Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod

Alabama Farmers Federation staffers and Alabama Nursery & Landscape Association Director Russell Wood have worked with state officials to ensure horticulture, including greenhouses, nurseries and retail garden centers, is considered “essential” through the coronavirus pandemic. All garden centers and retail outlets must adhere to state rules concerning social distancing.

-Hunter McBrayer, division director

Poultry

Poultry remains strong during the novel coronavirus, with Alabama-based hatcheries setting 34 million eggs, up 12% from this time last year. Alabama continues to see an increase in the number of eggs set and chicks placed in 2020 from this time a year ago, while neighboring states have not seen the same growth.

-Russ Durrance, division director

Beef

The effects of African Swine Fever have left top export markets for U.S. meat searching for alternative protein options. Recent trade deals and record meat production numbers in the first quarter of 2020 suggest the U.S. is well positioned to fill this need in overseas markets. 

-Brady Ragland, division director

Peanuts

Peanut growers are gearing up for planting season. Quality concerns with the 2019 crop could impact the quality of this year’s seed crop. Additionally, due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Alabama Peanut Producers Association office in Dothan is open by appointment only.

-Jacob Davis, executive director

Wildlife

For most of the state, spring turkey season runs through May 3. If you are practicing social distancing by hunting the state’s official game bird, please remember to record your harvest through GameCheck. For more information on hunting seasons and GameCheck, visit outdooralabama.com.

-William Green, division director

Soybean

A cool, wet winter set the stage for cooler soil temperatures and high moisture levels in fields. These elements could create the perfect environment for diseases to take hold, resulting in an economic loss for farmers. Alabama Cooperative Extension System specialists say soybeans infected with a seedling disease are typically weak and less vigorous, which can cripple stand establishment. Learn how to submit plant samples at aces.edu.

-Carla Hornady, division director