I hope all of you will be able to look back on the year’s greatness. Put your pencil to paper as you consider all you learned from 2024; some very important lessons were sprinkled in there.

To give time for reflection and enjoyment this holiday season, we will not be sending out our daily emails the week between Christmas and New Year’s. The Morning Ag Clips’ daily email will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

There will still be news articles published on our site, so make sure to stay up-to-date by going to morningagclips.com. Every day there will be something new, and there will be an editor watching for breaking ag news every day. But like you, we all need a break, and the only way to get it is to be extremely intentional about it, so we are!

Here’s to you, your family, and a prosperous and healthy New Year! We will see you in 2025!

With love,
Kate

The post Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

“Demonstrating responsible use of fire is an important step in the Delaware Forest Service’s plan to increase public acceptance of prescribed fire as a tool to manage forested lands,” said Delaware Forest Service Wildland Fire Supervisor Sam Topper. “Through smoke management and weather monitoring, it is one of the least intrusive methods that we use in order to sustainably manage our forests in the state of Delaware.”

Prescribed fire provides many benefits to local ecosystems, such as the removal of invasive species and improved soil quality. During this workshop, participants will learn more about the ecological effects of prescribed fires and the factors we consider when planning and executing a prescribed burn. Presentations will be provided at the historic Redden Education Center on topics such as the legal considerations of prescribed fire, smoke management, and fire safety and preparation. Weather permitting, a live fire demonstration will also be held.

Registration is required due to space availability and an accurate lunch count. Register for free, online at https://tinyurl.com/43ndayvh

–Sophia Curran, Delaware Forest Service

The post 'Learn & Burn' Workshop at Redden State Forest appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

Source water protection isn’t just about safeguarding the environment; it’s about securing public health, economic stability, and a shared future. By working together to implement sustainable water management practices, communities can ensure access to clean drinking water while fostering a sense of shared accountability. When everyone plays a role, the benefits ripple across the region, supporting agriculture, local economies, and the well-being of all who live there.

Collaborative Efforts in Source Water Protection

Protecting source water is a team effort that requires the involvement of diverse stakeholders, each bringing unique strengths and perspectives to the table. By fostering collaboration among local farmers, businesses, and residents, communities can create a sustainable framework for water management that benefits everyone.

Farmers play a critical role in source water protection by implementing conservation practices that reduce runoff, prevent erosion, and minimize nutrient leaching. Sustainable farming techniques, such as cover cropping, buffer strips, and precision agriculture, help protect nearby water sources while improving soil health and crop yields. Programs like those outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill provide financial incentives and technical support for farmers to adopt these practices, making conservation an attainable and beneficial goal.

Additionally, local businesses, particularly those in industries that rely heavily on water, can lead the way in sustainable water management. Through strategies like reducing industrial discharge, reusing water, and supporting local conservation initiatives, businesses can not only protect water sources but also enhance their reputation as responsible corporate citizens. Many companies have found that sustainable water practices improve operational efficiency and reduce costs, making these efforts a win-win for both the environment and the bottom line.

Residents also have a vital role to play in protecting source water. From reducing household pollutants, such as over-applying lawn fertilizers, to participating in local cleanup events and educational programs, individuals can make a meaningful impact. By supporting local policies and initiatives aimed at water conservation and protection, residents ensure their voices contribute to a collective effort that safeguards the community’s water supply.

Examples of Programs and Partnerships

Collaboration in source water protection often succeeds through structured programs and partnerships that bring together government agencies, local organizations, and communities. These initiatives provide the framework, tools, and funding necessary to safeguard drinking water sources while fostering collective responsibility.

The Source Water Protection (SWP) Program

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Source Water Protection Program exemplifies how partnerships can drive effective water resource management. While primarily voluntary, the program supports state and local governments, as well as community stakeholders, with technical tools and guidance to prevent contamination of drinking water sources.

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)

The SDWA established a foundation for protecting drinking water quality through the multi-barrier approach. This strategy encompasses:

• Selecting high-quality water sources.
• Implementing protective measures to prevent contamination.
• Using effective treatment technologies.
• Maintaining water quality within distribution systems.

Programs under the SDWA, such as the Source Water Assessment and Protection Program (SWAPP), offer local governments and utilities the tools to assess vulnerabilities and engage in targeted protection efforts.

The 2018 Farm Bill and USDA Initiatives

The 2018 Farm Bill introduced provisions to protect drinking water through conservation practices. With incentives and funding, it encourages:

• Identifying Priority Areas: Targeting regions where conservation efforts are most critical for water quality.
• Increased Incentives: Supporting agricultural practices that protect water sources while boosting farm productivity.
• Funding Allocation: Dedicating at least 10% of conservation program funds to source water protection annually.

These efforts empower farmers to be active partners in water conservation, demonstrating how agriculture and environmental stewardship can work hand in hand.

The Wellhead Protection Program

The Delaware Wellhead Protection Program approved by the EPA focuses on protecting the land surrounding public water supply wells. By delineating wellhead protection areas, identifying contamination sources, and fostering public participation, this initiative ensures long-term water quality in critical supply zones.

Funding Opportunities for Local Collaboration

Programs like the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund offer essential financial support for source water protection projects. These funds allow states and communities to implement protective measures such as land acquisition, infrastructure upgrades, and pollution prevention strategies.

The Sole Source Aquifer Program

The Sole Source Aquifer Program ensures that aquifers critical to a region’s drinking water supply receive added protection. EPA reviews federally funded projects within these areas to ensure they do not threaten water quality.

The Importance of Shared Accountability

No single entity can ensure the protection of source water alone. Farmers may work to reduce nutrient runoff, businesses can minimize industrial discharges, and residents can limit pollutants in household waste—but without collaboration, these efforts may fall short. Shared accountability means recognizing that everyone has a role to play and that success depends on coordinated action.

Creating a culture of shared accountability begins with education and outreach. When communities understand how their actions impact local water sources, they’re more likely to participate in protective practices. Schools, local governments, and organizations can offer workshops, share resources, and facilitate discussions that emphasize the importance of collective stewardship.

By embracing shared accountability, communities can transform source water protection from an individual responsibility into a collective success story. Together, farmers, businesses, residents, and organizations can create a future where clean, safe drinking water is not just a necessity, but a shared legacy for generations to come.

—Sussex Conservation District

The post Stronger Together: How You Can Make a Clean Water Difference appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

When you look back to the old Western movies, the color of the cowboy hat signifies the actor’s role in the story, either the hero or the villain. But in real life, the black cowboy hat held a sense of power, signifying the person wearing it was confident, dominant, and authoritative. Midwestern law enforcement also wore black cowboy hats to demonstrate they were there to protect. Over time, the meaning of the black cowboy hat has also encompassed elegance, strength, individuality, uniqueness, undefeatability, and style. While most of these adjectives describe Scuse, no man is undefeatable, so competitive may be a better term, and it definitely applies to Scuse.

Sitting down recently with Secretary Scuse, he shared there was so much accomplished during the Minner administration to benefit agriculture, that he chose to highlight the following successes:

• Delaware’s Farmland Preservation license plate was designed and made available so that Delawareans purchasing the plate could help preserve farmland.
• He created the Forestland Preservation Program, preserving forested properties in managed timber production. When he left office, though, funding dried up until he returned and could reinstate the program in 2019. Between the Minner and Carney administrations, the program purchased 20 forestland easements on more than 1,650 acres, another 2,200 acres in 10-year forestland areas, and another 40,600 acres of forest preserved under Aglands Preservation.
• Under his leadership, the Delaware Department of Agriculture and the University of Delaware’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) had a strong working relationship.
  • In 2004, Secretary Scuse led Delaware and Maryland through low-pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI), affecting two farms in Delaware and one in Maryland. This was accomplished utilizing a Unified Command between Delaware, Maryland, USDA-APHIS, and key stakeholders, of which Dr. Robin Morgan, Dean of CANR, played a pivotal role. USDA-APHIS utilized Delaware’s response as an example of how to handle future outbreaks.
  • Scuse teamed up with Morgan again to create LEADelaware, a two-year leadership program to help develop the next generation of leaders in production, agribusiness, and policy in the food and fiber industries.
  • Then he partnered with Ed Kee of the University of Delaware’s Cooperative Extension to create Delaware Ag Week, a one-stop shop for farmers to learn about the latest research, earn continuing education credits, and network with agribusinesses.
• Before he left office to become Minner’s Chief of Staff in the last few months of the administration, Scuse fought hard to get funding in the Farm Bill to support research efforts to improve Delaware’s specialty crop industry. While he would not see the program’s impact during that term, when he returned to serve under Governor John Carney, the Department secured more than $3.2 million from the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service to support 72 multi-year projects.

Even with the change of administration in 2009, Scuse was not looking to ride off into the sunset. Scuse accepted a position at USDA as the Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services. Helping Delaware farmers find new markets for their products had been a key part of his role while serving under Minner. He would eventually become the Acting U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. Scuse visited 27 countries and 48 states in those eight years, working to advance American agriculture. Taking pride in his work, Scuse fought for what was right, remained curious so that he could continue to learn, sat next to farmers struggling through adversity, and assured them he was there to help. Delaware was never far from his heart, no matter where his travels took him.

When Governor Carney called on Scuse to return as Delaware’s Secretary of Agriculture in 2017, there was no doubt that when he hopped back in the saddle, the man taking the reins this time was a more seasoned cowboy, which would be critical for what lay ahead, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the start of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak in the U.S.

While the Delaware Department of Agriculture has experienced many successes throughout the Carney administration, Secretary Scuse focused on five main areas: agricultural land preservation, agriculture and the environment, food access for Delawareans, protecting Delaware agriculture, and supporting agriculture markets.

Most recently on Scuse’s mind was the Aglands Preservation celebration with Governor Carney, where they unveiled a new sign for farmers to place at the end of their farm lanes or on the farm to help promote the program to the public. He expressed gratitude to Governor Carney, members of the General Assembly, the counties, farmers, and other stakeholders for helping Delaware become the second most effective program in the country. While Governor Carney helped preserve the highest number of farms, Scuse is recognized for overseeing 40.5% of Delaware’s total farmland preserved and securing 60% of the program funding during both his terms to preserve 687 farms on 63,100 acres. In 2018, Delaware was recognized as the first USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service – Agricultural Conservation Easement Program certified entity, allowing the program to preserve farmland more quickly.

With Delaware in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, protecting the environment is essential. Through his work, Secretary Scuse secured a significant increase in funding to invest in cover crops to help offset the costs for farmers to plant cover crops, which reduce agricultural nutrient runoff, improve water quality, and mitigate climate change. The Department also secured funding for manure relocation, assistance for farmers needing nutrient management planning, and increased positions within the University of Delaware Extension for agriculture and turf nutrient management. The Delaware Forest Service, based within the Department, also improved the environment by planting over 1 million trees in the past four years, reestablished wildlife habitat through sustainable forestry practices, and, between both administrations, issued 538 grants and over $3 million in funding to communities and municipalities to plant trees.

As producers upgraded to more environmentally friendly poultry houses, Secretary Scuse saw a need to address abandoned poultry houses that had reached the end of their lifespan. In 2023, he developed a cost-share program to help offset the removal costs of 56 abandoned poultry houses, lessen their environmental impact, and enhance Delaware’s rural landscape.

Early in the Carney administration, Scuse, along with Deputy Secretary Nikko Brady, saw a need to create the Delaware Council on Farm and Food Policy to maintain updated knowledge and awareness about food access opportunities and concerns. The Council secured $2 million in ARPA funding to launch the First State Food System Grant Program to improve the capacity, efficiency, and coordination of Delaware food producers and strengthen the state’s food supply chain. They also obtained over $3 million in funding from USDA to help local and underserved producers maintain and improve the resiliency of the state’s food and agricultural supply. By 2020, the Council’s success in promoting nutrition through data analysis and improving healthy food access earned them the Lieutenant Governor’s Challenge Wellness Leadership Award.

Even the most balanced cowboy gets thrown off occasionally, and Delaware agriculture has seen some hardships. Secretary Scuse has worked hard to minimize impacts on Delaware’s producers and agribusinesses using his experience at the state and federal level, along with his contacts here and abroad. While many would like to forget the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department worked day and night to navigate the issues impacting the industry. It brought to light that without agriculture, Delawareans could not eat. For the first time in many years, we saw Delawareans seeking food directly from the source, which was huge.

As soon as we seemed to clear the pandemic, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) hit North America with a vengeance. We have never experienced an animal health emergency of this scale in the country’s history. In 2022, Delaware was the fifth state to experience HPAI in a commercial operation and the first state with over 1 million birds impacted. Again, under Scuse’s leadership, the spread of the virus was quickly stopped, with only three commercial operations in Delaware impacted. Secretary Scuse has worked with producers, agribusinesses, government officials, and agricultural advocacy groups to ensure that all sectors had the latest information to help our producers minimize impacts on trade and export during the COVID-19 pandemic, the HPAI outbreak, the Francis Scott Key Bridge disaster, and other interstate commerce challenges.

Disasters aside, Secretary Scuse shared that protecting agriculture also ensures we have an industry 25, 50, and 100 years from now to feed our families. Access to financing is a barrier to ensuring that young and beginning farmers can succeed. Scuse realized an opportunity to reinvent the DRIP Program, using the funding allocated from the Delaware Economic Development Authority in the Division of Small Business to help farmers and aquaculture producers purchase equipment they need to get started or to expand their operations by developing the Delaware Agricultural Finance Program. Another challenge for agriculture is that more people are moving into the state, and some areas are shifting from rural to suburban communities. In 2024, the Department partnered with a non-profit to launch the Delaware Agricultural Mediation Program with the support of USDA funding to provide low-cost mediation to Delaware farmers with legal conflicts, neighbor disputes, family inheritance concerns, and more. Finally, in 2024, working with the Delaware Farm Bureau, we saw legislation passed and signed into law by Governor Carney to protect agriculture and help producers, including the Delaware Crop Insurance Assistance and Dairy Margin Subsidies.

Besides Scuse’s work in trade and the efforts that he and the Department have made to increase funding for specialty crops, Scuse looks forward to seeing the long-term impacts of two major programs within the state to help support agriculture markets. In the early years of the Carney administration, Scuse’s team conducted research involving consumer awareness of Delaware’s specialty crops and brand studies to create the Delaware Grown brand. Delaware producers and retail businesses have asked the Department to help expand the brand to help them gain access to additional markets. The Department has secured the funding to take this project on for their stakeholders; however, they anticipate it will take about three years before witnessing the full impact on the industry. The second major project, USDA’s Resilient Food System Infrastructure Program, aims to strengthen the middle of the supply chain. Delaware has received over $2 million in funding to improve infrastructure and provide the equipment that those working in this space need to succeed. Scuse believes that both of these programs will positively impact the economic development of the state’s agriculture industry.

So, what’s next? Will Scuse don his black cowboy hat and ride off into the sunset, or is there more work for him? On his way out in January, he plans to tip his hat in salute to those still left behind who will continue to improve Delaware’s agriculture industry and protect consumers at the Department of Agriculture. But he looks forward to enjoying time traveling with his wife, visiting friends he made over the past 24 years serving agriculture, spending time with his family, and heading into the field to do some hunting. Undoubtedly, he will still keep tabs on the agriculture industry and will celebrate the best 10 days of the summer at the Delaware State Fair.

–Stacey Hofmann, Delaware Department of Agriculture

The post Scuse Has Always Hung His Hat Up In Delaware appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

Sharon Collison is a licensed registered dietitian and board-certified specialist in obesity and weight management who provides medical nutrition therapy in the University of Delaware’s Nutrition Clinic. She is also an instructor of clinical nutrition in the Department of Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences in the College of Health Sciences.

Q: What are some healthy swaps for traditional holiday dishes? 

Collison: The American Heart Association (AHA) has great heart-healthy holiday recipes. But here are some easy ways to modify your own recipes:

• Use fat-free half-and-half in place of heavy cream or regular half-and-half
• Use Truvia brown sugar baking blend instead of brown sugar (Tip: Reduce the portion of Truvia baking blend to half the amount of sugar.)
• Substitute white whole wheat flour for white flour in baking recipes; this will increase dietary fiber without changing the texture of the baked good that would occur if substituted with whole wheat flour.
• Use 1/2 full eggs + 1/2 liquid egg white to reduce calories/fat/cholesterol in any recipe (1/8 cup liquid egg/egg white = 1 egg).
• Use applesauce instead of 1/2 of the oil in a recipe to reduce fat content and calories.
• Use fat-free plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
• It’s important that food tastes good and is enjoyed; too many modifications can take the enjoyment out of a favorite food. If any of these modifications change the taste/texture of the recipe too much, consider replacing half of the ingredients as suggested and still include half of the original ingredient (sour cream, oil, sugar, etc.) to reduce overall calories/fat/sugar.

Q: How can I enjoy my favorite holiday foods without overindulging?

Collison: Don’t skip meals on the day of the holiday. If you’re overly hungry when the holiday meal is served, it will be harder to keep portions controlled. Also, make choices. Decide what foods at the meal are most appealing to you and eat a moderate portion (such as a cup). For example, if the meal has mashed potatoes and a sweet potato casserole, decide which one is most appealing to you and enjoy. Try to be more mindful about choices, eat slowly and make sure you are aware of how much you are eating. Check in with yourself throughout the meal and pay attention to fullness signals.

Q: How can I maintain a positive body image during the season of indulgence?

Collison: Wear clothes that make you feel the most confident AND comfortable. Avoid clothing that is too tight, making you feel even more uncomfortable after eating. Also, make physical activity a priority during the holiday season. Several studies support the benefit of physical activity on body image independent of the effect on body weight.

Q: Will dessert kill my diet, or is it all about balance? 

Collison: Absolutely not! Diets are the problem, not dessert. I recommend eating dessert while paying attention to portions and eating mindfully. Not allowing yourself dessert or depriving yourself can backfire and lead to extreme dieting and overindulging, which is more harmful to your well-being.

Q: What are some tips for moderating alcohol consumption at holiday parties?

Collison: Alternate alcoholic beverages with a glass of water or flavored seltzer. This will help you stay hydrated, too.

Q: What are some festive non-alcoholic drink options for celebrations?

Collison: Flavored seltzer with added orange slices and fresh cranberries.

Q: How do you stay active during the colder holiday months? 

Collison: Bundle up in layers and go for a walk/hike. Purchase inexpensive exercise equipment, such as a stationary bike, to exercise without going outside or to a gym. Set a daily step goal and reach it at home by walking and talking on the phone with family or friends, dancing and cleaning.

Q: How can I handle food guilt or pressure to eat during family meals?

Collison: Depending on your situation and family dynamics, consider talking to your family about perceived pressure to eat. Think about how you want to eat at holiday gatherings and tell your family you may eat differently than you did in the past. Ask them not to comment or draw attention and allow you to do what is best for you.

Try to avoid extremes in eating; neither extreme works in the long run. Being too restrictive doesn’t allow you to enjoy food. Food is meant to be enjoyed. Allow yourself to enjoy special foods over the holidays. Pay attention to both extremes so that you’re not undereating or overeating. If you are still struggling with guilt or feel you are unable to avoid these extremes, consider working with a registered dietitian and psychotherapist who have the training to help you.

Q: How can I make healthier choices while traveling for the holidays? 

Collison: Consider packing some foods to give you more options. For example, bring everything you need to continue your breakfast routine. Plan ideas for lunches that you know help you feel your best. Since breakfast and lunch are closer to your regular routine, give yourself more flexibility with your dinner meal.

Also, don’t be afraid to plan and research restaurants with options you feel good about.

Lastly, set a goal to ensure each meal/snack includes a serving of fruit or vegetables, which will help you consume smaller portions of higher-calorie foods.

Q: How do I return to a balanced diet after a season of treats and large meals?

Collison: If you avoid the extreme of eating much more than usual at holiday meals, you will much more easily be able to return to your regular food intake patterns.

But try not to view the holiday season as a time to avoid setting limits on food intake. Make choices where you want to eat more than you might otherwise, but make these choices mindfully, and try not to view any meal as an unlimited buffet.

Q: What small steps can I take to set healthy goals for the new year?

Collison: Avoid the common goal of starting a diet on Jan. 1 or 2. Instead, start increasing physical activity during the holiday season.

Focus on what to add to your diet rather than what to avoid; try setting a goal to ensure that each meal/snack includes vegetables and/or fruit, get two servings of whole grains/day, or eat a plant-based meal once/day or three meals/week.

–Amy Cherry, University of Delaware

The post Healthy Holiday Habits appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

Impacted Area: New Jersey

Triggering Disaster 1: Drought with excessive heat June 25, 2024, and continuing.

Application Deadline: 8/11/2025

Primary Counties Eligible: Hunterdon, Somerset.

Contiguous Counties Also Eligible:
New Jersey: Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Union, Warren.
Pennsylvania: Bucks.

Triggering Disaster 2: Drought with excessive heat June 1, 2024, and continuing.

Application Deadline: 8/11/25

Primary Counties Eligible: Burlington, Camden, Ocean.

Contiguous Counties Also Eligible:
New Jersey: Atlantic, Gloucester, Mercer, Monmouth.
Pennsylvania: Bucks, Philadelphia.

Triggering Disaster 3: Drought 6/8/24 and continuing.

Application Deadline: 8/11/2025

Primary Counties Eligible: Gloucester, Salem.

Contiguous Counties Also Eligible:
New Jersey: Atlantic, Camden, Cumberland.
Delaware: Kent, New Castle.
Pennsylvania: Delaware, Philadelphia.

Triggering Disaster 4: Drought 5/19/2024 and continuing.

Application Deadline: 8/11/2025

Primary Counties Eligible: Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland.

Contiguous Counties Also Eligible:
New Jersey: Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Ocean, Salem.
Delaware: Kent.

More Resources
On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Loan Assistance Tool can help you determine program or loan options. To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local USDA Service Center.

–USDA FSA New Jersey

The post USDA Designates Numerous New Jersey Counties as Natural Disaster Areas appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

Dr. Benton’s UD journey started in 1956 as a research associate and, in 1959, he completed his Master of Science in Animal Science. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia, he would go on to complete his Ph.D. in biological sciences at UD in 1966.

As a researcher, Dr. Benton specialized in poultry health and diseases in the (now) College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). He served as a professor of animal sciences, where he made significant contributions to the field of poultry health. Benton was one of the early research pioneers of Marek’s disease, which was among the most economically devastating issues facing poultry producers worldwide in the mid-20th century.

Dr. Benton’s contributions have endured through the decades. He is well-known for early field testing of the key Marek’s disease vaccine and herpesvirus of turkeys on the Delmarva Peninsula. This work demonstrated the effectiveness of the vaccine and led to its widespread adoption by the U.S. poultry industry.

William J. Benton in an undated photo.

He later took on the role of associate dean and associate director of the Agricultural Experiment Station in Newark. Benton recognized the significance of basic and applied research and the value it brought to the state and region.Dr. Benton was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Avian Pathologists. He is also remembered as a dedicated mentor to Blue Hen students. Benton served as an adviseor to the Delaware chapter of Alpha Zeta, the agricultural co-ed fraternity.

Dr. Benton was also the point person for the college and the University during the original construction of Worrilow Hall, an important UD laboratory that opened in 1980 and facilitated the transition of CANR’s research program into a new age.

Remembered by the Blue Hen community

Robin Morgan, retired faculty member, former University of Delaware provost and dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources: “Dr. Benton welcomed me to the University of Delaware in the 1980s, encouraging and supporting me through the early stages of my career. A man of great integrity, Bill Benton was held in very high regard across the University and throughout the many communities he served. Several of his former students and colleagues later became my mentors, and they remember him as a true gentleman and scholar, a tremendous teacher and a mentor beyond description. I think Bill gave us a superb example of excellent academic scholarship, university administration, and personal mentorship.”

Spangler “Buzz” Klopp, UD alumnus (AG’66, ’68M): “There are many virtues of Dr. Benton. My most vivid recollections focus on not only his expertise in poultry, but his mentoring of young students such as me. He instilled a passion for doing a job the right way and following up on details.”

Jack Gelb, UD alumnus (AG’74, ‘76M), retired faculty member and former chair of Department of Animal and Food Sciences and director of the Avian Bioscience Center: “Dr. Benton was highly respected by all, the consummate gentleman, professional, well-informed and kind. His impacts on agriculture in the state through his research and on student mentoring were significant and well-recognized.”

 

Willaim J. benton in 1965.

William W. Saylor, retired UD faculty member, and former associate dean for research and associate director of the Agricultural Experiment Station: “Bill was the consummate administrator with attention to detail, thoroughness, accuracy and integrity at the heart of his work. Bill was the staunchest of supporters of the land-grant system, and held that standard before the college faculty as an example to pursue. He was the personification of a fine southern gentleman, treating everyone with benevolence, respect and civility. He will be remembered fondly by many.”

Mark Isaacs, associate professor in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences and director of the Carvel Research and Education Center: “His exemplary professionalism and ability to tactfully articulate challenges and opportunities for our college’s vision and direction was something to behold. In addition, his high regard for undergraduate and graduate education was a significant attribute that sparked many students’ professional development and careers.”

Ed Kee, UD alumnus, former Cooperative Extension agent, former state of Delaware secretary of agriculture and current CANR executive in residence: “Dr. Benton was a true scholar. He believed deeply in UD’s land-grant university mission. He was proud and appreciative to be a scholar and then an administrator.”

Making a gift

In honor of Dr. Benton’s retirement from UD, family and friends created the William J. Benton Graduate Student Award in recognition of his dedication to graduate education. In lieu of flowers, the family requests gifts be made in Dr. Benton’s memory to the award fund to support graduate education at the University of Delaware. Please forward donations to Gifts Processing, 83 East Main St., 3rd Floor, Newark, DE 19716. Make checks payable to “University of Delaware” and include on the memo line “in memory of Dr. William J. Benton”. Gifts can also be made on UD’s secure website, www.udel.edu/makeagift. Choose “I’d like to search for a different option” and then search for “Benton” or “Benton Award”.

Read Dr. Benton’s obituary.

–Dante LaPenta, University of Delaware

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]]> https://www.morningagclips.com/farm-credit-presents-2025-grain-and-oilseed-outlook-webinar/ Tue, 17 Dec 2024 23:07:01 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=656844 ENFIELD, Conn. — The grain and oilseed sector had record harvests in 2024. With changing storage opportunities, market demands and trade challenges, what is on the horizon for 2025? Farm Credit East and Horizon Farm Credit will be hosting CoBank Lead Economists, Tanner Ehmke and Jacqui Fatka, on Monday, January 6, at 12 p.m. for a free webinar […]

The post Farm Credit Presents 2025 Grain and Oilseed Outlook Webinar appeared first on Morning Ag Clips.

]]> ENFIELD, Conn. — The grain and oilseed sector had record harvests in 2024. With changing storage opportunities, market demands and trade challenges, what is on the horizon for 2025? Farm Credit East and Horizon Farm Credit will be hosting CoBank Lead Economists, Tanner Ehmke and Jacqui Fatka, on Monday, January 6, at 12 p.m. for a free webinar that will review variables affecting the upcoming cropping season.

With record soybean and corn harvests, profitable storage options and recovering export demand, the landscape is shifting. Learn how ethanol production and renewable diesel demand are driving the market, despite challenges from trade policies and global competition.

This webinar is part of Farm Credit East’s Insights and Perspectives series, which includes webinars and outlook papers for the diverse sectors of Northeast agriculture and forest products. Visit FarmCreditEast.com/CashGrain to read the 2025 grain and oilseed outlook report.

This outlook webinar taking place on January 6 is free to attend. You do not need to be a Farm Credit East or Horizon Farm Credit customer to attend. Learn more at FarmCreditEast.com/Webinars. Contact Chris Laughton at (800) 562-2235 or Chris.Laughton@farmcrediteast.com for more information.

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Farm Credit East is a member-owned cooperative serving businesses involved in agriculture, forest products and commercial fishing throughout its eight-state territory of New York, New Jersey and New England. In addition to loans and leases, the organization offers a full range of specialized financial services. Farm Credit East is governed by a 16-person board of directors, comprised of 13 customer-elected, one customer appointed and two outside appointed directors. For more information, visit FarmCreditEast.com.  

Horizon Farm Credit is a member-owned agricultural lending cooperative, providing short-, intermediate- and long-term financing and related services to full- and part-time farmers, agricultural-related businesses and rural landowners. It serves Delaware, Pennsylvania, and parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. The Association has more than 22,600 members and over $7.0 billion in loans outstanding. Learn more at horizonfc.com.

–Farm Credit East

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]]> https://www.morningagclips.com/scholarships-available-for-students-pursuing-chicken-careers-3/ Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:35:20 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=656732 GEORGETOWN, Del. — Delmarva Chicken Association has opened the application period for its 2025 College Scholarship Program. Applications are being accepted for undergraduate scholarships of $2,000 and graduate-degree scholarships of $3,000. Complete applications for these scholarships must be received by DCA no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025. DCA’s annual College Scholarship […]

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]]> GEORGETOWN, Del. — Delmarva Chicken Association has opened the application period for its 2025 College Scholarship Program. Applications are being accepted for undergraduate scholarships of $2,000 and graduate-degree scholarships of $3,000. Complete applications for these scholarships must be received by DCA no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025. DCA’s annual College Scholarship Golf Tournament supports these scholarship awards; this year’s tournament raised more than $19,000 for the scholarship fund. Since 1985, DCA has awarded more than $222,000 to undergraduate and graduate students.

“It’s an exciting time to be preparing for a career in the chicken community,” said Holly Porter, DCA’s executive director. “More than 18,000 jobs on Delmarva are directly tied to our chicken companies, and thousands more careers are supported by the chicken economy. We’re excited to be able to help students start journeys toward their chicken careers each year through these scholarships.”

The applicant must be a student in good standing at an accredited, degree-granting institution within the United States, or in the case of graduating high school seniors, accepted to an accredited, degree-granting institution within the United States. A complete transcript must accompany the application, and in the case of high school seniors, proof of college acceptance is required. Applicants must secure a letter of reference from an academic advisor or faculty member. The letter may be included with the application, or the faculty member may email it to the DCA office (dca@dcachicken.com) to arrive by the application deadline. Letters must be on school letterhead and must include the signature of the referring faculty member. DCA membership on the part of the applicant or his/her family is not required and has no effect on the selection process. Scholarship payments are made to the financial aid office at the recipient’s school.

Undergraduate Scholarship

Undergraduate scholarships of $2,000 are available to residents of the Delmarva Peninsula who are undergraduate students at any accredited, degree-granting institution, with an academic major in a subject relevant to Delmarva’s chicken community and who are pursuing a career path leading to employment in any segment of Delmarva’s chicken community. The program also is open to high school seniors on the Delmarva Peninsula who have been accepted at any accredited, degree-granting institution and who are pursuing a career path leading to employment in any segment of Delmarva’s chicken community. Applicants may be pursuing associate’s degrees, technical studies degrees or bachelor’s degrees. Previous recipients, if still eligible, may reapply. Applications will be evaluated by a committee of DCA representatives using the following 100-point rubric: Scholastic Record (20 points), Answers to Questions (40 points), School/Community Activities & Awards (20 points), Financial Need (5 points), Faculty Reference (15 points).

Emerson Morgan Graduate Scholarship

Graduate level scholarships of $3,000 will be available to graduate students at United States universities who are engaged in research that directly benefits Delmarva’s chicken community. Previous recipients, if still eligible, may reapply. Applications will be evaluated by a committee of DCA representatives using the following 100-point rubric: Scholastic Record (10 points), Answers to Questions (30 points), Activities & Awards (10 points), Research Benefits to Delmarva (40 points), Faculty Reference (10 points).

About Delmarva Chicken Association

Delmarva Chicken Association, founded in 1948, has been the Delmarva chicken industry’s voice as the premier membership association focusing on advocacy, education and member relations for more than 75 years. DCA’s vision is to be the most-respected chicken organization in the United States. For more information about the Delmarva Chicken Association, visit www.dcachicken.com or call 302-856-9037.

–Delmarva Chicken Association

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]]> https://www.morningagclips.com/rooted-in-tradition-160-delaware-farms-celebrate-over-100-years/ Sun, 15 Dec 2024 15:51:21 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=656425 DOVER, Del. — Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse and state legislators inducted five Delaware farms into the Century Farm Program today, honoring the farm families’ commitment to keeping farmland within the family for 100 years. “By far, the Century Farm Program is one of my favorite events each year,” said Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. […]

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]]> DOVER, Del. — Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse and state legislators inducted five Delaware farms into the Century Farm Program today, honoring the farm families’ commitment to keeping farmland within the family for 100 years.

“By far, the Century Farm Program is one of my favorite events each year,” said Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate the families who have been committed to keeping our top industry alive for 100 years and are looking to the younger generation to continue the tradition of feeding our neighbors for another 100 years.”

The Delaware Century Farm Program was established in 1987 to honor farm families who have owned and farmed their land for at least 100 years. The farms must include at least 10 acres of the original parcel or gross more than $10,000 annually in agricultural sales.

With the announcement of these four new families and five farms, Delaware will have recognized 160 Century Farms over the past 37 years. Delaware Century Farm families receive a sign for their farms, an engraved plate, and legislative tributes.

2024 Delaware Century Farm Awardees:

Beauchamp Family Farm (Harrington and Greenwood, Kent County): The Beauchamp family is recognized for their two farms, purchased in 1903 and 1915, respectively.

The first farm located on Burrisville Road in Harrington first came into the family in 1903, when Matthew Beauchamp purchased the property from Silas Layton and his wife. The property was willed to Amos and Violet Beauchamp. In 1938, the property was sold to Frank Beauchamp. In 1981, Frank passed away and willed his life estate to his wife, Nellie, and the land to his sons, Preston & Clarence Beauchamp. In 1995, Clarence died, leaving his half to his wife, Susan. In 2003, Susan sold her half back to her brother-in-law, Preston, and his wife, Mary. A year later, Preston passed away, leaving the farm to Mary. In 2005, Mary sold the farm to her son, Brian Beauchamp, the current owner of the family farm.

The second farm, located on Cattail Branch Road in Greenwood, was purchased by Jacob and Rebecca Drummond from Elva and Hiram Ramsdell in 1915. In 1936, Jacob and Rebecca sold the property to Nellie Beauchamp. In 1991, Nellie passed away, and her will conveyed the land to Clarence and Preston Beauchamp. Just as with the previous farm, when Clarence passed away, his wife Susan sold her half of the farm back to Preston and Mary Beauchamp. In 2005, Mary sold the farm to her son, Brian, the current farm owner.

Both farms have produced vegetable crops, corn, soybeans, and wheat, as well as raising livestock and poultry.

Picture (L to R): The Beauchamp Family, including Brian, Lori, Morgan, Milo, Mikayla, Mason, and Mike, accepted two Century Farm Awards for their farms in Harrington and Greenwood, DE.

Culver Family Farm (Laurel, Sussex County): The Culver family was honored with the Century Farm Award for their farm in Little Creek Hundred.

In 1909, Elias Staten Culver and Cora (Vincent) Culver acquired the land that would become the family farm, home to seven of their children. In 1953, the farm was transferred within the family to Carlos Woodrow Elliott and Helen Dickerson Elliott. In 1965, the farm was passed down to Richard Lee Culver and Dolores Elliott Culver. Then in 2010, the farm was transferred to their children Richard L. Culver, Jr., Randal E. Culver, and Ronald L. Culver.

The family has grown corn, soybeans, wheat, and vegetables and raised broilers for over 50 years.

Picture (L to R): Julie Williams Regan, Randy Culver, Rick Culver, Ron and Melissa Culver, Aaron, Noah, and Rachel Culver, Renley, Veronica, and Derek Wimbrough accepted the Century Farm Award.

Ellis Farms (Millsboro, Sussex County): Ray and Barbara Ellis were presented with the Century Farm Award for their family farm, which is located in the lands now between Laurel, Millsboro, and Gumboro, just off Lowes Crossing Road.

The land was originally purchased in October 1916 by John and Eva Hickman, who cultivated it by growing corn and beans. In February 1961, they began raising chickens in a single house to expand the farm’s portfolio. Shortly after the passing of John Hickman, the land was handed down to Robert (John’s son) and his wife, Carrie Hickman. Bob sustained the corn and bean operation while adding pigs and cattle to the farm. Carrie enlarged the chicken production by adding two new chicken houses. When Bob was not farming, his passion was fox hunting. When the state of Delaware revamped the address system in the 90s, the road running through the farm was appropriately named Fox Hound Lane.

In December 1989, Bob handed the property down to Ray and Barbara Ellis (Bob’s daughter) who continued the farming legacy. They removed livestock from the land but, in Sussex County fashion, increased the chicken operation to four houses. In 2007, the land was put into a trust and transferred to Fox Hound Lane, LLC. At present, Ray and Barbara continue to harvest corn and beans. Their goal is to ultimately pass this Century Farm to another family member who will continue the legacy that started more than 108 years ago.

Picture (L to R): Beth Cahall, Barbara and Ray Ellis, Christie and Doug Conaway attended the Century Farm Ceremony held at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, honoring the more than 100 years their farm has been engaged in agriculture.

Fifer Orchards, Inc. (Wyoming, Kent County): The Fifer Family was presented with the Century Farm Award for their family farm, located on Allabands Mill Road in Wyoming.

The century-long legacy started in 1919 when Charles Frederick Fifer, Sr. purchased three farms (The Black Farm, The Ed Jackson Farm, and The Ike Jackson Farm), totaling 330 acres. Charles and his wife Mary raised six children – two became doctors, two became teachers, and two became farmers. Over the years, members of Fred and Harvey’s families carried on the hardworking vision of Charles Fifer, Sr., keeping the “Family Farm” in the family. With the dedication of each Fifer family member, the farm grew in size and scope every step of the way.

Today, the third and fourth generations of the Fred Fifer, Jr. clan continue to operate as Fifer Orchards, Inc. During their tenure, the farming operation has grown exponentially, increasing owned and rented acreage to over 3,000 acres. The family has focused on preserving farmland, orchards, and wildlife habitats. They grow a very diverse mix of crops, including asparagus, strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, flowers, sweetcorn, peaches, apples, and pumpkins, for both commercial and retail. The third and fourth-generation family members hope the fifth generation will continue the wonderful agricultural heritage that started over 100 years ago.

–Stacey Hofmann, Delaware Department of Agriculture

 

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