Agriculture is no doubt still the driving force of our state’s economy and despite the loss of farms and farmland, that’s still the case for East Tennessee’s Blount County.

The U.S. House Committee on Agriculture has been discussing, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026” this week in Washington, otherwise known as the Farm Bill.

For more than 25 years, the West Tennessee AgStar program has been shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping young adults with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their industry. This year, 10 dedicated participants are celebrating the completion of the program — ready to put their skills and passion for agriculture into action.

Cotton has been part of life in Tennessee for generations. For many farm families, it’s more than just a crop — it’s a tradition. But lately, growing cotton hasn’t been easy. Farmers are feeling the squeeze from every direction. The cost of seed, fertilizer, fuel, and equipment keeps climbing, while the price they’re getting for cotton hasn’t kept up. For some growers, the math just isn’t working anymore. That’s why more farmers are either stepping away from cotton entirely or looking at other crops that might offer a steadier return. Still, there’s some hope in the industry. Brad Williams, president of the National Cotton Ginners Association and a farmer from Tipton County, believes better days could be ahead. He says new markets and the right kind of support from Congress could help turn things around for American cotton producers. While the challenges are real, many in Tennessee’s cotton community are holding on to the belief that with the right changes, cotton can remain an important part of the state’s agricultural future.

The Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers, in partnership with the Tennessee Council of Cooperatives, recently hosted their annual Young Leaders Conference—an inspiring event dedicated to shaping the future of agriculture. Designed to equip the next generation of agricultural professionals, the conference empowers young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to make a lasting impact in their farms, businesses, and communities.

Hardin County’s Alex Forsbach was recognized this week at the Commodity Classic in San Antonio with the American Soybean Association’s 2026 National Conservation Legacy Award.

Downtown Memphis will once again see thousands of farmers at the Renasant Convention Center for the Mid-South Farm and Gin Show.

Its National FFA Week and Tennessee’s state officers are traveling across the state on their Goodwill Tour

The U.S. Supreme Court overturned a broad swath of tariffs implemented by the Trump Administration. Chad Smith has the details.

The Senate Finance Committee hosted a hearing on the importance of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Chad Smith has more.