From the MS Row Crop Short Course in Starkville, we’re joined by Stanley Culpepper of the University of Georgia and Jeff Smith of Valent USA to unpack some of the most pressing regulatory and perception challenges facing modern agriculture. Together, they explore how the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is reshaping pesticide policy, what the EPA’s Herbicide Strategy means for growers and applicators, and how pesticide labeling may evolve in the years ahead. The discussion also takes a candid look at the relationship between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the agricultural community—where trust has eroded, where misunderstandings persist, and what practical steps could help improve transparency, communication, and credibility moving forward. Whether you’re a grower, consultant, regulator, or ag professional, this episode offers thoughtful insight into balancing environmental protection with real-world farming needs.