Arizona Agriculture Connection-Ag Report

Welcome back, Arizona Aggies, to the latest insights from the Maricopa County Farm Bureau Ag Report. This week's rundown is filled with valuable information for our local agricultural community!

Annual Meeting Success

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended our annual meeting last week. We had a jam-packed agenda with special guests, including Sheriff Sheridan, representatives from the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Senator Dunn, and the Arizona Farm Bureau President, Bolts. Your participation helped make the event a tremendous success.

For those who missed it, don't worry. We invite you all to join us at our upcoming events. Keep an eye on our website, maricopacountyfb.org, for updates and more happenings.

Aggie News

This week, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollands, partnered with Texas Governor Greg Abbott to announce plans for a new sterile insect facility in Texas. This initiative, backed by a $100 million investment, is the largest effort to date in fighting the New World Screw Worm. The success of this endeavor demonstrates significant collaboration with the USDA, the FDA, EPA, DOE, CBP, state governments, agriculture commissioners, and veterinarians. The facility is projected for completion by the end of 2025.

Local Updates

In local news, the Arizona Department of Water Resources has approved the transfer of groundwater from the Har Halo Basin to alleviate pressures from urban growth. If you need more details, you can listen to our July 30th episode, which focuses on water issues.

Additionally, the Arizona Department of Agriculture is still accepting public comments on the Livestock Operator Fire and Flood Assistance program. The next public hearing is scheduled for today, August 20th, at 10 AM.

Preparing for the Future: Succession Planning

Have you ever considered succession planning only to think it could wait? In reality, not having a plan can put your legacy at risk. The Farm Bureau is ready to assist with this complex yet critical process. We’re hosting the Changing Hands Seminar on November 4th from 4 PM to 5 PM at the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville. This event is designed to help you initiate and complete your succession plan. For additional information on attending, feel free to contact Katie Booth at katieBooth@azfb.org.

Thank you for tuning in to another week with the Arizona Agriculture Connection. We look forward to bringing you more news and updates next time!