Arkansas AgCast

On this episode, we break down the Senate Agriculture Committee's newly released farm bill draft, including proposed updates to the farm safety net, crop insurance, specialty crop programs and rural development. We also look at new research showing how low Mississippi River levels can reduce the prices farmers receive for their grain, discuss the White House's request for additional farm assistance and share the results of American Farm Bureau's annual Fourth of July Cookout Survey.

On this episode, we break down USDA's new specialty crop assistance payments, a rare opportunity for farmers to review and update base acres, and the first confirmed case of New World screwworm in U.S. livestock in decades. We also cover major changes to federal farm program eligibility rules that could expand payment limits and increase flexibility for many farm operations beginning in 2026.

On this episode, we break down USDA’s latest efforts to expand domestic fertilizer production, how rising diesel costs are reshaping crop decisions for Arkansas farmers, and new trade commitments between the U.S. and China that could impact agricultural exports and input costs. We also look at continued strong demand for beef, pork and poultry despite higher grocery prices and what that means for livestock producers here in Arkansas.

On this episode, we break down House passage of the 2026 farm bill and what it could mean for producers as it heads to the Senate. We also cover major freeze damage to Arkansas peaches and blueberries, new USDA conservation funding opportunities and the timeline for applying for the Arkansas Century Farm Program.

This week on the Arkansas AgCast, we’re covering the EPA’s latest actions aimed at reducing downtime from DEF system failures, we look at why beef prices are likely to stay high as the U.S. cattle herd remains tight and share the latest on Texas and USDA’s efforts to keep the New World screwworm out of the United States. We also trace some of your favorite Super Bowl snacks back to the farms and ranches that make them possible.

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.

We packed the studio up and headed to Hot Springs for this episode. Catch up with us on the trade show floor as we discuss all the action from the 91st Annual State Convention. We also have a great discussion with Clint Bruce, Navy SEAL and former NFL player, before his keynote address at the event. Get it here on the state’s only weekly ag news program, the Arkansas AgCast.

On this Deep Dive edition of the Arkansas AgCast, we sit down with Dr. Calvin White Jr., provost and executive vice chancellor at Arkansas State University, on location during the Catalyst event in Jonesboro. We discuss how Arkansas agriculture is evolving, its impact on rural communities and how collaboration can strengthen the industry for all Arkansans. Dr. White shares insights on the university’s role innovation, rural revitalization and preparing the next generation of ag leaders through initiatives like A-State’s new College of Veterinary Medicine.