Yearly Archives: 2019
Decades of Service
After nearly seven decades of service, two of Tennessee Farm Bureau's staff members are retiring.
Preparing for the Future
Scott Caine of Aimpoint Research recently spoke to Tennessee Farm Bureau members about what the company is researching in terms of how farmers can...
Spending Package Includes Farm Provisions
The spending package agreement sent through Congress provides farmers stability for fiscal year 2020.
Christmas on the Farm
Tennessee farm families celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
A Rural Christmas
Friends and families are gathering together in this Christmas time to give thanks for the reason for the season.
Last Minute Gift Ideas from the Farm
Its not too late for that special Christmas gift and you can get it from the farm.
USMCA Clears the House
A big win for U.S. agriculture as USMCA gets bipartisan support in the House.
Farmers Ready for China Trade
A phase one agreement with China would reopen a marketplace for U.S. agriculture.
Lead USDA Attorney from a Tenn. Farm
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's head attorney is Obion County's own, Stephen Vaden.
Leading the Way
Farm Bureau leaders from across the state held their annual meeting in Franklin recently where they discussed issues affecting our most important industry.
Farmers Hopeful for an Early Christmas Present
A lot of hope is in the air around the country that Congress will Finally get to a vote on USMCA.
Serving a 75 Year Strong Organization
Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers gathered at their Annual Convention to celebrate 75 years of involvement and strength.
Supporting Our Most Important Industry
Since being inaugurated almost a year ago, Governor Bill Lee has had our farmers in mind.
The Strong Voice of Agriculture
Farmers statewide are taking part in the Tennessee Farm Bureau's Annual Meeting in Franklin this week, hearing information about the successes the organization has...
Farm Bureau Leaders Gathered in Franklin
About 1500 Farm Bureau leaders are gathered in Franklin this week for their 98th annual meeting of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation.
Tennessee Farm Bureau...
More U.S. Beef, Ag Products Headed To Japan
Jennifer Houston, Tennessee cattle producer and president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, talks about the new trade agreement between the U.S. and Japan...
Farm Fibers Sustaining All of Us
Genera in Vonore, TN is continuing its focus of utilizing products grown locally and producing renewable solutions that are helping to benefit rural communities...
H-2A Farm Labor on the Rise
The number of H-2A farm labor positions reached record highs this year, and wages paid under the program will increase again in 2020.
2019 H-2A...
New Trade Forecast
If you are a farmer looking for something to be excited about, the USDA's new export forecast might help.
Thanksgiving on the Farm
Farm families and friends all across our great state will be enjoying their time around the table today or whenever they're able to gather...
Preserving Farm Families’ Livelihood
A new bill just introduced in the House of Representatives will help ease a tax burden on family farms. American Farm Bureau's Micheal Clements...
Getting that Turkey Ready
If you are getting a frozen turkey ready for Thanksgiving, here are some thawing tips that can save time and make things safe.
A Thankful Season
The harvest season is quickly wrapping up for many farmers and Thanksgiving is time to reflect on how thankful they are for another crop...
A Very Affordable Thanksgiving Meal
The American Farm Bureau's Thanksgiving Meal for ten survey shows only a one cent increase.
Investing in the Future
Farm Credit Mid-America and the University of Tennessee at Knoxville have partnered up to create the Farm Credit Scholars program for college students on...
Second Round of MFP Payments Coming
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue has announced the second round of Market Facilitation Program payments will begin for farmers nationwide this week.
USDA News Release
Literacy for Our Most Important Industry
This week is designated as Tennessee Ag Literacy Week. The premise is to get volunteers, and in many cases, farmers, to visit their local...
Looking for Answers
Another blow to the state's dairy farms as Dean Foods announced they are filing for bankruptcy, which effects at least 77 dairy farms here...
Farmer Veterans Throughout Tennessee
A lot of celebrations the past few days for our veterans and rightfully so. According to the Census of Agriculture there are more than...
The Most Affordable Food on the Planet
New research shows U.S. consumers spend less on groceries than any other nation.
More Than Just Veterans Day
Today is Veterans Day, an extremely important day to remember those that have served and are serving. But its also the birthday of one...
A Great Harvest Winding Down
So far, this harvest season has been one of the best for many Tennessee row crop farmers.
Crop Progress and Condition
A Panel Perspective of the Farm Economy
A panel of economic experts recently offered their thoughts on the current farm economy, and some trends going forward.
A Friend of Farm Bureau
Congressman Dr. Phil Roe of the 1st District of Tennessee recently met with Farm Bureau leaders to discuss issues important to the farm community.
High Cotton For Sure
Tennessee cotton farmers are enjoying this year's harvest, many saying its one of their best crops.
Blue Jackets Travel to Indy
It's that time of year, a time when FFA blue corduroy jackets flood the streets of Indianapolis, Indiana for National FFA Convention.
USDA Hemp Rule Gets More Clarification
The Agriculture Department has just released details of a long-awaited regulatory process to guide states in the production and transportation of industrial hemp.
AFBF Applauds Bill Addressing Rural Stress
New legislation in the Senate addresses mental health and stress stemming from the farm economy. Micheal Clements has more.
Addressing the Federal Milk Marketing Order
In January of this year, voting delegates at the American Farm Bureau Convention recommended the organization convene a Farm Bureau and producer-led coalition to...
From High School to College
When you hear about 4-H or FFA, you typically relate both organizations to students in either elementary, middle or high school, but students from...
A Nuisance to Farmers
Recently an educational and evaluation session on black vulture sub-permits was held where local farmers gathered to learn more about their options when dealing...
Swine Fever Reshaping the Global Pork Industry
The African swine fever outbreak in China means the nation must import more pork to keep up with demand.
59th State Land Judging Contest
The 59th Annual State Land Judging competition was held this week in Oak Ridge as 4-H and FFA teams were competing for top honors...
ReConnecting Economic Opportunities for Rural Tennessee
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue was back in the Volunteer State to announce the first grant recipients under USDA's Reconnect Pilot Program for expanding...
Focus on Sustainability
Farmers are some of the biggest advocates for sustainability. American Farm Bureau's Micheal Clements has more.
Representing the Volunteer State
Jerry Ray of Moore County recently traveled to Moultrie, Georgia for the Sunbelt Ag Expo as the 30th Tennessee Swisher Sweets Southeastern Farmer of...
Getting the Story Right
Members of the Tennessee Farm Bureau's Ag In the Classroom Advisory Council met to hear how the program is working to share the story...
The Push for More Trade
With the hopes of a soon signed trade agreement with China, there's a continued push for Congress to pass the bipartisan-supported trade deal with...
An Even Bigger China Trade Deal for Ag
President Trump and U.S. farmers are excited to hear the news of positive negotiations towards trade with China.
Celebrating National 4-H Week
4-H students and alumni across the country are celebrating an organization which has influenced many, including Tennessee State 4-H Council President Laura Grace Jenkins.
Excelling in Agriculture
Jason and Julie Head of Montgomery County were recently selected as this year's Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Winners.
Support for Trade and our Farms
Vice President Mike Pence and US Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue were in Tennessee to promote the US Canada Mexico Trade Agreement.
New State Vet Ready to Protect and Promote Animal Agriculture
Dr. Samantha Beaty has been preparing for her new role as Tennessee State Veterinarian since growing up in Fentress County.
TDA Names Dr. Samantha Beaty...
Dry Conditions, Fire Threat Linger
The continued dry conditions are causing an increase in the number of fires being reported across the state as state officials urge extreme caution.
Burn...
Time to Celebrate Porktober
Did you know that October is Pork Month? The entire month of October, Tennessee Pork Producers will be celebrating Porktober by educating consumers, with...
AFBF Applauds U.S. – Japan Agreement
Last week's announcement of the United States - Japan trade agreement is a positive step for agriculture. Michael Clements has more.
Shooting Hunger
Farm industry partners recently came together for their 5th annual Shooting Hunger event at the Nashville Gun Club that helps raise money and awareness...
Urban FFA Chapters Making a Difference
The Future Farmers of America has been around and an important part of vocational education in our high schools for nearly 100 years, and...
Favorite Field Trip of the Year
Every year Jefferson County holds their annual Farm Day where more than 500 students attend to learn more about where their food comes from.
Finally a Little Rain, But Still Extremely Dry
While some areas of the state finally got some rain, its still critically dry throughout Tennessee, and its been hard on cattle producers.
Fighting Drug Addiction is a Farm Safety Priority
When it comes to maintaining farm safety, one priority is fighting drug addiction.
Driving Rural Prosperity
USDA's Rural Development is helping to build a youth center in Meigs County through a substantial grant from the Community Facilities Direct Loan program.
USDA...
Southern 4-H’ers Making the Best Better
Close to 400 4-H'ers have recently attended the 15th Annual Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference at the Clyde York 4-H Center in Crossville.
One of Our Most Dangerous Occupations
This week is National Farm Safety and Health Week, where folks across the country are bringing awareness to some of the dangers of farming....
Farm Safety at Harvest and Year Round
This time of year throughout Tennessee a lot of extra traffic on our roadways should rmeind us all about safe driving practices.
Harvest on Go
Tennessee row crop farmers are taking advantage of the dry weather and getting their crops harvested, especially corn, soybeans, and even a little cotton.
WOTUS Repeal a Win for Farmers
The American Farm Bureau Federation says repealing the 2015 WOTUS rule is a victory for clean water and clear rules.
A Lot of Pull
During the Tennessee State Fair, state lawmakers participate with Nashville television personalities in the annual Cow Milking contest.
All About the Farm at the Fair
At the State Fair and Tennessee Valley Fair, over 2000 elementary kids got to experience the farm up close as they had field days...
The State Fair’s Future
Election day for the Mayor of Nashville and both candidates showed their support of the ag industry at a forum during the annual FFA...
An East Tennessee Hamburger Grill-Off
At the kickoff of the Tennessee Valley Fair in Knoxville, Meteorologist Cassie Nall and Todd Howell of WBIR TV took the honors of Best...
What a Ham!
The Tennessee FFA Country Ham breakfast was another big success this week at the Tennessee State Fair.
On the Mooove
The Tennessee State Fair kicks off with the 2019 theme "On the Mooove."
A Place to Turn
Farmers have had it tough over the last several years and the Farm Service Agency is a place they can turn to for information,...
Slowing Growth Rate for H2A Workers
New data shows that 2019 growth in the H-2A program is slowing.
Urban FFA Chapters Making a Difference
The Oakland High School FFA Chapter in Murfreesboro is one of many chapters with a predominantly urban setting.
Improving Trade Agreements Vital for Farmers
The recently announced U.S.-Japan trade deal and the potential for USMCA passage before the end of the year are bright spots on the agricultural...
Voices Heard
Tennessee congressman Dr. Scott DesJarlais has been traveling the 4th District over the Augus recess and he recently took time to meet with nearly...
Popularity Growing for Cell Culture
Like it or not, cell-cultured meat is here to stay, at least say those like Julie Anna Potts, CEO of the North American Meat...
A Crisis for Critical Care
There's no doubt rural areas of Tennessee are taking a blow with the closure of local hospitals.
TFBF Rural Healthcare Policy bulletin
Tennessean story on rural...
The ‘Polar Coaster’ is Coming
We still have some three weeks of Summer left but many of us have already felt a hint of Fall in the air. But...
Be a Visual Thinker
World-renowned animal care specialist Temple Grandin was in Tennessee recently and she spoke to a full crowd in Cookeville for Tennessee Tech University.
Dealing With the Ups and Downs
Tennessee row crop farmers are entering the harvest season as corn is drying down, they just wish prices would go up.
A New Era for Ag Research
Dr. Hongwei Xin is the new dean of Ag Research for the University of Tennessee.
Hongwei Xin begins new role
Ag Leadership Tour
About thirty Tennessee farm and ag industry partners recently took part in an Ag Leadership Tour throughout the Midwest visiting farms and agribusinesses.
Holding on Tight
Today's Tennessee and American farmers are battling through some tough times in farm country, and the message that American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall...
Solar Farm Powers Research
You may not know it, but there is actually a solar farm with a Tennessee Welcome Center right smack in the middle of it...
Distressed Counties Get Spotlight at Rural Opportunity Summitt
It is no secret that Governor Bill Lee is focused on making sure Tennessee, all of Tennessee, has a bright future.
New Chancellor on the Job
Dr. Donde Plowman has been appointed as the ninth chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
More on Chancellor Plowman
Anticipation Building for a Strong Crop
As Tennessee row crop farmers get set to begin harvest, the anticipation for a really good yield is coming into focus.
79th Tenn. Farm Bureau Presidents Conference
County Farm Bureau Presidents gather with other ag and political leaders to learn and discuss more about state's top industry.
Learning All Summer Long
Each summer, four students are chosen to spend the break from college with the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation. Julia Knaggs, Makenzie Moorehead, Lindsey Parsley...
A Grassroots Effort
It's that time of year again - time when Farm Bureau members are gathering across the state at policy development meetings to discuss topics...
Protecting Our Farms for the Future
Sheldon Hightower is the State Conservationist in Tennessee for USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Tennessee NRCS
New Opportunities for American Beef Exports
American beef producers get new opportunity to market product to the European Union.
Farm Bureau Fighting to Close the Digital Divide
High-speed internet access is needed to improve the sustainability of rural America. Chad Smith has more.
Wrangler Rooted in Tennessee
Wrangler kicks off new Rooted Collection of jeans and tshirts from cotton grown and sewn in the US. Eugene Pugh from Halls in the...
Row Crop Farmers Hopeful for a Good Finish
This year's crop season has been a wet one without a doubt, but for the most part, that's been good news as corn and...
FFA Travels to D.C.
Tennessee FFA state officers traveled to Washington, D.C. this week to spend time learning about leadership, agriculture and agricultural education.
Second Trade Mitigation Package for Agriculture Announced
The Agriculture Department Thursday released details of its latest trade mitigation package designed to help producers impacted by recent trade disruptions. Rod Bain and...