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News Releases

Governor Sanders Announces Over $2 Million for Arkansas Forest Landowners

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Arkansas Beef Council Approves $132,000 in Funding for Research and Promotion

LITTLE ROCK, AR –The Arkansas Beef Council today announced $132,000 in funding for research and promotion projects. The selected projects will support the growth and market development of Arkansas’ beef industry. “Investing Beef Council dollars in research and promotion is vital to the strength and future of our state’s beef industry,” said Caleb Plyler, a beef producer in Hempstead County and Chairman of the Arkansas Beef Council. “This funding supports innovation, builds consumer trust, and helps ensure our producers remain competitive for years to come.” The Council received 25 proposals requesting more than $632,000 in funding. Of those, 13

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Foresters for the Future Scholarship Application Period Open Through June 1

LITTLE ROCK, AR –The Arkansas Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM), is now accepting applications for the Foresters for the Future Scholarship. The scholarship provides $4,000 per semester for four years to an incoming freshman pursuing a forestry degree at UAM’s College of Forestry, Agriculture, and Natural Resources. Recipients will also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through paid internships with the Department’s Forestry Division. Applications are due June 1, and interested students can learn more and apply here. “We are proud to continue our partnership with UAM to invest in

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Governor Sanders Proclaims May as Arkansas Beef Month, Dairy Month, Egg Month, and Strawberry Month

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined agriculture leaders and industry partners today at the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s annual cookout proclaiming May as Arkansas Beef Month, Dairy Month, Egg Month, and Strawberry Month. The proclamations highlight the state’s beef, dairy, egg, and strawberry industries and the value they contribute to Arkansas’s economy. “We are so thankful for all of the people who work so hard to put food on our tables, and that agriculture continues to be the number one industry in the State of Arkansas,” said Governor Sanders. “Today, we get to celebrate that, we

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