Arkansas’ unique law on foreign ownership of agricultural lands
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Nearly half of our nation’s states have laws that put some kind of limits on foreign ownership of agricultural land. Arkansas’ law, however, has aspects that no other state does, including an Office of Agricultural Intelligence established to investigate potential violations, according to Micah Brown, staff attorney for the National Agricultural Law Center.
Foreign ownership of farmland: NALC webinar to discuss laws enacted in 2023
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — In 2023, more than half of the nation’s states either proposed bills or enacted laws to restrict foreign ownership of farmland. Now, federal lawmakers are eyeing similar proposals, said Micah Brown, National Agricultural Law Center staff attorney.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A half-century after Richard Nixon signed it into law, the Endangered Species Act now has a user manual to help farmers, thanks to the National Agricultural Law Center.
Brigit Rollins, an attorney whose research for center focuses on environmental law, said she saw a significant need in farming for a guide to this historic and wide-ranging piece of legislation.
EPA’s Endangered Species Act-driven pesticide strategy may increase impacts on ag
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Environmental Protection Agency’s new strategy for pesticide registrations, driven by Endangered Species Act-related court rulings, may multiply impacts on agriculture, said Brigit Rollins, staff attorney for the National Agricultural Law Center.
EPA issues psot-Sackett WOTUS rule, removes numerous waterways from Clean Water Act regulation
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The highly anticipated new waters of the United States, or WOTUS, rule released Tuesday by the Environmental Protection Agency will remove scores of water bodies from regulation under the Clean Water Act.
Aug. 23 NALC webinar to detail the USDA Discrimination Financial Assistance Program
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has opened a program to provide funds for farmers who experienced discrimination in its farm loan programs. To help potential recipients navigate the complex application, the National Agricultural Law Center is hosting a webinar on Aug. 23.
Truth in advertising: NALC webinar to discuss alternative enforcement methods
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Claims about misleading food advertising are typically made to federal agencies the courts, or the manufacturer, but there is another avenue – the National Advertising Division of the Better Business Bureau, a nonprofit organization that provides information and ratings on businesses and charities.
Aug. 9 NALC webinar to discuss essentials of farm labor law for employers and employees
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Labor costs for hired workers account for 12 percent of production expenses for all farms, according to the 2017 Census of Agriculture.
As of April 2023, farms and ranches employed 651,000 workers, up 5 percent from 2022 according to the USDA’s Farm Labor report, which is a biannual report sharing data on the farmworker labor force.
NALC’s Rollins to discuss WOTUS definition after SCOTUS ruling in July 19 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — How the Environmental Protection Agency will define the key Clean Water Act term “waters of the United States,” or WOTUS, is unclear following a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court on a case involving wetlands, said National Agricultural Law Center Staff Attorney Brigit Rollins.
EPA to issue new WOTUS rule by Sept. 1
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers plan to issue a revised definition of waters of the United States, or WOTUS, by Sept. 1, the EPA said in a court filing on Monday.
July 12 NALC webinar to detail USDA’s label approval requirements for meat, poultry
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Given the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s recent expansion of the type of meat and poultry labels that may be generically approved, it’s even more important that companies know what category their label falls in, said Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC Principal John Dillard.
Tenth annual Mid-South Conference looks behind the bench at SCOTUS
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The common portrayal that the U.S. Supreme Court as being made up of liberal vs. conservative voting blocs simply isn’t true, said Tim Bishop, an attorney who has argued significant cases before the high court.
NALC webinar to provide overview of U.S. charitable food system
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Food insecurity affects more than 34 million Americans in the United States and more than a quarter of them are children, according to Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks.
Sessions on heirs’ property, health care planning for farmers to kick off Mid-South conference
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — What happens to the farm when something happens to the current generation? The June 8-9 Mid-South Agricultural & Environmental Law has two sessions on topics that especially impact farm families: heirs’ property and long-term health care planning for farmers.
Supreme Court WOTUS ruling narrows definition of wetlans, but what about levees?
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling this week narrowed the definition of what is considered “waters of the United States” in the Clean Water Act. But there remains room for discussion on wetlands separated by levees for flood control and dry creek beds, said the National Agricultural Law Center’s Brigit Rollins.
NALC’s Rollins to discuss pesticides during May 24 Mid-South ‘Early Bird’ Session
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Years of controversy, recent litigation and amended regulation of agricultural pesticides are changing and molding the farming landscape, including for the Mid-South region of the U.S.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — What’s it like arguing an agricultural law case before the U.S. Supreme Court? Attorney Tim Bishop will share his experiences as part of the 10th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, June 8-9, hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center.
NALC webinar on May 17 to highlight antitrust litigation in major protein sectors
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Over the past decade, various agricultural sectors have been subject to allegations of anti-competitive behavior.
However, allegations involving suppliers of beef, poultry and pork recently have drawn much federal scrutiny.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — With a decade of highlighting key industry insights, the Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference will offer a peek into the future of agricultural and international trade.
NALC webinar to detail critical differences in Emergency Relief Program Phase 2
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The second phase of a program to help farmers offset the effects of natural disasters that occurred in 2020 and 2021 is open for enrollment until June 2, but farmers should know that Phase 2 of the Emergency Relief Program, or ERP, is not like Phase 1.
ERP Phase 2 is offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency. The first phase of the disaster relief program closed in December and Phase 2 enrollment opened Jan. 23.
Arkansas Food Freedom Act focus of workshops for specialty crop producers
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Plan. Produce. Profit. That’s the message from a series of spring workshops, facilitated by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and the National Agricultural Law Center, that will provide needed knowledge for Arkansas specialty crop producers to operate within the Arkansas Food Freedom Act.
According to a fact sheet from the Division of Agriculture’s Public Policy Center, Act 1040 of 2021 — otherwise known as the Arkansas Food Freedom Act — allows Arkansas residents to sell more types of homemade food and drink products in more locations than before, allowing direct sales of certain homemade food and drink products that do not require time or temperature controls to remain safe. Some products, such as pickles, salsas, and canned vegetables, may require pH testing.
North Dakota judge blocks new WOTUS rule for 24 states, including Arkansas
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A federal judge in North Dakota has issued an injunction against the Environmental Protection Agency’s most recent rule defining waters of the United States in a case covering 24 states, including Arkansas.
North Dakota U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Hovland issued the injunction on Wednesday.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference will mark its 10th year on June 8-9 with something new: establishment of a memorial scholarship to help bring new talent to the field of agricultural law.
The conference, which focuses on issues relevant to the Mid-South, will include sessions on solar leasing, the 2023 Farm Bill, farm succession and healthcare planning.
Congressional Review Act not the end of the road for WOTUS
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Congressional Review Act aimed at overturning the Environmental Protection’s latest definition of waters of the United States is a novel tactic that may spawn some “interesting implications,” said Brigit Rollins, staff attorney for the National Agricultural Law Center.
The Congressional Review Act, or CRA, is a joint resolution of disapproval of the EPA rule containing the latest definition of waters of the U.S. The EPA rule went into effect on March 20.
April 5 webinar to focus on National Ag Law Center’s partner and outreach efforts
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — An April 5 webinar will be all about the future for a one-of-a-kind institution that has served public, private, legal and other agricultural and food industry professionals for nearly 40 years.
Congress established the National Agricultural Law Center in 1987 to serve as a nonpartisan, objective resource for the nation’s agricultural community. Today, it is the only institution of its kind in the United States with partners throughout the country, serving stakeholders at all levels of the agriculture and food supply chain.
Texas federal court grants WOTUS injunction for two states; two more requests pending
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A federal court has halted implementation of the Environmental Protection Agency’s new rule defining waters of the United States, and two more injunction requests are pending in cases involving 25 states, including Arkansas, said Brigit Rollins, National Agricultural Law Center staff attorney.
The new rule went into effect on Monday. The U.S. District Court in the Southern District of Texas issued the injunction Sunday night in Texas vs. EPA. The case halts implementation of the new EPA rule in both Texas and Idaho.
NALC, AALA “Growing Careers” webinar will feature career, professional advice for law students
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — When it comes to giving career advice, Ebony Woodruff, APLC — legislator, consul, Master Gardener and the speaker for the March 29 “Growing Careers” webinar for law students — has a lot to offer.
The webinar, presented by the National Agricultural Law Center and the American Agricultural Law Association, is geared toward providing career and professional advice for law students interested in agricultural and food law. It will begin at 11 a.m. central/noon eastern. Registration is online.
Legal challenges may dam WOTUS rule before it flows, NALC attorney says
UNDATED — A pending U.S. Supreme Court decision “is the ticking time bomb” for the Environmental Protection Agency’s new Waters of the United States rule, said Brigit Rollins, staff attorney for the National Agricultural Law Center.
The EPA rule, which goes into effect March 20, has a new definition for “waters of the United States,” or WOTUS, which is central to enforcement of the Clean Water Act.
NALC’s Brown: State, federal lawmakers zero in on foreign ownership of U.S. farmland
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — When it comes to foreign ownership of agricultural land in the United States, legislatures at both the state and federal levels are asking “how much is too much?”
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency, foreign ownership and investments in U.S. agricultural land have increased to more than 40 million acres, an increase of almost 36 percent in foreign-owned farmland since 2011.
National Ag Law Center webinar to explore history, definition of WOTUS
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Defining water is one thing. Defining “waters of the United States,” or WOTUS, has proven to be a multi-agency, multi-decade struggle.
“The term ‘waters of the United States’ is critical to implementation of the Clean Water Act,” said Brigit Rollins, staff attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center.
Shipman: Delayed budget could influence development of 2023 Farm Bill
UNDATED — Uncertainty over President Biden’s budget and whether Congress can achieve true bipartisan agreement are among the challenges facing the 2023 Farm Bill, said Hunt Shipman, principal and director of Cornerstone Government Affairs.
The current Farm Bill expires Sept. 30.
Feb 15. webinar focuses on successful estate planning for farm families
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Heir strategies, distribution plans, incorporating trusts, and more: a lot goes into estate planning. Preparing for the future can present challenges for farm families, but it can also set families on a path towards success.
Feed your need to know: National Agricultural Law Center launches bi-weekly ag update
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The body of laws, policies and regulations affecting agriculture is vast and fast-changing, but the National Agricultural Law Center has introduced The Feed, a biweekly newsletter aimed at keeping industry professionals up to date.
How will the midterms affect ag law and policy? Jan. 25 webinar discusses the implications
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — What impact will the 2022 midterm elections have on agricultural law and policy? Hunt Shipman, principal and director at Cornerstone Government Affairs, will discuss the implications during a webinar Jan. 25.
NALC Jan. 18 webinar to provide legislative update on foreign ownership of ag land
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Foreign ownership and investments in U.S. agricultural land have increased to more than 40 million acres in the last decade, making up just over 3 percent of all privately held farmland within the U.S., according to the Farm Service Agency.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Water rights. Foreign land ownership. Pesticides. The Farm Bill. Each of these issues and more will be on the agenda for the National Agricultural Law Center’s inaugural Western Agricultural & Environmental Law Conference set for May 4-5 in Reno, Nevada.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — In the late 1990s, several lawsuits were filed against the United States Department of Agriculture alleging race discrimination.
National Ag Law Center Continues ‘Growing Careers’ webinar series on Nov. 2
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The National Agricultural Law Center is hosting a webinar as part of its “Growing Careers” series.
Oct. 19 webinar to focus on impact of drought on crop insurance
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As drought continues to expand and intensify across the United States, farmers need to understand what crop insurance can and can’t do — which will be the topic of the Oct. 19 webinar from the National Agricultural Law Center.
Sept. 28 webinar highlights current marker, importance of carbon contracts
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — When companies approach farmers with contracts to sequester carbon in the soil, it is critical that farmers know exactly what they are agreeing to before signing, according to Stephen Carpenter, deputy director of Farmer’s Legal Action Group, Inc.
Sept. 21 webinar corrals legal issues of fences and livestock
AMARILLO, Texas — A fence is more than just posts and strands of wire; it’s the foundation of a whole class of laws about property, range and stray animals and the rights and responsibilities of ranchers.
Sept. 7 webinar to offer insights to students exploring ag, food law careers
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — It was the collegiate organization MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences) and a summer job that helped shape Caleb Pearson’s career.
‘Revolutionary change’ coming in trade law, Mid-South Conference keynote says
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — If the proposed America Competes Act is passed, the United States will see a “revolutionary change in trade law,” Stephen Vaden, judge on the Court of International Trade, told attendees at this year’s Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference.
July 20 webinar to help in hard decision between long-term care costs, farm assets
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Aging farm families face the prospect of making a difficult decision between buying long-term care insurance and keeping farm assets.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A New Hampshire hunter who was seriously injured when a tree stand collapsed in 2009 sued the landowner. The hunter dropped the suit when he learned another party owned the tree stand, but how do you determine who is liable for injuries or other legal issues on leased land?
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — What major issues are bubbling under the surface in agricultural and environmental law? Find out during a bonus online session of the Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Diversity and wellness are among Sherie Edwards’ top priorities in her role as president of the Tennessee Bar Association and will be integral to her ethics presentation June 10 during the Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference in Memphis, Tennessee.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Agriculture is often at the mercy of the weather, but the industry is facing storms of another type. Many parts of the global economy are struggling to regain their footing following two pandemic years, plus fallout from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In an industry driven by lending, Greg Cole has seen firsthand the effects on agriculture.
The Honorable Stephen Vaden to deliver keynote address at 9th annual Mid-South Conference
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As fertilizer prices rise to eye-popping levels, the agriculture industry will be watching closely as the U.S. Court of International Trade hears a case in which U.S. farm groups are siding with Morocco as that nation appeals tariffs on fertilizer imports.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As one of the most seasoned agricultural policy veterans on Capitol Hill, Hunt Shipman is all too familiar with what is at stake in 2023 for Mid-South agriculture and beyond.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Alexandra Dunn is all too familiar with dicamba’s reputation as a weed killer and divisiveness surrounding its use.
March 23 National Agricultural Law Center webinar will provide insight on carbon contracts
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Soil carbon contracts are unlike other contracts signed by farmers and ranchers, and present new challenges and questions. As a result, these contracts will be the focus of the National Agricultural Law Center’s webinar, “Considering Carbon: Understanding the Legalities of Soil Carbon Sequestration Contracts,” on March 23, at noon EDT/11 a.m. CDT.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Pesticide use, foreign ownership of farmland and the 2023 Farm Bill are among the hot topics on the agenda for the ninth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference on June 10 in Memphis, Tennessee.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Do federal pesticide labelling laws preempt state law claims? This question will be a focus of the National Agricultural Law Center’s webinar, “A Legal Roundup of Glyphosate: History and Outlook,” on Feb. 16, at noon EST/11 a.m. CST.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Should agricultural land be used for wind and solar farms? This question will be the focus of the National Agricultural Law Center’s webinar, “Wind and Solar Farms in Farm Country: Addressing Land Use Conflicts” on Jan. 19, at noon EST/11 a.m. CST.
Western U.S. water shortages to be focus of upcoming NALC webinar.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — What happens when one of the most critical inputs is compromised across sectors and geographies? Possible solutions to historic water challenges such as drought and unprecedented shortage declarations in the American West will be the focus of the National Agricultural Law Center’s webinar, “The Western Water Crisis and What it Means for Agriculture” on Nov. 17, 2021, at Noon EST/11:00 am CST.
Pittman: Foreign ownership of U.S. forestlands has wide-reaching implications
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Forestland accounts for nearly half of the foreign-owned land in the U.S., which can have broad implications in multiple realms from policy to carbon markets, said Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agricultural Law Center.
Foreign ownership of U.S. farmland is focus of Oct. 20 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Several states have enacted laws or introduced legislation to limit foreign ownership of farmland in the United States. The National Agricultural Law Center will provide a status report on those laws during a webinar on Oct. 20.
National Ag Law Center Welcomes Two New Staff Attorneys
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — To further its mission and better serve stakeholders, the National Agricultural Law Center has hired two new staff attorneys, Jana Caracciolo and Samantha Mikolajczyk, both with backgrounds in agriculture.
Farmland Preservation Through Conservation Easements to be Focus of Sept. 15 Webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The nation’s farmland is facing constant and increasing pressure from development — especially in densely populated areas — with farm acreage declining by nearly 10 million acres from 2007-17, according to Census of Agriculture.
Considering Carbon: Agribusiness and All Things Crypto; An Introduction to the Basics
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Carbon markets and crypto assets are rapidly evolving topics and the National Agricultural Law Center is hosting a free webinar Aug. 18 to provide clarity on how these technologies can be applied in the agriculture and environmental arenas.
In the Weeds: Legal Approaches to Dealing with Noxious Weeds on Farmland
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Join us for a discussion of the factors that may be contributing to increased occurrences of noxious weed problems on farm and ranch lands, such as herbicide resistance, changing weather patterns, and seed transference. The webinar will present different approaches to controlling noxious weeds, comparing and contrasting state laws that address noxious weeds in agricultural areas.
Voluntary Approaches to Agricultural Water Pollution Reduction
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — There are many contributing factors, through both point and non-point sources, to water quality impairment in the United States. In this webinar we’ll discuss types of voluntary approaches to agricultural water pollution reduction, particularly focusing on the current state of water quality trading and adaptive management frameworks.
Understanding Federal Milk Marketing Orders and Current Dairy Risk Management Tools
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This webinar will unpack the terminology and process surrounding the administration of current FMMOs. It will explain in simple terms how the value of all milk ‘pooled’ in FMMO’s designated marketing area, regardless of the products into which it is made (‘utilization’), is shared by its producers via the establishment of a uniform blended price. In addition, the common criticisms of the present FMMO administration will be highlighted and explored.
Mid-South Conference: Join us for continuing education focused on ethics in agricultural law
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Former U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Potter Stewart said that ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is right to do.
Paul Keith, current president of the Arkansas Bar Association and partner at Gibson and Keith in Monticello, Arkansas, will discuss ethics in agricultural law at the eighth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center on June 10-11, 2021.
Mid-South Conference: Hear perspective from a former USDA general counsel on trade, ag
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Sign up for a unique opportunity to hear the reflections of a sitting judge on his time as USDA general counsel.
Judge Stephen Vaden, who currently serves on the United States Court of International Trade, will share his experiences as part of the Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center.
Mid-South Conference: Proposed changes in ag tax, estate planning
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As the saying goes, there’s nothing more sure than death and taxes. Planning for both is essential to transfer a farm business to a successor, and understanding their impact is necessary to make a successful plan.
Mid-South Conference: Understanding emerging carbon markets, ag impacts
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Phrases such as “carbon markets,” “carbon banking” or “carbon smart agriculture and forestry” may not be familiar, but they are being used to describe a means of addressing climate change that has the potential to significantly impact agriculture.
Maloney to present at Eighth Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Attorney Mark Daniel Maloney will help farmers recognize situations that may jeopardize eligibility for farm program payments during the eighth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference June 10-11.
Cole to present at Eighth Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — With more than 29 years of experience in the Farm Credit System, Greg Cole, president and CEO of AgHeritage Farm Credit Services will discuss the impact of COVID-19 and trade wars on agricultural lending at the eighth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center on June 10.
Considering Carbon: The Evolution and Operation of Carbon Markets
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This webinar will provide practical and technical insight into how carbon markets practically function, and how they have evolved in recent years. This includes addressing some the basics of the industry, specifically including how sellers and buyers become connected and how the transaction itself is created and completed.
Considering Carbon: Opportunities and Challenges Agriculture Faces in the Climate Debate
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This webinar will discuss how policy initiatives and collaboration through broad coalitions brought agriculture to this point, explain what agriculture ecosystem credit markets are and why they’re emerging so strongly now.
Focus on Food: Legislation that would Change Meat Processing
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This webinar, while providing an outline of the current regulatory structure, will primarily focus on the federal and state policy proposals that would change the requirements, standards, and oversight of slaughter and processing facilities.
High Capacity Wells: A Survey of Groundwater Withdrawl Rights and Regulations
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Many agricultural producers rely on groundwater for irrigation, but regulations for withdrawing it can vary from state to state.
Federal Crop Insurance: Legal Update and Latest Developments
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — After a season of volatile markets, unforgiving weather patterns and a global pandemic, federal crop insurance will play a key role in keeping many agricultural producers afloat in 2021.
Stuck in the Swamp: Swampbuster Basics
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Though the goal of many federal conservation programs may be simple, the implementation and compliance can often be difficult to navigate. The National Agricultural Law Center will attempt to clear up confusion surrounding one particular program in a free webinar on February 3.
Looking Ahead: Impact of the 2020 Elections on Ag Law and Policy
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The 2020 elections, regardless of the outcome, will be historically significant for U.S. agriculture. This webinar will analyze agricultural policy and lawmaking in light of the 2020 election results.
A year in review: Ag law webinar to discuss top 10 issues of 2020
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — After a year full of pivotal legal developments, the National Agricultural Law Center will give 2020 the retrospective it deserves, with a webinar discussing the year’s top 10 ag and food legal issues as determined by center staff.
Craft beer & the law: Webinar to discuss legal considerations for breweries
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Opening and running a small business can be a difficult process, with labor laws, taxes and other strains. However, when beer or wine is in the mix, things get much more complicated.
Who has the right to repair farming equipment? Webinar addresses Right to Repair statutes
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Advanced technology has brought farmers modern-day tools to assist in increasing yield and decreasing costs. However, as farm machinery becomes more advanced, legal questions arise as to a farmer’s ability to perform routine maintenance and other repairs on their equipment.
Facing Farm Financial Stress: Bulletin series shows life cycle of a farm bankruptcy
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Unforgiving weather patterns, trade disputes and low commodity prices have become the perfect storm for financial distress in the agricultural community, with family farm bankruptcies rising 23 percent for the 12-month period from March 2019 to March 2020.
National Ag Law Center welcomes two new staff attorneys
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – To further their mission and better serve their stakeholders, the National Agricultural Law Center has hired two new staff attorneys, Micah Brown and Sarah Catherine Copper.
Agritourism: Opportunities and obstacles discussed in August 19 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Beckoned by agritourism, urbanites and suburbanites sometimes flock to the country to visit pumpkin patches, vineyards and petting zoos or take trail rides, getting up close and personal with large animals and equipment. What could possibly go wrong?
Agricultural district programs offer protection, benefits for farmland owners
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – For half a century, agricultural district programs, meant to protect farmers from the pressures of expanding urbanization, have evolved and been deployed in various forms around the country. The growing gap between agriculture and those in expanding suburban areas could pose a threat to those protections, however.
Dicamba ruling, EPA cancellation order to be discussed in June 24 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – A federal appeals court ruling that prompted the Environmental Protection Agency’s cancellation of three dicamba-based herbicides has not only drawn new attention, but also is raising questions about use of existing stock.
Update on COVID-19 and agricultural law covered in June 17 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – In a field already disrupted by weather disasters, depressed commodity prices and trade disputes, COVID-19 has proved to be yet another obstacle for those in agriculture.
Requirements for U.S. meat slaughter and processing outlined in June 3 webinar 
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – With meat and poultry processing crippled by COVID-19 closures, some producers with a backlog of animals are seeking other means to process their stock, including smaller processing facilities. Additionally, interest is growing in the necessary steps to open and maintain these types of facilities. However, there are numerous considerations for both groups to examine, Elizabeth Rumley, a Senior Staff Attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center, said.
Ag mediation can solve problems for farmers, agribusinesses 
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Agricultural producers face many unique challenges when trying to balance difficult decisions and important relationships. When stuck between a rock and a hard place, agricultural mediation can offer assistance.
7th Annual Mid-South Ag/Environmental Law Conference moves online 
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference will look a little different in 2020 for two reasons: it’s moving online in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, and conference proceeds will benefit a new fellowship for law students.
National Ag Law Center opens online resource library on COVID-19 issues
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The COVID-19 pandemic’s dramatic effects on the economy and the subsequent regulatory reactions have hit the agriculture industry hard, making difficult to navigate issues such as agricultural labor, contracts and direct marketing, increasingly confusing.
Ag Labor in a global pandemic: What agribusinesses must know to survive COVID-19
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – In a profession subject to heavy stresses from weather and the markets, the COVID-19 pandemic is throwing another major obstacle in the way of agricultural producers and others in the food supply chain.
COVID-19 and Agriculture: Federal regulatory changes addressed in April 22 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – From inspections to transportation, concerns over a safe and continuous food supply have caused numerous federal agencies to implement regulatory changes in agricultural production.
‘The Deal with Dicamba’: Dicamba-related litigation to be discussed in April 15 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – A Missouri peach farmer was recently awarded $265 million after a jury found that his orchard was damaged by dicamba-based pesticides. Hundreds of similar lawsuits have been filed, and their rulings could have far-reaching effects on the herbicide’s use in the United States.
April 1 webinar name to review proposed changes to National Environmental Policy Act 
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – In January, the Council on Environmental Quality sought regulatory overhaul for the National Environmental Policy Act, the first significant change to the act since it was passed in 1970.
Liability: How ag landowners can protect themselves
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — City dwellers looking for recreational opportunities away from the city will sometimes find themselves on farmland, leaving landowners with increased exposure to liability, say legal experts.
2020 elections, ag bankruptcy on agenda for 7th annual Mid-South Ag/Environmental Law Conference
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Expected changes after the 2020 elections, agricultural bankruptcy and the latest on federal crop insurance and farm programs are among the timely topics to be discussed at the seventh annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference this June.
What’s in a name? Webinar will discuss labeling laws for ‘fake meat’
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — As alternative proteins gain popularity, the controversy of what to call them has turned legal.
Crop insurance audits: How to prepare outlined in NALC bulletin
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Excessive rain paired with less than ideal market conditions can lead to many farmers relying on the Federal Crop Insurance Program to soften the blow of a rough growing season. However, producers relying on this program should be prepared for a potential crop insurance audit.
2020 Vision: Webinar offers clarity on agricultural labor
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Labor and employment laws in the United States can be difficult to navigate under the best of circumstances. With exemptions and exceptions for agricultural labor, however, these laws become even more complicated for employers.
Solar leases: National Ag Law Center guides outline what you need to know
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – With a spike in the solar industry, many landowners are leasing their property to solar developers as a form of extra income. However, these specialty leases present some unique legal concerns.
Hemp production meeting set for Dec. 19
LITTLE ROCK – The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture will host an informational meeting on Thursday, Dec. 19 for producers interested in growing hemp.
Divorce on the farm: Fact sheet series addresses family law issues in agriculture
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – From animal issues to child support, divorces in farm and ranch families present unique challenges that can have a significant impact on agricultural operations. To address some of these unique challenges, the National Agricultural Law Center has published a fact sheet series discussing family law in agriculture.
Ag bankruptcy: Chapter 12 considerations outlined in Oct. 16 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – After a year of lower commodity prices, extreme weather, and ongoing trade tensions in world markets, much needed debt relief can be available to family farms through Chapter 12 bankruptcy.
Hemp webinar talks CBD legality, THC testing 
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Unanswered questions for industrial hemp production in the United States has the industry watching the United States Department of Agriculture closely as they await regulations, according to the National Agricultural Law Center
Hemp webinar to discuss possible regulation announcements
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The 2018 Farm Bill has opened a window of opportunity for cultivation of industrial hemp – an industry whose products were valued at nearly $700 million in 2016. However, before U.S. growers can go all out for industrial hemp, there’s a regulatory waiting game that needs to play out.
Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act explained in Aug. 21 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Because some crops, such as fresh fruit, are highly perishable, laws such as the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, or PACA, are in place to protect producers from unfair business practices.
Glyphosate trials, hemp laws addressed in 2019 congressional briefing
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Congressional staffers working with agricultural law and policy issues received a briefing on the latest developments in herbicide litigation, industrial hemp and cultured meat from senior staff attorneys with the National Agricultural Law Center.
Hunting leases: What you need to know, explained in July 17 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Leasing property for recreational use, such as hunting, can be a source of additional income, but these leases come with more factors than landowners may expect.
Ag and Environmental Law Conference speakers give insights into realities of hemp, down farm economy
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The new realities of hemp and the hard realities of a down farm economy are among the issues speakers brought to the sixth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference.
Louisiana attorney to discuss complexities of ag labor, immigration at Mid-South Agricultural & Environmental Law Conference
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Labor laws can be difficult to navigate, but when applied to agricultural employees, they become even more complicated. At the sixth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, Brandon Davis, partner at Phelps Dunbar, LLP, of New Orleans, will discuss agricultural labor and immigration for farmers and agribusinesses.
USDA general counsel to be keynote at 6th annual environmental/ag law conference June 6-7 at Memphis
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Environmental law, immigration and agricultural labor, ag bankruptcy, and a keynote address by U. S. Department of Agriculture General Counsel Stephen Vaden are some of the hot topics on the agenda for the sixth annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, set for June 6-7 in Memphis, Tennessee.
May 8 webinar to discuss state approaches to water quality impacts from agricultural nutrients
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Nutrients from agricultural crop production have had a detrimental impact on water quality in the United States, but many states are working to address the issue.
Recording of industrial hemp webinar available online
LITTLE ROCK – A recording of the industrial hemp webinar presented by University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, is now available online.
Endangered Species Act on agenda for Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Environmental regulations provide both protections and challenges — protections for natural resources and the people and animals who depend on them; compliance challenges for many landowners. At the Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, Jim Noles, founding partner at Barze Taylor Noles Lowther, LLC, will address how attorneys, lenders and landowners can best navigate related regulatory issues.
April 29 webinar: Growing industrial hemp in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK – The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is hosting an April 29 webinar that will parse the legalities of industrial hemp production in Arkansas.
Property rights of landowners explained in March 20 webinar
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Right of way agreements and eminent domain could allow for powerline or pipeline companies to enter, or even seize, privately owned land. When a company is seeking such agreements, it’s important for landowners to know their rights.
‘Checkup on Checkoffs’ webinar to cover legal updates in commodity checkoff programs
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Checkoff programs offer vital research and information for both producers and consumers of agricultural commodities. Over the past year, these programs have undergone a number of legal and policy changes relevant to their future operations.
‘Farms and fun’ webinar to cover liability in agritourism Jan 16
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – While the growth of the agritourism industry could mean extra income for farmers, it could also mean an increase in risk.
Nov. 14 webinar to cover Endangered Species Act and agriculture
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The National Agricultural Law Center will host a webinar Wednesday, Nov. 14, to clarify the application of the Endangered Species Act in the context of agriculture.
Milk wars: Controversy over plant-based ‘milk’ explained in Ag Law Center white paper
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Although debate and conflict have surrounded the term “milk” since 1997, there have been recent strides in the dairy industry’s conflict regarding the labeling of plant-based products as “milk.” A publication from the National Agricultural Law Center explains the dispute’s history, facts and recent events.
Oct. 17 webinar to cover food safety and the law
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Jacqueline Schweichler, staff attorney at the Penn State Center for Agricultural and Shale Law, will address recent developments in the Food Safety Modernization Act through a webinar hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center Wednesday, Oct. 17 at noon EDT/11 a.m. CDT.
Pittman, Rumley to appear at Texas A&M Law Review Agricultural Law Symposium
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The National Agricultural Law Center will be weighing in on the evolving landscape of right-to-farm laws and offering a legislative update during the 2018 Texas A&M Law Review Fall Symposium on Friday in Fort Worth, Texas.
Pittman to present ‘Recent and Emerging Issues in Ag & Food Law’
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Harrison Pittman, director of the National Agricultural Law Center, will present “Recent & Emerging Issues in Ag & Food Law: Overview for Arkansas Ag & Food Industries” Monday, Sept. 17.
Machine learning, blockchain, data big and small mark Ag Tech/Law conference
LITTLE ROCK – Artificial intelligence, blockchain and robotics are all powerful new technologies that are not only making changes in agriculture, but are also plowing up new legal issues for attorneys, state governments and producers, presenters said during a national ag tech and law conference.