Neighbors Magazine, August 2016

VOLUME 41,

NUMBER 8

A Membership Publication of the Alabama Farmers Federation

August 2016

_____________________________________

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 Paul Looney, Athens Phillip Thompson, Scottsboro Rickey Cornutt, Boaz Joe Roberts, Fayette Dell Hill, Alpine Joe Lambrecht, Wetumpka Dan Robertson, Uniontown Garry Henry, Hope Hull Steve Stroud, Goshen Sammy Gibbs, Atmore Fred Helms, Dothan Regina Carnes, Boaz Lance Miller, Snead

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In This Issue

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.

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August 2016

Alfa Scholarship Winners

8

Breaking The DNA Code

16 Finding Treasure In The Forest

22 Follow Flavor To SweetCreek 28 Creative Catfish

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

A member of American Farm Bureau Federation

6

21 Alfa Market Day Delights

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

www.AlfaFarmers.org

Loving Lambs

14 The Hay-Making Innovator

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

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.

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On The Cover 22

Seven-year-old Mason Smith of Blount County practices showing his market lamb. See story on page 4. Photo by Caleb Hicks

Misconceptions About Agriculture

MYTH: Food costs too much. food is some of the most affordable FACT: American – and abundant – in the world, with food costs

representing 6.7 percent of American incomes.

Source: Washington State University 3

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Loving Lambs

Livestock Builds Family Bonds

By Rebecca Oliver

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August 2016

Photo by Debra Davis

howing lambs might not be the most popular hobby for youth in Alabama, but the bond between Blountsville’s Madie Alldredge and her lambs Elvis, Presley and Prince means more than any championship.

Madie, 11, found a buddy in her first lamb, Oreo, who followed her around like a puppy, although he was twice her size. In the show ring, Madie said Oreo gave her a sense of security that made her feel more confident in front of the crowd.

Jana Alldredge, Madie’s mother, said her daughter was shy until age 5 when she won showmanship at her first lamb show.

“I looked at my husband when she won and said, ‘This is it. She’s found her thing,’” Jana said.

Van Alldredge is an agriscience teacher and FFA adviser at J.B. Pennington High School and serves as show coach for daughters Madie and 6-year-old Ella. He recommends how to best manage their sheep for success at the 10 county and state shows they attend across Alabama each fall.

Although daily care of the lamb is Madie’s responsibility, Van said he helps with shearing wool and washing lambs and drives as far as Nebraska to purchase top-notch animals.

“We want to give it our best effort together to win,” Van said.

Madie said showing lambs moti-

Photo by Debra Davis

Jana and Van Alldredge with their daughters, Ella, 6, and Madie, 11, left, take a break in the shade after practicing their lambs. Below, siblings Mackenzie Smith, 8, and Mason Smith, 7, practice leading their lambs in preparation for the upcoming show season.

August 2016

sion Director Nate Jaeger.

“Sheep are unique in that they can be judged for meat, breeding value or wool. Typically, in Alabama, you’ll only see meat and breeding animals.”

Kirk Smith, Mackenzie’s father, serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Meat Goat & Sheep State Committee. He said he wanted Mackenzie and her 7-yearold brother, Mason, to show lambs before later showing cattle, but then they got hooked. They plan to continue showing sheep in addition to cattle.

“We started this as a small program, and it exploded,” said Kirk, who serves on Blount County Farmers Federation’s board of directors. “They each had one lamb the first year, and this year, they had four each.”

The Smiths raise their show lambs on the family farm, and the family Christmas card features Mackenzie and Mason with their lambs.

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Photo by Caleb Hicks

vates her to give her all in every aspect of life.

“If I didn’t show lambs, I probably wouldn’t be as serious about things as I am,” said Madie, who made all As this past school year and has the highest GPA in sixth grade.

About seven miles down the road from the Alldredge farm, the Smith family of Guntersville is preparing their own flock for the show ring.

Mackenzie Smith, 8, has already won two belt buckles since she started showing at age 4 and plans to win more.

“Every day, we come out to the barn to exercise the lambs and practice what we’ll do in the show ring,” Mackenzie said.

Lambs are only two to three months old when weaned from their mother ewes for training. Ideally, showmen place their left hand under the lamb’s chin with their right hand behind the lamb’s ears, leading with no halter. The showman must also train the animal to brace itself with its muscles flexed for judging.

“Market lambs are judged for their muscling to determine which animals will produce the best lamb chops,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Meat Goat & Sheep Divi-

The hard work it takes to raise a lamb develops a sense of responsibility in youth, said Kirk, who teaches agriscience and advises FFA at Appalachian High School.

“It means more when we win with something we raised,” he said.

For these families, the most rewarding aspect of showing lambs isn’t necessarily the large, polished belt buckle — although that doesn’t hurt.

“My kids have friends who live hours away, but as soon as they see each other at shows, they pick up right where they left off,” Kirk said.

“Friendships and family time are the most important thing.”

Those interested in showing lambs should contact their local Alabama Cooperative Extension System county coordinator. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Alfa Scholarship Program Provides $100,000 To Alabama College Students

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he tuition bill for 100 Alabama college students will be a little lower in August thanks to scholarships awarded through the Alfa Foundation.

Each recipient will receive a $1,000 scholarship to use toward tuition, fees, books and supplies required for coursework in the 2016-2017 school year.

“This year’s recipients represent the future of Alabama through a variety of industries, including agriculture, medicine, engineering and education,” said Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell. “We’re confident these students will go on to do great things, and I’m proud our Summer Abston of Butler, University of Alabama Elizabeth Adams of Newville, Auburn University John Spencer Adams of Montgomery, University of Alabama Bart Harrison Adams of Selma, University of Alabama

Foundation can help fund their education.”

Thirty-nine counties and 20 schools are represented by this year’s recipients.

The Alfa Foundation Scholarship program is administered by Scholarship America®, which bases its selection on academics, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals.

In its third year, the Alfa Foundation Scholarship program has awarded $250,000 to students studying at Alabama colleges, universities and technical schools. To view photos of recipients, visit AlfaInsurance.com or go to Facebook.com/AlfaInsurance.

Adrienne Cumming of New Market, University of Alabama

Rachel Leighann Hutto of Hillsboro, University of North Alabama

Madison Daniell of Trussville, University of Alabama

Ashley James of Gadsden, University of Alabama

Chandler Davis of Dothan, University of Alabama at Birmingham

Breana Johnson of Enterprise, Troy University

Mitchell Davis of Millbrook, Auburn University

Jordan Allred of Mobile, Auburn University

Tori Davis of Ozark, University of Alabama

Kathryn Anderson of Guntersville, University of Alabama

Robert Cole Debardelaben of Deatsville, Troy University

Caroline Andrews of Andalusia, Auburn University

Haylee Dorrill of Birmingham, Auburn University

Morgan Ard of Monroeville, University of Alabama

Alexandria Etheridge of Evergreen, Jefferson Davis Community College

Haley Barnett of Thorsby, University of Montevallo Andrew Bell of Tallassee, Auburn University Amber Black of Selma, Troy University Arcole Brandon of Fairhope, Auburn University Robert Trent Bridges of Headland, Auburn University Cierra Brinson of Montgomery, Troy University Grant Brown of Gardendale, Auburn University Austin Browner of New Hope, University of Alabama at Birmingham Caitlin Butler of Ariton, George C. Wallace Community College at Dothan Jasmine Cardwell of Enterprise, Huntingdon College Caroline Carlson of Enterprise, Auburn University Kaylan Colvin of Opelika, Troy University Lauren Condon of Mobile, Huntingdon College Chelsey Cox of Shorter, University of Montevallo

Aubrey Forbus of Rockford, University of Alabama

Zachary Jones of Hazel Green, Auburn University Haley Keaty of Trinty, University of Alabama Elisabeth Kelley of Millbrook, Auburn University Clay Knight of Auburn, Southern Union State Community College Virginia “Ginny” Lampkin of Montgomery, Auburn University

Rachel Friend of Deatsville, Auburn University

Savannah Laurendine of Magnolia Springs, Auburn University

Samuel Gasson of Clanton, Auburn University at Montgomery

Morgan Lemons of Somerville, Auburn University

Callie Giles of Hazel Green, Auburn University

Maura Lyle of Alabaster, Auburn University

Joseph Glidewell of Pell City, Auburn University

Bailey Manning of Toxey, University of South Alabama

Taylor Golden of Florence, University of Alabama

Julie McDaniel of Montgomery, Auburn University

James Nathan Graham of Wetumpka, Samford University

Taylor Morgan McManus of Randolph, University of South Alabama

Hannah Green of Montgomery, University of Alabama at Birmingham

Hannah Meadows of Cottonwood, University of South Alabama

Hayden Hill of Decatur, Calhoun Community College

Olivia Mims of Vestavia Hills, Auburn University

Marla Hogue of Elrod, University of Alabama

Haley Mitchell of Thomaston, Auburn University

Bryan Holmes of Hartselle, Wallace State Community College at Hanceville

Kalen Morgan of Deatsville, Huntingdon College

Olivia Hornsby of Springville, Auburn University

Anna Mosley of Lexington, University of North Alabama

Lauren House of Montgomery, Troy University

Rebecca Murdoch of Montgomery, University of Alabama

Austin Hughes of Decatur, Auburn University w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Mallory Jones of Opp, Troy University

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August 2016

Matthew Myers of Moody, Samford University Nicole Nguyen of Ozark, University of Alabama at Birmingham Reagan Payne of Oxford, University of Alabama Paxton Peacock of Newton, Auburn University Eleanor “Ellie” Pitchford of Scottsboro, Samford University Madison Redmill of Jasper, University of Alabama Alex Reynolds of Dothan, Troy University Brandy Roberts of Jacksonville, Jacksonville State University Emily Robertson of Oxford, Jacksonville State University Timothy Dalton Robertson of Gadsden, University of Alabama Mary Robinson of Hoover, University of Alabama Elizabeth “Beth” Salser of Ashville, Auburn University Ashley Satterfield of Decatur, Auburn University Jayde Scott of Dothan, Troy University Dothan Matthew Seay of Montgomery, Auburn University Kayla Sherbert of Sylacauga, University of Alabama Mary Sittason of Hartselle, University of Alabama Zachary Slay of Five Points, Auburn University William Snell of Birmingham, Auburn University Madison Stephens of Anniston, Auburn University Sarah Stone of Phenix City, Auburn University Lacey Strickland of Huntsville, Samford University Catherine Taylor of Foley, Auburn University Margaret “Maggie” Tipton of Selma, Faulkner University Sarah Elizabeth Truelove of Tuscaloosa, University of Alabama Chandler Turner of Decatur, Auburn University Jordan Turner of Jack, Lurleen B. Wallace Community College Victoria Fayth Watkins of Brent, University of Montevallo Mary Katherine White of Decatur, Auburn University Oakleigh White of Cullman, Troy University Noah Whittington of Frisco City, University of Mobile Caroline Wigley of Gilbertown, University of Alabama Greyson Wilkins of Decatur, University of North Alabama Emily Williams of Fruitdale, Auburn University Colton Williamson of Hazel Green, University of Montevallo August 2016

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HudsonAlpha Researchers Focus On Breaking The Code Of Plant DNA

By Mary Johnson

S

ince scientists at Redstone Arsenal launched the U.S. into the space race in the late 1950s, Huntsville has been known as a center of groundbreaking scientific discovery.

Researchers at Huntsville’s HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology are continuing the trend of exploring uncharted territory, but their goal is more down to earth. Instead of reaching new atmospheric heights, HudsonAlpha faculty investigators Jeremy Schmutz and Jane Grimwood, Ph.D.s, are tasked with decoding plant DNA. They break plants apart to a genetic level and put the pieces back together to build a “reference genome.”

“It’s a bit like putting together a jigsaw puzzle, except there are no corner or edge pieces and no picture to look at to help put it together,” Grimwood said.

“We’re building the picture. That’s what a reference genome is.”

Their data will help other researchers and breeders discover the DNA building blocks that give certain plants desirable traits, such as disease resistance or drought tolerance.

“A lot of U.S. crops have a long history of being selectively bred to improve them compared to the same crop that was first domesticated and grown on the farm,” Schmutz said. “That was all done by a w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Faculty investigators Jane Grimwood and Jeremy Schmutz, Ph.D.s, research plant DNA to build genomes at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology.

breeder walking through the field and selecting which plants to cross.”

With plant DNA testing, Schmutz said breeders can remove the guesswork involved in their jobs and get a better seed to market in fewer growing seasons.

“Historically, a lot of breeding has been done somewhat blindly, but as we understand more about plants and their DNA, it’s much easier to make intelligent decisions about how to make plants better,” he said.

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August 2016

In summer 2014, Alabama Farmers Federation members toured HudsonAlpha, where researchers use sequencing machines, bottom left photo, to decode plant DNA.

“Everything we do here is focused around applying genomics to solve real-world problems and understand what’s going on,” Schmutz said. “Water issues are really going to drive a lot of change in agriculture.”

While Schmutz and Grimwood study plants at the non-profit research institute, another division of HudsonAlpha focuses on human DNA research and discovering links to human diseases. The campus includes an educational facility, where more than 700,000 students and teachers learned about genomic science last year.

HudsonAlpha employs almost 200 people and is a non-profit funded through state and federal research grants. Private donors may also support the institute with donations to the HudsonAlpha Foundation.

For more information, visit HudsonAlpha.org or search for HudsonAlpha on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat. n

Grimwood said their discoveries could soon help Alabama farmers by improving yields for annual crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat and sorghum, and perennial crops including fruit, nut and pine trees. HudsonAlpha research is released publicly once completed and may be used by researchers or public breeders.

“We’re at the forefront of plant genomics, and we’re really pushing where we can go right now with the available technology,” she said. “As we move forward and new technology becomes available, there’s so much more that’s going to be learned about different plants and how they interact with their environments.”

Severe drought in California last year, and the overwhelming task of feeding more than 9 billion people by 2050, reinforces the importance of finding drought-tolerant, high-producing plants.

About HudsonAlpha

• Founded in 2008 • 152 acre campus in Huntsville's Cummings Research Park is the nation’s second-largest research park • Includes three areas: non-profit research institute, education and biotechnology companies August 2016

Jeremy Schmutz, Ph.D., stands next to a wall displaying HudsonAlpha's research projects.

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Alabama Hunters Invited to Attend Game Check Seminars

Jeff Register Building & Truss RegisterFarmBarns.com

T

he Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) wants you to be prepared for the upcoming hunting season. The best way to do this is to attend a Game Check Seminars this summer.

WFF Director Chuck Sykes will host the seminars, which include an overview of the Game Check program followed by a question-and-answer session.

Topics include:

• How to check your game • Why the data is important • What it means to you, the hunter • Changes to the upcoming hunting season

Alabama is one of only three states without a mandatory data collection system. After three years of insufficient reporting into a voluntary program, Alabama’s Conservation Advisory Board has recommended mandatory reporting of deer and turkey harvests via Game Check starting with the 2016-17 hunting season.

To view the complete Game Check seminar visit OutdoorAlabama.com/game-check-seminar-series or call WFF at (334) 242-3465.

More seminars may be added.

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David Bailey

DeKalb County Farmers Federation President Providing for others is second nature to DeKalb County Farmers Federation President David Bailey.

Whether it’s taking care of animals, his family or feeding the world, the 57-year-old is ready to serve.

“It’s a good feeling knowing our farm can raise quality food to feed a lot of people who are unable to feed themselves,” said Bailey.

While growing poultry, cattle, corn, forages, hay and timber isn’t easy, the jack-of-all-trades said he’s learned patience through tiring – but fulfilling – work.

“Just getting out and taking care of the animals and farm is a good and blessed day,” Bailey said.

“Being in a field on an early summer morning makes me feel closer to heaven and gives me a peace I’ve never found anywhere else.”

Bailey and his wife of 37 years, Carolyn, have one son, Jordan, and are members of Victory Baptist Church in Rainsville.

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August 2016

Relationships That Pay Dividends.

“Alabama Farm Credit has been instrumental in the success of my timber operation. It made the loan process easy, and I know I can call any time and get help with whatever I need.”

- Winston Bryant, Cleburne County

FINANCING LAND & FARMS

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AlabamaFarmCredit.com 877-681-6087

New and Used Equipment Purchases Livestock Financing Varying Terms and Rates

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AlabamaAgCredit.com 800-579-5471

Call Alabama Farm Credit or Alabama Ag Credit to learn how low rates and relationship lending help farmers harvest savings that pay dividends.

Member Benefits That Will Save You Money!

AUTO Car seats and booster seats Eligible members can receive a $500 discount

Members save big on select car seats and booster seats

HOME & OUTDOORS

Save big on home security systems

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Save up to $2,000 on certain Caterpillar machines

Discounts off monthly wireless service

TRAVEL & RECREATION

Save 20% at participating Choice Hotel locations

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Discount tickets online to the Georgia Aquarium

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Discounted rates with Enterprise and National Car Rental

BUSINESS

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Receive up to 30% off, plus free shipping.

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For a complete list of member benefits, go to alfafarmers.org/benefits.

Member benefits are available to members only and are subject to change. Some restrictions apply.

Catfish Farmers Oppose Changes To Diminish Inspection Rules

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atfish farmers and health-conscious consumers could feel the impact of a U.S. Senate vote in May to switch catfish inspections from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) back to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Alabama Farmers Federation National Legislative Programs Director Mitt Walker said the move would reverse recent gains in keeping tainted, foreign fish from flooding the U.S. market.

“Since taking over inspections in April, the USDA already stopped two shipments of Vietnamese fish contaminated with banned chemicals from reaching American tables,” Walker said. “The last two years FDA was inspecting fish, only two shipments with known carcinogens were discovered.”

Walker said the Federation appreciates Alabama Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions for voting against transferring inspections

back to FDA. “The track record of past inspections shows those supporting the measure are clearly putting the interests of foreign exporters above the American people,” Walker said.

The measure, S.J. Res. 28, passed the Senate 55-43 and awaits consideration in the House of Representatives. The Catfish Farmers of America expressed disappointment with the Senate vote on such an important food safety issue. n

Applications Sought For Historic Farms

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he Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is seeking applications to honor Century and Heritage Farms to commemorate 100 years or more of continuous family farming operations. Application are due Aug. 26.

The recognition of Century and Heritage Farms began in 1977 when ADAI and Alabama Historical Commission leaders recognized farms that stayed in operation during a period of rapid urbanization across the state.

“The Century and Heritage Farm Program honors those who have stood the test of time and had an important agricultural and historical impact on Alabama,” said state Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan.

Century Farm designations are for farms consisting of 40 or more acres with continuous operation for at least 100 years that are owned by the applicant.

Heritage Farm applications have those same requirements but must have at least one structure 40 or more years old.

More than 600 Alabama farms have been recognized by the program. Interested applicants should contact ADAI's Amy Belcher at amy.belcher@agi.alabama.gov or call (334) 240 7126. n August 2016

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Making Hay While The Sun Shines With Help From Irrigation

By Debra Davis

A

labama Farmers Federation State Hay and Forage Committee members met in Goshen June 30 to discuss the potential irrigation has for their crops.

Steve Stroud, committee second vice chairman and Pike County Farmers Federation president, recently installed a center pivot system to irrigate 76 of the 200 acres where he raises hay. Committee members from Mobile to Colbert counties attended the June 30 meeting. Committee Chairman Joe Potter of Russellville called Stroud an “innovator.”

“What we saw was interesting and something I think we’re going to see more of in our state,” Potter said. “If you don’t cut hay every 45 days (or less), the quality goes way down. With his irrigation system, Steve has removed one of the biggest factors in that equation.

Having water on your hayfield at the right time really does make all the difference.”

Last year was the driest year on record for his farm, said Stroud, 43, who also raises poultry.

“With the demand I have for my hay, I decided then I had to have some insurance,” he said. “This center pivot system is my insurance that my hay can get water when I need it.”

Stroud has farmed nearly all his life — ­ full time since 1996. He said like most new things, there’s still some tweaking to be done on the irrigation system, namely improving his water supply.

The day of the tour, he was installing a second deep well. Even operating at half capacity, the investment is paying dividends, Stroud said.

"At the end of June, I already had three cuttings of hay on this field,” he said. “Normally, that would be just two cuttings. It’s still early, but it looks like I’m going to be able to cut and bale hay every w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Top photo: Federation State Hay and Forage Committee members examine the new center pivot system on Steve Stroud’s Pike County farm. Stroud, lower left, recently installed the system following the driest year in his farm’s history.

three weeks instead of every four weeks, and the quality of the hay is improving, too.”

The Federation’s Nate Jaeger said meetings like the one at Stroud’s farm demonstrate the value irrigation has on a crop raised in all 67 Alabama counties.

“Hay and forages get neglected a lot of times when it comes to irrigation discussions,” said Jaeger, the organization’s Hay and Forage Division director. “But those are among the biggest crops grown in our state. Irrigation provides an opportunity to make a higher quality crop that can be harvested in a timely manner. With a crop 14

as ubiquitous as hay, increasing the quality of the crop adds a lot of value to livestock owners who use it for feed and to the bottom line of farmers who grow it.”

Stroud said more options on his farm are an added bonus of irrigation. More water on hay is his current best investment, he said, but commodity prices could change his focus to other crops in the future.

“If corn goes back up to $8 a bushel, I might not be able to resist using my irrigation to grow some 200-bushel (per acre) corn,” he said.

For more photos of the tour, visit the Federation’s Facebook page. n August 2016

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A SUMTER COUNTY

TREASURE

By Marlee Moore

J

ack Warbington is a go-getter. A community institution. A giver.

An honest-to-goodness steward of the land.

“I believe it all belongs to God, and we’re just stewards of it,” said the 68-year-old, whose 650 acres of timber in Sumter County’s Boyd community includes a beautifully landscaped arboretum in his and wife Susan’s backyard.

Warbington’s property – like the man himself – is a gem, an ideal TREASURE (timber, recreation, environment, aesthetics, sustainable, usable, resources). He takes to heart the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA) motto, “Taking the land God loaned us and making Him proud He did.”

Last October, the Warbingtons received the Gary Fortenberry Partnership Award for Alabama’s Southwest Region at ATFA’s annual meeting, where they were recognized for work hosting Sumter County Classroom In The Forest,

which educates fifth graders on forest stewardship.

Warbington grew up in Choctaw County surrounded by forestry. A summer job at Allison Lumber Co. led to full-time employment after graduating from Livingston University, now the University of West Alabama.

He worked first in manufacturing and then accounting, where he and two business partners formed Automated Accounting System, Inc. in 1978. Their Forest Products Accounting system is procurement software used nationwide for the forest products industry.

Warbington spent years traveling across the Southeast for work.

Now, whenever the semi-retiree is in town, he prefers to pass the days outdoors.

“I just enjoy being outside,” said Warbington, Sumter County TREASURE Forest president. “Some days when it’s 20 degrees and the wind is blowing, I’d rather stay inside, but the summer doesn’t really get too hot to keep me in.”

Jack Warbington and wife Susan converted a horse barn to a shady picnic area on their farm.

The Warbingtons began landscaping their property in 1999 when they converted a horse barn to a picnic area. They annually host a Walk Through The Garden and continually add shrubs, flowers, trees and bluebird boxes to their land.

“Even though Susan might not be out with me picking up sticks, we do all of it ourselves,” said Warbington. Susan owns Dogwood Florist and Gifts and Dogwood Clothier in Livingston.

Their arboretum is flush with daylilies, hydrangeas, elephant ears, banana plants and more. Winding paths – some made from concrete salvaged from Livingston’s sidewalk repair project – lead to a swing, spring-fed pond and chicken coop.

The Warbingtons have hosted Classroom In The Forest five years, and the impact hands-on, outdoor learning about landownership has on students is undeniable, said Alabama Cooperative Extension

System’s David Perry.

“Mr. Warbington is always glad to work with us and provide a place for the kids,” said Perry, Sumter County 4-H regional coordinator.

“When we find someone like that, we try to hold on to them.”

Last year, about 100 students visited stations about waste water management, unmanned aerial vehicles, wildlife and tree management.

“We’re informing the kids that there’s nothing wrong with cutting a tree,” Warbington said. “They often hear about the timber industry destroying the forest, and we show them a different story.”

A quiet man, Warbington would tell anyone he doesn’t love public speaking, but Perry said he obviously takes pride in his work.

“As I got to know him and saw all he was involved in within Sumter County, I realized how much he cares about people,” Perry said.

Warbington’s timber tracts consist of loblolly pines, hardwood bottoms and some longleaf pines,

Warbington and wife Susan cultivate the land with future generations in mind. From left, are Jack and Susan Warbington, granddaughter Katherine Lee Bishop, daughter Lee Bishop and son-in-law Todd Bishop.

with abundant deer, wild turkey and duck populations.

Keeping fire lines pushed, maintaining roads, prescribed burning on a three-year rotation and managing herbicide release are a few practices used to keep the property healthy.

Warbington said he joined ATFA because it promotes hands-on management practices.

ATFA Resource Coordinator William Green said the organization is fortunate to have a model steward and forest educator like Warbington.

“We’re grateful not only for his leadership at the county level, but also for the example he sets for fel-

low landowners,” said Green. “He truly believes in managing his property for multiple uses, from timber production to bluebird houses.”

But Warbington doesn’t spend all his time working the land. He and Susan are active members at Livingston First Baptist Church, and he serves his community as president of the Boyd Barbecue Club and Boyd Cemetery Association. He’s also on Sumter County Water Authority’s board of directors.

He’s passing on life lessons to his grandchildren, Logan and Katherine Lee Bishop, teaching them to care for and conserve the land.

“He’s the hardest working person I know,” said Logan. “Some of the most memorable times of my life have come from planting food plots, helping with prescribed burns and planting fruit and nut trees for no reason other than improving the habitat for wildlife.”

Warbington doesn’t bask in the beauty and glory of his forest. He’s constantly giving back to others and preparing the land for future generations.

“It’s all a work in progress, just like life,” he said. n Livingston Jr. High School students learn about watersheds and their role in maintaining clean, healthy water sources.

August 2016

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FAA Rule Clears The Air For Agricultural Use Of Drones

T

he Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released a rule in June allowing farmers to use Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), or drones, starting in late August, with some restrictions.

The rule applies to UASs weighing less than 55 pounds. It will require operators, who must be at least 16 years old, to register their UAS online, pass a written exam at an FAA-approved testing center and pass a US Transportation Security Administration background check.

Before the rule change, a pilot’s license was required to operate a UAS for commercial purposes.

“With this rule, farmers will have a chance to dramatically

improve their farms,” said Carla Hornady, Alabama Farmers Federation Cotton, Soybean and Wheat

& Feed Grains divisions director.

“Farmers can use the machines to monitor crops and livestock,

so they can be more precise about when to start harvest or quickly locate a cow in the field that is having problems birthing a calf.”

The rule does restrict UAS flights to daylight hours, and the machine must stay in sight of the operator during flight. They cannot be flown within five miles of airports and must stay at or under 400 feet in the air.

An FAA news release stated the rule could generate more than $82 billion for the U.S. economy and create 100,000 jobs in the next 10 years.

There is a 60-day comment period on the final rule, which will take effect in late August. n

County Annual Meetings COUNTY AUTAUGA BIBB

DATE TIME Wed., Aug. 17 7 PM Tue., Aug. 25 5:30 PM

BLOUNT

Thu., Aug. 18 6:30 PM

BUTLER

Mon. Sept. 19 6 PM

CALHOUN

Thu., Aug. 11 6:30 PM

CHAMBERS Mon., Aug. 22 6 PM CHEROKEE Fri., Aug. 5 6:30 PM CHILTON CHOCTAW CLARKE CLAY CLEBURNE COLBERT

Tue., Aug. 16 Tue., Aug. 16 Thu., Aug. 25 Tue., Aug. 16 Tue., Aug. 9 Mon., Aug. 29

7 PM 6 PM 6:30 PM 6:30 PM 6:30 PM 6:30 PM

CONECUH COOSA

Tue., Sept. 13 6 PM Thu., Aug. 11 6:30 PM

COVINGTON Tue., Aug. 23 6:30 PM CRENSHAW Thu., Sept. 8 6:30 PM DALE Mon., Aug. 8 7 PM DALLAS ESCAMBIA

Tue., Sept. 13 6 PM Tue., Aug. 30 6 PM

ETOWAH

Mon., Aug. 8 6:30 PM

FAYETTE

Tue., Aug. 9

FRANKLIN

Tue., Aug. 16 6:30 PM

GENEVA

Tue., Aug. 16 7 PM

6:30 PM

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BUILDING Autauga Co. Ag Center Bibb County Federation Building Frank J. Green Building (BBQ served @ 6) Pioneer Electric Building Calhoun County Federation Building Alfa Service Center Dean Buttram Senior Center Alfa Service Center Alfa Service Center Alfa Service Center Miss Anita’s Café The Mountain Center Northwest - Shoals Community College David Burt Building Old Rockford Schoolhouse Oakwood Lodge E.L. Turner Park Dale Co. Government Building Alfa Service Center Ag Center

ADDRESS 2224 Hwy 14 W. 1101 Walnut St.

CITY Autaugaville Centreville

415 5th Ave. East

Oneonta

300 Herbert St.

Greenville

1535 Pelham Rd. S.

Jacksonville

1006 Ave. A S.E. 229 Dean Buttram Ave. 301 1st St. N 229 S. Mulberry Ave. 148 S. Jackson St. 30 South Park Dr. 6751 Hwy 78 800 George Wallace Blvd.

102 Liberty St. Nixburg Rd & County Rd. 18 13725 Brooklyn Road 93 Ball Park Rd 202 Hwy 123 S

Lafayette Centre

Etowah County Federation Building Fayette Civic Center

125 Broad St.

Gadsden

530 North Temple Ave. 13770 Hwy 43

Fayette

2765 Hwy 52

Geneva

Best Western Plus Russellville Geneva County Farm Center

COUNTY GREENE HALE HENRY

DATE Tue., Sept. 13 Thu., Aug. 25 Tue., Aug. 2

TIME 6:30 PM 11:00 AM 7 PM

HOUSTON

Thu., Aug. 18 6:30 PM

BUILDING Alfa Service Center Catfish Center Wiregrass Research & Extension Center Alfa Service Center

ADDRESS 101 Boligee St. 529 S. Centreville St. 167 E. State Hwy 134

1038 Ross Clark Circle NE JEFFERSON Fri., Aug. 26 10:00 AM Birmingham Botanical 2612 Lane Park Rd. Gardens LAMAR Mon., Aug. 15 6:30 PM Vernon Civic Center 44425 AL Hwy 17 LOWNDES Thu., Sept. 15 6:30 PM Southern Sportsman 9022 US Hwy 80 Lodge West MACON Mon., Sept. 5 6 PM Beck’s Turf Farm 2858 County Rd. 53 MARENGO Tue., Sept. 20 6:30 PM Alfa Service Center 206 Shiloh St. MARSHALL Tue., Aug. 23 7 PM Marshall County 1333 Blount Ave. Federation Building MONROE Mon., Aug. 15 7 PM Monroe County Ag 334 Agriculture Dr. Center MONTGOMERY Mon., Aug. 29 6:30 PM Alfa Home Office 2108 E. South Blvd PERRY Tue., Sept. 6 11 AM Alfa Service Center 406 Pickens St. PICKENS Thu., Aug. 25 6:30 PM Gate Restaurant 404 3rd Ave. NW SHELBY Mon., Aug. 15 6:30 PM Old Courthouse 1854 North Main St. ST. CLAIR Mon., Aug. 8 7 PM Alfa Service Center 32775 US Hwy 231 TALLADEGA Thu., Aug. 18 7 PM Alfa Service Center 314 East Battle St. TALLAPOOSA Tue., Aug. 23 6:30 PM Tallapoosa Co. Farmers 111 North Tallassee Federation Bldg.

St. TUSCALOOSA Thu., Aug. 18 7 PM Bobby Miller Activity 350 Bobby Miller Center Pkwy WALKER Tue., Aug. 16 6:30 PM Walker Co. Federation 903 Airport Rd. Office South WASHINGTON Mon., Aug. 8 7 PM Alfa Service Center 54 Court Street WILCOX Thu., Aug. 11 7:30 PM Lower Coastal Exp. 1192 Earl Hillard Rd. Station WINSTON Thu., Sept. 8 6:30 PM Traders and Farmers 10 Blake Drive Bank

Clanton Butler Grove Hill Lineville Heflin Muscle Shoals Evergreen Rockford Andalusia Luverne Ozark

403 Broad St. Selma 175 Ag Science Drive Brewton

Russellville

18

CITY Eutaw Greensboro Headland Dothan Mountain Brook Vernon Tyler Tuskegee Linden Guntersville Monroeville Montgomery Marion Aliceville Columbiana Ashville Talladega Dadeville Tuscaloosa Jasper Chatom Camden Double Springs

August 2016

A

B LL Bu ig -NE tt ge W on r s

s o N act r nt Co

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Local Farmers Bring Fresh Produce To Alfa’s Home Office

By Rebecca Oliver

A

lfa Insurance and Alabama Farmers Federation employees returned to the company’s roots June 29 as they stocked up on fresh Chilton County peaches, Slocomb tomatoes and other local products at the Montgomery home office’s annual Alfa Farmers Market Day. Five central and south Alabama farmers set up a colorful array of farm-fresh products in Alfa’s parking garage, thankfully shaded from heat near 100 degrees.

“The Alfa Farmers Market Day presents us with a great opportunity to provide our employees with access to a variety of fresh farm products grown and produced by Alabama farmers,” said Alfa and Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Alfa Insurance employee Heather Kirklin said she gladly supported local farmers by purchasing peaches and blueberries at the market.

“Being able to know where the food you purchase comes from makes this market appealing,” Kirklin said. “It’s good to know that the food I purchased here is fresh and has been raised by the person selling it.”

Patty Lambrecht of Wetumpka’s Oakview Farms Granary said she and her husband, Joe, returned to the market this year to meet high demands for stone-ground grits, honey and blueberries.

“The enthusiasm we’ve received from the employees purchasing our products here has been overwhelmAugust 2016

Above: Alfa Insurance employee Heather Kirklin, left, purchases fresh blueberries from farmer Patty Lambrecht of Oakview Farms Granary in Elmore County during the Alfa Farmers Market Day. Left, John Aplin of Slocomb sells tomatoes and corn to employees.

Photos by Caleb Hicks

ing,” Lambrecht said. “Buying fresh and local strengthens the connection people have between the food they eat and where it comes from. They want to buy something picked today.”

Federation Horticulture Division Director Mac Higginbotham said the market day serves as a reminder that farmers and businesspeople must rely on one another.

“We want to remind consumers 21

about the importance of buying local food,” Higginbotham said. “This market allows our employees to see what we are doing to help Alabama farmers and encourages them to shop at other local farmers markets.”

Others offering produce and handmade goods included AA Creamery of Millbrook; Aplin Farms of Slocomb; GiGi’s Fabulous Foods of Montgomery; and Penton Farms of Verbena. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Customers Favor The Flavor Of SweetCreek Farms

By Marlee Moore

A

cross U.S. Highway 231 from Catoma Creek lies a sweet new farmers market and café filling a needed niche for fresh produce in south Montgomery County.

SweetCreek Farm Market opened in late March, but from the look of visitors flowing into the barn-style market, it’s already a Pike Road institution.

“People have been so supportive,” said Reed Ingram, who owns

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

the fledgling market with his wife, Karen. “It’s our goal to provide them with good food and a good experience.”

In a part of the county lacking fresh produce and restaurants, the Ingrams said they’re more than happy to provide healthy, topnotch, hand-selected produce.

“People today are more concerned about what they eat,” said Reed. “This generation is more health-oriented.”

SweetCreek, named for the

22

Karen and Reed Ingram outside their new farm market along U.S. Highway 231 south of Montgomery near Pike Road.

Catoma Creek and the market’s fresh-baked sweets, sells produce from across Alabama, running the gamut from well-known goods like Chilton County peaches and Slocomb tomatoes, to lettuce, onions, peas and watermelons.

“We want to help farmers sell what they grow,” said Reed. “It’s important we take care of our farmers, and it’s important to provide consumers with an opportunity to buy local food whenever possible.”

The market also sells bottled and canned goods, like apple jelly, chipotle peach salsa, hot chow chow and a plethora of pickled products. The food is artfully arranged among vintage decor, including old-timey cash registers, scales and baskets, resembling a bygone era for shoppers.

“Everything here except the bananas and oranges is Alabama-grown,” said Reed. And if he could source those from the Heart of Dixie, he would.

For the Ingrams, educating conAugust 2016

Clockwise, Hattie Smith and Dean Cardiff of Oregon look over fresh vegetables at SweetCreek; Pat Hardy stocks fresh locallygrown lettuce for shoppers; and Carly Ellis, 7, enjoys a cool treat of summer ice cream, a popular item for shoppers of all ages.

sumers about where, how and when their food is grown is key.

“Some people think all foods are available all year long,” said Karen, who regularly chats with customers about locally-sourced, seasonal fruits and vegetables.

SweetCreek was Reed’s dream for two years before Karen hopped on board. Two years ago, concrete plans were made, and today, the 39-employee market is rocking.

“You can either ride the wave or fight it,” Karen said with a laugh. “I loved it once I decided it was a done deal.”

The café’s menu touts items like a family recipe camp stew, authentic Cuban sandwich, turkey club with cranberry sauce, Alabama-raised catfish tacos and dairy-free homemade ice cream.

“We hand-make everything we sell in the cafe,” said Reed. “And we try to take it to another level.”

And then there’s the menu superstar – house-smoked pulled pork on a potato bun with Wickles pickles and jalapeño slaw.

SweetCreek smokes about 2,000 pounds of meat a week for sandwiches and individual Boston butt sales, a number Reed expects will increase during football season.

The Ingrams regularly spend 14 hours a day at SweetCreek, arriving with the kitchen staff at 5 a.m. to bake, cook and prepare for the day.

They are there throughout the day for market hours, which are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. everyday but Sunday, when the market closes at 6 p.m.

But SweetCreek isn’t the only thing keeping the couple busy. Reed serves Alabama’s 75th District in the House of Representatives, and the family owns Reed Ingram Motors in Montgomery, operated by their son, Garrett. Their other son, August 2016

Chase, works for Merck Pharmaceuticals.

Reed has raised beef cattle all his life, enhancing his role on the House Agriculture and Forestry Committee.

“With this market, plus my experience in the cattle business, serving on the ag committee is a good fit,” said Reed. “It goes handin-glove.”

In the few months SweetCreek has been open, visitors have stopped by from across the U.S. on their way south – and even a couple snowbirds headed back to Canada.

“I’ve met people from all but about seven states,” Reed said.

Hattie Smith grew up in Selma, but moved to Oregon 20 years ago.

While visiting family in Montgomery, Smith decided to take a trip down memory lane at SweetCreek.

“We came here to get a watermelon because my daddy used to grow them,” said Smith, who fre23

quents farmers markets in Oregon.

Vestavia Hills couple Joe and Teresa Granger watched SweetCreek’s construction unfold while routinely traveling to Hartford, and when the market opened for business, they had to give it a go.

“We’re south Alabama born and bred, so we love fresh vegetables,” said Teresa. “This is the kind of food we grew up on.”

Although the Ingrams don’t currently grow any produce they sell, they’re planting a pumpkin patch this fall and have plans for vegetable gardens next year.

“Our brains are clicking on the next thing we want to do,” said Karen. “I don’t see an end in sight.”

Find SweetCreek Farm Market on Facebook or email the Ingrams at info@sweetcreekfarmmarket. com. n w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

Etheredge Elected To Lead Livestock Marketing Association

J

erry Etheredge of Montgomery den Stockyards Inc. in Linden. was elected Livestock Marketing At the 2016 LMA Annual ConAssociation (LMA) president at vention, Etheredge challenged LMA the organization’s annual convention members to become more involved in June 29 in Lexington, Kentucky. He the organization. will complete a two-year term leading Additionally, he said LMA memthe nation’s largest livestock marketbers must think about issues and a ing trade association that represents generational perspective, referencing more than 800 local livestock auction LMA’s work toward modernization of markets and allied businesses. the Packers and Stockyards Act, along “I am certainly excited to work for with development of a leadership and help my fellow market owners program for younger market owners across the country,” said Etheredge, and operators. who was elected by his peers. “We “The changes we (LMA) are workrepresent 70 percent of all livestock ing toward will help those of us in markets in the U.S., and 70+ percent business today and the ones who will of all cattle sold are sold through be getting into the livestock marketLMA.” ing business,” Etheredge said.

Growing up in the cattle industry, The LMA, headquartered in KanEtheredge’s first exposure to livestock sas City, Missouri, is North America’s auction markets was as a cattle prolargest membership organization dedEtheredge ducer utilizing his local market for the icated to supporting, representing and sale of calves he’d raised. communicating with and for the entire Today, he owns and operates two livestock markets, livestock marketing sector.

Montgomery Stockyards LLC in Montgomery and LinFor more information, visit LMAweb.com. n

Larry Bowen

Federation State Beef Committee Member Cattleman Larry Bowen’s favorite things sound like lyrics from a country song – newborn calves, freshly cut hay, family time and the smell of muchneeded rain.

“I like knowing I have the honor of caretaker of God’s earth and am a very small part of feeding the world,” said the 64-year-old Randolph County Farmers Federation second vice president.

Bowen, who is on the Federation’s State Beef Committee, raises 100 Beefmaster cattle on his 300acre farm in Woodland. Goats, horses, pigs, chickens and an emu are part of Bowen’s self-proclaimed petting zoo and are taken to area farm day activities.

Recently retired from a 46-year career with AT&T, Bowen said he enjoyed raising his family on the farm and showing them the value of farm life.

Bowen and his wife of 21 years, Debra, attend Ava United Methodist Church, where he is on the Pastor Parish Committee. The Bowens have three children and six grandchildren.

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

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August 2016

Tag! You're It!

T S E FOR

Members' Help Needed To Reach Goal

www.TREASUREforest.org

The Alabama TREASURE Forest Association (ATFA) is redesigning its “I’d Rather be in the Woods” license plate. ATFA has to pre-sell 1,000 tags before the state will start producing SURE these great new tags that showcase a TREA Alabam Association Forest Alabama’s forests. What this means is we need people to commit to putting these tags on 1,000 vehicles. It’s easy to make this commitment, just go to TREASUREforest.org and click on the tag image. Fill out the pre-commitment form, and mail it along with $50 to the indicated address. You’ll get two receipts — one from the ATFA and one from the Alabama Department of Revenue (ADR).

When you’re notified the tags are available, you can either take the ADR receipt to your county probate office and transfer your current tag to the new ATFA tag (a $4 transfer fee applies) or you can wait until your normal tag renewal month and get a new tag with the ADR receipt.

If you already have a “I’d Rather be in the Woods” tag, thank you for your past support. Please take this opportunity to continue

supporting our tag by filling out the form and reserving your tag now. If you’re unable to order a tag by computer or have a question about the tag or this process, call William Green at (334) 612-5235.

It’s easy to do, and the money goes to great programs like Classroom in the Forest and other educational efforts to help the public learn about sound forestry. We need your support to make this new design a success.

So, where would you rather be?

Will you be one of the first people to make this commitment and get your “I’d Rather be in the Woods” tag?

Be sure to visit TREASUREforest.org for membership and other information about the ATFA.

August 2016

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

Todd Dorlon, TMD Landscape Designs

By Lois Chaplin

E

njoying your yard this summer? Or, have repeated pruning and mowing caused frustration? A landscape that takes less work is possible with proper planning and professional help with plant selection and placement.

Fall is a good time to start a garden project or makeover because most woody plants and perennials establish themselves better in cooler weather, and helpful landscape professionals are usually less busy than in spring.

A rule of thumb is to budget 10 percent of a home’s cost to the outdoors, which can include hardscape (paving, walls, etc). That may seem high, but the nice thing about a good design is it can be implemented in stages as time and budget permit while adding value to a home. The main thing is to plan and stay disciplined.

Consider these things: • Eliminate areas that don’t earn their keep. If you don’t enjoy mowing grass, reduce the lawn size. One way to do this is by creating large, sweeping beds of mulch, shrubs or ground cover.

Properly chosen, these require less maintenance than grass and look better than barren places that may be a constant struggle to grow grass.

• Design simple, uncluttered spaces that don’t require constant upkeep. A well-designed hardscape is attractive and useful, often adding outdoor room that can be kept clean with a blower. Design areas of easycare plants that won’t outgrow

their space so there’s little to no pruning. Incorporate a low, flat mowing edge between lawn and beds, reducing the need for trimming, and minimize painted surfaces.

• Say goodbye to monster plants, particularly those that encroach on the window, walkway or driveway. Forsythia, Burford holly and privet (invasive) are commonly used in spaces that are often too small. Extra vigorous vines such as Lady Banks rose or ivy and wisteria (both invasive) can overtake structures. Replace them with plants that fit the space when full grown. Check plant tags for ultimate dimensions; don’t be fooled by their youthful size.

When planning a pruned hedge, choose dwarf and slow-growing shrubs such as a dwarf Korean boxwood. The right plant for the right place is the mantra of good plant professionals. Take a picture of a problem spot to a local nursery for help in choosing optimum size plants.

• Avoid the temptation to plant too closely together. Professional landscapers sometimes over-plant because clients are impatient; don’t demand an

instant look. Cramming plants together ultimately creates more maintenance and reduces the beauty of certain plants as they battle for space. Extra plants are an unnecessary expense. Feed and water your new landscape properly, and it will fill in faster than you think.

• Select tough plants. All plants need regular watering the first few years, but drought-tolerant ones do fine with less water as they mature. Tried and true choices such as oakleaf hydrangea, yaupon holly, arborvitae and wax myrtle won’t put a leak in the water bill and are less likely to need replacing after drought.

For more self-help on a landscape that’s more pleasure than work, check out the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Smart Yards Program, which offers great, free information online and a network of regional pages on Facebook. Search online for “Alabama Smart Yards” for other ways to connect. n Lois Chaplin is an accomplished gardener and author.

Her work appears here courtesy of Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

HOT SUMMER DEALS. WWW.ALAFARM.COM w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

26

August 2016

What’s On Your Plate?

It’s time to reserve strawberry plugs for October delivery!

• 50 plugs per tray • Plugs have an intact root ball • Plugs establish quickly

Best of all Plant plugs in October and harvest sweet strawberries in the Spring!

FREE CATALOG

Support healthy food from local farmers by purchasing a Farming Feeds Alabama license plate. The tag funds education and promotion efforts including Ag in the Classroom, Farm-City Week, agricultural scholarships and youth programs. Get the “Ag Tag” today at your local license plate issuing office.

August 2016

27

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

GRILLED CATFISH Courtesy of Anne Drury Start-to-finish: 50 minutes 3- to 5-ounce catfish fillets Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Juice of fresh lemon

Heat grill to medium. Clean grill grate well, and spray with cooking spray.

Baste catfish fillets with olive oil. Salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze lemon juice over fillets.

Cook indirectly (top rack of gas grill or not directly over charcoal) for 45 minutes.

By Jill Clair Gentry

A

labama-raised catfish is known worldwide for its quality and taste. Whether fried, baked, grilled or featured in gumbos, stews and chowders, catfish is an ingredient that gets people excited to sit down and eat.

When Bubba and Anne Drury of Greensboro built their first catfish pond in the rich, black soil of Hale County in 1980, they couldn’t have foreseen the impact catfish would have on their family and community. The Drurys now raise catfish on more than 650 acres of water, and Bubba is a board member of both the Hale County Farmers Federation and the Federation’s State Catfish Committee. Earlier this year, he was chosen Alabama’s Catfish Farmer Of The Year by fellow producers across the state.

Raising catfish lends itself naturally to hosting countless fish fry events and serving a lot of catfish at home, but Anne said the impact

reaches even deeper than the dinner table.

“We take pride in having good, quality fish and a clean, workable operation,” Anne said. “It’s huge for us to have the fish here because the industry employs so many people — from our own employees to the people who transport the fish to those who work at the plant that processes the fish. It’s a great industry for our state. It’s something we are very proud of.”

Anne’s favorite way to eat catfish is fried, but there are several alternatives she likes to serve as well.

“Of course, when we get together a large group, 99 percent of the time we do a big fish fry with hush puppies and cabbage slaw,” she said. “But if it’s just a few people, I like to grill or broil it and serve with a butter-based sauce or a crab meat au gratin topping. Most people only fry catfish, but it can be just as delicious baked or grilled if it’s spiced up the right way.”

CATFISH QUICHE Courtesy of USCatfish.com 2 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets, cooked and flaked 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons flour 2 large eggs, beaten 1/2 cup whole milk 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated 1/2 cup green onion, thinly sliced 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust or 8 mini pie crusts

Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, beat together mayonnaise, flour, eggs, milk, salt and pepper.

Fold in catfish, cheese and onion. Pour into pie crust. Bake in middle of oven for 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cool on wire rack 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, if desired. Serves 2.

Find these recipes in the “Local Flavor” section of AlfaFarmers.org and save them to a virtual recipe box called “My Recipe Box.” w w w. A l f a F a r m e r s . o r g

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August 2016

CATFISH SWEET POTATO CAKES Courtesy of USCatfish.com

BACON POTATO CATFISH CASSEROLES Courtesy of USCatfish.com

4 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets Salt 3 sweet potatoes 1 russet potato ½ bulb roasted garlic, mashed 1 egg, beaten 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped 1 egg, beaten 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Olive oil Fresh tarragon or cilantro

4 U.S. Farm-raised catfish fillets 12 ounces lean smoked bacon 14 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided 1 tablespoon Blackened Seafood Magic seasoning, divided ½ teaspoon parsley ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 4 ounces cream cheese 3 green onions, chopped

LIME MAYONNAISE 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped ½ cup mayonnaise 1 lime, zested 1 tablespoon lime juice

Heat oven to 350 F. Fry bacon until crisp and crumble. Place hash browns in paper towels and remove excess moisture.

Mix bacon, hash browns, ¾ cup cheddar cheese, 2 teaspoons Blackened Seafood Magic seasoning, parsley, salt and pepper.

Place one catfish fillet in each ramekin. Season the 4 fillets using a teaspoon of Seafood Magic. Lightly press potato mixture on each fillet, mounding in the middle. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake 15-20 minutes or until done.

Garnish with a dollop of cream cheese and green onions.

Heat oven to 350 F. Season catfish fillets with salt. Lightly spray a small baking dish with vegetable oil.

Place fillets in dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until done.

Let cool and flake.

Peel and chop potatoes. In a medium boiler, cover potatoes with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer until potatoes are soft. Drain.

Mash potatoes in a large bowl and set aside to cool.

When cool, add garlic, egg and tarragon; gently fold in catfish flakes.

Shape into 3-inch cakes. Dip in beaten egg, then in breadcrumbs. Chill cakes in the refrigerator 30-60 minutes to firm them.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cakes until golden brown. Place on paper towel to drain.

Top with a teaspoon of lime mayonnaise and garnish with a sprig of fresh tarragon or cilantro.

To make lime mayonnaise, combine all ingredients and chill.

August 2016

BEST FRIED CATFISH Courtesy of Anne Drury Start-to-finish: 20 minutes 3- to 4-ounce U.S. farm raised catfish fillets, cut into 2-inch strips Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning or other spice blend Zatarain’s Seasoned Fish-Fri

Sprinkle fish strips with seasoning. Coat strips in FishFri. Deep fry in 350 F peanut oil for 7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

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

Why Soybeans?

The United States is the top soybean producing country in the world. Soy is one of the few plants that provides a complete protein, containing all eight amino acids essential for good health. Soybeans grown in Alabama are primarily used for animal feed, but can be used in a variety of products including adhesives, ink, cosmetics and foam padding. More than 800 soy-based products have been developed with farmer checkoff dollars since 1990.

“The Soybean Checkoff conducts research and promotion among domestic and international customers who make feed, food, industrial products and more. Those activities create and expand markets for U.S. soybeans.”

— John E. Walker III, Tuscaloosa County Soybean Farmer

A DIVISION OF THE ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION

Paid for by Alabama Soybean Producers Checkoff.