Tennessee Home & Farm Radio

If you hadn’t already heard by now, Pick Tennessee Products is a big deal for our state’s agricultural industry.  And this next week, January 15-17, you can expect another big Pick Tennessee Conference at the Wilson County/Tennessee State fairgrounds in Lebanon.

For well over a century now, this Tennessee treasure known as Bush Beans has been a staple on family tables across America.

2025 was a tough year for U.S. row-crop farmers, with many facing record losses for yet another consecutive year. Trade has emerged as a key part of the solution to getting the agricultural economy back on track, as new trade deals could open additional markets for U.S. commodities. Ted McKinney, who previously served in the first Trump administration as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, now leads the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. Having traveled the world negotiating trade agreements on behalf of the administration, McKinney says the president has always kept American...

In this new year, farmers and industry representatives are hopeful for better days in the ag sector.  It’s been challenging for many to say the least.  And that’s partly why each year the Farm Bureau has been bringing folks together for an agriculture industry partners meeting.

The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement is up for review in 2026. Chad Smith tells us updating the agreement has the potential to benefit farmers.

Congressman Matt Van Epps is still new on the job. After winning the special election for Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, Van Epps pledges he will fight for Tennessee farmers in Washington.

A new year means the state legislature will soon be back in session. Shelby Vannoy with the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation’s Public Policy Division offers a preview of what to expect in both chambers, Governor Lee’s vision in his final year in office, and what to expect in the upcoming elections.

As 2025 draws to a close, Chad Smith has a look back on some of the key moments for U.S. agriculture.

Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt is looking ahead to a full year as commissioner in 2026. He outlines some of his goals for the new year and how he hopes the department will continue to engage with farmers across the state.

Founded in 1932 by Ray Hurt’s great-grandfather and grandfather, Hurt Seed Company is now run by Ray Hurt and his brother. Based in Halls, Tennessee, the company supplies about five percent of the seed used nationwide. Ray says he’s proud to help be a part of feeding the world.

The Department of Agriculture announced new funding focused on regenerative farming practices. Chad Smith has details.

Christmas celebrations ring out across our state today as we hear from farmers enjoying this Christmas day with family and friends.

Coty Vannoy of Lawrence County was the winner of the Tennessee Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet contest.    He bested 16 competitors for the title at the Farm Bureau state convention recently.

Two Tennesseans, Lane Mitchell and Hudson Bolton, recently took part in the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Competing on one of rodeo’s biggest stages, both athletes shared what it meant to represent their home state at the national level. They described the experience as unforgettable, saying that simply qualifying for the prestigious event is a major accomplishment and a dream come true in the sport of rodeo.

A key piece of legislation aimed at growing healthier kids in American classrooms took a big step toward becoming law. Chad Smith has details.

John Morton recently retired from a career in home construction and service in the Marine Corps. Now, he and his wife are embarking on a completely new career in farming. Morton believes that with fewer farmers than ever, the need for more people to get involved in agriculture is greater than ever.

State Senator Jack Johnson of Williamson County has been awarded the inaugural Voice of Agriculture Award by the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation. Johnson said he is honored to receive the recognition and remains proud to support Tennessee farmers through his work in the legislature.

State Representative Rusty Grills of Newburn, Tennessee, has been named the inaugural recipient of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation’s Voice of Agriculture Award. Grills says he is honored to receive the recognition for representing an industry that has played a significant role in his life.

Tennessee native Butch Wilmore has dedicated his life to service, spending his entire career in the U.S. Navy and with NASA. He captured worldwide attention when a test mission to the International Space Station unexpectedly extended, leaving him in space for nine months. In this powerful account, Wilmore reflects on the challenges of his prolonged stay in orbit—and shares what sustained his sense of peace, purpose, and contentment throughout the ordeal.

Farmers’ participation in the political process is more important than ever, especially as the farm economy continues to struggle. Political strategist Chip Saltsman emphasizes that even though farmers are not the majority, their voices still carry significant weight in shaping policy and politics.

Colton McClanahan of White County is the new 2026 Tennessee Young Farmers & Ranchers State Chair. McClanahan explains why he ran and what it means to him to be selected for this position.

Sherri Lay of Monroe County is the newest member of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Board of Directors. She was elected as one of the three Directors at Large. Sherri explains what it means to be elected and why she feels called to serve.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee addressed the voting delegates at the 104th Tennessee Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. Lee reaffirmed his commitment commitment to agriculture in his final year in office.

There are 247 voting delegates this year from all 95 counties setting Tennessee Farm Bureau policy for 2026. Every one of them are farmers. A few of the delegates say being part of this more-than-100-year tradition feels special. It’s a chance to speak up for their communities, make sure farmers’ voices are heard, and help guide the future of agriculture in Tennessee.

Farm Bureau leaders are back together for their annual meeting at the Cool Springs Conference Center in Franklin to hear from industry and political leaders and discuss and decide policy that will guide the organization in the coming year.

Christmas tree farms across Tennessee are in full swing. Jaimie Faircloth, president of the Tennessee Christmas Tree Association, runs Pinewood Christmas Tree Farm in Franklin with his wife and says they’re seeing record interest this season.

Governor Bill Lee’s America 250 tour continues to sweep across Tennessee, uncovering the stories that make our state unforgettable. This week, he stopped at Wes Ashe’s farm in McNairy County, a place where Tennessee tradition and American pride run deep.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall recently discussed the challenges facing farm country with the Secretary of Agriculture. Chad Smith has more on the conversation.

Fifteen years ago, wild hogs were a serious problem in Tennessee. That’s why members of the conservation, wildlife, and agriculture communities came together to form the Wild Hog Eradication Team. Most of Tennessee is hog-free now, but a few pockets remain where they are still abundant.

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is now being prepared for its lighting December Second after arriving in Washington DC after its journey from its home state of Nevada.

Farmers across Tennessee are celebrating Thanksgiving in a variety of ways this week. Several shared their special traditions and what they’re thankful for.

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times of the year for USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline with several food questions associated with cooking the holiday turkey. Rod Bain has the details.

As we pause to give thanks this Thanksgiving, farmers across Tennessee are finding their own special ways to celebrate. We caught up with a few to hear about their traditions and what they’re thankful for this year.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act recently passed the Senate. Chad Smith has more on the important first step in the process.

Farmers across Tennessee are growing increasingly frustrated as rising deer populations continue to devastate their crops. In an effort to protect their livelihoods, the agricultural industry is joining forces with the TWRA to pursue meaningful, long-term solutions to the deer overpopulation crisis on farmland.

Congressman David Kustoff of Tennessee's 8th Congressional District is in his 5th term representing a big portion of West Tennessee.  And he has continued to listen to and work for the farmers in the district and knows they have had a tough year with row crop production.

The American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual Thanksgiving Cost Survey results show a slight dip in costs this year. Chad Smith tells us how much.

Dale Parker has been named the new Executive Vice President for the Tennessee Cattlemen's Association, something he says he’s been preparing for his whole life.

Earlier this year, Robert Hill of Lauderdale County was named the state’s winner of the Tennessee Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer Achievement award.  And with that honor, the title sponsor of the award presents a year’s free use, or 150 hours, of a new Case IH tractor.  And that tractor made its way to the farm this week.

Year-round E15 would be a tremendous boost for rural America. Chad Smith has more on the opportunity.

Outdoors, and in particular, the rural outdoors is something special here in Tennessee and especially the fall of the year.  We are blessed to have the resources we have when it comes to wildlife and fishing opportunities.

Regional FFA officers from across Tennessee came together at the Tennessee Farm Bureau headquarters in Columbia for a day of learning, connection, and advocacy. Through hands-on training and conversations with industry leaders, these young agricultural advocates gained new tools to share their passion for farming and rural life. A few participants describe how the experience inspired them to head back home ready to champion the industry they love and make a difference in their own communities.

There is currently a shortage of large-animal veterinarians in rural Tennessee. Dr. Paul Plummer of the UT College of Veterinary Medicine has proposed a plan to encourage some of his students to work in these underserved areas after graduation.

After two decades in uniform, Rodney Fugate has traded combat boots for work boots. The Army veteran now tends to his family farm in Claiborne County, but this Veterans Day, his thoughts turn to the years he spent serving his nation and the pride that service still brings.

Tennessee is leading the way to help students have a healthy choice when it comes to beverages available and thanks to an endowment grant from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the Dairy Alliance has been busy getting new milk dispensers installed across the state and that includes these new Udderly Cold portable dispensers.

Farmers from across Tennessee are gathered in Columbia for the annual Resolutions Committee meeting. Every word of the Tennessee Farm Bureau policy book is read aloud and discussed before it goes to the full voting delegates in December. Participating farmers explain why this process is so important and why they made the sacrifice to be here and take part.

Perhaps your view of tree leaves changing color in the fall comes from a scientific perspective, providing a greater appreciation of the natural beauty of this transformation. Rod Bain reports.

There’s been a lot of talk about how potential imports of Argentine beef could affect American cattle prices. Livestock economist Dr. Andrew Griffith with UT Extension explains the possible impacts on both producers and consumers.

Woodbury FFA Chapter member T. Wayne Williams has been announced as one of six national FFA officers.

U.S. farmers and ranchers received some long-awaited positive trade news. Chad Smith has the details.

What a gathering it is for the 98th Annual National FFA convention.  And a great delegation attending from the volunteer state.

Recently the University of Tennessee Institute of agriculture held a ribbon cutting ceremony at their West Tennessee Ag Research and Education Center in Jackson.  The event highlighted new on-site facilities, precision agriculture equipment and laboratory renovations funded through the American Rescue Plan.

Ryan King has stepped into a new chapter of leadership as Tennessee’s Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture. Appointed by Commissioner Andy Holt, King brings passion and experience to one of the state’s top agricultural roles. He says the appointment is both an honor and a responsibility—an opportunity to help shape the future of Tennessee’s farming and rural communities.

For over 50 years, Apple Valley Orchard has been a cherished fall tradition in Cleveland, TN. What began as a simple hobby for the McSpadden family has blossomed into a vibrant orchard with more than 14,000 apple trees. Today, under the care of Chuck McSpadden, visitors can stroll through the scenic farm, enjoy the crisp autumn air, and explore the charming on-site store filled with fresh apple cider, homemade jams, and other delicious apple treats—all made right on the farm.

Harvest of Tennessee's main row crops is winding down and what a year its been.  From the heavy rains in the Spring to the extreme dry conditions this Summer.  And yield results are reflective of the weather.

President Trump has recently suggested importing Argentinian beef to lower consumer costs at the meat case. Chad Smith has details on how that would impact the beef sector.

For the future of American agriculture to be successful, our school-aged children need to better understand the importance of the industry to not just farmers but for all citizens.  And that’s one of the many reasons we have the Ag-In-the-Classroom program.

Fall has become a great time for elementary kids to take a field trip to the farm and that's what about 1000 Maury County 4th graders did this week at the Country Classroom held at the Middle Tennessee Research and Education Center in Spring Hill.

The Crockett County Farm Bureau recognizes two of their own with gift of learning about agriculture to local schools.

One of the last fairs of the season is the West Tennessee State Fair running all this week in Henderson.

Farmers continue to persevere through a tough harvest, as the reality of losing money sets in. Tennessee Farm Bureau President Eric Mayberry describes the pain farmers are feeling and why help is needed.

Farmers and ranchers are facing extreme economic pressures. Chad Smith tells us the American Farm Bureau sent letters to Congress and the Trump administration asking for immediate help and long-term solutions.

This week, a group of German farmers is exploring the heart of Tennessee agriculture, visiting local farms to get a firsthand look at how things are done in the Volunteer State. From rolling pastures to innovative practices, they're soaking up ideas and inspiration to bring back home and put to use on their own land.

For over 50 years, Apple Valley Orchard has been a cherished fall tradition in Cleveland, TN. What began as a simple hobby for the McSpadden family has blossomed into a vibrant orchard with more than 14,000 apple trees. Today, under the care of Chuck McSpadden, visitors can stroll through the scenic farm, enjoy the crisp autumn air, and explore the charming on-site store filled with fresh apple cider, homemade jams, and other delicious apple treats—all made right on the farm.

To celebrate National Egg Day the Farm & Forrest Families of Tennessee hosted an omelet cook-off at the governor's mansion in Nashville. News personalities from Nashville TV stations competed to see who could make the best omelet.

At one time, nearly 60 million bison roamed across the United States. By the late 1880s, that number had shrunk to fewer than a thousand. Thanks to conservation and recovery efforts, the bison population in the United States has now grown to around 500,000. Eddie Gaw of Lazy G Ranch in Cookeville is one of many working to help bring bison back; he now raises bison exclusively on his ranch.

As the broader ag economy continues to struggle, row crop farmers face a particularly difficult time. Chad Smith has more on the financial headwinds.

For several years now the Tennessee Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers program has held a fall educational tour where these young people between the ages of 18 and 35 take a weekend to get together in a particular area of the state to visit and learn more about that area's ag interest.

Alyssa Clements of Clay County has been named this year’s Tennessee Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture Award winner — a recognition that celebrates her passion, perseverance, and deep roots in farming. She opens up about what the award means to her and the driving force behind her commitment to keeping her family farm thriving for generations to come.

Farmers across Tennessee continue harvest as the reality of the agriculture financial crisis sets in. Row farmers in West Tennessee explain why they need financial assistance sooner rather than later.

As of today, many federal government functions, including those from USDA, are still temporarily suspended. Chad Smith has details on what this means for farmers and ranchers.

Row crop farmers are facing difficult times. As they harvest the 2025 crop, many are grappling with losses ranging from $150 to $250 per acre. According to new projections from the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA), Tennessee row crop farmers are expected to collectively lose approximately $430 million this year.

Every day whether its on the farm or at home, the one item, besides food, we’re all dependent on is electricity.  And Tennesseans are fortunate right now in that Mike Partin, CEO of the Sequatchie Valley Electric Cooperative, is serving as president of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

For nearly 90 years, Ducks Unlimited has been dedicated to conserving and protecting wetlands across the United States. Today, that mission lives on through partnerships with farmers, providing them with valuable resources and support to implement effective conservation practices.

Several economic headwinds are combining to create a difficult financial environment for some farmers. Chad Smith has more on how farmers are managing in the midst of harvest.

Gov. Bill Lee has sworn-in Weakley County’s Andy Holt as the Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.

Practicing farm safety is often taken for granted. For Kary Robinson of Franklin County, however, it's a deeply personal issue following a close call he experienced while baling straw several years ago. He recalls the terrifying incident and urges others to take farm safety seriously.

Recent data from the US Department of Agriculture demonstrates the important role small farms play in our food system. Mike Davis has more.

This week is National Farm Safety & Health Week. It’s a time when the agriculture industry pauses to focus on practicing safety on the farm and reducing accidents. Shelli Rampold with UT Extension shares some ways to stay mindful of farm safety, along with resources Extension offers to learn more.

Although increased awareness of mental health challenges and resources continue, also still ongoing is efforts in suicide prevention. Rod Bain has more.

For 11 years the agriculture community in Tennessee has come together to help rase money to feed hungry Tennesseans. Shooting Hunger is a clay sporting event that takes place in all three grand divisions. After all the events for the year all the money raised is divided evenly among all 95 counties and given to school backpack programs.

Finding new markets for U.S. farmers to sell commodities is more important than ever before. While China continues to hold out on buying American soybeans, other nations in the European Union have increased their imports. A group of people from various European nations is in Tennessee this week, learning how our farmers grow soybeans using sustainable practices. The hope is that this tour will lead to Europe purchasing even more U.S. soybeans.

Dr. Akumu Clement and his team at Tennessee State University is driving research into Precision agriculture. The technologies coming from this research is helping farmers save money on input costs and be more profitable.

This time of year for our farmers should be one of excitement and payoff for their hard work during the growing season as they harvest their row crops like soybeans and corn. But because of markets, inflation and weather, it could be 'catastrophic.'

As input costs continue to put a strain on farmers’ bottom lines, a concerning trend has emerged for fertilizer prices. Mike Davis takes a look at the numbers.

More than 2,000 pounds of pork was donated to Cul2vate to go towards feeding hungry Tennesseans. The meat was donated by Tosh Farms and the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation paid to have it processed.

A highly anticipated report from the Make America Healthy Again Commission was finally published. Mike Davis explains how the report recognizes contributions of farmers in making America healthy.

It’s often said that, collectively, we as a generation are disconnected from how our food is grown. Less than two percent of our population farms—but you don’t have to live on a farm to grow food. Dr. Steven Kennedy, with Tennessee State University’s Agriculture Department, is helping people learn how they can grow fresh produce through hydroponic systems at home.

The Tennessee Valley Fair is up and going this week. They're celebrating their 105th year and keeping true to their mission of being centered around agriculture.

The Tennessee Valley Fair in Knoxville is up and running this week. It got started last Friday with a Hamburger grill off between local radio stations in Knoxville and a team of 4-H and FFA students – all to highlight agriculture and the delicious products produced right here in Tennessee.

Mike Taliento spent nearly 30 years serving our nation in the Army, and now he’s dedicating his time and energy to raising beef cattle alongside his wife on their ranch in Montgomery County. He was recently recognized as the Tennessee Small Farmer of The Year at the TSU Small Farm Expo.

Dr. Charlie Hatcher announced Wednesday that he will be retiring as Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture effective October 1st. After nearly seven years as commissioner, Hatcher says his dairy farm in Williamson County and family is calling him back home. Governor Bill Lee has appointed current Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt to succeed Hatcher as Tennessee Ag Commissioner.

A group of farmers in upper East Tennessee banded together to help solve the shortage of meat processing facilities in Tennessee. Together they formed the Appalachian Producers Cooperative, which is a USDA inspected processing facility that can harvest around 125 head per week.

The University of Tennessee's Herbert College of Agriculture on the ag campus in Knoxville is bustling with students these days, perhaps more so than any other time.

A district court has overturned a burdensome aspect of a 2023 labor rule, which is good news for farmers and ranchers.

No other event quite like the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration which will crown a new world champion under the spotlight tomorrow night in Shelbyville.

Obviously, predicting the weather is harder than it seems. And for our farmers, its one of the most frustrating aspects of the growing season.  Just look at what’s happened this year across Tennessee.  Thankfully, Eric Snodgrass, a Senior Science Fellow and an Atmospheric Scientist with Nutrien Ag Solutions, studies the weather, basically everyday of the year to help better inform farmers about weather impacts.

Every day whether its on the farm or at home, the one item, besides food, we’re all dependent on is electricity.  And Tennesseans are fortunate right now in that Mike Partin, CEO of the Sequatchie Valley Electric Cooperative, is serving as president of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Several reports have reinforced that farmers and ranchers are facing economic challenges.

Combines are beginning to hit fields as the 2025 harvest begins. Ricky Chandler is one of the first to get started, shelling white corn on one of their locations in Carroll County. Chandler says dry weather late in the growing season, combined with low commodity prices are making this season tough.