Arizona Agriculture Connection with Maricopa County Farm Bureau

In this episode of Arizona Agriculture Connection, Nicole sits down with Ben Menges of Menges Ranch, a fifth-generation rancher in Arizona. Ben shares his background and compares public land ranching in Arizona and New Mexico, highlighting political and operational differences. He discusses the complex relationship with federal agencies like the BLM and US Forest Service, including legal battles and the impact of regulations on daily operations. The conversation also covers protected species like the Mexican gray wolf and their significant financial impact on ranchers. Other topics include carbon sequestration by ranch lands, the nutritional needs of cattle in desert environments, and the importance of public lands for both ranching and recreation. Ben emphasizes the need for public understanding and support for ranching on public lands for the industry's sustainability and conservation of natural resources.

 September is shaping up to be a busy month for Arizona’s agriculture community, with important events, learning opportunities, and updates that directly impact our farms, ranches, and agribusinesses. Whether you’re looking to stay informed on policy changes, strengthen your biosecurity practices, or connect with fellow producers, there’s something for everyone this month.

👉 For registration links and more event details, visit maricopacountyfb.org.

This episode of "Arizona Agriculture Connection" features a special introduction to Meika Lauppe, the new grassroots engagement intern. Mika shares her background, originally from Northern California, her passion for agriculture, and her experience as a member of the Arizona State softball team. She discusses her upbringing on a rice and hay farm, her interest in agricultural real estate, and the importance of conserving farmland.

The conversation covers Meika’s excitement for the upcoming softball season, her love for reading and water sports, and her perspective on why agriculture matters to everyone—not just those in the industry. She emphasizes the value of understanding where food comes from and supporting local growers.

Meika expresses her eagerness to immerse herself in Arizona agriculture through her internship, looking forward to connecting with local farmers and learning more about the community. The episode closes with a warm welcome to Meika and an invitation for listeners to tune in next week for more topics on Arizona agriculture.

The latest edition of Arizona Agriculture Connection covers several key topics, starting with the recent arrival of monsoon rains in Arizona. The US Senate has passed the Agricultural Appropriations Act, allocating $27.1 billion for rural communities, farmers, ranchers, and food safety. The USDA's July Cattle Inventory Report shows a 1% decrease in cattle and calf numbers, with the 2025 calf crop being the smallest on record. Inflation remains a significant issue for agriculturalists despite some improvement since 2022. Interest rates are high, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 2.7% year-over-year increase in the Consumer Price Index for July. Farmers and ranchers face rising costs and declining commodity prices, compounded by severe weather and uncertain trade conditions, predicting a challenging year ahead. For more detailed information, visit the Maricopa County Farm Bureau's website, https://www.maricopacountyfb.org/.

The Maricopa County Farm Bureau Ag Report thanks attendees of its recent annual meeting and highlights several key updates in the agriculture sector. Important announcements include a new sterile fly facility in Texas, groundwater transfer approvals, and public comment periods for Arizona's Livestock Operator Fire and Flood Assistance program. Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of succession planning with an upcoming seminar in November. Detailed information and links for all updates are available on their website.

Catch you all next week!

In this episode of Arizona Agriculture Connection, Nicole is joined by Katie Aikens, Director of Education at Arizona Farm Bureau, to delve into the topic of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms). They define GMOs, differentiate between traditional breeding methods and transgenic organisms, and address common consumer concerns. The episode highlights the rigorous approval process for GMOs, which includes safety testing by the FDA, USDA, and EPA over an average of 13 years and $130 million.

Katie discusses various GMO crops like corn, soybeans, papaya, and innovative biotech foods like pink pineapples and purple tomatoes. The discussion also touches on GMOs' benefits to farmers, such as drought and pest resistance, and to consumers, like non-browning apples and potatoes. The episode debunks myths, explains the difference between GMOs and gene-editing technologies like CRISPR, and lists trusted resources for further information on GMOs.

The latest episode of Arizona Agriculture Connection covers important updates, including the US Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, announcing the USDA's reorganization to align with its core mission. Key points include workforce alignment, customer focus, reducing bureaucracy, and consolidating support functions. Livestock imports from Mexico are suspended due to a new world screw worm outbreak. In local news, the Arizona Department of Water Resources approved a groundbreaking groundwater transfer to support urban growth. The public comment period for the Arizona Livestock Operator Fire and Flood Assistance Program is open, and key events such as the Maricopa County Farm Bureau's annual meeting and the Women's Leadership Committee's August 18th tour are also highlighted. Next week’s episode will discuss GMOs.

In this episode of Arizona Agriculture Connection, Nicole Clements talks with Noel Carter, General Manager of the Buckeye Water Conservation and Drainage Districts, and Stan Barnes, President of Copper State Consulting Group, about water management challenges and developments in Arizona. The conversation delves into the complexities of water policy, including different types of water sources, historical water rights, and the impact of ongoing droughts. They discuss recent legislative efforts to manage urbanization and agricultural water needs, specifically focusing on the Ag to Urban transition and its implications for future growth. They also touch upon the transfer of water to Queen Creek, the intricacies of water law, and the importance of collective efforts and historical foresight in sustaining Arizona's water supply amid rapid urban development.

This segment of Arizona Agriculture Connection covers significant legislative updates affecting agriculture both federally and locally. A major bill allocating $65.6 billion to agricultural programs has been passed, with a majority of funds directed towards farm safety net enhancements. The USDA has launched disaster assistance for crop losses in 2023-2024. Additionally, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced a new initiative to protect American agriculture and enhance supply chain resilience. Locally, the AG Urban bill remains a focal issue, and the Maricopa County Farm Bureau's annual meeting is scheduled for August 13th at the University of Arizona Scottsdale Center.

In this special live edition of the Arizona Agriculture Connection, Nicole interviews Sine Kerr, former senator and current executive director of the Farm Service Agency, at the Summer Leadership Conference. Kerr shares her journey from falling in love with agriculture as a child in Buckeye to marrying a dairy farmer and building a successful farm and family. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy, relating her experiences in leadership roles, visiting state officials, and speaking on behalf of farmers. Sine discusses the transition from the Senate to her current role, the significance of effective communication and leadership in agriculture, and the pivotal support provided by the Farm Service Agency. She encourages farmers to share their stories and participate in leadership programs, emphasizing continuous learning and advocacy for the agricultural community.

Save the date for next year's conference, July 16-17, 2026.