Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders Honors Arkansas Century Farms

Century Farm Program Recognition

• 📌 The event celebrated the induction of 42 farm families into the Century Farm program, bringing the statewide total to 687 farms across all 75 counties.
• 💡 Governor Sanders expressed gratitude for the families' contributions to Arkansas's agriculture industry and state culture.
• 🏆 The Burnside Farm, established in 1843, was recognized as the oldest farm, dating back to just seven years after Arkansas became a state.

Challenges Facing Arkansas Farmers

• 📉 A significant message from farmers is that input prices are up while crop revenues are down, causing hardship, particularly for rowcrop farmers.
• ⚠️ Some multi-generational farm families are considering closing down, which has ripple effects on local economies, including banks, parts stores, and equipment dealers.
• ⏳ Century farms have demonstrated resilience, having survived historical challenges like the Great Depression and the farm crisis of the 1980s.

Government Support for Agriculture

• ✅ The state has implemented an income tax exemption for farmers' disaster and relief payments.
• 🏫 A pilot program, "Rice in Schools" and "Arkansas Plate," aims to incorporate more local produce into school meals, supporting local markets and educating the next generation.
• 🤝 Efforts are underway with federal partners, including discussions with Senator John Boozman and Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, to negotiate higher reference prices and secure necessary aid for farmers.

Appreciation for Agricultural Contributions

• 🌟 Governor Sanders emphasized the vital role farmers, ranchers, and foresters play in keeping the state and country fed and clothed.
• 🚜 The governor shared a personal anecdote about driving a cotton picker during her annual farm tour, highlighting the importance of connecting with those working the land.
• 🙏 The remarks concluded with a strong expression of thanks for the hard work, dedication, and legacy of Arkansas's farming community, acknowledging their role in making the state strong and proud.