Tennessee Equine Health Advisory Commission Formed
Monday, December 28, 2020
NASHVILLE – Work of the newly-formed Tennessee Equine Health Advisory Commission is underway with a group of experts in the equine...
Timber Theft Cases Reported Across Tennessee
Rising timber prices and the value of individual species have enticed thieves to steal timber across Tennessee. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) urges forest landowners to be aware of timber theft and provides steps owners can take to protect their assets.
USDA Announces Improvements to the Dairy Safety Net and New Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance...
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the details of the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program. Through the program, USDA will provide about $350 million in pandemic assistance payments to dairy farmers who received a lower value for their products due to market abnormalities caused by the pandemic.
How to Help Storm Victims
Our thoughts and prayers go to all those impacted from the devastating storms that raced across Tennessee and other states on December 10-11. The Tennessee Farm Bureau does have the Tennessee Farm Disaster Fund in place to help with grants to assist farm and rural communities rebuild after disaster strikes. Learn more.
Hensley Named TFBF Public Policy Division Director
Kevin Hensley has been named director of Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation’s Public Policy Division announced TFBF Executive Vice President Rhedona Rose.
Tennessee 4-H’ers Can Now Receive College Credit at UT Knoxville
In a unique agreement between the University of Tennessee Herbert College of Agriculture and UT Extension, which oversees the statewide Tennessee 4-H Program, senior level 4-H students can now apply for college credit in 10 project areas.
Food Safety A Priority In Storm Aftermath
"When in doubt, throw it out," says Tenn. public health official
NASHVILLE "“ Due to power outages experienced in storm and flood-impacted areas across the...
Upchurch Re-Elected State Farm Bureau President
Tennessee Farm Bureau delegates attending their 90th Annual Convention at Franklin's Cool Springs Marriott, today re-elected Cumberland County beef farmer Lacy Upchurch as their...
94th Farm Bureau Annual Meeting
Welcome back to the great state of Tennessee. We have hosted the American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Meeting several times, and we're proud to...
2014 Presidents Conference
The 2014 Presidents Conference begins August 14 and ends August 15. County Farm Bureau Presidents from across the state gather in Cool Springs, Tennessee...
Cooperatives provide billion-dollar boost to state’s economy
October is Cooperative Month in Tennessee, and a proclamation signed by Gov. Bill Haslam deeming it as such heaps high praise on the approximately...
James Haskew Named 2016 Tennessee Farmer of the Year
On Fiery Gizzard Road near South Pittsburg, Tenn., James Haskew has built a successful farm where he grows corn, wheat, soybeans, hay and haylage.
Buy Locally Grown Flower and Vegetable Plants With Confidence
Are you a gardener gearing up for the growing season? Local farmers markets, on-farm greenhouses, and retail garden centers are filling with gorgeous flowers...
Tennessee Celebrates National Ag Day
State leaders and citizens celebrated Agriculture Day in Tennessee on Tuesday, March 12 with Ag Day on the Hill. The event coincided with...
Tennessee Farmers Disaster Assistance
Many farmers across the state of Tennessee experienced the devastating impact of a tornado on Tuesday, March 4th. Many are having to rebuild structures...
USTR and USDA Release Report on Agricultural Trade between the United States and China
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a report highlighting the progress made to date in implementing the agricultural provisions in the U.S.-China Phase One Economic and Trade Agreement.
New Report Recommends Improvements to NASS
A new report released by the American Farm Bureau Federation provides an in-depth examination into the USDA-National Agricultural Statistics Service’s (NASS) survey collection and data reporting issues.
Tennessee Strawberry Season is Here
With warm spring days in the forecast, Tennessee farms will quickly have fields turning red with juicy and sweet strawberries. If you are looking...
Rural Summit Highlights Strides in Workforce Development, Drop in Distressed Counties
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced Tennessee has reduced the state’s number of distressed counties to an all-time low as the Lee Administration focuses on targeted interventions for workforce development and infrastructure.
Litz Appointed FSA State Executive Director for Tennessee
President Joe Biden announced his intent to appoint seven U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regional positions, including five Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Directors and two Rural Development (RD) State Directors. John Litz was appointed FSA State Executive Director for Tennessee.
Congressman Rose Leads a Bipartisan Letter Defending Farmers from SEC Rule
Farmer and United States Representative John Rose led 117 Members of Congress in sending a letter to Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler expressing concerns that a proposed rule mandating extensive climate disclosures by public companies would negatively affect farmers.
UT Institute of Agriculture Celebrates Ag Day Before the Tennessee-Florida Kickoff
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is excited to host the return of Ag Day on September 24. Last year, Ag Day celebrated all things ag virtually, but this year attendees can celebrate agriculture, which includes Extension, AgResearch, the UT College of Veterinary Medicine and the UT Herbert College of Agriculture, in person.
Gov. Haslam Declares July Beef Month
Well, it's official! Gov. Bill Haslam has proclaimed July as Beef Month in Tennessee and encourages all citizens to join him in...
Tennessee Department of Agriculture Crime Unit Makes Arrest in Switchgrass Arson Fire
The TDA Agricultural Crime Unit has arrested two men who have confessed to setting fire to 1,430 bales of switchgrass worth approximately $45,000. Eighteen-year-old...
AFBF & 532 Groups: Bring Farm Bill Back to House Floor
The American Farm Bureau Federation helped garner a group of more than 532 organizations that recently urged House leadership to bring the farm bill...
Washington County Farmer Aiken Re-elected VP of Nation’s Largest State Farm Bureau
During their 93rd annual convention held at Franklin's Cool Springs Marriott, the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation's delegates, representing agriculture and farmers across the state,...
Statement by Tennessee Farm Bureau President Jeff Aiken Regarding Governor Haslam’s State of the...
“The Tennessee Farm Bureau is pleased that in his State of the State address, Gov. Bill Haslam continued to show support for Tennessee's farm...
Virus Deadly To Poultry Detected In Tennessee
NASHVILLE — The state veterinarian confirms that a strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has sickened a commercial chicken breeder flock in Lincoln...
Haslam Signs Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act
Before a meeting of the Governor’s Rural Development Task Force at H&R Agri-Power, Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam held a ceremonial signing of the Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act, the governor’s legislation to increase broadband access to Tennessee’s unserved citizens.
TFBF Statement on New Trade Deals
"Strengthening our export markets for Tennessee agricultural products is a top Farm Bureau priority, and we welcome the progress the Trump Administration has made...
Ag Enhancement Program to Offer New Options for Farmers
NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) is announcing new options and changes to better assist Tennessee farmers in diversifying, expanding, and improving...
UTIA Green Industry Day Goes Virtual
Pivoting to online delivery continues for University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture summer field days, with the Green Industry Field Day scheduled for June...
Farm Bureau Responds on the Behalf of Dairy Farmers
Farm Bureau is standing-up for dairy farmers being targeted by predatory lawyers representing the estate of Dean Foods, which is currently undergoing bankruptcy...
Governor Lee, Commissioner Rolfe Announce Nearly $15 Million in Broadband Accessibility Grants
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe announced today $14.9 million in broadband accessibility grants that will expand service to support 17,800 unserved Tennesseans in 7,120 homes and businesses.
Tennessee Agricultural Fund Announces Record Support
Governor Bill Lee and Department of Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M., announced the largest number of Agricultural Enterprise Fund (AEF) recipients and the highest award of grant dollars in the program’s history.
Gun Hunting Season for Deer Opens November 20
Tennessee’s 2021-22 statewide gun hunting season for deer opens Saturday, Nov. 20. During gun season, sportsmen may also use muzzleloader or archery equipment. The season will continue through Jan. 2, 2022.
Governor Proclaims March 4 as Arbor Day in Tennessee
Gov. Bill Lee has proclaimed March 4 as Arbor Day in Tennessee to recognize the importance of planting and maintaining trees in our state. This year’s celebration will be held in Germantown in Shelby County.
John Harrison of Sweetwater Valley Farm Named Tennessee Farmer of the Year
A third-generation dairy farmer, John Harrison of Sweetwater Valley Farm in Philadelphia , Tennessee, has been named the Tennessee Farmer of the year by UT Extension.
Former Congressman Ed Jones Inducted into Tennessee Ag Hall of Fame
Former 8th district congressman Ed Jones, who helped craft landmark federal legislation establishing modern farm policy and conservation programs, has been inducted into the...
Mild Dry Autumn Weather Pushes Harvest Forward
Tennessee farmers made significant harvest progress during last week's dry fall weather. Corn and tobacco harvests at week's end were winding down while soybean...
Drought and Extreme Heat Resources
These resources are intended to provide information that can help farmers and families cope with the immediate negative consequences of drought and high temperature...
ASA Awards David Womack with Lifetime Achievement Award
The American Soybean Association (ASA) recognized David Womack from Shelbyville, Tenn. with its Lifetime Achievement Award "“ Association Focus at its annual awards banquet...
Pick Tennessee Offers chance to “Fill Your Grill” with Farm-Direct Meats
Facebook users have the chance to win $200 worth of local meats from a nearby farm. A contest is being conducted by Pick Tennessee...
Statement on the death of Pat Summitt from Tennessee Farm Bureau President Jeff Aiken
Our Farm Bureau family is deeply saddened by the passing of Coach Pat Head-Summitt.
Washington County Farmer Re-elected as President to Nation’s Largest Farm Bureau
More than 1,500 farmers from across the state gathered in Franklin December 3-5 for the purpose of developing policy for 2018, electing leadership for...
Announcing the UTIA Smith International Center
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture Smith Center for International Sustainable Agriculture was officially launched Friday, November 16, on the UTIA campus. Established...
Doddridge Joins Tennessee Department of Agriculture
NASHVILLE —Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. is announcing the appointment of Kim Doddridge as public information officer for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA).
Doddridge...
Tennessee Master Farm Manager
Tennessee Master Farm Manager is a new educational Extension program. The course will focus on solid business principals and efficiently utilizing resources on the...
New Dietary Guidelines Reaffirm Dairy’s Critical Role in a Healthy Diet
On Dec. 29, 2020, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025 edition was released and reaffirmed dairy’s critical role in a healthy diet.
UT AgResearch Announces Plans to Upgrade and Refocus Two Facilities
University of Tennessee AgResearch is realigning the capabilities at two of its ten AgResearch and Education Centers to better support the state’s dairy, beef and poultry industries.
USDA Announces Contract Grower Aid Program
Farmers who were previously ineligible for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 2 (CFAP 2) can now apply for aid thanks to collaboration between the American Farm Bureau, lawmakers and USDA.
Gov. Lee Signs Executive Order for Severe Weather Relief
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order 94 to provide operational flexibilities for counties affected by tornadoes and severe weather in Northwest and Middle Tennessee on December 10-11.
West Nile Virus Detected in Middle Tennessee Horse
The state veterinarian confirms that a horse in Smith County has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The 22-year-old horse has been euthanized.
Tennessee Equine Census to Estimate State Equine Population and Industry Economic Impact
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and the Tennessee Department of Agriculture are conducting a Tennessee Equine Census to determine the economic impact and demographics of the equine industry in Tennessee.
USDA Provides $6 Million in Disaster Recovery Aid to 10 States
WASHINGTON, April 29, 2011 "“ Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has made immediately available...
Tennessee Cattle Producers Vote to Support In-State Beef Promotion
The results are in and Tennessee cattle producers have voted to increase the assessment they pay to support in-state promotions of beef announced state...
Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding Fiscal Cliff Package And...
"While much work remains on addressing the spending side of the ledger, the fiscal cliff package that was just approved injected a good dose...
TN Farm Bureau News – September 2014 issue
Flip through the pages of the latest issue of Farm Bureau News, a bi-monthly newspaper focusing on agricultural issues "“ from what's happening around...
Tennessee Has Great Pumpkins, No Matter How You Stack Them
Tennesseans can expect plentiful pumpkins, gourds and winter squash this year.
Round, bright orange Jack-o-Lantern pumpkins are still popular for Halloween carving, but increasing numbers...
Tennessee start-up Grow Bioplastics finalist in Farm Bureau Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge
The American Farm Bureau Federation today announced the top 10 teams – four finalists and six semi-finalists – in the 2017 Farm Bureau Rural...
Businesses and Customers to Benefit from New State Metrology Lab
The Julius T. Johnson State Metrology Laboratory at the Tennessee Department of Agriculture officially opened today with a ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication.
Agriculture Commissioner...
New Leadership for 4-H and FFA
The top two agricultural youth organizations in the state elected new leadership recently at their annual conventions – 4-H elected new officers at their...
Severe Weather Cleanup and Recovery
Recent tornadoes and severe storms have resulted in large amounts of woody debris impacting home, farm, and woodland owners across Tennessee. Burning that debris...
EPA Announces 2020 Dicamba Registration Decision
At the Cromley Farm, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced EPA is approving new five-year registrations for two dicamba products and...
New Tennessee Master Row Crop Certification Available
Cotton, corn, soybeans, wheat. These row crops make up the bulk of row crop agriculture across Tennessee and a new certification from University of Tennessee Extension is now available for row crop producers.
Gov. Lee, General Assembly Deliver Conservative Wins in 2021 Session
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee marked the close of the 2021 legislative session, which includes the passage of his $42.6 billion...
Debris Burn Permits Required Beginning Oct. 15
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry joins the effort to promote fire prevention awareness and reminds citizens that our state is heading into fire season. A debris burn permit is required for leaf and brush piles from Oct. 15 until May 15 each season.
Fayette County Farmer Willie German Appointed as Tennessee Farm Bureau Insurance Director
During the 2022 American Farm Bureau annual meeting in Atlanta, the Tennessee Farm Bureau board of directors met and appointed Willie German of Fayette County to serve the organization as the Tennessee Farm Bureau Insurance District I Director.
Aviagen North America Cuts Ribbon on New Feed Processing Facility in Pikeville, Tenn.
On the morning of May 27, global poultry breeding company Aviagen® hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its brand new feed processing facility (feed mill) in Pikeville, Tenn.
UTIA Receives $30 Million Grant to Empower Grassland Farmers in Climate-Smart Agriculture
As farmers across the U.S. look for ways to improve productivity amid a changing climate, the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a $30 million grant to help grassland farmers enter the emerging carbon economy while enhancing productivity and ecological benefits.
Haslam Announces Federal Farm Assistance for 15 Counties
Haslam Announces Federal Farm Assistance for 15 Counties
29 adjoining counties also eligible
NASHVILLE "“ Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam announced today U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom...
TDA Unveils New Ag and Foresty Industry Magazine
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture recently unveiled the premiere issue of Tennessee Ag Insider magazine, a comprehensive guide to the state's farms, food and...
2014 AFBF Convention heads to San Antonio
The 2014 AFBF Annual Convention will return to San Antonio, Texas January 11 "“ 16, 2014. Tennessee Farm Bureau leaders will have the choice...
U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance ® Launches HOW-TO Video Series about Farming and Ranching
1,200 cows milked. 50,000 eggs gathered. Clean barns for 7,000 pigs. One day's work for America's farmers! People can now learn how they...
Farm Bureau Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge Opens During National Small Business Week
The American Farm Bureau Federation will open online applications for its third Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge on May 1, to coincide with National Small Business...
Statement by TFBF President Jeff Aiken on Senate Transportation Committee Vote on Governor’s IMPROVE...
Lawmakers on the Senate Transportation Committee are to be commended for their positive vote on Governor Haslam's IMPROVE Act.
All Tennesseans deserve access to safe...
Proposed Ag Budget Fails Farmers, Ranchers, Farm Bureau President Says
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says the proposed ag budget fails farmers and ranchers
“The American Farm Bureau Federation and its members are...
Support Local Dairies, Look for New Tennessee Milk Logo
Consumers now have a way to know that their milk comes from Tennessee dairy farms with the new official Tennessee Milk logo.
Milk labeled as...
2019 Presidents Conference
If you missed Tennessee Farm Bureau's Presidents Conference, check out the photo gallery to catch all of the action! From speakers like Tennessee Governor...
Registration Open for Virtual Milan No-Till Field Day
MILAN, Tenn. – COVID-19 has changed how the world is doing business and presenting education, and the Milan No-Till Crop Production Field Day is...
UT AgResearch and Education Center at Milan One Step Closer to Expansion
Proposed Transfer of Arsenal Land Added to Defense Authorization Act
The University of Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center at Milan is one...
What’s in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for Agriculture?
In early March the Senate passed, on a party-line vote, the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package (The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021). While much of the coverage of the legislation has focused on the $1,400 stimulus checks for qualifying individuals, extended unemployment benefits, a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures and increased assistance through USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, there are several agricultural-related provisions.
USDA Announces Additional Aid to Ag Producers and Businesses in Pandemic Assistance for Producers...
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced additional aid to agricultural producers and businesses as part of the USDA Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative.
Survey Shows Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Up 14%
Enjoying Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends is a priority for many Americans, but paying attention to how the meal will impact the budget is also important. Farm Bureau’s 36th annual survey indicates the average cost of this year’s classic Thanksgiving feast for 10 is $53.31 or less than $6.00 per person.
Apply Now for USDA Cover Crop Subsidy
Farmers who plant cover crops and have coverage under most crop insurance policies are eligible for a premium benefit from USDA called the Pandemic Cover Crop Program, (PCCP). All cover crops reportable to the Farm Service Agency (FSA) are eligible. The premium support is $5 per acre, but no more than the full premium amount owed.
Institute of Agriculture Welcomes New Leader
Carrie Castille, who most recently served as director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the federal science agency within the US Department of Agriculture, will begin her role as senior vice chancellor and senior vice president for the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture July 1.
WLJT awarded funding to extend digital coverage in rural West Tennessee
WLJT awarded funding to extend digital coverage in rural West Tennessee
...
Farmers and Ranchers Welcome Ratification of Trade Pacts
Congressional ratification of three bilateral free-trade agreements between the United States and Korea, Colombia and Panama, as well as approval of Trade Adjustment...
The National Search for ‘The Faces of Farming and Ranching’ is On
When it comes to today's agriculture, there are many examples of great farmers and ranchers all over the country doing wonderful things to bring...
Ag Day on the Hill a Success
Tennessee lawmakers celebrated Ag Day on the Hill March 25 at Legislative Plaza in Nashville. Gov. Bill Haslam proclaimed it "Agriculture Day" in Tennessee...
UT Institute of Agriculture Will Soon Have New 4-H Camp and Conference Center
It's a stunning tract of Tennessee property "“ 1,200 acres of woods, pastures, lakes and farmland "“ and soon it will host 4-H campers...
Tennessee Winter Wheat Production Forecast up from Last Season
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its July crop condition report today based on producer reports...
President Trump to Address Farm Bureau Members in January at Conv. in Nashville
Donald J. Trump, the 45th president of the United States, will address farm and ranch families from across the nation at the American Farm...
TFBF Statement on Passage of Farm Bill
Columbia, TN. December 12, 2018 - The following may be attributed to Tennessee Farm Bureau President Jeff Aiken:
“Today more than ever, our farmers and...
USMCA Signing Increases Optimism
Today’s signing of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) by President Trump increases hopes that 2020 will begin a stronger decade for America’s farmers and...
New, Expanded Livestock Marketing Opportunity Comes to Tennessee
United Producers Inc. will assume business activities of Tennessee Livestock Producers October 1
Columbia, Tenn. -- United Producers, Inc. (UPI), the...
UT Extension Publishes Resource for New or Beginning Farmers
“How to Talk Farming” Agriculture Dictionary Available Online
COLUMBIA, Tenn. – What’s the difference between a filly and a foal? What about tillage and no-till...
Untold Tennessee: Gov. Lee Announces Yearlong 225 Celebration
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced “Untold Tennessee” as the theme for a yearlong celebration commemorating 225 years of statehood. Tennesseans are invited to attend events and activities in all 95 counties and submit stories that showcase their area of the state.
Tennessee Farm Disaster Response Fund
ESTABLISHED IN 2008
Disaster can strike anywhere at any time. To be prepared to respond when farm communities are hit, The Tennessee Farm Bureau...
USDA Assists Farmers and Communities Affected by Recent Tornadoes
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that assistance is available for communities and agricultural producers affected by the tornadoes that tore through Kentucky and five other states over the weekend.