Arkansas Agriculture, Spring 2012

arfb.com

SPRING 2012

THE

Agency ProďŹ le: Arkansas Forestry Commission Cotter FFA Warriors Fight Hunger

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Arkansas Agriculture

3

®

SPRING 2012

Inside...

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 2

F

E

A

T

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S

The new Arkansas ax men Taking a new approach to timber in Arkansas

by Gregg Patterson Bringing back a legend The quest to restore the Ozark Chinquapin

by Johnny Sain

C

O

L

U

M

N

S

Farm Bureau Perspective

by Randy Veach Faces of Agriculture P. Allen Smith

by Tara Johnson arfb.com

Policy Update

by Michelle Kitchens

Spring 2012

The

Ag Profile Arkansas Forestry Commission

by Gregg Patterson

Agency profile: Arkansas Forestry Commission Cotter FFA Warriors Fight Hunger

On the cover – Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Forestry Division and its chairman, Grant Pace of Monticello, are looking for new export markets to open up more opportunities for landowners to sell their timber.

Photo credit: Keith Sutton

4 14

Spotlight on Youth Warriors fight hunger

by Mollie Dykes Rural Reflections Photo Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Writers: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory

3 18 22 24 26 28

Farm Bureau

Arkansas Agriculture

Perspective

is an official publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation.

Arkansas Agriculture is distributed to almost 32,000 farming and ranching households in Arkansas.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Included in membership dues.

ARKANSAS FARM BUREAU OFFICERS: President Randy Veach Manila Vice President Rich Hillman Carlisle Secretary/Treasurer Tom Jones Pottsville Executive Vice President Ewell Welch Little Rock DIRECTORS: Richard Armstrong, Ozark Troy Buck, Alpine Jon Carroll, Moro Joe Christian, Jonesboro Terry Dabbs, Stuttgart Mike Freeze, England Bruce Jackson, Lockesburg Tom Jones, Pottsville Johnny Loftin, El Dorado Gene Pharr, Lincoln Rusty Smith, Des Arc Allen Stewart, Mena Mike Sullivan, Burdette Leo Sutterfield, Mountain View EX OFFICIO Sue Billiot, Smithville Janice Marsh, McCrory Kirk Meins, Suttgart Brian Walker, Horatio Arkansas Agriculture is published quarterly by the Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation, 10720 Kanis Road, Little Rock, AR 72211.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Arkansas Agriculture, P.O. Box 31, Little Rock, AR 72203.

Publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests.

Send comments to: arkansasagriculture@arfb.com Created by Publishing Concepts, Inc. Virginia Robertson, Publisher vrobertson@pcipublishing.com 14109 Taylor Loop Road Little Rock, AR 72223 501.221.9986 or 800.561.4686

For advertising information contact:

Tom Kennedy at 501.221.9986 or 800.561.4686 tkennedy@pcipublishing.com

By Randy Veach, President, Arkansas Farm Bureau I admit to being sometimes uneasy when facing those in the media, but Stewart Doan taught me it was actually very easy to trust a reporter. He was the best I ever encountered, the consummate professional, fair, thorough and very knowledgeable about agriculture. I learned from Stewart that “reporter” didn’t have to be a bad word.

We lost Stewart far too early, the victim of a heart ailment that claimed his life May 10. He was only 52.

Stewart was kind, down to earth and a good friend to all. He was the type of person you could tell just about anything and trust he would use that information in the appropriate way.

I first came to know him when he was assistant farm broadcaster at KAIT-TV in Jonesboro.

He later went to work for John Philpot at the Arkansas Radio Network and succeeded John as Ag Director there in 1985. He also covered Mid-South agriculture for the Yancy Ag Network. In 2008, Stewart went to work for Agri-Pulse, a Washington, D.C.-based news outlet, where his focus was on national agriculture policy.

“He loved everything about agriculture and had a particular talent for deciphering ag policy,” Philpot said. “His contribution to understanding among our agriculture community can never be measured, can never be valued.”

Stewart was respected nationally, having served as president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting in 1998 and selected in 2006 as the national Farm Broadcaster of the Year.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack praised his work, saying, “Stewart was a voice people depended on and people listened to. And he used his voice to advocate on behalf of America’s farmers, ranchers and producers.”

Rep. Frank Lucas, our neighbor from Oklahoma and chairman of the House Ag Committee, also offered his praise and condolences.

“Beyond being a talented journalist and broadcaster, Stewart was just a quality person,” Chairman Lucas said. “His passing is a tremendous loss to all of us who appreciated and respected his fair storytelling and analysis. His brand of reporting on farm policy and his role in our community will be missed.”

Stewart spoke at our state convention last November, discussing the current political climate and its impact on agriculture policy. He followed that with a presentation at the American Farm Bureau convention in Hawaii in January, discussing presidential candidates and their positions on a wide variety of agricultural issues. I always learned something when I was around Stewart.

And as much as he knew, he was never one to suggest what Farm Bureau policy should be.

He understood the process through which Farm Bureau policy was defined, and he respected that process. I believe that’s because of his deep respect for farmers and ranchers. He was one of us, in fact, still maintaining control of his family’s farming interests in his home state of Kentucky.

Those who had the opportunity to deal with Stewart returned that respect, and it showed in the quality of work he produced. While his voice is silenced, his legacy lives on.

My prayers to his wife, Leslie, and their daughters, Lauren and Sara. A fund is now established to help pay for the girls’ college education. To help, send contributions to: Stewart Doan’s Children’s College Fund, c/o Peoples Bank, 20409 Arch Street, Little Rock, AR 72206 Rest in peace, Stewart Doan, and thank you for the things you taught me. Arkansas agriculture has lost a true friend.

Edition 25

Arkansas Agriculture

3

THE Taking a new approach to timber in Arkansas

by Gregg Patterson photos by Keith Sutton

Ax man Arkansas Farm Bureau Forestry Division Chairman Grant Pace is helping develop new national and international export markets for Arkansasgrown timber.

4

Arkansas Agriculture

drained and converted to farmland; its

industry when the converting of raw

in Arkansas. How big? Number 5 in the

rich soils needed to fulfill the nation’s

cotton into clothing and household

nation, that’s how big. Arkansas’ timber

insatiable demand for cotton and then

items disappeared to cheaper labor in

industry generates more than $2 billion

other row crops. As professional forest

foreign countries, so too is the timber

in annual forest products sales, as well

management began to take hold in

industry going through a sea change of

as providing the largest percentage

the early 20 Century, the realization

its own – overseas that is.

of agriculture-related jobs that keep

of a renewable and sustainable forest

Arkansans working. Arkansas doesn’t

took hold in many areas of the rest

Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Forestry

have to watch a TV show to know how

of the state where it made more sense

Division. He says no new mills have

things are done in the timber cutting

to cut and replant forests rather than

been built in Arkansas in more than 30

business. It’s happening in real life every

trying to replace them with row crops.

years. Instead, King says the newer mills

day in our forests.

Everything from small, local lumber

are being built overseas, particularly in

mills to modern, large-scale paper and

Brazil where environmental regulations

Almost 53 percent of the state

container mills took in all trees from

are less stringent and labor is cheaper

is classified as “accessible” and

grandpa’s back 40, as well as the bounty

than it is here. So the belief that a log

“productive” forestland. The state is also

from professionally managed multi-

cut down on grandpa’s back 40 will

blessed with a variety of tree species in

section tracts of industrial forestland.

become a finished product here in

both the hardwood (oaks, hickories) and

That process continued with most of the

Arkansas is changing.

softwood (pines) classifications.

timber taken here feeding the in-state

The timber industry is big business

Arkansas is blessed with forests.

Arkansas’ timber industry has a long history, the beginning of which dates

th

mills.

However, change has swept across

Matt King is the coordinator of

Not only that, King believes the idea that that log should remain in Arkansas needs to change too. There’s a whole

back to settlement. The vast bottomland

Arkansas’ timber industry the last 20

world out there with specific needs and

hardwood forest of the eastern half of

years – and particularly in the last 10.

specialty markets outside of Arkansas

the state was systematically clearcut,

Much like happened to the U.S. textile

that forest landowners need to identify

Arkansas Agriculture

5

Tax cut To keep Arkansas as a national Top 5 timber state, it’s important to eliminate the sales tax on forest products equipment like this buncher.

6

Arkansas Agriculture

to get top dollar for their logs.

an overseas market. “Europeans have

production in Arkansas following in the

regulated themselves into the use of

footsteps of what farmers and ranchers

population lives outside of the U.S.,”

wood chips or compressed wood pellets

here are already doing in providing

King said. “A growing consumer class

as a heat source,” he said. He says it’s

food to the world. “Arkansas, along

of people in other countries wants U.S.-

also a popular choice in the Northeast

with other states, already helps feed the

grown wood. It’s a status symbol for

states.

world,” he said. “One day, we’ll also

“Some 96 percent of the world’s

them.”

Identifying these markets and

help with raw products such as wood

establishing ways for Arkansas forest

pellets for heat, pulp for paper, logs for

Consumers outside of the U.S. want

landowners to take advantage of

furniture and just about any other need

flooring for their homes made from U.S.-

them is critical to keeping the timber

a country has.”

grown hardwood. “Asia is demanding

industry strong here. With that in

flooring and hardwood lumber.”

mind, King says Arkansas Farm Bureau

as a Top 5 timber producer nationally

is teaming up with surrounding states

with a worldwide export approach and

reverse is true too. U.S. homeowners

to host the “Forest Product Export

if it continues favorable state policies

want flooring made from Brazilian-

Conference” Oct. 30-31 in Vicksburg,

that encourage continued harvest of

grown wood or Asian bamboo. The point

Miss. The conference will help provide

timber resources. He says what’s needed

is there’s a global market out there now.

information to mills, loggers and others

now is tax savings legislation that’s

on how they can take advantage of the

competitive with what surrounding

export market.

states offer.

He mentions flooring as an example.

Ironically, King points out, the

Grant Pace agrees. He is chairman of Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Forestry Division and runs his own forestry consulting business.

“Mills, loggers and forest landowners

King says Arkansas can sustain itself

“The timber industry is strong

are going to have to continue to look

in Arkansas, but we’re missing key

for new markets and tailor production

legislation to maintain the industry in

the product out to the changing

practices to meet what the market

the future,” he said. “Surrounding states

markets around the world,” Pace said.

demands,” King said.

offer sales tax exemptions on forest

“What’s important today is getting

“Improvements to rail, highways and

Pace sees the future of timber

product equipment. However, Arkansas

river ports have made it easier to haul products to different mills across the U.S. and even to other countries.” He says these improvements have opened up different markets for timber products.

King says Pace has identified and developed one of those markets. He ships veneer-grade southern red oak logs to a Michigan facility that produces the veneer then ships it to Italy to be used in furniture making. The furniture then comes back to the U.S. for sale. That quality red oak log fetches a much better price to the forest landowner when it’s used to its fullest end-product use as

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veneer then if it were simply cut down and sent to a local mill that doesn’t produce veneer.

According to King, more and more furniture-grade hardwoods grown in the U.S. are being shipped overseas to be made into furniture; then it’s shipped back to the U.S. for sale.

King says the wood biomass market in Europe – wood chips and pellets – as fuel for heating is another example of

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-

-

only exempts the first $50,000. That

also work to maintain voluntary best

often is only the equivalent of 10

management practices in Arkansas and

percent of machinery costs.”

help protect private landowner rights.

Pace says it’s a big, wide world out

Pace agrees.

“Starting a logging operation today

Keep on truckin’ A load of logs doesn’t necessarily go to the local mill anymore. Raw logs are often trucked to other states or shipped overseas for processing and return to the U.S. as finished products.

there, and it’s important to get the

costs around $1 million. The high cost

product out to the changing markets

of fuel, insurance and equipment make

in the U.S. and worldwide. “Doing it

it very challenging to survive. Profit

the way daddy or grandpa did it just

margins on logging jobs are small due

doesn’t work anymore,” he said.

And it’s a little more complicated

to these high costs,” he said.

King says Arkansas Farm Bureau will

then what you see on some TV show.

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Arkansas Agriculture

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Arkansas Agriculture

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Arkansas Agriculture

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arm Bureau members now have the opportunity to spotlight their creativity, their perception and their flair for the dramatic — or the comical or even the tragic — in Front Porch’s third Rural Reflections Photo Contest.

This competition offers amateur photographers the chance to explore the many activities, seasons, triumphs, disappointments and faces of agriculture, our state’s key industry. The photos that win this competition will capture the image and spirit of agriculture, and Farm Bureau, in Arkansas.

The contest includes two divisions, High School (ages 14–18) and Adult (19 and older). The winner of each receives $250. In addition, one entry will receive a Grand Prize of $500. The winners and honorable mentions may have their works published, with credit, in Front Porch and Arkansas Agriculture magazines, on Farm Bureau’s website, arfb.com, and in other publications.

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Arkansas Farm Bureau has the final decision on any and all questions or concerns regarding rules, judging, eligibility,

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Arkansas Agriculture

Rules • Any photo taken between Jan. 1, 2012 and Oct. 31, 2012 may be entered.

• Files must be high-resolution jpegs (at least 300 dpi).

• Each entrant may enter only one photo.

• Enter by uploading your photo at: arfb.com/get-involved/contests/ .

• All entries must be submitted by midnight Oct. 31, 2012.

• The Rural Reflections Photo Contest is open to members of Arkansas Farm Bureau and their immediate families. Employees of Farm Bureau, its affiliated companies and service companies are not eligible.

• Winning or honorable-mention photos also may be published on Arkansas Farm Bureau’s website, arfb. com, and in other Farm Bureau publications, as appropriate.

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Bringing back a legend

The quest to restore the Ozark Chinquapin

by Johnny Sain

Ozark Mountains resident describing

tree in the Beech Family not to be

and we waited for them to fall like you

the role the Ozark chinquapin

confused with the chinkapin oak

would wait on a crop of corn to ripen. They

(pronounced CHINK-a-pin) played in

(Quercus muehlenbergii) found in these

were that important. Up on the hilltop

the life of rural people. The chinquapin

same mountains. It was the preferred

the nuts were so plentiful that we scooped

was more than part of the landscape;

food source for wildlife in the

them up with flat-blade shovels and loaded

it was a vital part of the ecosystem and

Ozark and Ouachita mountains,

them into the wagons to use as livestock

the life of early Arkansas settlers

as well as the Arkansas River

I’d never heard of an Ozark

Valley of western Arkansas. It

“Ozark Chinquapin nuts were delicious,

feed, to eat for ourselves and to sell. Deer, bears, turkeys, squirrels and a variety of

chinquapin until just a few years ago.

was also common in the Missouri

other wildlife fattened up on the sweet crop

I doubt many of you reading this have

Ozarks and found in a few other

of nuts that fell every year. But starting in

either. The odds are if you were born

surrounding states. Like most

the 1950s and ‘60s, all of the trees started

after 1950, you never knew the tree

chestnuts, the nutritious mast

dying off. Now, they’re all gone, and no

existed. It’s kind of a sad story.

dropped from the tree in a spine-

one has heard of them.”

This is a quote from a 91-year-old

14

Arkansas Agriculture

The Ozark chinquapin (Castanea ozarkensis) is a variety of chestnut

covered casing. All of the forest herbivores and omnivores would

is probably an understatement. The closest thing to catastrophic tree species loss we’ve almost experienced was the oak borer infestation back in the 1990s. Luckily, our forests and wildlife averted disaster, and the oak trees recovered. That wasn’t the case for the chinquapins.

The chestnut blight was the downfall of the chinquapin. The result of a fungus brought into our country on imported Asian trees around the early 1900s, the blight almost wiped them out. The infected trees were logged – along with some healthy ones – and today, any wild chinquapins are growing out of those stumps. The wild saplings don’t make it; most succumb to the blight in about five years. But there is hope.

Organizations such as the Ozark Chinquapin Foundation (OCF) supply landowners with chinquapin seedlings to plant on their property. The OCF is also working with foresters to produce a blight-resistant chinquapin and one day restore this towering food source to its native Arkansas habitat.

Landowner Kevin Baker of Pottsville.

Stephien Bost

recently joined the OCF. “I joined because from what I’ve read about the tree, it sounds like the perfect food source for wildlife. It grows well in rocky, upland soil which is what makes up most of the 40 acres I own and hunt on in Pope County.”

Baker says he manages his property

ignore white oak acorns to get to them.

it changed them forever. Forestry

As a deer hunter, having watched

experts say that the loss of this vital

for more and healthier wildlife.

whitetails munch on acorns like I do on

food source lowered the population

“The chinquapin is fast growing and

peanut M&Ms, this astounds me.

densities of many animals native to

produces mast in just a couple of years.

the mountain ranges and river valley.

If the foundation succeeds with their

readily grew on the rocky, acidic soils

However, the local animals weren’t

goal of producing a blight-resistant

found in the mountains of Arkansas.

the only ones that suffered when the

strain of the chinquapin, it will do

They were towering trees, sometimes

chinquapin began to die.

wonders for our native wildlife.”

The trees were drought tolerant and

more than 60 feet tall and 3 feet in

Early settlers in this region, the

If interested in finding out more

diameter. The chinquapin bloomed

Ozark Highlands in particular, used

about the campaign to save the

in late May and early June, after the

the mast for livestock feed and for

Ozark chinquapin or for information

spring frosts, and provided a mast crop

food themselves. The nuts taste sweet,

about planting chinquapins on your

without fail every autumn.

not bitter like tannin-filled acorns. To

land, contact the Ozark Chinquapin

Losing the chinquapin changed the complexion of our forests, and

say that chinquapins were important

Foundation at ozarkchinquapin.com. Œ„´*

to a homesteader back in the 1800s

Arkansas Agriculture

15

Enter the YF&R Achievement Award Contest Winner will drive home a brand new Chevrolet 1500 4x4 Quad Cab

A

rkansas Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award Contest is for outstanding producers, 18-35 years old, who are Farm Bureau members in good standing. Contestants are judged on the strength of their farming operation, as well as their involvement in Farm Bureau and the community.

The winner will be named at ARFB’s 78th Annual Convention, which takes place Nov. 28–30 in Hot Springs.

In addition to a pickup truck, the winner will 2011 Winners (at left): The Allens of Bismarck receive an expense-paid trip to the American Farm Bureau Convention in Nashville, where they will compete nationally.

Entry deadline is July 16. Applications are available at http:// www.arfb.com/get-involved/young_fr/achievement/default.aspx.

For additional details, call 501-228-1247.

16

Arkansas Agriculture

Truck provided by Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co.

There are more than 6 million Farm Bureau member-families in the United States, with more than 210,000

Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Mission • advocate the interests of agriculture in the public arena;

member-families in Arkansas.

www.arfb.com www.facebook.com/ArkansasFarmBureau twitter.com/ARFB www.youtube.com/arkansasfarmbureau

• disseminate information concerning the value and importance of agriculture; and • provide products and services which improve the quality of life for our members.

17

Faces of Agriculture compiled by Tara Johnson

P. Allen Smith How are you involved in agriculture?

I’m proud to be part of Arkansas’ farming heritage. I love the land, my farm and sharing it in many different ways with Arkansans and the world.

Agriculture at its best is derived from a diverse gene pool of both plant and animal genetics. Every year we trial hundreds of varieties of fruits and vegetables on my farm.

Additionally, as a child I was competitively involved with 4-H, a great organization, and the FFA. Those experiences sparked one of my farming loves, my love of Heritage Poultry.

Knowing that many of the old breeds were in decline, I founded the Heritage Poultry Conservancy (

) in 2009 P. Allen Smith Hortus Ltd.

to raise awareness of the need for genetic diversity in all heritage poultry (i.e., chickens, ducks and turkeys).

Did you know that the Alyesbury Duck has amazingly tasty meat, and its fat is highly sought after by chefs for cooking?

The fat is often called “duck butter” and renders down into the most delicious cooking liquid, adding a subtle richness and depth of flavor to whatever you are preparing.

Ag lifer P. Allen Smith is a lifetime lover of all things ag. From an FFA and 4-H youth spent showing swine, cattle and poultry at county and state fairs to his present prominence as TV host of three nationally popular shows promoting his garden-home lifestyle, he is immersed in sharing his love of the land and his farm with the public.

So I’m happy to report that the current cooking show craze has directed some limelight on farmers, and the importance

I happen to love to eat, and therefore,

of recognizing the need for getting back

I love good food. I personally enjoy the

the great tastes in the foods we eat. The

delicate differences in taste between

best way to do this is to keep more genetic

lettuces, for instance. I grow 12 different

diversity in our food chain. I think it’s safe

varieties. “Butterhead” is different in taste

to say this trend has gained more traction

and texture than “Butter Crunch,” which

over the last 10 years, having now become

is totally different from a romaine. I do the

a mainstream topic of discussion.

same thing with tomatoes and English peas.

18

Arkansas Agriculture

So you see farming is a huge part of my everyday adult life.

In your own words, what is agriculture?

I suppose agriculture could be summed up as the production of food, whatever

forms it takes. It is a complex marriage

You are one of America’s

vegetables. I still get excited seeing those

between science and art. Agriculture

most recognizable gardening

first squash seeds germinate in the spring

therefore is the science and art of

experts and designers. How has

to this day!

producing crops, livestock and poultry.

agriculture influenced your life

Farming is also an occupation as

So much of agriculture can’t be learned

and career choices?

in a book. It requires a hands-on approach and regular work in the field to become a

well as a desirable quality of life. It cultivates family ties, forms strong bonds

successful farmer. Just like with the best

My family has been involved in

with the community and society, has an

American agriculture since the 1690s. I

gardeners, often the best farmers are those

ethical or moral purpose for the farmers’

personally have fond memories of farm life

who have farmed the longest. I hope to

lives and, as for the farm itself, farmers

as a child, and I perpetuate those memories

continue gardening and farming for a long

provide stewardship of their lands and

on my own farm today. My first memories

time. Every year I feel I get a little better

communities.

of gardening were centered on growing

at it.

Œ*

Why do you think agriculture is important?

Agriculture is the foundation and cornerstone of civilization. Without a reliable, dependable and safe food system, there could never have been the opportunity for any other professions or pursuits to evolve or to even flourish. It seems we have, as a society, forgotten this. Consecutive generations of my family

August 21–22 • North Little Rock • The Wyndham Riverfront Hotel Contact Debbie Moreland at 501-682-2915 for details.

have farmed this country since before its founding. They were strong-willed (a nice way of saying stubborn), independent and resourceful people. As they carved forests into fields and fields into crops, these pioneers were at the same time establishing communities as they created their farms.

The importance of community is something that has stayed with me over the years, and when I was in the early stages of planning Moss Mountain Farm, I knew that establishing a sense of community was of an essential component.

i Ronnie Yearg

“My beef checkoff can help raise consumer confidence in beef.”

n

“Simply put, our beef checkoff promotes safe, nutritious beef. All beef producers invest in the checkoff — so folks like you and me decide how to allocate these dollars,” says Ronnie Yeargin.

The checkoff is working to build demand for beef by educating consumers about beef’s role in healthful diets.

My beef checkoff…reaching consumers with the benefits of beef.

You see, it is my belief that we must

Ronnie Yeargin Yeargin Farms Greenfield, Tenn.

reconnect to and stay connected to our agrarian past.

What is the one thing you want everyone to know about agriculture and farming?

We all need to support farmers and farming. Knowing where my food comes from and how it was raised or produced, helps me make informed decisions on what I eat, and therefore impacts my health and well-being. The same can apply to everyone.

Hear more from Ronnie at

MyBeefCheckoff.com Funded by the Beef Checkoff.

Arkansas Agriculture

19

hunter: another word for conservationist

Hunters do more to conserve habitat than any other group. And they have achieved great things for wildlife and wild places by supporting conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited. With their support, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 12 million acres of habitat across the continent.

Come share our vision of skies filled with waterfowl today, tomorrow, and forever.

To find out more go to www.ducks.org

Farm Drainage, Irrigation & Culvert Pipe • Heavy - Wall Stell, 4” thru 96”, up to 50’ Lengths • Used High-Pressure Line Pipe and Gas Line Pipe • New Structural Steel Piple, 2” thru 20” • Large Diameter Pipe - 60”, 78”, 96” Will Deliver for Small Cost.

ADS plastic pipe dealer and Corrugrated pipe dealer.

1-800-553-1373

NORTHSIDE STEEL Highway 63 Bypass Jonesboro, AR

20

Arkansas Agriculture

SponSored by Kubota

2012 YF&R State Discussion Meet Competition Winner gets a Kubota tractor for one year

A

rkansas Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Discussion Meet is a discussion contest related to issues that affect U.S. agriculture.

The contest will be Nov. 28 in Hot Springs. Call toll free 888-9095949, ext. 1247 or 1306 for further details. Deadline for entry is Nov. 20. The state Discussion Meet winner will win the use of any Kubota tractor for one year.

Kubota continues to introduce new models of rugged, dependable, userfriendly tractors in their 43–118 pto horse power M series tractors. The new Grand X Cab boasts one of the largest cabs in its class. Kubota has increased both interior height and width to provide a more spacious feel. Wide opening doors provide easier access while the unobstructed ceiling and fully flat floor guarantee more head and legroom for a higher level of comfort even during long hours 2011 Winner: Kevin Smith (left) of Benton County behind the wheel. Go to www.kubota. com to learn more about the products, services and finance packages offered by Kubota. Discussion Meet questions are available at www.arfb.com/get-involved/young_fr/discussion/default.aspx.

The YF&R State Discussion Meet winner also receives their choice of a Kawasaki Mule or a Honda 500 4x4 ATV. This prize is sponsored by Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.

division.uaex.edu

Ag Solutions

Rising production costs, herbicide resistance, drought, disease, pests, stormwater runoff, biofuel opportunities, safe food, marketing strategies, emerging technology and research ... whatever the issue, the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture offers real solutions.

Supporting Arkansas Agriculture for more than 100 years

Arkansas Agriculture

21

PolicyUpdate

By Michelle Kitchens, Arkansas Farm Bureau

Are we there yet? It’s a common question for summer vacation travelers, but it easily could be asked about a number of farm-related issues. Arkansas Farm Bureau wants to keep you updated on the issues pending on a state and national level, particularly those we’ve discussed in this space. Here are some quick updates.

2012 farm bill House Committee Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) and Rep. Rick Crawford (R-AR) hosted a farm bill field hearing

review of the state tax code,

and define needs use into the future.

in Arkansas in early spring. Arkansas

beginning with the state’s sales tax

ANRC plans to use resources from UALR

Farm Bureau President Randy Veach

exemptions. Department of Finance and

Bowen Law School and the Clinton

offered testimony in support of a

Administration staff offered testimony

School of Public Service to support the

safety net that includes price and yield

and provided explanations of the code,

effort. ARNC will update arkansaswater.

risk protection. Veach stressed to the

enforcement of the exemptions and

org for information dissemination about

committee that the next farm bill needs

revenue loss projections. Several entities,

the water plan going forward.

to serve all regions and crops, saying

including Arkansas Farm Bureau,

“a one-size-fits-all program will not

submitted comments to the committees

work effectively for all regions.” Most

about the importance of exemptions. A

farm groups have urged the committees

date was not set for a follow-up meeting.

September, there’s a lot of work left to

The state primary election was May 22. Now come the long campaign runs up to the November elections.

to put forth a new farm bill this year.

With the 2008 farm bill expiring in

Elections

Arkansas State Water Plan revision

Farm Bureau members are strongly

Public meetings for the State Water

encouraged to evaluate candidates

do to get another bill in place before

Plan rewrite should begin this summer.

with an eye toward their views on

then. Both the House and Senate

The Arkansas Natural Resources

agriculture. Farm Bureau has video

Agriculture committees finished their

Commission (ANRC) has selected CDM

interviews and questionnaires

field hearings process. It’s possible that

Smith/FTN as the engineering firm that

from candidates for the 1st and 2nd

the Senate and House will have bills

will provide support services for the

Congressional Districts posted at arfb.

ready for consideration in June.

project. The United States Geological

com. Check out those resources for more

Survey will compile all available

information on candidates’ positions

State sales and use tax exemptions

groundwater information and synthesize

on agriculture issues. How farmers cast

review

existing data and reports to publish a

their ballots can make a big difference

report on the quantity, quality, and

in the outcome of many agriculture

Revenue and Taxation committees met

sustainability of groundwater in the

policies, so vet your candidates

April 19 to begin their comprehensive

state’s major aquifers to assess problems

thoroughly.

The Arkansas House and Senate

22

Arkansas Agriculture

Œ„´*

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To plan your getaway, visit OzarkFolkCenter.com for a listing of workshops, events and concerts. Come learn a craft, listen to music and enjoy the gardens. Come play with us!

SEASON EVENTS 15-16: Irish Music & Dance with St. Louis Irish Arts

17-21: Women of the Ozarks 21: The Women of Mountain Music 23-27: Day Camp 26-28: Mountain Dulcimer Workshops

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2-4: Hammered Dulcimer Workshops 4: Exotic Influences on Ozark Cooking 9-11: Old Time String Band 17-19: Mountains, Music & Motorcycles 25: Carter Family Tribute 31: Tribute to Grandpa Jones

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Information: 870-269-3851 • Cabin Reser vations: 800-264-3655 • OzarkFolkCenter.com

Glover Truck & Trailer Sales 8608 Hwy. 70, No. Little Rock, AR 72117

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2005 Freightliner Columbia, 14L DET., 515HP, 579K, 1 Owner, Lease Maint., 10 Spd, Jake, Air Ride, Very Nice, Southern Clean, . . . . . $36,750

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2005 VOLVO VNL Volvo V12, 435 HP, 1 owner, Lease Maint ., 800K, Jake, 10 Spd, Air Ride, 3 .58 Ratio, 190” WB . . . $23,750

2005 TRAILSTAR Full Frame End Dump Aluminum, 28’ x 102”, Heavy Duty Spring, Good Condition, Southern, . . . . . . $26,900

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Arkansas Agriculture

23

AgProfile Arkansas Forestry Commission Arkansas Forestry Commission

Growing and protecting Arkansas’ forest land

by Gregg Patterson

The Arkansas Forestry

Friend or foe? Fighting destructive forest fires and using fire as a forest management tool are both part of the Arkansas Forestry Commission’s job description.

Forest fires destroy millions of dollars worth of timber each year.

However, the wise use of fire as a management tool, like in this photo, to prepare a site for regeneration of trees is also useful.

Commission is a state agency dedicated to working with agencies, communities, organizations and residents to prevent and suppress wildfires; control forest insects and disease; grow and distribute trees for planting; and gather and disseminate information concerning the growth, use and renewal of forests. It got its start in 1931 and is

than 1,150 landowners since 1991,

now part of the Arkansas

helping them earn Forest Stewardship

Agriculture Department.

recognition. This service is free.

Other services like prescribed burns,

The Arkansas Forestry Commission (AFC) State Forester is the

federal grants and provides interest-

timber marking and construction

agency’s top position. Joseph Fox was

free loans for purchasing equipment to

of fire breaks are fee-based. Natural

recently hired as its eighth-ever State

these rural fire departments.

resources professionals from other

Forester.

Rangers also partner with AFC

state and federal agencies also can

county foresters to work with private

provide help. A registered professional

activity for AFC. Since 1935, its

landowners to help them manage

forester should be part of all forest

crews have suppressed more than

forested property. Following a forest

management plan development.

225,000 wildfires. Fire safety is a

management plan improves the health

critical education component, and

and vigor of trees. Forest management

its nursery tree program. Landowners

AFC forest rangers conduct programs

plans identify landowner goals and

can order low-cost tree seedlings from

with school children, teaching them

objectives, as well as specific forest

AFC’s Baucum Nursery in North Little

how to prevent wildfires. The agency

practices to reach them. Landowners

Rock. AFC has distributed more than

also assists some 1,000 rural volunteer

can make money through timber sales

1.23 billion trees since 1935. Go to

fire departments, helping them with

and/or provide improved wildlife

forestry.arkansas.gov and click on “AFC

organization, training and equipment.

habitat, as well as other benefits.

Seedlings” for ordering information

As part of this service, AFC administers

AFC foresters have worked with more

and deadlines.

Wildfire suppression is a major

24

Arkansas Agriculture

Another important AFC service is

Œ*

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oviding critically ill and grieving children, teens, and their families our Kaleidoscope of Caring Services:

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leidoscope Grief Center is a nonprofit organization ering fun and rewarding volunteer and sponsorship opportunities:

Hands-On Program Assistance Fundraising Office/Clerical Kaleidoscope Resale Boutique Assistance Marketing / PR

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Share Your Thoughts • www.facebook.com/ArkansasFarmBureau • www.youtube.com/arkansasfarmbureau • twitter.com/ARFB • www.arfb.com (now ‘Share This’ enabled)

501-978-5437 • 877-357-5437 www.kaleidoscopekids.org

Arkansas Agriculture

25

Spotlight OnYouth Warriors fight hunger

Keith Sutton

Cotter FFA plants hope against hunger

by Mollie Dykes

World hunger is an ever-growing issue, but the Cotter High School FFA is doing its part to help. In April, members of the Cotter community gathered to receive

“Warriors fight hunger” Cotter FFA Chapter front row (l to r): advisor Brandy Hughes, Jordan Wallis, Kaylee Denmark, Cody Rowe, Christa Burns, Justin Harris and student teacher Carley Calico. Back row (l to r): Scott Benke, Dylan Harig, Austin Hamilton, Clayton Franks, and Coulter Keisler.

free EarthBoxes complete with plants of their choosing that will produce fruits or

vegetable four-packs. Valley Springs FFA

families are taking full advantage of their

vegetables for them to eat.

also provided vegetables.

fruits and vegetables, students in the FFA

EarthBoxes allow families with limited

chapter will post recipes on the school

Upon arriving at the event, families

yard space to grow vegetables, fruits and

completed a short survey about their

website. There are also links available for

herbs. These boxes take away the hassle of

eating habits and provided contact

families who might have questions about

digging and weeding a garden and require

information. When the EarthBox plants

their EarthBox, along with links for the

less water and fertilizer.

begin producing, the families will fill out

follow-up surveys.

The Cotter FFA Chapter was one of

Families can keep the EarthBox and

the survey a second time. To ensure the

140 chapters across the nation to receive

reuse it every year. This is exactly what the

a $2,500 grant to fund the EarthBoxes.

students want them to do.

“Hopefully, they can improve their

Carley Calico was a student teacher this year at Cotter High School under

eating habits, gain the experience of

agriculture instructor Brandy Hughes. She

growing their own vegetables and, in some

heard about the National FFA’s “Food for

cases, provide food to families with little

All” grant and applied.

resources,” Hughes said.

Not only did the “Warriors Fight

“The students were excited and ready to help out their community and provide

Hunger” project benefit the 60 families

healthy eating options for families,” Calico

who participated, but it also benefited the

said.

students. They experienced themselves making a difference in their small

The $2,500 allowed the chapter to

community.

purchase 60 EarthBoxes at a discounted

“This has been a great experience for

price along with educational materials and planting guides. Several other businesses

our FFA chapter,” Hughes said. “We have

along with the Valley Springs FFA Chapter

66 members, and the ones who stepped up

offered help to make sure the event was

to help with this project gained a valuable

successful.

lesson on helping out the community. This is an experience they will never forget, and

nursery tape, vegetable stakes and several

26

Arkansas Agriculture

Keith Sutton

Hughes says Lowes in Mountain Home offered a discount on potting soil, fertilizer,

Cotter FFA member Kaylee Denmark puts plants in an EarthBox.

I know they will continue to seek out other opportunities to help those in need.”

Œ*

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Step 1: Members simply go to sears.com and find the product(s) they are interested in and write down the product/model number(s).

Hearing Healthcare Benefits Plan

MBERS avings

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mbers are guaranteed Free automatic approval -FREE Hearing tests and discounted k of Professional Audiologists & Specialists hearing instruments for members & Discounts on Hearing Instruments d Custom Fit / 60 Day Trial 20-25% ACTUAL SAVINGS ply of Batteries (1 case per instrument)

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Have your Farm Bureau Membership number and discount code CUO88430 in your email, or ready if calling.

All manufacturer warranties apply with the option to purchase extended Sears Protection Agreements. Installation is not included with delivery.

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for special requests and details contact John Speck 847-622-4892 jspeck@promac.com

40% OFF CARPET

866-758-0801 Ext. 203 North Little Rock, AR 72113 Contact: Bill Ross

99 Instant Credit

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Step 2: Members email the product number(s) to Farm Bureau’s designated contact at Sears Appliance Select : ron.rowe@searshc.com for a quote. To receive this pricing a member must include their Farm Bureau membership number and Farm Bureau discount code CU098430 in the email.

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Visit our website to learn more about savings www.arfb.com

Arkansas Agriculture

27

RuralReflections

Farm Bureau member Nancy Abernathy took this photo of twin-row beans in a ďŹ eld located between Arkansas City and Rohwer in Desha County.

28

Arkansas Agriculture

the rural

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PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LITTLE ROCK, AR PERMIT NO. 1884

CUT YOUR LOAN RATE Keep your property trim with a competitive Farm Bureau Bank equipment loan. We offer simple financing to help you purchase new or used ag equipment or can help you with lower refinancing rates for existing loans.

Ask your Agent how ArkAnsAs FArm BureAu memBers sAve with A FArm BureAu BAnk loAn todAy! Existing Farm Bureau Bank equipment loans are excluded from this offer. Normal credit criteria does apply. * Rate disclosed as Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and based on exceptional credit. Some restrictions may apply based upon the make and model of equipment offered as collateral. Up to 90% financing for new and 85% for used equipment. Loans subject to credit approval. Rates are accurate as of 04/13/2012. Rates and financing are limited to farm equipment model years 2002 or newer and are subject to change without notice. A down payment may be required for new or used equipment purchases. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. Financial information required for loan requests over $50,000. Commercial vehicles and trailers may be subject to an additional documentation fee. Farm Bureau Bank does not provide equity or cash-out financing on commercial vehicles and equipment. Banking services provided by Farm Bureau Bank, FSB.