Arkansas Farm Bureau was once again one of the major sponsors of the Junior Livestock Auction at the Arkansas State Fair. During the premium livestock sale, we caught up with some of the young participants from around the state, who talked about the work involved in raising champion animals and their personal experience at this year’s Fair.
Farmers in eastern Arkansas like Caleb Jones are working hard bringing in this year’s cotton crop. Caleb took time to visit with us about his family’s multi-generational farm in St. Francis County and his concerns about this year's prices.
Cotton Incorporated and other industry representatives from across the country made what has become an annual visit to Lee County recently to learn about cotton production and the ginning process from local farmers and observe the fall harvest. We spoke to some of the attendees and to Marianna farmer Trent Felton about the visit and what they hope it accomplishes.
The cotton harvest is in full swing in Arkansas. St. Francis County farmers Jim and Caleb Jones of Palestine invited us to follow their pickers in the field to capture video of how it's done.
Cooler temperatures are bringing famlies and school field trips to Peebles Farm near Augusta in Woodruff County. Youngsters and grown-ups alike can explore the corn maze, pick pumpkins, take wagon rides or enjoy any of the numerous activities at this unique "agritourism" destination. Hear Katie Peebles describe how they prepare the maze and get the farm ready for fall visitors.
Derek Helms' family has been milking cows on his farm near Arkadelphia since 1907. The 5th-generation farmer has kept the family business going, despite challenges that have forced many in Arkansas out of the dairy industry. He leads the Clark County Farm Bureau and is working hard to ensure younger generations will have opportunities to farm and ranch in the state as well.
We spent the afernoon with Logan County cattle rancher and poultry grower Brian Weisenfels and he told us about his recent investment in Black Baldy cattle from Montana and his plans to use them for building a new herd.
The Pulaski County Master Gardeners are utilizing a grant from the Arkansas Farm Bureau Foundation to develop a "showplace" garden at the C.A. Vines 4-H Center in Ferndale. Still a "Work in Progress," Kathy Ratcliffe shares what they have accomplished so far, and how the garden complements the mission of the 4-H Center.
Jackie Prince has been farming in the Prairie County community of Biscoe for 40 years, starting with working for his grandfather as a teenager. He describes this year as one of the most challenging he's faced, because weather prevented him from planting his rice and soybeans.
Larry Blasdel raises cattle in the hills of Marion County and, despite industry challenges, he wouldn't have it any other way. He shares the story of his family business and spending a lifetime in the livestock business.
