“Life of a Southern Farmer: Trees”

http://www.city-data.com/picfilesc/picc23619.php

Pine trees grow very well in the state of Georgia. There are a number of different kinds, Loblolly being the most prominent. This tree ranges in size from medium to large. According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, their average height is between ninety to one hundred ten feet tall. It is used generally for wood pulp in paper production. In the south, lumber is a big part of our economy. Tree farms can be found throughout the state. The Company nearest me is called T&S Hardwood. Their business started out around the 1970’s with just one mill. It later grew to three mills. Tree farming is a long, laboring process. Without companies like T&S, Georgia would miss out on a huge economical opportunity.

http://www.gfc.state.ga.us/reforestation/species-descriptions/pines/

“Life of a Southern Farmer: Steps to Raising Cattle Part Seven”

The final step to beef production is sending the final product to retailers all across the nation. This process is known as the food service  and distribution phase. Operators take safety precautions to make sure the beef that is dispersed throughout the United States  is wholesome. This not only helps with flavor, but also keeps people from getting sick. Therefore, it is crucial for proper beef to be distributed. The USDA does a great job keeping a high standard for farmers and packing plants all over the country.
The final stage of production tends to go hand in hand with animal cruelty. Most humans are not well informed on the subject matter. Due to organizations such as the ASPCA, also referred to as the sad puppy commercials, people tend to think that cattle are mistreated through this process. In reality, most cattle live a happy life. Yes, they are raised to be slaughtered. However, they are not abused. According to Explore Beef, “Proper animal care is the responsibility of everyone in the beef production chain.” Ranchers realize this and take it into high account when raising. Cattle farming is a back bone when it comes to life in America. Without it we would not have been able to thrive for this extended period of time.

Explore Beef has a great reference diagram to all the different steps of cattle raising.

http://www.explorebeef.org/raisingbeef.aspx
http://www.greenprophet.com/2008/11/bactochem-barcodes-organic-beef/

“Life of a Southern Farmer: Steps to Raising Cattle Part Three”

The third progression to cattle raising takes the longest amount of time. This step is typically called “Stokers and Backgrounders,” states Explore Beef. The process consists of young cows solely grazing in pastures and developing. It can take several months to undergo. Depending on what breed, reaching full maturity spans from two to three years. It is, however, one of the simpler phases for farmers. They do not have to put in much effort besides feeding and providing water. Sitting back and waiting can be extremely boring, but it is intricate to peruse in raising cattle. While growing up on a cattle farm, my father used to let my sister and I name as well as play with the cattle enduring this growth process. I remember being so excited to pet them as well as to have their sandpaper-like tongues brush up against my face. Hence, this is my favorite advancement. Little did I know that they did not care very much for my friendship. They only liked me for my salty tasting skin.

http://www.explorebeef.org/raisingbeef.aspx                             http://savalfoods.com/higher-retail-beef-prices-expected-for-2012/cow-grazing-in-pasture-2/