September, 2018
August 5-11 was proclaimed Arkansas Farmers' Market Week by Governor Hutchinson. The AAD was joined by farmers' markets, suppliers, and other farmers' market leaders at the Capital for the signing.
August was proclaimed Arkansas Catfish Month. AAD personnel, Catfish farmers, and Catfish industry leaders gathered at the Capital as Governor Hutchinson signed the proclamation.
Leaders from Pakistan visited the AAD to learn about policies, initiatives and challenges for Arkansas's largest industry, through the  Global Ties Arkansas  program. Agriculture Secretary  Wes Ward  visited with the group, and provided a tour of the AAD.
AAD personnel who received 10-, 20-, and 30-year Service Awards in the last quarter were honored during an employee luncheon at the Headquarters Office. Staff across divisions represent a memorable, excellent group of hardworking professionals - dedicated to serving AR's top industry.
AAD staff members, who serve and protect AR's diverse ag community of farmers, ranchers, forest landowners, and consumers, were proud to meet Senator Tom Cotton August 8, following a roundtable discussion with Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward and Arkansas farmers, ag leaders and associations.
Personnel honored 24-year career of retired Director of the AAD's State Plant Board Terry Walker this month. Staff/board members presented him with a plaque saying: "With deepest appreciation of your years of sharing expertise, providing guidance and exceptional leadership ..."

In the Arkansas Grown blog, find narratives that capture experiences and offerings of Arkansas operations with locally grown and made products:




Arkansas Ag Fact:

September is Rice Month. AAD officials will gather alongside the Rice Federation, rice industry leaders and stakeholders at the State Capital September 13 for an official Arkansas Rice Month Proclamation event with Governor Hutchinson.

Arkansas consistently ranks #1 in the U.S. for the production of rice, producing nearly 50% of the nation's rice.

Arkansas rice producers contributed $1,028 million to Arkansas's agricultural economy in sales last year.

Learn more from the A rkansas Rice Federation.
What is one way the AAD serves Arkansas farmers and ranchers?