Georgia Cattleman Magazine March 2023

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“Trust the Process”

GEORGIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

100 Cattlemen’s Drive | P.O. Box 27990 Macon, GA 31221 Phone: 478-474-6560 gca@gabeef.org | www.gabeef.org

GCA & GEORGIA BEEF BOARD STAFF

Executive Vice President/Editor: Dale Sandlin, dale@gabeef.org

GBB Program and Compliance Coordinator: Tricia Combes, tricia@gabeef.org

GBB Director of Public Relations: Taylor Evans, taylor.evans@gabeef.org

Membership and Facilities Coordinator: Sherri Morrow, sherri@gabeef.org

Membership Engagement Coordinator: Taylor Pearce, taylor.pearce@gabeef.org

Organizational Coordinator/Assistant Editor: Shelby Kirton, shelby@gabeef.org

Publication Consultant Oak + Willow Creatives

Publication Editor Keith Balser

GCA Mission Statement

The mission of the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association is to unite cattle producers to advance Georgia’s cattle industry.

© GEORGIA CATTLEMAN The Georgia Cattleman magazine and the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association reserve the exclusive right to accept or reject advertising or editorial material submitted for publication. The editorial content contained in this magazine does not necessarily represent the views of the Georgia Cattleman magazine or the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association. Additionally, the Georgia Cattleman and Georgia Cattlemen’s Association staff and board members are not responsible for advertising errors made in camera-ready ads, nor are they responsible for submitted camera-ready ads that may contain non-approved copyrighted text, songs, poems or images. The advertiser or agency will be responsible for obtaining the appropriate permission from the copyright holder and will pay any copyright fee required for publication in the Georgia Cattleman.

GEORGIA CATTLEMAN (USPS 974-320, ISSN 0744-4451) is published monthly by the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, 100 Cattlemen’s Drive, P.O. Box 27990, Macon, Georgia 31221.

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Send address changes to GEORGIA CATTLEMAN, 100 Cattlemen’s Drive, P.O. Box 27990, Macon, Georgia 31221. For advertising information, contact Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, P.O. Box 27990, Macon, GA 31221. Phone: 478-474-6560.

By Jason Duggin, Dylan Davis, Marrissa Blackwell, Dr. Brent Credille, Carole Knight, UGA Beef Team

By John Foye, Kevin Silverman, and John Fike 54

By Dr. Lee Jones,

DVM,

M.S., Department of Population Health, Food Animal Health and Management, Tifton Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, Associate Professor, UGA

Cows at Oak Hill Farm.

Well, here we are at the end of my term as President. It has been an enjoyable year, along with an eventful year. We have tried some different and innovative ideas, such as the four Cattlemen’s Connections instead of the usual Summer Conference. I feel that these were well-attended and enjoyed by those who came.

One thing to highlight is that GCA is doing some things differently than in the past. We have eliminated some expenses for the association, such as record storage, which was costing us a lot of money in the past. Substantial efforts are being made as to ways of cutting costs, and there should be more to come. Dale should be congratulated on his efforts in these areas.

I hope to see many of you at the GCA Convention and Trade Show in Columbus. Many of you remember having fine conventions there in the past; if you haven’t been there, you will be impressed by the facility. There will be many good things going on, and I hope that everyone has a great time; it is always rewarding to see other members that you might not get to see

very often. Also, there will be some major decisions made, such as the possible sale of the GCA building and relocation of the office.

As you know, my term as President will end at the convention, and it has been an enjoyable journey for the last year (almost 13 months). It has been an honor for me to serve as your President; I only hope that I have, in some way, made GCA even better than it was. I thank you for the opportunity! I have had a great Executive Committee and Board of Directors, along with the great GCA staff, to work with. You can rest assured that GCA will be in good hands, and that every effort is being made to make it the best possible association to represent you. As always, your involvement and assistance will be highly important going forward.

Until next time, Rodney

Rodney Hilley

When was the last time that you went to the ballet? It’s not usually a topic that comes up when talking to other cattle producers. I remember going to two ballets in my life: The first was a performance of the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker” on a middle-school class field trip; the second was a performance of “Swan Lake” while in college, as a way to impress a girl.

While visiting family in Texas this past Christmas, I was honored to take part in a ballet of a different nature: “The Ballet of the Squeeze Chute.” In working cattle with my father-in-law and brother-in-law, I noticed a similarity with the classical ballet. Each of us had our respective roles, whether that was giving shots, tagging, branding, or just pushing them up in the alley. The analogy with ballet consists in this work being performed without words being spoken, with precise timing and coordination, and with experience and expertise gained by mastering the tasks through repetition – just as ballet dancers meticulously practice and rehearse their movements. Watching a cohesive crew work in harmony is a beautiful thing – whether in tutus and toe shoes, or in work clothes and boots.

One issue that may complicate our ability to work like that within our industry this year is the shift of many of the antibiotics that we rely on to prescription-only. The FDA has listed many common antibiotics, including penicillin and LA-200, as part of an effort to combat antimicrobial resistance. While cattle producers have used these antibiotics judiciously for decades, having a prescription for these is believed to help further ensure that they are not being overused. In their official rationale, FDA notes that in some cases a different antibiotic might be more effective in treatment for a particular concern than a standby antibiotic that a cattle producer may have already on hand.

The Ballet

By Dale Sandlin

By June 11, 2023, drug manufacturers will be required to relabel these antibiotics, requiring a prescription from a veterinarian. After this time, a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) will be a required step that all livestock producers will need in order to secure these antibiotics. The good news for cattle producers is that many of us already have this relationship in place, as it is required to secure products such as Multimin and other drugs used in cattle production.

To help our members locate a food-animal veterinarian in their area, the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association has developed a “Vet Locator” feature on their website. To use it, go to www.gvma.net and, under the “Resources” tab at the top of the page, select “Online Directory.” Once on the page, click on the “Find a Vet” button, and enter your location and the type of services that you are looking for.

Also, take advantage of this window of opportunity to contact a food-animal veterinarian, if you don’t have a relationship already, and invite them to come and visit your operation. Explain what your goals are; show them your herd and animal health records, so that they can make recommendations to improve your operation; and establish a VCPR, which should make securing these antibiotics much easier when they are needed to treat your cattle.

The next time that you work around the chute, take notice of the work-flow – and enjoy when things are quiet and harmonious, and everyone knows their role. If it’s not quiet, take a look at the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) protocols to see where there may be room for improvement. Just remember: I’m in no way suggesting that a tutu or toe shoes are appropriate work wear at this type of ballet.

LEADERSHIP

Leadership Team

Your GCA leadership team is here to serve you. Contact us with your ideas about our association or to visit about the cattle industry.

Rodney Hilley President

8881 Hwy 109 West Molena, GA 30258 678-372-9111

powdercreek@yahoo.com

Joe Garner President Elect

196 Post Place Blairsville, GA 30512 706-897-2211

jgarner@sefcoop.com

James Vaughn Vice President

PO Box 736 Forsyth, GA 31029 478-994-3830

jamesavaughn@att.net

Carroll T. Cannon Treasurer

P. O. Box 500 Ty Ty, GA 31795-0500 229-881-0721

cannonmarketingcompany@gmail.com

Dale Sandlin Executive Vice President

100 Cattlemen’s Drive PO Box 27990 Macon, GA 31221 478-474-6560

dale@gabeef.org

Tammy Cheely

Immediate Past President

950 Big Woods Road Mitchell, GA 30820 706-466-0154

tcheely@uga.edu

Executive committee Members

David Echols, Hull 706-540-6517 • dpe962@gmail.com

Phil Moshell, Morris 229-881-5823 • pmoshell@yahoo.com

Keith Hubbard, Valdosta 314-518-5454 • keithwh1@msn.com

CattleWomen’s President Terri Parker, Jefferson 770-714-5977 • coachtdawg@gmail.com

Zeb Duvall, Buckhead 706-347-0590 • zebulonduvall@gmail.com

Cleve Jackson, Cave Spring 706-238-2464 • Cjack5216@gmail.com

Hailey Partain, Thomaston 706-647-8989 • hrobinson@uga.edu

YCC Chairman Zach Floyd, Madison 229-309-4714 zacharycattle@gmail.com

Foundation Chairman

Steve Blackburn, Waynesboro 706-871-9568 • sebcofarms@gmail.com

Regional Vice Presidents

Region 1: Evan Dover 706-483-9741 edover_9180@hotmail.com

Region 2: Paula Myers 706-745-5760 myersgogators@gmail.com

Region 3: Scott Andrews 706-988-2508 gsp148@yahoo.com

Region 4: David Huddleston 404-535-1110 david.huddleston@dhuddfarm.com

Region 5: Linda Crumley 770-725-7804 whalinda23@hotmail.com

Region 6: DJ Sheppard 706-453-6879 djsheppard@gmail.com

Region 7: Brian McDaniel 678-850-6640 bmcdaniel@udiga.com

Region 8: Danny Bentley 706-975-0288 bentfarm@yahoo.com

Region 9: Jeffrey Cramer 478-232-1606 jlcramerjr@yahoo.com

Region 10: Matt Berry 229-815-0625 dixie.lix.ind@gmail.com

Region 11: Travis Young 478-456-0419 tjyoung09@gmail.com

Region 12: Horace Weathersby 706-551-8384 horaceweathersby30442@yahoo.com

Region 13: Sammy Perkins 229-220-7612 sperkinscattle@gmail.com

Region 14: Jason Deloach 229-251-8336 jdeloachcattle@gmail.com

Region 15: Stephen Crews 912-218-4016 crewsfarm4@gmail.com

Past Presidents Local Chapter Presidents

1960’s

Ben T. Smith, Atlanta

Henry Green, Sr., St. Simons

Dr. Jack Tuttle, Barnesville

J.W. Trunnell, Cochran

1970’s

K.J. Hodges, Blakely

Edward B. Pope, Washington

George Berner, Warm Springs

Dr. O.E. Sell, Milner

Joe Gayle, Perry

Sam Hay, Covington

1980’s

Lee Campbell, Carrollton

Charles Baker, Calhoun

Webb Bullard, Camilla

Bobby Rowan, Enigma

Harvey Lemmon, Woodbury

Don Griffith, Buchanan

Gene Chambers, Douglas

Dr. Mike Peed, Forsyth

Sam Payne, Calhoun

Bobby Miller, Lula

1990’s

Newt Muse, Carrollton

Howard Jones, Newnan

Mark Armentrout, Roswell

Ralph Bridges, Lexington

Lane Holton, Camilla

Dr. Jim Goodman, Temple

Dr. Frank Thomas, Alamo

Joe Duckworth, Milledgeville

Betts Berry, Chickamauga

Dr. Curly Cook, Crawford

2000’s

Chuck Sword, Williamson

Robert Fountain, Jr., Adrian

Louie Perry, Moultrie

Tim Dean, Lafayette

John Callaway, Hogansville

Bill Hopkins, Thomson

Dr. Jim Strickland, Glennville

Evans Hooks, Swainsboro

Mike McCravy, Bowdon

Bill Nutt, Cedartown

2010’s

Bill Bryan, Summerville

Steve Blackburn, Waynesboro

Chuck Joiner, Carrollton

David Gazda, Athens

Melvin Porter, Jefferson

Randy Fordham, Royston

Kyle Gillooly, Wadley

Lee Brown, Comer

Kristy Arnold, Screven

Brent Galloway, Lyons

2020’s

Kurt Childers, Barney

Tammy Cheely, Mitchell

Region 1

Floyd

Floyd/Chattooga

Steve Johnston | 706-346-1805

Murray Evan Dover | 706-483-9741

Northwest Georgia

Catoosa/Whitfield

Justin Wills | 706-264-8253

Red Carpet Gordon/Bartow

Gregg Free | 706-331-4193

Tri State

Dade/Walker

Jeremy Dyer | 423-605-2431

Region 2

Appalachian

Cherokee/Gilmer/Pickens

John Clark Pettit | 706-273-8457

Blue Ridge Mountain

Fannin/Towns/Union - GA

Cherokee/Clay/Graham - NC

Brad Hutson | 828-361-7359

Lumpkin

Lumpkin/Dawson

Anthony Grindle | 706-300-6605

North Georgia

Forsyth

Billy Martin | 404-376-6414

Region 3 Banks

Sammy Reece | 706-677-3955

Elbert

Ryan Rosenburg | 706-498-5332

Franklin

Scott Andrews | 706-491-0630

Hall

Steve Brinson Jr. | 770-869-1377

Hart

Jeff Brown | 706-371-0204

Jackson

Beau Brissy | 706-693-2567

Madison

Dylan Chandler | 706-335-3425

Northeast Georgia

Habersham/Rabun/White

Lane Westfall | 404-542-3129

Stephens

Mark Aderholdt | 706-491-7220

Region 4

Carroll

Neil Hendrix | 770-519-4129

Coweta

Ron Chamberlain | 770-309-3715

Haralson

Brian Walker | 404-535-2104

Heard

Caleb Pike | 706-302-6281

Polk

Paul Beck | 706-506-2434

Tri County

Cobb/Douglas/Paulding

Nora Goodman | 770-562-3531

Region 5

Barrow

Sharon Cassidy | 417-425-9830

Clarke-Oconee

Cindy Pritchard | 706-206-5094

Henry

Allen Garland | 678-977-1357

Morgan

Michael Ivy, Jr. | 706-202-5046

Piedmont

Butts/Jasper/Newton

Earnest Nichols, Jr. | 770-314-6061

UGA

Moira Taber | 208-490-7653

Walton

Jared Carithers | 770-362-7537

Region 6

Greene Area

Jon Dyar | 706-453-7586

Lincoln

Dalton Tankersley | 706-504-1905

Little River

Columbia/Glascock/McDuffie/ Warren

Alan Axon | 706-564-1297

Oglethorpe

Johnathan Wells | 770-880-6678

Wilkes

John Bounds | 706-401-9000

Region 7

Harris

Harris/Muscogee

Jarred Hubbard | 706-326-0400

Meriwether

Darrell McCoy | 706-977-9269

Troup

Ken Cadenhead | 706-884-8252

Region 8

Baldwin-Jones-Putnam

Bob Neligan | 706-318-0068

Central Georgia

Crawford/Dooly/Houston/Pulaski

Brent Hartley | 478-919-8710

Mid Georgia

Lamar/Monroe/Pike/Spalding/ Talbot/Upson

Wes Smith | 706-601-9527

Taylor

Wayne McInvale | 770-468-6971

Region 9

Burke

Stephen Barnhart | 706-799-7223

Jefferson Joe Miller | 478-494-4033

Johnson Area

Bray Hutcheson, Jr. | 478-521-2401

Washington

Jeffery Cramer, Jr. | 478-232-1606

Region 10

Pachitla

Calhoun/Dougherty/Lee/ Randolph/Terrell

Scotty Lovett | 229-938-2187

Sowega

Marian/Schley/Stewart/ Sumter/Webster

Matt Berry | 229-942-8456

Region 11

Ben Hill/Irwin

Ronny Branch | 229-457-0407

Heartland

Bleckley/Dodge/Pulaski

Tony M. Rogers | 478-934-2430

Laurens

Travis Young | 478-456-0419

Macon

Matt Perfect | 478-973-7164

Ocmulgee

Crisp/Wilcox

Bubba Hollingsworth | 229-406-0513

Three Rivers

Jeff Davis/Telfair/Wheeler

Theresa Molle | 229-315-1466

Turner Randy Hardy | 229-567-9255

Region 12

Jenkins

Horace Weathersby, III | 706-551-8384

Ogeechee

Bryan/Bulloch/Candler/ Chatham/Effingham/Emanuel/ Jenkins/Screven

Romaine Cartee | 912-531-0580

Tattnall

Jason Cope | 912-237-8463

Region 13

Decatur

Stuart Griffin | 229-400-0097

Grady

Michael Pope | 229-377-0914

Miller

Trent Clenney | 229-758-2844

Mitchell

Baker/Mitchell

Tim Barnes | 229-392-8299

Seminole

Bruce Barber | 229-524-8633

Region 14

ABAC

Brennan Hart | 407-697-2679

Colquitt

Harry Thompson | 229-891-4351

South Georgia Atkinson/Bacon/Coffee

Walt Pridgen | 912-381-3559

South GA Black

Cattlemen’s

J.R. Grovner | 912-506-6463

Thomas Charles R. Conklin | 229-228-6548

Tift

Andy Dunn | 229-848-3535

Wiregrass Berrien/Brooks/Cook/Lowndes

Mark Stalvey | 229-300-3596

Worth

David Carter | 229-776-9400

Region 15

Piney Woods

Appling/Bacon/Toombs

David Eason | 912-221-8926

Satilla

Pierce/Ware

Alvin Walker, Jr. | 912-449-5352

Southeast Georgia Brantley/Camden/Charlton/ Glynn

Stephen Crews | 912-218-4016

Wayne

Robin Thornton | 912-579-2181

COMMITTED TO AG. COMMITTED TO YOU.

“I have peace of mind knowing my loan officer is ready and willing to work with me at any time. Farm Credit understands my operation. They invest in me, our community, and the future of agriculture.”

– Kristy Arnold, Boggy Creek Farm

125 Years of the “Association of Associations”

By Colin Woodall, NCBA CEO

As you look south out of the windows of NCBA’s headquarters office in Centennial, Colorado, you see a lot of rooftops. Those rooftops, however, sit on land that was once the ranch of John W. Springer. In the late 1800s, Springer was a rancher and member of the Livestock Committee of the Denver Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade who was keenly aware of the challenges facing livestock producers across the United States. He understood the importance of a national voice to address issues such as range wars, cattle diseases, railroad monopolies, the packer trust, and the U.S. Government. As a result, he and the Denver Chamber envisioned a permanent national association that would be an “association of associations” in its representation of livestock of all types. From January 25th through the 27th of 1898, 1,185 delegates came to attend the National Stock Growers Convention in Denver.

At the opening session of the convention, J.G. McCoy of Kansas exclaimed, “Organize or perish!” The hook was set – and the National Live Stock Association of the United States was formed, with John Springer selected as president. The first state to join was the Colorado Stock Growers Association, now the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, followed by the Cattle Raisers Association of Texas, now the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. The association has had many names over the years. In 1906, the name was changed to the American National Live Stock Association. From 1952 to 1977, we were known as the American National Cattlemen’s Association before the name evolved to the National Cattlemen’s Association. After the merger with the Beef Industry Council of the National Live Stock and Meat Board, we became known as the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) in 1996.

While the name of the association has changed over the years, the issues remain familiar. In his inaugural address, Springer talked about the need to improve the way cattle were raised by stating, “Under our new methods of raising live-stock we can lay down as our chief axiom, take care of your live-stock and your live-stock will take care of you.” NCBA’s work in managing and implementing the Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program is a direct result of that commitment made in 1898. Springer went on to state that the second axiom would be, “Breed the best in every class and you will own better farms, better barns, better homes....” Once again, the association set the stage for the decades of work that has

been done to improve the quality of cattle and the beef eating experience. Springer referred to the association as being a “new regime” that would allow the industry to prosper as never before.

When it came to the federal government, Springer’s comments on laws meant to provide “…the least amount of governmental interference compatible with the public good” and that “we need to be largely left alone, from a legislative standpoint…” resonate with NCBA’s position today of working to keep the government out of your business. In Springer’s day, the association talked of “the stamping out of contagious diseases” – much like we are talking about our Farm Bill priority of continued funding for the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine bank. They talked of rail transportation issues – much like we are working on maintaining our ELD exemption, expanding hours-of-service, and trying to increase truck weights and lengths. They mentioned the need for trade and our ability in “feeding millions of consumers beyond the seas.” Even in 1898, our work to protect livestock access to federal lands was at the forefront of the issues discussed.

As I have read the transcripts of the early National Live Stock Association’s meetings and the history of our association in Charles Ball’s book Building The Beef Industry, I remain amazed at the ability of cattle producers to come together and build an organization that has stood the test of time. It was no easy feat, and the issues that we have confronted throughout the past 125 years have tested every seam of this association. I believe that the issues we must confront over the next 125 years will be even more challenging. Can we make it 250 years? The foundation is solid, but we will have to fight every day to stay on the land and keep beef in the center of the plate.

John W. Springer said, “The men, or set of men, who are continually looking backward for inspiration; who are chock full of calamity forebodings; who thrive on opposition to any and all measures; who are constantly quoting ancient history, are not fit to lead progressive, enterprising, 20th-century Americans.”

I believe that his words are as applicable today as they were in 1898 – and that keeping them in mind will help ensure that those attending the 2148 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show will equally admire what we are doing today.

Total

Total price of $65 includes book, sales tax, postage, shipping and handling.

To order your copy: visit www.georgiacattlemen.org, complete and mail in this form with your payment or call 478-474-6560

To order your copy: visit www.georgiacattlemen.org, complete and mail in this form with your payment or call 478-474-6560

Herds and Heritage: The History of Georgia’s Cattle Industry is possibly the most noteworthy project undertaken by this organization and its members to document the history of cattle in our great state. Noted historical writer Jackie Kennedy has spent the past two years extensively researching the project while conducting over 140 interviews with breeders, academics and industry leaders to accurately record the many notable contributions that Georgia cattle and its people have made within the cattle industry on a state, regional and national level. The result is an extraordinary, one-of-a kind book that traces the arrival of the first cattle to enter the state to the present-day, modern beef and dairy industries of the 21st century. It’s a book about the pioneers who centuries ago brought into existence a livelihood and way of life that defines us and our heritage today. It’s a book about cattle and cattle people, chronicled in 304 pages and captured forever by over 300 photos and images. We are confident this history book will be one that you and your family will cherish for generations to come.

Herds and Heritage: The History of Georgia’s Cattle Industry is possibly the most noteworthy project undertaken by this organization and its members to document the history of cattle in our great state. Noted historical writer Jackie Kennedy has spent the past two years extensively researching the project while conducting over 140 interviews with breeders, academics and industry leaders to accurately record the many notable contributions that Georgia cattle and its people have made within the cattle industry on a state, regional and national level. The result is an extraordinary, one-of-a kind book that traces the arrival of the first cattle to enter the state to the present-day, modern beef and dairy industries of the 21st century. It’s a book about the pioneers who centuries ago brought into existence a livelihood and way of life that defines us and our heritage today. It’s a book about cattle and cattle people, chronicled in 304 pages and captured forever by over 300 photos and images. We are confident this history book will be one that you and your family will cherish for generations to come.

Make your check payable and mail to: Georgia Cattlemen’s Foundation | P.O. Box 27990 | Macon, GA 31221

and

Make your check payable

mail to: Georgia Cattlemen’s Foundation | P.O. Box 27990 | Macon, GA 31221

Have your chapter activities showcased each month!

Send them to: magazine@gabeef.org

NORTHEAST GEORGIA BEEF CATTLE SHORT COURSE

The 2023 Northeast Georgia Beef Cattle Short Course was held in Athens on Feb. 8, 2023. The event provided attendees with an opportunity to listen in on a variety of cattle industry topics pertaining to animal health and well-being, cattle markets, value-added programs, and more! The group heard from university faculty and industry experts as they discussed tangible ways to increase profitability in a beef cattle operation. The event turned out to be a resounding success and hosted 100-plus farmers and ranchers from across Georgia.

GCA AND GBB ATTEND NCBA CONVENTION IN NEW ORLEANS

Representatives from both the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association and the Georgia Beef Board were present at the annual NCBA Convention in New Orleans Feb. 1-3. All attendees were engaged in training sessions, policy committees and other meetings, including the Region II meeting, with the rest of the southeastern states. During the Board of Directors meeting, a dues increase for NCBA members was passed.

GBB STAFF ATTENDS ABAC CATTLEMEN’S MEETING

GBB staff traveled to ABAC last month for a very special chapter meeting. Taylor Evans spoke with students about enrolling in the Masters of Beef Advocacy program and how to become better advocates for the beef industry as a whole. The MBA program recently celebrated 20,000 graduates nationwide in 2022 – and we are looking forward to adding more students to these ranks.

GCA’S EVP TESTIFIES BEFORE HOUSE AG COMMITTEE

During the first hearing for HB 33, GCA’s EVP Dale Sandlin testified before the House Agriculture Committee. Sandlin shared the concerns with legislators regarding moving the certifications for veterinarians from the Secretary of State’s office over to the Georgia Department of Agriculture. The bill initially passed through the committee and will be heard before the rules committee.

TRACTOR DONATED TO EMMANUEL COLLEGE AGRICULTURE

Students in the Agriculture Department at Emmanuel College now have the opportunity to gain experience and skills in tractor operation and maintenance – thanks to the donation of an 80-horsepower, four-wheel-drive tractor by Deutz-Fahr Corporation and Shoemakers Equipment. The tractor will become part of the school farm operation and will help support the 40-acre operation that includes beef, fruit, vegetable and forage production. Students will be able to perform more operations in a safe manner as a result of the donation.

Georgia Beef Bites

By Taylor Evans, GBB Director of Public Relations

We just finished up the third-ever NASCAR Xfinity Series – Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300 – and I wanted to share with you guys my favorite pick out of all the tailgating recipes that were featured in the beef promotion leading up to that awesome event. This recipe is good for all events too – from tailgating to backyard get-togethers. For example, I am planning on taking it to my sister’s high school graduation party. I hope that y’all enjoy it as much as I have – and please let me know how it turns out when you make it. One final note: When you get to the ingredients list, it is pronounced “WOO-STER-SHUR sauce.”

CHEESEBURGER DIP

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound 90% Lean Ground Beef

• 3/4 cup onion, diced

• 2 Tablespoons ketchup

• 8 ounces cream cheese

• 1-1/2 cups Cheddar cheese

• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 3/4 cup dill pickle, chopped, divided

• 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup Roma tomatoes, diced

COOKING:

1. Heat nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add Ground Beef; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Add in onion and continue to cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

2. In a standing mixer, combine cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, pepper, and 1/2 cup of diced pickles until well incorporated. Add cooled beef mixture and mix until well incorporated. Remove bowl from mixer and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until ready to bake.

3. Spread the dip into an 8-inch cast-iron or oven-proof skillet. Bake in a 375°F oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown and edges are bubbling. Remove from oven and top with remaining pickles, parsley, and diced tomatoes. Serve warm with potato chips or crackers.

Top Hand Keys: Chute-Side Tips for Cattle Processing - PART 1

By Jason Duggin, Dylan Davis, Marrissa Blackwell, Dr. Brent Credille, Carole Knight, UGA Beef Team

We purchase vaccines and take the time to administer them, but whether the vaccines do their intended job largely depends upon us. Was the vaccine handled correctly from the time of purchase? Was it administered correctly?

Beef Quality Assurance standards are the guideposts for improving cattle health and performance, producer safety, product quality, and consumer perception. This article is geared to all cattle producers and enthusiasts, but it also serves as a resource for anyone interested in participating in the Top Hand Stockmanship and Stewardship Contest series. A tutorial video for each topic below can be accessed at ugabeef.com in the Educational Programs tab in the Top Hand link.

Vaccine Handling

First, vaccines should be stored according to the product label. Products requiring refrigeration should be stored in a refrigerator that is climatecontrolled; and while working cattle chute-side, vaccines should be stored in a cooler with ice packs. Vaccines should also be kept away from UV light exposure. Before administering the product to the animal(s), locate the serial number, expiration, and lot number on the bottom of the box. Record that information in the rare event that there is an issue.

Modified live vaccines (MLV) come packaged as two separate bottles that will need to be mixed just prior to administration. When using a mixing needle, insert the needle into the liquid portion before putting the other end into the dry powder, which contains the modified viruses. If using a syringe, use a clean needle to draw up the liquid portion and then inject into the powder (Figure 1). Once a modified live vaccine is mixed, do not shake it for too long or too vigorously. Instead, gently tilt the bottle back and forth two or three times. Use the mixed vaccine within the product’s labeled timetable. This is often within 30 minutes.

Figure 1. Dr. Credille mixing Modified Live Vaccine.

Tutorial Video: Dr. Brent Credille, College of Veterinary Medicine.

Vaccine Administration

Vaccine administration is of utmost importance for the health of the calf going forward and the quality of the eventual beef product. Properly mixed, and stored vaccines must be given in the proper location. Either side of the triangular mass of the neck (Figure 2) is where most vaccines are labeled for administration. Many vaccines are directed to be given subcutaneously (SQ) or under the skin. This can be accomplished by either tenting the skin (pulling the skin outward) (Figure 3) or administering at an angle that passes through the hide but avoids entering the muscle. Products that are improperly stored or administered using the wrong method will not stimulate the calf’s immune system properly.

Switch needles at least every 10 head. Bent, burred, dulled and dirty needles should be discarded immediately. Needles are often less than 20 cents to purchase, so taking this precaution is an affordable way to ensure herd health. Contaminated needles could cause injection-site abscesses and low-grade sickness that may take away from average daily gains. Tossing bad needles is the best way to save money. Clean, sharp needles are the best way to ensure the effectiveness of the vaccine and the calf’s ability to fight off a disease challenge. Beef Quality Assurance guidelines recommend a ½ to ¾ inch length needle at 18 to 16 gauge for SQ injections. See Figure 4 for additional situations. continued on page 24

Top Hand Dates for 2023

April 15 – Top Hand Field Day, Hawkinsville, GA: High school - adult - Register at ugabeef.com.

April 20 – Athens Regional Contest, Location: Double Bridges Farm, 4:00 Registration.

May 4 – Alapaha Regional Contest, Location: Alapaha Beef Unit, 4:00 Registration.

May 11 – Carrolton Regional Contest, Location: TBD, 4:00 Registration.

May 20 – Top Hand S&S State Championship, Location: TBD.

Figure 2. Injection Triangle for IM (white) and SQ (both red and white).

Figure 3. C. Knight demonstrating Tent Method.

Figure 4. Needle Length & Gauge by Weight and Product.

SQ or IM Injection site

SQ Injection only

Tutorial Video: Carole Knight, 4-H Youth Livestock Specialist.

Chute-Side Safety

Safety is top priority when working cattle. Ultimately, nothing else matters. Here are a few tips to help your cattle and crew have a safe workday.

1) At the sweep tub or bud box: Never get in a pen with cattle that are aggressive or flighty. Working from the outside is safer and smarter in those cases, particularly. In instances where the bud box is utilized and requires the handler to be inside the pen, it is recommended that inexperienced handlers should gain experience moving cattle before using a bud box on their own. Overcrowding sweep tubs is a common problem that leads to potential injury and reduces cattle flow.

2) Along the alleyway: Fingers, hands and arms are our most valuable tools. When working cattle through a chute system, always be aware of pinch points and potential hazards. Avoid putting hands and arms between excited cattle. Before opening any sliders, check for people who may still be working on either side of you.

3) At the chute: Avoid standing directly over a calf. Instead, stand out to the left or right working from the side as you apply ear tags, give intranasal vaccine, read tattoos, etc. Before letting cattle out of the chute, make sure everyone is clear that the calf is being released, particularly when working from both sides of the chute simultaneously.

Getting youth involved in the cattle industry is a high priority, particularly when it comes to hands-on production and management. The cattle handling contest known as Top Hand Stockmanship and Stewardship is one window of opportunity for high school age students to gain experience working cattle from the sweep tub through the chute. Check out ugabeef.com for more information about the Top Hand Program.

Tutorial Video: Dylan Davis, Youth Livestock Extension Specialist.

RWA Home Town W1821

AAA # 20190623 | 08-11-2021 | Sire: Home Town | Dam: Fail Safe

RWA Ashland W1161

AAA # 20190716 | 08-7-2021 | Sire: Ashland | Dam: Progress

RWA Home Town W1021

AAA # 20190642 | 08-7-2021

Sire:Home Town | Dam: Prophet

RWA EJB Transcendent W142

AAA # 20349282 | 01-19-2022

Sire: Transcendent | Dam: Fail Safe

sunday 4.23.23 2:00 pm

10th anniversary

BCC Fail Safe 825

AAA # 19242490 | 08-10-2017

Sire:Fail Safe | Dam: Fruition

100 bred heifers and 50 bred cows

Consignors: BC Cattle Company | Brooks Angus Farm | Edgewood Farm | M & V Farm | Two Rivers Cattle Company Kirk: 828.226.2839 | Robin: 706.540.0400 | www.rockingwangus.com

UPDATE

By Taylor Evans

Beef. It’s What’s Dinner.® 300

For the third year in a row, Daytona International Speedway announced its partnership with Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. to sponsor the 42nd season-opening race for the NASCAR Xfinity Series – The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300. The race was scheduled to kick off the season on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Daytona International Speedway, the day before the 65th annual DAYTONA 500. In addition to the monumental television, radio and digital exposure gained through this event, GBB staff was able to be on site for the race – promoting beef to the thousands of race fans present for Speed Week.

Atlanta Chili Week

This February marked the third year of Atlanta Chili Week! Twenty participating restaurants cooked up thousands of bowlfuls from Feb. 20-26. This beef promotion came in response to a request from the restaurants; they saw so much success from participating in Atlanta Burger Week that they wanted to bring beef to the city again. The restaurants were encouraged to use different cuts of beef to promote the rich versatility of beef.

May is Georgia’s Beef Month

May is Georgia’s Beef Month, and it will be here soon! We want to encourage you to work with your chapter to promote our beef industry and the delicious beef products during May. Here are a few ideas:

• Cook and serve hamburgers and hot dogs to local law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, etc.

• Purchase copies of “Can-Do Cowkids” from Amazon and donate them to local libraries and elementary schools. Or even set up times to visit classrooms and read the story to a class!

• Work with your local radio station to provide and promote a beef message.

• Take part in local farm/ag days and educate students on how beef is raised.

• Work with local grocery stores to provide beef materials and resources at the meat counter.

• Host a beef cooking competition.

• Host your county leaders for a farm tour in your area.

• Share beef nutritional resources with medical offices.

Please reach out to Taylor or Tricia (taylor@gabeef.org or tricia@gabeef.org) and let us know how we can assist you as you plan and prepare.

Robert Fountain Jr., Chairman P.O. Box 284

Adrian, GA 31002 478-955-2363

Joel Keith, Vice Chairman 2772 Mountville Hogansville Road Hogansville, GA 30230 706-594-2873

Melvin Porter, Treasurer 168 Hardman Rd Jefferson, GA 30549 706-654-8283

Gerald Long 3005 Old Whigham Road Bainbridge, GA 39817 229-246-7519

Bill Bryan 2830 East Armuchee Rd Summerville, Ga 30747 423-605-0561

Kenneth Murphy 7432 Rocky Mount Road Gay, GA 30218 770-550-0339

Adam Williams 2270 Rome Road SW Calhoun, GA 30701 404-569-1549

Luke Spooner P.O. Box 704 Donaldsonville, GA 31745 229-254-3186

Clay Floyd P.O. Box 566 Swainsboro, GA 30401 478-237-3201

Chuck Joiner 425 Gray Rd Carrollton, GA 30116 770-301-3243

Brent Galloway 1295 GA HWY 152 Lyons, GA 30436 678-410-6070

Georgia Beef Board PO Box 28230 Macon, GA 31221 478-474-1815

www.georgiabeef.org

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Bagwell Insurance Group, Gainesville Cain Equipment, Clermont Diamond V, Okeechobee, FL

Franklin County Livestock, Carnesville Jackson EMC, Hull Manor Timber Company, Manor

Northeast Georgia Livestock, Athens

Southern Agri-Gro, Macon SunSouth, Columbus

Weeks Auction Group, Moultrie

Ag-Pro, Newnan

Ag-Georgia Farm Credit, Perry

AgSouth Farm Credit, Anderson, SC

Athens Stockyard, Athens, TN

Baker Cattle Service, Quitman

Bill Hembree Insurance, Winston

Braswell Cattle Company, Athens

Dr. Sam Adams DVM, Americus

Edward Jones, Douglasville

Flint River Mills, Bainbridge

Griffins Warehouse, Douglas

Honey Ridge Agricenter, Springfield

AgAmerica Lending, Lakeland, FL

Ace Hardware, Blue Ridge

AgSouthFarm Credit, ACA, Madison

Athens-Clarke Co. Extension Office, Bogart

Bank of Camilla, Camilla

Banks County Farm Bureau, Homer

Bartow County Farm Bureau, Cartersville

Big Daddy’s Cattle Farm, Tyrone

Bubba’s Tire, Dublin

Bull Hill Ranch, Gray Court, SC

Butcher Block Meats. Eastman

Burke Truck and Tractor, Waynesboro Carhan Farm, Atlanta

Carquest of Blairsville, Blairsville

Carroll E.M.C., Carrollton

Carson Bros. Tractor Co., Americus

Cat Creek Cattle, Valdosta

Central GA Farms LLC, Eatonton

Chapman Fence Company, Jefferson

Chauncey Farm Supply, Chauncey

Circle G Ranch, Adel Colony Bank Rochelle

Jackson Farm, Grantville Langdale Farms, LLC, Valdosta

Lasseter Equipment Group, Moultrie

McRea Farms, The Rock

Middle Georgia Fleet SVC, Zebulon

Miller Auto Parts & Hardware, Americus

Mountain Valley Motors, Blue Ridge

Oglethorpe Feed & Farm Supply, Crawford

Pasture Management Systems, Mount Pleasant, NC

Paulding County Farm Bureau, Dallas

Peters Cattle Company, Milledgeville

County Financial, Blairsville

C R Benson Farm LLC, Dry Branch

CTAGRIN Land Mgmt & Cattle Co., LLC, Camilla

Dublin Physical Medicine & Rehab Assoc., Dublin

Elbert Co. Farm Bureau, Elberton Elder Farm, Jefferson

Entrekin Equipment Greenhouses, Bremen

Equal R Cattle Services, Hahira

Farm and Garden Inc., Cornelia

Farmers Seed & Feed Service, Americus

Flint River Mills, Perry

Forsyth County Farm Bureau, Cumming

Franklin County Farm Bureau, Carnesville

Gerald A. Bowie, Auctioneer, West Point

Greene County Extension Office, Greensboro

Greg’s Meat Processing, Comer

Griffins Warehouse, McRae

Gulf Coast Cattleman, San Antonio, TX

H & H Equipment Sales Inc., Alma

Habersham Co. Farm Bureau, Clarkesville

Hancock County Farm Bureau, Sparta

Reid Brothers Irrigation, Americus Resaca Sun Feeds LLC, Resaca

Sunbelt Ag Expo, Moultrie

Tim Stout Group, Fayetteville

WW Livestock Systems, Albany

Wealth Plan Financial, Blairsville

West End Milling, Quitman

White County Farmers Exchange, Cleveland

White Co. Farm Bureau, Cleveland

Zinpro Performance Minerals, Sparta, TN

Haralson County Farm Bureau, Buchanan

Harris County Farm Bureau, Hamilton

David Hilliard, CPA, McRae

Henry County Farm Bureau, McDonough

Holland Fertilizer Company, Cedartown

Ivey’s Outdoor and Farm, Albany

J&B Tractor Company, Waynesboro

Jacky Jones Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram, Hayesville, NC

James Short Tractors & Equipment of Alto

Lasseter Equipment Group, Moultrie

Lumber City Supplements, Lumber City

Madison Co. Chamber of Commerce, Danielsville

Madison County Farm Bureau, Danielsville

Manor Cattle Company, Manor

Nelson’s Feed & Hardware, Blairsville

Oconee State Bank, Watkinsville

Oconee Well Driller, Watkinsville

Philema Animal Hospital, Leesburg

Pickens Farm Bureau, Jasper

Piggly Wiggly, McRae

Public Service Communications Inc., Reynolds

R.W. Griffin Industries, Nashville

Seminole Livestock Exchange, Donalsonville

Silveus Insurance, Dumas, TX

SunMountain Cattle Animal Health Supply, Citra, FL

SunSouth, Carrollton

Southern Livestock, Swainsboro

Tanner's Towing, Blairsville

TNT Supercenter, Thomasville, GA

Triple Creek Cattle, LLC, Americus

Union County Farm Bureau, Blairsville

United Community Bank, Carrollton

United Community Bank, Cleveland

Upson County Farm Bureau, Thomaston

Wards Service Center, Inc., Dexter

Waters Agricultural Labs, Inc., Camilla

Whitfield County Farm Bureau, Dalton

Wilcox Co. Farm Bureau, Rochelle

Windy Hill Farm, Madison

Woody Folsom Automotive, Baxley

Youngblood Farm, Sparta

Each month, the GCA Associate Members section recognizes GCA’s allied-industry and business members. To become an associate member call 478-474-6560. GCA members are encouraged to use the services of these industry-supporting professionals.

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome This Month’s New Members!

Steven Adams, Tallapoosa

Ryan Ayers, Carrollton

Walter Brown, Monroe

Wesley Cannon, Butler

Kerry Carden, Greenville

Bandon Cash, Tallapoosa

Jackson Clouatre, Mount Berry

Collin Coomer, Cartersville

Marissa Creamer, Woodbury

Darrin Dalrymple, Carnesville

Brandy DeLoach, Surrency

Chelsea Dozier, Macon

Gary Eisele, Plains

Robert Ford, Macon

William Garbett, Perry

Samantha Garcia, Mount Berry

Chad Green, Roanoke, AL

Kaylon Grubbs, Blairsville

Grant Hadden, Gibson

Hannah Hall, Cedartown

Garrett Hart, Carnesville

David Helton, Jr., Rocky Face

Michael Higginbotham, Madison

Carroll Hopkins, Cairo

Katie Hutson, Blairsville

Jonathan Jackson, Homer

Matt Johnson, Sharpsburg

Alton Johnson, Warrenton

Owen Lamb, Plains

Drake Lawson, Lula

Clint Lee, Athens

Luke Lott, Willacoochee

James Lynch, Monticello

Zack Mayfield, Floville

Karey McKinnon, Pearson

Hoyle McLendon, III, Blakely

Jan Morris, Charlotte

Russell Nix, Colbert

Alan O’Quinn, Adel

Dorothy Paschal, Hawkinsville

William Payne, Lincolnton

Kyle Perry, Villa Rica

Cole Phillips, Statesboro

Hank Pitts, Tunnel Hill

Will Pollard, Hartsfield

Justin Poole, Lincolnton

Camilla Rawdin, Mount Berry

Jason Ridley, Chatsworth

John Roberts, Pitts

Jared Robertson, Lexington

Scott Saylors, Cohutta

Deb Singleton, Thomaston

David Smith, Cedartown

Fate Sparrow, Vienna

David Spikes, Sautee Nacoochee

Tony Taylor, Alma

Dylan Thompson, Loganville

Gage Thornton, Hazlehurst

Bruce Trevenen, Carrollton

Jeffrey Vance, Carrollton

George Waddy, McDonough

Willow Waldrep, Forsyth

Brian Watkins, Bishop

Nicholas Wilbanks, Cumming

Daniel Wilkinson, Madison

James Williams, Baxley

Stephen Wood, Kingston

Jordan Worthey, Adairsville

Chuck Yarbrough, Woodland

Daniel-Jackson Feed Mill, Ranburne

Smith Farm Supply-Griffin, Griffin

Mid GA Grain, Woodbury

Oakhill Cattle Company, Greenville

Land Works, Greenville

Thanks for joining GCA. Please complete the form below and return with your payment. Payment of your membership dues entitles you to full membership beneifts, including a 12-month subscription to the Georgia Cattleman magazine.*

A DIFFERENT KIND OF FISH Monthly Devotional

By Chaplain and CFC Executive Director Dave Harvey

Cowboys and Cowgirls, I sure can chow down on some good shellfish – except for raw oysters; I have just never acquired the taste for them. Most shellfish are the kind of fish that are edible, and I mean the kind that you can really eat. Most of them that I have eaten – and that is a pretty good bunch – really taste great; and for the most part, they are good for you. Now, most of us Cowboys and Cowgirls know that there are fish that you can eat and there are fish that will eat you. I personally am a typical “cowboy swimmer” – which means that I probably will not be able to out-swim a shark, or even a rock. With that swimming ability, or lack thereof, I don’t go very far from the shore, wherever that may be, ocean or large stock tank. I just have no desire to be “fish bait” – so I try to keep one foot on dry ground, if possible.

While we are talking about fish, let’s talk about another kind of “fish” – and it sure is not a shark or shellfish. I want to talk about the most dangerous “fish” that there is in existence, and it has been around for a real long time. Down through the ages, there have been many who have been caught by this “fish”; just ask Satan or a whole host of others, if you are inclined to speak to them. Now this fish is spelled a little differently, so we won’t smell the fishy smell until sometimes it is too late. We are all susceptible to being bitten by this “fish”; and often, we don’t even realize that we are even being attacked by this most dangerous and often deadly fish. This “fish” is what we call “self-fish” –or actually, it has been shortened to “selfish” to try to cover up the danger of this most dreaded “fish.”

This “self” fish (or, as we normally call it, selfish) is the kind of fish that will eat you – and it will eat your family, even your kids; it will eat your marriage, it will eat your friends, your coworkers, and actually the stranger who passes your way. This “fish” is to be feared much more than a few great white sharks that may happen to be swimming in your stock tank or pond, or just an occasional killer whale that may swim by while you are floating across the Atlantic on your raft.

This most dreaded of all “fish” will consume your joy, devour your happiness, and totally feast on your life. “Selfish” will outlast any “hooked a big fish” battle – and it sure won’t just get off of your hook and swim away on its own.

This “fish” has destroyed relationships, demolished friendships, worked havoc on marriages, and actually devastated lives; and in many cases, those involved did not realize that they had been in a fish-fight. This is because the “self” in “selfish” means “yourself,” and many don’t understand that the battle that is being waged is really between you and you, with the adversary using a harpoon to dig as deep and cause as much hurt as possible. So many folks think that being selfish means “keeping all my stuff for me”; but it also means being stingy with our time, our feelings, our words, our prayers, and even our love. It means taking our thoughts and allowing them to cause pain by not thinking of others as we march through life with our focus on “me, myself and I” – totally unaware of the suffering all around us.

Most of us are familiar with the “fish” story in the Book of Jonah and how he was swallowed by a big fish. We fail to see this terrible “selfish” that had taken over the mind and body of the Prophet Jonah, and that this “fish” was seeking total destruction of Jonah, the sailors on the ship he was on, and even the people of Nineveh – to whom he was supposed to deliver the message of hope and salvation from the LORD. The big fish or whale that swallowed Jonah didn’t like the taste of the “selfish” that had driven Jonah to disobey the LORD. Jonah was trying to get away from fulfilling the direct WORD that came to him to go to Nineveh; and that “selfish” in Jonah made the big fish sick, and he vomited Jonah out on dry ground.

Now, Cowboys and Cowgirls, if that “selfish” made the big fish so sick that he actually vomited Jonah out on the shore, don’t you think that same “selfish” would make us sick and make it real hard to keep it on our stomachs, too? Well, what about those around us who see our “selfish” swimming all around us and are watching us choke and strangle on that “selfish” that is caught in our throats, not going on down and probably on the way back up? For all sin is selfish action. James 4:1: “Do you know where your fights and arguments come from?

IS Your Membership about to expire?

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They come from the selfish desires that make war inside you.”

You may be thinking right now that you have seen that “selfish” working in someone’s life; and probably there are folks who could be thinking of times when they may possibly have seen that same “fish” swimming around in your life. Guess what: Many of those folks who may have seen it in your life are your spouses, your parents, your children, your family, your coworkers, your friends – and maybe even those whom you were ministering to or hoped to reach for the LORD. That dreaded “fish” can sure take the strength out of your witness and leave you powerless before the enemy. The lives you were hoping to reach for JESUS CHRIST are lost in the sea of doubt, hurt and confusion as they watch that “selfish” swim around you and maybe even swallow you. At best, you will only end up as the biggest chuck in a pile of fish vomit, but you will certainly end up fruitless for the Kingdom of God.

Dear Heavenly Father: Please touch your servants in a special way and give us victory over this dreaded and dangerous “selfish.” Please give us wisdom and power to be the fruitful workers for the Kingdom of God that you have created us to be. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

On the Road Again –Just Can’t Wait to Get on the Road Again…

The UGA Beef Team travels throughout the state to provide educational opportunities.

By Lawton Stewart, Professor and Extension Coordinator, Animal Science Department, UGA

The University of Georgia Beef Team is made up of specialists from multiple departments and colleges within the university. With Extension appointments, the “fun” part of our job is getting out with our clientele and delivering up-to-date information that will help them improve production and ultimately increase profitability. These programs are delivered in different formats; but the most impactful format remains face-to-face programs where we can interact directly with the county agents, beef producers, and the general public. Examples of these programs include: the Master Cattlemen’s Program; the Tifton, Athens and Calhoun short courses; Beef Quality Assurance trainings; the Sunbelt Ag Expo; local Cattlemen’s and Livestock Associations; various workshops; and many more. All of these programs require Team members to travel, some extensively, in order to present these programs in parts of the state that make them available to all of our cattle producers. The challenge, however, consists in the diminishing funds available through the university for specialists and agents to travel. Operating budgets to travel for these programs are minimal or non-existent, especially for team members not housed in a department directly associated with the beef cattle industry. Fortunately, with funding provided through the Agricultural Commodity Commission for Beef, all of our beef programs are going strong and continue to be available throughout the state. Below are a few examples of programs.

One program, specifically, that brings together expertise from all of our Beef Team is the Master Cattlemen’s Program (Table 1). This is a program where cattlemen and cattlewomen meet for two hours, once a week, over an eight-week period to get in-depth training on more than 10 topics related to improving production. Once they complete the program, participants receive a certification. Evaluations have indicated tremendous impact on participants’ knowledge, with the average rating across topics being 4.5 or greater (1 indicates no impact; 5 indicates very strong impact). The program is offered twice a year and rotates among the four Extension districts in Georgia (Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest). In 2022, the program was hosted in Emanuel and Carrol Counties and was attended by 115 participants. The program is currently being hosted in Lee County and will rotate to the Northeast district in the fall.

Each year, a short course is hosted in Athens, Tifton and Calhoun. The goal of these short courses is to provide up-to-date, research-based information that is pertinent to the beef cattle producers in that area. The programs are presented by a combination of speakers from UGA Extension, industry, and other universities and programs from around the country. The ACCB funding helps bring in the guest speakers. In 2022, more than 250 participants attended the short courses.

Dr. Pedro Fontes, UGA Extension Beef Specialist, demonstrates reproduction technologies at the Northeast Georgia Beef Cattle Short Course in Athens.

Additionally, our team puts together a hands-on Beef and Forage School for county Extension agents each year. The goal is to give new agents, and agents with a limited background in beef cattle and forage production, an opportunity to learn basic skills to help them serve clientele in their respective counties. In 2022, a two-day training was held at the Northwest Georgia Research and Education Center in Floyd County. Participants gained experience working cattle, collecting blood samples, working with the dystocia simulator, testing

hay and reading a forage report, adjusting hay equipment, and sprayer/drill calibration.

Finally, the team conducted educational programs at numerous local and regional events throughout Georgia. We are always open to new opportunities and avenues whereby we can help beef cattle producers. If you are interested in participating in any of our events, or need production help at your operation, please contact your local Extension office (extension.uga.edu; 1-800-ASK-UGA-1).

Dr. Lisa Baxter, UGA Extension Forage Specialist, discusses forage input cost at the Tifton Short Course.

Dr. Brent Credille, UGA College of Veterinary Medicine, discusses herd health programs at the Master Cattlemen’s Program in Lee County.

A group of county Extension agents work with the calving simulator to learn proper techniques to pull calves at the annual Beef and Forage School for agents.

Châtel Farms is now purchasing Angus sired, high carcass merit feeder cattle that have never received antibiotics or added hormones. Our desire is to build long term relationships with innovative cattlemen looking to join us in transforming the cattle industry in the Southeast.

For more information, please contact:

Châtel Farms Program: Elizabeth Caskey 706-513-4951

elizabeth.caskey@fplfood.com

FPL Cow Program: Eric Gahart 262-909-3494

eric.gahart@fplfood.com

A New Family Tradition

OAK HILL FARM

By Shelby Kirton

A farm is more than just the land, cattle and crops. A farm is the family’s heritage and future lying firmly rooted in the operation. Family traditions provide an opportunity to live productively in the moment and create a sense of belonging to a rich, dynamic history. The Stalvey family rides strong in traditions at Oak Hill Farm, nestled in the wiregrass portion of Georgia in Hahira.

Just like many operations, the Stalvey family has multiple generations present on the farm. Four generations, to be exact. Third-generation proprietors Mark and Pam Stalvey raised their two daughters, Caroline and Elizabeth, on the farm. Now, both daughters get to raise a brand-new fifth generation on the very same soil that they grew up on.

It all started in 1932, when Annie Belle and Eason Stalvey inherited a portion of land. They would then raise their family and begin farming on that land. Ninety years later, that inheritance is now a part of the unique group of centennial family farms – and the legacy behind the Stalvey family.

Tommy and Nan Stalvey – the second generation – have kept the legacy and traditions of the farm going, passing it along to Mark and Pam’s generation. “It is only through Tommy and Nan’s thoughtful planning and actions that the farm is being passed down to future generations to love, manage, enjoy, and share with others,” Elizabeth observes.

Tommy began his branch-out into the cattle industry in the early 1990s, initially forming the framework for the herd with primarily Brahman and Simmental cattle. He then passed the herd down to Mark, who branched out further and grew the herd with commercial Angus cattle. “As with most cattlemen, a desire to develop a quality animal and build a quality herd of cattle was a driving influencer in getting into cattle production,” Mark notes.

As a multi-generational operation, Oak Hill Farm had an already-established infrastructure. This created some challenges for Mark; but in the end, it would add fewer complications than

starting from scratch. “We started very slowly a nd built our herd, for many years, utilizing AI breeding to custom-build our genetics for the future. As our herd size grew, we had to balance time constraints and moved to utilizing quality herd bulls, to continue building and developing our genetic brand,” Mark recalls.

When determining which breed of cattle would best fit Oak Hill Farm, marketability and handling played a major role in the decision. “After having Brahman and Simmental cattle on the farm in earlier years, we decided that the Angus-influenced cattle were a better fit for us,” Elizabeth explains. The family chooses to utilize registered bulls at Oak Hill Farm, to add the genetics that tailor to their operation’s requirements to build a successfully functioning and profitable herd.

Small farms play an enormous role in the future of our industry, ultimately serving as its backbone. The Stalvey family celebrates the sense of fulfillment and meaning that comes from being a part of this essential industry and lifestyle. Elizabeth expresses it eloquently: “We work to provide quality cattle to feed America, and at the same time creating a legacy for our family that is as old as America itself.”

A new – and creative – tradition was added within Oak Hill Farm just a short six years ago. A Communications Class project for Elizabeth sparked interest on social media; and that is when the “wedding venue” concept was born. The venue consists of an old, small horse barn transformed into a charming pavilion; an intimate chapel; and an Airbnb converted from a grain silo. Mark and Pam own and operate Oak Hill Farm, including its wedding venue, alongside their two daughters and sons-in-law. Thus each generation of happily married couples plays a key role in operating this truly family-friendly venue.

Over the years, the venue has grown and flourished. The Georgia Centennial Farm designation adds an extra touch of the history and legacy behind Oak Hill Farm. Elizabeth highlights the importance of this: “It adds to the overall style of our venue, and we know diversification is the key in any operation, whether it’s row crops or weddings.”

The Stalvey family uses wedding-venue events on Oak Hill Farm as educational opportunities for their guests to see up-close what it is like to operate a farm. They offer tours to their guests – many of whom have never stayed or grown up on a farm or been involved in the agriculture industry. “We use this time as a teaching tool for those guests to educate them about our stewardship and love for the land and animals. They always leave with a much different perspective about the industry and the work that we do,” Elizabeth proudly reports.

The wedding venue at Oak Hill Farm, featuring a beautiful covered entrance, covered seating, and a chapel for the ceremony.

Angus cows at Oak Hill Farm.

Tommy – also known as the Stalvey Patriarch – grew up being a part of the second generation of the family’s farm. He has been a part of every inch of the operation’s growth, and he has witnessed new traditions being formed. The fifth generation is now starting to join the family. This next generation is vital in helping to continue the legacy and traditions of Oak Hill Farm. “I hope to pass on to my grandkids, if nothing else, a message of family tradition, history, hard work, and simple satisfaction. The importance of them knowing the work and sweat that has gone into our small piece of earth over the generations that have worked it. And no matter what type of agriculture it sustains, the gift of being able to feed others is unique.”

Ranching and farming are not merely activities that you engage in when you choose to; they constitute a way of life for families in this time-honored industry. In light of this, the Stalvey family offers time-tested wisdom: “Our advice to those interested in entering the industry is to not enter this field unless you are driven and passionate about doing it. It must be a way of life. There aren’t any sick days or holidays – but it is rewarding in the best kind of way if you truly live the life.”

While their traditions may vary slightly from one generation to the next, the core values remain

constant: the Stalveys’ commitment to investing in the future of the beef and agriculture industry – and keeping their family legacy growing and thriving. Though their operation is nearly a century old, each generation keeps life at Oak Hill Farm – their firmly rooted centennial tradition – feeling fresh and new.

Tommy sums up their vibrant success story with nicely traditional phrasing: “Annie Belle and Eason would be so proud of what the farm has become today.”

The Stalvey family. Since this photo was taken, Mark and Pam have welcomed another grandchild - and another one is on the way at the time of publication.

The Silo at Oak Hill Farm offers guests an experience on the farm with all the ammenities needed for a relaxing weekend enjoying the rural lifestyle.

Pam prepping for a dining event outdoors at the Silo.

and

The Economic Agronomic Case for Silvopasture in Georgia

By John Foye, Kevin Silverman, and John Fike

The idea of integrating livestock and trees has faced a perception challenge. For much of our history, we fenced the woods, turned in the cows, and let them make the management decisions because it was easy. It didn’t result in good environmental or timber outcomes. Farmers whose families cut trees to claim the land for agriculture often view planting trees back as against their personal or family history. However, trees and livestock can beneficially mix when the human being takes an active role in management.

Beating the heat is probably the foremost motivation for producers establishing and managing silvopasture. Data from Virginia research shows that compared with sheep in silvopasture settings, those animals grazing open pastures in summer have elevated body temperatures through much of the day, and this translates to chronically higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Per UGA Extension Forage Specialist Dennis Hancock’s article in the June 2018 Georgia Cattleman (“Silvopasture,” page 50), natural shade provides 5-10°F cooler temperature than that of constructed shade in the Deep South. Animals in silvopasture also alter their grazing patterns, spending more time in resting behavior and following the shade through the day as they graze.

In addition, silvopasture systems can help managers to diversify income streams (with timber and nontimber forest products); they can also provide numerous ecosystem services. Trees reduce erosion by slowing raindrops during intense rainfall; their deeper root systems can capture nutrients lower in the soil profile and thus more efficiently utilize nutrients in the system. Trees can

also be sources of fodder – whether routinely or during weather extremes – and silvopasture provides habitat for wildlife (which may increase value of hunting leases). There is also the aesthetic appeal of silvopasture, which some producers maintain has increased the value of their farms. As we will discuss later on, emerging carbon markets will allow practitioners to monetize the carbon drawdown for both financing the planting of trees and producing longterm revenue.

Practitioners should understand that although a silvopasture system can take time to implement, it can yield tangible benefits fairly quickly. Many producers have no interest in planting trees for silvopasture because they think that they’ll never harvest the trees. In states such as Georgia with a strong pine market, planting and harvesting pines constitute an appealing option. Establishing a pine silvopasture stand of roughly 150 trees/acre with 2-3 solid rows of trees with 40 feet of open space between each set of rows, per Michael Goodchild of UF/IFAS Extension, allows for grazing when combined with certain species of grass such as Pensacola bahiagrass combined with overseeded ryegrass. Stocking rates depend on the forage available per stand and the maturity of the system. A successful silvopasture demonstration site in Goldsboro, for instance, mixes longleaf pine, loblolly pine, and cherrybark oak across different soil types in 3-row settings across 17 acres.

However, there is flexibility, depending on your landmanagement goals: Systems “built” with hardwood trees might be for the next generation. As they grow, the trees and the system are like a CD, accruing value even if not yet

Photo Source: USDA National Agroforestry Center via Commons Wikimedia

ready to be cashed out. Other producers may be more keen on establishing nut tree silvopasture systems with pecans or walnuts.

So how do you get started? Silvopasture implementation requires alignment with operational goals and should be incorporated in a way that works with and meets farm operational needs. Working with technical assistance providers – whether it be from your state’s Extension agency or NRCS, or working with a consulting forester (particularly if thinning a timber stand) – is a good first step to long-term success. These professionals can help you think about and design systems that work for your management goals. As a part of our process, Working Trees connects interested producers to technical assistance providers, whether they be public servants or private servants, to access the information and know-how needed for successful silvopasture installation.

The first “what about?” asked regarding silvopasture involves reduced forage production due to shade. That can happen, but it doesn’t have to. Tree species, spacing, and management all affect the amount of shade in the system. In Virginia, maintaining the trees so that 50 to 60 percent of full sun reaches the understory forages has kept forage production comparable to open pasture; and slightly lower levels of shade can actually increase production of cool-season forages. That’s not just a research finding; you’ve likely observed greener grass around shady areas when pastures crisp up during a summer dry spell. In areas such as South Georgia, Bahiagrass is a productive species in pastures receiving less than 30-percent shade. Tall fescue also remains productive in higher silvopasture shade percentages. Tree planting densities can be designed around the grass species that a land manager wants in place. However, it is important to remember that forage yield (and intake) is not the only driver of animal performance and system output. Energy expenditure is important too, and animals that spend less energy because they are cooler and resting more will need fewer groceries to remain productive.

Then there’s the “what about?” on the cost of silvopasture. Some may be inclined to buy shade structures or build loafing barns, and that certainly can provide shade very quickly. But while the investment in a commercial shade structure can give your livestock an immediate benefit, that same investment might gain you several acres of silvopasture. And, as one prominent Virginia silvopastoralist has noted, planting trees that provide

shade and have future market potential may be a better economic strategy than building a barn for shade and watching it depreciate.

In addition, silvopasture systems will require some variation of rotational grazing management to be successful. For newly planted systems, some level of tree protection will also be needed; and there are a number of approaches for doing this. Fixed or electric fencing, cages, tubes – with or without barbed wire or electric wire – can all be used as part of the tree protection system. One also needs to consider the type of livestock and wildlife pressure on site. In some cases, a producer might plant trees in a hay field, with the goal of grazing the site once the trees are of adequate size.

So how does that work? Historically, carbon markets associated with tree planting required large acreage for entry. Working Trees is helping to democratize the carbon market through new technologies that make tree measurement rapid and simple. By enabling rapid measurement and verification, producers will have the opportunity to invest in carbon drawdown in a way that was previously possible only for very large landholders. Our objective is to help farmers get compensated for the carbon stored in trees incorporated into their systems. Combining these beneficial environmental features with the right financing streams – such as NRCS EQIP, SWCD programs, and carbon credits – can help you get trees established with little to no money out of pocket to start generating long-term returns.

Although silvopasture can be implemented both by thinning or by planting trees, we have considered only the tree-planting context here for a couple of reasons. First, along with providing a number of benefits and services to farm operations, silvopasture as a management practice is considered one of the best agricultural practices available to help reduce atmospheric carbon. And that is central to our second point, which is this: As carbon markets grow, silvopasture will offer sources of additional farm revenue through the value of the carbon stored in trees.

Whatever your interest is in silvopasture, Working Trees is looking to help you plant trees on pastureland –and we have carbon credits buyers ready to pre-pay early adopters of our program. Companies will want these high-quality credits for many years. Please visit www. workingtrees.com for more information and a free land analysis to determine if the program is a fit for you.

GEORGIA SOURCES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SILVOPASTURE

“Working Trees for Livestock: Silvopasture in the Southeast”

“Silvopasture: Establishment & Management Principles for Pine Forests in the Southeastern United States”

“SILVOPASTURE”

1/4

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2nd Quarter '22 Winner Howard Johnson

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GENEROUSLY SPONSORED BY: Danny Bentley

Association Reports Association Reports

P.O. Box 27990

Macon, GA 31221

478-474-6560

http://www.gabeef.org

Update

By Bryson Smith

Hey y’all! I hope this finds everyone doing well. This time of year can be a real grind for a lot of people – between calving season and weather; but the days are starting to get longer, and spring can’t be too far away!

I am thankful for the privilege to have served as the President of the Georgia Junior Cattlemen’s Association this past year. It has provided me with so many pathways to continue to grow and learn, along with building a strong network with producers from all around the state. Because of GJCA and GCA, I have been able to represent both organizations at a variety of events – such as Cattlemen’s Connection Quarterly Meetings, the Georgia National Fair Livestock Beef Shows, the Sunbelt Ag Exposition, the Calhoun Bull Test Sale, and one of the Top Hand Stockman and Stewardship Contests. There are so many rewarding opportunities for our junior members to be active in both GJCA and GCA.

The Georgia Cattlemen’s Association annual convention is coming up fast! This year, it will be held in Columbus, Ga., from March 8-10. It is really exciting to see the new activities added to the agenda for junior members. Junior contests have been added in Photography, Public Speaking, and a Junior Cattlemen’s Beef Quiz Bowl. All contests are open to juniors aged 12-21 and will be divided into three divisions: Juniors, Intermediates and Seniors. These contests will take place on the morning of Wednesday, March 8, and the awards will be presented at the Awards Luncheon at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 9, 2023. Rules and entry forms are located on the GCA website. Many of us have lobbied for several years to add more activities for juniors at the convention, so please support these contests. We would love to have you participate! Help spread the word – and invite your friends from 4-H and FFA to join GJCA and enjoy the fun.

Other junior events coming up that you may be interested in include the 2023 Top Hand Stockmanship and Stewardship Contests (including a field day if you are looking for a practice opportunity or to learn more about the contest). You can find out more information at the UGA Beef website (https://beef.caes.uga.edu/) under the Educational Programs section of the Programs tab. The Junior Herd Builder program is currently in progress, and those participants (grades 8-12) will wrap up that contest in late May. More information about The Junior Herd Builder program can also be found on the same website.

In addition to the co-sponsored competition and live-animal programs, GJCA also offers several of their own award and scholarship programs. The Heifer Allotment Youth program (HAY), the Junior Cattleman of the Year Award, and several scholarship opportunities are all programs available to Junior members. More information about these programs and awards can be found on the GCA website under the Programs tab and then the Georgia Junior Cattlemen’s Association tab. I would encourage you to take advantage of all these excellent opportunities.

Joining GJCA is super-easy! Students 21 years of age and younger, as well as current college students, can become members of GJCA. Dues are only $15.00 per year! You will get a digital copy of the monthly magazine and many avenues to participate in exciting events and make new friends from all across the state.

I am still attending ABAC in Tifton and working at the UGA Bull Evaluation Center in Irwinville. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if I can help you in any way; you can reach me at 706-767-1533 or at b40cattleco@outlook.com.

GJCA Mission Statement: The mission of the Georgia Junior Cattlemen’s Association is to prepare the members of the junior association for membership and leadership in the Young Cattlemen’s Council and Georgia Cattlemen’s Association, and to offer education opportunities to prepare them to become industry leaders.

2022-2023 GJCA Officers

Bryson Smith President Maddie Dean

Vice President Cora Crews

Secretary

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Raising Healthy Calves: Stage 2

By Dr. Lee Jones, DVM, M.S., Department of Population Health, Food Animal Health and Management, Tifton Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, Associate Professor, University of Georgia

Last month, I wrote about the importance of getting calves off to a good start. Things such as cow nutrition during pregnancy, the calf environment during the first 30 days of life, and getting timely colostrum all play a critical role in calf health.

Now that calves are here and doing well, we want to keep it that way.

Vaccinating calves is an essential part of protecting calf health. A common vaccine that all calves need is the 7-way vaccine that we commonly call “blackleg” vaccine. It actually stimulates resistance to more than just blackleg, though. Thrifty, fastgrowing calves that suddenly experience bloating or abdominal pain (colic) may suffer from enterotoxemia caused by Clostridium perfringens toxins in the gut. The toxins produced from C. perfringens are thought to be caused by an increase in intestinal starches or sugars. Many times, the calves are

suddenly found dead without any clinical symptoms. Vaccinating calves either at or shortly after birth with a 7-way Clostridial vaccine containing C. perfringens type C and D is an effective control practice. Blackleg is a disease caused by Clostridium chauvoei that is also in the same vaccine. Blackleg is preventable, but we still frequently see it at the diagnostic lab. This vaccine is one of the best ones at stimulating protection, and calves should get at least two doses by the time they are weaned.

Bull calves not intended for breeding should be castrated by 3-4 months of age or earlier. I checked the USDA feeder calf marketing reports, and in January almost a third of the feeder calves sold in Georgia were bulls. Sellers lost an average of $75 per bull calf sold, compared with steers of same age and weight. Not only are bull calves worth less than steers, but they are also at a higher risk of getting sick after castration. Castrating calves at

a young age is much less risk. Waiting until after weaning increases the odds that calves will develop pneumonia, requiring antibiotic treatment. With improving calf prices, farmers should seriously consider selling steers, not bulls.

Some people prefer to band their bulls. Tight bands placed over the base of the scrotum shuts off blood supply to the scrotum and testicles. Vaccinating against tetanus is recommended if calves are banded. When Clostridium tetani infects dead tissues, it produces the tetanus toxin. The vaccine given at the same time stimulates the immune system in time to protect the calf against infection with C. tetani. Regular 7-way vaccine does not contain tetanus, so make sure that you are buying one that does if that is needed.

Dehorning calves also improves calf sale price. As with castration, performing this practice earlier is also recommended because it is much easier on the calf than waiting until the horns are larger. Including pain control, such as local lidocaine block and some meloxicam, also seems to help.

Respiratory virus vaccines are also recommended. Recent research shows that calves can be effectively vaccinated as early as 2 months of age. Viruses such as bovine viral diarrhea virus types 1 and 2, bovine herpes virus 1 (also known as infectious bovine rhinotracheitis), bovine respiratory syncytial virus and parainfluenza 3 are viruses in the respiratory vaccines. The vaccines come in killed or modified live (MLV) options. There are nasal options as well for BHV, BRSV and PI3 but not BVD. This vaccine is squirted up the calf’s nose. MLV vaccines stimulate a vigorous immunity quickly in a single dose in most calves (not 100 percent, though) but are not recommended for calves nursing pregnant cows that haven’t been vaccinated with the same vaccine. KV vaccines are safer for vaccinating calves nursing pregnant cows that have not been vaccinated, but they require a booster 4-6 weeks later to be effective. Unfortunately, many farmers sometimes omit the second dose. Knowing which vaccine to use and when can be confusing. Consulting a knowledgeable veterinarian is important.

There are also a lot of questions about deworming calves. Most calves less than 300 pounds have very few worms. Calves pick up worms from

grazing pasture; so, unless calves are grazing, they should not have worms. Pour-on dewormers are the least effective of our options. Oral, also known as “white” wormers, are the most effective. Generally, it is recommended to deworm calves after 4-5 months of age or over 400 pounds for best results. In the Southeast, calves are exposed to worm larvae on pastures most of the year – with hot, dry summer months having the least exposure. The optimal time to deworm depends on the season as well as the age and weight of the calf.

Following Beef Quality Assurance principles is also important. The Beef Quality Assurance slogan says, “The right way is the only way.” While BQA started out more than three decades ago with the purpose of reducing residues and blemishes in meat, it has developed into a total quality approach to raising beef. NCBA estimates that there are a little over 725,000 beef cattle farms in the U.S. In 2017, there were just over 200,000 people BQA-certified. Today, there are dozens of certification programs about raising and marketing quality beef. All of them are designed to show the consumer that we are careful about how we produce the beef that we sell; that we follow high standards in raising this beef; that we stand behind it; and that we want you to be confident in the product that you buy – in that it was raised humanely and sustainably, and that it is safe and wholesome for your family to eat.

Low-stress handling is a must. There are several low-stress handling workshops now across the U.S. This practice has become widely accepted and adopted as the new standard for working cattle. Several studies have proven the benefits of using low-stress techniques on livestock health and performance. Like the facility design, low-stress handling uses cattle’s natural tendencies to handle cattle when working through the handling equipment. There is a common saying, “Slower is better.” What that means is that not getting in a big hurry and applying too much pressure on cattle actually makes the process go smoother and even faster.

Raising healthy calves is just good stewardship. Today, farmers can get paid for their work. There are many sales that pay premiums for well-managed calves. Finding the sales might take a little effort – but it is well worth it.

A crossbreeding program for commercial beef producers

To learn more or to enroll, please contact Chessie Mitchell, RAAA tag program coordinator, at tags@redangus.org

Clinton M. “Bubba” Crosby Jr. Jan. 23, 2023

Mr. Clinton M. “Bubba” Crosby Jr., 75, of Claxton, Ga., passed away on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, at his home.

Bubba was born in Savannah, Ga., to the late Clinton M. Crosby Sr. and Virginia Bennett Crosby. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Nadine Nelms Crosby, and a brother, Michael Crosby. An electrician by trade, in the 1970s Bubba founded a civil and sitework company in Savannah, Ga. He had many lifelong employees whom he worked with side-by-side. In addition to operating the construction company, he served on the Board of Directors for Southside Fire Department/Chatham Emergency Services for over 30 years. In 1994, Bubba purchased his beloved farm in Claxton, Ga. He worked very hard developing the land and named it Circle C Farm. His interest in the sport of cutting horses led to his desire to compete, resulting in winning many titles. Over the years, Bubba strived and succeeded in producing the highest quality of Black Angus cattle in the industry. As a result of his hard work, in 2020 he was presented with the Commercial Producer of the Year award by the Georgia Angus Association.

Bubba cherished his family more than anything. He leaves behind his wife, Judy Hawkins Crosby; children and spouses, Jennifer Crosby Williams (Darin), Misty Crosby Wilson (Chad), and Chance Crosby (Aly); grandchildren, Britton Williams, Blake Williams, Andy Wilson, Anna Wilson, Jay Crosby, and Luke Crosby; brother, Ray Crosby; and several nieces and nephews.

Bubba was a treasured member of the community, always putting others first, willing to help when needed. He will be greatly missed by many.

The visitation was held at Silk Hope Baptist Church, located at 4929 Pineland Drive in Savannah, on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023. The memorial service to honor Bubba’s life followed in the sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, it was suggested that remembrances be sent to Silk Hope Baptist Church Family Life Center, 4929 Pineland Drive, Savannah, GA 31405.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Homes, West Chatham Chapel, had charge of arrangements.

Industry Obituaries

John Emory Seay

March 6, 1932 – Jan. 2, 2023

John Emory Seay was born on March 6, 1932, in Telfair County, and died Jan. 2, 2023, at the age of 90. He was the son of John Frank Seay and Nancy Margaret Williams Seay, and he was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Lewis Etheridge Seay, Eber Rue Stapleton, Mary Lizzie Binkney and Nettie Lee Wright.

Mr. Seay is survived by his wife of 69 years, Christine Spires Seay; and their children, Nancy Gail Seay Rogers and her husband, Tommy, of McRae, Randall Emory Seay of Atlanta, Exie Lynn Seay of Cumming, and Mary Kristina Seay of McRae. He is also survived by his grandsons, Chris “Buck” Rogers and his wife, Katelyn, of Braselton, Will Rogers and his wife, Lana, of McRae, and Joel Rogers and his wife, Paula, of Eastman. Eleven great-grandchildren survive as well, including Billy Rogers, Eli Rogers, Rose Rogers, Ben Rogers, Bo Rogers, Emma Rogers, Sarabelle Rogers, Lily Rogers, Abby Rogers, Dean Rogers and Henri Rogers.

Mr. Seay was a veteran, having served in the United States Army. He was a distributor for the Excello Battery Company for more than 30 years, but farming was the vocation that he most loved. He was a past president of the Three Rivers Cattlemen’s Chapter, served on one of the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association committees during that time, and was a long-time member of the Georgia Cattlemen’s Association. He was involved with the Telfair County Farm Bureau in 2004 and then again from 2007-2010, serving on the board and as President.

Mr. Seay was a member of Midway United Methodist Church near his home, and he had previously served as a deacon and song leader at Harmony Baptist Church.

MARRISSA BLACKWELL

I am a GCA member because my passion is being a steward of the cattle industry, the livestock, and the land in Georgia. Being a part of GCA is a chance to be involved in a producer-driven organization that has the same mission. I am honored to be able to build relationships and work alongside some incredible producers!

Join 5,000+ fellow cattle producers and allied industry partners who are dedicated to progressive animal husbandry practices, increased market opportunities and a united political voice.

• Legislative Representation, Market Development, Producer Education, Community Involvement

• A monthly subscription to the Georgia Cattleman Magazine

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$20 off minimum on Emergent Coverage AIR EVAC LIFE TEAM membership with additional discounts available

10% Discount To GCA Members on their monthly CattleMax subscription.

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IF YOU HAVE SIMMENTALS TO SELL, THIS IS YOUR SPACE! CONTACT GCA TODAY OR EMAIL MAGAZINE@GABEEF.ORG.

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GEORGIA LIVESTOCK MARKET NEWS

LPGMN Market News Division P.O. Box 86 Thomasville, GA 31799 229-226-1641

COMPARED TO ONE WEEK EARLIER: SLAUGHTER COWS AND BULLS SOLD STEADY TO 4.00 HIGHER. FEEDER CLASSES 1.00 TO 5.00 HIGHER. REPLACEMENT COWS MOSTLY STEADY TO 2.00 HIGHER.

SUPPLY INCLUDED: 74% FEEDER CATTLE (25% STEERS, 46% HEIFERS, 29% BULLS); 18% SLAUGHTER CATTLE (89% COWS, 111 BULLS); 8% REPLACEMENT CATTLE (65% BRED COWS, 35% COW-CALF PAIRS). FEEDER CATTLE SUPPLY OVER 600 LBS WAS 15%.

SLAUGHTER CLASSES:

This publication is made available through the cooperative efforts of the USDA and Georgia Department of Agriculture Livestock Market News branch. Check our internet address at http://www.ams.usda.gov/mnreports/lswgeorgia.pdf For current market information call 1-229-226-1641.

Carroll County Livestock Carrollton, GA 770-834-6608

Duvall Livestock, Inc. Greensboro, GA 706-453-7368

J.D Higdon 706-817-6829

Jim Malcom 706-342-5655

Eastanollee Livestock Market Eastanolle, GA 706-779-5944

South Central Livestock Fitzgerald, GA 229-423-4400

Sumter County Stockyard Americus, GA 229-380-4901

Georgia Livestock Markets

Southern Livestock Oak Park, GA 912-578-3263

Franklin County Livestock Carnesville, GA 706-384-2975

Lanier Farmers Livestock Gainesville, GA 770-844-9223

Moseley Brothers Cattle, LLC Blakely, GA 229-308-3452

Pulaski County Stockyard Hawkinsville, GA 478-892-9071

Thomasville Livestock Market Thomasville, GA 229-228-6960

Upson County Livestock Thomaston, GA 30286 864-704-2487

Bill Bryan Cattle, LLC Summerville, GA 423-605-0561

Calhoun Stockyard Calhoun, GA 706-629-1900

Turner County Stockyards Ashburn, GA 229-567-3371

Northeast Georiga Livestock Athens, GA 706-549-4790

Seminole Stockyard Donalsonville, GA 229-524-2305

Jackson Regional Stockyard Jackson, GA 770-775-7314

Moultrie Livestock Moultrie, GA 229-985-1019

Wilkes County Stockyard Washington, GA 706-678-2632

Bill Bryan Cattle, LLC Summerville, GA 423-605-0561

Your Beef Checkoff - $1 Federal & $1 State Remittance/Head Beef Promotion and Research Program PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF FORM

Both the seller and the buyer have the responsibility to have the $1 per head assessment collected and remitted to the qualified state beef council. This form is designated for use in private treaty sales.

Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Beef Assessment Remittance Form | Private Treaty Sales

Under the Georgia Marketing Order for Beef, producers of bovine animals in this State have the responsibility to have the $1.00 per head assessment collected and remitted to the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Beef. This form is designated for use in private treaty sales.

Please remit this form and assessment payment made payable to: Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Beef, 19 MLK Jr. Drive, S.W., Room 324, Atlanta, Ga. 30334

March PRODUCTION POINTS

General

• Continue feeding high-magnesium mineral supplement to cows on winter grazing.

• Do not overgraze winter annuals. Pull cows when the annuals are shorter than 4”.

• Fertilize permanent pastures according to soil test.

Spring Calving

(January, February, March)

• For a January 10-March 30 calving season, bulls need to go in April 1- June 20. Make sure bulls are in good condition and conduct breeding soundness exams.

• Cows need to be in moderate to good condition to rebreed early. You may need to start feeding your best hay and put them on your best grazing now. Supplement as needed according to forage test.

• Start breeding heifers about a month before the cow herd.

• Castrate, dehorn and implant calves at birth.

Fall Calving

(October, November, December)

• Remove bulls March 23 to end calving season about December 31.

• Keep bulls in a small pasture with strong fences. Feed bulls enough to keep them in good condition for next year’s breeding.

• Spot-check cows to see if most are bred. By now, there should be little activity.

• Vaccinate for clostridial disease; castrate and dehorn late calves or those missed in early working.

BQA BItS

The sale of market cows and bulls accounts for 25 percent of all U.S. beef consumption. Beef and dairy producers must realize the value that these animals contribute to the industry. Do NOT market compromised, terminally ill and non-ambulatory cattle. Producers must do a quality job of managing, transporting, and marketing their cows and bulls.

Beef industry calendar of events

March 1, 2023

Georgia Bull Test Sale - Tifton

Irwinville/Chula, GA

March 4, 2023

“THE SORT” Judging Contest

Partisover Rnach

Colbert, GA

March 8-10, 2023

Cattlemen’s Convention

Columbus, GA

March 24, 2023

The Late Bob Greene’s Last Pasture Sale

Ashburn, GA

April 1, 2023

Circle G RanchesFemale Sale

Adel, GA

April 1, 2023

Turnpike Creek Farms Bull & Female Sale

Milan, GA

April 7, 2023

Ingram Angus Spring Production Sale

Pulaski, TN

April 8, 2023

Southern Synergy Angus

Female Sale

Wadley, GA

April 8, 2022

Knoll Crest Spring

Bull and Female Sale

Red House, VA

April 18, 2023

Georgia HERD Program Sale - Tifton

Irwinville/Chula, GA

April 20, 2023

JMar Genetics New Beginnings

Charolais Bull & Heifer Sale Sale: DVAuctions

Cattle can viewed at farm: Appomattox, VA

April 23, 2023

Rocking W Angus Sale

Jefferson, GA

April 29, 2023

Blackwater Cattle Co.

Replacement Female Sale

Lake Park, GA

April 29, 2023

Cut Above Sale

Cullman, AL

April 29, 2023

Lawler Farm & Friends

Female Sale

Opelika, AL

May 23, 2023

White Hawk Ranch Beefmaker

Female Sale

Buchanan, GA

May 31, 2023

Georgia HERD Program SaleCalhoun

Calhoun, GA

July 6-8, 2023

Georgia Junior Beef Futurity

Perry, GA

October 5-15, 2023

Georgia National Fair

Perry, GA

October 12, 2023

JMar Genetics Quality over Quantity Charolais Bull

Heifer Sale

Cattle can viewed at farm: Appomattox, VA

December 1, 2023

Knoll Crest Total Performance Bull Sale

Red House, VA