arfb.com
Spring 2013
Ag giants join HallofFame Q & Ag with
U.S. Sen. Pryor
County president leads Quitman H.S. FFA
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Arkansas Agriculture
3
Spring 2013
Inside...
VOLUME 10 Issue 2
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Q&Ag with U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor by Gregg Patterson Six who made a difference by Ken Moore
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Farm Bureau Perspective by Stan Taylor Faces of Agriculture — Jennifer James by Tara Johnson Policy Update by Michelle Kitchens Spotlight on Youth — Leading future history by Gregg Patterson Rural Reflections Photo On the cover — Toiling day to day on farms, in fields, in research laboratories and managing ag businesses most often goes unnoticed by the masses. However, the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame annually takes time to recognize the career sweat equity of leaders in the field.
4 10
Executive Editor: Steve Eddington Editor: Gregg Patterson Contributing Writers: Ken Moore, Keith Sutton, Chris Wilson Research Assistant: Brenda Gregory
3 18 22 26 28
Farm Bureau
Arkansas Agriculture
Perspective
is an official publication of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation. Arkansas Agriculture is distributed to almost 42,000 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 Sherry Felts, Joiner Brent Lassiter, Newport Janice Marsh, McCrory 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.
by Stan Taylor, president Newton County Farm Bureau I’m a former hog farmer in Buffalo River country. Recently, I’ve read a lot of misinformation and some ugly things being said about C&H Farms, a family farm that is expanding its hog operation near Mt. Judea in Newton County. To say the rhetoric on this subject has been emotionally charged would be an understatement. Unfortunately, much of the conversation about the state’s approval process of this new facility has been inaccurate. I’m proud to say Newton County Farm Bureau supports C&H Farms and has adopted a board resolution saying so. It’s proud to stand with C&H Farms, because we know them — brothers Richard and Phillip Campbell and their cousin Jason Henson. Their families have lived in Newton County for eight generations. And they’ve raised hogs in this area for more than a dozen years without incident. They have a deep and abiding love for this beautiful land and its streams. Many don’t realize the extensive safeguards in place to avoid environmental mishaps on the farm. Their hog facility was designed by a licensed engineering firm and includes the latest technologies and efficiencies. In fact, because of their interest in protecting the Buffalo River watershed, the farm exceeds many of the standards set by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). At an April open house on the farm, Jason told a visitor, “My cousins and I are environmentalists at heart. We’ve grown up in the streams — the Buffalo River, Big Creek. That’s our heritage. Big Creek is where I learned to swim. To say we would do anything to contaminate it is ludicrous. Even if there were no laws or regulations whatsoever, we still wouldn’t want to pollute the Buffalo River or Big Creek, because this is where we live.” That kind of caring sentiment is true with any farmer. The land and water where we live is vital to agriculture and vital to where we live. It’s our heritage. I’m concerned about the future of our county and rural communities, particularly if farming is restricted because of unsubstantiated fears. I’m equally concerned about the future of the Buffalo
Publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
River watershed, but not because of family farms in the area. More than half the land
The Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising requests.
because my hog farm was part of an EPA award for environmental stewardship. We all
Send comments to: arkansasagriculture@arfb.com
in the watershed is privately owned. No doubt, the majority of these land owners are farmers, who have done a great job protecting the streams here. I know that’s true, care about the river. The truth is agriculture existed along the Buffalo River long before it received national river status. There are hog farms, dairies, poultry houses and cow-calf farms scattered across the Buffalo River watershed. The environmental stewardship administered every day by these farmers should be a source of pride for all of those who love the Buffalo River – like we do – and not attacked. That’s why Newton County Farm Bureau stands beside Richard and Phillip Campbell
pcipublishing.com Created by Publishing Concepts, Inc. David Brown, President • dbrown@pcipublishing.com For Advertising info contact Tom Kennedy • 1-800-561-4686 tkennedy@pcipublishing.com Edition 29
and Jason Henson, farm families with a deep love for this land and this river. The families of C&H Farms are top shelf. They’re doing things the right way and are responsible stewards of the land.
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Arkansas Agriculture
3
Q&Ag with U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor Talking everything ag with the chairman of the Senate Ag Appropriations Subcommittee
Keith Sutton
by Gregg Patterson
4
Arkansas Agriculture
I
In January, U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor of
cuts and sequestration, our food inspection
Arkansas landed the position of chairman
facilities were faced with furloughing meat
of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations
inspectors, which would shut down the plants,
Subcommittee. Arkansas Agriculture
hurt our local economy and raise prices
wanted to know what that could mean
for consumers everywhere. I introduced an
for Arkansas farmers and ranchers, as well
amendment that restored funding for the Food
as what Senator Pryor thought about a
Safety and Inspection Service and protected over
potpourri of agriculture issues.
40,000 private-sector jobs in Arkansas alone.”
What role does Ag Appropriations play in farm policy? “The Agriculture Committee is responsible for developing agricultural policies. But the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee
Arkansas has two major irrigation projects. What role does the Ag Appropriations Subcommittee play in finding funding for these projects? “During my time in the Senate, I’ve been a
determines how the funding for these policies is
strong advocate for Grand Prairie and Bayou
allocated. This includes funding for the Farm
Meto (irrigation projects). In FY13 alone, I
Service Agency and Food Safety Inspection
provided these projects with $40 million of loan
Service; research dollars to help growers
authority through Rural Development. As these
develop best practices for farming, production,
projects look for funding in the future, I hope to
and conservation; and Rural Development
use my chairmanship on the Ag Appropriations
funding to support job growth and economic
Subcommittee to help them.”
development.” With the deficit issues and all the How can you use the position
Key player Arkansas’ senior U.S. senator, Mark Pryor, sits as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee. The subcommittee prioritizes funding of the Farm Services Agency, food safety inspections, rural development, agriculture research, production and conservation among other items.
discussion of cutting government
as chairman to leverage support of
spending, what role does the Ag
southern ag and policies, which will
Appropriations Subcommittee play
provide needed protection within
in reducing the federal budget?
the farm bill? “As Chairman of the Agriculture
“Like any Senate committee, Agriculture Appropriations will be looking for opportunities
Appropriations Subcommittee, I’ll help prioritize
to responsibly reduce and streamline our
funding for federal programs that benefit our
spending. As chairman, I’ll be looking closely
farmers, producers and rural communities. I’ll
at budget requests and enacted bills to ensure
also ensure taxpayers get the most bang for their
that we eliminate programs that aren’t working
buck by investing in programs that stimulate
and invest in programs that are. My priority
and grow southern agriculture.
is making the U.S. Department of Agriculture
“Here’s just one recent example. With the implementation of across-the-board spending
more cost-efficient while ensuring it works for American farmers and rural communities.”
Arkansas Agriculture
5
James Groves
Where’s the beef? Extended drought the past two years has beef cattle numbers in Arkansas and nationally at their lowest levels since the early 1950s. The development of the new farm bill needs to have livestock assistance programs that help ranchers during times of disasters like last year’s drought.
6
Arkansas Agriculture
NRCS & EQIP Often, EQIP money is taken from the program for other projects. As chairman, what is your position
How Countries Around the World Help Farmers Manage Their Risks
on EQIP? Can you help stop the
U.S. FARMERS receive
reduction of funding to this C
program?
M
“I’ve been a long-time supporter of the
Y
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). In my new role, I’ll be looking deeper
CM
into how this funding is used and why it’s
MY
being spent on things outside the scope of the EQIP program.”
53% 52%
a higher percentage of their gross farm income from the MARKETPLACE, rather than from government supports.
CY
CMY
18%
K
Farm bill
Korea
What is your position on the 2013 farm bill? “Agriculture is Arkansas’s top industry, providing 1 out of 6 jobs in our state alone.
Japan
14%
8%
European Canada U.S. Union
Government Support Estimates as a percentage of gross farm income. AFBF infographic
We need a farm bill that will give agricultural producers the certainty they need to maintain
I want to see a farm bill that works for
and what assistance it would provide. But
and grow this vital industry. Unfortunately,
southern agriculture. We cannot afford to
I’ve always supported giving our farmers
last year’s bill didn’t fairly represent our state’s
take a ‘one-size-fits-all’ budget approach to
and producers disaster funds when they need
agricultural interests. With the help of Senators
our farm programs because, as we all know,
it. These dollars were especially critical after
(Thad) Cochran and (John) Boozman, I’m
this doesn’t work. We need to create safety net
the drought in Arkansas last year.”
confident we can pass a farm bill this year that
options for different types of producers, crops,
benefits southern farmers and ranchers.”
and areas of the country.”
How will Sen. Cochran’s position
What level of budget reductions
Immigration Immigration being so
change, if any, the discussion of the
do you think will occur in farm
polarizing, how does Congress
farm bill as to benefitting southern
policy?
make any meaningful reforms?
farmers?
“Many of these decisions will be made by
“As many Arkansans know, I’ve tried to
the Agriculture Committee as the 2013 farm
work with my colleagues across the aisle for
(R-Miss.) as Ranking Member of the
bill is written, but I think we will see some
the good of Arkansas and our country. This
Agriculture Committee. First, Thad is a
cuts.”
same principle applies when it comes to
“We’re lucky to have Sen. Cochran
veteran on this committee, and he knows the ins and outs of agriculture policy. But even better, he understands southern agriculture. He’s been — and will continue to be — a strong advocate for us.”
immigration reform. If Congress is unwilling Where are these savings going to occur? “As Congress works to pare down its spending, I think we’ll see some changes to
to come together and find common ground, then we won’t be able to reform immigration, farm policies or any other pressing issues.”
mandatory farm programs, as well as the The Senate version of the farm
elimination or streamlining of programs.
bill passed last year when the
We’ll know more about these decisions when
Congressional Budget Office scored
the Agriculture Committee marks up the farm
Title 1 at $3 billion over projection.
bill.”
How do we provide a safety net and still strike a balance with the present budget pressures? “This is a challenge for the Senate Agriculture Committee. As I’ve said before,
What is your position on immigration reform? “The so-called Gang of Eight just released their immigration reform proposal, and I’ve been studying the specifics of their
What is your position on a
plan. My goal is to enforce the laws on the
permanent disaster program?
books, and that includes strengthening our
“I’d first need to see the details of the
borders and implementing an employee
permanent program to see how it’s funded
verification system.”
Arkansas Agriculture
7
ARFB photo
Act now Congress extended the 2008 federal farm bill for another year when it failed to agree on new farm legislation last year. It’s imperative for Congress to develop a new farm bill, now, that provides an adequate safety net that ensures farming and ranching can continue efficiently meeting the food, fiber and fuel demands of a growing population nationally and throughout the world.
farmers. How can we make major
farmers, but what do you think
Will we see any meaningful
improvements in the federal
the chances are of changing the
reforms in the H2A program?
deficit?
regulations for on-farm fuel
What is your position on H2A?
“It’s clear from my conversations with
“We’ve already cut trillions of dollars
storage?
Arkansas agricultural producers that this
from our budget. And yes, some of that has
program needs some improvements. Under
been from agriculture. But discretionary
rules would force thousands of farmers to
the current program, the application
spending is only one piece of the puzzle.
pay for costly infrastructure projects —
process is extremely burdensome and
Congress needs to put everything on the
along with an extensive inspection and
takes an extraordinary amount of time
table.”
certification process — that they simply
“The EPA’s proposed fuel storage
to complete. As the Senate works on
don’t need. That’s why I’ve introduced the
immigration reform, I expect to see
FUELS Act, a bipartisan bill that amends
different proposals aimed at fixing this
Regulations Can you explain what the bill
process.” Agriculture must have a workforce. Many sectors depend
this rule, eases the regulatory compliance for small farms and saves Arkansas
will do that you sponsored with
farmers millions. With the backing of the
Sen.Rob Portman (R-Ohio)?
Senate and House, I’m confident we’ll
“Our regulatory reform bill ensures
be able to make significant changes to
on a migrant workforce. How can
regulations are made better, cheaper
regulations for on-farm storage. This is
we streamline this program?
and faster. Our bill encourages early
common sense.”
“We need to keep safety at the forefront
engagement between agencies and the
of this issue, but we also need to reduce the
private-sector, as well as a cost-benefit
burden on individuals who have worked in
analysis to prevent overly burdensome,
this industry before. My suggestion would
drawn-out regulations from negatively
be to give preference to those who have
impacting our economy. I’m confident our
will do in performing tax reform
worked here before”.
bill will give businesses the certainty they
that would benefit farmers in this
need to invest, expand and create new
Congress?
Federal deficit How do we get our fiscal house in order? Agriculture is willing to do its part, but we can’t balance the budget on the backs of
8
Arkansas Agriculture
jobs.”
Tax reform What do you think Congress
“There’s no question that Congress needs to do tax reform, but the outlook for
SPCC We thank you for your help in reducing the burden on our
this is unclear. Right now, it looks like we may tackle some tax issues, but it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to reach consensus on a comprehensive tax reform package.”
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Arkansas Agriculture
9
Six who made a difference Ag Hall of Fame accepts new members by Ken Moore
that her career was marked by, “innovative
specialist. Her leadership qualities were
educational initiatives and outstanding
so evident Alexander was named home
leadership skills that made a lasting impact
economist and program leader for the
in research laboratories and managing
on the quality of life for Arkansas families
Northwest District. Then, in Oct. 1980, she
ag businesses most often goes unnoticed
and on Arkansas’ agricultural economy.”
charted a future path for women when she
by the masses. However, the Arkansas
Now 94, Alexander remains active serving
was named the state’s first female district
Agriculture Hall of Fame annually takes
as treasurer of the Little Rock Departmental
director. She served the Northwest District
time to recognize the career sweat equity of
Club, a support organization for the
in this capacity for four years until her
leaders in the field.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
retirement in 1984.
T
Toiling day to day on farms, in fields,
Margaret P. Alexander Looking back on her 32-year-career,
College of Nursing, and as an advisory
Among her numerous accomplishments
board member of the Presbyterian Village
are the development of 4-H Youth Day
Retirement Community.
Camps in Ashley County, which reached
In her role as a home demonstration
large numbers of low income and minority
training women and young people to
agent, Alexander taught many
youth during a time when
become leaders and seeing them become
women and young people
these programs were first
successful in their careers was Margaret
to be effective educators and
being integrated. She left
Alexander’s greatest joy and contribution
leaders in their communities.
her leadership development
to agriculture. Alexander spent her career
She began her career in 1942
footprint in Stone and
as a Cooperative Extension Service home
with the White County
Cleburne counties, too,
demonstration agent for the University of
Extension Service and later
developing popular home
Arkansas Division of Agriculture, a home
served in Stone, Cleburne and
economics, camping and
management specialist, district program
Ashley counties. Alexander
recreational skills programs for
leader and Northwest District director.
moved to Little Rock in 1967
women and 4-H youth.
One of the many women Alexander mentored through the years commented
10
Arkansas Agriculture
after being promoted to Extension home management
Margaret P. Alexander
Dr. Lanny Ashlock
“Man of the Year in Arkansas Agriculture” Dr. Lanny Ashlock
award, Pioneer Award, Extension Specialist
the Middle East. In recognition of its success, the company
has been known as
Outstanding Career Award, and American
was awarded the Presidential “E” Award
“Mr. Soybean” in
Soybean Industry Merit Award, United
for excellence in exporting by the U.S.
Arkansas throughout
Soybean Board Award, and the U.S.
Department of Commerce and President
his career as Extension
Department of Agriculture Service Award,
George H. W. Bush in 1989.
soybean specialist
among others.
England has received numerous honors
with the University
for his efforts advancing the poultry industry.
of Arkansas Division
In January, he was inducted into the
of Agriculture. For more than 20 years,
Jack R. England
American Poultry Hall of Fame in Atlanta. Other honors include the Award of Merit
In the 1950s,
soybean growers
the poultry
for Expansion of Export Markets in Arkansas
throughout the state
industry was in
by Governor Bill Clinton and the National
looked to Ashlock because of his wealth of
its infancy in
Broiler Council Market Builder Award for 100
experience and complete knowledge of the
Arkansas. One of
percent support of programs that stimulated
crop.
the true pioneers
greater demand for broilers.
Dr. Lanny Ashlock
His field research led to the
who led its
implementation of many innovations,
development into
including successful use of the early planted
one of the leading
soybean systems and adoption of shorter
poultry-producing
season Group IV and Group V varieties. The
states in the nation
1980s were a difficult decade for soybean
is Jack England. He
growers, and Ashlock is pleased to have
entered the poultry
and winemaking
been a part of the team that led to growers
business in 1955, with four chicken houses
in Arkansas and
adapting to the early maturing varieties.
and a flock of turkeys. England Feed and
across the U.S. The
Because they could be planted and harvested
Equipment Company was established as he
six-generation farm
earlier, these varieties escaped much of
bought his own trucking fleet and built a
family has been
the harmful effects of the drought farmers
feed mill. The business was successful for a
growing grapes
contended with at the time. And, due in
time, but the industry struggled in the late
and making wine
large part to his efforts, statewide yields
1960s. To compensate, England devised a
in Altus since
improved. Today 65 to 70 percent of soybean
model for a business based on the brokerage
Mathew Post’s
acres are early maturing varieties. Ashlock
of hatching eggs. England began shipping
great-grandfather,
says that while he has been instrumental
and brokering fertile eggs, transporting them
Jacob, planted the first vineyard in 1872.
in other areas, that may be his greatest
to broiler growers across the United States.
Mathew and his father, James, purchased the
contribution to the industry. It has been said that Lanny Ashlock
Mathew J. Post The name Post is synonymous
Jack R. England
with grape-growing
Mathew J. Post
His innovation came at a key period
Altus Cooperative Winery in 1947, which
in the developing poultry industry. At the
provided some financial relief for smaller
never refused a request for help and traveled
time, no other poultry professional had built
wineries. Mathew was elected president of
as many miles as necessary to assist bean
a long-term, multi-million-dollar business
the co-op and served as head winemaker at
growers in producing a quality crop.
on the brokerage of hatching eggs, which
Post Winery.
Besides field research and advice, Ashlock
has since created hundreds of jobs for
contributed to many soybean publications,
southeast Arkansas. His model connected
worked closely with the University
including the nationally known Soybean
widely dispersed suppliers with markets in
of Arkansas on numerous grape and
Production Handbook and annual Soybean
different regions of the country having a
wine research projects, providing land,
Variety Update. Though now retired as
shortage of eggs. With this service, England
equipment, labor and grants. He was the
Extension Soybean Specialist, Ashlock spends
was able to curtail the restraining effects of
first to introduce several varieties of grapes
much of his time actively supporting and
shifts in supply and demand and spur the
to Arkansas, including the French-American
helping develop the burgeoning edamame
unparalleled growth of the poultry industry
hybrid Seyval Blanc and the American native
vegetable soybean industry in Arkansas.
at a crucial phase of its evolution. His
hybrid Steuben.
Ashlock has received numerous awards
company expanded this model globally and
During the following 60 years, Post
In the late 1950s, Post worked closely
and recognition for his service to the
became an international exporter of hatching
with Philip Wagner, who is known as
industry, including Progressive Farmer’s
eggs to Mexico, Canada, Europe and even
the “Father of the Hybrid Movement.”
Arkansas Agriculture
11
Through their professional association,
Federation of Wine Societies. The honor
responsibility for all aspects of live
Post introduced the French-American
is bestowed on only a few individuals
poultry production. Tollett held different
and American-native hybrid varieties on
nationally and is reserved for those who
management positions with increasing
a commercial scale to Arkansas. Though
are deemed to have made “monumental”
responsibilities until being promoted to chief
there are many, perhaps Post’s greatest
contributions to the industry.
operating officer in 1981 and president in
contribution to the industry was the
1983. The following year he was elected to
introduction of muscadine grape production
the board of directors. Tollett was named
on a commercial scale in 1970. Post says muscadines are a grape that can be grown
Leland Tollett
chief executive officer in 1991 and chairman of the board in 1995.
When Leland Tollett joined
Under Tollett’s leadership,
profitably in Arkansas. As far as he’s
Tyson Foods, Inc. in 1959,
concerned, muscadines are “the only grape
the company was known as
Tyson Foods successfully built or
you can compete with in America.” Because
Tyson’s Feed and Hatchery,
integrated 23 major production
of its worldwide popularity, Post Winery is
a small northwest Arkansas
facilities between 1981 and ’89.
now exporting and selling muscadine juice
broiler business struggling to
The company’s acquisition in
to customers in China.
grow and process chickens
1989 of Holly Farms with its 16
for local consumption.
processing plants consolidated
working with Third District Congressman
Tollett began his career with
its position as the world’s largest
John Paul Hammerschmidt to establish the
the company as director of
poultry producer. From 1990
Altus Viticultural Area in 1984. With 200
research and nutrition at a
acres of grapes under cultivation, Post has
time when Tyson had net sales
developed the largest vineyard in Arkansas.
of less than $11 million with one processing
another 15 poultry and food companies,
In 2004, he was awarded the prize of
plant.
including majority interest in what is known
Post’s other accomplishments include
Supreme Knight by the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine, part of an international
Leland Tollett
In 1965, he was named general manager of the Broiler Division, assuming
through 1998 Tyson acquired interest in or the entire assets of
as Tyson de Mexico. At the time of Tollett’s retirement in
One thing will always be true about farming:
Conditions change. From weather, to soil, to technology, you have a lot to keep up with. Thankfully, you’ve got real insurance that keeps up with you. If there’s anything you need to know, just call us. You’ll always have questions. Your Farm Bureau agent always has answers.
Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc. Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, Jackson MS
12
Arkansas Agriculture
ArkAnsAs-grown insurAnce for ArkAnsAs growers
1998, net sales for the company had reached
Dale Bumpers College
Wray worked closely with
$7.4 billion. He continued to serve on the
of Agriculture. In 2012,
Leland Tollett during their more
board until 2008. His many honors include
Wray was named by
than 50 years together, along
being named Man of the Year by the Poultry
the Northwest Arkansas
with John and Don Tyson, to
Federation in 1989 and being inducted into
Community College
grow Tyson Foods into the global
the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame in 2011.
as a “Quality of Life”
company it is today. Through his
honoree, which recognizes
and Tollett’s joint leadership, the
John W. and Don Tyson in building a global
individuals for their
company has created thousands
company that now employs more than
leadership in building and
of jobs and become a worldwide
23,000 people in Arkansas with an annual
sustaining an excellent
leader in poultry production and
payroll of nearly $970 million. Tollett’s
quality of life in northwest
legacy at Tyson Foods will last for years as
Arkansas.
Tollett’s vision complimented that of
Donald (Buddy)Wray
processing.
Œ„´*
those he mentored lead the company in its continued global expansion.
Donald (Buddy) Wray Buddy Wray’s career at Tyson Foods, Inc. began in 1961 as a service technician, serving as a liaison between the company and contract family farmers to ensure their flocks were healthy and growing well. He progressed into management at Tyson’s second plant in Rogers and was soon made
Quality. Reliability. Service. All in the family.
manager of the company’s first processing
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Wray was part of a small team of Tyson
the family.
principals who managed acquisition growth from 1963 through the turn of the century. He was instrumental in the company’s product development, sales and marketing that expanded Tyson’s offerings from fresh chicken into prepared foods such as chicken nuggets and patties through the 1970s and ‘80s. He held a variety of management positions through the years and was named chief operating officer in 1992, overseeing all operations including live poultry production, processing and sales. A year later, Wray was promoted to president and retained these positions until he retired in 2000. He was a member of the board of directors from 1994-2003 and came out of retirement in 2009 to serve as executive vice president – special assistant to the president and CEO. Among his many honors, Wray was named
Since 1976
the University of Arkansas’ “Distinguished Alumni of the Year” in 2000. In 2004,
AUTHORIZED DEALER
the University established the Donald “Buddy” Wray Chair in Food Safety in the
Arkansas Arkansas Agriculture Agriculture
13 13
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14
Arkansas Agriculture
new Chevrolet.
soybeans soyb eans
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Arkansas Agriculture
17
Faces of Agriculture compiled by Tara Johnson
L
Last year, I had the opportunity to
be a judge for the Miss Arkansas Rice Contest. I met Jennifer James through that opportunity, and I’m so happy to
USA Rice Federation
Jennifer James
In your own words, what is agriculture? “Agriculture is the science of raising food and fiber to sustain life.”
introduce her to you. She’s a farmer, hard worker and extremely funny. Jennifer spent a few moments sharing her thoughts on Arkansas agriculture and how she’s involved in our state’s largest industry.
agriculture? “I have a degree in agricultural business
its condition for today and future generations. Farming is not only an occupation but a lifestyle. It involves hard work, long hours, large financial
Why do you think agriculture is important? “1. Agriculture is important to sustain
investments and a love of the land and nature. Family farms exist in all shapes and sizes.”
and maintain the current status of our society. The majority of Americans do not
How are you involved in
it in the best condition or improving
You and your husband own and
have to raise their own food to sustain their
operate Auvergne Grain Company.
life. Food is readily available on any street
What do you think is different
corner in the local cafes, restaurants and
about the agriculture industry? “Agriculture is very different from
from the University of Arkansas. I am a
groceries stores. 2. Agriculture is important
fourth-generation family farmer and currently
to the economy of Arkansas. It is the
any other sector in the economy. In a
farm with my father, husband and brother.
backbone of the rural communities.”
manufacturing plant the management is able to produce the exact amount they
We raise rice, soybeans, corn and winter wheat on 6,000 acres in Jackson and Woodruff
What is the one thing you
plan for, know the cost to produce it and
counties. I am also a partner in a grain
want everyone to know about
adjust their prices to obtain a particular
elevator and specialty soybean business, Delta
agriculture and farming?
margin. This isn’t true for agriculture. Our
Soy. We contract with area growers to raise a
“Farmers are the first
input costs can fluctuate greatly during the
non-GMO specialty soybean. We then clean
conservationists. All farmers care deeply
time of production, and we have absolutely
the soybeans and export them to Japan.”
about the environment and maintaining
zero control over the price we receive.
18
Arkansas Agriculture
Œ„´*
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Arkansas Agriculture
19
Rural Reflections Photo Contest 2013
F
ront Porch’s fourth Rural Reflections Photo Contest 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.
$1,000 in prizes. Complete contest rules at: www.arfb.com/get-involved/contests
20
Arkansas Agriculture
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21
Policy Update by Michelle Kitchens
T
The 89th General Assembly recently
completed its regular session. Farm Bureau and our legislative partners were successful in enacting some beneficial new laws for agriculture.
Tax issues
The General Assembly wrangled with
tax cut affordability and which taxes to cut throughout the session. Legislative leaders and Governor Beebe agreed that responsible tax cuts could happen if the legislature also adopted the Private Option plan to
(Act 1354), which enhances penalties for
commitments from individual legislators
expand health care coverage to low-income
metal theft, prohibits sales of metal by those
for money to partially fund the program
Arkansans. A super majority of the legislature
formerly convicted of metal theft, establishes
through the General Improvement Fund.
adopted the private option, and millions of
a crime when buyers purchase metal they
dollars of tax cuts subsequently became law.
know or should know is stolen, creates more
The biggest win of the session is HB
stringent reporting requirements for scrap-
Commodity promotion and research boards
1039 (Act 1441). The bill championed by
metal dealers and requires a license for scrap-
Reps. Jeff Wardlaw and Jon Eubanks and
metal dealers. While this bill offers some
Sen. Larry Teague will provide a full sales-
remedies to limit metal theft and resale,
participation of any board member who was
tax exemption on natural gas, LPG and
we hope to add more deterrents in future
actively engaged in the industry under the
electricity used in the production of poultry,
sessions.
scope of a board or commission. It died in
HB 1786 would have limited the
swine, horticulture, aquaculture and dairy.
committee for lack of a motion. HB 1967, a
This $11 million annual utilities exemption
shell bill dealing with the rice checkoff, was
takes effect Jan. 1, 2014. The Timber Fire Suppression Fee was a
Water priority for agriculture
never amended.
The past two years of drought and the
necessary fee increase supported by Farm
pending State Water Plan revision prompted
Bureau and the timber industry. SB 5 (Act
this change in state law. Rep. Jeremy Gillam
1391) by Sen. Bill Sample raises this fee from
guided HB 2088 (Act 593) to final passage.
15 to 20 cents per acre on forested land.
It establishes agriculture as the first priority
control this destructive species. HB 1478
Funds from this fee support the fire-fighting
for water in a stream experiencing water
(Act 1104) prohibits the transportation and
efforts of the Arkansas Forestry Commission.
shortage.
release of feral hogs while increasing the
SB 11 (Act 1392) is a full sales-tax exemption for wrap/twine for cotton and forage. It will take effect on Oct.1, 2013.
Scrap metal theft and sales Reps. Kim Hammer, David Hillman and Walls McCrary united behind HB 1975
22
Arkansas Agriculture
Feral hogs Rep. McCrary led the charge to help
penalties for violating these laws. The law
Veterinary Tuition Repayment Program
allows one limited exception for tagged hogs transported to “terminal facilities,” such as fenced hunting ranches.
Reps. Gillam and Eubanks each worked to secure funds for this program. We were
Next time you meet with your legislators,
unsuccessful in getting dedicated funds
let them know you appreciate their votes in
through Revenue Stabilization but do have
support of agriculture.
Œ„*
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Arkansas Agriculture
23
Arkansas Farm and Ranch Families Provide‌ Safe, affordable food
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24
Arkansas Agriculture
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25
Spotlight OnYouth Leading future history Gordon Eichelberger leads Quitman H.S. FFA by Gregg Patterson
Eichelberger said. To enhance his own
accomplishments are chronicled in
leadership skills, Eichelberger
hallway trophy cases. The roll call of
became a member of
past class presidents is etched brass
Arkansas Farm Bureau’s
plates adorning a dusty wooden plaque
President’s Leadership
on a wall somewhere. An honor
Council.
roll recognizes individual academic
Keith Sutton
W
What is the true impact of a good
classroom teacher? School sporting
“I want to further
accomplishment. But has there ever been
develop my knowledge
a list that honors teachers for the famous
of leadership and
students they taught? Mark Twain, Bill
understanding of Arkansas
Gates, Ronald Reagan, Eleanor Roosevelt,
Farm Bureau,” he said. “I
Billy Graham. Who were the teachers
plan to use the leadership
who taught and influenced them?
skills attained to further
Leading by example Cleburne County Farm Bureau President Gordon Eichelberger leads Quitman High School’s FFA program. His greatest satisfaction comes from working with and watching students develop and put into practice leadership skills.
develop the Quitman FFA
high standards and expectations that the
students of today who will make future
Chapter, the students in my agriculture
students would strive to meet.”
history? Maybe one of them is someone
education classes, our county Farm
like Gordon Eichelberger.
Bureau board and to grow personally to
What teachers are leading the
One of those old faded schoolrelated documents hangs on the wall
better serve our community and state.” Eichelberger is well on his way.
Eichelberger believes it’s important to give back in the same manner. “It’s vital to give back what you have received. Part of the FFA motto is ‘Living
of Eichelberger’s classroom at Quitman
Last year, he was elected president of
to Serve’,” he said. “That portion is the
High School. It’s the framed original FFA
Cleburne County Farm Bureau.
one that I believe is the most important.
charter for the school. It’s dated Nov. 2, 1937. The 31-year-old Eichelberger is the agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor for the school. He takes
“Agriculture needs good leaders,” he
As an educator, it’s my job to impart
said. “The problems of the future will be
knowledge. As a Farm Bureau member
solved by the leaders being developed
and member of our agriculture society,
today.”
it’s my privilege and honor to give back.”
Like many leaders, Eichelberger
Seventy-five years later, that old,
his teaching responsibilities seriously,
benefitted from the positive influence of
stained FFA Charter on the wall still
especially when it comes to leadership.
those who came before him. The leader
speaks to the development of students
One of the courses he teaches is a
he admires most was Patrick Breeding, a
and tomorrow’s leaders.
leadership class.
retired ag education instructor and FFA
“Being around students and
“As a teacher, I take on leadership
advisor from Greenbrier. “The positive
young people every day has helped
roles on a daily basis. One of the best
influence he had on the FFA members
me appreciate the value and need for
moments is watching someone, who you
and students in each of his classes was
leadership,” Eichelberger said. “My role is
have taught, develop leadership skills and
truly unique,” Eichelberger said. “He
to develop my own leadership abilities to
take on a leadership role of their own,”
was able to develop leaders by setting
help train tomorrow’s leaders.”
26
Arkansas Agriculture
Œ„´*
Mollie Dykes
Arkansas Agriculture
27
RuralReflections
Optimism No doubt, new sprouts in a spring garden always gives us a sense of confidence in what’s to come. Farm Bureau member Ginger Sublett of Greenbrier captured that feeling of hopefulness in her photo she calls “Garden sprouts.”
28
Arkansas Agriculture
Committed. Strong. reliable. truSted. member-oWned. We are more than 10,000 customer-owners across Arkansas who trust Farm Credit with our large and small financing needs. With $2.8 billion in assets, our Arkansas Farm Credit associations serve agriculture, our communities and the rural lifestyle. We enjoy unique benefits like patronage refunds totaling more than $122 million since 1997. We’re Farm Credit.
800-444-3276 farmcredit.com
Arkansas Agriculture
29
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Little Rock, AR Permit No. 1884
Summer Savings with Equipment Loans
Purchase or refinance the agricultural equipment you need today to grow your business for the future. Plus take advantage of your membership with dedicated service, special rates, flexible terms and payment plans up to 7 full years. We make financing easy!
Contact your local Arkansas Farm Bureau agent or visit farmbureaubank.com Existing Farm Bureau Bank equipment loans are excluded from this offer.
*Rate disclosed as Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and based on exceptional credit. Some restrictions may apply based upon the make and model of the 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 3/22/2013. Rates and financing are limited to farm equipment model years 2003 or newer and are subject to change without notice. A down payment may be required for new or used equipment purchases. 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. Farm Bureau, FB, and the FB National Logo are registered service marks owned by, and used by Farm Bureau Bank FSB under license LENDER from, the American Farm Bureau Federation. EQUAL HOUSING
Published on May 10, 2013
Newton County Farm Bureau supports C&H Farms; Q&Ag with U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor-Talking everything ag with the chairman of the Senate Ag Approp...
