- convention. Plant Systems: Ty Parks, Dawson Peek, Gabriella Daugherty, Levi Herring and Shaw ella Daugherty, Levi Herring and Shaw Several members served as Courtesy Wacter Wacter. Corps. Also competing in various Agriscience Joe Corbett, Cayden Matthews, Paige Fair divisions and placing were Courtney Jones and Katelynn Gay assisted coordi- Other competitors from Lowndes County Cameron, second; Clay Parker, fourth; Em- nators with the operation of the National Courtney Cameron, second; Clay Parker, fourth; Emily Stone, seventh; and Morgan Sys- ily Stone, seventh; and Morgan Sysskind Agriscience Fair. skind and Avery Fletcher, 10th.
28592-1 Page 10 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 11 CAMP reunion recognizes migrant students, graduates UGA President Morehead visits 40th Annual Sunbelt Ag Expo By ClINT THOMPSON By WIllIAM MAlONe University of Georgia, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences TIFTON — On Friday, Sept. 29, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College hosted a re- MOULTRIE, Ga. - University of Georgia union Sept. 29 for students who attended President Jere W. Morehead discussed the ABAC through the CAMP program. future of Georgia agriculture with industry The College Assistance Migrant Program leaders at the 40th annual Sunbelt Agricul- has been helping migrant farm workers and tural Expo in Moultrie, Georgia, on Tuesday, children of migrant farm workers in their Oct. 17. first year of college since 1999. “I look forward to the Sunbelt Expo every The program helps out close to 2,000 year,” Morehead said. “Speaking with agri- students annually, and since 1999 ABAC cultural leaders from across the state always has had over 500 students go through the serves as a constant reminder of the critical program. role the University of Georgia plays in sup- The program helps students in their porting our state’s most important industry.” first year of their undergraduate degrees Morehead, who has attended the expo by pairing them with mentors, counseling, every year since becoming UGA president in tutoring, skills workshops, health services, 2013, visited the UGA College of Agricultural and housing assistance. and Environmental Sciences (CAES) building, Olga Contreras Martinez is the Multicul- where he spoke with CAES Ambassadors and tural Education Director at ABAC, and part met Southeastern agricultural leaders. He also of her job is to reach out to students who delivered remarks at a listening session host- are eligible for programs like CAMP. She ed by U.S. House Committee on Agriculture is the person who organized the first-ever members, and he encouraged policymakers to CAMP reunion this year. continue looking to UGA as a source for data “This program specifically helps chil- to inform agricultural policy. dren of migrant farm workers who graduat- CAES contributes to Georgia’s food, fiber ed from high school,” said Martinez. and horticultural sectors through research The stories from alumni in this program conducted at various experiment stations, describe the need to fund the program the research and education centers, and farms best. From registered nurses to graduate statewide. The college has an annual student population of about 2,000 and more than 11,000 students the program speaks for itself. Attendants of the CAMP reunion. “Your success [CAMP alumni] depends alumni living in Georgia. on whether we are rewarded with grants or gram. “You always know when you want to UGA Cooperative Extension serves Geor- not for this program,” Martinez said to the do something, but figuring out how you are gians in all of the state’s 159 counties through audience at the reunion. going to go about getting it is hard.” local Extension offices and reaches 180,000 ABAC has had four five-year grants to The CAMP program helps students elementary, middle and high school students pay for this program. meet other students who come from similar through the Georgia 4-H Youth Development Currently, ABAC is on its third year of backgrounds. Students who participated program. the current grant. Since the start of the in CAMP activities say they made life-long “Many Georgians, especially young peo- program, ABAC has only had one year friends. ple, may not be aware of the total impact that where they were not granted money for the Alfredo Munoz is an ABAC graduate who UGA CAES faculty and staff have on the econ- program. went through CAMP his freshman year. omy and in their lives,” said CAES Dean Sam Part of Martinez’s job is to ensure they “The CAMP program exposed me to a lot Pardue. “Sunbelt Expo is a perfect opportuni- have funds to continue the program. of things on and off campus,” said Munoz. ty to showcase our great partnerships and our “That’s one of the things we are working “On campus, I was mentored and tutored ac- educational programs across the state that are towards now, to make sure that we continue ademically. Off campus it allowed me to talk available to everyone.” George Vellidis, director of academic programs on the UGA Tifton Campus, shakes hands with UGA President Jere Morhead. to advocate for funds to keep the program to people about different scholarships and At the expo, UGA Extension specialists alive,” said Martinez. “The best advocates finding internships.” lead daily seminars on topics like beef cattle CAES Ambassadors — CAES students select- for this program is alumni that have gone “CAMP gave me a mentor that constantly management, forages, dairying, aquaculture ed to aid in college recruitment efforts and on to become professional members of our encouraged me not give up, and to keep up and poultry. There are also field demonstra- to represent the college — serve as hosts and community and contributing back to taxes with my assignments,” said Stephanie Ma- tions at the 600-acre, on-site working research provide information to guests. On Wednesday, Ford Flying for our country.” rine. “Without camp, I don’t think I would farm. Visitors can see peanuts being dug and Oct. 18, Southeastern middle and high school Among the crowd of past students, some have been as successful as I was. CAMP mo- cotton, peanuts, soybeans and hay being har- students flocked to the expo for the event’s Stu- shared where they were at in life after tivated me to strive for excellence.” vested. dent Day. Many visited the college’s building earning their undergraduate degrees from The faculty encourages CAMP students “We work very closely with the CAES re- to learn more about agriculture and CAES Services. Inc ABAC. to come back and visit ABAC for events oth- searchers on a daily basis on the Darrell Wil- opportunities. Some of the alumni were busy working er than the CAMP reunion. liams Research Farm on various row crop and “The Sunbelt Expo is one of the largest Give us a call for all your spraying, forage studies. During show time, these re- agricultural events every year, and it’s literally careers, and some still in school earning Events such as Homecoming would be a seeding and fertilizing needs! graduate degrees and doctorates. The stu- great way for alumni to visit ABAC and see searchers, along with the livestock specialists, held in our backyard. This is a great chance to dents all agreed that CAMP had a signifi- the improvements that have been made on participate in our demos and seminars. It is all showcase our college and educate high school 564 Highway 270 West cant impact made in their lives. campus. tied together with the CAES exhibits in their students about the degree programs offered Phone: 229-782-7166 “I always wanted to earn my master’s Martinez plans to continue the tradition permanent exhibit building. We appreciate on our UGA campus in Tifton,” said Katie P.O. Box 489 degree, but CAMP really helped me define of hosting a CAMP reunion at ABAC and our great relationship with CAES as we work Murray, student recruiter for the UGA Tifton Doerun, Ga. 31744 229-881-1253 how I was going to earn it,” said Zaraly encourages any person who was once a part ABAC held a reunion on Sept. 29 for students who attend ABAC through the College Assistant together to make life better on the farm,” said campus. “This is an excellent opportunity Cortez, who is currently in a graduate pro- of the program to come out for it every year. Migrant Program (CAMP). Chip Blalock, executive director of the expo. to recruit students who aspire to a career in The expo is one of many events where agriculture.” 33 years of aerial experience provided by Michael Ford.28195-1 Page 12 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 13 From suburbs to Farmer of the Year FFA receives special gift By AlAN MAUlDIN Year,” Mills said during an interview af- [email protected] ter the luncheon. “I hope it inspires other By AMANDA USHer young people with passion to follow their [email protected] MOULTRIE, Ga. — It was one of smallest dreams. This award isn’t just about me, it’s crowds for an annual opening-day luncheon about encouraging people to follow their VALDOSTA — Thanks to the Lowndes at Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition, but the hearts.” FFA Boosters, the Lowndes County chapter hundreds of humans didn’t seem to miss Mills said he was lucky to live in the part of FFA can benefit from the purchase of the usually ubiquitous swarm of gnats. of the county whose school had a rural agri- a new truck that was unveiled Wednesday Cooler weather apparently kept at bay culture class. evening. the pests that normally crash the Swisher “I decided that was what I wanted to do Roger Meeks, FFA Boosters Alumni pres- Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer for the rest of my life,” he said. “This (day) ident, handed Lowndes High School FFA of the Year party each October. is just incredible.” President Clay Parker the keys to a 2013 While the winners of the award given The other state winners were: Alabama, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 during a ceremony each year during the Willie B. Withers lun- Chris Langley; Arkansas, Mark Morgan; by the Lowndes High School canning plant. cheon, named for a former Moultrie mayor Florida, Mark Wilson; Georgia, Everett The agricultural education programs at who was a big supporter of the annual farm Williams; Kentucky, Mike Bach; Mississip- LHS, Lowndes Middle School, Hahira Mid- show, often come from multigenerational pi, Mike Sturdivant; North Carolina, Van dle School and Pine Grove Middle School farm families, that was not the case this Hemric; South Carolina; Kemp McLeod; and are among those that will utilize the six-seat year. Tennessee, Mike Robinson. vehicle. Monetary contributions came from Robert Mills Jr. grew up in a suburb, but During an interview prior to the lun- all of the chapters. two weeks into his first vocational agricul- cheon, Moultrie Mayor Bill McIntosh gave The vehicle will be used to attend FFA ture class in the eighth grade, the Callands, his thoughts on the annual farm show that competitions and leadership events, get Virginia, resident decided his true calling supplies, pull trailers and transporting live- was farming. stock, according to Boosters. “I came home from eighth grade and told James Corbett, LHS agricultural teacher, mom and dad I know what I’m going to do,” ‘I came home from eighth grade said he is excited to use the Silverado to JAMES CORbETT | SUbMITTED bY LOWNDES HIGH SCHOOL Mills said in a speech after being named Roger Meeks, FFA Boosters Alumni president, hands the new truck keys to Clay Parker, Lowndes High School FFA president. The truck will benefit Expo Farmer of the Year Robert Mills Jr., escort hogs for the hog show at the Lowndes the winner among 10 states’ finalists. “They the students with transportation of livestock and other things. and told mom and dad I know what County Civic Center. said what’s that. I said I’m going to be a The national FFA motto, “learning to tions,” he said. “They were having to utilize He urges more of the community to get been hard work for all of us and I just wish farmer.” I’m going to do. They said what’s do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to their own vehicles to pull cattle trailers out and assist more with the organization we could get more people in the community His declaration was met with incredulity. serve,” is on the tailgate. and go check on kids with livestock. It just so students and their parents can receive to get involved.” “My dad said we don’t have the money, that. I said I’m going to be a farmer.’ Meeks said he believes the gift will im- seemed like the right thing to do. I think increased support. Six-hundred students make up the local we don’t have the land, we don’t have the pact the FFA tremendously. they were very appreciative and the kids “It opens up a bunch of opportunities for chapters of FFA, while Georgia member- equipment,” Mills said. “Put yourself in one of the advisers posi- were beside themselves.” them,” he said. “It’s been a lot of fun. It’s ship consists of almost 42,000 students. He took care of the last of those three Robert Mills Jr. hurdles by purchasing his first piece of Expo Farmer of the Year farm equipment at 14, and he worked nine years on a commercial farm to gain experi- ence before striking out on his own, manag- ing poultry grow houses as a contractor for Perdue Farms Inc. Mills, 44, now operates on more than has been held in Moultrie since 1978. McIn- 2,200 acres in three counties, growing con- tosh has welcomed visitors at the luncheon • Property • Farm Liability ventional and organic flue-cured tobacco, on behalf of the City of Moultrie for 35 of dark-fired tobacco, winter wheat and bioen- the 40 years the show has been held here, • General Liability • Pollution ergy crops. The major enterprises for the and said he probably attended the other five farmer now in his 19th year doing the job with former mayor Withers. • Workers Compensation • Umbrellas of his dreams are beef cattle and pullet “They just keep growing and (there are) breeding. so many people every year,” he said. “I’ve • Farm Auto • Homeowners “This is probably the highlight of my seen tags from lots of states just driving out farming career, to be recognized by my here. These are agri-business people and • Equipment • Blanket Equipment peers as the Southeastern Farmer of the farmers.”
(229) 242-5377 www.tia-ins.com JAMES CORbETT | SUbMITTED bY LOWNDES HIGH SCHOOL 3964 OLD U.S. HIGHWAY 41 NORTH The Lowndes High School FFA chapter received a new 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Wednesday evening. The new truck will help students with livestock and supplies. 27857-1 VALDOSTA, GEORGIA 31602 Page 14 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 15 Cotton on the roadside, cotton in the ditch Cairo community garden By DWAIN WAlDeN cause it brings back Freshly turned earth, as farmers get tlesnake Roundup we have at Whigham [email protected] fond memories. I like ready to plant winter grazing on recently each January. After a few hours among the to smell fresh dug harvested fields, is another particle of aro- serpents, they decided to drive around the Almost every harvest season we hear a peanuts. For me that ma therapy in my world. countryside. off to growing start few complaints about cotton strewn along experience is a form As a teenager I would almost be hyp- There were a lot of hawks sailing the roadsides. And we hear rebuttals that of aroma therapy. notized watching that track furrow as I around that day, and they asked if they By JOrDAN BArelA Jimmy Willis and Howard Lee aid Gar- basically advise people not to get their And I don’t have to turned land with a one-row SuperA Far- could watch me burn. I had done this all [email protected] land with the garden. shorts in a bundle, that cotton is biode- pay for it. mall tractor. my life and had never perceived it to be The community garden is offered to gradable and the problem that some people I often drive Killdees circling around me looking for entertainment. They really didn’t need my CAIRO — Willie Joe Garland is known as residents and communities overseen by the perceive will take care of itself in short around the county worms and bugs in the fresh aromatic sod permission, but I gave it anyway. the “master gardner” of the Cairo Housing Housing Authority of the City of Cairo, order. during harvesting would break that trance. When a hawk dropped down and cap- Authority’s community garden. according to Dr. John Marria, executive Recently, in our Rants and Raves col- time and take this all For those who don’t know, killdees are tured a fleeing mouse, they applauded. It Garland, a housing authority resident, director. umn, someone noted that he thought this in. I can still imagine birds that some novice hunters often mis- was old hat to me, but to them it was an ad- plants cabbage, collard, turnip, and mustard “This is the first one that we’ve done,” scattered cotton was a beautiful sight the grit in my teeth take for doves. They make a distinct tweek venture. Had I been a rascal, I likely could greens in the garden. During the summer Marria said. because it reminded him of his childhood one would know if Dwain Walden as they fly, often in small groups. have charged them admission. months, Garland plans to plant butterbeans, The garden is one of the ways the Cairo and that he was a proud Southerner. he had ever sacked This is also nearing the time of year After an hour or so, they left for the peas, and okra, crops he said he likes to Housing Authority is aiming to engage its When I read this comment, I was taken peanuts on one of those old combines. It when we burn off woods and pastures big city, leaving me there in the beauty of plant, in the 70 feet by 70 feet garden. residents. back to a song recorded by the group “Ala- gave new meaning to the expression, “boy which brings out the redtail hawks. They that nature, and maybe feeling just a little “I do all of that,” he said. According to Marria, any resident in bama” which contained the lyrics “Cotton you got grit.” dive bomb field mice as they flee the guilty that not everyone could experience Garland’s daily tending to the garden public housing in the City of Cairo can par- on the roadside, cotton in the ditch. We all And the smell of cotton defoliant re- flames. What a sight! such peace and closeness to the earth, a stems from farming “always a habit,” he ticipate in the community garden. picked cotton but we never got rich.” minds me that dove season is coming in. I was reminded of how special these heritage I will never take for granted. said. The community garden is located behind I side with that person who thinks those I recall many days of shooting doves events were on that day when a couple of But let me clarify one thing. I never “I just picked it up off the farm,” he the Housing Authority of the City of Cairo’s cotton bolls on the roadside are beautiful. over a peanut or corn field. fellows from Atlanta stopped by my farm picked cotton. I did get a Q-Tip hung in my added. main office. And yes, this fiber biodegrades and goes In my mind these are Norman Rockwell where I was burning off a Bermuda grass ear once. back into the good earth. moments … mental paintings of a father pasture. I especially like this time of year be- and son enjoying rural life. They were city boys down for the Rat- email: [email protected] JORDAN bARELA/TIMES-ENTERPRISE The Housing Authority of the City of Cairo’s community garden is the first for Cairo public housing resident.
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JORDAN bARELA/TIMES-ENTERPRISE Willie Joe Garland, left, Jimmy Willis, center, and Howard Lee, right, tend to the Housing CONSIGNMENTS WELCOME Authority of the City of Cairo’s community garden. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss a creative solution for your needs.
PEANUTS COTTON GRAIN Terry DeMoTT, Sr & John DeMoTT, AucTioneerS “Supporting Our Farmers and the Future Agricultural Leaders of America.” GA#AUC002439 - AU002554 - AU3866 QUITMAN 229-263-8936 • BERLIN 229-324-2350 Let’s talk Auction PAVO 229-859-2616 • ADEL 229-896-7386 229-985-4565 or 800-985-5699 27333-1 ADEL 229-896-7607 28676-1 www.demottauction.com 28200-1 Page 16 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 17 EXPO: Farmers express concerns in Farm Bill listening session By AlAN MAUlDIN relating to programs that help pecan grow- [email protected] ers recover after a weather event that dam- ages trees and crop insurance. MOULTRIE, Ga. — Three U.S. con- “My insurance program last year would gressmen who held a listening session on have been $990,000,” said Barrow, who Tuesday at Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition declined to participate. “The payment in heard that among farmers major concerns return, we would have received a $758,000 are labor, commodity prices, issues with payment for (Tropical Storm) Irma.” crop insurance and wild hogs. Cotton growers are struggling from the Republican Austin Scott of Tifton, whose impacts of Irma, whose winds knocked ma- 8th District includes Colquitt County, was ture cotton off the stalks and caused stalks joined by Rick Allen, R-Augusta, and Al to blow over and intertwine, said Richie Lawson, D-Fla., in a forum moderated by Seaton, executive director of the Georgia Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary Cotton Commission. Black. The three were in Moultrie to hear Another problem is low prices for cotton from farmers before beginning work on a seed. Much of the time cotton growers can new five-year farm bill either late this year receive a rebate for the seed separated from or early in 2018, with a goal of completing the fiber at the gin that will cover the gin- the legislation by fall of that year. ning costs and perhaps put a little money in “The problem of finding qualified labor their pocket. is the top priority for me, and probably “Farmers have to give up the rebate and for every farmer,” said Jefferson County have to pay for ginning this year,” Seaton Jeb Barrow, who also is president of the said. “Many of the farmers here are just Georgia Pecan Growers Association. “This beginning to realize the extent of damage is not about lowering labor costs. This is done by Irma.” about someone showing up every day, sober, Growers also need a continued crop in- and you can (trust) putting him on a $50,000 surance program, he said. (piece of equipment).” Ronnie Lee, a cotton grower and presi- If Congress could make improvements in dent of the National Cotton Council, said the H2A program which allows farmers that crop insurance should be more promi- to temporarily bring in foreign laborers nent in the next farm bill. when local ones are not available it would Cotton growers have had a rough five be a big help, particularly to smaller-sized years, he said, and “the last three years total pecan operations, Barrow said. costs significantly exceeded total returns” Ronnie Lee, a cotton grower who also is president of the National Cotton Council, speaks during Barrow also brought up the regulations to farmers. Our Roots are in Agriculture a Tuesday afternoon forum with three members of Congress.
Farm Bureau Foundation offering $58,000 in scholarships Providing solutions to help you grow and succeed. MOULTRIE, Ga. – The Georgia Farm er sciences or a related agricultural field. Medicine program specializing in large ani- sity the recipient is attending and placed in Bureau (GFB) Foundation for Agriculture is The GFB Foundation will award five scholar- mal/food animal practice. The GFB Founda- their school account upon verification the offering $58,000 in scholarships to Georgia ships of $3,000 each and seven scholarships tion will award three scholarships of $2,500 student has met all qualifications for the Flexible Repayment Terms | Competitive Interest Rates | In-house Underwriting students pursuing a degree in agriculture, of $1,500 each. each. -MORE- scholarship. The GFB Foundation Scholar- veterinary medicine, family and consumer Technical College Scholarship for Agri- PAGE 2 OF 2 ships for Agriculture awarded to graduating Local Decision Making | FSA Preferred Lender sciences or a related field, Stanley Bass, culture – This scholarship is for high school “I encourage any student who qualifes high school seniors will be distributed upon Colquitt County Farm Bureau president, re- students who plan to enroll in a Georgia for one of the Georgia Farm Bureau schol- receipt of first semester transcript indicat- cently announced. accredited technical college who will be arships to apply,” said Bass. “Agriculture ing the recipient is pursuing an ag-related Since 1959, GFB has awarded scholarships majoring in an area of agriculture or agri- offers many exciting career opportunities. course of study and has at least a 3.0 GPA. to students entering college with plans to culturally related field of study. The GFB Both farmers and consumers depend on the Georgia Farm Bureau is the state’s pursue a career in agriculture or family and Foundation will award five scholarships of many jobs agriculture creates from Coopera- largest general farm organization. Its volun- consumer sciences. In 2016, the GFB Foun- $1,000 each. Rising College Junior/Senior tive Extension agents to food quality control teer members actively participate in local, dation expanded the scholarship program to Scholarship for Agriculture – This scholar- managers who inspect our food to make sure district and state activities that promote offer scholarships to rising college juniors ship is for college students who have at least it’s safe.” agriculture awareness to their non-farming and seniors, technical college students and two semesters of college work remaining to The deadline to apply for all of the schol- neighbors. veterinary college students. In 2018 the GFB receive an undergraduate degree from a unit arships is March 2, 2018. Visit http://bit. The GFB Foundation for Agriculture is a Foundation for Agriculture will award schol- of The University System of Georgia, Berry ly/18GFBAgFoundationscholarapps for a list non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation. Donations arships in the following four categories. College, Emmanuel College or any accred- of eligible majors/schools, application in- are tax-exempt. GFB is using the foundation Scholarship for Agriculture – This schol- ited college/university in Georgia with an structions and to apply. All applications must to finance activities and educational mate- arship is for high school students who plan ag program. Applicants must be majoring be submitted online by March 2. Transcripts rials designed to increase the agricultural to enter a college that is part of the Univer- in agriculture and environmental sciences, and letters of recommendation may be sub- literacy of Georgia residents. sity System of Georgia, Berry College, Em- family and consumer sciences or a related mitted online with the application or mailed. Donations may be made on the founda- manuel College or any accredited college/ agriculture field. The GFB Foundation will Supporting materials that are mailed must tion website at http://www.gfbfoundation. amerisbank.com university in Georgia with an ag program award 10 scholarships of $2,000 each. be postmarked by March 2. org or checks made payable to the GFB Foun- during the 2018-19 academic year to pursue UGA College of Veterinary Medicine The scholarship recipients will be an- dation for Agriculture may be mailed to the an undergraduate degree in agricultural and Scholarship - This scholarship is for students nounced in spring 2018. Scholarship checks GFB Foundation care of Katie Gazda at P.O. All loans subject to credit approval. environmental sciences, family and consum- currently enrolled in the UGA Veterinary will be sent to the qualifying college/univer- Box 7068 Macon, Ga. 31209. 29026-1 Page 18 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 19
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29123 12000 HWY 84 229-263-756129122 995327 Page 20 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 21 Georgia Peanut Commission dedicates education center By eVe GUeVArA [email protected]
TIFTON — The Georgia Peanut Commis- sion dedicated an education center, located at 445 Fulwood Blvd, in September. The center has been an ongoing project for approximately two years, according to Don Koehler, executive director of the Geor- gia Peanut Commission. The building has been in use by the GPC for five years. Tyron Spearman, who attended on be- half of the Tifton-Tift County Chamber of Commerce and the Tifton Tourism Associa- tion, said that the exhibit has a great story to tell. “The peanut story is fascinating,” Spear- EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE man said. “The story is here and I’m glad to One of the interactive displays visitors can use. see this exhibit being added. It’ll be another great exhibit for Tifton to host.” The peanut industry is a $2.5 billion in- dustry in Georgia, according to Spearman. Koehler said that the education center was created with both school children and adults in mind. “So few of our people are involved with agriculture,” he said. “It helps us to tell the story about where food comes from. We’d all be really hungry if it wasn’t for farmers.” The new education center features in- teractive touchscreen monitors with pea- nut-specific activities and games, self-guid- EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE ed exhibits related to the peanut business, Visitors can see how peanuts grow in this exhibit. global implications, how peanuts grow and are harvested, as well as an eight minute plant growing and features the Georgia and feature peanut industry agribusinesses. The mural shows the entire process from video of peanut production from land prep Peanut Hall of Fame portraits. The center’s Whitley said that she wanted to make planting through processing. EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE to harvest viewable in 3-D format. newest addition includes hand-painted mu- sure she showed the entire cycle of the There are cabinets with peanut related paraphernalia on display. Two of the Georgia Peanut Queens attended the dedication. Additionally, a live peanut plant exhibit rals by local artist, Jill Whitley. The murals peanut growing process in the large mural More photos on page 21 is set up to allow visitors to see a peanut depict peanut production in South Georgia painted above the entrance.
EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE One of the murals painted by Whitley. There are cabinets with peanut related paraphernalia on display. Page 22 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 23 Crown rot disease on the rise in 2017 peanut crops
By ClINT THOMPSON University of Georgia, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
An overview of the 2017 Georgia peanut crop showed aspergillus crown rot disease on the rise and University of Georgia researchers are working to pinpoint why. At present, university scientists rec- ommend that farmers encountering this problem in their fields stop saving seed from year to year in an effort to reduce the disease while better control methods are found. The first line of defense has been fungicide application either in furrow or directly to the seed. UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences plant pathologist Tim Brenneman is using applied research to determine why peanut farmers aren’t achieving control through fungicide appli- cations. Incidences of crown rot disease have increased over the past few years and if UGA researchers can’t determine why treatments are not working as consistently as they used to, the problem will only worsen, Brenneman said. “I could have shown you plots, not too many years ago, where we SECTION 179 TAX INCENTIVE used only an in-furrow Abound fungicide application. Those plots looked as good as if we were treating the seed with our best, complete * mix of multiple fungicides. This year, though, that treatment alone COULD SAVE YOUR BUSINESS UP TO $500,000! led to nearly a complete wipeout. We’ve got to figure out what’s going on here,” Brenneman said. While Georgia’s peanut farmers are harvesting their crop right now, the time will come next spring when producers again put pea- nuts in the ground. That’s when crown rot, a disease that affects pea- nut plants early in the growing season, can strike. Peanut plants are most susceptible to crown rot between 30 and 50 days after planting. Growers traditionally rely on fungicide treatment applied to com- mercial peanut seed to combat the disease. For extra protection, they use in-furrow fungicides. The seed-applied and in-furrow treatments are still beneficial, but growers sometimes see more erratic control from chemical applica- tions, Brenneman said. He is studying why this haphazard control seems to be the case. “Why (do chemical applications) work in some cases and not in others? Do we need to use different seed treatment technology or chemistry mixes in the seed treatments (on commercial seed)?” Brenneman said. “The pathogen is in the soil. On some level, it’s in every field in the state. Some fields have been historically worse than others.” In an effort to reduce expenses, some farmers save seed from one year to the next. This exacerbates the problem of crown rot, especial- Purchase new Kubota tractors, hay tools, utility vehicles, zero-turn mowers and skid steer equipment ly if that seed was lower quality or had higher infection levels of the disease. However, even higher germinating seed can sometimes have for service in 2017 and you may be able to deduct up to $500,000 with the Section 179 Tax Incentive!* high levels of undetected crown rot. “I think that the problem gets worse if you have an issue with a particular lot of seed. Then every seed coming out of the field can potentially have it. With commercial seed, it’s blended from different sources, and you’re a lot less likely to get a real severe disease issue,” Perrin Farm Equipment Brenneman said. The pathogen can be housed in the seed itself and grow into the 703 5th St. E hypocotyl, the portion of the plant found just below the soil line. The fungus can quickly destroy this tissue. Tifton, Ga 31794 “When this happens, it’s over. The plant dies very quickly,” Brenneman said. “We need to understand more about whole-seed 229-382-9821 quality aspects and how the fungus can infect and be in the seed any time from the previous growing season through storage.” *See Section 179 of IRS tax code for details. Applies to KubotaUSA.com Brenneman said that anything that impairs seed quality is going qualifying Kubota equipment purchased and put into service to stress the plant and increase the likelihood that a disease like in 2017. Information shown should not be construed as tax crown rot will be able to attack and kill it. He stresses the need to advice or promise of potential savings. See your tax advisor © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2017 take care of the seed before it’s put in the ground. Up close look at crown rot in peanuts. for more information regarding your specific situation. “If you don’t get a stand, you’re not going to have a peanut crop,” Optional equipment may be shown. Brenneman said. 27697-1
for more information regarding your specific situation. Page 24 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 25 USDA suspends offers for enrollment in Conservation Reserve Program
FARM TALK— The U.S. Department of Peterson said, however, that USDA Agriculture recently announced that it will will continue to accept eligible offers process many pending eligible offers for land for state-specific Conservation Reserve enrollment in the Conservation Reserve Pro- Enhancement Program (CREP) and CRP ‘All current, eligible CRP continuous enrollment offers made through Sept. 30, gram (CRP), and it will temporarily suspend Grasslands enrollment. Offers received accepting most new offers until later in the after Oct. 1 are subject to fiscal year 2018 2017 — except for those made under the Pollinator Habitat Initiative (CP42) — 2018 fiscal year. rental rates, which have been adjusted to “All current, eligible CRP continuous reflect current market conditions and were will be approved,” Steven J. Peterson, Acting Farm Service Agency administrator, enrollment offers made through Sept. 30, established after review of the latest USDA 2017 — except for those made under the National Agricultural Statistics Service said in a news release. “Additionally, we are temporarily suspending acceptance Pollinator Habitat Initiative (CP42) — will cash rent data. be approved,” Steven J. Peterson, Acting In return for enrolling in CRP, USDA, of most offers going forward to provide time to review CRP allocation levels, and Farm Service Agency administrator, said in through FSA, provides participants with a news release. “Additionally, we are tempo- rental payments and cost-share assistance. to avoid exceeding the statutory cap of 24 million acres..’ rarily suspending acceptance of most offers Landowners enter into contracts that last going forward to provide time to review CRP between 10 and 15 years. CRP pays farmers Steven J. Peterson allocation levels, and to avoid exceeding the and ranchers who remove sensitive lands statutory cap of 24 million acres.” from production and plant certain grasses, Acting Farm Service Agency Administrator The CRP acreage cap is a provision of shrubs and trees that improve water qual- the 2014 Farm Bill. Current enrollment is ity, prevent soil erosion and increase wild- about 23.5 million acres nationwide. USDA is life habitat. Payment totals for 2017 were accepting all pending continuous enrollment more than $1.6 billion. offers that were made beginning May 4 and Signed into law by President Reagan in extending through Sept. 30, except Pollinator 1985, CRP is one of the largest private-lands Habitat Initiative offers. Pollinator acreage conservation program in the United States. offers are being declined because the pro- Thanks to voluntary participation by farm- gram has met its acreage enrollment goal. ers and landowners, CRP has improved Effective immediately, USDA is suspend- water quality, reduced soil erosion and ing acceptance of all new CRP continuous increased habitat for endangered and threat- offers received or submitted after Sept. 30. ened species.
Tifton Chamber Give Us A Call! of Commerce 229-396-4686 Member Tifton, GA ACT NOW TO IRRIGATE NEXT YEAR
Colquitt County Farm Bureau received four awards at the Georgia Farm Bureau 9th District meeting. From left are: CCFB President Stanley Bass, who accepted the 9th District Outstanding There has never been a better time to discuss Promotion & Education Award and the 9th District Outstanding Young Farmer Committee Award on behalf of those committees; Tabitha Baldy and son Henry, recipients of the 9th District Young the advantages and benefits of a Reinke Farmer Achievement Award along with Elton Baldy (not pictured); and CCFB Women’s Leadership Committee Chairwoman Greta Collins, who accepted the Outstanding Women’s Leadership system with your local Reinke dealer. And, Committee Award. (photo courtesy of Georgia Farm Bureau) if you act now, you will lock in some of the best pricing of the year. So call today to put the advantages of Reinke mechanized irrigation to work for you and your Colquitt County Farm Bureau receives district awards operation next year. MACON, Ga. – Colquitt County Farm The CCFB Women’s Leadership Com- gust. Approximately 300 visitors from nine produce directly to Bureau was recognized for its outstanding mittee, chaired by Greta Collins, received other states and China were given peanuts, the public from a space at the Moultrie member programs during the Georgia the GFB 9th District Outstanding Women’s shown the stages of cotton growth and re- state farmers market. He is also a licensed Carpet Wood Tile Laminate Vinyl Farm Bureau 9th District annual meeting Leadership Committee Award. ceived take-home items. auctioneer. held Sept. 21 in Camilla. Stanley Bass is the The committee’s activities included work CCFB members Elton and Tabitha Baldy Founded in 1937, Georgia Farm Bureau CCFB president. on the annual Fourth Grade Agriculture received the 9th District Young Farmer is the state’s largest general farm organiza- The CCFB Young Farmer Committee, Awareness event, which exposed 753 stu- Achievement Award, which recognizes tion and has 158 county offices. chaired by Preston Jimmerson, received the dents to aspects of Colquitt County agricul- young farmers who earn the majority of Its volunteer members actively partic- 2017 9th District Outstanding Young Farmer ture. their income from production agriculture. ipate in local, state and national activities Program Award. The CCFB Promotion & Education Com- The Baldys were finalists for the state that promote agriculture awareness to their The Young Farmer Committee consists mittee, chaired by Nancy Coleman, received award. Elton grows peanuts and cotton non-farming neighbors. GFB offers its mem- TCA Irrigation, LLC. www.tcatifton.com of farmers between ages 18 and 35. One of the GFB 9th District Outstanding Promo- along with a variety of vegetable crops on bers a wide variety of benefits, including Tifton, Georgia www.reinke.com the committee’s key activities in the past tion & Education Award. 2000 acres. insurance, but enrollment in member ben- 229-387-7097 year was sponsoring a luncheon for gradu- The committee’s activities included an He also has a retail store at the state efits is optional and not a requirement for 29256-1 ating FFA and 4-H students. exhibit at the National Diving Meet in Au- farmers market in Moultrie, where he sells membership. 27496-1001 Page 26 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 27 RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com RobertHutson.com
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ANCIENT
science, Gregory says while he concentrates on the chunk of flint in his hand. Ancient art kept alive in South Georgia “There’s a lot of science, but a lot of it is feel.” He knows, just from the sound the antler tool makes on the By eVe GUeVArA rock and how it feels in his hand, if a strike is a good one or not. Office: 229-226-0431 [email protected] He listens for a high, sharp snap, which indicates a perfect Helping You Is What blow to remove exactly what he wants. We Do Best. There are many dying arts in the digital He follows this with pressure flaking, which is more precise, age, skills that once were ubiquitous, but to refine and shape and sharpen the edges. He also uses this are now only known by a few adherents technique to create the notches at the base of the point, which who devote time and energy into preserving is where it would be attached to a handle or shaft, depending on Call today for a Quote on old ways. whether the end product is a knife or spear. One adherent is Brent Gregory. “It’s rough on your joints, on your hands, shoulders and el- all your insurance needs. Gregory works for the Tifton Fire De- bows, because there is a lot of force involved when you’re press- partment, but devotes his spare time to an ing flakes off a rock. So I’ll probably have arthritis at an early EDDIE SIMMONS, LUTCF, FSS ancient tool making technique called flint- age, but maybe not.” knapping. Gregory been doing it for about 12 years now. AGENCY MANAGER “It’s therapeutic, in a sense,” he said. “You get out there and Flintknapping, according to Gregory, is KELLI GRINER, LUTCF using force to shape stone into useful tools, it’s just you and the rock. It’s almost like golf, you know, it’s you like knives, arrow heads and other projec- and the course, but with flintknapping it’s you and the rock.” tile points. Gregory has also developed other skills, such as pottery mak- GEORGIA FARM BUREAU Gregory has been interested in Native ing, cordage, fire by friction, shelter making, arrow making and INSURANCE SERVICES American culture and primitive hunting bow making. and survival techniques since he was young “I always say that flintknapping is the gateway drug,” he said. SOUTHERN FARM BUREAU and hunting for arrowheads. “It’s the gateway to primitive skills in general because once you LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY As a boy playing cowboys and Indians, learn how to flintknap, it leads you to a vast array of skills.” Gregory “always wanted to be the Indian He has made several pots and bows using techniques he 2376 GEORGIA HIGHWAY 122 instead of the cowboy,” he said. learned from others and researched on his own. It was during his time in the Navy his “Once you master one, you want to try the rest.” THOMASVILLE, GEORGIA 31757 7594-1 interest in American Indians turned to cre- SUbMITTED ating. See more photos on Page 30 Gregory demonstrating pressure flaking. “When I was in the military I got a strong desire to start making some repro- ductions. I found a tape up in Williamsburg, Virginia called “The Art of Flintknapping” by D.C. Waldorf, and it went over the ba- Christmas Gift Baskets sics,” he said, referring to what has become a classic “how-to” guide for novice flint- & Gift Boxes Available For BISHOP WELL & PUMP knappers. “The first time I ever saw someone mak- Individuals and Corporate Orders! ing one, there was a guy named Ben Kirk- EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE land, who is over at Chehaw Park now, at a Some of the finished and hafted points Gregory has made. • Water Pumps Sales & Service powwow. Farm Market has Georgia Grown: “He was using all aboriginal tools, ant- they had to be much smaller in order to en- Modern flintknappers are not so limited, The first tool he uses is a hammerstone, lers and hammerstones, and I was hooked.” able the arrow to actually fly any distance. and will make reproductions of points from which is a palm-sized, rounded stone he • Jams • Pepper jellies • Dips • Cheeseballs • • Repairs on All Types of Pumps Gregory has made most of the tools he Archaeologists have given projectile all eras. uses to strike the rock he is shaping and BBQ Sauces • Oils • Chocolate Pecans • Peanuts • uses to make his points. points a classification system which helps Gregory typically makes his pottery in take off large flakes. He then switches to a “It’s not something you just pick up,” to identify the culture that made it. the summer, since there isn’t as much of a large piece of deer bone that is rounded on • Peanut Brittle • Much More • • Repairs & Service on said Gregory. “You can’t just read and know Point size, shape and material differed temperature difference when he takes the one end. how to do it, you’ve actually got to be hands depending on where and when it was made. pot out of the kiln. He holds the rock in his left hand and the Municipal & Irrigation Wells on. You have to actually fracture rock and Modern flintknappers have the advantage “When that cold wind hits it, it’ll just tool in his right and tries to make it as flat Southern T-shirts, hand-painted door hangers learn how and why rock fractures the way that they can choose to make any projectile crack,” he said. as he can without losing too much width. it does.” point type they like. He makes points year round. This is accomplished by first striking the and don’t forget our blanched and frozen Most of what he knows he learned first Point types typically didn’t vary much “First you have to find good stone, prefer- stone along what he calls platforms, flat hand. during a certain time period, which makes ably with a high silica content,” he said. parts that, when struck, cause thin, ra- 3102 Carpenter Rd. S. • Tifton “When I got out of the Navy, I met a guy using point styles as a dating technique to “Not just any stone will work. The Na- zor-sharp slivers to flake off. This technique butterbeans and peas! in Worth County. His name was Daniel determine how old a point or site is fairly tive Americans searched river beds down is called direct percussion flaking. 229-382-6117 Tompkins and he had been doing the same reliable. through these parts, down through Florida Sometimes he will sit inside his work- stuff I was interested in for about 10 years Paleolithic era points, like Suwannee and South Georgia, and they were looking shop while working, where there are boxes TUESDAY - SATURDAY 10 AM - 4 PM at that point. and Simpson style points, have a more basic for a specific type of rock that when you and baskets overflowing with rough stone “He really took me under his wing and shape, with a base that curves inward and flake it, it’s a controlled fracture so you can and other materials. 800-342-9345 showed me a lot about different rocks, how no notches, while Archaic era points have a determine the flake that goes across it.” Today he is sitting outside in the sun, the to do it and the technique behind it.” stem base, like a directional arrow. “Secondly, to make a projectile point, you only sounds the breeze, the birds and the Calhoun Produce Inc. What most people call arrowheads were The next era, Woodlands, gives the ste- have to have some tools. When I first started sharp snap of stone on stone. 5075 Hawpond Rd. Ashburn never actually used on arrows. The term reotypical arrowhead shape with the notch- off, I used all aboriginal tools, then I gradu- Flintknapping is more of an art than a Follow Us archaeologists and flintknappers use is pro- es at the base, like the example Gregory ated to modern tools like copper.” On Facebook, 229-273-1887 jectile points. made, and the latest culture, Mississippian, The tools he uses have been gathered See Ancient on Page 29 Twitter & Stone arrowheads were used once bow typically made tiny triangular points to go over years and are handmade from antler, Instagram! www.calhounproduce.com and arrow technology was introduced, but on the ends of arrows. rock and bone. 29658-1 29671-1 Page 30 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 31
BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE.
EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE Deer bone is used for the initial percussive flaking.
EVE GUEVARA/THE TIFTON GAZETTE A pot that was decorated using a stamping technique commonly found on Native American pottery from the region.
SUbMITTED See more photos on Page 31 Gregory in his workshop.
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27330-1 Member National Home Builders Assoc. • EPA Certified 28348-1 29114-1 550 - 1st St NE • Moultrie • 985-5151 Page 32 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 33 Berber wins Fullington FFA hosts Trojan Throwdown
lamb show Garrett Griner won Reserve Grand Champion at the Fullington Academy FFA MACON, Ga. – Colquitt County FFA member Vic- Labor Day Trojan Throwdown toria Barber won the Grand Champion Market Lamb Sept. 3. Griner is a member Award at the 2017 State 4-H & FFA Market Lamb Show, of the Colquitt County FFA held Oct. 8 in Perry at the Georgia National Fair. The chapter. From left are his show was one of several livestock competitions held father, Keith Griner; showman during the 11-day fair. Garrett Griner; an unidentified The Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation for Agri- show judge; and veteran culture sponsored the $1,000 grand prize presented to FFA teacher Clay Walker. Barber. Griner will show his Reserve “The Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation for Agricul- Champion Barrow at the ture sponsors the grand champion prizes for the state Georgia National Fair Oct. 14 4-H and FFA livestock shows because the students who in Perry, Ga. participate in these events are going to be Georgia’s future ag leaders,” GFB President Gerald Long said. “Showing livestock teaches young people to be respon- sible and to get back up when things don’t go the way they wanted them to in the show ring.” Barber, the daughter of Cecil and Celina Barber of Colquitt County FFA member Victoria Barber, right, won the Grand Champion Market Lamb Award with her Suffolk/Hampshire Moultrie, is a junior at Colquitt County High School. cross during the 2017 State 4-H & FFA Market Lamb Show held Oct. 8 in Perry at the Georgia National Fair. From left, Georgia Farm She has been showing lambs for seven years. Bureau Foundation for Agriculture Executive Director Katie Gazda presented the prize check and show judge Dr. Billy Zanolini presented the grand championship banner.
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Contact: John Mark Mobley or Matt Mobley LOCATED AT 31ST AVE SE, 1/2 MILE EAST OF VETERANS PARKWAY (Less Than A Mile From The Hospital) 28866-1 115 Chetnutt Ave. • Tifton, GA • (229) 382-4353 • (800) 852-7107 27621-1 Page 34 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 35 Migrant farm workers arrested
By AlAN MAUlDIN [email protected]
MOULTRIE, Ga. — A recent visit from immigration officers targeted only a few people in Colquitt County, but still caused some consternation among migrant work- ers and the farmers who employ them. A number of people in the low double digits, perhaps 10 or 12 or so, reportedly were picked up in the county, Colquitt Coun- ty Sheriff Rod Howell said. Four farmers contacted him to report having workers picked up by officers with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforce- ment, which is known by its acronym of ICE, Howell said.
“I talked to one farmer who said they had picked up several,” he said. “They were en route to work. They got them (riding) in a van.” Howell declined to give the names of the
See Migrants on Page 36 Migrants are crucial to harvesting and processing South Georgia produce. In this photo in Moultrie, migrants wash recently harvested squash.
Let us help you cover all you’ve
From left, Kaitlyn Hart, Logan Moore and Mary Logan Tostenson make up the Marketing Plan team for the Colquitt County FFA. They recently competed at the national level this week at the FFA worked so hard to build. national convention in Indianapolis, Ind. Harrell Named National Winner at FFA Convention STAFF rePOrTS Science. Tyler Robinson competed in the Job In- INDIANAPOLIS — The Colquitt Coun- terview CDE, earning a bronze title. ty FFA Chapter attended the 90th annual The Marketing Plan CDE team, which National FFA Convention and Expo held in consists of Kaitlyn Hart, Logan Moore, and Indianapolis, Indiana, Oct. 23-28. Mary Logan Tostenson, was awarded silver. Fourteen students who placed first in a Colquitt County also had two former stu- 229-985-0048 • 125 1st Ave SE • Moultrie local contest sponsored by local businesses, dents who attended and received their Amer- www.insuranceservicesofthesouth.com who placed first in a CDE competition, or ican Degree, Kylie Wilkes and Haley Gibson. won their proficiency had the opportunity to The American Degree is the highest form of be a part of this year’s convention. Colquitt degree that one can receive in the FFA. County had six individuals who competed The nine other students who attended while at National Convention. the convention won sponsored local contests Garrett Harrell took home a national title offered to all FFA members. These students in his proficiency category of Agricultural were Jordan Barfield, Kirk Beacham, Mack- Processing. enzie Blair, Charlie Collins, Garrett Griner, 27324- Libba Johnson was named a national Montana Hall, Patti Mitchell, Vaidehi Patel, Garrett Harrell finalist in her proficiency area of Veterinary and Blake Richter. LIFE • HOME • CAR • BUSINESS Page 36 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 37 Expo honors Want an office with a view? heritage with parade
Migrant workers are integral to Colquitt County agricultural fruit and vegetable growers. The income paid to Georgia vegetable growers was some $1.1 billion in 2015, the last year for which figures are available. MIGRANTS START HERE farmers who contacted him. house to hold up additional people. over the previous two decades or so and These figures are for income paid to The federal action was not a blanket “They’re concerned they’re going to be makes it more likely that migrant workers farmers for sales only, and do not include sweep, but targeted certain individuals. picked up if they call to report crimes,” will report when they are victims than per- other payments such as crop insurance or “That’s the thing supposedly they’re do- Howell said. “That’s why I speak to as many haps had been the case in the past. any others. ing, is going after those with police records,” Hispanic people as I can to tell them our job Colquitt County residents who were de- Colquitt County was number one in cab- Land, Forest, Wildlife Management Howell said. is not to enforce immigration (laws), and tained by ICE were not randomly picked up. bage, growing 69 percent of the crop grown Among those detained by the agency if they’re victims of a crime they need to “They have a list,” Johnson said. “They in Georgia with income of $34.35 million. It @ SRTC is offered at both the were those with misdemeanor records for report it, and we’re going to do our best to have people here they’re looking for. I can also was number in zucchini, which brought such things as driving under the influence solve their crimes.” understand how some (in the community) in $$6.6 million, and $2.1 million for South- and multiple no-license arrests. The presence of ICE agents did cause feel. We just need to educate people. It’s not ern peas. Thomasville & Tifton Locations. The enforcement action began about two some fear in the Latino community, said anything that (local officials) control. The county was number two in greens weeks ago and appears to have winded down. Joleen Johnson, a Latina resident of Moul- “It’s sad, but I also know people have with 22 percent of the crop harvested While it was under way, many in the coun- trie who operates a tax service business. rules they have to go by. Things have gotten that year behind Tift County’s 32 percent. ty’s large Latino community were spooked. Some were so panicked they hid out, even so much better. For the Hispanic community, Colquitt County had sales of greens totaling Don’t Wait, Enroll Today! Howell does not want migrants to be though the agents were not here to grab Moultrie is a wonderful place to live.” $9.43 million. afraid to call law enforcement because they random people off the streets or farms Migrant workers are integral to Colquitt The county also was number two for are afraid of being held for immigration Johnson said. County agricultural fruit and vegetable squash, at $9 million, eggplant, good for officials. Johnson said she was “aggravated” that growers. The income paid to Georgia vegeta- $7.12 million, and $14.46 million in sales of For much of the year Latinos have been “some people are telling people not to go to ble growers was some $1.1 billion in 2015, the bell peppers. Colquitt and Tift counties ac- targeted by armed robbers some nine times, work, don’t send your children to school. The last year for which figures are available. counted for two-thirds of cantaloupe, with with two of the victims receiving minor gun- scare is what has this community in an up- Colquitt County was the state’s number Colquitt County’s share at 27 percent of the ALAN MAULDIN shot wounds. Gunshots were fired in four of roar. It just creates so much chaos.” one agricultural county overall in 2015, with crop and accounting for income totaling It has become a tradition of the Sunbelt Expo to honor the heritage of South Georgia farming by the nine assaults on Latino males. In all of Residents in Colquitt County, documented total income of $473.23 million. Excepting $5.22 million. parading old farm equipment among the Expo exhibits. In this photo, old Farmall and John Deer the incidents the robbers targeted men who or not, have faith in law enforcement here broiler-ingegrator income, the county still Colquitt County was third in cucumber tractors lead the procession. www.southernregional.edu • 229-225-4096 were outside their residences, and in some that they will report when they are victims came out on top with farm income of $347.48 production behind Brooks and Echols coun- A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia/Equal Opportunity Institution of the cases one or more also went inside the of crime, Johnson said. This trust has grown million. ties for income of $12.26 million. 28314-1 Page 38 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 39 Onion farmer ordered to pay$1.4 million in overtime suit
SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) — One of the Be careful with that Gator largest producers of Georgia’s famous Vidalia onions must pay $1.4 million in By DAN TIllMAN, CIC, AFIS comes under dif- or “insured location”. These two terms are “off premises”. If only to ride from one damages and unpaid overtime owed to Tillman Insurance Agency, Inc. ferent definition throughout the policy documents and a key section of the farm to another. Thus the hundreds of workers, a federal judge in an insurance component of the farmowner’s policy. endorsement extending coverage should be ruled. Have you ever noticed that people like to policy. Your tractor The base farm liability coverage form ad- purchased. The premium for this endorse- A U.S. District Court judge found that borrow and use your equipment not to men- goes under the defi- dresses each type of equipment differently. ment will vary company to company and Bland Farms Production and Packing tion your labor? My father-in-law’s hunting nition of “Mobile Yes, the farm liability is there to cover your the engine size of the RMV is a contributing LLC failed to pay overtime to 460 workers club has an annual work weekend near the Equipment” and negligent acts, but it is also full of exclu- factor. I recently added the coverage to a during spring harvest seasons from 2012 end of every summer. Every year my labor the Gator goes un- sions. If you take your tractor off premises policy for $85.00 annually. through this year. The U.S. Department and equipment gets recruited. Every year I der the definition the liability coverage extends, but the same Farm insurance is a complex legal con- of Labor filed suit against the company, load up the trailer and make the 40 mile pil- of “Recreational is not true for your RMV. Off premises tract between you and the insurance compa- owned by farmer Delbert Bland of Glenn- grimage to partake in this family tradition Motor Vehicles” liability coverage for RMVs is specifically ny. My suggestion is to be an integral part ville, in 2014. with many others. (RMV). An RMV excluded. Take your Gator to the hunting of your insurance program and know ex- “This decision recovers back wages Don’t get me wrong. We do have fun on encompasses John club…no liability coverage. Take the golf actly what is covered and what breaches are for hundreds of workers in an industry this weekend and I enjoy the comradery, Deere Gators, Po- cart to the neighbors for dinner…no liabili- present. It is always better to ask a question where these violations are all too com- but have you ever stepped back and said laris Rangers, etc. ty coverage. or concern before the claim happens. The mon,” Wayne Kotowski, Southeast admin- “how does this affect my farm and my in- and endless models Dan Tillman Fortunately there is a fix, but the cover- farm is the family asset so don’t risk ev- istrator for the Labor Department’s Wage surance?” of golf carts to name age has to be purchased. Endorsements are erything without consulting a professional and Hour Division, said in a news release The two pieces that I take to the hunting a few. Basically an unlicensed all-terrain the insurance industry’s way to buy back farm agent. Thursday. club are the tractor and the Gator. Both vehicle is a RMV. coverage that was lost in an exclusion. The So next time someone calls you and says A farmer for more than three decades, items are common work tools used on the Let’s look at the liability exposure that “Recreational Vehicle Liability Coverage “Hey! Don’t you own a Bush Hog?” or in my Bland grows onions on more than 2,000 farm and both are typically scheduled on is present when moving equipment off of Endorsement” will add back off premise case recruitment by family. Step back and acres (810 hectares) in rural southeast the equipment list. This is where the com- your farm or “premises”. In the insurance liability coverage for RMVs. I feel that the think for a minute what liability you are Georgia. Vidalia onions, touted by some monality ends and each piece of equipment industry we refer to the farm as “premises” reality is sooner or later all RMVs will be incurring. as being so sweet they can be eaten raw like apples, ship worldwide but are limit- ed by state law to being grown in just 20 Georgia counties. Last year’s crop was valued at $120 mil- lion, according to the Georgia Department of Agriculture. 64 Labor Department attorneys said Bland Farms ran afoul of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, which exempts American farmers from paying overtime to workers for growing, harvesting and packaging the farmer’s own crops. The lawsuit accused Bland Farms of wrongly claiming that overtime exemp- tion when it paid workers for packing onions Bland bought from other farmers. Most of the onions Bland markets are grown on his own land, his attorneys said. But Bland Farms also had contracts with smaller local farmers to buy their entire onion crops. Defense attorneys said Bland broke no labor rules because he was more than just a buyer. In court filings, they argued Bland Farms employees helped grow and harvest onions produced by the farmers it Managers: had agreements to buy from — therefore making Bland a farmer of those onions. Charlie Brown “Bland Farms respects but disagrees Carlton Perry with the district court’s decision against Sales: it,” said Bradley Strawn, Bland’s lead at- Florida Office Georgia Office Cole Brogdon torney in the case. 1974 Commonwealth Lane 206 Plantation Oak Drive Strawn said Bland plans to appeal the Guest worker Vegelio Sausera pulls Vidalia onions while harvesting a field in Lyons, Ga. Tallahassee, FL 32303 Thomasville, GA 31792 Mike Tillman judge’s ruling, which was filed Oct. 2. (850) 224-7900 (229) 226-4826 Jason Ford 28316-1 28363-1 Page 40 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 41 GUNS & 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 GEAR 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. 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H1N1 flu virus can affect young pigs Give us a call Pork Producers Council: U.S. or stop by to must make commitment to ag research discuss your FARM TALK — The National Pork and Respiratory Syndrome and the mittee that the federal commitment to Producers Council in testimony deliv- H1N1 influenza virus. But, she added, agricultural research seems to have ered a few days ago urged Congress U.S. agriculture remains vulnerable to waned recently, pointing out that from ‘“The U.S. pork industry strongly sup- to renew its commitment to funding emerging and foreign animal diseases. 1970 to 2008 50 percent of the U.S. 2017 cotton agricultural research to help Amer- A disease the pork industry and Department of Agriculture’s budget ports and urges a significant increase ica’s farmers feed a growing world other livestock sectors are particularly went to research but by 2013 it was population, improve public health and concerned about, Wagstrom testified, less than 30 percent. in funding for federal … agricultural strengthen U.S. national security by is Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). The One factor for that decline, she ensuring America’s food security. United States doesn’t have enough said, is the increased costs of oper- research and grants to help America’s crop needs. NPPC chief veterinarian Dr. Liz vaccine to address an FMD outbreak, ating federal research facilities. She Wagstrom told the House Committee which, if unchecked, would cost the asked Congress to ensure adequate farmers and ranchers continue feed- on Science, Space and Technology pork, beef, corn and soybean sectors, funds for operating agricultural re- Subcommittee on Research and Tech- alone, $200 billion over 10 years. search facilities “over and above” ing the world with safe, wholesome Tom Sumner nology that the United States is the NPPC is urging Congress to estab- research dollars. “lowest-cost and most technologically lish and fund through the next Farm “The U.S. pork industry strong- and nutritious food.’ General Manager innovative producer of food in the Bill a manufacturer-managed FMD ly supports and urges a significant world … and has the safest food on the vaccine bank and is requesting funds increase in funding for federal … planet” because of the country’s his- for animal disease diagnostics and agricultural research and grants to Dr. Liz Wagstrom torical commitment to research. research that “can help address the help America’s farmers and ranchers NPPC Chief Veterinarian Ray Battle She pointed out that research alarming gap in the government’s pre- continue feeding the world with safe, helped the U.S. pork industry deal with paredness for an FMD outbreak.” wholesome and nutritious food,” Wag- Gin Superintendent diseases such as Porcine Reproductive Wagstrom also told the subcom- strom told the subcommittee. 28905-1 Page 42 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 43
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By AlAN MAUlDIN Propane [email protected]
MOULTRIE, Ga. — From turkey calls to Residential cattle stalls, exhibitors seem to think Sun- belt Agriculture Exposition is a worthwhile Agricultural investment of time and money. Evidence for that opinion are the many who have been coming back to Moultrie for decades. Commercial Among those is Priefert Ranch Equip- PROPANE & PETROLEUM ment, which has had a presence at the three- day farm show for at least 32 years. Having its products in use in the show’s cattle section where people can see them is a Providing All Your Energy Needs huge reason the company does well in Moul- trie, said Jason King, Priefert sales represen- Tankless Water Heaters Under One Roof tative Jason King. “People come and say they saw us on You- Tube and want to see it hands-on,” King said. Off-Road Diesel “I think that’s the key to selling our equip- ment. They can use it.” Other people who made purchase in previ- On-Road Diesel ous years return time after time during Expo to make additional purchases, he said. Others Non-Ethanol say they are stopping by because friends and neighbors spoke highly of the company’s products. Gasoline Initially the company brought four units to its booth, then expanded to eight and was D.E.F. at 16 for the 2017 show that ended on Thurs- d a y. Lubricants “This is a great show for us,” King said. Stop paying to heat “Hands-on is working well for us. I would say the last three years have been really good for water all day. Never run Agricultural us here.” Another long-time exhibitor is Gary Sef- out of hot water again. Industrial ton, who sells animal calls used for turkey, That’s right. Never. deer, squirrels and coyotes. Sefton, of Fayette- ville, Tennessee, also has written books on Commercial hunting that he had at the Expo exhibition booth in the hunting and fishing section of Serving South Georgia For Over 50 Years the show. “It’s a great place,” he said. “If it wasn’t, I wouldn’t be coming back for 25 years.” While speaking with a reporter, Sefton took time out to give instructions to Wyatt Ferguson, whose mother bought him a dia- Call Us For A Quote phragm turkey call. Wyatt Ferguson, 10, of Hahira, tries out a diaphragm turkey call at Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition under instructions from Gary Sefton as his “The thing I like about it is the kids,” Sef- mother Heather Ferguson watches. It was the 25th time Sefton, of Fayetteville, Tenn., has brought his exhibit to Expo. ton said. 800-273-5656 24 hour Emergency Service Available www.plantationgas.com 28320-1 Page 46 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 47 Halbig exhibits grand champion hog VALDOSTA — A packed house in the FFA; and, Class 11, Noah Rogers of Echols newly-renovated Lowndes County Civic County. Center witnessed 114 students from Lown- Showmanship winners included: Grade des, Lanier and Echols counties exhibit 1, Hadley Halbig of Echols County; Grade hogs at the 41st annual Lowndes Area Mar- 2, Addie Smith of Lanier County; Grade 3, ket Hog Show Nov. 7. The exhibitors were Noah Rogers of Echols County; Grade 4, first through 12th grade students and either Turner Smith of Echols 4H; Grade 5, Tori members of FFA or 4H. Millirons of Lowndes 4H; Grade 6, Kenna Hadley Halbig of Echols County exhibit- Griffin of Echols FFA; Grade 7, Lily Grace ed the Grand Champion. Karmen Deloach Kinsey of Echols FFA; Grade 8, Grace of Echols FFA exhibited the Reserve Cham- Mullis of Lanier 4H; Grade 9, Haley Stone pion hog. Other top five overall winners of Lanier FFA; Grade 10, Drew Raynor of included: Turner Smith of Echols 4H, 3rd Echols 4H; Grade 11, Danielle Schweitzer of Overall; Connie Rogers of Echols 4H, 4th Lowndes FFA; and, Grade 12, Emily Leon- Overall; and, Noah Rogers of Echols County, ard of Echols FFA. 5th Overall. The main judge was John Lastly. Judge Weight class winners included: Class Lastly praised the exhibitors in the event 1, Emily Leonard of Echols FFA; Class 2, for the quality of the animals. He was as- Brooke Stone of Lanier 4H; Class 3, Haley sisted with junior showmanship classes by Stone of Lanier FFA; Class 4, Karmen Chad Crews. Deloach of Echols FFA; Class 5, Laney Ful- The sale followed Wednesday evening ghum of Lanier 4H; Class 6, Turner Smith at the same venue. The show is sponsored of Echols 4H; Class 7, Blake Lowery of by Lowndes County Farm Bureau, Lanier SUbMITTED PHOTO Lanier 4H; Class 8, Hadley Halbig of Echols County Farm Bureau, Echols County Farm Hadley Halbig, center, exhibited the Grand Champion Hog. County; Class 9, Connie Rogers of Echols Bureau and Lowndes FFA Alumni/Booster 4H; Class 10, Addy Roberts of Lowndes Chapter. Sutton System Sales, Inc. 184 South Baker Street SUbMITTED PHOTO 2017 Georgia Centennial Farm Awardees Georgia’s newest Centennial Farms honored at Georgia National Fair Ellenton, GA 31747
PERRY — Fourteen farm owners and cultural, and family foundation for genera- Farm Award recognizes farms owned by ¨ Bryans Family Farm, Morgan County their historic properties were recognized at tions of Georgians. All farms earning rec- members of the same family for 100 years ¨ McLain/Hood Farms of Orndorff the 25th annual Georgia Centennial Farm ognition have continuously operated for 100 or more that are not listed in the NRHP. Place, Terrell County Awards on the inaugural day of the 2017 years or more. In 2017, the following farms are recip- ¨ Gibbs - Crumley Family Farm, Tift (229) 324-3141 Georgia National Fair in Perry. More than 500 farms have been recog- ients of the Georgia Centennial Family County The Georgia Centennial Farm Program nized through the Georgia Centennial Farm Farm Award: ¨ James Paul Smith Family Farm, Turn- is a partnership between the Historic Pres- Program since its inception in 1993. ¨ Lanier Farm, Bulloch County er County ervation Division of the Georgia Depart- Recognition is given to farm owners ¨ Olde Homeplace, Bulloch County ¨ Alvin Pierce Henderson Farm, Ware ment of Natural Resources; Georgia Farm through one of three distinguished awards: ¨ Mary and Ben Newsome Family Farm, County Bureau Federation; Georgia Department of the Centennial Heritage Farm Award hon- Crisp County Anyone interested in nominating a Agriculture; Georgia Forestry Commission; ors farms owned by members of the same ¨ Sandy Acres Ranch, Dade County farm for recognition should visit www. and Georgia National Fair and Agricenter; family for 100 years or more and are listed ¨ Swicord Thomas Farm, Decatur County georgiacentennialfarms.org to download with support from Georgia EMC and the in the National Register of Historic Places ¨ Rey-Brin Farm, Hall County an application, or contact Allison Asbrock, Georgia Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership (NRHP). The Centennial Farm Award does ¨ Freeman Family Farm, Jackson County Centennial Farm Awards committee, at Committee. not require continual family ownership, ¨ Aldred-Stevens-Smith Farm, Jefferson (770) 389-7868 or [email protected].
Farms hold a central role in the heritage but farms must be at least 100 years old and County The postmark deadline for applications is 27504-1 of our state, having formed the economic, listed in the NRHP. The Centennial Family ¨ Liberty Hill Ranch, LLC, Lamar County May 1 of each year. Page 48 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 49 How is your business navigating today’s Digital Marketing Landscape? MOBILE Let us help you PAY PER CLICK (SEM) target the Merritt Mechanical is a family-owned business in South TARGETED DISPLAY Georgia with over 50 years of experience customers you in agricultural construction. ADVERTISING Not only do we specialize in agricultural construction, need! but most types of metal buildings including carports, SEO WEB DESIGN out buildings, Horse barns, and sheds. Our reputation is second to none REPUTATION and our price and quality can’t be beat. MANAGEMENT Contact Merritt Mechanical for more information so we can help you with all your storage needs. Let us bring Merritt to your business. SOCIAL MEDIA Give us a call today - 377-5586 MANAGEMENT SEARCH OPTIMIZED BUSINESS LISTINGS NATIVE ADVERTISING SEO BLOG PULBISHING MERRITT MECHANICAL/FABRICATION, LLC 1270 GA Hwy 93 North • Cairo, Ga 39827 229-377-5586 James Merritt, Owner The Valdosta www.merrittmechanical.net Daily Times DEALER FOR SUKUP METAL BUILDINGS 23513-1 28045-1 Page 50 Ag Scene November 2017 November 2017 Ag Scene Page 51 Lowndes County Schools receive Golden Radish Award ATLANTA — Georgia’s Departments of Agriculture, Education and Public Health, University of Georgia Cooperative Exten- There’s a sion and Georgia Organics came together at the historic Georgia Railroad Freight Depot to celebrate more than 40 percent of Georgia school districts with outstanding farm to school programs. Seventy-five school better route. districts, serving more than one million stu- dents in Georgia, are now participating in farm to school. These districts served more than 97 million school meals with local food Don’t let rising interest rates cause items during the 2016-17 school year. Lowndes County School District was rec- a bump in your road. ognized at the Honorary level for its accom- plishments during the 2016-17 school year, including: Shift from your current balloon loan or · Serving more than 1.8 million meals CAUTION that included local food. Georgia Grown ap- navigate into your new land purchase ples are served daily! · Partnering with Tommy Biles Farm to with worry-free 20 year fixed rates from serve fresh strawberries and “Farmer Fre- HIGHER INTEREST do” to feature his collards in celebration of AgGeorgia Farm Credit. Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Agri- culture Awareness Week. Contact one of our seven South Georgia · Including Farmer Brown’s Produce RATES AHEAD tomatoes in a side salad every Friday during offices or visit aggeorgia.com/land for the school year. The Golden Radish Award publicly rec- information on land loans and more. ognizes school districts for all aspects of SUbMITTED PHOTO farm to school, from local food procurement Golden Radish 2017 group photo. to hosting taste tests and gardening with students. This year, the Golden Radish part- award winners will accomplish as we work featured locally grown and raised foods trict, Floyd County Schools, Forsyth County ners awarded 26 new school districts and toward our 2020 Vision for School Nutrition Conducted 8,204 taste tests Schools, Gainesville City School Sys- welcomed a new partner-UGA Extension. in Georgia.” Taught 7,263 standards based lessons tem, Madison County School District, Pauld- “UGA Extension is so excited to promote Department of Public Health Commis- Tended 885 school gardens ing County School District, Savannah-Cha- healthy eating habits and incorporate Geor- sioner J. Patrick O’Neal, M.D. champions Engaged students in 3,794 hands on tham County Public School System, Toombs gia’s great agricultural food products into healthy food access for children and sup- cooking activities County Schools our school lunchrooms,” said Associate ports farm to school efforts. “The vitamins, Involved parents and community mem- Bronze level: Buford City Schools, Carroll Dean for UGA Extension at the UGA College minerals and health benefits from local bers in 1,339 farm to school activities County Schools, Coffee County School Sys- of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences fresh fruit and vegetables, not only allow The 75 school systems being recognized tem, Dade County Schools, Dalton Public Laura Perry Johnson. “This is a natural our children to be physically healthy, but are: Schools, Douglas County School System, Lee partnership that benefits us as well as the research has shown that healthy eating is Platinum level: Barrow County School County School System, Marietta City school kids who get to enjoy these tasty and also key to brain development,” said Com- System, Carrollton City Schools, Cher- Schools, Mitchell County Schools, Morgan nutritious products.” missioner O’Neal. “Here in Georgia, we are okee County School District, Clarke County Charter School System, Murray Districts of all sizes are utilizing farm leading the nation in identifying ways to in- County School District, Fulton County County Schools, Muscogee County School to school programs to teach academic stan- crease early brain development, and healthy Schools, Jackson County Schools, Lau- District, Richmond County, Valdosta City dards in school gardens, support the local nutrition is an enormous part of that.” rens County Schools, Sumter County Nutrition Program, Wayne County, White economy through local food purchases for Georgia Organics founded the state’s first Schools, Tift County Schools County, Worth County School District school meals, and fight childhood obesity farm to school program in 2007. Since then, Gold Level: Atlanta Public Honorary: Banks County School Sys- and other preventable food-related diseases. communities across the state have embraced Schools, Baldwin County School Dis- tem, Butts County School System, Calhoun “Access to fresh, locally grown food is not the benefits of bringing students and fresh, trict, Bartow County School System, Bleck- City School System, Clayton County Pub- just important for students’ physical health local food closer together. “It’s astounding ley County Schools, Burke County Public lic Schools, Dawson County School Sys- – it’s part of their academic development that over 40 percent of our school districts Schools, City Schools of Decatur, Cobb tem, Emanuel County School System, Frank- as well,” said State Superintendent Richard are actively involved in The Golden Radish County School District, Columbia County lin County Schools, Glascock County School Woods. “When children eat fresh, healthy Awards after only four years of establish- School Nutrition, Dougherty County School System, Haralson County Schools, Hall meals, they have the fuel they need for a suc- ing the program,” stated Georgia Organics System, Effingham County School Sys- County Schools, Johnson County, Lincoln cessful day of learning.” Executive Director Alice Rolls. “This is an tem, Elbert County School District, Fannin County School District, Lowndes Coun- Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture exciting trajectory given the great impact County School System, Fayette County ty Honorary, Lumpkin County School Cordele – 229.273.3927 Nashville – 229.686.5081 Quitman – 229.263.7551 Gary W. Black notes that while farm to farm to school has had on child nutrition, Public Schools, Gwinnett County Public System, Miller County Board of Educa- school efforts support academic achieve- farmer prosperity, rural development, local Schools, Habersham County Schools, Hart tion, McIntosh County Schools, Rockdale Moultrie – 229.985.3893 Ocilla – 229.468.5900 Sylvester – 229.776.5599 ment, they also help build a strong agricul- economies and public health.” County Schools, Treutlen County County Public Schools, Stephens Coun- Helping Georgia Grow for Generations® tural economy. “Feed My School For a Week, The 2016-17 school year was a record Schools, Henry County Schools, Newton ty, Whitfield County Schools, Wilkinson Tifton – 229.382.4300 Georgia Grown Test Kitchen and the Golden breaking year of farm to school growth in County Schools, Warren County Public County Board of Education AgGeorgia.com Radish Awards are all great ways for school Georgia. The Golden Radish school districts Schools, NMLS# 627367 nutrition to support Georgia producers, and collectively: Silver level: Crawford County we are excited as to what current and future Served more than 97 million meals that Schools, DeKalb County School Dis- See more photos on Page 51 Page 52 Ag Scene November 2017 28049-1