Arkansas AgCast

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.

Host Jason Brown sits down with Mandy Young to discuss mental health in agriculture and the work being done through Tailgate Time, a nonprofit built for mental health support services for farmers, their families, farm employees and others in agriculture. From stress and isolation to the realities facing farm families, we look at prioritizing mental health on the farm and in rural communities.

The conversation covers common misconceptions about mental health, the process of seeking help and resources available, like AFBF’s Farm State of Mind.

Tailgate Time Number: 870-680-0222

Gin Show Mental Health Panel Recording: https://www.midsouthfarmandginshow.com/managingstressandanxietyinanuncertainworld

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.

Host Jason Brown sits down with Arkansas Farm Bureau economist Brandy Carroll to break down new data on fertilizer purchases and what it reveals about the financial pressures facing farmers, especially here in Arkansas. From rising input costs to tough decisions on fertilizer use, this conversation explains how today’s farm economy is shaping production and risk management across the state.

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.

On this episode, we break down USDA’s latest WASDE report and what steady supply estimates mean for crop and livestock markets heading into the growing season. We also look at new American Farm Bureau survey data showing fertilizer affordability challenges for farmers, with rising input costs continuing to shape planting decisions across the country.

In addition, we discuss ongoing conversations in Washington for another round of farm aid and what that could mean for producers. Finally, we cover the continued spread of the Asian longhorned tick in Arkansas and the potential impact on cattle operations.

From equipment to policy to education, this episode covers crucial ag news in the headlines right now. This week, we break down a major right-to-repair development as John Deere reaches a proposed $99 million settlement that could expand farmers’ access to equipment diagnostics and repair tools. We also provide an update on the Illinois River Watershed case after a federal judge rejected proposed settlements, adding continued uncertainty for poultry growers in northwest Arkansas.

In addition, we cover EPA’s summer waiver allowing E15 fuel sales to continue, and what that means for corn demand and fuel markets. Finally, Arkansas reaches a major milestone with approval for the state’s first college of veterinary medicine at Arkansas State University, paving the way for its first class of students this fall.

This Arkansas AgCast episode covers new EPA guidance aimed at reducing equipment downtime tied to DEF system failures, including changes that could improve reliability for farmers. We also take a closer look at USDA’s Prospective Plantings report and what shifting acreage trends could mean for corn, soybeans, rice and cotton in Arkansas and across the country.
In addition, new data shows farmers are receiving a smaller share of the food dollar, highlighting the growing role of processing, transportation and retail in the food supply chain. Finally, we cover the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board new policy aimed at protecting producer-funded research from benefiting foreign competitors.

On this episode, we break down rising fertilizer costs and supply concerns tied to the Iran conflict, review a proposed farm bill framework for specialty crop disaster assistance and discuss increased scrutiny of U.S. ag exports at Chinese ports. We also cover important dicamba changes for Arkansas farmers ahead of the growing season.

Arkansas farmers and ranchers know the shortage of large animal veterinarians is real. On this AgCast Deep Dive, Jason Brown talks with Dr. Heidi Banse about the Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, its focus on production agriculture and how the program could address the need for large animal vets in rural communities. Listen in to find out what the school will mean for Arkansas agriculture.