Neighbors Magazine, April 2017 by Alabama Farmers Federation

G R A I N S 0f T R U T H Alabama Wheat and Feed Grain Farmers grow food, fuel and freedom. Their harvest helps feed Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multi-million-dollar livestock, catfish and poultry industries while reducing Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dependence on foreign countries for energy and food. By combining their strength with farmers of other commodities, feed grain growers are fueling the economic growth of Alabama communities.

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VOLUME 42,

NUMBER 4

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

April 2017

_____________________________________

Debra Davis, Editor Mike Moody, Graphic Designer ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION Paul Pinyan, Executive Director Jeff Helms, Director of Communications FEDERATION OFFICERS Jimmy Parnell, President, Stanton Rex Vaughn, Vice President/North, Huntsville Dean Wysner, Vice President/Central, Woodland George Jeffcoat, Vice President/Southeast, Gordon Jake Harper, Vice President/Southwest, Camden Steve Dunn, Secretary-Treasurer, Evergreen DIRECTORS Brian Glenn, Hillsboro Donald Hodge, New Market Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Anders, Northport Dell Hill, Alpine Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Meador Jones, Gallion Garry Henry, Hope Hull Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Nell Miller, Snead Jerry Allen Newby, Athens

In This Issue 4

10 Farmers Visit Washington

Neighbors (ISSN 0162-3974) is published monthly by the Alabama Farmers Federation, 2108 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, Alabama 36116 or (334) 288-3900. For information about Alabama Farmers Federation member benefits, visit the website www.AlfaFarmers.org. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and additional mailing offices. Printed in the U.S.A.

12 Young Farmers Conference 16 Not Your Average Joe

18 Raking In The Business

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Neighbors, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, Alabama 36191-0001.

28 Loving Lamb

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION CHANGES: , 800-392-5705, Option 4 or BWatkins@alfafarmers.org

On The Cover

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Ben Shurett, (256) 997-7922 BenShurett.alfafarmers@gmail.com

Barret Stephenson of Eufaula is making the most

DISCLAIMERS: Advertisements in Neighbors do not represent an endorsement by the magazine or Alabama Farmers Federation. Editorial information from sources outside the Alabama Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Alabama Farmers Federation policies. Publication of information does not imply an endorsement by the Alabama Farmers Federation. www.AlfaFarmers.org

of his timberland by harvesting pine straw from his longleaf orchards.

Photo by Debra Davis

John Smith mber: 071910 Membership Nu rs Federation Alabama Farme /17 Void After: 12/21

MEMBER IDENT

COUNTY PRES

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation April 2017

Farms Of Distinction Chosen

PRESIDENT

ALABAMA

E D E R AT I O FA R M E R S F

Show Your Card and Save! Hundreds of new LOCAL member benefits are now available. Visit AlfaFarmers.org to see how your membership card saves you on services, restaurants and more! w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Farm Families Vie For Top Title S

ix outstanding family farms will be showcased April 6 as they compete for the title of Alabama Farm of Distinction at the Alabama Farm-City Awards in Birmingham. The winner will receive over $12,000 in cash and prizes and will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 17-19. Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms said the 2017

TWB Farms

Tony Beck enjoys running his own business, but the Crenshaw County farmer admits it's a big responsibility. "What I like about being a farmer is being my own boss. But the bad thing about that is you’ve got to have the get up and go to get up and get it done," Beck said. With four poultry houses and a 200-cow commercial beef herd, there’s always plenty of work at the 1,000-acre farm. So when Beck needed open-heart surgery in 2013, he was thankful for good friends and neighbors.

Caraway Farms

Dakota and Amanda Caraway w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

recipient will join an elite group of past winners. “More than 30 Alabama farms have been recognized since the program’s inception,” Helms said. “They include family businesses raising everything from row crops and beef cattle to catfish and timber. Each of these farms is distinct because of the owners’ commitment to continual improvement and their positive impact on the community.” Alabama’s Farm of Distinction

"They stepped up and took over. It was in better shape when I got back than it was when I left," he said. Today, Beck works to repay the favor by helping neighbors with their hay and cattle while preparing the next generation to take over his farm. "I would like for the farm to still be intact and stay in the family," he said. "I’ve got some great-nephews that really love farming, and I hope one day they’ll look back and say, 'Uncle Tony set me up right.'"

Agriculture runs deep in Dakota Caraway’s family, but when it came time for him to put down roots, the Covington County farmer was on his own. "All my family on both sides had been farmers, but by the time I came along, there wasn’t any farmland left or equipment," he said. "So, I pretty much had to start from scratch." Eight years later, Dakota has proven hard work and determination pay off. Caraway Farms now includes 740 acres of cotton, peanuts, hay and a 100-cow commercial beef herd. Dakota and 4

will receive a John Deere Gator from SunSouth, TriGreen and AgPro dealers; a $1,000 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC); $2,500 from Swisher International; and an engraved farm sign from Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. All six finalists will receive a $250 AFC gift certificate. Judges Jim Allen of AFC, Chris Cline of AgPro and Dr. Deacue Fields of Auburn University visited the farms March 1-3.

Tony Beck

wife Amanda also care for 500-700 stocker calves a year. "If you’re going to be successful, you’re going to have to be determined because there are a lot of bumps along the road and a lot of setbacks," he said. Despite the challenges, Dakota says he wouldn’t trade jobs with anyone. "I love to take care of good land and make a good crop," he said. "I have my wife working beside me and our kids out there with us all the time. It’s the only life I want." The Caraways have two children, Madison, 7, and Jack, 4. April 2017

2 017

Cassebaum Farms

Todd Cassebaum approaches farming with a strong work ethic, ingenuity and the commitment to quality he learned from his father.

Hope and Todd Cassebaum

Timberland Cattle

At Timberland Cattle, Bill and Carol Freeman are growing food and fiber together on the rolling hills of Lamar County. "Our farm consists of a tree farm and a cattle farm," Bill said. "We run cattle in our trees, and they work well with each other." The 850-acre operation includes 200 acres of pine plantation, 600 acres of pastureland and 50 acres of hay. The Freemans have a 300-cow purebred Angus, Simmental and SimAngus herd, along with a 100-cow commercial beef herd. The farm sells about 75 bulls each November in an on-farm, video production sale and bred heifers at a spring sale. The Freemans maintain a strict herd health program, utilize April 2017

"When I was a little kid, Dad said we needed something to do," he said. "We started planting a little patch of sweet corn — my sisters and me. I think the first year we planted a couple acres, and we bought a trampoline." Today, Todd and wife Hope farm 1,250 acres in Baldwin County where they raise peanuts, corn, cotton, millet, pecans and vegetables. They also have a 160cow commercial beef herd. The Cassebaums say good crop rotation and investment in irrigation are keys to their success. "We can do a little better job with vegetables with irrigation water because we can put it on when it needs it," Todd said. Increasing productivity is important because development along the Gulf Coast is consuming cropland. "We have to learn to increase

rotational grazing and installed irrigation to ensure year-round forage is available. "We just came out of a severe drought," Bill said. "Had we not irrigated, we would not have gotten the grass to come up." Despite the hard work it took to make Timberland Cattle the showplace it is today, Bill is quick to give thanks for his blessings. "The keys to my success, I feel like, are from our Father," he said. "I really believe without the blessings we get from Him we wouldn’t have ability to do what we do. I really love being outside and love being able to produce cattle." The Freemans have one daughter, Jessica. 5

with what we’ve got," he added. "We can’t find any more farmland, so we’re trying to grow within the acres we have." The Cassebaums also are catering to the expanding population by growing more fresh produce. They have built a loyal customer base for their sweet corn, peas, butterbeans and watermelons by focusing on quality and service. "We try to give them more than what they expect," Todd said. "We like the baker’s dozen. We don’t know a dozen as 12; we know it as 13 ears." The Cassebaums are passing the work ethic and values they learned from their parents onto their son, August, and daughter, Kelsey. "The only reason I’m doing a lot of this now is I want them to take over," Todd said. "I want them to have the same opportunity I’ve had."

Bill and Carol Freeman. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

2 017

Langley Farms

Chris and Elizabeth Langley

McMichen Farm

Agriculture was the only career Nick McMichen ever considered. "I was born to be a farmer," Nick said. "We come from a long line of farmers, and it’s the only thing I truly ever wanted to do." Still, the Cherokee County native admits his path to full-time farming took some unexpected shortcuts. He intended to attend college before coming home to his family’s 400-acre farm, but when opportunity knocked, Nick answered. "When a local farmer decided to retire, he was farming 500 acres and gave us the opportunity to rent that land," Nick said. "I jumped at the chance. I had to sacrifice my education, but I continue to learn every day." w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Chris Langley has worked for the same boss his whole life — himself. "I got started years ago with animals when I was a kid — with goats, rabbits, chickens and pigs," Chris said. "I bought my first heifer when I was 16, and I got started on showing livestock." The young entrepreneur expanded his beef cow herd and rented pastureland with money he earned from selling eggs, rabbits and hogs. Meanwhile, he spent evenings and weekends in the forests of Chambers County building a pulpwood business. "My father helped me get financed with a pulpwood truck and a 440 John Deere skidder," he said. "I started logging when I was old enough and have been logging ever since." Today, Chris Langley Timber and Management Inc. operates

three fully mechanized logging crews, and Langley Farms includes a 320-cow commercial beef herd on 2,650 acres of timber, hay and grazing land. "My philosophy of farming is the harder you work and the more you put in it, the more you’ll have and get out of it," Chris said. "You’ve got to be mechanically minded, creative and think smart at all times. And if you do those things, you will be successful." Chris and wife Elizabeth have instilled those same values in their children, Christopher, Charlie, Chandler and Chelsea. "We started each one of them off when they were 9 years old showing calves," Chris recalled. "They’ve been dedicated to it. It’s a lot of work. You’ve got to love it to do it. And they’ve won some championships and won the state a few times."

Today, McMichen Farm spans 4,000 acres in three counties, including 1,000 acres of timber, 1,500 acres of cotton and 1,500 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat. Nick and Freida McMichen with their children Mindy and Matt, Nick credand Mindy's fiancée Tyler Bruce. its his thirst for knowledge and willingness to experiment for the testing and irrigation. farm’s success. He’s conducted "Irrigation is the single best on-farm cotton variety trials since investment on the farm," Nick 1990. said. "What we gain is invaluable," The McMichens are putting in Nick said. "It’s part of my conthree center-pivots this year and tinuing education." building a 12.5-acre pond. They're The McMichens are working also reclaiming an 800-acre farm to increase farm productivity in the bend of the Coosa River through conservation tillage, soil that was planted in pine trees. 6

April 2017

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Contest Seeks Nominations For Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant By Debra Davis

outherners love good food, and near the top of the favorites list is delicious, U.S. farm-raised catfish. Alabama catfish farmers want to know who’s the best when it comes to preparing their favorite fish. The Alabama Catfish Producers, a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation, is sponsoring the annual Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant Challenge. Catfish lovers are asked to nominate their favorite restaurant through the Alabama Farmers Federation Facebook page or at AlabamaCatfish.org. Nominations end June 12. “Our farmers sponsor the contest to encourage consumption of the clean, healthy catfish we raise,” said Alabama Catfish Producers Chairman Sid Nelson of Epes. “We’re thankful for all the restaurants in Alabama that serve our home-grown product, and we appreciate their customers.” Whether it’s blackened, baked, sautéed or deep-fried, Southerners crave catfish, and through the challenge, customers can share why their favorite restaurant is Bama’s Best. From the nominations, four finalists will be selected for the Bama’s Best Catfish Restaurant Challenge. A team of judges, including an Alabama catfish farmer, will visit the finalists. While there, judges will sample the nominated dish as part of the final round of competition. The winner of Bama's Best Catfish Restaurant Challenge will be announced in August, which is National Catfish Month. But there’s more than bragging rights at stake. Each finalist will receive a plaque; the winner will receive a plaque and cash prize; and all four will be featured in Neighbors magazine. This year, Facebook users will select a "People's Choice" award from the finalists. Jim Allen of Alabama Farmers Cooperative, who co-hosts "Simply Southern TV", was one of the judges for last year's event. He said it might be the best job he's ever had. "I love catfish, and there are lots of good restaurants in our state that cook it well," he said. "All four of last year's finalists were excellent, and each of the restaurant owners was honored to even be considered." Last year's winner, The Old Barn Restaurant in Goshen, is owned by Amy Chandler. She said the title made her restaurant a tourist destination, bringing in catfish lovers from throughout the South. n

Nominate your favorite restaurant at AlabamaCatfish.org or Facebook.com/AlabamaFarmers

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w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Washington Legislative Conference Energizes, Excites Farmers

By Marlee Moore

orale was high as nearly 140 Alabama farmers returned from the nation’s capital March 7-10, buoyed by promises of regulatory reform and increased interest in agricultural issues. The visit starkly contrasted trips during the previous administration, said Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Being in D.C. confirmed my belief that agriculture will experience real change under the Trump administration,” Parnell said. “We’ve seen this with his order to review the Waters of the U.S. rule and look forward to other improvements over the next few years.” Speakers during the 2017 Washington Legislative Conference continually emphasized the importance of immigration and regulatory reform, trade, biotechnology and the farm bill. During briefings March 8, U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas) encouraged farmers to share ideas about the upcoming farm bill. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Members met with elected officials and federal agency representatives during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Washington Legislative Conference. From left are David Lee of Lowndes County, Ben Looney of Limestone County, Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell and Adam Sessions of Mobile County.

“The beauty of doing farm bills every five years is you get to address the things you didn’t get right,” Conaway said. “We’re going to get this bill done, and we’re going to get it done on time.” Farmers also heard from Special Assistant to the President and Director of White House Messaging Strategy Cliff Sims, who founded Yellowhammer News, and American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Public Policy Executive Director Dale Moore. This was David Lee’s first trip to Washington, D.C., and the Lowndes County Farmers Federation president said visiting with Alabama’s delegation encouraged him. “I’ve always heard to ‘Call your senator,’ but never felt like I was able to communicate with leaders in our nation’s capital,” Lee said. “Now that I’ve met our leaders and many staffers, I feel they are more approachable to me and ready to hear about my particular issues.” During the Congressional 10

barbecue, AFBF President Zippy Duvall advised farmers to establish relationships with Congressional leadership. “You have to come and be seen,” said Duvall, a Georgia farmer. “Those who show up are the ones who make a difference. It’s so important for farmers to look their congressmen and senators in the eyes and say, ‘This is important to me, my family and my community.’” Attendees met with Alabama’s U.S. representatives during Congressional breakfasts, followed by meetings with U.S. Sens. Richard Shelby and Luther Strange, a Senate Agriculture Committee member. Supreme Court nominations, confirming Sonny Perdue as agriculture secretary and improving Alabama’s trade opportunities peppered the conversation. Other events included visiting the U.S. Department of Agriculture and British Embassy, as well as a moonlight monuments tour. n April 2017

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iny beetles are eating away at one of the state’s largest industries. Infestations of Southern pine beetles and Ips beetles, which normally aren’t seen in Alabama forests until late spring and summer, are being reported earlier than normal and in higher numbers around the state. “The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) routinely conducts aerial surveys, and since Jan. 1 has recorded 250 areas with beetle damage,” said Alabama Farmers Federation’s Rick Oates. "Last year, 650 spots were reported statewide." Oates, the Federation’s Forestry Division director, said last year’s drought stressed trees, making them susceptible to the Southern pine beetle, Ips engraver beetle and black turpentine beetle — or a combination of all three. Landowners may not know insects are present until trees begin to die, he said. Pines of various ages and sizes fall victim, from seedlings to mature trees, according to AFC Forester/Forest Health Coordinator Dana Stone. Most affected pines have brown needles and pitch tubes, indicating bark beetle infestation, she said. The only remedy for stopping the beetles is to cut down affected trees along with a buffer around them, Oates said. “There’s a real concern our state could see significant losses in our forests because of the high number of cases already recorded,” Oates said. “That represents a big financial loss for landowners who will have to sell timber prematurely and for less money. Landowners also could be challenged to find loggers willing to harvest damaged timber.” Visit forestry.alabama.gov for information. Landowners who suspect beetle damage should contact a local forestry consulting firm or the AFC at (334) 240-9300. n

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Young Farmers Focus On Farm Tours During Annual Conference By Marlee Moore

rom greenhouses to golf greens, row crops to research stations and cattle to kiwi, nearly 400 young farmers were in Montgomery March 3-4 learning lessons from lucrative farmers. With representatives from 55 counties, the 2017 Young Farmers Conference was the largest in Alabama Farmers Federation recent history. The State Young Farmers Committee varied the conference format this year by replacing workshops with farm tours. “While workshops can be very beneficial, there's nothing like visiting with other farmers on a beautiful March day and seeing how they make a living,” said

State Young Farmers Committee Chairman Jerry Allen Newby of Limestone County. “I learned a lot during this conference that I can take back home to north Alabama, and I think other young farmers did, too.” The conference began March 3 evening with dinner and a performance by country and Southern rock band Trotline. March 4 at breakfast, conference attendees received a legislative update and were encouraged to attend the Federation’s skeet shoot fundraiser in November. The shoot benefits the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF), which funds college scholarships and Alabama Ag in the Classroom Participants then hit the road for

farm tours across central Alabama. Tour A included stops at Parnell Inc., a cattle and timber operation; Wright’s Nursery and Greenhouse; and Autauga Farming Co., a row crop and cattle farm. A former member of the State Young Farmers Committee, Dallas County’s Heather Wright owns Wright’s Nursery and Greenhouse with her husband, Davy. “I think the relationships we build and the things we learn during conferences are vital to our survival as a farm, business and family,” Wright said. “It's important we stay educated, keep gaining knowledge, participate in agriculture organizations and keep up with what's going on in the political world.”

Young farmers enjoyed a variety of tours across central and east Alabama. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

April 2017

Eric & Carrly Lovvorn Poultry

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April 2017

a Fin

Tour B headed to east Alabama and made stops at Hornsby Farms, a fruit and vegetable operation; Southeast Kiwi Farming Cooperative; and Auburn University’s E.V. Smith Research Station. Jefferson County’s Will Dodd, 25, said he enjoyed meeting new friends and learning how the Federation can work with Alabama’s young farmers to continue a thriving agricultural tradition in the state. “Given the labor-intensive schedules of Alabama's farms, it's nice for Young Farmers to take a weekend and socialize with other young people in the profession,” said Dodd, who runs the nonprofit Heirloom Harvest, which helps Alabama produce farmers expand their markets. “The opportunity to tour farm operations and share experiences and advice on most effective practices only leads to a more productive agriculture economy for our state." Tour C visited Talladega County’s Pursell Farms’ golf course and resort destination and Coosa County’s Pinthlocco Plantation, a quail preserve. Attendees captured favorite tour moments by participating in an Instagram contest. Winners were Ali Grace Eiland of Pike County, Jordyn Upchurch of Clay County and Dodd. Saturday evening, young farmers bid on Yeti coolers, jewelry, picnic tables, tools and more to

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Ben & Jessica Johnson Soybean

Beth Hornsby Horticulture

Jonathan & Sara Sanders Peanut

raise $10,765 during a live auction benefiting the AFAF. Preliminaries for the 2017 Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) contest were held during the conference. Finalists and their respective commodities were announced at the closing banquet. They are Ben and Jessica Johnson of Fyffe in DeKalb County, Soybean Division winner; Beth Hornsby of Auburn in Lee County, Horticulture Division winner; and Eric and Carrly Lovvorn of Heflin in Cleburne County, Poultry Division winner. Finalists will compete later this year for over $60,000 in prizes. The overall winner will be announced at the Federation’s Commodity Producers Conference in Birmingham Aug. 5. Other commodity division winners who competed in the OYFF contest were Justin Hill of Eastaboga in Calhoun County, Bee & Honey; Josh and Amanda Slaughter of Harpersville in Shelby County, Beef; Jonathan and Sara Sanders of Roeton in Coffee County, Peanut; and Barret Stephenson of Eufaula in Barbour County, Meat Goat & Sheep. n 13

Josh & Amanda Slaughter Beef

Barret Stephenson Meat Goat & Sheep

Justin Hill Bee & Honey w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Townsend Kyser Elected Catfish Farmers Of America President

that often isn’t raised in the clean, safe environment our fish grow. Some foreign countries allow the use of chemicals that have been banned in America for years.” As CFA president, Kyser will serve as a national spokesman for the group that is headquartered in Indianola, Mississippi. Federation Catfish Division Director Rick Oates said Kyser is a great voice for catfish farmers. "Townsend grew up in the industry and is well respected by his peers," Oates said. "He's a great spokesman who underKyser stands national policy and how it can influence our farmers' ability to compete fairly with imported fish." Alabama sales of farm-raised catfish increased 10 percent from January 2016 to January 2017 to about $120 million, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For more information about CFA, visit USCatfish.com. For a video about catfish production in Alabama, visit AlabamaCatfish.org. n

labama’s Townsend Kyser hopes he and other U.S. catfish farmers can get more consumers hooked on the fish they grow. Kyser, 40, was elected Catfish Farmers of America (CFA) president during the group’s annual meeting in Orange Beach, Alabama, Feb. 17. He will serve a two-year term. Kyser is a third-generation catfish farmer in Hale County near Greensboro, where he works with his father and brother. Their family has raised catfish for 50 years. “I’m honored and excited to have been elected to this position by my peers,” said Kyser, a former state and national Young Farmers Committee Chairman for the Alabama Farmers Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation. “I look forward to representing our industry and promoting U.S. farm-raised catfish.” CFA membership includes farmers nationwide, but most are in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas and Texas. In addition to working with The Catfish Institute, an organization focusing on catfish public relations and advertising, CFA seeks to influence and monitor federal policies and politics, Kyser said. Much of the group’s efforts focus on foreign trade, he added. “Our farmers spent decades investing in and building a market for U.S. farm-raised catfish,” Kyser said. “We don’t want to be undercut by imported fish

Pennsylvania Beef Tour June 19-23, 2017

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Registration opens March 20th. Visit AlfaFarmers.org for details.

TINYURL.COM/AMGARegistration w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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Cornelius Joe

Cattleman, Conservationist, Classroom Teacher And Community Supporter By Marlee Moore

or 38 years, Cornelius Joe spent weekdays molding students’ minds with educational mainstays like welding, woodwork, engineering and agriculture. Today, the 62-year-old agriscience education retiree is working to keep those skills alive in west Alabama schools. “We need to make sure agriculture survives,” said Joe, who also raises Black Angus cattle on his family homestead outside Greensboro in Hale County. “Some people in leadership don’t understand the lessons children learn through agribusiness.” When Joe was in the ninth grade, agriscience teacher W.W. McCurdy convinced him to stay rooted in agriculture by attending Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, a land-grant institution. “At the time, it was important to go off to school and get the education I needed,” said Joe, the eighth of 10 children. “I had no intention of doing farm work because it didn’t pay too well.” Joe taught in Hale and Tuscaloosa County high schools and at Shelton State Community College, w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

where students referred to him as Mr. Joe — and still do when they run into him in town. These days, he stays busy on his 200-acre farm, which he calls a oneman operation, except when his son, Christopher, helps haul hay. Off the farm, Joe is securing funding to implement agriscience education labs in four west Ala-

bama schools. The labs will equip students with the passion to pursue agricultural careers, whether on a farm, selling chemicals, becoming a veterinarian or dealing with machinery. Though Greensboro is a rural community, students aren’t always connected to the farms surrounding them. “I want to simulate farms and farm life,” Joe said. “If students aren’t exposed to agriculture, they 16

don’t go that way. But they still need higher education to get a good-paying job.” By starting robotics programs in middle schools, Joe hopes to show students at a young age that agriculture can be profitable and fun. Mix in growing technologies like wind and solar power, classic agriscience programs and summer farm co-ops, and Joe believes students will latch onto agriculture and attend land-grant universities — just like he did. “It’s not just theory,” Joe said. “It’s followed up with hands-on activities. We’ll teach a kid that he can succeed.” Joe and wife Leola have four children, including Christopher, who works for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Joe has participated in several NRCS programs through the years, such as the Conservation Stewardship Program, with the goal of improving his property and implementing sustainable farm practices. “Different people doing different things makes ag go around,” Joe said. “You probably won’t get rich at any of it, but this really works well for me.” n April 2017

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Raking It In Pine Straw Business

Booming For Barbour County Farmer

All the pine straw harvested by Twice The Straw is hand raked, which takes longer but produces the highest quality bale for customers.

By Debra Davis

illions of copper-colored needles form nature’s perfect padding beneath longleaf pine trees. Those needles are like gold to a pair of Barbour County brothers who are raking in business thanks to the trees’ castoffs. “When I graduated from Auburn University (AU) in 2005, I knew I wanted to come home to farm,” said 34-year-old Barret Stephenson of Eufaula. “My dad had a few hundred acres of pine trees. Our land w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

wasn’t really suitable for row crops, so I had to figure out how to make a living with what we had. That’s what put me in the pine straw business.” Armed with a degree in agribusiness and economics and flanked by his brother, Chance, who has a horticulture degree from AU, Twice The Straw, LLC was formed in 2010. “I got into the meat goat and sheep business about the same time,” Barret said. “Goats and sheep are browsers, so they eat the 18

weeds and plants. That cuts down on mowing and spraying we have to do to keep the orchards clean.” Pine straw is a favorite mulch for homeowners and professional landscapers alike, but harvesting it is a challenge, especially how the Stephensons do it. “All of our straw is raked by hand,” Barret said. “We pick up the sticks and cones and rake only the fresh straw, leaving the old mat on the forest floor. The mat protects the trees and keeps down weeds. Besides, customers don’t want dark, rotten straw.” Being particular helps their straw fetch a premium price, about $10 for a 45-pound round roll. Compared to some square bales that weigh as little as 8 pounds and cost $4-$7, Barret said his straw is a bargain. Like most farmers, labor and weather are big challenges for Barret and Chance. Wet straw is heavy and hard to rake, and it can mold, Barret said. Sore arms and backs are just part of the business, he added. Once it’s raked into windrows, a small baler rolls the straw and ties it with twine. Rolls are loaded on a April 2017

small trailer that fits between the 12-foot rows of trees, then hauled to a larger trailer in a clearing. Their first year, the Stephensons baled loblolly pine straw but switched to longleaf when they learned it was better and worth more. “The waxy coating on longleaf straw makes it brighter and last longer,” Barret said. Alabama Farmers Federation Forestry Division Director Rick Oates said the Stephensons’ farm is a good example of silvopasture, where forests are used for multiple purposes. “They’re making the most off their land— t hat’s what makes

April 2017

Above, Barret Stephenson uses a small baler to make 45-pound rolls of longleaf pine straw. Below, he loads a truck and trailer for delivery to a wholesale customer.

farmers successful,” Oates said. Growing from 5,000 rolls the first year to 24,000 last year, Barret said social media and customer recommendations are the best form of advertising. Most retail customers buy the Stephensons’ straw at Auto Pride Self Storage, the family’s business in Eufaula, but they also have a growing wholesale business. Barret is a Barbour County Farmers Federation director and serves on the Federation’s 19

State Meat Goat & Sheep Committee. He has a commercial hay business and tends to 80 head of hair sheep and 175 meat goats. The married father of two also preaches most Sundays at rural churches. “The Lord has blessed me, and I take every opportunity to talk about His love and grace,” Barret said. “And one of the most rewarding things about my pine straw business is seeing a little old lady at church and her telling me about how beautiful her yard looks after putting out my straw.” For a video about the farm, visit tinyurl.com/PineStrawFarmer. Find the Stephensons on Facebook at Twice The Straw or call (334) 6872094 for more information. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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April 2017

Born and raised on a family farm outside Centre in Cherokee County, John Bert East, 65, knows the value of hard work. The county Federation president and wife Dawn grow 950 acres of cotton, plus corn, hay, silage and beef cattle. The Easts’ farm was Alabama’s 2004 Farm of Distinction. Married for 42 years, they have two sons and two grandchildren.

1 2 3 4

When did you decide to farm?

I knew since the first grade this was what I wanted to do. I like to see things grow and to have a good calf crop where everything goes well. I just enjoy being outside and around our livestock.

How did you manage last year’s drought?

We made a really good cotton crop, but our problem was livestock. Winter was mild, so they didn’t require as much feeding as usual. We also planted wheat early last year and cut it for hay. That helped us last until spring.

How long have you directed the church choir? I’ve been filling in at Shady Grove Baptist Church for 30 years. My favorite hymn is #339, “It Is Well With My Soul,” which was my granddaddy’s favorite song. We sang it a lot in the truck when riding around.

Why do you enjoy farming?

There’s nothing like being on a farm. My grandson says he’s going to farm, but he’s only 12. He helps me with raking hay and bush-hogging cotton stalks.

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Alabama Trees Face Long-Lasting Effects Of Drought By Maggie Lawrence

rees and shrubs across the state are still trying to overcome the stresses of last year’s lengthy drought. As spring moves into summer, homeowners are wondering how their landscapes will fare this season. Kerry Smith with Alabama Extension’s Home Grounds team said homeowners should be aware drought stress could lead to bigger problems. “Drought stress can weaken trees, making them susceptible to insects and disease, especially in spring and summer,” she said. “Lack of water may be the trigger that leads to some trees dying, but most tree deaths will be the result of insect damage or fungi and other diseases.” Smith said it’s important to monitor trees in landscapes this spring and summer. Homeowners should ask the following questions about trees on their property: • Did it leaf out normally and fully?

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• Is there branch or crown dieback? • Are leaves healthy in appearance? • Are insects or diseases on leaves or bark? “These could be signs a tree is still suffering from stress and might even be dying,” Smith said. Many larger, native trees such as oaks, hickory, red cedar, hollies and magnolias are well adapted to cycles of drought in the Southeastern U.S. Generally, younger and recently planted trees are most vulnerable to drought stress. They lack extensive root systems that help mature, healthy trees withstand drought conditions. Smith offered tips for dealing with trees and shrubs trying to overcome drought stress: Do not fertilize stressed plants. While people might feel this boost of nutrients is helpful, this pushes plants to attempt growth when they need to conserve internal resources. Use mulch to help conserve water. Any amount is helpful, but

3-4 inches is best. Remember, pine trees and most conifers differ from broad-leaved plants. If red or brown needles cover a large area of the canopy, this plant might not survive. Many conifers don’t show early signs of stress. When they do show stress, it’s often too late to salvage the tree. Smith reminded homeowners that now isn’t the time to replace trees killed by drought. “Late fall and winter are considered ideal seasons for tree planting in Alabama,” she said. “During winter months, trees are dormant and transplant shock is greatly reduced.” Winter is typically a wetter time of year, and soil moisture fosters root growth, she added. This helps trees establish a new root system before the heavy demands of blooming and growing new leaves. Winter planting is particularly beneficial in Alabama’s mild winters. The soil remains warm into late fall and early winter, allowing a network of new roots to develop. n

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Elected Officials Enjoy Annual Taste Of Alabama Reception

labama-grown food, flavors and political philosophies spiced up the Alabama Farmers Federation Taste of Alabama reception for around 250 legislators, state leaders and farmers at the Montgomery Federation home office Feb. 15. Legislators and elected officials mingled with constituents and sampled food grown and served by Alabama farmers. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the annual reception highlights agriculture’s importance to Alabama. “This is an opportunity for our leaders to come and spend a little time with elected officials from the state and get to know each other better,” Parnell said. “It’s about building relationships that help when you have future issues.” Macon County farmer Jimmy Bassett said he appreciated getting to thank legislators for their work on behalf of Alabamians.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, right, and Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell, center, sample goose sausage served by Elmore County’s Bob Plaster at the Federation’s annual Taste of Alabama legislative reception.

“They meet with us one-on-one, and we get to talk to them about our concerns,” Bassett said. “We also get to see products from other farmers around the state.”

Alabama Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey and new Attorney General Steve Marshall joined senators and representatives at the reception. n

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new partnership with RFD-TV.” AFC Public Relations Director Jim Allen plays a dual role with the show as executive producer and co-host. “I’m fired up to promote Alabama on television again,” Allen said. “I’ve worked closely with the Federation through the years and, believe me, ‘Simply Southern TV’ is a perfect union of two of the most respected agricultural organizations in the Southeast.” AFC’s Samantha Carpenter is responsible for community and educational reports. Sidney Phelps handles gardening reports sponsored by his employer, Bonnie Plants. From the Federation staff, Kevin Worthington serves as director and reporter, Matt Wilson is the producer, and Mary Johnson is co-host and reporter. Find out more at SimplySouthernTV.net. Follow the crew’s adventures on Facebook and Instagram by search for Simply Southern TV. n

new partnership with national network RFD-TV will expose people across the country to “Simply Southern TV,” a show produced by the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC). Tune in to RFD-TV Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Central Time to relive the first season of “Simply Southern TV.” Each 30-minute episode introduces viewers to unique and interesting parts of Alabama with segments on rural tourism, educational and community events, agriculture and gardening. “This show has been one of the most effective public relations projects the Federation has initiated in the last 20 years,” said Jeff Helms, Federation Communications director and “Simply Southern TV” executive producer. “By offering a mix of stories, we hope to entertain and educate viewers while still appealing to the core membership bases of the Federation and AFC. We’re looking forward to the

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By Lois Chaplin

ybrid tomatoes may bring back some old-fashioned deliciousness. University of Florida tomato breeder Harry Klee and his associates evaluated 398 modern, heirloom and wild tomatoes in a quest to identify genes and compounds that influence flavor. Consumer panels taste-tested over 100 varieties, narrowing the field for researchers to identify volatile and aromatic compounds associated with flavor favorites. With that information, tomato breeders hope to develop hybrids to bring back flavors heirloom varieties are prized for while retaining the large size, yield, shipping and storage qualities commercial growers require. The idea is to breed grocery store tomatoes every bit as delicious as homegrown — especially heirlooms. Tomato flavor has three major components; acids, sugars and volatiles (compounds responsible for aroma). Folks generally prefer sweet fruit, but that’s the hardest quality for breeders to capture in a slicing variety because larger fruit has fewer concentrated sugars. Fortunately for home gardeners,

two varieties are available from the Florida breeding program that combine heirloom flavor with hybrid vigor: Garden Gem and Garden Treasure. While these traditional hybrids (not genetically engineered) are not available from seed companies, gardeners can get 15 seeds of both varieties for a $10 donation to the UF breeding lab at hos.ufl.edu/ kleeweb/newcultivars.html or on Facebook at Garden Gem Tomatoes. Garden Gem bears small, oval fruits (2-2.5 ounces) about two months from transplanting. Taste panels rated it as tasty as its heirloom parent, and it has twice the yield. Plants are semi-determinate, meaning they combine the bushy plant form of determinate types and the continuous fruiting of indeterminate types. Garden Treasure produces classic, red, round fruit (8-9 ounces) that includes parentage from a very large, Brandywine heirloom-type plant. The plants are indeterminate (vining) and bear fruit 70 to 75 days after transplanting. Both are top-rated in taste tests. While many rewards of the UF research are still in the future, gar-

deners can now enjoy improved performance from many heirlooms by growing grafted tomatoes. The heirloom varieties are grafted onto a rootstock that improves their yield and vigor. Although it’s difficult to find grafted plants at retail nurseries, they can be ordered online. Search “grafted tomato plants” to bring up a number of mail-order nursery sources. They cost twice as much as a regular seedling (plus shipping), but the payback comes in better performance. When planting a grafted tomato, don’t follow the usual practice of deep planting. Like in roses and fruit trees, burying the graft will kill the plant. The graft union should be clearly visible. Also be careful not to bury the graft under mulch. Otherwise, treat grafted plants normally with regular watering, fertilization and pest control. A great thing about growing tomatoes at home is the chance to try many different sizes, colors and flavors of fruit. Share the experience with others. In addition to local sharing that happens among Master Gardeners, at botanical gardens, the Extension service and among friends, gardeners can consult online forums. Cornell University offers a helpful online resource inviting gardeners from around the country to rate varieties. Forum search results can be narrowed by state or length of growing season. It’s fun to read results from other parts of the country, too. Register to share your own results at tinyurl.com/RateVarieties. Now that genes associated with flavor have been identified, gardeners can anticipate even more delicious tomatoes at home and in the marketplace. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author. Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

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MEDITERRANEAN LAMB RUB FOR LAMB ROAST Courtesy of Henry Dorough Start-to-finish: 3 hours (30 minutes active)

By Jill Clair Gentry

3-5 pound lamb roast (leg, shoulder or loin; bone-in or deboned) 1 onion, finely chopped Juice from 1 lemon 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Use a small, sharp knife to make 12 incisions through the fat layer covering the top of the meat. Combine all ingredients and mix to form a paste. Rub mixture over meat surface and into the incisions. Allow to sit for at least one hour and up to overnight before cooking. To roast lamb, heat oven to 425 F. Pour 2 cups white wine or chicken stock into a roasting pan. Place lamb on rack of roasting pan fat side up. Roast for 15 minutes; then reduce heat to 350 F and roast until internal temperature reaches 130 F for medium-rare meat, 60 to 90 minutes, basting every 20 minutes. For the last 15 minutes of cooking, place roast under a broiler to crisp the fat. Remove pan from oven and remove rack from pan. Tent the roast with foil and allow to rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Internal temperature should rise to 140 F. Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices and serve. w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

April 2017

labama is a state that loves meat, and for good reason — chickens, cattle and pork are all raised locally and are widely available in restaurants and retail stores. But there’s another meat gaining traction that’s worth adding to the rotation: lamb. Many folks are scared to cook lamb because it’s not as familiar as other meats. But Henry Dorough, Alabama Cooperative Extension System agent and owner of HD Farm in Calhoun County, said it’s much simpler than people imagine. “Lamb is like anything else — if you start with a good product and you cook it properly, you’ll have a great meal,” Dorough said. “You cook lamb to the same temperature as you cook beef, but you can season it differently.” Dorough, who has raised and cooked lamb for more than a decade, said it pairs well with strong seasonings. Spices like cinnamon, allspice, clove and nutmeg complement lamb’s rich, complex flavor. Mint, however, is overplayed

when it comes to lamb, Dorough said. “I just really don’t understand the obsession with mint and lamb,” he said. In addition to adding new LAMB CHOPS Courtesy of Henry Dorough Start-to-finish: 10 minutes Lamb chops Sea salt

Cook 1-inch thick lamb chops on a hot grill approximately 2-3 minutes (less time if the chops are thin) on each side and remove when chops are medium-rare. Sprinkle with sea salt, rest and serve. flavors to the palate, lamb also is packed with nutrients. It’s a great source of protein, as well as immune system-boosting nutrients zinc, selenium, niacin, riboflavin, Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. Dorough said he accidentally stumbled into raising lambs. His son, Matthew, was involved in livestock shows through 4-H, so the

family began raising lambs. After Dorough bought his farm, he and Matthew expanded their flock and supplied lambs to other 4-H members. After showing season was over, Dorough stocked his freezer and those of a few friends’ with fresh lamb. Word soon spread, and demand grew. “After Matthew graduated, we shifted gears and changed our breed selection to raise strictly meat lambs for our customer base,” Dorough said. “We started out selling lambs directly to customers for them to have processed. About three years ago, chefs started approaching me about purchasing lamb, and we began having the meat inspected by USDA so we could sell it in a retail setting.” Now, HD Farm keeps about 70 sheep on the farm and supplies lamb to two restaurants and many individual customers. Matthew, now 24, is in culinary school in South Carolina. “They did lamb in class last week, and he had no problem with it,” Dorough said. “He’s got plenty of experience.” n

LAMB MEATBALLS Courtesy of Henry Dorough Start-to-finish: 30 minutes 1 pound lean ground lamb 1 egg 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup chopped parsley 2 tablespoons mint, chopped (optional) 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon allspice 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon salt 6-ounce container feta cheese

Combine all ingredients and roll lightly into balls (Do not press hard or they will become too dry.) Brown on all sides in an iron skillet over medium heat until caramelized on the outside. Serve as a main entrée; no sauce is needed.

Find these recipes in the “Local Flavor” section of AlfaFarmers.org and save them to a virtual recipe box called “My Recipe Box.” April 2017

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The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Everyone is welcome! ÂŠ 2017 by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. www.aces.edu ACES-2432