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Annual Groundwater Report Reinforces Need for Arkansas Water Plan

07/07/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department) has released the 2025 Arkansas Groundwater Protection and Management Report pursuant to the Arkansas Groundwater Protection and Management Act of 1991, Arkansas Code Annotated § 15-22-906. This report summarizes groundwater monitoring, current water levels, conservation programs, and water use for 2025. “Arkansas has been blessed with abundant natural resources, and we can’t afford to take them for granted,” said Governor Sanders.  “Protecting our groundwater means thinking decades ahead—about conservation, supporting agriculture, strengthening our economy, and ensuring future generations inherit an Arkansas that’s even stronger than the one we enjoy

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Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board Approves $83,533 in Funding for Research and Promotion

01/07/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board today announced $83,533 in funding for research and promotion projects. The selected projects will support the growth and market development of Arkansas’ wheat industry. “These investments reflect our commitment to delivering real value to Arkansas wheat growers,” said Tim Smith, Wheat Promotion Board Chairman. “Every project we fund, whether it advances research, enhances markets, or expands consumer understanding, helps build a stronger, more resilient wheat industry.” The Board received 14 proposals requesting $222,409 in funding. Of those, two promotion projects totaling $5,000 and five research projects totaling $78,533 were approved

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Governor Sanders Names State Veterinarian Dr. Andrew Fidler to Lead Animal Health Division

30/06/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR —  Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders today announced that Dr. Andrew Fidler will serve as Animal Health Director and State Veterinarian within the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.  Dr. Fidler has served as the State Veterinarian since October 2025. “Today’s announcement by Governor Sanders reflects our efforts to professionalize animal health services, reduce bureaucracy, and place veterinary expertise at the center of animal health decision-making,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Dr. Fidler’s expertise will help us better serve producers, streamline processes, improve coordination, and protect Arkansas’s animal agriculture sector which accounts for nearly 58 percent of

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Governor Sanders Announces Over $2 Million for Arkansas Forest Landowners

25/06/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR — Governor Sanders has announced that the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program and the Southeast Arkansas Hardwood Reforestation Program. Applications for both cost‑share programs will be accepted through August 14, 2026. “Part of what makes Arkansas so special is that no matter where you go, forests are woven into the landscape,” said Governor Sanders. “Like many of the state’s natural resources, our forests contribute far more than scenic beauty; they provide commodities that support livelihoods and contribute to economic growth. I’m proud the state is helping

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Governor Sanders Announces $3.17 Million in Funding for 18 Projects to Improve Water Quality

18/06/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has been awarded $3,175,000 through the 2026 Clean Water Act Section 319(h) Grant Program from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These funds will support statewide projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution in the state’s waterbodies through the Department’s Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Program. “Every Arkansas family should have access to safe, reliable water in their communities,” said Governor Sanders. “That’s why I am incredibly grateful to President Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for this funding. Together, we can ensure that Arkansas’ infrastructure is able to meet the increasing

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Arkansas Catfish Promotion Board Approves $80,417 in Funding for Research and Promotion

16/06/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Catfish Promotion Board today announced $80,417 in funding for research and promotion projects. The selected projects will support the growth and market development of Arkansas’ catfish industry. “As the birthplace of U.S. commercial catfish farming and the nation’s third‑largest producer, Arkansas plays a defining role in the industry’s success,” said Brad Graham, Catfish Promotion Board Chairman. “Strategic investments from the Catfish Promotion Board ensure continued innovation, visibility, and long‑term growth for Arkansas producers.” Catfish production is a significant part of Arkansas agriculture, generating $16.3 million in foodsize fish sales in 2024. Arkansas has

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Arkansas Department of Agriculture Announces Opportunities for Farmers Markets

04/06/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR –The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the Farmers Market Promotion Program, an initiative made possible through continued support from Farm Credit. Applications will be accepted until available funds are fully awarded. Through its partnership with Farm Credit, the Department provides funding to help farmers markets expand their reach and strengthen connections within their communities. Eligible promotional activities include: The Department is also accepting orders for the Farmers Market Bag Program. Sponsored by Farm Credit, the program offers reusable paper shopping bags at a reduced cost to farmers markets statewide. These programs play

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Wombat Burger Named Arkansas Best Burger by the Arkansas Beef Council

28/05/2026

DELIGHT, AR — The Arkansas Beef Council today announced that the winner of the 3rd Annual Arkansas Best Burger Contest is the Wombat Burger from Eoff’s Food Trailer in Delight, Arkansas. This statewide competition celebrates Arkansas restaurants and their commitment to using 100% beef in crafting their burgers. The contest received 3,249 nominations from across the state during the April 1–30 nomination period, the highest participation in the contest’s history. Five regional finalists were selected based on total nominations: Among the finalists, the Wombat Burger received the most nominations statewide. The burger includes two ground chuck patties, white and

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Volunteer Fire Departments Receive Wildland Fire Kits from Arkansas Department of Agriculture

21/05/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR –The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has awarded wildland fire suppression kits to 65 rural fire departments across 36 Arkansas counties. A full list of kit recipients is available on the Department’s website. “Our rural volunteer fire departments play an essential role in Arkansas’ wildfire response,” said Arkansas State Forester Kyle Cunningham. “These kits ensure that the firefighters who know their communities best have the tools they need to respond quickly and safely. Their commitment and expertise remain vital in protecting lives and property across the state.” Each kit includes essential wildfire suppression tools and protective gear,

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Arkansas Department of Agriculture Distributes Over 12,350 Tree Seedlings

20/05/2026

LITTLE ROCK, AR — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s sixth annual Free Tree Fridays campaign successfully distributed 12,350 tree seedlings across the state during 30 events held each Friday from March 20 through April 24. A total of 3,200 Arkansans participated in the events, celebrating Arbor Day and the importance of trees in our communities. Each giveaway featured a variety of tree species native to Arkansas including shumard oak, overcup oak, sycamore, and pecan. The campaign aims to promote the many benefits of trees while encouraging proper planting techniques and the use of native species. “Free Tree Fridays continues

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