From the Farmer - McLendon Acres Uses Smart Irrigation

Smart Irrigation In Action

My name is Adam McLendon and I manage McLendon Acres in Leary, GA. We are an 8000 + acre row crop farm utilizing over 80 center pivot irrigation systems.

On McLendon Acres, we utilize smart irrigation through the use of soil moisture sensors, pivot monitoring and control applications like Valley AgSense, and irrigation scheduling programs.  All farmers are stewards of their land and water resources. We understand the need to conserve in order to sustain our resources and in doing so sustain our jobs and our way of life while producing crops that feed and clothe the world.  Smart irrigation allows us to better achieve this.

Everything associated with successfully growing a crop is about timing.  Timing of planting, timing of applying fertilizers and crop protectants, and of course timing of irrigation.  Smart irrigation scheduling allows us to incorporate proven scientific methods into our irrigation programs.  We collect data in the fields either through remote sensors or manually and input that data into the scheduling programs and use the feedback as a tool to help us make the best decision on when to irrigate and how much to apply. 

I will add that I am extremely grateful to all the researchers that have invested in the development of smart irrigation technologies.  It is truly amazing how advanced it has become.

July is Smart Irrigation Month

JULY IS SMART IRRIGATION MONTH

July is #SmartIrrigationMonth! Follow along this month as we spread the word, and share the benefits of smart irrigation scheduling and so much more!

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A MESSAGE FROM THE EXPERTS

What is irrigation scheduling?

Irrigation scheduling is using one of many methods (water balance, soil moisture monitoring, computer models, and more) to apply the most efficient amount of water at the most appropriate time for optimal production. 

The benefits of smart irrigation, specifically irrigation scheduling.

The benefit of smart irrigation and irrigation scheduling is to know what the crop water requirement is and meet that need with irrigation when it occurs to maintain yield potential. Additionally and importantly,  if the water requirement is met then irrigation will not be needed.  Smart irrigation also has the goal of increasing irrigation water use efficiency by applying the right amount of water at the right time.

We would also like to visually show the benefits of irrigation scheduling. Would you be able to provide an infographic or data on improved crop yields and reduced water use? 

2020 UGA IMPACT STATEMENT  Increasing Water Use Efficiency and Precision Agriculture Adoption in Georgia – Wes Porter

Irrigation scheduling and technology adoption in agriculture are critical issues in increasing the level of productiveness, profitability, and crop yields. The goal of a UGA Extension program in crop and soil science is to promote sustainable agriculture practices by educating producers on which technologies best fit their operations and how to properly implement irrigation scheduling techniques, precision agriculture tools, and technological advances into their production practices to maximize the effectiveness of adoption. The implementation of advanced tools, technologies, and practices has been shown to not only increase crop yields but to provide the opportunity for increasing on-farm profitability. There are about 800,000 total acres of peanuts planted in Georgia. So, if 50 percent of these are irrigated, the concept of scheduled irrigation has a potential impact of $100 million in a dry year and $40 million in a wet year. Cotton is very similar to peanuts, and the studies at UGA have shown that in wet years using irrigation strategies in cotton has the potential to increase yield by 10 percent while reducing water use by 75 percent. These numbers can be directly translated to around $200 per acre savings and increased profitability for the producer, which translates to a $120 million impact on the state.

GACD and Flint River Conservation District partnering for Soil Health Workshop for Row Crop Producers

Contact:

GA Association of Conservation Districts

833-411-GACD

info@gacd.us

PO Box 1134

Ringgold, GA 30736

GACD and Flint River Conservation District partnering for Soil Health Workshop for Row Crop Producers

May 11, 2023 - Camilla, Ga– The Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD) and the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District are partnering to present a free informational workshop for local farmers to discuss how to implement soil health management systems on row crop operations.

This workshop will discuss how producers can utilize soil health practices to increase profitability and productivity of row crop operations. A local farmer will also present on their conservation tillage system, cover crops they utilize, and the benefits they have seen from utilizing a soil health approach. In addition, information on federal farm bill programs and state programs will be presented. Partnering agencies for this event include USDA- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC).

The event will be held on Tuesday, July 18, 2023 from 5:45pm to 8:45pm at the Mitchell County Ag Center located at 4590 Hwy 37 East, Camilla, GA. Dinner will be served. This is a free event but registration is required online at www.gacd.us/events .

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is a unit of state government that directs natural resource management programs in Baker, Calhoun, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, and Seminole counties. The Conservation District works with farmers, landowners, and with other units of government to educate and actively promote programs and practices that support the conservation, and use and development of soil, water, and related resources. More information can be found at www.gacd.us/flintriver.

We've Welcomed a New Team Member!

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is excited to announce our newest team member! Taylor is joining the District as the Soil Health Coordinator. Taylor will work directly on the District’s initiatives focused on soil health, including providing education, outreach, technical assistance, and working closely with our partners in our Peanut Sustainability Initiative. Get to know more about Taylor below and join us in welcoming him to the team!

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Taylor is an Albany, GA native with a passion for making a positive impact on the long-term success of our Georgia farms by making soil health a priority. His goal is to protect and enhance the soils that we farm so that future generations can enjoy the same access to food and clean water that we do. He is inspired by knowing that his work is contributing to the overall health and well-being of the people and wildlife of our region.

We asked Taylor, “IF you were a common Georgia crop, what would you be,” to which he answered, “A peanut because my most valuable features cannot be seen from the outside.”

Some of Taylor’s favorite things are tending to his garden, grilling out by the pool, and going out on off-road adventures. Welcome, Taylor!

Celebrating Our Spring '23 GAE Stem Challenge Winners!

Announcing the 2023 Spring GAE STEM Challenge Winners!

Congratulations to the winning classes of the Spring 2023 Georgia Ag Experience STEM Challenge! We had an amazing turnout with over 130 classes registered and almost 40 submissions - double the amount we had last year! Thank you to everyone who participated and made this challenge a huge success.

A Special Shoutout to Our First-Place Winners:

Early County - Southwest Georgia Academy (3rd)

Elbert County Elementary School (4th)

Carroll County's Bowdon Elementary School (5th) 

And let's not forget our amazing runners-up: Pickens County’s Hill City Elementary (3rd), Carroll County’s Ithica Elementary School (4th), and Cherokee County’s Holly Springs Elementary STEM Academy (5th).

Thank you to Georgia Farm Bureau's Ag-in-the-Classroom Program, for partnering with us for this incredible Spring STEM challenge. Make sure to check out their website for free educational resources.

We can't wait for the next STEM challenge in Fall 2023 - Here is a little hint - "What do you call a decomposing banana peel? A-peeling fertilizer!" Stay tuned for more information on our website and social media.

Once again, congratulations to all the winners, and thank you to everyone who participated!

Sincerely,

Georgia Foundation for Agriculture & GFB Ag In The Classroom - Program Team

USDA-NRCS In Georgia Announces Sign-up Extension for Inflation Reduction Act Funded Conservation Programs

Producers now have until May 5 to submit applications to their local NRCS office.

ATHENS, GEORGIA, March 27, 2023 – State Conservationist for the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Georgia, Terrance O. Rudolph has extended the recently announced sign-ups for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program’s (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) that utilize funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

These sign-ups, that utilize IRA funding to provide direct climate mitigation benefits and expand access to financial and technical assistance for producers to advance conservation on their farm, ranch or forest land have been extended until May 5, 2023, to allow customers more time to discuss their land’s needs and management objectives with their local NRCS conservationists. 

“Each of the IRA sign-ups previously announced criteria will remain the same,” said Rudolph. “This extra time should give our customers the time they need to make the right decision for their conservation goals.”

EQIP-IRA Sign-up
Under this statewide sign-up, the ACT NOW streamlined application and contract approval approach is still in effect. Cover crop applications will be assessed and ranked as they are submitted to the USDA Field Service Center and based on funds availability, application assessments with a ranking score of 67 points or greater will be preapproved immediately for the first batch of funding. Producers are encouraged to apply for the program at their earliest convenience.

Secondly, those applying for energy conservation related practices will be administered through the normal batching and ranking process that occurs after the sign-up conclusion date. The energy-specific practices included in this sign-up are as follows:

• Combustion System Improvement (Practice Code 372)

• Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation (Practice Code 374)

• Energy Efficient Lighting System (Practice Code 670)

• Energy Efficient Building Envelope (Practice Code 672)

CSP-IRA Sign-up
For the IRA funded portion of this sign-up, agricultural producers in Baker, Calhoun, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, and Seminole counties can apply for Soil Health focused practices and enhancements. Whereas producers and forest landowners in Bleckley, Dodge, Emmanuel, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Toombs, Treutlen, Twiggs, Washington, Wheeler, and Wilkinson counties can apply for Agroforestry, Forestry and Upland Wildlife Habitat practices and enhancements.

Download the Georgia CSP – Inflation Reduction Act Activities List for more information.

(See map below for a visual representation of the CSP-IRA-eligible counties.)

How to Apply
NRCS accepts applications for conservation programs year-round, but to be included in this funding batch, interested producers should contact their local USDA Service Center and apply by May 5, 2023. Additional sign-up batches may be announced later, subject to the availability of funding.

More Information
On Nov. 21, 2022, USDA published a Federal Register Notice requesting public input on implementation of the funding provided by the IRA and sought comments on program delivery and outreach, especially for underserved producers. That notice closed on Dec. 21, 2022, and NRCS received over 450 comments from the public, which the agency is using to guide actions in fiscal year 2023 and will continue to identify and adopt additional changes based on that public feedback in fiscal year 2024 and in future years.

On Aug. 16, 2022, President Biden signed the IRA into law. It is a historic, once-in-a-generation investment and opportunity for the agricultural communities that USDA serves. The IRA will help producers stay on the farm, prevent producers from becoming ineligible for future assistance and promote climate-smart agriculture by increasing access to conservation assistance.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

2023 Soil Health Field Day

On March 16, the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (FRSWCD) in partnership with Golden Peanut Company held a Soil Health Field Day in Leary, Georgia. Soil Health refers to the ability for soil to perform its functions and how they are being preserved for future use. This term encompasses many practices on the farm, including planting cover crops, reducing soil disturbance, preventing erosion, and more.

Field day on March 16

45 attendees, ranging from local farmers, USDA personnel, Golden Peanut representatives, and other conservation stakeholders convened to learn about the latest research in soil health, learn about cost-share programs, and to see soil health in practice.

“This is a great opportunity for us to share with others some of the practices we’ve implemented here on the farm to improve our soil health,” says Adam McLendon of McLendon Acres, Inc, who hosted the field day. “We see the benefits of those practices in reduced soil erosion and less weed pressure, just to name a few.”

Field day participants hear from the agricultural pilots at McLendon Acres, Inc. on the process of using the plan for improved efficiency on their farm, including cover crop planting and spraying.

McLendon shared various soil health practices including an overview of selecting cover crop, aerial planting, and benefits they’ve observed in their operation as a result. In addition to cover crops, McLendon Acres also leverages grid soil sampling and soil moisture sensors to maximize farm efficiency.

Plane and hopper attachment used when planting cover crop

Eric Coronel, Sustainability Director at the American Peanut Council, highlighted results of modeling various soil health practices specific to Calhoun County. Coronel pointed out that the models, which project potential impact over 30 years, is a beneficial tool for farmers developing soil health management plans.

Winter wheat cover crop

Next, Antron Williams, State Agronomist, and Jordan McDaniel, Soil Conservationist, highlighted USDA-NRCS tools and resources for developing and adopting a soil health conservation plan. Of note, the USDA-NRCS representatives highlighted cost-share programs available through CSP and EQIP. There is also additional funding through the Inflation Reduction Act announced February 21 that will focus on cover crops in the region. Williams and McDaniel encouraged farmers in attendance to develop a conservation plan with their local NRCS offices.  

Lastly, attendees traveled from the field to the nearby hangar to hear from agricultural pilots at McLendon Acres on the aerial planting of cover crops.

Following the field day, attendees gathered for lunch at the hangar, where Emmanuel Bankston of ADM provided a summary to attendees of the first year of the Re:Generations™ Program. In 2022, Golden Peanut, who sponsored the field day, launched an expansion of the Re:Generations™ program in the southeast for peanut and soybean farmers.

“It’s been amazing to see the on-farm innovations already happening by conservation-minded farmers here in Georgia and across the southeast,” says Bankston. “Through the expansion of the Re:Generations™ program, we’re thrilled to directly compensate farmers for these practices and build value for sustainably grown products across the supply chain.”

Field day attendees gather at McLendon Acres, Inc

Launched in the southeast in 2022, the program directly compensates peanut farmers for soil health practices including cover cropping, no-till, and other practices that improve overall farm efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Bankston also presented host farmer Adam McLendon with a “Friend of Re:Generations™” appreciation plaque for his leadership and dedication to conservation.  

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The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is comprised of farmers, landowners, and community leaders that are dedicated to the conservation, wise use, and protection of natural resources in the Flint River Basin. Learn more about the District at flintriverswcd.org.  Learn more about Re:Generations™” at admadvantage.com/regen/. Reach out to Emmanuel Bankston or Perri Cooper to learn more about 2023 opportunities for the Re:Generations™” program.

GACD Scholarship Recipient - Virgil Simmons

Press Release

March 23, 2023

Virgil Simmons of Early County Named

GACD Scholarship Recipient

The Georgia Association of Conservation Districts (GACD) is pleased to announce their 2023 Scholarship recipient is Virgil Simmons of Blakely, GA. Virgil is currently a senior at Pataula Charter Academy and is enrolled in college courses through dual enrollment at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC). He will graduate high school in May and plans to continue his studies at ABAC in Environmental Engineering.

To encourage study and careers in soil and water conservation-related fields, GACD administers one $1,000 scholarship each year.  The scholarship is given to students majoring in, or intending to major in, a soil and water conservation-related area.  Acceptable areas of study include but are not limited to, agricultural education, agronomy, horticulture, plant pathology, and agricultural communications.

The mission of GACD is to advocate for the conservation of Georgia’s natural resources by providing organization, leadership, and a unified strategic direction to the state's Conservation Districts. For more information on GACD or to explore opportunities on how you can support our efforts, please visit us online at www.gacd.us or on Facebook @GACDConserve.

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2023 Stewardsip Week Poster Contest

Press Release

Contact: Abby Davis

Telephone: (229) 849-2415 ex: 101

Email: abby@flintriverswcd.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 14, 2023

2023 Stewardship Week Poster Contest

The Flint River Soil & Water Conservation District is pleased to announce the 2023 Stewardship Week theme: “One Water”. Stewardship Week, which will be celebrated April 30 – May 7, 2023, is celebrated each year to promote natural resource conservation across various topics, including soil, water, and habitat.

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is offering its annual poster contest for kindergarten through fifth-grade students from counties located in the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District. These counties include Baker, Calhoun, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, and Seminole counties. Posters must incorporate the “One Water” theme. A digital photograph of the front of the poster and entry form will be accepted by emailing to abby@flintriverswcd.org by Friday, May 5, 2023.

Monetary prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners. The District winner will also advance to the state competition where the poster entry will be judged against other entries from across Georgia.

“Incorporating the Poster Contest is a fun and educational learning experience for students of all ages to celebrate Stewardship Week,” says Education Coordinator Abby Davis.

This year marks the 68th anniversary of the National Association of Conservation District’s Stewardship Week. During Stewardship Week, local conservation districts and state associations provide educational resources on the importance of soil health, water quality, pollinator habitats, and other conservation topics.

If you are interested in participating in the 2023 FRSWCD Poster Contest and would like to obtain more information, please contact your local Flint River SWCD Supervisor or email Flint River SWCD at abby@flintriverswcd.org.

FRSWCD and Golden Peanut Company Host a Soil Health Field Day Event

FRSWCD was happy to partner with @ADM @Goldenpeanut on a successful soil health field day Feb 27th.

On February 27, the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (FRSWCD) in partnership with Golden Peanut Company held a Soil Health Field Day in Metter, Georgia. Soil Health refers to the ability for soil to perform its functions and how they are being preserved for future use. This term encompasses many practices on the farm, including planting cover crops, reducing soil disturbance, preventing erosion, and more.

“We are excited to partner with Golden Peanut and ADM to highlight soil health practices specifically in peanut production,” says Perri Cooper, Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District Executive Director. “Not only do we get to hear from researchers and technical service providers, but directly from farmers on the forefront of adopting these soil health practices.”

45 attendees, ranging from local farmers, USDA personnel, UGA Extension representatives, and other conservation stakeholders convened to learn about the latest research in soil health, learn about cost-share programs, and to see soil health in practice.

Eric Coronel, Sustainability Director at the American Peanut Council, kicked off the field day by highlighting the results of modeling various soil health practices specific to Bulloch County. Coronel pointed out that modeling, using USDA data, is a great way to estimate long-term impacts of incorporating soil health practices.

Next, Tracy Cole, State Resource Conservationist, and Jason Gatch, District Conservationist, highlighted USDA-NRCS tools and resources for developing and adopting a soil health conservation plan.

Cole demonstrated the principles of an on-farm soil health assessment. This includes observing field conditions of soil cover, crusting, infiltration, penetration, aggregates, structure, color, biodiversity, and other indicators. The hands-on demonstration gave attendees an opportunity to learn more about identifying areas of particular interest in their farm’s soil health plan.

Gatch highlighted cost-share programs available through CSP and EQIP. He also noted that additional funding through the Inflation Reduction Act announced on February 21 will focus on cover crop in the region. Gatch encouraged farmers in attendance to develop a conservation plan with their local NRCS offices.  

Lastly, attendees heard from host farmer Ricky Nevil on his farm practices, as well as from County ANR agent Bill Tyson on the results of local field trials. Nevil commented on increased yields on fields where soil health practices had been implemented over the past several years. Keeping roots in the soil also greatly reduced wind erosion, which the field was particularly prone to.

Tyson reviewed the results of both fungicide and variety trials in Bulloch County.

Following the field day, attendees gathered for lunch at Dutch Ford Farm, where Emmanuel Bankston of ADM provided a summary to attendees of the first year of the Re:GenerationsÔ Program.

“This is one of the first group of farmers to jump on to this program,” Bankston shared with attendees. “We’re happy to work with y’all to pay you for these soil health practices you’ve already been doing on your farms.”

Launched in the southeast in 2022, the program directly compensates peanut farmers for soil health practices including cover cropping, no-till, and other practices that improve overall farm efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Bankston also presented host farmer Ricky Nevil with a “Friend of Re:GenerationsÔ” appreciation plaque for his leadership and dedication to conservation.  

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is comprised of farmers, landowners, and community leaders that are dedicated to the conservation, wise use, and protection of natural resources in the Flint River Basin. Learn more about the District at flintriverswcd.org.  Learn more about Re:GenerationsÔ at admadvantage.com/regen/. Reach out to Emmanuel Bankston or Perri Cooper to learn more about 2023 opportunties for the Re:GenerationsÔ program.

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FLINT RIVER SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT ANNOUNCES AGRICULTURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GRANT FOR 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR

FRSWCD Announces the Agricultural & Environmental Education Grant for the 2023-2024 School Year

Immediate Release

CONTACT:  Abby Davis

Email: abby@flintriverswcd.org

Telephone: 229-849-2415 ext:101

January 12, 2023

Camilla, Georgia – The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District announces that it will award $3,000 in grant funds through the Agricultural & Environmental Education Grant for K-12 programming within the district’s nine counties.  The grant opportunity promotes conservation education and provides additional resources for both formal and non-formal educators looking to engage their students in agriculture and/or natural resources education.  In-school teachers, as well as 4-H and FFA educators, are encouraged to apply.  Grant funds will be awarded to projects that help expand knowledge and teach the importance of the environment to students in kindergarten through twelfth grade.  Youth participating in the selected projects will better understand the value of soil and water conservation. 

Educators that are located within the following counties: Baker, Calhoun, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, and Seminole Counties are eligible to apply.  The application and additional details regarding grant criteria are available online at flintriverswcd.org/education. Please direct any questions to abby@flintriverswcd.org.  The application deadline is April 28, 2023, and awardees will be announced by May 12, 2023.  Projects selected for the grant funding should be completed by May 4, 2024. 

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District was organized on July 22, 1939, following the infamous ‘Dust Bowl’. The goal of Soil and Water Conservation Districts is to assist people and communities in the care of their local natural resources. Conservation Districts offer technical, educational and financial assistance to private landowners. Georgia has 40 soil and water conservation districts and 370 Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisors. Some districts include only one county, while other districts include two or more counties within their boundary. Each county in Georgia is represented by at least two district supervisors, one elected for a four-year term and one appointed to a two-year term.

For more information on how to apply click HERE.

If you would like more information about Soil and Water Conservation Districts, please contact

Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District Education Coordinator

Abby Davis at 229-849-2415 ext:101 or abby@flintriverswcd.org.

FRSWCD Hosts Smart Irrigation Field Day Event

On February 21, the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (FRSWCD) held a Smart Irrigation Field Day in Colquitt, Georgia. Smart Irrigation refers to the application of irrigation water at the time it is needed, in the amount it is needed, where it is needed. This term encompasses many technologies and practices, including irrigation scheduling, remote irrigation control, variable rate irrigation, and more.

“There are so many folks ranging from farmers to researchers to local and federal agencies that are doing so much in the development and adoption of innovative technologies,” says Perri Cooper, Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District Executive Director. “It’s always great to bring these stakeholders into one space to share ideas, questions, progress and foster collaboration.”

30 attendees, ranging from local farmers, USDA personnel, UGA Extension representatives, and other conservation stakeholders convened to learn about the latest research in irrigation technologies, cost-share programs, and to see Smart Irrigation in practice.

Dr. George Vellidis, professor at the University of Georgia, kicked off the field day with an in-depth look at irrigation scheduling hardware—including both watermark and capacitance soil moisture sensors—as well as software tools, including Irrigator Pro and SmartIrrigation Apps.

Vellidis highlighted that while currently Irrigator Pro is only compatible with watermark sensors, the development team plans to launch an updated version of the app compatible with capacitance sensors for the 2024 growing season. In addition, the newest SmartIrrigation App, CropFit, was released earlier this month.

Next, Darron Felton and Debbie Henry with USDA-NRCS highlighted cost share programs available to improve irrigation water management through EQIP. They noted that purchasing irrigation hardware or working with an irrigation consultant are both eligible for cost-share, depending on how a farmer may wish to incorporate smart irrigation into their operation. In addition, NRCS provided an update of additional funding through the Inflation Reduction Act announced this week which will focus on energy efficiency upgrades.

Lastly, attendees heard from host farmer Rodney Bryan on retrofits to his 1974 center pivot system that have improved its efficiency, as well as from Terrel County ANR agent Seth McAllister on how he works with farmers to make decisions on smart irrigation practices.

“It’s about cost and convenience,” Seth commented. “These tools may not save you turning on your pivot on some seasons, but you’ll be turning it on when you know you really need it.”

Following the field day, attendees gathered for lunch prepared by Calhoun County and Miller County Young Farmers. 

This materials is based on work supported by the Georgia Power Foundation. The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is comprised of farmers, landowners, and community leaders that are dedicated to the conservation, wise use, and protection of natural resources in the Flint River Basin. Learn more about the District at flintriverswcd.org.  Learn more about Smart Irrigation at smartirrigationgeorgia.com.

USDA Announces Conservation reserve Program Signup for 2023

Athens, Ga., Feb. 16, 2023 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin applying for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General signup starting February 27 through April 7, 2023. CRP is a cornerstone voluntary conservation program offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a key tool in the Biden-Harris administration’s effort to address climate change and help agricultural communities invest in the long-term well-being of their land and natural resources. 

“The Conservation Reserve Program is one of the largest private lands conservation programs in the United States, offering a range of conservation options to farmers, ranchers and landowners,” said Arthur Tripp, FSA State Executive Director in Georgia. “CRP has and continues to be a great fit for farmers with less productive or marginal cropland, helping them re-establish valuable land cover to help improve water quality, prevent soil erosion, and support wildlife habitat. Under this administration, we have made several updates to the program to increase producer interest and enrollment, strengthen the climate benefits of the program and help ensure underserved producers can find a pathway to entry into CRP.” 

Producers and landowners enrolled more than 5 million acres into CRP through signups in 2022, building on the acceptance of more than 3.1 million acres in the largest Grassland CRP signup in history. There are currently 23 million acres enrolled in CRP, with 1.9 million set to expire this year. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is aiming to reach the 27-million-acre cap statutorily set for fiscal year 2023. 

General CRP

General CRP helps producers and landowners establish long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees, to control soil erosion, improve water quality and enhance wildlife habitat on cropland. Additionally, General CRP includes a Climate-Smart Practice Incentive to help increase carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by helping producers and landowners establish trees and permanent grasses, enhance wildlife habitat, and restore wetlands. 

Continuous CRP

Under Continuous CRP, producers and landowners can enroll in CRP throughout the year. Offers are automatically accepted provided the producer and land meet the eligibility requirements and the enrollment levels do not exceed the statutory cap. The Climate-Smart Practice Incentive is also available in the Continuous signup. 

FSA offers several additional enrollment opportunities within Continuous CRP, including the Clean Lakes Estuaries and Rivers Initiative (CLEAR30), the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) Initiative, the Farmable Wetlands Program (FWP), and the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). The CLEAR30 Initiative, which was originally piloted in twelve states in the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay watershed, has been expanded nationwide, allowing producers and landowners to enroll in 30-year CRP contracts for water quality practices. Under this administration, FSA also moved SAFE practices back to the Continuous CRP signup, giving producers and landowners more opportunities to participate in the initiative. Through the FWP, producers and landowners can enroll land in CRP as part of their efforts to restore previously farmed wetlands and wetland buffers, to improve both vegetation and water flow. 

This administration has also made significant improvements to CREP, which leverages federal and non-federal funds to target specific State, regional or nationally significant conservation concerns. Specifically, USDA made significant improvements to CREP to reduce barriers and make the program more accessible to a broad range of producers and new types of partners. These updates included flexibility for partners to provide matching funds in the form of cash, in-kind contributions, or technical assistance, along with an investment in additional staff to work directly with partners. Through CREP, for the first time ever, three Tribal Nations are now partnering with USDA to help conserve, maintain, and improve grassland productivity, reduce soil erosion, and enhance wildlife habitat. 

Grassland CRP

FSA will announce the dates for Grassland CRP signup in the coming weeks. Grassland CRP is a working lands program, helping landowners and operators protect grassland, including rangeland and pastureland and certain other lands, while maintaining the areas as working grazing lands. Protecting grasslands contributes positively to the economy of many regions, provides biodiversity of plant and animal populations, and provides important carbon sequestration benefits to deliver lasting climate outcomes.  

How to Sign Up

Landowners and producers interested in CRP should contact their local USDA Service Center to learn more or to apply for the program before their deadlines. 

Producers with expiring CRP acres can use the Transition Incentives Program (TIP), which incentivizes producers who sell or enter a long-term lease with a beginning, veteran, or socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher who plans to sustainably farm or ranch the land.

More Information

Signed into law in 1985, CRP is one of the largest voluntary private-lands conservation programs in the United States. It was originally intended to primarily control soil erosion and potentially stabilize commodity prices by taking marginal lands out of production. The program has evolved over the years, providing many conservation and economic benefits.  

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

2023 Annual Education Grant Press Release

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Abby Davis

Email: abby@flintriverswcd.org

Telephone: 229-849-2415 ext:101

January 12, 2023

FLINT RIVER SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT ANNOUNCES AGRICULTURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GRANT FOR 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR

Camilla, Georgia – The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District announces that it will award $3,000 in grant funds through the Agricultural & Environmental Education Grant for K-12 programming within the district’s nine counties.  The grant opportunity promotes conservation education and provides additional resources for both formal and non-formal educators looking to engage their students in agriculture and/or natural resources education.  In-school teachers, as well as 4-H and FFA educators are encouraged to apply.  Grant funds will be awarded to projects that help expand knowledge and teach the importance of the environment to students in kindergarten through twelfth grade.  Youth participating in the selected projects will better understand the value of soil and water conservation. 

Educators that are located within the following counties: Baker, Calhoun, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, and Seminole Counties are eligible to apply.  The application and additional details regarding grant criteria are available online at flintriverswcd.org/education. Please direct any questions to abby@flintriverswcd.org.  The application deadline is March 3, 2023, and awardees will be announced by May 12, 2023.  Projects selected for the grant funding should be completed by May 4, 2024. 

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District was organized on July 22, 1939, following the infamous ‘Dust Bowl’. The goal of Soil and Water Conservation Districts is to assist people and communities in the care of their local natural resources. Conservation Districts offer technical, educational, and financial assistance to private landowners. Georgia has 40 soil and water conservation districts and 370 Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisors. Some districts include only one county, while other districts include two or more counties within their boundary. Each county in Georgia is represented by at least two district supervisors, one elected for a four-year term and one appointed to a two-year term.  If you would like more information about Soil and Water Conservation Districts, please contact Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District Education Coordinator Abby Davis at 229-849-2415 ext:101 or abby@flintriverswcd.org.

Click HERE to apply today!

Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District Partners with Golden Peanut for Re:Generations Program Expansion into the Southeast

Sen. Ossoff Honors Community Leader and Farmer Marty McLendon for His Service to Southwest Georgia

For Immediate Release

Friday, December 2, 2022

Contact: Ossoff Press – press@ossoff.senate.gov

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff is honoring Marty McLendon for his work in Georgia’s agricultural community in the Official Congressional Record. McLendon currently serves on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Peanut Standards Board and on the board of Flint River Fresh, a nonprofit organization that helps low-income communities in Dougherty County access fresh fruits and vegetables. He also works as a district chairman for the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District.

 Please find Sen. Ossoff’s Commendation to Marty McLendon here:

Sen. Jon Ossoff Honors Marty McLendon’s Service to Georgia’s Agriculture Community

 “Mr. President, I rise today to honor Marty McLendon for his dedication and unwavering commitment to Georgia’s agriculture community. Mr. McLendon has worked as a peanut farmer in Albany, Georgia for the past 25 years, leading the Albany community in ensuring Georgia remains a top producer of quality peanuts. He continues this important work as a board member of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Peanut Standards Board. Mr. McLendon also currently serves as district chairman of the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District and as a board member of Flint River Fresh, an Albany-based organization that helps low-income communities in Dougherty County and Southwest Georgia access fresh fruits and vegetables. His work does not stop there. Mr. McLendon takes his commitment to public service to the next level by frequently opening his home to local events and gatherings — building community with his friends and neighbors. Mr. President, as Georgia’s U.S. Senator, it is my honor to commend Marty McLendon for his valiant service to the Southwest Georgia community.”

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Jon Ossoff is the Senior United States Senator from the state of Georgia. Elected in 2021, he serves on the powerful Senate Judiciary; Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs; Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; and Rules Committees.  He also serves as Chair of the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.

2022 Census of Agriculture Coming This November

The Census of Agriculture, conducted once every five years, looks at land use and ownership, producer characteristics, production practices, income, and expenditures. The Census is a complete count of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. Even small plots of land – whether rural or urban – count if $1,000 or more of agricultural products were produced and sold, or normally would have been sold, during the census year. It is the only source of uniform, comprehensive, and impartial agriculture data for every state and county in the nation.

Through the ag census, producers can show the nation the value and importance of U.S. agriculture and influence decisions that will shape the future of their industries. Census of Agriculture data are used by those who serve farmers and rural communities — federal, state and local governments, agribusinesses, researchers, trade associations, and many others.

• Ag producers can use Census of Agriculture data to make informed decisions about their own operations, from production practices to marketing.

• Companies and cooperatives use the data to determine where to locate facilities that will serve agricultural producers.

• Community planners use the information to target needed services to rural residents.

• Legislators use census data when shaping farm policies and programs.

• Students, educators, and researchers use the data as part of their ongoing studies, education, and research initiatives

NASS will mail the 2022 Census of Agriculture questionnaires to ag producers in November/December to collect data for the 2022 calendar year. Producers can respond online or return their completed questionnaires by mail. Responses are due by February 6, 2023. NASS will release 2022 Census of Agriculture results in 2024.

If your farm meets this benchmark and you have never received NASS surveys or censuses, you can sign up to be counted online.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources Working Lands for Quail Habitat Pilot Project

Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commisson (GSWCC) Stream Restoration Project

Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District Partners with Golden Peanut for Re:Generations Program Expansion into the Southeast

Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Golden Peanut, the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (FRSWCD) and Farmers Business Network (FBN) have partnered to expand ADM’s Re:GenerationsÔ program into the southeast through peanut and soybean crop production.

“We are excited to launch this program and support farmers in accelerating sustainability efforts by offering payments and technical assistance for regenerative agriculture practices that have positive impacts on the environment,” says Blair Hillen, Golden Peanut General Manager for US Peanut Shelling. “FRSWCD and FBN are ideal partners in this effort given their experience and deep expertise in these regenerative ag practices and impacts. We look forward to collaborating with both organizations and our farmer partners to do good for the farm, the consumer, and the planet.”

Farmers who deliver soybeans and/or peanuts to ADM/ Golden Peanut suppliers and/or buying points are eligible to enroll in the program, which directly compensates farmers for climate smart practices in their production system.

“We know that farmers are already implementing many practices to improve soil health, increase efficiencies, and incorporate cutting edge technologies on their farms,” says Marty McLendon, Chairman of the FRSWCD. “We’re really excited about this opportunity to work with ADM/ Golden Peanut to expand this program, which will continue to push the needle of sustainability forward and compliments our own Peanut Sustainability initiative so well. It’s really a win-win-win for farmers, industry, and consumers.”

Climate smart practices that are eligible for compensation include cover cropping, change to a no-till system, or a combination of the two. In addition, various sustainability practices—such as fertilization practices, precision agriculture, and more—will be measured to gauge the farm’s emissions score. The farm’s emissions score will be compared to area averages, and lower scores will achieve higher compensation payments.

Interested farmers will participate in an initial enrollment survey and enter into a contract with ADM/ Golden Peanut, conduct a consultation with FRSWCD-- the technical assistance partner-- as well as a data collection survey with FBN.

After crop delivery to ADM/ Golden Peanut suppliers and/or buying points and final data collection, payments for climate smart practices will be made to growers.

The deadline for enrollment is December 16, 2022 and farmers must not be a part of any other private regenerative ag program, although other conservation programs such as EQIP, CSP, and CRP are acceptable.

For program questions, or for consultation on expected payments and qualifications, contact Blair Hillen. blair.hillen@goldenpeanut.com

Office: 770-752-8203  

Cell: 803-289-8023

The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is comprised of farmers, landowners, and community leaders that are dedicated to the conservation, wise use, and protection of natural resources in the Flint River Basin. Learn more about the District at flintriverswcd.org.