BRIDGES, EVANS INDUCTED TO GEORGIA AGRICULTURAL HALL OF FAME
A visionary leader in agricultural education and research and a stalwart agricultural industry supporter and business leader were inducted into the Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame on March 21 at the 69th University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) Alumni Association Awards and Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame Ceremony at The Classic Center in Athens.
The 2025 honorees are David Bridges, a former assistant dean for CAES at UGA’s Tifton campus, and Ralph Evans, a business and peanut industry leader whose family has been serving the agricultural community since 1922.
A legacy of agricultural education and rural advocacy
A former CAES assistant dean, David Bridges continues to advocate for rural communities as interim director of Georgia’s Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation.
Bridges, a native of rural Georgia, has dedicated his career to advancing agricultural education and research. His roots in Terrell County have profoundly influenced his life's work, instilling in him a deep commitment to rural communities and agricultural development.
Bridges' research, advocacy, leadership and program development have significantly impacted Georgia's agricultural landscape. His expertise in defending the safety and demand for Georgia peanuts earned him recognition from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Georgia Peanut Commission, which awarded him a Distinguished Service Award. His pioneering work on weed control in tobacco led to the registration of two novel herbicides for use in Georgia tobacco fields.
As the assistant dean for CAES on the UGA Tifton campus, Bridges was instrumental in establishing undergraduate degrees and increasing the number of graduate students in Tifton. He also oversaw construction of the C.M. Stripling Irrigation Research Park and the Tifton Campus Conference Center. He has served as a regulatory consultant to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In 1994, Bridges was appointed by thenPresident Bill Clinton to the Agriculture Board of the President's Council on Sustainable Development.
In 2006, Bridges became the 10th president of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. He -continued on next page April 3, 2025
Field Notes page 2 of 18
Continued from previous page transformed the institution from a two-year to a four-year college and enrollment in agricultural programs tripled to more than 1,500 students. Bridges is also an ABAC alumnus, earning an associate degree before earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Auburn University. As ABAC’s longest-serving president, Bridges oversaw significant renovations and new construction at ABAC, including facilities for agricultural technology, science, nursing and fine arts.
Today, Bridges continues to lead and advocate for rural communities as interim director of Georgia’s Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation, an organization created by legislation he helped craft in 2018. His vision and dedication remain focused on enhancing both quality of life and economic opportunities in Georgia's rural areas. Bridges and his wife, Kim, have two adult children and two grandchildren.
A lifetime of agricultural innovation and industry success
Since taking over R.W. Griffin Feed, Seed and Fertilizer in 1977, Ralph Evans has expanded it from a single location to a conglomerate of 42 companies.
Ralph Evans has played a significant role in advancing agriculture in Georgia through his leadership at R.W. Griffin, a company founded by his grandfather, Ralph Waldo Griffin, in 1922. Evans’ grandfather instilled a work ethic and passion for agriculture in him at an early age, recalled Evans, who helped measure garden seed for customers at his grandfather’s store before and after school as early as age 9.
After graduating from East Tennessee State University, Evans’ influence in the industry was felt early in his career as he was invited to join the board of the crop protection cooperative buying group, Chem Nut Inc., in 1983, joining its executive board in 1995. During his tenure, Chem Nut expanded to 40 states and more than 400 independent agricultural retailers.
Evans took a lead role in organizing Premium Peanut and serves on its board of directors. Premium Peanut has grown to 480 producer members, accounting for approximately 10% of the U.S. peanut crop, making Premium Peanut one of the largest shellers in the country.
After taking over the family business in 1977, Evans expanded it from a single location with 25 employees to a conglomerate of 42 companies with more than 500 employees.
This growth includes 21 agricultural retail stores, seven wholesale fertilizer terminals, two cotton gins, and four peanut buying points, making it one of the largest privately owned diversified agribusinesses in the Southeast. The R.W. Griffin family of companies services hundreds of thousands of acres of Georgia crops every year.
Under Evans’ guidance, R.W. Griffin has adapted to the evolving needs of Georgia's farmers, emphasizing principles of service, integrity, and mutually beneficial partnerships. This approach has nurtured loyalty among employees and farmers alike. Evans takes pride in the fact that all four of his adult children, as well as three nephews and two sons-in-law, have joined him in the family business.
Evans is also a founding board member of First National Bank of Coffee County, which has been a reliable source of financing for farmers in Coffee County and surrounding areas. -continued on next page
Field Notes page 3 of 18
Continued from previous page
Recognizing agricultural leaders for 50 years
Established in 1972, the Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame honors individuals making extraordinary contributions to agriculture and agribusiness industries in the state.
Inductees are nominated by members of the public and selected by the awards committee of the CAES Alumni Association. Those nominated must be of impeccable character, have outstanding leadership skills, have made noteworthy contributions to Georgia’s agricultural landscape, and have been recognized for achievements in agriculture and other areas.
Learn more about the Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame at http://caes.uga.edu/alumni/recognitions/ Visit http://caes.uga.edu/alumni to get involved with the CAES Alumni Association.
ABAC NAMES THORON DEAN OF AG SCHOOL
On March 21, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) announced that Dr. Andrew Thoron has been named the new dean of the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Thoron joined ABAC in January 2020 as the head of the Department of Agricultural Education and Communication.
“Dr. Thoron is an innovative leader who is well-respected by his colleagues both on campus and across the Southeast,” said ABAC President, Dr. Tracy Brundage. “His vision for the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources – which remains one of the most prestigious of its kind in the country – aligns perfectly with our college’s mission to provide the best possible experience for our students.”
Thoron, a native of Illinois, earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Illinois State University, and master’s and doctoral degrees in agricultural education and communication from the University of Florida. He previously served as an assistant professor at the University of Illinois. He also worked as an associate professor in the University of Florida’s Department of Agricultural Education & Communication from 2011 to 2019 before coming to ABAC.
“I’m honored and excited to serve as dean of the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources,” Thoron said. “Together, we will continue to foster a culture of excellence in teaching, community engagement, and industry partnerships, ensuring our students are job-ready and well-prepared to lead in the agriculture and natural resource industries.”
In the past five years, ABAC’s agricultural education program has ranked second nationally in the production of agriculture teachers. 85% of graduates have obtained teaching jobs, with 90% of those remaining in the profession three years later. The program has also been recognized as the nation’s top postsecondary program for its cooperation with state and national agriculture teacher organizations. Annually, students and faculty contribute over 10,000 volunteer hours to FFA Chapter events at local, state, and national levels.
ABAC’s Agricultural Communication students have secured jobs at major agricultural communication firms, earned internships, and gained recognition for their research contributions. Thoron and his wife, Ashley, have one son, Reiher. He will officially begin in his new role on May 1.
Field Notes page 4 of 18
GEORGIA COTTON COMMISSION PLEASED WITH REFERENDUM RESULTS
Every three years, pursuant to law, Georgia cotton producers vote on whether to continue the $1 per bale assessment that funds the Georgia Cotton Commission’s programs of research, promotion and education. The 2025 referendum period was February 10 through March 12. The Georgia Department of Agriculture recently recorded the votes, and the result shows 87.83% of voters favored the continuation.
Colquitt County cotton producer Bart Davis, who serves as chairman of the Georgia Cotton Commission, said “I am pleased that growers have faith in the Commission’s programs, even as cotton producers face generational, existential crisis. The members of the Commission will strive, and continue to push the industry, to find creative solutions to best do research, promote, and educate consumers and policy makers to the benefit of the cotton producers of this state.”
The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry, Georgia. The Commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the Commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about this and other topics please call 478-988-4235 or visit us on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.
GEORGIA PEANUT COMMISSION APPROVES $769,189 IN RESEARCH FUNDING
The Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) board of directors has approved $764,189 in research project funding for the 2025-26 research budget year. This action was taken during the commission’s March board meeting. The research projects approved include 40 project proposals submitted from the University of Georgia, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Kennesaw State University, North Carolina State University and the USDA Agricultural Research Service.
“As a peanut grower, I’m proud to invest in the Georgia Peanut Commission and in the future of the peanut industry by supporting research that continues to demonstrate a return on our investment,” said GPC Research Committee Chairman Donald Chase. “We are proud of our partnership with research institutions and look forward to seeing the results which will benefit farmers in the state and enhance the sustainability of our crop.”
Georgia’s peanut growers invest $2 per ton annually toward GPC programs which includes research, promotion and education. The research programs primarily focus on peanut breeding, conservation methods, irrigation and water management, as well as pests, weed and disease management. The GPC board of directors approved additional projects focusing on non-food uses of peanuts. The projects aim to provide a new opportunity for growth within the peanut industry. The new projects are looking at utilizing normal-oleic peanuts in poultry feed, an economic feasibility and performance evaluation of pasture-raised broiler chickens in peanut-based farming systems and converting peanut oil from a non-drying oil to a drying oil for timber oils and coatings.
Additionally, GPC manages funding for the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative which includes research funding of $1,460,202 for projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. These projects are funded through the National Peanut Board checkoff dollars from farmers.
For additional information and a complete list of the research projects funded by the Georgia Peanut Commission visit www.gapeanuts.com
VIDALIA ONIONS HEADED FOR STORES ON APRIL 15
Vidalia onion enthusiasts nationwide can mark their calendars for April 15, when these beloved sweet onions will start shipping to grocery stores, bringing a taste of Georgia's unique agricultural heritage to kitchens everywhere.
“I'm excited to announce, in coordination with the Vidalia Onion Committee, that April 15, 2025, is the official pack date for this year's Vidalia onion season,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “Georgia’s world-famous Vidalia onions are coming to a store near you very soon, and we are thrilled that chefs, home cooks, and consumers across the globe will soon be enjoying the incredible, sweet flavor of our Georgia Grown Vidalia onions.”
Vidalia onions, prized for their remarkable sweetness and versatility, are available for a limited time each year, from April through early September. Consumers eagerly anticipate the arrival of these seasonal favorites, which have become a staple in kitchens across America. The annual pack date is carefully determined based on soil and weather conditions during the growing season, ensuring that only the highest quality onions reach consumers.
This year, the Vidalia Onion Advisory Panel conducted an in-depth review and voted to recommend April 15 as the 2025 pack date, which Commissioner Harper subsequently approved.
Renowned for their sweet, crisp taste, Vidalia onions thrive in a unique growing region spanning 20 counties in South Georgia. Their exceptional flavor results from a delicate balance of specific weather patterns and soil conditions found exclusively in this area, creating an optimal environment for their growth.
“For the upcoming 2025 season, we have 10,000 acres of Vidalia onions planted in the production region,” noted Vidalia Onion Committee Chairman Cliff Riner. “Our farmers are dedicated to sustaining this tradition, and it's evident that consumer demand for Vidalia onions remains strong. We look forward to another successful season defined by quality and flavor.”
Vidalia onions are cultivated using time-honored agricultural methods. Farmers hand-plant, harvest, and cure these onions with exceptional care to ensure each onion meets the stringent quality standards that consumers expect. The Vidalia Onion Act of 1986 established the official growing region and trademarked the term “Vidalia onion,” ensuring that only onions grown within this designated area can bear the name. Each year, Vidalia onions are harvested and packed for sale only after the official pack date, guaranteeing peak freshness.
Vidalia onion growers have worked tirelessly to ensure a successful season, even after facing numerous weather challenges throughout the growing period.
“It was unexpected that our crop would endure a tropical storm, a hurricane, floods, and even six inches of snow but that is exactly what happened,” said VOC Executive Director Shane Curry. “Despite these unpredictable conditions, our crop has managed to withstand the challenges with only minor damage. We are eager to provide our consumers with the high-quality Vidalia onions they look forward to each year.”
As the countdown begins, consumers and retailers alike can prepare for the arrival of Vidalia onions, an ingredient that embodies the spirit of Georgia and elevates culinary experiences across the country. Whether sliced in salads, grilled as a side dish, or caramelized for a savory topping, Vidalia onions will surely add a touch of sweetness to meals all season long.
FARMERS COULD INCUR HIGHER SHIPPING COSTS WITH PROPOSED FEES
A proposal from the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to impose new fees on ocean carriers with ties to China could take a major toll on America’s farmers and ranchers, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) noted in analysis in its Market Intel. Two-thirds of all agriculture exports by volume are shipped overseas, and the cost of transporting them to international trading partners could increase dramatically.
In an effort to address China’s dominance in global shipbuilding and logistics, the Trump administration has proposed a series of fees targeting Chinese-operated vessels and Chinese-built vessels that access American ports. Individual fees would go as high as $1.5 million per port call. American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed the impact in the latest Market Intel report.
“Depending on [the fees applied], whether it’s the $1 million fee on Chinese-operated vessels, the $1.5 million fee on Chinese-built vessels, or both … bulk agricultural exporters could face an additional $372 million to $930 million in annual transportation costs,” the Market Intel states. “On a per-unit basis, these compounded fees translate to an increase of 9.5 to 27.8 cents per bushel of soybeans representing a substantial margin loss in global markets where competitiveness is often determined by mere pennies per bushel.”
Bulk agricultural exports, particularly grains and oilseeds, are especially vulnerable. In 2024, the U.S. exported over 106 million metric tons of bulk agricultural products. Important imports like fertilizer, machinery and specialty crop supplies would also be impacted if carriers pass fee increases on to the consumer.
“Farmers support the goals of creating a level playing field for trade and strengthening the nation’s supply chain,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Unfortunately, farmers may feel the brunt of increased costs in exporting their goods. They’ve lost money on almost all major crops for the past three years. Higher freight rates could make things even worse by reducing their competitiveness overseas.”
USTR also proposes to set minimum requirements for shipping on U.S.-flagged, U.S.-operated and U.S.-built vessels. China controls more than 5,500 commercial vessels used for trade, compared to around 100 for the United States. Building more American ships will be a challenge. There are far fewer U.S. shipyards than in Asia and American ships take longer to build – up to four years – compared to Asian shipyards where a ship can be built in as little as 12 months.
Read the full Market Intel here
Field Notes page 7 of 18
NASS REINSTATES SELECT DATA COLLECTION PROGRAMS AND REPORTS
The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is reinstating the July Cattle report and County Estimates for Crops and Livestock. The county estimate reinstatement is effective for row crops: corn, cotton, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans; and for these small grains: barley, oats, wheat.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall praised the decision to reinstate the July Cattle report and the County Estimates report.
“Both the July Cattle Report and County Estimates reports are crucial tools for farmers and ranchers to understand their markets and make business decisions. We’re grateful USDA made the correct call to restore these reports, after input from AFBF and many other agricultural organizations.
Following are scheduled release dates for NASS reports:
County Estimates – corn, sorghum, soybeans: May 6
County Estimates – cotton: May 12
County Estimates – cattle: May 13
County Estimates – rice, peanuts: May 23
July Cattle: July 25
No announcement has yet been made regarding the status of the July Cotton Objective Yield Survey.
“We encourage NASS to consider resuming the Cotton Objective Yield Survey as well,” Duvall said. “Cotton farmers have faced several years of challenges with prices well below break-even. While the County Estimates will certainly provide some additional useful information, there will be a gap during the pivotal summer and fall growing months.”
The full calendar of NASS reports is available at nass.usda.gov/Publications.
HUNTERS FOR HUNGRY ACCEPTING DEER TAKEN UNDER CROP DAMAGE PERMITS
Farmers who shoot deer eating their crops under a crop damage permit issued by the Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are encouraged to donate the deer to the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry (GHFTH) program. There are 23 participating deer processors across Georgia that farmers with crop damage permits may contact to coordinate dropping off or having the processor picking up deer harvested under the permit.
The venison will be donated to food banks in the farmer’s community to help fight food insecurity. Each donated pound of venison will provide four servings of protein.
Visit https://gwf.org/ghfth/ or call 770-787-7887 for more information about donating deer harvested under a crop damage permit to the Hunters for the Hungry program.
GHFTH, administered by the Georgia Wildlife Federation, has been operating since 1993 to provide high quality protein to those in need. During deer season, hunters donate deer they harvest to participating processors at no charge. The processor packages the venison by the pound and distributes the meat to the needy in their community. Processors work with foodbanks, civic or religious organizations to coordinate -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 8 of 18
Continued from previous page dispersal.
Last year, the General Assembly appropriated $300,000 to pay processors $2.50/lb to process deer with the goal of recruiting 50 processors statewide and distributing 120,000 pounds of venison during the 20242025 hunting season.
To find a deer processor participating in the GHFTH program, visit https://gwf.org/ghfth/ for an interactive map with all participating processors. The current list is also provided below. If you are a deer processor interested in participating, there’s an application link at the same website.
How to secure a crop damage permit
Farmers can secure crop damage/depredation permits from the Georgia (DNR) to harvest deer from spring through the growing season. Visit www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com to apply for a deer depredation permit in the licenses/permits section. Applications must be made online because applicants must pin the fields they will hunt using a GPS feature. Call 1-800-366-2661 to request help with navigating the online application.
Georgia Farm Bureau has worked with DNR to streamline the permitting process. Farmers can request permits before planting to begin managing nuisance as soon as crops are planted. Antlered deer can be added to permits upon request, and permittees can include up to six people to serve as assistants.
Visit https://gfb.ag/deercropdamagepermits to read more about crop damage permits.
Participating processors
BACON
CH Farm and Meats
1308 Ga Highway 32 E, Alma, Ga 31510 (912)-632-1943
Limited Hours; Call first
BANKS
Harris Meats 1554 McCoy Bridge Rd, Homer, Ga 30547 (678)-283-5791 Mon-Sat 8-6
CANDLER
Zerwig Processing 35978 County Rd 23N, Metter, Ga 30439 (912)-682-7256
Limited Hours; Call first -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 9 of 18
Continued from previous page
CHATHAM
Wise Brothers Processing and Taxidermy
326 Bush Rd, Savannah, Ga 31419 (912)-433-1340
24/7 By Appt
COFFEE
Kicks Meats
329 Green Lantern Rd, Nicholls, Ga 31554 (912)-345-0096
24/7 drop off and pickup service available
CRISP
Grinder's Deer Processing 2734 Hwy 41 South, Cordele, Ga 31015 (229)-938-3477
24/7 drop off; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
DODGE
J& A Deer Processing
5420 Rhine Hwy, Eastman Ga 31023 (478)-231-6349
24/7 drop off; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
EARLY
Henry's Deerhouse Processing 2588 Pritchett Rd, Jakin, Ga 39861 (850)-860-7880
Mon-Sat 7a-5p; Optional hours by Apt
FRANKLIN
Bond's Processing
3727 Goldmine Holly Springs Rd, Royston, Ga 30662 (706)-436-3335
Mon-Fri 8a-5p; Sat 8a-12p; Call first
-continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 10 of 18
Continued from previous page
GILMER
Tailscreek Processing LLC 34 Burgess Cir, Ellijay, Ga 30540 (706)-273-8928
24/7 drop off; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
HABERSHAM
Cypress Processing and Taxidermy 3147 Alto Mud Creek Rd, Cornelia, Ga 30531 (678)-343-3066 Mon-Fri 9a-5p
HANCOCK
Garner's Grinders 18630 Hwy 16, Sparta, Ga 31087 (770)-298-8884
Limited Hours; Call first
IRWIN
Ocilla Meat Market
509 E 4th St, Ocilla, Ga 31774 (229)-468-7808
Limited Hours; Call first
LAURENS
Ronnie's Deer Processing 1022 Jimmie Stevens Rd, Dublin, Ga 31021 (478)-595-2138
24/7 drop off; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
LAURENS
Trails End Deer Processing
915 South Poplar Springs Church Road, Dublin, Ga 31021 (478)-463-2837
24/7 drop off; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
-continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 11 of 18
Continued from previous page
LEE
Lee Processing 105 GA Hwy 377, Leesburg, Ga 31763 (229)-886-1847
Limited Hours; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
LUMPKIN
Rock Acres Deer Processing
349 Rock Acres Rd, Dahlonega, Ga 30533 (706)-300-7233
Limited Hours; Call first
MACON
Hale Processing 1616 Ga Hwy 90, Oglethorpe, Ga 31068 (478)-458-7961
Limited Hours; Call first
MADISON
Pocataligo Processing 2025 Wesley Chapel Rd, Danielsville, Ga 30633 (706)-540-5027
Limited Hours; Call first
NEWTON
Steve Bishop's Taxidermy & Deer Processing 35 West First St, Mansfield, Ga 30055 (770)-787-0840
Limited Hours; Call first
PULASKI
Harris Kuntry Meats
66 Cochran Hwy, Hawkinsville, Ga 31036 (478)-783-3276
Mon-Sat 7:30a-7p; Sun 1p-6p
-continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 12 of 18
Continued from previous page PUTNAM
The Meat Shed
235 New Phoenix Rd, Eatonton, Ga. 31024 (478)-258-0019
24/7 drop off; Call first (Min of 5 deer)
UPSON Circle E Ranch
151 Grays Chapel Rd, Yatesville, Ga 31097 (706)-472-3438
Limited Hours; Call first
USDA ANNOUNCES FPAC APPOINTMENTS
On March 21, the USDA announced key presidential appointments to the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area.
The FPAC mission area plays a vital role in delivering USDA programs directly to farmers and ranchers across the country, from disaster assistance and risk management to conservation efforts that protect and enhance working lands.
Appleton Appointed deputy Undersecretary for FPAC
Brooke Appleton served as Vice President of Public Policy for the National Corn Growers Association. In this role, Appleton led NCGA’s Washington, D.C., office, overseeing advocacy for policy effecting corn farmers across the country. Previously, Appleton served as chief of staff to the deputy secretary at USDA during the first Trump administration. Prior to her time at USDA, Appleton worked at the National Association and Wheat Growers and started her career on Capitol Hill working for U.S. Representative Sam Graves of Missouri. Appleton holds a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness management from the University of Missouri and was raised on her family’s rowcrop and cattle farm in Stanberry, Missouri.
Fisher Appointed FPAC chief of staff
Andrew Fisher served as a legislative assistant for U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and previously held the same position for U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO). He holds a bachelor’s degree in agriculture economics from the University of Missouri. Fisher grew up on a farrow-towean hog operation where he also assisted his grandfather with backgrounding cattle.
Bettencourt Appointed as NRCS chief
Aubrey Bettencourt is a prominent leader in agriculture, water, and sustainability, most recently serving as the global director of government relations and external affairs for Netafim. Her previous roles include serving as president and CEO of the Almond Alliance and deputy assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of the Interior in the first Trump administration. Her work -continued on next page
Field Notes page 13 of 18
Continued from previous page reflects a strong commitment to water policy, agricultural support, and sustainable practices, supported by her family’s farming roots in Kings County, California. Aubrey holds a degree in history from Westmont College.
Beam Appointed Farm Service Agency administrator
Bill Beam is from Elverson, Pennsylvania, where he owns and operates Beam Farms Inc. with his family. In addition to growing corn, soybeans, wheat and hay, Beam Farms has a sawdust and wood shavings business that serves the wood industry and agriculture throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding states. Bill has served on various boards and committees including the Pennsylvania Soybean Board, United Soybean Board, United States Soybean Export Council, Rural Investment to Protect Our Environment and Tel Hai Board. Bill formerly served as deputy administrator of farm programs for FSA in the first Trump administration.
Swanson Appointed RMA administrator
Pat Swanson has served as a director for the American Soybean Association (ASA) and completed her term on the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Board. Along with her husband, Don, Pat has experience running a crop insurance agency, helping farmers in southeastern Iowa manage risk through crop, forage, pasture and livestock insurance. Pat and her family run a seventh-generation farm near Ottumwa, Iowa. They raise soybeans, corn, and have a cow-calf operation. Pat is an alumna of Iowa State University and is passionate about advocating for farmers through her involvement with Iowa 4-H, CommonGround Iowa and her work with ASA.
Buckley appointed NRCS chief of staff
Colton Buckley served as the CEO of the National Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils. Previously, Colton was appointed to the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents by Governor Rick Perry. He is a proud alumnus of Turning Point USA. Colton holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural services and development from Tarleton State University, a master’s degree in communication from Liberty University, and was raised on his grandparents’ cattle ranch in Gatesville, Texas.
UGA REPORT: GEORGIA PORTS SUPPORT MORE THAN 600,000 JOBS
Port activity in Georgia now supports more than 600,000 full-time and part-time jobs across the Peach State, according to an economic impact study by the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. The statewide number is up 48,000 jobs or 8.6 percent compared to Fiscal Year 2021; the period covered by the previous study.
“This study confirms that our ports are invaluable economic drivers for the entire state,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Across industries and communities in every corner of Georgia, the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick – as well as our entire ports ecosystem – both directly and indirectly support tens of thousands of jobs and create opportunity all across the state while connecting manufacturers with markets all around the world.”
Georgia ports now help sustain 12% of total state employment, according to data announced by Georgia Ports Authority President and CEO Griff Lynch at the 2025 Savannah State of the Port -continued on next page
Field Notes page 14 of 18
Continued from previous page event on Feb. 25.
“Georgia’s deepwater ports support 609,197 full- and part-time jobs,” said Jeff Humphreys, director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth, who conducted the study. “This means that almost one job out of every eight is in some way dependent on the ports.”
Other statewide impacts include:
· $171 billion in sales for Georgia businesses (12 percent of state total)
· $72 billion in goods produced or services provided by port-supported industry each year (9 percent of total state GDP)
· $40 billion in income earned by Georgians annually (6 percent of Georgia’s total personal income)
The portion of statewide sales and state gross domestic product related to port trade have both grown by 22 percent compared to FY2021. Personal income earned by Georgians through portsupported business is up by 21 percent over the same period.
“These economic impacts demonstrate that continued emphasis on imports and exports through Georgia’s deepwater ports translates into jobs, higher incomes, greater production of goods and services, and revenue collections for government,” Humphreys reported. “Port operations help to preserve and expand Georgia’s manufacturing base, support Georgia’s agricultural economy, the forestry and mining industries, and the state’s logistics, distribution, and warehousing cluster.”
Internal GPA data show the top three export commodity groups for the study period were food, forest products and automotive cargo. The top imports were machinery, retail goods and furniture.
“As a national gateway for American farm and factory exports, Georgia’s ports link every major ocean carrier calling the U.S. East Coast with superior connections to road and rail,” Lynch said. “Businesses are drawn to GPA’s market by its growing workforce and logistical advantages. These factors, combined with Georgia Ports’ customer-focused service, contribute to job growth across the Peach State.”
Trade through Georgia’s ports also helps to support government services, yielding $10 billion in federal taxes, $2.8 billion in state taxes, and $2.5 billion in local taxes annually.
“The new report shows GPA is fulfilling its mission by positively impacting Georgia, well beyond our gates,” said GPA Board Chairman Kent Fountain. “There are direct benefits in terms of jobs and community opportunities in every county of Georgia.”
The UGA study, “The Economic Impact of Georgia’s Deepwater Ports on Georgia’s Economy in FY 2023” is the latest in a series of similar studies conducted by the Selig Center for Economic Growth. The comprehensive technical report may be viewed here Learn more about GPA’s county-by-county economic impact at gaports.com/more-impact.
Field Notes page 15 of 18
CROP AND DAIRY SAFETY NET PROGRAMS
April 15
ARC/PLC application deadline
The USDA Farm Service Agency is accepting applications for key safety-net programs –Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC). ARC and PLC provide financial protections to farmers from substantial drops in crop prices or revenues and are vital economic safety nets for most American farms. Producers should contact their local USDA Service Center for more information on these programs.
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
April 12, May 17, Sept. 20 & Oct. 25
Morgan Co. Ag Center Madison These shows are open to equestrians of all ages and experience levels. Classes include hunter/jumper, western, gaited, trail obstacles, ranch riding, ranch reining, dressage on the rail, halter/showmanship, “small fry” and more. All shows begin at 9 a.m. - rain or shine. Trail classes are from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. Western Classes not to start before lunch. Riders must be members of Kel-Mac to accrue points towards year-end awards. Age divisions for competition are as follows: Small Fry: 10 and under; Junior: under 14 years of age; Senior: 14 years and over. Novice: Rider is in 1st or 2nd year of showing Green Horse: Horse is in 1st or 2nd year of showing Entry fee per class is $12. Stall fees are $15 for club members & $20 nonmembers. All overnight stalls are $25. For more information about the shows, visit the KelMac Saddle Club Facebook page, or www.kel-mac.com or call Arlene Williams at 706-431-8600. Signup for shows on the website. General admission is free and concession food and drinks will be available. The Morgan County Ag Center is located at 2380 Athens Hwy (441), north of Madison. These volunteer-run shows generate funds to benefit Kel-Mac’s equestrian related charities. The Kel-Mac Saddle Club has donated more than $170,250 back to Georgia’s Piedmont region during its 49 years including: the Georgia Equine Rescue League, ReDux Equine Rescue, Sweet Olive Rescue, and the Morgan County Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund, and the equestrian facilities of state & county parks such as A. H. Stephens, Hard Labor Creek, and Heritage Park.
POND MANAGEMENT FIELD DAY
April 22
Blue Springs Hunting Club
9 a.m. – noon
Ringgold This free half-day event offers information about pond health, weed management, fish stock health and management, and more. The event includes lunch. To register, click here (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbuCshTTa_mi6Bum0dRbNsXllsLlVm8SW03m HLi_scdzkVkA/viewform?usp=sharing)
GFB Field Notes page 16 of 18
LEARN & BURN
April 30 McDuffie Public Fishing Area 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Dearing
Registration deadline is April 23
In this introductory level prescribed-fire workshop, attendees will participate in a live burn, learn prescribed burn techniques they can use on their own land, receive information about prescribed burn planning, burn permits, smoke management, fire weather, liability laws and financial resources, and more. Registration is $15 per participant and covers the cost of attendance and lunch. This will be an introductory level event, ideal for participants with little to no prescribed fire experience. Participants are required to sign a hold-harmless liability disclosure/waiver on the day of the event; must expect to be active part of the day walking on uneven ground and using/carrying tools; must wear natural fiber (cotton, linen, silk, wool) pants and shirts. Leather boots are preferred. Participants are encouraged to bring eye protection, leather gloves a bandana, a water bottle and sunscreen. To register, click here. For more information or if you need a special accommodation to attend this event, please contact (no less than 14 days prior to the event): Tony Kroeger, 912-381-2278, Anthony.Kroeger@dnr.ga.gov (https://events.pheasantsforever.org/events/894f7fd5-9611-46b0-8ad5-f413e9eab259)
GFB EXCELLENCE IN AGRICULTURE AWARD
April 30 deadline to apply
The Georgia Farm Bureau Excellence in Agriculture Award honors Young Farmers & Ranchers members who earn most of their income off the farm but are active in Farm Bureau and are ag advocates in their community. Contact your GFB district federation manager or your county Farm Bureau office manager for information to apply for this award. GFB district winners and three state finalists will be selected from the written applications. The three state finalists will be contacted by June 6 so they may prepare a presentation to be given at the GFB YF&R Summer Leadership Conference to be held July 16-19. The state winner will be announced at the summer conference. The state winner will receive an expense-paid trip to the 2026 American Farm Bureau Convention next January in Anaheim, California, to represent Georgia. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 and should not turn 36 before Jan. 12, 2026. Visit https://gfb.ag/yfrcompete for more information.
2025 GEORGIA FARM DOG CONTEST
May 1
Entry deadline
Do you have a special farm dog that herds or guards your livestock? Maybe it keeps you company as you do your daily chores and provides stress relief. Maybe it has done something heroic. Georgia Farm Bureau is accepting entries for its 2025 Georgia Farm Dog Contest until 10:59 p.m. on May 1 or until 200 entries are accepted. Contest is open to GFB members ages 18 and over. The grand prize winner will receive a $500 gift card and be recognized at the 2025 Sunbelt Ag Expo. For contest rules and the criteria dogs will be judged by, visit https://gfb.ag/25farmdogcontest. Special thanks to GFB Insurance and the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture for helping GFB sponsor the contest!
Field Notes page 17 of 18
GEORGIA CENTENNIAL FARM APPLICATIONS
May 1 deadline to apply
Centennial Farm applications are open to all qualifying candidates. Farms play a pivotal role in shaping the legacy of our state, serving as the bedrock for economic, cultural, and familial traditions for generations of Georgians. Several farms boast a legacy spanning more than a century, and Georgia recognizes their historical significance through the Georgia Centennial Farm program. Nominees must be a working farm with a minimum of 10 acres of the original purchase, actively involved in agricultural production, and must generate at least $1,000 in annual farmgenerated income. In addition, farms must have been continuously farmed by members of the same family for at least 100 years or be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Qualifying Georgia Centennial Farms are honored each October at an awards ceremony at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry. The Georgia Centennial Farm program is administered by the Historic Preservation Division of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs; Georgia Farm Bureau Federation; Georgia Department of Agriculture; Georgia EMC; Georgia National Fair and Agricenter; and University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. For more information, please contact Rose Mayo, Historic Preservation Division Outreach Coordinator, at 770-855-2586 or rose.mayo@dca.ga.gov The postmark deadline for applications is May 1, 2025. Applications are available online at https://gfb.ag/centennialfarmsapply (https://www.dca.ga.gov/georgia-historic-preservation-division/historicresources/centennialfarms)
UGA WARNELL SCHOOL OF FORESTRY BOBWHITE QUAIL SURVEY
The Martin GAME Lab at the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at UGA is looking for private landowners in Georgia to take part in a brief survey about their opinions on bobwhite quail management for a study titled “Bobwhite Restoration, Incentives, and Research.” The purpose of the study is to better understand landowners’ opinions on bobwhite quail management and cost-share programs landowners would enroll in to manage their properties for bobwhite quail. Visit https://ugeorgia.ca1.qualtrics.com/.../SV_3aRgLcUioS8uy0u to take the study. Thank you in advance for helping with in this study.
GEORGIA PIVOT SURVEY
A research team from the University of Georgia, University of Nebraska, University of Florida, Fort Valley State University, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, is conducting a survey to understand the recovery of farms following windstorms. Farmers are asked to participate. This survey asks about your farm, damage inflicted by recent hurricanes, and recovery since the hurricane. The survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete, depending on the types of structures on your farm and the damage the farm experienced. Questions 11-15 are voluntary, answer if you would like. Your participation is completely voluntary, and all responses will be kept confidential. To participate, visit https://forms.office.com/r/JZGAxfKfRG. For more information, contact Wes Porter at wporter@uga.edu, or Joshua Dawson at dawsonj01@fvsu.edu, or call 229-386-7328.
GFB Field Notes page 18 of 18
UGA CITRUS ORCHARD NUTRITIONAL SURVEY
For the past three growing seasons, the UGA Agricultural and Environmental Services Labs (AESL) has been conducting a foliar nutrient survey of Georgia's citrus industry with funding from the USDA and Georgia Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. One of the conditions of the project’s grant funding is that researchers seek stakeholder feedback on the effectiveness of the program, and how this work may influence future grower decisions. The project researchers ask that you please complete this short (7 questions, 3-5 minutes) Citrus Nutrition Questionnaire here. These results will help UGA researchers demonstrate the importance of this work to their sponsors, which increases the likelihood of future funding in this area. If you would like to learn more about this project and the results of the study, visit the project website.
PIEDMONT CONSERVATION DISTRICT FERAL SWINE CONTROL SERVICES
Ongoing
The Piedmont Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has acquired a trapping system to provide control services throughout Piedmont SWCD which includes Morgan, Greene, Taliaferro, Putnam, Hancock, Baldwin, and Jones Counties. If you are interested in feral swine control services, please contact the District’s Hog Control Custodian, Kris Pope at kmpope@bellsouth.net or 404-402-2207. More information can be found at www.gacd.us/piedmont.
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER FERAL HOG CONTROL SERVICES
For a list of feral hog control services available in each GACD Conservation District, visit https://gfb.ag/feralhoggacdresources.
GFB HAY DIRECTORY
GFB is accepting listings for its online hay directory. Farm Bureau members with hay for sale or who offer custom harvesting or custom sprigging services are invited to list their hay and/or services in the GFB Quality Hay Directory published on the GFB website. Hay for sale or services can be listed or removed from the directory throughout the year. To be included in GFB’s online hay directory, complete a submission form by visiting your county Farm Bureau office or online at www.gfb.ag/hay. Please include a $10 check made payable to Georgia Farm Bureau for each listing of hay, custom harvesting or custom sprigging. Multiple listings are allowed. Listings can be updated in the directory throughout the year as hay inventories change. Hay producers who entered the 2024 GFB Quality Hay Contest receive a free listing in the online GFB Hay Directory.
988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE OFFERS SUPPORT
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 or chatting on 988lifeline.org. 988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. You don’t have to be suicidal to reach out. 988 trained crisis counselors can help you through whatever mental health challenges you are experiencing.