Issuu

August 20, 2025 www.gfb.org Vol. 7 No. 17

GFB COMMODITY CONFERENCE PROVIDES INSIGHTS FOR MEMBERS

The 2025 Georgia Farm Bureau Commodity Conference, held Aug. 14 at the Classic Center in Athens, featured updates on key topics for the state’s farmers. Before breaking out into their meetings, GFB Commodity Advisory Committee members heard from representatives of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), UGA’s College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences (CAES), UGA Cooperative Extension, the Georgia Department of Agriculture the Georgia Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).

Bridgforth notes EPA actions concerning DEF, pesticides

EPA Senior Advisor for Agriculture and Rural Affairs Turner Bridgforth highlighted the agency’s efforts to support U.S. farmers, including efforts to reduce regulatory burdens and administrative hurdles to help farmers be more productive and sustainable. Among these were reducing backlogs of pesticide registrations and producing a definition that provides regulatory certainty for farmers

One major action the EPA is taking, Bridgforth noted, is addressing issues with diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) sensor faults that can disrupt farm equipment that uses diesel fuel. When the engine runs low on DEF, the equipment power is reduced or shuts down altogether, and but or however, this can also happen due to faulty sensors. These power reductions and shutdowns interrupt farm operations and are particularly troublesome during planting and harvesting.

The EPA announced on Aug. 14 new guidance urging engine and equipment manufacturers to revise DEF system software in existing vehicles and equipment.

Bridgforth said that the EPA has learned that producers in other countries are not facing such requirements.

“Other countries allow their producers to have a tractor that doesn't have to have this requirement,” Bridgforth said. “That just brings an unfair competition to the disadvantage of our producers.”

“These modifications provide more flexibility and reliability without compromising air quality or emission reduction,” Bridgforth said. “EPA is calling on manufacturers to implement these DEF-related software updates quickly. We've streamlined the process. No separate EPA approvals -continued on next page

GFB Field Notes page 2 of 22

Continued from previous page will be required beyond our issued guidance letter.”

“American farmers are often bound by uncontrollable factors like weather and global market conditions. When conditions are right, it is critical that we have reliable equipment to plant seeds and harvest our crop,” said GFB President Tom McCall. “Our farmers have been disadvantaged by excessive regulations compared to our international competitors and the burden of additional inputs and derate issues when those systems fail. I applaud the EPA for this announcement, their attention to restoring reason in regulations on equipment only used for a portion of the year, and prioritizing the production of a safe, reliable food supply.”

Dean Place explores ways CAES supports new and existing students

UGA CAES Dean Nick Place shared a number of key points with GFB members, pointing out ways the school is helping students gain entry to the university, the training CAES provides and how CAES is responding to public need by training students for essential jobs. This spring, CAES conferred 327 bachelor’s degrees, 4 certificates and 78 graduate degrees. CAES just welcomed 307 incoming first-year students, and 108 transfer undergraduate students, and 180 graduate students.

Place noted growing student interest in animal biosciences, biological sciences and regenerative biosciences. Regenerative biosciences enrollment has increased by 222%, and the Atlanta area is one of the top five areas nationally in providing jobs in regenerative biosciences.

“There’s a lot of positions in agriculture and environmental sciences,” Place said. “We need to meet that need.”

One big hurdle is simply being accepted into UGA as a student.

“It’s hard to get in,” Place acknowledged.

For the 2025-26 school year, Place said, there were approximately 49,000 applicants for 6,500 student spots. CAES can help students, particularly those from rural areas, interested in agricultural careers by working with FFA and 4-H to provide opportunities to develop leadership skills and study habits.

“We need to work through FFA and 4-H to make sure students are prepared,” Place said. “We need to provide students with more opportunities to connect with industry.”

Part of that thrust is the Rural Scholars Program, which recognizes incoming, first-year students from Georgia's rural communities who have excelled academically, show strong leadership abilities, have a record of community service, and seek a degree in CAES. Applications through the Rural Scholars Program opened on Aug. 1 and the deadline for students to submit their application materials is 5 p.m. on Nov. 14. For information about the Rural Scholars Program, visit www.caes.uga.edu/students/scholarships/rural-scholars.html.

Place highlighted a new service through CAES, the Georgia Ag Impact Report, an online resource that provides commodity insights, county-by-county breakdowns and teaching materials. The Georgia Ag Impact report can be found at https://discover.caes.uga.edu/georgiaagimpact/index.html. This report has replaced the annual Ag Snapshots report CAES previously published.

-continued on next page

GFB Field Notes page 3 of 22

Continued from previous page

UGA Extension is about people and trust and responds to ag problems like cotton jassid fast

While speaking at the GFB Commodity Conference, UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences (CAES) Associate Dean for Extension Michael Toews gave an update on UGA Extension programs. Toews, whose last name rhymes with waves, has served as a researcher, instructor and Extension specialist since joining the UGA CAES Entomology Department in 2006.

Toews was co-director of the UGA Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health before he began serving as assistant dean of the UGA Tifton campus in 2020. He began leading UGA Extension on April 1.

“When you visit with a county agent, they’re going to give you data based on research in your area,” Toews said. “We are all about Georgia farmers, families and communities. Extension is about people and trust.”

UGA Extension has 805 agents serving its 157 county offices that provide Extension programs for all of Georgia’s 159 counties, Toews said. State funding provides 39% of UGA Extension’s budget, followed by county support at 36%, grants at 18% and federal funds at 7%, Toews said.

“I can’t state enough how important county support for Cooperative Extension has been as federal funding has continued to decrease through the years,” Toews said. “We’ve been very fortunate that county leaders realize the value of the services Extension provides to local communities through 4-H, agriculture agents helping farmers, and family and consumer science agents working to improve the health of residents by educating them about nutrition. We do county-based programming and delivery that is specific to the needs of each county. Our strength is that we have people embedded in the communities we serve.”

Toews pointed out that UGA Extension has been able to quickly respond to the spread of cotton jassid insects this summer thanks to its network of county agriculture agents.

“There aren’t too many organizations that could have identified a new insect and tracked it so fast,” Toews said. “We first picked it up on cotton but are now seeing it on other crop hosts.”

UGA Extension entomologists & county agents are encouraging cotton producers to be on the lookout for the cotton jassid (two-spot cotton leafhopper). According to the August UGA Cotton Team Newsletter, the insect is believed to have been detected in 27 South Georgia counties since July.

If you find any of these insects or suspect an infestation in your field, contact your county agent for recommendations regarding insecticide treatments. The insect feeds on the lower surface of leaves, which leads to them turning yellow, red and then brown. These insects can remove all moisture from plants, leading to plants dying. Farmers should also watch their corn, soybean, peanut, okra, sunflower, eggplant, potato and pea crops.

“When you visit with a county agent, they’re going to give you data based on research in your area or closest to your area,” Toews said.

While agriculture is still the largest industry in Georgia, Toews said there is a need for Extension to educate urban audiences about where their food comes from.

“We need to educate consumers about nutrition and its role in preventing disease,” Toews said. To increase cotton prices, we need to increase demand. To do this, we need to educate consumers about the importance of buying cotton instead of synthetic fibers because cotton is more -continued on next page

GFB Field Notes page 4 of 22

Continued from previous page environmentally sustainable.”

Johnson, Georgia FSA executive director, outlines priorities for agency

While speaking at the GFB Commodity Conference, Georgia Farm Service Agency Executive Director Duncan Johnson gave an update on USDA and FSA programs.

“President Trump and Secretary of Agriculture Rollins are looking to reorganize the USDA to put farmers first,” Johnson said.

Johnson, who was appointed by the Trump administration to lead the Georgia FSA, outlined the three priorities he has set for the agency since taking office May 5.

1) Being Available. "I need to hear what your problems are," Johnson said. "What you like and what you don't like. I think my fresh perspective has allowed me to look at things in a different way. I’m making sure our people our available to you.”

2) Making sure communication flows from county FSA offices back to the state office and not just from the Georgia office to the county offices. "Information has always flowed downward and not a lot of information has flowed back to the state or federal offices, and we're changing that," Johnson said.

3) Improving program delivery. "When USDA announces programs, I want to make sure we get programs out quickly," Johnson said. “My goal is to have FSA bank accounts empty because we have distributed the money to its intended recipients. Our middle name is Service, and we’re going to start acting like it.”

Johnson reminded farmers at the conference that signup for Stage 1 of the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) for producers with indemnified losses due to natural disasters in 2023 or 2024 began July 10. To expedite the implementation of SDRP, USDA mailed prefilled applications to producers who had eligible crop losses under crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program for 2023 or 2024. If you think you should have received an application and did not, contact your local USDA FSA office. To apply for SDRP, producers must submit the FSA-526, Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) Stage One Application, in addition to having other forms on file with FSA.

As of Aug. 19, USDA had approved 4,624 applications from Georgia producers and disbursed $89.56 million to them.

SDRP Stage Two signups for eligible shallow or uncovered losses are expected to begin around Sept. 29.

Eligible losses for SDRP must be the result of natural disasters occurring in 2023 and/or 2024. These disasters include wildfires, hurricanes, floods, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze, smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought, and related conditions.

To qualify for drought-related losses, the loss must have occurred in a county rated by the U.S. Drought Monitor as having a D2 (severe drought) for eight consecutive weeks, D3 (extreme drought), or greater intensity level during the applicable calendar year.

-continued on next page

GFB Field Notes page 5 of 22

Continued from previous page

Visit https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/programs/supplemental-disaster-relief-program-sdrp for more information about the SDRP. The $16 billion USDA is distributing nationwide to farmers and ranchers through the SDRP is part of the $21 billion Congress allocated for disaster relief assistance to farmers and ranchers in the American Relief Act of 2025 passed last December.

Signup for the USDA Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) ended Aug. 15. Congress allocated $10 billion to this program in the American Relief Act of 2025 passed last December. This one-time economic assistance payment was for producers of eligible commodities in the 2024 crop year. Eligible commodities include all those covered by Title I of the farm bill, excluding temperate rice japonica. USDA FSA sent applications to eligible producers.

Johnson is responsible for overseeing the delivery of FSA programs to Georgia farmers, ranchers and forest landowners. These commodity, conservation, credit, and disaster assistance programs ensure a safe, affordable, abundant and nutritious food, fiber, and fuel supply for all Americans.

FSA implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees. For more information, visit www.fsa.usda.gov

Johnson most recently served as president of Johnson Consulting and Mediation in Augusta before being. Before that he spent 28 years as a new car dealer.

He has served 11 years on the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Board and previously served as a trustee for Leadership Georgia and the Georgia Board of Physicians Workforce. He is a director of Camp Lakeside Pediatrics Disabilities Camp.

Duncan and his wife, Kaci, live in Augusta and have two adult children. In his spare time, he enjoys bird hunting and fishing.

Harper discusses GDA role in support of state’s farmers

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper reviewed the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s (GDA) investments in infrastructure and capabilities, with upgrades to the Atlanta Farmer’s Market, the Tifton Seed Lab and emergency response systems. Harper encouraged GFB’s farmer members to engage with policymakers.

“That's what you're doing today obviously at the commodity conference and helping set that policy and helping guide that policy for our state’s agriculture,” Harper said.

The GDA seed lab in Tifton, which focuses on germination and certifying viability of seeds for the state’s crops, also has verifying purity as one of its functions. The lab now has two employees certified to provide purity analysis.

“I believe there are only about a hundred people in the entire country that are certified to do purity. So, we have two of them working for us at the Department of Agriculture, and I think that bodes well for our staff and our team and the services that we can provide the citizens across the state,” Harper said.

Back-up generators are being installed at the lab in Tifton, and a new lab facility with food safety and dairy functions is being planned for the Atlanta area as a contingency in case the Tifton -continued on next page

Field Notes page 6 of 22

Continued from previous page lab becomes unavailable.

Harper gave an update on developments at the Atlanta Farmer’s Market, noting that the Georgia legislature allotted approximately $150 million for improvements at the market, which will ultimately mean expanded market access for the state’s farmers.

“We're able to provide that service across the southeast because for all practical purposes, the Atlanta Farmers Market is the produce terminal for the southeastern United States, and it's very important that we invest in that,” Harper said.

Cattle prices are bright spot for U.S. ag economy

American Farm Bureau Associate Economist Samantha Ayoub provided an overview of Georgia’s ag economy. She said cattle prices are one of the bright spots for producers as production costs for row crops are outstripping returns for row crops.

“Annual production costs for nine principal row crops including corn, soybeans, wheat, sorghum, cotton, rice, peanuts, barley and oats have increased by $40 billion or 30 percent since the 2018 farm bill was passed," Ayoub said. "Annual returns have decreased $57 billion or 22 percent since 2022.”

Based on USDA economic forecast numbers released in February and American Farm Bureau calculations, Ayoub said property taxes & fees have increased 6% in the past year, seed costs have increased 4% this year over 2024, marketing, storage & transportation costs have increased 4% in the past year, electricity expenses have increased 2%, and repair & maintenance costs have increased 1%.

Based on USDA economic forecast numbers released in February and American Farm Bureau calculations, Ayoub said U.S. cattle and calf sales are expected to remain the same in 2025 as they did in 2024 at about $108 billion. Sale receipts for dairy products and milk are expected to reach $52.1 billion this year a 3% increase above $50.8 billion in 2024. Sale receipts for broilers (chickens grown for meat) in 2025 are expected to hit about $46.3 billion, a 3% rise over $44.9 billion in 2024. Hogs are expected to have $30.4 billion in sales receipts this year, a 5% increase over the $28.9 billion sold last year. Eggs are expected to have lower sales receipts this year at $25.7 billion, a 2% decrease from $26.3 billion in 2024.

Ayoub said broiler meat is selling for an average of $1.34/lb this year, up from $1.29/lb last year. There is both increased production and higher demand for poultry meat.

Tight supplies of eggs due to avian flu having decimated entire flocks of hens that lay table eggs earlier this year, have driven the average price of a dozen eggs up to $4.15, Ayoub said.

USDA’s July Cattle Inventory Report, reinstated after its 2024 cancellation, shows there were 94.2 million head of cattle and calves, down 1% from 95.4 million on July 1, 2023. The 2025 calf crop is estimated at 33.1 million head, down 1% from the 2024 January Cattle Inventory Report, and the smallest on record. Beef cows were estimated at 28.7 million head, also down 1% from 2023 and a record low since data started being collected in 1973.

“Don’t expect herds to grow in the next year because heifers are being placed in feedlots,” Ayoub -continued on next page

GFB Field Notes page 7 of 22

Continued from previous page said.

According to the 2025 AFBF July 4th Cookout Price Survey conducted in June by volunteer shoppers across the United States, two pounds of ground beef cost $13.33, an increase of over 50 cents from last year.

The USDA is forecasting the 2025 U.S. net farm income will be $138 without including federal support payments and $180 including $42 billion in federal support payments. The USDA 2024 forecast for U.S. net farm income was $130 without including federal support payments and $139 billion with federal support payments. Congress allocated more money for federal support in 2025 due to the severity of natural disasters farmers experienced in 2023 and 2024 and more economic assistance payments for 2025 because of lower crop prices and higher production prices.

BOB IZLAR RECEIVES 2025 GFB COMMODITY AWARD

Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) presented Bob Izlar its 2025 GFB Commodity Award during the annual GFB Commodity Conference held Aug. 14 at the Classic Center in Athens.

The GFB Commodity Award, one of the organization’s highest honors, is given to individuals who have supported and promoted Georgia agriculture. The GFB Board of Directors selects the award recipient from nominees submitted by the organization’s commodity advisory committees. The GFB Forestry Committee nominated Izlar for the award.

According to the Georgia Forestry Association, Georgia has more than 22 million acres of privately owned forestland, the most of any state, and ranks No. 1 in annual timber harvest volume, forest products exported and seedling production for reforestation. Georgia’s forests have an economic impact of $41.3 billion and support 143,946 jobs.

A native of Ware County, Izlar began his professional career with the Brunswick Pulp & Land Company, where he gained hands-on experience and knowledge on the production side of forestry, advancing to the level of district manager before becoming a division forester for the American Pulpwood Association.

His first lobbying job was as the Mississippi Forestry Association (MFA) executive vice president. After four years at the MFA, Bob returned to his home state to serve as the Georgia Forestry Association executive director. During his 11-year tenure at GFA, Izlar built strong relationships with Georgia Farm Bureau and other industry advocates. In this role, he was instrumental in helping develop and pass the first conservation use value assessment legislation (CUVA) that allows farm and forestland to be taxed on its current use rather than market value. He authored the book “Property Tax Incentives for the Georgia Landowner,” available from the Harley Langdale Jr. Center for Forest Business.

“Bob is a long-time friend who I know was the best advocate of the Georgia Forest Industry when we both were at the Capitol,” said GFB President Tom McCall. “His common-sense working knowledge of CUVA makes him a great friend to Georgia’s farming community on tax issues. Congratulations to a true friend of our state’s largest industry.”

Izlar served in the U.S. Army on active duty from 1969 to 1974 and then in the reserves until -continued on next page

GFB Field Notes page 8 of 22

Continued from previous page 2006, reaching the rank of colonel.

In 1998, Izlar began serving as the founding director of the Harley Langdale Jr. Center for Forest Business. Under his leadership, the center produced some of the nation’s top forestry graduates and secured more than $8 million in endowment funding for the center. He retired from UGA in 2021 and continues to make significant contributions to the industry as a consultant.

Izlar earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in forest management from the UGA Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources. He earned a master’s degree in finance from Georgia Southern University.

Izlar and his late wife, Janice, have two children and three grandchildren. He lives in Danielsville.

GEORGIA CORN, SOYBEAN, PEANUT CROPS FORECAST FOR GAINS IN 2025

Georgia farmers are forecast for a massive gain in corn production and more modest increases in peanuts and soybeans, according to the August Crop Production Report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).

Georgia corn growers are forecast to produce 86.8 million bushels in 2025, which would represent an increase of 37 million bushels (74.1%) over the 49.7 million bushels produced in 2024. The forecast production increase is based on an estimated 485,000 acres harvested – up from 305,000 in 2024 and an increased yield of 179 bushels per acre over 163 bushels/acres last year.

The state’s peanut crop is expected to grow by 429 million pounds according to NASS, from 3.211 billion pounds in 2024 to 3.64 billion in 2025, an increase of 13.4%. U.S. peanut production is forecast to reach a record high of 7.25 billion pounds, up 12 percent from 2024, with record high production in Georgia and North Carolina according to the USDA. Georgia peanut growers are expected to produce 4,000 lbs/acre, up from 3,800 lbs/acre last year. Georgia growers planted 915,00 acres of peanuts this year up from 850,000 in 2024. They are expected to harvest 910,000 acres up from 845,000 in 2024.

Soybean growers in Georgia are forecast to produce 8.36 million bushels in 2025, an increase of 746,000 bushels (9%) over 2024, when they produced 7.614 million bushels. If realized, the forecasted yield will be a record high for Georgia, according to USDA.

Georgia cotton growers are expected to reduce their crop by 22% (430,000 bales), from 1.93 million bales in 2024 to 1.5 million bales in 2025. Growers planted 840,000 acres of cotton this year, 260,000 fewer acres than the 1.1 million they planted last year. Growers are expected to harvest 830,000 acres in 2025, down 250,000 acres, from the 1.08 million acres harvested in 2024. Yield per acre for Georgia is expected to be 867,000 pounds/acre up from 858,000 pounds/acre last year.

The state’s hay producers are expected to harvest 10,000 fewer acres in 2025 at 470,000 acres and the forecast production, 1.410 million tons in 2025, would represent at 2% decline from 2024, when Georgia produced 1.44 million tons of hay.

-continued on next page

Field Notes page 9 of 22

Continued from previous page

Georgia farmers are anticipated to produce 1.24 million bushels of oats in 2025, down 62,000 bushels (4.7%) from 2024, when they produced 1.302 million bushels. Harvested acres are down 1,000 acres from 2024, but expected yield per acre remains the same at 62 bushels per acre.

The state’s peach production declined by 7,200 tons, from 37,200 in 2024 to 30,000 in 2025, a decline of 19%.

COMMENT ON EPA PROPOSED COTTON/SOYBEAN DICAMBA USE BY SEPT. 6

By Jennifer Whittaker

Morgan County row crop farmer Lee Nunn welcomed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) staff members to his farm Aug. 15 to discuss the agency’s proposal to reapprove the use of three dicamba herbicide products on cotton and soybean varieties bred to tolerate dicamba.

EPA announced its proposal to renew the registration for herbicide brands XtendiMax, Engenia, and Tavium plus VaporGrip, for "over-the-top" (OTT) applications to dicamba-tolerant cotton and soybeans on July 23. OTT dicamba applications aim to remove broadleaf weed species, such as pigweed (palmer amaranth) that can reduce crop yield. OTT dicamba products have high benefits in cotton and soybeans for controlling weeds that are resistant to other herbicides and managing resistance to herbicides in the future, UGA Extension research shows.

Nunn, who was Georgia’s 2020/21 Expo Farmer of the Year, farms about 1,600 acres of crops. His crop rotation includes just under 400 acres of cotton and about 300 acres of soybeans.

“I like the proposal to bring dicamba back. It’s been a detriment to me this year not being able to use it on my cotton. We had to use inferior chemicals that cost me more money,” Nunn said. “Farmers need all the tools we can get to grow our crops. If you do what the label says and apply the product at the rates and with the buffers the [product] label advises we don’t have issues with the product drifting.

EPA officials visiting Nunn’s farm were: EPA Senior Advisor for Agriculture & Rural Affairs Turner Bridgforth, EPA Region 4 Agriculture Advisor David Champagne and EPA Southeast Chief of Staff Leland Frost.

“EPA is confident these products will not cause any human health risks through the food supply,” Bridgforth said when speaking at the GFB Commodity Conference on Aug. 14. “We’re proposing several requirements to prevent drift of dicamba when it is sprayed to prevent any potential ecological risks and to protect endangered species.”

Farmers who would like to read the EPA’s proposal can read and download the proposal at https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OPP-2024-0154-1239. To comment on the proposal via email, visit https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OPP-2024-0154-1233 and click on the blue comment icon in the upper left corner of the webpage.

-continued on next page

Field Notes page 10 of 22

Continued from previous page

Comments may also be mailed to (but must be received by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sept. 6):

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,

EPA Docket Center, New Use of Dicamba on DT Cotton and DT Soybean; Mail Code 28221T

1200 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20460.

UGA Extension Weed Scientist Dr. Stanley Culpepper encourages cotton and soybean farmers to read pages 28-35 of the proposal for the most pertinent information about the proposal. Anyone wishing to submit comments to the EPA regarding the proposal should do so by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sept. 6 at the website listed above.

“I’m glad we’ve got an administration that will work with farmers and not against us and is proposing renewing the registration for these three dicamba products Georgia cotton and soybean growers need,” said Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall, who attended the farm visit. “Farm Bureau encourages all farmers who use these herbicides to read the EPA proposal and submit comments regarding whether the proposed application restrictions will work on your farms.”

The EPA’s proposal to renew the registration for dicamba on cotton and soybeans includes restrictions such as: no applications at temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit, which would effectively eliminate a farmer’s ability to use dicamba across large parts of the U.S. cotton belt; adding an approved drift reduction agent and pH buffering volatility reduction agent to the spray tank in higher percentages as temperatures rise; a single use maximum application rate of 0.5 lb. acid equivalent (a.e.) of dicamba per acre; no more than two applications allowed with a maximum annual application of 1 lb. (a.e.) dicamba per acre from all combined dicamba-containing products; maintaining a 240-ft downwind buffer; and the prohibition of aerial applications.

“We appreciate the EPA helping us get approval for the use of dicamba,” Culpepper said. “There are a couple of areas in the proposed regulations where we hope to work with the EPA to make the recommendations work better for farmers. Neither UGA nor the Georgia Department of Agriculture have ever documented a single drift volatility issue in Georgia.”

Nunn took the EPA officials and reporters from the Atlanta Journal & Constitution and Georgia Public Broadcasting into a cotton field that was blooming where they were able to see the sprayer he uses to apply herbicides to his cotton and soybean crops.

“Farmers have numerous features on our equipment that help us protect the environment,” Nunn said. “We have different spray tips on the sprayer nozzles that can be used to control the application rates [of herbicides or pesticides] for different types of crops that prevents excess chemicals from accidentally being sprayed on the crop and getting into the ground. The dirt is what makes me money, so I want to take care of it, just like a homeowner who is growing a garden.”

Nunn said he has noticed several coveys of wild Bob Whites on his farm in recent years, which he partially attributes to his careful use of herbicides and pesticides not harming the environment. -continued on next page

Field Notes page 11 of 22

Continued from previous page

He said fewer coyotes has also helped.

Nunn also told the EPA officials and the reporters about the mandatory training anyone who applied dicamba on crops in Georgia took annually in past years when dicamba was available.

“I had to be trained every year to be able to use dicamba through the Using Pesticides Wisely program,” Nunn said. “I do all of the chemical mixing on my farm, and I try to do a really good job of handling our chemicals with the utmost care.”

GA ELEMENTARY STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO ENTER GFA STEM CHALLENGE

Georgia elementary classes in third through fifth grades are encouraged to put their science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills to work by entering the Fall 2025 STEM Challenge: Grow More with Less. Special education classes, homeschool groups, and community or after-school groups with third through fifth-grade students are also invited to participate.

Elementary classes taking part in this challenge will learn to design a hydroponic system to grow food using nutrient-rich water instead of soil, and household or classroom items in a limited space Students will create their own hydroponic system to grow vegetables and herbs. As part of the challenge, students will document their observations in journals and video the process of designing the system and the plant growth

Teachers, homeschool parents, or after-school group leaders interested in participating in the Grow More with Less challenge can visit https://www.gafoundationag.org/stemchallenge for more information and to register for the program by Sept. 15.

Once registered, teachers will receive instant access to a digital resource toolkit to equip their classes for participation in the STEM challenge. The top winner from each entry category will win a prize package totaling $350 for their class.

Each participating class will be asked to answer the questions: "What is hydroponics? How do you engineer a hydroponic system, and what can I grow?"

The STEM challenge asks participating classes to complete the provided lesson plan and activities, then create a video presentation - no longer than five minutes - that demonstrates what the students have learned about hydroponics. Class presentations must be uploaded to YouTube for judging by Nov. 21.

The statewide competition, sponsored by the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) and the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA), is part of the GFA's Georgia Ag Experience mobile classroom outreach program.

"We developed this STEM challenge to help students understand the opportunities of farming in urban areas," said GFA Educational Programs Assistant Virginia Fulwood. "By developing a hydroponic system and growing plants in their design, students can explore diverse concepts in agriculture." The purpose of the challenge is to encourage elementary teachers and students in grades 3-5 to apply their STEM skills to real-world issues in food production and environmental sustainability while having fun learning.

Field Notes page 12 of 22

USDA UPDATES PLAN TO COMBAT SCREWWORM

On Aug. 15, the USDA announced expanded efforts to combat the New World Screwworm (NWS), including building a sterile fly production facility in Edinburg, Texas. This adds to the department’s five-pronged plan issued in June.

When NWS fly larvae (maggots) burrow into the flesh of a living animal, they cause serious, often deadly damage to the animal. NWS can infest livestock, pets, wildlife, occasionally birds, and in rare cases, people. It is not only a threat to the ranching community, it is a threat to the U.S. food supply and its national security.

The American Farm Bureau Federation lauded the plan to continue battling the NWS.

“It took decades to eradicate this parasite from within and adjacent to our borders more than a generation ago, and this is a proactive first step,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Cattle markets are already volatile and the introduction of New World screwworm within the U.S. would only increase that volatility.”

The USDA said it is working alongside the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to encourage animal drug development and prioritize approvals for prevention and treatment of the pest, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) on new innovations to enhance the nation’s ability to combat the pest with technologies, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to protect the United States border.

As part of this comprehensive approach, USDA is taking the following immediate actions:

1.) Innovation - While sterile flies are currently the most effective way to prevent the spread of NWS, technology continues to evolve and the USDA will invest up to $100 million in innovations to accelerate the pace of sterile fly production. USDA will support proven concepts that only require funding to scale and implement, as well as a number of longer-term research projects focused on new sterile NWS production techniques, novel NWS traps and lures, NWS therapeutics that could be stockpiled and used should NWS reach the United States, and any other tools to bolster preparedness or response to NWS.

2.) Border protection – USDA will construct a sterile fly production facility in Edinburg, Texas, at Moore Air Force Base, an ideal location due to the existing infrastructure and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. Built with the Army Corps of Engineers, the facility will produce up to 300 million sterile flies per week to combat NWS. This will be the only United States-based sterile fly facility and will work in tandem with facilities in Panama and Mexico to help eradicate the pest and protect American agriculture.

3.) Wildlife Migration Prevention – The U.S is potentially vulnerable to NWS from wildlife migrating across the border. USDA is working to ramp up the hiring of USDA-employed horsemounted patrol officers, known as “Tick Riders,” and other staff who will focus on border surveillance. The Tick Riders will be complemented by other animal health experts who will patrol the border in vehicles. USDA will also begin training detector dogs to detect screwworm infestations in livestock and other animals along the border and at various ports of entry.

4.) Stop the pest from spreading in Mexico - USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is working in collaboration with the National Service of Agri-Food Health, Safety and -continued on next page

Field Notes page 13 of 22

Continued from previous page

Quality (SENASICA) in Mexico to help them contain the pest south of the border by enhancing United States oversight, surveillance, improving case reporting, locking down animal movement to prevent further spread, providing traps, lures, training, and verification of Mexican NWS activities.

5.) Food safety inspections - NWS has not been reported or detected in the United States in animals. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service inspects animals and carcasses at slaughter, including for NWS to keep the food supply safe.

WEST NILE VIRUS, EEE CONFIRMED IN GEORGIA HORSES

The Georgia Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a horse in Fulton County and separate cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in Long and Telfair counties, according to the Equine Disease Communications Center (EDCC).

The Fulton County WNV case was confirmed on Aug. 11.

According to the EDCC, WNV is a mosquito-borne that primarily causes disease in birds, humans, and horses and is transmitted by many different species of mosquitoes. Since 1999, more than 27,600 U.S. horses have been confirmed with WNV neuro-invasive disease with an estimated average case fatality rate of 30–40%. WNV is considered endemic (regularly occurring) with an average of 300 cases per year in the U.S.

Clinical signs include:

• Depression and anorexia without fever when initially infected; mild low-grade fever (101.5103.5°F or 38.6-39.7°C) in about 25% of affected horses; lack of appetite; lethargy/drowsiness;

• Neurologic signs like periods of hyperexcitability, apprehension and/or drowsiness; fine tremors and muscle twitching of the face and neck; facial paralysis and weakness of the tongue; head tilt, droopy lip, muzzle deviation; weakness, clumsiness, and dysmetria (incoordination) in one or all limbs; complete paralysis of one or more limbs; colic; inability to stand and death.

Diagnosis is made by a veterinarian by testing blood. There is no cure for WNV; supportive care is administered in cases which show clinical signs.

The EDCC recommends keeping all horses up to date on vaccinations. Initial vaccination is followed in 4 to 6 weeks with a booster; yearly revaccination is recommended after. More frequent boosters (i.e. twice yearly) are recommended in areas with year-round mosquito seasons and in endemic areas.

Other practices to help prevent WNV:

• Practice vector management on all properties where horses are kept; use insect repellents frequently; re-apply after rain; keep horses in at night when possible and apply insect repellant; eliminate or minimize standing water; stock tanks or ponds with mosquito-feeding fish; eliminate brush piles, gutters, old tires and litter; remove all equipment in which standing water can collect.

The first case of EEE, in Long County, was confirmed on June 27. The second case of EEE, in Telfair County, was confirmed on Aug. 14.

EEE, also known as the sleeping sickness, is a viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain -continued on next page

Field Notes page 14 of 22

Continued from previous page and spinal cord. It is also transmitted by mosquitoes.

Clinical signs and symptoms of eastern equine encephalitis include the following:

• Depression and anorexia, initially without a fever when initially infected; moderate to high fever; lack of appetite; lethargy/drowsiness; neurologic signs- onset of neurologic disease is frequently sudden and progressive; periods of hyperexcitability, apprehension and/or drowsiness; fine tremors and twitches of the face and neck muscles; convulsions;cranial nerve paralysis-facial paralysis and weakness of the tongue are very common; head tilt, droopy lip, muzzle deviation; weakness and incoordination; complete paralysis of one or more limbs; colic; inability to stand and death;

Diagnosis is made by a veterinarian through blood tests.

As with WNV, there is no cure for EEE, and supportive care is administered in horses which show clinical signs.

Vaccination for EEE is highly effective and is recommended as a core vaccination.

COURT AFFIRMS EMISSIONS REPORTING EXEMPTION FOR ANIMAL AG

In an Aug. 7 ruling the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia upheld livestock groups’ exemption from emissions reporting requirements under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-know Act (EPCRA) and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA, also known as the Superfund Law).

“We are pleased that the court has acknowledged EPA's deliberate determination that the EPCRA reporting exemption is appropriate,” said USPOULTRY President Nath Morris. “This commonsense ruling settles an issue that has spanned more than 20 years and rightfully removes what would be nothing more than an unnecessary paperwork exercise for farmers and ranchers across the U.S.”

The ruling comes after a coalition of environmental groups filed a motion for summary judgment challenging the exemption. USPOULTRY, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau intervened in the lawsuit on EPA’s behalf.

Animal agriculture groups have maintained that the CERCLA and EPCRA programs were never meant to cover the release into the air of naturally occurring substances that originate from the breakdown of animal waste.

Field Notes page 15 of 22

DEERE LAUNCHES NEW DIGITAL SERVICE TOOL WHILE FACING LAWSUIT

On July 31, John Deere launched a new digital tool designed to enhance how equipment owners use, maintain, diagnose, repair, and protect their equipment. In a press release, the company said its Operations Center PRO service provides support capabilities for both connected and nonconnected machines in its agriculture, turf, construction, and forestry equipment. New and enhanced features include the ability to install software when replacing electronic components or controllers, also known as reprogramming.

Deere indicated that local service providers can also use the service. With a John Deere equipment owner's permission, independent providers can gain access to diagnostic and repair information to support the equipment owner's needs.

The service allows users to access digital repair content filtered by year and model number, providing additional machine information to help efficiently and accurately troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair their equipment. The service is available through an annual license starting at $195 per machine for customers, who can access machine health insights and diagnostic trouble codes, PIN-specific machine content (including manuals), software reprogramming for John Deere controllers, diagnostic readings, diagnostic recordings, interactive diagnostic tests and calibrations. For more information about the service, visit https://johndeere.com/PROService

Meanwhile, the company faces a right-to-repair lawsuit filed in January by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which alleges that Deere is violating anti-competition laws with its repair and dealer service system. According to the National Agricultural Law Center, a federal court ruling in the suit allows Deere to access competitors’ business records used by the FTC in the case.

To read the lawsuit, visit https://gfb.ag/FTCDeerelawsuit www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/DeereCoREDACTEDComplaintCaseNo325-cv50017.pdf

GFB Field Notes page 16 of 22

SMALL FARM IRRIGATION WORKSHOP

Aug. 21 Jefferson County Extension Office 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Louisville

This free workshop will explain the efficiencies of impact sprinklers, drip irrigation systems, how to develop an irrigation water management plan, and hands-on activities assembling basic irrigation systems. For more information, call 478-625-3046. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/3h9sckfh or contact Dr. Gary L. Hawkins at 706-542-7167

FLINT RIVER SWCD SOIL HEALTH SUMMIT

August 27 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. UGA Tifton Conference Center Tifton

August 28 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Pond-O-Gold Farm

Omega

This free Soil Health Summit is geared towards row crop, pasture, orchard, fruit and vegetable growers and agriculture professionals interested in soil health. On Wednesday, Aug. 27, the summit will offer panels and presentations of soil experts discussing basic principles of soil health, on-farm soil health measurements, soil health DNA testing, cover crop species and varieties and biological soil amendments. There is an optional farm visit on Thursday, Aug. 28. soil-focused research, practices, and technology. The farm visit will highlight USDA-ARS research and onfarm soil health practices at Pond-O-Gold Farms in Omega, co-owned by 2022 GACD Conservationist of the Year Brian Ponder. For more information and to register, visit www.flintriverswcd.org/events.

ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL AG TAX PROVISIONS WEBINAR

Aug. 27 3 p.m. ET

Learn about the new tax provisions included in the One Big Beautiful Bill signed into law July 4 that apply to agriculture/agribusinesses. Hosted by USDA. To register, visit https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_wdyYVtWqREmVOObtQF3Ukg/#/registratio n

SOUTHEAST GEORGIA PECAN FIELD DAY

Aug. 27 J.G. Shuman Farms

8:30 a.m. Reidsville

Come hear about research specifically for Southeast Georgia pecan producers. RSVP by contacting Andrew Sawyer at 912-512-3030 or emailing agsawyer@uga.edu. The farm is located at 338 Chandler Ave. Reidsville, Ga. 30453. Lunch will be provided by Chemical Containers, Inc., Orchard Machinery Corporation, Savage, and Shiloh Pecan Farms Nursery. Private and commercial license credits will be provided at sign in

GFB Field Notes page 17 of 22

PRODUCE SAFETY ALLIANCE GROWER TRAINING

Sept. 9

Cost is $175

Oct. 21-23

Cost is $150

Nov. 9

Cost is $175

Dec. 2-4

Cost is $150

Are you a Georgia produce grower? Don’t miss your chance to attend a Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course, which is required under the FSMA Produce Safety Rule (21 CFR 112). All trainings are virtual. For questions or more information, contact your local produce safety team or Lupita.gonzalez@agr.georgia.gov

AFBF COUNTY ACTIVITIES OF EXCELLENCE

Sept. 2 deadline to submit applications

The American Farm Bureau Federation is currently accepting applications for the County Activities of Excellence program. Up to 24 innovative county Farm Bureau activities from across the nation will be selected to display at the 2026 AFBF Convention and Trade Show. Multiple county Farm Bureaus working together to plan and carry out an activity may submit a joint CAE application. Sept. 2 at 5 p.m. Eastern is the deadline for counties to submit applications online for state CAE coordinator review. Additional information, including rules for submission and the application link, are available at www.fb.org/CAE. Each county Farm Bureau that wishes to apply must create a unique login. State CAE coordinators will be provided with a separate username and password to access the online system to approve applications submitted from their respective county Farm Bureaus. Winners will be announced the first week of October. Individual county and multicounty CAE winning entries will receive four complimentary registrations and a $4,500 cash award to be used toward travel and display costs to attend the 2026 AFBF Convention.

AFBF VETERAN FARMER AWARD

Sept. 2 application deadline

The American Farm Bureau Federation, with support from Farm Credit, is seeking applicants for the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence. The award recognizes U.S. military veterans or service members for excellence in farming or agriculture and positively impacting local communities. The honoree will receive a $10,000 cash prize plus reimbursement in travel and other expenses incurred for him/her and one guest to attend the American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California, Jan. 9-14, 2026. Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence applications are due by 5 p.m. Eastern on Sept. 2. Applicants are not required to be Farm Bureau members. The national award recipient will be recognized by AFBF through various outlets and should be willing to share their story and represent the veteran farmer community. The recipient will be notified in mid-September, with the winner announced publicly on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Learn more and apply here

GFB Field Notes page 18 of 22

GEORGIA AG LABOR RELATIONS FORUM

Sept. 16-17 UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center Tifton

This two-day conference, hosted by the Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association, provides farmers and employers with training sessions and seminars from leading experts in employment law and policy. This event is suited for all owners, operators, office managers, personnel managers and service providers for the produce, nursery, landscape, dairy, cotton, and any other agricultural professional dealing with agricultural labor relations. To register and learn more, visit www.georgiaaglaborforum.com

37TH ANNUAL GEORGIA PEANUT TOUR

Sept. 16-18

Valdosta and surrounding area

This annual tour brings the latest information on peanuts while giving a first-hand view of industry infrastructure from production and handling to processing and utilization. Tour stops will be made in several peanut producing counties in South Georgia. Attendees can expect to see firsthand nearly every aspect of peanut production in the state. This year’s tour hosts many exciting stops including on-farm harvest demonstrations and clinics, as well as research projects through the University of Georgia Extension Service. For tour info or details, contact David West at 229-386-3475. Registration is $150. Visit www.georgiapeanuttour.com for more info.

FB WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP DISTRICT MEETINGS

Sept. 18 GFB District 2 Meeting Strickland Mercantile Danielsville Registration deadline is August 28 Attendees will take an Emergenetics personality assessment & learn how to use their strengths/acknowledge weaknesses to be the best versions of themselves at work, on the farm & at home. Agribusiness owners Caroline Lewallen of TeXga Farms and Kalie Blevins of Bold Spring Blooms will discuss how they built their businesses. Registration of $25 includes a lunch. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register or visit www.gfb.ag/D2WomensMeeting

Sept. 19 GFB Dist. 9 Meeting Cloud Livestock Facility Bainbridge Registration deadline is Sept. 12. Veterinarian & dairy producer Dr. Paul Johnson will discuss common myths about the dairy industry. Then group will travel to the Johnson Family’s Providence Dairy for a tour, followed by lunch and ice cream. Cost is $20/person. Event begins at 9 a.m. Contact your county Farm Bureau office manager to register or visitwww.gfb.ag/D9WomensMeeting

If your GFB district meeting isn’t listed above, and you are interested in attending it, reach out to your county Farm Bureau office manager to ask them to share program details when they receive them and look for announcements on the Friends of Georgia Farm Bureau Facebook group page. For more information contact GFB Women’s Leadership Programs Coordinator Heather King at hcking@gfb.org or 478-474-0679, ext. 5232. Meetings for Districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 have already been held.

Field Notes page 19 of 22

2025 AGROFORESTRY AND WILDLIFE FIELD DAY

Sept. 18 Westbrook Research Farm, UGA Griffin Campus 8 a.m. Griffin Land and pond management techniques, managing for wildlife, forest management, backyard wildlife and financial assistance for landowners are all subjects that will top the list at the 2025 Agroforestry and Wildlife Field Day. This unique educational event features federal and state government agency officials and representatives of private businesses to provide management recommendations and demonstrate real-life techniques. Registration opens at 8 a.m., with topic discussions scheduled between 9:15 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. Attendees will shuttle between field day topic sites on foot or via tram and will receive a take-home booklet with in-depth topic and speaker information. Continuing Education Credits (CEU) will be available for several fields, including pesticide (several categories), forestry, loggers, arborist and wildlife. Registration is $35 and includes a full day of topics, an AgroForestry and Wildlife Field Day book, lunch and a Hat. After Aug. 21 cost increases to $40 and a hat is not guaranteed. To register, click here (https://estore.uga.edu/C27063_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=4247)

28TH ANNUAL INMAN FARM HERITAGE DAYS

Sept. 19-21 Minter’s Farm, 283 Hills Bridge Rd.

Fayetteville

For 3 days, come out and experience the history of farming, agriculture & the camaraderie of old equipment enthusiasts. Fun for the whole family! Admission is free and there is no cost to exhibit. For more information, visit www.mintersfarm.com or contact Stephanie Adamek at 770-296-8360 or stephanie@mintersfarm.com.

KEL-MAC SADDLE CLUB HORSE SHOWS

Sept. 20 & Oct. 25

Morgan Co. Ag Center

Madison

These shows are open to equestrians of all ages and experience levels. Classes include hunter/jumper, western, gaited, trail obstacles, ranch riding, ranch reining, dressage on the rail, halter/showmanship, “small fry” and more. All shows begin at 9 a.m. - rain or shine. Trail classes are from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. Western Classes not to start before lunch. Riders must be members of Kel-Mac to accrue points towards year-end awards. Age divisions for competition are as follows: Small Fry: 10 and under; Junior: under 14 years of age; Senior: 14 years and over. Novice: Rider is in 1st or 2nd year of showing. Green Horse: Horse is in 1st or 2nd year of showing. Entry fee per class is $12. Stall fees are $15 for club members & $20 nonmembers. All overnight stalls are $25. For more information about the shows, visit the KelMac Saddle Club Facebook page, or www.kel-mac.com or call Arlene Williams at 706-431-8600. Signup for shows on the website. General admission is free and concession food and drinks will be available. The Morgan County Ag Center is located at 2380 Athens Hwy. (441), north of Madison. These volunteer-run shows generate funds to benefit Kel-Mac’s equestrian related charities. The Kel-Mac Saddle Club has donated more than $170,250 back to Georgia’s Piedmont region during its 49 years including: the Georgia Equine Rescue League, ReDux Equine Rescue, Sweet Olive Rescue, and the Morgan County Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Fund, and the equestrian facilities of state & county parks such as A. H. Stephens, Hard Labor Creek, and Heritage Park.

GFB Field Notes page 20 of 22

LALLEMAND ANIMAL NUTRITION SCHOLARSHIPS

Oct. 3 deadline to apply

Applications for the 2025 Lallemand Scholarship are open through Oct. 3. Interested students must be full-time students enrolled in agriculture-related programs at accredited institutions in the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Applications will be evaluated based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, commitment to the agricultural industry and an essay submission that highlights creativity, originality, and forward-thinking perspectives. There are five scholarship categories: Two $2,500 scholarships for undergraduate students; one $3,000 scholarship for a master’s student; one $3,000 scholarship for a doctoral candidate; and one $3,000 scholarship for a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student. Learn more about eligibility and to apply by visiting the Lallemand Animal Nutrition website.

GEORGIA FARM BUREAU HAY CONTEST

Oct. 31 deadline for entries

Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) members who grow any variety of dry Bermudagrass hay have until Oct. 31 to enter the organization’s 34th Annual Quality Bermudagrass Hay Contest. The contest winner will receive the free use of a Vermeer wheel rake for one year. The winner will have the option to buy the equipment at a reduced price at the end of that year. This is the 27th year that Vermeer has sponsored GFB’s hay contest. Hay entered in the 2025 GFB Quality Bermudagrass Hay Contest will be tested at the UGA Feed & Environmental Water Lab using the Relative Forage Quality (RFQ) Test, which provides an analysis of the nutritional value of hay. Additional prizes will be awarded to the top five producers. Winners will be announced in December at the GFB Convention. Entry forms and complete contest rules may be picked up at your county Farm Bureau office or downloaded at www.gfb.ag/HayContest . You may also contact the GFB Public Policy Department at 1-800-342-1192 if you have any questions about the contest.

GEORGIA PSC ELECTIONS

General election Nov. 4

Georgia Farm Bureau’s I Farm. I Vote. campaign is encouraging members across the state to get out and vote in the 2025 Public Service Commission (PSC) elections. This year, there will be a statewide special election for the Georgia Public Service Commission District 2 and District 3. All Georgia voters are eligible to cast a ballot for both PSC seats, but the candidates for the two contested seats are required to live in their districts that cover metro Atlanta and east Georgia. The two seats up for election are from District 2 and District 3. District 2 consists of a large portion of East and Southeast Georgia, including Athens, Augusta, and Savannah, and is currently held by Commissioner Tim Echols. Running against Echols in the Republican primary is Tim Muns, and Alicia Johnson is running uncontested for the Democratic ticket. District 3, made up of Fulton, DeKalb, and Clayton counties, is currently held by Commissioner Fitz Johnson who was appointed by Gov. Brian Kemp to fill a vacant seat. Johnson is uncontested in the Republican primary, and Peter Hubbard won the Democratic primary.

Field Notes page 21 of 22

GEORGIA FARM BUREAU PB&J 5K

Nov 15

Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter 8 a.m. Perry

Sign up today for the 5K on Nov. 15 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds. The course is flat, fast, and completely paved perfect for all skill levels. When you register for $35, you'll receive a complimentary Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Membership. Already a member? Gift it to a friend! Enjoy a post-run grilled PB&J and peanut butter, compliments of Georgia Peanuts! Every registered runner will also receive a custom water bottle. If you’re bringing the family, be sure to check out the Georgia National Antique Agriculture Show for FREE. Register at https://www.gfb.org/pb-and-j-5k Members of GFB help protect consumers’ access to locally grown food and fiber and have access to 300,000+ member benefits and discounts. Visit https://www.gfb.org/join/member-benefitsdirectory to learn more about the health, travel, family entertainment, farm equipment and services and health discounts members can enjoy.

UGA WARNELL SCHOOL OF FORESTRY BOBWHITE QUAIL SURVEY

The Martin GAME Lab at the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at UGA is looking for private landowners in Georgia to take part in a brief survey about their opinions on bobwhite quail management for a study titled “Bobwhite Restoration, Incentives, and Research.” The purpose of the study is to better understand landowners’ opinions on bobwhite quail management and cost-share programs landowners would enroll in to manage their properties for bobwhite quail. Visit https://ugeorgia.ca1.qualtrics.com/.../SV_3aRgLcUioS8uy0u to take the study. Thank you in advance for helping with in this study.

CONSERVATION DISTRICTS OFFER FERAL HOG CONTROL SERVICES

For a list of feral hog control services available in each GACD Conservation District, visit https://gfb.ag/feralhoggacdresources.

UGA CITRUS ORCHARD NUTRITIONAL SURVEY

For the past three growing seasons, the UGA Agricultural and Environmental Services Labs (AESL) has been conducting a foliar nutrient survey of Georgia's citrus industry with funding from the USDA and Georgia Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. One of the conditions of the project’s grant funding is that researchers seek stakeholder feedback on the effectiveness of the program, and how this work may influence future grower decisions. The project researchers ask that you please complete this short (7 questions, 3-5 minutes) Citrus Nutrition Questionnaire here. These results will help UGA researchers demonstrate the importance of this work to their sponsors, which increases the likelihood of future funding in this area. If you would like to learn more about this project and the results of the study, visit the project website

GFB Field Notes page 22 of 22

GFB HAY DIRECTORY

GFB is accepting listings for its online hay directory. Farm Bureau members with hay for sale or who offer custom harvesting or custom sprigging services are invited to list their hay and/or services in the GFB Quality Hay Directory published on the GFB website. Hay for sale or services can be listed or removed from the directory throughout the year. To be included in GFB’s online hay directory, complete a submission form by visiting your county Farm Bureau office or online at www.gfb.ag/hay. Please include a $10 check made payable to Georgia Farm Bureau for each listing of hay, custom harvesting or custom sprigging. Multiple listings are allowed. Listings can be updated in the directory throughout the year as hay inventories change. Hay producers who entered the 2024 GFB Quality Hay Contest receive a free listing in the online GFB Hay Directory.

988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE OFFERS SUPPORT

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988 or chatting on 988lifeline.org. 988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. You don’t have to be suicidal to reach out. 988 trained crisis counselors can help you through whatever mental health challenges you are experiencing.