Ag Retailers Association

ARA Members Engage D.C. Policymakers on Ag Retail Issues

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 16:39:52 GMT

By Alex Enlow, ARA Director of Communications & Member Experience

As the only national association representing the agricultural retail industry in Washington, D.C., ARA recently held its annual fly-in, the most critical advocacy event for the entire ag retail industry.

ARA’s fly-in connects members of Congress directly with ag retailers from their districts, giving them the opportunity to hear directly from ARA members about the issues facing them today.

This year’s fly-in was highly successful, with ARA connecting more than 120 ARA members with over 130 congressional offices on both sides of the aisle to promote ARA’s public policy priorities.

“Direct dialogue between Congress and ag retailers is the most effective way to shape policy,” says Richard Gupton, ARA’s senior vice president of public policy. “Through their in-person meetings, over 120 ARA members ensured the ag retail sector was fully and accurately represented at the center of policymaking.”

Immediate Impact

The timing couldn’t have been better for the fly-in this year, as the House Agriculture Committee markup for the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (farm bill) was scheduled for the evening of ARA’s fly-in.

This presented ARA members with the perfect opportunity to advocate for ARA’s priorities in the legislation, such as provisions that strengthen the farm safety net and risk management tools, invest in conservation and research, and promote trade and rural development. Each of these priorities helps ensure that retailers and their supplier partners can continue to make long-term investments that support farmer success.

The following day, the House Agriculture Committee passed the farm bill by a bipartisan vote of 34-17.

“Chairman GT Thompson’s Farm, Food, and National Security Act supports the agricultural industry while maintaining farmer access to modern agricultural technologies, including critical pesticides and other crop protection tools,” says ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “ARA looks forward to continuing our work with Congress to advance this legislation, which strengthens the farm economy and ensures a safe, abundant and affordable food supply for American consumers and global markets.”

When ARA members weren’t in meetings on Capitol Hill, they were sharing ideas either in committee meetings or at networking events.

“The ARA Fly-In creates far more than dialogue on Capitol Hill; it establishes the foundation for ongoing, productive relationships between ag retailers and the decision-makers in Congress. Strengthening trust between rural communities and Washington is essential to ARA’s advocacy mission,” says Dave Spears, ARA board chair.

Shown from left are Troy Tallman, JR Simplot Co.; Kea Moon, Redox Bio-Nutrients; U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho; Daren Coppock, ARA president and CEO; and Cameron Bishop, JR Simplot Co.

(Photo courtesy of ARA)

Honoring ARA’s 2025 Legislator of the Year

During the fly-in, ARA members honored the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance chairman, Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, with the 2025 Legislator of the Year award for his support of agricultural retailers by working tirelessly to promote our industry and protect their freedom and license to operate.

“Idaho agriculture’s fundamental role in our communities is clear, with agribusiness accounting for the largest share of Idaho’s economy. It is an honor to receive ARA’s Legislator of the Year Award as I continue pressing for sensible solutions that ensure long-term stability of federal policy affecting farm communities. Their success is vital for feeding our nation, building our communities and growing our economy,” says Crapo.

Continuing the Conversation

ARA’s efforts to connect members with their federal lawmakers are year-round through ARA’s coordination of congressional facility visits during congressional recess periods.

For years, ARA members have used these visits to showcase their operations and build lasting trust with lawmakers seeking insight into ag retailer operations in their districts.

“The energy generated during the fly-in will continue as members invite their elected officials into their operations to witness our industry’s dedication to safety and responsible stewardship,” explains Hunter Carpenter, ARA senior director of government affairs.

ARA also makes it easy for ag retailers to contact their congressional representatives through ARA’s Take Action portal. This portal provides prewritten letters advocating for policies that impact industry operations, which can be sent directly to your representatives. Visit the portal at aradc.org/take-action to make your voice heard today.

Meeting With the Administration

To close out the fly-in, ARA’s board of directors met with six Trump administration senior officials at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House complex.

Attendees had policy discussions with Justin Schwab, general counsel for the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ); Ambassador Julie Callahan, ambassador with the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and chief agricultural negotiator of the U.S.; Courtney Knupp, senior adviser to the USDA deputy secretary and the senior policy adviser to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins for trade and food safety; Kelsey Barnes, the senior adviser to the USDA secretary for rural development, biofuels and research, education and economics; Kyle Kunkler, deputy assistant administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention at EPA; and Calley Means, the senior adviser to U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

ARA is thankful to the administration for the opportunity for members to directly engage with White House officials about policies and federal regulations that impact the agricultural industry.

ARA’s annual fly‑in once again showcased the power of bringing ARA members and federal lawmakers together to influence the policies that shape ag retail’s future. By showing up, speaking out and working together, ARA is strengthening members’ ability to operate and innovate.

The momentum ARA generated will carry forward as ARA continues advocating for the tools, technologies and regulatory clarity the ag retail industry needs.

Want to join the only national association representing the ag retail industry? To join, visit aradc.org/join .

ARA Applauds EPA Action to Address DEF System Issues & RVO Ahead of Planting Season

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:35:02 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) today welcomed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) action to address diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system failures, calling it a timely step to support farmers and agricultural retailers as spring planting gets underway.

DEF system malfunctions have caused costly equipment downtime and operational disruptions across agriculture. EPA’s action to remove the problematic sensor requirement will help keep equipment running and reduce unnecessary delays in the field.

“America’s agricultural retailers and growers continue to face high fuel costs and tight margins,” said ARA President & CEO Daren Coppock. “This commonsense relief will help them stay productive and profitable at a critical time of year.”

ARA emphasized that the timing of the announcement is especially important as farmers prepare for and begin spring planting. ARA’s Board of Directors recently ratified this issue as a policy priority for 2026.

“We thank President Trump and EPA Administrator Zeldin for their leadership and for listening to the needs of rural America,” Coppock added. “This action will make a real difference for farmers and the retailers who support them. ARA further commends the Administration on their new RVO rule, which is another win for American agriculture.”

The Scoop Podcast: A Voice For the Industry

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:18:36 GMT

During its annual fly-in, more than 120 Agricultural Retailers Association members visited 130 congressional offices to promote ARA’s policy priorities. ARA took its priorities to Capitol Hill to push for a Farm Bill finish line and fixes that affect retailers’ day-to-day operations—especially transportation rules, trade uncertainty, and biofuels policy.

“Being engaged, having a voice for the industry is critically important,” says Richard Gupton, ARA’s senior vice president of public policy.

Those policies span the Farm Bill, transportation, trade, labor and more.

The fly-in occurred on the same day of the scheduled markup session for the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026 (the skinny Farm Bill). And Gupton joined The Scoop podcast to give a recap, a policy outlook, and more than a handful of reasons for retailers to stay engaged in advocacy.

Gupton is encouraged by the bipartisan support of the Farm Bill through the House Agriculture Committee, and he expects the senate version to be similar.

Regarding transportation, Gupton says retailers need drivers to help move products to farmer customers—a key service provided in their business. The seasonal CDL program was started in 1992, which provides the ability to hire drivers on a temporary basis during peak times of the year. However, updates are needed.

“Congressman Tracy Mann, a Republican of Kansas, and Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, Republican, have introduced identical bills to address issues with the heavier trucks, heavier pickup trucks and trailers,” Gupton says. “The technology over time has gotten actually better and safer to haul these products. But the weight of those trailers and truck combinations has also gotten over 26,000 pounds and that makes it potentially considered a Class A vehicle, where you need a Class A CDL. The seasonal ag CDL was set up for only for what they call Class B drivers. And so, for decades, it hadn’t been an issue until these heavier trailers and trucks hauling the same amount of products.”

Gupton says the bills will provide for regulatory clarity and update the language to modern equipment and needs.

Other policy highlights from the conversation include:

Trade, tariffs and supply chain
MAHA
Energy and year-round E15
The Executive Order on domestic glyphosate production

At the end of the fly-in, ARA’s Board of Directors met with six Trump Administration senior officials:

Justin Schwab, the General Counsel for the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ)
Ambassador Julie Callahan, the Ambassador to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and Chief Agricultural Negotiator of the United States
Courtney Knupp, the Senior Advisor to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary and the Senior Policy Advisor to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins for Trade and Food Safety
Kelsey Barnes, the Senior Advisor to the USDA Secretary for Rural Development, Biofuels, and Research, Education, and Economics
Kyle Kunkler, the Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Calley Means, the Senior Advisor to U.S. Health and Human Services Department (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy

“We covered a lot of ground in a few hours at the White House meeting. But it was a productive discussion, a frank discussion, let’s put it that way, to make sure that our members and the ag retailers’ voices are heard,” Gupton says.

Advocacy Is Ongoing

“You can take action on the Farm Bill; we urgently need support, and our members and industry to weigh in with their lawmakers,” Gupton says. “The MAHA movement is certainly weighing in, so we need to weigh on that. Weigh in on the E15 year-round legislation and Congressman Mann’s and Senator Moran’s seasonal CDL bill.”

Strengthen U.S. Agriculture, Support Innovation, and Advance Supply Chain Resilience: ARA's Policy Priorities

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:05:31 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) today announced their 2026 Public Policy Priorities, outlining a comprehensive agenda designed to support America’s agricultural retailers, strengthen the nation’s food and input supply chains, and promote science-based, practical policy solutions that keep U.S. agriculture globally competitive.

“ARA’s 2026 policy priorities are built to safeguard the tools, technologies, and regulatory certainty that agricultural retailers and their farmer customers rely on every single day,” said Richard Gupton, ARA’s Senior Vice President of Public Policy. “From a modernized Farm Bill to science-driven pesticide oversight, resilient transportation networks, and a competitive rural economy, these are practical, forward-looking solutions that strengthen American agriculture. ARA will continue working with Congress, federal agencies, and industry partners to ensure ag retailers can operate with freedom and confidence.”

The 2026 priorities reflect the needs of ag retailers and their farmer customers across eight key policy areas: the Farm Bill, modern agricultural technologies, stewardship and sustainability, economic growth, energy, transportation and infrastructure, labor and OSHA, and homeland security.

ARA’s policy platform emphasizes preserving essential farm safety nets, protecting science‑based pesticide regulations, expanding access to modern crop technologies, strengthening conservation and climate‑smart programs, supporting rural workforce growth, and bolstering the infrastructure and energy systems that underpin the nation’s agricultural economy.

Read ARA’s 2026 Public Priorities here.

ARA Leads Letter to President Trump Expressing Concern Over Fertilizer Supply Chain Disruptions

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:24:33 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) today led a letter, along with 24 state agribusiness associations, to President Donald Trump expressing concern regarding fertilizer supply disruptions and the potential for broader impacts on agricultural production and rural economies.

“Agricultural retailers employ thousands of workers across rural America and provide the essential link between manufacturers, global supply chains, and family farms. Every day, these businesses ensure that farmers have access to the fertilizer, crop protection products, seed, and agronomic services necessary to grow the crops that feed and fuel our nation. Today, retailers are experiencing the front-line impacts of geopolitical disruptions affecting fertilizer, fuel, and transportation markets,” the letter reads.

“Agricultural retailers in multiple regions are already reporting delayed spring fertilizer deliveries and growing allocation pressure as product arrival dates shift and transportation capacity tightens. Retailers are forced to make difficult decisions about rationing limited supplies among customers, revising nutrient plans on short notice, and absorbing increased financial and logistical risk—all while farmers face uncertainty during narrow application windows that cannot be recovered later in the season,” the coalition continued.

The group proposed both immediate short-term actions and long-term supply chain solutions that the Administration can take to alleviate global and domestic disruptions. They also highlighted the impact these disruptions can have on rural American economies.

“These disruptions do not stop at the farm gate. When fertilizer shipments are delayed or prices spike, the consequences ripple through rural communities- affecting local jobs, tax bases, lending institutions, equipment dealers, and service providers. Agricultural retailers are often among the largest private employers in their communities, and prolonged supply disruptions threaten not only farm productivity, but also the economic stability of rural towns across the country,” the group emphasized.

Additional cosigners of this letter included the Florida Fertilizer & Agrichemical Association, Georgia Agribusiness Council, Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association, Agribusiness Council of Indiana, Agribusiness Association of Iowa, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, AgriBusiness Association of Kentucky, Michigan Agri-Business Association, Minnesota Crop Production Retailers, Mississippi Agricultural Industry Council, Montana Agricultural Business Association, Nebraska Agri-Business Association, North Carolina Agribusiness Council, North Dakota Agricultural Association, Ohio Agribusiness Association, Oklahoma Agribusiness Retailers Association, Oregonians for Food & Shelter, Rocky Mountain Agribusiness Association, South Dakota Agri-Business Association, Southern Crop Production Association, Wisconsin Agri-Business Association, Wyoming Ag Business Association, and the Virginia Agribusiness Council.

ARA Honors Senator Crapo with Legislator of the Year Award

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:12:49 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) honored U.S. Senate Committee on Finance Chairman Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) with the 2025 Legislator of the Year award for his support of agricultural retailers by working tirelessly to promote our industry and protect their freedom and license to operate.

“Chairman Crapo’s leadership, including his work to extend critical Farm Bill provisions, provided much-needed stability and continuity for farmers and the broader agricultural supply chain,” said ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “This recognition reflects his sustained record of leadership in Congress and longstanding engagement on issues important to America’s agricultural industry. Through his official work, he has contributed to policies that help agricultural retailers modernize operations, support farmers as they manage risk and invest in their businesses, and strengthen rural communities. ARA is pleased to recognize Chairman Crapo for his service and commitment to agriculture.”

Each year, ARA recognizes legislators who have championed issues important to agriculture and agricultural suppliers.

“Idaho agriculture’s fundamental role in our communities is clear, with agribusiness accounting for the largest share of Idaho’s economy. It is an honor to receive ARA’s Legislator of the Year Award as I continue pressing for sensible solutions that ensure long-term stability of federal policy affecting farm communities. Their success is vital for feeding our nation, building our communities and growing our economy,” said Senator Crapo.

ARA unites its members and their interests to advocate and educate on their behalf, provide services to improve their businesses, and preserve their freedom to operate and innovate, ensuring a safe and plentiful food supply for all.

ARA Applauds House Ag Committee Passage of the Farm Bill

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:04:35 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) applauds the House Agriculture Committee’s passage of the Farm Food & National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill), which passed by a bipartisan vote of 34-17.

“Chairman G.T. Thompson’s Farm, Food, and National Security Act supports the agricultural industry while maintaining farmer access to modern agricultural technologies, including critical pesticides and other crop protection tools,” said ARA’s President & CEO, Daren Coppock. “ARA looks forward to continuing our work with Congress to advance this legislation, which strengthens the farm economy and ensures a safe, abundant, and affordable food supply for American consumers and global markets.”

This legislation includes provisions that strengthen the farm safety net and risk management tools, invest in conservation and research, and promote trade and rural development, all of which help ensure that retailers and their supplier partners can continue to make long-term investments that support farmer success.

Following Chairman Thompson’s introduction of the bill, ARA’s President & CEO, Daren Coppock, sent a letter expressing ARA’s strong and enthusiastic support of the legislation. Read the letter here .

The full text of the Farm Bill can be found here .

ARA's Statement on White House Executive Order Addressing Agricultural Input Supply Chains

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:32:33 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) today responded to the White House Executive Order issued February 18, 2026, titled “Promoting the National Defense by Ensuring an Adequate Supply of Elemental Phosphorus and Glyphosate Based Herbicides,” which underscores the importance of maintaining reliable domestic supply chains for critical agricultural inputs.

“Agricultural retailers see firsthand how disruptions to essential inputs create uncertainty for farmers and rural communities,” said Daren Coppock, President and CEO of ARA. “The Executive Order’s focus on strengthening domestic supply chains and maintaining access to key inputs helps support certainty at the farm level and reinforces the resilience of the nation’s food system.”

Elemental phosphorus is a foundational input across agricultural and industrial supply chains, while glyphosate based herbicides remain an important weed management tool for many U.S. farming operations.

“As implementation moves forward, it is important that federal actions reflect real world supply chain dynamics,” Coppock continued. “Agricultural retailers are prepared to work with USDA and other federal partners to ensure existing distribution channels continue to serve farmers efficiently.”

Agricultural retailers serve as the primary distribution channel connecting manufacturers with farmers, providing timely access to crop protection tools and nutrients needed to support farm productivity and food supply stability. ARA is proud to represent agricultural retailers and distributors nationwide.

ARA Commends the Release of the Farm Bill Text

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:18:14 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) President and CEO Daren Coppock released the following statement in response to the introduction of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 by House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson (R-Pa.):

“ARA commends Chairman G.T. Thompson for his leadership in advancing the 2026 Farm Bill and for his commitment to providing long term certainty for America’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural supply chain partners,” said ARA President & CEO, Daren Coppock. “Agricultural producers continue to face significant challenges, including volatile markets, extreme weather, global trade instability, labor shortages, and rising input costs. A strong, forward looking Farm Bill is essential to maintaining a reliable safety net that supports our nation’s food, energy, and fiber supply, while also investing in conservation, research, rural development, crop protection, trade promotion, and nutrition programs.”

Protecting farmers’ continued access to modern agricultural technologies, including pesticides, is also critical for ARA members. These tools play an essential role in managing risk, improving productivity, and helping farmers produce more with fewer resources—supporting both the economic viability of farm operations and the environmental sustainability of American agriculture through science based policies.

While some Farm Bill provisions were addressed in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed in 2025, many of ARA’s priorities were not included due to the limitations of the budget reconciliation process, which generally excludes discretionary programs.

ARA appreciates Chairman Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee for their work on this critical legislation and looks forward to working with Congress to advance a Farm Bill that strengthens the farm economy and ensures a safe, abundant, and affordable food supply for American consumers and global markets.

ARA & CCAs Express Strong Support for USDA’s Regenerative Agriculture Initiative

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 22:53:14 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) and Certified Crop Advisors (CCAs) welcome the recent announcement by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz regarding the new $700 million Regenerative Pilot Program. ARA applauds the Trump Administration’s commitment to voluntary, incentive-based conservation efforts that place farmers first and strengthen America’s food and fiber supply.

“ARA stands ready to collaborate with USDA, NRCS, and all agricultural partners to ensure the Regenerative Pilot Program strengthens producer profitability, enhances natural resources, and supports a resilient food and fiber system for generations to come,” said Hunter Carpenter, ARA’s Senior Director of Public Policy.

Agricultural retailers and the Certified Crop Advisers (CCAs) they employ have long been at the forefront of helping growers adopt practices that improve soil health, protect water quality, and enhance long-term productivity. Many regenerative agriculture principles—such as the 4R nutrient stewardship framework, no-till and strip-till systems, cover crops, variable-rate application, and grazing—are already implemented across the country. For decades, growers have voluntarily invested in these practices because they improve soil function, increase efficiency, and support more resilient farm operations. Farmers are the original conservationists, and their commitment to leaving the land better than they found it remains steadfast.

ARA strongly supports USDA’s voluntary and incentive-driven approach to regenerative agriculture. These practices must make agronomic and economic sense for individual operations, and we encourage USDA to work closely with agricultural retailers—the trusted advisers who serve farmers every day—to help determine where and how regenerative approaches can be implemented profitably. At the same time, growers who choose not to adopt certain practices, for whatever reason, should not be penalized. Successful conservation requires flexibility and respect for the diversity of production systems across American agriculture.

The technical expertise offered by ag retailers and their CCAs is essential for helping producers adopt regenerative practices in ways that fit their farms and improve their bottom lines. ARA looks forward to working in concert with NRCS staff—not in lieu of them—to expand technical assistance and ensure that growers receive the full benefit of both public and private-sector expertise.

The Increased TSP Access Act represents an important opportunity to expand the number of CCAs who can be certified as Technical Service Providers, bolstering NRCS capacity and accelerating on-farm adoption of regenerative systems. ARA greatly appreciates Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Representative Jim Baird (R-IN), and others for introducing this bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help address TSP shortages.

Cream Of The Crop: Nominate Outstanding Applicators For AGCO’s Award

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 14:03:03 GMT

Next week, nominations for AGCO’s Operator of the Year will close . For 20 years AGCO has honored the operator and their importance to ag retail and crop production with the Operator Of The Year program.

Equipment may have improved over those 20 years, but one thing still holds true, and that is the importance of a quality application of crop protection products and fertilizer. The operator is the face of the ag retailer when he is preforming these applications and holds a vital role in helping the grower produce a successful crop.

Fertilizer and herbicide application has changed tremendously from when many of us in ag retail started our careers, but certain values still hold true.

Growers still depend on Ag Retailers and their agronomists for their agronomic expertise, but they also depend on professional applicators to complete the planned applications as accurately as possible. An agronomy plan is only as good as the execution of the application.

This award recognizes those who:

stand out
efficiently and accurately cover acres like they were their own
are the one the other applicators lean on for advice or training
embrace new technology
are first to arrive and the last to leave
have the determination of a winner
are someone your customers trust and request

This year’s winner will receive a Polaris Side-By-Side UTV or the cash equivalent. The top three applicators will get an all-expense paid trip to the ARA convention in Salt Lake City, UT. December 2-4, where the winner will be announced on stage.

Nominate your professional operator for AGCO’s operator of the year soon as nominations close September 30.

The Scoop Podcast: Direct From D.C., An Update With The ARA Policy Team

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:25:15 GMT

ARA’s policy team of Hunter Carpenter and Richard Gupton discuss the impact of the recent reconciliation package on agriculture, a “skinny Farm Bill,” dead in the water California regulations, and what to expect before the August recess.

Highlighting extended tax cuts, enhanced crop insurance, and conservation program modifications, Carpenter says the One Big Beautiful Bill was a win for agriculture.

“ARA has been working on this since Trump was inaugurated back in January and the new Congress was sworn in, and we’re very pleased with the final product,” he says. “When we look back at some of the policy papers we took to Capitol Hill when we had our fly-in in March, I’m pleased to say that a lot of our top policy priorities were included in this piece of legislation.”

As highlights he mentions tax cuts including:

permanently extending the 20% section 199 A pass through deduction
enhancing section 179 expenses
restoring bonus depreciation to 100% making that permnanent.
Elevated estate tax exemptions
Extension of the 45Z fuel production tax credit

Regarding the Farm Bill, we’re already two years late on a five year Farm Bill. The last one passed in 2018.

“A lot of the Farm Bill provisions were included [in the OBBB], especially on the crop insurance and reference price side,” he says. “tTere are other things that are that remain on our farm bill policy priority list that were not addressed. Many of those don’t have anything to do with congressional appropriations or funding that hopefully will be addressed in some sort of skinny farm bill that, maybe, Congress will work to pass late this year maybe into next year.”

Carpenter highlights four pillars of the recently announced Farm Security Action Plan.

Cybersecurity
Biosecurity and ermgecny preparedness
Supply chain hardening
Partnership and information sharing

“You always pray for the best, prepare for the worst,” he says. “The administration is treating ag retail and our ag industry not just a peripheral player, but as a critical front line partner in National Farm Security. That’s good news. It also means we’ll have to step up on our side.”

Gupton then gave updates on several transportation and labor related regulations.
Of the California EV mandate, he says it “should be dead. California has sued over this issue, and Governor Newsom has also tripled down and asked for the California Air Resources Board to come back again and issue some additional regulations. We think, knock on wood, it is dead in its tracks.”

Addressing the DOT’s withdrawal of Speed Limiter Proposal, Gupton says this is a policy victory for ag retailers.

“We think our speed limits should be left up to the states and localities because they best know the conditions of the roads of their local communities and what’s the safe speed to for those commercial vehicles to operate at,” he says.

And lastly, Gupton says they are continuing to work with FMCSA on the seasonal ag CDL program to allow for trailering of implements and trailers as well as online renewals for driver’s in good standing with clean records.

Other fronts the ARA team is engaging in include:

MAHA
Gupton says ARA has been to ag stakeholder meetings with the administration about the MAHA movement and its report and forthcoming policy recommendations. He has two takeaways.

First, he thinks the stakeholder meetings are genuine engagement with the industry.
Second, he has heard officials reiterate they do not want to move away from the U.S. standards used by the EPA which are risk-based to something more similar to Europe which are hazard-based.

Further Administration Priorities
Carpenter says in addition to MAHA, he’s watching three two: the Farm Security Action Plan and trade policy and the delayed ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs.

Government Funding
Gupton highlights the upcoming deadline of expiring appropriation bills in September. As such, he says lawmakers will be busy over the August recess figuring out how to pass or extend funding bills.

ARA Debuts LaborLink: A Smarter Way for ARA Members to Find Workers

Fri, 02 May 2025 20:01:49 GMT

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) is pleased to announce the launch of LaborLink, a new member benefit designed to help agricultural retailers address one of their most urgent operational challenges: securing reliable labor. Through a partnership with másLabor, the nation’s leading provider of H-2 visa services, ARA members now have direct access to expert support in navigating H-2 visa processes.

“Our members are dealing with significant labor shortages that impact everything from product delivery to service capacity,” says Daren Coppock, ARA President and CEO. “LaborLink gives members access to a proven, legal workforce solution—and it comes at a critical time in the hiring cycle.”

The H-2 visa program enables U.S. employers to legally hire foreign workers for temporary, non-agricultural positions. For agricultural retailers—many of whom require help with logistics, custom application, and facility operations—the program offers a powerful tool for filling workforce gaps.

Crucial Timing

To be eligible for the spring workforce window, employers must begin the H-2 application process by June 1. By starting now, ARA members can bring workers in during the fall and rehire them in spring 2026 under a cap-exempt status, significantly improving their chances of success.

With LaborLink, ARA members receive:

Strategic consultation to determine H-2 eligibility and approach
Full-service filing and compliance support
Access to industry-leading tools and templates
A dedicated case manager from másLabor

másLabor currently represents more H-2 program clients across more sectors and states than any other provider, offering deep expertise in regulatory navigation, audit readiness, and workforce onboarding.

“This collaboration is another example of how ARA is working to deliver real, timely solutions to help members operate more effectively,” Coppock says. “We’re proud to offer this benefit and look forward to seeing the impact it makes across the industry.”

Get more information about ARA’s LaborLink .

Trump’s Executive Order on Fertilizer: Industry and Retailers Respond

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 19:24:06 GMT

President Trump has signed an executive order allowing products traded under the USMCA to be outside of the 25% tariffs previously announced. Additionally and specifically, Canadian potash imports into the U.S. will be subject to a reduced import tariff of 10%.

Both The Fertilizer Institute and The Agriculture Retailers Association issued reactions applauding the special attention to fertilizer trade across North America.

“President Trump has long been supportive of U.S. farmers and rural communities,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “As the important spring planting season kicks off on farms around the country, the President’s recognition of the critical nature of fertilizers will ensure growers have access to the vital crop nutrients that make possible bountiful harvests and profitable grower operations. We look forward to continuing our work with the Administration to make the U.S. fertilizer industry and American agriculture the most productive in the world.”

CEO Daren Coppock expressed gratitude to the Trump administration for hearing the concerns of agriculture and granting the tariff reduction on imported potash.

“Given that the United States sources over 85% of its potash from Canada, this exemption is crucial to prevent supply disruptions and cost increases that could adversely affect farmers nationwide,” he said. “Canadian potash, a vital nutrient for U.S. crop production, plays an indispensable role in ensuring robust crop yields and maintaining the competitiveness of American agriculture. While this reduction will ease access to potash, if other imported fertilizer products remain subject to tariffs, those costs will be passed on to growers.

Both associations highlight how the economic impact of this executive order on fertilizer will help maintain the global competitiveness of U.S. farmers, strengthen rural economies and keep food prices in check.

Sec. Brooke Rollins posted on X how this action on fertilizer was in recognition of the President’s focus on farmers.

Thank you, Mr. President! @POTUS’ decision to grant a lower 10% tariff on any potash imported from Canada or Mexico that falls outside the USMCA preference is strategic. It will keep negotiations on track and ensure farmers can buy much needed fertilizer at the lowest price…
— Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) March 6, 2025

ARA Updates the Model Fertilizer Contract to Address Any Trump Tariffs

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 20:49:16 GMT

To get ahead of any price volatility in fertilizer markets that may result from tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on imported fertilizer from certain countries, ARA released an updated Model Fertilizer Contract to offer ag retailers maximum flexibility with their buyer customers after the signing of the fertilizer contract between the buyer and seller.

ARA developed and updated the Model Fertilizer Contract with ARA member Faegre Drinker to empower the ag retail industry to better manage risk, collect e-signatures, and outline consistent terms and conditions for dealing with fertilizer suppliers or customers. The modified language is under the Price Exclusions section.

Download the public, non-customizable version by clicking here .

To access an editable contract, you must be an ARA member and follow these steps:

Log in here with your email and ARA password. If you do not know your ARA member login information, email info@aradc.org.
Once logged in, click the green “Member Home” button in the top right of the ARA homepage.
Click “Member Resources”, scroll to find the “Fertilizer Resources” section, and click on “Model Fertilizer Contract & Trade Rules” to expand the section.
Download both resources by clicking Learn More.

If changes are made, remove the ARA logo from the document and add your logo before distributing.

ARA Legislator of the Year Award: Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:01:25 GMT

For his support of ag retailers, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) has received one of ARA’s annual Legislator of the Year awards.

“Rep. Thompson’s leadership has promoted policies that help to protect ARA member companies’ freedom to operate profitably as they deliver essential services and products to their farmer customers when they need it,” says ARA president & CEO Daren Coppock.

Coppock explains Thompson sponsored the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, which aimed to reauthorize essential Farm Bill programs through 2029 and secure critical financial and disaster assistance for the agricultural community.

“ARA looks forward to continuing to work with Rep. Thompson and his colleagues in Congress to advance ARA’s public policy priorities established by our membership,” Coppock says.

Each year, ARA recognizes two legislators who have championed the issues of importance to agriculture and agriculture suppliers.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition from the Agricultural Retailers Association,” Thompson says. “ARA is a tremendous advocate for policies that support farmers and the businesses that keep American agriculture moving forward. I appreciate their partnership in pushing for a strong farm bill, which will ensure producers and the entire agricultural supply chain get the tools, certainty, and resources they need.”

Your Next Read: ARA Legislator of the Year Award: Representative David Rouzer

ARA Legislator of the Year Award: Representative David Rouzer

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:51:08 GMT

For his support of ag retailers, U.S. Representative David Rouzer (R-NC) has received one of ARA’s annual Legislator of the Year awards.

“Rep. Rouzer’s leadership has promoted policies that help to protect ARA member companies’ freedom to operate profitably as they deliver essential services and products to their farmer customers when they need it,” says ARA president & CEO Daren Coppock.

Coppock explains Rouzer sponsored the Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act of 2023, which brought about important permitting reform legislation to reduce the regulatory burdens impacting ARA members.

“ARA looks forward to continuing to work with Rep. Rouzer and his colleagues in Congress to advance ARA’s public policy priorities established by our membership,” Coppock says.

Each year, ARA recognizes two legislators who have championed the issues of importance to agriculture and agriculture suppliers.

“It is an honor to be recognized with the Legislator of the Year award by ARA,” Rouzer says. “Agriculture retailers ensure our country’s producers have the tools and products necessary to feed and clothe the world. I remain committed in supporting our agriculture retailers, farmers and ranchers, and the supply chain which ensures America has the most abundant and affordable food supply in the world.”

Your Next Read: ARA Legislator of the Year Award: Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson

Your Applicator Toolbox: 6 Items You Need to Have

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 18:21:30 GMT

With this year’s spraying season quickly approaching, there are a few steps you can take now to prepare for the busy months ahead. One of them includes preparing a kit of items you will need during applications.

Here’s what the experts say are essential for your spray mix application toolbox.

1. Portable pH Meter
Johnnie Roberts, CPDA director of application – adjuvant chemistry, recently joined an Ag Retailers Association (ARA) webinar and shared portable pH meters are a must have.

“These are cheap — always have access to one,” Roberts says. “It’s a great tool for managing a lot of problems.”

2. Materials for a Jar Test
If you’re in a situation where you don’t have commercial experience with the products being used and no guidance from the manufacturer, Roberts strongly recommends conducting a jar test.

“There’s an old African proverb that says only a fool tests the depth of a river with both feet,” Roberts says.

3. Compatibility and Foam Control Agents

4. Documentation
Keep your phone, tablet, a camera or pen and paper on you during application to capture any issues you encounter.

“We see some of the same problems popping up every year, and we deal with them to realize we came up with the same solution as last year,” Roberts says. “Document these problems and solutions as you encounter them.”

5. Internet References

6. Protective Clothing
A guide from the Nebraska Extension outlines just what you’ll need to ensure your head, eyes and hands are protected. Some items include:

A wide-brimmed hat
Goggles or glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves. Natural rubber, disposable nitrile, reusable nitrile, neoprene, butyl rubber, Viton and barrier laminate types can be used. Nebraska Extension cautions against lined, latex, cotton, leather and canvas gloves as these types can be hard to clean, absorb pesticides or do not provide proper protection.
The appropriate type of respirator for the type of chemical you will be handling — even if one is not required by the product label.

7. Training
Roberts advises keeping your training up to date as things change and guidance improves — but he also cautions against thinking everyone else is doing the same.

“Don’t assume this training is out there and everyone knows about it,” he says. “In my experience, sometimes we assume everyone knows not to do certain things. You should always communicate.”

Your Next Read: EPA’s Final Herbicide Strategy Sets A New Trajectory For Applications

H-2A Versus H-2B: Here's What You Need To Know

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 17:45:23 GMT

As the labor landscape continues to pose challenges, more businesses are turning to H-2 visas to solve their shortages. It’s important to ensure you have the tools to be successful with these highly regulated programs .

On Feb. 6 at 1 p.m. ET, the Ag Retailers Association (ARA) will be hosting a webinar to help members navigate the process. The webinar will cover the in’s and out’s of both the H-2A and H-2B programs for employers, with topics such as:

Program requirements
Barriers to entry
Best practices for employers
Pertinent current events

To register, click here .

Reflecting On The Leaders Who Have Shaped Ag Retail

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:55:20 GMT

As we look at the year ahead, let us reflect on some of the leaders who have shaped today’s ag retail industry. Just a month ago, more than 600 industry professionals gathered for the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) Conference & Expo where the attendees commemorated career-spanning contributions of some of the legacy leaders in the ag retail space.

ARA Excellence in Advocacy Award

Joey Caldwell - Ag Agvocate - 2024 ARA Convention

(Margy Eckelkamp)

Joey Caldwell, GreenPoint Ag, took home ARA’s Excellence in Advocacy Award for engaging ARA’s public policy committee and advocating in support of ag retailer needs.

“It is truly humbling to be recognized by my peers for advocating for a cause greater than myself,” Caldwell says. “Having grown up on a farm and dedicating 42 years to the agricultural retail industry, I am deeply passionate about championing our industry and rural farming communities. Every voice matters, and I believe we must all embrace the call: ‘If not me, then who will speak for the importance and needs of the agricultural community?”’

Caldwell also serves on ARA’s board of directors and member services committee, and he is vice chair of the conference planning committee.

This award spotlights an ARA member for surpassing expectations in grassroots advocacy to educate lawmakers and regulators about the invaluable support ag retailers offer their farmer-customers.

ARA Retailer of the Year Award

(Margy Eckelkamp)

Buttonwillow Warehouse Company (BWC) was named the 2024 ARA Retailer of the Year, which is an award sponsored by Bayer and The Scoop to honor an ARA member-retailer company or individual that displays effective employee relations, environmental stewardship, customer reliability and more.

“I’m honored to accept this award on behalf of the entire team at Buttonwillow Warehouse Company,” says BWC chief operating officer Clay Houchin. “Our company’s decades-long legacy of putting people first has enabled us to consistently meet the evolving needs of growers while fostering a world-class workforce contributing to the prosperity of the communities we serve.”

Nominations for this award will open in the spring on the ARA website.

ARA Jack Eberspacher Lifetime Achievement Award

(Margy Eckelkamp)

ARA’s top individual honor went to Ernie Chappell for his decades of leadership and service on the ARA board and other committees.

“Aside from any contributions of innovation to help ag retailers from my business activity, it has been particularly rewarding to work alongside them as we strive to strengthen ARA,” Chappell says. “I’m proud of the progress achieved in strengthening ARA with fellow board members, and I am humbled to have been selected for this award.”

Nominated by peers, the ARA executive committee selected Chappell for the ARA Lifetime Achievement Award, which was renamed in 2010 to honor the industry impact of the late Jack Eberspacher, who was ARA’s president and CEO from 2001 until his death in 2009.

Chappell, who founded EFC Systems in 1988, has played a key role in the ag technology sector. In 2021, EFC Systems became the agribusiness division of Ever.Ag, further expanding its impact on the industry.

ARA Distinguished Service Award

(Margy Eckelkamp)

Growmark’s Rod Wells was honored with the Distinguished Service Award for making the industry better for all. Nominations were submitted by peers and selected by ARA’s executive committee for this award, which honors individual members who are exceeding the traditional responsibilities of supporting our industry.

“Being recognized by ARA as a Distinguished Service Award recipient is a career highlight,” Wells says. “ARA is the only national association that is focused exclusively on the needs of U.S. ag retailers, and the ARA team tirelessly educates and advocates on our behalf.

“My time as member of the board of directors and, eventually, chairman led to the cultivation of lifelong industry relationships, positioned me for career advancement and built valuable leadership skills that I continue to use each day. I encourage ag retailers everywhere to join if they are not currently members and to actively participate in ARA advocacy efforts in support of our noble industry.”

ARA Rising Stars
The 2024 ARA Rising Stars lined up to be cheered on by the crowd. The theme “Empowering Leadership through the Next Frontier” was reflected in each of the videos created by these emerging leaders as part of the award program.

The value of the Rising Stars award, sponsored by Atticus, doesn’t end at the conference. Rising Stars complete the ARA Navigator 360° assessment to identify hidden talents related to their companies’ needs. Developed for ag leaders by NuVue LLC, this tool empowers organizations to thrive in challenging times by developing effective leadership.

The 2024 Rising Stars class members are as follows:

Garrett Alan Asmus, Asmus Farm Supply Inc.
Tyler Blackburn, GreenPoint Ag
Daniel Bonetti, Grow West
Trey Colley, GreenPoint Ag
Leah Cook, River Valley Cooperative
Lane Danielson, Growmark Inc.
Hannah Davis, Keystone Cooperative
James Draper, Stueve Construction
Abel Elwell, Willard Agri-Service
Jake Freeman, International Raw Materials
Brooke Grieder, Growmark Inc.
Lane Hacker, Keystone Cooperative
Ben Henson, GreenPoint Ag
Zach Jensen, Easy Automation Inc.
Brandon Justice, GreenPoint Ag
Jared Myers, Keystone Cooperative
Chase Porter, Southern States Cooperative Inc.
Kyle Pulley, Keystone Cooperative
Blaine Rohlk, Keystone Cooperative
Katelyn Schwiderski, Growmark Inc.
Kolin Sukovaty, New Century FS
Brent Tinkel, Keystone Cooperative
Aaron Villicana, Keystone Cooperative
Benjamin White, GreenPoint Ag
Ben Wiatt, Keystone Cooperative
Darren Wiatt, Keystone Cooperative
Jason Wilkins, Southern States Cooperative Inc.
Eric Winans, Brandt
Joseph Woods, MFA Incorporated

ARA Applauds Congress for Assisting Ag Producers in Dire Straits

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 14:58:01 GMT

Congress has cleared its Continuing Resolution , which will extend the farm bill, avoid a government shutdown and secure financial relief for ag. Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) president & CEO Daren Coppock released the following statement in response.

“ARA applauds efforts by Congress to pass a continuing resolution with economic assistance as well as a one-year extension to the farm bill to carry us into next year,” Coppock says. “However, the work on Capitol Hill is not finished. ARA and our members will continue to advocate for a 5-year farm bill that includes many of ARA’s priorities such as robust improvements to crop insurance, conservation programs and more. We need to secure a multi-year farm bill as early as possible in the next Congress to provide much-needed certainty for an ag industry reeling from economic hardships.”

To read more on the Continuing Resolution, click here.

United Prairie Wins The Scoop’s Business Innovation Award

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 22:09:30 GMT

Due to its achievements in digital transformation, United Prairie and its Tolono, Ill., headquarters has been named the 2024 recipient of The Scoop’s Business Innovation Award, sponsored by Ever.Ag. The award was presented Dec. 4, at the Agricultural Retailers Association Conference and Expo in Houston.

The Business Innovation Award recognizes ag retailers who demonstrate digital transformation in their business. These include outstanding examples of how ag retailers are taking their enterprise resource planning, agronomics and business data to elevate customer service and build a sustainable business. The award is presented to a single ag retail location and its team in the U.S.

“Ag retailers are the trusted adviser to farmers, and it is essential they evolve their products, services and customer relationships to optimize the opportunities in the field,” said Margy Eckelkamp, editor of The Scoop. “It is our goal to highlight the work being done to create digitally enabled and meaningful business relationships and show excellence in the ag retail business.”

United Prairie is a full-service ag retailer offering dry fertilizer, seed, custom spraying and application. Since the company was founded in 1996, the United Prairie footprint has expanded from four locations to 14 across east-central Illinois.

“Our focus every day is to increase our customer’s return on investment and provide a better customer experience,” said Curt Miller, CEO of United Prairie. “On behalf of all our dedicated employees and our loyal customers, we are grateful for this achievement. Our employees are blessed with talent, and they know if they are given talent, they have the responsibility to use it.”

______________________________________________________________________________________

Technology Risk Takers: A Look At United Prairie’s Innovation

______________________________________________________________________________________

“United Prairie exemplifies the spirit of innovation and forward-thinking leadership in the agricultural retail sector,” said Mike Moore, executive vice president of Ever.Ag, agribusiness division. “Their unwavering commitment to empowering farmers with cutting-edge solutions, personalized service, and sustainable practices sets them apart as true pioneers in the industry. Through their vision and drive, United Prairie is helping shape the future of agriculture.”

ARA Announces 2024 Rising Stars Video Contest Winners

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:34:30 GMT

During its annual conference & expo, The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) recognized a group of top performers and emerging leaders as part of its Rising Stars award program at the 2024 ARA Conference & Expo.

The theme of this year’s Rising Stars award program, which is sponsored by Atticus, was “Empowering Leadership through the Next Frontier.” As part of the award application process, many nominees submitted videos to Atticus, sharing their unique stories and explaining what this year’s theme meant to them.

Eric Winans, PhD, research farm manager and technical agronomist with Brandt, was named this year’s grand prize-winning Rising Star for his video.

New this year was the Atticus Fan Favorite Video Contest, which empowered our Rising Star nominees to share their application videos on social media, encouraging friends and family to vote for them. Chase Porter with Southern States Cooperative was named the 2024 Fan Favorite winner, totaling the most votes.

Read more about this year’s Rising Stars Class: ARA Announces 2024 Rising Star Award Class

New ARA Benefit To Help You Get Ahead In Driver Training

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 12:00:00 GMT

By Andrea K. Mowers

With 70% of the nation’s freight carried by commercial trucks and looming threats of rail and port strikes, the existing driver shortage is no small issue in the eyes of ag retailers.

As if that is not enough stress on our nation’s already-stretched-thin supply chain, the new entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements for new CDL Class A/B or hazardous material drivers were adopted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) in February 2022. These requirements flagged a need for the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) to provide its members with training resources to navigate the added regulatory burden.

By partnering with the National Propane Gas Association’s (NPGA) administrative compliance experts (ACE), ARA has officially rolled out its ELDT member service to cut through the regulatory red tape of driver training and also help ag retailers save money while training more truck drivers to hit the road.

What To Expect
This ELDT service prepares drivers for FMCSA’s online curriculum and assessment as well as the in-person behind-the-wheel (BTW) training, allowing BTW training to be done by an in-house, qualified instructor.

“Obtaining CDL drivers in ag retail is becoming more challenging each year,” says Blake Griffin with GreenPoint Ag in Stuttgart, Arkansas. “Using the services available from our ARA membership offers a quick and affordable resource for training new drivers for our location. It allows existing employees to obtain a license without the challenges pertaining to work absence or the high schooling cost. We are able to keep the training internal and on our own schedule.”

NPGA’s ACE services recognize the high importance of getting drivers out on the road in a manner that is both cost-effective and timely. Since these new ELDT requirements originally went into effect, the curriculum has been able to provide training to more than 3,000 drivers through NPGA’s partner network, including several ARA member companies, spread throughout 42 states.

ARA members who decide to leverage this service may opt for a full-service package where NPGA:

Handles record keeping, filing and audits as a registered training provider
Offers training materials, checklists and white-glove support along the way

Alternatively, a basic package is available without record keeping, filing and audit support.

“Our company has had many drivers go through the program,” said Dale Beck, energy department manager with CHS Dakota Plains in North Dakota. “To me, signing up and using the program is a no-brainer. It provides simple, straightforward record keeping for a very reasonable cost. Why would any company want to do it any other way?”

Through the concise training resources and equipment guidance that are unlocked through this ARA member service, companies can save up to $3,000 per driver by eliminating the need to send driver-applicants to a driving school.

“New entry-level driver training requirements have increased operating costs on agribusinesses by nearly $8,000 per driver and serve as a barrier to entry for anyone who may be interested in obtaining a commercial driver’s license,” says Richard Gupton, senior vice president of public policy and counsel with ARA. “ARA’s main goal in launching this ELDT service for its members is to relieve some of the pressure on ag retailers already challenged by the shortage of drivers and other workers, especially during the busy spring and fall seasons.”

By enrolling drivers in ARA’s ELDT member service, companies are able to put their focus on training drivers while ACE focuses on all of the administrative and compliance matters that go on behind the scenes.

Driver Shortage Relief
According to a 2021 study by the American Trucking Associations, the driver shortage reached a record high of roughly 81,000 drivers—a number expected to grow to 160,000 by 2030 if no changes are made.

The ELDT member service is just one way ARA is taking aim at the driver shortage; ARA advocates for federal policies that relieve the pressure on ag retailers. In an industry like ours where trucking demand is outpacing the supply of available drivers, expanding the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program would mean more 18- to 20-year-old truck drivers could enter the labor pool to fill part of the workforce demand.

“We would like to hire qualified and interested young people right out of high school and begin them on a rewarding career,” said Mike Twining with Willard Agri-Service during his testimony on behalf of ARA to the House Committee on Agriculture.

During that February hearing, Twining also underscored the need for regulatory consistency, urging Congress to pass hours of service legislation that eliminates the “planting and harvesting” seasonal provisions. Since then, ARA and its members have worked together to manage through the driver shortage and many other issues impacting the bottom line of ag retailers nationwide.

The Scoop Podcast: Insights For The Future of Ag Trade With Former Ambassador Terry Branstad

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:27:38 GMT

Ambassador Terry Branstad was the first U.S. state governor to host Xi Jinping in 1985, so he carries the unique distinction of being called an “old friend” by the Chinese leader as well as a friend to President Donald Trump.

He’s also the longest serving governor in U.S. history having had two periods as Iowa governor (1983 to 1999 and 2011 to 2015).

“I was the first American governor that hosted Xi Jinping when he was just a young party leader from our sister state, Hubei province in China,” Branstad says. “So I’m one of the few people in the world that can say I’m a friend of Donald Trump, and Xi Jinping calls me an old friend because we treated him so well when he came Iowa in 1985.”

As such, Branstad has the one-of-a-kind perspective on how trade will evolve in the coming years with the second term for President Trump. He shared more on The Scoop Podcast.

“Things are developing pretty fast, and the appointments are being made, but I think Trump has really learned from his first-term experience that ‘Never Trumpers’ are gone,” Branstad says. “He’s really looking for people that are loyal and competent, and I’m very hopeful that we’re going to see some dramatic changes that’s going to help make America great again and help improve income for American workers and income for American farmers.”

Branstad himself is proud to mention the background of being an Iowa farm kid.

“As is the case in agriculture, we have ups and downs. We’ve had some pretty good years, and now we have some challenging times,” he says.

Branstad highlights how “for a trade deal to be good, it needs to be a win-win for both sides.” He offers some trade “wins” with the Phase One agreement.

“We were able to, over several years, negotiate the Phase One trade agreement, which led to dramatic increases in exports, especially agriculture exports to China,” he says. “I’m hopeful that this time around, Trump will look at the same thing. And I think one of the things he’s trying to do is encouraging some of these foreign companies and foreign countries to look at investing and creating jobs in the United States.”

He shares more insights about the future of trade and its effects on the agricultural industry in this episode of The Scoop Podcast.

To hear even more, attend the ARA Conference and Expo, Dec. 3 to 5 in Houston where Branstad will be giving a fireside chat.

Founder of Willard Agri-Service, De Willard, Passes Away

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 20:37:18 GMT

On November 13, 2024, the agricultural industry lost one of its legends in ag retail. De Willar, founder of Willard Agri-Service died at the age of 93.

He had a 76-year career as a custom farmer, ag retailer and auto dealer.

Per his obituary:

De founded Willard Chemical Co., Inc. in 1970 (later renamed Willard Agri-Service) as a companion business to his custom farming operation. Willard Agri-Service grew to become a nationally recognized agricultural retailer serving Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, Virginia, and West Virginia from five locations. De’s thirst for knowledge motivated him to become active in numerous ag retailer organizations across the nation, where he built a network of cherished friends.

In August 1981, De launched a second business endeavor in the automotive industry which grew to five dealerships located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Similar to the network of friends he developed in agriculture, he grew another network of treasured colleagues in the auto world.

De loved his work and businesses, never carving out significant time for hobbies and recreation. He often remarked that “if you love your job, you’re having fun every day and don’t need a hobby!”

As professional success grew, De fostered important relationships within the ag industry by serving on the Boards of The Fertilizer Institute, Brandt Consolidated, Ouachita Fertilizer, Ag Chem Equipment, the National Fertilizer Solutions Association, and the Maryland and Virgina Milk Producers Cooperative.

He is survived by his former wife and mother of his children Frances Amato Willard; brother William G. Willard (Jane) of Little River, NC; and sister Sarah Ann King (David) of Derwood, MD. He is also survived by his four children Bobby Willard (Lynda) of Key West, FL; Billy Willard, Sr. (Ann Marie) of Poolesville, MD; Jimmy Willard of Jefferson, MD; and Patti Weiss (Mike) of Charlotte, NC., sixteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren.

You can read more about De Willard on the company’s website.

The Willard family of Montgomery County, Maryland was a 2023 inductee in the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame . Over the years, both the farm and the agri-service business have received numerous awards, including the ARA Lifetime Achievement Award and ARA Distinguished Service Award .

How To Elevate Agriculture: Ag Retailer Steps Up On The TEDx Stage

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 21:04:43 GMT

A man who is no stranger to advocacy was on a mission. Mike Twining has been working toward taking a fact-based appeal to the stage of TEDx—the primetime way of sharing big ideas with potentially a big audience for big impact.

This spring, mission accomplished . Twining spoke at a TEDx event hosted by Grand Canyon University and delivered his talk “Saving the Planet With Your Food Choices.”

In his day job, Twining is vice president of sales and marketing at Willard Agri-Service, and for the past 40 years, he’s worked side by side with crop consultants to help farmers make the best decisions agronomically, environmentally and economically. Twining has taken on leadership roles within the Agricultural Retailers Association and stepped up to the call when needed, so much so that ARA awarded him the Excellent in Advocacy Award just last year.

But the calling to take his message to TEDx stage was greater than any doubts that surfaced about being in a room that may not include a single other person familiar with commercial agriculture.

“I hope my ideas spark curiosity and conversation beyond the standard sound bites we all hear about how our food is raised,” Twining says. “It’s easy sometimes to think that we have all the information, but still draw the wrong conclusion. Agriculture is one of the few industries that can scale globally in the next decade to meaningfully reduce climate change.”

He proposes there are three topics around food products we are consistently misled as consumers:

Organics
Genetically modified organisms
Glyphosate

And he proposes how consumers can incentive solutions with food buying purchases to give farmers the right tools and incentives.

The full presentation is available here (and it’s a tight 12 minutes.)

3 Things To Know About Testing And Repairing Nurse Tanks

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 20:24:51 GMT

Following the nurse tank safety advisory issued earlier this year by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), you may find yourself needing to perform additional testing and repairs on a nurse tank. Here are three things to know:

1. Your ASME Plate Is Important
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) plate determines how a tank should be inspected and tested. If the plate is currently in good shape and valid, there is no required periodic testing or inspection. Nurse tanks with missing or illegible ASME plates need to conduct voluntary visual inspections, thickness testing and pressure testing at least every five years.

The exception, however, is if your tank is effected by the advisory that was issued. This would be tanks that were manufactured between Jan. 1, 2007 to Dec. 31, 2011 by American Welding and Tank (AMT) at its Fremont, Ohio plant. FMCSA and PHMSA strongly encourage owners of these tanks to conduct this routine testing, regardless of ASME plate status.

As far as whether or not testing should be required for all nurse tanks, Jessica Stiles of FMCSA says a change isn’t off the table.

“Any such rulemaking would take years, and we would have to get input from all of you as well,” Stiles explains on a recent Ag Retailers Association webinar. “We would have to issue a request for information, figure out what all of you would like to see, and also what kind of cost that would be to the businesses. It is on the radar. We have talked for years about how we can make improvements to nurse tanks.”

2. Recognizing Failures During Inspection
If something is failing on one of your tanks, Alex Cheng of PHMSA says it will often be obvious during a visual inspection.

“Usually there’s kind of a bulging on the nurse tank. If you notice any dents, gouges, corrosion, that’s very easy to pick up,” Cheng says. “These are really tell-tale signs to stop work, take action and see if there are any other issues with the tank.”

A failure during thickness testing depends on the volume of the tank.

Volume of <1,500 gallons: minimum head thickness is 0.203” and minimum shell thickness is 0.239”
Volume of >1,500 gallons: minimum thickness is 0.250”

“If the thickness measurements that come out from your test are less than what is cited on the ASME data plate, it doesn’t necessarily mean the tank is going to fail, and the reason why is because ASME is only using nominal thickness, whereas the thickness test is measuring the minimum thicknesses,” Cheng explains. “More information may be needed, and you may have to reach out to the manufacturer. The manufacturer can provide a report that says what the minimum thickness calculations are.”

3. Repair Rules
In order to repair a nurse tank, the repair alteration must be authorized by your local jurisdiction and your ASME plate must be attached and legible.

“There are plates that are attached, but you can’t read them. Nurse tanks with illegible ASME plates cannot be repaired,” warns PHSMA’s Leonard Majors. “Unauthorized repairs on a nurse tank will place it out of service.”

Majors adds repairs must be done in accordance with the original code of construction of the tank, follow procedures outlined in the National Board Inspection Code (NBIC), and the repair facility must have an “R” stamp.

“The “R” stamp means that they are registered and authorized through NBIC to perform repairs on pressure vessels,” Majors says. “The R stamp facility may review the ASME plate or additional information, such as thicknesses, material and construction, and use this information, as well as their expertise, to determine what type of repair should be performed.”

Following the repair, the facility will apply an additional plate to the tank, which will be marked with the “R” stamp. The original ASME plate will remain on the tank as well.