Winter 2024-Cooperative Farming News

“I'll “ I ' l l never n e v e r plant p l a n t another a n o t h e r variety variety of o f pinkeye p i n k e y e peas p e a s ifi f I can't c a n ' t have have Mississippi M i s s i s s i p p i Pinkeye P i n k e y e 2 .”. ” W RELEASE! NE Mississippi Pinkeye 2

UTILITY PATENT PROTECTED

Purplehull Purplehull

Mississippi Pinkeye 2 retains the most desirable characteristics of superior yield and disease resistance of Mississippi Pinkeye, with the additional benefit of improved emergence and survivability in cool, wet soils typical of early spring weather.

“I'll never plant another variety of pinkeye peas if I can't have Mississippi Pinkeye 2.

I don't want any other variety. I have tried other pinkeyes, but they don't yield, cook or taste like Mississippi Pinkeye 2. I like the size of this big pea and it shells out easy. It freezes pretty and tastes like you just shelled them.

We planted late and it was a dry year, but the plants still got knee high loaded down with peas. Mississippi Pinkeye 2 - that's my pea.”

- Lisa Holmes “Planted two varieties of pinkeye peas this year: Texas and Mississippi Pinkeye 2. I planted the second week of March.

Mississippi Pinkeye 2 was the best pea by far. The plant was larger, had longer pods and more pods per plant than the Texas, and was taller and also grew off faster. The pods had a good purple color and shelled out better. They also freeze well. Again, there were more peas per bush than the Texas plant, plus you can pick all season long.”

- Michael Anderson

“Our Mississippi Pinkeye 2 Purplehull peas were really good producers and our customers liked them. They made long pods and the peas were larger than the other varieties we planted. They mature more evenly which makes picking easier and more profitable.

The new Mississippi Pinkeye 2 Purplehull will be a big part of my operation again next year.”

- Bob Compton

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Cooperative Farming News

Seeds for Southern Soils

YOUTH MATTERS

17 PALS 18 4-H Extension Corner: Jackson County 4-H 22 FFA Sentinel: Enterprise FFA Gets Hands-On

60 On the Cover:

A stack of Cooperative Farming News issues from over the last 50 years showcases the varying designs as the style has changed.

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CO-OP MATTERS

Co-op Corner: 24 Seeds of Change 26 Driving Success at Taleecon 28 Livestock Production Specialists 58 Turning the Page The History and Changes of Cooperative Farming News

LIFE ON THE HOMEPLACE AND IN THE COMMUNITY

60 Lickskillet Acres Where Animals Rule and Dreams Come True 64 A New Kind of Library

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Letter from the Editor........................ 4 Ag Insight........................................... 8 Business of Farming........................... 12 From the State Vet’s Office................. 14 Homegrown with Bonnie Plants........ 30 Sweet Grown Alabama....................... 33 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...................... 45 Farming Your Forest........................... 46 Shepherding Outdoors....................... 50 Raising the Herd................................ 54 Hooked on Aquaculture..................... 56 Howle’s Hints..................................... 67 Simple Times...................................... 71 Grazing Grace..................................... 74 Magic of Gardening............................ 76 Lawn & Garden Checklist.................. 78 Food Safety......................................... 82 The Co-op Pantry............................... 84 What’s Happening in Alabama............ 88

CONTENTS

OUR REGULARS

Winter 2024

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Letter from the Editor 4

It’s a new year, and that stirs up anticipation and hope for what’s to come.

Farmers are preparing fields for the quick-approaching planting season, repairing equipment and doing the strategic planning necessary to grow a more bountiful crop than the year before.

Alongside the brisk winter air sweeping over pastures are exciting changes.

Inside our first quarterly issue of 2024, you’ll find new columns, new writers and several new features and Co-op Corners. We are working harder than ever to cover all things Agriculture!

Read about how a new partnership between Faithway Alliance and Alliance Animal Care, learn how Bonnie Plants is fighting food insecurity, hear what it’s like being hooked on Alabama aquaculture and get invaluable expertise on ways to raise an impressive herd of cattle.

But we could never forget about our fantastic regulars!

Visit a one-of-a-kind library, go out on a hunt with Shepherding Outdoors, get over the fear of a “first time” with Grazing Grace and return to Simple Times of true joy.

We can’t wait to see what the rest of 2024 has to offer.

Thank you for being a loyal reader, customer and part of the AFC family.

Tiffany Lester Editor-in-Chief

Cooperative Farming News

AFC Summer 2024 Summerinternship internshipprogram program • 10-week paid program working outdoors, learning about agriculture, and supporting farmers.

• Offers an active, hands-on approach to connect with growers and producers across the south.

• Focuses on learning more about the co-op system and gaining knowledge of agriculture products, services and technology.

deadline to apply - march 31, 2024 visit www.alafarm.com/coopcareers for more information

Winter 2024

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Editor-in-Chief: Tiffany Lester Contributing Editor: Jade Randolph 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 Ben Haynes, Chairman of the Board

Visit our website to subscribe to our magazine or read online.

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

AFC Board of Directors Jeff Sims - Vice Chairman Rickey Cornutt, Matt Haney, Brooks Hayes, Rick Hendricks, Steve Stroud, Mike Tate and David Womack Honorary Directors: Sam Givhan, Bill Sanders and Lawrence Smith 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.

https://www.alafarm.com/shop

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

/Alafarm

Andalusia Farmers Cooperative Andalusia - Russell Lassiter, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-222-1851 Florala - Pete Blackwell, Mgr. Phone 334-858-6142 Opp - Brandon Bledsoe, Mgr. Phone 334-493-7715 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 Seth Eubanks, Gen. Mgr. Centre - Nick Hughes, Mgr. Phone 256-927-313 Jacksonville - Tommy Thomas, Mgr. Phone 256-435-3430 Piedmont - Kevin Bobbitt, 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 - David Tierce, 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 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 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 - Ben Smith, 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, LLC 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.

Robbie Neal, Mgr. Phone 256-764-8441 Grassy - Greg McCannon, 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

Farmers Co-op of Ashford Ashford - Timothy Tolar, Gen. Mgr. Phone 334-899-3263 *Please contact each store directly for all of the services they offer* PEANUTS PECANS PROPANE PEA SHELLING CATFISH

DIRECTORY OF MEMBER COOPERATIVES

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

Winter 2024

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AG INSIGHT

AG INSIGHT

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

Agricultural census data release date set for February 2024 The Census of Agriculture is a complete count of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. Even small plots of land, whether rural or urban, growing fruit, vegetables or some food animals count if $1,000 or more of such products were raised and sold, or normally would have been sold, during the Census year. The Census of Agriculture, taken only once every five years, looks at land use and ownership, operator characteristics, production practices, income and expenditures.

For America’s farmers and ranchers, the Census of Agriculture is their voice, their future and their opportunity.

The Census of Agriculture provides the only source of uniform, comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every county in the nation. Through the Census of Agriculture, producers can show the

nation the value and importance of agriculture and can influence decisions that will shape the future of U.S. agriculture.

Census of Agriculture information is used by all those who serve farmers and rural communities — federal, state and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations and many others.

USDA expands access to school breakfast, lunch The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced that it is giving an estimated 3,000 more school districts in high-need areas the option to serve breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost, by expanding the availability of the Community Eligibility Provision, commonly known as CEP. While this change in CEP applies across the country, it will be particularly impactful in states and school districts which commit to supporting healthy school meals for all students with their own funds.

USDA to fund 12 Alabama projects in specialty crop block grant program The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) recently announced over $496,000 in Fiscal Year 2023 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funding to Alabama.

With this grant, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) will fund projects

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Cooperative Farming News

that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crop products and create new market opportunities for the state’s specialty crop producers.

“With this year’s Specialty Crop Block Grant funding, Alabama is investing in innovative projects that will help address the needs of specialty crop producers within the region,” said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. “The funded projects will also further USDA’s efforts to ensure U.S. specialty crop products remain competitive in markets across the nation and abroad.”

Through the SCBGP, the ADAI will fund 12 projects.

Among ADAI’s projects is funding to Auburn University to evaluate the use of drone imaging to automate disease and pest scouting for container nursery and vegetable production. Additional funded projects focus in areas such as evaluating new strawberry cultivars, sustainable use of mulching systems and increasing consumer awareness of Alabama specialty crops.

Rye shows ability to "nab" nitrates, capture carbon and generate bioenergy Winter rye is prized for its versatility. It is a source of grain and also a forage and ground cover that protects the soil from erosion by wind and rain. But the benefits of winter rye don’t stop there.

A series of studies, begun in 2015, by a team of Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and university collaborators suggest that establishing a cover crop of winter rye between rotations of corn and soybean can reduce nitrate losses, sequester carbon and provide a source of renewable natural gas.

Robert Malone, an agricultural engineer with the Agricultural Research Service’s National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment at Ames, Iowa, is coordinating the studies to evaluate rye’s potential role in the "sustainable intensification of agriculture"— an approach deemed critical to meeting growing world demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel without overtaxing what the land and natural resources can provide.

In the latest studies, the team used a field-scale computer model to simulate rotations of corn and soybean, with or without winter rye cover crops, at 40 sites across the North Central United States, including parts of the Mississippi River Basin, which empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

Across the 63-total million hectares (approximately 156 million acres) of North Central farmland that

the model’s simulations encompassed, use of winter rye cover crops on tile-drained fields translated to a 27% reduction in nitrate loads entering the Gulf of Mexico via the Mississippi River basin.

Nitrate poses an environmental concern when it goes unused by crop plants and escapes into streams, river, lakes and other bodies of surface water, compromising water quality and helping fuel algal blooms. The subsequent death and decay of the algae in these blooms consumes oxygen, killing or driving off fish and other aquatic life.

Study results show consumers fail to use safe food handling practices The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released the results from the final year of a fiveyear study that observed how consumers prepared meals. The study was produced by USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) as part of their efforts to highlight the importance of safe food handling practices.

The study results were released during the recent observance of Food Safety Education Month. “The results provide guidance on how to shape food safety communications that help consumers safely prepare food,” USDA officials said.

The study observed food safety behaviors, including participants’ thermometer use for ground pork sausage, handwashing, and cleaning and sanitizing of food preparation surfaces.

As seen in the previous four years of the study, thorough handwashing remains a concern. The most

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recent data shows that 87% of participants self-reported they washed their hands before starting to cook in the test kitchen. However, only 44% of participants were observed doing so before meal preparation.

Additionally, handwashing was not attempted 83% of the time when it should have been done (e.g., touching raw sausage and unwashed cantaloupe, cracking eggs, contaminated equipment or surfaces).

Throughout the study, 96% of handwashing attempts did not contain all necessary steps.

Avocado peels viewed as a way to help curb plastic waste problem Over the past two decades, the United States has been importing more and more avocados each year, underlining a growing obsession with the nutrient-dense fruit. Simultaneously, the U.S. and the rest of the world have been dealing with a growing environmental crisis spurred on by an over-reliance on plastic. Could avocados—specifically avocado peels— provide a potential solution?

According to a study conducted by South Dakota State University researchers, the fibers of avocado peels could possibly be used to make biodegradable films—something that could ultimately replace plastic as a packaging material.

Ag groups seek assurances from presidential hopefuls Major U.S. agriculture organizations have asked all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements as a means to strength10

Cooperative Farming News

en U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China.

The organizations also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture’s largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs.

“The U.S. again needs to take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system,” the organizations said in the letter.

“In many respects, future FTAs could be modeled on the U.S.-Canada-Mexico Agreement (USMCA) passed by Congress with broad bipartisan support.

Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China’s growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers.”

USDA uses taste test panel for feedback on food products The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) employs some of the world’s latest, greatest and most sensitive laboratory equipment. And, while every scientist has a favorite “toy,” one scientist is putting his research where his mouth is.

For Ryan Ardoin, it’s human taste buds that provide the metrics that matter. That’s because Ardoin oversees a group of people known as a “sensory panel” – taste-testers who provide a human perspective on food characteristics.

“Sensory research is important to any project where the final product is intended for human consumption,” said Ardoin, a research food technologist at the ARS Southern Regional Research Center (SRRC)’s Sensory Evaluation Lab (SEL) in New Orleans, Louisiana.

“The sensory panel is a critical part of our research because analytical instrumentation can’t truly tell us what people experience from a food product.

Only people can do that.”

While the SRRC does have a few human taste-testers on staff, most are residents of the New Orleans area. These panelists receive many hours of training to familiarize them with the basic elements of food products. They then learn to use a 15-point universal scale to rate these attributes consistently.

In essence, they are trained to ignore personal preference.

Family • Integrity • Per severance • Stewardship

Cultivating meaningful life on and off the farm. ®

Winter 2024

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BUSINESS OF FARMING

FAMILY AND FARM BUSINESS:

A FEW BEST PRACTICES IN THINKING ABOUT FARM RESILIENCY

BY K E L L I R U S S E L L , P H . D .

Ninety-six percent of all U.S. farms are family-owned, and the number for Alabama mirrors the national average.1 When talking about the challenges that family farms face, farmers often discuss factors directly related to production and farm profitability: the market, weather and agricultural labor. These factors are all outside of a farmer’s control and are known collectively as “extraordinary stressors.” In addition to these stressors that

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Cooperative Farming News

family farms have no control over, family farms face common or “everyday stressors”: the managing of family schedules, childcare, relationships and work/life balance, which are stressors also experienced by those who are not involved in agriculture. Research on family farm resiliency shows that sustaining and continuing the family business—the farm—can be difficult in different seasons of life depending on the extraordinary and

everyday stressors a family experiences.

Sustainable family business research identifies the balance between the work in and for the family business with family life as the most difficult challenge for family businesses.2 For farmers, this is especially acute as farming is not an 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. operation that an employee can “clock out” from each day, but rather is a 24 hour/7 day a week enterprise running 365 days a year. Furthermore, farming is commonly viewed by farmers as a lifestyle that they desire to share with their families. Sustainable family business studies have mapped the various factors related to everyday and extraordinary stressors to identify multiple factors that impact long-term family business viability and sustainability.

Key resources for families include their social, human and financial capital and key resources for the farm include the same—social, human and financial capital that overlaps with the individual family members’ capital. Families are guided by roles (husband, wife, child, etc.) and common family values, whereas farm businesses are guided by their structure and ownership formulation in addition to the owner’s goals and values. While family farms may have seasons of stability that overlap with a family’s season of stability, oftentimes the two differ as the interactions, work, and transactions that occur are independent.

In studying interactions and transactions for family businesses, strong communication efforts are central to short-term and long-term sustainable family business development.3 As the cliché goes, communication is key, and communication is essential in both family and farm business aspects of life, including the ordinary (everyday) stressors and the extraordinary stressors. For family farm businesses, here are a few best practices for navigating risks and stressors: Even if you think everyone is on the same page, plan sessions to discuss farm business and expectations. Just as farmers often set aside time for farm work (planting or harvesting crops, weaning or vaccinating calves, and so on), set aside time to discuss planning for each season of the farm. There are roles within each family and then separate (yet sometimes overlap-

Sustainable Family Business Theory Model

ping) roles within the family farm business. Be sure to discuss roles and expectations for each new season.

Include everyone within the family in the discussions—both young and old. Children are often termed “the future” of farming; however, they are the present of farming as well as they are often found helping around the family farm. Children who are included in family business discussions early have a better understanding of the intersection between farm and family. On multi-generational farms, incorporating each family member—including older family members that might not be involved in the day-to-day running of operations—in discussions of plans is helpful for decision-making, building strong family and farm identities and problem-solving.

Take inventory of your and your family’s resilience skills and draw on your shared values that underpin both your family and your family farm.

Whereas discussing farm management decisions as a family may come easy, set aside time to individually and collectively discuss farm goals, personal and farm adaptability and hardiness regarding stressors, and ways to better use community and farm organization resources. Agricultural organizations and entities, like Alabama Farmers Cooperative, have resources for members—use them to your advantage to better equip you, your family and your family farm.

USDA Quick Stats Danes and Morgan 2004 3 Braun 2003; Braun and Pippidis 2019 1 2

Winter 2024

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FROM THE STATE VET'S OFFICE

DOING OUR PART TO MAKE FOOD SAFER

BY D R . T O N Y F R A Z I E R I came to work for the State of Alabama, Department of Agriculture and Industries right when a major change in the way meat was inspected was being put into place. In 1993 there was a large E. coli outbreak caused by hamburgers sold by the Jack in the Box fast food chain. To make matters worse, the strain of E. coli was the 0157H7 strain, which was far worse that your regular generic E. coli strains. This particular strain of E. coli was often responsible for the kidneys shutting down, often resulting in death. The hamburger patties traced back to the outbreak involved 11 lots that

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were produced on November 29 and 30, 1993.

Seventy-three restaurants in four states, California, Washington, Idaho, and Nevada were involved in the recall and outbreak of the E. coli 0157H7.

In the outbreak, over 500 people became ill by at least developing bloody diarrhea, with over 170 hospitalized and four deaths. At that point, government officials decided it was time to use all the tools we had available to reduce the risk of foodborne illness as low as possible.

The resulting change in meat inspection went from using the senses of sight and smell to detect

whether meat or equipment was clean and sanitary established in the late 1960’s and has provided service to the implementation of HACCP and the Pathogen to generally smaller, often “mom and pop” plants that Reduction Regulation. HACCP stands for Hazard Anal- certainly have their place in the communities across ysis and Critical Control Points. HACCP is a process Alabama. We also provide inspection to some of the that breaks down a processing procedure and looks small to medium plants across the state. at each step to determine if contamination could The USDA covers the large poultry processing occur and if it did, what could be done to control it. facilities as well as some of the larger red meat plants HACCP was actually developed by NASA to make scattered around. We do cover some of the smaller sure the food the astronauts consumed was free of plants that are under federal inspection. When we are pathogens. If you are like me, you can see the wisdom performing inspection in those facilities we report in taking every precaution against the astronauts' to USDA, FSIS (Food Safety Inspection Service). An developing a case of diarrhea while in space. Anyway, establishment that has a federal grant of inspection that’s all it took to sell me on the principle of HACCP. has the ability to ship their product across state lines The regulation that called for the implementation or even out of the country. Plants that operate under of HACCP also called for microbiological testing of a grant of “state inspection” are not allowed to ship product and the environment, including equipment. across state lines. Don’t ask me why though. SevTesting for pathogenic eral years ago, I was bacteria or microorganwatching them discuss isms is a way to find out state versus federal HACCP is a process that breaks down a processif your HACCP plan really inspection. The man ing procedure and looks at each step to determine works. It is important to being interviewed was if contamination could occur and if it did, what note that just because clearly misguided when could be done to control it. a surface looks clean, it he told the host, “If these may not be free of bacstate-inspected estabteria. I tried to look up lishments want to sell how many bacteria could fit on the head of a pin. The across state lines, let them apply for and be granted answers I found ranged from around 500 to over a federal inspection.” Well, that is an argument that has million organisms. The sources were not that reliable; been going on long before I got here and will continue however, they were on the internet and if it’s on the long after I have moved on. For the record, however, internet, it has to be true. Well, the point is that bactewe operate out of the same regulations that the fedria are so small you can only see them under a microeral inspectors do. In fact, we are reviewed regularly scope, so I know that a huge number could fit on the to make sure we are complying with the USDA, FSIS head of a pin. It is through testing for organisms that rules. They review records as well as establishments. we are able to know that the cleaning program that a And you can bet they have a vested interest because meat facility has in place is actually working. the federal government pays for half of the expense There is an old saying that if you don’t want to of the program if a state chooses to have one. find something, don’t look for it. In the meat industry, The state meat inspection program falls under my that is certainly not the case. They, along with inspec- umbrella. It consists of three veterinarians and twention personnel, are constantly looking and testing for ty-four inspectors, which includes three field supersomething we had rather not find. That is pathogenic visors. We have one compliance officer that covers organisms—bacteria that make people sick. We know the real estate from Tennessee to the Florida line and that if it is there, it had better be found before it gets the Gulf Coast and from Mississippi to Georgia. To into commerce. Having said that, part of each meat support the program, we only have one administrative establishment’s HACCP plans includes a recall plan assistant that keeps all the chain saws that are being so that if any lot or day’s production of meat needs to juggled in the air. These people, who are the meat inbe recalled, there is already a plan in place. Most of spection program, are an exceptional group. I always the plants that we deal with simply hold the meat until hear about the stereotypical government employ who the test comes back negative. is always looking for quitting time and counting days Notice I said most plants we deal with, with the to retirement. I imagine those folks do exist, but not emphasis on “we.” It has been a few years since I have here. This group is very professional. They know their written about food safety. Some of you may not know jobs. They represent Commissioner McMillan and the that the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Indus- State Veterinarian well. But most importantly they are tries has a meat inspection program. The program was out there doing our part to make your food safer.

Winter 2024

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PALS

EDUCATING YOUNG LEADERS ON LITTER CLEANUP

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

Happy 2024! The fall was a very busy time for the Alabama PALS Clean Campus Program. I visited nearly 20 schools in person, Zoomed with a few more, and had meetings with various other groups around the state to help spread our anti-litter message. I spoke to thousands of students from August to December sharing why we need to all do a little bit each day to keep our beautiful state free from litter.

Two schools I visited this fall were Kinston School in Coffee County and Fairfax Elementary School in Chambers County. At Kinston, I met with 200 students in an assembly aimed at teaching the students how to be lifelong stewards of our environment. I challenged the students to look out the windows on their way home and really see the litter on the side of the road. I asked them to imagine how all that litter got there and how it may or may not ever get picked up. I suggested they start a habit now of picking up at least one piece of litter every day, because we can all make a big differ-

ence when we all do our part!

At Fairfax Elementary School, I met with their student government group. I reminded this group that they are the leaders of the school, and when they are seen doing the “right thing” by picking up litter, the other students will notice. I challenged this group to spread the anti-litter message to their fellow students by not only being an example but also by telling a few friends what all we discussed.

This spring, we hope to visit at least 20 more schools and would love to come to your town! Also, our Poster and Recycled Art Contests will be due in April, and all contest information may be found in our newsletter online at www.alpals.org. 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 thanks to our state partnerships and corporate sponsors.

Winter 2024

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4-H EXTENSION CORNER

JACKSON COUNTY 4-H

NEW PEOPLE-NEW PROGRAM-NEW START B Y C A R O LY N D R I N K A R D In less than two years, Vanessa Roberts and Matt Webb have breathed new life into the Jackson County 4-H program.

Enrollment is up and innovation is booming.

Vanessa serves as the 4-H Regional Extension Agent, and Matt is the County Extension Coordinator. Working together, they have sparked something of a renaissance in Jackson County.

“Extension provides unbiased information for our farmers, families and 4-H kids,” Matt explained. “I believe that it is very important to recognize that our 4-H kids are our present and future clientele. 4-H provides so many opportunities to develop these kids to become productive citizens and leaders and help to prepare them for a career.”

After visiting the schools, Vanessa established in-school 4-H programs in almost all schools in Jackson County. She also started special interest out-of-school programs, like a shotgun club and a livestock club. Other programs included archery, rabbits, forestry and wildlife. Both in-school and after-school involvement and participation have increased markedly.

Vanessa provides curriculum-based lessons each month for in-school meetings. She also includes fun activities, like fishing, in which 4-H members practice casting a line, something that many Matt Webb (l) and Vanessa Roberts (r) have breathed new life into the Jackson County 4-H program. Matt serves as the County Extension Coordinator. Vanessa is the 4-H Regional Extension Coordinator.

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Cooperative Farming News

had never done before. Vanessa also secured a Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) grant for the 4-H'ers to try rocketry, soil conservation and a new skins and skulls kit, which allowed youth to touch the skins and learn more about native Alabama wildlife.

In addition to learning new things monthly in clubs, 4-H members can compete against each other through various projects, such as photography, woodworking, demonstrations and more. The winners are then invited to the County 4-H Roundup held at the VFW Fairgrounds, where they will compete against other 4-H members from around the county.

Projects, such as the lawn tractor, Poultry Queue and Chef 4-H cannot be done at school, so Vanessa brings them to the County 4-H Roundup. First- and second-place winners are then invited to compete at the Regional 4-H Congress, held at the Northeast Alabama Community College. These activities have attracted many more youth and volunteers to participate in 4-H programs.

In the summer, various 4-H camps take center stage. The biggest is 4-H Camp, held at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana. In her first year, Vanessa was able to take 15 members. This year, she had 42 members attend.

Vanessa and Matt also organized summer day camps in various parts of the county. Any child could come to learn new things. For some, this was their first experience with 4-H. The camps have grown each year, and 4-H members now get to interact with livestock, go fishing, hike trails and participate in art projects.

The Shotgun Team won 2nd place Junior Overall Team at the 4-H Shotgun Championship. Pictured (l to r) are Cason Treece, Garret Harden, Vanessa Roberts (sponsor), Cash Treece, and Lucas Rowe.

Partnerships are important in developing a successful 4-H program. The staff at the Extension Office works together to support the 4-H program, as well as other Extension programs. Also, 4-H enjoys great buy-in from so many other community entities, like the Jackson County Commission, Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce, the Jackson County Board of Education, Scottsboro City School System, Jackson County Farmers Federation, Jackson County Cattlemen’s Association and the Economic Development Authority.

“So many things we do in 4-H fall right in with other activities,” said Vanessa. “For example, the Fishing Day Camp falls in line with the Tennessee RiverLine, which promotes the recreational use of

The largest group ever from Jackson County attended Summer Camp.

Winter 2024

19

Fishing Day Camp falls in line with the Tennessee RiverLine, which promotes the recreational use of the Tennessee River.

A large group of Jackson County 4-H'ers competed at Regional Congress.

the Tennessee River. We partner with these organizations to develop life skills in fun ways.”

Some after-school clubs work with partners like the Boys and Girls Club gardening project.

“It’s fun for them to watch their veggies grow,” said Vanessa. “They were even able to harvest veggies and take them home. They also made zucchini bread. The kids loved this.”

Many Jackson County out-of-school clubs go on to compete at State events. The Shotgun Club won second at State, and the Wildlife Club had a thirdplace winner.

“It’s fun to watch,” Vanessa explained. “It’s great to see 4-H'ers put in the time and then see it pay off.”

The keys to this new start in Jackson County 4-H have been cooperation, coordination and community.

Nancy Alexander, State Extension 4-H Specialist and Program Coordinator, commended the Jackson County team.

“Vanessa, Matt and the Jackson County 4-H team are proof that passion, hard work, commitment and teamwork make all the difference in the world.”

Dr. Molly Gregg, State Assistant Director, 4-H Youth Development, agreed.

“Matt and Vanessa’s partnership serves as a testament to the power of collaboration. Matt's encouragement and unwavering support provide the foundation upon which Vanessa's talents flourish.

Together, they embody the spirit of teamwork that propels the Jackson County 4-H program forward, working to address the needs and hopes of Jackson County youth.”

These Jackson County students participated in the 4-H Art & Wildlife Day Camp this summer at the Scottsboro Public Library.

The participants of the Forestry & Entomology Day Camp enjoyed a hike to the Pisgah Gorge.

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Cooperative Farming News

“

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 Winter 2024

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FFA SENTINEL

ENTERPRISE FFA GETS HANDS-ON B Y S AVA N N A H N O W E L L In the "small" town of Enterprise, Alabama, a hidden gem lies in the form of Enterprise High School, a place of learning and growth for over 2,000 students.

In such a diverse student body, it is essential to offer unique opportunities that can capture the interests of these young minds. Among the thirty student organizations available, the Enterprise FFA (Future Farmers of America) stands out as a beacon of hands-on experiences and community engagement.

Enterprise FFA is not just any Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO); it's a conduit for students to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world. Each year, this chapter actively participates in a range of service projects within the local community. One of the highlights of our annual calendar is our partnership with the Coffee County

Cattlemen's Association. In the fall, our FFA members eagerly volunteer to assist in hosting the association's annual steer and heifer show. This event is not just about observing cattle; our students actively check in animals and exhibitors, prepare lunches, and even assist in the award ceremonies. It's a genuine handson experience that not only deepens their understanding of the agricultural world but also instills a sense of community service.

The Enterprise FFA also plays a significant role in the Farm City Petting Zoo, Farm City Banquet, and the annual Cattlemen's Dinner. Engaging in these events allows our students to forge connections within the community and explore the diverse sectors of the local agriculture industry.

While community engagement is a cornerstone

Enterprise FFA members at South district eliminations. Members have the choice to compete in a CDE or LDE event, or they may volunteer to help lead testing groups and prepare lunches for competitors.

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Cooperative Farming News

Over the summer, the Enterprise FFA chapter received gold for its National Chapter Award! This award is based on our program of activities throughout the year.

The application then was judged at the national level and received two stars.

In October 2022, the Enterprise FFA chapter members were asked to help kindergarten students by leading groups to stations and by educating them on the animals at the Coffee County Farm City Petting Zoo.

of our chapter, the learning doesn't stop outside of school. Our dedicated advisors, Alexis Dunn and Grant Griffin, continually brainstorm ways to introduce our students to industry professionals. Over the years, our students have had the privilege of listening to guest speakers from various sectors, including Coffee County Extension, Alabama Fish and Wildlife Officers, and the Enterprise Police Department. These interactions provide students with invaluable insights into potential career paths and the workings of their community.

Last year, our chapter experienced a tremendous surge of success, with numerous accolades and accomplishments. Rachel Lee, an 11th-grade student, was appointed as the Alabama South District Reporter, a testament to the leadership and potential nurtured within our FFA ranks. The chapter itself received a gold rating for the National Chapter Award and is set to receive two-star recognition at the upcoming FFA National Convention at the end of October, a significant achievement. Grace Treglia, class of 2022, received first place in the state with her Ag Process-

ing Proficiency Award in beekeeping and was awarded silver at the National level.

Moreover, our chapter proudly hosted the South District Spring Eliminations contest, welcoming over 1,000 students from South Alabama into our school.

This contest showcased the hard work and dedication of our FFA members, with five teams competing and two students engaging in Leadership Development Events (LDEs). An impressive three of our teams secured a spot at the state level competition held last June, further demonstrating the caliber of talent nurtured within our FFA chapter.

The Enterprise FFA stands as a testament to the power of community engagement, learning by doing, and the incredible potential of our students. With passionate advisors, a thriving chapter, and the unwavering support of the Enterprise community, the FFA continues to empower students, fostering future leaders and agriculture enthusiasts. This is a testament to the rich tapestry of opportunities that Enterprise High School offers to its diverse student body.

Grace Treglia with her first place banner she received for her ag processing proficiency. Grace processes the honey her bees make to sell and make soap.

Officer Lindley is guiding two students through a sobriety test while wearing drunk goggles.

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Co-op CORNER SEEDS OF CHANGE AFC TRANSFERS GRAIN DIVISION TO WOODALL GRAIN COMPANY

BY T I F FA N Y L E S T E R There are dozens of quotes about changing with the times, the importance of adapting and the difficulty of it all. John F. Kennedy said it best when he said, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”

Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC) has experienced many changes over its 87 years of existence, and now, times are a-changin’ once more.

After 66 years in the Grain Marketing Service, AFC sold its Grain Division assets to Woodall Grain Company (WGC) effective as of August 2, 2023.

WGC was established in 2005 by fifth-generation farmers. Headquartered in Decherd, Tennessee, it specializes in merchandising corn, wheat, and soybeans.

WGC provides producers and end users with the highest level of individualized grain marketing and risk management services for the greatest level of profitability.

“AFC believes Woodall’s acquisition of the Grain Division will only enhance the grain merchandising and marketing services for our farmers. AFC has always focused on providing the best possible service to its member Co-ops and local farmers through the most

1958

1964

1957 - AFC partnered with Indiana Farm Bureau Cooperative to market grain.

1964 - Decatur Grain Elevator facilities were purchased from Indiana Farm Bureau Cooperative.

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Cooperative Farming News

beneficial means available. Woodall’s proven expertise and farmer-focused approach to the grain business simply furthers that goal,” says AFC President and CEO Rivers Myres.

Woodall Grain Company CEO Jared Woodall echos that same sentiment, stating, “We are pleased to welcome AFC Grain Division to the Woodall family. Our two companies share the same values, including an unwavering commitment to prioritizing farmers, making this a tremendous fit. We are excited to further expand our footprint in Alabama providing customers with the highest level of individualized grain marketing services.”

It is bittersweet to say farewell to the Grain Division which began as a way to provide a more direct and ready market for farmers' grain.

AFC leaders have always kept the evolving needs of farmers top of mind. This is but one of several strategic adjustments they have made over the years.

There is no one better to describe the changes to AFC’s Grain Division over the years than the AFC Grain Division’s longest serving Vice President, John Gamble.

Gamble’s journey with AFC began in 1978 when he joined as a management trainee in the Grain Division.

From the outset, he immersed himself in various roles, from running the scales and learning about farming to mastering the intricacies of grain accounting. Gamble’s dedication led him to explore hedging and merchandising, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

Gamble retired in 2021 after 43 years in the Grain Division. His work there allowed him to interact with farmers both locally and globally, an opportunity that left a lasting impression on Gamble.

“It's just a great thing to be able to meet all these people and then also deal with your local cooperatives

that had a grain facility. Limestone Co-op, Lawrence County Exchange, DeKalb Farmers. A lot of those Co-ops had grain facilities that we did the marketing for for many, many years, so we could hedge the grain and they weren't likely to lose any money on their grain purchases. There were about 35 of them back when I first started. Now, there's probably six or eight. They got fewer, but they got bigger. “ AFC Grain's significance to farmers and the cooperative stores cannot be understated. With numerous, convenient locations for farmers to bring their grain, AFC Grain provided competitive pricing and offered patronage refunds during profitable years.

“Over the years, trucks have gotten bigger and farms have gotten bigger. But when it started, it was small 300-bushel trucks, and the farmers didn't want to travel a long way to bring their grain. We had a network that was very convenient to the farmers. We offered a very competitive price in all those locations.

Then we paid patronage back to the Co-op stores to those growers when we had a profitable year. Everybody reaped the reward when we did well. The local stores did well, and in turn, their farmers did well because they got a patronage refund from us,” explained Gamble.

As we celebrate the Grain Division’s long history, we honor the enduring spirit of employees like Gamble and look forward to the next chapter in its storied history.

With the acquisition, Woodall Grain Company now owns elevators in Decatur, Florence, Leighton, Guntersville, Browns and Uniontown along with its other facilities in Decherd, Fayetteville, Elora, and Manchester, Tennessee. Customers may deliver to any location and take advantage of WGC’s Farmer Direct delivery points and on-farm pickup services.

1968

2023

1968 - On January 1, AFC took over operations of the Decatur Grain facility, creating AFC Marketing Service, Inc.

2023 - AFC sold its Grain Division assets to Woodall Grain Company (WGC) effective as of August 2, 2023.

Winter 2024

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CO-OP CORNER

DRIVING SUCCESS AT TALEECON FARMERS COOPERATIVE

BY S A M A N T H A H E N D R I C K S

In today's dynamic workforce, individuals are constantly seeking new opportunities to enhance their skills and expand their career prospects. One such example is Seth Lovvorn, an employee who recently completed his Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training in partnership with Calhoun Community

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Cooperative Farming News

College and Alabama Farmers Cooperative through our local Co-op stores. This collaboration between AFC and Calhoun not only benefited Seth personally, but also exemplifies the value of partnerships in fostering employee development at our local Co-ops and driving community growth.

Seth, an employee of Taleecon Farmers Cooperative in Notasulga, Alabama, recognized the need for a Class A CDL license at his local Co-op and committed to the time needed to receive the license. The program offered expert instruction from experienced instructors and a comprehensive curriculum that covered essential topics such as vehicle operations, safety regulations and proper handling and maintenance of commercial vehicles. The hands-on training provided by Calhoun allowed Seth to gain practical skills and experience behind the wheel, preparing him for a successful career with his local Co-op.

The partnership between our local Co-op stores and Calhoun brings numerous benefits to both parties involved. For our Co-ops, it means having a highly skilled and qualified driver who can contribute to our operations effectively. By investing in Seth’s training, they are committing to employee growth and loyalty, fostering a positive work environment, and enhancing staff recognition. On the other hand,

the collaboration with the local community college allows Calhoun to showcase their ability to tailor programs to meet industry demands.

After completing the training program, and with the support of both Taleecon Farmers Co-op and Calhoun, Seth was able to take and pass both the written test and comprehensive practical exam, earning his Class A CDL license. He now has the opportunity to pursue a fulfilling career through multiple facets at his local Co-op.

Seth’s determination and hard work exemplifies the positive outcomes that arise from partnerships between businesses and local educational institutions. By investing in his professional development, the Co-op not only enhanced their workforce locally, but also contributed to the overall growth of the community. This serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in employee development and the impact it can have on businesses and communities alike.

Winter 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.

As an LPS for Tennessee Valley Co-op, Leslie Goins’ coverage area includes Limestone, Lawrence, and Lauderdale counties in Alabama, and Giles County in Tennessee.

“I really enjoy talking with producers on the farm and getting to know them and their operation,” explained Goins. “It’s not just about offering products and price tags. It's helping producers build a complete, effective, and efficient program that is sustainable in our ever-changing world,” said Goins.

Goins is laser-focused on helping customers be successful and enjoys assisting producers build a complete, effective and efficient program that is sustainable in the ever-changing world.

The Co-op provides hay and forest testing, animal nutrition implements, animal health protocols and herd body scoring. Goins recommends products as well as objective, value-added guidance to help them be successful, cost-effective, and efficient. Her typical customers are cattle producers, horse owners, small ruminant producers and pet owners, both traditional 28

Cooperative Farming News

and exotic.

“This business isn't easy, and I'm here to help everybody, and everybody's different. Everybody needs different things, so I'm here to help,” explained Goins.

Goins was raised in Fayette, Alabama where she worked on farms and horse stables before she could drive. She later broke family tradition as being the first in a long line of Alabama graduates to earn a Bachelor of Science and Master's degree from Auburn University’s College of Agriculture.

“Agriculture has always been my passion. I love the science, the art, but most of all it’s the people.

Farmers are a special breed that comprise that back-

Leslie Goins

bone of our world and I absolutely love being a resource for them,” Goins added.

The Tennessee Valley Co-op has eight different locations in three counties in Alabama, and she gets to work with what she calls the best coworkers anyone could ask for.

On the opposite end of the state, LPS Madison Strief began splitting her time between Atmore Farmers Co-op and Elberta Farmers Co-op in July of 2023.

She assists producers with their concerns and needs on the farm while bringing awareness to how Co-op can be an invaluable resource to farmers.

“A lot of the customers have shared that they are eager to learn. They are eager to apply the new technologies that we come up with,” said Strief.

LPS services through Madison’s member locations include ration analysis, forage sampling, nutritional consultation, and educational meetings.

Bringing satisfaction to the customer is what Strief aims to do.

“I'm able to spend a lot of time with the customer, learn about their herd and be a guide to them if we are having problems or if things are going great and have the results to be able to work with their nutrition needs, but also their operation and performance goals of their production,” she explained.

Despite being one of the newer members of the Co-op team, Strief brings first-hand experience and a vast amount of knowledge. During her childhood spent on a cow calf operation in Northeast Iowa, Strief spent time riding and competing on horses.

This gave her the opportunity to compete collegiately for the Black Hawk College Equestrian team. Her final two years of undergrad were spent at Texas A&M where she was a member of the horse judging team and went on to coach the team after completing her judging career. Strief graduated with a degree in Animal Science in May of 2023.

Working for Co-op has given her a new challenge in the opportunity to learn how different operations work in the Gulf Coast Region.

And what a unique challenge it is. She says many people come into the stores a few times a week just to catch up.

"These producers have taken me in and put me under their wing. Adding value back to them is very important. I hope to bring value to these producers and help their operations, whether it's small or large,” Strief said.

Both Goins and Strief applaud the relationship between the Co-op stores, AFC Feed, LLC and Purina Animal Nutrition for connecting the producers to new ideas that can provide dramatic effects.

Madison Strief

Strief serves customers of Atmore and Elberta Farmers Co-ops.

Goins serves eight different locations in three Alabama counties.

Winter 2024

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HOMEGROWN WITH BONNIE PLANTS

GROW MORE. FEED MORE. WITH BONNIE PLANTS B Y S AVA N N A H B U R G E S S Bonnie Plants was founded in 1918

by Bonnie and Livingston Paulk in Union Springs, Alabama. The farm was started in their backyard with just two pounds of cabbage seed. Bonnie Plants was founded on the principle of providing access for home

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Cooperative Farming News

gardeners to fresh vegetables. Acreage of the early Bonnie Plant Farm was dedicated to a large garden for the farm’s employees, and Livingston Paulk raised hogs and cattle to share as well.

Bonnie has grown substantially since

consumers to help the fight against food insecurity in our communities.

Since the inception of the Bonnie Plants x AmpleHarvest.org partnership:

our humble beginnings. We now have 85 greenhouse operations across 42 states. We are now considered the largest producer of vegetable and herb plants for home gardeners.

We have a fleet of 750+ box trucks that take our plants from growing station to store. We service almost 20,000 retailers every year in-store and online.

Those retailers include the Co-op, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Walmart, Tractor Supply Company, Amazon and many more!

• Through the Bonnie Plants Foundation, our support has resulted in over 7,500,000 servings of fresh produce to hungry people in the U.S. •S pread the AmpleHarvest.org message to over 300 million people across the country through media outreach.

• I n collaboration with Scotts Miracle-Gro, we have donated over 50,000 pounds of fresh produce to food pantries across the country. o LOCAL IMPACT: During the 2023 spring season alone, our test garden in Union Springs, Alabama has boasted 5,000 pounds of donated produce, while our corporate headquarters demonstration garden in Opelika, Alabama has donated over 1,000 pounds of fresh produce to the Food Bank of East Alabama.

Our mission today is simple, but powerful: Enhancing people’s lives through the power of plants.

In 2021, Bonnie Plants founded the Bonnie Plants Foundation, a 501c-3 nonprofit, focused on giving back to the communities in which we live and work. One of the key pillars of the Bonnie Plants Foundation is AmpleHarvest.org—a nationwide registry that uses technology to enable home and community gardeners to share their surplus harvests with nearby food pantries instead of letting them go to waste. When food pantries were struggling to meet the overwhelming demands from the pandemic, Bonnie Plants united with AmpleHarvest. org to leverage the power of our home gardening

If your garden boasts more harvests than you know what to do with, visit AmpleHarvest.org to find a food pantry near you! Feel good knowing you’re fighting food insecurity in your community, while helping to strengthen the legacy Bonnie and Livingston Paulk left behind.

The farm was started in their backyard with just two pounds of cabbage seed.

Winter 2024

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MIX ANY VARIETIES 6 PACK VEGGIES, 6 PACK FLOWERS, 4.5” VEGGIES AND HERBS, AND 5” FLOWERS At participating Co-op stores. Selections may vary.

www.alafarm.com

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Cooperative Farming News

www.bonnieplants.com

Southern Farms Honey Spanish Fort, AL

Southern Farms Honey was established in May of 2019. We have been tending to bee hives with a fascination for years. Each year, during the honey harvest, we get requests for our delicious honey. We decided to share our love of honey with others through Southern Farms Honey. We offer raw unfiltered wildflower honey in squeeze bottles, glass jars or decorative gift jars. Honey straws in variety of flavors add a fun addition to your coffee, tea, or simply used as a quick sweet snack. Want a little spice for your cooking? Try our Stingin' Sweet Honey, which is infused with habanero and jalapeno peppers. It tastes delicious on smoked ribs, chicken, or vegetables.

You can find our honey in a few local grocery stores and gift shops around Spanish Fort, or have it delivered to your door through our website.

34585 Jimmy Faulkner Drive www.southernfarmshoney.com info@southernfarmshoney.com 251-751-7534 @SouthernFarmsHoney Southern Farms Honey

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

Winter 2024

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LEADING THE WAY WITH FAITHWAY

ALLIANCE ANIMAL CARE PARTNERSHIP RESHAPES ANIMAL HEALTH INDUSTRY

BY M I K E E L S E A

In the ever-evolving world of animal health, Alliance Animal Care (AAC) is making waves with a series of exciting developments that promise to reshape the landscape for the better. AAC, a trusted name in the field, has announced a strategic alignment with Faithway Alliance, along with a host of new resources and talents that are set to redefine how animal health is approached.

In August 2023, AAC initiated a seamless transition of animal health customers from Faithway 34

Cooperative Farming News

Alliance, a significant milestone in their journey. This shift saw legacy AFC member Co-ops, which had previously sourced their animal health products from Faithway Alliance, becoming direct customers of AAC. This move has not only broadened AAC's customer base but also reinforces its commitment to delivering the highest standard of care to a larger audience.

With the transition, AAC appointed Lincoln Mosley to lead the retail side of their business. Lincoln brings a wealth of expertise and experience in animal health,

having served in the animal health departments of both TFC and Protrition. His deep knowledge in the field positions him as a valuable asset to AAC's growing community of retail customers.

To enhance customer service further, AAC welcomed Carla Taylor. An integral part of the AAC family since its inception in 2014, Carla's contribution has been invaluable, primarily in the customer service department. Her credentials extend beyond this role, as she holds a veterinary technician degree, adding an extra layer of insight into animal care. This dynamic duo, Lincoln and Carla, is poised to provide exemplary support to the retail side of AAC's business.

AAC is not stopping at two new additions. They have recruited two dedicated outside animal health sales representatives to strengthen their presence in the field. Sam Holliman will focus on the Middle Tennessee/North Alabama region, leveraging his years of experience in animal health sales and his passion for the category. On the other hand, Jessica Keck, previously in a feed sales role with Protrition, will serve the east Tennessee region, bringing her wealth of experience in animal health sales, which spans from the Member store to a Feed/Animal Specialist for Protrition.

While AAC continues to enhance its retail services, it's worth noting that their existing support staff remains intact, ensuring that the commitment to wholesale customers and partnerships doesn't waver. This commitment extends to serving their existing wholesale customers and maintaining the high service standards expected of AAC. Alliance Animal Care's investments in people and resources signify their dedication to improving service and enhancing the customer experience.

This marks an exciting chapter in the animal health industry, as AAC's expansion and commitment to ex-

cellence are set to raise the bar for the entire sector.

The future of animal health is indeed bright, and AAC is leading the way towards this new horizon.

In conclusion, Alliance Animal Care's alignment with Faithway Alliance and the addition of top-tier talent to their team signify a transformative period for the company and the animal health industry at large. With a commitment to their core values and a strong vision for the future, AAC is poised to make a significant impact in the ever-important field of animal care.

WELLS FARM HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

UT Bull Test Sale - January 11 at Noon Wells Farm is selling 4 SimAngus Bulls in the UT Bull Test Sale in Spring Hill, TN. These Are Homozygous black and polled well muscled bulls with gread epds and dispositions. We also have bulls for sale at the farm in Huntsville AL,

Mike Wells - wellsfs@yahoo.com

334-412-2280 Winter 2024

35

WHAT’S THE POINT WITH GREENPOINT AG

SOWING SUCCESS ALABAMA FARMERS COOPERATIVE JOINT-VENTURE IS A RISING STAR ON CROPLIFE 100’S BIG SEVEN LIST In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, a select group of companies consistently stands out, commanding nearly 70% of the crop inputs and services provided to grower-customers annually.

GreenPoint Ag, a formidable player in this elite group, once again secures its place on CropLife 100's prestigious Big Seven list, alongside industry giants CHS, Wilbur-Ellis,

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Cooperative Farming News

GROWMARK, Simplot, Nutrien and Helena Agri-Enterprises.

Combined, the Big Seven represents a staggering 59% of all facilities tracked in the annual CropLife 100 listing. Among these powerhouses, GreenPoint Ag has carved its own unique path to success, embracing change and growth through strategic consolidations.

The genesis of GreenPoint Ag dates back to September 2020 when three influential organizations— Alabama Farmers Cooperative, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative, and legacy GreenPoint Ag—joined forces, uniting their wholesale and retail outlets under the GreenPoint Ag banner. This momentum continued into 2022 when Tri-County Farmers Association integrated its operations with the flourishing GreenPoint Ag network.

"I think we are a microcosm of the consolidation that's taken place in the industry," said Jeff Blair, President and CEO at GreenPoint Ag. “Over the past 40 years, some big ag retailers have been able to stay relatively stable. For others, it’s been this massive series of consolidations that have continued to this day. But GreenPoint Ag is an evolution of all this. We’ve embraced the concept of change that has guided the industry, but we’ve taken more of a partnership approach with the companies we’ve brought together.”

Looking ahead, Blair and his team envision a bright future for GreenPoint Ag and other major

players in the ag retail landscape. Blair underscores the importance of the fundamental principle that has shaped the industry from its inception—service.

"The key differentiation for retailers is service, not just the products being offered. Ag retailers need to recognize this to grow their businesses. If we are simply a ‘box’ where growers can pick stuff up, we are just Farmers Business Network with a crappier website,” added Blair.

Amy Winstead, Vice President of Retail Sales and Operations at GreenPoint Ag, echoes Blair's sentiment, emphasizing the company's balance of history, tradition, service, and innovation. "We are very unique because we have all those pieces to bring together, with an incredible amount of resources from our partners to tap into as a company," says Winstead.

As GreenPoint Ag continues to sow success, it remains at the forefront of a transformative period in the agricultural industry. The company's commitment to service, innovation, and strategic partnerships positions it as a beacon of inspiration for the evolving landscape of ag retail.

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FEEDING FACTS

CREEP FEEDING PREPARING CALVES FOR THE SPRING B Y J I M M Y PA R K E R

Starting calves on a well-balanced digestible creep feed helps reduce stress off cows in a dry year.

(Photo credit: Chris Wisener)

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ith calves produced in the Southeast bringing all-time high prices last summer and fall and the pricing outlook for spring being positive for now, producers should take a few minutes to think about ways to add every pound they can to their calves while they are young. Feeding during the preweaning phase or creep feeding is a great way to do that. It tends to be one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to increase weaning weight and is generally profitable for the cow/calf producer.

There are many other benefits to creep feeding calves. Besides adding to overall weaning weights, past studies have shown that creep feeding will generally make the weaning process easier. The calves will already have stomachs that are accustomed to feed and the transition to a diet that contains more feed after weaning will be easier and faster. Those calves that have been creep fed will tend to lose less weight in the weeks post weaning. They will generally stay healthier through the weaning process both from being less stressed and adjusting to new diets more quickly. Additional benefits often include a sparing effect on the cow herd and on forages.

Good creep feeding programs can stretch pastures, help the brood cow herd, especially first calf heifers, maintain body condition and rebreed a bit earlier.

Times of year when forages are limited or of questionable value tend to increase the need to creep feed and the positive effects seen when supplemental feeds are added. Times of drought, times when forages are mature and are lower in quality and times when medium to low quality hay is being fed are some of the more critical times to creep feed.

While many of those benefits are typically hard to measure, weaning or selling weights are not. Creep fed calves will often weigh over fifty pounds more at seven months of age than calves that were not creep fed. They also tend to marble better and harvest at a slightly heavier weight if creep fed properly which might matter for those of you that retain ownership through the feedyards or sell beef direct to consumers.

With the current market situation for both calves and feed, creep feeding looks to be fairly profitable if managed correctly. The simple math: when a quality feed formulated for light weight calves such as the CPC Grower feed is used, you can expect each of those additional pounds to cost between a dollar and a dollar and a half. For calves that are bringing significantly more than that, adding fifty or sixty pounds

to your selling weight can add well over a hundred dollars to your paycheck while costing half that in feed cost.

There are other things to consider such as labor, equipment and cost of feed tying up money for a couple of months but even with those things factored in, using an appropriately formulated creep feed makes a great deal of sense with the current market conditions.

There are occasional drawbacks to creep feeding as well but most all of those can be mitigated when using the correct feed. Feeds that are too high in grains and too low in protein can get calves too fat and decrease their market value when sold.

Excessively fat calves also tend to have more health problems during and after weaning. Care should be taken to make sure that the calves are not consuming more calories than they need to grow and lean healthy weight gain should be the goal with each calf on feed preweaning. Using products that are formulated for these situations will reduce the risk of over fattening to a very minimal level, but a close observation of the calves should be maintained throughout the growing season.

When all things are considered, with the current market trends, using a good creep feed such as CPC grower or one of many pelleted feeds offered at your local Co-op will add to a producer's bottom line significantly. Increasing weaning weights from forty to eighty pounds is not unusual and with that additional gain costing about half what its market value is, creep feeding seems to be a great way to increase profits. As mentioned above, there are a multitude of other benefits that you can get paid to take advantage of.

Feeds that are too high in grains and too low in protein can get calves too fat and decrease their market value when sold.

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HORSE SENSE FROM PURINA

SPRING CHECKLIST

PASTURE MANAGEMENT FOR HORSES K A R E N E . D AV I S O N , P H . D .

Green grass can be a great addition to a horse’s health, both mentally and physically. Horses love the taste of green grass and it can be very nutritious during the right stages of maturity, not to mention the joys of being out in a pasture relaxing and being a horse. However, spring grass can bring some risks so be aware and follow the Spring Checklist for a safe and healthy spring.

Greener pastures are springing up across the country. For most of us, this is good news because green grass relieves some pressure of searching for quality hay at a reasonable price. Horse owners are also starting to spend more time with their horses, and are looking forward to even more enjoyable riding weather. Follow this checklist for successful pasture management this spring.

Pasture management: Take it slow

Going from dry hay and grain to lush, green pasture is a drastic change in a horse’s diet and may increase the risk of founder, colic or laminitis. Slow and steady is the key. Allow horses to graze for an hour or two at first, then gradually increase grazing time by an hour every couple days until they are out

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full time. Continue to provide supplemental hay during this transition period.

Horses that are kept in the pasture full time will gradually become accustomed to the emerging green grass as it comes up. In those cases, a transition isn’t usually necessary and horses will voluntarily begin to leave their hay when there is adequate pasture to graze.

Spatial awareness: Ensure adequate pasture space

Another part of pasture management for horses is to determine if there is enough pasture for grass to be a significant source of nutrition. Consider the available acreage, type of forage and the number of horses or stocking rate.

The very best horse pastures may support one horse per acre, but average conditions may require closer to 2 to 3 acres to sustain one horse grazing full time. An effective stocking rate will depend on the type of grass, fertilization and rainfall.

• For shorter varieties of grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, pasture must grow 3 to 4 inches tall to provide adequate forage for horses.

• Taller grasses, including coastal bermudagrass,

should sustain a height of 6 to 8 inches. Stocking rates may be improved if there is an option to rotate pastures.

Grazing tall forage varieties down to 3 to 4 inches and shorter varieties to 2 inches in height, then rotating to another horse pasture for four weeks can help maximize grazing potential of available acreage.

Feeding horses: Provide an adequate diet

Horse pasture in the spring often looks beautiful and nutritious but can be very high in water and low in fiber content. Thus, not meeting a horse’s minimum requirement for dry matter intake. Provide 10 to 15 pounds of dry hay per day as needed until the horse pasture matures. Depending on your horse’s workload, a well-rounded diet can help keep your horse in tip-top shape.

Performance horses—As work level increases, horses may need more nutrition, especially calories, than hay or spring pasture can support. In these cases, supplemental feed will be important to maintain body condition and to support performance and health.

Feeds such as Purina® Ultium® Competition, Purina® Strategy® Professional Formula GX, Purina® Strategy® Healthy Edge®, Omolene®200 and Omolene® 500 are formulated to support the nutritional demands of exercise. Choose the performance feed that best fits your needs and feed the amounts needed to maintain your horse in good body condition.

The amount of feed may vary depending on workload and quality of available hay or pasture. Keep in mind that pasture quality will vary as the forage matures through spring and into summer.

Easy keepers—For easy keepers who don’t need supplemental feed to maintain good body condition, provide a ration balancer product such as Purina® Enrich Plus® Ration Balancing Horse Feed. This product is fortified to be fed at 1 to 2 pounds per day for most horses, providing nutrition for horses that don’t need the additional calories that would come with a recommended feeding rate of most feeds. Enrich Plus® provides the balance of protein, vitamins and minerals to complement a pasture-based horse diet.

Purina®Omega Match® Ration Balancing Horse Feed, fed at 2 lbs/day, is another option for easy keepers that may have a sensitivity to certain ingredients or those horses who cannot enjoy green pasture due to metabolic issues or management practices.

ever, if you have not been riding your horse regularly through the winter, your horse is likely not conditioned for physical activity.

To prevent muscle soreness, start with slow, easy work and short workouts, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the workouts until your horse is adequately conditioned. It may take up to 90 days to get a horse properly conditioned for strenuous physical workouts.

Also, use body condition scoring to find out what kind of shape your horse is in as you transition out of winter. Scoring focuses on areas of the body where body fat is deposited and gives a number score for how fat or thin the horse is, based on palpable fat and visual appearance. Most horses are at their best when maintained at a moderate body condition of 5-6 on the score chart.

With a few tweaks to your pasture management, ensuring your horse is adequately conditioned for the desired workload and choosing the right nutritional support to complement your forage and support your level of activity, you’ll be ready to head out and take in the warmer weather and sunshine. Enjoy!

Set up your horses for success with the proper feed and put them on their own path to greatness.

Don’t sweat it: Maintain good horse body condition score

On that first warm, sunny day, it’s very tempting to head out to the barn for a nice, long trail ride. HowWinter 2024

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OUTDOOR LOGIC WITH BIOLOGIC

HUNTING LATE SEASON BUCKS BEFORE THE BUZZER

BY T O D D A M E N R U D My dad taught me my first year hunting that often it's the hunter with the most patience that bags the trophy. Late season can turn into an endurance test of seeing how long you're able to combat fatigue and possibly the frigid temperatures. I’m one of those idiots who has been in a treestand during -20 F actual temperature. In my opinion, it's not so much the temperature that gets you as the wind. Although any time it's below zero, I don't pretend to be macho, that's cold—period. Preparing for what you will encounter during late season is often the difference between success and failure.

By this time, in most areas the crops are down, and often there's a blanket of snow covering the ground. The foliage is off the trees and if breeding is finished, deer will be starting to re-form their social structures. If there is snow, tracks are easy to pick

up. Late season is actually my favorite time to hunt mature bucks.

MRI (Most Recent Intelligence) Some hunters feel that since they scouted and tried to figure out patterns earlier in the year, now is the time to hunt and reap the rewards. I put in just as much time scouting during late season as I do any other time of the year. Things are changing dramatically in the whitetail world during November through February and it’s important that you stay on top of the changes. Use your trail cameras to keep on top of movement.

Food sources become limited, especially if there’s a blanket of snow. All the chlorophyll has dropped from the leaves and the crops have been harvested so food is harder for deer to come by. Because of

After the distraction of breeding is over, mature bucks become “slaves to their stomachs.” They will attempt to put back on some of the weight and fat lost during the rut. If you have brassicas, like these bucks are feeding on, it should be a late season hot spot. (Photo Credit: Charlie Alsheimer)

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this, preferred food sources become much easier to locate.

You may have heard of bucks losing 25% of their body weight during the rut. Most think this is because they’re running around chasing and breeding does, and this definitely contributes to their weight loss.

However, breeding class bucks actually stop eating for a period of about eight to ten days. Well, they don’t stop completely, but studies done on captive herds show they only consume about 10 to 15% of their normal diet. Their whole existence during this time is devoted to perpetuation of their species. Because of this, bucks become slaves to their stomachs after the main rut. Now their whole existence is about recouping weight and fat stores to help them through the winter.

First and foremost, for a food source to be considered by whitetails it must be accessible. If you are in an area with snow or an ice-crust, two crops stand out, corn and brassicas. They will both be above the snow and are very attractive to whitetails.

Core areas may change. Some whitetails will vacate for an area that will better sustain them during the harsh months ahead. Look for areas with conifer trees (that absorb and retain warmth), south-facing slopes, thicker brush or anywhere that offers a wind block and thermal protection from the elements.

The Right Smell The frenzy of peak rut may be over, but the bucks are still ready to breed at the drop of a hat. Any sign of a receptive doe can encourage them to go berserk again. In some areas, not all the does get successfully bred the first go. Some people call it a "secondary rut."

This is most common in areas where there are too many does. In addition to this, in areas of good nutrition and low stress you may have first year doe-fawns that come into heat late. This can cause rut activity late into the season.

Estrus scents like Special Golden Estrus or breeding scents like Active Scrape work well during this period. The frenzy of the peak of the rut may be over, but bucks are ready to go at it again if the hint of estrus is brought into the picture. A couple years ago I was fortunate enough to harvest a nice late season 6x5 by placing out four scent wicks soaked with Special Golden Estrus. Once he got about 70 yards downwind of the scent, he came right in with his nose leading him to one of the wicks.

Scent can also be used to "light a fire" in your hunting area. Every so often, depending on conditions, I may decide to hunt a stand for multiple sits in a row. In these cases, I'll sometimes use an atomizer to

Big bucks don’t stop moving because it’s cold. Extremely cold temperatures can slow down deer movement, but it doesn’t stop it. Maximize your hunting time and prepare for what you might encounter. (Photo Credit: Yoderrm)

disperse some Golden Estrus on the way out of my site in the evening. Several times, the next morning there's been bucks crawling all over the place. With the atomizer they can't pin-point exactly where the smell is coming from. The scent holds them in the area. The next morning, I would suggest dragging a trail into your site with the same scent you used the evening before. The trail will then give them something to hone in on. Make sure to keep the source of the smell away from you. Typically, you would want to end the trail and leave the drag (or boot pad) crosswind from your ambush location at your maximum confident shooting range.

Cold Enough to Freeze Brass Monkey Parts Big bucks don't stop moving just because it's cold, and cold is relative to the region because the animals acclimate to the average temperatures of the region.

However, they will almost surely reduce their movement to save energy, so you have to be there when they are. I most certainly don’t like the cold, so when cold temperatures hit I try to maximize my hunting time, too. I’ve seen in northern regions when very cold temperatures arrive deer may stay bedded for several days without feeding because they wouldn’t be able to take in as much energy as they would burn off. It is Winter 2024

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Here’s the author with a late season buck. (Photo Credit: Todd Amenrud)

the same in the South to a lesser extent.

If there is a weather front moving through, you want to be in your treestand just before the front reaches your area. On extremely cold days there can also be a lot of deer movement during midday hours.

Whatever method of predicting deer movement you use, you want to try to arrive “just before” you think the deer will.

Stand approach can be very important in cold temps. Carry your heavy outer layers of clothing to avoid sweating up on your walk to your site. Otherwise, walk slowly—if you sweat, you're going to get wet and that equals cold.

Wool and other materials that wick moisture away from your body are invaluable during late season. My main concerns are my hands, feet and head. If one of these falls to the cold, it seems your whole body follows. For my hands, I use wool gloves and lots of hand warmers. I like gloves instead of mittens because I can still operate my archery release effectively.

My head and feet are especially sensitive to the cold. On stand approach, I wear a different hat in case I do sweat. When I get to my site I replace it with a dry wool face-mask and wool hat.

Many hunters have problems with their feet getting cold quickly. I like to use one pair of wool socks and rely on my boots to do their job. Foot warmers are now an easy option, too, but you must make sure your feet don’t get too warm and then wet with sweat.

What some don’t realize is wearing multiple layers of socks can actually do more harm than good. You want to have air space left and room for your feet to have proper circulation. If you have a tough time wiggling your toes you probably have on too many socks or need the next size bigger boots.

If you can put up with a little hardship, late season can be the most productive time of the hunting season. If you've always hung the bow up at the end of peak rut, you don't know what you’re missing. Serious bowhunters know how productive this period can be. Some years you may have rut activity that lasts through the month of December and even into January, and in the Deep South even into February.

Food sources become limited for whitetails once December and January arrive. These does are searching for the last morsels of corn in a picked field.

(Photo Credit: Todd Maertz)

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PERSIMMON JAM

Yields about 6 pints

INGREDIENTS: 4 lbs persimmons (about 14 to 15 persimmons) 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons) 4 pounds of sugar 1 tablespoon freshly ground ginger Pinch of salt DIRECTIONS: 1. Remove stems and seeds from the persimmons and cut them into 1-inch cubes.

2. In a medium saucepan over high heat, add persimmons, lemon juice, sugar, ginger and a pinch of salt. Once it reaches a boil, turn the heat down to medium-low. Stir the fruit often.

3. Once the temperature reaches 220 degrees F (about 45 minutes on medium heat), add the pectin and return to a boil for about one minute.

4. Pour into prepared canning jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes. Remove jars to the counter and allow them to cool.

Note: This is a fabulous recipe that is good for basting wild game as well as domestics meats. In a small saucepan over low heat, bring jam to a simmer. Baste meat with the jam. Add a little mustard to the jam to spice it up and use it for a space.

About Stacy Lyn Harris Stacy Lyn Harris is a best-selling cookbook author, blogger, TV personality, public speaker, wife and mother of seven children. She currently lives in Pike Road, Alabama, with her husband Scott and their children. Stacy Lyn regularly appears on cable and broadcast television as a guest chef and sustainable living expert. Her critically-acclaimed “Harvest Cookbook” was published in 2017 and contains many of her family’s favorite recipes, along with stories from her life growing up in the Black Belt and tips she’s learned along the way.

Winter 2024

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FARMING YOUR FOREST

A TIME TO PLANT B Y B I L LY RY E

The third chapter of Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is a time and place for everything. The second item listed by the author is “a time to plant.” While there are many different methods of establishing a new forest, this article will focus specifically on planting pine seedlings. The decision to plant pines should be based on the objectives of the landowner, the ability of the soils present to grow the pines in a suitable manner, the projected future markets for pine, and the landowner’s risk tolerance.

As with any venture, there are several risks and rewards associated with planting pines. The method in which the seedlings are transported, handled on site, and are planted can impact the survival and growth of planted pines. Insects, diseases, and animals can also damage and kill newly planted pine seedlings.

Both a hard freeze and wildfire can cause mortality.

However, the most significant threat to newly planted seedlings is drought. The good news is that the risk is low relative to the potential return on investment.

Even with all-time low prices for pine pulpwood and sawtimber, genetically improved loblolly pine is likely 46

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to outperform the financial return of natural pine and hardwood. In addition, habitat improvements for most game species can easily be incorporated into existing timber management.

The native species of pine which are most planted in Alabama all belong to the Southern Yellow Pine group. Below is a brief description of each of the four species in this group: • Loblolly pine. This is the most common species in Alabama and may be found in all 67 counties.1 Loblolly grows fast and is versatile as it can grow on almost every soil condition present in Alabama. Due to the economic value of this species, it has also received the most genetic research and improvement of all the Southern Yellow Pines.

• Shortleaf pine. This species has been identified in all the counties of Alabama except for Baldwin.2 The slow growth rate of shortleaf pine produces excellent lumber. The fact that shortleaf pine stands may be burned earlier than other species of pine makes it preferred for game habitat management. Unfortu-

nately, the slower growth rate yields a lower return on investment when compared to loblolly pine on similar sites.

• Longleaf pine. This species is found in most regions of Alabama except for the Tennessee Valley, west Alabama, and the Black Belt.3 Longleaf pine produces quality lumber and is preferred for high value poles.

It is also fire tolerant and can produce excellent habitat for most game species. The amount of resin produced by longleaf pine makes it more resistant to bark beetles than other species in the group. However, longleaf pine is susceptible to brown spot needle blight and its slower growth rates often yield a lower return on investment than that of loblolly pine.

• Slash pine. The natural range for this species is the southern 1/3 of Alabama.4 However, it has been widely planted throughout much of the of the state.

It has an exceptional growth rate when planted on the proper site and can produce a large volume of wood in a short time. For this reason, it is typically grown on a short rotation for pulpwood. This species tends to stagnate if not thinned early and will rarely respond if the first thin occurs after age 25.

The amount of slash pine planted in Alabama has declined significantly over the past several decades

There are many risks to planting pine seedlings. Arguably, the most significant risk is dry weather during late spring and early summer. Pictured here is a dead bareroot loblolly pine seedling. A fatality of the drought of 2016.

due to the superior return on investment of loblolly and the closure of multiple paper mills across the South.

Once the decision to plant has been made, the landowner will need to consider the type, amount, and cost of preparing the site for planting. Proper site preparation increases the survival rate of the planted pines and improves growth of the seedlings which survive.5 There are many forms of site preparation but in general they include: chemical, fire-lanes/burning, and mechanical (drum chopping, shearing, root raking, and bedding). Some sites may require multiple methods of preparation to reach the landowner’s objectives.

One of the benefits of conducting forest management for 35 years is the lessons that I have learned from the education, experience, and expertise of others regarding the planting of pine seedlings. To help you avoid some of the mistakes that I have made and benefit from some of the successes that I experienced during my career, I have listed some suggestions for planting pine seedlings: • Order seedlings early. Sometimes the demand for seedlings is greater than the number of seedlings

This is an example of a containerized loblolly pine seedling. While containerized seedlings tend to have higher survival than their bareroot counterparts, research indicates that the bareroots produce more volume.

(Photo courtesy of IFCO Seedlings.)

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Cut-over sites quickly re-vegetate and can significantly slow the production of the tree planters. This landowner had to incorporate drum chopping into his site preparation efforts to allow access for planters before they would agree to plant.

planted by the nurseries. Therefore, I recommend that landowners order their seedlings for the upcoming planting season as soon as possible. Some cost-share programs do not notify applicants of their approval until May. This may be too late to secure seedlings during some seasons, particularly containerized shortleaf pine.

• Implement chemical site preparation. Most of the chemicals used in site preparation for pine planting have been around for a while and are known to be safe for the environment. Pines need a little help with the ferocious woody and herbaceous competition on site so choose a chemical tank mix which controls both. Research indicates that pine stands which were chemically site prepared yielded a higher return on investment than those which were chemically released (sprayed after they were planted).

Early season (June) treatments are great for stands that need a site preparation burn. However, research indicates that late season (Aug/Sept) treatments yield better control of competing vegetation and a higher return on investment.6 • Plant on good soil. The amount of available moisture and nutrients is arguably the most impactful factor on the return on investment of planted pines.

Where possible, plant pines on soils suitable for high growth rates such as those with a site index of 80 (age 50) or above. However, always consider the “highest and best use” of your soil as agricultural leases will outperform returns from planted pine in most areas of the state.

• Plant bareroot seedlings for loblolly pine. Planted containerized seedlings cost more than bareroot 48

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but tend to have a higher survival rate. However, research indicates that bareroot loblolly pine stands produce more volume than container grown loblolly if the survival rate is comparable. Unless there is a drought at the time of your planting, use bareroot seedlings when planting loblolly pine. Use containerized seedlings for both shortleaf and longleaf to bolster their survival rates.

• Invest more in genetics. Seedlings with the best genetics reduce the rotation length of a pine stand, produce higher quality wood, increase return on investment, and are more resistant to some forms

This picture clearly demonstrates how far genetic improvement of loblolly pine seedlings has come. The Control Mass Pollinated seedlings which are planted in rows have better form, smaller limbs, and fewer limbs when compared to the natural seedling in the center of the photo.

(Photo courtesy of Arborgen.)

The payoff. This landowner chose to take the risk of planting loblolly pine in 1988. While the pine markets have been down for the past 15 years in this area, the landowner still managed to average $87.00/acre/year on this investment.

of disease. Like most things in life, you tend to get what you pay for when it comes to the genetics of pine seedlings.

• Use industry standards. Use professionally accepted standards for the planting season, planting weather, seedling care, seedling quality, planting techniques, and planting audits to increase the opportunities for successful tree planting.7 Make sure these standards are included in the contract with vendors.

• Know your planting window. You should postpone planting for at least one year after the completion of harvesting if the previous stand consisted of pines. This will reduce the incidence of Pales weevil which can cause seedling mortality. However, the tree planters may require mechanical site preparation if you postpone your reforestation for more than two years after the completion of timber harvesting.

• Use a Consulting Forester. Reforestation requires technical knowledge, experience, and contacts with those in the industry to successfully execute. A Consulting Forester serves as an Agent of the landowner and makes a successful reforestation effort more likely. They use their knowledge to prescribe treatments for the planting site, prepare written contracts, audit the completed work, review invoices, and some are available to audit the survival a year after the trees were planted.8

The potential rewards of planting pines usually outweigh the risks. By clearly defining their objectives, planning the reforestation efforts, and seeking the advice of a Consulting Forester, a landowner is more likely to reap the rewards of their efforts at harvest time.

References 1 https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/ag_654/volume_1/ pinus/taeda.htm. Accessed on 10/18/2023.

2 https://shortleafpine.org/growing-shortleaf-pine/site-selection-and-preparation/maps/shortleaf-pine-other-relevant-maps/shortleafRange_2.png/view?searchterm=None.

Accessed on 10/18/2023.

3 https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/ag_654/volume_1/ pinus/palustris.htm. Accessed on 10/18/2023.

4 https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/ag_654/volume_1/ pinus/elliottii.htm. Accessed on 10/18/2023.

5 https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/forestry-herbicides-for-site-preparation-of-pine-plantations/. Accessed on 10/18/2023.

6 https://www.arborgen.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/ guide-to-using-imazapyr-for-chemical-site-preparation.pdf.

Accessed on 10/18/23.

7 https://www.ncforestservice.gov/publications/NU0116.pdf.

Accessed on 10/18/2023.

8 https://alabamaacf.com/. Accessed on 10/18/2023.

Winter 2024

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SHEPHERDING OUTDOORS

COLD DAYS B Y WA LT M E R R E L L Cape and I walked down the wooded lane … two sandy ruts meandered in parallel through the pine trees and occasional hardwoods. The pine needles squeaked ever so slightly beneath our rubber-soled boots, and the wind whispered in the treetops.

“That sun feels good on the back of my neck,” I said softly. Cape rolled her eyes a little and shrugged her shoulders. Covered with her long brown hair, her shoulders lifted silently and then dropped again, reminding me that she couldn’t feel the sun on her neck because her hair had it covered. I chuckled and said, “I guess that was stupid.” She grinned and shrugged her shoulders again. I knew she agreed … she was a teenager – everything I said was stupid. She was simply courteous enough not to agree with me … this time.

We continued our gentle stroll through the wintered woods in silence for the next 75 yards or so.

The frosty blue sky blanketed the pine boughs swaying gently overhead. “Dad?” She whispered now. We were too close to the field to talk out loud. I leaned in towards her, straining to hear over the whistle of the wind. “How many times did you go hunting with your

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dad?” I stammered in my response … “Wha-what?”

My voice cracked into a talk instead of a whisper.

Cape repeated herself, only, this time, whispering more deliberately.

I heard and understood what she had asked. But her question caught me off guard. I needed to process her words. “Not many,” I finally responded. I knew that would not be the end of the questioning.

“Why not?” The next question came as stunningly as the first.

“How did such a peaceful and serene walk to a green field turn into 20 questions with Dr. Phil?” I wondered silently in my head.

“I don’t know, Sugar. He never liked to deer hunt when I was a kid. He took me dove hunting a few times. I guess it just wasn’t his thing.” I slowed my

pace slightly, catching sight of a doe and a yearling on the opposing hillside, and I pointed them out to Cape.

Almost coming to a stop, she nodded her head and crouched a little. I waved her off, gesturing that we keep heading to the shooting house and not take this young doe. She nodded her head and walked in front of me.

Five steps beyond, she turned over her shoulder and whispered, “Did y’all ever go hunting as adults?”

“No. I invited him for years, but it was only after he retired that he became interested in deer hunting.

By then, I had you girls, and I needed to be home with y’all.” She nodded her head.

“How did you learn to hunt?” The curiosity continued.

“Your Big Daddy and Uncle Dallas taught me most of what I know.” Big Daddy was George, Hannah’s daddy, and he never once invited me to hunt until after Hannah and I were married. From then on, though, he became the best hunting mentor anyone could have asked for. And he did teach me much about hunting… and on those days when we went hunting together, I learned a lot about life, and being a husband, and being a father too.

“My best friend, Danny, took me deer hunting for the first time when I was about 16.”

“Did you kill anything?” she asked expectantly.

I stopped walking, and she turned to give me a little more attention. “Well,” I more than whispered, “he told me that if I saw a doe to wait and see if there was a buck following her. So, when that sweet little doe came out, I waited just as he suggested. About ten seconds later, another deer came out … so I smoked it!”

“How big was it?” she asked with a hint of jubilation in her voice.

“Funny … Danny asked the same thing as he walked in from the road to get me.” I chuckled a bit in recollection. “We walked down the hill to where the deer lay, and when we saw it, Danny started laughing.

Out loud. Like, uncontrollably. Offended, I reached down and picked up my trophy with one hand and toted it out like a purse.”

“Daaaad!”

Her gasp was not misplaced … and I still, to this day, am embarrassed that the first deer I ever killed had likely lost its spots in the woods somewhere the same day I shot it.

Cape and I started walking again… but as we drew nearer to the green field, I knew I would need to find a way to make all this conversation mean something.

“It sure is a cold day, today … isn’t it?” I asked.

“Why are you changing the subject?” she asked.

“Because you don’t want to talk about your dad, or the fact that you shot Bambi’s big brother?”

“Well, I am not trying to change the subject. In fact, I wanted to talk about it a bit more. You see, there are ‘cold days’ … like today. It’s 40 degrees out-

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side. And then there are ‘cold days’ like ‘I never went deer hunting with my dad’ days. I wish we had gone deer hunting. I wish he had taught me to hunt. I wish a lot of things … but wishing doesn’t change anything.

My dad tried the best he knew how. He didn’t mean anything by it, I don’t reckon. He worked a lot. I work a lot, too … but what I hope you know when you are old and hunting with your kids, is that you came first to me. And my dad taught me that, too.”

She nodded her head. I don’t know if her nod was in agreement with my statement or simply an acknowledgement that she heard me talking.

“You know, parenting is not that much different from hunting,” I added. She looked on with a puzzled gaze as we rounded the last bend in the road before we crossed out into the field and made our way to the shooting house. “You do some scouting and some prep work. That is, you talk to other folks and ask them about parenting. You read a book or two, and you lean on the way you were raised as a guide.” She nodded her head again. “Then, when the baby comes, you have to put in the work and just go with what you know.”

“How is that like hunting?” she asked.

“Well, like with that deer, all I knew was those were the only two real live deer I had ever seen. They might have been giants for all I knew. And when it comes 52

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to raising you girls, I have experienced a lot of firsts… even with your younger sister. I don’t always get it right. I know I am not the best dad. But I keep on coming back to the field and trying again.”

She nodded her head with understanding and veered off down the single-file trail to the green field.

We never finished the conversation that I recall. We didn’t kill a deer that day, either. But it was a good day. A warm day, in fact. Because those ‘cold days’ from way back when taught me not to shoot a tiny deer … and they taught me a few other things not to do, too. I may not be a good hunter, but I sure do pray I am a good dad … and that there aren’t many cold days yet to come.

And I know this. We never would have had that conversation … unless we were shepherding outdoors.

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.

FROM FEED LOTS TO PARKING LOTS

LIVESTOCK FEEDERS

FRONT-ATTACH SNOW PUSHER

TA R T E R U S A . C O M

|

­

1.800.346.4486

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RAISING THE HERD

WHOLE COTTONSEED COMMON QUESTIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR USE

BY KIM MULLENIX, PH.D. AND W. BRANDON SMITH, PH.D.

With the shift towards winter, many producers are making decisions on winter feed supplementation strategies for the cow herd. Whole cottonseed is a regionally available feedstuff that is a byproduct of cotton production. Cottonseed is known for its high nutritional value. The Nutrient Requirements of Beef Cattle publication, or the “gospel” reference guide for nutritionists, indicates that whole cottonseed is 90% TDN, 24% CP, and 20% fat. The combination of quality and availability makes whole cottonseed a commonly used feedstuff among cattle producers in the state, 54

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and it is an especially good feed for use in wintering the cow herd. Below are several common questions regarding its use in beef cattle diets:

Common Questions: How much whole cottonseed should I feed my cattle?

The recommended inclusion rate in the diet is 0.5% of animal body weight, or about 20% of the total ration.

This level of feed supplementation is due to the fat concentration in whole cottonseed (www.bamabeef.

org 21 Alabama Cattleman/November 2023). In general, this equates to about 6 to 8 pounds per head per day for mature cows, and around 3 to 5 pounds per head per day for stocker cattle. Mature cows are sometimes fed free-choice whole cottonseed on farm.

The fat in whole cottonseed serves as a consumption limiter in the diet. However, it has been shown that cattle often consume about 30 to 40% more than the recommended rate in free-choice settings. Because of the texture of whole cottonseed, stocker cattle may go through an acclimation period when learning to eat this feedstuff.

Is cottonseed going to make my bulls infertile?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions regarding whole cottonseed. Cotton plants contain gossypol, which is a predation defense compound produced by the plant. Gossypol causes infertility in insects that consume it. Many research studies have been conducted on feeding whole cottonseed to bulls.

Gossypol can cause infertility in bulls when it is present at high levels in the diet. In studies where infertility was caused by feeding cottonseed, it is important to note that this was with 1) Pima cotton and 2) inclusion rates of whole cottonseed of up to 40% of the diet.

Upland-type cotton is grown extensively in Alabama and is known to naturally contain lower levels of gossypol. To further support this point, a recent research trial at the University of Georgia evaluated the effect of whole cottonseed on bull performance and semen morphology of 16- to 18-month-old beef bulls. Bulls were fed whole cottonseed at 0.7% of animal body weight per day. Over the two-year study, bulls averaged 2.12 pounds per day average daily gain when fed whole cottonseed at 0.7% of body weight per day, and there were no differences in normal semen morphology. All bulls fed whole cottonseed as part of their diet passed a breeding soundness exam. This information illustrates that when fed at the recommended feeding rate, whole cottonseed can be used in bull diets or as part of a feeding program for the cow herd during the breeding season.

Opportunities Over the last several years, our team has partnered with the Auburn Cotton Breeding Program, the Alabama Cotton Commission, and Cotton Incorporated to better characterize whole cottonseed feed quality characteristics across new and emerging cotton lines (or potential varieties) as well as how these characteristics impact consumption, passage, and digestibility of the seed.

In addition to these efforts, we have also worked

with several cotton gins in the state to evaluate the use of baled gin byproduct (i.e., gin trash) as a feedstuff for mature cows. Many of you may be familiar with the “stacks” of gin byproduct often seen behind ginning facilities. This is loose gin byproduct. Some gins have started baling 500 to 600 lb bales of gin byproduct. This increases the ease of transportation by cattle producers. Samples from gins around the state have shown slightly increased quality of baled gin byproduct compared to loose byproduct. In a 60-day feeding trial with mature cows at Auburn University, we observed similar consumption of loose vs. baled gin byproduct, which illustrates this as another potential resource for cattle producers.

Our team is continuing to conduct research on whole cottonseed. Our next steps include: •E valuation of variability in fat content of whole cottonseed. Fat is considered the “limiting factor” for the inclusion of whole cottonseed in the diet of beef cattle and has been shown to decrease forage digestibility. Together with the Auburn Cotton Breeding Program, we are examining fat concentrations across cotton lines and the genes that control this for future selection efforts.

•E valuation of whole cottonseed digestibility. While fat and gossypol may be raised as concerns on whole cottonseed, its efficacy as a feedstuff is linked to how well it can be digested by the animal. In addition to screening for fat content, our team will be evaluating cotton breeding lines for digestibility by beef cattle.

•P assage rate dynamics of whole cottonseed. We mentioned that free-choice feeding of whole cottonseed is sometimes used as a production practice.

However, some nutritionists have raised concerns that this may lead to increased seed passage (i.e., seed winding up in the manure) and decreased digestibility. Our team will be conducting feeding trials to determine the relationship between level of intake and passage rate of whole cottonseed.

For additional information on whole cottonseed and other cotton byproducts, visit our resources below by scanning the QR code with your device:

Cotton Byproduct Use in Beef Cattle Diets

Whole Cottonseed Use in Beef Cattle Diets

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HOOKED ON AQUACULTURE

ALABAMA EXTENSION COMMITTED TO

SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE

BY COLE SIKES

Luke Roy, Alabama Cooperative Extension System professor, at E.W. Shell Fisheries Center in Auburn

Alabama is one of the most important aquaculture states in the country. The catfish industry alone accounts for approximately 2,500 jobs in the state and a total output in sales of more than $300 million each year.

Luke Roy, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System professor, said Alabama farmers are committed to doing their part to produce a tasty, nutritious, safe and sustainable product for consumers nationwide.

“It’s that commitment to sustainable farming prac56

Cooperative Farming News

tices and techniques that are used by Alabama producers, that will guarantee the success of this farming industry for future generations,” Roy said.

Many think of farming in soil, but Alabama is home to many producers who farm in water. This practice of using water to grow aquatic species is known as aquaculture. Aquaculture is important to Alabama as farmers raise catfish, crawfish, oysters, shrimp, sport fish, baitfish and other species for a wide variety of markets.

Alabama’s Dominant Aquaculture Species Catfish is the primary farm-raised fish species in Alabama. Roy, who is a professional in aquatic resources, said the state currently produces approximately 30 percent of the catfish raised via commercial aquaculture in the U.S. and is second in production and sales to Mississippi.

In recent years, Alabama has raised nearly 100 million pounds of catfish on more than 16,000 acres of production ponds. Located mostly in West Alabama, Hale, Dallas, Greene and Perry counties are the primary catfish producers in the state.

Fish Farming Pond

Paddlewheel Aerator at a Catfish Farm - Boligee, AL (Greene County)

Scientific Research in Aquaculture Professionals at Auburn University are conducting wide-ranging, ongoing research to ensure the sustainability of aquaculture in Alabama and beyond. Some of these projects include research that improves the efficiency of production systems, making them more cost-effective.

At the 1600-acre E.W. Shell Fisheries Center, feed management for commercially-produced aquatic species is currently at the forefront of research.

“Auburn faculty are working with commercial producers to develop better feeds and more efficient feed management techniques,” Roy said. “Other research studies are aiming at improving water quality and culture conditions as well as studying aquatic animal diseases, therapeutants and treatments.”

because when I arrived at graduate school and was exposed to aquaculture for the very first time, I realized that fish and other aquatic animals—such as shrimp and crawfish—could be farmed and used as a sustainable protein source to help feed the world,” Roy said.

As he grew up in a developing country overseas, Roy was exposed to extreme poverty. Many families struggled to put enough food on the table to eat.

“Aquaculture seemed like a logical solution to help alleviate poverty and provide food for the hungry,” Roy said. “At that point I was hooked on aquaculture and have been ever since.”

Discover Alabama Extension Aquaculture research 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.

Feeding the Next Generation Like with most farming practices in Alabama, efficiency is the ultimate goal. By integrating sustainable production practices developed from research into aquaculture, farmers will ensure that every family has access to nutritious and safe protein sources.

This mission is the driving factor for Roy’s work.

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TURNING THE PAGE

THE HISTORY AND CHANGES OF COOPERATIVE FARMING NEWS

BY T I F FA N Y L E S T E R Working in the agriculture industry has always been a wild ride. One that requires hard work, dedication, and faith to be successful.

One where the seed is planted, the rain is prayed for, and the harvest is rewarding.

It is with great pleasure that for the last 50-plus years, Alabama Farmers Cooperative’s publication, Cooperative Farming News (CFN) has gotten to tell the tales of those who provide the world with food and fiber.

Those who have fought through hardships

one year and came out with a bountiful crop the next. We’re proud to have shared the stories of farms that have passed from one generation to the next, still striving to achieve the same goal.

Cooperative Farming News reaches 31 different states from the Southern states of Alabama, Tennessee and Florida to as far west as California and Oregon, and into the farthest reaches of the Northeast into Maine and Massachusetts.

Frances Dahlke is one of the longest-serving Co-op employees. She began as a bookeeper at Cullman Farmers Cooperative in 1961, moved on to Walker Farmers Co-op in Jasper where in 1978 she earned the E.P. Garrett Manager of the Year award.

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Throughout the last five decades, a lot has changed. If you were to turn back the pages of time to the very first issue, you’d find it resembles a newspaper. The headline: “AFC Holds Streamlined Annual Meeting” with advertisements of Miracle Co-op Rotary Cutters for the whopping price of 5’ for $350. The cost of a similar product nowadays would be roughly $1,800. As we said, a lot has changed!

Each month, CFN continued to tell tales including the ‘Co-op Month’ proclamation by Governor George Wallace, calf crops hitting an all-time high and the start of Co-op Training Programs.

But over time, we grew to keep up with the changes and in May 2011, 40 years later, CFN shifted to a full-color magazine style. “Square or Round, It’s HAY Time” the cover reads. It features Monroe County’s Bibb Mims in a section that today is called the “Co-op Corner."

Through it all, Cooperative Farming News has kept its focus on one thing: bringing readers the highest quality of Down to Earth News there is to be found in the agriculture world. From the future of agriculture that is FFA and 4-H to stories and news from our partners across the industry to recipes and even events highlighting life in the South, this publication hosts something for everyone.

As we surpass 600 issues of this beloved publication, and continue to deliver top-notch content, Cooperative Farming News is transitioning to a quarterly magazine schedule. Through this adjustment, we are ensuring you get an even more robust publication that you won't be able to put down. You can also find more Down to Earth News on our digital platforms including our website and social media accounts.

As we move forward from what once was black and white and turn the pages forward into a more digital world, we thank you for your loyal readership of Cooperative Farming News. Your support truly means everything to us and it is what drives us to keep you connected with the agricultural community.

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LICKSKILLET ACRES 60

WHERE ANIMALS RULE AND DREAMS COME TRUE

Cooperative Farming News

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

Atop a hill in Adger, Alabama sits a hidden gem called Lickskillet Acres.

Owned by Wally and Beth Kornegay, this extraordinary farm is not your typical agricultural venture.

With a collection of animals that range from myotonic goats to a friendly camel named Hank, Lickskillet Acres is a place where dreams come true and hearts are touched.

“It's a lot of fun. It's a lot of work, but it's very rewarding work,” Beth said.

The Lickskillet Acres journey began 21 years ago with just one myotonic goat, aka Tennessee fainting goat. Today, the Kornegays have the largest herd of myotonic goats in Alabama. Their farm is a haven for 60 of them plus 28 hair sheep, miniature zebu cows, turkeys, peacocks, guineas, chickens, dogs, and even rare white emus. At one point, they had 140 myotonic goats.

“We've got a little over 200 acres out here in the woods. We've got 40 acres under fence, so all the animals have plenty of room to eat and graze and run around. Hank and some of our animals run loose every day out here on the property. All we have to do is holler and they'll all come go right back in the pen,” explained Wally.

“A friend of ours found out about a small herd of camels that he wanted a couple of, but he didn't want them all. So, he called and asked if we were still looking for one. So that's when we wound up with Hank six years ago, and we got him when he was six months old, and now he's about six and a half, and he's nothing but a spoiled brat."

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And he’s a ham for the camera, too. The twohumped cutie likes to be front and center. He even gets special treats of honey buns.

The couple's love for their animals extends beyond their farm. They spread joy by taking their adorable creatures to schools, birthday parties and petting farms. They also participate in around 20 live nativities each December.

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“It's really rewarding to see the kids and stuff that have never seen a live animal. A lot of places we go where they can pet them. Trussville Baptist has a oneday event. Last year, there were a little over 400 kids who had their picture made sitting on his back," said Wally.

Among their favorite events is the Rolling Pumpkin Patch, specially designed for children with disabilities.

Hank, the camel, plays a crucial role, offering children in wheelchairs or walkers the opportunity to sit on him.

“I think that's an awesome thing because it's something they wouldn't have access to,” Beth said.

The wide range of creatures at Lickskillet Acres make a lot of mouths to feed, but luckily, they’re all easy to please.

“We usually feed twice a day, which we don't need to, especially in the summer,” explained Wally. “And believe it or not, all of our animals, the goats, sheep and everything eat the same feed.

It's a 16% goat feed from the Co-op. We get it three tons at a time, and they all eat the same thing. All we buy is goat feed, dog feed, and cat feed.”

The success of Lickskillet Acres wouldn't be possible without the support of their local Co-ops.

The Tuscaloosa Farmers Cooperative has become an indispensable asset to the Kornegays.

“They're like family. Only you get along with them better,” laughed Beth.

“Having a farm, you've got to have somebody that's reliable, a place that's reliable, that's always got what you need, and that's the trigger. The key thing with the Co-op is they got what you need,” Wally added.

From providing reliable feed for their animals to offering expert advice on various farming aspects, the Co-op has become an essential part of their lives.

The exceptional service and genuine care they receive

from the Co-op are what set it apart from other stores.

“We bought feed from different stores and different places around, and it was always sporadic whether they would have the feed or could get it in on time, and I started dealing with Wayne down at Northport on my business. I did grassing. I would buy grass seed and fertilizer and stuff from him. Then I started buying my goat feed from him. He said he could get it for me when he told me he would,” Wally explained.

“Anytime I've got any questions on worming, pest control, weed control, I call down. They give me what I need to use, and they've always got it in stock. They tell me how much to use when I'm putting out different chemicals. We buy quite a lot of seed and fertilizer for our jobs from them. They mix our seed, fertilizer, and all together. We take our spreader buggy down, they load it up, we go put it out, and we've had really good success doing that with them. And all of the people at the Co-op are just super friendly and super helpful. You're not going to find any of them down there that don't go above and beyond trying to help you out,” explained Wally.

Lickskillet Acres is more than just a farm; it's a place filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable experiences. Wally and Beth’s unwavering dedication to their animals and close relationship with the Coop have paved the way for their remarkable success, which goes far beyond their 40 acres of fenced-in paradise.

To visit Lickskillet Acres or request their participation in your event, please call 205-281-0256.

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A NEW KIND OF A NEW KIND OF LIBRARY OPENS IN THOMASVILLE…

I

BY C A R O LY N D R I N K A R D

n 2014, the Public Library in Thomasville, Alabama, took on a different challenge. With the goal of bridging the area's digital divide and addressing the region's economic woes, the library transformed itself into a dynamic community hub.

Two years later, Thomasville’s Public Library (TPL) partnered with Alabama Southern Community College, the Alabama Career Center in Jackson, Clarke County DHR, the Alabama Entrepreneurial Research Network, the Thomasville Library Foundation and the City of Thomasville to expand services to rural and underserved job seekers in North Clarke and adjacent

Exterior of Thomasville Career Readiness Center, Public Library and Museum in downtown Thomasville.

(Photo by Ryan Johnson)

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counties. Since transportation and technology had traditionally been employment barriers in this region, TPL offered free access to computers and assistance with job searches and completing online applications. The staff also provided referrals to partnering agencies, help with resume and interview preparation and free lessons for those lacking basic digital literacy skills.

The library actually provided the missing link to job seekers in this area, connecting them to the resources needed to get a good job.

The library’s continuing transformation is an inspiring story of vision, innovation, imagination and commitment, hampered only by a lack of space. That

LIBRARY Previous Thomasville Public Library location.

changed in January 2016 when First US Bank donated the old Bedsole Furniture Building to the City of Thomasville. By moving the Public Library from the small building on Highway 43 to the two-story historic building in downtown Thomasville, the Library could address its needs for space and expand into a new modern library unlike any other in this area.

The projected cost to renovate the historic building was $3.5 million. Many generous individuals and organizations stepped in to help. As a result, the Thomasville Career Readiness Center, Public Library and Museum opened June 30, 2023, completely debt-free!

Veterans Day display

“It’s been a long and exhausting road over the past few years as renovations took place,” explained Nicole Stinson, Library Director, “but those who have had a hand in making the dream come true have produced a gem that our community can be proud of!”

The new Thomasville Career Readiness Center, Public Library and Museum is much more than just a library. It is a multi-functional community center where everyone can explore, discover and create together. It still offers traditional services, but technology and additional space have expanded both the vision and the outreach.

Inside the new building, visitors are immersed in a museum environment, which transports them back to the early days of Thomasville. On display throughout both the first and second floors are photographs and stories, which reveal the rich history of Thomasville. One unusual exhibit is the original Linotype machine used to print several different newspapers that covered Thomasville through the years. Along the “Bedsole Wall” is the monstrous pulley, which once supported the first public-use elevator in Thomasville. An incredible display of Native American artifacts donated by a local citizen shows pieces estimated to be as much as 10,000 years old. Thomasville’s strong ties to Native American heritage are highlighted with numerous photographs and stories. The exhibits appeal to both young and old, and the museum coordinator, Amy Prescott, is on site to answer questions and provide tours of this amazing destination.

The expanded Career Readiness Center now houses 16 public-access PC terminals, which Winter 2024

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The Career Readiness Center

Large crowds attended the opening of the new facility in June 2023.

can be used to research and apply for jobs, create and creativity found here. resumes and print documents. Ryan Johnson, the Once on the second floor, guests can find a sizCareer Coach, assists with resume building, onable collection of reading material, including most of line job hunting, interview training and much more. the library’s fiction, non-fiction, homeschool materials, Job-seekers may also check out “Job Hunting DIY” biographies, DVDs/Blu-ray and genealogy resources. flash drives and use the resources at home. The Also located at TPL are the First US Bank Conference Career Readiness Center attracts visitors from five Center, The Turner Trust Adult Reading Room, two different counties. reservable study rooms and a training lab, offering an The library’s open-door/no-card policy for comput- additional 14 PC terminals. er use keeps Chris Trull, the Technology Coordinator, For years, the citizens of Thomasville dreamed very busy. Since this is a regional information center, of a different kind of library. The Thomasville Career Trull collects valuable data to improve services and Readiness Center, Public Library and Museum is apply for additional grants. located at 101 West Front Street in historic downtown Also on the ground floor is the children’s wing, Thomasville, right next door to First US Bank. The which accommodates programs for both children beautiful new building stands as a testament to the and teens. Youth Services Coordinator Liz Megginpower of a community working together to create and son plans special events throughout the year and fund a learning center that will educate and empower advertises them on Facebook. The library holds a its children for future generations. weekly story hour for ages 3-8.

Numerous book clubs are available for third through 12th grades. The staff also plans Summer Library Programs and SLP Reading for Prizes. The expanded computer lab provides an assortment of safe, educational games.

A modern elevator is available to access the second floor; however, for those who choose to stroll up the spacious stairway, a visual delight awaits. The library staff has dedicated the stairwell to celebrating the originality and individuality of some of this area’s artists. Working closely with the Thomasville Arts Council to find unique and engaging art, the These hard-working individuals are part of the new Library staff. (L to R) library staff changes the exhibits of- Chris Trull, Kelly Long, Natalie Gates, Nichole Stinson, Liz Megginson, MacKenzie Bumpers, Faith Kristi ten to highlight the abundant talent Hunt and Alex Schreiner 66

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BY J O H N H O W L E

HARDWORKING AS A MULE

“My favorite animal is the mule. He has more sense than a horse. He knows when to stop eating-and he knows when to stop working.”

Harry S. Truman

I feel fortunate that I grew up in Alabama at a time where my grandfather owned a mule that he plowed his garden with. As a young boy, I learned my “gees” and “haws” plowing behind a mule under my grandfather’s guidance. It was a peaceful way to plow because you only heard the sounds of nature as well as the occasional clink of a rock on the plow or the rattle of the trace chains. My grandfather would even tell me when we were hauling square bales of hay,

“Work more like a mule instead of a horse,” he would say. “A mule can work a steady pace all day and a horse works too fast and wears out quickly.”

According to the "Encyclopedia of Alabama," the 1910 agricultural census reported that 60 percent of Alabama’s farms had mules. After WWII, mules quickly began to disappear from the Alabama landscape, replaced by tractors, chemical herbicides and pesticides, and mechanical

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cotton pickers. The article further states that there were about 5,000 tractors on Alabama farms in 1930, but that number rose to 46,000 by 1950, and this technology move began relegating the mule to a thing of the past.

The mule is the result of a donkey male or stallion mating with a female horse. This results in a sterile animal that has the head of a donkey and the extremities of a horse. In contrast, a hinny is the combination of a male horse and female donkey.

As a general rule, mules live longer than horses, they can perform on poorer quality grain and hay than a horse, and they will quit working when they are exhausted beyond a healthy level, which also resulted in the reputation for being stubborn. Nowadays, you won’t see as many working mules, but there are still a few out there you can view working at farm day shows and events that showcase bygone era farming techniques.

HAY FEEDING OPTIONS

You may be at the height of your cattle hay feeding this time of year. Dropping the bales in rings might be quick and easy for the moment, but the hoof traffic, manure, and rainy days can turn this piece of ground into a quagmire. If your hay has dried grass seeds in it, you can roll out the bales for the cattle to graze. You will certainly lose some hay to trampling, but the cattle will eat most of the hay, and the spring germination and growth of those seeds are well worth the sacrificed hay stomped into the ground.

Feeding round bales in rings in the same place can create a quagmire ruining that spot of pasture.

If the hay you are feeding does not have grass seeds, you might consider dropping these round bales on top of briar patches at the edges of pastures or in thick growth areas you want cleared out.

Cattle do an amazing job of disintegrating briar patches and thick shrubs. Also, the hoof traffic in the edge of woods will work the seeds into the ground with a nitrogen-rich combination of manure, mud, and hay straw. This is just one more way the cattle can actually do work for you.

COYOTE CONTROL

This Cleburne County mule actually works on a daily basis plowing and pulling wagons when weather permits.

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This time of year, you might spot coyotes around the edges of your pastures or trotting around looking for food. If the coyotes become too numerous, it may be time to control their population with coyote hunts.

You can use electronic calls, mouth calls, or squeakers to bring a wary coyote into range.

When the number of coyotes on your property is controlled, you’ll see big improvements in numbers of young deer and young turkey poults. Coyotes that become too overpopulated can even result in lost calves and other livestock. In January, coyotes will be

Reducing the coyote population through hunting can help improve the numbers of young deer and turkeys.

These young turkey poults have a chance to reach maturity because of reduced coyote numbers.

looking for mates and more responsive to calling. In addition, you might be able to get a shot while feeding cattle. The coyotes will often come into the pastures searching for rodents.

SURVIVAL IN A CAN

No one plans on spending an unexpected night on the side of the road or in the woods when a vehicle breaks down or when temperatures are subfreezing.

Even in Alabama, we’ve seen times when sleet hit the roads quickly creating an impassable environment for vehicles. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to keep a metal coffee can or paint can full of a few safety and survival essentials.

A few important items to put in your can are: Hand/body warmers, an emergency space blanket, energy bar or snack bar, bottle of water, a toboggan (we lose 90 percent of our body heat through the head), duct tape wrapped around a pencil, and three candles with a lighter.

If you are in a car that won’t start on an extremely cold night, you can still get dangerously cold. With the three candles, you can light one, drip the wax in the bottom of the can, and stand up the candles lighting each one. It’s amazing the amount of heat that three small candles can generate with the convection effects of the can. Finally, it would be helpful to put some cash in the can as well.

This January, if you have hard work to do, work more like a mule than a horse. You’ll be able to stay with it all day long—at least for the shorter days of winter. Who knows, the mule may one day replace the tractor.

A survival can in a vehicle can make a stranded night more comfortable.

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Cooperative Farming News

BY S U Z Y M c C R AY

TRUE JOY Tiny wisps of gray hair escaped from underneath the scarf tied in a knot behind her ears as the woman poured water from a cup onto her husband’s outstretched hands.

He patted some of the cool water onto his wrinkled face before turning to her with a toothless grin and dancing eyes that lit up their yard, and which was reflected in her smile as she handed him a worn rag of a hand towel.

Finding true joy in simple things on your farm or homestead such as this little goat mama and her babies.

“I’d live on the side of a mountain with no power and no running water too if you’d look at me like that,” I kidded Mack as he sat beside me on our cushy love seat in our comfortable house.

We don’t watch regular network TV except for Mack’s beloved football games. Instead, we watch old westerns, homesteading videos and all sorts of other things on YouTube. After church we relaxed with a snack and turned on the screen. I’m not sure how Winter 2024

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we wound up with that series of videos, but we sat mesmerized through four videos of folks completely around the world from us.

The old man in the first—he probably wasn’t any older than the two of us, but circumstances probably enhanced his age!—but he and his plump wife radiated true contentment and joy, although their tiny oneroom cabin hanging precariously on a hill side was a far cry from the lap of luxury.

But that couple, and the other folks we watched, radiated pure joy. It reminded me immediately of the saying that I quoted at the beginning of my fourth book, a collection of my Simple Times articles from the last two years.

It states simply: Happiness is based on circumstances; true JOY comes from the Lord!

We couldn’t understand a word of their language.

But we watched as the man scythed grass from an adjacent hill side and fed two fat cows and a calf in a wooden shed. The wife carefully walked down the other hillside to a lush garden to pick abundant and colorful vegetables including peppers and onions which she returned to the house to sauté on a wood-burning stove that eclipsed one corner of their cabin. He sat down to eat on the corner of their bed which joined one side of their wooden kitchen table and she sat on a small stool, and they truly enjoyed their vegetables and a loaf of homemade bread which they pulled apart with their hands.

The views from their hilltop were magnificent and it seemed they were in the area in which the Czech Republic, Ukraine and other countries scatter through the hills.

Another video showed yet another couple in what was called the Crimean area, who appeared to be a little “better off.” While they had no running water in their house, they did have access to a water spigot from which the woman carried water to a giant pot sitting atop some rocks and a steel plate in their yard.

As the water began to boil, she filled gallon and half gallon jars one third full of muscadines or another red berry, then dipped boiling water from the cauldron, mixed in sugar and then poured it in the jars over the berries. She used a twisty hand tool which I’d never seen before to seal the jars as the fruit turned the water into brilliantly colored juice.

As the husband brought more wood for the fire, the woman, man and a boy of about ten enjoyed a pot of tea of some of the juice along with a loaf of crusty homemade bread.

That video ended later with the couple sitting on a board stretched between the ends of an iron bedstead outside, which made a beautiful but rustic seat. As 72

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they woman swung her now-bare feet they enjoyed yet more tea as they relaxed, and their day drew to a close.

A woman they said was aged near 90 lived alone in another secluded hillside cabin. She was first shown moving the picket for a sleek young steer. Then picking vegetables from another lush garden. She chopped some sort of large-leaf vegetable to feed her chickens and pigs and scattered scratch feed to her chickens, including a mama hen with about ten chicks.

Lastly, she sat on a stool and wrapped part of a wool fleece around a tall stick. She then began spinning their wool using a drop spindle with motions so effortlessly it was hard to tell how the yarn wound around the wooden spindle. When she had spun a large ball, she began doing everything in reverse, as she plied the wool into a two-ply yarn with which to knit!

She moved a mama cow and calf which were staked on an opposite hill from the steer.

She then stirred the cream back into the milk in a glass fruit jar before pouring herself a cup to enjoy at the end of the day on her hillside.

The only video with subtitles was of another woman in her 90s living alone. Her first words to the camera were “I’m a believer.” She also went about her chores throughout the day and ended with nightly prayers at midnight when she finally tumbled into the bed which sat in the corner of her tiny home.

Only one of the four homes we watched had electricity and that home featured a tiny microwave and an ancient-looking TV in the corner. None of the homes had running water inside so there were no inside restrooms. All four had wood-burning cookstoves for their main source of cooking and likely also for heat as there were cords and cords of neatly stacked firewood under small roofs of tin in their yards.

Finding joy in lush garden produce and fresh eggs

Finding joy in simple tasks such as fence building.

These were current videos. The last was filmed in July 2023.

I’ve thought all night and day about their simple joy as they went about their lives. Their days would be what so many of us would call “hard.” They fed animals, did other chores, brought in wood, cooked, cleaned, washed clothes, swept porches, and seemingly kept busy every day. But every day there was a time of reflection as they sipped their tea or enjoyed their homemade bread.

They enjoyed each other’s company. They petted and played with fuzzy dogs. One couple shared tea with what was likely a visiting grandchild.

They didn’t have the newest tiller or tractor for their gardens, but they were lush and prolific. (One of the single women was shown harvesting a large patch of potatoes with a special hand-held hoe and wound up with about 10 bushels!)

They weren’t checking the internet for the latest news, only listening occasionally to battery-powered radios.

Their animals were sleek and healthy, providing meat, wool, eggs, milk, and more, without any modern amenities at all.

They were all well past age 70, but all were scampering up and down the hillsides regularly as part of their ordinary days, with no need of gym memberships.

But what stood out to me the most was the pure joy from everyday events.

The sunrises, the sunsets, over their hills and mountains. The scampering of month-old puppies or

the constant cheep cheep of baby chicks following their mamas.

The look in a husband’s eyes at the end of a bone-weary day. The woman’s simple prayers to God as she asked for nothing more than restful sleep and a healthy awakening.

Would we have to have a severe disaster to take us back to those simpler days? A time when we enjoyed the everyday things God gives us without always wanting more of this and even more of that.

Can we survive one day without social media?

Without our cell phones?

Where ARE our priorities? Where IS our joy???

In the Bible, the words “joy,” “rejoice,” or “joyful” appear 430 times and “happy” or “happiness” only 10 times.

Happiness DOES depend on circumstances (and is only temporary) but true JOY comes from the Lord!

“These things have I spoken to you, that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11 (Suzy and husband Mack live on a homestead in Blount County, Alabama and can be reached on Facebook or by email at suzy.mccray@yahoo.com)

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THE FEAR OF THE FIRST TIME

BY G R E G A . L A N E I asked a young boy in my elementary class at church to pray over the meal we were about to eat during a Wednesday night service. He matter-of-factly told me he didn’t want to do it. When I asked why he didn’t want to pray for our meal, he replied, “Because, I’ve never prayed in front of people before.” When he said that, I had a flashback to the first time I prayed out loud in front of a group of people.

I was 14 years old at the time, and was visiting a church in Georgia with some friends. There must have been 20 people in the Sunday School class I was in that morning, and I didn’t know a single one of them. The teacher of the class asked everybody in the classroom to say a word of prayer as we went around the room. I was scared to death! As one person finished praying, the next person in the circle started to pray. My time to pray was quickly approaching. My heart was racing. I looked down and could literally see the vibrations of my heartbeat through my shirt. I had no idea what I was going to say as beads of sweat began to accumulate on my forehead. When my turn to pray finally came, with quivering voice, I said, “Lord, bless everyone in this room here, today, Amen.” Short, sweet, and nervously spoken … my very first prayer ever spoken out loud in front of other people.

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I told that story to the shy, young boy and to the rest of my class on that Wednesday night. I told him, “There’s a first time for everything you do in life. Tonight can be your first time to pray in front of a group of people just like I did all those years ago.

Once you’ve gotten your first time out of the way, you’ll finally be free from the fear of doing it for the first time.” After my short word of encouragement, the little boy had changed his mind. He agreed to ask the blessing over the meal that night. He did an excellent job at formulating his words and saying what was on his heart. His first time to pray out loud in front of other people was over. A fear had been overcome! He was now free from “The Fear of the First Time.”

Listen, every "first" I've ever had in my life has been awkward. My first dive off the diving board?

A belly-flop. My first time to ride a bike? I ended up in the bushes. My first time to speak in front of a crowd? I stumbled over my words and embarrassed myself. And I'm not even going to mention how my first kiss went! But here I am today, diving, riding, speaking and, yes, even kissing, because I didn't give up after my first miserable attempts. Getting past the “firsts” is one of the biggest hangups we have as humans, but once we get past “The Fear of the First

Time,” the second time and third time and fourth time are so much easier.

So, here we are at the “first” of a new year. What will it hold for us? Will we do the same things we've always done, or will we attempt a few “firsts"?

Each of us is born with the spirit of an adventurer inside of us. Curiosity and the desire to discover and learn new things were driving factors for us when we were children. But, as we get older, we stifle the voice of that spirit within us as we begin to settle into our comfort zone. Before that spirit dies altogether, each person must experience their own personal revival, or else, plan their own personal funeral. A decision has to be made. Will we surrender to our comfort zones and put up “No Trespassing” signs, or will we expand our borders and seek out new life experiences to enjoy?

I don't know about you, but I'm planning on having a revival. You see, there are boundary lines around me that need to be expanded, new businesses that need to be started, new foods that need to be tasted, new songs that need to be sung, new poems that need to be written, creative solutions for problems that need to be discovered, new people to

meet, new places to go, new words that need to be spoken, and new activities to be involved in. Many of these things will only be accomplished by breaking through “The Fear of the First Time.”

I humbly submit to you that this will be a year of FIRSTS for many who are reading this article. And, remember this: First time experiences aren't just for children and teenagers. Sarah had her first baby when she was 90 years old. (Don't you know that raised a few eyebrows!) Moses' first time to lead a large group of people happened when he was 80.

Jesus' first miracle didn't take place until he was 30.

So, I wonder what FIRSTS you and I will experience this year?

Accept this Challenge for 2024: Try something new, for the first time … even if it means ordering something new off the menu at your favorite restaurant. Sit in a different pew or seat at the church you attend … one you’ve never sat in before. Try your hand at a new hobby … painting, poetry, woodworking … something you’ve never tried before. Refuse to be held by the thought that there are no more new experiences to discover.

Overcome “THE FEAR OF THE FIRST TIME.”

Getting past the “firsts” is one of the biggest hangups we have as humans, but once we get past “The Fear of the First Time,” the second time and third time and fourth time are so much easier.

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MAGIC OF GARDENING

CULTIVATING A FRESH START REVITALIZE YOUR GARDEN IN THE NEW YEAR

BY B E T H A N Y O ’ R E A R As the calendar turns over to a new year, home gardeners across Alabama anticipate the arrival of spring and the opportunity it brings to cultivate a fresh start in their gardens. January through March may seem like an unlikely time for gardening around here, with frosty mornings and shorter days, but this is the ideal moment to lay the groundwork for a vibrant and flourishing garden in the months ahead.

A fresh start in gardening begins with a wellthought-out plan. Take this time to envision your garden's transformation. What worked well last

year? What didn't? Perhaps you dream of a large colorful flower bed, a thriving vegetable patch, or a cozy outdoor retreat. Sketch out your ideas, set clear goals, and research new plants or garden layouts to breathe new life into your space. January and February are the months that I begin browsing through my seed collections, making a list of what needs to be ordered. Now is also a good time to go back through any garden journals or notes from the previous growing seasons. Look back through that “garden” photo album on your phone to remember certain milestones and to help plan the next phase.

Sketch out your ideas, set clear goals, and research new plants or garden layouts to breathe new life into your space.

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Perform a soil test to determine its pH and nutrient levels.

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a thriving garden and January is an excellent time to assess your soil's condition. Perform a soil test to determine its pH and nutrient levels. A composite sample is a collection of 15 to 20 uniform cores or slices of soil taken from random spots in a garden, lawn, or shrub bed. For an accurate test, place the samples from a given area into a clean bucket. Then mix this soil well and place about 1 pint of the mixture into a soil sample box or bag. Soil sample boxes/bags, information sheets, and other supplies for soil testing are available from your county Extension office. Results from the test kit will reveal nutrient levels in the soil and make recommendations related to fertility, depending on the particular plant or crop that you plan to grow. Healthy soil not only supports plant growth but also helps reduce disease and pest issues down the road.

Before the growing season kicks into high gear, it is essential to tidy up your garden. Prune overgrown shrubs and trees, removing dead or damaged branches. This not only improves the appearance

Prune overgrown shrubs and trees, removing dead or damaged branches.

of your garden but also promotes healthier growth.

Clear away fallen leaves, debris, and weeds that may have taken root during winter. A clean slate in your garden ensures that plants have space, light, and resources to thrive. Investing in your garden infrastructure can also make a significant difference.

Consider installing irrigation systems, adding raised beds, or building trellises for climbing plants. Upgrading your garden's infrastructure in the “off-season” ensures it is ready to support your plants when spring arrives. Late February (after the threat of severe frosts) is a good time to prune your roses.

Remove any dead or injured canes and any suckers (branches growing from below the graft). Keep the three to five strongest canes but cut them back by about a third, making sure each cane has at least one outward-facing bud.

Contrary to trendy belief, January through March in Alabama still offers plenty of opportunities to get some seeds into the soil. Hardy vegetables and root crops can be started from seed this time of year (garden peas, radishes, mustard, spinach, turnips).

Transplants can be added to your garden this time of year as well—broccoli, celery, collards, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce transplants and onion sets.

Plant asparagus in late January. Irish potatoes and beets can be planted in February.

If you find yourself spending a lot of time in the warmth of your house, don’t forget those indoor plants! Keep an eye out for signs of houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects. If tackled before they get out of hand, soft chemical methods, and in some cases even non-chemical methods, are usually successful—a simple shower, insecticidal soap spray (as directed on label), or with the most tenacious (like mealybugs) sometimes an alcohol swab and Q-tip will do the trick.

Finally, remember that gardening is an exercise in patience and mindfulness. A fresh start in the garden is not about immediate gratification but about nurturing the journey and enjoying the process. Be mindful of the seasonal rhythms, savor the small victories, and embrace the inevitable setbacks as opportunities for growth.

As you embark on your gardening journey in this new year, take heart in the promise of renewal that a fresh start brings. With careful planning, thoughtful care, and a touch of patience, your garden will transform into a vibrant and thriving oasis, ready to greet the warmer months with an explosion of color and life. So, bundle up, grab your garden tools, and let the magic of a fresh start inspire your gardening adventures in this new year and beyond!

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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.

January Garden Checklist

Annuals and Perennials • Plant hardy annuals Bulbs • L ate plantings of Dutch bulbs will flower if planted now.

• Plant lilies of all types, except Madonna.

•C heck stored bulbs and discard rotten ones.

•M ake indoor plantings of amaryllis, callas, and gloxinias.

Fruits and Nuts •S et out apples, peaches, pears, and grapes.

•S tart grafting pecans. Prune dormant trees.

Shrubs •P lant shrubs and trees, including broadleaf, narrow leaf, and deciduous.

• Graft camellias in South Alabama.

•A pply an ultrafine horticultural oil spray to all deciduous shrubs to help with control of insects and diseases.

• Spray when weather is on warming trend.

Lawns •S oil test and add limestone as recommended.

•A pply preemergent herbicides if forgotten in September and if spring weeds were a concern last year.

Roses •V isit nurseries and garden centers to select varieties.

•P lant roses. Consider old-fashioned, disease-tolerant cultivars.

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February Garden Checklist

Miscellaneous • Prune winter-damaged limbs.

•G ive house plants a bath in lukewarm water to remove dust.

• To keep poinsettias that have finished flowering, turn pots on their sides and let them dry completely.

• Cut them back lightly.

•K eep in a temperature of 55 to 60 degrees.

Vegetable Seeds •S outh: Plant hardy vegetables and root crops (garden peas, radishes, mustard, spinach, turnips). Start cabbage, broccoli, lettuce, and Swiss chard seeds in cold frames.

Vegetable Transplants •S outh: Plant broccoli, celery, collards, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce transplants, and onion sets.

•S outh and Central: Plant asparagus in late January.

•C entral: Plant cabbage and cauliflower transplants. Wait until the end of January to plant Swiss chard, mustard, transplants, and onion sets.

Fruits and Nuts •P lanting season continues for dormant trees.

• Fertilize fruit trees.

•A pply half of the fertilizer recommended for grapes now; apply the other half soon after fruit sets.

•C ontinue dormant pruning and grafting.

Start strawberry plantings.

Shrubs • Planting season continues.

•V isit camellia shows to learn of hardy varieties in your area.

•G raft camellias in Central and South Alabama.

•S pray all shrubs with a fungicide before new growth starts.

•P rune all shrubs before new growth starts.

•D on’t prune early-blooming species because flower buds will be removed.

Roses •P rune hybrid tea roses in South Alabama; delay pruning for a few weeks in North Alabama.

• Continue planting.

Annuals and Perennials • Replant early plantings of hardy annuals.

• Prepare beds for summer annuals.

Bulbs •P lant cannas, amaryllis, gladiolus, and zephyranthes in South Alabama; delay planting for a few weeks in North Alabama.

March Garden Checklist

Miscellaneous •H ouse plants are beginning to show signs of activity.

• F ertilize with liquid or soluble fertilizer according to manufacturer’s directions.

•R emember Valentine’s Day. Why not send roses or a potted plant?

Lawns •A pply preemergent herbicides if forgotten in September and if spring weeds were a concern last year.

• I f South Alabama’s winter was mild, centipedegrass may not be fully dormant. Monitor for fungal disease.

Vegetable Seeds •S outh and Central: Plant the same vegetables listed for January. Add carrots, Swiss chard, kohlrabi, lettuce, spinach, radishes, turnips, and additional plantings of leafy greens.

•N orth: Plant kale. Wait until the end of February to plant beets, carrots, collards, garden peas, kale, kohlrabi, mustard, spinach, Swiss chard, radishes, and turnips.

Vegetable Transplants •W hole state: Plant asparagus, cabbage, broccoli, onion sets, kale, lettuce, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

•S outh and Central: Plant asparagus, cabbage and broccoli, and certified seed potatoes for Irish and red-skinned varieties.

•N orth: Wait towards the end of the month to plant certified seed potatoes for Irish and red-skinned varieties and asparagus.

Fruits and Nuts • Continue strawberry and grape plantings.

• Bud apples and peaches.

•S tart planting blackberries. If weather conditions prevent prompt planting, heel the plants in by placing the root system in a trench and covering the soil.

Shrubs • F ertilize shrubs (except azaleas and camellias) according to a soil test.

• L ate plantings may be made, particularly if they are container grown.

• Monitor shrubs for harmful insects.

Lawns •P lant bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass in South Alabama.

•S oil test and add limestone as recommended.

• F ertilize fescue lawns at 1 pound slow-release nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.

•S outh: If daytime temps are consistently above 70 degress F, consider applying fire ant bait. Read label carefully for best control.

Roses • Watch new growth for aphids.

• Begin a spray or dust program.

• Begin fertilizing.

Annuals and Perennials • South: Plant half-hardy annuals.

•C heck garden centers for bedding plants such as geraniums and petunias.

Bulbs •P lant gladiolus every 2 or 3 weeks if a long blooming season is desired.

•P lant tuberous begonias in pots. Plant dahlias.

Miscellaneous •C heck and repair sprayers, dusters, and lawn mowers.

•C ontrol lawn weeds with chemicals as needed. If weeds are deemed a serious problem, send a soil sample for testing as weeds can indicate the lawn is unhealthy.

•D elay pruning of fruiting shrubs such as cotoneasters, pyracanthas, and hollies until after flowering.

Vegetable Seeds •C entral and North: Plant all hardy crops recommended for January and February (garden peas, leafy greens, and root crops).

•C entral and South: Continue planting carrots, lettuce, and radishes. Plant sweet corn and squash. South Alabama can start planting beans, melons, and southern peas in late March.

Vegetable Transplants •C entral and North: Plant asparagus, onion sets, and lettuce. Plant certified seed potatoes for Irish and red- skinned varieties in early March.

•S outh: Harden off tomato, pepper, and eggplant transplants. Plant when the soil has warmed above 65 degrees F and the threat of frost is over.

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

HOME FOOD PANTRIES NEED A FRESH START IN THE NEW YEAR B Y A N G E L A T R E A D AWAY Wintertime—when you are more likely to be inside more because of the cold and rainy weather—is a good time to look over and inventory your pantry. To clean out those canned items and/or spices that you may have had for years. You may ask, "What is the shelf life of home-canned and commercially-canned foods?" Canned foods are safe alternatives to fresh and frozen foods and help meet dietary needs and avoid preservatives. Proper storage can greatly increase the shelf life and quality of canned foods.

Frozen foods will not last nearly as long as canned foods and if the power goes out or the door is left open there is a good possibility you could lose all the food you have stored in your freezer.

Home Canned foods can help control the salt and sugar added to foods and you can either grow your own or purchase from a local farmers market.

You want to make sure you preserve only the best produce because home canning cannot improve the quality. Home-canned foods should be preserved using research-tested recipes and processes like those found in the USDA "Complete Guide to Canning" or in 82

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Cooperative Extension publications Home-canned foods such as vegetables, meats, jams and jellies are good for 1-2 years. This is a shorter shelf life than commercially canned items but for best quality they need to be used in 1-2 years.

Commercially-canned foods - for the longest shelf life. Commercially-canned foods are much better for storing to long periods of time. A can of commercially-canned green beans will last over five years or more. Commercial canners can closely control quality and safety to produce the best product. Canned foods for longer storage can be purchased at grocery stores and similar outlets. Avoid budget resellers (e.g., scratch and dent sales, dollar stores, etc.). Purchase canned foods in either cans or jars. Avoid rusted, dented, scratched, or bulging cans.

Packaging. Foods are commercially canned in glass jars with lids, metal cans, or special metal-Mylar®-type pouches. All of these materials are suitable for food storage. Home canners should only use standard canning jars with two-piece metal lids as recommended by the USDA "Complete Guide to

Canning." Improper processing of home-canned foods could lead to Clostridium botulinum food poisoning.

Storage Conditions. Carefully label all homecanned or commercially-canned food containers. We recommend labeling purchase date (month & year) on can lid with marker. Store all canned food in cool, dark, dry space away from furnaces, pipes, and places where temperatures change like un-insulated attics or outside storage buildings where the temperature is not controlled.

Do not allow sealed cans or glass jars to freeze: Freezing changes food textures, and leads to rust, bursting cans, and broken seals that may let in harmful bacteria. Always store metal cans off of the floor, especially bare concrete. Moisture can wick up to cans and encourage rusting.

Nutrition: Canned foods maintain mineral content for entire shelf life. Vitamins A & C will decrease rapidly after fruits and vegetables are picked and cooked.

Vitamins are lost during heating processes; however, once canned, vitamin A & C loss slows to 5- 20% per year. Other vitamins remain close to fresh food levels.

Salt or sugar are not necessary for safe canning and only added for flavoring.

Shelf Life of Spices. Generally speaking, dried seasonings, herbs and spices in jars last about 1-2 years.

Here’s a rough guideline on the life of those seasonings in your kitchen: things that are Indefinite: Vanilla extract, salt, and that's about it.

(Other extracts will fade in 2-3 years.)

• Whole spices (unground, such as peppercorns, whole allspice, caraway seeds, and more): 3-4 years.

• Ground spices (such as cumin, ginger, garlic, mustard, paprika and chili powder): 2-4 years • Ground and whole leafy herbs such as basil, dill, oregano, rosemary and most seasoning blends: 1-3 years All of us have a few jars that have been sitting in the pantry for over a decade. It’s okay to let these spices go. Label or put a date on the new ones with a month and year so you know how long you have had them.

Shelf Life of Canned Foods- As a general rule, unopened home-canned foods have a shelf life of one year and should be used before 2 years.

Commercially-canned foods should retain their best quality until the expiration code date on the can.

This date is usually 2-5 years from the manufacture date. High acid foods usually have a shorter shelf life than low acid foods.

For emergency storage, commercially-canned foods in metal or jars will remain safe to consume as long as the seal has not been broken. (That is not to

say the quality will be retained for that long.) Foods “canned” in metal-Mylar®-type pouches will also have a best-if-used-by date on them. The longest shelf life tested of this type of packaging has been 8-10 years (personal communication U.S. Military MREs). Therefore, storage for longer than 10 years is not recommended.

Use from Storage. Always use FIFO (First-in, firstout), meaning use your oldest cans first. Before opening, discard any badly dented, bulging, rusty, or leaky cans or jars that have broken seals. Open cans or jars to view and smell contents. When opening, discard any can that spurts. Discard contents (do not taste) if there is a strange odor or appearance.

If there is no strange appearance or odor, taste a sample. For added safety, in the case of older canned foods, you may wish to boil the food for 10 minutes before tasting. Discard if there is an off-flavor.

High-acid foods may leach metal or metallic flavors from cans if food is stored in open cans; remove unused portions and store covered in the refrigerator.

Low-acid foods should be heated to 165 degrees F° or boiled for 5-10 minutes before eating. Once opened canned foods may last between a day and a week depending on the food.

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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

Tex-Mex Cheesy Chicken Chowder 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup thinly sliced celery 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 t o 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in 1/2-inch cubes 1 carton (32 ounces) chicken broth 4c ups frozen and thawed hash brown potatoes (cubes)

1 package (2.75 ounces) country gravy mix 2 cups milk 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheese such as Velveeta 1 j ar (16 ounces) chunky salsa (your preferred heat level) 1 can (4 ounces) chopped fire-roasted green chilies In large saucepan, cook and stir onion, celery and garlic in oil over medium heat until onion is translucent, about 7 minutes. Add chicken; cook and stir until chicken is no longer pink. Add chicken broth; bring to a boil. Add potatoes; cook over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft, stirring occasionally. Return to boiling. Dissolve gravy mix in milk; stir into boiling mixture. Reduce heat; add cheese, salsa and green chilies. Cook and stir over low heat until cheese is melted.

Sausage-and-Collard Greens Stew 1 pound mild sausage links, casings removed 1 cup chopped leek (1 leek) 4 cups unsalted chicken stock 8 ounces chopped fresh collard greens 1 tablespoon chopped garlic (2 to 3 garlic cloves) 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 3/4 teaspoon black pepper 3c ups cooked ditalini pasta (about 1 1/2 cups uncooked) 1/4 cup heavy cream Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium, stirring to break apart with a wooden spoon, until just beginning to brown, about 6 minutes. Add leek and cook until sausage is browned and leek begins to soften, about 5 minutes.

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1 ( 10-ounce) can mild diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 garlic cloves, minced 4 cubes beef bouillon, crushed 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons seasoned salt 1 teaspoon sugar Salt (to taste) Chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Add sausage, chopped leek and pan drippings to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add stock, collards, garlic, salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low until vegetables are softened and sausage is cooked through, about 4 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and heavy cream just before serving.

Slow Cooker Venison Stew 4 medium carrots, sliced 3 medium potatoes cut into 1-inch chunks 1 medium onion, chopped 2 pounds deer stew meat cut into 1-inch chunks ¼ cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 cups water

Rinse and slice the carrots, cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks, and chop up the onion.

Soak potato chunks in cold water until ready to use; this will keep them from browning.

Cut deer stew meat into 1-inch chunks, pat dry and place into the slow cooker.

In a small bowl, stir flour, salt, and black pepper together and then pour over the deer meat. Toss the venison in the flour mixture until well coated and the flour has been absorbed.

Add water, carrots, potatoes, onion, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including juice), Worcestershire sauce, garlic, crushed beef bouillon cubes, paprika, seasoned salt and sugar into the slow cooker. Stir together until combined.

Close the lid and cook on low for 8 to 12 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours.

Add extra salt to taste and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Hot Crab Dip 2 8-ounces packages cream cheese, softened 8o unces crab meat, drained, and picked through for shells 4 scallions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish

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1 tablespoon whole milk 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, plus more to taste 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, plus more to taste 1/4 cup slivered almonds Corn chips and/or cut vegetables, for serving Preheat the oven to 350°.

Add the cream cheese to the bowl of a stand mixer; beat on medium speed until softened and smooth. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl.

Add the crab meat, scallions, milk, horseradish, hot sauce and salt, and beat on low to combine.

Taste and add more horseradish, hot sauce and salt if needed.

Transfer to a 1-quart casserole dish and top with slivered almonds. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly golden on top and warmed through the center.

Serve alongside corn chips and cut veggies.

Beer Cheese Dip 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 (12 ounces) can IPA beer 1/4 cup half-and-half 6 ounces shredded fontina cheese 6 ounces shredded sharp yellow cheddar cheese 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Chopped chives and/or black pepper, for garnish Pretzels, to serve

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In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until softened, 4 to 6 minutes. Gradually whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until lightly browned, about 1 minute.

Gradually whisk in the beer and half and half.

Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce is thickened and just begins to bubble, 5 to 7 minutes.

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cheeses, whisking constantly, until melted and combined.

Remove from the heat.

Whisk in the Dijon mustard and the Worcestershire sauce. Garnish with chives and black pepper, if you like. Serve with pretzels; re-warm gently as needed.

Serve Beer Cheese Dip in a slow cooker set to low heat so that it stays warm for the entire party.

Queso Fundido 1/2 pound hot breakfast sausage or chorizo 1 whole medium onion, finely diced 2w hole small bell peppers of any color, seeded and finely diced 1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, grated Sprinkle of chili powder 3 whole Roma tomatoes, diced 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped Tortilla chips for serving Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In a large skillet, cook and crumble the sausage until brown. Remove from the skillet and drain on a paper towel. Pour off any excess fat. Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat until the veggies are soft and golden brown, about 7 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

To build the skillet, place 1/3 of the cheese in a medium-sized ovenproof skillet. Add half the sausage.

Add another third of the cheese, then as much of the veggie mixture as you'd like. You may have a little left over. Add almost all the remaining cheese, the rest of the sausage, then whatever cheese you have left. Sprinkle the top very lightly with chili powder.

Depending on the size of your skillet or baking dish, you may have some ingredients left over. Just build so that the ingredients roughly reach the top of the skillet; they'll shrink quite a bit once the cheese melts!

Place into the oven and start watching it about 4 to 5 minutes in. You want to bake it until the cheese is totally melted, hot and slightly bubbling, but before the

cheese starts to firm up/harden. That way it is extra gooey.

Remove from the oven, top with the diced tomatoes, sprinkle on the tomatoes, and serve immediately with tortilla chips!

Serve while piping hot!

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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ICE SKATING RINK AT THE WHARF January 1-15, 2024 Orange Beach - The Wharf Admission - Times vary Call 251-224-1000

EAGLE AWARENESS WEEKENDS AT LAKE GUNTERSVILLE STATE PARK January 19 - February 4, 2024 Orange Beach - The Wharf Admission - Times vary Call 251-224-1000

HEY DAY HOLIDAY January 1-13, 2024 Auburn - Greenspace at Hey Day Market - Admission for ice skating Noon - 8:30 p.m. daily Call 800-228-2876

FESTIVAL OF THE CRANES January 12-14, 2024 Decatur - Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center - Various Times Call 256-350-6639

MRM BAMA BLUES 2024 January 6, 2024 Decatur - Ingalls Harbor Admission - 4:00 p.m.

Call 870-897-1373 POLAR BEAR RUN January 6, 2024 Madison - Redstone HarleyDavidson - Admission 9:00 a.m. - Noon Call 256-384-6868 NATURE ACADEMY: JANUARY WEATHER WATCHERS January 9, 2024 Huntsville - Botanical Gardens Admission 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Call 256-830-4447 FOLEY SNOWBIRD WELCOME COFFEE January 9, 2024 Foley - Civic Center 8:30 a.m. - Noon Free coffee and pastries Call 251-943-1300 88

Cooperative Farming News

FIREBIRD January 20, 2024 Mobile - 6 South Joachim Street Admission - 7:30 p.m.

Call 251-432-2010 PIKE PIDDLERS STORYTELLING FESTIVAL 2024 January 26-27, 2024 Brundidge - We Piddle Around Theater - Admission Friday: 6:30 p.m.

Troy - Trojan Center Theater Admission - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Call 334-685-5524 GREENVILLE CAMELLIA SHOW January 27-28, 2024 Greenville - Beeland Park Call 334-437-2509 MARDI GRAS IN MOBILE January 26th - February 13th , 2024 Mobile - Various Locations and Times Call 251-208-2000 MARDI GRAS IN MOBILE January 26th - February 13th , 2024 Mobile - Various Locations

and Times Call 251-208-2000 SEAN OF THE SOUTH WITH THREE ON A STRING February 4th, 2024 Birmingham - Homewood High School - Admission Doors open at 1:30 p.m. show starts at 2:30 p.m.

Call 205-871-9663 BLUES IN THE NIGHT February 8th - March 3rd, 2024 Montgomery - Alabama Shakespeare Festival - Octagon Stage - Admission Times vary by date Call 251-208-2000 THE COLOR PURPLE February 9th - March 3rd, 2024 Birmingham - Red Mountain Theatre - Admission Tuesday - Saturday: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: 2:00 p.m.

Call 205-324-2424 CARNIVAL FROLIC 13.1 AND 5K February 10, 2024 Decatur - Bank Street Admission for runners 7:00 a.m.

Call 256-341-0562 NATURE ACADEMY- FEBRUARY: BACKYARD BIRDS February 13, 2024 Huntsville - Huntsville Botanical Gardens - Admission 10:00 a.m. - Noon Call 256-830-4447

VINTAGE MARKET DAYS: SOUTHERN CHARM February 15-17, 2024 Birmingham - The Finley Center Admission - Children 12 and under are free - various times Call 256-830-4447 ALABAMA LITTLE BRITCHES RODEO ASSOCIATION YOUTH RODEO February 17-18, 2024 Rainsville - North East Agri Business Center Various Times Call 120-554-4840 32ND ANNUAL ORANGE BEACH SEAFOOD FESTIVAL & CAR SHOW February 24, 2024 Orange Beach - The Wharf 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Call 251-981-6979 RAPUNZEL AND THE BEANSTALK February 22-25, 2024 Huntsville - Von Braun Center Playhouse - Admission Thursday: 7:00 p.m.

Friday: 7:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday: 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Call 256-533-1953 DALLAS BRASS February 29, 2024 Enterprise - Enterprise High School Performing Arts Center Admission 7:00 p.m.

Call 334-406-2787 BRIDGE CROSSING JUBILEE March 1-3, 2024 Selma - 1410 Water Avenue Various Locations and Times Call 334-526-2626 MISS SLE RODEO 2024 PAGEANT March 2, 2024 Troy - Pike County Cattleman Park Applications due January 15, 2024 Call 334-265-7867 BALLYHOO FESTIVAL March 2-3, 2024 Gulf Shores - Gulf State Park Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Call 251-223-3970 ALABAMA MEDIEVAL FANTASY FESTIVAL March 2-3, 2024 Greenville - 4776 Fort Dale Road Admission Call 251-223-3970 TRAVIS TRITT AT PRINCESS THEATRE March 8, 2024 Decatur - Princess Theatre Admission - 7:00 p.m.

Call 256-350-1745 FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS 2024 March 8-10, 2024 Mobile - Downtown Mobile Cathedral Square 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Donation Required for Entry Call 251-266-2050 HONEY POT BARREL RACING March 9, 2024 Union Grove - Grassland Ranch Admission Various Times Call 251-266-2050 59TH ANNUAL ORANGE BEACH FESTIVAL OF ART March 9-10, 2024 Orange Beach - 26389 Canal Road Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Call 251-223-3970 AMERICA’S IDEAL MISS ALABAMA AND SOUTHEASTERN STATES SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT March 10, 2024 Birmingham - Pell City Center of Performing Arts Admission Call 470-604-4410 52ND ANNUAL OUTDOOR ART SHOW March 15-17, 2024 Fairhope - Eastern Shore Art Center 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. each day Call 251-928-2228 SLE RODEO March 15-17, 2024 Montgomery - Garrett Coliseum Admission - 7:00 p.m. each night Call 334-265-1867

ALABAMA LITTLE BRITCHES RODEO ASSOCIATION YOUTH RODEO March 16-17, 2024 Rainsville - North East Agri Business Center Various Times Call 120-554-4840 WILCOX HISTORICAL SOCIETY TOUR OF HOMES March 23, 2024 Camden - Various Locations Admission 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Call 334-296-1076 ‘POOSA JEEP FEST March 28-30, 2024 Montgomery - 1801 Eddie L Tullis Road - Admission Various Times Call 334-514-2081 HONEY POT BARREL RACING March 31, 2024 Union Grove - Grassland Ranch Admission Various Times Call 251-266-2050

“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.*

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MID STATE STOCKYARDS LLP.

8415 Stat e Highway 97 Sou th, L eto hatc hee, A L 3 60 47 - I nterstate 6 5 E x it 1 5 1

S a l e D a y : Tu e s d a y s 1 0 : 0 0 a . m .

Office - 601-928-5309 and 601-928-5308 | Registerbarns21@gmail.com 321 Madison Avenue, Wiggins, MS 39577

Ask us about our weekly board sales!

1-877-334-5229 | 334-227-8000 www.midstatestockyards.com

Contact us for your Fall Cattle Marketing Needs!

The Fall Sale - November 4, 2023 Billy Younkin 334-313-3542 Clanton205-288-6298

PARTNERS: Scott Garrett 334-303-1488

Dick Farrior 334-399-0170

East AL706-577-1900

Covington Co. 334-488-0934

DROP-OFF LOCATIONS:

Wetumpka334-313-3695

SW AL 251-989-3992

40’ x 60’ x 12’ - Installed Roof only, Open Gables - $11,500 + tax and delivery Roof only, (2) Closed Gables $13,300 + tax and delivery 30’ x 40’ x 10’ - Installed Roof Only, Open Gables - $7,500 + tax and delivery Roof only, (2) Closed Gables - $8,900 + tax and delivery

AFC FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM • This program will give you an opportunity to connect with growers and producers across our footprint.

• You will have hands-on training at a local Co-op store, helping you gain an understanding of services offered.

• We offer the opportunity for continued education with trainings on finance, agronomy, marketing and more.

For more information and to apply for this program, visit www.alafarm.com/coopcareers 90

Cooperative Farming News

“My Top Pick Pinkeye Peas just plain out-yield any other variety I have planted...”

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Pinkeye Pinkeye P inkeye

Top Pick Peas gives you top yields plus pods on top of the plant.

Brown Brown B rown Crowder Crowder C rowder

Cream Cream C ream

“In the six plus years I have observed peas growing, the Top Pick Pinkeye’s and Top Pick Creams are two of the best peas. They have excellent germination; seedling vigor; high yielding and easy to pick. Plus their food quality is great.

They are good for “U Pick” operations because the peas set on top and the outside of the plant making a real showy bush type plant, which makes it easy for picking by hand and by machine. They are also easy to shell by hand or by sheller and make a good shell out. There are also no problems with disease.

If you have a market operations, you definitely need both types of peas – Top Pick Pinkeye’s and Top Pick Creams. These are by far the best peas on the market today.

They are exceptional peas.”

Jason Barkett - J.E.B. Agriculture Consultant “I grew up farming and I’m impressed with Top Pick Pinkeyed peas.

We had early rains and the Top Pick peas loaded up. Some we planted late; some we no-tilled; plus we had more rain, but they really made peas. They pick great and shell out good and best of all they taste great.

Seeds for Southern Soils

We sold them at the Fresh Market, along with shelled peas. The customers came back asking for Top Pick peas. We will plant more Top Pick Pinkeyed peas next year and years to come.”

Bo Levins - Planterville, Alabama “I first saw Top Pick Pinkeyed peas growing at the E. V. Smith Research Center and really liked the way they put out on top and around the outside of the plant. They were really loaded up with peas.

I have been planting these pinkeyed for ten years now. They produce more than the old bush running pinkeyed purple hull peas. They just out produce any other pinkeyed on the market. They shell out great and taste great.

Top Pick Pinkeyed peas work for me and there is no need to plant any other pinkeyed pea.”

Rob Peacock - Pike Road, Alabama

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SPRAYING MADE EASY AND AFFORDABLE 12 VOLT SPOT SPRAYERS

BRONZE 15 Gallon 404799 25 Gallon 404803

GOOD

SILVER

REPAIR PARTS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL CO-OP

BETTER

15 Gallon 404800 25 Gallon 404804

UTV SPRAYERS

PRO UTV 65 GALLON OPTIONS

GOLD

BEST

15 Gallon 404801 25 Gallon 404805

MC SERIES 3 POINT SPRAYERS

PRO UTV 105 GALLON OPTIONS

LOW PROFILE PASTURE SPRAYERS

MC1 - 60 GALLON or 90 GALLON OPTIONS

MC2 - 165 GALLON or 225 GALLON OPTIONS

LOW PROFILE DELUXE TRAILER SPRAYERS

TR300E-MBXT22PS 300 Gallon 416791

With BXT Boomless Nozzles - 36’ Broadcast Sprays Left Or Right

CALL FOR PRICING

Or Both

WE LIVE AG 92

Cooperative Farming News

TM

• 500 Gallon Elliptical Tank • Heavy Duty Low Profile Frame • Pressure, Agitation & Strainer Assemblies • Strainer Assy On Top Of Frame In Front Of Tank • Adjustable Hitch Height • 15” Jack • 11L-15 Implement Tread Tires • Hypro 8 Roller Pump

Visit or Call a Co-op Store Near You. Supply May Vary at Participating Stores.