The Arkansas Corn and Grain Sorghum Promotion Board has approved $1,266,859 in funding for 28 research and promotion projects aimed at supporting the state’s corn and grain sorghum industries.
The board made the funding decisions at its February 2–3 meeting in Little Rock, selecting projects from 46 proposals that requested more than $2.1 million total. The approved funding will support eight promotion projects totaling $180,182 and 20 research projects totaling $1,086,677 for fiscal year 2027.
“The Arkansas Corn and Grain Sorghum Promotion Board plays a vital role in supporting our state’s corn and grain sorghum farmers,” said Trent Dabbs, board chair. “By investing assessment dollars into research and promotion efforts, the board helps provide the tools and resources producers need to improve profitability and long-term sustainability.”
Promotion projects receiving funding include support for the National Corn Growers Association ($29,500), U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council ($77,082), and various agricultural education programs including Arkansas FFA Foundation ($25,000) and the Ag Learning Center at Four States Fairgrounds ($10,000).
Research projects, all conducted through the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, address topics ranging from irrigation technology improvements ($198,834) to corn and grain sorghum performance testing ($42,491). Other significant research investments include the Corn and Grain Sorghum Research Verification Program ($138,500), nitrogen management studies ($82,078), and weed control in short-stature corn hybrids ($83,840).
The board is funded through a one-cent-per-bushel assessment on corn and grain sorghum grown in Arkansas, collected at the first point of sale. The seven-member board consists of Arkansas producers appointed to two-year terms by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.
More information about the Arkansas Corn and Grain Sorghum Promotion Board is available at agriculture.arkansas.gov.
