Fall crops are being harvested on farms around our great state and our agritourism operations are in full swing. And the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, one of our largest agritourism operations statewide, is no exception.

In fact, this unique venue is hosting the annual Harvest Festival, which begins tomorrow, November 5, and runs through Saturday, November 9. Harvest Fest will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day, and includes all kinds of rides, demonstrations, exhibits and fun for the public. Next month, visitors can experience Homestead for the Holidays December 12-13, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This special Christmastime event offers a homemade sampler breakfast for supper, storyime with Mrs. Claus, a photo-op with Santa and Rudolph, live music and so much more. The Museum, located at 1150 Lakeland Drive in Jackson, is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Plan your adventure today and visit msagmuseum.org for more information!

This week, find our very own Genuine MS® Store at the annual Mistletoe Marketplace, held November 6-9 inside the Mississippi Trade Mart. Presented by the Junior League of Jackson, Mistletoe Marketplace is a holiday tradition that has become the South's premier holiday shopping affair. At the Genuine MS® popup booth, shoppers will find a variety of great gift options all grown, raised, crafted or made right here in Mississippi.

As we near the holiday season, I encourage everyone to support our Mississippi farmers, particularly our Christmas tree farmers, by shopping locally. Find a complete list of all our Christmas tree farms around the state now at mschristmastrees.com. Visit GenuineMS to learn where you can find all things grown, raised, crafted and made right here in the Magnolia State. And shop at your local farmers market for all your fresh produce needs; visit msfarmersmarket.com to find a farmers market near you today. Don't forget to check out the Mississippi Farm Marketplace to advertise your crops for sale or to find local crops to purchase.

MDAC DIVISION SPOTLIGHT

Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum

Director: Theresa Love

The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum was established in 1977 under former Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Jim Buck Ross. Recognizing a need for the preservation of Mississippi’s culture and heritage as an agriculture state, Commissioner Ross began collecting artifacts, organizing scholars and laying the groundwork for a museum. Over the years, people from around the globe have contributed various artifacts, materials and services to the Museum.

The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum has withstood natural disasters, expanded its exhibits, restructured its grounds and successfully held countless events. Today, it boasts of extensive displays, historical centers, award-winning gardens, a grist mill, the oldest working cotton gin in the nation, Children’s Barnyard and ‘Small Town, Mississippi,’ a replica of a typical crossroads town from the 1920s which includes a general store, chapel, blacksmith shop and filling station.

Currently, the Museum hosts 125,000 visitors annually, who get to experience Mississippi rich agricultural heritage thanks to one man with a determined dream.

MDAC STAFF SPOTLIGHTS

MDAC Staff Attends MSU Extension Annual Conference Showcase

MDAC's own Davis Edwards, outreach coordinator for the Regulatory Services Produce Safety Division, recently attended Mississippi State University (MSU) Extension's annual Conference Showcase. The conference provided a means for extension agents from all 82 Mississippi counties to visit with vendors and obtain information and knowledge to take back to their individual counties.

Edwards (pictured) was joined by Angelica Abdullah with MSU's Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion.

Hinds Logging Equipment Operator Academy Hosts MDAC Staff

Recently, MDAC's Deputy Director of Government Affairs Nick Hall and Timber Commerce Director Ginger Williamson toured the Hinds Logging Equipment Operator Academy on Hinds Community College's (HCC) campus in Raymond. They were hosted by HCC's Josh Bowen, Dean of Agriculture and Transportation and Director of Talent, Workforce and Economic Development.

The Hinds team also hosted representatives from the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, Mississippi Lumber Manufactures Association, Mississippi Loggers Association, and Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center to strategize recruitment efforts into the Logging Equipment Operator Academy. The Academy is located at the Agriculture Complex on campus. The program is designed to equip students with little or no experience to become a logging equipment operator with safety certifications as well as Professional Logging Manager (PLM) status. The classroom is equipped with seven John Deere simulators. After completing classroom and simulator requirements, students have the unique opportunity to train on an actual John Deere grapple skidder and knuckleboom loader at the Mississippi Forestry Commission’s training grounds only 10 miles from the campus.

MDAC Staff Receive Geoff Guyton Innovation in Extension Technology Award

Recently, members of MDAC's Bureau of Plant Industry, along with the members of the Mississippi Pesticide Safety Education Program, Mississippi State University (MSU) Extension Service and the MSU Extension Center for Technology Outreach received the 2024 Geoff Guyton Innovation in Extension Technology Award for the development and implementation of an updated private pesticide applicator certification program.

This program trains applicators in the safe and effective use of restricted use pesticides in the production of agricultural commodities. The updated certification program was developed in response to changes in the regulatory requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency which were intended to raise private applicator training and certification standards to the equivalent of Commercial certificate holders. These new certification and Training materials will impact ~ 10,000 Private Applicator/Producers throughout the State of Mississippi with an estimated annual economic output of $44 million, with $21 million of that as value added.

Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, Promoted by MDAC Staff, Participated in Multiple Fair Events

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board (MEMB) entertained hundreds of senior citizens during the annual Senior American Day event at the 2024 Mississippi State Fair. Seniors were treated to a variety of muffins prepared by “Caked with Grace,” a bakery located in Puckett. Serving our seniors on behalf of the MEMB are from L-R: MDAC's Jennifer Boler, Rebecca Wilson, Jennifer Thompson and Katie Sansing, as well as Mary Grace Price and Zoe Grace Price with Caked with Grace.

Pictured (L-R): Tannah Christensen with the Mississippi State University Poultry Science Department; 2nd Place Winner Emaline Swindoll of Yalobusha County; 1st Place Winners Tanner Davis and Belle Davis of Forrest County; 3rd Place Winner and Best Beef Omelet Winner Ellie Haffey of Itawamba County; and Mississippi Egg Marketing Board President, Dr. Ryn Laster.

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, Mississippi Poultry Association and Mississippi Beef Council are pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 Mississippi State Fair Omelet Cookoff. This annual event was held during Mississippi 4-H Day at the State Fair and featured 16 contestants from various 4-H chapters around the state.

Placing first was Belle and Tanner Davis, members of the Forrest County 4-H, preparing a “Cheddar, Bacon, Steak Omelet.” Placing second with a “Cheesy Chicken Chili Omelet” was Emaline Swindoll, a member of the Yalobusha County 4-H. In third place was Ellie Haffey, a member of the Itawamba County 4-H, preparing a “Take Me to Flavortown Omelet.” Haffey also took the prize for best beef omelet.

Mistress of Ceremonies and MEMB President Ryn Laster said, “It’s always fun to watch these youth and the enthusiasm they have when cooking, especially with eggs. They each have their own unique style, and I’m amazed at the creativity that goes into the omelets that they prepare.” Also serving as judges for this year’s cookoff were Dr. Angus Catchot, Director of Extension at Mississippi State University (MSU); Angela Evans, Anchor and Host for WLBT; Dr. Trent Irby, Associate Director of Extension at Mississippi State University; and Mack Walker, Complex Manager for Tyson Foods.

NOTEWORTHY NEWS

Ag Commissioner Gipson and Local Hydroponic Farmer Join the Freshly Picked Podcast

Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson and Salad Days Produce Owner Leigh Bailey joined the latest episode of the Freshly Picked podcast titled “Cultivating Conversations: Specialty Crops and Sustainability with Commissioner Andy Gipson.”

Within this episode, these special guests held conversations with Host Claude Nash about specialty crops, focusing on blueberries, native plants, hydroponic farming, lettuces and much more. Commissioner Gipson provides insight into the heartwarming story of how a Mississippi elementary class led the fight to make blueberries, a superfood, the state’s official fruit. Gipson goes on to discuss his family’s cattle and tree operation and all the crops grown on their farm in Simpson County, including native plants. He credits his son for having a passion for conservation and bringing back native trees, grasses and wildflowers to improve the local habitat.

Gipson also talks with Leigh Bailey about her operation, saying, “Salad Days Produce is one of the great success stories of Mississippi and I was honored to be at their recent groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of a major expansion for this unique farm.” Bailey and her husband, Jamie Redmond, own and operate their hydroponic lettuce farm in Flora. Currently, Bailey’s all-lettuce farm is housed inside an 18,000 square foot greenhouse. She supplies local restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses with different varieties of lettuce. Since the demand for her products has outpaced what they can supply, Salad Days is expanding, beginning with the construction of an all-new 65,000 square foot greenhouse.

FFA Chapter with MDAC's Youth Trapping Corps Recognized in Smithville

As part of its Wild Hog Control Program (WHCP), the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce has partnered with Wildlife Dominion and the Mississippi FFA Association to launch the inaugural Wild Hog Control Program Youth Trapping Corps. The Youth Trapping Corps is designed to educate and professionally develop student members of agriculture-based organizations such as FFA and 4H on the impact of nuisance animals and the importance of wild hog management across the state.

Last year, the WHCP offered Mississippi FFA chapters the opportunity to apply for a grant to fund wild hog traps, and Smithville’s program was one of the recipients. It provided for a wild hog trap and another trap students are assembling in class. Any Monroe County landowners with wild hog problems can contact Eaton at Smithville High School at (662) 651-4276 for assistance in their area.

For more information about the WHCP or the Youth Trapping Corps, visit mdac.ms.gov/whcp.

Details Announced Ahead of the 60th Annual Dixie National Rodeo

Pictured L-R: Michael Lasseter, Director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds; Phillip Morgan, CEO of title sponsor Southern AgCredit; Rorey Lemmel, Owner of Harper and Morgan Rodeo Company; Andy Gipson, Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce; and Bruce Deviney, Owner of Deviney Equipment.

Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson announced new details ahead of the 60th annual Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo. The upcoming Dixie National Rodeo is scheduled to run February 7-9 and 12-15, 2025, at the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.

Commissioner Gipson said, “We are now shifting our focus to our next big event, which is the largest rodeo east of the Mississippi – the Dixie National Rodeo.” Commissioner Gipson was joined by Rorey Lemmel, Owner of Harper and Morgan Rodeo Company; Phillip Morgan, CEO of title sponsor Southern AgCredit; Bruce Deviney, Owner of Deviney Equipment; and Michael Lasseter, Director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds.

Award-winning and nationally recognized artists scheduled to perform at the 2025 Dixie National Rodeo include:

Friday, February 7, at 7:00 p.m. – Sam Barber
Saturday, February 8, at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. – George Birge
Sunday, February 9, at 2:00 p.m. – Lorrie Morgan
Wednesday, February 12, at 7:00 p.m. – Clay Walker
Thursday, February 13, at 7:00 p.m. – Zach Top
Friday, February 14, at 7:00 p.m. – Ella Langley
Saturday, February 15, at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. – Gretchen Wilson

Rorey Lemmel of Harper and Morgan Rodeo Company added the annual Dixie National Rodeo is one of the top 60 biggest professional rodeos in the world, with 900 of the best contestants traveling from across the globe to compete in Jackson, Mississippi. In addition to the title sponsor, Southern AgCredit, Lemmel announced the official tractor of the 2025 Dixie National Rodeo is Kubota, through the sponsorship of Deviney Equipment of Madison.

For the first time ever, the Dixie National Rodeo is adding a high school rodeo event on Sunday, February 16. Mississippi high school rodeo contestants will get to compete in the same arena as professional world champions and earn points toward the rodeo nationals. This rodeo is one of only 10 high school rodeos that count for points to get to nationals.

“We’re excited for this great entertainment lineup, the annual livestock shows and addition of the high school rodeo,” continued Commissioner Gipson. “We’re taking the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo to the next level, and I encourage the public to get their tickets in advance.”

Learn More

MDAC Announces Garden Grant Program

As part of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce’s (MDAC) Freshly Picked campaign, Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced that MDAC is now accepting applications for the school and community garden grant programs. The Freshly Picked campaign, funded through the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, is dedicated to creating more awareness for Mississippi specialty crops.

The school garden grant, Growing Lunch, is a great interactive and educational tool for teachers to incorporate agriculture and healthy eating into their everyday classroom. Schools and early childhood learning centers can apply for a grant of up to $500 to purchase supplies needed to develop a school garden or to further enhance an existing school garden. All K-12 schools and pre-schools providing appropriate documentation and located in the state of Mississippi are eligible to apply.

Let’s Plant is a community garden grant program designed to encourage community involvement and interest in growing fresh produce. Community organizations, local governments and non-profits are eligible to apply for funds, up to $750, to purchase supplies needed to develop or expand an existing community garden.

Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson Announces November 2024 WHCP Application Period

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced that the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) will begin accepting a new round of applications for its Wild Hog Control Program (WHCP) beginning Friday, November 1. The application period will close on Friday, November 15. All Mississippi counties are eligible for the application period.

Through the WHCP, MDAC provides “smart” wild hog traps to landowners and managers for the control of wild hogs on private agricultural and forestry lands in Mississippi. MDAC provides the training necessary to use the “smart” traps and technical guidance regarding the most effective methods to trap and control wild hogs on private lands.

“Trapping is the most effective means for managing wild hogs in our state,” said Commissioner Gipson. “These destructive animals cannot be managed effectively by hunting and incidental take alone. Even though the hunting season is upon us, and survey data indicates that deer hunters harvest more wild hogs than deer annually, wild hogs are still abundant across the state. I encourage anyone that has wild hogs on their property to apply for trapping equipment provided by our agency.”

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum Hosts Annual Harvest Fest

The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum invites the public to attend its annual Harvest Festival November 5-9. The event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. that Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $8 per person for ages 3 and up.

The Museum's popular Small Town, Mississippi, comes to life each day during this beloved event. In addition, live demonstrations throughout the Museum grounds will give visitors a glimpse of Mississippi’s past and show the impact agriculture has made on our lives. Demonstrations will include the operation of the Cotton Gin, Saw Mill, Cane Mill, Print Shop, Blacksmith Shop and more!

Wagon, Train and Carousel Rides will be available each day for $1 per rider. Stop by the General Store for snacks and souvenirs.

Reservations are recommended for groups but not required. For more information or to make a reservation, call 601-432-4500 or email us at msagmuseum@mdac.ms.gov.

Genuine MS® Store Joins Mistletoe Marketplace

MDAC's Genuine MS® Store will join the long list of merchants participating in this year's Mistletoe Marketplcace, held November 6-9 inside the Mississippi Trade Mart.

Presented by the Junior League of Jackson, Mistletoe Marketplace is an annual holiday tradition that has become the South's premier holiday shopping affair. At the Genuine MS® popup booth, shoppers will find a variety of great gift options all grown, raised, crafted or made right here in Mississippi. Look for us this week at the 2024 Mistletoe Marketplace!

Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum Hosts Homesead for the Holidays

The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum will host its annual Homestead for the Holidays event December 12-13, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission is $8 per person for ages 3 and up.

This special Christmastime event offers a homemade sampler breakfast for supper, storyime with Mrs. Claus, a photo-op with Santa and Rudolph, live music and much more. Guests can take a stroll through Small Town and see the demonstrators, visit the Fortenberry-Parkman Farmstead and experience Christmas during the late 1800s.

Carousel, train, and wagon rides will be available as well as hands-on historic crafts and live music throughout the grounds. Make sure to write a letter to Santa on one of our limited edition postcards, printed in the Small Town Print Shop. Stop by the General Store for an old fashion glass bottle drink and browse the wares and unique Mississippi made products that make great gifts and stocking stuffers. So make plans to enjoy a wonderful time of community and the warmth that an old fashioned holiday celebration creates!

Homestead for the Holidays is sponsored in part by the Mississippi Egg Marketing Board, the Mississippi Beef Council, Cal-Maine Foods Inc., and Visit Jackson.

60th Dixie National Livestock Show & Rodeo

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW to the 60th annual Dixie National Rodeo, which runs February 7-9 and 12-15, 2025, at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson! Find tickets, livestock show schedules and more info now at dixienational.org. For more information, visit our website and follow the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo on Facebook, Instagram and X.