May 7, 2026
U.S. HOUSE ADVANCES FARM BILL
On April 30, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Food, Farm and National Security Act of 2026 (FFNSA or H.R. 7567) by a 224-200 vote.
From the Georgia congressional delegation, Reps. Buddy Carter, Sanford Bishop, Rick Allen, Andrew Clyde, Mike Collins, Clay Fuller, Brian Jack, Rich McCormick and Austin Scott voted in favor of the bill, commonly referred to as the farm bill. The legislation would extend authorization of federal farm programs through 2031.
The FFNSA has gone the Senate to be considered. As of May 7, the Senate was still drafting its version with markup expected to happen by early June. Once the Senate passes its version, representatives of each chamber will meet in conference committee to negotiate the differences between the two bills. Then each chamber must pass the revised version before it goes to the president to be signed into law.
“Farmers and ranchers applaud the House of Representatives for passing a new, modernized farm bill. We appreciate Chairman G.T. Thompson’s leadership to get this done. After three years of extensions and eight years since a farm bill was passed, we’re grateful the House found a bipartisan path forward,” American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said. “Important updates to research and conservation, as well as increased loan limits and clarity on interstate commerce, will help farmers survive today’s challenges and give them the tools to thrive in the future.”
Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga. 8th Congressional District and member of the House Agriculture Committee) said the bill builds on provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill passed last year, noting that H.R. 7567 “completes the long-delayed Farm Bill process. This legislation modernizes trade and global food assistance, bolsters the future of American agriculture by improving access to farm credit, invests in broadband, childcare, health care, workforce needs, and critical water infrastructure projects that strengthen our rural communities and give them much-needed support for the years to come. This is a major win for America’s growers, ranchers, and all of rural America.”
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According to a summary from Rep. Allen, the bill includes measures to expand access to credit and risk management tools, addresses transparency in the nutrition title and prioritize domestic production of healthy fruits and vegetables.
FFNS would increase funding for export promotion programs, modernize rural development and energy programs, prioritize cutting-edge research, expands access to meat processing and codify key initiatives related to national security and foreign ownership of farmland. The bill would protect interstate commerce for livestock producers.
Notably, the bill would transfer authority for the Food for Peace Act from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to the USDA.
For a title-by-title summary from the House Ag Committee, click here. https://agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/final_ffns26_titlesummaries.pdf
FORMER HOUSE AG COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN DAVID SCOTT DIES AT 80
Rep. David Scott, who spent more than 50 years in elected office and served stints as chairman and ranking member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, died on April 22. He was 80.
Scott was campaigning for his 13th term in Congress at the time of his death. His legislative career dates back to 1974, when he was elected to the Georgia General Assembly. He served terms in both the state House and the state Senate. In 2002, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as congressman for Georgia's 13th Congressional District, a role he would hold with unwavering dedication for more than 20 years.
“Georgia Farm Bureau offers our deepest condolences to U.S. Rep. David Scott’s wife, Alfredia, their daughters and all family members, friends, and staffers. I had the pleasure of working with Rep. Scott in the Georgia General Assembly when I first began serving in the Georgia House in the mid-1990s. He worked tirelessly for his constituents then and after he was elected to represent Georgia’s 13th District in the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. “Georgia’s farmers appreciate the work Rep. Scott did as he served on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, especially when he chaired the committee from January 2021 through January 2023.”
In Congress, Scott distinguished himself as a powerful voice for farmers, working families, and underserved communities. He made history as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, where he advocated for rural development, food assistance programs, and long-overdue equity for minority farmers.
“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Representative David Scott. Throughout his five decades of public service at the state level and then in Congress, Representative Scott kept the well-being of others at the center of his efforts. I had the pleasure of getting to know David during his time in the Georgia Assembly, and our relationship grew during his tenures as the ranking member and chair of the House Agriculture Committee,” said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. “He was committed to improving conditions for America’s farmers and was willing to reach across the aisle to get the job done. My prayers are with his family during this difficult time, and for the communities he served.”
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One of the Congressman’s most proud accomplishments was the obtainment of $80 million in funding for scholarships at 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country through the Farm Bill. In March 2026, the House Committee on Agriculture renamed the scholarship program to “The David A. Scott Scholarship Program for Students at 1890 Institutions.”
This article includes excerpts from Scott’s obituary published by Willie Watkins Funeral Home.
GFA AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR AG STUDENTS
By Whitney Sangster
The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) is excited to announce the 27 students selected to receive $70,000 in scholarships for the 2026-2027 academic year. These awards support Georgia students pursuing degrees in agriculture, forestry, or family & consumer sciences at a University System of Georgia institution, Berry College, Emmanuel College, any accredited Georgia college or university with an ag program, or a Georgia accredited technical college.
“The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is proud to support these future leaders of agriculture,” said GFA Board Chairman and Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. “Each student has a unique ag experience they are bringing to their studies that span across a variety of vital sectors.”
The scholarships are awarded to graduating high school seniors, rising college juniors and seniors, students attending technical colleges, and UGA College of Veterinary Medicine students.
Recipients are listed below.
College Freshman Scholarship for Agriculture
Ten students entering college this fall at the University of Georgia (UGA), Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC), or Berry College were chosen to receive scholarships of $3,000 each: Adalynn Puckett, Crawford Co.; Aly Corzine, Houston Co.; Bailey Barnes, Houston Co.; Evan Hardeman, Montgomery Co.; James Wise, Tift Co.; Kory West, Bibb Co.; Alexis Williams, Barrow Co.; Peyton Hicks, Rabun Co.; Ryan Kelly, Wilcox Co.; and Sadie Beth Sell, Richmond Co. The top two candidates – Corzine and Hardeman – each received an additional $1,500.
These students plan to pursue degrees in ag education, ag mechanics & technology, avian biology, agribusiness, animal science, ag communications or ag engineering.
Technical College Scholarship for Ag
Aiden Cameron, Walton Co ; Ashlynn Dixon, Rabun Co ; Catherine Wells, Gordon Co ; Jackson Thrift, Ware Co ; Kaytlyn Crapps, Appling Co ; and Layla Jackson, Dawson Co were each selected to receive a $1,500 scholarship to attend Athens Technical College, North Georgia Technical College, Georgia Northwestern Technical College, Coastal Pines Technical College or Gwinnett Technical College. These students plan to pursue degrees in ag communications, agribusiness, welding & metal fabrication or veterinary technology.
Rising College JR/SR Scholarships for Ag
The foundation awarded eight $2,000 scholarships to these rising college juniors and seniors: Amelia Housley, Franklin Co.; Ashlyn Thompson, Seminole Co.; Breanna Harris, Effingham Co.; Katie Moncrief, Crawford Co.; Payne Murphree, Early Co.; Kyla Rhodes, Henry Co.; Mariann Dayment, Camden Co.; and Megan Jacobs, Jackson Co.
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These students attend UGA or ABAC and are studying ag education, ag communications, agribusiness, avian biology, animal science or livestock production.
Back to Farm Scholarship
Thanks to the generous support of Mac Peden, GFA awarded two $1,000 Back to Farm Scholarships to Amelia Housley, Franklin Co., and Riley Mitchell, Houston Co. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a strong commitment to returning to and serving rural communities.
UGA College of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
Katlyn Davis, of Effingham Co., and Olivia Spooner, of Early Co., each received a $5,000 scholarship to support their pursuit of careers in large animal veterinary medicine at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine.
USDA ISSUES SECOND SDRP PAYMENT, EXTENDS APPLICATION DEADLINE
On April 24, the USDA announced it is issuing a second Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) payment to eligible producers who have approved program applications for losses due to natural disasters in calendar years 2023 and 2024. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has already provided $6.7 billion in SDRP payments to eligible producers.
Additionally, USDA is extending the program deadline to give producers and FSA more time to address any program application changes that could impact payments. The original April 30 deadline has been extended to Aug. 12 for SDRP Stage 1 and Stage 2.
Initial SDRP payments were factored at 35%, but after further analysis, USDA is increasing the payment factor to 70%, meaning producers with approved applications will receive an additional 35% of their calculated SDRP payment. Future SDRP payments will also be made using a 70% payment factor.
SDRP Stage 1
The first stage, announced in July 2025, remains available to producers who received an indemnity under crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) for eligible crop losses due to qualifying 2023 and 2024 natural disaster events
SDRP Stage 2
Stage 2 of SDRP covers eligible crop, tree, bush and vine losses that were not covered under Stage 1 program provisions, including non-indemnified (shallow loss), uncovered and quality losses.
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 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.
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For more information on SDRP, please visit fsa.usda.gov/sdrp
GEORGIA AGRICULTURAL COMMODITY COMMISSIOINS SEEK NOMINATIONS
On May 5, the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) announced that thirteen of Georgia’s Agricultural Commodity Commissions are seeking nominations from producers to serve on their respective commissions. The commissions seeking nominations are apple, blueberry, citrus, corn, cotton, equine, milk, peach, pecan, soybean, tobacco, vegetable, and wine & grape. Nomination forms are available on the GDA website and will be accepted until June 1. Administered by the GDA, these commissions oversee farmer-funded programs dedicated to strengthening Georgia’s #1 industry through research, education and promotion of a number of Georgia Grown commodities.
“Georgia’s Agricultural Commodity Commissions play a vital role in the continued success of our state’s number one industry, and I want to encourage our producers to get involved by serving in these commissions,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “Your perspective and leadership are essential to maintaining the strength and future growth of Georgia agriculture.” Producers can nominate themselves, be nominated by others or receive a nomination from an affiliated organization for their commodity. Their role involves attending periodic meetings and making decisions on behalf of their peers. Commission members serve three-year terms, with the possibility of reappointment. They represent the interests of the commodity’s producers. The Commodity Commission Ex Officio Committee makes appointments to the commissions in August.
Commodity Commission Members with Expiring Terms:
• Apple Commission: David Lillard (Fannin County), Janice Smith Hale (Gilmer County), and Joshua Aaron (Gilmer County)
• Blueberry Commission: Shane Wade (Ware County), Steve Mullis (Bacon County), Kevin Eason (Bacon County)
• Citrus Commission: Jaime Patrick (Tift County) and Justin Jones (Lee County)
• Corn Commission: Rodney Harrell (Lee County), Jonathan Hitchcock (Washington County) and Wallace Anderson (Gilmer County)
• Cotton Commission: Chris Hopkins (Toombs County), Greg Sikes (Bulloch County) and John Ruark (Morgan County)
• Equine Commission: Ron Smith
• Milk Commission: Mark Rodgers (McDuffie County), James Coble (Burke County) and Pete Gelber (Macon County)
• Peach Commission: Tyler Wainwright (Houston County), Phillip Rigdon (Houston County) and Lee Dickey (Crawford County)
• Pecan Commission: R.G. Lamar (Richmond County) and Greg Leger (Crisp County)
• Soybean Commission: Greg Mims (Seminole County), Tony Smith (Baker County) and Mark Ariail (Franklin County)
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• Tobacco Commission: Carlos Vickers (Berrien County), Bo Corbett (Echols County), Brant Clifton (Bulloch County)
• Vegetable Commission: Glenn Heard (Decatur County) and Dick Minor (Sumter County)
• Wine and Grape Commission: Eric Seifarth (Towns County), Sam Zamarippa (Lumpkin County) and Chris Paulk (Irwin County)
Nomination forms are available on the GDA’s dedicated commodity commission webpage or can be requested via email. Completed forms should be submitted by email or mail to:
Georgia Dept of Agriculture
ATTN: Fred Rayfield
19 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SW.
Suite 324
Atlanta, GA 30334
For further information, please contact Fred Rayfield at 404-727-7899 or fred.rayfield@agr.georgia.gov.
RISK MANAGEMENT AGENCY CHANGES RAINFALL DATA SOURCE
On April 30, the USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) announced it is changing the source for rainfall data used in several federal crop insurance programs, moving from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) to the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). RMA will begin this transition with the Tropical Storm Option on the Hurricane Insurance Protection - Wind Index program on April 30.
This change will also affect Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF); Annual Forage (AF); Apiculture; and Shellfish insurance programs that use precipitation data to calculate coverage and indemnities. PRF, Apiculture, and Shellfish will transition on Aug. 31, with AF following on April 30, 2027. RMA will release corresponding producer tools and resources at each contract change date to help explain the new dataset. Producers should work with their crop insurance agent to review impacts on their coverage.
“These upgrades are about giving producers and their agents better tools to understand and trust the data behind their coverage,” said RMA Administrator Pat Swanson. “The coverage areas, the way these programs work and our commitment to actuarial soundness are not changing. What is changing is that producers and agents will now be able to look up the rainfall data themselves in a format they can use.”
The geographic grids used to measure rainfall and overall structure of the programs will remain the same. With this change, RMA anticipates that final grid index values and indemnity payments will be delivered faster. Historical data shows that overall loss ratios remain nearly identical under the new data source.
Producers and agents have raised concerns about the current data source. The transition to using NCEI data addresses those concerns in three key ways:
• NCEI data is available in formats like Microsoft Excel that anyone can open and read. The current CPC data is in a technical format that requires special software to view.
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• RMA is working with NCEI and state climatologists to review options on expanding the number of weather stations used in the data over time which was previously not an option with CPC.
• RMA has a formal agreement with NCEI that includes dedicated staff to respond to RMA questions, a consistent data release schedule, and a pathway to add more weather stations over time.
RMA secures the future of agriculture by providing risk management tools to rural America through federal crop insurance and risk management education programs. RMA provides policies for more than 130 crops and is constantly working to adjust and create new policies based on producer needs and feedback.
Contact a crop insurance agent to see how federal crop insurance can meet the specific needs of your operation. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available online at the RMA Agent Locator. [
Producers can learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at rma.usda.gov or by contacting their RMA Regional Office RMA’s Basics for Beginners provides information for those new to crop insurance.
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KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
May 9, Sept. 19 & Oct. 24 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 $10. Stall fees are $15 for club members & $20 nonmembers. All overnight stalls are $25. Each horse show is an “an all-breed show” which means there are a wide variety of disciplines offered in the more than 50 classes. The focus of the Kel-Mac shows is to include everyone and help participants become more comfortable with showing.
For more information about the shows, visit the KelMac Saddle Club Facebook or Instagram pages 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 50 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.
GFB COUNTY VOICES. CAPITOL CHOICES MEETINGS
May 11 Steed Dairy 10 a.m. - noon Grovetown Event location is 4634 Wrightsboro Rd Grovetown 30813
May 12 LCCL Strawberry Farm 10 a.m. - noon Rome Event location is 3743 Old Dalton Rd NE Rome 30165
Georgia Farm Bureau is holding a series of meetings statewide to give farmers a chance to hear from their state legislators regarding legislation passed during the 2026 Georgia Legislative Session. Farmers and members of Georgia’s ag community can share their legislative concerns. Both meetings start at 10 a.m. and are expected to end by noon. Register here
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BLUEBERRY BOOST ACCELERATOR SEEKS BLUEBERRY INNOVATORS
May 14 Information webinar https://info.venturefuel.net/blueberryboostaccelerator Applications are open now & will be reviewed on a rolling basis through June 12
The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) and VentureFuel are teaming up to support startup businesses that use blueberries as a key ingredient. The Blueberry Boost Accelerator is seeking startups of CPG products across a wide range of categories, including but not limited to: snacks, frozen, beverages (including alcoholic options), confectionery, personal care items (e.g., skincare, cosmetics), wellness/performance, ready-to-eat meals, sauces & dressings & pet products. Prospective applicants are invited to join a virtual information session on Thursday, May 14 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET to learn more about the program and the application process. Visit https://info.venturefuel.net/blueberryboostaccelerator to register for the webinar & learn more about the program. The eight-week hybrid accelerator will connect early-stage, revenuegenerating companies of products innovating with blueberries to leaders in the blueberry, food, food retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industries. The goal of the program is to fasttrack growth of potential products through expert mentorship, tailored commercialization support and strategic guidance. Participants will receive professional brand assets like video commercials and sales materials, media exposure, and connect with buyers, investors and innovation leaders. Startups will refine their pitch with 1:1 support and showcase their product at The Blueberry Convention, Sept. 22-25 in Monterey, Calif., where the grand prize winner will receive $20,000 and the runner-up will win $10,000. For more information or to apply, visit BlueberryBoostAccelerator.com. For more resources on using blueberries as an ingredient, visit Blueberry.org/foodservice
FARM SERVICE AGENCY DEADLINE TO REPORT BASE ACRE ALLOCATION
May 15
5 p.m. CT
On April 21, the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) sent notice to state and county offices that the data deadline for base acre reallocation is 5 p.m. CT May 15. One of the provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) signed into law July 4, 2025, was an additional 30 million base acre update to be allocated to farms based on their cropping history from 2019 through 2023 and a requirement that all owners be notified of their eligibility to receive additional base acres. Additional details and information, including timeline for acreage history, farm records, and state and county FSA office actions can be found in the Agency notice at https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Internet/FSA_Notice/arcpl125.pdf.
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NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION WORKSHOP
May 15
June 7-12
EXTENDED registration deadline
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton
The Natural Resources Conservation Workshop (NRCW) is available to Georgia’s Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. This workshop focuses on the value, protection, and conservation of Georgia’s wildlife, forestry, soil, and water resources, including conservation in Georgia’s mining industry. The workshop gives students a taste of college life while delivering valuable insight into careers through their counselors and instructors. The workshop features field trips, classroom instruction, and recreational activities. Students scoring well on the workshop exam may be awarded a college scholarship. A limited number of scholarships are awarded based on exam scores and specific scholarship guidelines and criteria. Sponsorships are available through local Soil and Water Conservation Districts for students to attend at no cost. Transportation options are also available. Registration is available through May 15 at https://gfb.ag/26NRCWapp
GEORGIA CORN COMMISSION REFERENDUM
Through May 15
The 1 cent ($0.01) per bushel assessment funds programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of Georgia corn. The balloting period for the continuation of the Georgia Marketing Order for Corn for an additional three-year period has been set from April 15 - May 15. All ballots must be postmarked prior to midnight May 15, to be eligible to be counted. For more information, or to receive a ballot, contact Fred Rayfield at 404-586-1405 or fred.rayfield@agr.georgia.gov
GFB YF&R SUMMER LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
July 15-18 Jekyll Island Convention Center Jekyll Island
June 1
Final registration deadline
Registration is open for the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Summer Leadership Conference and competitive events. Please share the following information with anyone who may be interested in attending or competing. This conference is open to any GFB member involved with Young Farmers & Ranchers, ages 18-35. A children’s program will be provided for kids 4th grade and younger as a convenience for attendees competing or participating in sessions. Visit https://gfb.ag/yfrslc for complete conference details, including tentative agenda, information about the children’s program and lodging information, or to register by one of these deadlines: Registration – Deadline: June 1 Registration Fee: $150 per attendee Attendees are responsible for their own hotel reservations. Room blocks have been secured at the Courtyard/Residence Inn (912635-2416, reservation deadline is June 150; Hampton Inn and Suites (912-635-3733, reservation deadline is June 15), Holiday Inn Resort (912-319-0037, reservation deadline is June 15), Villas by the Sea (912-635-2521, reservation deadline is June 15) and the Westin (912-6354545, reservation deadline is June 15) on Jekyll Island. Note: These room blocks tend to fill up quickly. For more information about the conference, contact Levi Davis at ledavis@gfb.org or 478-230-6767
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GFB YF&R DISCUSSION MEET
June 1
deadline for entries
Registration is open for the YF&R Discussion Meet. The entry form should be completed and submitted online at https://gfb.ag/yfrcompete by June 1. Please share this information with anyone who may be interested in competing. Also attached to this email are the questions that will be used in the 2026 Discussion Meet and a scoring rubric that can be used in preparation for the competition. Any Georgia Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers member is eligible to compete. Discussion Meet Orientation (for all competitors) will be on Wednesday afternoon, July 16 and the competition will be in person at the conference. The Discussion Meet consists of two (2) preliminary rounds, a Sweet Sixteen round, and a Final Four round, which will determine the state winner. A collegiate winner will also be recognized. Competitors can visit https://www.gfb.org/education-and-outreach/discussion-meet.cms for additional resources that may be helpful when preparing for the Discussion Meet. For questions regarding the Summer Leadership Conference or the competitive events, contact your district federation manager.
AFBF AG INNOVATION CHALLENGE
June 5 application deadline
The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is accepting online applications from entrepreneurs for the 2027 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge through June 5. Now in its 13th year, this national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities. The overall winner of the competition will receive $100,000 in startup funds, the runner-up will be awarded $25,000 and two additional business owners who advance to the final four round will receive $10,000. Farm Bureau is offering a total of $145,000 in startup funds throughout the course of the competition. After the application period closes on June 5, 10 semifinalist teams will be selected and announced on Sept. 2. Next, the 10 semi-finalist teams will pitch virtually to compete for a spot in the final four round of the contest. Examples of successful Ag Innovation Challenge participants, as well as detailed eligibility guidelines and the competition timeline, can be found at fb.org/challenge. Entrepreneurs must be members of a county or parish Farm Bureau within their state of residence to qualify as top 10 semi-finalists. Applicants who are not Farm Bureau members can visit www.fb.org/about/get-involved to learn about becoming a member. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on June 5.
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WOMEN IN AG EXPO “IN THE TRENCHES”
June 8-9
Oakhurst Farm Harris County
This conference will offer hands-on, out-in-the field sessions covering beekeeping basics, soil & tractor basics, livestock management, food safety & preservation, income diversification & more. Harris County Ag & Natural Resources Consultant Steve Morgan will provide the training. Registration will be from 8:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. on June 8 with sessions beginning promptly at 9 a.m. Registration is $100, which includes lunch & dinner on Monday. The Whistlin’ Pig will provide a BBQ lunch. The Harris County Cattlemen’s Association will serve a steak dinner. The Pachitla Creek Pickers will provide entertainment Monday night. Tuesday sessions will begin at 9 a.m. and end around lunch. Light snacks & water will be provided both days. Accomodations are available at the Hampton Inn in LaGrange & the Callaway Lodge in Pine Mountain. Participants must book their own rooms. Visit www.oakhurstfarms.com for more info & to register. For questions or more information, contact Steve Morgan at 706-628-7724 or smorgan@harriscountyga.gov
IRRIGATION WATER MANAGEMENT WORKSHOPS
June 9 Fulton Couty Extension Office Atlanta N Fulton Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road NE, Room 248, Atlanta, GA 30350. Phone: 404-613-5733.
July 14 Pickens County Extension Office Jasper 68 D.B. Carroll St., Jasper GA 30143 Phone: 706-253-8840
Aug. 26 Bacon County Extension Office Alma 203 South Dixon Street Ag Complex, Suite 3 Alma, GA 31510. Aug. 27 Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center Lyons 8163 Highway 178, Lyons, GA 30436. Online registration can be accessed at: https://tinyurl.com/cpycec3s. The workshops will explain the efficiencies of impact sprinklers, drip irrigation systems, how to develop an Irrigation Water Management Plan, and hands-on activities assembling basic irrigation systems. If you need an accommodation, please contact Gary Hawkins, at ghawkins@uga.edu or 706-542-7167. Please contact by 21 days prior to workshop date.
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GA/FL IRRIGATION EXPO
June 10 Vidalia Onion & Vegetable Research Center 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Lyons
The University of Georgia and the University of Florida Extension Services are partnering with Pine Country RC&D to host a new biannual agriculture expo focused on irrigation. This workshop will be geared toward small farmers and discuss how to develop irrigation plans and hands-on for basic irrigation systems. Topics will include landscape irrigation, drip irrigation, solid set irrigation and center pivots. Experience live demonstrations, including blue-dye tests, pivot uniformity, and micro-irrigation for freeze protection! More than 25 irrigation exhibitors will also be on-site, showcasing a wide range of irrigation products and knowledge. The Vidalia Onion & Vegetable Research Center is located at 8163 HWY 178, Lyons, GA 30436. To register, visit https://uga.questionpro.com/t/AdAoDZ8g81. For more information, contact Jason Mallard at irrigationexpo2026@gmail.com.
ENTER GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PHOTO CONTEST
June 12 photo contest entry deadline
The 2026 Georgia Farm Bureau Photo Contest is sponsored by the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Committee The contest is an opportunity for all GFB members to showcase agriculture and to encourage an appreciation of rural Georgia. This competition offers amateur photographers the chance to explore the many activities, seasons, triumphs, disappointments and faces of agriculture, our state’s key industry. The photos that win this competition will capture the image and spirit of agriculture and Farm Bureau in Georgia. The grand prize winner will receive $150 and have their photo featured on the cover of the 2027 YF&R calendar. Eleven honorable mention winners will each receive $75 and have their photos featured inside the 2027 YFR calendar. All photos must highlight Georgia agriculture and must have been taken in 2025 or 2026. An individual may enter up to three photos. Only photos of highest quality will be considered. All digital photos must be in a .jpeg format, must be horizontal and preferably be at least 1 MB in size. For complete rules and to enter the contest, visit https://gfb.ag/yfrphoto The deadline for entries is June 12. For more information, contact Haley Darby at hadarby@gfb.org.
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2026 AGAWARE FARM FINANCE TRAINING WORKSHOPS
June 12 Southeastern Technical College Swainsboro Register: AgSouthFC.com/AGAware
June 25 Athens-Clarke County Extension Office Athens Register: AgGeorgia.com/AGAware
All classes will be held from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. A free lunch will be provided. AgSouth Farm Credit and AgGeorgia Farm Credit are hosting these workshops designed to equip farmers with essential business and financial management skills needed to succeed. The training is open to anyone who wishes to develop a better understanding of how to run a successful farming operation of any type or size. 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, Farm Service Agency/Small Business Administration and other programs. AGAware is certified for participants to receive FSA Direct Borrower Training Credits in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. AgSouth Farm Credit created the national award-winning AGAware program in 2011 to ensure future farmers will be prepared and strong financially so they may continue doing what they love. More than 1,000 farmers in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina have graduated from the program. For other 2026 AGAware workshop opportunities in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina visit AgGeorgia.com and AgSouthFC.com For more information about AGAware, contact Heather Brannen at Heather.Brannen@AgSouthFC.com or Jessica Bassett at JBassett@AgGeorgia.com
AFBF WHITE-REINHARDT FUND FOR EDUCATION GRANTS
June 12 application deadline
The White-Reinhardt Fund for Education is a special funding opportunity from the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture (AFBFA) in cooperation with the American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee. It was established to honor two former chairs of that committee (Berta White and Linda Reinhardt, leaders in the national effort to improve agricultural literacy) by enlarging agricultural literacy efforts across the United States. The project grant is one of two components of the fund. Visit https://www.agfoundation.org/grants-awards/white-reinhardtgrants to apply.
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GEORGIA-FLORIDA TOBACCO TOUR
June 15-17 Various locations
This is a car caravan tour with individuals driving their own vehicle with tour stops at GeorgiaFlorida tobacco farms and on-farm demonstrations. Meals will be provided. Visit https://tobacco.caes.uga.edu/tours.html to see the initial tour schedule and to register. Please return to the site prior to the tour for more detailed information on the tour schedule and directions. Participants should make their own hotel reservations using the telephone numbers or links provided by June 1 with reference to the “GA-FL Tobacco Tour” block of rooms. Contact J. Michael Moore at jmmoore@uga.edu or 229-392-6424 for more info.
GEORGIA CENTENNIAL FARM APPLICATIONS
June 16 application deadline extended 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 family traditions for generations of Georgians. Georgia recognizes farms with a legacy spanning more than a century for 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 farm-generated 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 June 16. Applications are available online at https://gfb.ag/centuryfarmsapply
Field Notes page 16 of 23
SUNBELT EXPO AG INNOVATION AWARD
July 1 application deadline
The 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo brings back its Innovation Award for a second year, continuing to highlight new ideas and innovations in agriculture. Discover how to participate and showcase your agricultural innovation at the 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo. If your new product or service is innovative, time-saving, labor-saving, or will change the agricultural world, enter it in the Sunbelt Ag Expo’s Top-10 New Products Competition. Entries are evaluated by a panel of farmers, ranchers, agricultural business professionals, and university representatives to ensure that each product is new for 2026 and is innovative in its field.Key Dates: Application Closes: July 1; judging the week of: July 13; winners will be contacted by Aug. 5. Judging Criteria: Originality; innovation; practicalty; economy/affordability; overall quality. Additional information: There will be 10 winners. Only products released anywhere in the world between Oct. 17, 2025, and Oct. 16, 2026, are eligible for the competition The company applying for an Innovation Award must be an exhibitor at the 2026 Sunbelt Ag Expo. For competition details or to apply, visit https://sunbeltexpo.com/innovation-award/. For questions, contact the Sunbelt Ag Expo team at 229.958.1968 or email mandy@sunbeltexpo.com.
SOUTHEAST CATTLE CONFERENCE
Aug. 1 Georgia FFA Camp Old Dining Hall Covington July 18 RSVP deadline
The Southeast Cattle Conference, sponsored by the Georgia Hereford Association & formerly called Herefords in the Cove, will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, in Covington, Ga. at the FFA Camp in the old dining hall. Cost to attend is $25 for adults and $10 for kids under 10. Registration starts at 1:30 p.m. ET. Program starts at 2 p.m. ET. For more info call Wes Smith at 706-601-9527. Please RSVP to the Georgia Hereford Association Facebook page or call Smith by July 18. Program topics will include: Managing income tax in good & bad years presented by Kevin Burkett, Clemson University; Using Hereford genetics to increase profitability presented by Peyton Pruett of the American Hereford Assc. There will also be a panel discussion between the following cattle producers regarding how they decide to cull cows & the factors they use to choose a cow for their donor herd: Tommy Maples, Maples Stock Farm, Elkmont, Al; Steve Morgan, Oakhurst Farm, West Point, Ga.; & Breck Debnam, Innisfail Farm, Madison, Ga. Jenna Paulette of Texas will provide entertainment. There will also be a benefit auction and a dinner. Hotels to choose from in the Covington/Conyers area:
Hampton Inn
Courtyard by Marriott
Holiday Inn Express
678-212-2500
470-444-1470
866-245-4286
FFA Camp 770-786-6926
Field Notes page 17 of 23
GA COTTON COMMISSION MID-YEAR MEETING/PREHARVEST WORKSHOP
July 29 Nesmith-Lane Conference Center Statesboro
The Georgia Cotton Commission is pleased to announce the guest speakers at the Commission’s 2026 Mid-Year Meeting scheduled for July 29 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 2026 crop update and defoliation considerations along with discussions regarding late season irrigation and pest management strategies. The program speakers are Rusty Rumley, senior staff attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center, and Bev Sylvester, chief marketing officer at Cotton Incorporated. 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
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.
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.
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 is 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