FloridAgriculture Magazine October 2019

The Voice of Agriculture in Florida

FloridAgriculture VOLUME 79, NO. 7 • OCTOBER 2019

PHOTO CONTEST GEMS

STUDENT SCIENTIST MEALS AT SCHOOL FAMILY FARMING

www.floridagriculture.org | www.FloridaFarmBureau.org

OFFICERS

President Vice President Secretary Treasurer

John L. Hoblick Brantley Schirard Jr. Steve Johnson Rod Land DIRECTORS

District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 District 11 District 12 District 13 District 14 District 15 District 16 District 17 District 18 District 19

Jerry Davis Jeff Pittman Henry McCrone Michael Dooner Rod Land Jon Deas Thomas Ford Ed Shadd Brad Etheridge Jeb Smith Kelly Rice J. Daniel Peterson Mark Byrd Steve Johnson Dan West Ken Harrison Mark Sodders Jacob Larson Mark Wilson

STATE WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE

Chair Vice Chair

Sarah Carte Danielle Daum

STATE YF&R LEADERSHIP GROUP

President Immed. Past Pres.

Adam Cook Andrew Taylor STAFF

Editor G.B. Crawford Communications Mgr. Rachael Smith Communications Coord. Amanda Overstreet

FLORIDAGRICULTURE (ISSN 0015-3869) is published Jan.-Feb., March, April-May, June, July, Aug.-Sept., Oct. and Nov.-Dec. for $3 per year in member dues by the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, 5700 S.W. 34th Street. Periodical postage paid at Gainesville, FL and additional mailing offices. It was established in 1943.

Copyright 2019 by the Florida Farm Bureau Federation.

Main telephone number: (352) 378-8100.

Printed by Panaprint - Macon, GA. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: FloridAgriculture, P.O. Box 147030 Gainesville, FL 32614-7030 For advertising questions, contact our Communications Coordinator by telephone at (352) 374-1535, by e-mail at amanda.overstreet@ffbf.org or by hard copy: FloridAgriculture Amanda Overstreet P.O. Box 147030 Gainesville, FL 32614-7030 Non-member subscriptions are not available.

CONTENTS 6

A CAREER IN THE MAKING

8

FOOD FOR THE WORLD

10 FEEDING SCHOOLCHILDREN 15 TALLAHASSEE REPORT

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16 TOP SHOTS 22 WASHINGTON REPORT 28 CLASSIFIEDS

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Oct. 22

Florida Ag Literacy Day Kickoff. For more information, visit https://faitc.org/ag-literacy-day/.

Oct. 30 – Nov. 1

2019 Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Orlando. To register, visit https://floridafarmbureau.formstack.com/forms/amregistration2019cc.

Nov. 20-27 2019 Farm-City Week. For events in your area, contact your local county Farm Bureau. For contact information, visit https://www.floridafarmbureau. org/county-farm-bureaus/.

Dec. 10 Florida Farm Bureau Legislative Day, Tallahassee. To register, visit https://floridafarmbureau.formstack.com/forms/2019_farm_bureau_day.

Cover: A photo by Lynn Scarborough of Highlands County Farm Bureau captured the Grand Prize in Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s 2019 Photo Contest. See pages 16 and 17 for more top contest entries. An outside judge selected this year’s award winners.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

3

FROM THE PRESIDENT

THE VALUE OF FARM BUREAU’S POLICY PROCESS THE FALL SEASON IS ONE OF THE BUSIEST TIMES

of the year for Farm Bureau members.

Most county Farm Bureau meetings are scheduled on dates between August and October, requiring much planning and organizational work by volunteers and local staff. The food and delightful fellowship at these gatherings have never been better.

Our overall membership growth has slowed a bit this year, but our prime volunteer programs with the Young Farmers and Ranchers and Women’s groups have become stronger and more effective.

Judging from the participation at the local annual meetings so far, the vibrant grassroots traditions of our organization are on full display.

The most important tradition we maintain is the formulation of Farm Bureau policies for the coming year.

Policies are proposed by our members for consideration at the Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. There, voting delegates make a final determination to accept them as mandates for our activities

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

and programs.

This policy making process operates in two ways. County Farm Bureaus develop proposals and members can introduce them for deliberation by the delegates at the annual meeting. Most of the county recommendations address local or regional issues, but some of them contain implications for the entire state.

Our statewide advisory committees, most of which devise commodity-specific proposals, also craft policies that are brought before the voting delegates.

In either instance, once a policy is adopted by the delegates, it becomes part of our overall guidelines for the new year. All members and staff work to implement these policies.

Some policies have national significance and are referred to the voting delegates at the American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Meeting.

If adopted there, they guide members and staff across the country.

Complex, controversial topics can require time and careful thought. What can

John L. Hoblick, Florida Farm Bureau President

seem to be a simple statement for a local community or a single commodity group may appear to be far different for others.

Our approach to policy making is the backbone of Farm Bureau. It is what makes our organization so unique.

Above all, it is the secret of our collective success. We debate issues, considering all aspects of their implications as we move forward with our discussions. We arrive at the best consensus possible and vote on proposals that hold the most beneficial potential for most members.

All members can be confident that the policies adopted have been thoroughly vetted.

I cannot say enough about the value of this grassroots process for Farm Bureau and for you and me. It is a tradition that will never fail us.

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5

Austin Bagby has grown up with an appreciation for agriculture.

Rising Scholar FLORIDA STUDENT CAPTURES INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AWARD

By Sophy Mott, Correspondent

DRIVE TOO FAST and you might miss the sign ushering you into the tiny town of Bell, Florida, which proclaims, “Welcome to our Agricultural Community.”

A few hundred yards later, and you’ll pass Bell High School, whose slogan reads “Committed to Excellence.”

These two signs give a glimpse into the supportive community and values that have shaped Austin Bagby into the rising agricultural scholar he is today.

Bagby, 18, a proud Bell High school “Bulldog,” who cocaptained the basketball team his senior year, graduated in May 2019 with a 3.8 GPA, and is now a freshman studying general agriculture at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) in Tifton, Georgia. ABAC was his first choice after visiting and 6

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

falling in love with the campus in middle school. Scholarships from FFA, the USDA and others are part of his recent story, but his farming roots go much deeper.

His grandfather, Wayne Oelfke, agricultural teacher at Ft. White High School, was one of Bagby’s earliest mentors and supporters. It was on his grandfather’s dairy farm that a six-year-old Austin helped tend the cows – milking in the parlor and helping with the calves.

Although the farm shifted focus

in 2007, with the land now primarily leased for peanut production, those early days on the farm were central to instilling Bagby’s work ethic and appreciation for agriculture.

Debbie Jones, who was Bagby’s FFA advisor at Bell Middle School, first noticed him in 4-H when he was showing dairy cows. “You couldn’t miss him. I was excited when I heard he was from Bell and would be in my (FFA) program. He was an officer, and he has continued to be a mentor in the program, just inspiring the other kids,” she said.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Bagby is also a burgeoning peanut farmer. He regularly comes home from ABAC to “see the family and check on the farm.” He still manages a herd of his own cattle, leasing some of the milk cows to local dairies and to other local kids so they can get

Wayne Oelfke, left, Bagby’s grandfather, his FFA Advisor, Debbie Jones, and mentor Mace Bauer pose with him at his high school.

the experience of exhibiting and learning about dairy management.

Says Bagby, “It’s cool to be proactive and get people to know more about Ag and be an advocate for it.”

Active in 4-H and FFA all through middle and high school, it was in 9th grade that his focus took on a different dimension, as his awareness and curiosity arose about the controversial issue of nitrate leaching into underground water. This topic has been widely discussed in Florida, as concerns about our aquifer must be balanced against cost-effective farming practices.

He and fellow FFA member Caitlin Anthony decided to research the use of Humate, a brand of humic-acid based natural fertilizer. Their “null” hypotheses (that Humate would have no effect on plant growth or soil composition) was not supported by the data at the end of the fouryear study. The results showed that Humate application was shown to improve plant production, nutrient use efficiency and soil health. The study tested Humate’s application on Sorghum Sudan grass, Pearl Millet and peanuts.

Agronomist Mace Bauer of 83 Farms, LLC, is another person

who has been a key to Bagby’s Ag success story. He has known the young man for years and followed his research closely.

“That trait that he has – is really to apply the scientific method and study and find the truth and to draw conclusions based on real information. From the agronomic side, so often we see research and information that is very difficult to apply at a production level. I think that’s been a strong point of what Austin’s tried to do – to develop information and a recommendation that the practitioners can apply.”

The Suwannee River Water Management District has recognized the Humate project as a possible Best Management Practice.

Bagby said the results showed a potential net income gain of 15% for farmers who used the product

on peanuts because of the increased crop production. Thus, there are very real, practical applications for the agricultural community.

Ultimately, the Humate research project resulted in Bagby’s invitation to the International Genius Science Olympiad in Oswego, New York, in June.

The Olympiad is a science and engineering fair drawing students from across the globe together to compete in various divisions.

The theme for 2019 was World Problems, and much to his surprise, he won the Gold Award in the Science Division.

As the first Floridian to win Gold, this honor was prestigious enough in its own right, but after speaking with the judges, Bagby saw the scope of the project through their global lens, as it related to potential positive implications for addressing world hunger.

Bagby is humble about his accomplishments and readily admits that he has a community of support. “I wouldn’t have done any of it without all the help that I’ve had.”

What may be most key to his future in Ag, though? His natural curiosity. “I like researching and learning new things.”

Bagby has won FFA honors as well as the Gold Award from the 2019 International Genius Science Olympiad.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

7

SUSTAINING A

Food Source DESERET IN THE PANHANDLE

By G.B. Crawford, Director of Public Relations

MOST FLORIDA FARM PRODUCERS are very good at conserving natural resources as they grow food.

They know their livelihoods depend upon the land and water they manage.

Michael Archibald and his employees at Deseret Cattle & Timber have a mission to preserve a substantial agricultural property for the indefinite future.

They work with cattle and timber on more than 300,000 acres in various parcels located west of the Apalachicola River.

Archibald, general manager of the operation, said environmental stewardship is fundamental to the sustainability of the operation.

“We cooperate closely with state agencies and local agencies in adopting best management practices for water quality and water habitat,” he noted.

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

“The best use and purpose for the land not only benefits cattle, it also benefits plant diversity and wildlife. Ultimately, it benefits the land by making it more productive. We have always tried to make our lands produce in better ways – not only for us, but for the next generation.”

Visitors encounter spectacular panoramas of wildlife as they gaze on the company’s various pastures. A commitment to natural resource conservation as well as food production is also apparent in the employee roster.

Two biologists and an agronomist are on the payroll, in addition to the cattlemen and foresters.

The Panhandle enterprise, based in Gulf County, often partners with researchers at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) to offer sites for a variety of field tests.

Recent projects have included studies of limpograss (a forage

grass) and bear habitat. In another trial, company employees found that they can roll a heavy chopper over tree stumps and leave them to enrich the soil when clearing land for pastures.

By doing so, they avoid digging out stumps and burning them.

Ann Blount, a researcher at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy, has worked with Deseret staff members in both Central Florida and the Panhandle for four decades.

In that time she has closely observed their conservation accomplishments.

“They really are very conscientious land stewards,” Blount said. “They have an extremely well-trained staff that has done a commendable job of working with us at the North Florida Research and Education Center. They are doing what you are supposed to do with best management practices.”

Conservation of natural resources has been a priority at Deseret Cattle & Timber since the operation was founded.

routinely provide support for the schools, athletic programs and other community projects.”

One notable example of community support was apparent after Hurricane Michael struck the Panhandle last year. Deseret employees assembled for work after the storm passed, but then took vehicles, equipment and supplies out into the surrounding countryside so they could assist residents with emergency repairs, road clearing and other, related tasks.

As a livestock operation, the company follows a comprehensive policy of animal care. Under the provisions of this policy each animal must be provided with appropriate feed, water and living conditions and routine health inspections.

“One of the key platforms of our sustainability programs is animal handling and welfare,” Archibald said. “We put a lot of focus on that. From our rotational grazing program to the way the cattle are handled in the pens, it all goes back to handling and lowering the stress on the animals.

“It’s not something our employees just do. They do it because it is a way of life for them.”

Good livestock care also helps support the business. According

Michael Archibald

to UF/IFAS researchers, the adoption of such practices improves the competitive position of cattle ranchers. For Deseret, production for both domestic and international markets is vital for its financial stability.

Staff members have already put together a management plan for enhancing the operation over the next 30 years. Pride in the commodities they sell reinforces their commitment to a permanent presence in the region.

“It’s exciting to produce a product you are proud of,” Archibald noted. “In the United States we produce high-quality, consistent products that are valued throughout the world.

“I think it is pretty neat that we can be involved in growing something that people on the other side of the world are enjoying at their dinner tables.”

(Photo courtesy of Deseret Cattle & Timber)

The North Florida properties were previously maintained by the St. Joe Company exclusively to produce timber. Ag Reserves, an investment affiliate of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, purchased the land in 2014, establishing Deseret Cattle & Timber there with the intention of developing a combined beef cattle and forestry operation.

Archibald pointed out that the acreage is a permanent addition to Ag Reserves holdings. “The purpose of the purchase was to expand the ag land portfolio,” he said. “We are always looking for land. This was an opportunity to expand ranching operations and do so to meet our internal rate of return.”

Local business leaders have lauded Deseret’s employment of more than 50 people as well as its long-term commitment to the area. Jim McKnight, director of the Gulf County Economic Development Coalition, said Deseret Cattle & Timber has been a “blessing” for the region.

“We are proud to have them as neighbors and community partners,” McKnight said. “They provide good-paying jobs with benefits and opportunities to grow with the company. They are good corporate citizens who

A bear habitat project is one of many research trials conducted on the company’s property.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

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CULTIVATING A

Healthy Diet PHOTO COURTESY OF FDACS)

By Rachael Smith, Communications Manager

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL FARM TO SCHOOL MONTH. It’s a month to celebrate food education, school gardens and the school cafeterias that serve up healthy, locally-grown ingredients.

With the new school year upon us, it’s a great time to either consider starting a Farm to School program or taking your existing program to the next level.

Farm to School initiatives vary from school to school, but will always include one or more of the following components: procurement, education and school gardens.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) serves as a resource for anyone wishing to start a program. The agency connects schools with local farmers, producers and distributors; and has an array of marketing and curriculum 10

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

materials to help promote awareness to what crops are in season.

“One of my top priorities as Agriculture Commissioner is expanding access to fresh, Florida-grown food for all our children. It’s crucial that we not only feed students healthy, nutritious foods, but also provide educational opportunities to learn hands-on where their food comes from,” stated Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried. “We’re proud to provide programs like Farm to School that improve lives and nutrition, and help keep Florida growing.”

Trafalgar Middle School in Cape Coral is home to a 28,000

square-foot organic garden that produced more than 8,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables last year. Produce was used in the school’s lunch program and any excess was distributed to local food kitchens.

The garden received the FDACS Farm to School 2019 Golden Shovel Award for Best Use of Produce for any middle or high school in the state.

Trafalgar Middle School teacher and lead gardener Avin Piotter says that everyone takes part in the garden. “I tell the kids that you never know who you’re going to impact by growing the food. We’re giving back to the community,” said Piotter. “The educational, nutritional and physical activity are just a few of the added benefits of a school garden.”

Students, teachers and local volunteers share in growing just about every fruit or veggie you can think of—custard apple, jackfruit, star fruit and papaya just to name a few. The colorful garden is surrounded by about 70 tropical fruit trees. Teachers maintain worm bins in their classroom to help fertilize the garden.

Piotter has successfully paired the culinary and agriscience

students to work together in growing and preparing meals.

He’s even had former students pursue agricultural careers from their introduction into farming.

During the 2017-18 school year, 46 school districts participated in a Farm to School program, accounting for 83% of Florida’s students. Schools purchased more than $59 million in Florida-grown produce.

Kelli Brew is the Farm to School Coordinator for the Alachua County Food & Nutrition Services. She works with about 15 farmers to bring seasonal fruits and vegetables to students.

She says that having a number of collaborations is absolutely vital to the success of the program. The partnerships they have with UF/IFAS and so many community organizations allow the program to mirror a healthy and sustainable food system.

“Our garden is like a tiny farm,” said Brew. “By letting the students grow the food, it connects them to real life scenarios of how much work goes into farming. We are making inroads in helping people understand the value of agriculture.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF FDACS)

A 28,000-square-foot garden, cared for by Trafalgar Middle School students and staff, provides food for students and local food shelters.

Martha Maddox is a UF/IFAS Extension Agent in Alachua County who has worked with Brew in promoting the Farm to School Partnership. She says one of the reasons the partnership works is because local farmers work together to market and introduce locally grown produce to students along with providing them the opportunities to try new food items.

“It’s very important to teach our youth about agriculture and where their food comes,” said Maddox.

“They need to realize food is grown on farms then trucked to local farmers markets or grocery stores for consumers to purchase.”

April Singleton of Singleton Farms in Hastings says that you

Singleton Farms personnel handed out personalized sweet potato bags to students and were available to answer questions about farming.

don’t have to be a large-scale farmer to connect to the students.

Her farm donated 1,000 pounds of purple sweet potatoes to Alachua, Nassau and Putnam counties.

Singleton and her family personally assembled 600 bags filled with fresh sweet potatoes sealed with a sticker to hand out to children at lunchroom meetthe-farmer events.

“You empower the students when they are able to see or meet the actual farmers that grew the food,” said Singleton.

“It’s about connecting. Just being able to meet the kids and having them share their stories and excitement of tasting the food is a win-win for everyone that grew the food.”

What can you do celebrate Farm to School Month?

• T hank a teacher or food service worker for their dedication to Farm to School Programs • Participate in a school or community garden clean-up or planting day • Invite a farmer to your school • Read books about agriculture and nutrition • Cook a healthy snack or meal with local products • Plan a field trip to a local farm, market or food hub • Commit to trying a new food or recipe • Visit farmtoschool.org for more ideas

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

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GROWING A

Family Farm

By Susan Salisbury, Correspondent

CARL PERRY GREW UP ON HIS FAMILY’S FARM outside Moore Haven, still lives in a brick house on the property and has worked there full-time since age 20.

Perry, 49, and his wife Ronda, whose family is in the cattle business, want the same agricultural livelihood and rural lifestyle they enjoy in Glades County for their children and grandchildren.

Glades County, with a population under 14,000, is nestled in the Florida Heartland north and west of Lake Okeechobee. Its main economic sectors are agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting.

That’s why since 2000 the couple has expanded Perry Farms from the original farm’s 850 acres just south of U.S. 27 to 14,000 acres of leased and owned sugarcane fields.

The farm grows watermelons as a rotation crop.

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

“We had a little farm. We realized it wasn’t enough for our kids, for all of us. We knew we had to grow to make room for them,” Perry said from the farm’s rustic wooden office building.

In the 90s, Ronda and Carl drove tractors and Carl ran the farm with just one employee. His late father. Tom Perry, handled the bookkeeping. Now they have 30 employees.

Their daughter, Amy Perry, joined the business after graduating from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College last year.

She manages the cane’s growth and conducts new variety trials.

Her fiancé, Blake Ridgdill, also an Abraham Baldwin grad, is overseeing the farm’s expansion in Brighton.

Their son Ross Perry, a freshman at Abraham Baldwin,

is also eager to join the business.

Their daughter Ashley Jones, is married, the mother of two daughters and works as a teaching assistant.

“They are just as passionate as their Dad about it. They love the lifestyle. They love the sugarcane.

They are interested in all of it,” Ronda said.

Carl is a fourth-generation Florida farmer, but the family’s history in Florida dates to before 1845 when Florida became a state, Carl’s mother, Julie Perry, said.

That qualifies them as members of Florida Pioneers, a program of the Florida State Genealogical Society.

The Perry family came from North Carolina to Alachua County where they raised cattle and grew citrus.

Later the family moved to Dade County. Carl Perry’s grandfather, Henry, and his brother opened a dairy farm that would eventually be in Hollywood in Broward County.

In 1941 they sold the retail part to Borden and kept the dairy farm.

After graduation from the University of Florida, Julie’s husband,Tom, decided to set

Carl and Ronda Perry and their daughter, Amy, pause a moment in one of their fields.

out on his own and bought the farmland in Moore Haven in 1955.

He stayed in the dairy business until about the 1970s, Julie said. He switched to raising beef cattle but had always grown some cane.

Eventually, the Perrys transitioned the original farm to producing only sugarcane.

The cattle were moved to Highlands County where Carl’s brother, Stanley Perry, now runs the 600-acre cattle ranch and orange grove.

Carl, who graduated from South Florida Community College in 1992, credits Wayne Browning, a mentor who worked for A. Duda & Sons, with teaching him everything he needed to know about cane.

The farm’s cane is harvested by a cooperative, Sugarland Harvesting.

The Perrys are one of about 35 independent farmers who sell their cane to U.S. Sugar Corp. where it is processed.

One of the biggest challenges is labor. That has led the Perrys to

Harvesting is from October through April.

“Last year we planted half hand plant and half mechanical. This year is the first year we will be all mechanical plant,” Ronda said.

Over the years they have grown rotation crops such as rice, sweet corn, feed corn, green beans and eggplant. They finally hit their sweet spot 11 years ago with watermelon that is planted every day for a month in January and harvested around Memorial Day, Carl said.

The farm partners with Moore Haven Melons, and the melons are marketed under the Lakelandbased Global Produce label. The melons are sold in Costco, Publix and Walmart.

“Watermelon is good for you.

It’s pretty inexpensive. It satisfies a lot of kids,” said Carl.

The Perrys aren’t afraid to take on agricultural issues such as water or the federal sugar program. Carl has traveled to Washington D.C. and Tallahassee to meet with legislators. He has A milk bottle is an heirloom from a previous served as president of the Hendry/ family generation of dairy producers.

Glades Farm Bureau, Glades begin mechanical cane planting County Chamber of Commerce along with traditional hand and on boards of the Farm Service planting starting four years ago.

Agency, Glades Soil and Water While mechanical cane Conservation District and others. harvesting has been widespread Amy Perry is well-versed on in Florida for decades, mechanical the issues too, but her message is planting is much newer and this: “We like to talk about what reduces the number of workers we do, what is so great about what needed. Planting runs from we do and why we are so happy to August through mid-January. feed millions of people.”

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

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TA L L A H A S S E E R E P O R T

Court Backs Lawmakers On Conservation Amendment

By Adam Basford, Director of State Legislative Affairs

I

n 2014, Florida voters approved Amendment 1, an amendment to the state constitution that required 33 percent of documentary stamp revenues to be spent on different types of water and land conservation purposes over the next 20 years.

Based on the December 2014 Revenue Estimating Conference, during the 20152016 fiscal year, 33 percent of documentary stamp funding would amount to $757.7 million. Over a 20-year time period, the total estimate to be spent will be close to $20 billion.

In 2014, the Florida Legislature was tasked with assigning and executing $757.7 million from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund to be spent on land and water conservation and restoration efforts. This legislation was designed to create a structure necessary to provide accountability and transparency for the expenditure of doc stamp tax dollars, as directed by the constitution.

When this amendment was being initiated, Florida Farm Bureau was opposed to it

“

This ruling...will help ensure that the Legislature can continue the use of Amendment 1 dollars to support conservation at a broad level.

”

because it would tie the hands of the legislature to commit a specific amount of funds to certain projects, regardless of economic conditions or budgets constraints.

It could also begin a negative trend of groups amending the state constitution to require the Legislature to fund specific items, bypassing the lawmaking and representative process.

Since the measure passed, Florida Farm Bureau has worked to ensure that this funding would be spent not only on land purchases, but on other important management and conservation purposes as well. The ballot language clearly states that the funds should be used to “acquire, restore, improve, and manage conservation lands…”

But in 2018, Judge Charles

Dodson ruled that the ballot measure that was approved four years earlier allowed the Land Acquisition Trust Fund (LATF) to be used solely for the purchase and improvement of new land and that the Legislature misspent an estimated $20 billion fund that was created by voters in 2014.

However, on Monday, September 9, 2019, an appeals court overturned Judge Dodson’s ruling that state lawmakers improperly diverted money that flowed from the 2014 constitutional amendment designed to boost land and water conservation.

Some environmental groups have stated that they will continue to fight the Legislature even after the court reversal.

These groups believe that the reversal does not resolve some of the major issues with the LATF and that this decision seems to leave no restriction on the power of the Legislature.

This ruling is a positive step and will help ensure that the Legislature can continue the use of Amendment 1 dollars to support conservation at a broad level, not just by purchasing land.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

15

T Winners

his year’s photo contest inspired Florida Farm Bureau members to submit some outstanding entries.

Most of the images captured the textures, colors and dimensions of the subjects in sparkling detail. More than 120 Florida Farm Bureau members participated in this competition. We are planning now for the 2020 contest. Be ready to snap that perfect shot and win some money next year.

2019

FFBF’S PHOTO CONTEST

View all entries at https://www.flickr.com/photos/floridafarmbureau/albums.

GRAND PRIZE & 1ST PLACE On the Farm

Highlands County Farm Bureau member Lynn Scarborough won the Grand Prize and 1st Place in the On the Farm category. HCFB Director Rob Bullock and Agency Manager Chad McWaters presented her with a check for $650.

Lynn Scarborough, Highlands County

3rd PLACE On the Farm

2nd PLACE James Huntsman, Marion County

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

On the Farm

Cindy Webb, Charlotte County

1st PLACE Natural Florida and Wildlife

1st PLACE Raquel Penabella, Alachua County

Mariah Perez, Hillsborough County

Children Families and Pets

2nd PLACE Children Families and Pets

2nd PLACE Natural Florida and Wildlife

Kaity Eubanks, Alachua County Cathy Turner, Madison County

Linda Scarfone, Pasco County: 3rd PLACE “Hawk on a Branch” Children Families and Pets

3rd PLACE

Danielle Sprague, Jefferson County

Natural Florida and Wildlife

Kris Kuhl, Madison County

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

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Community Service

SUPPORTING PANHANDLE SCHOOLCHILDREN

M

By Cindy Sanders and Marilyn Shaw, Alachua County Farm Bureau

any Floridians might not know how complicated school is for young people in the Panhandle. They need assistance with basic materials.

The Alachua County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee has maintained contact with friends made in West Florida at Christmas when, through your generosity, they were able to give over 100 children and their 42 families full Christmases when they anticipated no holiday at all.

That blessing of gifts and food was a grand boost for their spirits after the devastation caused by Hurricane Michael.

School-aged youngsters in the region have some dire needs. They lack adequate school supplies of various kinds, especially those prescribed by their teachers.

Panhandle residents have spent almost a year of clearing debris to make order out of chaos as fellow farmers, civic groups and agencies provided hay, feed and fencing for farmers; others offered food, clothes and toys for families; and

federal dollars were allocated for replanting and other types of relief.

Despite generous assistance offered by kind hearts, the Panhandle disaster has not been solved. Some towns and neighborhoods likely will not be rebuilt. There are still a few people in tents. We are likely to see an increase in the number of mobile homes housing multiple families.

Once again, the Farm Bureau Women’s Committee saw the need and went to work. Through their organizational efforts and public generosity, approximately $3,500 of basic school supplies will be provided to the neediest students in parts of Washington County.

“Parents have enough to cope with clothing their children,” explained Cindy Sanders, the committee’s chair, “We can keep them in basic supplies all year.”

Working in conjunction with Rev. and Mrs. David Taylor and the Cross Roads Baptist Church of Cottondale, the committee members focused on gathering basic items on most teachers’ lists and tried to provide for all grade levels, from crayons to colored

pencils and from wide to collegeruled notebook paper. These students need to be free to focus on their studies, not on how they will get more paper and glue sticks.

The community’s school officials identified those children who were in most need of material assistance, a designated staff member to manage the program and a special storage location for these materials. Those students will be able to use the supplies as long as they last.

Could life be a little easier for students and parents because of a small outreach project? Could consistent access to school supplies mean the difference between success and failure for students?

Just imagine . . . thanks to Farm Bureau members.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

19

A LESSON IN

FloridAgriculture

By Amanda Overstreet, Communications Coordinator

THE STUDENTS IN AMY HEDSTROM’S 7th and 8th-grade agriscience classes receive a special lesson once a week. The former Young Farmers and Ranchers State Leadership Group member is a teacher at Robert H. Jenkins Middle School (JMS) in Palatka where she incorporates FloridAgriculture magazine into her lesson planning.

JMS is a Title 1 school which means it receives federal funding and helps underprivileged children meet challenging state academic standards. 100 percent of the students participate in the free and reduced lunch program.

While preparing for a lesson one day, Hedstrom came across a magazine article worksheet online that was compatible with any publication. “Since I’ve been a Farm Bureau member for quite

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

some time, I was aware of the FloridAgriculture magazine and thought it would be a great tool to use in my class,” she said.

She explained that the FloridAgriculture activity was something she would use on a day when her class would have a substitute or on a rainy day.

However, it has become much more.

This school year, she began assigning her students an article to read from each issue to study and provide feedback. “They are to read the assigned article, complete the writing worksheet, type their completed paragraph into a computer program and then send to me for grading,” she explained.

The lesson is designed to show the relevance of what the students are learning about agriculture in the classroom while also strengthening writing, typing and reading comprehension skills.

“Incorporating agriculture into the classroom is critical to the future of agriculture in our county,” she said. “All students should understand the basics of agriculture and how their food and thousands of other byproducts are provided to them on a daily basis.”

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the average American is now at least three generations removed from the farm and farm and ranch families make up less than 2% of the U.S. population.

“People have lost their basic understanding of how agriculture works in the real world,” she said. “The future of agriculture is brighter when we have a population of people who are educated on agricultural practices.”

Hedstrom enjoys seeing the reactions she gets from her students when a real world application is applied to something she teaches in her class. She explained that because

Students at Robert H. Jenkins Middle School participate in the local FFA organization.

they are in a low income area, field trips can be challenging.

“They enjoy seeing the pictures of the animals and of people’s farms,” she said. “Some of my students have never seen animals other than cats or dogs and they love articles that highlight anything related to livestock.”

Prior to becoming a teacher, Hedstrom worked in miscellaneous positions at the University of Florida for 10 years. Some of those positions include research assistant at UF/ IFAS Cowpen Branch Research Center, Farm to School Coordinator and 4-H Agent.

Through her relationship with UF/IFAS Extension, Putnam/ St. Johns County Farm Bureau (PSJCFB) and Flagler County Farm Bureau, she has the opportunity to help plan community events such as educational field days, county annual meetings and youth education programs.

PSJCFB Administrative Assistant Wendy Jo Williams has worked with Hedstrom for many

years. “Amy has a passion for the agriculture industry that is clearly demonstrated through her teaching future generations of 4-H and FFA members in Putnam County,” she said.

“She has been a valuable asset to our local Farm Bureau as a member of the PSJCFB Women’s Committee as well as a past District 3 State YF&R leader.”

With the beginning of the 2019-2020 school year in August, Hedstrom class studied the magazine’s August/September issue. “So far, their favorite article

has been “A Horse Family Legacy,” she said.

“They also loved to see the Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement in Agriculture Award finalists’ profiles, especially that someone from Putnam County was featured in the magazine.”

Teachers like Hedstrom give hope to the future of agricultural education. Through her workshops using FloridAgriculture magazine, her students gain knowledge they can spread to their peers about the importance of knowing where food comes from.

Amy Hedstrom’s 7th and 8th-grade agriscience class studies an issue of FloridAgriculture magazine.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

21

WA S H I N G TO N R E P O RT

Annual Ag Forum Brings Latest on Labor

By JohnWalt Boatright, Director of National Affairs

F

lorida Farm Bureau joined other statewide agricultural organizations in planning and sponsoring the 45th Annual Agricultural Labor Relations Forum in Orlando, Sept. 11-13.

With each year, the forum brings the best information from the experts in their respective fields, and this year was no exception.

Hundreds gathered to understand and receive training on best practices under current federal and state rules that apply to agricultural labor.

For the second year in a row, the forum added a halfday session focused exclusively on the basics of the current agricultural guest worker program known as H-2A. Growers in Florida have increasingly turned to the H-2A program as a necessary source of reliable labor.

In fact, the past five years have revealed Florida as a top state in H-2A usage, and it only continues to grow exponentially.

Keynote presentations for both days covered state and federal updates by several key Florida officials. This included federal legislative updates by

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

Labor attorney David Stefany presents a session during the 45h Annual Agricultural Labor Relations Forum.

U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho (FL-03) and Cesar Gonzalez, Chief of Staff to U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25).

Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Halsey Beshears also shared his role with attendees as the state regulator of business licenses.

Topics of workshop sessions ranged from the basics of housing compliance to handling government audits and discrimination claims to transportation regulations for agricultural haulers.

Beyond the plethora of usable information at the forum, the opportunity to connect with these professionals during and between general and breakout sessions is truly helpful. It gives farmers

and ranchers a chance to break through the nuance of the current, sometimes changing, regulatory environment and ask questions that specifically address issues that have emerged in their respective businesses.

Whether one is a grower who is exploring the H-2A program, a farm manager who supervises numerous laborers or an HR officer for a large agricultural operation, one cannot leave this forum without a better understanding of the labor landscape.

Florida Farm Bureau members and other constituents of the state’s agricultural community should take advantage of this annual event and the expertise available to them.

FFB State Director Michael Dooner received Audubon Florida’s Sustainable Forestry Award during the Florida Forestry Association’s Annual Meeting in August. The award is presented annually to a forester who improves wildlife habitat and water resources by implementing excellent management practices. Beth Alvi of Audubon Florida made the presentation.

(Photo courtesy of Nicole Goldstein)

(Photo courtesy of Reba Hicks/Farm Credit)

SPOTLIGHT ON ACHIEVERS

Kathleen Dempsey of Broward County was recognized as a Shining Star of the Community on Sept. 13 by the Greater Pompano Beach, Margate, Lighthouse Point Chamber of Commerce. The award honors community leadership and service.

LAND FOR SALE

Co-Chairs Lynetta Usher Griner and Jim Strickland, right, and panelist Randall Dasher were part of an Aug. 12 UF IFAS Solutions conference in Gainesville on Agriculture and Forestry in a Changing Climate. Compensation for the environmental benefits farms contribute was one of the topics raised at the conference.

Marion County Ranch and Development 757 ± Acres in Citra, Florida (4 parcels)

Marion County Ranch & Development has beautiful rolling topography of mostly improved pastures and some scattered woods. Currently used for cattle. Uses include cattle, horses, farming, residential and estate homes located in beautiful horse country. The property has 4 tracts and may be purchased together or separately. The tracts are as follows: School Tract (153 AC), Railroad Tract (115 AC), Jacksonville Road Tract (308 AC), NW 32nd Court Tract (182 AC).

$5,445,000 Total (Prices vary per tract)

Brian Beasley, CCA, CNLM • 863.287.2702 Dean Saunders, ALC, CCIM • 863.774.3522

svnsaunders.com The top presenters in the Walton County Farm Bureau Speech Contest included Kobe Philips, center, 1st Place; Rylee Digges, right, 2nd Place; and Sarah Thompson, 3rd Place.

877-518-LAND FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

23

County Farm Bureaus HOST THEIR MEMBERS Guests take a special ride at the High Horse Ranch during the Martin County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

FFB President John L. Hoblick, center, visited with state Rep. Chuck Brannan and his son, Rafe, at the Sept.10 Columbia County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

COLUMBIA COUNTY

MARTIN COUNTY

OKALOOSA COUNTY

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Shannon and Michelle Nixon received a FFB County Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship Award at the Sept. 12 Okaloosa County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

JACKSON COUNTY

Jackson County Farm Bureau President Jeff Pittman, left, and Jackson County Farm Bureau Agent Kenneth Stoutamire, recognized Desiree, Conner, Bud and Sam Baggett as the county’s 2019 Farm Family of the Year at the local organization’s annual meeting.

UNION COUNTY

LAFAYETTE COUNTY

Board members of the Union County Farm Bureau posed for the camera during the local organization’s annual meeting on Aug. 22.

Ryan Sullivan, left, Colton Sullivan, W.C. Hart and Jared Moseley of White Oak Dairy, Inc., received the Conservation Farm of the Year Award from the Soil & Water Conservation District at the Lafayette County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting on Sept. 9.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

2019 County Farm Bureau Annual Meetings OCTOBER OKEECHOBEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

Oakview Baptist Church, Okeechobee OSCEOLA COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 7:00 p.m.

Kissimmee Valley Livestock Building, Kissimmee GADSDEN COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

FL National Guard Armory, Quincy HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

FL Strawberry Festival Grounds-Charlie Grimes, Ag Bldg., Plant City LEVY COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

Bronson High School, Cafeteria, Bronson PASCO COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

Pasco County Fairgrounds, Dan Cannon Auditorium, Dade City VOLUSIA COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 3 @ 6:00 p.m.

Volusia County Ag Center, Elvin B. Daugharty Bldg., DeLand ORANGE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 7 @ 6:00 p.m.

Central Florida Fairgrounds, Orlando HERNANDO/CITRUS COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 8 @ 6:30 p.m.

Hernando County Fairgrounds, McKethan Auditorium, Brooksville HIGHLANDS COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 10 @ 6:00 p.m.

Jack Stroup Sebring Civic Center, Sebring POLK COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 10 @ 6:00 p.m.

Stuart Center, Bartow Extension Office, Bartow

Help us teach students about Agriculture!

WAKULLA COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 10 @ 7:00 p.m.

Wakulla County Extension Office, Livestock Pavilion, Crawfordville ALACHUA COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 15 @ 6:00 p.m.

Santa Fe River Ranch, Alachua HARDEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 17 @ 6:00 p.m.

Hardee County Agri-Civic Center, Wauchula LAKE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 21 @ 6:00 p.m.

Lake County Fairgrounds Expo Center, Eustis MANATEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 21 @ 6:30 p.m.

Manatee County Fairgrounds-Mosaic Arena, Palmetto

Buy the AgTag®

$20 of your purchase helps educate our kids!

FLAGLER COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 14 @ 6:00 p.m.

FL Ag Museum, Palm Coast HENDRY/GLADES COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 19 @ 6:30 p.m.

Dallas Townsend Center, Hendry County Extension, LaBelle BREVARD COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 22 @ 6:00 p.m.

Ever After Blueberry Farm, Mims LEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Oct. 24 @ 6:00 p.m.

CityGate Ministries Church, Ft. Myers COLLIER COUNTY FARM BUREAU Nov. 7 @ 6:00 p.m.

UF SW Research & Education Center, Immokalee For the most current schedule, visit www.floridafarmbureau.org/calendar/.

Through your purchase of the Florida Agriculture License Plate, Florida Agriculture In The Classroom is able to provide: • Funds for school gardens • PreK–12 agriculture curriculum • Teacher and volunteer grants • Workshops and farm tours • Florida Agriculture Literacy Day • And much more!

Visit agtag.org to learn more.

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

25

MONSTER MELONS

T

his year, as an alternative to a pumpkin, carve a spooky masterpiece with a watermelon.

Nutrient-rich watermelon can be a healthy addition to other sweet treats during Halloween festivities. It is a source of vitamins A and C as well as the antioxidant lycopene and the amino acid citrulline.

Because they are made up of 92% water, watermelons can be an effective way to stay hydrated during trick-or-treating, and creations like a Mummy or Jack O’Melon can help satisfy sweet cravings while keeping friends and family members frightfully delighted.

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

To get started, consider these tips and tricks:

• T o make cutting and slicing easier, the watermelon should be at room temperature when carving.

• Cut a small, thin, flat piece from the bottom of the watermelon to provide a stable base for carving.

• Draw the design on the watermelon rind with a dry-erase marker before cutting.

• Use a sharp knife with a pointed tip for easier, cleaner cuts.

• Blend scraps of watermelon that are too messy for dicing or slicing to create an easy juice.

For more watermelon carving ideas, visit watermelon.org.

Mummy Melon SUPPLIES AND TOOLS:

• Watermelon • Cutting board • Kitchen knife • Dry-erase marker • Paring knife • Melon baller • Scoop • Vegetable peeler

• Cheesecloth or gauze • Straight pin (optional) • Battery-operated candle or light • Small bowl • Blueberries or bloody candy eyes • Toothpicks, pins or glue

DIRECTIONS:

• Wash the melon under cool running water and pat dry.

• On a cutting board, place the watermelon on its side and use a kitchen knife to cut off ¼ to 1/2-inch of rind from bottom to provide sturdy base, being careful not to cut too deep into white part of rind. Cut one to two inches from the stem end to create an opening for the bowl to be added.

• Using a dry-erase marker, draw the eyes, nose and mouth, along with wavy slits around carving. Use a paring knife, being sure to cut through to the red flesh to let more light flow through.

• Use a melon baller to hollow out the inside of the watermelon. Reserve the watermelon balls. Use a scoop to remove the remaining watermelon.

• Using a vegetable peeler, remove the green skin off outside of watermelon, similar to peeling cucumber.

• Wrap thin strips of cheesecloth or gauze around the mummy carving and secure it with a straight pin, if needed.

• Place a battery-operated candle or light inside the carving and fit a small bowl into top of carving. Trim away excess rind to make the bowl fit securely.

• Fill the bowl with melon balls. Attach candy eyes or blueberries using a toothpicks, pins or glue.

Jack O'Melon SUPPLIES AND TOOLS:

• Knife • Round watermelon • Melon baller

• Dry-erase marker • Toothpicks (optional) • Battery-operated light

DIRECTIONS:

• Using a sharp knife, cut a thin slice from the bottom of the watermelon to provide a stable base.

• Cut a circular piece of rind from the top of the watermelon big enough to reach into and remove flesh.

Carefully remove the top section and reserve for use as a “lid.”

• Remove the flesh from inside the watermelon using a melon baller, reserving the melon balls for snacking.

Hollow out the remaining watermelon flesh and use a blender to juice scraps and excess juice.

• Using a dry-erase marker, draw outlines of the eyes, nose, mouth, hair, ears and other features on the side of watermelon. If a mistake is made with the marker, wipe off the lines with paper towel to start over.

Following the outlines, carve the features into the watermelon and remove the excess rind.

• A safe, battery-operated light can be firmly placed inside the watermelon to provide haunting glow.

• Place a circular piece of rind back on top of the watermelon.

(Courtesy of Family Features)

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

27

CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES BAMBOO FARMERS WANTED Farmers, growers, investors One time crop purchase One time planting 80-100 years life span 6 month plant guarantee 10 year crop buy back contract $15k-$25k per acre annual profits Contact us today Onlymoso USA corp 954.530.3385 info@onlymososales.com

COLLECTIBLES Coins, currency, sterling silver flatware, gold/silver jewelry, and more. We are #1 on Angie's List, NATIONWIDE! Visit us at www.CoinAppraisal.org or contact us directly at 727.488.7899

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE John Deere Chisel Plows -16ft $2000 and 20ft $3000 Lockwood/Renke Center Pivot $8000 Call/Text 904-509-2589 5 V-crimp GalvaLume Roofing & Accessories For Farms & Ranches.

Cypress Feed Trough & Mineral Boxes Call: 772-473-1714 tripsonmt@aol.com Ask for Mark. $$$ WANTED $$$ Tractors, Mowers, Farm Equipment and Related Parts Any Condition.

Call 813-626-2609.

WANTED FARM TRACTORS PLUS FARM EQUIPMENT. RUNNING OR NOT. MORE CASH PAID. CALL 813-626-4554.

P.T.O GENERATORS - GENERATORS 10kw thru 100kw New & Used Generators for Home Standby Industrial & Commercial Generators 20kw thru 2000kw Diesel E-mail: craig@gentelpower.com www.gentelpower.com 407-466-4427 or 407-498-0866

LABOR HOUSING ATTENTION GROWERS Labor Housing for H2A and/or Domestic Workers available… EXCELLENT LOCATION (Western Palm Beach County) Approx. 1 hr. drive to Boynton/Delray, Vero/Ft. Pierce and Devils Garden Full Kitchen and Mess Hall Permitted and ready for immediate occupancy Capacity: Up to 1,000 persons Contact: Chuck Royal (561) 996-6581 Ext. 113 Also additional location in Moore Haven Glades County. Call for details.

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EQUIPMENT FEEDER WAGON, 3-ton and 6-ton, creep feeder available on 3-ton.

Call 813-626-4554.

FEED & HAY COASTAL BERMUDA HAY Barn stored-$50, Field kept-$40 Irrigated and fertilized.

Frank Quincey Levy County 352-538-7077 or 352-463-2953 PREMIUM HAY & SPRIGGING SERVICE: Jiggs, Tifton85, Perennial Peanut, Coastal.

Horse-quality square bales (limited rolls), fertilized & irrigated fields. Feed stores welcome. Clean digging stock.

Call Haystack Farms at 386-963-3505 or 855-326-8873. www.haystackfarms.com.

FISHERIES SHONGALOO FISHERIES Channel catfish, certified Florida bass, bluegill, grass carp, shellcrackers, warmouth, koi, and gambusia for stocking. See complete list at www.shongaloofisheriesinc.com. Hampton, FL. 352-468-1251.

SERVING SOUTH FLORIDA Native Fish Stocking - Grass Carp - Tilapia Fountain & Aeration Systems Complete Lake Management ALLSTATE FISH & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 1-800-270-6558 www.allstatemanagement.com PONDSTOCKER Bass, Bream, Catfish, Tilapia, Koi, Grass Carp, Shinners and Gambusea Minnows. Pond Supplies. Licensed and experienced.

Call today! Cal Trotter. 1-321-952-9176.

Palm Bay, FL. FLORIDA FISH FARMS Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, Grass Carp (Permit Req.) & Koi (Ornamental Carp) Contact: Florida Fish Farms, 9684 CR 705, Center Hill, FL 33514. 352-793-4224. Visit our website: www.floridafishfarms.com.

GOOD THINGS TO EAT FARM BUREAU BUYER'S CLUB Take a look at FAMA's Buyer's Club on the back of the magazine for all of your Thanksgiving needs! We're offering a Fresh new crop of pecans along with our new delicious pecan pies! Don't forget to try our new smoked turkeys from Nettles Sausage!

LEGAL SERVICES Michael Martin Martin Law Office Agricultural & Environmental litigation Defective products and seeds Crop insurance All litigation issues state or federal 863-686-6700 Lakeland, FL Representing four generations of farm and ranch families.

Email: Mike@martinpa.com Website: www.martinpa.com

FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

LEGAL SERVICES Charles F. Woodhouse, Esq. MBA, JD, MS Food Safety Graduate Certificates in Food Law and Packaging Attorney Specializing in Agriculture and Food Law Food Safety Modernization Act Compliance PACA and Florida Broker/Dealer Complaints Crop Insurance and Risk Management Programs Representation before County Committees, State Committee, and National Appeals Division Matters Woodhouse Shanahan PA Agribusiness Industry Regulatory Compliance Washington, DC & Cedar Key, FL E-mail: cfw@regulatory-food-science.com Web: www.seafood-and-produce-law.com Blog: www.food-label-compliance.com Tel Cedar Key, FL 352-278-1110 Tel Washington, DC 202-293-0033 FAX 202-478-0851

LIVESTOCK Registered Angus Cattle For Sale Ohana Farms Bull Calfs, Cows, Heifers, Pairs 386-212-1006 REGISTERED BLACK ANGUS BULLS for sale bull calf 6 + months $1,000.00 Solid Performance Bloodlines 813-713-6345

MISCELLANEOUS AKC REGISTERED BEAGLE PUPPIES FOR SALE in NW Florida.

Call 850-554-1062 or email Allenmanning59@gmail.com. www.thebeagleman.com John Halvorsen, Jowett & Wood, Inc. 904.707.3644 Provide technical assistance to eligible producers and landowners who implement practices to protect soil, water, air quality, or wildlife habitats. Eligible participants are able to receive financial assistance to implement conservation practices on their owned land through EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentive Program).

A Technical Service Provider works for producers on behalf of USDA, NRCS and will maintain the confidentiality of any producers they help through NRCS EQIP.

PLANTS & SEEDS Alternative Fruit Crops All of the latest and greatest varieties of avocado, dragon fruit, guava, longan, lychee, macadamia nut, mango, peach, pomegranate, and more.

Call Pine Island Nursery (305)233-5501. www.PineIslandNursery.com

REAL ESTATE 10 acres Highlands County, Lake Placid Fl. 330 ft road frontage,pole barn,fenced and pond. 120,000.00 Contact Steve Cooper at 863-441-0524 Southern Pine Plantations North and Northwest Florida 377 Acres, Jackson Co, 148 acres Cultivated farm land, Irrigated, 15,400 sq. ft. packing shed, 2,400 Sq. ft. Cooler. $2,950/acre 484 Acres, Lafayette Co, The area is well known for its fantastic hunting and fishing, Pave Road, Pines and Hardwoods. $1,350/acre.

7,611 acres managed commercial timberland, Planted Pine, Hardwood Bottoms, Excellent Hunting. $1,200/acre.

Call Pat Duane at 352-867-8018 Southern Pine Plantations of Fla. Owns the property it sells.

FOR SALE BY OWNER, 28 ACRES LOCATED ON GA HIGHWAY 221 BETWEEN KITE AND WADLEY., 6054 US Highway 221 North, Bartow Ga, 30413.

GREAT HUNTING, FOOD PLOTS, SEPTIC,WELL, ELECTRIC, 5TH WHEEL TRAILER UNDER A POLE BARN. BEAUTIFUL HARDWOOD CREEK BOTTOM, FRONTAGE ON 2 ROADS. $ 110,00.00 CALL OR EMAIL JIM HUCK 772 201 1759 EMAIL HUCKS18505@AOL.COM. For Sale Seminole Co. Georgia 135.75 acres farmland. Deer/turkey 1br 1ba home built in 2004.

Priced below county assessment. $450,000 352 408 0755 CROSBY & ASSOCIATES, INC. Real Estate Brokerage 863-293-5600 * www.crosbydirt.com FARM LEASE- OKEECHOBEE, FL- 450+/Irrigated Farmland...Total property acres are +/-640 acres. Land is irrigated via wells and a large surface water pond on the south property line. Farmland formerly used for silage corn crops, with the last crop harvested in May of 2018.. http://properties.crosbydirt. com/415655-lease HENDRY COUNTY - LABELLE, FL$525,000 Located in the eastern part of Lehigh Acres, near Labelle, this site represents an investment opportunity that can support agricultural uses as the area matures. Suitable for livestock, farming, hunting, or homesites. http://properties.crosbydirt.com/482702-sale CHARLOTTE COUNTY, PUNTA GORDA, FL- 650 Irrigated Acres $3,390,000. This Charlotte County agricultural tract is a former citrus grove with expensive irrigation infrastructure. Much of the grove has been removed and burned, allowing for quick transition to other crops, if desired. https://crosbydirt.com/property/ 650-irrigated-acres-multiple-uses

October 2019

OCTOBER CROSSWORD

REAL ESTATE Suwannee County Located in McAlpin, FL is where you will find this wooded 27-acre tract.

This will be a great place for your home or mobile home. No deed restrictions $94,500 Mindy Wilkison 386-209-7658 MLS#105401

Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ACROSS 1 Short-legged 14 15 16 dog 17 18 19 6 Charges 10 Scottish miss 20 21 22 14 Pretty up 23 24 25 15 Weak, as an excuse 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 16 E, to a pilot 17 Halifax's home 34 35 36 19 Surgery 37 38 39 souvenir 20 Vocal vibration 40 41 42 21 Pair on the links 45 43 44 23 Growing business?

46 47 48 25 Affirm 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 26 Walk with attitude 57 58 59 30 Audience 60 61 62 member 34 Private instructor 63 64 65 35 Scrooge's look 36 Quaint lodge Copyright 2019 by The Puzzle Syndicate 37 In awe 38 Catchall 63 Look narrowly 11 Squeezeboxes 38 Scent-free category 64 Palm reader, e.g. 12 Pillow covering 39 Rural sight 39 Misplaced 65 Parched 13 Needing 41 Final notice?

40 Trapper's ware kneading 42 Covered balcony 41 Intense dislike 18 Like some 44 Breadwinner 42 Event location DOWN pigeons 45 "Gone With the 43 Not a child of 1 "Out of the 22 "Get ___ it!"

Wind" plantation slavery question" 24 Subject of the 48 Anesthetic of 45 Brief promo 2 Emanation 1993 film "The yore 46 Samson's pride 3 Wander Fugitive" 49 Ginger cookie 47 Word before 4 Unit of fat 26 Work group 50 Crosby costar in gas or drop 5 To such an 27 Soothsayer "Road to Rio" 49 Soon extent 28 Depository 51 Type of log 52 Circus staple 6 Elevator stop 29 ___ wild 53 Cowpoke's pal 57 It may be proper 7 Absorb, as a 31 Overflow (with) 54 Biblical birthright 58 Mercy killing cost 32 Follow as a seller 60 Church nook 8 Throw off result 55 Turns sharply 61 Sole anagram 9 Atlantic fill 33 Script direction 56 Vane direction 62 Becomes 10 Diminish 35 Recipe 59 Nail holder tiresome instruction

35-acre vacant land. Great Hwy frontage. Large Live Oaks perfect for cattle or Horses. Just off Hwy 49 in McAlpin. $162,750 Ronnie Poole, 386-208-3175 MLS#103994 38-acre mini farm. Paved road frontage fenced and cross fenced, large metal outbuilding 3/2 2,000 sq.ft. built in 2002 $325,000 Ronnie Poole, 386-208-3175 MLS#104344 92-acres vacant land on Suwannee River near Mayo, 1000 feet river frontage. $400,000.

MLS#105424. Wade Hill 863-255-1635 42-acres with Custom built 2 story home with over 400ft on the Suwannee River (high bank). Windows galore and multiple porches No view of the neighbors from this house! Under the roof are 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths.

Call for all the amenities. $435,000 Mindy Wilkison 386-209-7658 MLS#105019 Beautiful 83-acre Horse Ranch not far from town. 4/2 home, 7 stall horse barn with office and full bath. Stocked fishpond with gazebo and dock. $650,000 David Mincey 386-590-0157 MLS#99748 POOLE REALTY, INC 127 HOWARD STREET LIVE OAK, FL 32064 Office: 800-557-7478 LONGLEAF LAND COMPANY Land for sale in Northwest Florida and South Alabama Contact Jody Jones 334.493.0123 longleaf@longleafland.com www.longleafland.com

Solution available online at FloridAgriculture.org or in next issue.

AUG./SEPT. SOLUTION

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Solution to Crossword:

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L O N E S S N I T L O C A A V E R G A S K L S T A I T I T T A B E T G I R L E A S E

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FLORIDAGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2019

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REAL ESTATE Maury L. Carter & Associates, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker CONTACT Daryl Carter or John Evans 407-422-3144 - www.maurycarter.com HOG BAY FARM - FARM & SOLAR OPPORTUNITY! DeSoto County - 1,387± Acres - This property is 1,387± gross acres and 1,300± net acres of tillable land. Although formerly used for an organic citrus operation, this property has been used for the farming of alternative crops.

This property can offer potential income streams from various uses: tomatoes, watermelons, citrus, cattle, hay, sod and many other varieties of row crops. Solar companies take notice! There is a high tension transmission line that runs the northern boundary of the property. Given the amount of usable acreage, the subject site would work nicely as a solar farm.

ASKING PRICE: $7,351,100 or $5,300/acre.

AUNT ZELMAS BLUEBERRY FARM - Alachua County - 26± Acres - Active commercial and U-Pick Florida blueberry farm for sale! 22 net growing acres - Varieties include Farthing, Scentilla, Star, Prima Donna, Sweet Crisp, and Windsor. All bushes planted in 2011. This property boasts both commercial harvesting and U-Pick. However, the U-Pick operation is robust and brings customers from all over the state. The property has a small store on site to accommodate customers that come for U-Pick season. For more details information on the farm, please visit: www.auntzelmasblueberries. com. ASKING PRICE: $650,000.

CENTER HILL BLUEBERRY FARM - Sumter County - 20± Acres - ORGANIC CERTIFIED BLUEBERRY FARM AVAILABLE FOR SALE! A turn-key ready blueberry farm to add to your portfolio. Farm equipment available for sale too!

See production information. This highly productive blueberry farm is located in Sumter County, FL, just east of I-75. Good inter-connectivity for sending fruit to packing house as well as easy access to farm. ASKING PRICE: $450,000 HAW CREEK RANCH & TIMBERLAND, PRICE REDUCED - Flagler County-1200± Acres - Located in Flagler County, Florida, Middle Haw Creek Ranch and Timberland offers a variety of uses. Whether you are an avid outdoor enthusiast, a hunter, a cattle rancher, or a timber investor, this property offers it all. The property is located near large metropolitan areas and Florida’s east coast, making it easily accessible. The land can be described as "Old Florida" Pine Flatwoods with scattered cypress heads, oak hammocks and palmetto stands. This property is teeming with wildlife. Deer, turkey, hogs, and other Florida wildlife species call this property home. Hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities are readily available and ideal for this site.

BRING OFFERS!!! NOW $4200/acre or $5,040,000 - WAS $5,880,000 or $4,900/acre SPRINGWATER RANCH - PRICE REDUCED! Lake County - 1,241± Acres - This property offers the comforts of the country with proximity to major cities. Springwater Ranch is located roughly an hour northwest of Downtown Orlando and is just a short twenty minute drive north of Mount Dora, FL. The ranch is mostly improved pasture and boasts gorgeous elevation changes throughout the property. This property is a working cattle ranch but would double nicely as a sod operation.

THIS WON’T LAST! NOW: $5,584,500 or $4,500/ acre WAS: $6,205,000 or $5,000/acre

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TAX STATUS: Has not changed during the preceding 12 months COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS OF PUBLICATION TITLE: KNOWN OFFICE OF PUBLICATION: FloridAgriculture 5700 SW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608 PUBLICATION NUMBER: COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS 8868 OF HEADQUARTERS OF PUBLISHER: FILING DATE: Florida Farm Bureau Enterprise 08/30/2019 5700 SW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608 FULL NAMES & COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESSES ISSUE FREQUENCY: Monthly, Except Jan./Feb., April/May, Aug./Sept., Nov./Dec. OF PUBLISHER, EDITOR & MANAGING EDITOR: Florida Farm Bureau Enterprise NUMBER OF ISSUES PUBLISHED ANNUALLY: P.O. Box 147030, Gainesville, FL 32614 8 EDITOR: ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: G.B. Crawford $3 P.O. Box 147030, Gainesville, FL 32614 PUBLICATION TITLE: MANAGING EDITOR: FloridAgriculture Same as Editor ISSUE DATE FOR CIRCULATION DATA BELOW: OWNER: 08/08/2019 Florida Farm Bureau Enterprise P.O. Box 147030, Gainesville, FL 32614 # COPIES OF AVERAGE # KNOWN BONDHOLDERS, SINGLE ISSUE COPIES EACH MORTGAGEES OR SECURITY HOLDERS: PUBLISHED ISSUE DURING NEAREST TO PRECEDING None FILING DATE 12 MONTHS TOTAL # OF COPIES PAID/REQUESTED OUTSIDE-COUNTY MAIL TOTAL PAID AND/OR REQUESTED CIRCULATION FREE DISTRIBUTION OUTSIDE COUNTIES FREE DISTRIBUTION OUTSIDE MAIL TOTAL FREE DISTRIBUTION TOTAL DISTRIBUTION COPIES NOT DISTRIBUTED TOTAL PERCENT PAID AND/OR REQUESTED CIRCULATION

135,061 133,974 133,974 314 394 708 134,655 406 135,061 99.5%

132,900 131,697 131,697 299 394 1,693 132,392 508 132,900 99.5%

Florida Farm Bureau Federation Income and Expense Summary For the Fiscal Year 2018-2019 REVENUE 7,352,273 EXPENSE 6,953,120 OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) 399,154 OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) 2,121,042 INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE PROVISION FOR 2,520,196 INCOME TAXES AND OTHER CHANGES INCOME TAX (EXPENSE) 40,108 CHANGE IN NET ASSETS 2,560,304

Florida Farm Bureau Women’s Fund, Incorporated Statements of Revenues, Expenses and Changes in Fund Balance For the Twelve Months Ended June 30, 2019 REVENUE AND SUPPORT 195,142 EXPENSE 184,055 REVENUE AND SUPPORT IN EXCESS OF EXPENSE 11,087 FUND BALANCE AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 53,791 FUND BALANCE AT END OF THIS MONTH 64,878

Florida Farm Bureau Scholarship Fund, Incorporated Statement of Revenues, Expenses and Changes in Fund Balance For the Twelve Months Ended June 30, 2019

REVENUE AND SUPPORT 20,522 EXPENSE 93,629 TRADITIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS REVENUE AND SUPPORT IN EXCESS OF EXPENSE (482) FUND BALANCE AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 67,845 FUND BALANCE AT END OF THIS MONTH 67,363 TOBACCO SCHOLARSHIPS REVENUE AND SUPPORT IN EXCESS OF EXPENSE (72,625) FUND BALANCE AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 72,625 FUND BALANCE AT END OF THIS MONTH 0

(PHOTO COURTESY OF BUDDY FRANKS)

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