August 6, 2025 www.gfb.org
USDA ANNOUNCES REORGANIZATION PLAN
On July 24, the USDA announced the reorganization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), moving much of its staff and offices out of the Washington, D.C. metro area.
In a press release, the department indicated the move would refocus “its core operations to better align with its founding mission of supporting American farming, ranching, and forestry.”
In response, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) stressed continuation of services on which farmers rely.
“We look forward to learning more about USDA’s plans to create greater efficiencies within the department. It is very important that USDA ensure the delivery of essential services and programs for farmers is not disrupted. We will closely monitor USDA’s plans as more details are shared,” AFBF noted in a prepared statement.
Using what it called a phased plan “to relocate much of its agency headquarters and national capital region staff out of Washington, D.C. and out to hub locations in Raleigh, North Carolina; Kansas City, Missouri; Indianapolis; Fort Collins, Colorado; and Salt Lake City. Currently, there are 4,600 USDA employees in the national capital region; the reorganization plan calls for 2,600 of those to be moved to the hub locations.
As part of the reorganization, the number of regional offices for U.S. Forest Service, the National Agricultural Statistics Service and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service will be reduced, and all regional offices of the Agricultural Research Service will be eliminated.
The department plans to vacate the South Building in D.C., the Food and Nutrition Service office in Alexandria, Virginia, and the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC) in Maryland. The plan includes a review of utilization and functions in the USDA Whitten Building and Yates Building in D.C., and the National Agricultural Library in Beltsville.
BARC is home to research on reproduction and production for a variety of livestock, as well as combating long-horned ticks, food safety and other veterinary health issues. This includes work focused on dairy cattle, poultry, turkeys, swine and honeybees. Researchers there also study water quality and water use efficiency and plant genetics on blueberries, strawberries and soybeans. On Aug. 1, the USDA announced the opening of the 30-day comment period, which runs through -continued on next page
Field Notes page 2 of 17
Continued from previous page
Aug. 26. All stakeholders, including USDA employees, members of Congress, and agricultural and nutrition partners, are encouraged to provide feedback by emailing reorganization@usda.gov
On Aug. 1, the USDA announced the opening of the 30-day comment period, which runs through Aug. 26. All stakeholders, including USDA employees, members of Congress, and agricultural and nutrition partners, are encouraged to provide feedback by emailing reorganization@usda.gov The proposed reorganization plan can be viewed https://gfb.ag/USDAreorg.
SANDERSON BUYS HARRISON POULTRY; PILGRIM’S TO OPEN NEW PLANT
On July 28, Wayne-Sanderson Farms announced it is buying Georgia-based Harrison Poultry, a major producer of high-quality chicken known for its proprietary “Golden Goodness” range of traditional, international and halal poultry products.
The sale is effective immediately and includes transfer of all Harrison Poultry assets to WayneSanderson Farms, including live production, hatchery, feed mill, manufacturing, production and transportation facilities and equipment in association with Harrison’s Bethlehem and Crawfordville area operations. Integrated operations will begin immediately, and the company expects minimal changes as day-to-day operations continue as normal.
Wayne-Sanderson Farms leadership began exploring the idea of the Harrison Poultry acquisition earlier this year as part of its strategic growth initiative. The two companies have complementary offerings and began negotiations to finalize the sale after thorough analysis to ensure the respective operations and workplace cultures would be a good fit.
Harrison Poultry was founded by R. Harold Harrison and has been in continuous operation since 1958. Harrison was an early adopter of integrated poultry management. The family has continued to grow the company in the years since his passing, investing millions into the rural Georgia economy.
Wayne-Sanderson Farms President and CEO Kevin McDaniel will continue to lead the organization.
In other poultry news, Pilgrim’s announced on July 24 that it will build a new prepared foods facility in Walker County. The plant will support more than 630 jobs once it reaches full capacity.
Pilgrim’s currently supports an estimated 7,500 jobs and operates seven food production facilities in Georgia, in addition to supporting facilities like feed mills and hatcheries.
The new facility, located at the Walker County Business Park in LaFayette, will produce a variety of fully cooked chicken products to support the growth of its fast-growing prepared foods business. The project is expected to get underway in the fall of 2025, and hiring is expected to begin in 2027, aligning with the expected completion of the first phase of construction.
Field Notes page 3 of 17
AMERICAN FARM BUREAU SHARES MAHA RECOMMMENDATIONS
The American Farm Bureau Federation has sent a series of recommendations to the Make America Health Again Commission that will benefit health outcomes and ensure farmers can continue growing safe, healthy and affordable food for America's families.
“Farmers and ranchers share the goal of advancing health in America,” said Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Healthy meals start with healthy farms, which is a responsibility farmers take seriously. Investing in research, rewarding innovation and alleviating overregulation helps them reach that goal. We appreciate the opportunity to share these policy recommendations that can directly and positively improve farmers' ability to meet the needs of a healthy America.”
AFBF's letter highlights four areas of recommendations to the MAHA Commission, including: Advancing American Innovation and Sustainability
• Promote the adoption of precision application technologies
• Dedicate funding to improve mechanization and automation
• Support plant biostimulants and biologicals as promising tools
• Support a thoughtful and iterative public comment process on shared understandings of regenerative agriculture
Smart Regulatory Reform and Program Enhancements to Support Farmers and Ranchers
• Modernize current agriculture labor workforce programs
• Protect domestic markets from being flooded by foreign foods
• Reintroduce whole milk into school meal programs
• Enable schools/food banks to directly purchase food from farms
• Make it easier for small- and medium-size farms to serve local markets
Public Investment in Agricultural Research
• Invest in USDA agencies focused on research and innovation
• Invest in projects which would help fruit, vegetable and nut crop growers
Pesticide Tools
•Process improvements in the regulatory system to support the innovation pipeline for new discoveries
• Increased resources for pesticide regulatory offices and programs
Farm Bureau is also a founding member of the Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance, which also sent a report earlier this week to the MAHA Commission. FACA's recommendations focused on three key pillars to help agricultural producers and forest owners keep soil healthy and air and water clean.
To read AFBF's letter, click here
To read FACA's report, click here.
GFB Field Notes page 4 of 17
YF&RS HEAR ABOUT GFB OPPORTUNITIES AND MORE AT CONFERENCE
By Jay Stone
Participants at the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Summer Leadership Conference had an opportunity to hear from YF&R award winners, GFB staff and YF&R leaders on how to get the most out of the YF&R program in a breakout session titled, “Rooted in Opportunity: A Panel of Young Voices in Ag,” on July 19. It was one of six seminars available to attendees at the conference, held July 16-19 on Jekyll Island.
The panelists included: Cole and Nicole Roper of Franklin County, winners of the 2023 GFB Excellence in Agriculture Award; GFB State Affairs Manager Adam Belflower; 2024 Excellence in Agriculture winners Kaitlyn and Kaleb Marchant of Oglethorpe County; and Amelia Jackson, who served alongside her husband, Cleve Jackson of Floyd County, when he chaird GFB YF&R Committee in 2024. Cleve currently serves on the AFBF YF&R Committee.
Their overall message: Get involved in as many GFB activities as possible and stay engaged.
The Ropers grow corn which they sell from the farm, and they discussed how the GFB Certified Farm Markets program has helped boost their roadside stand.
“It’s a good program, and if you’re looking to sell directly to the public, it’s a good way to get started,” Cole said. “It took our farm to the next level.”
Belflower offered a perspective on what comes next once farmers and ranchers move out of the YF&R program, noting the numerous activities GFB’s Public Policy Department offers to facilitate engagement between GFB members and elected officials, including GFB Day at the Capitol, the Presidents’ trip to D.C., issue-driven campaigns and the organization’s commodity advisory committees, to name a few.
“For our organization to be successful, our members have to engage, and it’s important for you to learn these things through YF&R,” Belflower said. For those not already involved in GFB’s advocacy efforts, he suggested contacting the chairman of their county Farm Bureau’s legislative committee.
Kaitlyn Marchant, who won the GFB Discussion Meet in 2019, said the contest helps develop the ability to identify a problem, conduct research on it and communicate with others about the issues associated with the problem.
“The skills you gain from competing in the Discussion Meet will translate to other things,” Kaitlyn said.
The Marchants encouraged participants to make sure they are involved at the local level.
“Make sure your county YF&R Committee is the most important part of what you do in YF&R,” Kaitlyn said. “Take the things you learn here, take them home and use them.”
GPB offers ag educational resources
On July 18, Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) Education Outreach Manager Jenny Hale shared information about farm-themed educational resources, including video series, games, virtual reality and augmented reality experiences and more. Much of the content Hale introduced is produced in GPB’s education department.
“Everything there is aligned to Georgia education standards,” Hale said. “What we produce is -continued on next page
Field Notes page 5 of 17
Continued from previous page
Georgia specific, and all of it is completely free.”
GPB’s educational offerings include lessons and content for all primary and secondary education grades. They include Fast Forward, a series of 16 video segments on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) topics from a variety of occupational sectors, including agriculture.
Hale walked participants through “Farm or Fake,” an interactive game that asks viewers to guess whether a variety of plants and animals are really produced on farms. Students might learn, for instance, that there is such a thing as a purple tomato called the Indigo Rose tomato that gets its color from powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins.
Importantly, language training is worked into the GPB content.
“Vocabulary is the backbone of everything we do,” Hale said.
There are Live Explorations videos that offer visual tours of Georgia farms, the sort of activity teachers might use on days when a substitute teacher is assigned to their classroom.
Hale reviewed five games available for use in the classroom: Cornucopia, CityFarm, Mission Farm, Trouble at Grainly Farms and Carmen’s EcoFarm Adventure.
Visit www.Tinyurl.com/GPB2024AgEd for more information about educational resources from GPB.
Conflict
resolution
A July 18 breakout session, titled, “Conflict Resolution: Turning Tension into Teamwork,” featured AFBF Director Leadership & Organizational Training Dr. Maegan Meredith, who led participants through various personal conflict resolution styles, the role communication plays in conflict, and identifying paths to solutions.
“Communication is a way conflict can start and a way it can be resolved,” Meredith said.
Conflict happens when someone’s needs or interests are not being met, Meredith said, and resolutions typically fall into one of three categories: Procedural, psychological/relational or substantive.
Using the example of a couple arguing over washing dishes, Meredith explained how these can be useful in identifying the interest or need not being met.
If the issue is the dishes simply aren’t being washed by the person who is expected to wash them, it falls in the substantive category. If the dishes are not done correctly or well, this is referred to a as a procedural conflict. Psychological/relational conflict occurs when one person tells the other, “I’ll do it if you just stop nagging me to do it.”
Meredith said conflict can be beneficial when it generates solutions and expectations are communicated well. But people fear conflict because it often becomes emotional and needs can go unmet. It makes people feel vulnerable.
Farm safety starts with you
On July 19, Dr. Dennis Holder, a Macon-based emergency medical physician, walked attendees through a variety of farm-related injuries and how to avoid them.
“Like your mama said, be careful,” Holder said. “Safety is going to start with you. Think a step -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 6 of 17
Continued from previous page ahead.”
Holder shared the results of research from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture which revealed that between 2015 and 2019, more than 60,000 people nationwide were treated in emergency rooms for nonfatal ag-related injuries, and approximately one third of those were youth. Holder also noted that most injuries are underreported.
“Injuries can happen at any time,” he said. “They are more common when you are in a hurry or when you are tired. It only takes a second too change your life forever.”
The conference also offered a session on mental health called “Weathering the Storm: Mental Wellness on the Farm,” and a presentation on the Conservation Fund Georgia Farms Fund.
GLOVER JOINS GFB PUBLIC POLICY STAFF
Eliza Jane Glover has joined the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Public Policy Department as an agricultural programs specialist. She began work on July 28.
Glover is a recent graduate from the University of Georgia, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and environmental science communications, with a minor in food and fiber marketing. A native of White County, she has interned with the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Masters golf tournament and served as a congressional ag fellow in Washington, D.C.
“Eliza Jane has a strong agricultural background and her varied student experiences have prepared her well,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall. “We’re excited to have her, and we look forward to representing Georgia Farm Bureau with the state’s farmers. She grew up on a dairy farm in Clermont and understands what farmers are faced with on a daily basis.”
While in Washington, Glover was one of 30 congressional interns selected for the Stennis Program, through which she helped craft legislation concerning rural broadband service.
Throughout high school and college, Glover worked on her family’s farm, Glo Crest Dairy, tending to cattle.
She has worked as a student worker with Georgia FFA.
As agricultural programs specialist, Glover will work directly with GFB members to understand the practical implications changes in law and regulations will have on their farms, as well as serving the organization’s Commodity Advisory Committees (CACs). She will focus mainly on livestock CACs. Glover’s role includes representing GFB to commodity commissions and other industry groups, promoting GFB policy positions and aligning efforts with those groups.
2024 GEORGIA QUALITY COTTON AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED
Tift County farmer Ryan Branch receive the Best Cotton Award, highlighting the announcement of the 2024 Quality Cotton Awards during the Georgia Cotton Commission’s Mid-Year Meeting n July 23 in Statesboro.
Branch, who was nominated by Tift County Extension Agents Justin Hand and Regan Veal. Branch’s cotton achieved a loan value of 57.05 cents/lb. and a premium of 5.05 cents/lb. The Best Cotton Award is given to the Georgia cotton producer with highest loan value and premium.
The Georgia Quality Cotton Awards are co-sponsored by the Georgia Cotton Commission and Bayer Crop Science/Deltapine and administered by the University of Georgia (UGA) Cotton Team. Dr. Yangxuan Liu, Extension economist at the University of Georgia, conducted the analysis. Dr. Camp Hand presented the awards at the event in Statesboro on behalf of the UGA Cotton Team.
The purpose of the awards is to recognize producers and ginners of high-quality cotton fiber and to identify their general management practices for the benefit of other growers. The producers and their gins received a plaque, and the winning producers received a $500 cash award. The UGA County Extension Agent for each winner was also recognized as they work closely with the farmers during the growing season.
The awards are given in each of these three cotton acreage categories: 1) less than 500 acres, 2) 500 to 1,000 acres, and 3) greater than 1,000 acres within the four regions of the state. Winners in these categories are determined by the loan value and premiums of their cotton. The winners’ excellent achievements are due largely to their management practices and expertise. The sponsors of this program congratulate the following winners:
Region 1
Less than 500 acres - Grower – Keith Melcher, Crisp County; Ginner – Arabi Gin Company, Inc., Arabi; Nominated by – Jack Quayle.
500-1000 acres – Grower – Mark Thompson Wilcox County; Ginner – Arabi Gin Company, Inc., Arabi; Nominated by – John Bennett & Jay Porter.
1000+ acres – Grower – Lime Creek Farms, Crisp County; Ginner – Arabi Gin Company, Inc., Arabi; Nominated by – Jack Quayle.
Region 2
Less than 500 acres – Grower – Phillip John Raley, Glascock County; Ginner – Farmer’s Gin & Storage, Wadley; Nominated by – Pamela Sapp.
500-1000 acres – Grower – Bill Godowns Farm Partnership, Jefferson County; Ginner –Farmer’s Gin & Storage, Wadley; Nominated by – Pamela Sapp.
1000+ acres – Grower – Dean Johnson, Burke County; Ginner – Bryant’s Inc., Bartow; Nominated by – Cliff Collins & Peyton Sapp.
Region 3
Less than 500 acres – Grower – Ryan Branch, Tift County; Ginner – Sconyers Gin & Warehouse Company, Sycamore; Nominated by – Justin Hand and Regan Veal.
500-1000 acres – Grower – C + M Southern Farms, Brooks County; Ginner – B.C.T. Gin -continued on next page
GFB Field Notes page 8 of 17
Continued from previous page Company, Inc., Quitman; Nominated by – Michasia Dowdy.
1000+ acres – Grower – Dewitt Farms, Brooks County; Ginner – B.C.T. Gin Company, Inc., Quitman; Nominated by – Michasia Dowdy.
Region 4
Less than 500 acres – Grower – Allen Donalson, Grady County; Ginner – Boston Gin, Boston; Nominated by – Jackson Cale Cloud & Sydni Ingram.
500-1000 acres – Grower – Adam Rowland, Thomas County; Ginner – B.C.T. Gin Company, Inc., Quitman; Nominated by – Sydni Ingram & Michasia Dowdy.
1000+ acres – Grower –Parker Heard, Decatur County; Ginner – Clover Leaf Gin & Warehouse, Donalsonville; Nominated by – Hugh Moye.
USDA AWARDS $80 MILLION IN WOOD INNOVATION GRANTS
On July 17, the USDA announced the U.S. Forest Service is awarding $80 million in Wood Innovation Grants to spur wood products manufacturing, expand active forest management, and accelerate energy innovation across America’s timber-producing communities.
The awards include six going to Georgia companies:
• Choice OpCo LLC was awarded $260,910 to install firewood processing equipment to increase utilization of small diameter timber and support active forest management in Georgia;
• Equilibrium Consulting was awarded $184,700 to develop a practical guide to accelerate mass timber-concrete composite systems using domestic wood while supporting active forest management;
• Forest Landowners Foundation was awarded $299,080 to validate novel phytosanitation technology to significantly expand southern yellow pine chip export markets while supporting active forest management across the U.S. South;
• Georgia Tech Research Corp. was awarded $299,993 to develop workflows and designs to robotically construct long-span timber trusses to expand wood markets for timber in the U.S. South;
• Koppers Inc. was awarded $300,000 to develop fire resistant wood utility pole technology to increase timber demand and active forest management across the U.S.;
• T&F Lumber was awarded $300,000 to upgrade lumber processing system to increase production capacity while supporting active forest management and rural manufacturing jobs.
According to the USDA, this investment removes unnecessary barriers that have kept forests dangerously overstocked and unhealthy, putting communities at risk from wildfire and other threats. It also carries out efforts to make forests more productive.
U.S. MAKES TRADE DEALS WITH MULTIPLE NATIONS, GLOBAL TARIFFS LOOM
A series of new trade deals between the United States and countries around the world will directly benefit America’s farmers and ranchers, according to analysis by American Farm Bureau economists, who analyzed the importance of trade for rural America in the July 28 installment of Market Intel.
“Trade is essential to the success of America’s farmers and ranchers,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Strong and enduring agreements help connect U.S. farmers to global markets and Farm Bureau has long been a strong advocate for leveling the playing field for American-grown products.
“We appreciate that the administration is making agriculture a priority in ongoing trade discussions. Opening new markets and working to strengthen existing partnerships will help ensure U.S. farmers can continue leading the world in producing safe, sustainable and affordable food for America’s families and families around the world.”
The Trump administration threatened reciprocal tariffs on several countries if they did not negotiate new trade terms by Aug. 1. Recent trade deals announced ahead of the administration’s deadline include those with the European Union, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and the United Kingdom
“Agricultural trade plays a vital role in the American economy. It supports U.S. farmers while driving economic growth and job creation across the country,” the Market Intel states. “With more than 20% of U.S. agricultural production sold abroad, exports are a key part of this picture. On average, every dollar of agricultural exports generates $2.06 in additional economic activity within the United States.”
In 2023, U.S. agricultural exports were valued at $175.5 billion. Exports supported an additional $187 billion in related activity, for a total of more than $362 billion in economic activity.
To read the full Market Intel, click here. (https://gfb.ag/AFBFMarketIntel072825)
Meanwhile, the White House announced on July 31 a set of tariffs on imports from 64 nations ranging from a base of 10% to as high as 41%. In establishing these tariffs, President Trump noted that these duties apply to nations that have reached or are on the verge of “concluding meaningful trade and security agreements with the United States.”
The White House announcement about the ongoing tariffs can be found here. On Aug. 6, the White House announced that it would be imposing an additional 25% tariff on India, in addition to the 25% rate set to go into effect Aug. 7, because India is directly or indirectly buying Russian oil. The new tariffs related to the Russian oil purchases are set to go into effect in 21 days.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/07/further-modifying-the-reciprocaltariff-rates/
GFB Field Notes page 10 of 17
BARROW COUNTY FARM BUREAU RECEIVES WHITE-REINHARDT GRANT
Barrow County Farm Bureau BCFB is one of 10 communities nationwide to be awarded a grant White-Reinhardt Grant by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.
BCFB plans to create a hands-on learning lab titled “Ag: Exploring Electricity in Agriculture.” Their students will explore wiring power technologies like irrigation systems, poultry house automation, greenhouse climate control, and fencing. The lab will equip students with reusable electrical kits and mock wiring panels, encouraging a learning-by-doing experience. This initiative blends ag mechanics, literacy, and career readiness, expanding traditional agricultural education to include technical trades and infrastructure.
The AFBF Foundation for Agriculture awarded $10,000 in grants to 10 communities across the nation through the White-Reinhardt Fund for Education program. The White-Reinhardt Grant Program funds projects that will increase agricultural literacy. County and State Farm Bureaus apply for grants up to $1,000 in order to initiate new ag literacy programs or expand existing programs. The foundation received nearly 100 applications and encourages the non-chosen applicants to try again in 2026!
The White-Reinhardt Fund for Education is a special project of the Foundation in cooperation with the AFB Women’s Leadership Committee. It was established to honor two former chairs of that committee, Berta White and Linda Reinhardt, who were leaders in the national effort to improve agricultural literacy.
GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF CONSERVATION DISTRICTS ANNUAL MEETING
Aug. 17-19
Jekyll Island Club Resort Jekyll Island
The GACD Annual Meeting will offer breakout sessions and keynote speakers aimed at providing Conservation District Supervisors and partners with timely education and information. We also will recognize deserving individuals and Districts that have made exceptional contributions to sustaining and protecting our natural resources. Registration is $385 until July 24 and $425 after. The registration deadline is Aug. 7. To register, click here. For a tentative agenda and information about sponsorship opportunities, click here
JOINT AG CHAIRMEN’S AG ISSUES SUMMIT
Aug. 8 RSVP required for free meal count
Aug. 21 Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Perry
The Ag Issues Summit, hosted by Georgia House Ag Committee Chairman Robert Dickey and Georgia Senate Ag Committee Chairman Russ Goodman, will take place in the Miller Murphy Howard Building at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter. The event will include discussions on issues relevant to agriculture and will provide insight from various leaders in the industry. Doors open at 9 a.m. for networking. Coffee and lunch will be provided to attendees at no charge. RSVP is required by Aug. 8. To RSVP, please send the full name, organization and telephone number for each attendee to Rachel Whitted at Rachel.Whitted@senate.ga.gov. Georgia Farm Bureau is proud to help sponsor this event along with other Georgia ag organizations.
GEORGIA FOUNDATION FOR AGRICULTURE PICNIC ON THE FARM
Aug. 8 deadline to buy tickets
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
Field Notes page 12 of 17
USDA VETERANS WEBINAR SERIES FOR BEGINNING FARMER AND RANCHERS
Aug. 13 & 14 via Zoom
This free webinar series is for military veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses on how to work with the USDA to prepare for a career in agriculture. This webinar series is designed to provide information about USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher programs and resources for the military community. Aug. 13 topics include the Farmers First Initiative, disaster relief and ag taxes. Aug. 14 topics include FSA county committees, NRCS local working groups and state technical committees, and becoming market-ready. To register, click here
AGAWARE WORKSHOP
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 this workshop. The workshop is certified for FSA Direct Borrower Training Credits. The AGAware Workshop introduces farmers to a variety of financial-related topics critical to running an operation. These topics include balance sheets, income statements, family finance and budgeting, risk management, accrual income, applying for financing, preparing a business plan, technology and record keeping, FSA/SBA and other programs. here to register. For more information, contact Heather Brannen at heather.brannen@agsouthfc.com or call 844-AGSOUTH.
SOUTHEAST GEORGIA PECAN FIELD DAY
Aug. 20 RSVP for lunch count
Aug. 27 J.G. Shuman Farms 8:30 a.m. Reidsville
Come hear about research specifically for Southeast Georgia pecan producers. RSVP by contacting Andrew Sawyer at 912-512-3030 or emailing agsawyer@uga.edu. The farm is located at 338 Chandler Ave. Reidsville, Ga. 30453. Lunch will be provided by Chemical Containers, Inc., Orchard Machinery Corporation, Savage, and Shiloh Pecan Farms Nursery. Private and commercial license credits will be provided at sign in
SMALL FARM IRRIGATION WORKSHOP
Aug. 21 Jefferson County Extension Office 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Louisville
This free workshop 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. For more information, call 478-625-3046. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/3h9sckfh or contact Dr. Gary L. Hawkins at 706-542-7167
Field Notes page 13 of 17
AFBF COUNTY ACTIVITIES OF EXCELLENCE
Sept. 2 deadline to submit applications
The American Farm Bureau Federation is currently accepting applications for the County Activities of Excellence program. Up to 24 innovative county Farm Bureau activities from across the nation will be selected to display at the 2026 AFBF Convention and Trade Show. Multiple county Farm Bureaus working together to plan and carry out an activity may submit a joint CAE application. Sept. 2 at 5 p.m. Eastern is the deadline for counties to submit applications online for state CAE coordinator review. Additional information, including rules for submission and the application link, are available at www.fb.org/CAE. Each county Farm Bureau that wishes to apply must create a unique login. State CAE coordinators will be provided with a separate username and password to access the online system to approve applications submitted from their respective county Farm Bureaus. Winners will be announced the first week of October. Individual county and multicounty CAE winning entries will receive four complimentary registrations and a $4,500 cash award to be used toward travel and display costs to attend the 2026 AFBF Convention and Trade Show, Jan. 9-14, in Anaheim, California
AFBF TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR VETERAN FARMER AWARD
Sept. 2 application deadline
The American Farm Bureau Federation, with support from Farm Credit, is seeking applicants for the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence. The award recognizes U.S. military veterans or service members for excellence in farming or agriculture and positively impacting local communities. The honoree will receive a $10,000 cash prize plus reimbursement in travel and other expenses incurred for him/her and one guest to attend the American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California, Jan. 9-14, 2026. Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence applications are due by 5 p.m. Eastern on Sept. 2. Applicants are not required to be Farm Bureau members. The national award recipient will be recognized by AFBF through various outlets and should be willing to share their story and represent the veteran farmer community. The recipient will be notified in mid-September, with the winner announced publicly on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Learn more and apply here.
GEORGIA AG LABOR RELATIONS FORUM
Sept. 16-17 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center
Tifton
This two-day conference, hosted by the Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association, provides farmers and employers with training sessions and seminars from leading experts in employment law and policy. This event is suited for all owners, operators, office managers, personnel managers and service providers for the produce, nursery, landscape, dairy, cotton, and any other agricultural professional dealing with agricultural labor relations. To register and learn more, visit www.georgiaaglaborforum.com.
Field Notes page 14 of 17
37TH ANNUAL GEORGIA PEANUT TOUR
Sept. 16-18
Valdosta and surrounding area
This annual tour brings the latest information on peanuts while giving a first-hand view of industry infrastructure from production and handling to processing and utilization. Tour stops will be made in several peanut producing counties in South Georgia. Attendees can expect to see firsthand nearly every aspect of peanut production in the state. This year’s tour hosts many exciting stops including on-farm harvest demonstrations and clinics, as well as research projects through the University of Georgia Extension Service. For tour info or details, contact David West at 229-386-3475. Registration is $150. Visit www.georgiapeanuttour.com for more info.
GFB WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP DISTRICT MEETINGS
Sept. 18 GFB District 2 Meeting Strickland Mercantile Danielsville
Registration deadline is August 28. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register or visit www.gfb.ag/D2WomensMeeting.
Each Georgia Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee district chairwoman will host a district event from June into the fall. These meetings will feature a leadership development component while providing the opportunity to network with other women in agriculture from your GFB district in a special setting. If your GFB district meeting isn’t listed above, and you are interested in attending it, reach out to your county Farm Bureau office manager to ask them to share program details when they receive them and look for announcements on the Friends of Georgia Farm Bureau Facebook group page. For more information contact GFB Women’s Leadership Programs Coordinator Heather King at hcking@gfb.org or 478-474-0679, ext. 5232. Meetings for Districts 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 have been held previously.
2025 AGROFORESTRY AND WILDLIFE FIELD DAY
Sept. 18 Westbrook Research Farm, UGA Griffin Campus 8 a.m. Griffin Land and pond management techniques, managing for wildlife, forest management, backyard wildlife and financial assistance for landowners are all subjects that will top the list at the 2025 Agroforestry and Wildlife Field Day This unique educational event features federal and state government agency officials and representatives of private businesses to provide management recommendations and demonstrate real-life techniques. Registration opens at 8 a.m., with topic discussions scheduled between 9:15 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. Attendees will shuttle between field day topic sites on foot or via tram and will receive a take-home booklet with in-depth topic and speaker information. Continuing Education Credits (CEU) will be available for several fields, including pesticide (several categories), forestry, loggers, arborist and wildlife. Registration is $35 and includes a full day of topics, an AgroForestry and Wildlife Field Day book, lunch and a Hat. After Aug. 21 cost increases to $40 and a hat is not guaranteed. To register, click here. (https://estore.uga.edu/C27063_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=4247)
Field Notes page 15 of 17
KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS
Sept. 20 & Oct. 25
Morgan Co. Ag Center
Madison
These shows are open to equestrians of all ages and experience levels. Classes include hunter/jumper, western, gaited, trail obstacles, ranch riding, ranch reining, dressage on the rail, halter/showmanship, “small fry” and more. All shows begin at 9 a.m. - rain or shine. Trail classes are from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. Western Classes not to start before lunch. Riders must be members of Kel-Mac to accrue points towards year-end awards. Age divisions for competition are as follows: Small Fry: 10 and under; Junior: under 14 years of age; Senior: 14 years and over. Novice: Rider is in 1st or 2nd year of showing. Green Horse: Horse is in 1st or 2nd year of showing. Entry fee per class is $12. Stall fees are $15 for club members & $20 nonmembers. All overnight stalls are $25. For more information about the shows, visit the KelMac Saddle Club Facebook page, or www.kel-mac.com or call Arlene Williams at 706-431-8600. Signup for shows on the website. General admission is free and concession food and drinks will be available. The Morgan County Ag Center is located at 2380 Athens Hwy. (441), north of Madison. These volunteer-run shows generate funds to benefit Kel-Mac’s equestrian related charities. The Kel-Mac Saddle Club has donated more than $170,250 back to Georgia’s Piedmont region during its 49 years including: the Georgia Equine Rescue League, ReDux Equine Rescue, Sweet Olive Rescue, and the Morgan County Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund, and the equestrian facilities of state & county parks such as A. H. Stephens, Hard Labor Creek, and Heritage Park.
LALLEMAND ANIMAL NUTRITION SCHOLARSHIPS
Oct. 3 deadline to apply
Applications for the 2025 Lallemand Scholarship are open through Oct. 3. Interested students must be full-time students enrolled in agriculture-related programs at accredited institutions in the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Applications will be evaluated based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, commitment to the agricultural industry and an essay submission that highlights creativity, originality, and forward-thinking perspectives. There are five scholarship categories: Two $2,500 scholarships for undergraduate students; one $3,000 scholarship for a master’s student; one $3,000 scholarship for a doctoral candidate; and one $3,000 scholarship for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student. Learn more about eligibility and to apply by visiting the Lallemand Animal Nutrition website.
GFB Field Notes page 16 of 17
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU HAY CONTEST
Oct. 31 deadline for entries
Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) members who grow any variety of dry Bermudagrass hay have until Oct. 31 to enter the organization’s 34th Annual Quality Bermudagrass Hay Contest. The contest winner will receive the free use of a Vermeer wheel rake for one year. The winner will have the option to buy the equipment at a reduced price at the end of that year. This is the 27th year that Vermeer has sponsored GFB’s hay contest. Hay entered in the 2025 GFB Quality Bermudagrass Hay Contest will be tested at the UGA Feed & Environmental Water Lab using the Relative Forage Quality (RFQ) Test, which provides an analysis of the nutritional value of hay. Additional prizes will be awarded to the top five producers. Winners will be announced in December at the GFB Convention. Entry forms and complete contest rules may be picked up at your county Farm Bureau office or downloaded at www.gfb.ag/HayContest . You may also contact the GFB Public Policy Department at 1-800-342-1192 if you have any questions about the contest.
GEORGIA PSC ELECTIONS
General election Nov. 4
Georgia Farm Bureau’s I Farm. I Vote. campaign is encouraging members across the state to get out and vote in the 2025 Public Service Commission (PSC) elections. This year, there will be a statewide special election for the Georgia Public Service Commission District 2 and District 3. All Georgia voters are eligible to cast a ballot for both PSC seats, but the candidates for the two contested seats are required to live in their districts that cover metro Atlanta and east Georgia .The two seats up for election are from District 2 and District 3. District 2 consists of a large portion of East and Southeast Georgia, including Athens, Augusta, and Savannah, and is currently held by Commissioner Tim Echols. Running against Echols in the Republican primary is Tim Muns, and Alicia Johnson is running uncontested for the Democratic ticket. District 3, made up of Fulton, DeKalb, and Clayton counties, is currently held by Commissioner Fitz Johnson who was appointed by Gov. Brian Kemp to fill a vacant seat. Johnson is uncontested in the Republican primary, and Daniel Blackman, Peter Hubbard, Robert Jones, and Keisha Waites are running in the Democratic primary race.
GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PB&J 5K
Nov 15 Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter 8 a.m. Perry
Sign up today for the 5K on Nov. 15 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds. The course is flat, fast, and completely paved perfect for all skill levels. When you register for $35, you'll receive a complimentary Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Membership. Already a member? Gift it to a friend! Enjoy a post-run grilled PB&J and peanut butter, compliments of Georgia Peanuts! Every registered runner will also receive a custom water bottle. If you’re bringing the family, be sure to check out the Georgia National Antique Agriculture Show for FREE Register at https://www.gfb.org/pb-and-j-5k Members of GFB help protect consumers’ access to locally grown food and fiber and have access to 300,000+ member benefits and discounts. Visit https://www.gfb.org/join/member-benefitsdirectory to learn more about the health, travel, family entertainment, farm equipment and services and health discounts members can enjoy.
GFB Field Notes page 17 of 17
UGA WARNELL SCHOOL OF FORESTRY BOBWHITE QUAIL SURVEY
The Martin GAME Lab at the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at UGA is looking for private landowners in Georgia to take part in a brief survey about their opinions on bobwhite quail management for a study titled “Bobwhite Restoration, Incentives, and Research.” The purpose of the study is to better understand landowners’ opinions on bobwhite quail management and cost-share programs landowners would enroll in to manage their properties for bobwhite quail. Visit https://ugeorgia.ca1.qualtrics.com/.../SV_3aRgLcUioS8uy0u to take the study. Thank you in advance for helping with in this study.
CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER FERAL HOG CONTROL SERVICES
For a list of feral hog control services available in each GACD Conservation District, visit https://gfb.ag/feralhoggacdresources.
UGA CITRUS ORCHARD NUTRITIONAL SURVEY
For the past three growing seasons, the UGA Agricultural and Environmental Services Labs (AESL) has been conducting a foliar nutrient survey of Georgia's citrus industry with funding from the USDA and Georgia Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. One of the conditions of the project’s grant funding is that researchers seek stakeholder feedback on the effectiveness of the program, and how this work may influence future grower decisions. The project researchers ask that you please complete this short (7 questions, 3-5 minutes) Citrus Nutrition Questionnaire here. These results will help UGA researchers demonstrate the importance of this work to their sponsors, which increases the likelihood of future funding in this area. If you would like to learn more about this project and the results of the study, visit the project website.
GFB HAY DIRECTORY
GFB is accepting listings for its online hay directory. Farm Bureau members with hay for sale or who offer custom harvesting or custom sprigging services are invited to list their hay and/or services in the GFB Quality Hay Directory published on the GFB website. Hay for sale or services can be listed or removed from the directory throughout the year. To be included in GFB’s online hay directory, complete a submission form by visiting your county Farm Bureau office or online at www.gfb.ag/hay. Please include a $10 check made payable to Georgia Farm Bureau for each listing of hay, custom harvesting or custom sprigging. Multiple listings are allowed. Listings can be updated in the directory throughout the year as hay inventories change. Hay producers who entered the 2024 GFB Quality Hay Contest receive a free listing in the online GFB Hay Directory.
988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE OFFERS SUPPORT
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 or chatting on 988lifeline.org 988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. You don’t have to be suicidal to reach out. 988 trained crisis counselors can help you through whatever mental health challenges you are experiencing.