Tennessee Home & Farm Radio

The 98th state FFA Convention is underway in Gatlinburg as more than 4000 members are expected in those iconic blue corduroy jackets.

Farmers from across Tennessee had a strong presence at the State Capitol during the Tennessee Farm Bureau Legislative Visits. They met with their lawmakers to share the challenges and needs facing the agriculture industry.

The proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Railroads is causing concern. Chad Smith tells us analysis from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows the merger could mean higher prices and fewer options for America’s farmers.

Lawmakers and farmers came together at the State Capitol in Nashville for the annual Ag Day on the Hill, where this year’s event featured lively livestock exhibits and even a spirited log-sawing competition between branches of government

National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne Williams, of Cannon County, was recognized on the floors of both the state House and Senate. During the honor, Williams thanked lawmakers for their continued support of FFA and highlighted the vital role the youth agricultural organization plays in developing the next generation of leaders in agriculture.

You can almost count on it every year.  Spring-like temperatures wake us up from a cold winter and then Mother Nature reminds us Ol Man Winter is still around and that’s what peach and strawberry farmers are up against now with this latest cold snap.

For the first time in 36 years, Bill Walker of Fayette County says they will not plant any cotton this year.

Washington County farmer and former president of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Jeff Aiken received the Friend of 4-H Award during the 79th Annual Tennessee 4-H Congress this week in Murfreesboro.

Three new student leaders have been elected by their peers at Tennessee 4-H Congress, an annual event that brings together youth from across the state to learn about leadership and the legislative process. Sadie Holland was elected Speaker of the Senate, Colson Kelley was chosen as Governor, and Ayden Holton will serve as Speaker of the House. Each officer was selected by fellow 4-H members participating in the statewide gathering, where delegates take part in mock legislative sessions, leadership activities, and civic engagement experiences.  

More than 300 4-H students from across Tennessee are gathering in Middle Tennessee this week for 4-H Congress, where they’re getting a firsthand look at how state government works. During the event, students step into the role of lawmakers, taking part in mock legislative sessions inside the Tennessee State Capitol. As they debate bills, practice parliamentary procedure, and vote on legislation, the students gain a deeper understanding of the legislative process and the responsibilities of elected officials. The experience gives young leaders the opportunity to build confidence, strengthen their public speaking skills, and learn how they can play a role in shaping their communities and the future of Tennessee.

As its well documented, its been extremely tough for our farmers here in Tennessee and across the country.  But they keep trying to respond to the challenges as they always have.  And that’s the same for Justin Pope of Gibson County as he heads into another crop season this spring on his family’s century farm that dates back to 1866.

Agriculture is no doubt still the driving force of our state’s economy and despite the loss of farms and farmland, that’s still the case for East Tennessee’s Blount County.

The U.S. House Committee on Agriculture has been discussing, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026” this week in Washington, otherwise known as the Farm Bill.

For more than 25 years, the West Tennessee AgStar program has been shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping young adults with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their industry. This year, 10 dedicated participants are celebrating the completion of the program — ready to put their skills and passion for agriculture into action.

Cotton has been part of life in Tennessee for generations. For many farm families, it’s more than just a crop — it’s a tradition. But lately, growing cotton hasn’t been easy. Farmers are feeling the squeeze from every direction. The cost of seed, fertilizer, fuel, and equipment keeps climbing, while the price they’re getting for cotton hasn’t kept up. For some growers, the math just isn’t working anymore. That’s why more farmers are either stepping away from cotton entirely or looking at other crops that might offer a steadier return. Still, there’s some hope in the industry. Brad Williams, president of the National Cotton Ginners Association and a farmer from Tipton County, believes better days could be ahead. He says new markets and the right kind of support from Congress could help turn things around for American cotton producers. While the challenges are real, many in Tennessee’s cotton community are holding on to the belief that with the right changes, cotton can remain an important part of the state’s agricultural future.

The Tennessee Young Farmers and Ranchers, in partnership with the Tennessee Council of Cooperatives, recently hosted their annual Young Leaders Conference—an inspiring event dedicated to shaping the future of agriculture. Designed to equip the next generation of agricultural professionals, the conference empowers young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to make a lasting impact in their farms, businesses, and communities.

Hardin County’s Alex Forsbach was recognized this week at the Commodity Classic in San Antonio with the American Soybean Association’s 2026 National Conservation Legacy Award.

Downtown Memphis will once again see thousands of farmers at the Renasant Convention Center for the Mid-South Farm and Gin Show.

Its National FFA Week and Tennessee’s state officers are traveling across the state on their Goodwill Tour

The U.S. Supreme Court overturned a broad swath of tariffs implemented by the Trump Administration. Chad Smith has the details.