The Arkansas AgCast is a weekly podcast discussing the latest news, trends and issues impacting Arkansas farmers and ranchers.
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June 11, 2026Episode 47527 min
AgCast Deep Dive: FSA State Director Ty Davis
Host John McMinn sits down with newly-appointed Farm Service Agency State Director Ty Davis to discuss his farming roots, FSA programs that farmers can utilize and how his role in Senator John Boozman’s office helped prepare him for his role as FSA director in his home state.
June 5, 2026Episode 47440 min
New World Screwworm Makes it to the U.S., ARC and PLC Updates and Much More
On this episode, we break down USDA's new specialty crop assistance payments, a rare opportunity for farmers to review and update base acres, and the first confirmed case of New World screwworm in U.S. livestock in decades. We also cover major changes to federal farm program eligibility rules that could expand payment limits and increase flexibility for many farm operations beginning in 2026.
May 28, 2026Episode 47220 min
AgCast Deep Dive: Farm Bill Passes the House, What’s Next?
Host John McMinn sits down with Jay Robbins, Arkansas Farm Bureau’s senior director of national affairs, to discuss the recent passage of the farm bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. For farmers still relying on programs tied to the outdated 2018 farm bill, the move marks an important step forward. The conversation explores what still stands between the bill and becoming law, including Senate markups, potential compromises and the challenges ahead.
May 22, 2026Episode 47340 min
Fertilizer Expansion Efforts, Rising Diesel Costs Reshape Planting Decisions and Much More
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.
May 14, 2026Episode 47145 min
AgCast Deep Dive: Mental Health Awareness Month with Mandy Young
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: 870-680-0222Gin Show Mental Health Panel Recording: https://www.midsouthfarmandginshow.com/managingstressandanxietyinanuncertainworld
May 8, 2026Episode 47038 min
Arkansas Peaches Hit Hard, Farm Bill Passes the House and Much More
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.
April 30, 2026Episode 46929 min
AgCast Deep Dive: Iran War Impact on Fertilizer Purchases and Prices
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.
April 23, 2026Episode 46833 min
House Members Call for Rice Trade Investigation, USDA News and Much More
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.
April 17, 2026Episode 46746 min
The Latest WASDE Data, the Data Behind Fertilizer Purchases and Much More
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.
April 10, 2026Episode 46648 min
Illinois River Lawsuit Action, John Deere Right-to-Repair Settlement and Much More
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.
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