Terrance Scott of Scott Farms in Cotton Plant says consistent rain and cooler temps have soybean, corn and rice crops in East Arkansas looking "very good" heading into August. Scott forecasts farms just north of I-40 to yield 60 bushels of beans per acre with just a few more rains over the next two months. See the crops and Scott smile while talking about the summer of 2023 in his region.

Ida Ruth Jones has been actively involved as a Farm Bureau member for more than 60 years; her hard work on the Women’s Leadership Committee, her dedication to continue to serve after her husband was elected to the state board and her outstanding efforts to represent agriculture in education and the public arena are just a few of the reasons she was named the Arkansas Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Diamond Award Recipient in 2022. Watch our latest video to learn more about her and her Farm Bureau legacy.

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!

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.

Meet Reed and Sarah Kelley of Saltillo (Faulkner Co.), they are finalists for the Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Award. The Kelleys own Big and Rich Cattle Company. From their commercial cattle herd they sell replacement heifers and background and finish their own steers. Through their farm and careers, it is evident that Reed and Sarah are passionate about serving others. Learn more about the couple, their daughter, and how they have grown their farm from humble beginnings.

Meet Hannah Walker of Henderson (Baxter Co.), she is a finalists for the Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Award. Walker Farms began with a gifted replacement heifer has grown into a their own herd. With her career in education, Hannah is passionate about youth in agriculture and creating a legacy for her own children. Learn more about Hannah, her family, and how they’re building for the future.

Meet the Storys of Cauthron (Scott Co.), finalists for this year’s Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award. The Storys found a home in Arkansas after taking on the challenge of taming land that sat dormant for some time. They have a herd of Brahman and crossbred cattle and have implemented multi-species grazing with Black Belly and Dorper sheep. Learn more about the work that made them finalists this year.

Meet the Beardens of Friendship (Hot Spring Co.), winners of this year’s Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award. The Beardens own and operate Fowler & Bearden Farm where they raise 250 cow-calf pairs. In addition to their cattle, they own a set of timber, grow hay and raise horses and cross-bred sheep. The Beardens are the sixth and seventh generation and had the unique opportunity to purchase their own part of the family farm before it transitioned ownership. Learn more about how the Beardens have built an award-winning farming operation.

Meet Chris and Brooklyn Heiser of Lamar (Johnson Co.), they are finalists for the Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Ag Award. The Heisers have a commercial and registered cattle herd of SimAngus and angus cattle. Off the farm, Chris manages Wilkins Farms and Brooklyn manages Sweet Treats Sandwich and Pie Shop. Learn more about the couple, their growing farm and their desire to give back to their community and agriculture.

Meet the McCartys! Dayton and Lauren McCarty of Mountain View (Stone Co.) are finalists for the Arkansas Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award. The McCartys have six broiler houses, a registered black angus herd and produce commercial hay. Learn more about the couple, their growing farm and their children in our new video.