Arizona Agriculture Connection Ep. 15-Ag Report

Arizona Agriculture Connection: May Updates, Grants, Events & Leadership News

Welcome back, Arizona Aggies! As April winds down and May begins, we're finally seeing the first signs of summer rain—something we can all be grateful for. Let’s hope these early May showers signal a strong monsoon season ahead and bring solid rain totals in 2025.

Federal Update: New FSA Leadership Announced

In federal news, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced the latest slate of presidential appointments to key Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Rural Development State Director roles. As she shared, “When America’s farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives.” Congratulations to our very own Sine Kerr for her appointment to Director at Arizona FSA!

A quick reminder: ECAP fund applications are open through August 15th. For more information or to apply, visit fsa.usda.gov/ecap.

Grant Opportunities: Supporting Ag Education & Research

Spring is the season of growth—and giving. Several important grant opportunities are now open:

• Ag Literacy Grants (Maricopa County Farm Bureau) Do you know a group, educator, or program promoting agriculture education in your school or community? Encourage them to apply for our Ag Literacy Grant, open now through June 30th. Learn more or apply at: maricopacountyfb.org/agliteracygrants

• Arizona Grain Research & Promotion Council Grants These grants support projects that provide education, publicity, or other efforts to strengthen Arizona’s grain industry. Eligible applicants include any program the Council deems appropriate. Find the application link HERE or visit the Council’s website directly.

Upcoming Events: Get Involved This Season

• Ronald McDonald House Dinner The Maricopa County Women’s Leadership Committee will be serving dinner at the Ronald McDonald House on Thursday, May 8th. Want to join or volunteer? RSVP Here and get parking details at our Events Page.

• Policy Development Meetings Help shape the future of Arizona agriculture! Our grassroots policy development meetings are scheduled for June 18th and June 25th. Be sure to mark your calendars and RSVP for location and details.

• Arizona Cotton Industry Annual Meeting Happening June 11–12 in scenic Sedona, this event is a must-attend for anyone involved in cotton production or ag policy. Register at azcottongrowers.org

• Women’s Leadership Summer Conference: "Harvesting Hope" Don’t miss this incredible two-day event in Flagstaff, July 9–10, hosted by Arizona Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee. Wednesday’s breakout sessions will happen aboard a train to the Grand Canyon—a unique opportunity to connect and learn in one of Arizona’s most beautiful locations.

•  Open to everyone, this conference focuses on networking, leadership, and staying up-to-date on Arizona agriculture. Register HERE!

Stay Connected

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s update from Arizona Agriculture Connection. Join us next time as we chat with Shawn Wood about the powerful and growing impact of women in agriculture.

Stay safe, stay involved, and keep growing, Arizona!