NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — With the start of a new year comes new goals, especially for the future of agriculture. Tennessee 4-H is encouraging members to plan wisely as they build skills in confidence, leadership, and resilience that will serve them well both inside and outside of agriculture.
Tennessee 4-H members Jayden Hesson and Matthew Rochford joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share how their involvement in the program has helped shape their goals and personal growth.
Rochford discussed how his 4-H journey began as a fifth grader through a STEM class and grew into leadership roles at both the regional and state levels.
He also highlighted his entrepreneurial efforts through Matthew’s Market, where he sells produce and eggs, and shared how 4-H has influenced his interest in pursuing a degree in business administration or a pre-med path.
Hesson reflected on her eight years of involvement with 4-H and shared how the program has strengthened her interest in animal science and family and consumer sciences.
She also spoke about his leadership experience as Macon County 4-H Honor Club president and State All-Star Scribe, and how those roles prepared her for future opportunities.
With fewer young people entering agriculture and farmers nearing retirement, industry leaders warn of challenges ahead while working to keep farming profitable and sustainable.
April 15, 2026 08:00 AM
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March 15 of each year is the application deadline for the Pima Cotton Trust, and March 1 of each year is the application deadline for the Wool Trust. The law mandates trust payments by April 15. More information about these programs is available at www.fas.usda.gov/programs.
April 14, 2026 03:45 PM
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Tractor Supply’s Paper Clover Campaign raises millions of dollars each year for 4-H youth programs and scholarships. Local store community marketing manager Lexie Gamble joined Tuesday’s Market Day Report alongside 4-H student Matthew Rochford to discuss the partnership.
April 14, 2026 03:17 PM
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Superior Livestock Auctions markets more than 1.7 million head of cattle nationwide while also building long-term relationships between both cattle raisers and beef producers.
April 14, 2026 03:12 PM
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The cast of “Farmer Wants a Wife” joined us to share their stories and preview Season 4 of the series, which premieres April 21 on FOX.
April 14, 2026 01:35 PM
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Lane Howard and Adam Andrews with the National Corn Growers Association joined us in the studio discuss EPA’s approval of summer E15 sales, ongoing fuel market concerns, and the industry’s push for a long-term biofuels solution for farmers.
April 14, 2026 01:09 PM
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