The Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program announces its 2026 County Farm Families of the Year. The Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program has helped recognize outstanding farm families throughout the state since 1947. The objectives of the Farm Family of the Year program are: • To give recognition and encouragement to farm families who are doing an outstanding job on their farm and in their community; • To recognize the importance of agriculture in the community and state; and • To disseminate information on improved farm practices and management. Arkansas Farm Family of the Year selection criteria includes efficiency of production, conservation of energy and resources, leadership in agricultural and community affairs, home and farm improvement, and home and farm management. The program is open to all counties and is voluntary. Participation varies, explaining why not all counties have a recipient.

ArFB Vice President Magen Allen recently graduated for the Partners in Advocacy Leadership program hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation. The two-year intensive training builds stronger industry leaders. Hear more about her experience and how it has prepared Allen to be a better leader and advocate for agriculture.

Adam Chartrand (aka “the worm guy”) transitioned from gardening to producing garden-improving vermicompost business. His Man of the Red Earth business in Mayflower provides soil amendments for home gardeners and farmers using natural ingredients and nutrient-rich worm castings.

Wade and Marlene Lucas moved from Florida to Arkansas and started a farm supplying locals with everything from strawberries to fresh-baked pies. Wade Lucas Farms is one of this year’s Arkansas Farm Trail stops, and a visit to this serene Ozark valley farm won’t disappoint.

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.

Last week American Farm Bureau released a survey on fertilizer costs and purchases to give leaders in D.C. data that truly reflects what farmers are experiencing. Arkansas Farm Bureau President Dan Wright breaks down the results and why member participation matters.

One of the final events at the annual Arkansas FFA Convention is the election of a new state officer team. We had the privilege of getting a first glimpse at these newly elected officers. A year of service for the future of agriculture is ahead of this group of students, and Farm Bureau is proud to support them on their journey.

Matt Jackson caught up with the Valley Springs FFA State Champion Milk Quality team and talked to them about their championship win on their CDE project this year.

Izard County Farm Bureau member Dawsyn Cole led a workshop on Farm Bureau involvement, continuing her Arkansas Grassroots Leaders service project and mentoring FFA members along the way.

Day 2 of the FFA state convention is off to a great start. Justin Reynolds sat down with National FFA President Trey Myers from Oklahoma to talk about his service to the organization and the importance of young people being involved in FFA.