September, 2017
The Arkansas Dicamba Task Force met twice in August at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute (WRI) to carry out a directive from Governor Hutchinson to examine all issues surrounding dicamba, and offer long term recommendations for the future use of dicamba in Arkansas. Their findings will be submitted in a report prepared by WRI, to be completed later in September. Find Dicamba Task Force members and mission, here.
Wildland firefighters from the Arkansas Forestry Commission on the Razorback Fire Crew were honored by TUSK - official Arkansas Razorback Mascot - before the first football game of the season, following their 28-day mission at the Lolo Peak Wildfire in Montana. See full release.
Arkansas News
Debbie Blackwell was honored for her 40-year career at the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission on September 31. Thank you Debbie for your dedication and service to Arkansas livestock and poultry programs and producers.
Arkansas State Plant Board personnel attended meetings and field tours at the 2017 Arkansas Rice Expo, in Stuttgart.
Law Enforcement personnel from the Arkansas Forestry Commission joined officers from OK, TX, TN, WV, NC, SC, GA, FL, and LA at the week-long SE Arson Task Force Training, in GA.
Arkansas Ag Fact: 

September is Rice Month! Arkansas ranks FIRST among major rice-producing states, accounting for over 50% of U.S. rice production (data from 2014). Arkansas is also home to 2,500 rice farms, 96% of which are family owned and operated.

What is one way the AAD serves AR farmers and ranchers?

The Produce Safety Program is a new partnership between the AAD's State Plant Board and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. This program is carrying out the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Food Safety Modernization Act Law , and will provide required training for some producers.

National News
Upcoming Events
Veterans 4 Agriculture Summit: Oct. 6, Jonesboro
Feral Hog Eradication Task Force Meeting: Oct. 25, Little Rock
The Arkansas Agriculture Department is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation.

Contact us to add your event to our calendar; or to let us know about other updates, inquiries, and more. Send an e-mail to info@aad.ar.gov
www.aad.arkansas.gov