#Plant26: Severe Dry Conditions Risk Rice Germination and Row Crop Yields in Arkansas

Brandy Carroll with the Arkansas Farm Bureau shares an update on planting conditions and what producers are facing this season.

LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS (RFD NEWS) — Mixed weather patterns and fluctuating input costs are influencing planting decisions as progress continues across the country. We turn now to Arkansas for a closer look at conditions in the state.

Brandy Carroll with the Arkansas Farm Bureau joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report with an update on planting progress in the region.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Carroll shares where planting stands across Arkansas and how weather conditions have impacted progress so far this season. She also discusses what she’s hearing from producers and how this year compares to previous planting seasons.

Carroll also addresses concerns about fertilizer and diesel costs tied to geopolitical tensions, whether producers were able to secure inputs in advance, and whether prolonged disruptions could create challenges later in the season.

Looking ahead, Carroll outlines her outlook for the growing season and what’s next in the forecast for Arkansas producers.

Related Stories
Marilyn Schlake with the UNL Department of Agricultural Economics joined us for a closer look at the evolving role of livestock sale barns.
Auction manager and West Texas A&M University student Presley Graves joined us to discuss the growth of StockShowAuctions.com and its impact on youth in agriculture.
Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening joined us with the latest update on storm conditions and impacts across the state.
Mike Knotts with the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association joined us with the latest on storm impacts, power restoration, and safety considerations following the ice storm.
Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us with his outlook on crop insurance and risk management following the recent winter storm that tore through most of the United States, including the Midwest.
Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance shares risk-reduction strategies to help cattle producers prepare for a successful year ahead.
Oregon FFA CEO Kjer Kizer discusses the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting learning opportunities for students interested in agriculture.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Farms and major food companies use AI to improve efficiency and forecast demand. Still, developers said that training AI for different uses is only possible with support from knowledgeable workers.
The report shows that, despite production challenges, dairy farmers are producing more milk with fewer resources per gallon across the industry.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.