Southeastern Peanut Farmer - October/November 2014

Inside: n n n

Estate Planning Rotation Farm Bill Update

A communication service of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation.

Contents October/November 2014

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Joy Carter Crosby Editor joycrosby@gapeanuts.com 229-386-3690

Philip Grimes, farmer from Tifton, Ga., has been recognized for his high yields in peanuts through the Peanut Achievement Club and for his overall farming practices as the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year.

Contributing Writers John Leidner johnleidner@bellsouth.net Teresa Mays Teresa2@alpeanuts.com Jessie Turk jessie@gapeanuts.com Southeastern Peanut Farmer P.O. Box 706, Tifton, Ga. 31793 445 Fulwood Blvd., Tifton, Ga. 31794 ISSN: 0038-3694 Southeastern Peanut Farmer is published six times a year (Jan./Feb., March, April, May/June, July/Aug., and Oct./Nov.) by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation.

The publisher is not responsible for copy omission, typographical errors, or any unintentional errors that may occur, other than to correct it in the following issue. Any erroneous reflection which may occur in the columns of Southeastern Peanut Farmer will be corrected upon brought to the attention of the editor. (Phone 229-3863690.)

Postmaster: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Southeastern Peanut Farmer, P.O. Box 706, Tifton, Georgia, 31793.

Circulation is free to qualified peanut growers and others allied to the industry. Periodical postage paid at Tifton, Georgia and additional mailing office.

Editorial Content: Editorial copy from sources outside of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Southern Peanut Farmers Federation policies.

Publication of material does not necessarily imply its endorsement by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation.

For editorial concerns call 229-386-3690. No portion of this or past issues of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer may be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the written consent of the editor. By-lined articles appearing in this publication represent views of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher.

Advertising: The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Corrections to advertisements must be made after the first run. All billing offers subject to credit review. Advertisements contained in this publication do not represent an endorsement by the Southeastern Peanut Farmer or the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. Use of trade names in this publication is for the purpose of providing specific information and is not a guarantee nor warranty of products named. For advertising concerns call 229-386-3690.

Grimes honored with Peanut Achievement Club and Southeastern Farmer of the Year

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Crop rotation still needed Peanut crop rotation is needed now more than ever says Marshall Lamb with the National Peanut Research Lab. A long crop rotation has helped keep peanut farming competitive with other crops because crop rotation contributes to higher yields, he says.

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A 100 year family tradition at Birdsong Peanuts For five generations, Birdsong Peanuts has delivered peanuts to manufacturers around the world.

Today the company is helping further the development of the peanut industry through their involvement in industry activities.

Departments: Checkoff Report .................................................................................. 8 Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission and Mississippi Peanut Growers Association

Washington Outlook ............................................................................ 20 Southern Peanut Growers Update ........................................................ 22 Cover Photo: Philip Grimes named the 2014 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year. Pictured left to right, Chip Blalock, Sunbelt Expo executive director, Jane and Philip Grimes and Ron Carroll, marketing vice president with Swisher. Photo by Joy Crosby.

October/November 2014 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Editorial

Calendar of Events

Harvest full of sorrow, gratefulness and pride arvest is in full swing and anyone traveling through the Southeast can tell from the smell of freshly dug peanuts to the fields of Southern snow, also known as cotton from the locals. The fall brings many families together to help bring in the crops each year.

There is always plenty of work to be done at harvest and each farmer is hoping for the best weather conditions so the crop is not delayed and harvested at its optimum maturity. This fall has already brought some farm families sorrow, gratefulness and pride throughout the Southeast.

Near the beginning of harvest time, the peanut industry lost a valuable leader through a farming accident. Don Self, a leader in the Mississippi Peanut Growers Association and member of the National Peanut Board, died Oct. 1 in a harvesting accident. Don was helping another farmer haul peanuts.

I have seen Don at countless peanut industry meetings and he always had a smile on his face. In fact, I don’t think he has ever met a stranger. He was always quick to introduce himself and was a wonderful spokesman for the peanut industry. He was always willing to lend a hand with any type of peanut promotion.

To recognize Don’s contributions to the peanut industry, the Mississippi Peanut Growers Association has established the MPGA-Don Self Memorial Annual Scholarship. The scholarship will be managed by the Mississippi State University Foundation and contributions are tax deductible. The goal is to raise $25,000 to make this an endowed scholarship and to generate at least an annual $1,000 scholarship in perpetuity. Contributors may make a onetime donation or make an annual pledge for up to five years.

Any individual or entity wishing to donate should make the check to “MSU Foundation, Inc.” and note that it is in memory of Don Self. The mailing address is: MSU Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 9760, Bost Building, Rm 204A, Mississippi State, MS 39762.

On another note, gratefulness has filled the home of Todd Mason, a farmer in Campbellton, Florida. Todd has been in the hospital during harvest time battling a dying pancreas. While he has been fighting health issues, farmers in the community have stepped up to help with harvesting Mason’s peanuts and cotton. In addition to farmers, women in the community helped by preparing meals for the farmers while other individuals helped by picking up the children from school or volunteered to sit with Todd in the hospital.

I’m sure the Mason family is very grateful for the support from other farmers throughout the harvest. This example goes to show how supportive farmers are and their willingness to help others.

Lastly, Philip Grimes, farmer from Tifton, Georgia, is feeling pretty excited about his recent recognition of the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year. Philip was recognized for his farming practices during the Sunbelt Ag Expo. More details on the award and his farm are available on page 6.

Philip has also been recognized several times through the Georgia Peanut Achievement Club for his high yielding peanuts. Congratulations to Philip and his entire family!

So, as harvest continues on and comes to a close, I hope all of you will be spared any sorrow from a farm accident and will be able to feel gratefulness from others farmer helping you or feel pride in the crop you have produced this year. t

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Joy Carter Crosby Editor

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

u National Peanut Festival, Oct. 31-Nov. 9, 2014, Dothan, Ala. For more information visit nationalpeanutfestival.com. u Georgia Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Dec. 7-9, 2014, Jekyll Island, Ga. For more information visit gfb.org. u Alabama Farmers Federation Annual Meeting, Dec. 7-8, 2014, Montgomery, Ala. For more information visit alfafarmers.org. u American Peanut Council Winter Conference, Dec. 10-13, 2014, Washington Marriott Hotel, Washington, D.C. For more information visit peanutsusa.com or call 703-838-9500. u Georgia Peanut Farm Show & Conference, Jan. 15, 2015, UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center, Tifton, Ga. For more information visit gapeanuts.com or call 229-386-3470. u University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Ag Forecast Seminar, Jan. 14, 2015 Gainesville, Ga.; Jan. 15 - Cartersville; Jan. 16 - Bainbridge; Jan. 21 - Lyons; Jan. 22 - Tifton and Jan. 23 - Macon, Ga. For more information visit georgiaagforecast.com. u Georgia Agribusiness Council Legislative Breakfast, Feb. 4, 2015, Atlanta, Ga. For more information visit GAC online at ga-agribusiness.org. u Georgia Peanut Commission Research Report Day, Feb. 11, 2015, Tifton, Ga. For more information visit gapeanuts.com. u Peanut Butter & Jelly Day at the Georgia State Capitol, March 3, 2015, Atlanta, Ga. For more information visit gapeanuts.com.

(Let us know about your event. Please send details to the editor at joycrosby@gapeanuts.com.

2014 planted peanut acreage shows increase he U.S. Department of Agriculture recently released the September 2014 Certified Acreage Report for Peanuts which shows a slight increase in 2014 planted acreage when comparing the acreage to recent years.

These reports can be confusing on the surface. To clarify, when farmers certify their planted peanut acreage at their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office, the acreage is classified into one of three categories based on intended use. The categories are nut peanuts, green peanuts and hogged peanuts. The only category relevant to the traditional peanut market for peanut butter, snacks, candy and inshell peanuts is the nut category. So, when the certified acres from the green peanuts and hogged peanuts are removed, the total peanut acreage planted for the traditional market is 1,310,521 acres in 2014.

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It is also important to note that when you are comparing data from one year to the next, you can’t always use the previous year’s data. In 2013, farmers planted a reduced acreage of 1,053,271 which was more comparable to the acreage planted in the 1920s.

“The 2013 planted acreage was an extreme outlier,” says Stanley Fletcher, director of the National Center for Peanut Competitiveness, University of Georgia.

“To really understand the magnitude of the 2014 peanut acreage, one needs to compare it against a norm.”

Since peanuts are a rotational crop, the best measure for a norm is the Olympic average of the 2008-2012 peanut planted acreage which was 1,294,878 acres. By comparing the 2014 planted acreage with the average, the data shows farmers were attempting to get back to their normal peanut rotation in 2014 after

U.S. Peanut Nut Acreage Planted by State 10 Primary Peanut States

2014 September Nut Acreage*

2008-2012 Olympic Average Nut Acreage **

Alabama

172,527.1

181,062.0

-8,534.9

Florida

164,684.7

146,505.4

18,179.3

Georgia

582,056.6

584,612.3

-2,555.7

27,845.8

16,200.4

11,645.4

Mississippi New Mexico North Carolina Oklahoma

Difference

4,479.9

9,735.3

-5,255.4

90,297.2

85,222.0

5,075.2

9,300.4

19,068.5

-9,768.1

South Carolina

106,789.9

69,438.9

37,351

Texas

123,055.5

156,255.36

-33,199.86

Virigina

18,446.4

17,542.1

904.3

1,299,483.5

1,285,642.26

13,841.24

10,494.6

8,425

2,069.6

403.6

354.1

49.5

Missouri****

76.2

356.5

-280.3

Others*****

62.7

100.3

-37.6

1,310,520.6

1,294,878.16

15,642.44

Total (10 primary states) Minor States Arkansas*** Louisiana

TOTAL

*September 2014 USDA-FSA certified peanut nut acreage (excludes green peanuts and hog peanuts acreages). ** Olympic Average of 2008-2012 total planted peanut nut acres by state. ***Arkansas did not really start growing peanuts till 2010 so their average is a simple average of 2010-2013. ****Missouri did not start growing peanuts till 2012 so their average is a simple average of 2012-13. *****Other minor states are Kansas, Minnesota and Nebraska.

severely altering the rotation in 2013.

Rotation is a key management tool for the market, as well as preventing disease and helping increase yields. George Lovatt, owner of Lovatt and Rushing, a peanut brokerage company, encourages farmers to plant what is in their best longterm interest.

“I think the important thing for the peanut grower to understand is that we live in a competitive environment,” Lovatt says. “And as cotton, soybeans and corn are weak – necessarily peanuts will be weak as well.”

The 2014 crop has been a mixed bag of problems beginning with a delayed planting due to rain and then hot and dry summer months. Several farmers experienced weeks without rain at a critical time for water use in peanuts. Now shellers are recommending growers to keep their dryland peanuts and dry corners of irrigated fields separate from their irrigated peanuts when delivering them to their local buying point.

On top of the issues with the 2014 crop, farmers have been left with uncertainty this year without final farm bill regulations approved prior to planting. The combination of the lower acreage in 2013 and potentially lower yields in 2014 have combined to move peanut supply and demand closer to equilibrium.

“Some farmers planted with the mistaken belief that the price of peanuts would be supported at $535 per ton,” says Don Koehler, Georgia Peanut Commission executive director. “Planting beyond normal acres in those areas was noticeable but not largely widespread.”

Many farmers working through the 2014 crop will soon realize that Price Loss Coverage (PLC) payments will not arrive until late 2015. Also, the payments will effectively be based on $470 per ton (85 percent of base at $535). So, the big challenge will come with the 2015 plantings especially if other commodity prices remain depressed.

However, the only number Lovatt wants farmers to pay attention to is their bottom line so they make sound and profitable decisions, and hopefully keep the industry from oversupplying the peanut market. t

BY JOY CROSBY

October/November 2014 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Grimes leads Georgia Peanut Achievement Club yields his has been a good year for Philip Grimes. Earlier this year, the Tift County, Georgia, farmer was recognized as the 2014 state winner of the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year award.

During the Southern Peanut Growers Conference held this past summer in Panama City Beach, Florida, Grimes was recognized for producing the highest 2013 peanut yield in Georgia as verified by Georgia Extension agricultural agents.

Because of his high yields, Grimes has been a member of the Peanut Achievement Club for more than 20 years.

Grimes credits his high yields to the superior genetics bred into productive varieties such as Georgia-06G. “We wouldn’t be where we are without these high yielding varieties,” Grimes says.

“I’m really looking forward to trying a new high yielding variety, Georgia-13M.” Grimes and nine other farmers were recognized as members of the University of Georgia Peanut Achievement Club for 2013. Grimes was the high yield producer with 7,084.6 pounds per acre from 592 acres grown in 2013. Grimes said his 2013 peanuts were the first he grew that yielded more than 7,000 pounds per acre.

Surprisingly, his yield was not the highest in the history of the club. The Dowdy and Gaines Farm in Baker County produced 7,267 pounds per acre from 304.1 acres during the 2011 crop year.

Individual Georgia farmers also produced more than 7,000 pounds per year in 2010 and in 1985, according to records reviewed by John Beasley, former University of Georgia Extension peanut agronomist who is now an administrator at Auburn University.

Grimes used Thimet for thrips control, and controlled weeds by applying Sonolan, Dual and Valor herbicides. He applied Headline and Bravo fungicides for leaf spot, and used Abound, Convoy, Proline and Provost fungicides for white mold control.

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2013 Georgia Peanut Achievement Club Winners. Pictured left to right: Lyle Stewart, Syngenta; Wayne Sayer, Wray; Philip Grimes, Tifton; Art Dorminy, Ocilla; Hulin Reeves Jr., Fitzgerald; Eddie Miller Jr., Iron City; Ken Hall, Poulan; Jimmy Webb, Leary; Brent Brown, Fitzgerald and Dan Watts, BASF. Not pictured are Al Sudderth, Dawson; and Jerry and Jeff Heard, Newton.

For his crop rotation, Grimes planted corn, cotton and vegetables in the three years prior to planting his high yielding 2013 peanuts. His tillage practices included disk harrowing and ripping and bedding the land. Grimes planted the Georgia-06G variety in twin rows at a seeding rate of seven to eight seed per foot of row. Planting dates were between April 30 and May 31. He used no lime nor seed inoculant, but did use landplaster. Grimes irrigated four times and applied a total of four inches of water to the 2013 crop.

Farmer Brent Brown of Ben Hill County was recognized as the only firsttime member of the Peanut Achievement Club. He produced a yield of 6,752.5 pounds per acre from 199.1 acres in 2013.

“I’ve been farming for 12 years,” Brown says. “This is the highest peanut yield I’ve ever made.” Brown attributes his yields to deep breaking the land with a bottom plow, timely irrigation and rainfall, plus following an effective fungicide program.

Ken Hall of Worth County is the only

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

achievement club member to use strip till planting. Hall’s 2013 yields were 5,166 pounds per acre from 858 acres. Hall has been a member of the club for five of the past six years. All other members recognized this year used various forms of conventional tillage. Hall’s father was a member during the 1980’s when the club was named the Money Maker Peanut Club.

Hulin Reeves Jr. of Ben Hill County, was earlier recognized by the club for his 2011 yields, and said he has been a member of the club a number of times over the past 12 years. Reeves produced 6,611 pounds per acre from 538.9 acres in 2013.

Wayne Sayer of Irwin County produced 5,206 pounds per acre from 701 acres. Sayer is also a repeat member of the club. He credits his high yields in 2013 to plenty of rainfall. Sayer has been farming for 30 years and says about 70 percent of the land he farms is irrigated while the rest is dryland. “So this award for high yield came from a combination of both dryland and irrigated land,” he says. Sayer is also the only one of the ten

to grow varieties different from Georgia06G. In addition to 06G, he planted the Georgia-07W and Georgia Greener runner varieties.

Art Dorminy of Irwin County produced 6,007 pounds per acre from 340 acres. “This is my sixth year to win this award,” he says. “I’ve been farming for 12 years.”

Jimmy Webb of Calhoun County produced yields of 6,533 pounds per acre from 859 acres. Webb credits his hard working employees for his high yields. “I didn’t make this crop by myself,” he says.

“Also, timing is critical to high yields. We make sure to do everything on time.”

Eddie Miller Jr. of Seminole County renewed his membership in the club with a 2013 yield of 6,949 pounds per acre from 588.5 acres. His son Eddie Miller III became a member last year as a result of his high yields produced in 2012.

Others recognized include Al Sudderth of Calhoun County, who produced 6,508 pounds per acre from 459 acres. Also, the farm of Jerry and Jeff Heard of Baker County produced 6,011 pounds per acre from 824.2 acres. This is the third year for brothers Jerry and Jeff Heard to be recognized by the Peanut Achievement Club.

The Peanut Achievement Club awards are sponsored this year by Syngenta, BASF and Bayer. Bayer is a

Georgia Peanut Achievement Club State Winners Name

County

Acres

Yield

Crop Rotation*

Philip Grimes

Tift

592

7084.6

c-ct-v-p

Eddie Miller Jr.

Seminole

588.5

6949

ct-ct-c-p

Brent Brown

Ben Hill

199.1

6752.45

p-ct-c-p

Hulin Reeves Jr.

Ben Hill

538.9

6610.9

p-ct-c-p

Jimmy Webb

Calhoun

859

6533

p-c-ct/c-p

Al Sudderth

Calhoun

459.9

6508

p-c-c-p

Jerry Jr. & Jeff Heard

Baker

824.2

6010.97

p-ct-c-p

Art Dorminy

Irwin

340

6007.37

p-c-ct-p

Wayne Sayer

Irwin

701

5206.2

p-ct-c-p

858

5166

p-ct-ct-p

Ken Hall *Crop Rotation

Corn = c

Worth Cotton = ct

Peanuts = p

Vegetables = v

new sponsor of the achievement club.

Eric Prostko, University of Georgia Extension weed scientist, recognized this year’s top winners. He also paid tribute to University of Georgia research agronomist Scott Tubbs, research assistant John Paulk and administrative associate Dena Watson for their parts in contributing to the Peanut Achievement Club. “Our Extension peanut team is committed to helping our peanut farmers and county Extension agents,” Prostko says.

Local Extension agents also play a vital role for the Peanut Achievement Club in gathering crop input information

and in validating the yields of the state’s top yielding peanut farmers.

The Peanut Achievement Club traces its roots to 1950 when it was called the Ton Per Acre Club. The highest yield that year was 2,700 pounds per acre. By 1962, more than a thousand Georgia peanut growers gained admission to the Ton Per Acre Club. The award was later changed to the Money Maker Club. Now it is called the Georgia Peanut Achievement Club. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER u More info online at sepfonline.com.

Grimes named 2014 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year Philip Grimes, a farmer from Tifton, Georgia, who is known for his conservation practices and high crop yields, has been selected as the overall winner of the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year award for 2014.

Grimes was named as the overall winner during the Willie B. Withers Luncheon held during the opening day of the 2014 Sunbelt Ag Expo farm 2014 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern show. Grimes was chosen Farmer of Farmer of the Year Philip Grimes stands with his the Year over nine other state winners family after being named the overall winner during who were finalists for the award. the Wilile B. Withers luncheon held opening day of Ron Carroll, marketing vice presi- the 2014 Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie, Ga. dent with Swisher, represented the company in presenting the cash award has been selected as the overall winner to Grimes. “Philip’s farming success is a during this 25th year of our Farmer of direct result of his hard work,” Carroll the Year awards.” says. “The farming profession is blessed Grimes expressed his appreciation to to have so many dedicated producers, Swisher and the other award sponsors. “I and there is no doubt that a great farmer have a great team of supporters who help

me operate my farm,” he says. “I also want to congratulate the other state winners. They are excellent farmers and leaders who are fine representatives of our industry.”

His wife Jane manages the farm’s office and leads some of the farm’s initiatives in marketing produce and in maintaining food safety.

Grimes has farmed for 37 years. He grows peanuts, cotton, cantaloupes, broccoli, snap beans and corn on his 2,210-acre farm. As a result of his high peanut yields, he has been a longtime member of the Georgia Peanut Achievement Club. He also raises highyield cotton, and his produce crops are consistently high in quality. He plants a portion of his land specifically to attract wildlife.

Additional information is available online at sepfonline.com.

October/November 2014 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Checkoff Report Investments Made by Growers for the Future of the Peanut Industry.

Georgia Peanut Commission promotes the power of peanuts during annual bank week The Georgia Peanut Commission and the Georgia Bankers Association joined forces Oct. 18-25, 2014, in an effort to promote Georgia’s peanut industry during its 38th annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week. Local banks and financial institutions across the state of Georgia honored Georgia’s peanut farmers and their contribution made to the state and local economies during one of the biggest times of the year: peanut harvest.

This year’s theme, “Peanuts: Power You Can Bank On,” showcases the importance of peanuts, Georgia’s official state crop, and how Georgia’s peanut farmers contribute approximately $2 billion annually to the state and local economy to help maintain Georgia’s largest industry, agriculture.

The theme also highlights the National Peanut Board’s new campaign, The Perfectly Powerful Peanut: a platform showcasing the

powerhouse of nutrition peanuts have to offer.

Peanuts, recipe cards and other promotional materials were distributed by banks during the week-long celebration. For more information, visit the Georgia Peanut Commission website at www.gapeanuts.com.

Georgia Peanut Commission sponsors David Ragan at Atlanta NASCAR race in August The Georgia Peanut Commission sponsored Georgia-native, David Ragan, in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Oral-B USA 500 race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Aug. 31, 2014.

“David Ragan is a Georgia native and Georgia is the No. 1 peanut-growing state in the nation,” says Joe Race fans take a sample of Georgia Boddiford, GPC vice chairman and peanuts during the NASCAR race in chairman of the GPC Promotions Atlanta, Ga., Aug. 31.

Committee. “The Georgia Peanut Georgia Peanut Commission’s booth Commission is very excited to have at the Sunbelt Ag Expo in Oct. this opportunity to help sponsor him Additional details on the promotion in the Atlanta race.” are available online at Following the race, David Ragan www.gapeanuts.com. also made an appearance at the

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

Alabama Peanut Producers Association on the fair circuit For the first time, the Alabama Peanut Producers Association (APPA) will be exhibiting at fair events in the western peanut area of the state. The first fair will be the Baldwin County Fair in Robertsdale, Alabama, and will be held September 23-27, 2014.

The APPA is also participating in the Greater Gulf State Fair in Mobile, Alabama, scheduled for October 24 - November 2, 2014.

The booth featured a display of historical peanut photos, health information, peanut recipe brochures among other items. A large peanut field photo served as the backdrop for the exhibit.

The final festival on schedule for this year is the National Peanut Festival in Dothan, Ala., which will be held October 31 – November 9, 2014. APPA was involved in many activities during the ten-day event. A large 40 x 60 tent, appropriately named the “Peanut Pavilion” served as the main location for APPA activities during the event. The tent was located in the agriculture section of the National Peanut Festival.

Georgia Peanut Commission promotes peanuts through sports venue Throughout the fall, the Georgia Peanut Commission is sponsoring peanut promotional advertisements with the Atlanta Braves baseball and the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech football. Thirty second and 10 second promotional messages aired on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network, which has approximately 3.5 million listeners per week throughout the Southeast. Also, a 30 second promotional message will air during the UGA and Georgia Tech football season through IMG, where up to 56 radio affiliates will broadcast the message.

Also, GPC promoted peanuts during Homecoming weekend at UGA. While in Athens, GPC passed out koozies adorning the Georgia Peanuts logo, as well as its famous little red bags of peanuts to football fans and Athens-area residents.

Reports from the: Alabama Peanut Producers Association Florida Peanut Producers Association Georgia Peanut Commission Mississippi Peanut Growers Association

Florida Peanut Producers and Farm Bureau donate peanut butter Pensacola food bank The Florida Peanut Producers and the Farm Bureau in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties teamed up to donate one and a half tons of peanut butter to Manna Food Pantries in Pensacola.

On April 30, 2014, more than 25 inches of rain fell in the western panhandle of Florida causing tremendous damage to homes, businesses and farms.

Manna Food Pantries in Pensacola lost all of its food supply and experienced damage to the building and warehouse due to the flooding. Manna Food Pantries is now partially restocked due to the generous contributions and community support and are now providing emergency food on a limited basis.

“We’re excited that we’ve gotten to a point where we can resume service to the hungry, although we’re still very limited

The Florida Peanut Producers and the Farm Bureau in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties donate one and a half tons of peanut butter to the Manna Food Pantries in Pensacola, Florida.

right now,” says DeDe Flounlacker, executive director. “We continue to be amazed by the generosity of this community and how they’ve come together to help Manna get back on its feet. But the need is still great — we ask that the community con-

Mississippi Peanut Growers Association exhibits at Farm to Table International Symposium The Mississippi Peanut Growers Association (MPGA) exhibited at the Farm to Table International Symposium, Aug. 2 – 4, 2014, at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The event included presentations on urban farming, sustainability, ag policy and cultural practices.

There was a global cadre of speakers and panelists serving the farm to table focus. Malcolm Broome, MPGA executive director, provided information to more than 600 registered attendees through the MPGA exhibit booth. Attendees were from not only Louisiana but across the U.S. The second annual event was held in conjunction with the Southern Food and Beverage Institute which had a tremendous trade show helping to draw several thousand attendees over the weekend event. The event provided MGPA with a new audience with lots of potential to use peanuts.

For more information visit, www.f2t-int.com.

tinue to give — right now we’ve got a very limited supply of food.”

After discussing the flood that damaged the Manna warehouse and food supply, the Escambia County Farm Bureau voted to spend $1,000 to buy peanut butter, Manna’s most needed item. The Santa Rosa County Farm Bureau board then voted to donate $1,001 toward the peanut butter donation. When notified of the purchase of peanut butter, the board of directors of Florida Peanut Producers and Ken Barton, executive director agreed to match the purchase and donated a pallet of peanut butter.

Thanks to Peanut Proud for allowing Farm Bureau and Florida Peanut Producers Association to purchase the peanut butter at a reduced cost.

Field Days held across the Southeast Farmers were able to see their checkoff dollars in action during August and September at a variety of field days throughout the Southeast.

Field days in August were held at the Wiregrass Research Extension Center in Headland, Alabama; North Florida Research and Education Center in Marianna, Florida; the Southeast Research and Education Center in Midville, Georgia, and the Southwest Georgia Research and Education Center in Plains, Georgia. There were multiple field days held in Mississippi during September at multiple locations in Lucedale, Dan West farm in Lackey and Parrish Farms in Tchula. The University of Georgia Cotton and Peanut Teams held a Cotton/Peanut Field Day in Tifton during Sept. as well.

During the field days, farmers were able to view the latest research on new peanut varieties and management of diseases, insects and weeds.

Growers were also able to learn more about crop rotation, replanting decisions, plant populations, resistance issues and info about new fungicide and nematicide products.

The purpose of the field days is to showcase current research, which is funded by the grower checkoff organizations, in plot-side presentations by the researchers themselves. The events provide an educational environment for peanut producers and give them the opportunity to pose questions directly to the researchers and to express concerns pertinent to the production of their crops. For more info on the field days, visit sepfonline.com October/November 2014 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Planning is everything “By failing to plan, you are planning to fail.”

Winston Churchill s stewards of the land, farmers are natural planners. Farmers plan the perfect time to turn dirt and plant seed, plan when they will begin insect, weed and disease management on their crops and plan when they will begin harvest. Their entire crop year centers around their “plan.” However, planning for their estate is one type of planning many farmers may not consider.

Earlier this year, Will Thompson, tax and wealth planning attorney at JamesBates-Brannan-Groover, LLP in Macon, Georgia, discussed business succession and estate planning during the 2014 Ag Forecast Series sponsored by the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Thompson began by discussing the importance of recognizing how business succession planning is a process.

“Business succession planning is not something you can do in an afternoon,” Thompson explains. “It’s not something you can sit down with your attorney or your advisor and say, from three to five this afternoon, I’m going to knock it out.”

Thompson continues, “It’s a process. It’s a process that changes. It’s a process that needs to be started now. You need to start identifying your successors. Identifying that process and how you’re going to transition your business. And if it changes, that’s ok. Adapt. But you don’t

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want to just put it off and catch yourself in trouble.”

Not only is business succession planning a process, it’s an event which affects the entire family. It affects each one in a different way; some more deeply than others. Succession planning can even create a new leader in the family through someone new taking charge of the family business.

Compared to other businesses, family farms and agribusinesses are unique due to characteristics extending beyond the business into personal relationships.

Communication becomes key throughout this stage of the process to ensure there are no surprises or unknowns between family members. By exercising good communication skills in the family, the likelihood of a disruption in harmony amongst relatives is slim.

Thompson states there are nine reasons why family businesses fail to follow-through with succession planning: 1. It is not urgent.

2. The focus on tax avoidance and “drop dead plans” creates a false sense of security.

3. Family member and/or employee push back.

4. It is always safer not to change.

5. Family businesses do not know how to undertake succession planning.

6. Lack of courage among the next generation family business leaders.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

7. Senior generation family business leaders do not know how to be fair to their non-employee children relative to their employee children with respect to inheritance.

8. Family businesses see succession planning as an event – not a process.

9. It costs too much.

So if you decided to pursue a business succession plan, what are your options? Thompson says you basically have three choices: you can pass the business on to family members; you can plan to sell it while you are alive or you can let your estate sell it.

A few critical questions Thompson feels should be considered are: how is the next leader of the company selected?; when is a decision made about who will be the next leader of the company?; how are meaningful careers provided for other family members who are not chosen to lead?; etc.

The ultimate question becomes: who is going to be you? It is important for farmers to begin pondering this idea and think seriously about it. It is also just as important for those in the younger generation to communicate with parents about the future. During this time, the younger generation should be voicing their opinions about taking over the family business and whether it is something they would like to do.

According to Thompson, 70 to 80

Will Thompson, tax and wealth planning attorney at James-Bates-Brannan-Groover, LLP in Macon, Ga., discusses estate management planning with an attendee at the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences’ Ag Forecast Series in Tifton, Ga.

percent of family businesses are passed down to the business owner’s children and almost the same percentage end in failure. This failure is due primarily to the successor not knowing how to manage the assets of the business. With this in mind, it becomes critical to begin training a successor sooner rather than later.

Thompson says lack of training is not the only thing contributing to failure.

Many successors are not financially responsible, do not understand the family business, do not realize the amount of work required before commitment and create a habit of spending beyond their means.

So how do farmers avoid these problems? It’s simple: begin planning now. Do not group yourself with the other 80 percent of Americans who choose to do nothing. By doing nothing, there will be

no control over how assets are divided and who will receive them.

Thompson presents a few options. He first discussed a joint ownership with your spouse. By choosing to do this, Thompson says, planning may still be necessary after the death of the spouse.

Also, he says assets are subject to creditors and predators of both spouses.

Additionally, Thompson states there is no remarriage protection, so assets may end up with people you never knew.

Another option is to give away your assets. With this method, Thompson says, you lose control and may lose significant tax benefits.

A will is also an option. Developing a will is a common way to deal with family estate and business succession. Thompson says a will allows you to direct the transfer of property you own at your death. It

allows you to provide for your surviving spouse, choose who receives assets after the spouse’s death, minimize confusion amongst family members and minimize estate taxes.

The final option Thompson discussed was a trust. According to Thompson, a trust is a legal relationship designed to control property management and distribution. Wills and trusts enable sophisticated estate planning by providing creditor/predator protection, remarriage protection, estate tax minimization and additional care for children or a spouse.

Thompson concluded his presentation by discussing a few other planning techniques. The first planning technique Thompson discussed was a limited liability company (LLC). This type of tool is flexible and found to be beneficial to small business owners, including farmers and ranchers.

“Limited liability companies make it much more difficult to get your personal assets; you get the liability protection of a corporation without having to jump through all of the hoops,” Thompson explains.

Similar to an LLC is a family limited partnership. Both an LLC and FLP allow you to hold assets with liability protection, as well as take your assets out when you need them. Not to mention you will have lower estate taxes and be allowed to equalize gifts among heirs.

“There are plenty of techniques and ways to plan, and if you don’t take the time now, your family is going to suffer from it on the backend,” Thompson says.

“There’s no better time than the present to start communicating and start planning.” t

BY JESSIE TURK

Nominations open for Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Young Peanut Farmer in Georgia. The state winner will be announced at the Georgia Peanut Farm Show on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015, in Tifton, Georgia.

The Outstanding Young Peanut Farmer Award is based upon the applicant’s overall farm operation; environmental and stewardship practices; and leadership, civic, church, and community service activities.

“We have so many young peanut farmers making a difference in their communities and I consider this awards program a great opportunity to recognize one young farmer for their contributions to the agriculture industry,” says Armond Morris, GPC chairman.

The award is open for any active Georgia peanut farmer who is not over 45 years of age as of the end of the calendar year for which they are applying. An individual may receive the award only once.

There is no limit on the number of applicants from each county in Georgia.

Applications are due to the GPC office by Friday, Jan. 2, 2015. The award application is available online at gapeanuts.com or by contacting Joy Crosby at 229-386-3690 or via email at joycrosby@gapeanuts.com.

The winner receives registration and hotel accommodations to attend the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in July and a sign to display at their farm. t

October/November 2014 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Crop rotation still needed

eanut crop rotation is needed now more than ever, according to Marshall Lamb, research leader at the National Peanut Research Laboratory in Dawson, Georgia.

Lamb says growers may be tempted to shorten crop rotations to capture more program payments from the new farm bill’s provisions on generic crop bases.

But this could be a big mistake.

“Growers became interested in expanding peanut production to get generic base payments from cotton into peanuts,” he explains.

He addressed crop rotation as related to the new farm bill during the Southern Peanut Growers Conference held this past summer in Panama City Beach, Florida.

Lamb spoke on the general implications of changing rotations within the broad outlines of the farm bill. He said specific steps by farmers will depend on final regulations from USDA. The final regulations will determine if farmers increase or decrease their peanut acreage.

Lamb says the new farm bill can give good protection to producers. Exactly how good won’t be known until after USDA issues the final regulations.

The farm bill offers the possibility of converting generic cotton base into a base for a covered program commodity such as

P

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peanuts.

“You have to plant generic crop base to get program benefits,” Lamb adds.

“One thing we don’t need to do is to sacrifice our good agronomic practices,” he adds. “And crop rotation is one of these practices.”

He says a long crop rotation has helped keep peanut farming competitive with other crops because crop rotation contributes to higher peanut yields.

“When prices are low, you may get higher payments from the additional generic base, but you lose money from producing the peanuts,” he explains.

“When prices are high, you won’t get the program payments but you might make money from producing the peanuts. If peanut prices are low, you could max out of your generic payments, but you could still lose money on your production,” he adds.

“From a yield standpoint, a minimum rotation of three years out of peanuts is recommended,” Lamb says. “Economics can and often does alter rotation plans.

Shortening your crop rotations is a shortterm decision with long-term consequences. You can’t make it to the longterm if you don’t survive the short-term.”

He showed research data showing three years out of peanuts tends to produce higher yields. With irrigated peanuts,

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

one year out of peanuts can yield 1,000 pounds more per acre than continuous peanuts. Likewise, two years out of peanuts can produce another 938 pounds per acre. Three years out of peanuts will increase yields by another 450 pounds per acre.

The yield increases attributed to rotation are not quite as dramatic in dryland fields, but are still significant.

Lamb also pointed out that crop bases for cotton and peanuts are also historically different from one county to another.

“These decisions will come down to the farm level,” Lamb says.

He cautions that a rotation featuring only one year out of peanuts could result in revenues that would be below the cost of production.

The “generic” base is not the same as “traditional” base, according to Lamb.

The major difference is that you have to plant the crop to receive the generic base payments.

Lamb says the shortening of peanut rotations could provide limited short-term benefits, but these would have large longterm consequences that could take years to fix. “Under current market conditions, now is not the time to shorten peanut rotations,” Lamb adds. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Birdsong Peanuts celebrates 100 years M

any times a fire can mean destruction or the end of a business but in the case of Birdsong Peanuts, a fire at the shelling plant in Courtland, Virginia, helped them relocate to Suffolk and continue the company for 100 years. For five generations, Birdsong Peanuts has delivered naturally nutritious peanuts to manufacturers around the corner and around the world. Peanuts are their only business so everything they have rests on their ability to serve their customers well.

Birdsong Peanuts simply takes one of nature’s agricultural treasures, shells it and provides it to food manufacturers, who create a multitude of food products including peanut butter, trail mix, snack peanuts, candy and countless other items.

The History Birdsong got its start in 1914 when T.H. Birdsong opened a feed and seed store in Courtland, Virginia. The company expanded into storing commodities and began shelling peanuts in the 1930s. The shelling plant burned in 1939 and Mr.

Birdsong got its start in 1914 when T.H. Birdsong opened a feed and seed store in Courtland, Virginia.

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Amedeo Obici, founder of Planters Peanuts, asked T.H. Birdsong’s five sons to relocate near his factory in Suffolk, Virginia. That plant is still in operation today.

Until 1965, all of Birdsong’s business was in Virginia and North Carolina. Today the company has expanded its geography with shelling plants strategically located from the east coast of Virginia to Texas. Birdsong partners with farmers in 11 states and sells to peanut product manufacturers in the United States and around the world.

Birdsong’s corporate headquarters is located in Suffolk, where three generations of Birdsongs are active in its operations together with leadership from nonfamily management. Each generation follows T.H. Birdsong’s example by participating in community and civic activities – serving on nonprofit boards, as university trustees and as active members of local service organizations. Their commitment to quality and service has proven successful not only in the peanut business but also in community relationships both at home and around the globe.

When T.H. Birdsong opened his country store a century ago in Courtland, Virginia, little did he know his modest market would grow into a thriving corporation that has grown steadily for five generations.

Industry Partnership Not many companies in the United States can say they are still owned and operated by the same family but when it comes to Birdsong Peanuts, the family has maintained control of the operations through the years. Today, Birdsong Peanuts is not just a company within the peanut industry, but a dedicated company that is helping further the development of the peanut industry through their involvement in industry activities.

“Giving back is a value our founder,

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

T.H. Birdsong, not only lived but also instilled in his family,” says George Birdsong, chief executive officer of Birdsong Peanuts. “That commitment to make the world a better place continues today, as we partner with our customers and communities to make a difference.”

Birdsong Peanuts has been very involved in the Peanut Genomics Initiative. The goal of the effort is to identify the peanut genes and what traits the particular genes possess that would be helpful in producing better yield and quality peanuts. These genes would be “marked” and used in the breeding of new varieties.

“This method of breeding new varieties would speed up the breeding process,” Birdsong says. “We are proud to help lead this effort for the benefit of the entire industry.”

“He (George Birdsong) can see value a decade out; he’s someone who is considered a visionary,” says Scott Jackson, plant genomics researcher at the University of Georgia.

Birdsong Peanuts has also been involved in the formation of Peanut Proud and the festival held annually in Blakely, Georgia.

“The Peanut Proud efforts have been a morale booster for the industry after so

much negative publicity over salfied zero landfill waste by the monella recall issues,” says Greg end of 2015. Additional local Grimsley, corporate manufacturconservation efforts supported by ing manager for Birdsong Peanuts Birdsong include funding a new and president of Peanut Proud. food composter for the Salvation “Our industry and the public need Army of Suffolk and providing to know that our industry actively peanut hulls to thicken the comsupports, with nutritious peanut post used for gardening programs butter, those caught in such cataat area schools. To support these strophic circumstances as tornaefforts and increase awareness, does, hurricanes, earthquakes and Birdsong has a goal of rolling out other disasters.” sustainability workshops to all Birdsong Peanuts is actively employees by the end of 2015. involved in the Peanut Butter for Many of the farmers, with the Hungry project. The project, whom Birdsong Peanuts partner, coordinated by the American are on the cutting edge of susPeanut Council, utilizes Ready to tainable farming. The farmers The original mill in Courtland, Virginia, burned down in 1939 and was Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) produce their peanuts using connot rebuilt. The new factory, pictured above, was built in 1940 in made with peanuts. An American Suffolk, Virginia. servation tillage systems to pediatrician Mark Manary, MD has increase soil carbon sequestration, dent of operations and procurement for centralized his work in Malawi, but he which reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Birdsong Peanuts. “Everything we need works with other providers to increase This practice also increases the waterfor survival, both directly and indirectly, production and distribution of RUTF holding capacity in soils, thus reducing depends upon the environment, and so we throughout Africa. irrigation requirements. are committed to charting a sustainable Birdsong is working with Dr. Manary “We are fortunate that peanuts are future.” and other providers to increase production environmentally friendly by their nature,” Birdsong has installed a five acre and distribution of RUTF throughout Birdsong says. “We’re doing our part to solar arrangement which generates 1.45 Africa. “We are raising funds, donating reduce the impact from the time they are million kilowatt hours of energy per year. equipment, funding research and helping planted until they reach the consumer’s This reduces greenhouse gas emissions by local farmers in Africa to improve their table.” crops,” says Jeff The future Johnson, president of goals of Birdsong Peanuts.

Birdsong “There is no doubt Peanuts are to that Project Peanut continue to be Butter is bringing a successful solutions to improvcompany and ing health outcomes an important around the world.” part of the “Peanut butter peanut indusfor the hungry is an try. Birdsong industry initiative to Peanuts has get therapeutic foods survived from made with peanut the fire in 1939 butter to children into their 5th (Above) Current Birdsong Peanuts shelling plant in who need them,” generation of Suffolk, Virginia. says Stephanie the family cele(Left) Farmers stock in bags coming to the plant in Grunenfelder, vice brating the the 1940s. president of internacompany’s tional marketing with 100th anniverover 1000 tons per year – the equivalent the American Peanut Council. “Birdsong sary. Today, Birdsong Peanuts operates of removing 197 vehicles from the road.

Peanut Company has been very instrusix shelling plants and has more than 700 Birdsong supplies over 20,000 tons mental in getting the effort started and has employees. of peanut hull pellets, a source of renewbeen supportive of ongoing efforts.”

Birdsong says, “We will continue to able energy, to co-generation plants work hard to be a successful company in around the world. This produces over 41 the future and to help our entire industry Stewardship million kilowatt hours of electricity. be successful.” t “We at Birdsong realize that our All Birdsong facilities are at or near actions as stewards of the earth can help zero landfill waste operational status. The create a better world for generations to goal is to have all plant campuses certiBY JOY CROSBY come,” says Charles Birdsong, vice presiOctober/November 2014 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

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Meet Monfort, new UGA Extension peanut agronomist cott Monfort began his role with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (UGA CAES) Aug. 1 as the new UGA Extension Peanut Agronomist. He replaces longtime UGA Extension peanut agronomist John Beasley who now heads the agronomy department at Auburn University. Monfort’s role as Extension peanut agronomist is to work closely with UGA CAES’ research agronomist Scott Tubbs to help implement new technology into peanut production statewide. He will also assist Georgia peanut farmers and keep them apprised of the latest developments regarding one of Georgia’s top row crops.

Learn more about Monfort through this Q&A with him regarding his role and vision for the UGA Peanut Team. t

S

Q&A 1. What is your background and knowledge with peanuts?

I have worked in and around peanut production all of my life. I began working in the peanut industry in Edison, Georgia, on a farm and at MAC Peanut, a peanut buying point in high School (in the early 1990s). I began my career in agriculture with Gold Kist Inc. and later with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service as an agricultural agent in Worth County, Georgia.

2. What goals do you have for the UGA Peanut Team?

The long term goal is to represent and promote the team for what it is - one of the best research and extension teams in the country. This is one of the main reasons I was interested in the position.

Also, I plan to update the current information highway for which we provide growers the most up to date and accurate research and extension information available. This will include the use of any and all technologies available for providing information more timely.

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Scott Monfort Extension Peanut Agronomist University of Georgia Hometown: Edison, Ga. Education: B.S.A. Plant Protection & Pest Management, UGA M.S. Plant Pathology, UGA Ph.D. Plant Sciences, University of Arkansas Work Experience: Research Associate/State Extension Peanut Specialist, Clemson University Associate Professor Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Arkansas I also plan to continue examining new agronomic practices to increase productivity and profit for the growers in Georgia.

3. How do you see your role in working with growers?

I consider my role one of the primary points of contact for peanut production outside that of the county agents. In working with peanut growers in both industry and the extension service, I developed an immense appetite for knowledge and education in agriculture production so that I could better understand and diagnose production problems and reduce their impacts on yield. This is largely why I am here. I really enjoy helping growers.

4. What goals do you have for your role with UGA as Extension Peanut Agronomist?

Like with all of the positions I have had over my career, there is a transition time for me to evaluate the program and start to determine my direction for the future. One of the goals I have for the near future is to evaluate new ways to provide growers information along with better ways for our agents to communi-

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

cate with growers and state specialists.

Another goal I have is to evaluate as much production technology as I can in the next few years to try to add to the yield boost or economic return we have observed with the new peanut cultivars. I will fill in the rest of the goal sheet for the future as I begin to meet with and understand the needs of the growers over the next few months.

5. How do you think the university can effectively serve and educate growers throughout the state?

Like any company struggling through a depressed economy, we have to find more effective and timely ways to help our growers. We need more face time; therefore, I will be working on ways to provide growers the opportunity to meet the members of the peanut team from the county agents to the state peanut extension and research faculty and see the multitude of research and demonstrations being conducted each year for the purpose of producing peanuts more economically.

I hope growers understand we are here as a truly unbiased partner in their peanut production operation and are only a call away. t

BY JOY CROSBY

GPC recognizes county GPC opposes the sharing of grower-funded agricultural agents technology with prodcuers in other countries The Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) supports Georgia Extension agricultural agents by sponsoring award and educational programs and on-farm applied research. Each year, GPC sponsors county Extension agents travel to the American Peanut Research and Education Society Annual Meeting. The meeting provides an opportunity for the agents to learn about the latest research being conducted in the peanut industry and how to apply the information to assist growers.

Georgia Peanut Commission supports Extension agricultural agents with travel to the American Peanut Research and Education Society Annual Meeting. Pictured left to right are, Scott Tubbs, UGA cropping systems agronomist; Phillip Edwards, Irwin Co.; Tim Varnedore, Jeff Davis Co.; Bill Tyson, Bulloch Co.; Wade Parker, Jenkins Co.; and Tim Brenneman, UGA plant pathologist.

The Georgia Peanut Commission board of directors unanimously approved a motion opposing the sharing of grower-funded technology with other countries in direct competition with domestically produced peanuts. The motion was approved during the July 25, 2014, board meeting held at Panama City Beach, Florida, during the Southern Peanut Growers Conference.

The motion presented by board member Tim Burch of Baker County and seconded

by Joe Boddiford of Screven County states, “The Georgia Peanut Commission opposes the sharing of technology, developed with peanut farmer checkoff funding, with producers in other countries who compete with U.S. producers for peanut markets.”

The Georgia Peanut Commission has been funding research projects at the University of Georgia and the USDA Agricultural Research Service since 1961. The funding for the research projects is derived from a $2 per ton assessment collected from all peanut growers in the state of Georgia.

“Georgia’s peanut growers invest more than $1 million in research annually for peanut variety development; production research relating to disease, insect and weed pressure; and economic competitiveness,” says Donald Chase, GPC Research Committee chairman. “The research funding has been instrumental in developing new peanut varieties for U.S. growers that have helped growers maintain a competitive edge over other developed countries in direct competition with the U.S.” For additional information about the Georgia Peanut Commission and currently funded research projects, visit www.gapeanuts.com. t The travel award winners for 2014 include Bill Tyson, Bulloch Co.; Wade Parker, Jenkins Co.; Tim Varnedore, Jeff Davis Co., and Phillip Edwards, Irwin Co. Tyson also received the Georgia Association of County Agricultural Agents Peanut Education for Excellence annual award, which is sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission. The award

recognizes outstanding Extension programs in the area of peanut production and economics. Edwards was recognized at the meeting with the Bayer Excellence in Extension program, which is sponsored

by Bayer CropScience.

All four of the award winners gave a presentation during the Bayer Excellence in Extension session. t

American Peanut Research and Education Society honors Murphy Emory Murphy of Tifton, Georgia, and retired assistant executive director of the Georgia Peanut Commission was recently named a Fellow by the American Peanut Research and Education Society in San Antonio, Texas, on July 10, 2014.

Becoming a Fellow is the highest honor provided by the society. Eligibility is attained by being an active member of the society for at least five years and the nominee must have made outstanding contributions in research, extension and administration during their career.

In 1980, Murphy was hired as the assistant executive director of the Georgia Peanut Commission where he would work full-time until December 2011. Murphy was rehired part-time until January 2014 until his vacant position had been filled.

Through the years, Murphy completed 39 years of public work experience in soil and plant science, research program man-

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agement, production agriculture, agribusiness economic development and public relations.

During his time at the GPC, Murphy developed and expanded a world-class research facilitation program for the Georgia Peanut Commission, coordinating the funding of over $16 million in research projects during his career. He was the coordinator of the Georgia Peanut Farm Show for 33 years, which has grown to be the largest single-commodity show in Georgia. Murphy was also instrumental in the founding of the Georgia Peanut Tour in 1987, a tour focused on showcasing the quality of Georgia peanuts which continues today.

Murphy was and still is very active in all phases of APRES from serving on the board of directors as a member from 2008-2010, the Program Committee, Site Selection Committee, and Peanut Quality

Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

Tim Brenneman, American Peanut Research and Education Society president and researcher at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus, presents Emory Murphy, retired assistant executive director of the Georgia Peanut Commission, with the APRES Fellow. Pictured left to right are: Brenneman, Murphy and Donald Chase, farmer from Macon County, Georgia, and Georgia Peanut Commission board member.

Committee throughout the years. t

2014 Southern Peanut Growers Conference 013 marked the 16th year for the Southern Peanut Growers Conference which included a large agenda for the nearly 700 people registered. This year’s theme was “Peanut Producers: Powerful. Progressive. Precise.”

Topics discussed during the three-day conference included peanut marketing, export markets, health issues, role of grower dollars, production issues and sustaining farm policy.

Farming legislation is always a concern for peanut producers. This year during the conference, attendees heard from U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford of Arkansas, a member of the House Agriculture Committee.

Crawford said it was very tough in getting a farm bill finally passed this year. He also said he personally felt it should be called the USDA ReAuthorization Bill, like other agencies like the Department of Defense, for example. He said he thought it would “help us to communicate more efficiently just exactly what we’re doing.” He noted that in reality, 80 percent of this authorization is nutrition.”

Former Alabama Peanut Producers Association executive director Randy Griggs was honored with the Valor Award during the morning session of the conference. The award is sponsored annually by Valent.

“Valor is defined as courage and boldness, as in battle, bravery, courage in defense of a noble cause,” says John Altom of Valent. “Our recipients have spent a lifetime providing that kind of leadership to the John Altom of Valent presents Randy peanut industry. They have made a life misGriggs, retired executive director of sion of integrity and service to their comthe Alabama Peanut Producers Association with the Valor Award munity, their employees, their neighbors, during the Southern Peanut Growers and their customers.”

Conference.

Griggs became executive director of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association in 1982 and was extensively involved in industry organizations and legislation on behalf of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association. He was also recently inducted into the American Peanut Council’s Hall of Fame.

Five farmers were also recognized during the conference with the annual Peanut Profitability Awards, which are sponsored

by Farm Press. The awards are based solely on production efficiency — honoring those growers who produce the highest yields at the lowest cost per acre. The awards are Winners of the 2014 Peanut based on a producer’s entire farm operation, Profitability Awards were honored at the Southern Peanut Growers and not just on individual farms or small Conference. Winners, left to right, plots. are Billy Bain, Virginia; George, This year’s honorees include: Isaac and John Guenther, Texas; Southwest Region — Isaac, John and and Owen Yoder, Alabama.

George Guenther, Gaines County, Texas; Lower Southeast Region — Owen Yoder, Orrville, Alabama; and the Upper Southeast Region — Billy Bain, Dinwiddie, Virginia.

Highlights of the conference including photos, presentations, speaker interviews are all available on the Southern Peanut Farmers Federaiton website at southernpeanutfarmers.org. t

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Thanks to the 2014 Conference Sponsors Syngenta John Deere Ag-Pro Company Albany Tractor Company Blanchard Equipment Lasseter Equipment Company Smith Tractor Company SunSouth LLC Bayer CropScience BASF National Peanut Board DuPont Crop Protection Ag Leader Technology Ag Technologies/Trimble Agriculture Aimtrac Birdsong Peanuts Colombo NA Edgewater Beach Resort Farm Press AgGeorgia Farm Credit AgSouth Farm Credit Farm Credit of Florida Farm Credit of Northwest Florida Kelley Manufacturing Co. Propane Education & Research Council Valent U.S.A. Corporation Southeastern Peanut Farmer The Peanut Grower Amadas Industries First South Farm Credit National Peanut Buying Points Assn.

Olam Edible Nuts AMVAC Chemical Dow AgroSciences ALFA Alabama Power Georgia Farm Bureau Golden Peanut Company INTX, A Verdesian Life Sciences Co. McCleskey Mills Monsanto BioAg Nichino America, Inc. Georgia Organic Solutions Newton Crouch Sessions Co. Inc. Snyder’s-Lance The KBH Corporation WattStopper/Legrand – Ag Services

Washington Outlook

by Robert L. Redding Jr.

Peanut leaders met with USDA Leaders from the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation and the Georgia Peanut Commission met with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s farm bill team to discuss the status of 2014 Farm Bill regulations in September. This will be the second meeting for peanut leaders and USDA relative to the upcoming regulations.

The peanut farm bill provisions including the program and crop insurance have significant changes from the 2008 Farm Bill. The National Center for Peanut Competitiveness has developed analyses of the new peanut provisions and they are located on the 2014 Farm Bill page of the Georgia Peanut Commission’s Legislative Blog at www.americanpeanuts.com.

Congress returns to Capitol Hill for limited agenda The U.S Congress returns for two weeks to debate a very limited agenda prior to the November elections.

The most obvious “must do” legislation is funding for the federal government to operate in this next fiscal year including the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

There will be a significant push by U.S. House and Senate leadership to avoid any potential government shutdown.

Important for peanut producers is that the continuing resolution to fund the government should avoid floor amendments that threaten agricultural programs and crop insurance.

Administration delays immigration action The Administration plans to delay any executive order on immigration until after the November 2014 elections. A number of democratic members of Congress had cautioned the President about the impact any executive order might have on the elections.

Congress does not plan to act on immigration this year.

Peanuts avoid Russion ban list Russia left peanuts off the list of imported products banned from importing. Peanut imports for Russia increased in recent years, $6 million in peanuts exported to Russia in 2012 and $21 million in peanuts for 2013 according to published reports.

U.S. House Science and Tech Chair challenges EPA on Waters Proposal U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology Chairman Lamar Smith, R-Texas, sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy demanding additional information about the agency’s motivation for having detailed maps assembled showing waters and wetlands for all 50 states. The maps, which were created in 2013 shortly after EPA proposed its Waters of the U.S. rule, had never been made public. When confronted at a hearing, EPA Deputy Administrator Bob Perciasepe agreed to release the maps.

Chairman Smith stated, “These maps show the EPA’s plan: to control a huge amount of private property across the country. Given the astonishing picture they paint, I understand EPA’s desire to minimize the importance of these maps. But EPA’s posturing cannot explain away the alarming content of these documents. It’s time to give Americans a chance to make up their own minds about EPA’s intentions. While the agency marches forward with a rule that could fundamentally re-define Americans’ private property rights, EPA kept these maps hidden. So, today I will be posting the maps on the committee’s website for public review.”

The committee reported that while EPA has claimed the maps have not yet been used to regulate, they have failed to explain why the agency used taxpayer money to create them. The EPA paid a private contractor to make many of these maps, yet the details of the arrangement have not been disclosed. Serious questions remain regarding EPA’s underlying motivations for creating such highly detailed maps that were created just days after EPA announced its Waters of the U.S. rule.

The letter requests all documents and communications related to EPA’s contract to create these maps and demands that these and any other previously undisclosed maps in the EPA’s possession be entered into the official rulemaking docket for public review and comment. The letter also requests EPA keep the public comment period open for at least 60 days to provide adequate opportunity for public review and comment.

House passes bill to block EPA’s proposed rule redefining waters of the United States The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act, by a vote of 262-152. This legislation prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers from finalizing and enforcing a proposed rule that would redefine “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act, or using the rule as a basis for future administrative actions. It is the authority of Congress, not the administration, to change the scope of the Clean Water Act. To continue following this issue visit the Georgia Peanut Commission’s legislative blog at www.AmericanPeanuts.com.

Legislative Updates available online at www.americanpeanuts.com

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Southeastern Peanut Farmer October/November 2014

National Center for Peanut Competitiveness releases “Preliminary Base Acreage and Payment Yields Decision Calculator” At the Southern Peanut Growers Conference in Panama City, Florida, the National Center for Peanut Competitiveness (NCPC) officially launched the “Preliminary Base Acreage and Payment Yields Decision Calculator.”

The annual conference brings growers from across the Southeast for three days of educational sessions focusing on production, research, marketing, industry issues and legislative issues.

The calculator was developed by the NCPC after reviewing the text of the 2014 Farm Bill and discussions with Congressional staff involved in the drafting of the bill, as well as the United States Department of Agriculture – Farm Service Agency (USDA-FSA) personnel. When the USDA-FSA issues the final rules and regulations on base reallocation and yield updating, as well as temporary generic base allocation for a crop year sometime late summer/fall 2014, the spreadsheet will be modified to reflect these changes.

“The program is an easy to complete decision calculator that uses the software program Microsoft Excel,” says Dr. Stanley Fletcher, NCPC’s director and professor emeritus at the University of Georgia. “Farmers can follow the step-bystep instructions provided online in order to complete the calculator and determine their base acreage and payment yields. It is important for farmers to review all instructions before proceeding with the decision calculator.”

Grower checkoff funds helped with the development of the decision calculator. Funds were derived from the members of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation (SPFF). The SPFF is comprised of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, the Florida Peanut Producers Association, Mississippi Peanut Growers Association and the Georgia Peanut Commission. Funding also came through the Southeastern Peanut Research Initiative of the National Peanut Board

and farmer checkoff dollars from Texas.

“It is imperative producers begin the process of collecting the necessary data now rather than later. With local office closings and staff cuts in USDA- FSA, local offices will be challenged in providing data on demand and working with the producers at the same level as was seen in the previous two farm bills,” Fletcher says. “Documents needed by the producer for this process will include the FSA156EZ, FSA-578 from 2008-2013 and a document showing proven yields for all of the producer’s 2014 Farm Serial Numbers.”

The NCPC developed the calculator to assist producers in developing farm strategies and decisions based on their individual needs. The calculator is available for download on the Georgia Peanut Commission’s website, gapeanuts.com.

For additional questions, contact Stanley Fletcher, NCPC director, at 404-277-2319 or email at smf@uga.edu.

New peanut revenue policy introduced for farmers

USDA Farm Service Agency Announces Key Dates for New 2014 Farm Bill Safety Net Programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced a new peanut revenue policy that will be available for eligible peanut producers.

The new policy approved by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) Board of Directors, on Thursday, Sept. 19, offers a new revenue based insurance coverage, previously not available for peanut growers. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency will now be able to make the program available to producers for the 2015 crop and will allow producers to ensure not only against yield loss but also against reductions in revenue.

The Georgia Peanut Commission and the Western Peanut Growers developed the policy under section 508(h) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act, which allows private entities to design and submit crop insurance products to the FCIC Board.

“I have represented the Georgia Peanut Commission on the crop insurance working group for a number of years and I’m pleased to see final approval of revenue insurance options for growers,” says Andy Bell, Georgia Peanut Commission advisory board member and farmer from Climax, Georgia. “The revenue based insurance provides growers with another tool to aid in the production risk of growing peanuts. Also included is an increase in the replant provision and improved quality adjustment provisions which will allow growers the ability to complete a claim at harvest.”

To assist growers with understanding the changes for 2015, information will be included on the Georgia Peanut Commission’s website at gapeanuts.com.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced key dates for farm owners and producers to keep in mind regarding the new 2014 Farm Bill established programs, Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC).

The new programs, designed to help producers better manage risk, usher in one of the most significant reforms to U.S. farm programs in decades.

Dates associated with ARC and PLC that farm owners and producers need to know: Sept. 29, 2014 to Feb. 27, 2015: Land owners may visit their local Farm Service Agency office to update yield history and/or reallocate base acres.

Nov. 17, 2014 to March 31, 2015: Producers make a one-time election of either ARC or PLC for the 2014 through 2018 crop years.

Mid-April 2015 through summer 2015: Producers sign contracts for 2014 and 2015 crop years.

October 2015: Payments for 2014 crop year, if needed.

For more information, visit usda.gov/farmbill.

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Southern Peanut Growers The Best Regional Peanut Butter recipes in America reached an audience of 55.3 million Southern Peanut Growers (SPG) worked with Family Features to create and distribute a food page to newspaper editors and online publications in July and August. The page features the best “hometown” peanut butter recipes in America from SPG’s PB my way recipe contest earlier in the year.

“Recipes and beautiful food photography lead to great pick-up from food editors,” says Caleb Peterson, an account manager with Family Features. “I think it’s safe to say that everyone loves peanut butter and this project was a big success!”

In July and August, the page was ordered by 288 newspapers for a total print circulation of 9,323,512. In the same time period, there were also 749 online placements (nearly 25 million impressions) and 175 newswire placements (21 million impressions) for a total audience of more than 55 million!

Southern Peanut Growers and Florida Peanut Producers team up at Speaking of Women’s Health Event Southern Peanut Growers (SPG) and Florida Peanut Producers Association (FPPA) teamed up to talk about the Perfectly Powerful Peanut at the Speaking of Women’s Health event in Jacksonville, Florida, on Saturday, Aug. 23. About 1,200 women pay to attend the day-long health event, which included a keynote opening session by health and nutrition expert, Joy Bauer, who talked about the protein power of peanuts. Health screenings, exhibitors, a luncheon honoring local community health heroes, breakout presentations on different health topics, and a closing session with comedienne Jan Innis also took place.

Leslie Wagner, executive director of Southern Peanut Growers, led an afternoon breakout session showing participants how to “Power Your Healthy Diet with Peanuts and Peanut Butter.” Wagner presented the latest nutrition information about peanuts while demonstrating and sampling some easy, healthy and tasty recipes.

Marketing arm of

Peanut Butter takes center stage in Better Breakfast Month Satellite Media Tour reaching an audience of more than 2.5 million September was Better Breakfast Month and Southern Peanut Growers put peanut butter front and center with television stations nationwide.

Rebecca Lang did 22 live television interviews and two live radio interviews in four hours on Sept. 2 promoting peanut butter, Roman Meal whole grain bread and Hormel Compleats® for easy and delicious breakfasts full of protein.

Lang is a food writer, cooking instructor, television personality and contributing editor for Southern Living. Along with showcasing a couple of easy peanut butter breakfast recipes, she managed to hit every peanut and peanut butter talking point each time: (1) Peanuts have the most protein of any nut.; (2) Eating peanut butter for breakfast helps control your blood sugar into the afternoon – even past a high carb lunch!; and (3) Peanut butter is a convenient, versatile and inexpensive way to boost your protein intake at breakfast.

Immediate airings reached an audience of more than 2.5 million. Purchase of air time would have cost SPG more than $100,000. Ten of the interviews were recorded for airing later in the month, so those numbers were not available at time of publication.

Southern Peanut Growers upcoming events Southern Peanut Growers (SPG) traveled across the Southeast this fall promoting peanuts and peanut butter to consumers at these events.

• Southern Women’s Show, Birmingham, Alabama October 2 – 5, 2014 Friday is Peanut Lovers Day! Visit our booth or one of five cooking demonstrations during the four-day show.

• Southern Women’s Show, Jacksonville, Florida October 16 – 19, 2014 Friday is Peanut Lovers Day! Visit our booth or one of five cooking demonstrations during the four-day show.

• Taste of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia October 24 – 26, 2014

Southern Peanut Growers 1025 Sugar Pike Way · Canton, Georgia 30115 (770) 751-6615 · FAX (770) 751-6417 email: lpwagner@comcast.net Visit our website at http://www.peanutbutterlovers.com

National Peanut Board Launches Peanut Allergy Awareness Campaign The National Peanut Board (NPB) recently announced the launch of PeanutAllergyFacts.org, a new website for parents, schools, foodservice executives and manufacturers. The site is designed to provide science-based information about peanut and food allergies, as well as links to resources about effective allergy management.

The new site is a key element of a new awareness campaign to emerge from consumer research conducted in 2013 by The Bantam Group, which revealed significant misconceptions about food allergies and allergy management. Among the findings of the online research, which surveyed 2,000 caregivers of children, were: • A significant misconception surrounding the prevalence of peanut allergies. Study participants perceived peanut allergies to affect 24 percent of the total U.S. population – or 40 times the rate reported by the National Institutes of Health (which says that 0.6 percent of Americans have a true peanut allergy); • Many people are self-diagnosing food allergies, or turning to those without allergy expertise and appropriate credentials; • Only 52 percent of households with a self-reported peanut allergy keep epinephrine on hand to treat an allergic reaction; and • 70 percent of people believe incorrectly that simply being near a peanut can trigger a life-threatening reaction.

To date, peanut farmers across the country have committed more than $10 million of their income to food allergy research, outreach and education through the NPB. For additional information visit www.PeanutAllergyFacts.org.

What’s on your farmer’s Christmas wish list?

Peanut belts, money clips, wallets, key chains, photo frames.

To place an order, contact: Georgia Peanut Commission Phone: 229-386-3470 Email: info@gapeanuts.com Website: www.gapeanuts.com Click on Photo Gallery to view photos of Georgia Peanut Commission Gift Shop items.

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Georgia’s Largest Commodity Show January 15, 2015 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center Tifton, Georgia Free farmer lunch Pesticide applicators certification More than 95 Exhibits Nearly $40,000 in doorprizes

Learn more about the 2014 Georgia Peanut Farm Show by scanning this code with your smartphone.

www.gapeanuts.com

For more information contact: Georgia Peanut Commission P.O. Box 967, Tifton GA 31793 Phone: 229-386-3470 Fax: 229-386-3501 Email: info@gapeanuts.com