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.

Arkansas Farm Bureau will host the Arkansas Connectivity Summit on Wednesday, Sept. 8, at the Hot Springs Convention Center. The event will focus on developing plans to improve high-speed, broadband connectivity and cellular connectivity in Arkansas and will feature government and community leaders, industry stakeholders and others, including keynote speaker, Commissioner Brendan Carr of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

In this video Dr. Aaron Cato, extension specialist and horticulture IPM with the U of A cooperative extension service teaches us about the Brood X variety, which are making headlines across the country this year. He also shares the history of Cicadas, including the 13-year emergence, which we’ll see here in Arkansas. Finally, we wrap up with good information for growers and homeowners regarding damage and we’ll even learn if these insects are safe to eat.

Flooding has been devastating for many row crop farmers in parts of the state, but excess rainfall is also creating serious problems in another sector that may surprise many. We spoke with Keo Fish Farm owner Mike Freeze about the damage rising water has done in Lonoke County and to aquaculture across Arkansas.

Eight district Farm Families have been named in the 74th annual Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program, representing the diversity of Arkansas agriculture, the state’s largest industry.

Today, Arkansas Farm Bureau leaders and staff visited Desha County to see flooding damage and visit with local farmers and officials. The day began with ArFB President Rich Hillman opening a press conference and community discussion at the Dumas Community Center with Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward, along with members of the state legislature, including Rep. Mark McElroy and State Senator Ben Gilmore. It concluded with visits to flooded farms and facilities and another community meeting in McGehee.

Heavy rains this week flooded several hundred acres of soybeans, corn and rice on Jon and Jim Carroll‘s Monroe County farm. Jon explains the problems they and other Arkansas farmers now face as a result of the wet weather.

Farmers and ranchers have dealt with numerous challenges and stresses this growing season, particularly from heavy June rains. These challenges have the potential to significantly reduce farm revenue, so Arkansas Farm Bureau economists have produced a report on likely profitability impacts.

Arkansas Farm Bureau’s Mark Lambert provides an update on the flooding and challenges caused by this week’s heavy rains and the impact on farmers and ranchers.

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.