October Roundup: Supporting the Next Generation, Advancing Policy & Navigating Drought

October brought another busy month for the Arkansas Cattlemen's Association (ACA), with continued drought conditions, rising input costs and important policy discussions affecting cattle producers across the state.

From state and federal action on diesel fuel to conversations with Arkansas's congressional delegation and opportunities to support the next generation of agriculture, ACA remained focused on advocating for producers and keeping members informed.

Here's a look back at some of the highlights from October.

State and Federal Action Brings Diesel Relief

Rising diesel prices have added another financial challenge for Arkansas cattle producers already facing increased costs for feed, fertilizer, equipment and transportation.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed an executive order temporarily allowing qualifying agricultural and forestry vehicles to use dyed diesel on Arkansas highways without certain state tax penalties.

President Donald Trump followed with a federal executive order providing temporary relief from federal restrictions and deferring applicable federal excise taxes on qualifying highway use of dyed diesel.

Governor Sanders extended Arkansas's temporary relief through December 31, 2026, with an additional executive order signed October 30.

ACA expressed appreciation for both state and federal efforts to recognize the financial pressures facing agriculture. For cattle producers, every dollar saved on operating expenses matters.

While these measures provide welcome short-term relief, ACA continues emphasizing the need for long-term solutions that allow producers to remain profitable and keep affordable, nutritious beef available to consumers.

Drought Continues to Challenge Arkansas Producers

Drought remained one of the most pressing challenges facing Arkansas cattle producers throughout October.

With declining pasture conditions, reduced pond levels and concerns about winter forage supplies, many cattlemen and women continued making difficult management decisions.

Updated drought assessments in late October showed just how significant the accumulated moisture deficits had become. Some regions of Arkansas needed more than 18 inches of rainfall to fully eliminate drought conditions, including south-central and southeastern portions of the state.

Even when rainfall returns, the financial consequences of drought can linger. Producers must rebuild forage supplies, restore pastures and recover from increased feeding expenses.

ACA continued encouraging producers to document conditions on their operations through the Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR) system. These firsthand reports help provide a clearer picture of drought impacts and support more accurate drought assessments.

Drought relief also remains an important part of ACA's federal advocacy efforts, particularly improvements to the Livestock Forage Disaster Program.

ACA Takes Producer Concerns to Elected Officials

Advocacy continued throughout October as ACA leadership met with members of Arkansas's congressional delegation.

ACA President Don Hubbell met with U.S. Senator John Boozman in Waldron to discuss the Farm Bill and other issues facing cattle producers.

As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senator Boozman plays an important role in shaping federal agricultural policy. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the challenges Arkansas cattle producers face and the importance of a Farm Bill that supports livestock operations.

ACA staff and First Vice President Patrick Taylor also met with Congressman Steve Womack to discuss industry concerns and the importance of keeping producers' priorities at the forefront of federal policy discussions.

These conversations help ensure elected officials hear directly from the people affected by the decisions being made in Washington.

Farm Bill Remains a Priority

ACA continued monitoring Farm Bill developments and advocating for provisions important to Arkansas cattle producers.

Key priorities include strengthening livestock disaster assistance, improving foreign animal disease preparedness, supporting rural veterinary services and expanding research into emerging livestock health threats.

Animal health remains especially important as producers continue monitoring New World Screwworm and the spread of Asian longhorned ticks and Theileria.

While progress has been made, additional work remains before a final Farm Bill can be signed into law.

ACA will continue working with Arkansas's congressional delegation and national partners to ensure the final legislation addresses the needs of cow-calf producers and provides practical tools to manage risk.

Cattle Markets Face Continued Uncertainty

October also brought continued discussion about cattle markets, beef imports and the economic pressures facing American producers.

While tight cattle supplies have supported stronger prices, drought, rising production costs and federal import policy have added uncertainty.

University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture livestock economist Dr. James Mitchell noted in late October that cattle market fundamentals should continue supporting prices through the end of 2026, although policy changes and drought conditions could create additional volatility.

ACA remains focused on protecting opportunities for American cattle producers and ensuring government policies do not unnecessarily disrupt markets.

After years of herd liquidation, drought and increased expenses, producers need the opportunity to benefit from stronger cattle prices and reinvest in their operations.

Celebrating Arkansas Youth at AYE and the State Fair

October also provided opportunities to celebrate the next generation of Arkansas agriculture through the Arkansas Youth Expo (AYE) and Arkansas State Fair.

ACA was proud to sponsor the beef arena at AYE this year, supporting an event that gives young exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their hard work and dedication to the livestock industry.

The Arkansas State Fair continued that celebration, bringing together exhibitors and families from across the state. The 2026 Fair welcomed more than 500,000 visitors, with the Sale of Champions raising more than $190,000 to support youth livestock exhibitors.

These events represent more than livestock competitions. They help young people develop responsibility, leadership skills and a lasting connection to agriculture. We congratulate all exhibitors and thank the families, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who make these opportunities possible.

Looking Ahead

As October comes to a close, ACA is preparing for several important activities in November and December, along with gearing up for the 2027 Membership Drive.

ACA is also preparing for the upcoming legislative session, including reviewing prefiled legislation and working with members to identify policy priorities.

Looking toward December, the Association is planning its fourth-quarter State Board meeting alongside county officer training. This will provide an opportunity to strengthen county leadership and help local associations prepare for another successful year.

As always, ACA's work continues beyond meetings and events. From monitoring drought conditions and animal health developments to advocating for sound agricultural policy, our focus remains on representing Arkansas cattle producers.

Stay connected through ACA's weekly newsletter, social media channels and Arkansas Cattle Business for updates.

Thank you for your membership and your continued support of the Arkansas Cattlemen's Association.