Arkansas AgCast

AgCast Deep Dive: Mental Health Awareness Month with Mandy Young

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 May 2026 20:14:07 +0000

Host Jason Brown sits down with Mandy Young to discuss mental health in agriculture and the work being done through Tailgate Time, a nonprofit built for mental health support services for farmers, their families, farm employees and others in agriculture. From stress and isolation to the realities facing farm families, we look at prioritizing mental health on the farm and in rural communities.

The conversation covers common misconceptions about mental health, the process of seeking help and resources available, like AFBF’s Farm State of Mind.

Tailgate Time Number: 870-680-0222

Gin Show Mental Health Panel Recording: https://www.midsouthfarmandginshow.com/managingstressandanxietyinanuncertainworld

Arkansas Peaches Hit Hard, Farm Bill Passes the House and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we break down House passage of the 2026 farm bill and what it could mean for producers as it heads to the Senate. We also cover major freeze damage to Arkansas peaches and blueberries, new USDA conservation funding opportunities and the timeline for applying for the Arkansas Century Farm Program.

AgCast Deep Dive: Iran War Impact on Fertilizer Purchases and Prices

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:37:52 +0000

Host Jason Brown sits down with Arkansas Farm Bureau economist Brandy Carroll to break down new data on fertilizer purchases and what it reveals about the financial pressures facing farmers, especially here in Arkansas. From rising input costs to tough decisions on fertilizer use, this conversation explains how today’s farm economy is shaping production and risk management across the state.

House Members Call for Rice Trade Investigation, USDA News and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:42:30 +0000

On this episode, we take a closer look at ongoing fertilizer challenges and how federal officials are working to stabilize supply and invest in domestic production. We also cover a new push led by Arkansas Rep. Rick Crawford to investigate foreign rice trade practices, a which could significantly impact for Arkansas farmers and global competitiveness.
In addition, USDA is offering new funding opportunities through the Local Agriculture Market Program to support direct-to-consumer sales and strengthen regional food systems. Finally, we highlight the selection of five Arkansas farmers to serve on the state Farm Service Agency committee and what it means for programs across the state.

The Latest WASDE Data, the Data Behind Fertilizer Purchases and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we break down USDA’s latest WASDE report and what steady supply estimates mean for crop and livestock markets heading into the growing season. We also look at new American Farm Bureau survey data showing fertilizer affordability challenges for farmers, with rising input costs continuing to shape planting decisions across the country.

In addition, we discuss ongoing conversations in Washington for another round of farm aid and what that could mean for producers. Finally, we cover the continued spread of the Asian longhorned tick in Arkansas and the potential impact on cattle operations.

Illinois River Lawsuit Action, John Deere Right-to-Repair Settlement and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

From equipment to policy to education, this episode covers crucial ag news in the headlines right now. This week, we break down a major right-to-repair development as John Deere reaches a proposed $99 million settlement that could expand farmers’ access to equipment diagnostics and repair tools. We also provide an update on the Illinois River Watershed case after a federal judge rejected proposed settlements, adding continued uncertainty for poultry growers in northwest Arkansas.

In addition, we cover EPA’s summer waiver allowing E15 fuel sales to continue, and what that means for corn demand and fuel markets. Finally, Arkansas reaches a major milestone with approval for the state’s first college of veterinary medicine at Arkansas State University, paving the way for its first class of students this fall.

2026 Prospective Planting Report, New DEF Regulations and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

This Arkansas AgCast episode covers new EPA guidance aimed at reducing equipment downtime tied to DEF system failures, including changes that could improve reliability for farmers. We also take a closer look at USDA’s Prospective Plantings report and what shifting acreage trends could mean for corn, soybeans, rice and cotton in Arkansas and across the country.
In addition, new data shows farmers are receiving a smaller share of the food dollar, highlighting the growing role of processing, transportation and retail in the food supply chain. Finally, we cover the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board new policy aimed at protecting producer-funded research from benefiting foreign competitors.

Iran Conflict Influence on Fertilizer Prices, Updated Dicamba Guidelines and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0100

On this episode, we break down rising fertilizer costs and supply concerns tied to the Iran conflict, review a proposed farm bill framework for specialty crop disaster assistance and discuss increased scrutiny of U.S. ag exports at Chinese ports. We also cover important dicamba changes for Arkansas farmers ahead of the growing season.

AgCast Deep Dive: Arkansas State University’s Veterinarian School

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:31:08 -0100

Arkansas farmers and ranchers know the shortage of large animal veterinarians is real. On this AgCast Deep Dive, Jason Brown talks with Dr. Heidi Banse about the Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, its focus on production agriculture and how the program could address the need for large animal vets in rural communities. Listen in to find out what the school will mean for Arkansas agriculture.

Ag Impacts of the Middle East Conflict, Bridge Assistance Program Details and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:14:49 -0100

On this episode, we look at how the U.S.–Iran conflict is already affecting agricultural markets, from fuel and fertilizer costs to grain prices. We also have the latest on USDA’s Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, a new effort to bring Arkansas-grown rice into school cafeterias and the latest farmer sentiment data on the ag economy.

AgCast Deep Dive: PLC and ARC Explained with Dr. Hunter Biram

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:25:07 -0100

On this Deep Dive episode, host John McMinn sits down with Dr. Hunter Biram, extension ag economist, to break down the modern farm safety net. They explain how ARC and PLC work, common misconceptions about who receives payments and whether these programs influence planting decisions or distort markets. They also cover yield volatility in Arkansas, which crops may be better suited for ARC or PLC, the opportunity to add base acres, and concerns surrounding payment limitations.

If you want a clearer understanding of how today’s safety net impacts Arkansas farmers, this episode delivers.

Farm Bill 2.0 News, Specialty Crop Bridge Payments and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 21:28:14 -0100

This week on Arkansas AgCast, we break down USDA’s new $1 billion Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program and what it means for Arkansas growers. We also discuss the House Agriculture Committee’s new farm bill draft as markup begins and EPA’s decision to reinstate over-the-top dicamba use for the 2026 growing season.

Plus, we provide an update on the decades-long Illinois River Watershed lawsuit and what recent settlements could mean for poultry producers in northwest Arkansas. Get the details on these key policy and regulatory updates affecting agriculture across the state.

WASDE Updates, Arkansas Leads Farm Bankruptcies and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 20:31:05 -0100

This week on the Arkansas AgCast, we break down the sharp rise in farm bankruptcies, including Arkansas leading the nation in Chapter 12 filings. We also look at expanded Argentine beef imports, USDA’s new farm security partnership and what the latest WASDE report means for corn and soybean markets.

USDA Cattle Inventory, Super Bowl Snacks on the Farm and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0100

This week on the Arkansas AgCast, we’re covering the EPA’s latest actions aimed at reducing downtime from DEF system failures, we look at why beef prices are likely to stay high as the U.S. cattle herd remains tight and share the latest on Texas and USDA’s efforts to keep the New World screwworm out of the United States. We also trace some of your favorite Super Bowl snacks back to the farms and ranches that make them possible.

WASDE Market Waves, AFBF Policy Decisions and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0100

This week on the Arkansas AgCast, we cover highlights from the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 107th Annual Convention, where delegates set policy priorities focused on labor, animal health, and risk management.

We also break down the first WASDE report of 2026, which showed larger-than-expected corn and soybean supplies and pressured grain markets. Finally, we take a forward look at farm technology trends for 2026, from drones and robotics to data-driven software tools, and how farmers are using innovation to manage costs, labor and efficiency moving forward.

Farmer Bridge Assistance Program Details, Flipping the Food Pyramid and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0100

This week on the Arkansas AgCast, we break down updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. We look at how livestock, dairy, oilseed and pulse crop groups are responding to the shift and what it could mean for U.S. agriculture. We also cover new details on USDA’s Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, part of a $12 billion aid package, including payment timelines and eligibility. Plus, we explore how Brazil’s rise as the world’s largest beef producer is reshaping global beef markets.

Finally, we share an important update for Arkansas farmers on the new Farmers Sales Tax Exemption Card from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration and how it’s designed to simplify tax-free purchases.

Farmer Bridge Payment Program Details, USDA Changes to Safety Net and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 21:10:43 -0100

This week’s Arkansas AgCast covers several stories affecting farmers across the state. We start with Tyson Foods’ decision to halt poultry contracts in the Illinois River watershed unless Oklahoma shifts its legal approach in a long-running lawsuit. We also break down USDA’s new $12 billion bridge payment package to help producers manage tight margins heading into 2026, plus its $700 million investment in regenerative agriculture through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program. Finally, we highlight upcoming changes to crop insurance meant to streamline requirements and expand support for beginning farmers.

AgCast on Site: A Conversation with Navy SEAL Clint Bruce

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 19:54:59 -0100

We packed the studio up and headed to Hot Springs for this episode. Catch up with us on the trade show floor as we discuss all the action from the 91st Annual State Convention. We also have a great discussion with Clint Bruce, Navy SEAL and former NFL player, before his keynote address at the event. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner, USDA Disaster Relief and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 14:13:36 -0100

On this week’s Arkansas AgCast, we cover USDA’s Stage Two disaster relief. We also look at Thanksgiving meal costs, nearly 20% lower than last year in Arkansas. Then we break down the Trump administration’s proposed WOTUS rule aimed at clarifying federal water jurisdiction after the Sackett decision. Finally, we share important animal health alerts: heightened HPAI risk for poultry growers and regional concerns over EHV-1 in horses.

AgCast Deep Dive: Dr. Calvin White Jr.

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 18:12:35 -0100

On this Deep Dive edition of the Arkansas AgCast, we sit down with Dr. Calvin White Jr., provost and executive vice chancellor at Arkansas State University, on location during the Catalyst event in Jonesboro. We discuss how Arkansas agriculture is evolving, its impact on rural communities and how collaboration can strengthen the industry for all Arkansans. Dr. White shares insights on the university’s role innovation, rural revitalization and preparing the next generation of ag leaders through initiatives like A-State’s new College of Veterinary Medicine.

AgCast Deep Dive: 2025 ArFB State Resolutions Meeting

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0100

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we’re in Hot Springs for ArFB’s 2025 Resolutions Committee meeting. We sit down with Monroe County farmer Bo Mason to discuss the policy-making process and the important role the meeting plays in our process.

AgCast Deep Dive: The State of the Arkansas Row Crop Economy with Dr. Hunter Biram

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0100

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we discuss why row crop farmers in the state are weathering one of their most challenging years in decades. In 2025, falling commodity prices, stubbornly high input costs and tightening credit are pushing farm income deep into the red for a third straight season. Listen as Dr. Hunter Biram breaks down the numbers behind the row crop economy and what’s driving the rise in farm bankruptcies across the region. We also explore how government support programs are providing partial relief, what new policy proposals could mean for the year ahead and where farmers might still find a few bright spots heading into 2026.

Brazil’s Record-Setting Row Crops, Argentinian Beef Imports and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 19:20:06 +0000

On this week’s Arkansas AgCast, we take a closer look at Brazil’s fast-moving 2025–26 planting season, where record soybean and corn acreage could reshape global markets. We have the details on a new University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture two-part webinar series to help row crop farmers improve their cost-management strategies for the coming season. Finally, we break down the reaction from U.S. cattle producers after President Donald Trump floated the idea of importing Argentinian beef to lower consumer prices, a proposal that sent shockwaves through cattle markets.

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On Location: The Arkansas State Fair

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:20:34 +0000

We’re coming to you from the Arkansas State Fair this week. A new report from University of Arkansas economists paints a tough picture for row crop farmers, with high input costs and low commodity prices are creating some of the tightest margins in decades. We also discuss the ongoing federal shutdown, which is holding up potential emergency farm aid meant to help struggling farms across the country. The corn dog microphone returns as John McMinn walks the midway and show barns visiting with youth livestock exhibitors.College Pick ‘Em: https://fantasy.espn.com/games/college-football-pickem-2025/group?id=d114c024-6b65-4704-bf7d-7ef95119e0e0&joining=true

H-2A Wage System Changes, Mounting Financial Pressure for Fruit and Vegetable Farmers and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, timber landowners across the South face new hurdles as buyers tighten contract terms to comply with Europe’s deforestation rules. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Labor has finalized sweeping changes to the H-2A farmworker wage system, a move that could lower labor costs for farmers.

We also take a closer look at the specialty crop industry, where rising input costs, labor shortages, and limited safety nets are putting farmers under mounting financial strain. And finally, signs of new federal aid for farmers emerge as the U.S. administration considers billions to offset trade losses with China.

USDA Takes on Rising Input Costs, the New World Screwworm Inches Closer to the US and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:22:30 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we cover a packed slate of agriculture news out of Washington and abroad. We break down USDA and the Department of Justice’s new antitrust agreement aimed at curbing rising input costs and take a closer look at U.S. beef’s shrinking market share in China.Also, shifting soybean demand shaped by tariffs and policy in Beijing, and the latest on New World screwworm detections just south of the U.S. border.

College Pick ‘Em: https://fantasy.espn.com/games/college-football-pickem-2025/group?id=d114c024-6b65-4704-bf7d-7ef95119e0e0&joining=true

The Fed Cuts Interest Rates, How Drought Reporting Influences Disaster Funding and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we spotlight the return of the Arkansas Farm Trail passport program for its second season. We share how to apply, who’s eligible, and what benefits come with joining the trail. We also discuss the growing concern for drought and how the U.S. Drought Monitor can be a helpful tool with local input from farmers and ranchers. We have the details on the Federal Reserve’s first interest rate cut of the year and what it means for agriculture. Finally, how Arkansas lawmakers are working to secure new federal relief for farmers as economic pressure continues to strain operations across the state.

College Pick ‘Em: https://fantasy.espn.com/games/college-football-pickem-2025/group?id=d114c024-6b65-4704-bf7d-7ef95119e0e0&joining=true

Doing the Math on Updated Reference Prices, Have Yourself a Merry Soybean Harvest and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:13:04 +0000

On this episode of Arkansas AgCast, we break down major changes to farm bill commodity programs under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including how reference price increases might pencil out. We also dive into the newly released “Make America Healthy Again” report, revising controversial health and agriculture recommendations. Finally, we look at how late the Arkansas soybean harvest will be, and what it means for yields and markets.

College Pick ‘Em: https://fantasy.espn.com/games/college-football-pickem-2025/group?id=d114c024-6b65-4704-bf7d-7ef95119e0e0&joining=true

AgCast Deep Dive: Arkansas Farm Trail Farmer Conversation

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 22:14:57 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we’re putting a spotlight on the Arkansas Farm Trail, ArFB’s passport program designed to connect Arkansans with local farms and food. Host John McMinn sits down with Margie Raimondo of Urbana Farmstead, one of the farmers participating in the program, to get her “boots on the ground” perspective.

Margie shares her unique journey into agriculture, the story behind Urbana Farmstead and how the Arkansas Farm Trail is helping her reach new customers while educating the public about where their food comes from. She also discusses the cooking classes she’s leading with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture and how the Farm Trail ties into her

Spring Weather's Impact on Yield, Mississippi River Levels Drop at Harvest and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:54:20 +0000

On this week’s Arkansas AgCast, we cover challenges facing Mid-South farmers. We start with the Mississippi River, where current low water levels could again disrupt barge traffic, raising transportation costs, and widening basis levels that cut into farm income. Next, we look at how extreme weather last spring is impacting yields during harvest, with rice producers facing some of the steepest declines in decades.We also cover comments from USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden, hinting at possible short-term relief for farmers until new safety net programs take effect. Finally, we provide the latest update on the New World screwworm, as U.S. officials confirm the first travel-related human case and expand surveillance to protect livestock.
Farmers Market Application: https://arfbstateconvention25.vfairs.com/en/farmers-page
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Time Prices Continue to Fall, USDA Stopping Subsidies for Solar Projects on U.S. Farmland and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0000

On this week’s Arkansas AgCast, we take a closer look at the economic pressures weighing on the ag industry. John Deere is scaling back production with layoffs as farmers cut back on equipment purchases, while Arkansas’s timber industry continues to struggle under collapsing pulpwood prices and mill closures. We also cover the latest initiative to stop the destructive New World screwworm spread with a new sterile fly facility in Texas and USDA’s policy shift to end subsidies for solar power projects on farmland.

Farmers Market Application: https://arfbstateconvention25.vfairs.com/en/farmers-page

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August WASDE Implications, EPA Releases New DEF Regulations and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we cover new EPA guidance aimed at preventing sudden diesel power losses that could save farmers millions and USDA’s August WASDE report with record corn projections and tight margins ahead. We also take a look at USDA reorganization proposal that would move key offices into regional hubs and how Brazil’s surging sorghum production is reshaping global markets. To register for the Farmer’s Market at the 91st Annual ArFB State Convention, click here.

Farm Bill 2.0, Wildfire Suppression Kit Applications Open and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 19:05:05 +0000

House Ag Committee Chair G.T. Thompson says “farm bill 2.0” is in motion, even with Congress on recess. We break down the latest reporting from AgriPulse and what it means for funding priorities like conservation, SNAP and rural broadband. We also highlight how the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is supporting wildfire response across the state with 75 new wildfire suppression kits available for rural volunteer fire departments. Listen to all the news that matters to Arkansas farmers. College Pick 'Em Link

AgCast Deep Dive: 2025 Cattle Industry Outlook

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this Deep Dive episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we shift our focus to the state’s livestock industry and sit down with Dr. James Mitchell, assistant professor and livestock economist with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. We discuss current cattle inventory levels in Arkansas, ongoing challenges with hay quality and supply, and the economic pressures from rising production costs. Mitchell also breaks down the latest federal legislation and what it means for ranchers and whether conditions are right to start rebuilding cattle herds.

Recorded Live from the Officers & Leaders Conference

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 02:22:27 +0000

This week’s Arkansas AgCast comes to you live from the 77th Annual Arkansas Farm Bureau Officers and Leaders Conference in Rogers. In today’s episode, we have updates on the New World screwworm fly issues in Central America and Mexico. We also take a look at Arkansas’s investment in local fairs and livestock shows, with more than $1.4 million awarded through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Fair Funding Program.Plus, we sit down with keynote speaker Carey Portell, a nationally recognized author and inspirational speaker, to talk about the power of agriculture in her journey.

Ag Updates from the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a Poultry Insurance Pilot Program and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we break down the USDA’s new National Farm Security Action Plan, which is an effort to limit foreign ownership of U.S. farmland and protect national food security. We also highlight major agriculture wins in the newly signed “One Big Beautiful Bill,” including stronger safety nets for farmers, expanded crop insurance and the creation of a first-ever poultry insurance pilot program. Plus, the latest on USDA’s response to the growing New World screwworm threat along the southern border.

4th of July Cookout Costs, Adjusted Planted Acres and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:34:17 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we cover key USDA reports impacting producers and consumers alike. We start with the latest Cattle on Feed report, which shows declines in marketings and placements, pointing to tighter beef supplies and continued high prices. We also break down the cost of a Fourth of July cookout, with Arkansas shoppers projected to spend just under $70 to feed 10 people this year. We also share updates on federal disaster assistance, including the upcoming signup for the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program. And finally, we dive into the June Acreage Report, highlighting reduced rice and cotton acres in Arkansas and shifting trends across key crops.

AgCast Deep Dive: 2025 Arkansas Rice Crop Outlook

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:21:50 +0000

On this episode of the AgCast Deep Dive series, UA Extension rice agronomist Dr. Jarrod Hardke offers an in-depth look at the 2025 rice crop. Hardke explains how persistent rains this year have disrupted planting and application schedules, and what that means for total acreage. He also talks about what growers should expect with yield and milling quality and provides advice to help farmers navigate the challenges ahead.

Unpacking the Senate and House Budget Reconciliation Proposals, USDA Relief for Livestock Producers and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Arkansas AgCast, we break down new USDA relief for livestock producers through the Emergency Livestock Relief Program for 2023 and 2024. If you received assistance through the Livestock Forage Disaster Program, you may be eligible for additional funds. We have the latest data from the June WASDE report and take a closer look at how federal budget reconciliation could shape ag spending priorities, and what it means for the farm bill process moving forward.

Senate Ag Committee’s Proposal for Budget Reconciliation, District Farm Families Announced and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 21:03:36 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we explore how Brazil’s record corn crop might benefit U.S. farmers, highlight the eight district winners in the 78th annual Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program and break down new federal legislation impacting SNAP and farm safety net programs. We also cover the closure of Cargill’s Springdale turkey plant and the local response to support affected workers. Get all this and more on the state’s only weekly ag news program.

Bipartisan Action on H-2A Wage Rates, USDA’s Proposed 2026 Budget and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Arkansas AgCast, we break down the Trump administration’s proposed USDA budget for fiscal year 2026, which includes significant funding cuts across conservation, nutrition and rural development programs. We also highlight a bipartisan effort led by Rep. Rick Crawford to freeze wages for H-2A guest workers, citing concerns over rising costs for American farmers. Arkansas specialty crop producers should tune in for details on a newly opened grant opportunity. Plus, we have new research from the University of Arkansas showing that large-scale solar projects currently occupy just 0.2% of the state’s farmland, though more installations are on the horizon.

AgCast Deep Dive: 2025 Legislative Session Recap

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 29 May 2025 21:03:45 +0000

On this episode of the AgCast Deep Dive series, we sit down with Jay Robbins and Mark Lambert from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s public affairs and government relations team to break down the 2025 legislative session. They discuss key achievements from the 95th General Assembly, including improvements to sales tax ID processes, protections for poultry growers and expanded veterinary telehealth access. Catch this episode and get a behind-the-scenes look into how policy work impacts Arkansas agriculture.

USDA’s New “Farmers First” Policy, Wet Weather Changes Planting Intentions and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 23 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we break down Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins’ new “Farmers First” policy agenda aimed at revitalizing small family farms. We also look at how wet weather is disrupting Arkansas’ rice planting season and what it means for crop insurance. Plus, we unpack President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” that just passed the House, covering tax cuts, farm program reforms, and controversial changes to SNAP. And finally, we clarify some buzz around Arkansas’ farm income outlook, which is trending up, but not for the reasons you might think.

AgCast Deep Dive: Farming, Stress & Mental Health

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this special Mental Health Awareness Month edition of the AgCast Deep Dive, host Jason Brown sits down with Jennifer James, a fourth-generation farmer, and Haley Mills, a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner with deep ag roots of her own. Together, they explore the intersection of mental health and agriculture — what’s changed over the generations, what challenges persist and how farmers can prioritize their well-being.Our guests shed light on the unique stressors faced by rural communities and farm families, the evolving perceptions of mental health in agriculture and the importance of breaking the stigma around seeking help. Listen to also hear practical advice and available resources from Farm Bureau.

Changes to FSA Loan Approvals, Two Arkansas Appointments at USDA and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 May 2025 21:51:31 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we unpack several developments that could have a big impact on Arkansas agriculture. We break down an additional federal review for certain Farm Service Agency loans, which is raising concerns among farmers and lawmakers alike. We also examine how escalating tariffs are threatening ag exports.

We look at the Federal Reserve’s latest meeting and what the uncertain interest rate outlook could mean for farmers and rural businesses. Plus, we spotlight two new Arkansas appointments to key USDA leadership roles. It’s a packed episode with news for farmers and ranchers across Arkansas.

A New Threat to Arkansas Strawberries, China Takes Hard Stance on U.S. Grain Imports and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 01 May 2025 20:59:05 +0000

This week on the Arkansas AgCast, the EPA releases its long-awaited final insecticide strategy with key changes aimed at balancing species protection and farmer flexibility. We’ll break down what’s new and how industry leaders are responding. Plus, a destructive fungal disease is threatening Arkansas strawberry fields. Hear what experts are saying and how growers are adapting.

In global ag news, China makes it clear they won’t rely on U.S. grain imports anytime soon. And good news for summer travelers - E15 fuel is sticking around. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: Soybean Season Outlook with Dr. Jeremy Ross

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 20:23:15 +0000

On this episode of AgCast’s Deep Dive series, host John McMinn sits down with Dr. Jeremy Ross, extension agronomist for soybeans with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. As planting season hits full swing across Arkansas Dr. Ross shares insights on how the 2025 soybean season is shaping up, including the impact of recent flooding, crop damage, and what farmers can expect moving forward.
Hear reflections on last year’s record-breaking yields, predictions for the 2025 season and practical advice for producers navigating weather-related challenges. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

USDA Cancels Climate-Smart Program, Arkansas Flood Damage Estimates Top $78 Million and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we cover the USDA's replacement of the Climate-Smart Commodities program, and a new requirement that at least 65% of funds from the program will directly benefit producers. We also detail the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture's estimate of $78.9 million in crop damage from recent flooding, with rice and soybeans accounting for most flooded acres. We discuss the potential negative economic impacts on Arkansas soybean, corn and cottonseed producers from a possible ban on seed oils for human consumption. Finally, we touch on the key updates from the April 2025 WASDE report for major row crops. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Severe Weather Impacts on Planting Season, Tracking Tariffs and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we look at the latest tariff news and how that could impact agriculture. We also share how recent severe weather affects planting season in Arkansas, plus look at a new forestry initiative from USDA. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Recorded Live at the Women’s Leadership Conference

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we set up at the ArFB Women’s Leadership Committee conference in Little Rock. We talked all things WLC and the conference with state committee member Elizabeth Walker. Plus, we covered USDA’s Prospective Planting report and more news. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Tariff Impacts on Farmers, Egg Imports and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0100

On this episode, we cover the first “Cattle on Feed and Livestock Slaughter Report” of 2025 to see how the inventory numbers are shaping up as spring calving season carries on. We also have data on the impacts of tariffs on American farmers, share why Brazilian egg imports are up over 90% and much more. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Deep Dive: Oxner Provides an ECAP Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0100

On this episode, we invited a regular guest to the show, Tyler Oxner, director of commodity activities and economics at Arkansas Farm Bureau, to discuss details about USDA’s Emergency Commodity Assistance Program. Tyler shared insights about how farmers can apply and a timeline of payments. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: Introducing the Arkansas Farm Trail

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0100

On this episode, we invited host-turned-guest John McMinn to dish up the details about ArFB’s new Arkansas Farm Trail. John shared details on all 22 farms on the trail, gave his takes on what you should be buying as you take on the trail and outlined the prizes up for grabs. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

REMINDER: We're hosting the first-ever Arkansas AgCast Bracket Challenge this year and we want all our listeners to join. The winner will receive an autographed photo of John McMinn and some ArFB goodies. Click this link to join the fun!

AgCast Deep Dive: Previewing the Arkansas Corn Crop

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:23:53 -0100

On this episode, Jason Kelley, U of A extension agronomist, joins the show to talk about the Arkansas’ corn crop. We look back at what went right, and not-so-right, last year. Plus, we talk about the decisions farmers can make this growing season to save costs. Catch it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

A Funding Freeze at USDA is Thawed, Launching the Arkansas Farm Trail and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 21:25:51 -0100

On this episode, we covered the release of frozen Inflation Reduction Act funds, plus USDA plans to address egg prices and avian influenza. We also share the exciting news about ArFB’s newest program, the Arkansas Farm Trail. Get up to speed on all that and a lot more on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

The Latest from USDA, Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:36:58 -0100

On this episode, we cover new USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins’ first day on the job. We also discuss reported layoffs and other changes within USDA. Plus, the Corporate Transparency Act is back in the news and farmers could be impacted. Get up to speed on all that and a lot more on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

A Conversation with the Federal Bank of St. Louis, USDA Estimates Farm Income for 2025 and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 20:32:58 -0100

On this episode, we traveled to the campus of Arkansas State University to attend the A-State Agribusiness Conference and interviewed the EVP of the Little Rock branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. We talked ag trends in that conversation, plus we covered news in the industry this week. You can get it here, on the state’s only weekly ag news program.

Egg Prices, Farmer Outlook for the Growing Season and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 20:38:03 -0100

On this episode, we talk about egg prices and what’s causing the surge across the country. We also recap farmer testimony from Sen. John Boozman’s first Senate Ag Committee meeting presiding as chair. In addition, we talk farmer sentiment on everything from loans to commodity prices. You can get all that and more on the state’s only weekly ag news program.

Arkansas AgCast Live from the Arkansas Grown Conference

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 19:31:38 -0100

On this episode, we traveled to Hot Springs to visit the Arkansas Grown Conference. The three-day event is filled with education and promotion of local foods and agritourism. We sat down with Jessica Chapman, farm-to-school coordinator for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, to learn more about how farmers are getting the commodities they produce into Arkansas school cafeterias. We also cover news from around the industry, and you can get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program.

H-2A Updates, Hay Production is Up in Arkansas and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:39:10 -0100

On this AgCast episode, we cover several updates with to the H-2A program that could impact Arkansas farmers. Plus, hay production in Arkansas was up 14% last year. We’ll tell you how we performed against other states around the south and cover more important stories from the week. Get it here in the states only weekly ag news program.

Sen. Boozman Takes the Lead on Senate Ag Committee, News on the Arkansas Lithium Industry and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0100

On this episode, we cover the latest news on the state’s lithium industry, with new funding and a timeline for construction of Standard Lithium’s facility in south Arkansas. We also congratulate Sen. John Boozman for officially taking the reins of the Senate Agriculture Committee and much more. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: Avian Influenza Explainer

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:43:35 -0100

On the first episode of 2025, we invited Jared Garrett in the studio to discuss the ongoing battle against Avian Influenza in Arkansas. Jared tells us about the disease, how it impacts poultry and how farmers are working to protect their flocks. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: The State of the Farm Economy

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 19:52:30 -0100

On this last episode of 2024, we used this Deep Dive to recap the year’s financial challenges for farmers. We invited UA ag economist, Dr. Hunter Biram, on the show to give an in-depth look at the factors that have led to an estimated loss of $30 billion for American farmers. He shares data on commodity prices, interest rates, input costs, and other factors to paint a clear picture of how we got to this situation. We also ask Hunter a crucial question for Arkansas agriculture - will we lose farmers due to financial impacts in 2025? It’s all on the cusp of an effort to pass a Continuing Resolution to keep the federal government open and provide essential aid to farmers. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Renewed Push for a Farm Bill, New Order Aims to Protect the Milk Supply and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0100

This episode covers updates on the farm bill, including a push for new legislation and immediate financial assistance. We also discuss new federal orders that could affect dairy farmers and recap ArFB’s recent convention, highlighting election results and key policy positions adopted by voting delegates. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast on Site at the 2024 Annual State Convention

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 20:44:15 -0100

We packed the studio up and headed to Hot Springs for this episode. Catch up with us on the trade show floor as we discuss all the action from the 90th Annual State Convention. We also have a great discussion with Field of Dreams star Dwier Brown before his keynote address at the event. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: 2024 Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Survey

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 20:01:38 -0100

In this episode, ArFB’s Jared Garrett breaks down the average cost of Thanksgiving dinner. We tell you what’s more expensive, which ingredients have dropped in price and how much you should expect to pay per person to feed your crew. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Arkansas Farming Expense Data, Milk Marketing Order Updates and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0100

In this episode, we share details on the upcoming 90th Annual Arkansas Farm Bureau Convention. How much ag production costs have risen in the last five years, plus the latest WASDE data, an update on how changes to the Milk Marketing Order may benefit dairy farmers and more. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: 2024 ArFB State Resolutions Meeting

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 19:12:55 -0100

For this special episode, we’re at the Hot Springs Convention Center for ArFB’s 2024 Resolutions Committee meeting. We sit down with Mississippi County farmer Heath Donner to discuss the policy-making process and how the resolutions meeting plays a role. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Global Food Commodity Price Trends, an Impending Deadline for 230,000 American Farms and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0100

A Jan. 1, 2025 deadline that could affect more than 230,000 American farms carries steep penalties. Are you ready? Plus, we cover the latest global food price data from the World Bank and review the current cattle inventory trends. This episode is packed with information and comes to you from the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

The FARM Act, Arkansas Farm Income Projections and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

There’s news of possible legislation that could provide financial relief to farmers, and we have the details on who is expected to bring that to the floor and how it could help. Plus, the latest data on Arkansas farm income is in and we’re in decline for the second year running. We discuss the details of all this and more on this episode of the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

The AgCast on Site at the Arkansas State Fair

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 16:00:00 +0000

We took the show on the road this week, with our mobile studio set up in Cattle Barn 3 at the Arkansas State Fair. It may be a little louder (and smellier) than usual, but we still have the ag news that matters on your farm. Plus, John McMinn takes his “microphone” to visit a few students showing animals to experience the agriculture side of the fair. It’s all here on this episode of the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

Arkansas Ag Innovators Needed, USDA Funds for Distressed Borrowers and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

The port workers strike that made headlines last week is over, but how long will it impact the economy? We’ll discuss that and how your innovations can bring cash to the bank and help to the farm. Plus, several USDA announcements and more news you need. It’s all on this episode of the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

An Expired Farm Bill Extension, Port Workers Strike and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

The 2018 farm bill, extended by a year in Sept. 2023, expired at midnight Sept. 30. What does the lapse mean for farmers, and will we get a new farm bill any time soon? We discuss that, plus how the port workers strike could deliver another financial blow to farmers this year and much more. It’s all here on this episode of the state’s only weekly ag news podcast, the Arkansas AgCast.

Farm Bill Pressure Mounts, Wind-Resistant Corn and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

There has been a recent flurry of activity meant to encourage legislators to pass a new farm bill, not just an extension of the current legislation. We look at the role Arkansans are playing in the pressure campaign and why it matters. Plus, Iowa is host to 30,000 acres of “short corn” this growing season. We’ll talk about why these smaller stalks could be a big deal for Arkansas farmers, plus more on this episode. It’s all here on the state’s only weekly ag news podcast, the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive | Interest Rate Drops, Commodity Markets and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 18:52:32 +0000

The Fed lowered interest rates by a half-point this week and Ryan Loy has the details on how the move could impact the Arkansas agriculture industry. We also talked with Ryan about the current commodity market conditions and how factors like a widening basis at Mississippi River ports could further impact prices. It’s all here on the state’s only weekly ag news podcast, the Arkansas AgCast.

Presidential Candidates Answer Ag Questions, Grocery Costs Hold Steady and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

American Farm Bureau published responses to its Presidential Candidate Survey with both parties answering how they’ll address top issues facing farmers and ranchers. Plus, the Consumer Price Index data released this week shows grocery prices holding steady and declining inflation, which is welcomed news. We take a closer look at these stories and much more on the state’s only weekly ag news podcast, the Arkansas AgCast.

Monitoring Mississippi River AGAIN, Record Beef Prices and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Mississippi River levels are dropping almost daily and that could impact farmers just as they are harvesting crops across the Natural State. Plus, beef prices hit record highs at the grocery store, but farmers aren’t seeing the increased revenue on their farms. We take a closer look at these stories and much more on the state’s only weekly ag news podcast, the Arkansas AgCast.

H-2A Challenged in Court, U.S. Ag Deficit Deepens and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Some H-2A worker protections hit a snag in a Georgia court, and we have the details and what further action could follow the decision. Plus, USDA forecasts the U.S. ag trade deficit to widen next year, and we’ll ask “is the U.S. ag economy in a recession?” Hear all that and more on the state’s only weekly ag news podcast, the Arkansas AgCast.

NASS Predicts State Soybean Yield Record, Arkansas Water Plan Updates and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we share USDA’s prediction of a record year for Arkansas soybeans and why that may not be a good thing for farmers. Plus, we have the details from the first phase of updates to the state Water Plan, what changes are proposed for the first time in a decade and how agriculture could be impacted. Hear all that and more on the state’s only weekly ag news podcast.

Calculating Forest Damage in Benton County, the Latest WASDE Data and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode, we share the economic impact caused by the historic tornado outbreak in May on Benton County’s forest land. We take a look from space to see how commodity production is going across the country and discuss crop quality here in Arkansas, plus more ag news.

The Reality of the AHF Flooring Facility Closure, Ag Land Values Reach Record Highs and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 19:45:03 +0000

Arkansas YF&R Award Winners, EPA Opens a New Dicamba Comment Period and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we recap the annual Officers & Leaders Conference and celebrate two of this year’s Arkansas Young Farmers & Ranchers award winners. Plus, we share information on a new USDA grant program designated for the forestry industry, details on a virus in the state that could impact equine and more.

Recorded Live from Officers & Leaders in Jonesboro

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 21:14:11 +0000

We took to the road for the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast, where we recorded live from ArFB’s Officers & Leaders Conference hosted in Jonesboro this year. In addition to covering news impacting Arkansas farmers, we sat down with Dr. Heidi Banse, dean of A-State’s new vet school, to talk about plans and how the curriculum will serve a long-term need for Arkansas farmers.

AgCast Deep Dive: A Regulatory Roundup

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 20:40:14 +0000

On the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast, ArFB ag economist Tyler Oxner discusses the long list of regulatory actions taken by the federal government recently and their impact on Arkansas farmers. In many cases, these regulations are issued among hundreds of pages, making it difficult for farmers to track. The ArFB Commodities and Regulatory Affairs team compiled a list of some of the more impactful regulations in its latest Ag Insider and Tyler breaks it all down for us. To read the Ag Insider, click here.

AgCast Deep Dive: USDA Proposes Changes to Poultry Farmer Payment System

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 15:58:57 +0000

On the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast, Jared Garrett, ArFB staffer, joins us to discuss the changes USDA has proposed to the payment and capital improvement system for poultry farmers. We learn a bit about how the system has worked in the past, what changes are proposed and how those changes are proposed to improve the current system.

4th of July Cookout Cost Analysis, Denmark is Taxing What?!, and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

The American Farm Bureau has released its annual 4th of July Cookout Cost Survey, and this year is shaping up to be the most expensive BBQ on record. We have a breakdown of where you’ll spend more and where you’ll save a little. Plus, Denmark is moving forward with a livestock carbon tax, farmer sentiment on the ag economy is down and we dive in to what may be driving the U.S. ag trade deficit. Get all this and more on the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive: Summer 2024 Farm Bill Update with Sen. Boozman

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:54:21 +0000

Sen. John Boozman joined the AgCast from Washington D.C. this week to discuss the Farm Bill framework he recently released with GOP colleagues in the Senate Ag Committee. We discuss the updates and additions he proposed for the Farm Bill, plus the areas of bipartisan common ground. We also asked if he predicts a new Farm Bill or another extension in 2024. Watch or listen to get the latest from the ranking member of the Senate Ag Committee.

Farm Bill Forward Motion from the Senate Ag Committee, Groundwater Conservation Tax Credits and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Earlier this week, the GOP side of the Senate Ag Committee, led by Sen. John Boozman, released framework for the farm bill. We will summarize the contents and discuss next step for the legislation. There’s also a groundwater conservation tax credit program in Arkansas that gets little use, but farmers are well-suited to take advantage, we have the details on how to get started. We’ll also cover the latest updates on planting, crop quality and WASDE data on this episode of the Arkansas AgCast.

USDA Proposes Poultry Farmer Help, Arkansas Ag Goes to Sicily and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 18:55:18 +0000

This week, USDA announced proposed changes to the poultry tournament system, which includes guarantees for base price and addresses other issues. We’ll have the details and how you can add input to the proposal. Plus, a Sicilian delegation visited the Natural State this week to form a partnership focused on agriculture with the U of A, how farmers continue to struggle with weather challenges and more on this episode of the Arkansas AgCast.

Farm Bill Movement, Arkansas Reeling from Severe Weather and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 31 May 2024 10:00:41 +0000

The House Ag Committee passed its version of the Farm Bill just after midnight last Friday, but despite the late-night action the legislation has a long road ahead. Plus, Arkansas experienced one of the biggest tornado outbreaks in history over Memorial Day weekend, with farmers and rural communities bearing the brunt of the impacts. We share the latest data on the storms. We also share leadership news from Riceland Foods, a look at the U.S. ag trade deficit and a lot more on the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast.

The Cost of Soybean Seeds Through the Years, A-State Hires a Vet School Dean and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 24 May 2024 09:00:23 +0000

#Plant24 in Arkansas is wrapping up quickly and we’re still moving at a historic pace, but how does the crop quality look? Has it been impacted by storms? We answer that on this episode. Plus, you may be shocked at the increase of soybean seed prices in the last 20 years, and we’ll tell you why the new vet school dean at A-State has experience that may be music to farmers’ ears. All that and more on the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Deep Dive | Brandon Wolfe, Farmer and Mental Health Professional

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 22 May 2024 15:24:15 +0000

In recognition of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to produce a Deep Dive episode dedicated to the impact of mental health challenges on the farm while sharing resources available to help anyone who may be struggling. We invited Brandon Wolfe, clinical therapist and cattle rancher, to join the podcast to talk about the unique issues farmers face. Brandon gives us a step-by-step look at the process of finding help to fit your needs. In true AgCast style, we have some fun along the way, and you know we covered the subject of food, too. Give this special episode a listen or share it with someone who may appreciate Brandon’s unique perspective. Connect with Brandon here: https://alleviant.com/brandon-wolfe/

The Northern Lights in Arkansas, Cicadas Making History and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 May 2024 20:00:12 +0000

On this episode, we’ll discuss how the Northern Lights phenomenon may have impacted agriculture over the weekend. We also recap the data from the latest WASDE report and what USDA is forecasting for commodity prices, plus how Cicadas could be creating a historical buzz in Arkansas and a lot more!

EPA’s Timing on Dicamba Review, New Water Regulations and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 May 2024 20:00:17 +0000

On this episode, we have the latest on timing for the EPA’s review of the newest dicamba label submission from Bayer. Also we discuss the latest information on the FDA’s new ag water rule and a crop planting progress update and a lot more.

New H-2A Labor Regulations, Forward Motion on the Farm Bill and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 03 May 2024 10:00:48 +0000

On this episode, we cover farm bill news hot off the press in D.C., where the House and Senate ag committees released their vision for the legislation. We also give the details on H-2A labor regulations set to go into effect next month, share resources for Mental Health Awareness Month and much more.

New EQIP Funding, La Niña Timing and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:00:48 +0000

On this episode we share how you can get involved in the State Water Plan update and when you should apply for Arkansas Century Farm status. We also cover new EQIP funding in Arkansas, give the forecasted timing for La Niña, share the latest data trends for ag industry greenhouse gas emissions and a lot more.

AgCast Deep Dive: Catching Up with Congressman Crawford

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:41:54 +0000

Rep. Rick Crawford stopped by the AgCast studio to share updates on his work in D.C. On this Deep Dive episode, we talk about his leadership of the Ag Labor Working Group within the House Ag Committee. Rep. Crawford walks us through the recommendations of that group, how those could become a reality for farmers and the significance of bi-partisan agreement in this age of politics. We also talk about his aspirations for additional leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives and much more.

AgCast Deep Dive: Catching Up with Congressman Westerman

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:00:44 +0000

Congressman Bruce Westerman stopped by the AgCast studio to share some updates on his work in D.C. On this Deep Dive episode, we talk about his work as chair of the House Natural Resources Committee and how that’s beneficial to the Natural State. In addition, we recap the impact his America’s Wildlife Habitat Conservation Act will have on local communities and their ability to manage wildlife habitat. We’ll also cover the recent Energy Week legislation passed by the Natural Resources Committee and much more.

Avian Influenza in Mammals, USDA’s Prospective Planting Outlook and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 11:00:39 +0000

Avian influenza has made its way to mammals, and we talk about what that means for other industries in agriculture and consumers at the grocery store. We also cover the new heavy-duty truck rules on emissions that could impact farmers in the near future. Plus, conservation funding available from USDA and the outlook on row crop acres in the U.S. this year.

AgCast Deep Dive: A Farm Bill Update With Sen. Boozman

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 18:00:11 -0100

We welcome Sen. John Boozman back to the studio for an update on the farm bill, including his thoughts on the likelihood Congress will pass one in 2024. Sen. Boozman also shares some priorities he and his colleagues have for the framework of the legislation and we even find out what’s on the menu for his family’s Easter celebration.

Congressional Hearings on Foreign Land Ownership, Arkansas Farmers Lend a Hand to Texas and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:00:39 -0100

We take a look at the latest round of tariffs leveed on Russian grain from the European Union, plus Congress is holding hearings on the topic of foreign-owned ag land in the U.S. We also share how Arkansas farmers are sending hay to help Texas farmers impacted by their state’s record-setting wildfires and tell you how to play a role in the next round of broadband infrastructure funding in Arkansas. Get it all on this episode of the Arkansas AgCast from Arkansas Farm Bureau.

The Ag Labor Working Group Report is Out, State Water Plan Updates and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 19:46:50 -0100

We review the highlights of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee’s Ag Labor Working Group final report and recommendations to address challenges in the H2A program. Also, funds are available to help farmers markets across the state and we have all the details, plus more funding from USDA on climate-smart ag programs and a call for input on the revamp of the state’s water plan. We wrap up with a new farm-to-table restaurant recommendation from our producer, Matthew Magdefrau.

Reviewing the State Levee System, How the EPA Wants to Better Understand Ag and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 11:00:23 -0100

In this episode, we explore the reasons behind the EPA’s opening of its new Office of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and we calculate the impacts of 2023 weather disasters on crops in Arkansas. We also explore USDA's efforts to protect livestock and poultry farmers and cover Gov. Sarah Sanders' initiative to review Arkansas' levees, plus a lot more.

Deep Dive: Arkansas’ Ag Census Data with Mike Klamm

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 20:00:12 -0100

We invited Mike Klamm with USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service to join the AgCast and discuss the data from the latest Ag Census. From the number of family farms in the Natural State to the average age of farmers and a trend that might surprise you. We cover a lot of numbers on this episode, you don’t want to miss it.

USDA’s Ag Census Data, Changing Pork Prices and Consumption & Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 11:00:42 -0100

The latest Ag Census data was recently released, and we break down Arkansas’ numbers. You may be surprised to learn what changed in the five years since the last census. We also talk about the Brazilian soybean and corn crop with data from the latest WASDE, including weather impacts. All of that and more on this episode.

Deep Dive: U.S. Beef Cattle Inventory and Price Trends

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 20:45:23 -0100

On this episode, we sit down with ag economist Jake Cartwright for a closer look at current beef cattle prices and what could be driving them to near record-setting high levels. We'll also cover how market prices will likely make their way to grocery shelves and what that means for your bank account.

USDA Data on Projected Net Farm Income, a New Court Ruling on Dicamba & Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 11:00:21 -0100

This episode covers the latest report on net farm income projections for 2024 and why it might set a record. We have some tips for farmers planning to be in the fields during the solar eclipse on April 8. We’ll also talk about the YF&R convention coming up and some menu options for the big game.

A Recap of Arkansas’s Agriculture Industry in 2023, Tax Relief for Farmers and Families & Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 11:00:32 -0100

This week we cover the “State of the State: Arkansas Ag Industry” report recently released by Talk Business & Politics. We also discuss breaking news from the U.S. House of Representatives, covering newly passed legislation that brings tax relief to American farmers and families and a lot more agriculture news. We had a bit of fun too since Feb. 2 is Groundhog Day. We answered trivia questions and debated the best Bill Murray movies.

Coverage from the Arkansas Grown Conference, AFBF Convention Recap and More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 20:39:07 -0100

We took the show on the road this week and recorded this episode live from the Arkansas Grown Conference in Hot Springs. We recap all the news from the American Farm Bureau Convention, chat about all the buzz around the Hot Springs Convention Center and have a discussion with Greg Matteson from the Farm Credit Council about resources available for new farmers. It’s a jam packed show you don’t want to miss.

John Deere and Space X Team Up, New WASDE Data Plus Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 11:00:35 -0100

On this episode, we take a closer look at the first WASDE report from 2024 and why production numbers increased since last month. We also tell you how a new partnership between John Deere and Space X could bring better connectivity to equipment on the farm.

Deep Dive: USDA Funding Available for Arkansas Farmers

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:00:15 -0100

On this episode, we talk with Alvin Peer from Arkansas NRCS about the new ACT NOW funding model for EQIP applications. If you’re pursuing funding for high tunnel, soil health or energy initiatives, you don’t want to miss this episode. The $19 million in funding will be available over a 30-day period beginning Jan. 22. Zoom Link: https://uada.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwqduiprDspE9Xa_bxvdEPQOX-UVNUJsKFh#/registration

New USDA Funding Opportunities, Food Commodity Prices are Down and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 21:18:17 -0100

On this episode, we share how you can ACT NOW to get Environmental Quality Incentives Program funding faster than ever before, there’s a new round of USDA investment in meat processing and much more. Plus, we offer a few ideas on how you might spend your snow day this weekend.

Deep Dive: Congressman Steve Womack

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 16:24:07 -0100

On this episode we invited Congressman Steve Womack into the studio to talk about the priorities of his work based on input from Arkansas farmers and ranchers. Congressman Womack also gives us some great insight into his recent trip to the South Pole, and how work there impacts Arkansans every day.

Deep Dive: Getting to Know Dr. John Anderson

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:22:56 -0100

On this episode we invited Dr. John Anderson, new director of the U of A Cooperative Extension, to share his vision for the organization he now leads. We’ll also learn a bit about Dr. Anderson’s background in agriculture and how he likes to spend his free time.

Deep Dive: The Top Ag Stories of 2023 with Whitney Haigwood

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 19:00:10 -0100

On this episode we invited Whitney Haigwood, staff writer for Delta Farm Press, to share some of the top stories of the year in Arkansas agriculture. She gives a rundown of row crop stats, new technology, how a pumpkin patch is innovating with precision ag and so much more. Join us for a rundown of the stories you may have missed this year - or just wish you knew more about.

USDA Seeks Farmer Input on Solar, New Conservation Incentive Programs and More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 18:07:58 -0100

On this episode we talk about several new conservation incentive programs from Arkansas Game & Fish, a poultry company in the state impacting farmers and a lot more. Plus, we discuss the most memorable Christmas gifts we’ve given and received over the years. Register for the Ag Producers Listening Session on solar projects here: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_1TqGU-qFSVuJ8Guw_TFlPA#/registration

Deep Dive: Arkansas Farm Bureau’s New President Dan Wright

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 20:48:32 -0100

On this episode we sit down with Dan Wright just seven days after being elected president of ArFB. You’ll learn what Dan sees as opportunities for the organization and how his history as a poultry farmer uniquely positions him to take the reins at ArFB. Give it a listen to get to know a bit more about Dan and his vision for Arkansas Farm Bureau.

The 89th Annual State Convention, an interview with Macie Kelly & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 21:39:06 -0100

Coming from location at the 89th Annual State Convention in Little Rock we talked all about the activities of the week, get the latest information on the H2A wage predictions, and we had our friend, policy analyst Macie Kelly all the way from Washington DC, on to talk about her background in ag, farm bill updates, and of course, some food talk. Check it out!

Deep Dive: Covering The Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner in Arkansas

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:59:05 -0100

Economist Tyler Oxner has written an Ag Insider on what you can expect to pay for Thanksgiving dinner this year. Hear how turkey prices in Arkansas stack up to national costs, which item on the table increased in cost the most and much more on this special edition of the show.

A Farm Bill Extension, the Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 11:00:23 -0100

Today’s episode covers the latest from D.C. on the farm bill extension, and we also run down the cost of Thanksgiving dinner this year, plus there’s great news from the USDA for specialty crop producers that you don’t want to miss. We’ll cover all that plus we build our best Thanksgiving plate. Don’t listen to this if you’re hungry!

A Report on H2A Challenges from D.C., Brisket for School Lunch and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 11:00:26 -0100

Today’s episode covers the latest from that ag labor working group, which is led by Arkansas Congressman Rick Crawford. We also have the data on China’s largest soybean purchase in months and you’ll hear about a really cool school lunch program that is feeding kids locally grown beef and pork. If you’re looking for the link to the Ag Labor Working Group report, it’s here: https://agriculture.house.gov/policy/agricultural-labor-working-group.htm

Deep Dive: Arkansas Farm Bureau's New EVP Jarrod Yates

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 19:39:23 -0100

We're bringing you a brand new AgCast Deep Dive episode this week, talking with EVP Jarrod Yates on his background in agriculture, goals for the organization, and most importantly, some of his favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurants around the state.

UA Extension Service’s New Leadership, an Arkansas Farmer Wins Big in Georgia and Much More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 11:00:32 +0000

Today’s episode covers agriculture news across Arkansas and beyond. We cover the governor’s eviction notice for Syngenta, the newest Sunbelt Ag Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year and so much more. Plus, we’ll give you the latest on row crop harvest updates and share some surprising news about the Mississippi River. Check it out!

Live From the Arkansas State Fair

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:00:20 +0000

We recorded today’s episode live in the Ag in Action barn at the state fair. Yes, we talked all things fair, but we also covered some big ag news along the way. Catch up on the latest harvest updates, find out why Walmart is going into the dairy business and much more on today’s episode. Plus, we’ll tell you the ONLY sitting president to visit the state fair and the answer might surprise you!

The Latest Numbers From the WASDE, Our State Fair Food Reviews and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 01:45:45 +0000

On today’s episode of the AgCast, we recap the October WASDE report numbers, give the latest data on the Mississippi River levels and do the math on Arkansas’ net farm income calculations. We also taste tested all the food at the state fair and tell you what to leave room for and what you can skip.

Farm Bill Updates, a Huge Rice Donation and Much More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 21:00:38 +0000

On today’s AgCast, we’ll catch up on harvest progress, tell you how many tons of Arkansas rice were recently donated to families in the state and much more. Plus, Matthew Magdefrau produced the show, so you know he brought the rural restaurant recommendations with him, too.

Government Shutdown, Farm Bill Deadline and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 11:00:36 +0000

The latest AgCast episode looks at the looming deadline for government funding plus U.S. Senator John Boozman’s latest travel stop for Farm Bill input. We’ll also talk about ag events you don’t want to miss in the final quarter of 2023 and report on harvest progress, as we do each week.

Prop 12, Harvest Updates, and Pop Tarts

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 17:15:16 +0000

On this week's episode, we take a close look at the fallout at the grocery store based on California's Prop 12. We also run down the latest crop quality and harvest progress numbers, share news of 30+ Arkansas counties eligible for disaster relief following summer storms and much more!

Deep Dive H2A Labor Wage Issues

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 20:23:26 +0000

We're bringing you a brand new AgCast Deep Dive episode this week, talking with ArFB economist Tyler Oxner about H-2A labor wage issues. Tyler and host John McMinn recently published an Ag Insider to outline the complexities of new wage requirements for H-2A workers on farms in Arkansas, tune in as they talk through the issues and what farmers need to know to navigate these regulations on specialty and row crop farms across the state.

Mississippi River Levels and the Latest WASDE Numbers

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:00:28 +0000

On the latest episode of the AgCast, the crew takes a close look at this month's WASDE numbers, we give some dollars and cents for the Mississippi River level challenges and much more. Watch or listen here or on your favorite podcast platform!

USDA Farm Income Report, Harvest Progress, Meat Processing

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:00:28 +0000

Tune in to the latest Arkansas AgCast episode to learn about new federal funds available to meat processors in Arkansas. We also break down the latest farm income report from USDA, give the latest on harvest progress and crop quality, and much more! Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program application: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/meat-and-poultry-processing-expansion-program

River Levels Dropping, Harvest Underway, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 18:47:33 +0000

On this episode of the AgCast, we'll talk about the latest updates on WOTUS and the ag industry's reaction to the changes. We'll also talk about how river levels could be impacting farmers just as harvest gets underway and a quick and simple way to provide feedback on ag labor issues. Ag Labor Survey link: https://agriculture.house.gov/policy/agricultural-labor-working-group.htm?utm_source=Ag[…]tm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-78d3e191f7-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D

Deep Dive with Dr. Kyle Cunningham

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 16:34:33 +0000

We invited Dr. Kyle Cunningham to join us in the studio to record an AgCast Deep Dive episode. During our conversation, we covered the role of the state forester, Dr. Cunningham‘s priorities for the state’s forestry industry and many more topics. Take a few minutes and listen to this episode to gain a bit more insight into one of Arkansas‘s most important agriculture sectors, the timber industry.

Arkansas Ag Innovation Challenge, Ag Lending Rates, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 12:00:30 +0000

We discuss the State Water Plan executive action announced this week, how ag lending rates can impact the cost of production and we'll tell you how to bring your solution for the ag industry to life with the Arkansas Ag Innovation Challenge. It's all on this week's episode of the AgCast, where you can watch or listen to stay up-to-date with the news that impacts the Arkansas agriculture industry.

WTO Ruling, WASDE Report, and Crop Updates

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:00:29 +0000

On this episode of the AgCast, we report on a WTO ruling that impacts Chinese-imposed tariffs for ag products. We also give a crop quality update and share the latest from the WASDE report plus lots more. Watch or listen to be updated on the latest news that impacts Arkansas agriculture.

Ag Land Values, Tyson Foods Plant Closures, USDA Funds

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 11:00:26 +0000

From rising ag land values and cash rent trends to the impact of Tyson Foods plant closures, plus the latest USDA funds coming to the state. Catch all the latest developments impacting the state's agriculture industry on the latest episode of the Arkansas AgCast.

India Rice Ban, U.S. Cattle Inventory & Watermelons

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 19:00:46 +0000

On this episode, we talk about India's new rice ban, give the latest on U.S. cattle inventory numbers and take a moment to appreciate delicious watermelon on hot summer days. Get all that and more, here:

AgCast Deep Dive with Glen Howie

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 12:00:14 +0000

On this AgCast Deep Dive episode, we are joined by state broadband director, Glen Howie, to take a closer look at the recently-announced $1 billion grant for broadband expansion in the state. Glen shares the details of how the funds will be used, when we should expect to see action and offers a way for the state's farmers and ranchers to get involved in their home counties. For background on the funding, see the recent news here: https://senate.arkansas.gov/senate-news/posts/2023/july/arkansas-to-receive-1-billion-for-broadband-expansion/#:~:text=LITTLE%20ROCK%20%E2%80%93%20Arkansas%20officials%20announced,intend%20to%20spend%20the%20funds.

75th O&L Conference, Respect Rural Roads Project, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 18:52:00 +0000

The Arkansas AgCast was recorded live from the 75th Annual Officers and Leaders Conference in Hot Springs. In addition to covering the top ag headlines around the country, producer Matthew gives a rundown of his perfect breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Spa City. Check it out now!

Broadband investment, WASDE, Rock City Burger Week

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 19:49:09 +0000

On today's episode of the Arkansas AgCast we discuss a record investment for broadband infrastructure in Arkansas and take a close look at the latest WASDE data from USDA. And in proper form, we don't get out without discussing food, covering the best bites in Rock City Burger Week too.

AgCast Deep Dive: Sales Tax Exemption with Tyler Oxner

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 20:11:02 +0000

This week, we're bringing another AgCast Deep Dive to explore the impacts of sales tax exemption for Arkansas farmers and ranchers. We welcome guest Tyler Oxner, economist here at ArFB, to take a closer look at a recent Ag Insider he co-authored that outlines the economics of the state's exemptions for row crop and livestock producers. Give it a listen!

The History of the Farm Bill - Deep Dive with Brandy Carroll

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 20:00:11 +0000

In the next AgCast Deep Dive, John McMinn sits down with staff economist Brandy Carroll to discuss the history and purpose of the Farm Bill plus a bit about what farmers can expect as a new Farm Bill is worked out in Washington D.C.

The New State Forester, Arkansas River Channel Updates, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:00:26 +0000

On this week's AgCast episode, we share how Arkansas farmers can lend their voice to an important river project, we share news of a new State Forester and share the announcement of a new EVP at ArFB. All that and much more, check it out now.

EPA Biotech Ruling, Mississippi River Mega Study, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 22:07:27 +0000

On this week's AgCast episode, we talk about the new EPA biotech rule for gene-edited plants, an update on Arkansas's planting progress and crop conditions, the weather effect of El Niño and a Mississippi River mega-study. You don't want to miss this episode. Listen now!

Beef Cold Storage Issues - Deep Dive with Jake Cartwright

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 20:37:47 +0000

On this first edition of the Arkansas AgCast Deep Dive, we sit down with ArFB economist, Jake Cartwright, to take a closer look at the beef cold storage issue we covered on a previous episode. Jake outlines the causes of decreased beef inventory in the U.S., explains why the cattle count is so low and shares some insight on how this will impact consumers at the supermarket.

Tomato Production Issues, Dry Weather Impacts, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 21:44:10 +0000

In this episode, we dive into challenges facing Arkansas agriculture: the future of WOTUS, the issues surrounding tomato production and stress pressure on Loblolly Pines in Southern Arkansas and dry weather impacts. We'll also recap row crop planting progress, crop condition and much more. As mentioned in the episode, if you see pine tree "browning" please report it to the Arkansas Agriculture Department here: arcg.is/1HyHCu0

Brisket Prices on the Rise, Prop-12 Recap, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 May 2023 20:24:36 +0000

On today's AgCast we talk about the impact of the Prop 12 ruling in California, Mississippi River levels are back in the news, rising brisket prices, and much more. Listen now!

H2A Labor Rules, Farm Bill Talks, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 12 May 2023 03:00:31 +0000

On today's episode of the AgCast, we'll talk about a White House meeting aimed at advancing Farm Bill talks, new rules for H2A labor that Arkansas farmers need to know and a bit about a SCOTUS ruling that has far-reaching impacts on the farm and your dinner table.

Beef Cold Storage Report, Weather Issues for Peaches, & More.

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 May 2023 22:01:45 +0000

This episode of the Arkansas AgCast includes news about beef prices at the supermarket, how weather May have impacted the Arkansas peach crop and a roundup of rural restaurants you must visit around the state.

A New Rice Variety, Arkansas Aquifers Reports, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 21:32:10 +0000

On this week's AgCast we talk about a new medium grain rice variety in town, we will be looking at data on the aquifers that are vital to agriculture in the state, and much more. Watch or listen to find out more!

Rice Export Markets, ArFB donation to UAMS, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 22:22:42 +0000

ArFB makes a big commitment to address the shortage of health care professionals throughout the state, plus new data on rice acres and export markets plus much more on today's episode of the show. Check it out!

All things WOTUS, Good News from the Grocery Store, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:00:36 +0000

On today’s episode we cover a lot of news on WOTUS, great news for consumers at the grocery store and much more.

A Busy Week at the State Capitol and USDA Projections

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 21:00:17 +0000

We've got an abbreviated episode of the Arkansas AgCast this week, but it's still jam-packed with news that matters to the state's ag producers. Hear the latest on what's happening at the state capitol, an update on USDA projections for the year and more on today's show.

Farm Economy Outlook, WOTUS Updates, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 11:00:27 +0000

On the latest Arkansas AgCast episode we cover breaking news on WOTUS, recap great news for the farm economy and much more!

WOTUS, Legislative Updates, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 10:00:28 -0100

On this week’s AgCast we discuss an interesting update on Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), more time for poultry companies to come to an agreement on the Illinois River watershed and more!

Right to Repair, the "Other" Farm Bill Titles, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:00:20 -0100

Big news on the right-to-repair front, we break down the "other" five titles in the Farm Bill, plus how the freezing could be impacting Arkansas farmers. We cover all that and much more on today's episode of the Arkansas AgCast!

Input Costs Update, Ag Hall of Fame, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 21:00:28 -0100

Input Costs Update, Ag Hall of Fame, & More by Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation

Hunters Feeding the Hungry, WOTUS Updates, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 21:19:04 -0100

On today's episode we recap the record setting Farmers Day at the Capitol event, chat about a big partnership with Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry and share some interesting news concerning the new WOTUS rule. Check out the March 2nd edition of the Arkansas AgCast.

Senator John Boozman, USDA Trade Reports, & More!

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 21:00:27 -0100

On today's episode, we sit down with Senator John Boozman to talk about the upcoming farm bill, discuss USDA's February Trade report, and more, watch here now!

Egg Price Mania, USDA Updates, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 21:00:15 -0100

Are eggs getting cheaper? We have the answer on this week's Arkansas AgCast. Plus we recap all the important news out of USDA and give an update on all the action at the state capitol too.

Fed interest rate hike, Arkansas forestry investments, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 18:00:30 -0100

We’re a day late on the AgCast this week, but still have all the great news and information you get each week. We cover some interesting forestry industry news and have details on the latest interest rate increase from the fed this week with much more.

Arkansas Grown Conference, Ear Tag Tracking, & Egg Prices

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 21:00:18 -0100

This week's episode comes from the halls of the inaugural Arkansas Grown Conference in Little Rock. We cover the potential for new ear tags in livestock, why egg prices are so high and chat with ag secretary Wes Ward too.

USDA funding, Lastest Action from the State Capitol, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Sat, 21 Jan 2023 10:00:13 -0100

On this week’s episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we share some new details on the USDA funding for rice growers, recap the latest action from the state capitol and a ton more all on today’s episode of the Arkansas AgCast

WASDE Report, Right to Repair, & AFBF Convention Recap

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 10:00:41 -0100

On this week’s episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we have a recap of the American Farm Bureau convention, hot off the press data from the January WASDE and some great news for farmers who now have the option to work on their own equipment. Check it out!

WOTUS, Solar Energy, & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 11:00:21 -0100

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast we unveil a new set for viewers and welcome John McMinn to help deliver the news. We’ll talk about updates to WOTUS, a win for solar energy users and much more!

2022 Recap and Holiday Fun

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 11:00:22 -0100

We wrap up the Arkansas AgCast for the year by recapping some of the top farming news stories of the year and finish out the day with some Christmas trivia too.

Agcast | Crop Losses, Appointment of Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 11:00:37 -0100

On today's episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we celebrate the re-appointment of Arkansas Ag Secretary Wes Ward and cover the losses for row crop farmers in 2022 and we'll recap some encouraging data on for rural communities.

Arkansas AgCast - Farm Family Of The Year, Convention Recap, And Drones On Farms

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 22:13:05 -0100

On today's episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we'll recap ArFB's state convention elections and priorities, share an exciting award for drone research at the U of A division of ag and we wrap up with an overview of the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program.

Arkansas Agcast | State Convention, Avian Flu Updates, & Railroad Worker Strike

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 17:04:25 -0100

This week Arkansas Agcast comes to you a day early from the Hot Springs Convention Center where we are hosting our Annual State Convention. Listen in to get updates on current Ag news and to hear from Jeff McClure about all things convention. There's still time for you to make out for all that's happening at the convention this year!

Arkansas AgCast Thanksgiving Dinner, State Convention

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 20:23:15 -0100

On today's episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we'll talk about how much you should plan to spend when shopping for Thanksgiving dinner. We also have lots of information on the upcoming state convention and will cover a few important ag topics along the way. Join us!

FDA Meat Processing Funds, Interest Rate Concerns, Crop Updates & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:43:30 -0100

We talk ag exports and international trade, new FDA funds for meat processing, interest rate worries in 2023, the latest on Arkansas crops and more.

Low River Levels Report, Broadband Funding, Crops & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 21:56:59 +0000

On this week's Arkansas AgCast, we share a report from ArFB economists that outlines the impacts of low river levels for row crop farmers in the Delta. We also recap broadband funding making real impacts for farms in rural Arkansas counties and have some fun talking Halloween along the way.

Visiting the State Fair, FFA Interview & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 21:29:07 +0000

This week we take the show on the road to the Arkansas State Fair, where we discuss the latest in ag headlines and sit down with Jennifer Cook, executive director of the Arkansas FFA Foundation. And we have a bit of fun along the way.

Avian Influenza, Farm Bill, Crop Updates & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 14:10:06 +0000

On this week's episode, we have the latest news on Farm Bill planning, crop updates, California pork law arguments at the Supreme Court, Avian Influenza and much more.

Low River Levels, Cover Crops, State Meat Inspection & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 20:23:50 +0000

On today's episode, we have an update low Mississippi River levels, a new cover crop survey, state meat inspection and much more.

Crop report, input funds, poultry updates & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 13:18:24 +0000

On today’s episode of the Arkansas AgCast we talk about new funding to offset the increase in input costs, tureky prices ahead of Thanksgiving, why soybean forecasts have decreased so much since March and much more.

FDA funds, Rock City Burger Week, Off-farm Jobs Study & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 14:34:47 +0000

We get the latest on FDA funding for Arkansas projects and rural broadband and we take a look at a new study on off-farm work. We also chat about Rock City Burger Week and other upcoming events.

Rail worker strike news, harvest report, USDA funding & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 21:42:20 +0000

We have the latest on rail worker strike news, a status report on harvest in the state, major USDA funding news and more.

Farmer sentiment, land values, Arkansas agriculture stats & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 21:28:05 +0000

We talk about the latest farmer sentiment survey, farmland values in Arkansas, the latest state agriculture stats and more.

Guest interviews, market updates & the Farm Bureau Foundation

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 21:33:36 +0000

We talk to Arkansas Farm Bureau team members about commodity markets, weather impacts, the Arkansas Farm Bureau Foundation and more.

Remembering an Arkansas ag educator, updated USDA crop data & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 13:54:21 +0000

On this episode, we talk about new funding for farmers in the Inflation Reduction Act, remember a past Arkansas Farm Bureau board member and chat about an upcoming documentary on soil conservation efforts in Arkansas.

Special Session Recap and Other State Policy News

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 17:08:10 +0000

We recap the Arkansas General Assembly special session with new Arkansas Farm Bureau Director of State Affairs Mark Labmbert and we learn how one piece of legislation will have a major positive impact on farmers and small businesses.

USDA Drought Relief, New Drought Impact Study, a Federal Milk Order Forum & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 21:17:05 +0000

We talk USDA drought assistance efforts, a new drought impact study for Arkansas and an upcoming Federal Milk Marketing Order Forum hosted by American Farm Bureau.

Weather predictions and problems, USDA cattle and crop updates & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 17:26:31 +0000

Weather predictions and problems, USDA cattle and crop updates & more.

UA System VP of Ag Deacue Fields, broadband updates & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 13:22:14 +0000

We talk to Deacue Fields, vice president of agriculture for the University of Arkansas System, and discuss USDA grants, broadband access and more.

Rice Leadership, Farm School, Crop Health, Soybean oil uses & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 13:17:05 +0000

On this week's Arkansas AgCast, we talk Rice Leadership Development, Farm School, Avian Flu, crop health updates and how Goodyear is using soybean oil for commercial tires.

Farmer sentiment sinks, bollworm and tick trouble & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 14:27:30 +0000

On this week’s episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we provide an update on Purdue University’s farmer sentiment survey, talk about bollworm pressure in the state and tell you how your favorite farm dog can get the ultimate treat.

4th of July meal costs, USDA acreage report & a special guest

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 21:32:56 +0000

We hear about the rising cost of 4th of July cookouts, dive into the latest USDA Acreage and Quarterly Grain Stocks reports and talk to a special guest from the Arkansas Rice Research & Promotion Board.

Senate Ag Committee action, gas prices, blackberries & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 21:29:52 +0000

This week, the crew talks about last week's Senate Ag hearing in Jonesboro, the potential for relief at the gas pump and the interesting history of blackberries in Arkansas.

Senate Ag Committee meeting, District Farm Families, Dairy Month & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 11:11:32 +0000

We talk crop updates, a Senate Ag Committee Field hearing, Farmers' Market Week, the announcement of District Farm Families and more.

Ag Hall of Fame Inductee Russell Roy Reynolds & his Impact on Arkansas

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 02:20:18 +0000

We talk to Ken McDonald, grandson of recent Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame inductee Russell Roy Reynolds, about his late grandfather's accomplishments and tremendous impact on forestry in Arkansas. Reynolds was the director of the U.S. Forest Service Crossett Experimental Forest for 34 years.

NAAS June Surveys, Deacue Fields, Fire Policy Forum, Crop Updates & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 16:54:19 +0000

We dive into the importance of the NAAS June Agriculture and Area surveys and we discuss upcoming workshops on fire policy and school gardens, as well as the latest planing update and Arkansas Farm Bureau Foundation Week.

Arkansas Senate Ag Committee Hearing, Changes to CRP and More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 27 May 2022 13:38:17 +0000

We begin this week’s podcast with a bit of breaking news about an Senate Ag Committee hearing in Arkansas. We also cover USDA assistance, temporary changes to the CRP program and how Arkansas cattle ranchers can get a step ahead of drought risk this summer.

Broadband Update, a Dire Rice Report, Planting & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 20 May 2022 13:15:43 +0000

On this Arkansas AgCast, we’re discussing an opportunity for growers to win some cash while making history, we’ll also give an update on the broadband work being done across the state, a downbeat report for rice growers and much more.

Farm Bill Trip, USDA programs, Planting Progress & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 May 2022 21:18:30 +0000

We have the latest on Farm Bill discussions, USDA programs and planting progress in Arkansas. Plus, a new leader at Arkansas Farm Bureau, County Farm Famillies of the Year and more.

Rainy Weather Causes Planting Delays

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 May 2022 21:05:14 +0000

5/5/22 - On this episode we discuss planting delays, broadband expansion, and cattle marketing. Share, like and subscribe!

All About the Center for Arkansas Farms and Food

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 21:20:38 +0000

We talk to Heather Friedrich of the Center for Arkansas Farms and Food about the Center’s multi-faceted program that includes classes, farm school and farm apprenticeships.

Keeping Arkansas Poultry Safe from Avian Influenza

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 19:46:24 +0000

Though it isn't in Arkansas yet, Avian Influenza has been detected in nearby states and precautions are being taken to prevent its spread into Arkansas poultry. We talk to Arkansas Farm Bureau's John Bailey and Dr. Dustan Clark, Extension Veterinarian and Associate Poultry Center Director with the University of Arkansas, about the danger and the measures being taken to protect poultry in the state.

AgCast Extra! Advocating For Ag

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 20:58:59 +0000

For this bonus episode of the Arkansas AgCast, Jana Carroll is fresh off her graduation from the American Farm Bureau's Women's Communications Bootcamp. She joins us to share pointers on how to effectively advocate for the agriculture industry in your own voice.

Nathan Reed, new Chair of American Cotton Producers

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 19:08:41 -0100

We talk to Nathan Reed of Marianna, recently elected chairman of American Cotton Producers, the grower segment of the National Cotton Council. Reed talks about the organization, the state of the cotton industry and challenges ahead.

Famers Markets Preview

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Sat, 19 Mar 2022 12:05:59 -0100

On this episode of the Arkansas AgCast, we talk with staff economist, John McMinn, about farmers markets in the state and where you can go to pick your own fresh berries this Spring. We also cover some of the challenges farmers are facing, from input costs to the conflict in Europe with staff economist, Mark Lambert.

Inflation Continues, the Effects it has on Farmers

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 19:55:34 -0100

We talk about the impacts of inflation and world events on agriculture with Mississippi County farmer Heath Donner and economist and Arkansas Farm Bureau Senior Vice President Matt King.

A look at the 2022 Arkansas Fiscal Session

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 14:29:50 -0100

Jeff Pitchord gives an overview of the General Assembly’s fiscal session, which kicked off last month and is set to wrap up early next week. Jeff covers the funding decisions that impact the state’s agriculture industry and a special change to vehicle assessments that will affect all Arkansans who assess a vehicle.

FFA Week Updates & History

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 19:36:14 -0100

We dive into FFA Week with Arkansas FFA officers from around the state and get their thoughts on the importance of FFA, its history and the events of the week.

Urban Farming Focus: The Sustainabilty Project

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 19:56:48 -0100

We introduce two siblings based in Little Rock and Pine Bluff who are promoting urban farming and educational efforts throughout the state. They have a unique story and big plans and they sat down with us to talk about how they got started in the urban farming arena and what they hope to accomplish.

AGcast Extra at the ASU Agribuisness Conference

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 20:51:55 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jason Brown was on hand for the 28th annual Arkansas State University Agribusiness Conference in Jonesboro this week, where he spoke to Chelsie Keys, GOP Senate Ag policy director, and journalist Jim Wiesemeyer of Pro Farmer/Farm Journal.

How Farm Bureau Memberships Work

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 15:35:26 -0100

In honor of Farm Bureau Week 2022, Arkansas Farm Bureau Executive Vice President Warren Carter talks about what it means to be a member of Arkansas Farm Bureau and all of the important work membership supports around the state.

Labeling Controversy Leaves Counties in the Cold

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 18:51:01 -0100

There's good news and bad news in a recent FDA decision on popular herbicides Enlist One and Enlist Duo, which are often used for controlling pigweed. Brandy Carroll, Director of Commodity Activities and Market Information with Arkansas Farm Bureau, explains the situation and why it's bad news for some western Arkansas. counties.

Cotton Yields In '21 And Current Year Outlook

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 18:16:14 -0100

We check in with Dr. Bill Robertson, Cotton Extension Agronomist at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, to hear about record cotton yields last year and what could lie ahead in 2022. We also get a farmer’s perspective on last year’s cotton crop from Terry Pollard of Piggott.

Arkansas Grown & Farm-to-Consumer Marketing

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 19:22:13 -0100

We explore efforts by Arkansas farmers and ranchers to market directly to consumers and the challenges and opportunities in this space. To get some perspective on the issue, we talked to Karen Reynolds from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and Logan Duvall, owner of Me & McGee Market in North Little Rock.

Talking American Farm Bureau Convention & Policy for 2022

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 14:34:06 -0100

After returning from an eventful American Farm Bureau Convention in Atlanta, our policy experts sit down to discuss how the event went and what to expect from national Farm Bureau policy in 2022.

Best interviews of 2021

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 20:04:34 -0100

In this special edition, we put together some of our favorite interviews from a very busy 2021, including our conversations with FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, retired University of Arkansas Professor Andrew Sharpley and more.

American Soybean Association and Direct to Consumer Marketing

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 21:16:07 -0100

This week, we talk to newly elected American Soybean Association president Brad Doyle and we get to hear from Dustin Cowell about direct to consumer marketing.

Ag Estate Planning, State Meat Inspection & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 21:11:36 -0100

This week, we talk to an expert about agriculture estate planning, we get details on the Arkansas state meat inspection program and we hear about how a project related to Beaver Dam could impact farmers along the White River.

Farm Family of the Year, Snow Geese & Yellow Peas

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 21:19:10 -0100

This week, we hear from the 2021 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. We also hear about the problems caused by snow geese and the unique opportunity one farmer has found in growing yellow peas.

Live from the 87th Annual Arkansas Farm Bureau Convention

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 22:29:09 -0100

This week, we’re live at the 87th annual Arkansas Farm Bureau Convention in Little Rock. We talk to two first-time attendees at the Convention, we hear from an exhibitor at the event’s trade show and we also visit with a workshop leader about farm and ranch branding and marketing.

Thanksgiving dinner costs, holiday traditions & rice and cotton markets

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:21:52 -0100

This week, we talk about the price of Thanksgiving dinner, along with personal Thanksgiving traditions and memories. We also catch up with Pulaski County Farm Bureau President Debbie Moreland about policy development and Farm Bureau’s upcoming annual convention, and we get the latest on November rice and cotton markets.

Soybean Month, Resolutions and NRCS

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 20:55:12 -0100

This week, we talk about Arkansas Soybean Month and the 50th anniversary of the soybean checkoff program in Arkansas. We also get to know Chris Colclasure, recently appointed director of the Dept. of Agriculture's Natural Resources Division, and we hear about Arkansas Farm Bureau's annual resolutions meeting, an important part of the organization's grassroots policy development process.

Cotton harvest, farm photo etiquette & invasive geese

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 20:32:23 -0100

This week, we talk cotton and learn about harvest progress in Northeast Arkansas, and we hear about the art, etiquette and ethics of photo shoots on the farm. We also discuss problems caused by the invasive Egyptian Goose.

Spooky Halloween Special

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 21:36:40 +0000

This week, we bring you tricks and treats, as we learn about disgusting Dead Man’s Fingers and mildly terrifying carnivorous plants and we talk about fun fall harvest and Halloween activities.

Corn crop update, grain markets, cover crops & Farm Bureau membership

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 20:41:32 +0000

This week, we hear about the 2021 corn crop and get an update on grain markets. We also learn the ins and outs of cover crops and talk about the value and importance of Arkansas Farm Bureau membership.

Livestock Showing, Fair Food & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 21:11:39 +0000

This week, we talk to Arkansas State Fair Livestock Director, Chris Bacchus about the benefits of showing livestock and poultry. We also talk to Leigh Ann Bullington about the role as family consumer science educator, and we hear about the Farm Bureau PR team’s visit to media day at the state fair.

Congressman Westerman's Ag Tour, Arkansas Youth Expo & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 21:39:26 +0000

This week, we talk to Congressman Bruce Westerman as he kicks off his latest Ag Tour in the state. We also hear about this year’s Arkansas Youth Expo livestock event in Washington County, which wrapped up earlier this week, and we get the latest news on commodity markets from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Brandy Carroll.

Ag Hall of Famer, Night Pollinators & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 21:45:03 +0000

This week, we learn about unique, new research on “night pollinators” and we get to know another inductee in the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame, Andrew Wargo. We also explore the partnership between Five Oaks Duck Lodge and the University of Arkansas at Monticello and the launch of the Five Oaks Ag Research and Education Center.

Rice harvest outlook, supply chain challenges & election workshop

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 21:21:36 +0000

This week, we take a “Rice Month” look at this year’s rice harvest and we get a farmer’s perspective on agriculture supply chain challenges. We also hear about the upcoming “How to Win and Election” workshop presented by Arkansas Farm Bureau and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.

Better Farming Through Data, Arkansas Grape Varieties & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 21:14:51 +0000

This week, we hear about the critical role data plays in making sound economic decisions on the farm, and we talk about the history of grape breeding in Arkansas and how it led to development of the wildly popular “cotton candy” grape. We also learn about four livestock disease outbreaks that Arkansas agriculture experts are watching closely.

Broadband for All - Arkansas Connectivity Summit Coverage

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 21:44:45 +0000

This week, we were on hand for the Arkansas Connectivity Summit at the Hot Springs Convention Center. We heard from a variety of experts, including a sitting FCC commissioner, about the state’s effort to expand and improve broadband internet access and about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. See our interview with FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr at arfb.com.

Equine Industry, Mobile Meat Processing & Senator John Boozman Visits.

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 21:41:55 +0000

This week, we hear about what's happening in the equine industry in Arkansas and we learn about a new "mobile" meat processing trailer. We also talk about Senator John Boozman's tour of farms and agriculture operations in the state and learn why these visits from Congressional leaders are so important.

Canal Construction, Hall of Famer Interview & Possible Tax Trouble

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 21:22:06 +0000

This week, we learn about how certain new federal tax proposals could hit farmers hard and we meet another member of the next class of Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame inductees. We also get a progress update on the White River Irrigation District canal construction project.

Blackberries, Burgers & a Cotton Crop Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 21:00:20 +0000

This week, we get the latest on this year’s cotton crop and take a look at tools and techniques that will help with future crops. We also hear about a new and surprisingly sweet blackberry called the Ponca and we learn all about Rock City Burger week.

Small Farm Program, Broadband Survey & Corn Crop Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 21:37:19 +0000

This week, we learn about the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff’s Small Farm Program and a new effort to get a better map of broadband and cell coverage in Arkansas. We also visit a Monroe County farm to get an update on this year’s corn crop.

Rice Production and Senate Ag Committee Visit

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 20:21:38 +0000

On this week's edition we get an update on this year's rice production in the state and learn about the upcoming briefing with the Senate Ag Committee taking place in Arkansas.

Agricultural yield survey, irrigation tech & soybean updates

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 22:27:11 +0000

On this week's edition, we hear about the importance of upcoming agricultural yield surveys from the National Agricultural Statistics Service. We also learn all about soil moisture sensors and other technology for managing irrigation and get the latest on this year’s soybean crop.

Podcaster Vance Crowe, Diversity in Ag & Hummingbirds

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 21:36:09 +0000

On this week's edition, we hear about the Diversity in Agriculture Virtual Conference and what was shared and learned by participants. We also talk to podcaster and speaker Vance Crowe, who delivered the keynote address at Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Officers & Leaders Conference, and we learn about all things hummingbird with an Arkansas Audubon Society ornithologist.

Ag Hall of Fame, Ag Education & Sheep

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 03:27:07 +0000

On this week's edition, we kick off a series of interviews with upcoming inductees into the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame and visit with teachers attending the FFA’s Arkansas Agricultural Education Summer Teacher's Conference at Camp Couchdale in Garland County. We also learn about a new sheep herd at the University of Arkansas Monticello.

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Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 21:37:32 +0000

On this week's edition, we get a preview of the upcoming Diversity in Ag Virtual Conference, learn about the ongoing problem of fire ants and discuss the latest crop progress report from the USDA.

Farmers Market family, groundwater report & tick trouble

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 21:32:13 +0000

On this week's edition, we visit a Hempstead County farmers market to meet some local growers and vendors, we hear about the recently released Arkansas Groundwater Protection and Management Report and get some tips on avoiding tick problems.

Talking environment, a new flood study & Arkansas Dairy Month

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 21:23:05 +0000

On this week's edition, we hear from University of Arkansas experts about the physical and economic impact of recent flooding in Southeast Arkansas. We also get an update from the Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Environmental Issues Committee meeting in Cave Springs and we learn about Dairy Month in Arkansas.

Mississippi bridge closure update & farmers talk flood damage

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 22:08:58 +0000

On this week's edition, we travel through Southeast Arkansas to hear from some farmers facing heavy losses after last week’s floods. We also get an update on the Mississippi River bridge closure at Memphis and we hear how farmers and ranchers can avoid heat-related illnesses this summer.

The impact of rain and flooding, a new ag promotion program & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 22:53:00 +0000

On this week's edition, we hear about the impact of heavy rains and flooding across parts of Arkansas and take a look at what the economic impact might be of this week’s wet weather. We also learn more about the new Experience Arkansas Agriculture promotional campaign and get a preview of the upcoming Officers & Leaders Conference for Arkansas Farm Bureau.

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Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 21:37:45 +0000

On this week's edition, we hear about important issues facing the beef cattle industry. We also get an update on this year's rice crop and we take a look at overall row-crop planting progress and find out what might lie ahead this growing season.

Learning about cicadas, refurbished tractors and the Memphis Mississippi River bridge closure impact

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 May 2021 19:20:11 +0000

On this weeks episode we hear about Arkansas Cicadas from Dr. Aaron Cato and we also talk to Marianna farmer Nathan Reed about his restoration of abandoned tractors. Finally we hear from Arkansas Farm Bureau's Mark Lambert on the agricultural impacts of the Memphis Mississippi River bridge closure.

Learning about "Good Roots," cotton updates & the state plant board

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 20 May 2021 16:39:43 +0000

On this week’s edition, we hear about recent Arkansas Supreme Court rulings related to the state Plant Board, get the latest on cotton planting in Arkansas and get to know Lauren McCullough one of the hosts of Good Roots, the new Arkansas PBS segment sponsored by Arkansas Farm Bureau.

Arkansas Weather, Water Irrigation & Ronald McDonald House

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 May 2021 21:31:43 +0000

On this week’s edition, we talk Arkansas weather with KATV meteorologist Todd Yakoubian and we learn about the next stage of construction on the Grand Prairie Irrigation District. We also hear about the long relationship between the Arkansas Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee and Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Arkansas Discovery Farms & A Career in Soil Science

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 May 2021 21:48:57 +0000

On this week’s edition, we sit down for a chat with the recently retired crop, soil and environmental expert Dr. Andrew Sharpley about his distinguished academic career and his experience working on the Discovery Farms Program and with Arkansas farmers. We also dig a little deeper into Arkansas Discovery Farms with the University of Arkansas’s Mike Daniels.

New Ag Outreach Effort, Ag Econ Professor Retiring

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 00:13:42 +0000

On this week’s edition, we learn about a unique new video project called “Experience Arkansas Agriculture,” and we talk to agriculture economics professor Dr. Bob Stark, who is retiring this summer after a distinguished career at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. We also get a final legislative session wrap-up from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jeff Pitchford.

Freeze danger for fruit & a legislative update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:37:31 +0000

On this week’s edition, we talk about the potential impact of cold weather on one grower’s peach crop, we hear from the Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives about agriculture-focused legislation, and we get an update on other happenings at the state legislature from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s own Jeff Pitchford.

Freeze danger for fruit growers & ag legislation

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:33:59 +0000

Cotton planting, the feral hog fight & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 21:24:10 +0000

On this week’s edition, we get the latest on cotton planting in Arkansas, learn about the important connection between water fowl and rice farming, and hear the latest on what’s being done to fight the feral hog problem in the state. We also get an update on what’s happening at the state legislature.

Updates on Federal & State Ag Policy

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 20:46:14 +0000

On this week’s edition, we dive into policy, with updates on agriculture-focused initiatives, programs and legislation at the federal and state levels.

Arkansas AgCast | Planting Issues & Policy Updates

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 15:29:34 +0000

We hear about progress and obstacles to early planting in the state and get a new update on agriculture-focused initiatives at the state legislature.

Arkansas AgCast | Peach Damage & Policy Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 20:32:46 -0100

On this week’s edition, we learn how the state’s berry and peach crops fared after the hard freeze and winter storm of late February and we get one more update from the state legislature, including the latest on relaunching a state meat inspection program.

Arkansas AgCast | Cotton Gins & Cattle

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 20:43:29 -0100

On this week’s edition, we talk to Sammy Angel of Lake Village, new president of the Southern Cotton Ginners Association. We also talk to LaTeresa Watkins of Watkins Cattle Company in Boone County, and we get the latest update from the state legislature with Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jeff Pitchford.

Arkansas AgCast | Meat Inspection, a Produce-Growing Family & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 19:58:52 -0100

On this week’s edition, we hear from a cattle rancher who testified at the State Capitol in favor of a new state meat inspection program, we learn about a grant to improve Arkansas State University’s Meats Lab and we get to know a produce-growing family in Bradley County. We also get our weekly update from the state legislature with Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jeff Pitchford.

Arkansas AgCast | Weather Impacts, Land Trust & Legislation Updates

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 21:10:39 -0100

On this week’s edition, we hear about the lingering impacts of recent winter weather on agriculture and we learn about the ongoing work of the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust. We also get our weekly update from the state legislature with Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jeff Pitchford.

Arkansas AgCast for Feb. 25, 2021 | Winter storm impacts, legislative update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 15:42:47 -0100

On this week’s edition, we hear from row-crop farmer Jim Carroll of Brinkley about the impacts of last week’s winter storm and the upcoming planting season. We also talk to Travis and Ashley Appel of Appel Farms in Elm Springs and get an update from the state legislature with Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jeff Pitchford.

Arkansas AgCast for 2/18/21 | Winter Weather & Livestock

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 19:54:48 -0100

On this week’s edition, we hear from University of Arkansas Extension livestock veterinarian Heidi Ward about caring for animals in the freezing weather and we find out what the impact of this week’s winter weather has been on a major baitfish hatchery. We also learn about the nonprofit Seven Harvest Inc. and hear about the interesting life one central Arkansas cattlemen who can’t quite bring himself to retire from the job he loves.

Arkansas AgCast for Feb. 11, 2021 | Rice Research Center Update, Icy Weather & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 21:28:50 -0100

On this week’s edition, we get an update on progress at the new Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center in Poinsett County, we hear from a poultry and cattle grower about preparing for freezing winter weather and we talk to a farmer and veteran about his specialty crop business. We also get our weekly update about what’s happening at the 2021 Legislative session.

Arkansas AgCast, 2/4 | Grain Prices, Policy Updates & More

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 21:10:54 -0100

This week, we visit Trent Dabbs on his rice, corn and soybean farm near Stuttgart to talk about commodity prices and the impact they may have on planting decisions this year. We also check in with Arkansas Farm Bureau's Autumn Wood during Farm Bureau Week to learn about the benefits of being a Farm Bureau member, and we get the latest update on what’s happening at the State Capitol.

Arkansas AgCast 1/28/21 | Meet a Local Produce Grower

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 22:02:36 -0100

This week, we pay a visit to Mary Bone’s property in north Pulaski County, where she and her husband are preparing to grow fruit and vegetables to sell locally. We also get an update on what’s happening at the State Capitol and how Arkansas Farm Bureau’s priority issues are faring during the legislative session, and Arkansas Farm Bureau’s John McMinn tells us about the USDA’s new forest management incentive program for farmers and landowners.

AgCast for 1/21/21: A farm apprentice, equine challenges

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 21:41:09 -0100

This week, we get to know Arkansas Farm Bureau’s new director of Commodity Activities and Economics, Jessica Richard. We also learn about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the equine industry in Arkansas and we talk to one of the first participants to complete the Farm Apprenticeship program through the Center for Arkansas Farms and Food at the University of Arkansas.

Arkansas AgCast | Meat Inspection, policymaking & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 21:41:11 -0100

This week, we learn about the Arkansas Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee’s recent work and their participation in American Farm Bureau’s Virtual Annual Convention. We also talk to Arkansas State Representative DeAnn Vaught about a new state meat inspection bill she is championing and we learn about a very busy week for Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Public Affairs and Government Relations team.

AgCast for 1/7/21: New Micro Dairy & Key Policy Issues

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:14:19 -0100

This week, we hear about Arkansas Farm Bureau’s top policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session at the State Capitol and we learn about a new “micro dairy” operation started by an enterprising Searcy County teen.

Arkansas AgCast for Dec. 17, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 20:47:33 -0100

This week, we wrap up our podcasting year with a look at why feed costs are rising and what it means for livestock growers and we hear from the chair of the Scott County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee, which was recently honored as the state’s top women’s committee.

Arkansas AgCast for Dec. 10, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 19:56:18 -0100

This week is all about award winners. First, we get reactions from the newly named Arkansas Farm Family of the Year for 2020, then we hear from poultry grower Kallem Hill, the recipient of this year’s Stanley E. Reed Leadership Award. We also talk to Larry Smith, president of Stone County Farm Bureau, which received the prestigious President’s Award from Arkansas Farm Bureau during this year’s virtual annual convention.

Arkansas AgCast for Dec. 3, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 20:34:47 -0100

This week, we learn about caring for poultry and other livestock during bitter cold weather, We talk to Rich Hillman about wrapping up his first year as Arkansas Farm Bureau president and the challenge of overseeing the organization’s first virtual convention and business session. We also hear from Garland County Farm Bureau President Tommy Sorrells about his reaction to participating in the virtual event after it concluded.

Arkansas AgCast | Nov. 24, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 21:15:03 -0100

This week, we learn about the development of the first Roundup-ready forage soybean from Eagle Seed and we talk to Pope County’s Sam Cecil, Arkansas’s representative at the U.S. Meat Export Federation. We also talk turkey with Poultry Federation head Marvin Childers.

Arkansas AgCast | Nov. 19, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 21:08:07 -0100

This week, we talk about the results of this year’s Arkansas Farm Bureau survey of the cost of traditional Thanksgiving dinner items and we learn about how the pandemic has affected the logging and timber industry in Arkansas. We also get a lesson on the history of soybeans in the state, along with details of a new survey of forest landowners and tips on battling bugs that cause problems for livestock.

Arkansas AgCast for Nov. 12, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 20:35:15 -0100

This week, we talk to a beef broker at the Oklahoma National Stockyards about the challenges cattle ranchers have faced in 2020 and what’s ahead. We also catch up with James Meeks of Triple M Farms, who tells us about how COVID-19 has affected his produce business and we learn about the recently upgraded Senter & Sons Cotton Gin in Osceola. We also talk to Terry Laster of Union County about the pandemic problems that have hit poultry growers.

Arkansas AgCast for Nov. 5, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 19:20:53 -0100

This week, we catch up with Michael Sparks of the Arkansas Chapter of the Farmer Veterans Coalition to talk about the group’s upcoming Veteran’s Day celebration. We also talk to Monroe County’s Jim Carroll about wrapping up his term as chair of the United Soybean Board, and learn about Prestonrose Farm & Brewing Co. in the Arkansas River Valley, a destination craft brewery with locally grown food options. And, finally, we hear from Arkansas Farm Bureau state affairs director Jeff Pitchford about Tuesday’s election results.

Arkansas AgCast for Oct. 29, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:15:18 -0100

This week, we wrap up Farm to School Month in Arkansas with a discussion about outstanding school gardens and we hear from Daniel Keisler about his custom beef and pork business, Circle K Angus. We also talk to 82-year-old farmer Ellis Bell of Forrest City, who founded a local non-profit for promoting science-based agriculture education, and catch up with Rick Bransford of Lonoke County about this year’s cotton crop.

Arkansas Agcast for Oct. 22, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 20:43:42 +0000

This week, we visit the state livestock show in Little Rock and we learn about the production and use of mass timber in Arkansas. We also talk to about the farming life with Steve Morgan of Johnson County and growing organic with Shawn Peebles of Augusta.

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Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:38:39 +0000

This week, we visit with Lee County’s Nathan Reed, who gives us an update on this year’s cotton crop. We also learn about the critical issues on the ballot this Nov. 3 and why they matter for rural Arkansas and we check in with Terry and Robin Fisher, who were 2020 finalists for the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association Regional Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award.

AgCast10082020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Oct 2020 20:29:23 +0000

This week, we hear from the leader of the firefighting team from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division that recently returned from helping to fight destructive West Coast blazes. We also learn about the Arkansas Food Conservancy’s work in Northwest Arkansas, get an update on this year’s peanut crop and hear from a farmer working to bring in his harvest before more rain arrives this weekend.

Arkansas AgCast for Oct. 1, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 18:20:39 +0000

This week, we hear from Brittany Carwell of B&D Genetics in Cross County about the business’s major new move into the European market. We also get an update on the 2020 pecan crop from Chas Davis of Davis Pecan in Little River County and we spend a morning Hicks Family Farms near Cabot, as they work to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines in preparing their annual pumpkin patch and corn maze for visitors.

Arkansas AgCast for Sept. 24, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 21:50:23 +0000

This week, we hear from a cattle producer and mother about youth livestock events during this unusual year, and Arkansas Farm Bureau Director of Policy Development and Legislative Research Jessica Clowser Burkham fills us in on CFAP 2, the recently announced second round of Coronavirus aid for U.S. farmers. We also have a special interview with Jason Brewer of Ritter Farms.

Arkansas AgCast for Sept. 18

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 15:42:03 +0000

This week, we hear how some counties are holding limited or scaled-back livestock shows despite COVID-related fair and rodeo cancellations. We also learn about the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust and what it can do for farmers and we get important mental health tips for National Suicide Prevention Month.

Arkansas AgCast for Sept. 10, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 20:41:09 +0000

This week, we talk National Honey Month with Jeremy Bemis of Bemis Honey Bee Farm. We get the latest on cotton from agronomist Bill Robertson and we hear about the challenges facing agritourism businesses in Arkansas during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Arkansas AgCast for Sept. 3, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 20:20:26 +0000

This week, we talk to Sen. John Boozman after one of his recent farm visits this week, and we hear from Cooperative Extension Service expert Julia Fryer on produce safety issues after Hurricane Laura. We also catch up with the Benton County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee's Brenda Patton about the challenges her group has faced during COVID-19.

Arkansas AgCast for Aug. 27, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Aug 2020 17:58:31 +0000

This week, weather takes center stage. We hear from a National Weather Service Senior Forecaster John Lewis, Ag Extension Rice Agronomist Jarrod Hardke and Sevier County livestock and poultry grower Bruce Jackson about how excessive winds and rainfall from Hurricane Laura could impact Arkansas agriculture. We also get some tips and information for Arkansas small meat and poultry processors interested in the state’s new $5 million grant program for expanding processing capacity.

Arkansas AgCast for August 20, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 21:15:41 +0000

This week, we learn about a potential $5 million grant to help Arkansas meat processors expand. We also talk Catfish Month in Arkansas with Chad Causey of Catfish Farmers of America, and we discuss the recent outbreak of VSV that’s hitting horses in the state.

Arkansas AgCast for August 13, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 02:16:07 +0000

This week, we learn about a new partnership involving the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service and UAMS to help with COVID-19 testing in rural areas and we hear about more funding for rural broadband in the state. We also talk to Sara Gardner, who was recently named to the National 4-H Council’s Young Alumni Advisory Committee.

Arkansas AgCast for July 6, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 22:14:25 +0000

This week, we talk to the new, interim director of the Rice Research and Extension Center in Stuttgart, and we learn about new funding for research on improving management of crop burns. We also hear from University of Arkansas Professor Steven Ricke, who was recently honored for his work on poultry broilers and food safety and we get details on the Double Your Dollar farmers market program in Northwest Arkansas.

Arkansas AgCast for July 30, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 00:56:27 +0000

This week, we get an update on cotton from Extension Cotton Agronomist Bill Robertson; we learn about the latest research on blackberries, peaches and grapes; and we talk to Scott Bray from the State Plant Board about the mysterious seed packages some people have been receiving in the mail. We also hear from Dr. Nathan Slaton of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station about the cancellation of the popular Arkansas Rice Expo event in Stuttgart.

Arkansas AgCast for July 23, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 21:47:00 +0000

This week, we learn about a major donation by the Anheuser-Busch Foundation to support the Arkansas Discovery Farms Project and we get the latest on the federal Paycheck Protection Program. We also talk to Altus Mayor Veronica Post about the cancellation of three agriculture-related festivals her community due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Arkansas AgCast for July 16, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 02:10:40 +0000

This week, we talk about a new multi-million dollar infrastructure project at the Little Rock Port, learn the importance of written legal documents when leasing farmland, and hear the latest on LeadAR, the two-year leadership development program of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service.

Arkansas AgCast for July 9, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 16:10:41 +0000

This week, we learn what the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak will mean for the 2020 Arkansas State Fair and we talk to a University of Arkansas professor about a recent grant to support technology research that could help the poultry industry. We also learn all about the Arkansas Youth Expo.

Arkansas AgCast for July 2, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 13:35:16 +0000

This week, we talk about the impact of the pandemic on Arkansas’s 4-H programs, and we get to know Dr. Bob Scott, the new director of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service. We also hear from the man whose shoes he will have to fill, Dr. Rick Cartwright, who retired at the end of June. We also talk to horticulture research professor Elena Garcia about her recent retirement.

Arkansas AgCast for June 25, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 21:09:03 +0000

This week, we talk about Discovery Farms in Arkansas and dive into the issues facing the dairy industry. We also talk about China’s troubling reaction to COVID-19 infections at a Springdale poultry plant and learn about a deadly new virus strain in wild rabbits.

AgCast for June 18, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 20:26:08 +0000

This week, we have an in-depth conversation with Arkansas Farm Bureau experts about efforts to establish a state meat inspection program in Arkansas and we chat with Cooperative Extension Service entomologists about summer insect pests Arkansas farmers will be facing.

Arkansas AgCast for June 11, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 19:37:12 +0000

This week, we are joined by Lou Jamison, owner of Jamison Orchard in Nashville, who tells us about her family’s peach orchard and how the COVID-19 outbreak has affected their business. We also talk to our own Brandy Carroll to get the facts on the recent 9th Circuit court ruling on dicamba and we chat with Michael Sparks of the new Arkansas Chapter of the Farmer Veteran Coalition and Karin Endy of the Northwest Arkansas Food Systems Program.

Arkansas AgCast for June 4, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 21:22:34 +0000

This week, we are joined by Yell County Judge Mark Thone, who tells us about the ongoing work to restore river levees in his area. We also chat with Luke Lewis and JP Fairhead about feral hog eradication efforts and with Diana Endicott, executive director of The Food Conservancy in Springdale.

Arkansas AgCast for May 28, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 28 May 2020 21:02:43 +0000

This week, we are joined by Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Chief Economist Travis Justice for a deep look at the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the agricultural economy in Arkansas. We follow that with a discussion with Dr. Victor Ford, vice president for agriculture and natural resources for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, about the long-term impacts of the outbreak on production agriculture.

Arkansas AgCast for May 21, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 May 2020 19:49:45 +0000

This week, we talk to poultry grower and Arkansas Farm Bureau Board Secretary/Treasurer Dan Wright about challenges for the poultry industry caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. We also talk to Jamie Anderson of I.F. Anderson Farms, the nation’s largest producer of baitfish, about what a recent increase in recreational fishing has meant for his operation. Finally, we speak to Arkansas Farm Bureau Public Affairs & Government Relations Director Matt King about the latest on the CARES Act and the creation of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.

Arkansas AgCast for May 14, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 May 2020 17:29:58 +0000

This week, we talk cotton crop news with Bill Robertson, cotton agronomist with the University of Arkansas, and we learn more about the poultry industry’s COVID-19 problems from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Bruce Tencleve. We also hear about a major food drive being led by the Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council.

Arkansas AgCast for May 7, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 May 2020 20:24:00 +0000

This week, we go in-depth on some critical issues facing agriculture in the wake of Covid-19. We talk with David Newman, president of the National Pork Board and Arkansas State University animal science professor, about troubles facing the pork industry, and we hear from the University of Arkansas National Ag Law Center Director Harrison Pittman about the President’s recent executive order designed to keep meat packing plants operating. We also hear from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Travis Justice about the ongoing supply chain and processing issues hitting livestock and poultry growers.

AGCAST 04302020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 21:35:59 +0000

This week, we talk to Farm Bureau’s Jason Smedley about levee restoration priorities and coordination of levee management in Arkansas. We also talk with Rusty Rumley of the National Agricultural Law Center in Fayetteville about issued related to the COVID-19 outbreak and we hear from State Representative Jeff Wardlaw about challenges facing produce growers and this year’s Arkansas tomato crop.

AGCAST 04232020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 20:34:25 +0000

This week, we talk to Jara Settles of the Livestock Marketing Association in Kansas City about the importance of livestock auctions and we hear from Julia Fryer of the Cooperative Extension Service about produce safety. We also learn about a new website for local businesses and nonprofits called UpliftArkansas.

AGCAST 04162020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 21:37:32 +0000

This week, we talk to Dr. Matthew Pelkki, an economist and professor at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, about the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the timber industry. We also get an update from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jason Smedley on the new Farm Corps program that connects job-seeking National Guard and Reserve soldiers and other military veterans to jobs in agriculture. And we hear from Arkansas Farm Bureau’s specialty crops expert John McMinn about issues facing that sector of agriculture.

Arkansas AgCast for April 9, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 21:27:35 +0000

This week, we talk to Dr. Amanda Perez, a professor and Food Safety Specialist with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture about how produce and specialty crop farmers are adjusting their businesses during the COVID-19 crisis, and we catch up with UA Division of Agriculture Wheat and Feed Grains agronomist Jason Kelley to discuss how rainfall has delayed this year’s corn crop planting and the impact Covid-19 concerns are having on crop farmers. And we also hear from John Gavin, staff chair of the Bradley County Cooperative Extension Service about tomato production in southeast Arkansas.

AgCast Special: Part 2 of Interview with Ag Economist John Anderson

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 14:52:51 +0000

The second half of our extended interview with John Anderson, chair of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness at the University of Arkansas Bumpers College, who explains the challenges facing the livestock market during this coronavirus crisis, as well as the impact of labor challenges and other key issues in agriculture.

Teaching Ag during Covid, Direct-to-consumer farming, & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 21:57:44 +0000

This week, we talk to John Crangle, FFA advisor and vo-ag instructor at Bismarck High School in Hot Spring County, about adapting to at-home, online instruction and Jay and Valorie Lee of JV Farms near Bismarck about the adjustments their making to their direct-to-consumer sales operation. We also catch up with Randy Arnold, a strawberry grower near Alma who is facing uncertainty because his business relies heavily on providing produce to schools and a u-pick operation. Finally, we have part one of a special interview with John Anderson, chair of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness at the University of Arkansas Bumpers College, who explains the challenges facing the livestock market during this crisis.

AGCAST 03262020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 20:48:22 -0100

This week, we talk to rice agronomist Jarrod Hardke about the outlook for this year’s crop and what the current crisis means for farmers. We also talk to ag economist Scott Stiles about the impact of rains and the pandemic on agriculture and markets. Finally, we catch up with Andy Shaw of Cypress Valley Meat Company, to learn how they’re going about their work in the current environment, and farmer Tommy Tuckerman interviews the onwer of Zack's Flying Services.

Arkansas AgCast for March 19, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 22:52:05 -0100

This week, we talk to Fourth District Congressman Bruce Westerman about the impact of the corona virus on work at the U.S. Capitol, the importance of his Trillion Trees Act and other major issues for agriculture in the state. We also talk to an Oklahoma cattle broker about the impact of the virus crisis on beef cattle prices and to the Department Head of Animal Science at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville about how livestock at the university are being cared for during the school’s current shutdown. Finally, we chat about pesticide certification and training with a representative of the UA Division of Agriculture.

Arkansas AgCast for March 12, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 21:23:40 -0100

This week, we talk to representatives of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture about the recent Local Conversations event in McCrory, and we catch up with two recent inductees into the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame. We also speak to Keith Perkins, an agent with the Lonoke County Cooperative Extension Service, about the implications of recent wet weather for planting season.

AgCast for March 6, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 20:19:04 -0100

This week, it's all about policy issues, as we recap the just-completed Arkansas Farm Bureau President's Advocacy & Leadership Tour to Washington, D.C. We talk to the members of the Farm Bureau team who lead the trip about what was accomplished and why it's important for Arkansas farmers and ranchers to have their voices heard on Capitol Hill.

Arkansas AgCast for Feb. 27, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 20:14:45 -0100

This week, we talk to Tracy Dunbar, Chair of the UAPB Department of Agriculture, about the school’s recent Rural Life Conference and we sit down with Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Brandy Carroll to learn more about the Arkansas Abandoned Pesticide Program. We also get an update on the latest Healthy Soils for Sustainable Cotton & Arkansas Soil Health Alliance meeting.

Ag Cast for Feb. 20

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 14:19:23 -0100

This week, we talk to John Lewis, a senior forecaster with the National Weather Service, about the long-range weather outlook and we sit down with Cooperative Extension Service entomologists to talk about insect problems farmers could face this year. We also visit with Ralph Pinkerton of Garland County Farm Bureau and Melony Ritter of National Park College in Hot Springs to talk about the recent Arkansas Farm Bureau Candidate Forum hosted by the college.

Arkansas AgCast for Feb. 13, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 Feb 2020 20:56:34 -0100

This week, we talk to Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agricultural Law Center at the University of Arkansas about legal issues in agriculture and we learn about the importance of agricultural activism from speaker and logging industry veteran Bruce Vincent. We also hear from Ed Swaim, Executive Director of the Bayou-Meto Water Management District.

Diversity in Ag Radio Commercial

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 15:21:33 -0100

A Diversity in Agriculture conference has been set for Feb. 27-28 in an effort expand the awareness of the career and business opportunities that exist in agriculture. The conference will allow participants to explore opportunities through success stories and networking. It also is intended to foster an expansion of public and private partnerships within agriculture, Arkansas’ largest industry sector, accounting for more than $20 billion annually.

AgCast for Feb. 6 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 00:10:19 -0100

This week, we talk with members of Arkansas Farm Bureau commodity boards about the recent Winter Commodity Meeting in Little Rock and we learn what's going on with the Arkansas Forestry Association.

AgCast for Jan. 30, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 20:18:55 -0100

This week, we talk with experts on the outlook for rice in Arkansas in 2020 and the potential impact of the EPA’s final rule defining “Waters of the U.S.” We also get some helpful tips on preventing timber theft on farms, ranchers and other private property.

AgCast for Jan. 23, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 21:12:51 -0100

This week, we attended the 101st annual American Farm Bureau Convention in Austin, Texas. We sat down with two of the event’s workshop leaders to discuss the economics of farming and the science of gene editing for agriculture. We also talked to Arkansas Farm Bureau President Rich Hillman, who gave us his thoughts on the event and explained the importance of the policy development process that wrapped up on the final day of convention.

Arkansas AgCast for Jan. 16, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Jan 2020 19:24:25 -0100

This week, we talk with soybean and trade experts about the latest news on trade negotiations and the road ahead in 2020. We also get the latest on the pork industry from Dr. David Newman, president of the National Pork Board and Arkansas State University animal science professor and learn about new urban agriculture classes being offered at the St. Joseph Center in North Little Rock.

AgCast for Jan. 9, 2020

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 18:22:45 -0100

This week, we talk to Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward, as well as the new leader of the state Agriculture Department’s Feral Hog Eradication Program. We also talk to a waterfowl expert from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission about the problems snow geese are causing for some farmers.

Arkansas AgCast for Dec. 19, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 21:30:39 -0100

This week, we talk to leaders of Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers about planning for the future and we sit down with Jim Carroll the Third of Brinkley, who was recently elected chair of the United Soybean Board of Directors. We also catch up on the latest news from the Arkansas Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee.

AgCast for Dec. 12, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 21:55:38 -0100

This week, we talk to this year’s Arkansas Farm Family of the Year winner and we have interviews with a “mobile veterinarian” and a farmer specializing in exotic animals. We also learn about a new survey project aiming to find out more about the local food system in central Arkansas.

AgCast Special Edition: ArFB Convention 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 20:07:28 -0100

This week's AgCast was recorded at the 85th annual Arkansas Farm Bureau Convention in Little Rock, and features a variety of interviews with experts, speakers and Farm Bureau leaders and members on the most important issues facing agriculture in the state.

AgCast Special: Turkey Week

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 28 Nov 2019 16:17:44 -0100

Gov. Asa Hutchinson proclaimed Nov. 24-30 as Turkey Week in Arkansas during a special ceremony on the steps of the capitol Nov. 26. Members of the poultry industry were on hand for the ceremony and to recognize the importance of turkey and poultry production to the state in advance of Thanksgiving. We spoke with Marvin Childers, president of the Poultry Federation and Wes Ward, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture following the observance.

Arkansas AgCast for November 21, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 19:58:25 -0100

This week, we hear about the annual Thanksgiving Feast survey, which measures the cost of traditional Thanksgiving meal food items in Arkansas and around the country, and we get a complete update on this year’s cotton harvest from cotton agronomist Bill Robertson. We also hear from Col. Nate Todd, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, about the recent Vets4Ag Summit, and we learn about a recent Young Farmers and Ranchers trip to our nation’s capital to discuss issues critical to farmers and ranchers.

Arkansas AgCast for Nov. 14, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 Nov 2019 21:53:19 -0100

This week, we talk to members of our Arkansas Farm Bureau team about important issues such as high-speed broadband access in rural areas and opportunities for veterans in the agriculture industry. We also learn all about the 85th annual Arkansas Farm Bureau convention, which will be held in Little Rock next month.

Arkansas AgCast for Nov. 7

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 Nov 2019 21:38:41 -0100

The week, we talk to Ashley County farmer James Meeks about issues facing specialty crop farmers and we hear from Dustin Cowell of Newton County about conservation and stewardship of land and water in his area. We also learn about a new “Farmer Apprenticeship Program” launching in January through the University of Arkansas.

Arkansas AgCast for Oct. 31, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 21:08:54 -0100

The week, we talk to Jeremy Bemis of Bemis Honey Bee Farm and Supplies and Bemis Tree Farm about his family’s growing business in southern Pulaski County, and we hear from this year’s Arkansas Tree Farmer of the Year. We also talk to Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Jessica Clowser Burkham about new regulations for industrial hemp production just released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Arkansas AgCast for Oct. 24, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 24 Oct 2019 21:48:47 +0000

This week, we talk to Natural Resource Commission Executive Director Bruce Holland about the work of the state’s Levee Task Force and we hear from Tommy Jumper, chief executive officer of Delta Peanut LLC, who discusses the latest on the peanut industry in Arkansas. We also visit with participants in this year’s livestock shows at the Arkansas State Fair.

Arkansas AgCast for Oct. 10, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 13:15:15 +0000

On this week’s edition, we have an interview with Jackson County farmer Tommy Young about a successful effort to address road challenges that were hindering farmers transporting crops and equipment in his area. We also talk to an executive of Cotton Incorporated about a recent industry visit to Arkansas and we discuss Farm-to-School Month in the state.

Arkansas AgCast for October 9, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 10 Oct 2019 13:42:01 +0000

On this week’s edition, we have interviews with State Senator Gary Stubblefield of District 6 and District 74 Representative Jon Eubanks about post-flood assessment of critical levees. We also talk to Poinsett County farmer Scott Matthews about his use of ag technology and we get an update from Jefferson County farmer Wes McNulty on how his season has turned out after flooding earlier this year.

Arkansas AgCast for Oct. 3, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 20:49:38 +0000

On this week’s edition, we have interviews with the CEO of a new agricultural start-up in Northwest Arkansas, a rancher and poultry grower in Logan County, the new head of the National Pork Board and a representative of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, who tells us about an organization for students from primarily rural communities.

AgCast for Sept. 26, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 21:05:07 +0000

On this week’s edition, we have an interview with Arkansas Farm Bureau President Randy Veach, who tells us about his trip to Europe for a major trade conference. We also have the latest on muscadine research, the University of Arkansas Monticello’s Collegiate Farm Bureau and an on-campus retail meat market being developed at Centerpoint High School.

Arkansas AgCast for Sept. 19

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 20:50:28 +0000

On this week’s edition, we’ll be talking about a variety of topics, from the importance of women in agriculture to the business of agricultural lending and banking. We also talk to the coach of an award-winning rodeo team and discuss a major donation of rice to the Arkansas Food Bank.

AgCast for Sept. 12, 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 18:54:47 +0000

On this week’s edition, we have some interesting and in-depth interviews about critical issues in Arkansas agriculture, including news from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's agriculture program, the latest on efforts to combat feral hogs and a conversation with Arkansas’s 4th District Congressman Bruce Westerman.

AgCast090519

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 21:45:14 +0000

In this week's Arkansas AgCast, we interview experts on pasture maintenance and spraying and talk about potential dangers in livestock drinking water. We also talk to Arkansas Farm Bureau Chief Economist Travis Justice about the cattle market and the fallout from a major beef processing plant fire.

AgCast Weekly, 8/29 Episode: Visiting a Vet & Talking Hops as a Crop

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 15:43:42 +0000

On this week's Arkansas AgCast, we visit a large animal vet in Morrilton and talk with UA Extension Horticulture Specialist Amanda McWhirt about the possibility of growing hops in Arkansas to support the state's burgeoning craft beer industry.

AgCast Weekly, Episode 1: Soybean Season Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 20:24:49 +0000

This week’s AgCast focuses on soybeans. Arkansas soybean growers have faced a lot of challenges in 2019, from weather to trade wars, so we talked to some experts to see where things stand as we enter harvest season. First up, Keith Sutton talks to Derek Haigwood, a soybean farmer from Newport who is chairman of the U.S. Soybean Export Council and member of the United Soybean Board of Directors. Derek talks about the troubled season and the importance of the U.S. Soybean Sustainability Assurance Protocol, or SSAP. Also, Ken Moore speaks with Dr. Jeremy Ross, Extension Soybean Agronomist, about the latest USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service acreage report and the implications of a smaller crop.

Agcast: ArFB's Matt King on the Market Facilitation Program

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 20:38:02 +0000

President Donald Trump recently authorized a second round of Market Facilitation Program payments to farmers and ranchers to offset economic losses due to the ongoing trade dispute with China and loss of that important market. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Matt King, Director of National Affairs for Arkansas Farm Bureau, encourages producers to sign up for the payments before the deadline in December and explains why exporting our agricultural products is necessary to maintain a viable ag economy.

AgCast: Solar Energy For Ag

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 19:37:39 +0000

Solar arrays are beginning to become more visible on farms and ranches across Arkansas, especially on crop farms in the Delta as farmers are realizing the cost savings and benefits of solar energy. One of the leading firms helping farmers make the switch is Seal Solar, headquartered in North Little Rock. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Seal Solar co-founders Josh Davenport and Heather Nelson, explain how solar arrays are efficient and cost-effective power generating systems that may one day become commonplace on many agricultural operations.

AgCast: Taylor Wiseman, YF&R Discussion Meet Winner

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 19:50:26 +0000

Taylor Wiseman of Fayetteville, a graduate assistant majoring in agriculture economics at the University of Arkansas, won the Young Farmers & Ranchers Discussion Meet at this year's Arkansas Farm Bureau Officers & Leaders Conference. Hear what she had to say after the competition.

AgCast: Robert Carruthers On Pecans, Trade

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 30 Jul 2019 20:10:38 +0000

Conway County pecan grower Robert "Crash" Carruthers talks about the impact of the ongoing trade and tariff war with China on pecans, how weather affects pecan nut development, the increasing acreage of pecan groves in Conway County, and more.

AgCast: Congressman Rick Crawford on

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 30 Jul 2019 19:38:19 +0000

The August Congressional recess has begun and First District Congressman Rick Crawford kicked off his annual farm tour by participating in a roundtable discussion of issues affecting the 2019 farm economy with farmers and ranchers in Lonoke. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Crawford shares his thoughts on the tariff war with China, how African Swine Fever in China is impacting the need for U.S. soybeans and why Arkansas farmers may need to “diversify their ag portfolio."

AgCast: Matt Hill on Howard County Flooding

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 17 Jul 2019 16:17:24 +0000

We spoke to Matt HIll, fire chief for Dierks in Howard County, about flooding from Tropical Storm Barry in the southwest part of the state. HIll said the area received more than 17 inches of rain and he described the impact on local rachers and farmers and the timber business in the county.

AgCast: An Interview Phil Tappe of UAM Forestry

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 18:48:20 +0000

In 2018, the University of Arkansas at Monticello upgraded its forestry and agriculture programs by combining them and creating the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources. And more changes are on the horizon. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Dr. Phil Tappe, dean of the college and director of the Arkansas Forest Resources Center explains how UAM has become the only university in the state with an accredited forestry program and why it is working hard to become the destination for students seeking to enter the timber and forest resources industry.

AgCast: Arkansas Cotton Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 16:49:03 +0000

By Memorial Day weekend, only half of Arkansas’ cotton acreage for 2019 had been planted, but as cotton extension agronomist Bill Robertson tells us, figures obtained by the Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Program show planted cotton acres now exceed 580,000. That means this is the fourth year of increased cotton acreage and the highest planted acreage since 2012. Learn more in this edition of Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast: Feral Hog Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 16:41:22 +0000

Damage to property caused by wild or feral hogs in Arkansas is getting worse. Efforts to trap and kill the destructive swine the past 10 years has had modest success, but they continue to reproduce and move across the state. Fourth District Congressman Bruce Westerman led a roundtable discussion July 1 in Ashley County involving representatives of state agencies and Arkansas Farm Bureau to receive a briefing on the problem and how $75 million USDA is offering to fund pilot projects included in the 2018 Farm Bureau may be utilized to enhance the eradication and control efforts in Arkansas and other states. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Caleb Plyler, chair of Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Feral Hog Committee and Mike Sullivan, State Conservationist with NRCS, discuss the severity of the problem and how the pilot eradication and control projects will be implemented in Arkansas.

AgCast: Wildfire Suppression Training

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 14:46:19 +0000

Listen as Joe Fox, Arkansas’ State Forester, and Seward Hamilton, a training specialist for the U.S. Forest Service, talk about The annual Wildands Fire Academy to train wildlands firefighters. The Arkansas Forestry Commission and U.S. Forest Service team up each year with other state and federal agencies to host a multi-state wildlands fire academy to provide continuing education and training to wildlands firefighters.

AgCast: Arkansas Teacher Talks STEM Event Experience

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 18:55:24 +0000

Leslee Tell teaches Advanced Nutrition & Dietetics at the Conway Area Career Center in Conway High School. She spoke to us about attending the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture’s "On The Farm STEM Experience" in May and how it taught her labout beef production and provided ideas to share with her students.

AgCast: A Total Loss

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 Jun 2019 14:53:45 +0000

Jessica Hamilton and her husband, Cory, farm in the Paris Bottoms of the Arkansas River in Logan County. Tragically, the couple lost their entire crop of wheat, corn and soybeans when a federal levee along the river was breached. Rushing water from the breach overtopped a secondary levee, ensuring the destruction of all crops, forcing livestock out and damaging ag buildings. Hear their story in our latest AgCast.

AgCast: Rancher John Wahrmund on Arkansas River Flooding

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 31 May 2019 13:22:22 +0000

Rancher John Wahrmund of Wahrmund Farms near Point Remove went through some difficulties preparing for flooding from the Arkansas River that's now here. Good friends, family and ranch cowboys helped him through it all. Listen as he tells the story of racing the flood waters to move his cattle to safer and higher ground.

Farmer Robert Stobaugh on Arkansas River Flooding

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 28 May 2019 19:33:15 +0000

Arkansas row-crop farmer Robert Stobaugh, who farms between Morrilton and Atkins, talks about what is likely to be historic flooding along the Arkansas River and the problems it will cause for farmers.

AgCast: Army Corps on Arkansas River Flooding

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 23 May 2019 19:04:26 +0000

Heavy rain in Oklahoma this past week is entering the Arkansas River basin and will result in another historic flooding event, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and National Weather Service. The Corps is warning farmers, ranchers and property owners in the River Valley to take steps now to protect their livestock and property. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Laurie Driver, Public Affairs Specialist for the Corps of Engineers in Little Rock, describes how severe the flooding is expected to be and why and what farmers and property owners should do to prepare for it.

AgCast: Interview with Cathy Gifford Crawford Co Ag Tour

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 21 May 2019 14:28:20 +0000

We spoke with Cathy Gifford, a Crawford County Arkansas Farm Bureau Insurance agent, who helped to launch a leadership program for the county that meets rgularly to learn about important industries in the area, including agriculture. We caught up with her during the county agriculture tour.

AgCast: A Legislative Recap

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 May 2019 20:17:00 +0000

The 92nd Session of theArkansas General Assembly concluded recently and State Representatives Lane Jean and David Fielding were recognized by the Columbia County Farm Bureau at an appreciation dinner. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, representatives Jean and Fielding discuss some of the legislation that was passed that will benefit agriculture and their rural constituents.

AgCast: Moms on the Farm

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 May 2019 19:04:14 +0000

Arkansas Agcast visited with Janeal Yancy, a meat scientist with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, who leads the "Moms on the Farm" program. She takes groups of mothers on farm tours to learn firsthand how food is produced and how it gets from farm to table.

AgCast: New Arkansas FFA President Anna Mathis

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 08 May 2019 14:39:59 +0000

A new Arkansas FFA Officer Team has been elected and installed to lead the organization for the next year. Anna Mathis of Valley Springs in Boone County was elected president during the recent annual convention in Hot Springs. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, she shares her feelings about receiving the support of FFA student delegates across the state and her goals for the organization going forward.

AgCast: Adam Chappell on Cover Crops & No-Till Farming

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 06 May 2019 14:22:25 +0000

Pigweed problems led to the use of cover crops and no-till farming techniques on Adam and Seth Chappell’s family farm near Cotton Plant. Hear about their experimentation with these techniques and the success they've had since beginning.

Agcast: Bill Robertson on Cotton in 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 19:25:45 +0000

When it comes to cotton in Arkansas, few people know more than Bill Robertson, cotton extension agronomist for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service. As spring planting season begins, Robertson spoke to us about last year's season and what farmers need to know to get the most out of their 2019 crop.

AgCast: Talking FieldWatch with Vic Ford

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 13:57:55 +0000

A new online pilot program known as CropCheck is being offered in partnership between FieldWatch and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast Victor Ford, Interim Associate Director for Agriculture and Natural Resources with the Division of Agriculture, explains FieldWatch and describes how the CropCheck program could help farmers prevent damage to their neighbor’s crops caused by pesticide application.

AgCast: Arkansas Women in Ag with Monica Paskewitz

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 20:38:01 -0100

Arkansas Women in Agriculture recently held its annual conference. We caught up with to group's president, Monica Paskewitz, who explained the reason behind the group's creation, its growth and success and why more of Arkansas's farming and ranching women should get involved.

Agcast: Talking Food Safety with Clyde Fenton

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 17:26:20 -0100

Clyde Fenton is a program associate working for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture in Food Systems and Food Safety. He brings 30 years experience as a fruit and vegetable grower to the job, taking part in the university's efforts to certify produce farmers as part of the requirements that came from the 2011 Food Safety Improvement Act. He took time during a recent workshop with farmers to describe the law and the certification process with Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast: Farmers' Day at the Capitol

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 12:03:17 -0100

On Tuesday, March 12, more than 100 Arkansas Farm Bureau member farmers and ranchers visited the Arkansas State Capitol to share their concerns with legislators and to attend the signing of proclamations declaring March 10-16 as Arkansas Agriculture Week and March 12 as Farmers' Day. Hear from some of those who attended in this edition of Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast: Cody Hopkins On Blockchain

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 13:45:49 -0100

Livestock farmers Cody Hopkins and Andrea Todt are part of a co-op that sells meat directly to consumers online. They utilize blockchain technology that allows customers to know how their meat was raised, what it was fed, who raised it and more. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, Hopkins describes the value of block chain technology to his operation and for consumers.

AFBF PSA ASAP HearingSafety

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 19:32:19 -0100

A radio PSA for hearing safety during Ag Safety Awareness Month 2019.

AFBF PSA ASAP RoadSafety

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 19:28:48 -0100

A radio PSA for road safety during Ag Safety Awareness Week 2019.

AFBF PSA ASAP HeatSafety

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 19:25:10 -0100

PSA for Heat safety and Hydration during Ag Safety Awareness Week.

AFBF PSA ASAP LivestockSafety

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 19:20:16 -0100

Radio PSA announcement for Ag Safety Week 2019.

AgCast: Launching a Blackberry Growers Association

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 13:53:41 -0100

Around 100 growers and fruit specialists attended a meeting in Little Rock Feb. 16 about forming an Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association. It was also an opportunity for growers to learn about a new blackberry variety and how to effectively market their crops. Listen to our interviews with a horticulture specialist and a blackberry grower.

Agcast: Arkansas Beef Industry Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 17:13:42 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau Chief Economist Travis Justice gives a sneak peek of the soon-to-be-published Arkansas Beef Industry Assessment survey and his perspective of the state's $750 million beef business.

Agcast: Matt Simon On Cold Weather and Dairy Cows

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 16:38:01 -0100

Arkansas cattlemen and dairy farmers have been experiencing the coldest temperatures of the season recently. Faulkner County dairy farmer Matt Simon has weathered many winter cold snaps over the past 20 years and, in this edition of Arkansas Agcast, he says dairy cows need to eat more when they are cold to help stay warm and that actually helps increase their milk production.

AgCast: Grant Pace

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 19:03:16 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau Forestry Chair Grant Pace discusses the impact of the wet winter weather on the Arkansas timber industry.

AgCast: Local Conversations 2019

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 21:16:43 -0100

The Arkansas Agriculture Department held its 2019 Local Conversations event at the Hermitage Community Center in Bradley County January 17. Specialty crop farmers joined local school food service and nutrition directors, food distribution representatives and other industry officials to network and source new marketing opportunities for their locally grown products. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Ron Rainey, director of the UA Division of Agriculture’s Marketmaker Program, and Bob Midles, Marketing Director for the Ag Department, discuss the success and importance of Local Conversations events.

AgCast: Corn Research with Elizabeth Hood

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 02 Jan 2019 19:04:56 -0100

A grant from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture is helping fund cutting-edge biotechnology research on corn at Arkansas State University and the University of Arkansas-Little Rock. Dr. Elizabeth Hood, distinguished professor of agriculture at ASU, joined us to discuss the research team’s work, which could ultimately lead to corn strains that produce proteins important for more environmentally sound industrial applications.

AgCast, Isbells 2018FFOY

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 15:03:39 -0100

Chris and Judy Isbell of Humnoke are the 2018 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. The honor was announced today at the annual luncheon honoring county and district Farm Families of the Year. The Isbells are fifth-generation rice farmers and have diversified their operation into growing specialty varieties for the Japanese market. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, they share with the honor means to them and how growing specialty rice has become a successful marketing strategy for them.

AgCast: How Benton County's Women's Committee became "Outstanding"

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 16:23:54 -0100

Brenda Patton chairs the Benton County Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, she discusses how hard her committee worked to earn the Outstanding County Women's Program Award this year.

AgCast: USDA's Ted McKinney on Ag Trade Outlook

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 18:50:52 -0100

The ongoing tariff war and dispute with China, a record soybean crop produced by U.S. farmers with limited storage capacity and need for new export markets, and the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement are all issues addressed by Ted McKinney, Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at USDA at Arkansas Farm Bureau’s annual convention. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast McKinney comments on efforts to resolve the trade war with China and other trade issues facing agriculture as we approach the New Year.

AgCast: Interview with Leadership Award Winner Dana Stewart

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:45:21 -0100

Farm Bureau member and volunteer Dana Stewart made White County proud as she was recognized with the prestigious Stanley E. Reed Leadership Award at the state convention in Hot Springs, Nov. 28. Arkansas Ag Cast visited with her to get her reaction to earning this honor.

AgCast: Seed Cotton Deadline Reminder

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 12:55:50 -0100

In this special edition of Arkansas AgCast, we talk with Terri McManus with the Farm Service Angency about the Dec. 7 deadline for producers who have generic seed cotton base who want to participate in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program for the 2018 crop. For more information about the program and to see if you are eligible, visit bit.ly/SeedCottonBase.

AgCast: Alzheimers and Dementia Workshops

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 13 Nov 2018 16:39:49 -0100

Many in Arkansas know all too well about the devastating impact Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia can have on families. Providing care for loved ones suffering from these conditions is difficult without adequate support or knowledge. That’s why Arkansas Farm Bureau has partnered with the UAMS Arkansas Geriatric Education Collaborative to provide training for caregivers at the county level. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Sajni Kumpuris and Laura Spradley of the Collaborative discuss Alzheimer’s and dementia in Arkansas and this effort to help family members of those affected. They also explain how county Farm Bureau members can schedule presentations in their communities.

AgCast: ArFB President Randy Veach On Policy Development

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 12 Nov 2018 19:53:44 -0100

Farmers and ranchers from every county in Arkansas convened in North Little Rock recently and spent two days discussing resolutions that will soon become Arkansas Farm Bureau policy. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, ArFB president Randy Veach explains the importance of this grassroots policy development process and why it will determine the organization’s state and federal legislative blueprint for 2019.

AgCast: Brian Weisenfels, Turkey Farmer

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 20:15:19 -0100

Thanksgiving is upon us. And that means turkeys. According to tradition, turkey was one of the birds of choice for the Pilgrim’s first Thanksgiving feast shared with the Native Americans. Butterball is the choice of Logan County farmer Brian Weisenfels. Listen as he tells us about raising turkeys and whether the busy holiday season changes anything from a farmer's perspective.

Newsradio KARN Interview: Soybean Struggles

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 16:45:08 -0100

KARN's Kevin Miller interviews Mark Lambert, director, commodity activities and economics, at Arkansas Farm Bureau. The two discussed the economic and weather challenges faced by Arkansas soybean farmers this harvest season.

AgCast: Derek Haigwood on 2018 Soybean Struggles

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Oct 2018 16:34:43 +0000

Derek Haigwood, a fourth-generation row-crop farmer from Newport, serves as a U.S. Soybean Board director and chairman of the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). In this podcast, he discusses how many soybean farmers are facing a devastating hit to their bottom line this year due to low prices, trade issues, weather problems and more, and talks about USSEC efforts to create new markets and keep existing customers.

AgCast: Arkansas Farm Bureau's Andy Guffey on Farm To School

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 15:13:18 +0000

October is Farm to School Month, so for our latest Arkansas Agcast, we sat down with Andy Guffey, Arkansas Farm Bureau's director of education and outreach, to discuss this innovative educational program that brings agriculture and schools together, teaching students where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture to our state and country.

Arkansas AgCast: Cattle Breeding Breakthroughs

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 20:34:33 +0000

A native Arkansan, Dr. Charles Looney spent much of his career working in the cattle reproduction industry outside the state. He recently took advantage of an opportunity to return to Arkansas to fill an animal science position at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture’s Southwest Research and Extension Center. Artificial Insemination, or A.I., has revolutionized cattle breeding, but in this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Dr. Looney says the technology is being under-utilized. He says he intends to meet with Arkansas cattlemen through a series of workshops and educate them on how to use A.I., which he believes will help them raise higher quality cattle and become more profitable.

Agcast: Earl Pepper, Modern Cowboy

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 16:30:25 +0000

Earl Pepper, who turns 75 later this year, can't recall a time when he wasn't around horses. Raised in Alabama, he now lives near DeQueen, where he tends cattle on horseback. He formerly chaired Arkansas Farm Bureau’s equine division and was responsible for the equine program for the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Pepper has a love and respect for horses and, in this edition of Arkansas Agcast, he shares his story and explains why he believes horses are an important part of our culture and heritage.

Agcast: School Garden Sweet Potato Harvest

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 Oct 2018 15:17:33 +0000

Many public schools are realizing the importance of teaching students about how food is grown and have established gardens on campuses. Three years ago Sheridan Intermediate School partnered with the Grant County Cooperative Extension Service and other organizations to develop a garden. This week students harvested sweet potatoes they planted last spring, just in time for the holidays. October is Farm to School Month and in this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Extension Service staff chair Brad McGinley and his wife Serena, a science teacher at the school, discuss how they are using the garden to grow produce for the school cafeteria and its importance to students and the community.

Agcast: 2018 Farm Bill Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 21:23:43 +0000

The 2014 Farm Bill expires September 30, meaning the deadline for Congress to approve a new Farm Bill is this Sunday. Farmers and ranchers need the certainty and protection the new Farm Bill will provide and a House-Senate Conference Committee has been meeting for weeks to reach a compromise, but so far no agreement has been struck. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Matt King, director of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Arkansas Farm Bureau explains what happens if an agreement is not reached by Oct. 1.

Agcast: Farm-To-School with the Alstons

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 18:21:58 +0000

Luke and Deedee Alston are participating in the "farm-to-school" movement in Arkansas by providing fresh vegetables and produce from their Holly Springs Homestead farm to the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain Community College in Mena. The Alstons are both alumni of the school and the produce they supply is used at the Mountain Range Grill restaurant on campus. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, the Alstons and Student Union Manager Jason Wood discuss this partnership and future plans for expansion.

AgCast: Timber Harvesting Simulator

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 30 Aug 2018 20:22:18 +0000

The town of Gurdon sits near the heart of timber country in southwest Arkansas, and there's a growing need for logging industry labor in the area. That's why Gurdon Public Schools invested in two timber harvesting simulators to help train students for future jobs in the forestry business.

Agcast: Darwin Hendrix, Feral Hog Task Force

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 16:51:39 +0000

Wild or feral hogs have been reported in all 75 counties in Arkansas, carrying disease and causing extensive damage to property. It’s an old problem in need of new solutions, because control and eradication is an expensive and time-intensive process. Darwin Hendrix of Pike County is a member of the state feral hog eradication task force and he’s been trapping feral hogs for 10 years with some success. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, he discusses his efforts to deal with the destructive hogs and what will be necessary to successfully address this costly problem at the state level.

AgCast: Farmer Q&A with Terry Pollard

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Aug 2018 15:23:20 +0000

Terry Pollard of Piggott farms some corn and soybeans, but 1,260 of his 2,200 acres are planted in cotton this year. We visited with Terry on his farm to learn more about raising cotton from planting to harvest.

AgCast: A Family Watermelon Tradition

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 14 Aug 2018 14:16:20 +0000

John Kirkpatrick and his daughter Cindy were on hand for the 42nd annual Hope Watermelon Festival this month, selling melons grown on their farm at Willisville. Growing and selling watermelons is a family tradition that has lasted decades and the father-daughter team share their memories.

AgCast: Interview with Ark. State Rep. DeAnn Vaught

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 19:43:12 +0000

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson conducted a two-day farm tour across south Arkansas recently and the first stop was Ricky Fawcett’s poultry farm at Winslow in Little River County. During a question and answer session, the governor responded to the concerns of poultry farmers in that part of the state. Among those in attendance was District 4 State Representative DeAnn Vaught. Vaught offers her assessment of the governor’s meeting with her constituents and what the chief concerns are facing poultry growers and rural residents in Arkansas in advance of the 2019 session of the General Assembly.

AgCast: Brandy Carroll on Cotton Signup

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 16:08:17 +0000

In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, Brandy Carroll, director of Commodity Activities and Market Information for Arkansas Farm Bureau, discusses upcoming sign-up dates and other critical information Arkansas cotton farmers will want to know.

AgCast: ArFB's King on $12B Trade Relief Package

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Jul 2018 20:39:51 +0000

In our latest Arkansas AgCast, Matt King, Arkansas Farm Bureau director of Public Affairs and Government Relations, discusses the organization’s response to the Trump administration's $12 billion emergency relief package plan for farmers and ranchers impacted by the ongoing trade battles with China and other countries. King says the aid comes at a time when U.S. producers are losing market share and suffering from years of depressed commodity prices.

AgCast: Calhoun County Forestry Team on a Championship Quest

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 20:02:02 +0000

The Bradley County 4-H Forestry Team has won the past two national forestry championships, but this year a team from Calhoun County will represent Arkansas and attempt to win the state’s third national title in a row. Jaret Rushing, staff chair for the county Cooperative Extension Service, is coaching the four-man team whose members all attend Hampton High School. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, Rushing and 4-H team member Evan Beaver sat down to discuss what it would mean to bring home the championship trophy.

AgCast: The Trade War Hits Ag

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 15:19:45 +0000

The U.S. began imposing tariffs on $34 billion in Chinese imports July 6 and China has announced it will retaliate with $34 billion in tariffs on U.S. goods, including key agricultural commodities, including soybeans. Other important American trading partners, including Mexico and Canada are also expected to respond with tariffs on U.S. products. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast Matt King, director of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Arkansas Farm Bureau explains the impacts this trade battle is already having on agricultural commodities and American farmers and ranchers.

AgCast: 2018 Summer Market Basket Survey

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 21:03:11 +0000

According to American Farm Bureau’s annual Summer Cookout Survey, the total average cost of 14 items included in the summer grilling survey was $55.07 or around $5.50 per person. That’s down 63 cents, or less than one percent from 2017. Learn more in this interview with Dr. John Newton, director of market intelligence for American Farm Bureau.

AgCast: John Gavin on 2018 Tomato Production

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 15:31:46 +0000

Harvest of the 2018 commercial tomato crop is underway in southeast Arkansas. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, we catch up with John Gavin, staff chair of the Bradley County Cooperative Extension Service, to talk about this year's crop and why so many people eagerly anticipate their local, vine-ripened tomatoes each summer.

AgCast: Kaylie Stone, Champion

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 15:45:59 +0000

Kaylie Stone of Gurdon began showing goats at the age of 7 and has added lambs, hogs, rabbits and steers in the years since. Her drive and competitive spirit have led her to raise numerous grand and reserve champion animals through the years, making her a role model for young Arkansans in agriculture and beyond.

AgCast Interview: Elizabeth Young, Murphy Arts District & Griffin Restaurant

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 19:46:08 +0000

The Farm to Table movement is growing in restaurants across the state and Griffin Restaurant in El Dorado is on the leading edge of the effort to procure and offer local products from Arkansas farms and ranches. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, Elizabeth Young, director of Farm and Sustainable Initiatives for the Murphy Arts District, where the Griffin is located, talks about why it's partnered with a number of Arkansas farms to offer its customers menu items featuring fresh, Arkansas grown food products.

AgCast: An Interview with Marcia Tramel about "Farm To School"

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 30 May 2018 20:47:21 +0000

The Danville School System is one several in Arkansas participating in the “Farm to School” program that connects farmers and ranchers with schools to provide fresh, locally grown produce for their food programs. In this interview for Arkansas AgCast, Marcia Tramel, Food Service Director for the Danville School District in Yell County, discusses how she is using local farm and ranch products as part of their school lunch program in an effort to offer students healthier, more nutritious food choices.

KARN Radio Interview: ArFB Pres. Randy Veach on the Farm Bill, Trade Issues

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 24 May 2018 13:59:09 +0000

Arkansas Farm Bureau President Randy Veach spoke to Kevin Miller of Newsradio 102.9 KARN on Thursday, 5/24, to discuss attempts to pass a Farm Bill in Congress, the latest developments in trade and other issues affecting Arkansas farmers and ranchers.

AgCast: An Interview with Clark County Farm Bureau President Derek Helms

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 23 May 2018 18:33:17 +0000

Derek Helms, a dairy and row crop farm near Arkadelphia and president of Clark County Farm Bureau, discusses a variety of issues, from the importance of community outreach and the benefits of Farm Bureau membership to the state of the dairy industry, the importance of trade and a new Farm Bill to Arkansas farmers.

AgCast: What Does GoGreen Mean for Arkansas Calves?

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 10 May 2018 20:57:37 +0000

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is rolling out a new program for Arkansas cattlemen. It’s called the “Natural State Preconditioned Calf Program – GoGreen.” In this edition of Arkansas AgCast Dr. Shane Gadberry, a professor of animal science with the Division of Agriculture, explains how this program will result in healthier calves, how cattlemen may participate and is a “win-win” for both the buyer and seller at the time of sale.

AGCAST: Member Service Representatives at ArFB

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 08 May 2018 16:07:32 +0000

Member Service Representatives from county Farm Bureaus across Arkansas came together in Little Rock recently for their biennial conference. The event included a “Service Awards” recognition program honoring some of these "MSRs" for their years of service to the organization. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, honoree Ann Davis of Fordyce reflects on her career and the important role MSRs play for Farm Bureau members.

AgCast: Mark and Shay Morgan Speak at FFA

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 16:16:32 +0000

Mark and Shay Morgan of Clarksville, chair of Arkansas Farm Bureau's state Young Farmer and Rancher Committee, addressed the 91st Arkansas FFA Convention in Hot Springs April 24. Hear their remarks in this edition of Arkansas AgCast.

AgCast Interview: Brady Gentry, FFA

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 15:57:34 +0000

The Arkansas FFA held its 91st convention at the Hot Springs Convention Center April 23-25. It was the final event for Brady Gentry as president and leader of the state officer team. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, Brady shares how being president has prepared him for the future and how being involved in FFA helps young people become better citizens and adults.

Arkansas AgCast: Olson Water Buffalo Tour

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 19:21:03 +0000

Tom and Shannon Olson have been raising water buffalo on their Turkey Creek ranch near Texarkana for almost 30 years and they recently hosted a tour for students from Genoa Central High School. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, Ken Moore visited with Tom Olson and Kimberly Leigh, FFA Advisor and Vo-Ag instructor at Genoa Central about this unique breed and what the students learned from the visit.

Arkansas AgCast: Buffalo Gnat Nightmare

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 13:51:09 +0000

Karen Rowe, Arkansas County equine enthusiast and biologist with the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, visited with our Keith Sutton about the hordes of buffalo gnats wreaking havoc with horses, livestock, poultry and wildlife in the Delta of eastern Arkansas.

Arkansas Agcast: Freeze Damage

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 20:15:33 +0000

Several hours of subfreezing temperatures the morning of April 8 damaged much of Joey Jamison’s peach crop and likely that of other peach and berry growers in Arkansas. It’s too early to know the full extent of losses, but Jamison says that, while much of his crop was lost, he believes save of his young peaches survived. Watch and listen to learn more.

Arkansas AgCast: Sparta Aquifer

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 21:25:52 +0000

After reaching critically low levels in the 1990s, water table levels in the Sparta Aquifer in south Arkansas are being recharged thanks to a countywide campaign undertaken by the Union County Water Conservation Board, the local Chamber of Commerce and other area organizations. In this edition of Arkansas AgCast, Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Ken Moore sat down with two of the key leaders of the campaign to save the aquifer to discuss their efforts and the results.

Arkansas AgCast: Rancher Chooses Wagyu

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 19:05:56 +0000

Brett Ausley is a young cattleman producing and marketing Wagyu beef on his family ranch in Hot Spring County. He got into Wagyu about five years ago and he’s selling it directly to consumers through social media and to local restaurants. In this edition of Arkansas Agcast, this entrepreneurial young rancher shares what led him to pursue this niche, premium market.

Krista Cupp on Communicating the Farming Story

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 15:29:02 -0100

Krista Cupp, vice president of The Herald Group in Washington, D.C. was selected to be the keynote speaker during both days of the Arkansas Women in Agriculture Conference in North Little Rock, and with good reason. She's been working for years to help close the gap between food producers and consumers. Hear how she thinks women in agriculture can positively change how farmers and farming are viewed by the world.

Possible Tarriff Trouble

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 18:32:50 -0100

President Donald Trump has signed orders imposing new tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, excluding Canada and Mexico. According to an analysis conducted by economists with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, if other trade partners inflict a 25 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. grain crops it could mean $383 million in overall value-added losses to Arkansas agriculture. Dr. Eric Wailes, distinguished professor of economics for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, discusses the analysis and why agriculture could be a target for retaliation.

Cotton Program Updates & Changes

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 14:33:24 -0100

Arkansas cotton farmers have been struggling due to heavily subsidized foreign fiber competition and other factors, but new programs are now available to help. In this interview, Arkansas Farm Bureau's Brandy Carroll provides the details on these programs, sign-up dates and more.

Timber Marketing for Private Landowners

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 14:24:48 -0100

Recently, more than 100 private landowners in southern Arkansas attended a multi-county timber marketing workshop in Calhoun County. They learned the basics of tree identification and estimating the value of their timber. Workshop participants Jaret Rushing, staff chair of the Calhoun County Cooperative Extension Service, and Kyle Cunningham, assistant professor of forestry for the UA System Division of Agriculture, explain what landowners need to know to effectively market their timber and get the most value for their trees.

Arkansas Forestry Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 27 Feb 2018 20:04:32 -0100

We recently had an opportunity to sit down with State Forester Joe Fox of the Arkansas Forestry Commission to discuss the state of the industry in Arkansas. Fox reflected on the outbreak of wildfires last year, as well as the employment and economic outlook for the timber and wood products industry in 2018.

Legislative Breakfast Discussion

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:18:16 -0100

Grant County Farm Bureau held a "legislative breakfast" last week where issues such as the “right to farm,” dicamba and education were all discussed. In this conversation, Grant County President Peggy Thomas and State Senator Bruce Maloch share their thoughts on the value and importance of Farm Bureau’s grassroots legislative outreach efforts.

Seed Survivor Mobile Classroom Program

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 20:35:09 -0100

The Seed Survivor mobile classroom program is making the rounds at elementary schools across east Arkansas. The latest stop was Woodlawn Elementary in Cleveland County. The interactive program, provided by Nutrien Crop Production Services, teaches students about the life cycle of plants and how food gets from the farm to their table.

USDA Expert Discusses Black Vulture Problem

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:55:04 -0100

Black vultures are a persistent problem for some farmers around the state. The population of these aggressive vultures has increased in recent years and this has led to an increase in property damage and livestock loss. Learn more about this issue and potential solutions in our latest podcast.

Taylor McNeel At YF&R

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 20:28:33 -0100

Taylor McNeel of Vilonia is set to graduate from Southern Arkansas University this spring, after taking a year off in 2016 to serve as president of the national FFA organization. Taylor attended the Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher conference this past weekend and sat down to discuss her past and future and why it's up to millennials like herself to be the “voice” for agriculture now, not just in the future.

Arkansas Forestry Industry Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 13:56:48 -0100

At the recent Arkansas Farm Bureau Forestry Division meeting, we sat down with Max Braswell, executive vice president of the Arkansas Forestry Association, to discuss a ranger of issues, from wildfire prevention and the need for more non-commercial landowners to participate in the association's tree farm program to the overall outlook for the industry in 2018. Listen to our interview to learn more.

Equine Forum Scheduled

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 21:21:43 -0100

A forum to bring all members of the Arkansas equine industry together to address priority issues facing horse ownership has been scheduled for later this year. The forum was a primary topic of discussion at the recent Arkansas Farm Bureau equine division meeting. Steve Jones chairs the division and in this conversation says the forum is needed to help unify the equine community in the state. Max Braswell Executive Vice President Arkansas Forestry Association

Smoke Management Guidelines Task Force

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 19:59:58 -0100

Listen to our interview with Arkansas Farm Bureau State Board Member Jon Carroll of Moro as he discusses the work of the Voluntary Smoke Management Guidelines Task Force recently formed by the state’s rice industry. Task force members are working together to find ways farmers can voluntarily manage this smoke from field burning to reduce concern about the possibility of any associated health and environmental impacts.

ArFB President on KARN

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 15:26:15 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau President Randy Veach was interviewed on KARN Jan. 8 to talk about NAFTA's effect on Arkansas, guest worker programs and more!

Cold Weather Vs. Stink Bugs

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 20:32:55 -0100

Subfreezing temperatures the past two weeks may actually be a blessing to Arkansas soybean producers and some other growers. The cold weather has helped reduce the troublesome redbanded stink bug population in the state. In this conversation, Dr. Gus Lorenz, University of Arkansas Extension entomologist, says that while mild winters the past couple of years has allowed the stink bug to thrive in the, that shouldn’t be the case in 2018.

Busting Food Myths with the Farm Babe

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 11 Jan 2018 13:48:12 -0100

Michelle Miller, a popular blogger and speaker known as the "Farm Babe," spoke at the 99th Annual American Farm Bureau Convention in Nashville. We caught up to her after her presentation for a discussion about some common food myths, farmers reaching out to consumers and more.

Cattle Industry Outlook for 2018

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 16:11:42 -0100

The U.S. cattle industry is producing more beef than at any time in history and demand for it continues to expand domestically and around the world. In this conversation, Dr. Darrell Peel, a livestock marketing specialist at Oklahoma State University, discusses the current state of the industry and what cattlemen may expect entering the new year.

"Riced" Vegetables Controversy

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 14:39:37 -0100

We sat down with Lauren Waldrip Ward, executive director of the Arkansas Rice Federation, to discuss the rise of "riced" vegetable products and the problematic way these products are being marketed to consumers.

Arkansas Drought Challenges Part 2

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 13:21:29 -0100

Earlier this year only around 125,000 acres of wheat was harvested – out of a 200,000-acre crop, one of the smallest on record. And this fall continuing low prices led growers to plant only around 200,000 acres. On top of that, much of Arkansas is experiencing drought-like conditions that began in September. In this conversation, extension wheat and feed grains agronomist Jason Kelley discusses how the lack of rainfall is affecting this year’s crop.

Arkansas Drought Challenges Part 1

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Dec 2017 13:14:28 -0100

Arkansas has been experiencing drought conditions since September, especially in the southwest part of the state. In fact, the month of November was the driest on record for many counties. This having an impact on some farm and ranch operations, limiting the amount of pasture available to ranchers for grazing their herds. John Jennings, a forage specialist for the Cooperative Extension Service, explains the impact an extended winter drought will have on livestock operations.

2017 Farm Family of the Year: Luke & Deedee Alston

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 20:41:23 -0100

Luke and Deedee Alston of Polk County, owners of Holly Springs Homestead near Mena, were named the 2017 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. After receiving the award, they took time to share what the honor means to them and how they will use this platform to educate visitors to the homestead about why agriculture is so important to Arkansas.

Tackling Generational Differences with Haydn Shaw

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 17:42:30 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau Convention keynote speaker Haydn Shaw, an expert on generational differences, provides details on how generational differences can be addressed within organizations like Farm Bureau and offers tips on tackling specific issues that arise on farms and ranches and in other businesses.

Magen Allen on AFBF's Women's Communication Boot Camp

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 14:16:00 -0100

Magen Allen of Bismarck is a member of the Arkansas Farm Bureau State Women’s Committee and participated in the 2017 American Farm Bureau Women's Communication Boot Camp. The Boot Camp is an intensive training opportunity female Farm Bureau members interested in building skills needed to communicate about agriculture and for Farm Bureau. In this conversation she discusses her experience and why it’s important for more women to learn how to become better advocates for agriculture.

Thanksgiving Dinner Survey 2017

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 17:43:09 -0100

Food remains affordable and, for the third year in a row, it will cost consumers in Arkansas and across the country a little less to prepare the traditional Thanksgiving meal. In this conversation, John Newton, Director of Market Intelligence for the American Farm Bureau Federation, discusses the results of the Farm Bureau's 32nd annual Thanksgiving dinner price survey and explains the reasons for the drop in price again this year.

ArFB State Resolutions Meeting 2017

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 02 Nov 2017 18:42:54 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization with volunteer leaders from 76 county Farm Bureaus across the state determining policy that guides it. Resolutions are submitted by each county Farm Bureau that are discussed and approved for consideration by voting delegates at the organization’s annual business session. Jeff Pitchford, director of State Affairs for Arkansas Farm Bureau, explains the importance of the resolutions process and why it is the reason Farm Bureau is so respected at the State Capitol and in Washington. Jeff Pitchford Director State Affairs Arkansas Farm Bureau

The State of Rice

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 12:21:59 -0100

In the conversation Michael Klein of the USA Rice Federation updates the situation concerning rice trade with China and why protecting the North American Free Trade Agreement with Mexico and Canada is so important.

PODCAST: UAM’s Bob Stark on Collegiate Farm Bureau, tomatoes & more

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 20:48:36 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Monticello has a vibrant and successful Collegiate Farm Bureau Chapter that is allowing agriculture majors to learn more about Farm Bureau and develop leadership skills that will serve well them after graduation. Dr. Bob Stark is professor of agriculture economics and faculty advisor to the Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter. They assisted at the Arkansas Farm Bureau booth at the State Fair and in this conversation Dr. Stark says participating in Collegiate Farm Bureau is an invaluable experience for his students. He also discusses their research in and the popularity of heirloom tomatoes.

State Fair Livestock Show: Sherman Lites

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 13:43:06 +0000

The Arkansas State Fair Livestock Show ends with the annual Junior Livestock Auction or "Premium Sale." Thousands of young people and their families have taken up residence at the fairgrounds in Little Rock for a week or more to show their animals in hopes of winning a ribbon and possibly earning the opportunity to participate in the sale. In this conversation, Sherman Lites, State Fair Livestock Administrator, says preparing to have their animals judged at the Fair is an important learning experience for Arkansas youth.

eterans 4 Ag Summit

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 02 Oct 2017 16:08:37 +0000

The first Veterans 4 Ag Summit will be held Friday, Oct. 6 on the campus of Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. Arkansas is home to more than 200,000 military veterans, many of whom may be finding it hard to re-enter civilian life and begin a new career. In this conversation, Jason Smedley, assistant director of local affairs and rural development for Arkansas Farm Bureau and a veteran himself, discusses the focus of the summit and how it can connect veterans with farmers and ranchers and others who can answer their questions about starting their own farming operation.

Delta School Garden, Integrated Learning

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 20:33:47 +0000

The mission of the Delta School in Wilson, Arkansas is to nourish every child’s strengths so each child is able to form healthy relationships, discover meaningful work, and make unique contributions to the world. The school’s state-of-the-art garden classroom allows all levels of learners to participate in the school garden initiative. It teaches students essential life skills and supports academic learning through hands-on classes in an organic garden. In this conversation, Kerry Sullivan, Director of the Lower School and Technology and Taylor Starkey, an instructor at the school who grew up in the Arkansas Delta, discuss how what the students learn in the garden classroom is integrated into other disciplines to teach them how to care for the environment, grow vegetables and plants and then use these skills to prepare them for life.

Discussing Harvey Ag Damage with Texas FB's Gene Hall

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 19:41:36 +0000

Agricultural losses inflicted by Hurricane Harvey are extensive. Gene Hall, director of the communications division of Texas Farm Bureau discusses the agricultural impacts of perhaps the most destructive storm in the state’s history.

Irrigation Funds Dry Up

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 15:34:43 +0000

The Grand Prairie and Bayou Meto surface water irrigation projects are on hold, waiting for additional funding in order to deliver water from the White and Arkansas rivers to farmers. In this conversation, two project leaders – Dennis Carman and Tom Fortner – discuss the challenges with the projects and how they're hoping a public-private partnership will provide needed funding to complete them.

Dicamba Field Trials Update

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 15:37:03 +0000

University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture weed scientists Jason Norsworthy, Tom Barber and Bob Scott have conducted field trials to determine the volatility of dicamba-based products Eugenia and XtendiMax on soybeans. Damage from dicamba drift to soybeans and other crops has been extensive in northeast Arkansas and the researchers conducted a field tour to present their findings at the Research and Extension Center in Keiser. In this conversation Norsworthy discusses the results of his trial and why drift has become such a serious issue in Mississippi and Crittenden counties.

FarmersMarketWeek, Wes Ward

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 15:14:48 +0000

Governor Asa Hutchinson proclaimed August 6-12 Farmers Market Week in Arkansas. More than 100 farmers markets in almost every county play an important economic role in local and regional food systems and have become weekly destinations for consumers and families throughout the spring and summer. In this conversation, Arkansas Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward discusses the important role farmers markets play in local communities.

Former Congressman Charlie Stenholm on 2018 Farm Bill

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 19:14:48 +0000

Former Congressman Charlie Stenholm of Texas, an advocate for agriculture and member of the House Agriculture Committee throughout his term, was the keynote speaker at the annual Arkansas Rice Expo in Stuttgart. Prior to his remarks Stenholm took to time to discuss the 2018 Farm Bill and what needs to be done in order for Congress to pass a new law that addresses the needs of all commodities and farmers and ranchers in the U.S.

The Story of a Foundation Donation

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 19:50:36 +0000

Arkansas Farm Bureau has launched the Farm Bureau Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) fundraising arm of the organization to fund education efforts, research, litigation and disaster relief. The first organization to receive support from the Foundation was the Arkansas chapter of the Red Cross. In this conversation, Chuck Tucker of Arkansas Farm Bureau and Lori McFarlane of the Red Cross discuss why the Foundation was created and how it can help charitable organizations like the Red Cross in their time of need.

Ag Tech in the Air

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 01 Aug 2017 16:34:47 +0000

Satellite imagery and unmanned aerial systems are transforming the way farmers and ranchers are scouting their fields for disease and improving crop yield. Terry Spurlock, a plant pathologist with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, discussed this topic at Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Officers and Leaders Conference in Hot Springs. In this podcast, he talks about how this technology will help producers save time and money and improve their operations.

Telling the Farming Side: Troy & Stacy Hadrick

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 16:55:12 +0000

South Dakota ranchers Troy and Stacy Hadrick were keynote speakers at the Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Officers & Leaders conference in Hot Springs. The couple travels the U.S. and the globe speaking to farmers and ranchers about "telling the farming story." Hear about their mission and why they are so passionate about it.

Legal Issues in Ag: Harrison Pittman Interview

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 17:15:04 +0000

Hear about the current hot-button legal issues in agriculture from Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agriculture Law Center based at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Pittman discuses the upcoming Farm Bill, commodity checkoff programs, herbicide use and more.

National Commodity Conference Interview: AFBF President Zippy Duvall

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 20:02:14 +0000

Arkansas Farm Bureau was the host state for Farm Bureau’s National Commodity Conference at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center in Rogers. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall spoke at the event and we had an opportunity to talk with him about the challenges facing agriculture in the second half of the year, such as helping develop a new Farm Bill that includes an adequate safety net for all agricultural producers.

Nutrition Knowledge

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 17:37:25 +0000

For more than 30 years University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture health educators have been working through schools and local communities to encourage children and families about the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. In this conversation, Rosemary Rodibaugh, a professor of nutrition with the UA Division of Agriculture, explains the programs Family and Consumer Science agents are using to reach the public in their counties.

American Farm Bureau "Cookout Costs" 2017 Survey

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 17:09:24 +0000

The results of the American Farm Bureau’s annual survey on what it costs to prepare the traditional 4th of July barbecue dinner with "all the fixins" has been released, so we talked to Dr. John Newton, AFBF director of market intelligence about the survey findings and why U.S. food prices remain so affordable.

Seeking Future Vets at 4H Vet Science Camp

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 21:40:30 +0000

A group of 55 teenagers from around the state recently participated in a three-day Arkansas 4-H Veterinary Science Camp at the University of Arkansas. They took part in a variety of hands-on sessions with veterinarians including honeybees, horses and cattle. Veterinarian Lloyd Keck of West Fork participated in the camp and shared his thoughts on the value of the camp and need for more large animal veterinarians.

Specialty Crops Meeting Wrap-Up: The Morgans

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 16:20:24 +0000

Steve Morgan, his son Mark and their families own and operate Peach Pickin’ Paradise near Clarksville, Ark. They attended Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Specialty Crops Summer Division Meeting June 14. In this conversation they discuss issues facing the fruit and vegetable industry in the state, the quality of their crop this year and when their U-Pick operation will open to the public.

Crop Insurance Update for Flooded Farmers

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 23 May 2017 20:46:12 +0000

The Federal Risk Management Agency distributed updated "practical to replant" guidance in response to questions from farmers whose crops were destroyed by recent flooding, particularly rice farmers. In our latest podcast, Brandy Carroll, ArFB assistant director of commodity activities and market information, explains what this guidance could mean for Arkansas farmers.

Ag in the Air: An Interview with Ag Pilot Vernon Caviness

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 22 May 2017 20:39:47 +0000

An interview with Vernon Caviness, an agriculture aviator/cropduster pilot for Bell Ag Service in Des Arc, and photos of Caviness and other aviators in action. Caviness discusses how the recent river flooding affected business, the challenges flight services face and more.

Flood Damage in Arkansas

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 04 May 2017 20:33:59 +0000

Some are saying the effects of the recent flood in Arkansas could rival that of a similar event in 2011 that caused an estimated $500 million in losses to agriculture. While the full effects of this storm will not be known for several weeks, Dr. Eric Wailes, Distinguished Professor of Ag Economics at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, offers an early assessment of the magnitude of the recent flood and its impact on rural communities and agriculture.

ArFB Rural Health & Safety Update: Arkansas Works

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 28 Apr 2017 19:10:40 +0000

Craig Wilson of the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement updated members of Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Rural Health and Safety committee on a number of health-related issues, including proposed revisions to the state insurance program and the need and prospects for reform.

Ag for Autism

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 17:02:42 +0000

In our latest podcast, we close out Autism Awareness Month with a discussion about Ag For Autism, a nonprofit organization established in 2012 to help provide education, therapy and support for families with autistic children in rural parts of Arkansas. Nathan Waldrip of Armor Seed in Jonesboro, president of Ag for Autism, explains the program and the need for more support.

2017 Crop Outlook Analysis

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 19:47:09 +0000

The 2017 crop planting season is underway and the USDA’s Agricultural Statistics Service has released its planting intentions report. Listen to Matt King, ArFB director of market information and economics, discuss the report, what it says about Arkansas and what to expect this year.

Louisiana Farm Bureau Livestock Tour

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 19:17:57 +0000

About 60 Louisiana Farm Bureau cattle ranchers spent three days in Arkansas recently, touring livestock operations, research facilities and networking with their Natural State counterparts. In this conversation, Marty Wooldridge, a Louisiana Farm Bureau state board member and chair of the livestock advisory committee, talks about the tour and why it’s important for their producers to learn how things are being done in other states.

Public Perception: Ag & Sustainability

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 29 Mar 2017 13:03:01 +0000

A recent poll asked almost 2,000 registered voters their opinions on agriculture and sustainability. According to the survey, almost all respondents - no matter the political affiliation - supported sustainability, by one definition or another, and most believe agriculture and farming to be among the nation’s most sustainable sectors. In this conversation, Mace Thornton, executive director of Communications for American Farm Bureau, discusses the survey results and why it’s good news for farmers and ranchers.

Women Leading the Way in Farm Bureau

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 13 Mar 2017 15:35:23 -0100

More young farm women are voluntarily giving their time to Arkansas Farm Bureau on the state and county level. Peggy Miller chairs the Arkansas Farm Bureau state women’s committee and Donna Bemis serves as vice-chairwoman. The annual state women’s conference was held recently and they took time to discuss the committee’s projects and why it’s important to get more farm women involved in advocating for agriculture.

YF&R Hunger Relief Programs

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 15:30:03 -0100

Fighting hunger in Arkansas has become a priority for Arkansas Farm Bureau. The organization’s Young Farmers and Ranchers and Women’s Committees have adopted the “Pack Shack” and Backpack programs as their way of addressing the need to alleviate hunger in the state. In this conversation, Trent Dabbs, former chair of the state YF&R committee and Melanie Brown, a former elementary school teacher in Lonoke County, discuss these efforts and the need for young farmers and ranchers to get involved in their local communities.

Ag Safety Awareness Week

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 01 Mar 2017 20:49:29 -0100

Agriculture is one of the most dangerous occupations in the U.S., but most farm-related injuries and deaths are preventable. Listen as Amanda Williams, education and safety coordinator for Arkansas Farm Bureau, discusses the upcoming Agriculture Safety Awareness Week, the meaning this year’s theme of “Get out of my Space,” and some simple safety basics.

YF&R Conference 2017

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 15:20:46 -0100

The theme of the 2017 Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers conference was “Thrive to Survive.” That’s exactly what the 350 or so who attended the annual gathering in Little Rock are doing. They are the future of agriculture in Arkansas. Miller County cattleman Chase Groves and his wife Krystal chair the ArFB state YF&R committee. He sat down to share his thoughts on the vital role of his generation in advocating for the state’s largest industry to ensure it remains profitable and sustainable.

Dr. Tim Burcham, ASU MOU

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 16 Feb 2017 19:17:43 -0100

The Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University have formed a partnership to help fill a need for more graduates in poultry science. Dr. Tim Burcham, dean of the ASU College of Agriculture, Engineering and Technology, discusses the launch of this dual transfer "3-plus-1" bachelor’s degree program and its future benefits to the poultry industry in Arkansas.

Farmers' Day at the Capitol: Jeff Rutledge

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 10 Feb 2017 21:19:56 -0100

More than 150 Arkansas farmers and ranchers participated in Arkansas Farm Bureau’s "Farmers’ Day at the Capitol" on Feb. 8. Agricultural producers met with their senators and representatives to speak with them in person about agricultural priorities. Listen to our interview with Jackson County farmer Jeff Rutledge, as he explains why the day was so important for the state’s largest industry.

Declining Dairy: How One Arkansas Dairy Keeps Milking

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Fri, 27 Jan 2017 14:46:31 -0100

As the number of family dairy farms continue to decline in Arkansas, Simon Brothers dairy near Conway endures. In this conversation, Matt Simon shares how he and his brothers are able to remain in business and what he believes needs to happen to the milk pricing system to make family dairy farming profitable again.

ArFB President Randy Veach on Ag Policy in 2017

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 19:35:54 -0100

Arkansas Farm Bureau president Randy Veach discusses agricultural priorities for 2017 and offers his reaction to President Donald Trump's initial actions on international trade policy. He also shares his views on President Trump's nominees to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Protection Agency.

Tax Code Changes and Farmers

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 19:30:18 -0100

The 115th Congress is now in session in Washington D.C. and House and Senate members are discussing possible changes to the federal tax code. Some of the proposed changes may benefit farmers and ranchers, while others may create new challenges. A special workshop, “Tax Code Changes that Could Impact Your Bottom Line,” was conducted at the American Farm Bureau annual convention in Phoenix this week to inform farmers and ranchers about what to expect. Hear workshop leaders Brennis Craddock and Patricia Wolff sum up their key concerns.

JoeThrash

Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation — Mon, 19 Dec 2016 19:03:02 -0100

JoeThrash by Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation