As uncertainties turned into certainty for Cedric Alexander’s Family Farm Field Day on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, in Sontag, MS. Here is the story line. Twenty-four hours prior to the start of the field day, rain, and high winds inundated the small hamlet of Sontag. These unpredictable weather conditions caused for some thoughts of cancellation. However, the steady hands of the Alexander Family and the Winston County Self Help Cooperative moved forward and unveiled an afternoon of learning and sharing with rural Americans. Michael Lang, Sr and Michael Lang, Jr, drove six hours from Huntsville, Ala to partake and to parcel out knowledge about the cattle industry in Alabama. Cedric & Lashunda Alexander welcomed more than forty individuals to their family farm. Lashunda stated, “we are working collectively to develop our family farm. We appreciate the support of WCSHC for helping the Alexander Family Farm create this platform for others to be inspired and to learn from veteran farmers.” Cedric recounted the assistance channeled through the USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Service. “We have received financial assistance to install cross fences, heavy use pads and watering troughs. These practices have added value to my cattle herd, and we are thankful for our local NRCS staff here in Monticello, MS.” Sarah Wilcher, Soil Conservationist, NRCS said. “The Alexanders are great examples for others to emulate. This couple is committed to implementing NRCS’ practices in a timely fashion to avoid cost overruns. This mannerism demonstrates their cognizant of NRCS programs and the need to move swiftly after signing your contract.” Dennis Jones, Area 3 Conservationist, NRCS stated, “this is a good day for landowners, farmers, and others to be here after fifteen months of confinement. This is one of Area-3 first in person event since the onset of convid-19. We greatly appreciate our staff members for being committed to serve customers in times of unusual circumstances.” Corey Ware, Sup District Conservationist, Lincoln County Office unpacked NRCS’ practices. Corey encouraged participants to call their local office for more information. Rebecca McKenzie, County Executive Director, Farm Service Agency conversed about current activities including the upcoming County Committee Elections. Rebecca said “the nomination period would be open until August 2, 2021. She reiterated and asked participants to learn the important of the county committee and how it impacts local farmers.” Field day activities ended with Tarie Todman presenting the Alexanders with WCSHC’s Save Rural America Certificate.
By Frank Taylor
Source URL: https://issuu.com/franktaylor3/docs/greensboro_gazette_news_flash_1st_edition_july_202