Georgia Ag News March edition

Georgia

AG News

Inside: GPF Spring Meet Page 3 Layer legislation Page 8 Ag labor issues Page 11 How to prune roses Page 12

Fr

ee

March 2012

North Georgia’s Agricultural Newspaper

Be mindful of firewood at home and at campsites Seasoned firewood has the optimal qualities for efficient dstrickland@poultrytimes.net heating.

In information provided by GAINESVILLE — The winthe University of Georgia, Paul ter in Georgia may have, so Pugliese, the UGA agriculture far, been mild, but it’s always and natural resources agent for important to keep a mindful Cherokee County, says that fresh eye on firewood, home heating cut firewood contains a tremenSeasoned and even campfires. The windous amount of water.

With fruits and vegetables, ter season has been known to “If you’re in the market for fresh is fantastic; but with firebring Georgia some surprises in firewood, keep in mind that wood, fresh is not so great.

March. when firewood is first cut, 40 percent to 50 percent of its weight comes from water,” Pugliese notes. “One fresh-cut cord, or 128 cubic feet, of oak can contain enough water to fill five and a half 55-gallon drums.”

He added that, “to burn freshcut firewood in a wood-burning stove or fireplace, you’d first have to boil off all that water.

That doesn’t make for very efficient heating.”

His report recommends buying from a vendor that supplies seasoned firewood, which should contain a water content amount of less than 20 percent.

Burning fresh cut wood, as well as burning at too low of a temperature are factors that contribute to a buildup of creosote in a chimney, Pugliese added.

“Some people assume the sticky, gum-like resins in pine Sharon Dowdy/UGA firewood cause more creosote Firewood tips: For safe and efficient firewood, make sure to use a sup- residues than hardwood. Re-

By David B. Strickland Georgia Ag News Staff

On the topic of firewood, a couple of aspects are very important — choosing and using good firewood for heating at home, as well as making sure that you use locally produced firewood when camping.

ply that has been properly seasoned. And if burning wood at a campsite, it is being stressed to not travel with your own supply from home to stop the spread of destructive forest pests.

See Firewood, Page 6

Photo by David B. Strickland

Making predictions: Predicting weather conditions can run the gamut from modern science to folk sayings. Georgia has, so far, seen a fairly mild winter; but March weather has been known to give the state some surprises.

Weather predictions can vary, old and new

By Barbara Olejnik Georgia Ag News Staff bolejnik@poultrytimes.net

GAINESVILLE — For the winter of 2011-2012, the Farmers’ Almanac forecasted “clime and punishment,” a season of unusually cold and stormy weather. For some parts of the country that means a frigid climate; while for others, it will mean lots of rain and snow.

While it was expected to be cold to very cold in the northern half of the U.S., above-normal temperatures are expected across most of the southern and eastern U.S. Drier-than-normal weather is forecast for the Southwest and Southeast corners of the nation.

This was, of course, according to the publication’s predictions.

The Farmers’ Almanac has been in the business of issuing yearly weather forecasts based on a “secret formula”

See Weather, Page 7

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GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Turn hobby into income at the Farmers Market other events, not just as a way to make money but also for the interaction involved in meeting other people and the joy of showing

By Steven Thomas Special to Georgia Ag News

GAINESVILLE — Ever since the local paper published my phone number, I have had the opportunity to talk to a lot of folks about selling their products at farmers markets all over the state of Georgia.

Whether it was an established farmer with acres of produce, a backyard farmer with too many blueberry bushes, the owner of a new bakery or someone who makes the best knitted hats; these conversations have made me realize the variety of people who have a talent and are looking for an opportunity to share the fruits of their labor with others.

My attitude has always been that people should figure out what they do well and then see if they can make money doing it.

At the market I manage, the Downtown Gainesville Market On The Square, I have met a woman who makes jewelry from antique items, potters, painters, soap makers and a man who makes folk yard art from metal objects. These people have turned their hobbies into extra income. They sell at farmers markets and

Thomas

off their talents.

The groups of people I get questions from the most are bakers. I bake myself and know how enjoyable it is.

Part of that joy is sharing what I do with others, which I do each year at Christmas by baking specialty fruit breads (this year it was peach bread with peaches from the market that I saved in the freezer) and cookies.

Last season I was lucky to meet a woman who made some of the best Europeanstyle desserts I have ever had.

Another woman made excellent small cakes and fried pies. Both of these women baked for the love of baking and sold their products at the market, not because they were making a lot of money, but simply for the experience — they got to bake wonderful things and share them with others.

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Can I sell this?

This brings me to the most asked question I get from people who call. There are more people out there who bake and want to sell their goods at farmers markets than I would have thought possible. There are also a lot of people who make things like jams and jellies. The question they ask is — can they sell these things at farmers markets?

The answer is yes — and no.

The first thing I ask is; are they doing this at home or in a licensed and inspected commercial kitchen? The Georgia Food Laws, specifically the Department of Community Health’s Rules and Regulations for Food Service, state that some food items may be made in a private home and sold direct to the consumer for nonprofit events or at approved farmers markets. This includes jellies, jams, pickles and baked goods that do not have a filling.

According to this exemption it would seem that the answer is yes. However, there is something called “venue limitations.” These items may be sold at local farmers markets that are sponsored by civic groups, local governments or nonprofit organizations.

Many farmers markets are set up as nonprofit organizations and are, therefore, exempt from some of the rules and regulations. On the other hand, many farmers markets are not nonprofit organizations and do not fall under this exemption. Also, the decision as to whether or not to allow sales of products made outside of a licensed and inspected kitchen is ultimately left to the market manager.

What to do So, what can you do if you are really good at baking or making jams and jellies, canned items such as pickled vegetables, tomato sauce or fruits? The answer is to find a licensed kitchen to work from. There are a few of these kitchens around that will rent by the hour, but from what I have heard there are waiting times and it may be cost-prohibitive.

Having given this some thought I would recommend finding a restaurant owner and making friends with them. There are many restaurants that are only open for breakfast and lunch, leaving the kitchen unused during the late afternoon and evening hours. Other restaurants are open for lunch and dinner and are unused in the early morning. For a small rental fee, or even a trade for product, a deal could be reached to allow access to a kitchen that is not only fully licensed and inspected, but gives access to all the utensils and equipment needed. The restaurant owner could also assist with ordering supplies from wholesale food distributors and the packaging supplies you would need, which could result in a big savings for you.

Packaging Speaking of packaging, there are a few things you need to know. The Georgia Food Act requires that all baked goods and other products be packaged in an appropriate manner and must be labeled with the common name of the product, the name, address and phone number of the person who made the

product and must list all ingredients used.

Most people also include an allergy warning if the product contains nuts, or was produced in an area of the kitchen where nuts were used.

Finding success If you believe that you can make a product that people will want, selling at a farmers market is a good way to see if you have what it takes to be successful.

My advice is to visit area markets and look for people selling the same items. Talk to them about how they started — market vendors love to talk about their stuff.

Make sure you talk to the market manager first to see if you can sell your product made from your home kitchen.

Start small to make sure you have a viable product.

Look for a market that doesn’t have many vendors selling the same thing you are making; established vendors have the advantage and a loyal clientele.

If you decide to go forward, then make the best product anyone has ever had, package it as professionally as you can and remember to have a good time. If it feels too much like work, you’re not doing it right.

Steven Thomas is market manager of the Downtown Gainesville Market on the Square. He can be reached at 678-943-4442; by e-mail at steve@hallfarmers.org; or the web site http://www. hallfarmers.org.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

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Some ways to help stretch hay supplies

By Michael Wheeler Special to Georgia Ag News

GAINESVILLE — With hay being short this year everyone is looking for ways to make their hay stores last as long as possible. This will be a tall order though, even with the best managers of hay, due to the extremely poor condition of pastures and hay ground this past summer.

In talking to area cattlemen, some reported they were dipping into their hay as early as August.

Here are a few ideas to help maximize your hay stocks.

Cover it Hay stored on the ground with no cover will result in major losses. Weather damages the outside layer of hay. This weathered layer will often be at least 4 inches deep around the whole bale. In many years, weathering can result in damaged layers that are over 8 inches thick.

This weathered layer essential-

ly becomes like a thatch roof, but not before the hay becomes useless for animal feed.

The weathered layer that is 4 inches Wheeler deep results in 25 percent hay loss. These days, there is a major cost to that amount of loss.

As University of Georgia Extension Forage Specialist Dennis Hancock often says, “if you store hay outside, you are paying for a barn whether you want to or not.”

Use a Ring One of the best strategies for stretching hay is by doing a better job of feeding it. If hay is fed on the ground without any device to keep the animals from treading or soiling the forage, feeding-related losses may be fairly high.

These losses can be reduced by using a hay ring to limit the animals’ access to the hay. As a result, hay rings can keep feeding losses below 10 percent. Newer, cone-style hay feeders can elevate the hay off the ground and further reduce feeding losses.

Certainly, hay can be fed directly on the ground with very little waste, but the amount of hay that is fed needs to be only what the animals can clean up in less than four hours.

Restrict access Another strategy for stretching hay is to limit the time cattle have access to the forage. New research out of the Midwest indicates that mature cows can have their access to hay restricted to eight hours without loss in weight or body condition score. Under the conditions of their study, this strategy helped stretch the hay by an extra 15 percent.

Restricting access can help stretch hay, but do not take it too

far. In this same research, access to hay was restricted to only four hours and the cows’ body condition score and weight were reduced. If you are really trying to stretch hay with restricted access, be sure to separate out your young and thin cows that need to gain or regain weight and condition. Boss cows tend to get their fill, but they can root out thinner and less-dominate animals.

However, be sure you are feeding good quality forage. If their access is restricted, every bite has to count. Being able to keep weight and condition on your animals will be contingent on feeding high quality hay. If you are considering this strategy for stretching hay, be sure to test your hay for quality.

If you are unsure how to test hay or need advice on how to get an accurate sample, consult with a local county Extension agent or

Michael Wheeler is the Hall County Extension Coordinator and agricultural Extension agent. He can be reached at 770-535-8293; e-mail at wheelerm@uga.edu; or http://www. hallcounty.org/extension.

If you’ve got spring fever, we’ve got the cure!

GPF is making plans for annual spring meeting GAINESVILLE — The 2012 annual Spring Meeting of the Georgia Poultry Federation will be the weekend of April 13-15 at Brasstown Valley Resort, Young Harris, Ga. The non-profit Research & Service Exhibits will open at 3 p.m. on Friday, April 13. Regular exhibitors are: AgGeorgia Farm Credit, Georgia Poultry Federation, Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network, Georgia Tech Research Institute, USDA Russell Research Center and the University of Georgia Departments of Population Health and Poultry Science.

The annual Business Meeting, with election of officers and directors for 2012-13, will be on Friday evening, April 13, followed by a Family Bingo Game, which features prizes from poultry, allied and area companies. Those who donate prizes, value of $25 or more, and notify the federation office by March 16, will be listed in the program and announced during the game. All donors will be recognized.

Those who plan to attend the meeting may bring

follow the National Forage Testing Association’s “Recommended Principles for Proper Hay Sampling,” which can be accessed at http://www.foragetesting.org.

For more information on this and other forage management subjects, check out the web site at http://www.georgiaforages.com or contact your local UGA Cooperative Extension office at 800-ASK UGA1 (800-275-8421).

Source: 2008, Hancock, D. Stretching Hay. Georgia Cattlemen Magazine. December 2008.

their donated prizes to the federation desk at Brasstown Valley Resort by 6 p.m. on April 13. If this is not possible, donated prizes may be delivered to the Georgia Poultry Federation office at 518 South Enota Drive, Gainesville, Ga. 30501 by April 6 — please include name and address of donor.

On Saturday, April 14, sports events will include a golf tournament, horseshoes tournament, a 5K race, one-mile fun run and one-mile walk. The day’s activities end with the Saturday Evening Banquet.

The weekend meeting concludes with the traditional Poultry Industry Church Service on Sunday, April 15, at 9 a.m.

“One Who Plants a Garden, Plants Happiness” - Chinese Proverb

Exhibits The research and service exhibits are a key part of the annual Spring Meeting, GPF notes, adding that, they provide an excellent opportunity to visit with research and service personnel.

for directions, pictures & gardening tips

See GPF, Page 5

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GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Viewpoint Georgia’s farm gate value at record high

By Steve L. Brown

Special to Georgia Ag News

ATHENS — In a year when Georgia’s economy struggled to get back on its feet, agriculture gave local communities a muchneeded boost, according to a report released by the University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development.

The 2010 Georgia Farm Gate Value Report showed Georgia agriculture’s farm gate value hit a record high $12,002,461,213 in 2010. This huge number multiplies several fold when you factor in the Georgia industries that process, package, ship and market Georgia’s agricultural output, offering an economic ladder that helped many small businesses and local communities climb out of a deep economic hole.

What impact does $12 billion have on Georgia’s economy?

Not all of that money goes into the pockets of farmers. It goes to local seed companies, chemi-

cal companies, local farm workers, tractor companies, banks, fuel companies, fertilizer companies, veterinarians Brown and more.

What does go into the farmers’ pockets then goes out into the community to pay for home mortgages, cars and equipment, education, power bills, medical care and other community-based businesses.

We’ve all come to know that an economy can’t be solely based on services. Somebody has to actually produce something that has value. That’s exactly what Georgia agriculture does. It produces more than $12 billion worth of value and pumps it into our economy. Not only do farmers benefit, all Georgians do.

With our legislative session underway, it’s important to assess the public value of our in-

“

Georgia produces 20 different commodities with farm gate values more than $100 million and 48 commodities with a value more than $10 million.

”

dustries, keeping in mind that agricultural output is dependent upon reliable, science-based information to sustain this growth.

Twelve billion dollars worth of value doesn’t just happen.

Research and education from state-supported institutions, like University of Georgia and Fort Valley State University, help keep Georgia’s largest industry not only economically viable, but growing in a very competitive world market. The competitive advantage that comes with

Groups urge: Ag needs Farm Bill now WASHINGTON — “We must work to pass a Farm Bill in 2012 because our nation’s farmers and ranchers deserve a measure of certainty.

Farmers require a safety net that works effectively, and they need access to tools that help them be good stewards of our natural resources,” said Jon Scholl, president of American Farmland Trust.

“Those people less fortunate during these economic times deserve a helping hand so they don’t go hungry, while our nation as a whole needs the security which effective food policies and programs can bring.”

American Farmland Trust and more than 60 organizations have sent a letter echoing Scholl’s

comments to the Senate and House leadership of the agriculture committees.

“We, the undersigned, have heard calls for an extension of current law. We ask you to reject these calls for delay and aggressively act to ensure that a new, comprehensive bill is passed this year,” the letter stated. “A temporary extension of current policy creates tremendous uncertainty . . . ” In the difficult fiscal climate, Scholl added that, “It is unclear exactly what budget cuts will be made and the implications for farms, farmland and food, but it’s perfectly clear that agriculture will

See Bill, Page 8

sound research and education helps Georgia farmers produce safer, more nutritious products while protecting the environment to continually improve the quality of life in Georgia.

Here are a few interesting facts found in the 2010 Farm Gate Value Report that shows how local communities across Georgia benefit from agriculture: l Georgia produces 20 different commodities with farm gate values more than $100 million and 48 commodities with a value more than $10 million. That’s not only a sign of high value, but high diversity as well. l Colquitt County had the highest farm gate value in 2010 at $475,048,630 followed by Franklin, Habersham, Madison, Banks, Mitchell, Hart, Jackson, Tattnall and Hall to make up the “Top 10” agriculture producing

Corporate Headquarters Poultry Times P.O. Box 1338 Gainesville, Georgia 30503 Telephone: 770-536-2476; 770-718-3444 (after 5:30 p.m.)

Fax: 770-532-4894

General Manager Cindy Wellborn 770-718-3443

cwellborn@poultrytimes.net

Editorial/Advertising Staff Editor David B. Strickland 770-718-3442 dstrickland@poultrytimes.net Associate Editor Barbara L. Olejnik 770-718-3440 bolejnik@poultrytimes.net Graphic Artist Courtney Canaday 770-718-3437 ccanaday@poultrytimes.net

counties. l The top livestock county was Oglethorpe. l Laurens County topped the forestry category, while Grady County led in ornamental horticulture value. l Bacon County was the highest in the fruit and nut category. l Dooly County led the row and forage crop category and Colquitt County was tops in vegetables.

Check out the online report to find out what Georgia agriculture means to your local area at http://www.caes.uga.edu/center/ caed/pubs/2011/documents/AR11-01.pdf.

Steve L. Brown is the assistant dean for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Account Executive Stacy Louis 770-718-3445 slouis@poultrytimes.net Account Executive Dinah Winfree 770-718-3438 dwinfree@poultrytimes.net

Companion Publications: Poultry Times; A Guide to Poultry Associations; Poultry Resource Guide.

The opinions expressed in this publication by authors other than Georgia Ag News staff are those of the respective author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Georgia Ag News.

Georgia Ag News assumes responsibliity for error in first run of an inhouse designed ad only. Advertisers have ten (10) days from publication date to dispute such an advertisement. After ten (10) days, ad will be deemed correct and advertiser will be charged accordingly. Proofs approved by advertiser will always be regarded as correct.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

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Massey receives award ATLANTA — Abit Massey, president emeritus of the Georgia Poultry Federation, was honored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association during the 2012 International Poultry Expo, where he received the Harold E. Ford Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious honor was presented to Massey by Harold E. Ford, past president of USPOULTRY, and for whom the award was named.

The Harold E. Ford Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to an individual whose dedication and leadership during the years have far exceeded the ordinary and impacted both the poultry industry and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association in an exemplary manner. The award is presented non-annually and when the Awards and Recognition Committee unanimously recognizes and endorses the need for occasional, unique recognition for exceptional contributions.

“In addition to being recognized as a Georgia poultry industry icon,

See Massey, Page 8

•GPF

(Continued from page 3)

Exhibitors for 2012 will include: l AgGeorgia Farm Credit — AgGeorgia Farm Credit is part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, a network of banks and associations that is the largest single lender of agricultural credit in America. According to Tom Kight, marketing officer, AgGeorgia has been making loans to serve the needs of Georgia’s families and rural America for close to 100 years.

Kight said, “We are committed to serving agriculture and have numerous products and services to offer our clients. Our staff understands agriculture and can relate to the many needs for today’s farmers.”

For more information, visit their booth at Brasstown Valley Resort or contact the nearest AgGeorgia Farm Credit office or visit their web site at http://www.aggeorgia. com. l Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network: — Dr. Louise Dufour-Zavala, executive director, says the lab’s trifold exhibit will summarize the mission and activities of GPLN. The network has three locations throughout Georgia offering monitoring and diagnostic services for commercial and noncommercial poultry. It operates in coordination with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the

Georgia Poultry Improvement Association and the Georgia Poultry Federation. l Georgia Tech Research Institute — Georgia Tech Research Institute’s Agricultural Technology Research Program conducts both contract and state-sponsored applied research that seeks engineering solutions to challenges faced by the poultry industry. The display will highlight ongoing technology development and prototype system activities. Program and project displays and videos describe current research activities. l Department of Population Health, University of Georgia — Mark Jackwood, department head, describes the mission of the Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center (PDRC) as threefold: “teaching, research, and service in poultry medicine. The teaching function includes teaching of poultry medicine in the professional curriculum in veterinary medicine, teaching poultry medicine in the poultry science curriculum, preparing veterinarians to work in the poultry industry via the Master of Avian Medicine program and training researchers in poultry medicine through the MS and Ph.D. programs. The research programs emphasize the diagnosis and control of economically important diseases of poultry. Applied and basic research is focused

Photo by David B. Strickland

Lifetime Achievement Award: Abit Massey, president emeritus of the Georgia Poultry Federation, was recently awarded with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association’s Harold E. Ford Lifetime Achievement Award, during the 2012 International Poultry Expo in Atlanta. Massey, center, was awarded the honor by John Starkey, left, USPOULTRY president; as well as Harold E. Ford, right, a past president of the association, and namesake of the award.

on solving problems of importance to the industry. The service function exists to provide diagnostic and consultative services to the commercial poultry industry.”

This is accomplished, he says, by providing diagnostic, necropsy, consultation and field services to local companies as well as companies located throughout the U.S. and the world. l Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia: “The Department of Poultry Science at the University of Georgia has outstanding programs in research, Extension and teaching.

These programs are instrumental in helping the Georgia poultry industry maintain its position of global leadership in poultry production and processing,” said Dr. Mike Lacy, department head.

The department’s undergraduate instruction, graduate training, research and service programs will be highlighted in this year’s exhibit. Outstanding teaching faculty, relevant research programs and applied Extension projects will be summarized and the impact of these programs upon the Georgia industry will be described, the group noted.

Registration Registration information may be obtained by e-mailing the federation at claudette@gapf.org, Ph:

770-532-0473, or Fax: 770-5327543.

Room reservations may be made by calling Brasstown Valley at 800-201-3205 or 706-379-9900, and mentioning that you will be

attending the federation’s annual Spring Meeting. More information on the resort and the area may be obtained at http://www.brasstownvalley.com/.

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GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Deal addresses poultry executives at Expo

By Barbara Olejnik Georgia Ag News Staff bolejnik@poultrytimes.net

ATLANTA — The poultry industry is facing a “challenging period,” particularly as it relates to grain and energy products, said Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal in speaking to a group of industry executives at the recent International Poultry Expo.

The governor noted a major problem is the federally mandated ethanol requirement.

“I continue to be concerned about the negative impact of this nation’s policies diverting food products into our fuel supply,” Deal said.

He pointed out that this year, for the first time, more corn is being used for fuel than for feed. In addition, last year saw the smallest corn inventories in 37 years.

“This is a broken, unsus-

tainable policy,” Deal stated, adding that “the day we decide to let free enterprise work, food for fuel will end on that very day.”

The governor also said there was a need to ensure a dependable labor force.

“We must move on the national level to ensure access to a dependable, quality labor supply . . . We must reform existing federal programs that aren’t working for America’s job creators,” Deal stated.

Additionally, Deal said, there is a need for expanded markets for poultry products.

“We must have the ability to sell in a wider range, to be able to grow. We have to expand our global base,” the governor stated. “Here in Georgia, we believe we can play a key role in this process.”

He pointed out that Savan-

nah is currently the largest exporter of poultry in the U.S. In 2010, Savannah exported poultry valued at more than $734 million. Recently, a $4.75 million project was approved to expand the Port of Savannah to increase refrigerated container capacity by 45 percent.

“We are well positioned to help America grow poultry products,” Deal stated.

He also noted that Georgia is working to protect poultry “by ensuring the integrity of our product, across the board.”

To do this the state is building a new, state-of-the-are poultry lab that will facilitate expanded diagnostics and improve biosecurity.

Special

Governor visits IPE/IFE: John Starkey, left, president of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, welcomes Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal, who spoke at a poultry executives luncheon during the 2012 International Poultry Expo and International Feed Expo.

•Firewood (Continued from page 1)

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search has found this is false,” he noted. “The buildup is more often the result of burning wood at relatively low temperatures. Burning poorly seasoned wood favors creosote buildup because evaporating water cools the burning process.”

He also added that too high of a temperature in a fireplace or stove can also cause chimney damage, and potentially start a fire.

Pugliese noted to, “Add only enough wood to keep the fire at the desired temperature. And remember, dry well-seasoned wood is important for an efficient heat source.”

Use only local Another important aspect to keep in mind regarding firewood, especially firewood that will be used in campfires, is making sure to only use firewood that has been prepared locally and has not been moved from too great a distance.

The Georgia Forestry Commission stresses the importance of local firewood to assist in stopping the spread of destructive and harmful insects and tree diseases.

The GFC states that Georgia is “currently battling a non-native insect known as the redbay ambrosia beetle that has been spread by the movement of firewood. It has killed millions of our native Red-

bay trees, and is also killing our native Sassafras.”

Additional insect threats to forests and trees, that have been known to travel through firewood movement, the commission notes, include: the Asian longhorned beetle, the emerald ash borer, the sirex woodwasp and gypsy moths.

The commission adds that these non-native pests cannot travel very far by themselves, but by traveling along hidden in firewood; they can move hundreds of miles very quickly.

As for a range to gauge “how far is too far” in determining where to obtain firewood, officials suggest that 50 miles is too far, and that 10 miles or less is the optimal range.

Along with making sure to just use local firewood, GFC suggests that if you have, inadvertently, brought your own firewood from home to a campsite; make sure to burn all of it completely on-site.

If you are unable to burn all of your firewood, the commission advises to turn the remaining supply in to local park rangers. Keep firewood inside the county of its origin; and when visiting a campground, make sure to leave firewood at home.

Some of Georgia’s state parks have firewood available for purchase to use at campsites.

More information about firewood and the dangers of moving firewood can be obtained at http:// www.gatrees.org, as well as http://www.dontmovefirewood.org.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

•Weather (Continued from page 1)

that was devised by the founder of the Almanac, Robert B. Thomas, in 1792.

The Almanac staff says the secret formula is locked in a black box in the offices in Dublin, N.H. While Thomas believed that Earth’s weather was influenced by sunspots, the formula for current Almanac forecasts has been refined and is based on three scientific disciplines: solar science, the study of sunspots and other solar activity; climatology, the study of prevailing weather patterns; and meteorology, the study of the atmosphere.

The Farmers’ Almanac claims its prediction rate is 80 percent correct.

While current forecasters based their predictions on “secret formulas” and/or scientific means, people have been forecasting the weather long before there were such things.

Earlier predictions were based on observations of the sky, nature and animals.

A lot of these predictions have evolved into traditional sayings or proverbs that oftentimes turn out to be accurate.

Some of these are: “The higher the clouds, the finer the weather.”

“Clear moon, frost soon.”

“Ring around the moon? Rain real soon.”

“Red sky at night, sailors delight. Red sky in morning, sailors take warning.”

The Woolly Bear Caterpillar has the reputation of being able to forecast the coming winter weather. The caterpillar has hairy bands on its body of black and brown or orange. According to folklore, the wider the middle brown section is (i.e., the more brown segments there are), the milder the coming winter will be. A narrow brown band is said to predict a harsh winter.

Weather can also be predicted, again according to folklore, by watching the animals When cats sneeze, it’s a sign of rain. Bats flying late in the evening indicates fair weather. When rabbits are fat in October and November, expect a long, cold weather And, of course, the most famous predictor — as evidenced

by Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania and General Beauregard Lee in Georgia — is the groundhog. If the groundhog sees its shadow on Candlemas Day, Feb. 2., there will be six more weeks of winter.

For 2012, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, while General Beauregard Lee here in Georgia did not. However, the first day of spring will be March 20, regardless.

Weather has also been predicted using a persimmon seed.

Cut open a persimmon seed and look at the shape of the kernel inside. If the kernel is spoon-shaped, lots of heavy, wet snow will fall. Spoon = shovel. If the kernel is fork-shaped, expect powdery, light snow and a mild winter. If the kernel is knifeshaped, expect to be “cut” by icy, cutting winds.

Even using traditional methods, predicting the weather can be a hit or miss activity.

7

AMI to co-locate expo with IPE/IFE in 2013 ATLANTA — The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and the American Feed Industry Association have signed an agreement with the American Meat Institute to co-locate the AMI trade show with the IPE/IFE in Atlanta, annually in January, starting in 2013.

The three shows will operate under one umbrella creating one of the largest 50 shows in the U.S. It is expected that the entire show will include more than 1,000 exhibitors and close to 1 million square feet of exhibit space. The meat and poultry exhibits will be combined on one large show floor, and the IFE will be held in the adjacent hall. One badge will allow all attendees into any exhibit.

“We are very excited about this partnership with AMI, and the co-location is something our exhibitors have asked about for a long time.

The consolidation of the trade shows will allow our respective organizations to build on the synergies of the poultry, feed and meat sectors, as well as provide a benefit to our exhibitors and members who produce or exhibit across multiple protein sectors,” said John Starkey, president of USPOULTRY. Starkey also said he expected the co-located shows to continue the Tuesday through Thursday schedule, which was put into place for the 2012 show. However, he said, the show will continue to be responsive to preferences of attendees, based on a survey conducted at the conclusion of each yearly show.

All three associations will continue to operate independently, serving their respective

See AMI, Page 10

Photo by Barbara Olejnik

Three expos co-locating: The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, the American Feed Industry Association and the American Meat Institute have signed an agreement to co-locate their three trade shows in Atlanta, beginning in 2013. Recently announcing the agreement were, left to right, the presidents of the three organizations: Joel G. Newman of AFIA, J. Patrick Boyle of AMI and John Starkey of USPOULTRY.

8

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Legislation introduced on layer production

By Barbara Olejnik Georgia Ag News Staff bolejnik@poultrytimes.net

ATLANTA — Passage of the Egg Products Inspection Act Amendments of 2012 is a priority issue for the Alpharetta-based United Egg Producers.

The bill, which represents an agreement between UEP and the Humane Society of the United States, would establish federal regulations on how egg laying hens are raised.

Bipartisan legislation to enact the bill was finally introduced in the House of Representatives on Jan. 23 by Congressmen Kurt Schrader (D-Ore.), Jeff Denham (R-Calif.), Elton Gallegly (RCalif.) and Sam Farr (D-Calif.).

David Lathem, UEP chairman, noted that egg producers had “worked very hard” to

get the legislation to this point.

“This is a big undertaking, but we feel we can get this accomplished. We need a level playing field for all egg producers.”

Gene Gregory, UEP president and CEO, said egg producers should not have different, costly rules in all 50 states. That’s where we are heading if we don’t pass this federal legislation. We need this legislation for our customers and consumers and the survival of egg farmers.”

The bill — H.R. 3798 — would: l Require conventional cages to be replaced during a phase-in period with new, enriched colony housing systems that provide all egg-laying hens nearly double the amount of current space; l Require that, after a phasein period, all egg-laying hens be

provided with environmental enrichments, such as perches, nesting boxes and scratching areas, that will allow hens to express natural behaviors; l Require labeling on all egg cartons nationwide to inform consumers of the method used to produce the eggs — “eggs from caged hens,” “eggs from hens in enriched cages,” “eggs from cage-free hens” and “eggs from free-range hens”; l Prohibit feed- or waterwithdrawal molting to extend the laying cycle, a practice already prohibited by the United Egg Producers Certified pro-

gram; l Require standards approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association for euthanasia of egg-laying hens; l Prohibit excessive ammonia levels in hen houses; and l Prohibit the transport and sale of eggs and egg products nationwide that don’t meet these requirements.

“This agreement between the United Egg Producers and the Humane Society of the United States represents an important and necessary step in addressing the patchwork of state laws facing the industry and provid-

ing stability for farmers moving forward,” Rep. Schrader. “I take my hat off to both organizations for putting aside their historical differences and working together to reach a deal that provides certainty for our farmers while providing improved conditions for the hens.”

The UEP-HSUS agreement, which was signed on July 7, was termed “historic” because the two groups have long been at odds over animal welfare issues, particularly the egg industry’s method of housing hens

See UEP, Page 10

•Bill (Continued from page 4)

have to do more with less.”

This spring, however, agriculture has an opportunity for better policies and programs, Scholl noted, adding, “I believe this farm bill can be transformational. Our country must make big decisions about the nature of government and how it will spend our money, and agriculture and food policy will be no exception.

“I am excited about the prospects for getting one of the most important pieces of legislation Congress will consider this year done. Protecting farm and ranch land and keeping farmers on their land; providing healthy and safe food; and addressing environmental concerns are the top priorities of a majority of Americans — priorities that we believe can be a part of a Farm Bill this year.”

•Massey (Continued from page 5)

Abit is recognized as a leader in several fields, including the lobbying profession, association management field, and among collegiate supporters,” said Gary Cooper, Cooper Farms, immediate past chairman of USPOULTRY. “Abit is well respected and highly regarded within the industry; and his legacy will be acknowledged for many years to come.”

John Starkey, USPOULTRY president, said, “Abit has labored diligently and efficiently on behalf of the Georgia poultry industry, and his touch can be seen and felt on many of the initiatives and programs that have contributed to the state’s poultry success, as well as nationally. On behalf of our association, Abit has provided a constant source of knowledge and experience. He has been a visionary in evaluating the industry’s future needs and has acted to address those needs. The hallmark of Abit’s career has been his integrity and his personal touch, which forms the foundation of every

relationship he has.”

A graduate of the University of Georgia and an Eagle Scout, Massey is past chairman of the board of directors for the American Society of Association Executives, past president of the Georgia Society of Association Executives and GSAE Foundation, past president of the University of Georgia Alumni Association, and organizer and first president of the State Poultry Executives Association.

Massey has been listed twice by Georgia Trend as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians. He received the Inaugural Medallion of Honor for Service to the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in June 2006 and the seventh Presidential Citation presented by Georgia Tech in March 2009. He has also been recognized with the 2008 Distinguished Service Award from the Agricultural Economics Association of Georgia and received the Key to the City of Gainesville, Ga., in December 2008.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

9

Make it at Home Recipe Southern-Style Chicken Stew National Chicken Council Servings: 4

Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast halves, boneless and skinless, cut into 2-inch pieces 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 medium onion, chopped 1 (14.5 oz.) can low-sodium chicken broth 2 sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks 1 bunch (about 1/2 pound) collard pounds, rough-chopped into 2-inch pieces 1/2 pound cooked smoked sausage, such as kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds Directions: Place 3 tablespoons flour in a large bowl, season with salt and pepper, add chicken pieces and toss gently to coat.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a 5-quart Dutch oven

or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.

Add chicken, reduce heat to medium and cook until browned, 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer chicken to a plate.

Add remaining tablespoon oil to pot over medium heat. Add onions to pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and just beginning to brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Turn heat to high and add chicken broth and 3/4 cups water to pot. Scrape up any browned bits. Return chicken to pot and add sweet potatoes and smoked sausage. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 5 minutes. Make a paste with the remaining 1 tablespoon flour and 3 tablespoons water.

Uncover, whisk in flour and water mixture and continue to simmer until chicken is cooked through, potatoes are tender and liquid has thickened, 5 to 6 minutes.

Stir in collard leaves and simmer 2 minutes more. Serve immediately, with cornbread and hot sauce on the side.

More chicken recipes may be obtained from the National Chicken Council at http://www. eatchicken.com.

10

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Thousands attended annual poultry expo ATLANTA — The 2012 International Poultry Expo and International Feed Expo drew more than 20,500 poultry and feed industry leaders from all around the world. In addition, the show had 895 exhibitors as compared to 900 last year.

Sponsored by U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and the American Feed Industry Association, the annual Expo is the world’s largest poultry and feed industry event of its kind.

“We are very pleased with the number of exhibitors and attendees on the exhibit floor for IPE/IFE Week,” said 2012 USPOULTRY Chairman Mark

Waller, with Ingram Farms, Cullman, Ala. “We (had) a great turn-out this year, and the energy and excitement on the floor (was) evident.”

The central attraction was the large exhibit floor. Exhibitors presented the latest innovations in equipment, supplies and services utilized by industry companies in the production and processing of poultry, eggs and feed products, the association’s noted. Many companies use the annual event to highlight their new products. All phases of the poultry and feed industry were represented, from live production and processing to further

•AMI (Continued from page 7)

constituents and will offer targeted education and networking opportunities that meet the customer needs and compliment the expo. The operations of the show will be handled out of the USPOULTRY offices, and AMI and AFIA will be instrumental in driving attendance promotion and exhibit sales efforts.

“We are very pleased about the co-location with AMI. The consolidation will provide a more diverse event for our members and allow for more educational opportunities for attendees,” said Joel Newman, AFIA president.

Newman added that a broadening of the show will provide attendees, including international visitors, greater access to the latest technology, as well as educational sessions.

“This partnership will enhance the value of our trade shows to exhibitors and attendees alike,” said AMI President J. Patrick Boyle.

“Now we have one show that provides more education, networking and hands on demonstration of equipment and supplies from farm through distribution. Our entire industry will benefit from the reduction in travel expenses, exhibit costs and see an undeniable increase in value.”

The 2013 show will be held on Jan. 28-31at the Georgia World Congress Center.

The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association is an all-feather organization representing the complete spectrum of today’s poultry industry. AFIA is the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to representing the business, legislative and regulatory interests of the U.S. animal feed industry and its suppliers. AMI represents the interests of packers and processors of beef, pork, lamb, veal and turkey products and their suppliers throughout North America.

Together, AMI’s members produce 95 percent of the beef, pork, lamb and veal products and 70 percent of the turkey products in the U.S.

processing and packaging.

A variety of education sessions also complemented the exhibits by keeping industry management informed on current issues, the groups added.

This year’s educational line-up featured five new programs. The Executive Conference on the Future of the American Poultry and Egg Industry drew an extremely large crowd and featured presentations from Jeff Simmons, president of Elanco Animal Health; Jim Paulsen, chief investment strategist for Wells Capital Management; and Dr. Elisabeth Hagen, USDA’s undersecretary for food safety.

Also new, the Pre-Harvest Food Safety Conference was very well attended, USPOULTRY said. The conference reviewed the known and unknown issues associated with the control of foodborne pathogens in pre-harvest operations.

See Expo, Page 12

•UEP (Continued from page 8)

in conventional battery cages.

In the past, HSUS has been instrumental in seeking state ballot initiatives that would require the industry to move to larger cages.

“The HSUS and UEP have been long-time adversaries, but have come together and identified a solution that balances animal welfare and the economic realities of the industry,” said Wayne Pacelle, HSUS president and CEO. “The nation needs this kind of problem solving, and the Congress should enthusiastically embrace an agreement between all of the key stakeholders.”

Other groups favoring passage of the bill include the Association of California Egg Farmers,

Photo by David B. Strickland

Exhibit floor: Approximately 900 exhibit booths and more than 20,500 visitors were on hand for the recent International Poultry Expo/International Feed Expo in Atlanta.

Colorado Egg Producers Association, Florida Poultry Association, Michigan Agri-Business Association, Michigan Allied Poultry Industries, North Carolina Egg Association, Ohio Egg Processors Association, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the National Consumers League.

However, there is opposition to the legislation from other animal production organizations.

These groups say that federal regulation would set a “dangerous precedent” for allowing the federal government to regulate on-farm production practices.

Among those raising concern about the legislation are the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation,

National Milk Production Federation, National Pork Producers Council and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

If enacted into law, the legislation would require egg producers to increase space per hen in a tiered phase-in during the next 15 to 18 years, increasing from about 67 square inches of space per hen to a minimum of 124 square inches of space per hen for white hens and up to 144 square inches for brown hens.

The move would affect all 280 million hens involved in U.S. egg production.

Egg producers are expected to invest an additional $4 billion during the next decade and a half to achieve the industrywide transition to enriched colony housing.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

11

Agriculture report urges solutions for labor issues ATLANTA — In January, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black released a report on agriculture labor in Georgia, offering practical solutions to address the concerns of Georgia’s largest and oldest industry.

“The results of this survey continue to make clear that the solution to labor issues facing Georgia producers rests in the hands of the federal government,” Black said. “Agriculture is our state’s number one industry, yet the federal government is failing to provide our farmers with the skilled labor they need to harvest crops in a legal and efficient manner. It is time that our friends in Washington step up to the plate and provide us with a system that works.”

The first recommendation in the report points out that only the federal government has the ability to reform existing agriculture guest worker programs to make them useful and effective for farmers. Available options for farmers are too cumbersome, unreliable and bureaucratic to be practical in today’s modern economy, the department notes, adding that more resources need to be put in place for educating the agriculture industry about the federal H-2A program. The third and final recommendation suggests more research be conducted in order to fully understand the complexity of agriculture labor in Georgia.

“More than 40 percent of respondents in our study said the federal H-2A program is not applicable to their operations,” Black said, noting this includes year-round agriculture needs, such as dairies, ginners and landscapers. “Another 20 percent of respondents were completely unfamiliar with the option of H-2A for hiring workers and an additional 16 percent had only heard negative things about it.

“The findings of this report also indicate there are opportunities for improved relations between the agriculture community and the Department of Labor for worker recruitment, while education and outreach will help provide better resources for growers,” Black said.

He also noted that in 2011, Georgia senators and representatives offered proposed federal legislation addressing agriculture labor.

“We need senators and representatives from other states to join this effort in creating a solution to fix the problem,” he said. “Our livelihoods are at stake.”

As consumers increasingly want to know more about where their food comes from, the

department of agriculture’s survey illustrates the need for a real discussion about a solution to fix labor issues, GDA noted.

“Georgians are concerned about where their food comes from; it is important to them. Our state has a great production capacity, but we need an effective way to get those products from the farm to the table,” Black said. “I challenge consumers to look at the produce available in local stores — you’ll always be able to find blueberries, cucumbers, tomatoes, peaches and the other products you desire — but where these products are grown and sold is directly linked to who is available to harvest them.”

The study obtained responses from 138 Georgia counties, with more than 800 producers responding to the survey, including those from small and large scale operations.

The full report is available online at http://www. agr.georgia.gov.

Other highlights from the report include: l Forty-eight percent of respondents found their part-time workforce to be roughly the same over the past five years, while 20 percent reported their workforce to be smaller. l Twenty-one percent of respondents indicated that fewer full- and part-time workers were hired in 2011 when compared to the last five years; major reasons included a poor economy, loss of revenue, poor worker retention and lack of available workers. l It is unknown if the lack of full- and part-time workers in 2011 was a direct result of the passage of Georgia HB87, however, the study’s findings suggest this could be an issue and identifies a perception that the lack of workers could be related to the passage of HB87. l The survey shows producers pay both full and part time workers at, or above, federal minimum wage. l In 2011, more than 50 percent of survey respondents who are producers of blueberries, cabbage, cantaloupe, cucumbers, eggplant, peppers, squash, tobacco and watermelon reported income losses. l More than 40 percent of respondents said H2A was not applicable to their farming operations; another 20 percent indicated they were unfamiliar with the program. l Most respondents use word of mouth to recruit workers; approximately 13 percent use the Georgia Department of Labor and 3.4 percent reported using H-2A.

Survey outlines independent grocer growth opportunity LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The 2012 National Grocers Association Consumer Panel Report has been released and the group notes that it contains more than 75 shopping attributes to help independent grocers grow their businesses.

The national consumer study, conducted by SupermarketGuru. com for NGA, and sponsored by Valassis, shows the differences in the demographics and lifestyles of grocery consumers, the association added. As in the past two years, the exclusive annual survey focused on consumer trends, including fresh foods, social causes, checkout and caring about customers. Demographic information such as grocery spending, age, ethnicity, gender and household income is also examined in the report.

“This survey provides important insights for independent grocers to remain competitive including the latest consumer trends and perceptions about convenience, eating healthy, food choices and food safety,” said Peter Larkin, president and CEO of NGA. “This information provides important data for independent grocers to help guide decisions about growing sales and their com-

See Grocers, Page 13

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GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Now is the best time Youth leaders enjoy for pruning roses 4-H Day at State Capitol

By Frank M. Watson Special to Georgia Ag News

WASHINGTON, Ga. — Mid February to early March is the best time to prune roses.

To achieve a high quality rose bush, you must remove all dead and diseased wood and reduce the remaining canes by at least a third.

Following these tips from the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension will help you get the job done efficiently and effectively.

The right tools The key to successful rose pruning is having the right tools for the job. Buying a quality pair of bypass, not anFrank M. Watson is the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension agent in Wilkes County, Ga.

vil, pruners will be well worth the average $25 cost.

A good pair of pruners pays for itself in reduced physical effort and nice, clean cuts.

Know your variety Plants that flower repeatedly through the season can be pruned severely. However, if the plant blooms only once a year, such as Climbing Queen Elizabeth and Lady Banks Rose, the less pruning you do the better.

These once-a-year bloomers flower on old wood, so pruning will decrease potential blooms come spring. Instead, return to these plants after the spring bloom and shorten their canes by a third.

By Capri Martinez

Special to Georgia Ag News

ATLANTA — More than 245 4-H youths, leaders and volunteers traveled to Atlanta for the 11th Annual Leadership Day and 4-H Day at the Georgia State Capitol on Feb. 6.

Sponsored by the Department of Community Affairs, the event brings together leaders from across Georgia to share best practices and identify ways to improve leadership efforts in Georgia.

Held at the Atlanta Freight Depot, the annual event recognizes leadership programs sponsored

by DCA, including Georgia 4-H, the Fanning Institute’s Community Leadership Program and the Georgia Academy for Economic Development.

In all, more than 500 youth, county leadership team members, graduates of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development and government officials attended.

The day included speeches from Gov. Nathan Deal, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, Speaker of the House David Ralston, DCA Commissioner Mike Beat-

ty and Development Manager and Georgia 4-H alumna Lisa Gipson.

Members of the Georgia 4-H Performing Arts group Clovers & Co., including Jado Cato of Henry County, Clay McArthur of Pickens County, Gracie Rowe of Heard County, Garrett Collins and Ansley Hutcheson of Butts County, Destan Musgrove of Crisp County and Tifara Brown of Ben Hill County, provided special entertainment for the day.

While in Atlanta, 4-Hers also visited the State Capitol to meet with their representatives, tour the capitol and witness the legislative process in action.

State 4-H President Dowdy White of Crisp County addressed both the House and Senate and thanked them for their support of 4-H during the past year. Sen. Johnny Grant and Reps. Richard Smith and Rick Jasperse hosted the 4-Hers’ visit. Proclamations in both the House and Senate recognized 4-H honorees.

Capri Martinez is a Georgia 4-H AmeriCorps VISTA member.

Do a trial cut As you prune, you should position the shears so that the

See Roses, Page 13

•Expo (Continued from page 10)

The Hatchery-Breeder Clinic provided information on incubation needs for modern breeds and a disease update for breeders, along with a variety of other time-sensitive topics. Another popular program, the Animal Agriculture Sustainability Summit reviewed the challenges and solutions of animal agriculture stewardship. A distinguished panel participated in a discussion on sustainability implications for the poultry industry, including Jim Perdue, chairman of Perdue Farms; and Mike Helgeson, CEO of GNP Co. The College Student Career Program attracted 325 students from 23 universities throughout the U.S. The graduating students interviewed for jobs and internships with 25 industry and allied firms.

They were also able to visit the exhibit floor to see the most current technology used in today’s poultry industry.

New product and service launches, exhibitor-sponsored programs, organization meetings, the International Poultry Scientific Forum, Featherfest® activities, publisher-sponsored programs, the Pet Food Conference, educational sessions on a variety of industry-specific topics, and once-a-year networking were all opportunities the associations noted as making the 2012 IPE/IFE, “an exciting place to be.”

Photo: Georgia 4-H

4-H Day at Capitol: Georgia 4-H’ers group together for a photo during a tour of the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta on the group’s recent Annual Leadership Day and 4-H Day.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

13

•Roses

cross through the center of the plant or grow inward. The goal is a configuration where canes grow up and out from the bud union leaving the center of the plant open for good air circulation. If there are more than five or six canes, remove the oldest, least productive canes until the strongest, youngest five or six remain.

Those after a garden display will usually prune higher (3 feet) so that more bud eyes are left on the plant. More bud eyes mean more shoots that will ultimately result in more buds and more blooms.

For fewer but larger blooms, prune much lower (about 18 inches).

(Continued from page 12)

cutting (sharp) blade is below the stationary blade. Make a few trial cuts and examine the wood on either side of the wood if you are unsure of the blade’s position.

The side of the cut hitting the stationary blade will show a small tear on the bark. The other side will be cleanly cut.

Inside that counts It is the inside appearance of the cane and not the outside appearance determines whether the cane is a keeper or not.

Located in the center of the cane, the pith transports moisture and nutrients upward to the leaves. Removal of damaged canes will stimulate the production of new canes, which will allow the plant to be more efficient.

If the pith is brown or black, continue to cut down the cane until green or white pith is revealed. In some cases this may mean a drastic reduction of the cane. Occasionally, the pith will become darker with each

No matter where you decide to cut, make the cut about a fourth of an inch above a bud eye that faces away from the center of the plant. Growth that emerges from such an eye will grow outward and help keep the center of the plant open.

Sealing cuts It is not crucial to seal pruning cuts, but a general purpose glue, like Elmer’s, can be used. Avoid the school glue formulations that are water based. If using pruning paints, use caution as dripping them on an emerging bud eye could result in damage.

Serving the Poultry and Food Processing Industry Since 1976 Photo by David B. Strickland

Pruning roses: Now is a great time to prune roses. Following tips such as using the proper tools and making the right cuts will help the chore be productive and effective.

successive cut, and the cane will have to be removed at the bud union using a small pruning saw.

Other cuts Examine the configuration and number of the remaining canes. Remove any canes that

•Grocers (Continued from page 11)

petitiveness in the marketplace.”

Findings of this year’s survey include: l Stores that help consumers feel more comfortable in this stressful economy will be better positioned to build shopping frequency and spending amounts. l Most consumers don’t focus exclusively on low prices when selecting a primary supermarket. For the fourth year in a row, low prices as being “very important” slid, coming in at 39 percent in 2012, down from 51 percent in 2009. l Shoppers are not exclusively loyal to their preferred store. More than three-quarters said that they would at least try out a new store in their neighborhood, especially if it was of their preferred size. l Stores supporting humanitarian causes are increasingly popular with consumers. Nearly 57 percent

of U.S. adults would pay up to 2 percent more to buy food in stores that support causes they believe in, with 10 percent willing to pay up to 5 percent more. Causes that consumers want grocers to support include fighting childhood hunger and education issues.

SupermarketGuru.com conducted the national consumer panel on its web site in November and December 2011. In all, 1,805 chief household shoppers completed surveys that detailed their experiences, behaviors and sentiments on what appeals to them (or not) about supermarkets, as well as their purchase influences, eating habits and nutritional concerns.

More information about the National Grocers Association may be obtained at http://www.nationalgrocers.org.

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GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Picking quality plants for landscape use

By Michael Wheeler Special to Georgia Ag News

GAINESVILLE — Now is one of the best times to plant new additions to landscapes.

Planting during cooler months gives trees and shrubs a better chance of getting established before the heat of summer hits.

Whether you need a shade tree to cool the patio or a new ornamental to replace a diseased shrub, always begin with a solid plan and a list of appropriate plants. Most importantly, by selecting quality plants, you will improve the growth of new trees and shrubs. Close examination of Michael Wheeler is the Hall County Extension Coordinator and agricultural Extension agent. He can be reached at 770-535-8293; e-mail at wheelerm@uga.edu; or http://www. hallcounty.org/extension.

the plants being purchased is necessary to assure success.

Healthy roots The root system is extremely important and should be in balance with the top of the plant. Plants with a large, heavy top and a small root ball will establish slowly with spring planting. The limited root system must be able to supply water and nutrients all of the leaves on the branches.

Each inch of trunk thickness measured 6 inches above the soil needs 10 to 12 inches of root ball diameter for good growth. So a 2.5-inch tree trunk should have a 25- to 30inch root ball.

To check the roots, simply remove the plant from the pot and examine the roots on the surface of the soil mix. White, healthy root tips are desirable.

A lot of white roots means the

See Plants, Page 16

Sharon Dowdy/UGA

Selecting quality plants: Before adding new plant material to your landscape, like this blooming redbud tree, make sure you’re buying a healthy specimen.

USDA web site to assist beginning farmers WASHINGTON — On Feb. 16, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and USDA’s National Agricultural Library, in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Federation, announced Start2farm.gov, a new online portal that helps provide assistance for beginning farmers and ranchers.

The portal includes links to training, financing, technical assistance and other support services specifically for beginning farmers and ranchers, as well as successful case studies about new and beginning farmers and ranchers.

“America’s farmers and rural communities are vitally important to our nation’s economy, producing the food, feed, fiber and fuel that continue to help us grow,” Vilsack said. “USDA is working to provide opportunities for the next generation to get into agriculture in order to continue the record success of

America’s farmers and ranchers who are seeing record farm incomes and record exports. Start2Farm.gov will help us protect and sustain these successes, so that we continue to build an agriculture industry diverse and successful enough to attract the smartest, hardest-working young people in the nation.”

Start2Farm.gov was funded via the NIFA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP), program that funded the development of education, training, outreach and mentoring programs to enhance the sustainability of the next generation of America’s farmers and ranchers.

The program has been funded since fiscal year 2009. It was authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill with $75 million through FY12. In the first year of NIFA’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, three-year grants supported

training for 5,000 beginning farmers and ranchers. In 2011, it is anticipated that these grants will have supported training for more than 10,000 beginning farmer and ranchers.

The BFRDP legislation requires the secretary to establish an online clearinghouse that makes available to beginning farmers or ranchers supporting education curricula and training materials and programs. This clearinghouse, Start2Farm.gov, allows potential and beginning farmers to search for programs and resources that will help them find training, financing, technical assistance and support networks. Additional features include a “Thinking about farming?” tutorial and an event calendar. Start2farm.gov also showcases stories of how other BFRDP grantees have started, and stayed in, farming and ranching.

Beginning farmers, by USDA defini-

tion, are those operated by individuals with 10 years or less experience operating farms. About 20 percent of the 2.1 million U.S. farms are classified as beginning farms, based on the USDA definition. Most beginning farmers are not young (that is, under 35 years old), do not have a college education, nor have access to farmland through their relatives, and more than one-quarter have zero value of farm production.

Most beginning farmers and ranchers experience shared challenges in getting started, USDA said, adding that, the two most common and important challenges faced by beginning farmers are (1) having the market opportunity to buy or rent suitable land and (2) having capital to acquire land of a large enough scale to be profitable.

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

15

Planning now will help out turfgrass in the summer

By Becky Griffin

Special to Georgia Ag News

MARIETTA — On cold winter days, you may dream of summer and the return of cookouts or flag football games on soft, springy lawns. Or you may just long to sit and admire your beautiful turfgrass with a cold, sweet tea in hand.

There are several steps you can take now, in winter, to help you enjoy a beautiful lawn in the summer.

Turfgrass battle plan Because of past droughts and resulting legislation, outdoor water use will continue to be an issue in Georgia. Water usage is something every homeowner must seriously consider and plan for.

How much water did you use last summer to keep your lawn green? If the water regulations tighten, how will you irrigate your lawn?

By planning ahead you will be able to support Becky Griffin is the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension turfgrass associate in Cobb County.

a lush lawn by making wise use of limited water resources. A few simple things can make a big difference in your water bill and our state’s water usage.

Don’t block sunlight First, rake up the leaves leftover from the fall.

Leaves can trap moisture and block out sunlight.

Both are bad for turfgrass, especially cool-season grasses like tall fescue. Moisture trapped between the leaves and grass encourages disease.

Blocking sunlight is detrimental for grasses.

The warm-season grasses are actually active after we think they are dormant for the season. They still need sunlight and good airflow.

If you don’t want to take the time to rake the leaves, shred them with a lawn mower. Keeping grass as healthy as possible prepares it for summer stresses like heat and drought.

Soil test Next, get a soil test.

The University of Georgia Cooperative Exten-

See Turfgrass, Page 16

Sharon Dowdy/UGA

Turfgrass planning: This may not be the season for lawn mowing, but you can still prepare turfgrass for summer. Take time now to inspect and repair lawn mowers and irrigation systems.

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16

GEORGIA AG NEWS, March 2012

Supply & demand affecting ethanol industry The Associated Press

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Falling fuel demand, an ethanol oversupply and high corn costs could lead some Midwest biorefineries to cut back or idle production until profit margins improve, industry analysts say.

Troy Gavin, general manager of the Midwest Renewable Energy ethanol plant near Sutherland, Neb., said the 28-million-gallonper-year plant is halting production for a period of up to eight to 12 weeks because of the supplydemand imbalance.

“It’s got to work itself out of the system, and it will,” Gavin said on Feb. 13.

Ethanol futures on the Chicago Board of Trade have dropped nearly 50 cents during the past five months to $2.21 a gallon, and corn, the alternative fuel’s primary feedstock, is hovering around $6.36 a bushel.

Meanwhile, ethanol stocks as of Feb. 3 climbed to an all-time weekly high of 21.1 million gallons, according to the Energy Information Association.

“We went from some of the best margins we’ve ever seen to some of the worst in 30 to 45 days,” Gavin said. “That is volatility like no other industry.”

Rick Kment, a Nebraska-based ethanol industry analyst for agricultural data company DTN, said much of the lackluster demand is seasonal.

Ethanol is blended into gasoline, so a driver pumping fewer gallons affects both industries. And fuel demand typically drops during the winter months between the holiday travel season and their spring-summer road trips.

Kment said larger ethanol plants will likely cut back on production rather than go cold, as a shutdown can be more disruptive.

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“That way they can jump back into it when margins improve,” he said.

Another contributing factor could be the Jan. 1 expiration of the 45-cents-per-gallon blender tax credit. Although it didn’t go directly to ethanol producers, it had been an incentive for oil companies to buy ethanol and blend it with gasoline, said Matt Hartwig, spokesman for the Renewable Fuels Association.

“Part of that might be a little market adjustment with the tax credit going away,” Hartwig said.

In early February, Archer Daniels Midland Co. announced it

was closing its ethanol plant in the North Dakota city of Walhalla, ending 61 jobs. The company said the plant wasn’t profitable enough because of its geographic location and scale.

Kment said ADM’s announcement seemed to be more of a corporate strategic decision rather than one based on industry profit margins.

Volatility in 2008 led to the bankruptcy of VeraSun, then the nation’s second largest ethanol producer.

As skyrocketing corn costs began cutting into ethanol producers’ profits, many tried to control

•Turfgrass (Continued from page 15)

sion offers soil testing for a small fee. The soil is tested for fertility and pH. Information from a soil test will help you develop an efficient liming and fertilization program that will result in the healthiest lawn possible. Contact your local UGA Extension office for more information on soil tests.

Check mower Now, take a look at your lawn mower. Replace the oil and clean or replace the oil filter. Check all nuts and bolts to make sure they haven’t become loose.

Most importantly, sharpen mower blades.

Dull mower blades actually tear grass leaves

plant has roots that are ready to grow in the landscape once transplanted. Avoid brown or black roots, which are soft and will not carry water and nutrients to the rest of the plant.

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and injure the plant.

Irrigation Next, inspect your irrigation system. Hopefully, the system has been shut down and the water has been drained out and turned off. Replace broken irrigation heads and position the heads so they don’t water the sidewalk or road. Now you are ready to test and calibrate your system come spring.

Simple things like raking leaves, testing soil, performing mower maintenance and inspecting your irrigation system can make a big difference for your lawn this summer.

For more information on managing turfgrass in Georgia, see the UGA turfgrass web site at http:// www.georgiaturf.com.

•Plants (Continued from page 14)

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costs by hedging, which sets future prices for corn sellers while helping buyers avoid the risk of volatile price swings by letting them lock in at a set cost.

After VeraSun locked into prices for its feedstock, corn went into a sharp decline from almost $8 per bushel to less than $5 per bushel.

Gavin said the industry is now better equipped to handle volatility, as companies have reduced their debt and are a lot less exposed.

“The industry has become a lot more intelligent and has managed risk in a lot different fashion,” Gavin said. “Risk management has become a daily occurrence.”

Branches Inspect the shape of trees and shrubs to avoid future problems. A well-formed shade tree will have a strong, central trunk with horizontal branches arranged every 12 to 18 inches up the tree.

Shrubs should be uniformly branched in all directions and fairly dense. Avoid leggy shrubs, which have no lower branches and will likely remain bare at their base.

Additional factors Check the plant’s growth potential. The amount of growth a tree or shrub made in the last season indicates the strength of the plant. Very short, thin twigs are signs of a struggling and weak plant. For evergreen trees and shrubs, abundant foliage will indicate last year’s growth.

Be careful not to bring home a pest problem. Check the stems and under the foliage for insects. Also look for broken or damaged branches or trunks. Damaged plants are harder to establish.

With a little forethought, you can be an educated consumer. Demand top quality plants, and you will be rewarded with a nice addition to your landscape that will last several years.