Leaders gather to discuss securing agriculture future
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is set to welcome the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) 2025 Annual Meeting from September 14 to 17 in Rogers, Arkansas. The gathering will bring together secretaries, commissioners, and directors of agriculture from all 50 states, four territories, and leaders across the U.S. food and farming sector.
Themed “Securing Our Future Through Agriculture,” the event will focus on strengthening the nation’s agricultural systems through innovation, policy discussions, and collaboration. Arkansas’s role as a leader in agriculture will be highlighted, alongside its contributions to supporting farmers, families, and rural communities.
The agenda features several high-profile panels, including a Food Innovation and Consumer Panel with Walmart and Tyson Foods, introduced by Tyson Foods CEO Donnie King. Another session, Water, Rice, and Ducks Panel, will explore the link between farming, water management, and wildlife conservation, with contributions from USA Rice Chairman Keith Glover and Arkansas rice farmer Mark Isbell.
Federal leaders will also join the meeting, sharing national priorities and opportunities for stronger state-federal partnerships. “Agriculture is national security and is critical to our everyday lives. It is an honor for us to serve as President of NASDA and host this year’s annual meeting,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “The NASDA Annual Meeting is a great opportunity to showcase Arkansas agriculture while addressing the most pressing issues facing farmers and ranchers nationwide.”