Cooperative Farming News - Summer 2024

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Cooperative Farming News

YOUTH MATTERS

16 PALS 17 4-H Extension Corner: Morgan County: A Win Like No Other 20 FFA Sentinel: Winners of the National FFA Living to Serve Grant

56 On the Cover:

A pallet of freshly harvested Zyosia sod at Dixie Sod Farm in Alpine, Alabama.

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CO-OP MATTERS

Co-op Corner: 22 A One-of-a-Kind Legacy: New Market AG Supply 26 Co-op Interns for 2024 30 Livestock Production Specialists 58 Meet the Board: Jeff Sims

LIFE ON THE HOMEPLACE AND IN THE COMMUNITY

56 S trong Roots Grow Lucious Lawns Dixie Sod Farm 68 Nancy and Darren Gill An Incredible Labor of Love

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Letter from the Editor........................ 4 Ag Insight........................................... 8 Business of Farming........................... 12 From the State Vet’s Office................. 14 Sweet Grown Alabama....................... 31 Homegrown with Bonnie Plants........ 32 Leading the Way with Faithway......... 34 What’s the Point................................ 36 Feeding Facts ..................................... 38 Horse Sense from Purina.................... 40 Outdoor Logic with BioLogic............. 42 Cooking with Stacy Lyn...................... 47 Farming Your Forest........................... 48 Shepherding Outdoors....................... 52 Raising the Herd................................ 60 Hooked on Aquaculture..................... 64 Howle’s Hints..................................... 71 Simple Times...................................... 74 Grazing Grace..................................... 76 Magic of Gardening............................ 78 Lawn & Garden Checklist.................. 80 Food Safety......................................... 82 The Co-op Pantry............................... 84 What’s Happening in Alabama............ 88

CONTENTS

OUR REGULARS

Summer 2024

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Letter from the Editor 4

Whew, it’s hot out there! Despite the heat and humidity, I truly enjoy the longer days of summertime. In this season of my life, there’s absolutely nothing better than playing with my 2-year-old son in the backyard, checking the progress of the veggies in my raised bed and sitting on the patio with my husband.

This is the “wait and see” season for farmers who hope their hard work and preparation during planting season pays off. As the Co-op stores stay busy by stocking shelves with musthaves, they’re also planning ahead to harvest and hunting season.

On the cover is freshly harvested sod from Dixie Sod Farm. The owner acknowledges the uniqueness of his field and explains how there’s more to sod than meets the eye. We also get in touch with AFC’s new Board Chairman Jeff Sims, get a history lesson from Alabama’s only Valley dealer New Market Ag Supply and meet several new faces you’ll be seeing around some of the Co-ops.

This issue also has heartwarming stories from your regular favorites and informative pieces on the latest news in agriculture and its various industries. If you enjoy grilling, now is your time to shine! Our Co-op Pantry has you covered with flavorful dishes from appetizers to mains and even an easy, delicious grillable dessert.

When the summer heat starts getting to you, just remember that cooler temperatures will be here before you know it so enjoy the warm rays of sunshine while you can. Thank you for being a loyal reader, customer and part of the AFC family.

Tiffany Lester Editor-in-Chief

Cooperative Farming News

Family • Integrity • Per severance • Stewardship

Cultivating meaningful life on and off the farm. ®

Summer 2024

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Editor-in-Chief: Tiffany Lester Advertising, Editorial, Subscription and Publication Offices 121 Somerville Road NE Decatur, AL 35601-2659 P.O. Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609-2227 256-308-1678 AFC Officers Rivers Myres, President Jeff Sims, Chairman of the Board AFC Board of Directors Brooks Hayes, Vice-Chairman Rickey Cornutt, Matt Haney, Ben Haynes, Rick Hendricks, Steve Stroud, Mike Tate and David Womack Honorary Directors Sam Givhan, Bill Sanders and Lawrence Smith

Visit our website to subscribe to our magazine.

You can also purchase all of your Co-op swag and your own copy of The Co-op Kitchen Cookbook!

Subscription $10 per year For subscription inquiries or change of address: P.O. Box 2227, Decatur, AL 35609-2227 or call 256-308-1678 Subscribe online at https://www.alafarm.com/magazine To advertise: Wendy McFarland 334-652-9080 or email McFarlandAdVantage@gmail.com Cooperative Farming News is published quarterly

by Alabama Farmers Cooperative, Inc.

121 Somerville Road NE, Decatur, AL 35601-2659 P.O. Box 2227, Decatur, AL 35609-2227

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and will not be responsible for copy errors or misprints in advertising or editorial material, other than to publish corrections of errors in fact. Feature articles, news items and columns are published for the information of our readers from qualified, reputable sources; however, the editors and publisher make no guarantees and assume no liability for any reader’s decision to implement any procedure, recommendation or advice printed in this publication.

Photos are credited to author unless otherwise noted.

Advertised sale items may not be stocked by every Quality Co-op store and prices may vary.

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www.alafarm.com Postmaster: Please send notice of address change (enclosing latest address label) to Publication Office: Cooperative Farming News P.O. Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609-2227

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Cooperative Farming News

FOLLOW US: @alafarm_coop

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Altha Farmers Cooperative Blountstown, FL - James Lynn, Gen. Mgr. Phone 850-674-8194

Atmore Farmers Cooperative Atmore - Todd Booker, Gen. Mgr. Phone 251-368-2191 Blount County Farmers Cooperative Oneonta - Eric Sanders, Gen. Mgr. Phone 205-274-2185 Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative Tim Wood, Gen. Mgr. Demopolis - Tom Eunice, Mgr. Phone 334-289-0155 Faunsdale - Bryan Monk, Mgr. Phone 334-628-2681 Selma - Thomas Reeves, Mgr. Phone 334-874-9083 Cherokee Farmers Cooperative Centre - Seth Eubanks, Gen. Mgr. Phone 256-927-313 Jacksonville - Tommy Thomas, Mgr. Phone 256-435-3430 Piedmont - Nick Hughes, Mgr. Phone 256-447-6560 Clay County Exchange Lineville - Jeff Kinder, Gen. Mgr. Phone 256-396-2097 Colbert Farmers Cooperative Daniel Waldrep, Gen. Mgr. Leighton - Brad Balentine, Mgr. Phone 256-446-8328 Tuscumbia - Chuck Hellums, Mgr. Phone 256-383-6462 Dekalb Farmers Cooperative Jason Plunkett, Gen. Mgr. Albertville - Brad Childress, Mgr. Phone 256-878-3261 Crossville - Tina Watkins Preuit, Mgr. Phone 256-528-7188 Rainsville - Cody Etherton, Mgr. Phone 256-638-2569 Elberta Farmers Cooperative Elberta - Justin Brown, Gen. Mgr. Phone 251-986-8103 Farmers Co-op of Ashford Ashford - Timothy Tolar, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-899-3263

Farmers Cooperative, Inc. Barry Long, Gen. Mgr. Live Oak, FL - Judd Chancey, Ag Div. Mgr. Phone 386-362-1459 Madison, FL - Virginia Kurtz Phone 850-973-2269 Genco Farmers Cooperative Enterprise - Ricky Wilks, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-347-9007 Elba - Colin Morris, Mgr. Phone 334-897-6972 Hartford - Todd Smith, Mgr. Phone 334-588-2992 West Geneva - Robert Pittman, Mgr. Phone 334-898-7932 Headland Peanut Warehouse Co-op Headland - Chris Hix, Gen Mgr. Phone 334-693-3313 Jay Peanut Farmers Cooperative Jay, FL - Ryan Williams, Gen. Mgr. Phone 850-675-4597 Luverne Cooperative Services Luverne - Perry Catrett, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-335-5082 Madison County Cooperative Hazel Green - Keith Griffin, Gen. Mgr. Phone 256-828-2010 Meridianville - Matt Dunbar, Mgr. Phone 256-828-5360 New Market - Jessica Jenkins, Store Mgr. Matt Winstead - Irrigation Mgr. Phone 256-379-2553 Scottsboro - Ramsey Prince, Mgr. Phone 256-574-1688 Marion County Cooperative Hamilton - Steve Lann, Gen. Mgr. Phone 205-921-2631 Fayette - Kellie Trull, Mgr. Phone 205-932-5901 Haleyville - Jessica Steward, Mgr. Phone 205-486-3794 Marshall Farmers Cooperative Holly Pond - Brian Keith, Gen. Mgr. Phone 256-796-5337 Arab - Mark Upton, Mgr. Phone 256-586-5515

Morgan Farmers Cooperative Bradley Hopkins, Gen. Mgr. Hartselle - Jason Pealor, Mgr. Phone 256-773-6832 Pike County Cooperative Goshen - Danny Dewrell, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-484-3441 Troy - Jeff Baron, Mgr. Phone 334-566-1834 Quality Cooperative, Inc. Greenville - Daniel Salter, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-382-6548 Taleecon Farmers Cooperative Notasulga - Scott Hartley, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-257-3930 Wetumpka - Timothy Richardson, Mgr. Phone 334-567-4321 Talladega County Exchange Talladega - Chris Elliott, Gen. Mgr. Phone 256-362-2716 Ashville - Bridgette Barnett, Mgr. Phone 205-594-7042 Columbiana - Barry Keller, Mgr. Phone 205-669-7082 Pell City - Joseph Taylor, Mgr. Phone 205-338-2821 Randolph - Tim Brown, Mgr. Phone 256-357-4743 Tennessee Valley Cooperative John Curtis, President Athens – Britt Christopher, Mgr. Phone 256-232-5500 Courtland - John Holley, Vice Pres.

Phone 256-637-2939 Elgin - Jeff Hendrix, Mgr. Phone 256-247-3453 Florence - Reggie Shook, Vice Pres.

Phone 256-764-8441 Grassy - Robbie Neal, Mgr. Phone 256-229-6664 Lynnville, TN - Kyle Doggett, Mgr. Phone 931-527-3923 Moulton - John Holley, Vice Pres.

Phone 256-974-9213 Pulaski, TN - Jeff Wales, Mgr. Phone 931-363-2563 Tuscaloosa Farmers Cooperative Wayne Gilliam, Gen. Mgr. Northport - Cole Gilliam, Mgr. Phone 205-339-8181 Walker Farmers Cooperative Jasper - Cody King, Gen. Mgr. Phone 205-387-1142

*Please contact each store directly for all of the services they offer* PEANUTS PECANS PROPANE PEA SHELLING CATFISH

DIRECTORY OF MEMBER COOPERATIVES

Andalusia Farmers Cooperative Andalusia - Russell Lassiter, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-222-1851 Florala - Todd Caraway, Mgr. Phone 334-858-6142 Opp - Brandon Bledsoe, Mgr. Phone 334-493-7715

Farmers Cooperative Market Doug Smith, Gen. Mgr. Frisco City - Tim Goldman, Mgr. Phone 251-267-3175 Fertilizer Phone 251-267-3173 Leroy - Jeff Hughston, Mgr. Phone 251-246-3512

Summer 2024

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AG INSIGHT

AG INSIGHT

BY J I M E R I C K S O N

USDA sanctions produce businesses for contract violations

Tuskegee professor receives Hall of Fame recognition

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has imposed sanctions on three produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA. The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry: •R ooted Connections LLC, operating out of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., for failing to pay a $12,654 award in favor of a Texas seller.

• Trinity Vegetable Company LLC, operating out of Elberton, Ga., for failing to pay a $34,873 award in favor of a Georgia seller.

•E fruit Fresh Produce LLC, operating out of Laredo, Texas, for failing to pay a $13,046 award in favor of a California seller.

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Cooperative Farming News

USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) inducted David Suarez, research leader for the Exotic and Emerging Avian Viral Disease Research Unit at the U.S. National Poultry Research Center, into its Science Hall of Fame for his outstanding research on avian influenza, Newcastle disease, and emerging zoonotic viruses. Suarez also prioritizes mentoring the new generation of researchers. He served as a major professor for three Ph.D. students at the University of Georgia and has been the major professor for two master’s degree students (one at the University of Georgia and one at Tuskegee University).

Q: How many eggs do you recommend a person eat a day? I heard eggs are a good source of protein but also high in cholesterol.

A: Eggs are one of the top searched food items on Nutrition.gov. Eggs can be part of a healthy diet. As you mentioned, they are a good source of protein. More research has come out saying that the cholesterol in eggs does not directly increase cholesterol levels. One egg per day is not associated with heart disease risk in healthy individuals.

Q: Is there somewhere I can go to calculate nutrient requirements?

Some answers to popular nutrition questions ARS registered dieticians Courtney Thompson and James Can with the National Agricultural Library’s Food and Nutrition Information Center answered popular questions about nutrition and how to find reputable, science-driven information about human nutrition, including diets, fats, carbs, supplements and disease prevention. Below are answers to a sampling of questions posed to them: Q: What kinds of questions do you get the most?

A: The most common questions are requesting resources for specific health conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease. Our second-most-requested topic is regarding specific nutrients in foods.

Q: There are a lot of claims about how certain foods or vitamins can reduce cancer and other major diseases. How do I know if these claims are true?

A: Cancer and other major diseases are complex, and while nutrition plays a role in risk reduction, it is rarely the case that a single food or vitamin can have a strong preventative effect. That said, a diet that broadly promotes generally healthy, balanced eating with adequate intake of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients has been shown to reduce the risk of major diseases.

A: Our DRI Calculator can be used to find an individual’s estimated daily nutrient needs. For more information about interpreting these recommendations or to learn more about dietary approaches to ensure adequate intake of those nutrients, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and USDA MyPlate are great resources.

Research on possible lanternfly control strategy under way USDA scientists have discovered that the spotted lanternfly, an invasive threat to fruit crops and many trees, may have an Achilles heel – an attraction to vibration.

A native of China, the insect was discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to 13 other states. Though beautiful as an adult, the insect is a voracious eater that feeds on woody and ornamental trees as well as a wide variety of crops and plants.

Left unchecked, Pennsylvania alone could lose hundreds of millions of dollars and thousands of jobs.

Richard Mankin, an entomologist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service’s Center for Medical, Agricultural, and Veterinary Entomology in Gainesville, Florida, and colleagues found a new way to potentially corral and control the pests. Their research was published in the Journal of Economic Entomology.

“There were rumors that lanternflies are attracted to vibrations of buzzing electrical power lines, so we did a laboratory study of nymph and adult responses to 60-cycle (60Hz) vibrations,” Mankin said. “The rumor proved to be correct! Both nymphs and adults Summer 2024

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walked towards the source of [the] vibrations.”

Most power lines in North America carry alternating current electricity at a rate of 60Hz. Using vibration to entice the lanternflies to gather is a major step toward improving control methods. Mankin said that further research will focus on traps and finding ways to disrupt spotted lanternfly mating behavior.

Successful development of an integrated pest management program could result in growers using less insecticide applications – saving time, energy, and money. It could also help reduce risk of pesticide exposure to pollinators and other inadvertent impacts to the environment.

USDA Outlook Forum marks 100th anniversary, notes changes affecting agriculture This year marks the 100th anniversary of USDA’s Agricultural Outlook Forum.

Productivity gains, economic growth, technological advancements and market liberalization have all contributed to the expansion of agricultural trade during the forum’s existence, while providing a look at what lies ahead and how equally-important it is to evaluate what we have learned from the prior 100 years, as well as what lies ahead and how sustainable growth in international trade can be ensured.

As a nation, the United States has a long history and tradition of taking on global challenges and addressing food insecurity around the world. Due in no small part to mechanization and scientific progress, the U.S. has nearly tripled its productivity over the last century, opening new opportunities for food and agricultural exports.

During World War II, nations around the world turned to the U.S. to compensate for war-torn Europe and Asia. As a result, in 1942, we exported more than $1 billion worth of food and agricultural products worldwide. Before the war ended, that number had doubled.

A major jump followed in the 1970s, as changing diplomatic relations opened new markets for agricultural exports to the Soviet Union and China, and the strengthening of relationships U.S. exporters had with partners in both Europe and Japan.

The combined effects of these changes coupled with technological innovation led to a 400 percent increase in U.S. exports by 1980, topping the $40-billion mark.

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Cooperative Farming News

In the past two decades, U.S. food and agriculture exports have continued to boom. The use of packaging innovation has enabled our nation to export more products, extend the shelf-life of packaged products and reduce food waste as well as drive new sustainable solutions forward.

For the first time in history, food and agricultural exports from the U.S. exceeded $100 billion in 2008.

The new trade expansion was only the beginning. The nation exceeded $150 billion in exports for the first time in 2014, and just a year ago, in 2022, we were close to surpassing $200 billion.

It’s prime time for wild blueberries

August is prime time for wild blueberries, also known as “lowbush” blueberries, in the U.S. While over 95% of wild blueberries are produced in Maine, wild blueberries are native to most of the northern U.S. Wild blueberries are perennial plants that naturally establish themselves following disturbance, and the location of many existing wild blueberry barrens can be traced back to the last period of glaciation in the U.S. While you can grow wild blueberries from seed, it can be challenging to do so, and can take 8-10 years for plants to mature and produce berries.

Wild blueberries also thrive in very unique soil and environmental conditions that are not widespread. So, most commercial wild blueberry barrens are naturally occurring fields that growers nurture, including with regular disturbance (either mowing or fire) occurring every 2-3 years to increase yields.

These regular disturbances, along with the high genetic diversity that occurs within these natural barrens of wild blueberries due to centuries of evolution in place, mean that relatively few pesticides are typically required to grow wild blueberries.

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“The team at Alabama Farm Credit knows how to communicate well and have a focus on educating their members. It is important to have people that I can trust to tell me, this is what would be best for you and here’s why.”

-Erin Duke AFC Member

Hear from our members.

Together we grow.

ALABAMAFARMCREDIT.COM

Summer 2024

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BUSINESS OF FARMING

DOES APPLYING POULTRY LITTER TO COOL SEASON GRAZING MAKE DOLLARS AND SENSE?

BY D E N N I S B R O T H E R S & R I S H I P R A S A D In the Southeast, the opportunity to extend grazing into the fall and winter is one benefit of our relatively mild winters. Summer is the time to start planning for fall forages. Whether grazing established fescue grass, annual legumes or ryegrasses, or small grains like oats, wheat or rye, or some mixture of these, the ability to graze a growing crop is often seen as more desirable and less expensive than feeding hay and supplements. No matter what your choice of grazing crop, proper soil fertility is always important for good yield. In much of the Southeast, poultry litter application to spring pastures is a common practice to boost soil fertility. This might lead one to the obvious

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Cooperative Farming News

questions – “Does applying poultry litter to cool season grazing make dollars and sense too?”

To arrive at the answer, several factors should be considered. First, one must choose a forage crop and know the soil nutrient requirements of the chosen forage. Then, a soil fertility test is needed. Valuable assistance in these can be found at www.ACES.edu or talking with your local ACES Extension agent, or the local Alabama Farmer’s Cooperative field specialist.

It is commonly accepted that poultry litter has nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P205-K20) makeup of approximately 3-3-2, or 3% N, 3% P and 2% K per pound. However,

this is highly variable and dependent upon multiple factors. Just because you have one ton of litter does NOT mean you necessarily have 60 pounds of N, 60 pounds of P and 40 pounds of K, or that it is available to the plants. Perhaps the most impactful to litter’s nutrient value is moisture content. It has been shown that a 10% increase in moisture level can equal as much as a 46% decrease in N per ton. The overall nutrient content fluctuates and is generally recognized as increasing with the number of flocks grown on the litter. This is especially true for “clean-out litter” – where a poultry house is totally cleaned to the ground after several flocks and that litter is spread. However, if the litter in question is “de-cake litter," it is likely going to be high moisture and of only one or two flocks.

Moreover, even if those above amounts existed in the expected ratio, they may not be readily available to the plants due to soil and/or litter pH, or they may leach through the soil before the plants can utilize them due to higher rainfall rates in the fall/winter. Other soil factors that influence the process of mineralization of organic nutrients also inhibit nutrient availability from fall litter and impact how much one should consider paying for it.

For example, let’s make a few assumptions to help us find an answer. First, we will assume ryegrass is our chosen forage and we are targeting about a ton per acre production. Research has shown that some common varieties of ryegrass take at least 30 lbs. of N per acre to achieve this goal. If we assume the cost of commercial nitrogen fertilizer (ammonium sulfate -34% N) is $600 per ton

spread on the field at a rate of 90 lb. per acre, for approximately 30 lbs. of N, the cost is $27 per acre.

To get the same quantity of N from litter, it would require one-half ton per acre for litter meeting the 3-3-2 ratio. In that case, the litter will need to cost no more than $54 per ton spread to equate to commercial fertilizer in simple pounds of N and dollars per acre. While it is always highly recommended to have litter tested for nutrient value, it could be more important in the fall, as it is uncommon for poultry growers to clean out their houses during the fall or winter. This means only lower quality “single flock de-cake litter” might be readily available. It may take more than a ton per acre of lower quality litter (fewer flocks, high pH, high moisture) to get 30 lbs. of N on our ryegrass. This could force the breakeven price of litter closer to $20-$25 per ton spread. Further, most litter spreading equipment can only be calibrated to spread as little as two tons per acre accurately. This brings the breakeven price of litter down to $10$14 per ton. Of course, you automatically get some additional P and K from litter, as well as other micronutrients, but this example is only taking nitrogen into consideration as often only nitrogenous fertilizers are spread on fast-growing, fast-consumed fall annual crops.

For all these reasons, it is generally not recommended that poultry litter be considered for fall grazing if purchasing fertilizer. Unless litter is tested and found to be of prime value, commercial fertilizers are likely your better choice to maximize your fall and winter forage crops.

In much of the Southeast, poultry litter application to spring pastures is a common practice to boost soil fertility.

Summer 2024

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FROM THE STATE VET'S OFFICE

HIGHLY PATHOGENIC INFLUENZA (HPAI) DETECTED IN DAIRY CATTLE

BY D R . T O N Y F R A Z I E R I do not want to spend much time on this, but influenza viruses all have a name. Their names are H, with a number and N, with a number. The old swine flu virus that has made an appearance on and off for years, with the 2009 world-wide outbreak being classified as a pandemic, was named H1N1. Since the early 2000s and maybe a little earlier in some obscure corners of the world

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Cooperative Farming News

there has been a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus that has just refused to go away. Its name is H5N1. The H5N1 virus hung around Asia and Europe for several years before deciding to move to North America and the United States.

The first time the HPAI virus, H5N1, was detected in the United States seems to have been around 2008. It has been detected at various

times since then, but it is still considered a Foreign decided that the virus can be transmitted from one Animal Disease. Many of you probably remember cow to another and that most likely mechanically. when the virus hit the table egg segment of the Scientists continue to study the virus and how it poultry industry and egg prices got close to $5.00 behaves in dairy cattle. a dozen. Just recently some table egg farms in the The affected cattle have mostly recovered. And United States were hit by the virus and we will have it has been discovered that both cattle and poultry to see how that will affect egg prices. respond to antiviral drugs used to treat the flu in My kids used to watch a Winnie the Pooh carpeople. I am not sure that they ever plan to treat livetoon where Winnie commented to Christopher Robin, stock and poultry for the virus, but it is good to know “You know, Christopher Robin, you can just never tell that it does respond to the antiviral drugs we have on about bees.” Well, as a person who has a hive or two the market. myself, I would have to disagree with that statement.

There has been one reported case of a human It is not bees you can never tell about. It’s viruses. being infected with the virus that was associated Viruses sometimes mutate or reinvent themselves with the disease in dairy cattle. A worker on one just to pass the time – and to sustain themselves, I of the dairies that was positive for the HPAI virus suppose. The H5N1 virus has been around for a long tested positive for the H5N1 virus. Apparently, the time. It has occasionally jumped species and infect- dairy worker exhibited signs that were more like ed a wide variety of mammals but has never become pinkeye. He was treated and apparently recovered a significant risk in other uneventfully. Human risk is species. considered to be low; howRecently, the H5N1 virus ever, it is a good idea to use has been confirmed in sevprecautions around animals eral wild mammals including that are sick with respiratory seals, bears, opossums, disease. foxes, raccoons, skunks, Some states began to and bobcats. In fact, over put restrictions on cattle 200 detections have been coming from those states confirmed in wild mammals with farms with confirmed since 2020. The virus has positive cattle. Earlier this been and continues to be month, I notified states that closely monitored by USDA cattle from a positive farm Wildlife Services and USDA would not be allowed to Veterinary Services and pretmove to Alabama without In late March of this year, the H5N1 ty much anybody else who written permission. On April virus was detected in dairy cows on has an interest such as the 24, USDA announced the ima farm in Texas. The cattle went off Centers for Disease Control plementation of regulatory feed, ran a fever, dropped in milk (CDC) and the FDA (FDA). requirements on dairy cattle production, and had a few other In late March of this year, being transported interstate. the H5N1 virus was detected These requirements include “flu-like” clinical signs. in dairy cows on a farm in pre-movement testing for Texas. The cattle went off lactating dairy cattle and feed, ran a fever, dropped in reporting requirements of milk production, and had a few other “flu-like” clinanimals testing positive. ical signs. After the detection in Texas, there were As I mentioned, this issue has caught the attenconfirmed cases in seven other states. So far, the tion of many federal agencies and the public. Our closest states to Alabama have been North Carolina, Commissioner, Rick Pate, has done a great job of Ohio, and Kansas. This was the first detection in interacting with other states' Departments of Agricattle, so it at least got a lot of attention. Interesting- culture, the Alabama Department of Public Health ly, no beef cattle have been known to have had the and the media to get the message out that our food virus. Early on it was not known whether the virus supply including meat and pasteurized milk is safe could be passed from cow-to-cow or if it was being for the consumer. This is an ongoing emerging anipassed to each cow through exposure to wild birds mal issue that we at the Department will continue to that are reservoirs for the virus. It has recently been watch closely.

Summer 2024

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PALS

EDUCATING STUDENTS THROUGH CLEAN CAMPUS PROGRAM

BY JA M I E M I T C H E L L

The heat of the summer is upon us, but we at PALS are still remembering all the successes of the “Don’t Drop it on Alabama” Spring Cleanup. For the past several years, we have partnered with Alabama Community College System to incorporate the Spring Cleanup at many campuses. Our partnership with Coca-Cola UNITED as the title sponsor, as well as newly added partner, Alabama Association of RC&D Councils, proved to be a winning combination to up participation to every campus within the system this year!

We received reports of thousands of pounds of litter being removed from all over our state by the faithful student volunteers who came out to clean up.

Mr. David Walters, State Director of Special Projects with ACCS, noted that the colleges have always taken pride in cleaning up their communities, but this year they have reinvigorated their efforts to produce phenomenal results. The pictures speak for themselves! We are so grateful for

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this partnership and the wonderful work done by the students of the Alabama Community College System.

Coming up on September 21st will be our 37th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup event. If you’d like to join us this year, check out www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com for more information! In the meantime, as you enjoy the rest of your summer and maybe take a trip to the beach or lake, please remember to keep all loose items contained on your boat and remove all belongings from the beach.

PALS is so thankful for our network of volunteers, sponsors, and members that continue to make our organization stronger each year! If you are interested in any PALS programs, please visit www.alpals.org. And if a school near you would like to schedule a visit or has any other questions, I may be reached at (334) 263-7737 or jamie@alpals.org. Alabama PALS programs are free to schools and individuals thanks to our state partnerships and corporate sponsors.

4-H EXTENSION CORNER

MORGAN COUNTY

A WIN LIKE NO OTHER B Y C A R O LY N D R I N K A R D

In June 2023, the Morgan County 4-H Livestock Judging Team won the Alabama State 4-H Contest and moved on to represent Alabama 4-H in November at the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Louisville, Kentucky. The team finished ninth, which is the highest Morgan County had ever ranked in the contest. In fact, an Alabama team had not ranked that high in the last 18 years.

The coaches for the team were Morgan County Extension Coordinator Brett Crow, Agriscience teacher and FFA advisor at Brewer High School Meredith Glasscock and a volunteer for Morgan County 4-H. Team members included Ellie Blackwood, Blake Bennett, Callie Childers and Landon Hornbuckle.

At the National event, the team judged four different species of animals: beef cattle, sheep, hogs and meat goats. They ranked classes of the animals from best to worst. The students were not allowed to speak to each other while judging. When finished, each team member had to defend their decisions, explaining their logic with oral presentations. Participants not only learned about the livestock industry, but they also gained decision-making and public speaking skills which are valuable in every profession.

The contest officials then took the individual scores and added them together to get a team score. Since the animals are often very similar, the judges wanted to see if the 4-H'ers could see subtle differences among the animals.

To prepare for the national competition, the team took a trip out of state during the summer to hone their skills. The Morgan County team was made up of two boys and two girls. The younger

members were sophomores, but all had started judging in the eighth grade. All came from agricultural backgrounds. All had grown up on small farms, and two had actually shown cattle before.

Blake Bennett was named “All American.”

Although he had never shown livestock, he had owned some goats. Blake honed his judging talents through hard work and practice.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving than Blake,” Crow explained. “He had a great attitude, and he was always so appreciative of the help I gave him. This recognition was a very special moment for him, one that he deserved.”

Crow was extremely proud of the whole team and praised their hard work. “The amazing thing was that the depth of talent on this team was such that you never knew which member

Judging meat sheep were Callie Childers (L) and Ellie Blackwood (R). Coach Brett Crow looks on.

Summer 2024

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Blake Bennett (C) was named “All American.” He is pictured here with (L) Meredith Glasscock (Coach) and (R) Brett Crow (Coach).

Callie Childers judges beef cattle and records her score. The animals were very similar with only subtle differences. The team’s final scores were all very close to each other.

would have the highest score,” Crow stated. “On any day, any one of them could step up and have a high score. There was no weak link here.”

Another special thing about the team was the way they supported one another. At the National competition, they judged from early morning until late evening, not knowing what to expect. Nevertheless, they stepped up to the challenge, gaining their strongest scores in the sheep division.

“We were surprised at how well we did,” Crow said. “We got ninth place, but we were only 16 points away from the Top Five. We were all very proud of this.”

For Brett Crow, working with the judging team was a “circle of life” experience. After graduating from high school, he attended Kansas State University. During summer break, he returned to Morgan County and volunteered to coach the local 4-H livestock judging teams. On one team was Josh Melson, a young man who was the highest scorer at

the Alabama 4-H Livestock Judging Contest about 20 years ago. Melson later went on to teach Agriculture at Brewer High School. Melson’s daughter is now on the Morgan County 4-H Livestock Judging Team. Ellie Blackwood was the highest scorer at the State 4-H Livestock Contest, just like her father. Both father and daughter were coached by Brett Crow.

In Morgan County, the 4-H Livestock Judging team members have gained celebrity status. “Community support has gone through the roof,” Crow added. “It’s been good for local stakeholder buy-in, too. I’m tickled about that!”

Years of hard work, determination and dedication brought success to four members of the 4-H Livestock Judging Team, but they learned so much more about themselves.

As Crow said, “This activity brought together four people for a common goal, built a bond between each one and prepared them for subsequent success. The program changed the course of life for each kid, and that was our greatest success and my most cherished takeaway!”

The Morgan County 4-H Livestock Judging Team placed ninth in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Louisville, KY. It is the highest that any Alabama team had ranked in 18 years. (L to R) Meredith Glasscock (Coach), Callie Childers, Ellie Blackwood, Blake Bennett, Landon Hornbuckle and Brett Crow (Coach).

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Cooperative Farming News

Ellie Blackwood judges sheep at the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.

Blake Bennett watches as his teammate makes her decision.

“

Through the ForestHER Program, I was able to learn to do things that I didn’t know before. It was very beneficial for me to know that I can do this, and if I don’t know something, I have resources and contacts to help me figure out what I need to do.”

Jackie Meggison, Alabama Forestland Owner

“

Alabama 4-H is the best starting tool where everyone is welcome and great people are leading the programs. There is always a different challenge. It’s my getaway thing and second home.”

ALABAMA EXTENSI0N

Caymen Barron, Talladega County 4-H Member

aces.edu/discover

“

I feel fortunate to have been introduced to Extension at an early age through the 4-H Club. We met with the county assistant for lessons on farm life. Later I used the Choctaw and Colbert County offices for gardening help and assistance with other projects and problems. Extension has served my needs for over 75 years, and it is FREE.” Bob McIlwain, Colbert County Resident

“

I always knew I wanted to farm but wasn’t sure if I would be able to do it full-time. As a new full-time farmer, I’ve relied heavily on Extension expertise. Agents and specialists have continued to be sounding boards and strong supporters as my farm has grown.”

Garrett Dixon, AU College of Agriculture Graduate & Lee County Row Crop Farmer

Follow us The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator, employer, and provider. © 2023 Alabama Cooperative Extension System. All rights reserved. www.aces.edu ACES-2768 Summer 2024

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FFA SENTINEL

WINNERS OF THE NATIONAL FFA LIVING TO SERVE GRANT

BY C L A I R E H A N C O C K Four Alabama teachers and FFA advisors, Allison Kincer, Shelby Atwood, Amy Stephens, and Hannah McBurnett, each received the Fall Living to Serve grant from National FFA this past semester. The Living to Serve grant provides teachers with up to $1,200 to help them reach their goals with a classroom project within a semester. This project is meant to engage students in service-learning and community involvement with a clear impact in the community, as well. Each of these teachers have started their projects, outlined below.

Allison Kincer is a teacher at Fort Payne Middle School in Fort Payne, Alabama. Kincer has chosen to install a hydroponics system in her classroom for her

grant project, with the intent to have her students learn how to maintain one and harvest from it. She chose hydroponics because most of her students live in places that won’t allow for planting straight into the soil, so she wants to show them alternative ways to plant.

After the system arrives, Kincer plans to give several lessons on how to set up and maintain a hydroponics system and teach the students how to harvest from it themselves to take home. As this is the first year that Fort Payne has had the agriscience program and created an FFA chapter, Kincer hopes that this project will help the program grow.

Shelby Atwood teaches seventh- and eighth-graders in her agriscience exploration and pre-agriscience

Ms. Atwood’s seventh- and eighth-grade students showing off the coffee carts they made for the Falcon Wonders Café. Funding was provided through the National FFA Living Serve Grant.

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Cooperative Farming News

Stephens' and McBurnett’ s students are putting together “Stop the Bleed” kits, where one will be placed within each campus in the district.

The FFA Living to Serve grant has created 15 kits to be distributed across the three Lincoln campuses.

classes at Florence Middle School in Florence, Alabama. The project they’ve chosen is one that emphasizes school safety. The plan is to order and implement new blackout lockdown shades for the entire middle school; Atwood sent out a Google form to evaluate interest in this project beforehand. The students who are participating in this project are part of a crime prevention committee, giving them the opportunity to engage in leadership and collaboration, working together towards better school safety. After distributing the blackout shades, her classes will engage in a Crime Prevention Day, where local law enforcement will come and talk to them about school safety. As a final step in their project, the committee will provide goodie bags to local law enforcement to convey their thanks. Shelby hopes that students who take part in this project better understand the “importance of conducting community service projects” and “helping others when they do not

have a direct benefit to themselves." In addition, this FFA Chapter received more funding this past fall for another project. Every Wednesday morning the FMS Ableworks Program puts on aprons, makes coffee, and loads an old TV cart to deliver coffee to the teachers.

Receiving another Living to Serve grant allowed the agriscience program to construct two wood coffee carts for Ableworks and donate coffee supplies. Check out the Falcon Wonders Cafe!

Amy Stephens from Lincoln High School and Hannah McBurnett from Charles R. Drew Middle School collaborated on their FFA chapter’s project. The Living to Serve grant will help Stephens and McBurnett, along with their classes, build “Stop the Bleed” kits, where one will be placed within each campus in the district.

However, Stephens mentioned that their hope is to have kits in all classrooms someday. These kits will contain tourniquets, chest seal packs, trauma gauze, and scissors; they are specifically meant for major wounds rather than small ones. McBurnett shared that the impetus for this project was their active shooter training, which prompted them to think about the possibility of lockdowns preventing first responders from reaching students and faculty sooner. With that in mind, they decided that their project would be on kits that would give injured people more time to wait for help. As a part of the project, FFA members will also create a video to go with the kits that will be administered during professional development meetings.

Stephens stated, “This is just one more safety net in place to help students and faculty be more prepared and safer in an ever-changing world.” For the second year in a row (2022-2023), Lincoln FFA has received the FFA Living to Serve grant and has created 15 more kits to be distributed across the three Lincoln campuses.

Students are currently working with administration to place the new bags in their locations and also set up These kits will contain tourniquets, chest seal packs, trauma gauze, and scistimes for professional development with teachers. sors; they are specifically meant for major wounds rather than small ones.

Summer 2024

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Co-op CORNER A ONE-OF-A-KIND LEGACY

NEW MARKET AG SUPPLY SERVES IRRIGATION AND HISTORY

BY T I F FA N Y L E S T E R Farmers often pray for rain when conditions are dry, but New Market Agricultural Supply has been “making it rain” for decades.

“It’s like an insurance policy. You've got all this money out there in the field, and you have the opportunity to make it rain and get that yield. I think it helps you be sustainable in the farming business,” explained General Manager Keith Griffin.

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Cooperative Farming News

The store began as a family-owned, agricultural equipment company in 1962 to support the Gray family farm. Over the years, Billy Gray built a thriving business that was well-known and respected all over the Southeast. In 2019, New Market Ag was purchased by Madison County Cooperative and continues to serve the local ag community in all areas involving Valley irrigation, technology, grain handling, aftermarket parts

Billy Gray, left, stands while speaking to customers. Several of their children and grandchildren still shop at New Market Ag Supply.

and customer service.

“The building was originally a dairy barn, and Billy converted it from a one-room building, one little section at a time until it became the store that it is today,” said Jessica Jenkins.

Store Manager Jessica Jenkins has worked at New Market Ag Supply for six years. She started as an accountant with zero agriculture experience. But soon after she began working the counter, maintaining inventory and just about everything in between, she began to learn and appreciate what it is to be a farmer and the rich history of the store.

Although Jenkins never got the chance to meet Gray as he passed away before she arrived, she feels like she knows him through the stories of their customers.

“You could hardly walk through the store because supplies were piled up wall-to-wall with no

organization. But he could tell you where every part was. And numerous times I have heard the story where somebody says, ‘I came in and asked him for such and such part.’ He would say, ‘Oh, go three aisles down. One rolled under the shelf last year and I never picked it up. Just look underneath that shelf. It's there.’ And it was always there,” said Jenkins.

Griffin has his own stories of Gray and even credits him with the career path he’s on now with the Co-op. “I came from the Mississippi Delta and started managing a watercress farm in New Market. I came into the store, and he asked all these questions, and he figured out that he knew my next-door neighbor from back home, but he was like that. He could connect, and he pulled you in,” Griffin laughed. “When the position at Madison County Cooperative opened, he called and recommended me to AFC’s Management Services department.”

Jenkins began improving the organization of inventory right away, but she and the staff kept the high level of customer service that Gray started. “We focus on specialty items including a large selection of bolts, plus different plumbing and farm irrigation products like spray tips and banjo fittings. People come in all the time because they know if nobody else in town has it, New Market Ag is going to have it,” Jenkins said.

It’s also no trouble to special-order farming implements of the past including turning plows, disk plows and more for those customers who like to use the tools of the “good old days.”

A big deal for the local ag community, New Market Ag Supply is the only Valley dealer in the state of Ala-

Billy Gray sits behind the desk of New Market Ag Supply with his grandson Gray Doster.

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New Market Ag Supply store manager Jessica Jenkins searching their system to find the right product for a customer.

bama. Additionally, the store has earned the distinction of Performance Plus dealer through outstanding service evaluations on new sales and aftermarket sales surveys, and by accomplishing a core set of requirements.

“We’re proud to say we're a Valley dealer and to have a staff that is incredibly knowledgeable about the products and services we provide. Jessica is very thorough and is going to ask several questions until she gets it narrowed down to the product the customer needs. That dedication to getting it right is hard to

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Cooperative Farming News

find nowadays,” Griffin said, smiling.

Griffin’s goal to continue providing great service to farmers and producers across the region remains strong. However, he can see what’s happening around the store. More housing developments are being built and more folks with zero agriculture experience are moving in. But he hopes to call them all “customers” soon by increasing their general hardware business.

Still standing next to the Gray family home, New Market Agricultural Supply remains a testament to dedication, reliability, premier customer service and turn-key installation, as well as embodying a deeper purpose. For the folks at New Market Ag Supply, it's more than just a job – it's a connection to the store’s history and those that it’s served since its doors opened.

“I do it to keep the legacy of this business and the history of it alive. It could have died out five years ago when the family wanted to close it. But being part of keeping that going and hearing from people that come in and say, ‘I’ve sat here on this bench since I was a kid’ or ‘I remember coming here with my grandpa and my dad,' and that living on is special. Especially when people think enough about it that they come from states away. They drive hours and hours to get here just because they know we're going to have their parts and they can relive some memories here while they’re here, too,” explained Jenkins.

Summer 2024

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CO-OP CORNER

2024 AFC SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

CULTIVATING MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES

BY T I F FA N Y L E S T E R

Alabama Farmers Cooperative is excited to welcome eight new interns to the Co-op family. Our 10week summer internship program offers college students a hands-on opportunity to support farmers and deepen their understanding of the agriculture industry. It also provides a unique chance to engage with growers and producers across our member footprint, offering valuable insights into the Co-op system and the range of agriculture products, services and technology available.

JOHN DAVID BONNER

For John David Bonner, it was his love for the outdoors that piqued his interest in agriculture. However, it was the loss of his brother that pushed Bonner’s

John David Bonner

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Cooperative Farming News

family to move from the city of Montgomery, Alabama to Pike Road, buy some land and start a small cattle farm and processing facility. What his family doesn’t eat, they donate to a food program at their local church. Bonner is currently a Senior at Auburn University, studying Agriculture Business and Economics.

He enjoys being able to learn about business and how to incorporate small farming practices. “I am most excited to see the ins-and-outs of running a local Coop. I am ready to learn how managers go into the field and create plans to help farmers run a more efficient farm through field growing techniques.” Bonner is interning at Taleecon Farmers Cooperative-Wetumpka.

LANE BOOKER

Lane Booker’s passion for agriculture began at a young age while growing up on his family’s farm in Huxford, Alabama, where they grew cotton, peanuts, hay and cattle. Booker has always enjoyed the hands-on outdoor work of being on a farm specifically feeding out cattle and the hay production process. From ages nine to 19, he showed cattle at local events. Throughout high school, Booker was deeply engaged in Future Farmers of America (FFA), serving as president from 10th to 12th grade, where he honed skills in livestock judging and participated in agricultural construction competitions. He is studying Ag Science at Auburn University and works as a Seed Tech. Booker is most excited about helping the local farmers with whatever they need, building friendships and the chance to see how different farmers do different things. “The environment in the

interested in the business side of ag, noting that the economics of agriculture are unique and essential for efficient farm production. The Finance major with a minor in Agribusiness at Auburn University says, “I am thankful for the opportunity provided through AFC’s internship program as it will give me the chance to gain hands-on experience working with farmers who shop at Taleecon Farmers Cooperative-Notasulga.” He also looks forward to learning more about how the farmers rely on their local Co-op for their supplies such as fertilizer.

LEE ENFINGER

Jack Devereaux’s grandfather planted the seed of interest in agriculture in his brain as a young child.

Through research and speaking with people in the ag community, that seed has grown and is ready to harvest into a career. Devereaux is specifically

Growing up in Southern Dale County, Alabama, Lee Enfinger has been involved with agriculture for as long as he can remember. He grew up on a row crop and vegetable farm where they also managed timber, hay and wildlife conservation in the form of food plots for turkey and deer. His father, Jody Enfinger, serves as the South District Manager for Alabama Farmers Cooperative. While an FFA member, he competed in public speaking and creed speaking contests. Enfinger is a major in Agriculture Economics at Auburn University and is heavily involved in Auburn's Collegiate Cattlemen's. Enfinger's passion for agriculture and his experience in ag underscore his dedication to the field and his future aspirations. “I love the retail side of the Co-op. Meeting the customers and getting to know what their needs are is so important in helping them be successful,” said Enfinger. He is interning at Genco Farmers Cooperative-Enterprise.

Jack Devereaux

Lee Enfinger

Lane Booker

agriculture world helps build character along with building a strong work ethic. With the support of my loved ones, I want to continue to learn and develop through the world of agriculture,” said Booker. He is interning at Atmore Farmers Cooperative and at Farmers Cooperative Market-Frisco City.

JACK DEVEREAUX

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SARA HOPKINS

Born and raised in Decatur, Alabama, Sara Hopkins hasn't spent much time in the field with crops or livestock. But she is eager to learn new things and put her marketing skills to the test in ways that will benefit the Co-op and its customers. She is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Marketing at Mississippi State University.

Hopkins already has hands-on experience helping Coop customers as she has worked at Morgan Farmers Cooperative-Hartselle for the last two years alongside her brother, General Manager Bradley Hopkins. “It’s my favorite part of coming home every summer. I love helping the staff with whatever they may need to better help the customers including cleaning up after the spring chicks and ducks as well as taking pictures at the annual meetings,” Hopkins said. She will be interning there again this summer. She is excited to learn more about what customers need for their specific operations and find ways to incorporate her marketing skills to increase business at the store.

Lindsey Little

never go away. All humans and animals need to eat, and agriculture is the first step in that process,” explained Little, who studies Animal Science Allied Industries at Auburn University and works as a Beef Unit student employee. Little is eager to learn more about what her local farming community needs most from the Co-op and to see what goes on behind the scenes to get customers what they need when they need it. She is interning at DeKalb Farmers Cooperative-Albertville.

COHEN LUKER

Agriculture is in Cohen Luker’s blood. He grew up on a diversified row crop farm in Talladega, Alabama,

Sara Hopkins

LINDSEY LITTLE

Lindsey Little can’t remember a time when agriculture was not part of her life. Her family has owned a cow-calf operation her entire life and her mother is an Ag teacher. As Little grew older, her interest in ag grew as well. She became active in her local 4-H and FFA chapters in middle and high school, showing horses, sheep and pigs as well as competing in dairy judging, horse judging and floriculture. Little also has an alpaca and a llama as hobby animals. "I love agriculture because it will 28

Cooperative Farming News

Cohen Luker

growing corn, wheat, cotton and soybeans. His favorite crop to grow is cotton because it is the first crop he ever grew on his own. “Working with farm equipment and being around the ‘salt of the earth’ folks who work in agriculture is where I feel like I belong,” said Luker.

His interest in ag has continued throughout his life, leading him to study Ag Economics at Auburn University, where he is a member of Young Farmers and the Crop and Soil Science Club. As an intern at Talladega County Exchange-Talladega, Luker is most looking forward to meeting new people, networking and seeing how the Co-op operates on both a local and large scale.

OWEN RUSSELL

Owen Russell's enthusiasm for agriculture blossomed in his grandfather's summer garden, where the vibrant, fresh produce ignited a lifelong fascination.

Today, that early love for the land has grown into a dedicated pursuit of agricultural studies at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC). He cultivates his own summer garden every year, selling as well as giving away his fresh vegetables. Russell also enjoys buying and restoring vintage farm equipment. Russell is passionate about the diversity of agriculture from planted pines to cattle as well as the different farming

Owen Russell

practices that go into it such as strip tilling or conventional tilling. Russell’s specific expertise is in produce, specifically peas, sweet corn, potatoes, and onions.

“I am most excited about working with local farmers, gaining new experience and meeting new people,” Russell said. Customers can find him at Pike Farmers Cooperative in Goshen, Alabama.

R E S E A R C H E Q U A L S R E S ULT S

IMPERIAL WH IT E TAIL A N N U A L S Whitetail Institute annuals produce high-protein tonnage for antler growth, unmatched attraction during the hunting season and sustained production in winter months. Each annual is expertly developed to match your specific needs.

Includes seeds only available in Whitetail Institute products.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CO-OP FOR ALL YOUR WHITETAIL INSTITUTE FOOD PLOT NEEDS

Summer 2024

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CO-OP CORNER

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION SPECIALISTS: EMPOWERING PRODUCERS WITH STRATEGIC INSIGHTS AND ESSENTIAL SOLUTIONS B Y K AY D E N B L A N D

Throughout 2024, Cooperative Farming News will be spotlighting the newest positions at your local quality Co-op stores, AFC Feed, LLC and Purina Animal Nutrition’s Livestock Production Specialists (LPS). LPSs are responsible for selling feed and all related products to optimize market share and savings, improve efficiency and help achieve their mission and goals all while demonstrating outstanding customer service.

For some Livestock Production Specialists, it’s more than just a job – they’ve got actual skin in the game. One of them is Gus Maraman. This third-generation cowboy has been an LPS working in Andalusia, Opp and Florala for two years.

“I grew up rodeoing,” explained Maraman. “After graduating from the University of West Alabama, I joined my father and grandfather in the cattle business. I would say that growing up in a cowboy lifestyle has been a huge benefit for this role.”

Maraman’s number-one priority as an LPS is to promote a better business game plan through nutrients so his customers can see improved profit margins.

He understands the customer’s success is the store’s success.

Maraman offers Andalusia Farmers Cooperative customers his expertise on the products that are available and which will be most beneficial to their livestock.

As a rodeo man, he loves getting out in the field, seeing what the customer’s needs are and helping them succeed without cutting corners nutritionally.

“Once a customer understands how great products like those sold at the Co-op generate more net income in the long run, they have more confidence that they will come out on top at the end of the year. In return, this keeps the cattle industry alive and thriving. I can sleep 30

Cooperative Farming News

at night knowing that the products I promote and suggest won’t fail the customer,” Maraman said.

The family-style environment makes a noticeable difference between other careers and Maraman’s position with Andalusia Farmers Cooperative. The store’s willingness to do whatever it takes to help customers is what puts the Co-op above all other stores.

The partnership among the Co-op, AFC Feed and Purina is critical as it allows LPSs like Maraman to give customers free consultations to discuss the different options that may best suit them nutritionally and budgetarily.

“It’s this work that makes a positive impact on the small as well as the large operations, which helps beef producers in our area and will continue to help them for years to come,” Maraman added.

Gus Maraman, Livestock Production Specialist at Andalusia Farmers Co-op

Futral Farms Woodland, AL

Futral Farms is a small pecan operation in Randolph County, Alabama. We are a very young orchard. Our oldest group of trees are 12 years old. The yield and output are just now starting to grow. We have a number of varieties. Our go-to-market plan is to provide cracked and shelled pecan products directly from the farm to local vendors. In our opinion, the grocers totally miss it. Pecans are to be eaten freshly shelled. The moisture and oils are what make it the most delicious and nutritious nut. Pecans are so much more than a holiday treat, they are America’s native nut.

151 County Road 485 Woodland, Alabama 36280 www.futralfarms.com karla@futralfarms.com 256-449-9608

Futral Farms @FutralFarms

TO FIND MORE SWEET GROWN ALABAMA PRODUCERS LIKE THIS ONE, VISIT WWW.SWEETGROWNALABAMA.ORG

Summer 2024

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HOMEGROWN WITH BONNIE PLANTS

BEAT THE HEAT

ADVICE FOR SUMMER GARDENING SUCCESS B Y S AVA N N A H B U R G E S S

BALANCING ACT

In Alabama's hot and often humid summers, retaining water and watering properly is key for a thriving garden. Here are some techniques tailored to the region:

Grouping Plants by Water Needs:

Plant vegetables with similar water requirements together in the garden beds. This allows you to tailor your watering practices more efficiently, providing adequate moisture to each group without overwatering. Remember, more foliage equals more water needed!

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Drip Irrigation:

Mulching:

Apply a layer of organic mulch such as straw, wood chips, or compost around plants to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Cooperative Farming News

Installing a drip irrigation system is a cost-effective way to deliver water directly to the base of plants, minimizing water loss due to evaporation and ensuring that the roots receive a consistent water supply.

Watering Early:

Water your garden early in the morning to reduce water loss through evaporation and allow plants to absorb moisture when they need it most.

Pro tip:

Never put your plants to bed wet. Ideally, your plant’s foliage should be dry before sunset. Wet plants after sunset invite disease to your garden.

BEAT THE HEAT

Bonnie Plants offers a variety of heat-tolerant plants suitable for gardening in hot climates like Alabama. Some of these heat-tolerant plants include: PEPPERS: Hot pepper varieties such as 'Jalapeno,' 'Serrano,' 'Cayenne' and more thrive in hot conditions and produce flavorful peppers throughout the summer.

EGGPLANT: Varieties such as 'Black Beauty' and 'Ichiban' are heat-tolerant and produce well in hot climates, providing a bountiful harvest of glossy purple fruit.

OKRA: Okra is a heat-loving vegetable that performs well in hot climates. The 'Clemson Spineless' variety is a popular choice for Southern gardens.

SQUASH & ZUCCHINI: Both summer and winter squash varieties such as ‘Yellow Straight Neck’ and ‘Spaghetti’ squash, and ‘Black Beauty’ zucchini, are known for their heat tolerance and productivity.

CUCUMBERS: Heat-tolerant cucumber varieties like 'Straight Eight' are an excellent choice for growing cucumbers in hot weather.

HERBS: Many herbs are well-suited to hot conditions. Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary thrive in hot weather and add flavor to summer dishes.

If your garden boasts more harvests than you know what to do with, visit AmpleHarvest.org to find a food bank near you!

SAVORING THE SEASON’S ABUNDANT HARVESTS

While harvesting in your garden, I’m sure you’ll be asking yourself, “What do I do with ALL this produce?” Delight in your harvests with fresh and simple recipes. These are perfect dishes for all the summer gatherings or church potlucks. Here are a few of my favorites!

Grilled Vegetable Skewers:

Thread chunks of zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, onions, and meat of choice (optional) onto skewers. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs. Grill until tender and slightly charred.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion (optional) and toss with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, fresh herbs. Refrigerate before serving.

Stuffed Zucchini Boats:

Halve zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create "boats." Fill with a mixture of cooked meat and/or rice, sautéed onions, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and herbs. Top with shredded cheese and bake until golden brown.

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LEADING THE WAY WITH FAITHWAY

TOMATO VARIETY

BY M I K E E L S E A

There’s a large variety of tomato types to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics. With such a wide array of sizes, flavors, colors and uses, how do you pick the right ones for your garden and plate? Let’s dive in!

TOMATO PLANT SIZES

Are you working with a large garden or a cozy porch? Your space considerations can guide your tomato plant selection.

Indeterminate versus Determinate: Don’t let the terms confuse you. Indeterminate varieties, like Chocolate Sprinkles and Mr. Stripey, grow continuously, reaching impressive heights of 8 to 10 feet. They’re perfect for spacious gardens but require ample support.

On the other hand, determinate types such as Better Bush, Celebrity, and Roma have a set height, making them ideal for compact spaces like balconies. They also offer a concentrated fruit yield, perfect for preserving the harvest.

Look out for “dwarf” or “compact” varieties like Sweet ‘n' Neat and Tumbling Tom, which can be either determinate or indeterminate. They only grow about 2 to 3 feet high, making them suitable for containers and hanging baskets.

HYBRID VERSUS HEIRLOOM

Once you’ve sorted out your space needs, consider whether you prefer hybrid or heirloom plants, or a mix of both.

Hybrids: These plants are the result of deliberate Mr. Stripey Tomatoes (shown here) are an indeterminate variety of tomatoes. crossbreeding, combining the best traits of different 34

Cooperative Farming News

Cherokee Purples (shown here) are an heirloom variety of tomatoes.

parent plants. They often boast enhanced disease resistance, yield, or growth habits. Some popular hybrids include Sun Gold, Better Boy, and Juliet.

Heirlooms: These varieties, like Cherokee Purple and Arkansas Traveler, have been passed down through generations, offering a rich history and unique flavors. They rely on natural pollination and are at least 50 years old.

nate or determinate, purple, orange, or red, your summer is sure to be filled with delicious tomatoes. Still unsure which variety is right for you? Consult our garden experts at your local Co-op for recommendations on tomatoes and other plants for your garden. Plus, stock up on all your outdoor and gardening essentials for a successful season!

Products such as tomato cages, stakes, fertilizer, mulch, planters and more that are distributed by Faithway Alliance can be found at local Co-ops across Alabama, and parts of Tennessee and Florida. Ask the knowledgeable employees at your local Co-op about getting all the farm and garden supplies that you need to be successful come harvest season.

TOMATO USES:

Your intended culinary uses should also influence your tomato choices, such as whether you plan to toss them in your salad, layer them in a sandwich, or turn them into a sweet spaghetti sauce.

Salad/Snacking: Opt for bite-sized cherry or grape tomatoes such as Sweet Million and Sun Sugar, which are perfect for salads, kebabs, or snacking.

Slicing: Medium to extra-large, juicy tomatoes like Red Beefsteak and German Johnson are ideal for sandwiches. There are also more moderately-sized varieties such as Rutgers and Early Girl.

Sauce/Paste: Meaty and dense, varieties like Roma and San Marzano excel in sauces and pastes.

Golden Jubilee variety (shown here) have a mild flavor to them..

TOMATO COLORS AND FLAVORS:

Tomatoes come in a spectrum of colors, each offering unique flavor profiles.

Pink: Pink tomatoes, like Arkansas Traveler and Pink Girl, have a classic, old-fashioned tomato taste with a balanced blend of acid and sugar.

Red: Seen in varieties such as Bonnie Centennial and Super Fantastic, red tomatoes have a robust and slightly acidic flavor reminiscent of traditional tomatoes.

Black/Purple: Earthy and complex flavors characterize varieties like Black Cherry and Cherokee Purple.

Orange/Yellow: Bright and mild flavors are typical in Golden Jubilee and Lemon Boy tomatoes.

Whether you choose heirloom or hybrid, indetermiSummer 2024

35

WHAT’S THE POINT WITH GREENPOINT AG

PEST PREVENTION SOYBEANS If you’re observing insect pressure in your soybean crop at this point in the growing season, Curtis Fox, GreenPoint Ag Agronomist, says it’s likely coming in the form of stink bugs or a host of different moth larvae.

“Green and brown stink bugs are of concern in most seasons, and the mild winter we experienced certainly didn’t help quell overwintering populations this year," he explains. “Fortunately, Tundra® insecticide can provide excellent control of these pests, and it also offers some residual protection.”

Redbanded stink bug, which has reached into the mid-South after troubling the Gulf States for some time, can cause more damage than its green and brown cousins. Unfortunately, it isn’t as susceptible to insecticides either.

“While Tundra is one of the more effective pyrethroid insecticides against redbanded stink bug, you’ll want to use something with two modes of action to optimize control,” Fox advises.

Soybeans are susceptible to stink bug damage until the beans reach maturity. For most stink bugs, the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture recommends using an economic threshold of 9 per

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Cooperative Farming News

Stinkbug eggs

25 sweeps or 1 per foot of row.1 For redbanded stink bugs, a lower threshold of 6 per 25 sweeps or 1 per foot of row is recommended.2 Whether you call them podworms, earworms or bollworms, these larvae have also been known to cause problems at this stage in the growing season. So, if you find a stink bug/worm complex when scouting your fields, Fox says broad-spectrum

Besiege® insecticide will be a good choice. With two active ingredients, the multiple modes of action provide control via contact, ingestion, and ovicidal activity (egg-killing), and it offers long-lasting residual control. The recommended economic threshold for corn earworm is 15 per 25 sweeps or 4 per foot of row. Other larvae, like soybean looper and green cloverworm, should be treated when thresholds reach 29 per 25 sweeps or 6 per foot of row.1 “Whichever insecticides you select for your fields, be sure to select the proper adjuvant package to increase leaf coverage and canopy penetration,” he adds.

For optimum performance, use a quality surfactant such as MasterLock® to ensure good coverage and deposition in the canopy.

Your local Co-op or GreenPoint Ag specialist is your best resource for determining which insecticides, rates, and tank mix partners will provide the best results for your soybean acres, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them.

COTTON “Cotton producers should also be wary of pressure from pests at this point in the season – primarily piercing and sucking insects like aphids, fleahoppers and plant bugs,” Fox notes. “Bollworms can also be of concern, though, so be sure to keep a lookout for them when scouting.”

Consider using products like Transform® 40WG insecticide or Centric 40WG with Diamond® insecticide at this stage. Both options can provide good control of plant bugs, fleahoppers and aphids, but Fox says it’s important to avoid wiping out beneficial insects. Yield-damaging pests like spider mites can

flare up later in the season if insects like ladybugs and lacewings aren't around to feed on them.

Cotton should be treated during the first week of squaring if four bugs are found per 50 sweeps of the net. Apply insecticides after the fruiting period when six to eight bugs are found per 50 sweeps.

If bollworms are present in your crop, Besiege insecticide is an excellent option. Treatment is recommended when six to seven eggs or three small worms are present per 100 plants during early bloom. That said, many cotton consultants are being proactive and treating as soon as eggs or worms are observed.

Although a treatment during the pre-bloom period may assist with prevention, it’s discouraged because it can destroy the many beneficial forms that keep bollworms and other pests under control.

“As mentioned earlier, a quality adjuvant package will help ensure you achieve good coverage and canopy penetration,” Fox reiterates. “So, when consulting your local Co-op or GreenPoint Ag specialist for assistance in selecting the right insecticides and appropriate rates for your operation, you can count on them to recommend adding a product like MasterLock to your tank mix to improve overall performance.

“And depending on the timing of your insecticide application, you might find there’s also an optimal opportunity to have plant tissue samples evaluated,” he concludes. “Doing this right before key growth stages will pinpoint nutrient deficiencies that you can correct by adding a recommended formulation from the MAX-IN® line of plant micronutrients to your tank mix.”

1 https://www.uaex.edu/publications/pdf/mp197/chapter12.pdf 2 https://www.uaex.edu/publications/PDF/FSA-7078.pdf

Summer 2024

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FEEDING FACTS

MAXIMIZING FERTILITY PREPARING SMALL RUMINANT FLOCKS FOR FALL BREEDING B Y J I M M Y PA R K E R As we head into summer, it is not too early to think about fall breeding in our small ruminant flocks and herds. With sheep and goats, the traditional time that breeding takes place is when the day length begins to shorten and truly now is a perfect time to begin to think about planning for that crucial time. Generally speaking, the number of kids/lambs born and weaned is the single most important thing that determines profitability in our herds and flocks, and our summer management and feeding protocols can have a huge impact on how many babies we produce each year.

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I know that some producers are already breeding for fall lambs and kids and even in that scenario, it is not too late to add kids or lambs by increasing the energy intake of those females that are not already pregnant. With that said, I will begin by talking about “flushing." “Flushing” is a term we use to describe giving our ewes or does an increase in energy prior to breeding.

adequate nutrition and a good vitamin and mineral These females that are gaining weight at time of supplement for that 60-day period leading up to the ovulation will produce more eggs and in turn more breeding season. This will help ensure that they are lambs or kids born. It is typically recommended to in adequate shape to cover the ewes and does that increase their caloric intake for at least 30 days prithey will be exposed to. It will also be beneficial to or to turning in your rams or bucks. Again, if you are semen quality in most cases. Breeding soundness already breeding, any increase in calories will likely exams are always recommended and will prevent pay for itself in additional offspring but will not be as significant as if you plan ahead and meet that 30- issues. Tools such as breeding harnesses will often prevent catastrophic outcomes if a ram or buck is day prior-to-breeding goal. There are several ways that we can increase their caloric intake. Something not getting his job accomplished. Rams and bucks will often lose one or two body condition scores, typas simple as feeding a pound of shelled corn each day is an economical way of achieving this goal. A ically in a matter of a few weeks, and having them second way would be to provide a more complete in good shape entering the breeding season will pay supplement such as the Co-op sheep and goat pellet dividends, especially later in the season. Feeding or the Performance sheep pellet. One of the easiest programs similar to “flushing” the ewes will be benand most convenient ways to meet these goals is eficial here as well as making sure they have access providing access to the Purina Hi-Fat Tub. While this to good clean water at all times. may cost a few extra dollars, in most cases it will To recap, feeding your breeding females for a still add a great deal of value and it is an easy way month or so before breeding has shown time and to meet these particular needs. Summer annual fortime again to increase the number of twins born ages can also be used if they are managed correctly and raised in a flock or herd, and that is the single and if the weather conditions cooperate, but feeding most important data point in most cases that point to profitability. Feeding and at least monitoring the options are far more reliable.

The only time that “flushing” is totally ineffective health and body condition of your bucks and rams for at least 60 days prior to breeding is also crucial is if the ewe flock or doe herd is obese and, in that to a successful breeding season. Vitamins and mincase, it is not advised. In every scenario, however, providing a high-quality vitamin and mineral suppleerals, which are often an overlooked tool, will help ment is crucial and the reproductive health of the fe- with reproductive health and is critical at this time in males will be better. Clearly ovulating a high number your production calendar. of eggs is an absolute must, but having adequate vitamins and mineral nutrition so that the uterine environment is top notch is also a critical step in having a high number of lambs or kids born.

Breeding females are only half of the equation and the health status of your rams and bucks is just as, if not more critical. Clearly an unhealthy doe or ewe will be detrimental, but an infertile buck or ram is catastrophic.

Spermatogenesis takes about 60 days and our rams and Feeding your breeding females for a month or bucks are often overlooked so before breeding has shown time and time as they have been hanging again to increase the number of twins born around and not working since and raised in a flock or herd. the last breeding season.

It is crucial that you make sure that they are receiving Summer 2024

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HORSE SENSE FROM PURINA

TAKING CARE OF HORSES FOR THE LONG HAUL

MINIMIZING THE STRESS OF TRAVELING K A R E N E . D AV I S O N , P H . D .

Fuel prices are high but horse owners continue to haul down the road; they may be eating peanut butter sandwiches, but they are still fueling up, loading up and hauling to shows. One survey reported that horse owners transport an average of 2.4 horses on 24 trips per year for roughly 240 miles per trip. This averages out to a five-hour trip every other weekend.

Many horse owners and horses spend even more time than that on the road.

For horses accustomed to travel, being transported under optimal conditions (in a safe trailer, in moderate climate conditions,

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for short trips, down good roads and being hauled by a careful driver) doesn’t create much stress. However, change any part of that scenario (haul inexperienced horses, in an unsafe trailer, down rough roads with an inconsiderate driver and make it a longer trip in extreme weather temperatures), and you create a stressful situation for horses. Stressful hauling can impact a horse’s health and ability to perform at the end of the trip.

When being hauled long distances, horses should have continuous access to hay and be offered water at least every 6-8 hours. Since many horses drink

less water during travel, or don’t drink at all, they should be checked for hydration periodically. If there is any indication of dehydration, a veterinarian should be called as intravenous fluids may be required. Reduced water intake is one of the biggest concerns with hauling horses on long trips because lower water intake can increase the risk for impaction colic, dehydration, heat stress and reduced performance. Purina® RepleniMash® is a great product that can help make traveling long distances less stressful for the horse and horse owner.

A palatable mash that nourishes your horse and their digestive system, RepleniMash® is much more than a mash. RepleniMash® is nutritionally balanced and made with wholesome ingredients your horse is accustomed to and contains Outlast® Gastric Support Supplement plus a science-backed serving of electrolytes in every pound. RepleniMash® is a tasty mash that promotes hydration, gastric comfort and intestinal health and can be supplemented daily, any time a horse needs the additional support or simply needs a treat. Watering horses in the trailer can be difficult but they love RepleniMash® and can eat the wet mash out of a bucket or a manger in the trailer.

Some horses may tend to drink less water away from home because it tastes or smells different

from the water they are used to but they readily eat RepleniMash® when made with the same strange water they may have refused from the bucket. The mash can be made as wet as needed and can help encourage horses to drink the local water.

RepleniMash® is also an excellent warm mash in the winter when cold weather may cause a reduction in water intake. Horses clean up ReplenMash®, even when mixed with oral supplements or medications that they may not readily eat when top-dressed on their feed.

Many horses spend as much time on the road and in unfamiliar locations as they do in their own barns or pastures. Horses do get used to traveling, and most do quite well with good consistent care and management throughout the trip.

For more information on the new Purina® RepleniMash® see your local Purina® Horse Feed Retailer or visit Purina® RepleniMash® Product - Horse Mash.

Summer 2024

41

OUTDOOR LOGIC WITH BIOLOGIC

KEEPING A WATCHFUL “EYE”

BY T O D D A M E N R U D

If you happen to get images of deer looking directly at you, it may mean the camera’s shutter is triggering too loudly.

(Photo courtesy: Tom Reichner)

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O

nce antlers have grown enough so we can distinguish individual bucks, it means it’s time to get your trail cameras working for you. If you’re looking for a close encounter with a mature buck or are interested in managing your property for a healthy balance, trail cameras may be the most valuable tools we have. “Information” is the most important part of making sound management decisions or creating an ambush for a mature buck, and trail cameras are the most effective means we have of collecting it. Following are a few ideas to help you get the most from your trail cameras.

1) Mind the sun! Place the camera south of your target. At times you may also get away with facing your cameras to the south; it depends upon the time of the year as the sun’s angle to the Earth will change.

It’s really the sunrise and sunset that you should try to avoid. By facing the camera in a northerly direction your daytime photos should have the best lighting.

2) Remove all obstructions. Cut branches, weeds and twigs out of the way. Below you’ll see it’s suggested to use natural foliage to keep the camera concealed and hide it from thieves, but if you do, just make sure you have a clear path to your target area.

Otherwise, the LEDs will light up the brush in front of the camera leaving your target underexposed. It can

also cause false triggering. If a large, sun-saturated branch is passing in front of the camera’s sensors you’ll have an SD card full of animal-less images.

3) Angle the camera to the trail. Trigger speeds have come a long way in recent years, but if you’re covering a trail or a passage where the animals will pass by relatively quickly, it’s best to angle the camera (about 45 degrees) to the trail rather than placing it perpendicular to the trail. If the camera is placed at a right-angle to the trail and the animal passes through the sensor area traveling fast, you may only have an image of a hind-end or no animal at all.

4) Choose the right camera. The worst cameras today are better than the first flash cameras on the market. The two most important features are an infrared flash and a quiet shutter. No animal likes to have a whopping, white explosion go off in their face when it’s pitch black. Flash cameras spook wildlife, period. You must also have a quiet shutter. If you get photos of the animal looking at your camera, it could be hearing your shutter.

You may also want certain other features like better resolution, time-lapse, burst mode, video, password protection or built-in viewer. It all depends upon your personal needs, but like most things ... you get what you pay for.

When you position your camera, it’s best to take a test picture to make sure everything is framed properly. You want to see the whole deer, not just the legs or half of a set of antlers. (Photo courtesy: Todd Amenrud)

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5) Camera thieves suck! Deter camera crooks by concealing the cameras, securing them to a tree with a cable and lock, hanging them in hard-to-reach spots or placing them in a locked steel box.

To begin, you must use some common sense – don't hang your camera in an obvious location if you expect human traffic passing by. A camera hanging on a trail, next to a feeder or at a gate opening may be a bit too tempting. Find a less obvious spot and camouflage the camera into the surroundings.

One of the best ways to discourage theft is to hang the camera high in the tree. Bring a climbing stick section, a couple tree-steps or a small ladder and hang the camera out of reach of the average person. Remember, if you hang it high, you may need to place a branch or wedge behind the camera to angle it downward.

Security chains and cables work well to deter most, but sometimes if a “camera-pinching jerk” can’t take the camera, they’ll destroy it. If a resolute crook wants the camera they seem to find a way – unfortunately a pair of bolt cutters fits in a backpack. Lastly, some cameras have security boxes that can be fastened to a tree and then the camera locked into the box.

6) Take advantage of the “time-lapse feature.” This means the camera is triggered at predetermined time intervals rather than movement through the sensor area. Time-lapse is a great feature for covering food plots, agricultural fields or any large open area. If you can’t figure out which trails deer are most often using to access a food source, time-lapse can teach you.

7) Use scent for a stopper. This is a great time to use up any scent that you have left over from last season. Create a “sign-post” in a spot where there is obvious animal traffic. It doesn’t need to be whitetail scent; fox urine or coon urine are two of my favorites.

Just like a dog that pees on a fire hydrant, most animals want to “claim their territory” and will often stop to urinate over the last animal’s deposits. They’re just letting the others know, “I live here, too.” A sign post is a great stopper so you can get a shot, or so they can pose for a photo. In this case you would pour the scent on the ground in a likely spot.

You may also use a traditional wick set up. This can not only get them to pose for the photo, but can also attract them to the spot from a distance. A small amount of scent can draw in and stop your buck in the perfect position to pose for his portrait. Place the scent on a wick and then put it on a branch or twig about four feet off the ground.

Mock scrapes work amazingly well to take an inventory of the bucks you have in your area. You may 44

Cooperative Farming News

not get many photos of does, but bucks are instinctually drawn to the scrape. You can “doctor-up” a buck’s natural, existing scrape or make your own “mock scrape.” A Magnum Scrape Dripper with some Active Scrape or Golden Scrape will work best for this tactic.

The best part of this tactic is you usually get numerous photos of the buck from several angles so you can see clearly which you’ll want to add to your hit list.

8) Develop a system for filing your photos. To really effectively manage a property, you must be good at keeping records. Trail camera photos are one of the primary ways to learn what’s happening on your property. They help you to gather information on mature bucks, document trends over the years and there is no better way to determine density, buck to doe ratio or age structure of your herd. Nowadays, one property manager on a 500-acre parcel can go through 200,000 images or more in one season. Whether you categorize your files by date, place where the camera was located, the specific buck you’re after or some other

A small rubber cord makes hanging cameras fast and simple. If you don’t have a tree to hang your camera on, with mounting systems like the “Stake Out,” “Stic-n-Pic,” or plain camera tripod you don’t need a tree at all.

(Photo courtesy: Todd Amenrud)

system, it’s important to find a way to organize your images so you can find them when you need to recap.

9) Shoot a test photo/video so you know it’s framed properly. If your camera has a built in viewer this will be easy, but you don’t want your camera to capture just legs or half a set of antlers. Consider using a digital picture viewer so you can check over your photos in the field. Small digital cameras may also work for reading your SD cards.

10) Find the sweet-spot. Most cameras will claim they are good to a certain range ... when in reality, they stink at the maximum touted limit. Set them close enough to your target to get good nighttime illumination on the subject from your infrared flash, but far enough away so the subject isn’t washed out from the flash.

11) What are some camera manufacturers thinking with their mounting systems? The strap some of them give you to fasten a small camera to a tree could double as a seatbelt in a car and it requires two people to use it. A simple small rubber cord (bungee cord) with hooks at each end works perfectly ... if you’re not worried about theft. Otherwise, with mounting systems like the “Stake Out” or “Stic-n-Pic” you don’t need a tree at all. Some trail-cams will work with a regular camera tripod. There are numerous other mounting options, but it’s nice to have something simple and fast.

Technology continues to advance with new features and even wireless 12) How and when should you check your camercameras are now available. These are great to feed you real-time information. as? Some say you must wait a certain time-span and However, they should not be used when actually in pursuit. In most states, check them at a specific time of day, but every situathis would not be considered “fair chase.” It’s OK to gather information with tion is different. In some instances you may need to them, but you should not use them in the actual act of hunting. check them every day or every other day. Under other (Photo courtesy: Todd Amenrud) scenarios you may want to wait a week to 10 days or camera do the work for you. The closer you get to more before you check them. Variables would be the their core area, the better your chances for a shot time of year, location of the camera(s), what you’re trying to do with your camera, how you’re checking the during legal shooting light. The key is to keep your cameras, weather conditions and more. The idea is to cameras moving. A buck may simply walk five feet check or move your cameras when you will disturb the out of your camera’s sensor area, so keep repositioning them. area the least.

14) Hang 'em high! That is, IF you’re getting phoSince an ATV or some farm vehicles are less intos of deer looking at the camera, they’re either seeing trusive than a person on foot, some choose to mount your infrared flash or they’re hearing the shutter their cameras so they can drive right next to the trigger. A previous suggestion was to hang the camcamera to switch out SD cards. This is less of a disera high to deter thieves; in this case, we’re hanging turbance than walking on foot because whitetails will often stay bedded and tolerate the vehicle passing by, it higher to keep it above the normal line of sight of a whitetail. About as high as you can comfortably where a person on foot would bump them to the next reach usually works (about 7 to 8 feet), and again, property. If you’re able to drive right to your camera remember to place a small branch behind the camera you also leave much less human scent in the area. to angle it down to the focal point where your subjects 13) Use your cameras to backtrack specific will be. If you’re still getting whitetails looking at the bucks. If a buck is showing up at a food plot or camera when it fires, you probably need to spend a litfeeding station after dark and you don’t have snow tle more on a better camera with a quieter shutter. to backtrack him to his bedding area, let your trail Summer 2024

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Scan for survey Dear valued customers, Our mission is to cultivate meaningful life on and off the farm – and it all starts with you. Whether you shop at the Co-op for plants for your garden, food for your pets and livestock, or fertilizer for your fields, we want to hear from you about how your local Co-op helps you make an impact on your family, community, and world around you.

Please scan the QR code, email us at advertising@alafarm.com, or write to us at PO Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609.

Your stories can make a huge difference in the future of ag in our communities, and we're excited to be a part of it.

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Cooperative Farming News

Thank you, Alabama Farmers Cooperative

VENISON “KRYSTAL” BURGERS Serves 8 ¾c up onion (1 medium onion), minced or ¼ cup of dried minced onions 1 pound ground venison 1 pound ground beef 8 Hawaiian rolls 16 dill pickle slices 2 slices of American Cheese, cut into 8 squares (optional) Yellow mustard, for serving In a bowl, mix the venison and ground beef.

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Form the meat mixture into 1/4-inch-thick square patties on a piece of parchment paper. Flip the parchment over into the hot skillet, allowing the meat to retain its shape. Poke holes with a fork or the end of a wooden spoon to keep the shape of the patties. Allow the patties to cook for about 1 minute or until the bottoms of the patties are done and then turn them over and cook for another minute. If you are adding cheese, once you flip the burger, place a slice of cheese over the patty and continue cooking until the cheese is melted.

If you are using dried minced onions, add ½ cup hot water to the dried onions and set aside. If you are using fresh onions, add ⅓ of the onions to the side of the skillet without the patties and pour about ¼ cup of water over the top of the onions to allow the onions to steam. After the steam dissipates, place the tops and bottoms of the buns over the onions for one minute. If using dried onions, toast the buns in the skillet with the meat.

Remove the buns to a plate with the bottom bun

cut side up. Put a patty on each bottom bun, then add a teaspoon of onions, a squirt of mustard and 2 pickles, then put the top of the roll on each burger. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Stacy Lyn's New Book!

Stacy Lyn Harris is a best-selling cookbook author, blogger, TV personality, public speaker, wife and mother. She currently lives in Pike Road, Alabama, with her husband Scott and their seven children.

Stacy Lyn regularly appears on cable and broadcast television as a guest chef and sustainable living expert. Her new book "Love Language of the South” is available now for purchase. It contains memories of her favorite places, celebrations and memories that have sparked imagination in the kitchen.

Summer 2024

47

FARMING YOUR FOREST

SORTIN' IT OUT

A GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING FOREST PRODUCTS PART 1: PINE B Y B I L LY RY E Do you want to get the best price for your standing timber? Understanding the different forest products present on your property and their relative value is a must! Prices paid for standing timber vary greatly and some products may be worth 500% the value of others. To maximize timber sale revenue, it is vital that each log be sold for its “highest and best use.” This process is known as “merchandizing” in the timber industry.

It is unlikely that you will find this word in a dictionary so I will define it as “optimizing the total value of harvested timber by felling, cutting, sorting and transporting logs for their highest value.”

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Landowners may be confused by the terminology used in describing the types of forest products on their property as they aren’t involved in the day-to-day aspects of the timber industry.

This is further complicated by the fact that mill specifications and availability of new markets seem to always be in a state of change. In this two-part article, I will review some of the most common forest product markets in Alabama that are currently available. The first article will focus on pine products, while the second article will expose readers to the forest products which come from hardwood trees.

COMMON PINE PRODUCTS Pine Sawtimber. Trees that are in this product category are larger than 10 inches DBH (diameter at 4.5’ above the ground) and are free of major defects such as branches, forks or diseased stem and can yield dimensional lumber.1 Dimensional lumber refers to lumber that will be used as supports for building structures, such as 2x4s and 2x6s.2 The length and minimum diameter will vary by mill and product sought. Some products will be cut and hauled tree length while some will be cut to a predetermined size at the harvesting site. Within this product category there are a couple of notable subcategories.

Grade pine sawtimber. High quality flooring, furniture, siding and some dimensional lumber require high quality wood. Mills producing these products demand logs which have tight and even grain, relatively free of defect including knots, and are long enough to make the desired product.

Many of these mills do not purchase wood grown in a pine plantation as these trees often have lower quality wood than pine grown in natural stands.

Chip-n-saw. The Alabama Cooperative Extension Service defines this product class as mid-sized trees (larger than pulpwood, but smaller than sawtimber) that produce both dimensional lumber and chips.1 In general, dimensional lumber is sawn out of the center of the log and the wood from the outside slab and the treetop is chipped and sold to pine pulpwood mills. The quality of chip-n-saw may be less than that of grade pine sawtimber as it is primarily sold as treated lumber. Southern yellow pine accounts for 85% of all pressure-treated lumber manufactured in the US and dominates the international market for decking material.3 Many chip-n-saw mills are decreasing the maximum size wood which they accept, and landowners will have to shorten their traditional pine plantation rotations to avoid having wood that is too large to sell.

Pulpwood. A smaller class size of trees that are usually chipped and made into brown paper, cardboard, or oriented strand board (OSB). OSB is a panel product made of chips rather than the solid veneer used in plywood. Larger-diameter trees of lower quality may also be purchased as pulpwood by mills.1 Due to its lower value, this product is usually relegated to trees that are removed during pine thinning operations and treetops.

PINE PRODUCTS AVAILABLE IN SOME MARKETS IN ALABAMA Ply logs. Sometimes referred to as “peeler logs," this product is soaked, peeled, dried, glued and pressed to make plywood when it reaches the mill.2 Plywood is used in construction, furniture, as pouring forms for concrete, and in the making of boats due to its superior strength. Only high-quality pines are used to make the veneer used in plywood. Trees must be tall, straight, have very little taper, have very few knots and large enough in diameter to meet mill specifications to be used for plywood. The value of the finished product and the scarcity of quality trees result in some of the highest stumpage prices paid for pine products.

Poles. Those trees that are tall, solid, straight, have very little taper, have very few knots and are large enough to be sold for poles. Pole timber may be used for utility poles, barn poles, piling for foundations and for square house piles.2 The dimensions accepted for each product will vary by mill but in general, larger poles have the highest value. Unfortunately, very few trees within a stand of pines will meet the strict product specifications for most poles.

The good news is that most landowners are happy with the price they receive for this product.

Posts. Southern yellow pine trees make excellent posts as they may be pressure treated to increase their longevity. This creates added value to landown-

“Merchandizing” is the term used in the timber industry for sorting forest products for their highest and best use. This process is critical to helping landowners get the most for their timber. In this picture, Bobby Collins Logging, LLC has four different pine products sorted for transport to the mills.

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make the specifications for higher value products such as chip-n-saw are properly merchandized.

Pallets. As the price for hardwood sawtimber has risen, many pallet manufacturers have turned to lower-cost pine logs as a replacement. While the prices paid for pallet grade pine are lower than chip-nsaw, they are generally higher than the prices paid for pulpwood. Like the market for posts, landowners will need to ensure that their higher-value products aren’t being sold as pallet wood.

Pictured is a load of pine that will be sold for posts. Notice that the ends of the logs are slightly larger than those of pulpwood. The benefit to the landowner is that the stumpage prices paid for this product are typically higher than those paid for the same size pulpwood.

ers with this market as the prices for posts are slightly higher than those received for pulpwood. Depending on the size specification of the mill, posts may displace from 1/4 to 1/3 of what would otherwise be sold as lower value pulpwood. However, landowners should be vigilant to make sure that trees which

Pellets. Wood pellets are a fuel commonly used as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels. They are made from sawdust, wood chips, and wood scraps from furniture manufacturing.4 Wood pellets are viewed as a sustainable and renewable energy source, crucial in reducing the demand for fossil fuels and reducing waste from other wood-using facilities.

The wood chips used to make pellets may provide landowners with additional revenue as otherwise non-commercial wood can be used to make this product.

Recognizing the various forest products present on their property can help landowners better understand the relative value of their standing timber.

However, most landowners will only sell timber a few times in their lifetime and are likely unfamiliar with the other aspects of the most important phase of

In this image, a logger gets the highest value for a landowner's timber by removing the cut-to-length logs from the base of trees this size. The tops are sold as pulpwood. Other trees that meet mill specifications are cut, transported, and sold as tree-length logs. (Photo courtesy: Tim Sharp Logging, LLC.)

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Pictured is a load of tree-length pine pulpwood which is headed to the mill to become cardboard. The logger does an excellent job of loading all trees that meet the mill's specifications with very little waste. (Photo courtesy: ECB Logging, Inc.)

timber management. This is why I recommend that landowners use a consultant forester to represent them during the selling and harvesting of their timber. A consultant forester will serve as the agent for the landowner and will have certain fiduciary (legal)

responsibilities. Consultant foresters will help level the playing field by using their education, experience and expertise to help the landowner get the most for their timber and ensure their interests are protected during the process. When interviewing a consulting forester, be sure to ask for their Registered Forester License Number, some local references and a map of a few sales that the consultant has coordinated. By understanding the forest products present, making sure they are being sold for their highest and best value and by utilizing the services of a consultant forester, landowners are much more likely to get the best price for their standing timber and enjoy a successful timber sale.

References

Pine prices vary greatly by product, mill specifications and area. This graph demonstrates the wide variations of stumpage (standing timber) prices paid for the pine products on a timber sale that we coordinated.

1 https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/ common-forestry-terms-for-the-forest-landowner/ 2 https://timberupdate.com/timber-products/ 3 https://www.lumber.com/blog/southern-yellow-pine-facts-grades-uses-industry-insights 4 https://woodpelletreview.org/how-are-woodpellets-made/

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SHEPHERDING OUTDOORS

SLIM PICKINS B Y WA LT M E R R E L L Late summer in South Alabama may be as close to hell on Earth as any God-fearing Christian may step. Continuous 90-plus-degree days coupled with 1,000% humidity can cause even the preacher’s wife to sweat upon setting foot outdoors. Crisp and dry pasture grasses crackle underfoot as the swelter of late summer heatwaves continue to evaporate

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Cooperative Farming News

the last morsels of moisture from anything green.

And the gardens, the backyard and the barnyards ... wilt and wither.

That summer had been tough for us … hobby farmers that we are. Drought plagued most of South Alabama and our meager plantings suffered no less ill a fate. The typical dog days heat, com-

pounded by the drought, dealt a double oven-baked blow to everything we had planted. Most of our garden sagged like Miss Myrtle’s hanging baskets and the rest of it drooped like Mr. Ed’s lazy eye. Our watermelons looked deflated. Our squash looked squished. Our peppers didn’t look too peppy and our eggplants looked like dead chickens. It was a sad state of affairs ...

“Dad,” Banks declared as if there might be a question mark at the end, “ ... ever wonder if we’d be better off not planting anything.”

I understood her frustrations.

We stood at the edge of a twoacre plot of zinnias that she and I had planted a few months prior. A budding entrepreneur, Banks has farmed zinnias for many years.

She always helps plant and tend to weeds. She cuts her own flowers, always careful to prune them such that the plant would produce another bud. She counts and sorts, and every Saturday morning I’d drop her off at the Farmer’s Market. Usually, within an hour or two she was sold out. That year though, the pickins’ were slim.

“Slim Pickins?” Banks mumbled.

I agreed, and she interrupted, “I thought he was an old-time singer or Bluegrass guy, or something.” I

chuckled at myself, having never considered that Slim Pickens was a stage name, and that the phrase “slim pickins” had agricultural roots.

“I’m impressed that you even know there was someone by that name! But I think he was an actor.”

I’m sure she detected the touch of excitement in my voice. I was excited that my 12-year-old had made a doubly meaningful "slim pickins" reference.

“Well, I’m really not sure what he did,” she responded. “I was just looking at the zinnias thinking we had ‘slim pickins’ and his name popped into my head.” She cocked her hip out to one side and pulled the belly of her t-shirt in and out like a bellows fan. She furled her bottom lips and blew the gnats away from her eyes.

A few tiny beads of sweat bubbled on her forehead.

“I just know I heard his name before ... and I think we got ‘slim pickins.’”

“We sure do, Banksy.” I sighed a little and blew the gnats from my face, too.

Surveying the field, there were only a scant few blooms left amongst the sea of withered drab green leaves. Of those few splotches of pink, orange, yellow and red, most of them had "brown spot" and were otherwise undesirable. Worst of all, though, we had been invaded by morning glory and it was choking out the plants. “’Slim pickins’ except for the morning glory,” she scoffed. “And who came up with that name? Morning Glory!” Her rant continued. “There is not one thing Glorious about this purple people eater taking over my zinnia patch!”

“It ain’t ‘afternoon delight’, either,” I scoffed with

Summer 2024

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her, though I am not entirely sure my reference to the old song didn’t go straight over her head. Still, though, she nodded in agreement.

The morning glory began an invasion about the time the rain stopped. We fought it for a few weeks, but it seemed that every night it grew more than we pulled the day before. Ever the optimist, Banks once suggested we cut the blooms and sell them, too. So, we cut a few on one occasion. They wilted more than the leaves on our zinnias in just one night. “Seems they don’t have a whole lot of (glory) left in them when you cut them,” Banks observed. I nodded my head and we both knew our best bet was to keep pulling up the vines.

But they were endless ... and soon it became a little dangerous, I thought, for Banks to wade through the tangled mesh of morning glory in hopes of cutting zinnias that might not have "brown spot." We don’t see a lot of rattlesnakes around here, but to say there are none would be a fallacy. I didn’t want her wading thought the maze of the tangled unseen ... for fear of what might lay beneath.

“Why not, Daddy,” she asked when I told her she couldn’t walk out amongst it anymore. Her question had a whimper of complaint embedded in it. I didn’t want to tell her "No more," but such is life. Still, though, we came out this blazing afternoon to take one last gander ... “Maybe we can get a bouquet for momma,” she offered. I hoped she was right.

My, how Hannah surely does love fresh cut flowers.

“Slim pickins, except for the morning glory,” Banks finally declared after we stood side-by-side for a few minutes watching the bees and butterflies forage for

the last remnants of pollen.

“Amen to that,” I said.

She had cut a handful of flowers for Hannah and turned back towards the truck. “Come on ... let’s go.” I could hear the dejection in her voice.

“No. I mean, amen to that Banks!” She sensed the change in the tone in my voice and her eyes shared her lack of comprehension of the thoughts sizzling on my brain. “In this life, there is truly slim pickins’ to the morning glory we will find with Jesus.”She smiled wide. She understood the reference ... and added, “Amen to that, dad.”

And with that, we abandoned what was left of our shriveled crops. Holding hands as we walked back up the driveway to the house, I found comfort in the cool shade of the overhanging trees. Our arms swung back and forth ever so gently as our steps matched each other.

“Dad ...” she said, as if she might be going to ask a question.

“Yes, baby,” I gestured.

“You ever wonder if God looks down on us and thinks we are like that garden?” Her question struck me. I stopped walking and she dropped my hand, taking a few more steps still before she stopped and turned back to me.

As she began to speak a sly grin rose from the corners of her mouth. “I mean, you’re prickly like that okra and mom’s as crunchy as those dried-up peppers!” With that, she let out a belly laugh and ran towards the house. I feigned a chase for a few steps but she was gone like the wind on an August afternoon.

“I think you might be on to something there, little girl ...” I said to myself. Squash, okra, butterbeans, tomatoes, zinnias and even a little morning glory. Some of us withered. Some of us bright. He made us all a little bit different ... and God doesn’t make junk.

I took a long deep breath of the sultry summer air and exhaled ... “I surely do think you might be on to something.”

Walt Merrell writes about life, family and faith. An avid hunter and outdoorsman, he enjoys time “in the woods or on the water” with his wife Hannah, and their three girls, Bay, Cape and Banks. They also manage an outdoors-based ministry called Shepherding Outdoors. Follow their adventures on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube at Shepherding Outdoors. You can email him at shepherdingoutdoors@gmail.com.

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STRONG ROOTS GROW

LUCIOUS LAWNS

BY T I F FA N Y L E S T E R

A

dusty drive along dirt roads through the woods leads to Dixie Sod Farm's Alpine, Alabama location. It’s where owner Matt Smith and his crew grow Emerald Zoysia, Meyer Zoysia and Tifton Bermuda.

What is being harvested in these pictures is the first sod crop to ever come from this particular field in Alpine. It was full of soybeans and cotton when Smith first bought it in 2020.

Employees work a total of 300 acres of sod on multiple sites. Nearly 85% of it is Zoysia. The center pivot and solid-set irrigation systems ensure the soil and blades of glorious green grass stay nice and moist.

“Bermuda is the most popular grass because it's the cheapest, but Zoysia sets us apart from the other sod farmers. It is thicker so it makes a nice, dense turf.

It’s what people want to walk barefooted on, for sure,” explained Smith.

Dixie Sod Farm was started in the 1960s by Smith’s grandfather who wanted to grow his own grass for the road work projects he did for the state.

Smith acknowledges that growing sod is different from what most people think of when they hear “crops."

“You don't eat sod, so people sometimes struggle to see us as real agriculture. We are different in some ways, 56

Cooperative Farming News

Dixie Sod Farm owner Matt Smith and his wife Whitney Smith.

The harvester inserts a blade roughly an inch under the ground and into the roots to pull up a patch of the sod (Photos 1-3). Dixie Sod Farm employees mow the sod weekly. At the start of the season, they set a mowing height of ¾ inch and increase it slowly throughout the growing season as the grass matures (Photo 4).

farms that they don't have to do for their other farmbut in a lot of ways, we're just like the row crop guys. ers, and vice versa. The folks at Talladega County We use the same equipment, same chemicals, same methods of cultivating our crop,” explained Smith.

Exchange are great at taking care of us and taking care of all of our needs to make sure we've got what In reality, Alabama is one of the top 10 sod-producing states in the U.S. Smith and his employees we need when we need it,” Smith added.

On top of being a sod farmer, Smith has around know they’re growing more than just grass.

“You get videos and pictures from customers who 100 head of cattle for a commercial cow-calf operatell us the grass is awesome. We're making Alabama tion in Pell City as well as growing roughly 100 acres beautiful one yard at a time,” said employee Nick of hay.

Ogden.

“I was just there this morning,” laughed Heath Smith has a strong understanding that customers Walker, Smith’s brother-in-law and Dixie Sod Farm want a lush, green, weed-free product that's true to employee. “We go to the Co-op at least once a day, cultivars. He also knows sometimes two or three that it is what is undertimes a day. We're there neath that gets the job picking up chemicals or done. fertilizer. Plus, feed for the “We have to grow the cow-calf operation, barbed grass. We have to make it wire, fence posts, whatever we need. Nine times out look nice because that's what people want. But in all of 10, they've got it. If they reality, what makes it look don't have it, they can get it. nice and what makes it I love that,” Walker added. harvestable and transportDixie Sod Farm focusable and makes it a viable es on renovation-type jobs product when it gets to the as well as retail sales. consumer is the roots. We Whether the housing have to concentrate on that industry is booming is Matt Smith (R) pictured with employee Nick Ogden inspecting a more than anything,” Smith indicative of how Smith’s harvested pallet of sod. said. business will be.

If you’ve never seen it done, the harvester uses a Its focus on catering to customers with smaller blade that goes roughly an inch under the ground and orders is what’s proven successful. “We focus on the gets some of the roots. It’s similar to the original propeople who are working in their yard, the one- and totype, but what used to take four workers now only two-pallet jobs. We focus on them just as much as takes one thanks to automation, which is beneficial in we do the customers who are buying two or three today’s world of recurring labor shortages. truckloads. We do intentionally focus on that market To get the lush green grass with premiere-perof people who want a small quantity of grass just as forming roots, Dixie Sod Farm shops at the Co-op in much as we will focus on somebody who wants a Talladega and Pell City for fertilizer, chemicals and large quantity,” explained Smith. “We're concentrating more. Smith has also served as a Board of Directors on quality more than quantity.” at Talladega County Exchange for six years. He reSmith couldn’t be prouder of sod farming roots. cently rolled off his second term.

He enjoys walking in his grandfather’s footsteps and “They know that we require slightly different care. pushing his dream forward to make things even more There are certain things they have to do for the sod green and beautiful for generations to come.

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BY TIFFANY LESTER

MEET THE BOARD

JEFF SIMS

Jeff Sims was elected Chairman of Alabama Farmers Cooperative's Board of Directors at the 87th Annual Membership Meeting in February 2024. His leadership journey with AFC began in 2016 when he joined the Board of Directors.

Before earning his position as AFC's Chairman, Sims served as Vice-Chairman from 2021 to 2024. He has served on the Board of Directors at Talladega County Exchange for the last 23 years. He became interested in agriculture in 1996 when he started working for his grandfather on a cow-calf operation.

"While working for my grandfather, I would stop by our friendly neighborhood Co-op just about every day for supplies like bailing twine, salt blocks, horse feed, calf supplements and medicines for the livestock,” said Sims.

Soon after, Sims wanted something to call his own. With help from his grandfather, he began raising cattle. He then set his eyes on a new challenge: row crops.

“The Lord really blessed me because I

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Cooperative Farming News

Alabama Farmers Cooperative Chairman (C) with his sons, Taylor (L) and Tyler (R).

know I was able to do something that’s impossible to do, to start completely from scratch without any land, equipment or knowledge.

I bought 30 acres to start and was blessed enough to retire with 3,170 acres of crop production,” said Sims.

Sims was a quick study and wasn’t afraid to ask for help from fellow farmers. After many trials and errors, Sims figured it out and successfully grew corn, cotton, soybeans and wheat. This allowed for his wife, Leigh Ann, to retire from being a registered nurse and raise their two sons, Taylor and Tyler.

Although Sims retired in 2023, farmers are still top of mind, along with the struggles they face daily. That includes price hikes, equipment and trucking scarcity and labor shortages, which Sims believes have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Despite the ever-growing challenges, farmers are resilient and I have faith in a bright and prosperous future ahead,” said Sims.

To Sims, the future of agriculture is in

the hands of young people. A core part of Alabama Farmers Cooperative’s strategic plan is investing in people. AFC offers several opportunities to develop the next generation of agriculture leaders. In addition to scholarships and internships, AFC's Future Leaders Program provides hands-on experience serving growers and producers in the Co-op footprint to develop skills under the direction of knowledgeable personnel.

“Even if you didn't grow up on a farm, AFC welcomes you into their family. Your background doesn't limit your opportunities – whether it's farming, working for a local Co-op or in the corporate office, there's a place for everyone,” Sims explained.

That’s where Sims’ mission as AFC Board Chairman comes in: Keep improving the Co-op system to continue helping the farmer.

“The Co-ops have been around almost 90 years and I want to see them stay for another 90. Our local Co-ops have such an important role in agriculture.

Our farmers depend on them to provide services that are vital to their livelihood and I want to make sure that that doesn’t change. We always want to keep improving things at the stores, the relationships and the services.”

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Summer 2024

59

RAISING THE HERD

WATER QUANTITY AND QUALITY REQUIREMENTS FOR BEEF CATTLE

BY KIM MULLENIX, PH.D.

There is nothing like a cool drink of water after working out in the hot summer sun. As the temperature and relative humidity begin to ramp up in the months ahead, it is important to pay attention to the source, supply, and quality of water consumed by livestock in your operation. Water is the most 60

Cooperative Farming News

important nutrient in cattle diets, and providing a consistently clean, reliable source is key in meeting animal production goals. The following provides some information on factors influencing water needs of beef cattle and management considerations going forward.

ANIMAL REQUIREMENTS A general rule of thumb is that beef cattle need two gallons of water per 100 pounds of body weight each day. This amount may increase or decrease depending on: Weight and Age • As calves grow and reach maturity, there is as much as a two-fold increase in their daily water requirements (see Table 1).

Stage of Production • A cow that is lactating will consume more water per day in order to support milk production for the calf. A dry, pregnant cow or a cow preparing to wean a calf may begin to decrease her consumption of water over time.

Temperature • Water requirements increase as temperatures increase throughout the summer. Cattle may drink less water during the winter months.

Cattle prefer water between 40 and 65 degrees F. They will reduce consumption of water warmer than 80 degrees F. The table below shows how animal needs may change based on these conditions.

Table 1. Daily water requirements for various classes of livestock based on air temperature conditions.

WATER INFLUENCES BEHAVIOR OF GRAZING CATTLE Water is one of the primary influences on grazing distribution and forage utilization in pastures, and is a key consideration when developing a grazing plan.

The location and number of watering points determine movement, distribution, and concentration of grazing animals in the system. Distance that cattle is required to travel to water can influence forage utiliza-

tion and impact animal performance in both cows and calves. Cows use more energy when they must travel great distances to water, and milk production potential is reduced. This may result in less milk for the calf, decreasing potential for gain. Pasture systems that provide water sources within 1000 feet of all areas of the pasture provide optimum uniformity in grazing.

SOURCE AND SUPPLY The most common water sources for cattle operations in the Southeast are ponds and streams. It is important to periodically assess the reliability and quality of these supplies during the summer months.

Extended periods of hot weather may reduce surface water levels. This can lead to conditions that reduce water quality due to increased concentration of contaminants, or become a stagnant area that is an optimum breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. Restricting time and access to water sources can prevent cattle from loafing in these areas when they are experiencing heat stress, and help maintain and preserve water quantity and quality in the operation. A 2010 USDA survey indicated that about 1/3 of the cattle operations in this region use deep wells or municipal water sources for their herds. When water is pumped to tanks from these resources or ponds/ creeks, be sure to match the tank capacity to serve the number of cattle in the herd.

QUALITY Research has shown that improving water quality and palatability results in increased water consumption, feed consumption, and weight gain in cattle. Water quality conditions can change quickly depending on surrounding environmental factors. The following provides insight on potential water source issues to be aware of.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR THIS SUMMER Nitrates - Frequent rainfall in May and June coupled with the ideal time to apply fertilizer to pastures/ hayfields may create water quality problems for cattle in Alabama. Excess nitrates from manure or fertilizers can enter the water supply. It is recommended to keep nitrate levels for livestock drinking water below 100 mg/L. If conditions become dry following high rates of N fertilization (greater than 80 pounds of N per acre), nitrate accumulation in grazed forages may lead to nitrate poisoning, especially if consumed in combination with elevated levels in the water supply.

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) – Excess nutrients and stagnant water can stimulate harmful algae growth, such as cyanobacteria or blue-green algae.

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Summer is typically the season when this problem is most likely to occur because water temperatures are increased. Cattle can become sick from toxins released by blue-green algae. Toxicity problems often occur during late summer/early fall when cattle consume large amounts of the algae following a rapid bloom in the water.

Pathogens and Bacteria – Cattle experiencing heat stress will seek shelter in shade or water sources that may concentrate manure. Pathogens are disease-causing organisms that can be introduced by fresh manure. Increased time loafing in ponds or wet soils can lead to soil-borne bacterial infections such as foot rot. A contaminated water source can spread a pathogen quickly through the herd.

HOW TO PROTECT WATER QUALITY FOR THE FUTURE Protecting water quality is related to managing your forages, nutrients, and livestock grazing systems. Protect the area of land surrounding your pond or water source to minimize polluted runoff of nutrients and manure. Follow nutrient recommendations for a healthy forage stand that will filter pollutants before they reach the water source and promote

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Cooperative Farming News

infiltration to clean and sustain the water source. Use rotational grazing to minimize impacts to the water source.

Consider piping water to a quality water trough or other waterer. Freeze-proof troughs (examples include floating ball top waterers) work well in cold weather and keep water cool in the summer. They also keep water relatively clean and free of algae.

Test the drinking water source once a year and more often if there are concerns. The Auburn University Soil and Water Test Lab can screen water samples for 16 parameters of interest including nitrates, pH, and total dissolved solids. Auburn University also has a service lab for blue-green algae (see text box).

If water is suspected of causing a health problem, veterinary assistance should be sought to determine the actual health problem.

For more information, check out the Alabama Cooperative Extension System publication, Drinking Water for Livestock, by scanning the QR code.

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HOOKED ON AQUACULTURE

SHRIMPLY THE BEST

DISCOVER ALABAMA’S SHRIMP INDUSTRY

BY COLE SIKES As Bubba Blue famously said in “Forrest Gump,” shrimp is the fruit of the sea. Whether you like it barbecued, boiled, broiled, baked or sautéed, this small creature sure makes a big impact in Alabama.

In 2022, Alabama’s commercial wild-shrimp landings totaled a whopping 24.28 million pounds, with a value of more than $52 million. Taryn Garlock, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System aquatic resources specialist, said the shrimp industry is a crucial component of the state’s coastal economy.

“Shrimp is by far the largest commercial fishery

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Cooperative Farming News

in Alabama and is a significant contributor to the coastal economy,” Garlock said. “In recent years, 80% of the state’s total commercial fisheries harvest was shrimp. Collectively, the Alabama seafood industry generated 6,971 jobs and sales impacts of $442.9 million in 2022.”

WILD-CAUGHT VERSUS FARM-RAISED The shrimp industry in Alabama consists of both wild-caught and farm-raised species. In Alabama waters, there are between 15 and 22 wild shrimp spe-

cies. However, only three of these are commercially caught: brown, white and pink. On inland shrimp farms, Luke Roy, an Alabama Extension aquatic resources Extension professor, said farmers often raise Pacific white shrimp.

“Pacific white shrimp are not native to the Gulf of Mexico, and they are the shrimp species of choice by most shrimp producers,” Roy said. “They are desirable because of their tolerance for low-salinity water.

They also have a desirable feed conversion ratio and the ability to be cultured at high densities with low aggression.”

In Alabama, the growing season for farm-raised shrimp starts in May and goes through October. This period provides the optimal water temperatures for shrimp growth and survivability. Alabama produces between 200,000 and 300,000 pounds of farm-raised shrimp each year. This ranks third nationally, behind Texas and Florida. However, the farm-raised shrimp industry is small relative to the millions of pounds of wild shrimp landing in Alabama each year.

In commercial shrimping, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) takes great care to create a sustainable industry.

For example, the state’s most productive nursery grounds are permanently closed to all shrimping.

The DCNR also closes several water areas for short

periods when migratory shrimp are below harvestable size. When the shrimp grow large enough, these areas reopen for shrimping.

“These measures are taken to ensure that shrimp are of legal size and enough adults escape to spawn offshore and provide the following year’s harvest,” Roy said.

Nationally, Garlock said approximately 80% of the shrimp consumed is farm-raised, but a large portion of the shrimp consumed – approximately 85% – is imported from other countries. This increase in imported shrimp has stirred Alabama lawmakers to introduce new legislation pertaining to country-of-origin label requirements. If enacted, this legislation would require businesses to specify the origin of the food, as well as whether the shrimp are wild-caught or farm-raised.

EXTENSION’S SUPPORT OF THE INDUSTRY Historically, shrimp farms in Alabama have been in Lowndes, Greene, Sumter and Tuscaloosa counties because of their access to low-salinity water and acceptable chloride levels. However, each year, farm-

Shrimping boats in Bayou La Batre, Alabama (Photo courtesy: Justin Miller)

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65

ers have to add fertilizers to increase potassium and magnesium concentrations in their ponds. This is one of the many areas in which Alabama Extension and Auburn University support the shrimp industry.

“Every year, the Alabama Fish Farming Center (AFFC) provides analysis of pond water samples to shrimp farmers,” Roy said. “Based on the results, we provide recommendations on fertilizer applications to raise the levels of potassium and magnesium to optimal levels for shrimp production.”

Located in Greensboro, the AFFC strives to connect farmers with researchers and other professionals from Alabama Extension and the Auburn School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences. In addition to fertilizer applications, these professionals provide management recommendations and technical support on a variety of other production topics.

“Alabama Extension and the AFFC provide support to shrimp farmers on things like health diagnostics, water quality analysis and feed management,” Garlock said. “They also offer farmer workshops and education programs, economic analysis, marketing resources and on-farm demonstrations.”

Through these on-farm demonstrations and research trials, Roy said Extension professionals have a hand in developing and sharing new production technologies and feed management strategies.

Shrimp being processed in a commercial operation in Bayou La Batre, Alabama (Photo courtesy: Justin Miller)

DISCOVER ALABAMA EXTENSION Working with Alabama’s shrimp farmers is just one of the many ways Alabama Extension delivers solutions for life’s everyday challenges. Extension educators are strong community partners, bringing practical ways to support homes, farms, people and communities. There is more to discover at www. aces.edu/discover.

Learn more about the "Shrimp in Alabama" publication by scanning this QR code.

Farmer casting a net to sample shrimp in Greene County (Photo courtesy: Luke Roy)

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Cooperative Farming News

Pacific White Shrimp Greene County, Alabama

Dive into shrimping, Alabama’s largest commercial fishery industry!

• In 2022, wild-shrimp landings hit 24 million pounds—worth $52 million— significantly impacting the coastal economy.

• Alabama produces about 300,000 pounds of farm-raised shrimp per year, ranking third nationally.

Extension Aids Farmers and Drives Innovation • Health diagnostics • Water quality analysis • Feed management • Economic analysis • Marketing Discover more about Alabama’s shrimp industry at aces.edu.

Follow us

ALABAMA EXTENSI0N aces.edu/discover

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator, employer, and provider. © 2024 Alabama Cooperative Extension System. All rights reserved. www.aces.edu ACES-2768

Summer 2024

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NANCY AND DARREN GILL

AN INCREDIBLE LABOR OF LOVE

BY C A R O LY N D R I N K A R D When Nancy and Darren Gill decided to look for a fixer-upper home in Thomasville, Alabama, they never could have imagined the incredible journey they would travel. For years, the Gills had collected treasures from old redecorated or demolished homes or churches. Their dream was to find a fixer-upper and fill it with the cherished things they had saved.

The Gills had been looking for nine years when a friend alerted them to an old church building that was on the market. After visiting St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, both knew this property was what they wanted. On October 21, 2022, they became the new owners.

Nancy grew up as a pastor’s daughter in Jackson, Alabama, so she has always loved all things “church.”

Even her job is with the Clarke Baptist Association.

An electrician and master plumber, Darren is also a skilled craftsman in many other trades. “Darren is a treasure to accommodate my passions,” Nancy said.

Since the old church building was such a spiritual monument to so many in this area, Nancy and Darren approached it with reverence and respect. Not only would they be converting an older building into a comfortable home, but they would also be repurposing a cherished church that was a portal to the past.

“It was very important to us to honor the history of

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church transformed into the beautiful home of Nancy and Darren Gill in Thomasville, AL.

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in 1955.

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Nancy and Darren Gill hold a frame made from the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church confessional panel. Inside is an original print of the church.

The Gills left the gorgeous exposed beams from the former Fellowship Hall. This view is in their great room.

the church,” Nancy stated. “We talked to many former members who had amazing stories. We also saved a large number of church items that we wanted to display in our home.”

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church was the dream of many who wanted a priest to come to Thomasville, as well as Grove Hill and Jackson, to hold Mass. After World War II, these dedicated individuals worked diligently to raise the funds to build a church. One even held rummage sales on Saturdays and donated those earnings to purchase the land for St. Joseph’s Church, which opened in 1955 and closed in March 2019.

The Gills used pictures from the wedding of a former member to identify various areas within the church. One of the photos showed a broken window on a panel in the Fellowship Hall. Scotty Downey, who grew up next door, had kicked a field goal right through that church window and had to pay for the replacement. The Gills found the exact window panel and presented it to Downey.

The transformation started in the Hall and kitchen, turning it into a great room/kitchen. They refurbished

the original cabinets and left the impressive, exposed wooden beams across the ceiling. Between the kitchen and sitting areas, they placed a magnificent farm table, fashioned from a tree planted in the 1940s in Jackson and heavily damaged by Hurricane Zeta in 2020. Recycled sewing machine frames support the massive structure while an antique Singer, with a foot treadle, balances the middle. An original mahogany church pew serves as a bench, and candlesticks, previously used in the church, sit on top. A stained-glass window, retrieved from Central Baptist Church in Decatur, Alabama serves as a focal point over the room’s fireplace. The mantle came from Nancy’s childhood home.

As renovation began on the church’s sanctuary and stage areas, Nancy literally got on her knees and taped the floors to indicate where she wanted carpenters to create walls for three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Darren reworked ductwork in the attic and replaced wiring, plugs and switches. He also cut trenches in the concrete foundation to install new plumbing from the front of the sanctuary to the pulpit platform.

“Thankfully we work well as a team,” Nancy said.

“Each of us has our God-given talents or we couldn’t have feasibly taken on this renovation. But we also knew when to call in the professionals!”

The church’s original doors now stand in the guest bedroom, which sits in the former sanctuary.

Many of the other materials used in these rooms were salvaged from the old Flowers home in Jackson. In all, the Gills used fixtures and other pieces from eight different churches. They salvaged some of the antique doors from Southern Accents Architectural Antiques in Cullman. In one bedroom closet, they placed a door from the old Bryce Hospital in Tuscaloosa.

The Gills refurbished and painted the original cabinets in the church’s kitchen.

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Nancy Gill kept a step-by-step journal of the transformation of the church. This book is on display in her great room.

The Gills also preserved priceless items from St. Joseph’s, making them part of their new home. For example, end caps from church pews now serve as wainscoting on the walls. Hymn holders from the backs of pews now display meaningful scriptures.

One of the original sanctuary lights hangs on the front porch, which Darren added as an entryway. Nancy saved the confessional panel to display an original print of St. Joseph’s.

Darren Gill shows how they repurposed the end caps from church pews into wainscoting for their walls.

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“We have many other items that we want to display,” Nancy added. “Everything in our home has a story.”

The stunning wooden trim around the doors as well as the exposed beams and the horizontal lines of the porch showcase the beautiful Craftsman style used throughout the home. The Gills enhanced their warm, inviting space with built-in nooks and bookcases and creative uses of glass, reclaimed from other old homes. Nancy filled each room with timeless decor, made even more amazing by the stories that come with each piece.

As renovations progressed, Nancy preserved each step in a large picture book, now displayed in the great room. The Gills plan to hold an open house once they completely finish. Those touring the home will be amazed at the artistry, imagination and talent embedded in bringing this historic building back to life.

As Nancy and Darren Gill embarked on their journey to transform an old church building, they never could have imagined what lay ahead. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church not only provided a treasure trove of history and materials, but it also opened the door to beautiful souls who shared not only their love for their former church but also its impact on their lives.

Through the years, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church has stood proudly as a haven of love for all. Today, the beautifully restored church home of Nancy and Darren Gill stands as an incredible labor of love.

The Gills worked as a team to transform an old church into a beautiful home.

BY J O H N H O W L E

IT TAKES A LITTLE FAITH “He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. ”

Ecclesiastes 11:4

Farmers who wait for the perfect weather may never get to plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest.

This Bible verse makes me think of baling hay. If you wait until there is zero chance of rain, you probably won’t be able to get a hay harvest in this year.

So much of farming involves not only faith but also taking action. Scientists have often tried to create and sell technology to basically take the place

of faith when managing land. Many of these technologies use robotics, A.I., and big data in an attempt to increase farm productivity.

Today, technology allows spraying of fields with a flying drone without the farmer even setting foot on the property.

Laser scarecrows, which project a green laser light to shoot up to 600 feet, are now being used to scare off birds trying to destroy crops. Bee vectoring technol-

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ogy is being used as well. This is where specially designed beehives allow bees to get pest control powder on their legs to spread pesticide from plant to plant.

Whether you agree or disagree with these innovations, they seem to be increasing with intensity each year. Somewhere along the way, we are losing something – namely, our faith in working with God’s timing, order and resources.

Hopefully, you have a bountiful garden working for you this time of year. Heirloom seeds are a great addition to garden plantings. These are seeds that have been saved and passed down over time and have to be open-pollinated through wind, rain, bees, and birds. The advantage of heirloom seeds is you can save them for planting next year or for the next 20 years, and you have the high nutrients and better

Excess produce you raise can be sold at your local farmers market for a premium.

Folks like fresh and local food.

This photo shows a hybrid squash on the left and heirloom on the right that I grew.

The heirloom was tastier with more texture to the vegetable.

flavor and texture of plants of the past.

Now that your garden is in full swing, you may find that you have more vegetables than you need.

What can be done with this excess bounty? Well, first, you can create and maintain good neighbors by giving the excess vegetables away.

If you have plenty for your family, your excess 72

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can be sold at a local farmers market, local trade days or even on the side of the road with permits.

There is a huge push to get away from the industrial food complex in favor of buying fresh and buying local. Last year, I had an excess of all vegetables, and each Saturday I would set up at our local farmers market in Heflin, Alabama. Usually within two hours, I had sold all the produce I had with me. All you need is a small fee, a table and chair, a few baskets to display your vegetables and a reasonably amiable personality.

Finally, any excess that you don’t give away or sell can be canned. If you are new to canning or have never tried, it’s a great way to store food longterm requiring no electricity and only a small storage area or shelves out of the sun. Not only can you can vegetables, you can also can fruits and meat. For around $150, you can buy a canner, glass jars, rings and lids and you’ll be in business.

after hundreds of ears of corn, this creates fatigue.

Instead, I put a new hacksaw blade in my reciprocating saw (often referred to as a sawzall) and used it to quickly remove the ends of the corn. Use extreme caution, because if you are not familiar with the use of this power tool, you can get hurt. Hold the ear of corn in a stationary position with the ear of corn resting against the saw guide. You can cut off both ends of the corn in about five seconds with practice.

Who doesn’t love an ice-cold, juicy watermelon?

There’s nothing worse that picking one from the garden that isn’t ripe yet. People thump the melon and listen to the characteristic hollow drum sound, but this isn’t an accurate way to determine ripeness.

Instead, look at the tiny tendril or coil nearest the melon. When this tendril turns brown and dies, you know with surety that the melon is ripe.

Any vegetable can be stored long term by canning such as these green beans.

If you’ve planted lots of corn and it’s coming in all at once, it’s time to become quick and efficient in processing the ears of corn. The biggest time consumption for me has always been cutting the ends off the corn. I would usually use a sharp knife, but

When the tendril or coil on a watermelon vine nearest the melon turns brown and dies, the watermelon is ripe.

Used carefully and with a stable brace, a reciprocating saw makes quick work of removing the ends on an ear of corn.

As harvest time rolls around, make sure you buy local and fresh if you are not already producing your own food. You will be supporting area farmers and producers and you’ll be able to keep the money and resources in your own county and state. Just about all the resources you need for food independence are at your local Co-op, covering all phases from planting to harvest.

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BY S U Z Y M c C R AY

CAN YOU HEAR IT? We spent more than two weeks trying to rectify something that was “beeping” in our house.

“It has to be that smoke detector in the hall,” Mack said. After a trip to town for batteries, all seemed well.

No more beeping. Until a few days later …

Well, it must be the batteries in the little base unit that alerts us inside our house when somebody enters the little farm store in our yard. After a trip to town for a different-sized battery, the beeping stopped for a few more days … until …

We then went out into the store and changed the batteries in all the little remote units around the front room of the store. Awwwww … quiet … until …

We racked our brains. But it seemed no matter what we changed out, the problem would be solved for a few days but then started beeping again when we least expected it.

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I read a short devotion about a family from several years ago (and of course, now I don’t remember where I read it!) … the father had to be away from home for about a week which was extremely unusual.

The woman and her daughter were making it somewhat ok alone until she began to hear a cricket chirping. She cleaned behind all her living room furniture, swept, dusted and moved rugs. But nothing seemed to help.

She couldn’t move the giant grand piano in the corner of the living room so she surmised the cricket was hidden inside somewhere and would just have to wait until her husband arrived back home. When he was met inside the door by his tearful and nervewracked wife, he slowly began shaking his head.

Walking to the corner of the room, he reached above and removed the battery from a chirping smoke alarm

he had installed for his family’s safety on the day he left …

But we had tried just about everything. And I was about to be on par with that nervous frail woman in that story.

No matter what we tried, every few days the beeping would occur, then almost magically would disappear again!

We were sitting in our living room with Mack’s sister Libby and had just told her about our dilemma. And suddenly the beeping began again in earnest!

We looked at all the usual places but to no avail.

As we sat there baffled talking about the mystery, our friend Sue came knocking on the back porch door.

“I rang the doorbell at the side but nobody came so I just walked on around the house,” she explained.

Mack and I looked at each other and burst out laughing! Mystery solved!

In between gasps for breath, Mack began talking about Uncle Jed Clampett and Jethro Bodine on the old "Beverly Hillbillies" TV show! Uncle Jed always marveled at how, almost magically, someone always knocked at their Beverly Hill’s mansion’s front door after they began to hear the chiming “purty” music coming from within their home’s walls!

We felt the same way! The occasional beeping was somebody ringing the new DOORBELL on our house’s side door toward our little store! Most regular customers know that when you enter our little store, sensors will allow the base station to beep within the house, so we’ll know we have a customer! (Actually, it’s an old driveway alarm but it works great!)

But Mack had installed a battery-operated doorbell on our home’s side door a couple of weeks before just in case someone came and didn’t realize we’d be out to the store as soon as we heard the other beep!

Since it’s electronic, it “beeps” instead of sounding the usual loud DING DONG of our home’s regular Sixtiesera doorbells.

Now every time I’m using one of the many Mason canning jars Sue brought to us as she was downsizing at her house, I start laughing again thinking about how we searched and searched for the beeping answer, and it was actually so simple!

But you readers know me. It’s usually the most simple of things that sets

my heart and mind to pondering.

How many times does God try to get our attention?

We may be pondering a problem affecting our family and our minds race as we imagine all the “what ifs” that might possibly occur.

We may be facing health concerns that could be life-altering, or it could be as simple as following the doctor’s orders to watch what we eat and get more exercise.

We may be looking at the stack of bills on our desk and comparing that with the shrinking balance in our checking account.

We may watch the nightly news before we hop into bed under our comforting squishy quilts and can’t seem to blot out the images we’ve seen of war-torn cities and crying children.

Our minds race as we try to figure it all out for ourselves, how we can work to bring in more money, how many extra miles we’d have to jog to get back “into shape” so our health and weight are no longer a concern … we try, we ponder, we worry.

Instead, we need to be silent, listening for God’s still small voice … reading His Scripture daily so that we hear Him speaking the answers directly to us from His Word.

Could that gentle beep beep beep that keeps bothering our thoughts actually be Him? Are we too busy trying to figure out everything on our own that we forget what His gentle nudging sounds and feels like?

In John 10:27 Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”

How many times have you read a verse that you may have read a hundred times before but suddenly God uses that Scripture to speak directly to your heart, to a situation or a problem that you are dealing with right then?

We can only apologize to the friends, family and possibly customers for when we didn’t answer that new little beeping doorbell. And the Bible clearly says that a merry heart is good medicine so we still laugh and laugh when we think about searching all those days for the source of that elusive beep!

But maybe we need to step back and apologize to God for thinking we are too busy to read His Word and listen for what He is trying to tell us!

(Mack and Suzy McCray live on a small homestead in Blount County Alabama where they are constantly surrounded with the wonders of God’s creation. You can reach them on Facebook or by email at suzy. mccray@yahoo.com) Summer 2024

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THE FAITHFUL

BY G R E G A . L A N E

One recent Sunday morning, I had a moment of deep contemplation. I suppose it all started while I was drying my hair that morning and looked down at my old hair dryer. It’s the same hair dryer I’ve used for the past 8-10 years. For just a moment, take a look at the photo of the hair dryer pictured with this article.

It’s obvious by looking at it that it’s been well used.

You know, I’ve used that hair dryer so often that I seldom even take the time to look at it anymore. I just pull it out of the drawer, grab the handle, plug it and dry my hair without giving it any thought at all.

But, on this particular Sunday morning, I took a brief moment to look it over carefully. I noticed how worn and over-used it looked. The paint on the side had been worn off from where I’ve wrapped the cord around it thousands of times. The plastic near the vent hole had melted slightly from all the years of constant heat. Yet, in spite of all the wear-and-tear, it’s still fully operational and fully functional. I suppose I could get a new, nicer-looking hair dryer if I wanted to, but why should I? That hair dryer is the picture of faithfulness to me. So, to honor its 76

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faithfulness through the years, I dropped everything I was doing that morning and took a photo of it. (I bet none of you have ever thanked your hair dryer for its continued faithfulness, have you? HaHa!) When I finished admiring my hair dryer, I glanced down and saw my sneakers lying on the floor. I had just kicked them off minutes earlier after returning home from my morning walk. Those shoes have taken me hundreds of miles on my morning and afternoon walks … probably 800 miles or more just in the past year. They’re worn and tattered in a cou-

ple of places. The rubber sole has disintegrated in a few places. There are scuff marks on the toes and heels, and there are a couple of holes in the fabric.

The outer appearance might not be much to look at, but those shoes have served me well for over a year.

They haven’t been stuck in a box in my closet gathering dust. The wear-and-tear on those old shoes is is a testimony to the active life I live. Sure, a new pair would look nice and maybe be a little flashier, but the old pair is broken-in in all the right places. It’s a perfect fit for me now. Those old shoes are like a faithful old friend to me.

Several minutes later, I walked out to my truck to drive to church. Once again, I was face-to-face with another picture of faithfulness. My old truck has taken me well over 200,000 miles in the past 19 years. There's paint chipping off the hood, it creaks and squeaks as I drive down the road, and there are issues with the electrical system (the radio, cruise control and interior lights don't work) but, for the most part, it has served me well. It’s taken me and my family on journeys to the beach and to the mountains. It’s taken my kids to their baseball practices, soccer matches, slumber parties, church functions and a multitude of other events from their early years of elementary school, all the way through their high school years. My son learned how to drive in that truck. So, even though it may not be much to look at, that truck has a special place in my heart.

Later on, that same afternoon, I looked down at my aging hands as I typed on my computer. To be honest, they’re starting to look a little old and worn.

They have scars and a couple of age spots, not to mention several wrinkles and creases that weren’t there a dozen years ago. They’ve served me faithfully through the years, though. Would I like to have younger-looking hands? Of course! But their appearance now reminds me of their years of faithful service and hard work.

Later on that night, as my wife and I ate supper, I looked out the window at the little old church down on the corner of our street. There were only five or six cars in the parking lot for the Sunday evening service … the same amount that have been there every Sunday night for the past two decades. But, in spite of the small turnout, the little old preacher at that church has remained faithful to the very small congregation that gathers there every week. A lesser man might have “thrown in the towel” and called it quits after so many years of service with so little growth in his

congregation size. I couldn’t help but have admiration in my heart for the little old preacher. Yes, he too is a picture of faithfulness!

After meditating on all these things, I came to a conclusion. You’re not going to be able to find the true meaning of the word “faithfulness” in things that are new, young or flashy. Faithfulness can only be measured over time. So, almost always, faithfulness has some age to it … some mileage to it … some wear-and-tear to it ... and, yes, some wrinkles to it.

You can’t determine faithfulness by numbers either. Noah was a faithful preacher of righteousness who didn’t have one single convert during his 120 years of ministry while he was building the ark.

Only eight individuals (he and his wife included) were saved because of his faithfulness.

So, today, I want to salute the rare breed that this world rarely gives honor to … THE FAITHFUL. I hope you’re one of them!

1 Corinthians 4:12 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found FAITHFUL. Summer 2024

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MAGIC OF GARDENING

MIDSUMMER MAGIC GARDENING IN PEAK SEASON

BY B E T H A N Y O ’ R E A R It may seem like midsummer is a slow gardening season, but there are plenty of tasks gardeners can tend to these next few months to ensure a productive, healthy harvest and beautiful flowerbeds even during the hottest summer days. July is probably my favorite month of the gardening season: Most big projects have either been completed or deferred until next year, most everything is already planted, and the yard is blooming with lots of flowers. With everything in place, the name of the game through July and August is maintenance, keeping plants happy so that they stay in their prime for as long as possible.

In the flower garden, tender plants such as cannas, dahlias and salvias should now be hitting their full

stride. Most flowering plants expend a tremendous amount of energy on seed production, which in turn takes away from root and shoot development and future flowering potential. Deadheading will also encourage many plants, especially annuals, to rebloom and it’s the perfect time to collect and save seeds from your favorite open-pollinated varieties. Deadhead perennial flowers like coreopsis and Shasta daisies to encourage fall re-bloom (if you’re short on time, skip the coneflowers as they’ll rebloom without pruning.)

Trim annuals and tender perennials that respond to pruning like ‘Benary’s Giant’ zinnias, marigolds, geranium and cosmos. Back away from the begonias and Russian sage, however, as they don’t need trimming.

A viibrant yellow dahlia in full bloom amidst purple salvia

It's time to prune zinnias and marigolds.

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Spray tomato plants for foliar diseases a few weeks after transplanting them.

July is the proper time to start planting your lima and pole beans.

Now is also the time to get a handle on weed control.

Hand pull weeds and apply or supplement with organic mulch. Mulch is a magical ingredient—it suppresses weed growth, moderates soil temperatures, adds to the fertility of the soil and conserves moisture. Organic mulches take many forms including pine straw or pine bark. No need to pay extra for dyed mulches as they add no greater benefit than ordinary wood mulches and need to be topped off more frequently to maintain constant color.

In the vegetable garden, preventative maintenance techniques are in full swing. Continue mulching, removing plant parts that are touching the soil, and spraying for diseases on a regular basis before significant infection impacts tomato, pepper, and similar plants. Spraying of tomato plants for foliar diseases should be started within a few weeks of setting out transplants in the garden (when there is no evidence of disease at all) and maintained every 7-10 days throughout the growing season. Diseases in tomatoes, and all other plants, are similar to those in people: fungal, viral, or bacterial. A fungicide (like liquid copper) works on foliar fungal diseases but is ineffective on diseases like bacterial leaf spot. It is very important to know exactly what type of disease you have to make sure you pursue the correct treatment. Most garden stores and retail centers sell many different products to tackle disease issues, both in traditional and organic compositions. No matter which product you choose, be sure to read the label and follow exactly. THE LABEL IS THE LAW! Of course, you can give yourself a head start by planting cultivars of any vegetable that are bred for disease-resistance and making sure to rotate the location of crops in your garden so that members of the same plant family (which carry the same diseas-

es) are not planted in the same location from year to year. Curious about exactly which plant family your favorite summer vegetable is in? The nightshade family includes eggplant, Irish potato, pepper, and tomato while the cucurbit family includes cucumber, summer and winter squashes, honeydew, watermelon, cantaloupe and pumpkin. A couple of my favorites happen to be the only vegetables in their respective families – corn, a member of the grass family, and okra, a member of the mallow family. The goal of crop rotation is to avoid planting any member of the same plant family in the same garden section for 3 years.

If all this preventative maintenance doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, planting the late summer garden sure does. In July, you can sow beans (lima and pole), cucumbers, and winter squash. You can also plant a second round of transplants of eggplants, peppers, and tomatoes to make sure you continue to enjoy their bounty through late summer and into the fall.

For tomatoes, just be sure to select heat-tolerant cultivars such as ‘Bella Rosa,' ‘Solar Fire’ or ‘Amelia,' as they will be producing blooms and setting fruit during the hottest part of our Alabama summer. Now is also a great time to start preparing for your fall garden.

In early July, you can start cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage transplants for setting out in mid-August.

As we wind down our summer gardening adventures and start planning for the next season, it’s important to reflect on the growth and progress made, not just in our gardens but in our skills as gardeners.

The lessons learned this season set the stage for even greater success in the future. So, take a moment to appreciate the lush beauty you've cultivated and prepare for the changing seasons ahead. Here's to enjoying the fruits of your labor and to the continuous journey of gardening!

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LAWN & GARDEN C H E C K L I S T

Learn—month by month—the necessary gardening activities for lawns and shrubs, annuals and perennials, fruit and nut trees, and bulbs, roots, and tubers. Included is a timeline for activities such as soil testing, planting, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, indoor plantings—from cauliflower to okra, from camellias to dahlias to heirloom roses.

July Garden Checklist

fertilizer falls on plants.

Annuals and Perennials • Water as needed to keep plants active.

•D eadhead or cut back for later summer blooms.

Bulbs • Plant iris and spider lilies late this month.

Fruits and Nuts •P rotect figs and other ripening fruit from birds.

Shrubs •C ontinue to root shrub cuttings until late in the month and mulch to keep soil moist.

•R emove faded blooms promptly from crape myrtle and other summer-blooming plants.

Lawns •A pply 1 pound nitrogen per 1,000 square feet to all warm-season lawn types: bermudagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, and zoysiagrass.

•M ow often (5 to 10 days) to remove just 1/3 the grass height at each mowing.

•W ater lawns as needed (grayish color or curling leaf blades).

Roses •K eep roses healthy and actively growing.

• Apply fertilizer.

• Wash off foliage to prevent burning if any

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sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, collards, kale, lettuce, mustard, radishes, and spinach.

Vegetable Transplants •W hole state: Plant a second season of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant for fall harvest.

•N orth: Plant certified seed potatoes for Irish and red-skinned varieties in late July.

August Garden Checklist

Miscellaneous •K eeping flowers, shrubs, trees, and lawns healthy is the major task this month.

• Observe closely for insects and diseases.

• Water as plants indicate need.

Vegetable Seeds • Whole state: Plant pumpkins for fall harvest. Continue plantings of beans, southern peas, squash, and cucumber.

• North: Plant cabbage, carrots, and cauliflower. Wait until late July to plant beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, collards, and kohlrabi, or start them in flats for transplant later.

• South and Central: Start seeds in flats for August and September transplants, including beets, broccoli, Brussels

Fruits and Nuts •C ut out old blackberry canes after fruiting and then fertilize and cultivate for replacement canes.

•R emember to order new catalogs for fruit selection.

Shrubs •P ropagate woody plants, such as hydrangeas and azaleas, by layering.

•D o not fertilize woody plants in late summer. It will stimulate new growth that might not have time to harden off before winter’s first frost.

Lawns •A pply 1 pound nitrogen per 1,000 square feet to bermudagrass and St. Augustine-

grass. Skip this month for fertilizing centipedegrass and zoysiagrass.

•M ow often (every 5 to 10 days) to remove just 1/3 the grass height at each mowing.

•W ater lawns as needed (grayish color or curling leaf blades).

•S top fertilizing warm-season turf types at the end of the month.

Roses • Keep roses healthy and actively growing.

• L ightly prune hybrid teas and floribundas to prevent a scraggly appearance.

•O ld-fashioned roses will experience second bloom flush, so no need to prune these types.

Annuals and Perennials •W ater as needed. Plant perennials and biennials for spring.

Bulbs •D ivide old iris plantings and add new ones.

Miscellaneous •K eeping flowers, shrubs, trees, and lawns healthy is the major task during this month.

• Closely observe for insects and diseases.

• Water.

Vegetable Seeds •W hole state: Continue planting beans and squash.

•C entral and North: Continue planting cole crops, beets, carrots, collards, kale, lettuce, mustard, Swiss chard, parsley, radishes, and turnips.

Vegetable Transplants •S outh and Central: Plant certified seed potatoes for Irish and red-skinned varieties until mid-month.

•N orth: Plant cole crop transplants that were started in July.

September Garden Checklist

Annuals and Perennials •P lant perennials and biennials. This is the last planting time for these.

•D ivide old clumps of perennials.

• Plant peonies.

Bulbs •P lant spring-flowering bulbs late this month in North Alabama.

• Delay planting in South Alabama.

Fruits and Nuts • New catalogs will be arriving soon.

•S tart plans for future selection and plantings.

• Take soil test for new planting areas.

• F ertilize established strawberry plantings.

Shrubs •S tudy landscape to determine plant needs.

•C heck early camellia varieties for damage caused by insects and disease.

•R eplace landscape plants as needed that have severe damage caused by insects, disease, or freezes.

•A fter fall growth is completed, spray all shrubs with a fungicide.

Lawns •M ow often (5 to 10 days) to remove just 1/3 the grass height at each mowing.

• I f daytime temperatures are consistently cooler than 80 degrees F, apply fire ant bait. Read the label carefully for best control.

• I f winter or spring weeds were a concern this year, apply preemergent herbicides.

•R eseed tall fescue lawns and fertilize at 1 pound slow-release nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.

Roses •P rotect fall crops of blossoms from aphids and thrips.

• Keep plants healthy.

Miscellaneous •C lean up infestations of insects on azaleas, camellias, boxwoods, gardenias, hollies, etc.

• I f oil spray is needed, don’t use in freezing weather.

•B uild a compost bin or box; leaves will be falling soon.

•M onitor house plants for insects and diseases before moving them indoors.

Treat as needed to prevent carrying unwanted pests indoors.

Vegetable Seeds •S outh: Plant beets, carrots, Brussels sprouts, collards, kale, lettuce, mustard, onion seeds, radishes, spinach, Swiss chard, parsley, and turnips.

•C entral and North: Continue planting carrots, collards, kale, lettuce, mustard, onion seeds, parsley, radishes, spinach, Swiss chard, and turnips.

Vegetable Transplants •W hole state: Continue planting cole crops, collards, kale, lettuce, mustard, and spinach transplants, and onion sets.

• South: Plant celery transplants.

Questions?

Call the Master Gardener Helpline at (877) 252-4769. A Master Gardener Extension volunteer is waiting to answer your call.

See other months from Alabama Gardener’s Calendar at www.aces.edu.

The Lawn and Garden Checklist is provided by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

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FOOD SAFETY

PICKLES, PICKLES, PICKLES B Y A N G E L A T R E A D AWAY The pungent aroma of vinegar mixed with spices such as dill, cinnamon, cloves, mustard seed indicates that something is being pickled in the kitchen. This aroma brings to mind the wonderful sweet lime pickles that my grandmother made, which have always been one of my favorite pickles.

Some of you may think that making pickles is too difficult or takes too long, but there are several different ways to make pickled foods including a process called “quick-pack” that anyone who does home food preservation can get done in a few hours.

In fact, there are four basic types of pickles: brined or fermented, fresh pack or quick process, fruit pickles, and relishes. Almost any food can be pickled if that’s your preferred method of preservation!

The brined or fermented pickles are those that take a longer time because the product is brined or cured over a three to six week period of time in a high salt solution (brine). These pickles are those where 82

Cooperative Farming News

the cucumber has color changes – the green goes to an olive or yellow-green and the inside changes from white to translucent.

Fresh-pack or quick process pickles are not fermented. There are two ways to make this type of pickle: one method requires soaking the vegetables in a low-salt solution for several hours or overnight to draw some of the water from the cells; the vegetables are then drained and processed with vinegar, spices, and seasonings.

The second type of fresh-pack pickle calls for cooking the vegetable with vinegar and spices, then packaging and processing the product immediately.

Beet pickles, bread and butter pickles, and pickled asparagus or green beans use the fresh-pack method.

Fruit pickles are just what the name implies – fruits simmered in spicy syrup then packed and processed.

Watermelon rind pickles fall into this category.

Finally, relishes are mixtures of fruits and/or

vegetables that are chopped, seasoned and cooked in a vinegar and spice solution then packed and processed.

All types of pickles are better when allowed to stand for several weeks after processing. This allows the flavors to develop to their fullest.

SECRETS FOR CRUNCHY PICKLES

1. Use small, firm cucumbers. This is, handsdown, the most important! If you start with a big soft cucumber, you’ll end up with big soft pickles. Always, always select the smallest, most firm cucumbers and leave the big soft ones out of the pickle jar. It’s a natural law of sorts – if you are using ginormous, overgrown cucumbers for your pickles, nothing is going to turn them crunchy… No matter how creative you get.

2. Jar them immediately after picking, or as soon as possible. Going straight from the vine to the jar is the best, try to plan room in your schedule to can up a batch right away on pickle-picking day. However, you can still have good results using farmer’s market cucumbers – providing they are firm when you buy them, and don’t leave them on the counter for days and days.

3. Soak cucumbers in an ice water bath for a couple hours. If you can’t get to work canning your cucumbers immediately after picking them (or returning home from the farmers market), submerging them in an icy bowl of water in the fridge will help them firm up/stay firm.

4. Cut off the blossom end of cucumber. The blossom-end of a cucumber is said to contain enzymes which can cause mushy pickles. Cutting it off is your best bet.

5. Low-Temperature Pasteurization Treatment The following treatment results in a better product texture but must be carefully managed to avoid possible spoilage. Place jars in a canner filled half way with warm (120º to 140º F) water. Then, add hot water to a level 1 inch above jars. Heat the water enough to maintain 180º to 185º F water temperature for 30 minutes. Check with a candy or jelly thermometer to be certain that the water temperature is at least 180ºF during the entire 30 minutes. Temperatures higher than 185ºF may cause unnecessary softening of pickles. Caution: Use only when recipe indicates you can use this process.

What about Alum? Back in the day, it was recommended to add alum or food-grade lime to pickle recipes to help with crispness. Alum does not improve the firmness of quick-process pickles. Food Grade lime can be used but you must rinse the cucumbers thoroughly to get all the lime off to make it a safe pickling product. Layering cucumbers with ice for two hours

or so before canning can do the trick What if I STILL get mushy pickles? Well, then you might as well just quit this whole canning thing and go back to buying everything from the store ... not really.

Sometimes mushiness still happens, even if you do everything in your power to prevent it. Mushy pickles are still quite edible, and if you have super-duper mushiness going on, you can use those for chopping up to add to potato salad, etc. Just keep experimenting – you’ll get into your crispy-pickle groove eventually.

QUICK FRESH-PACK DILL PICKLES

•8 lbs of 3- to 5-inch pickling cucumbers • 2 gals water •1 -1/4 cups canning or pickling salt •1 -1/2 qts vinegar (5 percent) • 1/4 cup sugar • 2 quarts water • 2 tbsp whole mixed pickling spice •a bout 3 tbsp whole mustard seed (2 tsp to 1 tsp per pint jar) •a bout 14 heads of fresh dill (1-1/2 heads per pint jar) or 4-1/2 tbsp dill seed (1-1/2 tsp per pint jar) Yield: 7 to 9 pints Procedure: Wash cucumbers. Cut 1/16-inch slice off blossom end and discard, but leave ¼-inch of stem attached. Dissolve ¾ cup salt in 2 gals ice water. Pour over cucumbers and let stand 12 hours. Drain. Combine vinegar, ½ cup salt, sugar and 2 quarts water. Add mixed pickling spices tied in a clean white cloth. Heat to boiling. Fill jars with cucumbers. Add 1 tsp mustard seed and 1½ heads fresh dill per pint. Cover with boiling pickling solution, leaving ½-inch headspace. Adjust lids and process or use the low-temperature pasteurization treatment. If you want to process without low-temp pasteurization you will process in a waterbath canner pints 10 minutes and quarts 15 minutes.

A great place to get more information on food preservation and/or more recipes is your local County Extension Office or go to our website at www.aces. edu and look under the tab of food safety. Also you can get more info and recipes from the National Center for Home Food Preservation which is operated by the University of Georgia Extension Service. You want to use USDA-tested recipes for the best and safest recipes.

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BY M A RY DE L P H

BY T I F FA N Y L E S T E R It’s officially grilling season! There’s no better way to spend the summer than in your yard cooking a fantastic meal. Whether you use charcoal, gas or pellet, your grill and the recipes in this issue of the Co-op Pantry will take your dinner to the next level!

Grilled Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Glaze 1 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup soy sauce 8 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 6 14-ounce pork chops Kosher salt

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Cooperative Farming News

Bring honey, soy sauce, and garlic to a boil in a saucepan and reduce to simmer for 5 minutes, until the garlic is cooked. Remove from heat and whisk in black pepper. Reserve. Lightly season pork chops with salt. Heat grill to 450°F and season the pork chops with salt on each side. Sear pork chops on each side, turning frequently to develop a crust on all surfaces, about 7 minutes total. Lower the heat and cook through, continuing to turn, about 15 to 20 minutes more, until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Brush the pork chops with the honey garlic glaze and serve with additional glaze.

BBQ Chicken with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe 6 chicken breasts 6 slices bacon 1 1 0-ounce package cheddar cheese, sliced into about 18-24 slices 1 recipe peach BBQ sauce Preheat grill to 350º F. Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon, stretching it to ensure wrapped tightly. If needed, secure with a toothpick. Place chicken onto grill and grill until cooked throughout. Chicken should register 165º F when measured with an internal meat probe. Once chicken reaches 165º F, spoon on peach BBQ sauce and lightly spread to cover. Then place three to four slices of cheddar cheese on top of bbq sauce.

Then, drizzle more bbq sauce on top of cheddar cheese. Cook on grill for about 3-5 more minutes to allow cheese to begin to melt. Remove from grill and serve immediately.

Heat a gas or charcoal grill to high heat. Ideally, the grill should hit 500°F. In a small saucepan, gently melt the butter. Mix the melted butter with the garlic, pepper and oregano. Reserve in a small bowl. Place the oysters on the half shell right over the hottest part of the grill. The oyster shouldn't be cut loose from the shell as they can slip and fall right through the grill.

Spoon enough of the seasoned butter over the oysters so that some of it will overflow into the fire and flame up a bit. The oysters are ready when they puff up and get curly on the sides, about 5 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses. Top the oysters with the cheese mix and parsley. Serve on the shells immediately.

Herb Parmesan Grilled Corn 6 fr esh corn on the cobs, remove the husks and clean thoroughly

Chargrilled Oysters 4 o unces (1/2 cup) softened unsalted butter, more to taste 2 Tablespoons finely chopped garlic 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 pinch dried oregano 18 large oysters, freshly shucked on the half shell 1 ounce grated Parmesan cheese 1 ounce grated Pecorino Romano cheese 2 teaspoons finely chopped parsley Summer 2024

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2 Tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Preheat your grill on medium high heat and spray the grill grates with a nonstick cooking spray so that the corn does not stick to the grates. Lay each cob directly on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes flipping regularly until the corn is tender and slightly browned.

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic and salt. Remove the corn from the grill and brush the butter mixture onto the corn immediately.

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on the corn on the cob.

Serve warm and enjoy!

10-Minute Summer Veggie Salad Salad 2 tomatoes (1 cup), diced 1/2 cucumber (1 cup), diced 1 red bell pepper (1 cup), diced 1/2 red onion (½ cup), chopped 1/2 cup diced feta Dressing 2 Tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup fresh parsley 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon honey 1 clove garlic, minced Pinch of salt and pepper 86

Cooperative Farming News

Salad: Chop all salad ingredients into equal-sized blocks. Toss together in a large bowl.

Dressing: Whisk together the dressing ingredients.

Assemble: Add the dressing to the salad, tossing to evenly coat. For tastiest results, let chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour prior to serving.

Grilled Marinated Zucchini with Burrata 4 zucchini squash, sliced into thin strips Kosher salt and pepper 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/3 cup olive oil 8 ounces burrata cheese 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted Pin ch crushed red pepper flakes

Preheat the grill to high. Let it heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Line a baking sheet with a kitchen towel or paper towels. Cut the zucchini into thin slices, about ¼ inch.

I find this works best with a knife, as I actually like the slices about ¼ inch thick. If you’d like thinner slices, you can use a mandolin or vegetable peeler. Place the zucchini strips on the towel-lined sheet and sprinkle all over with salt. Let sit for 20 minutes. Whisk together the red wine vinegar, garlic and olive oil with a big pinch of salt and pepper. Set it aside. Toast the pine nuts by placing them in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Stir and shake the pan until golden and toasty, about 5 minutes. Do not walk away from the pan! The zucchini will have released a lot of liquid by now, so pat it completely dry with a paper towel. Place the zucchini directly on the grill. Grill for 1 to 3 minutes per side, just until grill marks appear and it starts to soften. Remove the zucchini from the grill. Place the zucchini in a baking dish or on a platter. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to marinate in the dressing. Turn the pieces a few times so they are covered all over with the dressing. Top with the burrata cheese and pine nuts. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes and serve!

Grilled Peach and Berry Pie 1 p ie crust from a pack of two or you can use a homemade crust 3 cups berries fresh or frozen, see note 1/3 cup granulated sugar plus more for sprinkling 2 Tablespoons cornstarch 1 Tablespoon lemon juice from 1/2 lemon Zest of 1/2 lemon about 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon heavy whipping cream 2 disposable foil pie pans or square baking pans Preheat grill to as close to 350°F as you can get it. Place berries in a large bowl. Sprinkle with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice and zest. Toss with your hands. Unroll pie crust and place it in a disposable foil pie plate (or a disposable foil square pan). Place fruit in the center and fold up the edges to form the

crust. Brush the edges with heavy whipping cream and sprinkle with granulated sugar (optional). Place a second foil pie plate (or square baking pan) upside down on the grill. Place the pie (in its pan) on top of the inverted pan and close the lid of the grill. Cook until the crust is cooked through, around 20-30 minutes depending on how hot your grill is. Check it at 15 minutes and then every few minutes after to make sure it doesn’t burn. Carefully remove pie from grill.

Cool before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream!

Did you try one of these recipes?

Snap a picture and share it on social media! Tag us and use the hashtag #CoopPantry!

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MONTGOMERY MONTGOMERY TRAVEL TRAVEL EXHIBIT: EXHIBIT: THE SCOTTSBORO BOYS MUSEUM BOYS July 1 MUSEUM - August 5, 2024 July 1 - August 5, 2024 Department Montgomery - Alabama Montgomery - Alabama of Archives and HistoryDepartment of Archives and History Admission - 9:00 a.m. - Noon Admission - 9:00 a.m. - Noon Call 256-912-0471 Call 256-912-0471 SUMMER STEM CAMPS July 1-26,STEM 2024 CAMPS SUMMER Huntsville Huntsville Botanical July 1-26, -2024 Gardens - -Admission Huntsville Huntsville Botanical Gardens - Admission Various events and times Various events and times Call 256-830-4447 Call 256-830-4447 SUMMER ART CAMPS AT SPACEART ONECAMPS ELEVEN SUMMER JulySPACE 1-26, 2024 AT ONE ELEVEN Birmingham - Space One Eleven July 1-26, 2024 Admission Birmingham - Space One Eleven 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Admission Call 256-830-4447 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Call 256-830-4447 SAND MOUNTAIN

POTATO FESTIVAL SAND MOUNTAIN July 4, 2024 POTATO FESTIVAL Henagar - Henagar Town Park July 4, 2024 10:00 a.m.

- Fireworks at Park night Henagar - Henagar Town Call 256-657-6282 10:00 a.m. - Fireworks at night Call 41ST256-657-6282 ANNUAL SHOALS SPIRIT OF FREEDOM CELEBRATION 41ST July 4,ANNUAL 2024 SHOALS SPIRIT -FMcFarland FREEDOMPark FlorenceO CELEBRATION 3:00 - 9:00 p.m. July 4, 2024 Special guest headliner at 8:00 p.m.

Florence - McFarland Park Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

3:00 - 9:00 p.m. - Special guest Call 256-740-4141 headliner at 8:00 p.m.

Fireworks start PIES: at 9:00JULY p.m.

SOIL TO MUD Call 256-740-4141 SEEDS TO SPROUTS July 5, 2024 Huntsville - Huntsville Botanical 88 Cooperative Farming News

SOIL TO -MUD PIES: Gardens Admission JULY S EEDSa.m.

TO SPROUTS 10:00 - 11:00 July256-830-4447 5, 2024 Call Huntsville - Huntsville Botanical GarSOIL MUD PIES: JULY dens -TO Admission SEEDS SPROUTS 10:00 - TO 11:00 a.m.

July 5, 2024 Call 256-830-4447 Huntsville - Huntsville Botanical Gardens - Admission MELON, MELONS, WATERMELONS! 10:00 July 9,- 11:00 2024 a.m.

Call 256-830-4447 Wetumpka - 100 West Bridge Street Noon - 1:00 p.m.

MELON, MELONS, WATERMELONS! Call 334-567-6301 July 9, 2024 Wetumpka - 100 West Bridge Street 4TH ANNUAL RANDOLPH COUNTY Noon - 1:00 p.m.RODEO CATTLEMEN’S Call 334-567-6301 July 5-6, 2024

Wedowee - Randolph Co. AgCOUNTY Center 4TH ANNUAL RANDOLPH Admission - Fireworks CATTLEMEN’S RODEOeach night Call 334-265-1867 July 5-6, 2024 Wedowee - Randolph Co. Ag Center 8 SECONDS- Fireworks FOR LIFE each RODEO

Admission night July334-265-1867 5-6, 2024 Call Gadsden - Union #3 Baptist Church 8 SECONDS FOR LIFE Admission - Gates openRODEO at 5:00 p.m.

July 5-6, 2024 Rodeo starts at 7:00 p.m.

Gadsden - Union #3 Baptist Church Call 256-494-9180 Admission - Gates open at 5:00 p.m.

16TH ANNUAL Rodeo starts atSOKOL 7:00 p.m.

PARK PRO RODEO Call 256-494-9180 July 11-13, 2024 16TH ANNUAL SOKOL Tuscaloosa - Ray C. Jenkins Arena PARK PRO- RODEO Admission Rodeo starts at 7:00 p.m.

July 11-13, 2024 Call 205-562-3210 Tuscaloosa - Ray C. Jenkins Arena - Admission Rodeo TECNIJOSEPH AND THE -AMAZING starts at 7:00 p.m.

COLOR DREAMCOAT Call July205-562-3210 11 - August 11, 2024 Montgomery Shakespeare JOSEPH AND- Alabama THE AMAZING Festival TECNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Admission - Various July 11 - August 11,times 2024 Call 334-271-5353 Montgomery - Alabama

ATTRACTINGFestival AND RAISING Shakespeare BUTTERFLIES Admission - Various times July334-271-5353 17, 2024 Call Prattville - 610 Fairview Ave ATTRACTING AND RAISING Noon - 1:00 p.m.

BUTTERFLIES Call 334-361-7273 July 17, 2024 Pratville - 610 Fairview Ave AIR SUPPLY Noon - 1:00 p.m.

July 18, 2024 Call 334-361-7273 Mobile - Saenger Theatre Admission AIR SUPPLY 7:30 18, p.m.2024 July Call 251-208-5600 Mobile - Saenger Theatre Admission ROCK THE SOUTH 7:30 p.m.

July 18-20, 2024 Call 251-208-5600 Cullman - 1872 Co. Rd. 469 Admission Various events ROCK THE-SOUTH Call 256-737-7565 July 18-20, 2024 Cullman - 1872 Co. Rd. 469 “THOSE CRAZY LADIES IN THE Admission - Various events HOUSE ON THE CORNER” A PLAY Call 256-737-7565

BY PAT COOK “THOSE CRAZY July 18-21, 2024LADIES IN THE HOUSE ON THE CORNER” A PLAY Union Springs - Red Door Theatre BY PAT COOK Thursday, Friday and Saturday play July 18-21, 2024 begins at 7:30 p.m.

Union Springs Red Door Theatre Sunday begins-at 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday play Call 334-738-8687 begins at 7:30 p.m.

W.C. HANDY MUSIC FESTIVAL Sunday begins at 2:30 p.m.

July334-738-8687 19-28, 2024 Call Florence - Various Locations W.C. HANDY MUSIC FESTIVAL Admission - Various Times July 19-28, 2024 Call 256-766-7642 Florence - Various Locations Admission - Various Times LAKE MARTIN SONGWRITER’S Call 256-766-7642 FESTIVAL 2024

July 24-28, 2024 LAKE MARTIN SONGWRITER’S Alexander City - Various times and FESTIVAL 2024 locations - Admission July 24-28, 2024 Call 256-215-3067 Alexander City - Various times and

locations - Admission Call 256-215-3067 COLBERT COUNTY TOMATO COLBERT COUNTY SANDWICH DAY TOMATO SANDWICH DAY July 26, 2024 July 26, 2024- Colbert County Tuscumbia Tuscumbia - Colbert Courthouse Lawn County 11:00 a.m.Lawn - 1:00 p.m.

Courthouse Calla.m.

256-386-8571 11:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Call 256-386-8571 2024 WORLD’S LONGEST 2024 WORLDS YARD SALE LONGEST YARDSALE August 1-4, 2024 August 1-4,Mountain 2024 Parkway Lookout Lookout Mountain Various times andParkway locations Various times and locations Call 256-845-3957 Call 256-845-3957 NATIVE FRUIT: GROWING AND NATIVE FRUIT: GROWING AND FORAGING PAWPAW, AMERICAN FORAGING PAWPAW, AMERICAN PERSIMMON, BLUEBERRY AND PERSIMMON, BLUEBERRY AND ELDERBERRY ELDERBERRY August 1, 2024 August 1, 2024 Athens - Limestone County ExtenAthens - Limestone County sion Office Extension Office 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

5:00 7:00 p.m.

Call 205-471-0912 Call 205-471-0912 TRUE CRIME WAGON TOUR TRUE CRIME WAGON TOUR OF OLD CAHAWBA OF OLD CAHAWBA August 3, 2024 August 3, 2024 Orrville Cahawba ArchaeologiOrrville - OldOld Cahawba cal Park Archaeological Park Admission Admission 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Call 334-872-8058 Call 334-872-8058

August 19-25, 2024 Birmingham - Various Locations 25TH ANNUAL SIDEWALK Admission - Various Times FILM FESTIVAL Call 205-324-0888 AUGUST 19-25, 2024 JUST A SWEATIN RANCH RIDE Birmingham - Various Locations Admission - Various Times August 24, 2024 Call 205-324-0888 Pell City - 15 Ira Hanks Memorial Drive - Admission JUST A SWEATIN RANCH RIDE Ride starts at 8:00 a.m.

August 24,be2024 Riders must back at Pellby City - 15 Ira Hanks Memorial start 2:30 p.m.

Drive Admission Call 205-913-3153 Ride starts at 8:00 a.m.

CREATING A BETTER HABITAT Riders must be back at start by 2:30 FOR DEER AND TURKEY p.m.

August 27, 2024 Call 205-913-3153 Brent - Sawmeal Restaurant 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

CREATING A BETTER HABITAT FOR DEER AND TURKEY Call 334-303-8360 August 27, 2024 FALL GARDENING TIPS: Brent - Sawmeal Restaurant VEGETABLES AND FLOWERS 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

September 5, 2024 Call 334-303-8360 Hamilton - Marion County Extension Office 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 FALL- GARDENING TIPS: a.m.

VEGETACall 205-471-0912 BLES AND FLOWERS September 5,FESTIVAL 2024 TINGLEWOOD Hamilton Marion September 7, 2024County Extension Office - 10:00 Montevallo - Orra.m.

Park- 11:00 a.m.

Call 205-471-0912 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Call 205-324-0888 TINGLEWOOD FESTIVAL HISTORY AND7,NATURE September 2024 WALK AT OLD CAHAWBA Montevallo - Orr Park September 2024 9:00 a.m. -7,5:00 p.m.

THE WOODS YOUR BACKYARD Orrville Call 205-324-0888 THE WOODS IN IN YOUR BACKYARD - Old Cahawba August 7, 2024 August 7, 2024 Archaeological Park - Admission HISTORY AND NATURE WALK AT Montgomery - 1018 MadisonAve. Ave. Montgomery - 1018 Madison 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

OLD CAHAWBA Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Call 334-872-8058 Call 334-245-8053 September 7, 2024 Call 334-245-8053 NORTH STATE FAIR OrrvilleALABAMA - Old Cahawba 2024 CLAY COUNTY September 9-15, 2024 2024 CLAY COUNTY Archaeological Park - Admission CATTLEMEN’S RODEO Muscle - 65 Sportsplex Drive CATTLEMEN’S RODEO 10:00 -Shoals 11:00 a.m.

August 9-10, 2024 Admission Various Call 334-872-8058 Times August 9-10, 2024 Clay County Call 256-383-3247 Clay County Rodeo Arena - 85240 Admission Doors open at NORTHOFF ALABAMA STATE PATH: FAIR Hwy 9, Ashland, AL PLANTS THE BEATEN Call 256-846-0467 Admission - Doors open at September 9-15, 2024 SUMMER & FALL BLOOMERS Call 256-846-0467 Muscle Shoals - 65 Sportsplex Drive PLANTING A FALL VEGETABLE September 10, 2024 Admission - Various Times CONTAINER GARDEN Wetumpka - 100 West Bridge Street PLANTING A FALL VEGETABLE Call 256-383-3247 August 13, 2024 Noon - 1:00 p.m.

CONTAINER GARDEN Wetumpka - 100 West Bridge Street Call 334-567-6301 PLANTS OFF THE BEATEN PATH: August 13, 2024 Noon - 1:00 p.m.

SUMMER & FALL BLOOMERS Wetumpka - 100 West Bridge Street LEESBURG DAY Call 334-567-6301 Noon - 1:00 p.m.

September 2024 September 14,10, 2024 TH Call 334-567-6301 Wetumpka 100 West Bridge Street 25 ANNUAL SIDEWALK Leesburg - Industrial Boulevard Noon - 1:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

- 2:00 p.m.

FILM FESTIVAL Call 334-567-6301

Call 256-523-8830 BOOM DAYS DAY HERITAGE LEESBURG CELEBRATION September 14, 2024 September 2024 Leesburg - 20-21, Industrial Boulevard Fort Fort p.m.

Payne City Park 9:00Payne a.m. --2:00 10:00 a.m. - Until Call 256-523-8830 Call 256-845-3957 BOOM DAYS HERITAGE ART ON THE ROCKS CELEBRATION September 21-22, 2024 September 20-21, 2024 Gasden - Noccalula Falls City Park Fort Payne - Fort Payne Admission 10:00 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. - Until Call 256-549-4663 Call 256-845-3957 ALABAMA COMIC CONVENTION ART ON THE ROCKS September 28-29, 2024 September 21-22, Birmingham - BJCC 2024 Gasden - Noccalula Falls Admission Admission 10:00 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m.

Call 205-523-5834 Call 256-549-4663 THE 2024 GREAT ALABAMA 650 September - October 1, 2024 ALABAMA 21 COMIC CONVENTION Centre - Jake’s on the2024 Lake September 28-29, Various times- and locations Birmingham BJCC Admission Call 205-458-8400 Call 205-523-5834 THE 2024 GREAT ALABAMA 650 September 21 - October 1, 2024 Centre - Jake’s on the Lake Various times and locations Call 205-458-8400

“What’s Happening in Alabama” Policy The AFC Cooperative Farming News publishes event listings as space allows, giving preference to agricultural events of regional or statewide interest and those that are annual or one-time events. The magazine assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information submitted for publication and advises calling ahead to confirm dates, locations, times and possible admission fees.

To be included in the calendar, send listings to: Cooperative Farming News Calendar of Events P.O. Box 2227 Decatur, AL 35609 -oremail to Calendar of Events at advertising@alafarm.com *Please include name of event, where it will be held (both town and physical location), a phone number for more information, and an email or website.* *Event Listings must be received at least two months in advance and will be accepted up to a year in advance.*

Summer 2024

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