CHINA AGREES TO BUY 87 MILLION METRIC TONS OF U.S. SOYBEANS
Information from AFBF Nov. 3 Market Intel
After months of negotiations with the Chinese, President Donald Trump has announced a deal on economic and trade relations with China which includes reduction in Chinese tariffs on a variety of U.S. agricultural products and a commitment to purchase a minimum of 87 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans through 2028.
The reduction of Chinese tariffs includes those on U.S.-produced chicken, wheat, corn, cotton, sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruits, vegetables and dairy products.
The agricultural-related provisions are reminiscent of the 2020 Phase One deal with China that included agricultural purchase commitments that resulted in more than $60 billion in agricultural exports over the first two years of the deal.
China’s Historical Agricultural Purchases
Before the Phase One agreement, U.S. agricultural exports to China had grown steadily from 2000’s $2.6 billion in 2000 to a then-record $28.7 billion in 2012, mirroring a broader era of export expansion that positioned China as the anchor of U.S. demand growth. During Phase One negotiations, agricultural exports to China fell sharply – as they have this year, reaching a low of $14 billion in 2019. In response to the downturn in the farm economy created by the pullback in agricultural purchases by China, the previous Trump administration provided a total of $23 billion in economic aid delivered directly to farmers and ranchers.
During the years covered by the Phase One agreement, U.S. agricultural exports to China surged to $24 billion in 2020, $39 billion in 2021 and peaked at $41 billion in 2022. During the first two years of the Phase One agreement, China purchased more than $60 billion in U.S. agricultural products. While short of the $80 billion goal, these Phase One purchases contributed significantly to an increase in crop cash receipts to a record $283 billion and a record-high U.S. net farm income in 2022 of $182 billion.
Despite provisions that allow for consultation if the purchase commitments fall short, China gradually redirected portions of its feed, cotton and livestock imports toward alternative suppliers, and U.S. exports to China slowed, dropping to $32 billion in 2023 and $27 billion in 2024. Yearto-date, through July 2025, U.S. exports to China stand at only $14 billion, a figure expected to -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page rise as China follows through on new purchase commitments of U.S. agricultural products.
Phase Two Soybean Commitments
As part of the recently announced deal, China will purchase at least 12 million metric tons (MMT) of U.S. soybeans during the last two months of 2025 and at least 25 MMT of U.S. soybeans each in 2026, 2027, and 2028. Additionally, China will resume purchases of sorghum and hardwood logs from the U.S., though specific quantities have not been announced.
Historically, over the last decade U.S. farmers have exported an average of more than 27 MMT of soybeans each calendar year. While the commitment to purchase 25 MMT falls slightly short of the historical average, it’s important to acknowledge that these commitments are a minimum, and not a maximum purchase amount. Exports at or above these agreed-upon quantities would represent a minimum of approximately $32 billion received by farmers based on today’s marketing year average price projection of $10 per bushel (this total would move higher as export volumes or soybean prices move higher).
AFBF analysis indicates that the 12 MMT commitment for the rest of 2025 is a lofty but achievable goal. Over the last decade, U.S. soybean exports to China during the last 2 months of the calendar year averaged 9.5 MMT. If realized, China’s purchases of 12 MMT of soybeans in November and December of this year would be the fourth-highest export volume in history. When combined with nearly 6 MMT of soybeans already exported in calendar year 2025, total soybean purchases would approach 18 MMT, before increasing to 25 MM over the next 3 calendar years.
Over the course of more than two decades, China has grown into a major market for U.S. farmers and ranchers, and their participation, or lack thereof, ripples across the farm economy, reaching deep into rural communities where export strength often determines whether small towns grow or fade. Under the Phase One agreement, U.S. agricultural exports to China reached record highs and largely contributed to record-high cash receipts for crops and record-high U.S. net farm income.
The expectation in farm country is the newly announced deal on economic and trade relations with China could have a similar impact on U.S. agricultural exports and the broader U.S. farm economy. AFBF analysis indicates that while not a cure-all, especially with other priorities like year-round E-15 and fair and enforceable trade agreements in other parts of the world, China remains the 800-pound gorilla in the room that many hope will begin to turn around farm income and generate economic activity in the communities farmers and ranchers call home. Whether that hope becomes reality will depend on consistent follow-through by both parties and a geopolitical and market environment that allows the deal to endure.
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LABOR DEPT. RESUMES FOREIGN LABOR CERTIFICATION PROCESSING.
On Oct. 31, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced it had resumed processing of employer requests for prevailing wages and labor certification determinations for temporary and permanent employment in the United States.
The Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) called the action “critical to Georgia’s H-2A program users.
From the GFVGA:
“This development comes at a critical time for Georgia growers who are preparing for this season’s harvest as well as securing H-2A workers for spring of 2026. The reopening of the DOL’s application processing system will help prevent further costly delays, minimize potential labor shortages, and provide much-needed stability for farms across the state.”
The move, GFVGA noted, “supports Georgia agriculture and strengthens the broader food supply chain that depends on a reliable flow of farm labor.”
According to the DOL website, the Office of Foreign Labor Certification’s (OFLC) Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) system is accessible and permits system users to prepare and submit new applications as well as submit and receive information associated with their applications pending a final determination. In addition, OFLC’s SeasonalJobs.dol.gov system, an online job registry of H-2A and H-2B temporary job opportunities, has been restored to full operational status.
The department indicated that the “OFLC is taking all steps necessary to resume application processing and will post additional announcements and other technical assistance notices for all stakeholders on this website, as appropriate.” Because of anticipated increases in requests for stakeholder assistance, some stakeholders may experience longer than normal processing and response times.
AG GROUPS SUPPORT 16-YEAR RENEWAL OF USMCA
In an Oct. 31 letter to the office of the United States Trade Representative, a collection of 124 agricultural stakeholder groups expressed support for extending the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) signed onto the letter, as did the Georgia Corn Growers Association and the Georgia/Florida Soybean Association.
The letter, addressed to Assistant USTR for the Western Hemisphere Daniel Watson, notes many U.S. farms and agribusinesses have benefited from the ease of trade facilitated by the USMCA between the three countries.
“Our organizations are deeply reliant on trade, and our closest neighbors are the strongest trading partners for U.S. agriculture and its continued success,” the organizations wrote. “We stand ready to provide the expertise needed to maintain U.S. leadership within USMCA and advocate for the continued trade certainty that it provides.”
Canada and Mexico are among the United States’ top five export markets. The groups noted that value of agrifood trade between the three countries has tripled between 2005 and 2023, totaling -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page $285 billion.
Nearly three-fourths of all U.S. agricultural exports to Mexico are comprised of grains, pulses, seeds and oilseeds, meat and related products. With Mexico, the U.S. enjoys a trade surplus in those categories.
Canada is the largest or second-largest market for a large variety of U.S. agricultural products, including grain and feed, dairy products, seeds, fruits and vegetables, meat and meat products, seafood and fish products, processed foods, distilled spirits, and biofuels.
For both Canada and Mexico, the United States is each country’s largest trading partner, the groups noted.
Importantly, the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures including in the agreement improved transparency, and the technical barriers to trade provisions have helped remove trade requirements that inhibited trade. At the same time, the USMCA has helped protect U.S. innovations in seed and chemistry.
The groups urged the USTR to use caution when considering adjustments to the USMCA’s zero-tariff provisions.
To read the letter in its entirety, click here (https://www.cotton.org/issues/2025/upload/251030AgIndustryLetterSupportingUSMCA.pdf)
HPAI CONFIRMED IN GORDON COUNTY POULTRY FLOCK
On Oct. 24, the Georgia Department of Agriculture, together with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA - APHIS), confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) at a commercial poultry operation in Gordon County. This is the third confirmed HPAI case in a commercial operation and the fifth overall detection in the state this year. Since the nationwide avian influenza outbreak began in 2022, more than 182 million birds have been affected across the United States, including 340,000 in Georgia.
“This poses a serious threat to Georgia's #1 industry and to the thousands of Georgians whose livelihoods depend on poultry production. Our team is working around the clock to contain the spread and protect our flocks," said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper.
On Oct. 22, the producer noticed clinical signs of HPAI in their flock and contacted the Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network (GPLN) on Oct. 23. Samples were collected on Oct. 23 and transported to the GPLN for testing. A positive HPAI detection was confirmed by GPLN that night and further confirmed by USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratory on Oct. 24.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture's Emergency Management and State Agricultural Response Teams (SART) immediately deployed to the affected premises to conduct depopulation, disposal, cleaning, and disinfection on Friday, Oct. 24. Operations are expected to continue into the weekend. The affected premises housed approximately 140,000 broilers.
All commercial poultry operations within a 10 Kilometer (6.2 mile) radius were placed under quarantine and will undergo surveillance testing for a period of at least two weeks.
The Centers for Disease Control reports there is no evidence that anyone in the United States -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page has gotten infected with avian influenza A viruses after eating properly handled and cooked poultry products or eggs. Cooking poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165˚F kills bacteria and viruses, including avian influenza A viruses.
Good biosecurity practices are the best defense against AI infection and poultry producers must take the following measures to protect their flocks:
• Move poultry with outside access indoors;
• continue strict biosecurity practices, including a clear line of separation on the farm;
• monitor flocks for clinical signs of HPAI. Birds may become quiet, not eat or drink, have discolored combs and feet, or die suddenly with no signs of disease;
Report unexplained mortality in your birds immediately.
Avian Influenza (AI) is a reportable disease in Georgia. If you have concerns about AI in birds, call the Georgia Avian Influenza hotline at 770-766-6850 or visit https://www.gapoultrylab.org/avian-influenza-hotline/.
Anyone who sees unusually high numbers of dead wild birds in a single location should report this to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Call 1-800-366-2661 or report online at https://georgiawildlife.com/report-dead-birds
For more information about HPAI & biosecurity tips visit:
Protect Your Flock (Georgia Dept. of Ag)
Avian Influenza FAQ (Georgia Dept. of Ag)
Defend the Flock Resource Center. (USDA APHIS)
AI Information for Hunters (USDA)
STATE WATER COUNCIL PROPOSES RULE CHANGES FOR APPOINTMENTS
On Sept. 29, the State Water Council held its first meeting since 2008 to announce several proposed rule changes aimed at streamlining the process by which the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house appoint members to the regional water planning councils. The State Water Council is responsible for overseeing the ten regional water councils and developing the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan (State Water Plan). The State Water Council is chaired by the director of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD).
Here is a summary of the proposed changes:
• Reduces total size of each regional council to 15 members;
• The governor will appoint seven members, the lieutenant governor will appoint three members and an ex officio, and the speaker will appoint three members and an ex officio;
• Removes Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Department of Community Affairs and Georgia Department of Economic Development from the nominee review process;
• For each water council, at least 1 member shall be appointed to represent each sector of the four water use sectors: municipal, industrial, agricultural and energy;
• Term lengths extended to six-year terms;
• Memoranda of agreement between EPD, Department of Community Affairs, and regional -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page water planning councils will be renewed as necessary.
To read the full proposed changes and press release, click here
The rule changes proposed by the State Water Council on Sept. 29 are now in 45-day public comment period, during which two upcoming public hearings will be held. The public comment period will close Nov. 14, both public hearings will be held on Nov. 10, one in person and one virtual. All details can be found at http://waterplanning.georgia.gov. The State Water Council must vote to approve these changes, and then the General Assembly must pass a resolution for the changes to become effective.
The regional water planning councils play a crucial role in allowing public input to decide how water resources are managed across Georgia. Many Georgia Farm Bureau members serve on these councils.
If you interested in serving, please reach out to GFB State Affairs Manager Adam Belflower at acbelflower@gfb.org or 478-474-0679, ext. 5259.
GEORGIA FOUNDATION FOR AG ACCEPTING ’26 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) is offering $66,000 worth of scholarships in 2026 in support of students planning to or already engaged in studies to prepare them for careers in agriculture and ag-related fields.
The scholarships are for students: entering or enrolled in ag-related programs at colleges in the University System of Georgia, Berry College or Emmanuel College; the Technical College System of Georgia; and the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine.
There are five scholarship classifications:
• The Scholarship for Agriculture is for graduating high school seniors who plan to enter college for Fall 2026 semester and pursue a career focusing on agriculture. The GFA plans to award 10 scholarships at $3,000 each, and the top two ranking applicants will receive an extra $1,500 each. The funds for these awards will be issued for Spring 2027 semester, and the students must achieve a 3.0 grade-point average in their first semester to receive the funds.
• The Rising Junior/Senior Scholarship for agriculture is for current college students who are at least two semesters away from completing their undergraduate degree. The GFA will award eight of theses scholarships at $2,000 each.
• The Back to Farm Scholarship is for students who have shown a clear commitment to returning to the farm to build a career in production agriculture. This new $1,000 award, created with the generous support of Mac Peden, will be awarded to a Rising Junior/Senior Scholarship applicant. Applicants are eligible for the Back to Farm Scholarship even if they are not selected as a recipient of the Rising Junior/Senior Scholarship.
• The Technical College Scholarship for Agriculture is for students enrolled a school in the Technical College System of Georgia and majoring in an ag or ag-related field of study. The GFA will award four scholarships in this category at $1,500 each.
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Continued from previous page
• The UGA College of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship is for current veterinary medicine students specializing in large animal/food animal practice. The GFA will award two of these scholarships at $5,000 each.
The deadline to apply for all of these scholarships is March 1, 2026. For more information or to apply, visit www.gafoundationag.org/scholarships
LINDSEY MORGAN GRADUATES FROM AFBF COMMUNICATIONS BOOT CAMP
Lindsey Morgan of Ware County is one of 13 farm and ranch women leaders who graduated from the fall session of Women’s Communications Boot Camp hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation.
The agricultural leaders completed an intensive four-day course that featured hands-on sessions focused on public speaking, working with the media and messaging. Program graduates will use their training to strategically support issues important to farmers and help tell agriculture’s story. This includes participating in local media opportunities, sharing information with elected officials and joining social media campaigns that spotlight modern agriculture.
“Women are shaping the future of agriculture with their insight, resilience and leadership,” said Isabella Chism, an Indiana row crop farmer and chair of the AFB Women’s Leadership Committee. “Boot Camp graduates are well on their way to becoming more polished advocates for agriculture. Their growth will benefit their communities and Farm Bureau on local, state and national levels.”
Morgan serves as the Pierce County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee Chair, and she is the GFB 10th District Women’s Leadership Chairperson. She teaches social studies at Ware County High School. She and her husband, David, run a diversified farm operation. The Morgans won the GFB Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award in 2022 and competed in the American Farm Bureau Federation national competition in 2023.
Other Boot Camp graduates are Sheri Gaskins of Colorado; Megan Espinda of Indiana; Cynthia Doise and Marylynn Waddle of Louisiana; Macey McDonald of New Mexico; Heather Lifsey and Rachel Stricklin of North Carolina; Angel Brabham and Caroline Lewis of South Carolina; Jackie Larson of Utah; Kristin Beery of Virginia; and Jessica Haberman of Washington.
“It’s inspiring to see so many Farm Bureau women rise to the challenge of becoming top-tier advocates for agriculture,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Their commitment to leadership and learning is a powerful example, and we’re proud to support them on this journey.”
This is the 23rd Boot Camp hosted by AFBF. The program has 341 graduates and is open to all women involved in Farm Bureau.
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GEORGIA FOUNDATION FOR AGRICULTURE WELCOMES KAY TO STAFF
Kim-Cora Kay has joined the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture staff as an educational program assistant with the Georgia Ag Experience mobile classroom. Prior to joining the GFA staff, Kay was the McDuffie County Farm Bureau county coordinator for six and a half years.
The GAE mobile classroom, created by the GFA, is housed in a 36-foot trailer that gives third through fifth-grade students and consumers a chance to virtually visit a cattle, cotton, fruit, peanut, pecan, poultry, and vegetable farm as well as a horticulture nursery and timber stand. Colorful farm photos, interactive technology and displays of products made from various ag commodities highlight the importance of Georgia agriculture to our daily lives. All exhibits and lessons that are part of the GAE mobile classroom have been professionally designed to meet STEM curriculum standards.
Kay has a passion for connecting people, especially young people, with the importance of farming and where their food comes from. She looks forward to sharing the story of agriculture in fun and meaningful ways through the mobile classroom.
She is originally from Prince Edward Island, Canada, but Georgia quickly won her over with its beautiful landscapes, friendly people and strong agricultural roots.
Kay and her husband, Colin, love spending time outdoors. The couple has one son, Dane. Whether they’re fishing, exploring, or taking care of their small pecan orchard, they always find ways to enjoy nature and stay connected to the land.
As of May, the Georgia Ag Experience has visited every Georgia county since it began traveling to schools and festivals in January 2021.
AFBF LAUNCHES NATIONAL WOMEN IN AG STUDY
On Oct. 16, the American Farm Bureau Federation launched the national Women in Agriculture Study, a comprehensive effort to capture women’s voices from across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The survey remains open through March 31, 2026, to gather insights from women working in production agriculture, agribusiness, education and advocacy, as well as from men and others in related fields who can offer perspectives on women’s roles in agriculture.
The aim of the study is to better understand the experiences, leadership pathways and future needs of women in agriculture. This study will help identify what is working, where there are gaps, and how to strengthen engagement and support systems across agriculture. Optional follow-up interviews and focus groups will provide deeper exploration of leadership, mentorship, barriers and opportunities.
“More than a million women play vital roles in U.S. agriculture, accounting for 36% of our country’s farmers,” said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. “We want to make sure we’re clearing barriers and providing opportunities for them, and understanding their perspectives is crucial. I encourage all women in agriculture and related fields to participate in this study, which will deepen understanding of their future needs.”
Findings will be shared at the AFBF-hosted International Year of the Woman Farmer ACE Summit in Washington, D.C., in June 2026. Results will inform leadership development, outreach -continued on next page
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Continued from previous page strategies and systems that strengthen support for women in agriculture nationwide.
The survey is open to individuals age 18 and older who are involved in or connected to agriculture, forestry or life sciences, including related industries such as aquaculture, horticulture, beekeeping and more. This study is sponsored by the American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee and is funded by CoBank and JBS.
The survey, which is available in English and Spanish, can be taken here.
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GA FOUNDATION FOR AGRICULTURE FARM-TO-FUTURE ONLINE AUCTION
Nov. 10-Dec. 10 online
The countdown is on! The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture’s Farm-to-Future Online Auction opens Nov. 10! With 100+ items donated by local farms, artisans, and small businesses, you’ll discover something special for everyone on your list. From handmade treasures to farm fresh experiences, every winning bid goes beyond a gift it’s an investment in the future of Georgia agriculture. Your participation directly funds scholarships for students pursuing agricultural careers, educational programs that support teachers and kids, mental health resources for farmers, and long-term disaster relief for farm families. When you shop our auction, you’re not just crossing names off your Christmas list you’re strengthening Georgia’s farming community! Pre-register by Nov. 9, you’ll be entered to win a Blackstone griddle just for signing up! Let’s grow the future of Georgia agriculture together. For more information, visit www.gafoundationag.org/auction Click the “Save My Spot” button to register.
LEADERSHIP GFB
Nov. 10 application deadline
Leadership GFB will equip rising and current GFB leaders with the tools they need to successfully advocate for agriculture, develop their leadership skills, and embody the organization’s grassroots mission. The program will offer professional networking opportunities, expand the agricultural knowledge of members and, ultimately, develop a team of trained advocates who can function as an outreach team. Up to 12 GFB members will be selected to participate in this year-long program, which will include events in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Macon, North Georgia, South Georgia and the GFB Convention on Jekyll Island. Eligibility requirements: Applicants must be 21 or over by Dec. 31 and be a GFB member in good standing; members serving on the 2026 GFB Women’s Leadership or Young Farmers & Ranchers committees are not eligible; cost is $500 per participant, due after the individual is selected for the program. Tuition can be paid by the individual or sponsored by the participant’s employer or county Farm Bureau; spouses may not participate in the same program year. Information regarding the program can be found at https://gfb.ag/leadershipGFB Applicants should complete the application online at https://gfb.ag/LEADGFB. The application includes questions about the applicant’s background, agricultural and GFB involvement. County Farm Bureaus that plan to sponsor an applicant must complete the sponsorship form, which is to be signed by the county Farm Bureau president Applicants will be notified of their selection for the interview portion of the selection process program by Nov. 21. In-person interviews (for select applicants) will be Dec. 16 or 17 at the GFB home office in Macon. Final selection decisions will be sent to applicants who were interviewed by Dec. 22. For more information, contact your district federation manager or email leadership@gfb.org.
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GFB 2ND DISTRICT YF&R FALL MEETING
Nov. 11
Jaemor Farms, 5340 Cornelia Hwy. 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Alto
Come early to purchase something at Jaemor’s Market or Bakery before the meeting. Stay for dinner and learn about how to maximize your Member Benefits from GFB’s Director of Member Services, Jay Murdock. Children are welcome! Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family. To register, visit www.gfb.ag/D2YFRMeeting by Nov. 3.
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.
FERAL SWINE WORKSHOP WITH FLINT RIVER SWCD
Nov. 19 Mitchell County Ag Center, 4590 Hwy. 37 E 9 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Camilla
A group of agricultural and natural resource organizations are partnering to bring Georgia’s top experts on feral swine together in a series of educational workshops for farmers and landowners. This free workshop is sponsored by the Flint River Conservation District. Topics will include disease issues, swine biology, economics, water quality issues, effective control techniques, transport issues, and regulations to be followed by a question-and-answer panel of experts. There will also include a feral swine trapping demonstration. Partnering agencies include the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Wildlife Services, Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Resources Division, Georgia Department of Agriculture, and University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. To register, click here.
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PRODUCE SAFETY ALLIANCE GROWER TRAINING
Nov. 20
Cost is $175
Register at https://tinyurl.com/psagt-nov20 by Nov. 12 at 10 p.m.
Dec. 2-4
Cost is $150
Register at https://psaoos120225.eventbrite.com
Are you a Georgia produce grower? Don’t miss your chance to attend a Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course, which is required under the FSMA Produce Safety Rule (21 CFR 112). All trainings are virtual. For questions or more information, contact your local produce safety team or Lupita.gonzalez@agr.georgia.gov.
APPLE, BLUEBERRY, PEACH & WHOLE FARM CROP INSURANCE
The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) reminds Georgia apple, blueberry, and peach growers that the final date to apply for crop insurance coverage for the 2025 crop year is November 20. Growers who are interested in the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection policy and are late fiscal year filers have until November 20 to apply for crop insurance. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the November 20 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 apples in Fannin, Gilmer, and Rabun counties. Coverage is available for blueberries in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Baker, Berrien, Brantley, Burke, Calhoun, Camden, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Decatur, Dougherty, Echols, Grady, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Lanier, Long, Lowndes, McIntosh, Mitchell, Pierce, Thomas, Ware, and Wayne counties. Coverage is available for peaches in Bacon, Banks, Bleckley, Brooks, Crawford, Dooly, Hall, Henry, Macon, Meriwether, Monroe, Morgan, Oconee, Peach, Pierce, Pike, Schley, and Taylor counties. Coverage is available for Whole-Farm Revenue Protection in all Georgia counties. Please contact your insurance agent to see if your county is covered. 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. Learn more about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net at https://rma.usda.gov The Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance Company contracts with four companies – American Farm Bureau Insurance Services Inc., Rain & Hail, Sompo, and Great American Insurance to offer crop insurance. GFB has more than 70 experienced crop insurance agents (and growing) across the state to help their members protect their investment. Find your local agent and learn more at www.GFBInsurance.com or email crops@gfbinsurance.com for more details. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
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GFB DISTRICT 8 WOMEN’S MEETING
Nov. 21 10 a.m. Barnard & Thompson’s Pitts
Event begins with a Christmas tree farm tour at Barnard and Thompson’s Christmas Tree Farm in Pitts, located at 6476 HWY 215 North. Event will then move to The Station in Pitts, located at 110 7th Ave West, to hear from some wonderful speakers! We will have a true farm to table meal by Peacock Farms to include a Tuscany pasta, salad with pecan vinaigrette and homemade bread! The shop at The Station will be open for you to start your holiday shopping with homemade jewelry, ornaments and baked goods! Registration deadline is Monday, Nov. 17. Registration cost is $15. Visit https://gfb.ag/D8WomensMeeting to register.
SOUTHEAST REGIONAL FRUIT & VEGETABLE CONFERENCE
Jan. 8-10
Dec. 12
Savannah Convention Center Savannah
Early bird reservation deadline
The Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference is the largest educational conference and trade show in the southeastern United States that unites growers, vendors and suppliers! Activities include the always-popular trade show, a comprehensive lineup of educational sessions, the Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association Annual Meeting, and more. Key workshop topics include pre-harvest ripening and quality management, the Endangered Species Act and food safety. For more information or to register, visit https://seregionalconference.org/registration-3/
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR OUTSTANDING GA YOUNG PEANUT FARMER
Dec. 5 deadline for nominations
Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award. The state winner will be announced at the Georgia Peanut Farm Show on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, in Tifton. The award is sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission and BASF. The Outstanding Georgia award is based upon the applicant’s farm operation; environmental and stewardship practices; and leadership, civic, church, and community service activities. The award is open for any active Georgia peanut farmer who is not over 45 years of age, as of Jan. 15, 2026. An individual may receive the award only once. There is no liit o the number of applicants from each county in Georgia. The award application is available online at www.gapeanuts.com or by contacting Joy Crosby at 229-386-3690 or joycrosby@gapeanuts.com. The 2025 winner was Ryan Ireland of Ashburn, Ga. The award winner receives registration and hotel accommodations to attend the Southern Peanut Growers Conference, July 21-23, 2026, at Panama City Beach, Florida, and a sign to display at his or her farm.
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2026 GACD SCHOLARSHIPS
Dec. 31 application deadline
To encourage study and careers in soil and water conservation related fields, GACD administers one $1,000 scholarship each year. The scholarship is given to high school students or undergraduate/graduate students majoring in, or intending to major in, a soil and water conservation related area. The scholarship recipient will be honored at GACD's Annual Meeting in 2026. For more information or to apply, visit https://www.gacd.us/scholarships.
AMERICAN SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION/BASF SCHOLARSHIP
Dec. 31 deadline to apply
Do you know an outstanding high school senior who is interested in pursuing a career in agriculture? Strong agriculture leaders are vital to the sustainability and growth of the soybean industry, and the American Soybean Association, in partnership with BASF, wants to provide a student interested in agriculture with a college scholarship to begin their degree. The Soy Scholarship is a $7,000, one-time award presented to a high school senior who plans to pursue agriculture as an area of study at any accredited college or university in the 2026-27 academic year. The scholarship is managed by ASA and made possible through a grant by BASF Corporation. High school seniors may apply online Oct. 7 – Dec. 31, 2025. Click here to learn more information about the program. The scholarship is awarded in $3,500 increments (one per semester) for the 2026-27 school year. The student must be a child or grandchild of a current state soybean association/ASA member, maintain successful academic progress, and remain in good standing with the college or university to receive the full amount of the scholarship. A committee of soybean grower leaders will select the ASA BASF scholarship recipient. The award winner will be announced this winter. For more information, please visit www.soygrowers.com. ASA and BASF have recognized and rewarded students for their hard work and interest in agriculture through the Soy Scholarship since 2008.
49TH ANNUAL GEORGIA PEANUT FARM SHOW
Jan. 15, 2026 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Tifton Make plans to attend the 49th annual Georgia Peanut Farm Show and Conference set for Jan. 15, 2026. The show is free and open to all farmers and industry representatives to attend. The show is sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission and includes the UGA Peanut Production Seminar, the Farm Show Luncheon & Awards and a blood drive. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with more than 100 agribusinesses and organizations in the peanut and agricultural industry. Farmers will be able to earn private and commercial pesticide applicator certification, as well as learn about cutting-edge research and developments during the University of Georgia Peanut Production Seminar and industry-wide sponsored Peanut Seed Seminar. For more information, visit https://gapeanuts.com/farm-show/.
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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.