MOULTRIE, Ga. — It’s that time of year when South Georgia farmers are gearing up for their spring crops. 

The decisions they make are big ones, accounted for in millions of dollars in seed, fertilizer, equipment, fuel and time.  Nowhere in the state are those decisions more crucial than here in Colquitt County, the state’s top farmgate value community at $473,233,569 for 2015, the latest year of tabulation.

The decisions they must make include how many acres per crop, what varieties, how much rent they can justify, lease or buy equipment, deciding on a broker for some crops, irrigation potential, etc.

Colquitt County not only is on record for the most farmgate value, but it’s one of the most diversified farming communities in the state as well with the traditional row crops of peanuts, cotton, corn and some tobacco and a smorgasbord of vegetable production that accounts for almost one third of the farmgate tally.

To help farmers with their decision making, numerous production meetings with University of Georgia Extension experts are set up around the region. 

Coming up right away are the following meetings:

• The Colquitt County Cotton Production Meeting will be held at noon on January 27 at the Colquitt County Extension office. Topics include varieties, fertilization, agronomics, and many other aspects of cotton production. If you are interested in attending please contact Kristina at the Colquitt County Extension office. The contact number is 229-616-7455.

   • Georgia Corn Short Course is scheduled for Jan. 24 at the Tifton Conference Center. This year’s sessions will focus on new research and what it takes to optimize y profits under the expected prices for 2017. 

   Research and Extension scientists are scheduled to discuss projects funded by check-off dollars and share their advances in corn production and technology. Featured guest speaker is Missy Bauer, Farm Journal Associate Field Agronomist and crop consultant who has insight into setting up planters for maximum benefits in any crop. In addition, exhibitors will be there to provide up-to-date information on various products. 

   Awards will be presented to the 2017 Georgia High Yield Producers during lunch. Door prizes will be given away at the end of the day’s program. 

   Applications for credits for pesticide licenses and certified crop advisors hours have been made. The short course is sponsored by the Agricultural Commodity Commission for Corn, The University of Georgia and Cooperative Extension Service. 

Additional information can be obtained at:  

https://gallery.mailchimp.com/c5314b7406ec484e5681477af/files/2017_Corn_Short_course_002_.pdf

  • The Georgia Cotton Commission Annual Meeting and UGA Cotton Production Workshop will be held Jan. 25. at the UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center. There is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested to help with meal plans.  Register online at www.ugatiftonconference.org or call 229.386.3416.