Dan Wright, President | Arkansas Farm Bureau
People constantly ask me, “What is Farm Bureau working on?” Most of the time, I give them the short version. The truth is, there are dozens of issues we tackle every day. Some are visible, others happen quietly behind the scenes and many continue to evolve as we work through them. For this column, I want to narrow that list to two volatile issues that remain very much in motion.
The first is the continuing crisis facing row and specialty crop agriculture here in Arkansas. Farmers across our state are under real financial pressure. Tight margins caused by low commodity prices, persistently high input costs and labor shortages have put many producers in a position they have never experienced before. Even with good yields and sound management, the numbers simply do not work for many operations.
In December, we saw some much-needed relief with the passage of a $12 billion bridge payment for row crop and specialty crop farmers. That assistance was appreciated and provided short-term help at a critical time. However, when spread across farms nationwide, it covers only about 25% of the estimated losses for the 2025 crop year. While helpful, it was never intended to solve the long-term challenges facing these industries.
There are ongoing conversations in Congress about additional assistance for agriculture, and that is encouraging. More importantly, lawmakers continue to recognize agriculture as a national security issue. A stable, affordable food supply matters, and the ability of American farmers to remain productive matters. Farm Bureau will continue working with our congressional delegation to ensure Arkansas farmers are heard as these discussions move forward.
The second issue that remains in motion is the situation surrounding the Illinois River Watershed. At the center of this discussion is the application of poultry litter — an organic and effective fertilizer that has been used by farmers in this region for generations. Poultry producers have long worked to balance environmental stewardship with the realities of production agriculture, and they take that responsibility seriously.
Recent legal developments and continued discussions remind us that this issue is far from settled. Arkansas farmers care deeply about the land and water we pass on to the next generation. At the same time, decisions affecting agriculture must be rooted in sound science and practical solutions. Farm Bureau will stay engaged, ensuring farmers have a seat at the table and that policies reflect both environmental goals and on-farm realities.
Through all of this, leadership matters. This year marks an important transition for Arkansas Farm Bureau as we recognize the service of Vice President Mike Freeze. Mike has provided years of steady, thoughtful leadership. He has been a trusted voice, a problem-solver and a tireless advocate for farmers across our state. His commitment to our grassroots structure has left this organization stronger than he found it, and we owe him our sincere thanks.
At the same time, I’m excited to introduce Magen Allen as our incoming Vice President. Magen brings energy, perspective and a clear understanding of today’s agricultural challenges. She values listening first, leading with integrity and keeping farmers at the center of every decision. I’m confident she will serve our members well as we prepare for the future.
As spring approaches, my encouragement is simple: Stay engaged. Stay involved in your county Farm Bureau. Stay connected with your neighbors. Stay willing to speak up when agriculture needs a voice. The challenges before us are real, but so is the strength of this organization and the people behind it.
Farming has never been easy, and it was never meant to be. But Arkansas farmers are resilient, resourceful and committed to the land and communities we love. As the seasons change, I remain confident that together we will continue working toward solutions that protect our livelihoods today and preserve opportunities for those who follow.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9
