June 11, 2025
www.gfb.org
Vol. 7 No. 12
MICHAEL TOEWS OFFERS NEW VISION FOR UGA EXTENSION By Jordan Powers, UGA Two months into his tenure as associate dean for University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, Michael Toews’ focus has remained steadfast: UGA Extension is about people and trust. “As the flagship land-grant institution in the state of Georgia, everything we do should be focused on farmers, families and communities,” said Toews, who began the new role April 1. Since joining the Department of Entomology in the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in 2006, Toews has served as a researcher, instructor and Extension specialist. He succeeds Laura Perry Johnson as associate dean for Extension. He was appointed co-director of the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health before assuming the role of assistant dean of the UGA Tifton campus in 2020. “I’ve been working with Dr. Toews since I started here at CAES in 2021, and I’ve consistently found him to be a strong, thoughtful leader who has a real vision for where he wants to go with his teams,” said CAES Dean and Director Nick Place. “I feel confident that the same passion for excellence will follow him now as associate dean for Extension, and I’m excited to continue working with him in this new role. UGA Extension is poised to continue its record of meaningful impact under Dr. Toews’ leadership.” Serving Georgians from Atlanta to the Atlantic For 110 years, UGA Extension has provided reliable, research-based solutions to all of Georgia’s 159 counties. UGA Extension agents, who are experts in agriculture and natural resources, family and consumer sciences, and 4-H youth development, play a vital role in the university’s ability to fulfill the land-grant mission, giving residents of the state full access to cutting-edge research and evidence-based decision support. “UGA Extension is revered nationwide for our breadth of coverage, excellent workforce training, and partnership with schools and counties,” Toews said. “I look forward to continuing to develop relationships across the state in the coming months to better understand issues and opportunities in each county.” -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 2 of 27 Continued from previous page Toews’ vision focuses on ag innovation and a century-old legacy Toews is kicking off his new role with a listening tour across the state as he expands his vision for UGA Extension with an emphasis on serving Georgia’s diverse population — both urban and rural. “I have a passion for agriculture and the people of Georgia, and I’m looking forward to leading our Extension programs well into the future,” Toews said. “I see this as an opportunity to continue cementing UGA Extension as the flagship program nationwide.” Among his top goals for UGA Extension, Toews plans to address modernizing operations, streamlining reporting and maintaining a strong focus on county program delivery. He also aims to strengthen the connection between urban interests and agricultural career paths while encouraging both traditional and nontraditional scholarly work by Extension professionals. Learn more about UGA Extension at www.extension.uga.edu. Find local resources and personalized support through your Extension office at www.extension.uga.edu/county-offices. GEORGIA AG EXPERIENCE REACHES ALL 159 GEORGIA COUNTIES The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) is proud to announce a significant milestone: its Georgia Ag Experience (GAE) mobile classroom has officially visited all 159 counties in the state. This accomplishment was marked by the mobile classroom’s recent visit to Stewart County, completing a four-year journey that began in 2021. Since its launch, the Georgia Ag Experience has traveled more than 210,000 miles, reaching 51,741 students, engaging 2,542 teachers, and partnering with 1,270 volunteers to deliver agriculture education across Georgia. The mobile classroom, a 36-foot, custom-designed trailer, is an immersive, hands-on learning space focused on Georgia’s top commodities and agricultural careers. Its interactive stations and standards-based content are tailored for elementary students in third through fifth grade, making complex agricultural topics approachable and engaging. “The Georgia Ag Experience was created to ensure that every student in the state, regardless of geography, has the opportunity to learn about the importance of agriculture to their lives and their communities,” said Lily Baucom, executive director of the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture. “This milestone represents years of planning, dedication, and strong collaboration with local schools, volunteers, and county Farm Bureau offices.” The Georgia Ag Experience operates year-round, visiting public, private, and charter schools, as well as libraries, festivals, and community events across the state. Teachers or organizers who wish to request a visit for the 2025–2026 school year can do so through their county Farm Bureau office. Registration reopens in August 2025, and full details are available at www.georgiaagexperience.org.
GFB Field Notes page 3 of 27 USDA RELEASES $1 BILLION IN EMERGENCY LIVESTOCK RELIEF FUNDS On May 29, the USDA announced the release of congressionally mandated Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments to cover grazing losses due to eligible drought or wildfire events in 2023 and/or 2024. The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is leveraging existing Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) data to streamline payment calculations and expedite relief. Emergency relief payments are automatically issued for producers who have an approved LFP application on file for 2023 and/or 2024. The American Relief Act of 2025 provided funds for emergency relief payments. This program is the first of two programs authorized to assist with eligible losses suffered by livestock producers. FSA will announce additional ELRP assistance for other losses authorized by the act, including flooding, later this summer. ELRP Eligibility ELRP payment eligibility requires livestock producers to have suffered grazing losses in a county rated by the U.S. Drought Monitor as having a D2 (severe drought) for eight consecutive weeks or a D3 (extreme drought) or higher level of drought intensity during 2023, 2024 or both calendar years, and have applied and been approved for LFP. Additionally, producers whose permitted grazing on federally managed lands was reduced due to wildfire are also eligible for ELRP, if they applied and were approved for LFP in 2023, 2024 or both calendar years. To streamline and simplify the delivery of ELRP benefits, producers are not required to submit an application for payment; however, they must have the following forms on file with FSA: CCC-853, Livestock Forage Disaster Program Application Form AD-2047, Customer Data Worksheet. Form CCC-902, Farm Operating Plan for an individual or legal entity. Form CCC-901, Member Information for Legal Entities (if applicable). Form FSA-510, Request for an Exception to the $125,000 Payment Limitation for Certain Programs (if applicable). This form is required to be on file for both 2023 and 2024 to be eligible for the payment limitation exception. SF-3881, Direct Deposit. AD-1026, Highly Erodible Land Conservation (HELC) and Wetland Conservation (WC) Certification. Most producers, especially those who have previously participated in FSA programs, likely have these forms on file. However, those who are uncertain and want to confirm the status of their forms, can contact their local FSA county office. ELRP Payment Calculation To expedite payments to eligible livestock producers, determine eligibility, and calculate an ELRP payment, FSA uses livestock inventories and drought-affected forage acreage or restricted animal units and grazing days due to wildfire already reported by the producer on the CCC-853, -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 4 of 27 Continued from previous page Livestock Forage Disaster Program Application form, for 2023, 2024 or both calendar years. ELRP payments will be equal to the eligible livestock producer’s gross LFP calculated payment for the calendar year multiplied by an ELRP 2023 or 2024 payment factor to determine the total gross ELRP payments for 2023 and/or 2024. The initial payment factor for 2023 and 2024 ELRP payments is 35%. If additional funds remain, FSA may issue a second payment. Supplemental Disaster Assistance Timeline USDA is fully committed to expediting remaining disaster assistance provided by the American Relief Act, 2025. On May 7, USDA launched its 2023/2024 Supplemental Disaster Assistance public landing page where the status of USDA disaster assistance and block grant rollout timeline can be tracked. The page is updated regularly and accessible through fsa.usda.gov. The Act also authorized $10 billion in economic loss assistance to producers of covered commodities based on 2024 planted and prevented planted acres. To date, USDA has delivered more than $7.7 billion to producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP). The ECAP deadline is Aug. 15, 2025. Contact your local FSA county office for information. To learn more visit the ELRP website. GFC OFFERS SEASONAL PREDICTIONS FOR SOUTHERN PINE BEETLE The onset of summer brings along more insects - and some of them may be setting their sights on Georgia pines. Peak southern pine beetle (SPB) season has returned, and the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) is helping landowners confront the threat. One of the tools the agency uses is an annual prediction trapping program. It gauges expected statewide activity of the beetle, whose infestations can pose difficult and expensive problems for forest landowners. While some parts of Georgia struggled with SPB breakouts last year, the agency’s forest health team says this year’s report shows “no surprises.” “Georgia’s west-central region had a lot of activity last year, and it hasn’t slowed since,” said GFC Forest Health Coordinator Paul McDaniel. “The highest numbers of southern beetles trapped this spring were in Polk and Paulding Counties; Carroll and Dawson were close behind.” According to McDaniel, the 2025 survey is very similar to last year’s. Out of 50 traps placed in 50 counties for a six-week period, the west-central region showed the most SPB activity. The report says activity should be low in the southern region of Georgia, and moderate in remaining counties. While areas impacted by Hurricane Helene are also predicted to be low, another type of beetle could become an issue. The Ips beetle is a native beetle similar to SPB. “Ips beetle infestations are closely associated with storm damage, said Georgia Forestry Commission Forest Health Specialist Mark McClure. “We may experience an increase similar to what we saw following Hurricane Michael.” The SPB’s natural predator is the clerid beetle. Fortunately, McDaniel said the number of clerids -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 5 of 27 Continued from previous page trapped has risen since last year. That indicates a healthier natural balance for 2025. Southern pine beetles are native to Georgia and are considered the most destructive type of pine beetle. They can kill large numbers of healthy trees over many acres in a short period of time. The annual SPB prediction models help guide landowners in management decisions. Southern pine beetles are attracted to stressed trees and stands that are over-stocked or over-mature. Recommendations for healthy forests include techniques such as thinning, prescribed burning, and invasive species control. The Georgia Forestry Commission monitors locations of beetle spots throughout the year. Routine annual aerial surveys in summer 2025 will be conducted to document and notify landowners of pine beetle activity. Scheduled flights will take place across the state following predetermined flight lines. Aerial surveys can also be conducted by the GFC Air Operations Division during normal flights and any new possible infestations found from these flights will be investigated using ground surveys. All infestations will be reported to landowners, and GFC foresters will work with landowners to limit damage and control infestations. To read the full 2025 SPB Prediction Report, visit https://gatrees.org/resources/georgia-2025spb-prediction-trapping-results. To learn more about southern pine beetles and services of the GFC, visit https://GaTrees.org. AG STAKEHOLDERS DEMAND TRANSPARENCY ON WAGE DETERMINATION The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) and the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission (NCSC) have assembled a coalition of groups with the unified mission of filing a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the USDA seeking detailed information about how the USDA calculates the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR), which determines minimum wages under the H-2A agricultural guest-worker program. The coalition, which includes Georgia Farm Bureau, consists of 30 organizations from five states and two national organizations, representing a diverse collection of crops including eight advocacy groups. Backing this request is forthcoming research by Dr. Blake Brown, Hugh C. Kiger Professor Emeritus at North Carolina State University. Brown’s work is funded by the North Carolina Chamber & numerous grower organizations. His research indicates that the AEWR calculations have damaging consequences for farmers, consumers, and American workers. This research will be available in mid-June. The coalition warns that the USDA’s current AEWR methodology contributes to a selfcompounding wage inflation cycle, undermining the economic viability of U.S. agriculture. This poses growing risks to national food security, increases American dependence on imported food, and threatens the stability of rural communities across the country. “The current trajectory of AEWR increases is simply unsustainable for specialty crop growers in Georgia and across the Southeast,” said Chris Butts, executive vice president of GFVGA. -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 6 of 27 Continued from previous page “Without immediate legislative reform and greater transparency in how these wage rates are set, we risk losing farms, jobs, and our ability to feed the nation. We must act now to ensure a fair, data-driven wage process that protects both our farmworkers and the future of U.S. agriculture.” Additionally, data reflects that due to higher prices, American consumers are eating fewer fruits and vegetables, leading to increased healthcare costs because of a poorly balanced diet. Furthermore, the USDA provided data in 2023 that the United States is now a net importer of food. While this contributes to several problems for our country, most alarmingly it leaves the U.S. even more vulnerable and exposed when it comes to national security. “The sharp increase in AEWR rates is putting North Carolina sweet potato farms – and the entire state’s agricultural economy – at risk,” said Michelle Grainger, executive director of NCSC. “Sweet potatoes are a labor-intensive crop and due to skin sensitivity, sweet potatoes must be hand harvested. As labor costs surge beyond inflation, many growers are facing reduced access to essential workers, threatening a substantial reduction in acres produced, timely harvests and ultimately leading to significant revenue losses. If left unaddressed, this wage pressure could push more farms out of business, weaken our rural communities, and undermine the sustainability of North Carolina's vital produce sector while also further distancing consumers from the producers and their healthy crops that aid in an affordable and nutritionally balanced diet.” Each participating organization is engaging its stakeholders, press contacts, and state congressional delegations to advocate for an accountable, fair, and economically sustainable wagesetting process that promotes the sustainability and future of American agriculture. The coalition is encouraging organizations and stakeholders who are facing similar undue burdens from rapidly rising AEWR rates to consider sharing their experiences and concerns with local and state representatives. A unified understanding of the impact across agricultural sectors will help inform a more balanced and transparent wage-setting process, one that supports both the fair treatment of farmworkers and the continued viability of U.S. farms. Addressing this issue collaboratively is essential to sustaining rural economies, safeguarding national food security, and ensuring the long-term health of American agriculture. The 30 organizations that formed the coalition are Alabama Farmers Federation, Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Alabama Nursery and Landscape Association, Blue Ridge Apple Growers Association, Georgia Agribusiness Council, Georgia Berry Exchange, Georgia Farm Bureau, Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association, Georgia Green Industry Association, Georgia Peach Council, Georgia Pecan Growers Association, Georgia Watermelon Association, International Fresh Produce Association, National Council of Agricultural Employers, North Carolina Apple Growers Association, North Carolina Chamber, North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, North Carolina Farm Bureau, North Carolina Growers Association, North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, North Carolina Strawberry Association, North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission, North Carolina Tomato Growers Association, North Carolina Vegetable Growers Association, North Carolina Watermelon -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 7 of 27 Continued from previous page Association, Michigan Asparagus Association, South Carolina Farm Bureau, South Carolina Peach Council, South Carolina Small Fruit Growers Association, Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina. HOUSE BILL ADDS $56.6 BILLION TO FARM PROGRAMS By American Farm Bureau economists Daniel Munch & Samantha Ayoub The House of Representatives’ advancement of H.R.1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” marks a significant step toward restoring longer-term certainty for farmers and ranchers after a series of short-term extensions of the 2018 farm bill. Reconciliation is a special legislative process that allows certain budget-related bills to pass with a simple majority in the Senate, bypassing the filibuster, making it a powerful tool for enacting key priorities. The bill combines several Farm Bureau-supported provisions, across commodity programs and tax policy, into one comprehensive package. The bill comes amid continued debate over farm policy and persistent challenges in farm country, such as volatile markets, high production costs and weather disasters. While H.R.1 extends critical programs through 2031 and includes fresh investments in agriculture, the Senate is not required to take up the House version and may modify it significantly. As that process unfolds, farmers and ranchers are watching closely, urging lawmakers to retain and strengthen provisions that provide meaningful support for agriculture. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the House-passed version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act would increase agriculture-facing programs spending by $56.6 billion over the next decade (fiscal years 2025–2034). Of the total increase, $52.3 billion is tied to enhancements in the farm safety net, such as higher reference prices under Price Loss Coverage (PLC), adjusted formulas for Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and expanded crop insurance support. The remaining $4.3 billion includes investments in trade promotion, rural school funding, livestock biosecurity, research and energy programs. One Big Beautiful Bill Act – Digging into the Details Farm Bill Provisions (Title I, Subtitle B – Investment in Rural America): H.R.1 includes a broad reauthorization of the farm bill’s non-discretionary spending provisions, updating and funding many core agriculture titles through 2031. Important provisions include: Safety Net (Commodity Programs and Crop Insurance): extension of key commodity support programs – including PLC, ARC, marketing assistance loans and Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) – through the 2031 crop year, avoiding any lapse into outdated “permanent” farm law. The bill raises statutory reference prices (price guarantees) for major covered commodities by 11-21%. Additionally, H.R.1 introduces a reference price escalator mechanism beginning in the 2031 crop year, which increases reference prices by 0.5% annually on a compounded basis. This increase is capped at 115% of the original statutory value, allowing modest growth to reflect longer-term market trends while avoiding unchecked program expansion. To provide a voluntary opportunity for base acreage alignment, the bill permits farmers to add -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 8 of 27 Continued from previous page up to 30 million new base acres, offering greater eligibility for commodity support while avoiding mandatory reallocations. The bill also raises marketing assistance loan rates for commodities – enhancing cash flow support during low-price environments. H.R.1 updates the ARC program by adjusting the revenue guarantee and payment cap beginning in 2025 — increasing the coverage threshold to 90% of benchmark revenue and increasing the payment cap from 10% to 12.5% — to better target support during deeper revenue losses. For dairy producers, the bill enhances the DMC program by increasing Tier I coverage eligibility from 5 million to 6 million pounds per farm. Farms can also use the highest production year from 2021 to 2023 as a new enrollment baseline. Those who commit to multiyear DMC coverage receive a 25% discount on premiums, encouraging long-term participation. Crop insurance remains a cornerstone of the farm safety net. The bill increases premium support for beginning farmers and authorizes a new pilot insurance product for poultry growers to address risks related to market volatility of inputs such as natural gas and electricity, and adverse weather or animal health occurrences. Additionally, the definition of a "beginning farmer or rancher" is expanded from five to 10 years to align with USDA’s definition, allowing more producers to qualify for premium assistance over a longer period. The premium subsidy for beginning farmers is increased to 15 percentage points above the standard rate for the first two crop years, and 10 percentage points for crop years three through 10. Together, these updates aim to strengthen the agricultural safety net and provide producers with tools to manage both market- and weather-related risks through 2031. Conservation Programs: The bill continues long-term funding authority for USDA’s major conservation programs, including the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) through fiscal year 2031. While these levels exceed those provided under the 2018 farm bill, they primarily reflect the redirection of Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding into the permanent farm bill baseline rather than new program expansions. These updates are reflected in amendments to Section 1241(a) of the Food Security Act of 1985, which establish higher annual funding levels than those provided under the 2018 farm bill. Although this shift reinforces long-term baseline investments in working land conservation, the bill does not retain all IRA-funded initiatives. For example, it rescinds $450 million in unobligated IRA funds that had been allocated for competitive forestry grants to non-federal landowners. According to the Congressional Budget Office, these adjustments collectively result in a net reduction of $1.8 billion in conservation spending over the next decade. The bill also renews smaller initiatives that were not funded in the last farm bill extension. This includes the Grassroots Source Water Protection program, which safeguards well water, and the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive program, which rewards farmers for opening land to hunting and recreation. In addition, the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program, a vital initiative to combat over $1.6 billion in annual damages caused by invasive wild pigs, is -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 9 of 27 Continued from previous page extended with new funding through 2031. Trade Promotion: An earlier draft of H.R.1 would have increased funding for USDA’s core trade promotion programs — including the Market Access Program (MAP), Foreign Market Development (FMD), Emerging Markets Program and Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops through 2031. However, due to jurisdictional constraints in the reconciliation process, the proposed investment was restructured into a new Agricultural Trade Promotion and Facilitation Program. This new initiative maintains a similar purpose and function to MAP and FMD and provides $285 million annually in permanent mandatory funding through a separate account. Because the bill does not modify or replace MAP or FMD, which are typically funded at $200 million and $34.5 million per year, respectively, the new program effectively doubles USDA’s total trade promotion capacity. Research and Innovation: H.R.1 maintains support for USDA research agencies and landgrant universities, providing targeted investments across agricultural research programs. For example, it allocates $175 million starting in fiscal year 2026 to the Specialty Crop Research Initiative, more than doubling current funding levels, to advance research in pest control, crop breeding and mechanization for high-value crops. The bill also expands scholarship support for 1890 Land-Grant Universities, which serve historically Black institutions with agricultural programs. Mandatory funding that will eventually total $200 million a year is directed to competitive grants aimed at modernizing research infrastructure at aging facilities nationwide. These new investments are intended to strengthen agricultural innovation capacity through improved labs, updated technologies and science-driven approaches to production challenges. Rural Development, Forestry and Schools: H.R.1 extends the Secure Rural Schools program through 2026, providing critical funding to counties with national forest lands for rural education, roads and emergency services. This continuation is especially important for timber-dependent communities in the West, where local tax bases are limited by federal land ownership. Energy Programs: Under the bill’s energy title extensions, USDA’s farm energy and biofuel programs are reauthorized through 2031 to spur renewable energy innovation in rural America. This includes the Biobased Markets Program (BioPreferred), which promotes biobased (plantderived) products through federal procurement and labeling and the Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, which provides payments to producers of biodiesel, cellulosic ethanol and other next-generation fuels. The bill’s tax title also extends the 45Z clean fuel tax credit to 2031 while providing additional flexibilities in the emission scores for feedstocks. The 45Z update also includes limiting eligible feedstocks to those produced in the U.S., Mexico or Canada, preventing the import of other feedstocks for use in the program. By extending these programs, H.R.1 encourages the growing market for domestic farm-derived renewable energy, supporting corn ethanol, soybean biodiesel and emerging fuels from agricultural residues like animal manures which could now be eligible for the 45Z tax credit. Specialty Crops, Horticulture and Organics: The bill delivers tailored support for specialty -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 10 of 27 Continued from previous page crop growers (fruit, vegetable, nut and nursery crop farmers) and the organic sector. It increases funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program – grants to state ag departments that enhance the competitiveness of local specialty crop industries – starting in 2026, with guaranteed annual funding thereafter. Additional resources are devoted to combating plant pests and diseases: H.R.1 boosts the Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program to better shield growers from invasive threats (for example, citrus greening and spotted lanternfly). For organic agriculture, the bill reauthorizes programs that provide organic market data, technology upgrades for tracking organic imports and cost-share assistance to farmers transitioning to organic certification. Miscellaneous and Livestock Provisions: H.R.1 addresses a grab-bag of important programs that don’t neatly fit into a farm bill title but matter on the ground. A major highlight is animal agriculture health: the bill injects significant new funding into the three-pronged National Animal Disease Preparedness, Detection and Vaccine Bank programs. Starting in 2026, USDA must spend $233 million per year on animal disease prevention and response, a seven-fold increase over previous levels. This means more resources to stockpile vaccines, bolster veterinary diagnostics and train state responders – a timely investment to protect livestock farmers from devastating outbreaks. This increases resources to counter significant threats like foot-and-mouth disease, highly pathogenic avian influenza and screwworm. As poultry producers in multiple states have learned the hard way, an outbreak of avian influenza can decimate flocks overnight. Similarly, a single case of foot-and-mouth disease in U.S. livestock could halt billions in exports. Ensuring veterinary readiness is a direct line of defense against these market shocks. The bill also directs USDA to conduct a mandatory biennial cost survey of dairy processors to assess the actual manufacturing costs of converting raw milk into cheese, butter and nonfat dry milk — products used to set Class III and IV milk prices under the Federal Milk Marketing Orders. Developed with direct input from Farm Bureau, this provision ensures that future cost of processing updates are based on consistent, up-to-date data, a long-standing request from dairy farmers seeking fairer and more transparent pricing formulas. The bill extends USDA’s Livestock Indemnity Program and other disaster assistance programs, originally made permanent in the 2014 farm bill, ensuring ranchers continue to receive support for losses caused by extreme weather, predators and other eligible events, while expanding support to indemnify for the full value of gestating livestock. It also expands funding for the Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program through 2026 to support innovation and marketing efforts in the sheep and lamb industry. Several previously expired or “orphaned” programs are revived and funded through 2031, including the Pima Cotton Trust Fund and Wool Apparel Manufacturing Trust Fund, which assist U.S. textile manufacturers, as well as the wool research and promotion program. The bill also extends the Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program — focused on combatting huanglongbing (citrus greening) — through 2031, providing researchers with sustained funding to -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 11 of 27 Continued from previous page develop long-term solutions to protect citrus groves in Florida and other key growing regions. To further support U.S. cotton growers, H.R.1 modernizes the Upland Cotton Competitiveness Program (“Step 2”) to reflect global trade realities. With nearly 80% of U.S. cotton exported, this update helps American farmers compete against heavily subsidized foreign cotton, keeping U.S. cotton in the market, prices stronger at home and rural economies more resilient. Nutrition Title: Alongside farm programs, H.R.1 also reauthorizes nutrition assistance – chiefly the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – with some reforms, aiming to balance support for vulnerable families with reducing incidents of fraud. The bill extends SNAP and related nutrition programs through 2031. It includes updated work requirements for ablebodied adults without dependents, minor program integrity reforms and continued support for food banks via The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). Savings from these changes, scored by CBO as reducing federal nutrition spending, enabled expanded investment in the farm safety net and rural development without increasing overall agricultural spending. Permanency of 2017 Individual Tax Code Provisions: Nearly 98% of farms and ranches operate as sole proprietorships, partnerships or S-corporations and did not benefit from the permanent tax relief granted to corporations in 2017. H.R. 1 grants permanency to numerous tax provisions important to families and farms in Title XI, Part 1, preventing their tax rates from increasing if left to expire at the end of 2025. These provisions include expanded tax brackets with a lower maximum tax rate, a doubled standard deduction and child tax credit and increased thresholds for Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) liability. The bill goes a step further to temporarily enhance some provisions, adding $1,000 per individual to the standard deduction and $500 per child to the child tax credit through 2028. Qualified Business Income Deduction (Section 199A): For pass-through entities, H.R.1 makes permanent – and improves – the 20% qualified business income deduction introduced in 2017. Starting in 2026, the deduction would increase to 23% of business income with adjustments to allow the deduction to phase-out more slowly for high earners. This lowers the share of farming profits spent on taxes and is a big win for small businesses nationwide that compete alongside corporations with lower tax rates. Estate Tax Relief for Family Farms: H.R.1 makes the estate tax exemption permanent at $15 million per individual (or $30 million per couple), indexed for inflation. Without this change, the exemption was set to drop back to $5.5 million after 2025, a level that’s wildly out of step with today’s farm economy. With skyrocketing land values, equipment costs and input prices, even modest-sized farms can easily exceed that threshold, meaning upon the owner’s death, far more family operations would face massive tax bills than previously estimated. By locking in a higher, inflation-adjusted exemption, the bill helps ensure more family farms can transition smoothly to the next generation without being forced to sell off land or assets to pay the IRS. Enhanced Business Expensing and Depreciation: The bill raises Section 179 small business -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 12 of 27 Continued from previous page expensing limits to $2.5 million (up from about $1.29 million), with a higher phase-out threshold of $4 million. In addition, H.R. 1 restores full bonus depreciation for capital investments in 2025 through 2029, canceling the remaining phase-down of this expensing benefit. Practically, these provisions mean farmers can continue to write off the entire cost of new equipment, land improvements like drainage tile, modernized barns and other essential capital upgrades in the year of purchase, rather than depreciating them over many years. In addition, H.R.1 delivers practical tax relief that matters on the ground. Higher thresholds for 1099-K reporting reduce unnecessary paperwork for farms that hire independent contractors or custom services. And by extending key biofuel and renewable energy credits, the bill lowers the cost of on-farm energy projects from biodiesel blending to manure-to-methane systems. Together, these updates cut red tape, reduce expenses and support farmers as they manage razor-thin margins. Conclusions H.R.1 represents a meaningful step toward securing the tools farmers and ranchers need to navigate today’s volatile economic landscape. While not all-inclusive, the bill reflects many of Farm Bureau’s core priorities: strengthening the farm safety net, delivering long-term tax relief, supporting market access and investing in animal health and ag innovation. As the Senate considers its path forward, Farm Bureau will continue advocating for a final package that upholds and builds upon these critical wins for American agriculture. THE URGENCY OF TAX REFORM By Zippy Duvall, AFBF president Farmers and ranchers are natural planners. From mapping out our daily to-do lists to strategizing next year’s planting, we are always thinking ahead. Preparation is fundamental to what we do, but with essential tax provisions set to expire this year, there is uncertainty we may not be able to plan around. Many of the tax provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act helped farmers reinvest in their businesses and strengthen the farm’s financial stability. The critical tax provisions laid out in the law included lower individual tax rates, a qualified business income deduction, higher capital expensing deductions and an increased critical estate tax exemption. If the provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are allowed to expire, however, farm and ranch families will face an increase of billions of dollars in taxes. The increase could potentially be anywhere from 9% to 20% per family depending on the size of the farm. Why Tax Reform is an Urgent Matter The farm economy is already facing a variety of pressures with inflation, commodity prices and market uncertainty, so a massive tax bill could push many of our farms – especially our small and medium-sized farms – completely out of business. In 2024 alone, we lost 15,000 farms and we simply can’t afford to lose any more. Our farmers deserve a tax code that provides certainty and helps protect the family farms who work to keep our nation's food supply safe, sustainable and -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 13 of 27 Continued from previous page secure. Many of our small and medium-sized farms operate on razor-thin margins, and they would be hit hardest by a tax hike. Farmers simply can’t afford another year of guessing if they will be hit with a massive tax bill. The expiration of these tax provisions also threatens the future of agriculture with higher rates for beginning farmers and a loss of critical estate tax relief. The weight of losing a family member is already burdensome enough. Farm families shouldn’t have the added stress of a hefty tax and worry about selling the farm to pay it off. We need to ensure that farmers can pass on the farm without the looming threat of a tax bill destroying everything they’ve worked for. In addition to the estate tax, our beginning farmers and ranchers face high upfront costs and significant financial risk, so without beneficial tax provisions, it can be nearly impossible to get things off the ground. America needs the next generation ready and able to take up the mission of growing our nation’s food, fiber and renewable fuel, but that also means having a tax code that gives them a chance to succeed. The Status of Tax Reform The longer it takes to pass a tax bill, the more uncertainty will be added, especially as farmers are well into making decisions for 2026. Congress promised to make taxes a priority this year, and now is the time for them to deliver. The future of our family farms and our nation’s food supply depend on it. Fortunately, we recently saw movement in the House with their budget reconciliation bill providing needed increases to these provisions and making many of them permanent. This includes a permanent increase to the 199A deduction (also known as the Qualified Businesss Income deduction), a nearly tripled estate tax exemption, permanent lowered individual tax rates and a five-year bonus depreciation (expensing) extension. The tax reform laid out in the House bill would provide certainty for many of our family farms, and now we must urge the Senate to swiftly pass legislation and cement these tax provisions into law. Farmers simply can’t afford another year of guessing whether they will be hit with a massive tax bill. It’s time to have a permanent tax code that encourages investment, supports our farm businesses, and protects the dream of passing the farm on to the next generation. USDA ENCOURAGES PRODUCERS TO PREPARE FOR 2025 HURRICANE SEASON Hurricane season is here, running through Nov. 30. Georgia farmers, ranchers and forest landowners have been significantly impacted by hurricanes in recent years. USDA encourages agricultural producers to prepare for the 2025 season and get familiar with recovery resources. Get Prepared Develop an Emergency Plan: Make sure employees and household members know the emergency plan, including meeting points, emergency contact lists, and alternate evacuation routes in case of infrastructure damage. Remove Debris and Secure Large Objects: Most injuries to animals, people, or structures -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 14 of 27 Continued from previous page during a hurricane are caused by flying objects. To lessen the risk, minimize the presence of equipment, supplies, and debris that may become airborne during high winds or encountered in floodwaters. Clean out culverts, ditches, and other drainage areas, especially before and during peak hurricane season to reduce water damage. Document Inventory and Secure Important Records: It is critical to document inventory of farm buildings, vehicles, equipment, and livestock before a disaster occurs. Take photos, videos, or make written lists with descriptions. Gathering documentation before and after a storm is important for insurance compensation and recovery assistance. Producers will likely need thorough records of any damage and losses sustained on their farms as well as documentation of cleanup and recovery efforts. Keep copies of these records in multiple places: a computer, off-site in a safe location, and on a cloud-based server. Know Insurance Options: Producers should regularly review insurance policies with their agent to be sure they have adequate coverage, including flood insurance, for facilities, vehicles, farm buildings, equipment, crops and livestock. It is important to note that there are limitations on how soon insurance coverage will take effect. Generally, insurance policies will not cover damage if the policy was not in place before a disaster. Gather Supplies: Have drinking water, canned food, a generator, batteries, a flashlight, and fuel available in case of lost power. Have cash on hand in cases of widespread outages, when credit and debit cards may not work. Access Real-time Emergency Information: Download the FEMA app for free on the App Store and Google Play for safety tips on what to do before, during, and after disasters. How USDA Can Help USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and Risk Management Agency (RMA) offer a suite of disaster assistance programs to help you recover from the impacts of natural disasters. Insurance and Risk Protection Those with risk protection through federal crop insurance should report crop damage to their crop insurance agent within 72 hours of discovering damage and be sure to follow up in writing within 15 days. For producers with coverage through the RMA’s Hurricane Insurance Protection – Wind Index (HIP-WI) and Tropical Storm Option (TS), payments are generally made within weeks following a hurricane or tropical storm. For more resources, including a recent webinar, visit the HIP-WI webpage. Those with coverage under the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) should report crop damage to their local FSA office and file a Notice of Loss (CCC-576) within 15 days of the loss becoming apparent, except for hand-harvested crops, which should be reported within 72 hours. -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 15 of 27 Continued from previous page Disaster Assistance FSA offers several disaster programs to help producers recover from crop, livestock and infrastructure losses, including low-interest emergency loans. A full list of programs is available on the hurricane webpage. NRCS provides technical and financial assistance to producers through its Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to help with immediate needs and long-term support to help recover from natural disasters and conserve environmental resources. The program can assist with restoring livestock infrastructure, emergency animal mortality disposal, and immediate soil erosion protection. Additionally, NRCS offers help to communities through its Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program which provides assistance to landowners and project sponsors following a natural disaster. EWP is designed to help people and conserve natural resources by relieving imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other natural occurrences. More Information Visit the USDA hurricane webpage for more information. The Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance at a Glance fact sheet, Farm Loan Assistance Tool can help determine program or loan options. Additionally, the FarmRaise educational hub can also help with disaster recovery program decisions. To report losses or ask questions about available programs, contact the local USDA Service Center. To connect with USDA’s resources, visit https://www.farmers.gov/protectionrecovery/hurricane. COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DRIVERS SUBJECT TO ENGLISH PROFICIENCY TEST Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced updated rules regarding English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The updated policy supersedes the previous 2016 FMCSA guidance and is intended to support roadway safety by ensuring that drivers can understand and respond to questions, instructions, and signage during roadside inspections and in emergency situations. The updated guidance, which took effect on May 20, will apply to all commercial motor vehicle drivers operating on U.S. roadways. North American Standard (NAS) certified troopers from the Georgia State Patrol and officers from the Georgia Motor Carrier Compliance division are enforcing the requirements across Georgia. All CMV drivers will now be required to complete a two-part ELP assessment during a roadside inspection, if there is a reasonable concern regarding their ability to communicate safely and effectively in English: Speaking English: Drivers must be able to answer questions from officers in English without help from an interpreter or translation app. Reading Road Signs: Drivers must correctly identify at least three out of four common traffic signs in English. To ensure enforcement remains consistent across Georgia, officers will use a -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 16 of 27 Continued from previous page standardized roadside sign chart provided by FMCSA for these evaluations. If a driver fails either part of the English language test, it will be recorded as a violation on the CMV inspection report until June 24. Starting June 25, drivers who fail the English Language Proficiency test will be placed out of service, meaning they cannot drive until they meet the requirements. Drivers who are hearing impaired and have received the designated FMCSA exemption will not be placed out-of-service if they are unable to communicate orally in English. To learn more, visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov and type ‘English Language Proficiency’ into the search box.
GFB Field Notes page 17 of 27 GEORGIA PSC ELECTIONS Early voting through June 13 Primary elections June 17 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. AFBF AG INNOVATION CHALLENGE June 15 extended deadline to enter The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online by June 15 for the 2026 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. 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, 10 semi-finalist teams will be selected and announced on Aug. 4. Next, the 10 semi-finalist teams will pitch virtually to compete for a spot in the final four round of the contest. The final four teams will be awarded $10,000 each and participate in a live pitch competition in front of Farm Bureau members, investors and industry representatives at the AFBF Convention in January 2026 in Anaheim, California. Top prize is a total of $100,000. Runner-up prize is a total of $25,000. Entrepreneurs must be members of a county or parish Farm Bureau within their state of residence to qualify as top 10 semi-finalists. Visit www.fb.org/challenge for more information & to apply. Applicants in Georgia who are not Farm Bureau members can visit https://www.gfb.org/join/join-today to learn about becoming a member. Residents of other states should visit https://www.fb.org/about/get-involved. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on June 15. Visit www.fb.org/challenge for more information & to apply.
GFB Field Notes page 18 of 27 AFBF WHITE-REINHARDT AG LITERACY GRANTS June 13 deadline to apply The American Farm Bureau Foundation is accepting applications until June 13 for the 2025-2026 White-Reinhardt School Year Project Grants. https://www.agfoundation.org/grants-awards/whitereinhardt-grants These grants fund projects that will increase agricultural literacy. County and state Farm Bureaus may apply for $1,000 grants for education programs for grades K-12 to initiate new ag literacy programs or expand existing programs. Organizations and individual schools can work with their county Farm Bureaus to apply. Grants are available on a competitive basis. The WhiteReinhardt Grant Program awards grants once a year. Please note that grant funds cannot be used for consumable items like food or paper, transportation, wages or safety programs. Grant payments can only be made to a state or county Farm Bureau. If you have any questions, please contact foundation@fb.org. GEORGIA CENTENNIAL FARM APPLICATIONS June 16 extended deadline to apply Centennial Farm applications are open to all qualifying candidates. Farms play a pivotal role in shaping the legacy of our state, serving as the bedrock for economic, cultural, and familial traditions for generations of Georgians. Several farms boast a legacy spanning more than a century, and Georgia recognizes their historical significance through the Georgia Centennial Farm program. Nominees must be a working farm with a minimum of 10 acres of the original purchase, actively involved in agricultural production, and must generate at least $1,000 in annual farmgenerated income. In addition, farms must have been continuously farmed by members of the same family for at least 100 years or be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Qualifying Georgia Centennial Farms are honored each October at an awards ceremony at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry. The Georgia Centennial Farm program is administered by the Historic Preservation Division of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs; Georgia Farm Bureau Federation; Georgia Department of Agriculture; Georgia EMC; Georgia National Fair and Agricenter; and University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. For more information, please contact Rose Mayo, Historic Preservation Division Outreach Coordinator, at 770-855-2586 or rose.mayo@dca.ga.gov. The postmark deadline for applications is June 16, 2025. Applications are available online at https://gfb.ag/centennialfarmsapply. (https://www.dca.ga.gov/georgia-historic-preservation-division/historicresources/centennialfarms)
GFB Field Notes page 19 of 27 GEORGIA-FLORIDA TOBACCO TOUR June 16-18 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. The tour begins with a kick-off supper at the Brown Lantern in Live Oak, Florida, on June 16, at 7 p.m. Tour participants will spend the night in Live Oak. Tour resumes at 7:30 a.m. on June 17 and ends the day in Tifton. On June 18, the tour will leave Tifton at 7:30 a.m. and end with lunch at H&H Farms in Cobbtown, Georgia. Please register on the website https://tobacco.caes.uga.edu/tours/2025-ga-fl-tobaccotour.html. More information on the tour schedule, including instructions for booking hotel reservations is available at the website. Participants should make their own hotel reservations using the telephone numbers or links provided by May 23 with reference to the “Tobacco Tour” block of rooms. Additional details of the schedule and driving directions will be added the week before the tour. Contact J. Michael Moore at jmmoore@uga.edu or 229-392-6424 for more info. SMALL SCALE FARMS CONSERVATION CONFERENCE June 27 UGA Griffin Campus 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Griffin Producers who may be operating on fewer acres than traditional farmers, or even on a square footage basis are invited to participate in this event covering a wide variety of topics to help make efficient use of the farm's natural resources and overall operation. Key topics include product innovation, food safety, pollinators, controlled environment agriculture, irrigation reservoirs and many more. One hour of pesticide credit is available for those need it. Click here to register. https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=5zZb7e4BvE6GfuA8g1Glx4rxwT54R9Pk3lnVF1CA8FUM0dTQjlYWFE1REJGSVpLUExWWUxZWjFDUC4u&origin=lprLink& route=shorturl
AGGEORGIA FARM CREDIT COMMUNITY MISSION FUND GRANTS June 30 application deadline AgGeorgia Farm Credit is accepting applications for $50,000 in grants to support non-profits that are furthering the future of agriculture in Georgia. The funding is offered as part of the cooperative’s Community Mission Fund, with awards of up to $5,000 per organization per year. The Fund's mission is to build strong partnerships and alliances, leveraging resources to preserve and promote farmers, families, and Georgia’s rural communities. The program has two main objectives: to invest in the future of agriculture and to enhance and impact the quality of life in rural Georgia. As part of the application, organizations should submit a detailed proposal for a project the grant will fund. Organizations' values and proposed project purpose must align with the Fund's mission to be considered for funding. To qualify for a grant, organizations must be located within the 79-county area where AgGeorgia Farm Credit conducts business. For more information and to apply, visit the AgGeorgia Farm Credit Community Mission Fund page at www.aggeorgia.com/community-mission-fund. The Fund has disbursed more than $108,000 since it was created in 2023. For more information, please contact Jessica Bassett at Marketing@aggeorgia.com or by phone at 800-768-3276 x 630.
GFB Field Notes page 20 of 27 GFB CULTIVATE & EDUCATE AG IN THE CLASSROOM GRANTS July 1 application deadline Georgia Farm Bureau will award 12 grants of $500 each to certified teachers employed by a school district or private school who teach at the pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade level to fund projects that will educate their students about the importance of agriculture and expand agricultural literacy. Teachers will provide a one-page narrative that explains the purpose of the project, need for the project, educational goals, project budget and a recommendation letter from the county Farm Bureau. Priority will be given to teachers who are Georgia Farm Bureau members. Projects are to be completed during the 2025-2026 school year. Grant money can be used for classroom materials and resources, including ag-accurate books. Grant money cannot be used for mileage, field trips nor one-time consumable products such as copying, paper or meals. GFB will issue grant funds to the recipient’s county Farm Bureau, which will distribute the money to the grant recipient. Grant applications must be submitted online at https://gfb.ag/AITCgrant. GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PB&J 5K July 1 early bird registration of $30 ends Nov 15 run date at 8 a.m. 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. Early Bird registration is open until July 1. When you register, 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/pband-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/memberbenefits-directory to learn more about the health, travel, family entertainment, farm equipment and services and health discounts members can enjoy. CABBAGE PRODUCERS CROP INSURANCE July 1 deadline to enroll/renew The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia cabbage growers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2025 fall crop and 2026 spring crop is July 1. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the July 1 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 cabbage in Brooks, Colquitt, Cook, Mitchell, Tift, and Toombs 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.
GFB Field Notes page 21 of 27 COLUMBIA COUNTY POND MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP July 7 registration deadline July 14 Jerome Jones Far, 1456 Clary Cut Rd. 10:30 a.m.. – 2 p.m. Harlem Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD), the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC), Columbia County Farm Bureau, and the Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District are partnering to present a free informational workshop for local homeowners, property owners, and anyone who wants to learn more about managing pond health and care and the correct steps to care for them. Participate to learn more about pond management practices such as fish health, weed control, pond designs, and healthy fish management. In addition, information on farm programs will be presented. Partnering agencies for this event include Georgia DNR and USDA- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Lunch will be served. This is a free event, but registration is required online at www.gacd.us/events. AGAWARE WORKSHOPS July 10 Gordon County Extension 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Calhoun July 29 Douglas Atrium Event Center 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Douglas Aug. 14 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. https://gfb.ag/25AgAwareDouglasPendleton https://gfb.ag/25AgAwareCalhoun 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.
GFB Field Notes page 22 of 27 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. Applications open June 1 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.
GFB Field Notes page 23 of 27 GFB WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP DISTRICT MEETINGS June 20 GFB District 7 Meeting Ga. Southern Botanical Gardens Statesboro Registration deadline is June 18. Register at https://gfb.ag/D7WomensMeeting July 29 GFB District 6 Meeting Rocking A Farm Sandersville Registration deadline is July 18. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register. Sept. 18 GFB District 2 Meeting Strickland Mercantile Danielsville Registration deadline is Aug. 28. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register. 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. 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.
GFB Field Notes page 24 of 27 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 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.
GFB Field Notes page 25 of 27 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. 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.
GFB Field Notes page 26 of 27 GEORGIA PIVOT SURVEY A research team from the University of Georgia, University of Nebraska, University of Florida, Fort Valley State University, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, is conducting a survey to understand the recovery of farms following windstorms. Farmers are asked to participate. This survey asks about your farm, damage inflicted by recent hurricanes, and recovery since the hurricane. The survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete, depending on the types of structures on your farm and the damage the farm experienced. Questions 11-15 are voluntary, answer if you would like. Your participation is completely voluntary, and all responses will be kept confidential. To participate, visit https://forms.office.com/r/JZGAxfKfRG. For more information, contact Wes Porter at wporter@uga.edu, or Joshua Dawson at dawsonj01@fvsu.edu, or call 229-386-7328. 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. 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.
GFB Field Notes page 27 of 27 988 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.