AgWire

Welcome to AgWire — your direct line to what’s really happening in agriculture. From the rolling fields of crop production to the cutting-edge tools of precision ag, this page delivers real-time updates, honest conversations, and industry voices that matter. Whether it’s a rancher in the Flathead Valley using drones, or a nationwide podcast on livestock trends, AgWire connects you to the people, tech, and stories shaping agriculture today. You’ll find the good, the bad, and everything in between—because understanding ag means seeing it from every angle. Pull up a chair, stay curious, and tune in.

Ag Groups Come Together to Defend North American Trade Deals

m.farms.com/ag-industry-news/u-s-farm-and-food-sectors-urge-caution-on-usmca-changes-691.aspx

Posted November 11, 2025

The article “U.S. farm and food sectors urge caution on United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) changes” (published November 11, 2025) highlights how more than 125 U.S. agriculture and food organizations, led by the National Pork Producers Council, are urging the U.S. Trade Representative to avoid major revisions to the USMCA before its scheduled 2026 review. These groups argue that the agreement has strengthened North American agricultural trade by improving market access, streamlining regulations, and ensuring science-based sanitary and phytosanitary standards. Since its implementation, the USMCA has helped triple agrifood trade among the U.S., Mexico, and Canada to about $285 billion, supporting farm income and rural jobs. The organizations warn that making unnecessary changes could disrupt well-established trade relationships, increase uncertainty for farmers and processors, and negatively impact the stability of food supply chains across the continent.

This topic is important because it affects everyone—from consumers to producers to students preparing for agricultural careers. For consumers, maintaining strong trade agreements helps ensure steady food prices and availability in grocery stores. For producers, stable trade relationships mean reliable export markets and consistent income, which are vital for sustaining operations and supporting rural communities. And for students, understanding policies like the USMCA builds awareness of how international trade shapes food systems, job opportunities, and economic growth in the agriculture industry.

Agriculture In the Media

Social media and agriculture are coming together in exciting new ways, connecting farmers, ranchers, and ag enthusiasts across Montana and beyond. From podcasts sharing expert advice to viral posts highlighting everyday life on the farm, this section brings the stories, innovations, and voices of the agriculture world straight to your feed—making it easy to explore, learn, and stay up to date with everything happening in the industry.

Explore the good and the bad to social media in agriculture.

GOOD

Social media is no longer just a platform for selfies and memes—it’s transforming the way American farmers and ranchers operate, learn, and connect. A 2024 study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that farmers who use social media to promote their goods saw an average 15% increase in sales, thanks to direct access to consumers and reduced reliance on middlemen. High Plains Journal

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are also changing how farmers share their stories. A 2022 survey by Successful Farming revealed that 90% of farmers watch short online videos, such as how-to guides and product reviews, making video a powerful tool for education and marketing. RK Connect

The impact goes beyond marketing. A 2025 study published in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems found that social media usage positively influences agricultural production by optimizing decisions and improving resource allocation, leading to higher selling prices and increased income growth. Frontiers

BAD

While social media has revolutionized how farmers and ranchers connect and share information, it's not without its challenges. A 2025 study published in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems highlighted that, despite the positive effects of social media on agricultural income, there are instances where increased online engagement did not lead to significant financial gains. The study noted that the benefits of social media usage were more pronounced among farmers with higher education levels, larger landholdings, and greater initial income, suggesting that access to digital platforms may not be equally beneficial for all farmers. Frontiers

Moreover, the pressure to maintain an active and appealing online presence can lead to stress and burnout. A 2024 report from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign found that farmers, particularly men, face higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to the general population. The study emphasized that social support from friends and family plays a crucial role in mitigating these mental health challenges. ResearchGate

Listen and learn about agriculture on the go.

Podcast - Working Ranch Radio Show

Hosted by: Justin Mills, a fourth-generation Wyoming cowboy

Focus: Real-life ranching stories, livestock industry insights, and the heart of Western ranch culture. Features interviews with ranchers and ag experts. A great listen for anyone curious about life on the range in the Mountain West.

Podcast - AgriTalk

Hosted by: Chip Flory, farm broadcaster and ag journalist

Focus: Daily discussions on agricultural issues affecting farmers and ranchers, including production, policy, technology, and market trends. Features expert insights from Farm Journal contributors to help producers stay informed and make better decisions for their operations.

Podcast - Registered Ranching

Hosted by: Tucker Brown, 6th-generation rancher at RA Brown Ranch

Focus: Exploring the ranching lifestyle through engaging conversations with industry professionals, fellow ranchers, and influencers. Topics range from cattle genetics and veterinary care to personal stories and experiences in the ranching world. Aims to bridge the gap between agriculture and food consumers while inspiring ranching enthusiasts.

Read up on your local agriculture blogs and journals.

Montana Agriculture Blogs

Lives & Landscapes - MSU Extension

Lives & Landscapes is a quarterly publication offering practical, research-based information on agriculture, natural resources, and community well-being in Montana. Each issue provides insights into topics such as invasive species management, sustainable farming practices, and local food systems. The magazine serves as a valuable resource for Montanans seeking to enhance their understanding of the state's diverse landscapes and communities. Lives & Landscapes - MSU Extension

Montana Farm Life

Montana Farm Life provides a personal perspective on living and farming in Montana, covering topics such as cattle, horses, chickens, gardening, and more. The blog offers a glimpse into the daily life of a Montana farmer and the joys and challenges of rural living. Montana Farm Life

Montana Farm Bureau Blog

The Montana Farm Bureau Blog offers updates on the federation's activities, promoting agriculture and keeping readers informed about county leaders' efforts in the agricultural community. It's a valuable resource for staying connected with agricultural advocacy and policy developments in Montana. mfbf.org

Flathead Valley Agriculture Blogs

1. Farming Around Flathead Lake

This blog explores the fertile agricultural region around Flathead Lake, known for producing some of Montana's most sought-after fruits and vegetables. It highlights the unique climate and farming practices that make the area ideal for agriculture. Farming Around Flathead Lake

2. Flathead Farmworks

Flathead Farmworks shares the journey of a small urban farm in the Flathead Valley, offering insights into sustainable farming practices, urban agriculture, and the evolution of their farming methods over the years. The blog provides practical advice and inspiration for small-scale farmers and gardeners. Flathead Farmworks

FFA New Horizons

FFA New Horizons is the official magazine of the National FFA Organization, offering a comprehensive look at the world of agricultural education and leadership. Each issue features inspiring stories of FFA members, alumni, and supporters, highlighting their achievements, experiences, and contributions to the agricultural industry. The magazine covers a wide range of topics, including career exploration, leadership development, and the latest trends in agriculture. With both print and digital formats available, FFA New Horizons serves as a valuable resource for FFA members, educators, and anyone interested in the future of agriculture. Fall/Winter 2025 New Horizons Issue