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.