Arkansas became a primary peanut-producing state under the Peanut Promotion, Research, and Information Order on March 24, 2014, with the publication in the Federal Register of the final rule issued by the U. S. Department of Agriculture.
“I am pleased the National Peanut Board and the U. S. Department of Agriculture officially recognized Arkansas as a primary peanut producing state,” said Butch Calhoun, Arkansas’s Secretary of Agriculture.
“Arkansas has the right soil, climate and adequate water to grow high quality peanuts, and the crop fits well into the rotation cycle of our other major crops. This designation recognizes the commitment of Arkansas producers and the companies that have invested in Arkansas to continue to grow the industry and gives Arkansans a greater voice on the National Peanut Board as a full member.”
Under the Order, primary peanut-producing states must maintain a 3-year average of at least 10,000 tons of peanuts. Primary peanut producing states also have a seat on the National Peanut Board to ensure the Board’s representation reflects changes in the geographical distribution of peanut production.
Prior to the designation of Arkansas as a primary peanut producing state, Kyle Baltz of Pocahontas served as the at-large alternate member of the Board.
“We are excited to have achieved primary status on the National Peanut Board in a short time period. This acknowledgement is the result of the hard work of the Arkansas Peanut Growers Association and once again demonstrates the skill and flexibility of Arkansas farmers,” said Baltz.
Nominations and an election will be held to elect the new board member soon.
