What does the future of farming look in today's world? Who's leading agricultural innovation in the river counties? And how can young people break into an industry where the traditional advice has been "inherit it or marry it"?

Dr. Tony Brannon, former dean of agriculture at Murray State University for 25 years and current leader with the West Kentucky Alliance for a Vibrant Economy (WAVE Ag), joins host Chris Griffin to answer these questions and more. From his childhood on a farm to his decades shaping agricultural education, Dr. Brannon brings wisdom earned from both academic leadership and hands-on farming experience.

The conversation delves into the revolutionary technologies transforming agriculture—autonomous planters operating without drivers and heavy-lift drones capable of spraying 1,000 acres daily. "It's not my granddaddy's agriculture anymore," Brannon explains, describing how modern farmers need technological savvy alongside traditional agricultural knowledge. We also explore the economic importance of the river counties' agricultural production, the progress toward establishing a veterinary school at Murray State to address the shortage of large animal veterinarians, and practical advice for succeeding in today's agricultural landscape.

For aspiring farmers, Brannon emphasizes perseverance, networking, and diversification as key strategies. He explains how the Young and Adult Farmer Program through WAVE Ag provides valuable connections and resources for those entering agriculture, whether they come from farming families or not. As he puts it, farmers must be "eternal optimists" in a profession where success depends on factors beyond their control—from unpredictable weather to volatile markets.

Ready to learn more about the future of farming or connect with agricultural resources in Western Kentucky? Follow Back to Your Roots for more insights into all things farming, financing, and farm life, and visit rivervalleyagcredit.com for additional agricultural resources.

"$95 million returned to members over 30 years, with $4.8 million coming this April." That's the staggering figure River Valley AgCredit CEO Kyle Yancey shares as he breaks down the cooperative's patronage refund program in this revealing conversation.

What exactly is patronage, and why don't traditional banks offer it? Yancey explains the concept using a vivid waterfall analogy, showing how money flows through the organization - first covering operating expenses and capital requirements before cascading back to members. This systematic approach has allowed River Valley to return significant funds to borrowers each year since 1993.

The benefits are substantial and concrete. Patronage effectively reduces member interest rates by an average of 1%, which, when combined with no-cost note modifications, can sometimes create rate advantages of 1.75% or more compared to traditional lenders. As Yancey pointedly asks, "What is your bank giving you?"

A common misconception gets thoroughly debunked: patronage doesn't mean the cooperative overcharges for loans. River Valley is regulatorily required to offer fair, equal pricing and maintains competitive rates.

With patronage checks arriving in early April (now available via direct deposit), members gain a timely financial boost for spring expenses or tax obligations. The cooperative's financial success directly translates to member benefits - a true embodiment of the cooperative principle that sets farm credit apart from other financial institutions.

Ready to maximize your patronage returns? Beyond traditional loans, consider River Valley's additional services like crop insurance, credit life, and equipment leasing. The more business you do with your cooperative, the more you'll see coming back to you when patronage season arrives.

Step into the dynamic realm of land auctions where opportunities abound and strategies can mean the difference between winning and losing. In this engaging episode, we chat with Michael Harris, owner of Harris Real Estate and Auction, who shares his multi-generational expertise in navigating the auction landscape. With an impressive family legacy spanning over four generations, Michael brings invaluable insights into the auction process, emphasizing the importance of preparation for potential buyers and sellers alike.

Throughout our discussion, we unravel the intricacies of bidding, including the often misunderstood buyer's premium, equipping you with knowledge to enter the auction confidently. Michael gives essential tips for first-time bidders, encouraging them to seek guidance and understand what to expect on auction day—navigating bid strategies and property combinations efficiently. Furthermore, he clarifies the distinctions between absolute and reserve auctions, outlining when each method may be most beneficial.

As we dive deeper, Michael discusses current land price trends—from the impact of market dynamics to factors influencing buyer decisions. This is a must-listen for anyone considering land transactions, whether you are looking to buy or sell. Join us as we uncover the secrets of successful land auctions and learn how you can maximize your outcomes. Don’t forget to visit our website and subscribe to Back to Your Roots for more insights to keep you ahead in the agricultural sector!

Join us on "Back to your Roots" as we explore the bustling world of agriculture with Dean Williams, the passionate owner of the Athens Stockyard in Tennessee. Raised amidst the dynamic environment of a dairy farm and family-run grocery stores, Dean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Discover how his early adventures in stockyards shaped his journey to becoming a seasoned cattle trader, transforming the Athens Stockyard from a modest 50-cattle operation to a thriving enterprise handling over 2,000 cattle weekly—all while emphasizing the essential value of respect and collaboration in business.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of the cattle and stockyard industry, gain invaluable insights from seasoned professionals who have weathered economic storms and the shifting tides of market demands. We'll discuss the pressing issue of an aging farmer population and the critical need to engage younger generations through initiatives like 4-H and FFA, ensuring the future vitality of agriculture. Against the backdrop of land development challenges, we delve into strategies that can keep the spirit of farming alive among youth.

The nationwide shortage of large animal veterinarians presents unique challenges for cattle farmers, and we shed light on its impact from a personal and professional perspective. Hear practical advice on making smart investments in genetics and equipment, and learn the importance of perseverance through market fluctuations. This episode emphasizes the supportive dynamics between farmers and lenders, underscoring the significance of adapting strategies to individual circumstances. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with us on social media and share your thoughts on future topics you'd like us to explore as we continue this agricultural journey together.

What shapes a person's journey into politics? Kentucky's Commissioner of Agriculture, Jonathan Shell, joins us to share the influential figures and experiences that led him to public service. From the pivotal guidance of his grandfather to the encouragement of U.S. Congressman James Comer, Jonathan's story is a testament to the power of everyday people making a difference in politics. We explore his admiration for the Kentucky Farm Bureau and Rush Limbaugh, both of which played a significant role in forming his conservative beliefs and igniting his political career. This episode offers a personal glimpse into the values and inspirations that have guided Jonathan's path.

Kentucky's farming community faces unique challenges, and Jonathan Shell is committed to supporting them. Discover the New and Beginning Farmer Loan Program, aimed at empowering young farmers with low-interest loans, and learn about the significance of crop insurance and community support in navigating natural disasters. We also discuss future policy goals to maximize taxpayer resources, promote economic growth, and connect consumers with the origins of their food. Jonathan's dedication to advancing agriculture in the Bluegrass State shines through, as he strives to position Kentucky as a national leader in healthy eating and sustainable practices.

Kentucky's political and agricultural landscape comes alive in our conversation with Steven Rudy, the Kentucky State Representative for the 1st District. Join us as he reminisces about growing up in Ballard County, sharing amusing childhood anecdotes and his longstanding friendship with our CEO, Kyle Yancey. Steven's unique perspective provides a rare glimpse into the distinctive cultural fabric of Western Kentucky, where the challenges and rewards of representing the expansive River Counties are as vast as the land itself.

Steven takes us on a journey through the intricacies of agriculture legislation, revealing how seemingly minor laws, such as those concerning hogs in Hickman County, play a crucial role in preserving Kentucky's agricultural heritage. He shares his vision for the future, including bold plans for a veterinary medicine school at Murray State University and the state's unprecedented investment in public river ports. Through collaborative efforts with Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell, Stephen aims to fortify Kentucky's standing as a leader in the agricultural sector, ensuring the economic vitality of local farms and communities.

Amidst discussing policy challenges, we also celebrate the profound impact of agricultural education programs like 4-H and FFA in fostering leadership and bridging the gap between consumers and producers. Steven delves into the role of institutions like Murray State University's School of Agriculture in nurturing regional growth and preparing new generations for leadership roles. The episode is a testament to the power of communication, education, and legislative leadership in shaping the future of Kentucky's vibrant agricultural community.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Aaron Smith, a distinguished professor and extension economist from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, as he navigates the complex world of agricultural economics. Dr. Smith shares his journey from a farm in Western Canada to becoming an influential figure in understanding economic trends that impact agriculture. Learn how historical data, although often lagging, plays a crucial role in the future of agriculture. We'll unravel the importance of interpreting economic indicators and their varied impact on different agricultural sectors, providing you with a clearer picture of how these insights can guide decision-making in the farming industry.

The episode further explores the indispensable role of immigrant labor through programs like H-2A, crucial for maintaining stability in labor-intensive agriculture. With Dr. Smith's expertise, we examine global market dynamics, focusing on how countries like Brazil and Argentina affect U.S. agriculture, particularly in the soybean sector. Discover how advances in drone technology are not just futuristic fantasies but real tools transforming modern farming with AI and precision applications. As we look towards 2025, Dr. Smith shares strategies for navigating potential shifts in crop prices, highlighting the importance of strong marketing and management strategies to maintain profitability. Get ready to expand your knowledge and gain valuable insights into the evolving agricultural landscape.

Curious about the ever-evolving world of farming and grain marketing? Join us as we sit down with Heather Howell Davis, co-owner of Davis Pork LLC, who candidly shares the inspiring history and innovative strategies behind her family's agricultural success. Heather takes us on a journey through the enduring legacy of Eric Howell Grain in Marshall County, Kentucky, highlighting her grandparents' perseverance and detailing the revamped ehgrain.com website, which now offers up-to-date grain prices, family stories, and exciting employment opportunities. Heather’s firsthand experience sheds light on the unpredictable nature of grain markets, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and a robust marketing plan to ensure the sustainability of farming businesses for future generations.

Discover the intricacies of grain contract options like Hedge to Arrive, basis, and flat price contracts, and learn how these can impact your pricing and profitability. Heather also shares her strategic approach to consistently marketing small portions of crops and the importance of staying informed about market trends and local granary prices. We explore the significant shifts in the farming industry, from the decline of small farms to the rise of large-scale operations equipped with advanced technologies. Tune in for Heather’s practical advice on maintaining profitability, strategic planning, and understanding production costs, all crucial elements for thriving in today’s farming landscape.