Tennessee Home & Farm Radio

Lawrence County’s Coty Vannoy and Lauderdale County’s Robert Hill are fresh off a big national spotlight after competing in the Young Farmers and Ranchers contests at the American Farm Bureau Convention in Anaheim, California. They describe what it means to have had this chance to compete and represent Tennessee well.

The 107th American Farm Bureau Convention concluded in Anaheim, CA with the voting delegates voting on 2026 policy. AFBF President Zippy Duvall explains why this policy is still so important and why he has hope for 2026.

Alyssa Clements of Clay County finished second in the national American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture competition. Competing against contestants from all 50 states, Clements says it was an honor to represent her state and earn a second-place finish at the national level.

Thousands of farmers and industry representatives, including well over a hundred from Tennessee have gathered in Anaheim, California for the 107 th American Farm Bureau annual meeting.

If you hadn’t already heard by now, Pick Tennessee Products is a big deal for our state’s agricultural industry.  And this next week, January 15-17, you can expect another big Pick Tennessee Conference at the Wilson County/Tennessee State fairgrounds in Lebanon.

For well over a century now, this Tennessee treasure known as Bush Beans has been a staple on family tables across America.

2025 was a tough year for U.S. row-crop farmers, with many facing record losses for yet another consecutive year. Trade has emerged as a key part of the solution to getting the agricultural economy back on track, as new trade deals could open additional markets for U.S. commodities. Ted McKinney, who previously served in the first Trump administration as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign...

In this new year, farmers and industry representatives are hopeful for better days in the ag sector.  It’s been challenging for many to say the least.  And that’s partly why each year the Farm Bureau has been bringing folks together for an agriculture industry partners meeting.

The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement is up for review in 2026. Chad Smith tells us updating the agreement has the potential to benefit farmers.

Congressman Matt Van Epps is still new on the job. After winning the special election for Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, Van Epps pledges he will fight for Tennessee farmers in Washington.

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 t...

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...

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.