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Newsletters
February 2011
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Pike County Agribusiness Authority Newsletter |
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What's Happening
in Agriculture
in Pike County
December 2011
Wishing All
Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year
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Dear fellow Pike County resident:
We haven't had much cold weather yet, but rest assured, it's coming! Remember to turn on the light bulb in your well house when the temperatures dip--and to turn the water off at the barn if need be...winter is especially challenging to Pike County residents who are taking care of livestock--it can be mighty tough as we go about our chores in the dark and the cold, but our animals appreciate that flake of hay, dry shelter and fresh water. If you find yourself doing this at night when you come home from your other job, take a minute and look up...the winter sky is especially beautiful and bright.
Winter is the time when workshops and conferences abound--consider using the cold months to learn more about your current ag enterprise or one that you always wanted to try. Check out our calendar for some ideas on where to go, from fruits and vegetables to organic to value-added, there's a great gathering somewhere in Georgia this winter.
Your Agribusiness Authority is charged with promoting agricultural enterprise in Pike County. If you have not gone out to Chestnut Oak in a while, please do--we have just completed the second entrance to the park.The new restroom facility and the improved arena are testimonials to the power of "doing a lot with a little"--many thanks to our board members, county employees, county residents and volunteers who have all donated time, materials, expertise, and equipment to add these improvements in 2011.
We continue to remind everyone that supporting local agriculture is the smart thing to do--and comes with a host of benefits for our friends and neighbors. Consider supporting your local Christmas tree farms this holiday season--see below for more information. If you know of something that's happening, please email us at info@pikecountyag.com with information on the what, where, and how.
The Board of the Pike County Agribusiness Authority invites you to meet them and share your ideas at their monthly meeting--we meet at 3:30 on the third Thursday at the Farm Bureau.
Sincerely,
The Pike County Agribusiness Authority
George Norris, Chair
Tom Lacey
Rex Yerkes
Dave Bentoski
Ken Gran
Chris Curry, Executive Director
Brenda Fayard, Ag Consultant
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Fresh winter produce from The Wednesday Market!
Christmas gifts in our December Craft Market!
Here's a great idea for holiday gift-giving: Consider shopping at the Wednesday Market this month for hand-made crafts (in addition to some of the prettiest and tastiest cold season veggies you can imagine). And, the Wednesday Market will also be open for crafts on Saturdays during the month of December!
Times: Wednesdays, December 7, 14 & 21 from 3 - 5 p.m. &
Saturdays, December 3, 10, & 17 from 10 am to 2 pm.
   
What you can find there: Canned and baked goods, fruits and vegetables (for the person who is impossible to buy for, think about a huge hunk of turnip greens, for instance...), art, garden items, knitted, crocheted, quilted and sewn items, Christmas ornaments, wood carvings, gourd art, jewelry and more. All of these items are handmade, original designs from local folks.
The Wednesday Market continues each week with interesting edible and grow-able offerings every week...Check it out: Go on-line,www.WednesdayMarket.locallygrown.net create an account, look and see what is available that week, place your order and pick up and pay for it on Wednesday. Farmers and vendors of locally grown products can do the same thing: Create an account, list your products, harvest and deliver them for market on Wednesday.
The location of the Wednesday Market is 15931 Concord Street in Zebulon--it's that small brick building right across from the First Baptist Church. Look for the great waving banners! (In this season of thanksgiving we would like to give a big shout-out to Bill Edwards who has allowed us to use the building for the entire season.) And, thank you to Anna Evans and Sharon Fox for being there every week to help out. For those who want to learn how to cook these scrumptious, fresh from the garden veggies, see Anna's weekly suggestions and recipes. Sign up as a Market participant in order to get her email message!
If you have any questions about signing up for the market, stop in on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 6:30 to see how it works.
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CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS IN PIKE COUNTY!
Take your family up the road to cut your own tree and make a memory!
Terry Ison's TNT Christmas Tree Farm is at 695 Williams Mill Road right outside of Zebulon. Kids (and adults) can enjoy hot chocolate, a ride around the farm, and a Christmas store filled with goodies. Hours: M - F 4 pm to dark; Saturday 9 to dark; Sunday 1 pm to dark. Call 770-468-0721 for more information.
Dillahunty Christmas Trees at 501 Oxford Circle, right off of Rt. 18 between Concord and Zebulon. Hours: M - F & Sundays 1 - 6 pm and Saturdays, 10 - 6.
The trees are beautiful, trimmed, and available in a variety of sizes. Come on out and support your local farmers!
LOW COST SPAY NEUTER CLINICS
The Friends of Pike County Animals has some great resources for folks who want to get their dogs and cats spayed or neutered. Go to their Facebook page Friendsofpikecountyanimals or email them atfriendsofpikecountyanimals@hotmail.com.
GEORGIA ORGANICS 15TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO:
This year, it's close! In Columbus! February 24 and 25th, featuring two days of farm tours, in-depth workshops, a great keynote presentation by Will Allen, founder and CEO of Growing Power, Inc. And, did we mention the food? For event availability and online registration, visit georgiaorganics.org. Don't delay for best choices of farm tours and workshops--advance registration closes February 17th.
EQUINE INDUSTRY IMPACT SURVEY: Pike is the home of a lot of horses and horse owners--in order to better understand the industry in Georgia and the economic impact it has on the state's economy, the Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development is conducting an impact study of the equine industry. As a horse owner, your response is important to the success of the study and the future of the equine industry, here in Pike and in Georgia. Let's keep our hay producers growing hay! Our feed stores in business! Our horse barns and pastures contributing to Pike's beautiful landscape! All individual survey responses will remain entirely anonymous. Take the survey at surveymonkey.com/s/Equine2011.
FLAVOR OF GEORGIA: This is the state's 2012 food product contest! Categories include BBQ and hot sauces, confections, dairy products, meat products, snack foods and jam, jellies and sauces. Entries are judged on flavor, best use of Georgia ingredients, Georgia theme, unique or innovative qualities, commercial appeal and originality. Product entry opened in November and entries must be received by February 10, 2012. For more information, go to the Georgia Department of Ag website. Take charge of your future! Become a local Pike County food entrepreneur!
BURN BAN LIFTED
The Georgia Forestry Commission has lifted the annual burn ban as of October 1. Please be careful when you do burn, and remember to get a permit by going to GaTrees.org or by phone at 1-877-OK-2-BURN.
GARDEN CENTER IN ZEBULON: Here's a great chance to buy local! The Pike Depot is the place to go for healthy, beautiful plants and gardening supplies. Check out their garden center next to the hardware store on 19 South, just a couple of miles south of Zebulon. The selection is wide and the customer service is local and friendly.
UGA-CPES Sharing the Legacy Angus Sale: Selling 90 head of registered bred cows, bred heifers, and open heifers at the Tifton Bull Evaluation Center in Irwinville. For more information contact Carroll T. Cannon at 229-776-4383 or 229-881-0721.
SOUTHEAST FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW: This is the big one: January 6 - 9 at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center. Find more information at
OLD SOUTH FARM MUSEUM HOG KILLING DEMONSTRATION: The Old South Farm Museum in Woodland will hold their annual old-fashioned hog killing for demonstration purposes only on February 4, 2012. The event will include demonstrations of making sausage, Brunswick stew, lye soap, as well as meat curing and skin cooking. Visitors will also see a smoke house in operation. Pre-registration is required. For more information, contact Paul Bullock at 706-975-9136 or go to the website at oldsouthfarm.com. If you are not crazy about hog killing, consider a trip to this fantastic museum on another day--it is a jewel of a site, filled with stories and the equipment that supported Georgia farming from it's founding to present day.
GREAT PINESTRAW AVAILABLE IN WILLIAMSON: Save gas, support local ag businesses! Country Corbins has fresh, bright pinestraw bales, top soil and mulches in Williamson. They are open M-F from 8 to 5 and Saturdays from 8-12. Call 770-229-5050 for more information.
THE FARMERS AND CONSUMERS MARKET BULLETIN LIVES!: You can still get the Bulletin delivered in the mail, but you have to pay for it--only $10. You can also go on-line and check out the buys for free. Go tohttp://agr.georgia.gov for sign-up information.
HELP SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC: The transport van The Snip Ship will meet residents at Freshway Market on December 5 and 19, 9 a.m. For appointments, call Cindy Leopard at 770-304-7911.
PIKE COUNTY HORSE CLUB: For information on where and when local folks are riding, go to the facebook page. The club meets every 3rd Thursday at the Farm Bureau in Zebulon at 7 pm. It's a great opportunity to meet up with local horse lovers and to find people to ride with!
TRY THIS DELICIOUS LOCALLY-RAISED BEEF: The Sell Farm has dry aged Angus beef available most of the year. Their cattle are born on the farm in Pike County and are raised on pasture throughout their lives. The cattle are raised without antibiotics or hormones and are fed, while on grass, a grain ration developed for the farm by UGA. This is the ninth year of selling beef and you may purchase a quarter share (100 pounds of boneless beef) or at the farm by the pound and by the cut (this includes ground beef, steaks, roasts, stew, etc.) They also can be found on the Wednesday Market site as well! Visit the website at www.sellfarm.com or call 770-584-9727 for availability.
ADOPT A LIFELONG FRIEND THROUGH C.A.R.E.: Companion Animal Rescue and Education of Molena is a small volunteer animal rescue group that helps adopt out abandoned animals in Pike County. To see photos of dogs still up for adoption, go to adoptapet.com/shelter79899-pets.html. And, they could use some help--if you are interested in volunteering at Adopt-a-Thons in the future or could serve as a foster home, you can find contact information at that same website.
***Want to list your event or your ag-related business in the Pike County Ag Newsletter? Just drop us a line at info@pikecountyag.com. Thanks for keeping us informed!
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Pike County Agribusiness Authority Newsletter
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What's Happening
in Agriculture
in Pike County
March 2011 |
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Dear fellow Pike County resident:
It's really getting interesting in our county's ag side--with the advent of the Wednesday Market, we are discovering a whole new crop of folks who are growing delicious food for market. The Agribusiness Authority has just approved a bucking bull event at Chestnut Oak--with stock that is part of a Pike County ag enterprise. We are excited about the opening of a fabulous garden center just south of Zebulon. And, it's almost time to think about the Market on the Square's eighth season! (More on all of these developments below).
Want to get in the excitement of agriculture? There are lots of ways to do that. One of the best introductory strategies is to attend a conference or workshop that deals with an aspect of farming that you may be interested in. Google it, and then consider applying to the Ag Authority for financial assistance to go. The Authority has small scholarships that cover tuition, travel or lodging. In September, we will be offering a workshop on how to grow for the late fall and winter market, or your own table. If you are interested in the equine industry, a great way to start is to attend our Pike County Horse Club. The FFA and 4-H are the best to engage young people in agriculture--stay tuned in the months ahead for information on the annual summer program for high school students at ABAC in Tifton. Try "buying local" at the farmer's markets and meet your farmers--they often have great suggestions on how to prepare the fresh, delicious varieties of fruits and vegetables that they grow. Our extension office in Zebulon can help with resources for the homeowner and can assist folks to sign up for the Masters Gardeners program held every winter.
March is the month that signals the beginning of the growing season for many who love the outdoors...hopefully, our weather will hold so you can get out there! Check out the events coming up and plan to enjoy the outdoors. If you know of something that's happening, please email us at info@pikecountyag.com with information on the what, where, and how.
The Board of the Pike County Agribusiness Authority invites you to meet them and share your ideas at their monthly meeting--currently we are meeting at 3:00 on the third Thursday at the Chamber of Commerce offices.
Sincerely,
The Pike County Agribusiness Authority
George Norris, Chair
Tom Lacey
Rex Yerkes
Dave Bentoski
Ken Gran
Chris Curry, Executive Director
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THE WEDNESDAY MARKET IS GROWING!
Our new 12 month-a-year market is growing! We are still working out the bugs, and wish to thank our growers' and our customers' patience as we fine-tune the procedures and get everyone on-line. We're mindful that we are in the slow season and that come spring, we will see a huge increase in fruit and produce available on Wednesdays. If you haven't gone on the site yet, we invite you to take a look (see the address above.) We think that farmers will also begin to sell out of their trucks as the season moves into full gear and they have surplus product--it's going to be great to have two market days a week.
We are gathering input from both the farmer side and the customer side as to when the "window" is open to "list" their products--either to sell or to buy. We have purchased a freezer for frozen items (like sausage, turkeys, chicken, beef bones, and more). We are also looking at different payment options for customers. We are hoping to offer the ability for folks to use their EBT cards (also known as food stamps) at the market in order to have access to fresh, local produce.
For those who are unfamiliar with the Wednesday Market here's how it works: Go on-line to www.WednesdayMarket.locallygrown.net, create an account, look and see what is available that week, place your order and pick up and pay for it on Wednesday. Farmers and vendors of locally grown products can do the same thing: Create an account, list your products, harvest and deliver them for market on Wednesday. The best way to see how this works is to check out the website at www.locallygrown.net. The Market will also be open to local farmers who want to sell directly out of their trucks or under their market tents.
The location of the Wednesday Market is 15931 Concord Street in Zebulon--it's that small brick building right across from the First Baptist Church. Stop in on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 6:30 to see how it works--we have a laptop computer set up to show anyone who is interested in being a vendor or a customer.
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New Garden Center comes to Pike!
The Pike Depot is our local hardware store, and now they are adding to the convenience of shopping local with the new Garden Center, set to open around Easter. Visitors to the Depot and travelers will have noticed the attractive wood-framed building to the south of the main store. A huge green house (soon to be filled with annuals, perennials, and baskets) has been added, and an outside sales area that will stock landscape material is being built now.
Manager Jamie Watts was working in the greenhouse this past week and stopped for a minute to discuss his hopes and plans for the enterprise. He is assembling a variety of products including fresh vegetables and fruits, garden-inspired gifts, annuals and perennials, and larger landscape plants. He says folks who visit the new store will find things they might expect to see in a general store, including peach ice cream. The plans are to build raised beds as a demonstration garden with vegetables and herbs--now, school kids can see where their food comes from! When asked about the value of buying local, Jamie noted that the plants will be chosen, cared for, and sold by people who are knowledgeable and who really care about the products. And then, there's great customer service and a commitment to our community. Readers will recall that the Depot has graciously made available a space for the monthly spay-neuter clinic sponsored by Friends of Pike County Animals.
Opening hours are still being finalized, but it's worth the trip to stop by and see what's in store for Pike County plant lovers. Stay tuned for more news.
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 THE BULLS ARE COMING!
XX Bucking Bulls and Johnson Enterprises will present THE SEBRA BULL BASH 2011 at Chestnut Oak on April 29th and 30th. Right here in Pike County, some of the best bucking bulls from around the southeast will attempt to part ways from cowboys from The Southern Extreme Bull Riding Association. Not only will the cowboys be competing for prize money--the bulls will also be in competition with each other in what is known as a "Bull Futurity". The bull with the highest scores will win prize money for their owners.
Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. with the performance beginning at 8:00 p.m. Admission costs $10 for adults, $8 for children 6-12 and free for kids 5 and under.
The organizers are offering sponsorships opportunities, vendor space and advertising on arena banners. Don't miss the chance--the deadline is April 1st. For more information, call Summer White at 770-841-8390 or 770-891-1992.
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AG News and Notes
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MARKET ON THE SQUARE SPRING MEETING SCHEDULED: The Spring organizational meeting for the 8th Market season will be Tuesday, March 15th at 7:00 p.m. at A Novel Experience, 426 Thomaston Street in Zebulon. Interested farmers, vendors, and customers are invited to offer input, suggestions, and help for this season. For more information, call Chris at 770-841-9268 or email info@pikecountyag.com.
OLD MULE BARN IN CONCORD: The Barn is up and running...firewood, wood pellets, produce, wooden outdoor furnishings and more. They also carry bird supplies and garden art, all housed in one of Concord's most historic buildings, located right next to Strickland's. They do gift baskets, too. Winter Hours are Thursday through Saturday.
LOW COST SPAY NEUTER CLINICS: The Friends of Pike County Animals have done an incredible job building resources for spaying and neutering pets. This is the best way we can do something about the hundreds of unwanted, abandoned, injured cats, kittens, dogs and puppies that result from unspayed animals. Pike County residents are supporting this effort--the clinics are usually booked a month ahead. If you would like to receive updates and information please email friendsofpikecountyanimals@hotmail.com or check out the Friendsofpikecountyanimals Facebook page.
The group also meets on a monthly basis at the library just south of Zebulon--check out dates and times on the Facebook page. So far, our county does not have a publicly-funded animal shelter--the FPCA is trying their best to meet the needs of our residents and our animals. Be part of the solution--Consider supporting them with your time, your energy and your dollars.
LITTLE RED HEN FARM: Check out this Pike farm's great website at littleredhenfarm.com to see the great, locally-grown chicken, pork, turkeys (turkeys!) and free-range eggs available right in our own backyard! The farm is Certified Naturally Grown and all the animals are raised on all-natural, non-GMO feed, free from synthetic herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. They also get lots of fresh air, sunshine and fresh grass.
BOOKMARK THIS WEBSITE: Go to agroclimate.org for information on growing conditions in Georgia and up-to-date data on southeastern climate. Up-to-date chill hours and weather information can be found at
www.georgiaweather.net.
This is especially critical right about now--our peaches and blueberries have already had way over the number of cold weather hours to set fruit properly--if they bloom too early, it is more likely that the blossoms or fruit will be killed by a late winter or early spring freeze.
FFA ALUMNI NEWS: The group will be having their next meeting on Thursday, March 10th at 6:30 in the Pike County High School cafeteria. It's a great group that supports our FFA kids--and you do not have to have been in FFA to be a member. It's for everyone who is interested in supporting our local agricultural students, who will hopefully, be our future Pike County farmers.
PINESTRAW AND MORE IN ZEBULON: Remember that the Pike Depot stocks pinestraw and other gardening materials at their store on 19 South, just a couple of miles south of Zebulon. We are also appreciative of their donation of space for the monthly spay-neuter clinics that are organized by Friends of Pike County Animals (FPCA). Thanks!
CAROLINA MEAT CONFERENCE:This is a two day schedule of information-rich, fun-filled activities for those interested in the growing market for local meats. If you are an independent meat producer, processor or butcher, retail grocer, chef or food service professional or an interested consumer there are opportunities for hands-on training sessions to improve carcass utilization, value-added product development, and more. Learn about innovative marketing alliances, emerging trends, marketing standards and regulatory issues. Although this conference is in North Carolina, and subject to that state's rules and regs, the opportunity to get first-rate information is there. It happens March 25-27 in Concord, NC and is sponsored by the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS). For more info, visit www.carolinameatconference.com
GREAT PINESTRAW AVAILABLE IN WILLIAMSON:
Save gas, support local ag businesses! Country Corbins has fresh, bright pinestraw bales, top soil and mulches in Williamson. They are open M-F from 8 to 5 and Saturdays from 8-12. Call 770-229-5050 for more information.
SEASON EXTENSION PUBLICATION AVAILABLE: Here's a great publication, "Season Extension Techniques for Market Gardeners" that is available for free. Go to www.attra.ncat.org to download this and to see other great resources.
FARMERS MARKET BULLETIN DEADLINE APPROACHES! The Market Bulletin is in danger of being shut down unless its subscribers get their money in by April 20th--it's $10 per year to continue to receive this great publication. Send your check to Market Bulletin, Georgia Department of Agriculture, 19 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30334-4250. Or, you can sign up on line using a credit card--google georgia farmers market bulletin and it should get you there. What would summer be like without seeing those GIANT squashes that somebody's grandfather has grown?
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 2011 GEORGIA ORGANICS ANNUAL CONFERENCE: MARCH 11-12 IN SAVANNAH:
Ask local farmer, Pike County Agribusiness Authority Board Member and Georgia Organics board member Dave Bentoski what it means to be a successful organic farmer...there are a host of incredible rewards. This conference is an excellent place to find out if the farming and the life style is something you might consider. Go to www.georgiaorganics.org to learn more.
PIKE COUNTY HORSE CLUB: Trail riding is happening around the area as often as three days a week. For information on where and when go to the website. The Horse Club has a great website for anyone interested in local horse news. The club meets every 3rd Thursday at the Farm Bureau in Zebulon at 7 pm. It's a great opportunity to meet up with local horse lovers and to find people to ride with! For more information go to: pikecountyhorseclub.page.tl/
The Club lists a contact number for the Georgia Horse Welfare Coalition--it's an ad hoc group of concerned horse people who will help direct horse owners to assistance and resources. If you know of any horse owner who is struggling with hard times, please direct them to the Pike County website for more information or contact cmcauliffe@humanesociety.org for help.
TRY THIS DELICIOUS LOCALLY-RAISED BEEF: The Sell Farm has dry aged Angus beef available most of the year. Their cattle are born on the farm in Pike County and are raised on pasture throughout their lives. The cattle are raised without antibiotics or hormones and are fed, while on grass, a grain ration developed for the farm by UGA. This is the ninth year of selling beef and you may purchase a quarter share (100 pounds of boneless beef) or at the farm by the pound and by the cut (this includes ground beef, steaks, roasts, stew, etc.) Visit the website at www.sellfarm.com or call 770-584-9727 for availability.
OUTDOOR BURNING: Before you fire up that pile of brush that you've been collecting for the year, go to gfc.state.ga.us and click on burning permit. Please try using the on-line process first. The local office of the Georgia Forestry Commission can be reached at 770-227-5522 or 770-229-3005.
WATER QUALITY AND FISH HEALTH MAINTENANCE IN AQUACULTURE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS: March 10th will be the first workshop of the 2011 calendar of the Georgia Center for Aquaculture Development at Fort Valley State University. Contact Dr. Pat Duncan, duncanp@fvsu.edu or 478-825-6575 for more info on this and future workshops.
* Want to list your event? Or, do you know of one that is ag-related? Please e-mail Chris at info@pikecountyag.com. Thanks for keeping us all informed.
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Pike County Agribusiness Authority Newsletter
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What's Happening
in Agriculture
in Pike County
February 2011 |
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Dear fellow Pike County resident:
Did General Beauregard see his shadow on February 2nd? Judging by the cold temps, with more to come, our guess is that he went back in his den for another six weeks of winter!
Despite the cold and wet weather, we are pleased to announce that the first two Wednesday Markets were held with great success! We continue to reach out to area farmers and customers who are interested in trying out this e-market concept. Vendors list their products from Thursday through Sunday; customers check in and are able to order until Monday at 10 p.m. Interested in seeing how it works? Just go to www.WednesdayMarket.locallygrown.net
and sign yourself up! For more information, check out the article below.
The Agribusiness Authority is committed to assisting our county's farmers to prosper. With this in mind, we will be offering a hands-on workshop led by board member Dave Bentoski on "Season Extension"--that's all about how farmers can continue to produce vegetables throughout the year to meet the demand for fresh, locally-grown produce. The workshop will be held in September and we will share details and dates as they become available.
February is a planning month for many who love the outdoors...this is when the catalogs come out for the latest in fruits, flowers, summer bulbs, and vegetables. It is also a great time to consider going to workshops and conferences--check out some of the opportunities below. For the many horse owners in Pike, it's a time to clean and reassess tack and make plans for Spring trail riding. We hope you all put up enough hay this year for all your livestock! If you know of someone in our county who sells hay or any other agricultural commodity, they are welcome to list on this monthly newsletter. Email us at info@pikecountyag.com with information on the what, where, and how.
The Board of the Pike County Agribusiness Authority invites you to meet them and share your ideas at their monthly meeting--currently we are meeting at 3:00 on the third Thursday at the Chamber of Commerce offices.
Sincerely,
The Pike County Agribusiness Authority
George Norris, Chair
Tom Lacey
Rex Yerkes
Dave Bentoski
Ken Gran
Chris Curry, Executive Director
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THE WEDNESDAY MARKET BEGINS!
Wednesday, January 26th was Opening Day of WEDNESDAY MARKET. It's the new 12 month-a-year market that complements our regular March-to-October Market on the Square. With the help of Anna Evans, Brenda Fayard and Chris Curry and the support of the Agribusiness Board, the market is taking shape and prospering! Thanks to our growers' and our customers' wonderful patience, we are "learning-by-doing". We'll continue to fine-tune the process (and decide what color green we are going to paint the walls...) in order to get ready for the first burst of early spring produce...strawberries, greens, flowering annuals and perennials, asparagus, and more.
This market specializes in locally-grown agricultural products and it will take a couple of seasons for our farmers to plan and plant for the cooler months of the year. Dave Bentoski of D & A Farms will lead a workshop in the techniques and tools for making this a reality. Anyone who is acquainted Dave or has been out to his certified organic farm knows that this will be a "hands-on" opportunity to learn from someone who makes a living from growing and direct-selling produce. Look for more information and a definite date in September. We will also be working on bringing you more information on raising livestock, fruits, and poultry--the market for eggs is one where demand far outweighs supply, especially when the temperatures fall.
An exciting part of the Wednesday Market is the ability to order products on-line for pick-up on Wednesday afternoon. In a nutshell, it works like this for the consumer: Go on-line to www.WednesdayMarket.locallygrown.net, create an account, look and see what is available that week, place your order and pick up and pay for it on Wednesday. Farmers and vendors of locally grown products can do the same thing: Create an account, list your products, harvest and deliver them for market on Wednesday. The best way to see how this works is to check out the website at www.locallygrown.net. The Market will also be open to local farmers who want to sell directly out of their trucks or under their market tents.
The location of the Wednesday Market is 15931 Concord Street in Zebulon--it's that small brick building right across from the First Baptist Church. Stop in on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 6:30 to see how it works--we have a laptop computer set up to show anyone who is interested in being a vendor or a customer.
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AG News and Notes
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OLD MULE BARN IN CONCORD: The Barn is up and running...firewood, wood pellets, produce, wooden outdoor furnishings and more. They also carry bird supplies and garden art, all housed in one of Concord's most historic buildings, located right next to Strickland's. They do gift baskets, too. Winter Hours are Thursday through Saturday.
LOW-COST SPAY-NEUTER PROGRAM: The incredible volunteers at Friends of Pike County Animals (FPCA) have created much-needed spay and neuter options for our county. Email them at fixpike@gmail.com if you would like to register your dogs or cat for one of several programs that offer low-cost services. This is the go-to local organization for folks who want to support and help address the abandoned animal problem in Pike County. They are on Facebook and can be found at friendsofpikecountyanimals.org.
LITTLE RED HEN FARM: Check out this Pike farm's great website at littleredhenfarm.com to see the great, locally-grown chicken, pork, turkeys (turkeys!) and free-range eggs available right in our own backyard! The farm is Certified Naturally Grown and all the animals are raised on all-natural, non-GMO feed, free from synthetic herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. They also get lots of fresh air, sunshine and fresh grass.
FFA ALUMNI NEWS: The group now has "I Support Agriculture" t-shirts for sale as a fundraiser. The Ag teachers are taking orders at the schools and they can be purchased at the Farm Bureau office and at Circle R in Zebulon. If you want to reserve a shirt in your size, just email Melissa Bottoms at mbottoms45@live.com
PINESTRAW AND MORE IN ZEBULON: Remember that the Pike Depot stocks pinestraw and other gardening materials at their store on 19 South, just a couple of miles south of Zebulon. We are also appreciative of their donation of space for the monthly spay-neuter clinics that are organized by Friends of Pike County Animals (FPCA). Thanks!
CAROLINA MEAT CONFERENCE:This is a two day schedule of information-rich, fun-filled activities for those interested in the growing market for local meats. If you are an independent meat producer, processor or butcher, retail grocer, chef or food service professional or an interested consumer there are opportunities for hands-on training sessions to improve carcass utilization, value-added product development, and more. Learn about innovative marketing alliances, emerging trends, marketing standards and regulatory issues. Although this conference is in North Carolina, and subject to that state's rules and regs, the opportunity to get first-rate information is there. It happens March 25-27 in Concord, NC and is sponsored by the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS). For more info, visit www.carolinameatconference.com
GREAT PINESTRAW AVAILABLE IN WILLIAMSON:
Save gas, support local ag businesses! Country Corbins has fresh, bright pinestraw bales, top soil and mulches in Williamson. They are open M-F from 8 to 5 and Saturdays from 8-12. Call 770-229-5050 for more information.
SEASON EXTENSION PUBLICATION AVAILABLE: Here's a great publication, "Season Extension Techniques for Market Gardeners" that is available for free. Go to www.attra.ncat.org to download this and to see other great resources.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 2011 GEORGIA ORGANICS ANNUAL CONFERENCE: MARCH 11-12 IN SAVANNAH:
Ask local farmer, Pike County Agribusiness Authority Board Member and Georgia Organics board member Dave Bentoski what it means to be a successful organic farmer...there are a host of incredible rewards. This conference is an excellent place to find out if the farming and the life style is something you might consider. Go to www.georgiaorganics.org to learn more.
PIKE COUNTY HORSE CLUB: Trail riding is happening around the area as often as three days a week. For information on where and when go to the website. The Horse Club has a great website for anyone interested in local horse news. The club meets every 3rd Thursday at the Farm Bureau in Zebulon at 7 pm. It's a great opportunity to meet up with local horse lovers and to find people to ride with! For more information go to: pikecountyhorseclub.page.tl/
The Club lists a contact number for the Georgia Horse Welfare Coalition--it's an ad hoc group of concerned horse people who will help direct horse owners to assistance and resources. If you know of any horse owner who is struggling with hard times, please direct them to the Pike County website for more information or contact cmcauliffe@humanesociety.org for help.
TRY THIS DELICIOUS LOCALLY-RAISED BEEF: The Sell Farm has dry aged Angus beef available most of the year. Their cattle are born on the farm in Pike County and are raised on pasture throughout their lives. The cattle are raised without antibiotics or hormones and are fed, while on grass, a grain ration developed for the farm by UGA. This is the ninth year of selling beef and you may purchase a quarter share (100 pounds of boneless beef) or at the farm by the pound and by the cut (this includes ground beef, steaks, roasts, stew, etc.) Visit the website at www.sellfarm.com or call 770-584-9727 for availability.
OUTDOOR BURNING: Before you fire up that pile of brush that you've been collecting for the year, go to gfc.state.ga.us and click on burning permit. If you are burning acres, such as field, prescribed burns, or big piles, call the Georgia Forestry Commission at 770-567-5522.
WATER QUALITY AND FISH HEALTH MAINTENANCE IN AQUACULTURE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS: March 10th will be the first workshop of the 2011 calendar of the Georgia Center for Aquaculture Development at Fort Valley State University. Contact Dr. Pat Duncan, duncanp@fvsu.edu or 478-825-6575 for more info on this and future workshops.
* Want to list your event? Or, do you know of one that is ag-related? Please e-mail Chris at info@pikecountyag.com. Thanks for keeping us all informed.
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Pike County Agribusiness Authority | P.O. Box 310 - Meansville, GA 30256 | Jackson Street | Zebulon | GA | 30295
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Pike County Agribusiness Authority Newsletter |
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April 2010
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What's Happening in Agriculture in Pike County
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Blueberry blooms |
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Dear fellow Pike County resident:
Winter has departed and with recent temperatures in the 80's it seems like summer has run all over spring! We've enjoyed a moderation in moisture lately and it is getting easier to get into field and garden. No doubt, we will be missing the rain soon enough but it sure is nice to let the dogs in the house without the accompanying mud and topsoil!
Our thoughts are turning to the early spring opening of the Market on the Square on Saturday, April 10th. We are hoping to see Steve and a few of our other "regulars" who might have early, cool season vegetables--there is nothing as good as fresh-picked-this-morning greens! We hope to have the opportunity to buy bedding plants, woody ornamentals and perhaps some iris. And, we're looking forward to visiting with old friends over Jennifer's coffee and pastries. The market starts out slowly as the ground warms up throughout the next few weeks until we find ourselves in the midst of a squash and green pepper bonanza come July! Part of the fun of buying locally-grown produce is discovering how to make meals with the seasons in mind--you might find a new taste treat that you never experienced before! One of the USDA's new mottos is "Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food" and we can vouch for that in Pike County!
The Agribusiness Authority is also working on creating a "virtual" CSA where farmers and customers can order produce "a la carte" for pick-up in the middle of the week. As soon as we get a convenient location and enlist some volunteers (there's no "virtual" about distributing the food orders!) we'll get started!
The Ag Authority still has scholarship funding for anyone who plans to attend an ag-related or environmental workshop or seminar. Pike County residents can apply for up to $250 to cover travel, lodging, or fees. For more information, please call Chris at 770-567-3600.
What's the status on the trail? Southern Rivers EMC and the Ag Authority went the extra mile and funded the boardwalk extension on the trail. This will enable students and hikers to experience a mini-cross section of many environments in our region. Stay tuned for an announcement about the official dedication and opening of the trail.
Stay tuned for Pike's first-ever "Dog and Pony" show! It's scheduled for Saturday, May 29th. See below for more information.
The Board of the Pike County Agribusiness Authority invites you to meet them and share your ideas at their monthly meeting--always the first Tuesday of the month at 9:30 in the Chamber of Commerce offices.
Hey, we know there are luscious strawberries getting ready out there...If you know of a farm operation that is offering them or other products for the public, please let us know so we can come and pick!
Sincerely,
The Pike County Agribusiness Authority
George Norris, Chair
Tom Lacey
Rex Yerkes
Dave Bentoski
Ken Gran
Chris Curry, Executive Director
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AG News and Notes
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STRAWBERRIES ON THE WAY! They are just abut to pop! Estimated time for pick-your-own or we pick. Meansville. Call Steven at 770-584-3909.
FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLE PRODUCTION FIELD DAY: This looks like a great day of education and demonstrations on raised beds, vegetable production, micro irrigation, hoop houses, fruit production and how to keep the critters out of your garden--it's an excellent way to get a good over-all introduction for folks who are considering sustainable farming. Free registration is open until April 19th. Call the Upper Ocmulgee River RC&D in Lawrenceville at 770-339-6071 or email Jerome.Brown@ga.usda.gov. The event will be at the Dillwood Farm, 4000 Brushy Fork Road, Loganville, GA 30052. Did we say it's free and that lunch will be served?
UGA WORKSHOPS IN GRIFFIN: There will be a series of workshops at the UGA Research Demonstration Garden right in our own backyard: April 9: Grafting Your Landscape and Garden (95.00), April 16: Grow Your Own Vegetables (25.00); April 23: Grow Your Own Fruit (25.00) and May 7: Growing Fabulous Herbs in Raised Beds & Containers (45.00). For more information and to register, call Val Schott at 770-233-5598.
THE TRACTOR CLUB HAS SOME GREAT PHOTOS ON THEIR SITE! Check out upcoming events and enjoy the great photo albums of past ones by going to www.pctractorclub.com.
MARKET ON THE SQUARE: The Market opens on April 10th! Anyone who has produce, plants, flowers, pastries, or crafts that are one-of-a-kind and made from natural products can sell at the market. It's first-come, first serve for space on the green lawn right next to the Post Office in downtown Zebulon. Our Market Manager, Donnie, will be happy to inform you about the rules and regulations--we suggest you visit with him before you set up. The Market is open from 8 a.m to noon every Saturday from now through October.
GREAT PINESTRAW AVAILABLE IN WILLIAMSON: Save gas, support local ag businesses! Country Corbins has fresh, bright pinestraw bales and mulches in Williamson. They are open M-F from 8 to 5 and Saturdays from 8-12. Call 770-229-5050 for more information.
THE DOG AND PONY SHOW IS COMING!: Saturday, May 29! See the Chestnut Oak article below for more information.
GEORGIA FORESTRY COMMISSION: The Georgia Forestry Commission offers plowing of pre-supression firebreaks for landowners on a first come, first served basis (restrictions may apply). Last chance to burn off that pile of brush you have been accumulating over the winter--get a burn permit and get it done before May 1st. Call 1-877-OK2-BURN or go to www.gfc.state.ga.us/OnlinePermits.
PIKE COUNTY HORSE CLUB: The Horse Club has a great website for anyone interested in local horse news. The Club has a great line-up of rides scheduled for the year--check it out, remind your "pasture ornament" that he is broke to ride, and get out there! The club meets every 3rd Thursday at the Farm Bureau in Zebulon at 7pm.--it's a great opportunity to meet up with local horse lovers and to find people to ride with! For more information go to: pikecountyhorseclub.page.tl/
The Club lists a contact number for the Georgia Horse Welfare Coalition--it's an ad hoc group of concerned horse people who will help direct horseowners to assistance and resources. Recently, several abandoned horses were rescued in Pike County by local folks. If you know any horseowner who is struggling with hard times, please direct them to the Pike County website for more information or contact cmcauliffe@humanesociety.orgfor help.
10th ANNUAL VERMICULTURE CONFERENCE: This is the only conference about earthworm farming and mid-to-large-scale vermicomposting in the U.S. It's sponsored by NC State and will be held in Durham, NC on May 27-28. For more information, go to http://www.bae.ncsu.edu/workshops/worm-conference/. Can it get any better than this for worm aficionados?
CHICKEN RANCHERS: It's hard to raise small numbers of chickens for market even though there is incredible demand for locally-grown, humanely-raised poultry. A new list-serve for pastured poultry producers has been established for folks who are interested in doing this in Georgia--register by going to GAPasturedPoultry@yahoogroups.com.
FARM LOAN PROGRAMS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE FARM SERVICE AGENCY: There are several loan programs that may offer assistance to farmers to purchase farmland and finance agricultural operations. FSA programs are designed to help producers who are temporarily unable to obtain private or commercial credit, including beginning farmers who have insufficient net worth to qualify for financing through a commercial lender. The first step is to call our local FSA office in Barnesville at 770-358-0787.
* Want to list your event? Or, do you know of one that is ag-related? Please e-mail Chris at billchrisfarm@hughes.net. Thanks for keeping us all informed.
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A Note from our County Conservationist, William Pitts
I had the opportunity a week or so ago to work with a student from Pike County High School as part of a job shadowing program offered to juniors and seniors. Raymond Tice, a junior at Pike County High, met me at my office around 7:45 a.m. After a few minutes of getting acquainted, we headed out to GPS some existing fence for a private landowner who had applied to participate in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). The GPS work is an important part of the field work that we do in preparation for the development of a conservation plan for a landowner. After lunch, we surveyed a stream crossing for another landowner who was a participant in the EQIP program.
Raymond did a fine job throughout the day, helping me with the various tasks that my job entailed. He asked a lot of questions and showed a great deal of interest in my occupation. He told me that the highlight of his day, besides getting out of school, was the surveying. Surveying provided him with the most hands-on experience of the day.
I wish they had the job shadowing program back when I was in high school. I think it is important to give kids this kind of exposure to the work place at that age. I enjoyed participating this year and look forward to being a part of the program in the future.
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Go to our website at pikecoag.com to check out the latest folks who are celebrating Pike's rural character by supporting local farming!
"No Farms, No Food" Photo Project: Have fun and say something valuable at the same time!
The American Farmland Trust has started a nationwide project to remind us that America's farms and ranches provide an unparalleled abundance of fresh, healthy and local food. The problem: 86% of America's fruits and vegetables are grown near metropolitan areas and are in danger of being overrun by development. That's Pike County! That's why supporting our local farmers by buying local is more important than ever.
Here's what we are doing in Pike: Make a sign (it doesn't have to be fancy, just an 8.5 x 11 piece of paper will do, unless you want to get creative) that says: NO FARMS, NO FOOD. Holding that sign in the picture, take a photo of yourself, or your family, or you and your animals. Send it to Brenda at fayardb@bellsouth.net and we will put it on our website! If you are digitally-challenged, drop a hard copy off at A Novel Experience in Zebulon or give it to one of our board members.
Keep checking to see what your friends and neighbors come up with!
You can spread the message by requesting a free No Farms No Food bumper sticker from the American Farmland Trust--they have already mailed out over 2 million and we would like to see some in Pike! Go to farmland.orgto order yours.
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LOOK WHAT'S GOING ON AT CHESTNUT OAK!
Chestnut Oak is open for all Pike County residents to visit and to enjoy!
It is located on Hwy 19S right across from the Baptist Children's Home on Sandefur Road. It's 25 beautiful acres of open, green field and a walking trail that goes up the mountain where you can see native azaleas, wildflowers, and the rare, old chestnut oak trees that grow in this microclimate. The land is completely fenced in with an arena for horses and riders in training. Upcoming events are open to everyone who thinks it's a good idea to get up from their computer screen once in a while and go outside!
May 7: Farm Day: Sponsored by the Farm Bureau every year, it introduces our smallest school kids to cows, goats, horses and more.
May 29: The Dog and Pony Show: Sponsored by the Farm Bureau Equine Committee
The Friends of Pike County Animals (FPCA) and the Pike County Horse Club (PCHC) invite you to attend a real "Dog and Pony (and other critters too) Show!" on Saturday, 29 May 2010 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Chestnut Oak Center, Sandefur Rd. & Hwy 19 South, 5.5 miles south of Zebulon.
The main goals of the event are to have fun and showcase our local animal clubs and organizations. The public is invited to attend.
The Dog and Pony Show will have an animal parade (costumes are welcomed and encouraged), blessing of the animals, recognition of rescued animals, a pet costume contest, and animal educational programs. We are hoping to have these special guests appear; Bubba and Friends, Inc. (birds of prey rehabilitation), the Pike Co. Sheriffs Department K-9 Unit, and other animal clubs and organizations.
If you have an animal club or organization, or are a food vender and would like to participate in this event, please contact: 770-469-8726/ friendsofpikecountyanimals@hotmail.com or;
770-856-2144/ pikecountyhorseclub@yahoo.com.
July 10: The Pike County Horse Club will host a ride and a cook-out. For details go to Pike County Horse Club
September 11: The third annual Heritage Day is bigger and better with craft demonstrations, all kinds of animals, mule plowing, and good things to eat!Looking for farm animals and demonstrators of farm skills. Anyone interested in being a part of the celebration contact Brenda Fayard at 770-856-2144.
November 20: Bring your horse, pony or mule for a Fun Day Show sponsored by the Horse Club. Leave behind the stress of serious competition and prepare to laugh!
Anytime: Bring your young horse, or puppy, or child and introduce them to the wide open spaces and wooded trails. Picnic and play a pick-up game of softball. Hike for health and conditioning--by foot or by bike. Park your car, turn off your cellphone, roll down your windows and smell the clean, fresh air--an instant mental health remedy for getting your priorities in order!
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Pike County Agribusiness Authority | P.O. Box 310 - Meansville, GA 30256 | Jackson Street | Zebulon | GA | 30295
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