Farmers need certainty as they face historic financial pressure. Sens. John Boozman and John Hoeven are urging Congress to expand USDA farm assistance and strengthen the safety net for family farms in Arkansas and across rural America.
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.
ArFB President Dan Wright recaps our week in Anaheim at the American Farm Bureau convention. He highlights keynote speakers, policy making and time spent with the farmers and ranchers from all across the country.
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.
Up to 400 poultry farms in Northwest Arkansas could close due to a recent Oklahoma judge’s ruling. Farmers are in disbelief, saying they’re not to blame since they’ve abided by environmental regulations the past 20 years.
Six distinguished individuals will be inducted into the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame, recognizing their contributions to the fields of soybean, rice, forestry, and cotton, along with their impactful roles in the United States Congress and Senate.
Arkansas Farm Bureau announces the hiring of Becky Brown, Coby Wilson and Addie Stamps. Brown will serve on the administration team, and Wilson and Stamps will serve in the Commodity and Regulatory Affairs Department.
Arkansas Farm Bureau President Dan Wright has issued a follow up statement after thorough review of U.S. District Judge Frizzell's ruling in the Illinois River Watershed court case
