FINAL BUDGET RECONCILIATION BILL GIVES CERTAINTY TO FARMERS
On July 3, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, commonly referred to as “One Big Beautiful Bill,” by a 218-214 vote. Major agricultural groups, including Farm Bureau, welcomed passage of the bill, which should benefit farmers. This followed the U.S. Senate passing the bill in a 51-50 vote July 1, with Vice President J D Vance casting the vote required to break the tie. President Donald Trump signed the bill into law July 4.
Georgia Republicans Rick Allen, Buddy Carter, Andrew Clyde, Mike Collins, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Brian Jack, Barry Loudermilk, Rich McCormick and Austin Scott voted in favor of the bill.
“Farm Bureau applauds the House and Senate for passing legislation that will bring certainty to America’s farmers and ranchers. Modernizing important farm safety net programs and making permanent critical tax provisions could be the difference between staying in business or shutting down the family farm,” said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. “More than half of farmers are losing money, so an increase in reference prices is desperately needed, and tax tools will help farmers and ranchers plan for the next season and the next generation.”
The National Cotton Council (NCC) called the bill a “major win for Georgia cotton growers,” and noted that the 2018 farm bill, under which U.S. farmers are still operating, is too out-of-date to address cotton growers’ concerns. The NCC praised Congress for including $67 billion in additional farm bill funding that “will bring the cotton safety net more in line with current production costs.
The NCC and the United States Peanut Federation (USPF) both pointed to the bill’s adjustments to commodity reference prices as positive moves.
For cotton, the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) seed reference price is increased from 36.7 cents per pound to 42 cents per pound, effective with the 2025 crop. At 42 cents per pound reference price would have triggered payments under the PLC plan in 32 of the last 35 crop years. The bill calls for increases in payments limits under PLC and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) to $155,000, indexed to inflation, and allows entities such as S-Corps and limited liability companies (LLCs) to -continued on next page July 9, 2025
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Continued from previous page be treated the same as general partnerships on how payment limits are structured.
The BBB also solves many of the problems arising from current enrollment restrictions applying to PLC, ARC, and the Stacked Income Protection Plan (STAX), which is a cotton-specific areawide insurance program. Right now, cotton growers are ineligible to purchase STAX if they are enrolled in either PLC or ARC. The BBB provides producers with better safety net options by (1) enhancing the Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) area-wide policy so that it functions more like STAX, and (2) continuing to allow growers to purchase SCO and enroll their seed cotton base acres in PLC.
The BBB also provides needed changes to the marketing loan program by increasing the cotton loan rate to $0.55 while modifying the Adjusted World Price (AWP) calculations in order to provide more opportunities for marketing loan gains or loss deficiency payments.
For peanuts, the bill increased reference price from $535 per ton to $630 per ton, also beginning with the 2025 crop year.
The bill provides an additional 30 million new base acres, beginning with the 2026 crop year and increases peanut marketing loan values from $355 per ton to $390 per ton, beginning with the 2026 crop year, while including a separate peanut payment limit set at $155,000 per entity.
The bill makes permanent provisions allowing 100% expensing and Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA)-based interest deductibility.
Permanent 100% expensing allows companies to immediately deduct the full cost of equipment purchases, rather than spreading deductions over years. According to the Equipment Leasing & Finance Association (ELFA), this boosts capital investment, accelerates innovation, and drives productivity especially in capital-intensive sectors that rely on financing.
Returning to the EBITDA-based interest deduction standard means businesses can deduct interest expenses based on earnings before depreciation and amortization providing a more generous and accurate measure of financial capacity, especially for capital-intensive industries. This change helps ensure companies can continue to access the financing they need to invest, grow, and compete.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) emphasized other tax provisions expected to help farmers:
• The death tax exemption is increased to $15 million per individual or $30 million per couple;
• The Section 199A Small Business tax deduction is made permanent at 20%;
• The Section 179 deduction will allow farmers and ranchers to deduct up to $2.5 million in qualified equipment expenses;
• The bill permanently extends itemized deductions for personal casualty losses resulting from federally declared disasters. This is an extension of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act that was enacted in December 2024.
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GEORGIA DNR INTRODUCES HOG DOWN AWARDS PROGRAM
On June 26, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the Hog Down Awards Program, an incentive-based effort to increase use of traps to remove sounders of hogs.
Feral hogs spread disease and cause extensive damage to wildlife habitat and agricultural crops. Trapping to remove large groups, especially groups of female hogs and their young, is the most efficient way to combat this destructive species, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division. The program gives participants opportunities to win a hog trap valued at approximately $3,500.
“If you talk to almost any landowner, regardless of acreage size, I bet they can tell you a story about the destructive nature of feral hogs on their property and how they regret not taking action sooner and more often against them,” said DNR Wildlife Resources Division Director Ted Will. “And, while hunting is an effective way to remove small numbers of hogs, whole sounder trapping is your best bet to make a dent in the actual population on your property. You can remove much greater numbers of animals at a time, and at less effort.”
Whole sounder trapping, the removal of an entire group, is the most efficient technique to remove hogs, but traps designed for this purpose require a significant upfront investment (up to $3,500 per trap or more).
To reward significant hog control efforts and arm individuals with better tools, the Georgia DNR has developed the Hog Down Awards Program. Through this pilot program, DNR will award 20 hog traps (5 traps each quarter) valued at approximately $3,500 to randomly selected participants who submit a successful entry. Rules and details are subject to change.
Some Basic Program Details:
• Participants must lawfully kill a minimum of 10 feral hogs during the quarter;
• Photos of hogs required for submission (photos must be taken with a smart phone or camera capable of including location and with time/date enabled);
• Random drawings for five traps will be held at the end of each quarter (July-September, October-December, January-March, April-June);
Only Georgia residents may enter.
Feral hogs are a non-native invasive species that can multiply faster than any other similarly sized mammal and cause an estimated $150M in damage to Georgia’s agriculture, forestry, and wildlife habitat annually. They can destroy a field overnight. They carry a number of diseases, which can spread to livestock, pets, wildlife, and humans. In addition to issues affecting personal property, feral hogs can devastate natural resources that are critical for native wildlife.
For full program rules and details and entry link, visit www.GeorgiaWildlife.com/HogDownAwardsProgram.
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GFB APPLAUDS SENIOR DIVISION CHAMPIONS OF STATE 4-H HORSE SHOW
By Jennifer Whittaker
Georgia 4-H’ers with a love of horses competed in the Georgia 4-H State Horse Show June 3-7 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry. Some 134 students in 4th through 12th grade registered for the 61st annual event first held in 1964.
Georgia Farm Bureau supported the show by providing Show Your Passion t-shirts for each participant and awarding belt buckles to the four 4-H’ers in the senior age bracket who won their category division to become a Master 4-H’er.
“Thanks to a recommendation by Georgia Farm Bureau’s Equine Advisory Committee and with the encouragement of Stephanie Branch, the 2024 GFB Women’s Leadership Committee chairman, our organization began supporting the Georgia 4-H State Horse Show this year,” GFB President Tom McCall said. “All of the 4-H’ers who participate in this show work long hours caring for and training their horses to compete in the style or styles of riding they choose to pursue, so we wanted to reward them with a t-shirt. Farm Bureau believes it’s important to recognize the champion division winners in the senior age category with belt buckles, so they’ll have a keepsake of the many years they spent participating in the 4-H Horse Project and working with their horses to win their respective divisions.”
Congratulations to Coffee County 4-H’er Andi Unger, Elbert County 4-H’er Bailee Seymour, and Thomas County 4-H’ers Emily McBrayer and Jenna McBee for being named the champions of the Stock Seat Division (Western), Contest Events Division (racing), Hunt Seat Division (English), and Ranch Horse Division (Western), respectively in the senior 4-H age category (9th12th grade).
In addition to the champion belt buckle courtesy of Georgia Farm Bureau, each division champion will receive a $500 scholarship redeemable upon completing a college semester courtesy of the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Equine, and a ribbon, medallion and customized stall bag paid for by the show entry fees. Each of the senior division champions also earned the status of being a Master 4-H’er.
No qualifying shows were required to compete, but participants had to be a 4-H’er and owned or have leased the horse they showed by March 1. All horse show exhibitors are required to take an online short answer test of 25 questions covering the Georgia 4-H State Horse Show Rulebook and general horse care. For senior 4-Hers, the quiz score counts 25% of the total points used to determine division champions; quiz points are added to the points an exhibitor earns from placings in three classes of their division. Test scores do not count toward the computation of championship points for the Cloverleaf or junior 4-H’ers but may be used as a tie breaker for division placings.
The senior 4-H’ers also had to complete the Novice Horseman 4-H Horse Project Manual by May 6, while Cloverleaf and junior 4-H’ers had to complete at least half of the manual. The Cloverleaf category is for 4th-6th graders with limited riding experience. The junior category is for 5th-6th graders with demonstrated riding skills and 7th-8th graders. Age eligibility is based on the grade a 4-H’er is in when they register for the show in the spring.
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Continued from previous page
Visit https://gfb.ag/4Hstatehorseshow for a list of all show winners and to learn more about the show.
Ranch Horse Division – Jenna McBee, Thomas County
Jenna McBee and her American Quarter Horse “Star of Texata” won the senior Ranch Horse Division. The general purpose of this division is to showcase a horse and rider team that can perform the type of work required on a working ranch. The division emphasizes function over flash, valuing versatility, responsiveness, and athletic ability in a horse that is useful for everyday ranch tasks, including working cattle.
The pair showed in the following classes of their division: Ground Handling, Working Ranch Rail, Ranch Riding, Ranch Reining, Ranch Trail, Working Cow Horse, Herd Work, Ranch Roping and Ranch Sorting. Eighteen high school students competed in the Ranch Horse Division. Rhonda Replogle from Florida judged the division.
“Tex is very athletic and has a lot of power, but he is fairly easy to work with and does not require a lot of training,” Jenna said of her partner. “When I found Tex, I was looking for a ‘stepup’ horse that could take me to a higher level. He has taught me to slow down and to trust him. He has also taught me to have a better seat.”
Jenna, who competed as a 10th grade Thomas County 4-H’er with Cindy Wynn as her 4-H agent, has been showing horses for six years. You could say showing horses is in Jenna’s DNA as her mom, Jodie, and her grandparents showed horses.
“I love all of the life lessons that come from showing horses,” Jenna said. “I also enjoy spending time with my horse show friends.”
The daughter of Patrick McBee and Jodie McBee of Quitman, Jenna will be a junior at Georgia Christian School this fall. In addition to showing horses, she has also shown hogs.
Hunt Seat Division Champion - Emily McBrayer, Thomas County
Emily McBrayer and her Quarter Pony “Timbukto” won the senior Hunt Seat Division. This division demonstrates a rider’s ability to effectively communicate with a well-trained, responsive and balanced horse while showcasing style, athleticism and safety while performing on the flat and over fences (jumps) in English tack.
This duo competed in the following classes: Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, 2’ Over Fences, 2’ Equitation Over Fences. Twenty-one high school students competed in the Hunt Seat Division. John Abbott from South Carolina judged the division.
Emily describes her horse, “Timmy” as being, “very easy to work with and easy to get ready for the show ring. I was looking for a horse to rebuild my confidence. It needed to be safe for 4-H but something that would also challenge me.”
Emily, who competed as a 12th grade Thomas County 4-H’er, has shown horses for nine years. Cindy Wynn is her 4-H agent. Emily started showing after being invited to a barn for a pony ride.
“My favorite thing about showing is the bonds I have made with the people I have shown with,” Emily said. “Something I’ve learned through showing is determination and letting bad times roll -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page off and focusing on the positive are vital to a good showing experience.”
The daughter of Shaun and Joanne McBrayer, Emily plans to attend Florida State University this fall.
Contest Events Division – Bailee Seymour, Elbert County
Bailee Seymour and Quarter Horse “KN Hugos for Cash” won the senior Contest Events Division. The purpose of this division is to showcase a horse and rider’s ability to complete timed patterns with speed, accuracy and control. Unlike other divisions that emphasize form or style, the Contest Events Division focuses on fast-paced performance, where the quickest run without knocking over a prop wins.
Bailee and “Hugo” won their division by riding in the Cone Weaving, Stakes Race, Pole Bending, Cloverleaf Barrels and Arena Race events Twenty-two 4-H’ers competed in the Contest Events Division. Sherri Hamilton of Georgia judged the division.
Hugo and Bailee met at the barn of riding instructor Janet Burton, who also taught Bailee’s mom, Beth.
“My mom showed with Janet when she was little. I have always loved horses since I was little, so my mom went to Janet’s barn and signed me up for lessons when I was seven, and I have stuck with it since then,” Bailee explained when asked how she got into showing horses.
After riding Hugo one time, Bailee said she fell in love with the horse.
“I begged Janet to let me train him on running patterns. She finally let me, and all my work is finally coming together with him. He wasn’t too difficult to train or get ready for the shows. It just took a lot of repetition and slow work to get him to understand his job. Then, he added speed the more confident he became,” Bailee said. “We have a really strong bond, and I couldn’t ask for a better horse.”
Bailee, who competed as an 11th grade Elbert County 4-H’er, has shown horses for 10 years. She has also shown goats. Lauren Dye is her 4-H agent.
“What I enjoy most about showing is when all my hard work comes together and I have a successful outcome. Because I have to go through a lot to get to where I want to be, it’s nice when it finally pays off. I also enjoy getting to be around the other showmen and their horses.”
The daughter of Beth Seymour and Stuart Seymour of Elberton, this fall Bailee will be a senior at Elbert County Comprehensive High School and taking classes at Athens Technical College. Stock Seat Division Champion – Andi Unger, Coffee County
Andi Unger and her Quarter Horse “Nothing Like It,” nicknamed “Murphy,” won the senior Stock Seat Division. In this division, riders demonstrate their horsemanship skills while emphasizing precision, control, and the harmony between horse and rider while exhibiting slow, collected and consistently cadenced gaits in Western tack. Fifteen high schoolers competed in the Stock Seat Division. Rhonda Replogle from Florida judged the division.
Andi and Murphy competed in the following classes of the division: Western Showmanship, Western Horsemanship, Western Pleasure, Trail and Western Riding. Each of these classes, except -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page for Western Pleasure, is a pattern class where the 4-H’er and horse must be accurate.
“I have had the pleasure of riding many great horses throughout my 11 years of experience. However, nothing has compared to the opportunities Murphy has provided me to learn, grow and excel,” Andi said of her horse. “He truly is my heart horse, and though our journey started off rocky at first, it has been nothing short of fulfilling.”
When she chose Murphy, Andi said she was looking for a well-rounded, but a Western-pleasure focused horse that she could depend on to carry her through the rest of her show years.
“When I first got him, there was definitely a learning curve. He wasn’t like any of the horses I had shown previously. It took a while before we grew accustomed to each other,” Andi said. “Over time, however, the challenges he presented me with helped me grow into a more confident rider.”
Andi began riding horses when she was seven, following her two older sisters into the sport. She started showing horses two years later and has continued for eight years.
She has been a Coffee County 4-H member for seven years. Madison Britt is her 4-H agent.
The daughter of Chad and Tracy Unger, of Douglas, Andi will be a senior at Coffee County High School this fall
Many thanks to Elbert County Extension Agent Lauren Dye, who contributed information for this article.
SMALL FARMERS HEAR ABOUT GOVT. PROGRAMS AT CONFERENCE
By Jay Stone
Small farmers from around the state visited UGA’s Griffin Campus on June 27 for the SmallScale Education and Conservation Conference, held jointly by the UGA Extension Center for Urban Agriculture and the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service.
The event included keynote addresses from State Conservationist Terrance Rudolph and new Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Duncan Johnson, as well as presentations from the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Division, UGA’s horticulture and entomology programs, as well as the UGA Product Innovation Center, and tours of projects on the Griffin campus.
Johnson gave a brief overview of what the FSA does.
“We give away money,” Johnson said. “I get to be Santa Claus all the time. Now I say we give it away, but the farmers earn it. They work for it and make sure our security is there and we can keep food growing and keep our lands available. Thanks to NRCS, we keep the land growing and producing so that we can keep all of us safe by having food to go with.”
Johnson talked about the FSA’s two main functions – farm loans and farm programs. Farm loans, he said, are for starting farms, operating expenses, buying new equipment and other purposes. Farm programs include crop insurance and subsidies, disaster assistance and others.
“We help you get your land ready again to plant so you can get back in there,” Johnson said. “There are crop losses due to unforeseen reasons, there are programs for that. Also, programs for -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page insurance and then programs to help you get everything done.”
Johnson thanked the small farmers for their work in their communities and encouraged them to get children involved.
“Thank you for looking and learning and growing,” he said. “We need it. It is very important. Take a kid with you, bring them in there and teach them. Grow them up, nurture them. We need more people and need it to last longer.”
Georgia State Conservationist Terrance Rudolph shared a generalized view of what his agency does. Whereas FSA focuses largely on the business side of farming, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) primarily provides technical support, Rudolph said, offering guidance on best management practices that can prevent degradation of soil, water and air or help restore them if a farmer runs into problems.
Rudolph covered two key NRCS programs – the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).
EQIP, which Rudolph referred to as the NRCS’ “mother ship” program, applies to a variety of natural resource concerns.
“That program addresses any and all resource concerns that you can think of,” Rudolph said. “Anything related to soil, water, air, plants, animals and sometimes humans. So if you have an issue, that is the purpose of that program.”
EQIP is a cost-share program that covers a standard 75% of the cost of installing conservation practices. In some circumstances, that NRCS portion of the cost share can be as high as 90%.”
CSP is the agency’s largest land program and is intended to reward stewardship practices farmers are using on their land.
“There are a lot of good programs the NRCS has to offer, but we’re a technical agency first,” Rudolph said.
Caroline Haney with the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Division reviewed the state’s produce safety program under the Produce Safety Rule (PSR), part of the Food Safety Modernization Act. She covered who the rule applies to, possible exemptions, what produce is covered and key Produce Safety Rule requirements.
The PSR could potentially apply to any fresh fruit or vegetable producer. Some produce is exempt:
• Produce that is not a raw agricultural commodity;
• Produce that the FDA has classified as “rarely consumed raw”;
• Produce from farms that have an average annual gross profit of $25,000 or less in produce sold during the previous three years;
• Food grains
• Produce grown for personal or on-farm consumption.
There is also a qualified exemption for farms with less than $500,000 per year in sales over the previous three years. The farms sales to qualified end users must exceed sales to all others combined. Farms with more than $500,000 in annual sales will have an initial inspection, with -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page follow-up inspections every three years.
Produce covered includes apples, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cantaloupes, citrus, cucumbers, grapes, green beans, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, onions, peaches, peas, peas, peppers, strawberries, summer squash, tomatoes, turnips and watermelons.
“Those are the things that people like to eat raw,” Haney said. “Those are considered produce or vegetables we would go out and inspect.”
Agricultural water is divided by how it is used: either pre-harvest/production water and postharvest water.
Pre-harvest water is water used in contact with produce during growth, including irrigation, fertigation, crop spays, cooling, frost protection, dust abatement and other uses where water directly contacts produce.
The PSR also has requirements for worker health and hygiene. Farm workers must have access to restrooms or portable toilets that are fully stocked and in working order. Farmers should ensure that their works know to put paper in the toilet rather than a trash can.
In addition to proper restroom use, Haney said workers should be trained on how to properly clean and sanitize equipment.
“When an inspector comes out to your field, they’re going to really focus on that, making sure that you have all the proper documentation for training your workers.
For information about the state’s produce safety program, visit http://agr.georgia.gov/producesafety.
GEORGIA DAIRY FARMERS APPROVE CONTINUING CHECKOFF
Georgia dairy farmers have overwhelmingly approved two statewide referendums to continue and expand funding for dairy education, marketing, and research. The Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Milk (GA ACCM) certified the results at its June 24 meeting in Perry, Georgia. These votes allow dairy producers to continue the 10 cents/cwt assessment for GA ACCM programs and introduce a new assessment up to 2.5 cents/cwt to support initiatives led by Georgia Milk Producers, Inc.
Producers voted 98% in favor of renewing the GA ACCM assessment, which funds the Georgia Mobile Dairy Classroom and marketing campaigns through The Dairy Alliance. In a second vote, 92% of producers supported the new assessment, enabling Georgia Milk Producers to host educational workshops, grow public awareness efforts, and organize the Georgia Dairy Conference, which is the Southeast’s largest dairy industry event. These programs help build producer knowledge, expand markets, and strengthen the future of Georgia’s dairy sector.
Georgia’s dairy industry contributes roughly $3.4 billion each year to Georgia’s economy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture ranks Georgia 1st in the Southeast United States in milk production and 22nd nationally. Since 2010, Georgia has boosted fluid milk output by nearly 40%, with dairy farmers earning recognition for their leadership in sustainability, cow comfort, and production efficiency.
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AFBF TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR VETERAN FARMER AWARD
The American Farm Bureau Federation, with support from Farm Credit, is seeking applicants for the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence. The award recognizes U.S. military veterans or service members for excellence in farming or agriculture and positively impacting local communities.
The honoree will receive a $10,000 cash prize plus reimbursement in travel and other expenses incurred for him/her and one guest to attend the American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California, Jan. 9-14, 2026.
“We’re proud to elevate and celebrate veterans for their service to our country and their involvement in agriculture and local communities,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We greatly appreciate the sacrifices of veterans and active service members so we can enjoy the freedoms we have in our country, and highlight their contributions to agriculture, too.”
Retired Army Col. Joe Ricker of Indiana was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence last year. Ricker started At Ease Orchard, a nonprofit that introduces veterans, first responders and their family members to beekeeping and other farm activities. He also founded Veterans IN Farming, which provides veterans in Indiana with training and support to succeed in farming.
Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence applications are due by 5 p.m. Eastern on Sept. 2. Applicants are not required to be Farm Bureau members. The national award recipient will be recognized by AFBF through various outlets and should be willing to share their story and represent the veteran farmer community. The recipient will be notified in mid-September, with the winner announced publicly on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Learn more and apply here
USDA ANNOUNCES PHASED REOPENING OF LIVESTOCK TRADE WITH MEXICO
NOTE: After publication of this article, the USDA announced the re-closure of the U.S. border with Mexico after a new presence of New World Screwworm closer to the U.S. border. The updated information can be found at https://gfb.ag/reclosedborder071025
On June 30, the USDA announced risk-based port re-openings for cattle, bison, and horses from Mexico beginning as early as July 7. The USDA, following extensive collaboration between Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) experts and their counterparts in Mexico to increase New World Screwworm (NWS) surveillance, detection, and eradication efforts, are set to begin a phased reopening of the southern ports starting with Douglas, Arizona.
Progress has been made in several critical areas since the ports were closed on May 11, including:
• Resolution of challenges with conducting flights in Mexico that has allowed the USDA to consistently conduct sterile NWS fly dispersal 7 days each week and dispersal of more than 100 million flies each week.
• Sending five teams of APHIS staff to visit/observe and gain a deeper understanding of Mexico’s NWS response and allow the opportunity to share their feedback. The USDA has not seen a notable increase in reported NWS cases in Mexico, nor any northward movement of NWS -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page over the past eight weeks.
“At USDA we are focused on fighting the New World Screwworm’s advancement in Mexico. We have made good progress with our counterparts in Mexico to increase vital pest surveillance efforts and have boosted sterile fly dispersal efforts. These quick actions have improved the conditions to allow the phased reopening of select ports on the Southern border to livestock trade,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. “We are continuing our posture of increased vigilance and will not rest until we are sure this devastating pest will not harm American ranchers.”
While the Douglas, Arizona, port presents the lowest risk based upon the geography of Sonora and a long history of effective collaboration between APHIS and Sonora on animal health issues, USDA intends to reopen additional ports in New Mexico, and if it is proven safe to do so, in Texas, over the coming weeks. Additional port openings will be based on APHIS’ continuous reevaluation of the number of cases and potential northward movement of NWS, Mexico’s continued efforts to curb illegal animal movements, and implementation of further rigorous inspection and treatment protocols.
Port Reopening Timeline
(After each reopening USDA will evaluate to ensure no adverse effects arise)
Douglas, AZ – July 7
Columbus, NM – July 14
Santa Teresa, NM – July 21
Del Rio, TX – August 18
Laredo, TX – September 15
USDA is working with Mexico’s National Department of Health, Food Safety and Food Quality (SENASICA) on outreach, education, and training efforts to raise awareness and put producers on high alert about NWS, along with utilizing their well-functioning central laboratory for diagnosing cases. While Mexico has made great progress on animal movement controls and surveillance, additional progress will help ensure the remaining U.S. ports reopen. Enhanced animal movement controls to stem illegal animal movements from the south, along with robust surveillance and NWS risk mitigations beyond check points will be critical in pushing back NWS. APHIS technical teams continue to engage with SENASICA to improve the overall NWS posture in Mexico and implement the rigorous steps needed to keep this pest away from our border.
Mexico will also begin renovation of its sterile fruit fly facility in Metapa this week, with renovation expected to be completed by July 2026. Renovation of this facility will allow for production of between 60-100 million sterile NWS flies each week. This is a critical step towards reaching the goal of producing the estimated 400-500 million flies each week needed to reestablish the NWS barrier at the Darien Gap.
To ensure that the U.S. safely proceeds with allowing for movement of animals across the border, only cattle and bison, born and raised in Sonora or Chihuahua, or that are treated according to cattle and bison NWS protocol when entering these states will be eligible for import.
See USDA APHIS | Importing Live Cattle and Bison From Mexico to the United States for -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page more information on cattle and bison import requirements. In addition, reopening the Del Rio (Aug. 18) and Colombia Bridge (Sept. 15) ports will be contingent on Coahuila and Nuevo Leon adopting the same NWS protocols for cattle and bison as those now required of Sonora and Chihuahua for cattle or bison entering those states.
Equine may import from anywhere in Mexico. They require a 7-day quarantine at the port of entry and must import in accordance with the equine NWS protocol and other requirements detailed on USDA APHIS | Import Horses from Mexico webpage. Approved equine facilities are available at the Santa Teresa, NM port and will be available for entry of horses when that port is reopened.
In May 2025, USDA suspended imports of live cattle, bison, and equine from Mexico into the United States due to the continued and rapid northward spread of NWS. During the weeks of June 2 and June 16, teams of APHIS experts conducted robust onsite assessments of Mexico’s NWS response efforts to fully reassess the risk of NWS incursions to the United States posed by importation of Mexican cattle across our southern border.
USDA EXPEDITES DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS
On July 9, the USDA announced that agricultural producers who suffered eligible crop losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can now apply for $16 billion in assistance through the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP).
To expedite the implementation of SDRP, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is delivering assistance in two stages. This first stage is open to producers with eligible crop losses that received assistance under crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program during 2023 and 2024. Stage One sign-up will start in person at FSA county offices on July 10 and prefilled applications were mailed to producers on July 9. SDRP Stage Two signups for eligible shallow or uncovered losses will begin in early fall.
USDA disaster assistance information can be found on farmers.gov, including the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, Loan Assistance Tool, and the FarmRaise online FSA education hub. Payment details will be updated here weekly. For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.
Program Details:
SDRP Stage One
FSA is launching a streamlined, pre-filled application process for eligible crop, tree, and vine losses by leveraging existing Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) and Risk Management Agency (RMA) indemnified loss data.
Eligibility
Eligible losses must be the result of natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2023 and/or 2024. These disasters include wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze (including a polar vortex), smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page drought, and related conditions.
To qualify for drought-related losses, the loss must have occurred in a county rated by the U.S. Drought Monitor as having a D2 (severe drought) for eight consecutive weeks, D3 (extreme drought), or greater intensity level during the applicable calendar year.
How to Apply
To apply for SDRP, producers must submit the FSA-526, Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) Stage One Application, in addition to having other forms on file with FSA.
SDRP Stage One Payment Calculation
Stage One payments are based on the SDRP adjusted NAP or Federal crop insurance coverage level the producer purchased for the crop. The net NAP or net federal crop insurance payments (NAP or crop insurance indemnities minus administrative fees and premiums) will be subtracted from the SDRP calculated payment amount.
For Stage One, the total SDRP payment to indemnified producers will not exceed 90% of the loss and an SDRP payment factor of 35% will be applied to all Stage One payments. If additional SDRP funds remain, FSA may issue a second payment.
Future Insurance Coverage Requirements
All producers who receive SDRP payments are required to purchase federal crop insurance or NAP coverage for the next two available crop years at the 60% coverage level or higher. Producers who fail to purchase crop insurance for the next two available crop years will be required to refund the SDRP payment, plus interest, to USDA.
SDRP Stage 2
FSA will announce additional SDRP assistance for uncovered losses, including nonindemnified shallow losses and quality losses and how to apply later this fall.
PEANUTS PROVIDE KEY PROTEIN FOR GLP-1 USERS
By The Peanut Institute
An increasing number of Americans are taking GLP-1 medications to combat obesity and type 2 diabetes, which are serious health issues. GLP-1s deliver a number of benefits, including reduced appetite, better weight management and improved blood sugar control. However, there can be significant side effects.
“While GLP-1s can promote weight loss, some research shows that up to 60% of the loss can come from lean mass rather than fat,” says Samara Sterling, Ph.D., a nutrition scientist and director of research for The Peanut Institute. “That’s why it’s vitally important for users to closely monitor their diet to ensure they’re eating enough nutrient-rich foods, including those that are healthy sources of protein. Specifically, protein supports tissues in the body, including muscles, bones, cartilage, skin and blood.”
That’s where peanut products come in. Peanuts and peanut butter can be a key dietary element for GLP-1 users because peanuts contain significant amounts of protein, fiber and healthy fats. -continued on next page
Field Notes page 14 of 25
Continued from previous page
Research suggests those three macronutrients can help support the body’s natural GLP-1 response. In addition, the Cleveland Clinic recently shared that “eating peanuts may help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid having obesity.”
Peanut Protein
According to the USDA Nutrient Database, a single serving of peanuts (about 1 ounce) has seven grams of protein, which is more than any other nut.
Another benefit of peanuts is that they are packed with 19 vitamins and minerals, including niacin, vitamin E and magnesium. In fact, peanuts provide 25% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of niacin, which aids skin and nerve function and the digestive system and protects against Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline.
On top of that, peanuts are an excellent source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports immune function and is a “hard-to-get” nutrient for men and women. In addition, per serving, peanuts deliver 12% of the RDA of magnesium, which has been found to aid blood sugar, heart rhythm, the immune system, blood pressure and even bones. Magnesium intake is also associated with reduced inflammation and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
Fulfilling Fiber Requirements
Unfortunately, most Americans only get about 15 grams of dietary fiber per day substantially less than the recommended amount of 22-34 grams. For those taking a GLP-1, fiber is important because constipation can be an uncomfortable side effect. Gradually increasing fiber intake can be helpful during and after GLP-1 therapy. Another positive is that fiber helps increase the feeling of being “full” and satisfied after a meal, and supports overall digestive health.
Fortunately, peanuts are a good source of fiber, providing nearly three grams per serving, which is similar to a 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa or a 1/4 cup of dates. Peanut skins also contain dietary fiber, along with other micronutrients that may help to support healthy gut bacteria, strengthen the immune system, regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation.
Peanut skins deliver other benefits. Roasted peanuts with skins have a higher antioxidant capacity than blueberries. Antioxidants have been shown to help prevent oxidative damage in the body that can lead to heart disease and cancer.
Heart-healthy Fats
GLP-1 medications work in part by slowing down how quickly the stomach empties. Eating high-fat meals (like fried foods or fast food) can slow it down further leading to uncomfortable side effects like nausea or bloating. Sticking with a moderate amount of healthy fats, like those in peanuts, olive oil and avocados, is less likely to upset digestion.
More than 80% of the fats in peanuts are from heart-healthy unsaturated fats. About 50% of that is monounsaturated fat, the same type found in avocado and olive oil, while 30% is polyunsaturated fat, which is important for the heart.
Because of this unique combination, the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans named nuts like peanuts as a key recommendation. Studies show that replacing saturated fats with -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 15 of 25
Continued from previous page monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can offer substantial benefits, including:
• A reduction in LDL or “bad” cholesterol that can lead to blocked arteries.
• A reduction in the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
• A reduction in the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.
For those who are taking GLP-1s and anyone who’d like to incorporate more protein, vitamins and minerals into their diet, The Peanut Institute has created a collection of tasty recipes for meals and snacks, including Chickpea and Peanut Falafel, Roasted Carrot and Peanut Soup and Spicy Peanut Hummus.
Looking for more ways to incorporate peanuts and peanut butter into your daily diet? Be sure to check out the Peanut Institute’s recipe collection including special sections for high-protein, high-fiber, and weight management.
Field Notes page 16 of 25
USDA ECP, EFRP ASSISTANCE
Aug. 4
extended application deadline
Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) provides cost-share and technical assistance to producers to restore farmland to pre-disaster conditions and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) provides financial cost-share and technical assistance to restore nonindustrial private forestland. The deadline to apply for assistance for both programs is now Aug. 4. Emergency Conservation Program - Approved ECP practices include: Debris removal from farmland; grading, shaping and releveling; permanent fence restoration; restoration of conservation practices; emergency soil erosion control measures; dairy relocation; field windbreaks and farmstead shelterbelt restoration. Approved ECP applicants can receive up to 75% of the cost of the approved restoration practice. Maximum cost share for ECP is $500,000 per natural disaster event. ECP cost share is authorized to: Provide advance payments for up to 25% of the total allowable cost for all ECP practices before the restoration is carried out. The cost-share payment must be spent within 60 days; llow producers who lease federally owned or managed lands, including tribal trust land, as well as state land, the opportunity to participate in ECP. Conservation concerns present on the land prior to the qualifying natural disaster event are not eligible for ECP assistance. Emergency Forest Restoration Program - Approved EFRP practices include: Debris removal, such as down or damaged trees, to establish a new stand or provide for natural regeneration; site preparation, planting materials and labor to replant forest stand; restoration of forestland roads, fire lanes, fuel breaks or erosion control structures; fencing, tree shelters and tree tubes to protect trees from wildlife damage; wildlife enhancement to provide cover openings and wildlife habitat. Assistance for EFRP is not provided up front. Cost-share is reimbursed for up to 75% of the lesser of the actual costs incurred or allowable cost after a restoration activity is complete. Maximum cost share for EFRP is $500,000 per natural disaster event. If an EFRP application is approved, the program participant is expected to perform restoration and conservation practices based on the FSA-848A Cost-Share Agreement and restoration plan provided. To participate in EFRP, eligible applicants must: Complete restoration to meet USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service conservation practice standards and specifications, or an associated and comparable state forest agency standard; and keep records of all costs incurred to complete the restoration activities, including costs associated with personal labor. To meet eligibility requirements, nonindustrial private forestland must have existing tree cover or had tree cover immediately before the natural disaster occurred and be sustainable for growing trees. The land must also be owned or leased by a nonindustrial private individual, group, association, corporation or other private legal entity that has definitive decision-making authority over the land. To expedite approvals of restoration work for ECP and EFRP, FSA has waived the onsite inspection for non-engineering ECP practices and for all EFRP forest types to remove hazard trees, surface debris and fence repair to expedite needs determinations and approvals of restoration work. Additionally, FSA waived the requirement for producers to obtain prior approval to conduct surface debris removal, fence repair and hazard tree removal (non-ground- disturbing activities) to support critical disaster recovery efforts. Producers should contact FSA with questions on eligibility, allowable activities and applying for ECP and EFRP assistance To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA
GFB Field Notes page 17 of 25
Service Center or visit farmers.gov/protection-recovery. USDA disaster assistance information can also be found on farmers.gov, including the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-ata-Glance fact sheet, and Farm Loan Discovery Tool. Additionally, FarmRaise partnered with FSA to launch an online education hub comprised of videos, tools and interactive resources, including farm loan information and Livestock Indemnity Program and Emergency Livestock Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program decision tools.
AGAWARE WORKSHOPS
July 10
July 29
Aug. 14
Gordon County Extension 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Calhoun
Douglas Atrium Event Center 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Douglas
Clemson Kresge Center 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Pendleton, S.C.
AgGeorgia Farm Credit and AgSouth Farm Credit have partnered to host two workshops in Georgia this year – Calhoun, GA and Douglas, GA. The classes are all free and held from 9a m –4 p.m. with lunch provided. The workshops are certified for FSA Direct Borrower Training Credits. The AGAware Workshops introduce farmers to a variety of financial related topics critical to running an operation. These topics include Balance Sheets, Income Statements, Family Finance & Family Budgeting, Risk Management, Accrual Income, Applying for Financing, Preparing a Business Plan, Technology & Record Keeping, FSA/SBA and Other Programs. Click here to register for the Calhoun workshop. Click here to register for the Douglas or Pendleton workshops. For more information, please contact Heather Brannen at heather.brannen@agsouthfc.com or call 844-AGSOUTH.
SOUTHEAST CITRUS UPDATE
July 14 Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center 9:30 a.m. Lyons
This free seminar will feature discussions on disease control, horticultural practices and citrus greening. Speakers include UGA Extension Citrus Specialist Dr. Mary Sutton, UGA Small Fruit Pathologist Dr. Jonathan Oliver, University of Florida Citrus and Subtropical Fruit Breeding Scientist Dr. Manjul Dutt and UGA Extension Citrus Agent Jake Price. Pesticide credits will be offered and lunch will be served. For more information or to RSVP, contact the Tattnall County Extension office at 912-557-6724 or the Evans County Extension office at 912-739-1292.
NORTHEAST GEORGIA AG UPDATE
July 15 Hart County Agriscience Center 6:30 p.m. Bowman
Anyone interested in agriculture is invited to attend this event to discuss community and legislative issues related to Northeast Georgia agriculture. Speakers will include Georgia House Agriculture Committee Chairman Robert Dickey, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Russ Goodman, Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall and GFB State Affairs Manager Adam Belflower. A free dinner will be provided. PLEASE RSVP to Brian Fleming at 706-436-3587 by evening of Friday, July 11 to ensure there is enough food. But come even if you forget to RSVP.
GFB Field Notes page 18 of 25
FSA ACREAGE REPORTING
July 15 next major deadline to complete reports
Agricultural producers in Georgia should make an appointment with their local FSA office to complete crop acreage reports before the applicable deadline after planting is complete. An acreage report documents a crop grown on a farm or ranch, its intended use, and location. Filing an accurate and timely acreage report for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage and prevented planted acreage, can prevent the loss of benefits. Acreage reporting dates vary by crop and by county. Producers should contact their local USDA Service Center for a list of acreage reporting deadlines by crop. The next major acreage reporting deadline is July 15, 2025, for corn, cotton, grain sorghum, peanuts, sesame, soybean, tobacco, and whole farm revenue protection.
SUNBELT AG EXPO INNOVATION AWARDS
July 15 application deadline
Do you have a new product or service that is innovative, timesaving, labor-saving or that will change the agricultural world? If so, enter it in Sunbelt Ag Expo’s Top 10 New Products competition. Entries must be for products released between Oct. 17, 2024-Oct. 16, 2025. Products or services will be judged for originality, innovativeness, practicality, affordability and overall appeal. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of farmers, ranchers, agricultural business professionals and university representatives. Apply at https://sunbeltexpo.com/innovation-award/. Winners will be contacted by August 5. The 10 winners must exhibit at the 2025 Sunbelt Ag Expo to be held Oct. 14-16 in Moultrie, Ga. If you have questions, email mandy@sunbeltexpo.com or call 229-985-1968.
26TH ANNUAL SOUTHERN PEANUT GROWERS CONFERENCE
July 23-25 Edgewater Beach Resort Panama City, Fla.
This three-day event provides farmers with information about peanut production, legislative issues, marketing and promotions. Visit www.southernpeanutfarmers.org for more info or to register.
GA COTTON COMMISSION MID-YEAR MEETING/PREHARVEST WORKSHOP
July 23 Nesmith-Lane Conference Center
Statesboro
The Georgia Cotton Commission is pleased to announce the guest speakers at the Commission’s 2024 Mid-Year Meeting scheduled for July 23 at the Nesmith-Lane Conference Center in Statesboro. The inaugural Mid-Year Meeting is held in conjunction with a UGA Cotton PreHarvest Workshop conducted by members of the UGA Research & Extension Cotton Team. The UGA Cotton Pre-Harvest Workshop will feature sessions where attendees will receive a 2025 crop update and defoliation considerations along with discussions regarding late season irrigation and pest management strategies. The program speakers are Akiko Inui, Board Chair of The Cotton Board, and Tas Smith, Vice President of Producer Affairs for the National Cotton Council. During the lunch program the Georgia Quality Cotton Awards for the 2025 crop will be presented. There is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested to help with meal plans. Register online at www.georgiacottoncommission.org
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GFB WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP DISTRICT MEETINGS
July 25 GFB District 4 Meeting Golden Harvest Urban Garden Augusta
Registration deadline is July 18. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register or visit https://gfb.ag/D4WomensMeeting
July 29 GFB District 6 Meeting Rocking A Farm Sandersville
Registration deadline is July 18. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register or visit www.gfb.ag/D6WomensMeeting .
Sept. 18 GFB District 2 Meeting Strickland Mercantile Danielsville
Registration deadline is August 28. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register or visit www.gfb.ag/D2WomensMeeting
Each Georgia Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee district chairwoman will host a district event from June into the fall. These meetings will feature a leadership development component while providing the opportunity to network with other women in agriculture from your GFB district in a special setting. If your GFB district meeting isn’t listed above, and you are interested in attending it, reach out to your county Farm Bureau office manager to ask them to share program details when they receive them and look for announcements on the Friends of Georgia Farm Bureau Facebook group page. For more information contact GFB Women’s Leadership Programs Coordinator Heather King at hcking@gfb.org or 478-474-0679, ext. 5232.
GEORGIA FORAGE AND GRASSLAND COUNCIL PASTURE WALK
July 29 Grove Creek Farm 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Crawford
This event, sponsored by the GFGC, NRCS, UGA Extension and the Rolling Hills RC&D Council, will address silvopasture establishment and management, measuring soil health and sustainable grazing practices. Registration is free and the deadline is July 25. To register, call Jeff Tumlin at 678-614-9484.
SOUTHEAST GEORGIA CATTLE UPDATE
July 31
Georgia Grown Innovation Center 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Metter
This event offers a great opportunity for cattle producers to gain valuable insights on forage management, breeding programs, nutrition, and equipment calibration while also networking with fellow farmers and Extension professionals. One hour of private and Category 21 Pesticide credits is available. To register or learn more, contact Evans County Extension (912-739-1292), Candler County Extension (912-685-2408) or Emanuel County Extension (478-237-1226). For accommodations or special assistance, please contact your local Extension office or email uge3107@uga.edu.
Field Notes page 20 of 25
SWEET CORN & PEPPER CROP INSURANCE
July 31 deadline to enroll/renew
The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia fresh market sweet corn and pepper growers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2026 crop year is July 31. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the July 31 sales closing date to do so. Federal crop insurance is critical to the farm safety net. It helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and strengthens the rural economy. Coverage is available for fresh market sweet corn in Colquitt, Decatur, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Tift, and Worth counties. Coverage is also available for peppers in Brooks, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Grady, Lowndes, Thomas, Tift, Ware, and Worth counties. Growers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2026 crop year. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available online using the RMA Agent Locator. Producers can use the RMA Cost Estimator to get a premium amount estimate of their insurance needs online. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at https://rma.usda.gov. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. The Georgia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company is now contracted with four companies – American Farm Bureau (AFBIS), Rain & Hail, Great American, and Sompo to offer crop insurance. GFB has over 70 experienced crop insurance agents (and growing) across the state to help their members protect their investment. Find your local agent and learn more at www.gfbinsurance.com or email crops@gfbinsurance.com for more details. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
GFB DISTRICT 9 YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS MEETING
Aug. 1 207 S. Dawson St. 31792
Courtyard Thomasville Downtown Farmers in Southwest Georgia’s Georgia Farm Bureau District 9 ages 18 through 35 are invited to attend this evening of fun networking with other young farmers. The program will cover how to use social media to highlight your farms or agribusinesses After dinner, you’re invited to attend the First Friday Concert at the Ritz Amphitheater to hear the Kason Sellers Band. Registration is $10/person. Kids are free. Please register by July 25 at https://gfb.ag/D9YFRMeeting
FSA COUNTY COMMITTEE ELECTIONS
Aug. 1 deadline to submit nominations
Nominations are now being accepted for farmers and ranchers to serve on local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committees. These committees make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. Elections for committee members will occur in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). LAAs are elective areas for FSA committees in a single county or multi-county jurisdiction and may include LAAs that are focused on an urban or suburban area. Producers interested in serving on the FSA county committee can locate their LAA through a geographic information system locator tool available at fsa.usda.gov/elections and determine if their LAA is up for election by contacting their local FSA office.
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AFBF COUNTY ACTIVITIES OF EXCELLENCE
Sept. 2 deadline to submit applications
The American Farm Bureau Federation is currently accepting applications for the County Activities of Excellence program. Up to 24 innovative county Farm Bureau activities from across the nation will be selected to display at the 2026 AFBF Convention and Trade Show. Multiple county Farm Bureaus working together to plan and carry out an activity may submit a joint CAE application. Sept. 2 at 5 p.m. Eastern is the deadline for counties to submit applications online for state CAE coordinator review. Additional information, including rules for submission and the application link, are available at www.fb.org/CAE. Each county Farm Bureau that wishes to apply must create a unique login. State CAE coordinators will be provided with a separate username and password to access the online system to approve applications submitted from their respective county Farm Bureaus. Winners will be announced the first week of October. Individual county and multicounty CAE winning entries will receive four complimentary registrations and a $4,500 cash award to be used toward travel and display costs to attend the 2026 AFBF Convention and Trade Show, Jan. 9-14, in Anaheim, California
HEREFORDS IN THE COVE
Aug. 2
Walker County Civic Center Rock Springs
Hereford producers are invited to attend this one-day event, which begins with registration at 1:30 p.m. Speakers will discuss the pending farm bill and its impact on where the cattle industry is in the cow cycle, the My Herd Record System, and using social media and webpages to promote your farm. The event will also include a junior program for young producers. Call Cody Cleveland at 229-402-0399 to register. The cost is $25/person and $10 for those under 10 years of age. For more information contact Wes Smith at 706-601-9527 or Charles Woodward at 678-725-2292. Contact Shelly McQuaig at 229-402-7232 for information about the junior program. The Walker County Civic Center is located at 10052 N Hwy. 27, Rock Springs, Ga. 30707. A room block has been arranged at the Hampton Inn Ringgold Fort Oglethorpe 6875 Battlefield Parkway, Ringgold, Ga. 30736. Call 706-935-4800 to make reservations by July 15 for the rate of $119/night plus tax.
GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF CONSERVATION DISTRICTSS ANNUAL MEETING
Aug. 17-19
Jekyll Island Club Resort Jekyll Island
The GACD Annual Meeting will offer breakout sessions and keynote speakers aimed at providing Conservation District Supervisors and partners with timely education and information. We also will recognize deserving individuals and Districts that have made exceptional contributions to sustaining and protecting our natural resources. Registration is $385 until July 24 and $425 after. The registration deadline is Aug. 7. To register, click here. For a tentative agenda and information about sponsorship opportunities, click here.
GFB Field Notes page 22 of 25
GEORGIA FOUNDATION FOR AGRICULTURE PICNIC ON THE FARM
Aug. 23 Mercier Orchards
1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Blue Ridge
The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture’s annual signature event, Picnic on the Farm, is back and bigger than ever! This year, the picnic is visiting apple country at Mercier Orchards! Picnic on the Farm is a “pop-up” event that explores a different aspect of Georgia agriculture throughout the state each year. The event will feature orchard tours, fresh fried pies, wine and cider tastings, youpick apples, a raffle and live music. All proceeds from the event will go directly to the GFA. The GFA is committed to preparing the next generation of Georgia agricultural leaders for success. We encourage you to bring your family along and make it a memorable day for everyone. General admission tickets are $75 and VIP tickets are $150. Sponsorships – which include tickets, food and more – start at $300. For more information, reservations and tickets, visit https://www.gafoundationag.org/picnic.
2025 AGROFORESTRY AND WILDLIFE FIELD DAY
Sept. 18 Westbrook Research Farm, UGA Griffin Campus 8 a.m. Griffin Land and pond management techniques, managing for wildlife, forest management, backyard wildlife and financial assistance for landowners are all subjects that will top the list at the 2025 Agroforestry and Wildlife Field Day This unique educational event features federal and state government agency officials and representatives of private businesses to provide management recommendations and demonstrate real-life techniques. Registration opens at 8 a.m., with topic discussions scheduled between 9:15 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. Attendees will shuttle between field day topic sites on foot or via tram and will receive a take-home booklet with in-depth topic and speaker information. Continuing Education Credits (CEU) will be available for several fields, including pesticide (several categories), forestry, loggers, arborist and wildlife. Registration is $35 and includes a full day of topics, an AgroForestry and Wildlife Field Day book, lunch and a Hat. After Aug. 21 cost increases to $40 and a hat is not guaranteed. To register, click here.
(https://estore.uga.edu/C27063_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=4247)
Field Notes page 23 of 25
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
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.
LALLEMAND ANIMAL NUTRITION SCHOLARSHIPS
Oct. 3 deadline to apply
Applications for the 2025 Lallemand Scholarship are open through Oct. 3. Interested students must be full-time students enrolled in agriculture-related programs at accredited institutions in the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Applications will be evaluated based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, commitment to the agricultural industry and an essay submission that highlights creativity, originality, and forward-thinking perspectives. There are five scholarship categories: Two $2,500 scholarships for undergraduate students; one $3,000 scholarship for a master’s student; one $3,000 scholarship for a doctoral candidate; and one $3,000 scholarship for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student. Learn more about eligibility and to apply by visiting the Lallemand Animal Nutrition website.
GFB Field Notes page 24 of 25
GEORGIA PSC ELECTIONS
General election Nov. 4
Georgia Farm Bureau’s I Farm. I Vote. campaign is encouraging members across the state to get out and vote in the 2025 Public Service Commission (PSC) elections. This year, there will be a statewide special election for the Georgia Public Service Commission District 2 and District 3. All Georgia voters are eligible to cast a ballot for both PSC seats, but the candidates for the two contested seats are required to live in their districts that cover metro Atlanta and east Georgia .The two seats up for election are from District 2 and District 3. District 2 consists of a large portion of East and Southeast Georgia, including Athens, Augusta, and Savannah, and is currently held by Commissioner Tim Echols. Running against Echols in the Republican primary is Tim Muns, and Alicia Johnson is running uncontested for the Democratic ticket. District 3, made up of Fulton, DeKalb, and Clayton counties, is currently held by Commissioner Fitz Johnson who was appointed by Gov. Brian Kemp to fill a vacant seat. Johnson is uncontested in the Republican primary, and Daniel Blackman, Peter Hubbard, Robert Jones, and Keisha Waites are running in the Democratic primary race.
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PB&J 5K
Nov 15 Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter 8 a.m. Perry
Sign up today for the 5K on Nov. 15 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds. The course is flat, fast, and completely paved perfect for all skill levels. When you register for $35, you'll receive a complimentary Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Membership. Already a member? Gift it to a friend! Enjoy a post-run grilled PB&J and peanut butter, compliments of Georgia Peanuts! Every registered runner will also receive a custom water bottle. If you’re bringing the family, be sure to check out the Georgia National Antique Agriculture Show for FREE a perfect way to step back in time and enjoy a look at the history of agriculture. Register at https://www.gfb.org/pb-and-j-5k. Members of GFB help protect consumers’ access to locally grown food and fiber and have access to 300,000+ member benefits and discounts. Visit https://www.gfb.org/join/member-benefits-directory to learn more about the health, travel, family entertainment, farm equipment and services and health discounts members can enjoy.
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.
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 Field Notes page 25 of 25
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.
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.