As the new year kicks off, we want to highlight the past month, December, which proved to be an eventful month for the Arkansas Cattlemen's Association. From tackling drought issues to celebrating leadership and planning for the future, here’s a look back at what happened this past month:
Addressing the 2024 Drought Challenges
This year presented unique hurdles for Arkansas cattle producers. After a rainy spring, drought conditions persisted across the state, with all 75 counties experiencing some level of drought during the grazing season (Jan. 15 - Nov. 15).
Check the maps to see where your county stands and share this with anyone who might need it. Let’s stand together to make a difference for Arkansas cattle producers.
Important LFP Updates:
Producers in eligible counties can apply for LFP payments through their local FSA office by January 31, 2025.
Thanks to prior advocacy efforts by the ACA, LFP payments are exempt from Arkansas state taxes.
Drought Stats from 2024
• All 75 counties in Arkansas experienced drought during the grazing period.
• 40 counties hit D2 drought (severe drought) but did not qualify for LFP payments.
• 8 counties had 16+ weeks of consecutive drought (D0-D1) but will not receive LFP payments.
The ACA continues to work with policymakers to ensure drought monitoring tools and payment criteria reflect the reality of these challenging conditions. Producers are encouraged to check their county’s eligibility and reach out to their local FSA offices for assistance.
For more information on LFP eligibility, visit the FSA’s LFP page.
*The ACA does not guarantee financial aid. It simply estimates which counties meet the criteria based on the U.S. Drought Monitor. The FSA will confirm eligibility. Please contact your local FSA agent for more details and to verify eligibility.
Honoring the 2024 ACLC Graduates
In December, we also celebrated the graduates of the 2024 Arkansas Cattlemen’s Leadership Course (ACLC). This dedicated group completed a five-session, year-long program that covered topics such as ACA operations, legislation, advocacy, carcass fabrication, and industry leadership.
A heartfelt thank-you to our sponsors who made this program possible: Arkansas Cattlemen's Foundation, Arkansas Beef Council, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, Greenway Equipment, and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.
2024 Graduates:
Austin Calhoun – Saline County
Braiden White – Stone County
Catherine Nguyen – Northwest Arkansas
Clay Gustafson – Van Buren County
Crystal Ahrens-Rouillier – Johnson County
Dora Payne – Central Arkansas
Frank Seitz – Greene County
Gwendolyn Womack – Independence/Jackson Counties
J.W. Mackey – Pope County
Jason Ehler – Scott County
Johnathan Muncy – Boone County
Kim Huffman – Northeast Arkansas
Koy Williams – Conway County
Mark Castera – White County
Melissa Andrews – Central Arkansas
Michelle Whitehead – Red River
Nikki Hale – Polk County
Rustin McCormick – Crawford County
Savannah Dickinson – Northwest Arkansas
Steve Young – Logan County
Planning for the Year Ahead
On December 14, ACA members gathered for the fourth quarterly board of directors meeting at the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. The meeting featured:
A review of 2024’s programs and initiatives
Planning discussions for 2025
A special highlight: the graduation of this year’s ACLC class
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this meeting productive and insightful. We look forward to all that 2025 will bring!
Upcoming Events
Arkansas's Legislative Session - Kicks off on January 13th
Area Conferences - Throughout the month of March, come eat a steak dinner - our treat!
Convention & Trade Show - August 7-9, 2025 in Hot Springs!
Stay Connected
As we step into the new year, the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association remains committed to supporting our producers, advocating for industry needs, and fostering leadership within our community. Stay tuned for updates, and don’t forget to share this post with fellow cattle producers!
Membership renewal cards should be hitting mailboxes now, so be sure to renew your ACA membership. Here’s to a strong start in 2025!