AgCast Deep Dive: PLC and ARC Explained with Dr. Hunter Biram

AgCast Deep Dive: PLC and ARC Explained with Dr. Hunter Biram

From Arkansas AgCast by Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation

February 26, 2026 · 35 min · Episode 461

About this episode

This episode features a discussion on the modern farm safety net, focusing on ARC and PLC programs and their impact on Arkansas farmers.

On this Deep Dive episode, host John McMinn sits down with Dr. Hunter Biram, extension ag economist, to break down the modern farm safety net. They explain how ARC and PLC work, common misconceptions about who receives payments and whether these programs influence planting decisions or distort markets. They also cover yield volatility in Arkansas, which crops may be better suited for ARC or PLC, the opportunity to add base acres, and concerns surrounding payment limitations. If you want a clearer understanding of how today’s safety net impacts Arkansas farmers, this episode delivers.

People in this episode

Guest: Dr Hunter Biram

Topics covered

  • farm safety net
  • ARC
  • PLC
  • agriculture economics
  • yield volatility

Keywords

  • payments
  • planting decisions
  • market distortion
  • base acres
  • payment limitations

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Deep Dive

Places: Arkansas

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