MDAC DIVISION SPOTLIGHT

Bureau of Regulatory Services: Weights and Measures Division

Director: Brent Bowman

Pictured: Heavy Capacity Inspector Justin Crawford loading the test cart to inspect a a vehicle scale. The test cart total weight when loaded is 33,000 pounds.

MDAC STAFF SPOTLIGHTS

MDAC Staff Promoted Genuine MS® at the Mid-South Farm and Gin Show

Pictured (L to R): Market Development staff Paige Manning, Claude Nash, Hannah East, Haley Yurkow, and Lane Milton.

Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) Market Development Division represented Genuine MS® at the 72nd Annual Mid-South Farm & Gin Show in Memphis, TN, March 1-2.

MDAC Wild Hog Control Program and Ag Museum Staff Participate in Capitol Days

Wild Hog Control Program Nuisance Wildlife Specialist  Peyton Pierce and Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum Director of Operations Ryan Roberts met with legislators February 15, 2024, in the State Capitol building to educate them about MDAC and its many divisions.

MDAC's Ag Theft Bureau Recognized at Dixie National Rodeo Law Enforcement Night

Mississippi Agricultural and Livestock Bureau Director Dean Barnard and his team were recognized at the Law Enforcement Night at the Dixie National Rodeo.

MDAC's Regulatory Services Hires New Staff

The Bureau of Regulatory Services welcomes Larry Veal and Joe Cotten to the MDAC team. 

Veal began training with the Weights & Measures Division as a heavy-scale inspector on February 12. Following his on-the-job training, Veal will conduct inspections of all heavy capacity scales in his area, which includes north central Mississippi. These scales are commonly found at truck stops, scrap yards and poultry processing facilities. In addition, Veal will conduct inspections of rail scales used in commerce and hopper scales, commonly used to weigh containers of small parts.

Cotten joined the Petroleum Division on February 12 and started his on-the-job training as an inspector. Cotten will conduct inspections of all fueling devices in his area, which includes Hinds County, to ensure that when consumers purchase a gallon of fuel, they receive a gallon of fuel. He will also obtain samples of fuel products from locations in his area that will be sent to Mississippi State University Chemical Lab where fuels are tested for octane, water and flash point. He will check signage at all locations and ensure that the price per gallon is posted correctly on the dispenser. 

MDAC Produce Safety Staff Attended the Southern Regional Integrated Produce Safety Conference

Pictured: L-R Angelica Abdallah Ruiz, Mississippi State University; Davis Edwards, Brandon Thornton, Kevin Riggin.

Members of MDAC's Produce Safety Division recently attended the Southern Regional Integrated Produce Safety (SRIPS) Conference in Greenville, South Carolina. The conference was an opportunity to collaborate with the agency's federal partners, FDA and other states' produce safety divisions in the southern region to learn new and improved ways of educating and regulating the produce industry to ensure a safe and wholesome product for the consumer. 

MDAC Petroleum Division Held a Training Session for its Inspectors

MDAC's Petroleum Division recently held an inspector training session, reviewing industry changes, outlining an inspection plan for the year, and reviewing procedures and protocols used by the division.

NOTEWORTHY NEWS

Commissioner Gipson Announces Rankin County Major Economic Development Project to Enhance Local Food Supply, Storage and Distribution in Mississippi

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced an economic development project, which includes the first of its kind food supply, storage and distribution hub – the Genuine Mississippi Agricultural Market Complex. The Market Complex will be located in Brandon, Mississippi.

“It has been said that ‘Food security is national security.’ Today, we are excited to announce the first step in our Mississippi Strategic Agriculture Facilities Expansion (S.A.F.E.) Plan to create long-term food supply, storage and distribution resiliency for all the people of Mississippi. As I outlined at the 2023 Neshoba County Fair, I am convinced that rebuilding Mississippi’s local food supply, storage and distribution is the critical issue we must tackle as we move Mississippi into the future. Today, I am very pleased to announce the first major step toward that vision with a new economic development project to be located in Rankin County, Mississippi,” said Commissioner Gipson.

With unanimous support from the Rankin County Board of Supervisors, Rankin First and the City of Brandon, the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce is launching a new type of Farmers Market featuring not only fresh local products such as poultry, beef, pork, blueberries, sweet potatoes, watermelons, peas and beans, tomatoes, muscadines, rice, peanuts, pecans, dairy, catfish and much more – but also frozen and dried products that can be stored and distributed and sold to consumers throughout the year. The Genuine Mississippi Market Complex will immediately result in new markets and business opportunities for all our Mississippi farmers and for all local food products grown, raised, crafted and made right here in Mississippi. The Market Complex will also provide real world Training and Workforce Development opportunities for Mississippi’s 4-H and FFA youth interested in exploring available agricultural and commerce career paths.

Rankin County Board of Supervisors President Steve Gaines commented, “No one can question the commitment of the Rankin County Board of Supervisors to support and promote agriculture and the well-being of the farm families of Rankin County and our State. Commissioner Gipson's desire to bring an agriculture-focused, economic development and tourism project to the heart of Rankin County is a testimony to the leadership of this great county who have made every effort to prepare Rankin County for success. I am excited most of all for the next generations of farm families who will call Rankin County home. The Genuine Mississippi Agricultural Market Complex will afford our families with any number of opportunities not currently available to them. We are grateful for this opportunity to partner with Commissioner Gipson, the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce and the City of Brandon in this great effort.'”

The Genuine Mississippi Market Complex will be located on approximately 153 undeveloped acres on Mississippi Highway 18 near the front door of future economic development for Rankin County. This Market Complex will be unlike any other existing development in the State of Mississippi. It will feature the full farm-to-table experience for retail consumers whether shopping for fresh farm-raised produce in season, high quality meat products such as beef, chicken, pork and catfish, or frozen or dried products for cooking at home. Visitors will also be able to sit down at a table to enjoy a delicious fresh-cooked meal of Genuine MS® products.

“At the request of the Department of Agriculture and the Rankin County Board of Supervisors, we are pleased to participate in the Genuine Mississippi Market Complex project. It will be a wonderful addition to our county and spur additional economic and tourism development,” said Noel Daniels, President of Rankin First.

Seasonal agricultural-themed events will be held at the Market Complex throughout the year to highlight the great strength and variety of Mississippi’s agricultural products and commodities.

Additionally, the Genuine Mississippi Market Complex will include commercial wholesale food storage and processing components operated by the private sector for distribution to other retail locations including local grocery stores, restaurants and farmers markets. The overall site development will be overseen by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce with input and private investments from the agricultural industry and private sector partners.

This development will become a Mississippi agriculture-themed destination for thousands of visitors and customers that will spur additional tourism and private investment in and around Rankin County.

“The announcement of the Market Complex to be located on Hwy 18 in Brandon is an exciting addition to our area,” said Brandon Mayor Butch Lee. “Improving access to local, fresh meat, produce and other farm-raised products is a tremendous plus for the quality of life for our residents. Clearly this will expand the production of produce and local food on small farms in the region, expanding their access to the consumer. Crop production, sales and distribution is a win-win-win for local farmers, small businesses, and ultimately the consumer searching for freshness and quality. In these economic times, the need for healthy, safe food products is an accelerating demand which only local access to local products can satisfy. We applaud and completely support the vision and determination of Commissioner Gipson in his efforts to improve the connection of local consumers to local and regional farmers.”

Commissioner Gipson concluded, “This new market facility will serve as a food hub creating multiple opportunities for producers and processors with Mississippi products statewide, such as produce from the Mississippi Gulf Coast region, sweet potatoes from Northeast Mississippi, grain and catfish from the Mississippi Delta, blueberries from south Mississippi and fresh dairy products from Mississippi’s family-owned dairies. We at the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce look forward to providing additional details and our long-range vision at a later press conference and groundbreaking currently planned for March, 2024.”

Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson Announces New Ticketing System, Sponsorship Opportunities and Dates for the 165th Mississippi State Fair

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced the dates for the 165th Mississippi State Fair, a new ticketing system and an opportunity for sponsorships. The upcoming 2024 State Fair will be held Thursday, October 3, through Sunday, October 13, at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson.

“The Mississippi State Fairgrounds just wrapped up another successful, record-breaking Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo and plans are underway for the 2024 Mississippi State Fair. I am happy to announce the Mississippi State Fair will be offering online ticketing for fair admission and ride passes,” said Commissioner Gipson. “The purchase of fair admission tickets online will allow visitors to save time and skip the line. We are proud to partner with North American Midway Entertainment (NAME) for the fair and this new ticketing system.”

“We are looking forward to the 165th State Fair and some new, exciting changes,” said Michael Lasseter, director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds. “Our new ticketing system will make it more convenient and easier for families to enjoy all the fun.”

This year the Mississippi State Fair will include an old-fashioned western town setting, several rodeo events, plus an all new outdoor/hunting/fishing show inside the new Trade Mart.

New sponsorships for the Mississippi State Fair are now available for a limited opportunity. For more information about sponsorships contact msstatefairgrounds@mdac.ms.gov or 601- 961-4000.

Additional details regarding concerts and special attractions will be forthcoming soon. Follow the Mississippi State Fairgrounds on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates

Opinion Column: From Farm to Table, Transportation Infrastructure Requires Dedicated Funding

By: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson

Fresh farm-raised food from the garden usually follows a simple and inexpensive path, and often the farmer is also the cook and the consumer. On the larger and more common commercial scale, farm-to-table food is a bit more complicated: traveling over local roads, state highways, and federal interstates; multiplied tons of poultry, soybeans, livestock and corn requiring reliable bridges and safe roadways. From the farm to a processor or packager, to a wholesaler, to your grocery store (or a grocery store across the world), Mississippi’s agricultural industry – food, fiber, fuel – requires reliable transportation infrastructure. Our State must invest in our own transportation infrastructure, and I believe we can do it without additional taxes.

For many years, budget restrictions had forced the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) to focus on routine maintenance and paving and forego new projects. But fortunately, thanks to one-time funding from the Mississippi Legislature and Federal Aid Highway Program funds, MDOT has restarted its "Capacity Program" including major new construction projects in 2021.

Mississippi needs to keep that transportation momentum. Currently, much of the state funded portion of the MDOT budget comes from a fuel tax diversion. When we fill up at the gas station, for every gallon of gas we purchase at the pump we pay 18 cents, the vast majority of which is diverted by the state to MDOT. Rather than increasing taxes on gasoline at the pump, in a recent column Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons and MDOT Executive Director Brad White shared another solution I read with great interest as Ag Commissioner.

They urge a more diversified funding approach with the Legislature combining "unobligated portions of revenue streams such as the use tax and gaming revenue" with the current fuel tax to provide for the maintenance and future development of our transportation system. This approach would actually fill the gap in funding without raising anyone’s taxes.

Assigning these taxes already being collected toward MDOT (rather than creating new taxes or raising current taxes) provides a predictable, consistent, and diverse funding stream which allows for long term planning and enhances the state's ability to maximize federal highway funds. Importantly, it doesn't increase the cost burden on Mississippians at the pump. In a largely rural state like Mississippi in which long mileage daily commutes are common, fuel costs significantly impact our workers, farmers, and families. And when it comes to moving the agricultural commodities that fuel our economy, good roads and safe bridges don’t help if you can’t afford to fill the gas tank of the transport truck.

I support this idea of assigning existing revenue to MDOT’s budget to fund new construction and perform maintenance in a way that does not raise taxes. I encourage the Legislature to find permanent dedicated streams of revenue as requested by the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Safe and reliable transportation infrastructure is required for Mississippi’s agriculture and commerce. Enhancing our infrastructure takes time and money so we can continue to be competitive in our country and in the global economy. Part of planning for the future is planning for future budgets, and I believe Willie Simmons and Brad White are on target with their recommendation that avoids tax increases.

Agriculture, our State’s largest industry, depends on roadways and bridges to move products from the field for shipment to market – from the farm gate to our dinner plate. Transportation delays can cost farmers and agribusinesses time and money. Responsible decisions that don’t raise taxes will help keep our Mississippi food supply abundant and affordable.

MDAC Hosts Food Safety Training for USDA Fruit and Vegetable Auditors

The Mississippi Department of Agriculture of Commerce (MDAC) Fruit and Vegetables Division hosted a three-day food safety training session February 27-29 for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) fruit and vegetable auditors at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum as part of a cooperative agreement between MDAC and USDA.  

MDAC’s Fruit and Vegetable Division welcomed USDA leadership; in-person attendees from the states of Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Missouri; and 15 virtual participants from USDA or other states. This training allowed the USDA State Auditors to receive firsthand knowledge of any upcoming changes regarding audits and procedures, along with the opportunity to network and share ideas with other state auditors to get firsthand information about how each state’s program is growing and changing.   

“Having a safe food supply is critical to our food security. The important work of our fruit and vegetable auditors is key to ensuring the food we eat and feed our families is safe, touching the lives of every consumer,” said Commissioner Gipson. 

Mississippi fruit and vegetable auditors ensure the state’s farmers are providing their best products to suppliers, in the state, region and the nation by conducting inspections known as Good Agricultural Practices/Good Handling Practices (GAP/ GHP) audits. Auditors stay informed about food safety requirements and regulations as part of MDAC’s cooperative agreements with the USDA to relay the most current and reliable information to producers. USDA Auditor Continuing Education Trainings, such as the training session conducted by MDAC and USDA, keep Mississippi and other state auditors educated on current industry standards. 

The Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary

The Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) marks its 30th anniversary, a milestone in the fight against agricultural crime. Since its inception in 1993, the MALTB has been dedicated to protecting farmers and ranchers from theft and related crimes, ensuring the stability and security of the agricultural industry.

Over the past three decades, MALTB has made significant strides in combating agricultural theft. Through collaboration with law enforcement agencies, farmers and the community, the Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau has recovered millions of dollars worth of stolen property, including livestock, and equipment. These efforts have helped reduce financial losses for farmers and ranchers.

"The 30th anniversary of the Agricultural Theft Bureau is a testament to our commitment to protecting farmers and ranchers," said Director Dean Barnard. "We are proud of our accomplishments over the past three decades and remain dedicated to our mission of protecting Mississippi’s #1 industry. By working together, we can continue to protect our agricultural community and ensure a prosperous future for farmers and ranchers.”

The Mississippi Agricultural and Livestock Theft Bureau enforces state laws pertaining to the theft of cattle, horses, swine, poultry, fish, farm equipment, chemicals, timber and all other farm or agriculture-related crimes.

To report or provide information regarding an agricultural crime, call (800) 678-2660.

Mississippi Egg Marketing Board Held its Annual “Make Your Own Omelet” Luncheon

Members of the Mississippi Legislature served as “coaches” and paired with members of the Commissioner’s Ag Youth Council to prepare omelets during the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board’s annual “Make Your Own Omelet” Luncheon. The teams prepared nearly 300 omelets for members of the legislature, staff and guests. 

Commissioner Andy Gipson Unveiled Mural in Coliseum to Honor  Longtime Rodeo Announcer Mike Mathis

A mural was unveiled Saturday, February 10, inside the north side of the Coliseum featuring longtime rodeo announcer Mike Mathis and Lecile Harris, professional rodeo clown and longtime performer at the Dixie National Rodeo.

Commissioner Gipson was joined by Jacob Moorehead with the Harper and Morgan Rodeo Company and members of the Lecile Harris family.

Dixie National Parade Draws Crowd in Downtown Jackson

A panel of local celebrity and distinguished judges determined this year’s parade winners including Lisa Moore, Boswell Media Marketing Specialist and former Miss Dixie National Rodeo; Ty Franklin, Mississippi 4-H President; Ashton Luke, Mississippi FFA President; and Maggie Wade, WLBT News Anchor.

Mississippi’s Miss Hospitality Abney Grace Pittman presented the 2024 Dixie National Parade awards to winning participants following the parade on Saturday, February 10, inside the Mississippi Farmers Market. The procession included an array of rodeo and other title queens, marching bands, floats, car and tractor clubs, riding groups, the famous Dixie National Wagon Train and more.

Every year, first and second place winners are chosen within each category of parade participants including best motorized club, marching group, float and riding group, as well as first, second and third place winners from the Dixie National Wagon Train. In addition, an overall best group was chosen from over 45 parade entries for the coveted Commissioner’s Award.

Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson Kicked off the 55th Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson kicked off the 55th Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions by recognizing the collaborative efforts of the Mississippi State University (MSU) Extension Service, Mississippi FFA and the Sale of Champions Promotion Committee in making this massive event a success every year. The Sale of Junior Champions is one of the premier events of the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo. During the sale, 4-H and FFA youth exhibitors named Champions and Reserve Champions in the Junior Round-Up, auction off their prizewinning livestock.

Commissioner Gipson was joined by Dr. Angus Catchot, Director of the MSU Extension Service; Abby Dugas, Director of the Mississippi FFA Organization; Kelly Tucker, Chairwoman of the Sale of Junior Champions Promotion Committee; Phillip Morgan, CEO of Southern AgCredit; and Rorey Lemmel, Owner of the Harper & Morgan Rodeo Company. Two Sale of Champions scholarship recipients, Conner Kilpatrick with the Pontotoc County 4-H and Mallory Duncan with the Simpson County FFA, also provided remarks on how the livestock program has impacted their lives.

“Agriculture is economic development in Mississippi. As the state’s number one economic driver as well as our largest industry and largest employer, Agriculture is key to solving Mississippi’s workforce development challenges and getting more young people involved in work opportunities. I strongly believe our ag and youth livestock programs through 4-H and FFA are key. These programs are the best youth development and workforce development programs in the state,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson. “We are here to celebrate the culmination of the hard work of these young people. They are our future leaders. If you want to see the future of Mississippi, look at the youth here today. Thousands of them converged on the Fairgrounds in the past two weeks participating in the livestock shows, and today we celebrate the best of the best.”

This year 1,225 4-H and FFA members from across Mississippi participated in the Dixie National Junior Round-Up Livestock Show, showing 2,084 head of livestock including pigs, sheep, cattle and goats. Several of these blue-ribbon animals will be sold for top dollar in the Sale of Junior Champions. In addition, scholarships totaling $61,500 will be awarded to 39 students.

The Sale of Junior Champions Promotion Committee has been key to the historic success of this sale for over 50 years. Since the sale began in 1970, the event has continued to grow due to the generosity and efforts of the Sale of Champions Committee members.

Last year alone, the sale of 48 animals grossed $456,285, and 39 scholarships totaling $61,500 were awarded. To date, the Sale of Junior Champions has grossed approximately $9 million. Since the first scholarships were granted in 1993, over 836 scholarships have been awarded to various 4-H and FFA members totaling $1,132,700.

To view the press conference, visit https://youtu.be/6r53lmumrgk.

Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, Mississippi Poultry Association, Mississippi State University Poultry Science Department, and Mississippi Beef Council Announce Winners of the 2024 Dixie National Rodeo Days Crêpe Showdown

Pictured (L to R): Judge Lauren Fortenberry; Mistress of Ceremonies Dr. Ryn Laster; Neely Turner; Judge Rebecca Turner; Contestants Joy Kitchens, John Clayton Kitchens, James Edward Bragg, Ezra Cuevas, Andrew Bragg, Raylee Reed, Clara Kate Reed, Heidi Hood, Lydia Carter, Kylee Tomlinson, Jameria Carter; Judge Dr. Josie Bidwell; and Crêpe Showdown Event Director and MSU Extension Instructor Tannah Christensen.

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, Mississippi Poultry Association, Mississippi State University Poultry Science Department, and the Mississippi Beef Council are pleased to announce the winners of the third annual Dixie National Rodeo Days Crêpe Showdown. Several Mississippi 4-H youth competed in the event as part of Mississippi 4-H Day during the 2024 Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo on Saturday, February 10. 

Placing first with a Mixed Berry Cheesecake crêpe from Oktibbeha County was Jameria Carter. Placing second was Ezra Cuevas of Hancock County with a Seafood crêpe. Placing third with a XL Steak Dinner crêpe, was Heidi Hood from Forrest County. Receiving the Best of Beef award was tied between Lydia’s Cheesy Beefy crêpe by Lydia Carter of Oktibbeha County and Heidi Hood of Forrest County with a XL Steak Dinner crêpe.

The contestants placing first, second and third were awarded cash prizes by the Mississippi Poultry Association in amounts of $75, $50 and $25 respectively, and a cash prize of $25 was awarded by the Mississippi Beef Council for the Best of Beef crêpe. All contestants received a home cooking toolkit that included an apron, skillet, whisk and spatula. 

Eleven contestants from around the state competed in the crêpe showdown, presenting their entry to a panel of judges within 60 minutes. Also competing were Andrew Bragg, James Bragg, Clara Kate Reed and Raylee Reed, all from Rankin County; John Clayton Kitchens and Joy Kitchens, both from Lauderdale County; and Kylee Tomlinson from Oktibbeha County. Contestants were provided the necessary tools to prepare their crepe but brought “unusual” or “unique” ingredients from home.

Mississippi Egg Marketing Board President Ryn Laster said, “It’s amazing to see these young people use their talents so creatively when cooking. The judges had a tough decision choosing the winners.” Associate professor and Clinical Director in the Department of Preventive Medicine at UMMC Dr. Josie Bidwell, Nutritionist Rebecca Turner, and Mississippi Poultry Association’s Event Coordinator Lauren Fortenberry served as judges for the cook-off. Serving as the Mistress of Ceremonies was Ryn Laster, President of the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board and Director of Food Safety and Animal Welfare at Cal-Maine Foods, Inc.

Visit www.MSEggMarketing.com for great tasting egg dishes brought to you by the Incredible Egg. For more information about the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, contact Jennifer Thompson at msegg@mdac.ms.gov

The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau Investigators Recovered Stolen Property

The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) investigation assisted the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office (SRSO) in the arrest of 52-year-old suspect Mike Cosse in Santa Rosa County, Florida. Cosse is a suspect in the thefts of agriculture equipment across Mississippi. 

An investigation of multiple thefts of John Deere tractors and skid steers throughout the state of Mississippi led to a suspect named Mike Cosse in Florida. MALTB investigators contacted the SRSO to inform them of a Milton, Florida, resident who is a suspect in an ongoing investigation in Mississippi. 

On March 1, 2024, the SRSO arrested Cosse after conducting an investigation into the suspected crimes. Cosse is thought to have made over $100,000 selling stolen equipment since late 2023. Cosse was released from Santa Rosa County Jail on a $182,00 bond. This is an open and ongoing investigation with additional arrests and charges expected in Mississipppi.

The MALTB recovered a racehorse stolen from Mississippi in Todd County, Kentucky.  

On February 23, 2024, the Terry Police Department took an initial report of a stolen racehorse, worth $7,000. On February 28, 2024, the Mississippi Agriculture & Livestock Theft Bureau was asked to assist in the investigation. The MALTB took the lead on the investigation.    

During the investigation, it was learned the racehorse may have been stolen by fraudulent means. Additional information surfaced that led MALTB to Todd County, Kentucky. The horse was later located in Kentucky and identified as the stolen racehorse.  

With the help of the Todd County Sherriff, MALTB was able to recover the stolen racehorse and have it returned to Mississippi.

MALTB recovered a stolen 32-foot trailer February 1 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, during an ongoing investigation that began in December.

The Jackson Police Department took a report of a stolen 32-foot gooseneck equipment trailer December 26, 2023. The equipment trailer was stolen from a closed business in Jackson during the Christmas holidays. The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau was asked to assist in the investigation due to the possibility of being tied to an out-of-state theft ring.

Two suspects were identified during the investigation. As the investigation continued, the equipment trailer was determined to be located outside of the state, most likely in Louisiana. MALTB investigators reached out to Louisiana authorities for assistance and were able to locate and recover the stolen gooseneck equipment trailer

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum to Host Spring Farm Days

The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum will hold its Spring Farm Days 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on March 7-9, 2024. Enjoy cooking demonstrations by the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, learn about farmstead life and gardening, and make sure to see the large farm and forestry equipment display! The Museum will also have baby chicks, chickens, and other farm animals.

MDAC to Host 2024 Farmers Market Manager Workshop at the Ag Museum

The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce will be hosting the 2024 Farmers Market Manager Workshop at the Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. March 21.

This workshop is specifically designed for market managers, staff, volunteers, and board members to share strategies for managing a farmers market more effectively and efficiently! Details for registration can be found at http://mdac.ms.gov.

Mississippi Egg Marketing Board to Host Easter at the Ag Museum

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board will hold its Easter event 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on March 30, 2024. Hop down the Ag Museum’s bunny trail to collect candy and toy-filled eggs for your children’s baskets! Explore Small town, take selfies with the Easter Bunny, visit the new Children’s Barnyard, dye eggs, play games and enjoy complimentary hotdogs provided by the MS Beef Council.

For your family's Easter Celebration, you can experience the tasty side of agriculture at the Ag Museum’s General Store by purchasing smoked meats and holiday treats, including smoked hams and a variety of casseroles.

Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce to Host Inbound Wood Trade Mission

2022 Inbound Trade Mission participants tour a lumber yard.

The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) and Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) will host a 2024 Mississippi Inbound Wood Species Trade Mission for wood exporters

June 4-7 in the Mississippi Trade Mart. The registration deadline is March 30, 2024, and the registration fee is $250.00.

As a participant, you will meet with buyers from Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Spain, Italy, Poland, Great Britain and Vietnam.

To register or for more information, contact:

Ginger Williamson

MDAC Timber Commerce Liaison

Phone: 601-359-1150 

Email: ginger@mdac.ms.gov

The Mississippi Farmers Market is open

Saturdays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Genuine MS® Store is open

Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Saturdays 8 a.m.-1 p.m.