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Publication reveals soil lab use, fertility findings for blackberries, row crops, forages

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4:56 pm

Publication reveals soil lab use, fertility findings for blackberries, row crops, forages

By Maddie Johnson
University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station

When you test more than 200,000 soil samples in a year, you not only learn something about how Arkansans grow crops, gardens and lawns, but also the value of recommendations that result from soil test results.

Each year, the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station publishes the Wayne E. Sabbe Arkansas Soil Fertility Studies. The latest edition, released in spring, features 12 research reports prepared by scientists with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas.

This edition includes investigations into the effects of fertilization on row crops, blackberries, forage and soil, plant tissue nutrient testing and perceptions of stakeholders when it comes to the state’s public soil testing program.

Each year, the feature article summarizes the chemical properties of soil samples to the Arkansas Soil Testing Program. In 2023, Arkansas clients submitted a record of 201,896 soil samples — representing approximately 1.5 million acres of land — to the experiment station’s Marianna Soil Test Lab. The article found that row crop use accounted for 74 percent of sampled acreage, hay and pasture uses accounted for 15 percent, and home lawns and gardens accounted for 2.3 percent. Mississippi County submitted the most samples, with 26,953; Clay was next at 23,141 and Poinsett County was third with 22,669 samples.

A study led by Aurelie Poncet, assistant professor with the crop, soil, and environmental sciences department, found that 81 percent of those who submitted samples to the soil test lab used lime and fertilizer recommendations from the Division of Agriculture to improve soil fertility.

“We have a very comprehensive record each year about the status of soil fertility across the state of Arkansas,” said Nathan Slaton, who edited the publication and serves as associate vice president for agriculture and assistant director of the experiment station.

Slaton noted how the publication’s reports are of interest to a variety of stakeholders, from horticulturists to rice producers, reflecting the widely applicable nature of the work.

The online publication sees hundreds of downloads from across the United States — and the world — Slaton said. Ultimately, the publication helps university researchers validate or develop new fertilizer and soil nutrient management recommendations.

“It’s important that as production systems change and new genetics are released into the hands of farmers … that soil fertility data that evaluates the reliability of soil test information is checked over time,” Slaton said.

The 2024 Arkansas Soil Fertility Studies include:

Arkansas soil-test summary for samples collected in 2023
Sulfate runoff dynamics from edge-of-field losses at selected Arkansas Discovery Farms
Potassium fertilization effects on cotton yield and tissue-K concentration in Arkansas
Assessment of potassium loss by runoff in different cotton production systems
Bermudagrass forage yield and soil test response to phosphorus and potassium fertilization
Verifying nitrogen rate recommendations for blackberry grown in Arkansas
Effectiveness of in-season potassium fertilization on irrigated corn production
NUMBERS: Nutrient management database for effective rate selection
Assessing producers’ engagement with the services provided by the Marianna Soil Test Laboratory
Updated profit-maximizing potash fertilizer recommendations for corn
Cotton response to nitrogen on silt loam soils: Year two results
Cover crop and phosphorus and potassium application rate effects on soil-test values and cotton yield

Leading free soil testing

All Arkansans can submit soil for free testing thanks to the Arkansas Fertilizer Tonnage Fee Program. Fertilizer tonnage fees are used to support routine soil testing services, soil fertility research, and the regulation and enforcement of fertilizer-related laws that benefit both farmers and the broader public.

Residents can submit soil samples to an Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service county office, which will then forward them to the Marianna lab. These extension offices are located in each of Arkansas’ 75 counties. The extension service is the outreach arm of the Division of Agriculture.

The lab’s routine analysis sheds light on soil pH and nutrient availability for selected nutrients, providing recommendations to achieve optimal soil fertility based on crop. The testing is used by individuals from golf course superintendents and farmers to home gardeners and landscapers.

Poncet’s study assessed producers’ use and satisfaction when it comes to the Marianna lab. Researchers collected 98 responses that were considered representative of Arkansas producers’ practices.

Responses revealed that most of the state’s producers collect soil samples to inform their management practices and use the free soil testing services provided by Marianna lab. Overall, most Arkansas producers are satisfied with the lab and its services.

The Marianna lab, which is the second-largest public soil testing program in the United States, accounts for 80 to 85 percent of the analysis for all of the samples collected in Arkansas, according to Slaton.

To learn more about the Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website. Follow us on X at @ArkAgResearch, subscribe to the Food, Farms and Forests podcast and sign up for our monthly newsletter, the Arkansas Agricultural Research Report. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit uada.edu. Follow us on X at @AgInArk. To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit uaex.uada.edu.

Americans for Prosperity Partners with Senator Mark Johnson for Community Giveback Event

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4:48 pm

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Americans for Prosperity Partners with Senator Mark Johnson for Community Giveback Event

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Ben Geren Park Celebrates Grand Opening of New Pickleball Courts

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Ben Geren Park Celebrates Grand Opening of New Pickleball Courts

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Chapman Announces Candidacy for Scott County Sheriff

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1:49 pm

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Chapman Announces Candidacy for Scott County Sheriff

Hello citizens of Scott County. My name is Mark Chapman, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for Scott County Sheriff in the upcoming 2026 election.

I was raised in Mena, Arkansas, and graduated from Mena High School in 1997. Prior to graduation, I enlisted in the Arkansas National Guard and later transitioned into active service with the United States Army. After receiving an honorable discharge, I leveraged the leadership skills I gained during my military service to begin my business venture. Since 2005, I have cofounded, founded, led, and expanded multiple successful businesses across various states throughout the country.

After relocating to Scott County, I acted upon a lifelong dream, pursuing a career in law enforcement. I graduated from ALETA Basic Law Enforcement-Police Training, finishing 3rd academically in my class and went on to serve as a police officer for the Waldron Police Department. I’m committed to continual growth in this field, having completed extensive law enforcement classes and training to ensure that I can serve my community to the best of my abilities. Today, I proudly serve as a reserve officer with the Waldron Police Department.

If elected as your sheriff, my mission is to serve and protect with integrity and compassion, while keeping our community safe. I believe in a community-centric approach where every citizen feels protected, valued, and heard. By focusing on education, prevention, and collaboration, TOGETHER, we can address the root causes of crime.

Join me in fostering a strong partnership between law enforcement and the community.

Let’s create programs that uplift our youth, engage families, and ensure that every voice is heard in shaping our public safety.

Scott County is my home, and I take great pride in our community.

Vote Mark Chapman for Sheriff – A Vote for Our Future: Together, we can create a safer, brighter future for Scott County.

Obituary: Kenneth Lee (1942-2025)

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12:54 pm

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Kenneth Mac Lee of Waldron, Arkansas, entered Heaven on May 20, 2025, with his family by his side. Mac was born on April 15, 1942, in Waldron, to Bud and Glen Lee. He was 83 years old. Mac was a faithful member of Haw Creek Baptist Church and lived by his strong dedication and devotion to Christ.

Mac graduated from Waldron High School in 1961 and served in the United States Army from 1962-1965. He married the love of his life, Wanda Plummer, on October 23, 1965. They were happily married for 59 ½ years and raised two daughters together, Lisa and Cindy.

Mac retired from Tyson Foods after working there for many years. He loved to hunt and fish and took his grandchildren with him often and each has developed their own love for everything outdoors. Always with a big ol’ warm smile and a handshake, Mac never met a stranger. He enjoyed visiting with everyone he ran into and made everyone feel like a friend.

Mac leaves behind his beloved wife Wanda Lee, daughter Lisa Franklin and husband Nathan, daughter Cindy Mitchell and husband Jason, five grandchildren, Mandi Edgar (Eric), Jake Pennington (Hannah), Luke Pennington (Kinsey), Jackson and Jonathan Mitchell. He was blessed with eight great grandchildren: Steven, Madi, and Jeremiah Edgar, Karmen Kesterson, Mags and Capton Pennington, Nash and Kase Pennington. He is survived by four siblings, Buddy June Hall, Rita Rhyne (Stan), David Lee (Sherry), Joan Barnett (Randall), one brother in law Donnie Plummer (Barbara) and several nieces and nephews. Mac will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives he impacted including a host of extended family, friends and loved ones dear to his heart.

Mac was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Glen Lee, his in-laws Ivan and Lois Plummer, and one nephew Wyatt McGaugh.

Mac’s pallbearers will be Jake Pennington, Luke Pennington, Jackson Mitchell, Jonathan Mitchell, Eric Edgar and Steven Edgar.

Mac’s celebration of life service will be on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 10:00 am the at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron, Arkansas with Bro. Jake Pennington officiating. Arrangements are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Mac’s visitation will be on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.

District Judge Michael Wagoner Announces Candidacy for Sebastian County Circuit Court Division

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8:37 pm

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District Judge Michael Wagoner Announces Candidacy for Sebastian County Circuit Court Division

Greenwood, AR — The Honorable Michael Wagoner, currently serving as District Judge of the Sebastian County District Court–Greenwood District, has officially announced his candidacy for Circuit Court Judge in Division 1 of the Sebastian County Circuit Court. Judge Wagoner is seeking to succeed the Honorable Stephen Tabor, who is retiring after 40 years of distinguished service to the county. The election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

“With deep respect for the judicial system and a commitment to fairness and justice, I am honored to announce my candidacy for Circuit Court Judge,” said Judge Wagoner. “Throughout my career, I have worked to uphold the law with integrity and impartiality while serving the people of Sebastian County. I am eager to bring my experience, work ethic, and judicial philosophy to the circuit court to ensure that our community continues to have a strong and principled judiciary. I am grateful to Judge Tabor for his leadership and dedication to serving the residents of Sebastian County.”

Division 1 of the Circuit Court is a criminal and specialty court division, a role Judge Wagoner is uniquely prepared to undertake. Since being elected District Judge in May 2012 and taking the bench in January 2013, he has presided over a wide array of cases, including criminal, civil, small claims, and traffic matters. His innovative approach to justice has included the implementation of alternative sentencing programs, collaborating with organizations such as Harbor House, The Guidance Center, and the Fort Smith Public Schools Adult Education Center to provide outpatient drug counseling options for misdemeanor offenders.

Judge Wagoner’s legal career spans more than 25 years. Before his judicial appointment, he served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Sebastian County from 1999 to 2012. During his tenure, he handled cases in both district and circuit courts, including juvenile court, and from 2001 to 2006, served as the office’s domestic violence prosecutor. In circuit court, he prosecuted some of the county’s most serious criminal cases, including murders, robberies, and sexual assaults. He also contributed as an instructor at the Fort Smith Police Department’s law enforcement academy.

A graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville School of Law, Judge Wagoner earned his Juris Doctor in 1999. He is a member of the Sebastian County Bar Association and the Arkansas District Judges Association.

Judge Wagoner’s candidacy has already drawn strong endorsements from local legal professionals.

“In my experience with Judge Wagoner as a prosecutor and judge, he has always been fair in applying the law to protect crime victims,” said Fort Smith attorney Veronica Bryant. “He treats everyone in his courtroom with kindness and respect—qualities that will make him an excellent Circuit Court Judge.”

“Michael Wagoner’s compass is true north. He’s honest, and he will judge the people fairly,” said attorney Stephen Sharum.

“I am proud to support Judge Michael Wagoner for Circuit Judge. He has the depth of experience, knowledge of the law, and proven judicial demeanor we need in the position,” added attorney Rex Terry.

Judge Wagoner’s campaign is rooted in his long-standing commitment to justice and public service. “I am running for Circuit Court Judge because I believe in the fundamental principles of justice and fairness,” he said. “It is crucial that our courts remain a place where the law is applied with consistency and without bias, and where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.”

Born and raised in Mansfield, Arkansas, Judge Wagoner’s deep roots in Sebastian County have shaped his lifelong dedication to public service. He actively participates in community outreach, speaking at schools and career fairs to educate young people about the judicial system. Outside the courtroom, he serves as Awana director, Sunday school teacher, and deacon at Fellowship Baptist Church.

Judge Wagoner and his wife of 27 years, Tonya, are proud parents of three daughters—Rachel James (Tyler), Rheding Melton (Jake), and Raylee—and have three grandchildren. The Wagoners are active members of the Greenwood School District and their local church community. Tonya, a dedicated educator, has taught in Greenwood classrooms for 29 years.

With a record of service and a vision for the future, Judge Michael Wagoner is entering the race for Circuit Court Division 1 with broad support and a commitment to continuing a legacy of fairness, integrity, and community trust.

Gun Owners of Arkansas Hosts Exclusive Tour at Nighthawk Custom

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4:25 pm

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Gun Owners of Arkansas Hosts Exclusive Tour at Nighthawk Custom

Gun Owners of Arkansas (GO-AR) had the distinct privilege of organizing a private, members-only tour at the renowned Nighthawk Custom manufacturing plant in Berryville, Arkansas. This special event brought together numerous GO-AR members, elected officials, and political candidates from across the state to experience firsthand the craftsmanship and dedication that make Nighthawk Custom an industry leader in firearms manufacturing.

The tour offered an inside look at the advanced facility, which houses multiple departments staffed by skilled professionals. From the precision machining of raw blanks to the expert gunsmithing, meticulous quality control, finishing, and final shipment, every stage of the process reflects the company’s commitment to excellence. CEO Mark Stone warmly welcomed guests and shared the remarkable story of Nighthawk Custom, from its humble beginnings to its status as one of the most respected names in the industry today.

Longtime GO-AR member Ed Garner was selected in a drawing for a highly coveted Nighthawk Custom Vice President 1911 pistol. (Photos courtesy of GO-AR)

GO-AR extends heartfelt gratitude to Nighthawk Custom for their hospitality and for providing a rare behind-the-scenes look at their world-class operation. The staff took the time to engage with guests, offering detailed explanations of the artistry and engineering behind their handcrafted firearms. Their passion for their work was evident, making the tour both educational and inspiring.

Following the tour, GO-AR members gathered for a meal generously hosted by Representative James Eaton and Corner Stone Bank. This event was more than just a tour—it was a celebration of our community’s dedication to protecting Second Amendment rights and supporting local industry.

One of the highlights of the day was the drawing for a highly coveted Nighthawk Custom Vice President 1911 pistol. Congratulations to longtime GO-AR member Ed Garner, who took home this incredible prize—well-deserved recognition for his continued support of GO-AR.

Additionally, attendees were granted access to “The Vault,” an exclusive collection featuring rare and high-end firearms, including Nighthawk’s first-ever pistol and their latest innovations. It was a true paradise for firearm enthusiasts, and we highly encourage others to visit Nighthawk Custom for an unforgettable experience.

GO-AR extends a sincere thank you to Mark Stone and the entire Nighthawk Custom team for making this event an unforgettable success. To learn more about their exceptional work, visit Nighthawk Custom’s website, and if you’re ever in the Berryville area, don’t miss the opportunity to witness their outstanding craftsmanship firsthand.

Timepiece: Some Where, No More

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By Dr. Curtis Varnell

Old maps of Arkansas indicate many communities which are no more. No longer does Golden City, Zinc, Monte Ne, Forrester, or Napoleon exist. Once vibrant towns, all that stands today is stones from the foundations or, in some cases a few rural homes forming a small community. One of the more unusual disappearing cities is Lewisburg, once the county seat of Conway County. Its story and disappearance reflect what occurred in many of these small towns – being located at the wrong place at the wrong time in history.

Lewisburg established by settler Stephen Lewis in 1925, was a one of the most important towns along the Arkansas River from Little Rock to Fort Smith. Originally formed as a trading post with local natives, it became an important steamboat stop and refueling station. Located just a few miles south of present-day Morrilton, it had a reputation of being one of the central commerce sites for the region. Cotton and farm products were shipped to market from the steamboat landing and a ferry provided transportation back and forth across the river.

With a sizable population and a growing community, in 1831 it became the county seat. Lewisburg was incorporated in 1844. By mid-century, the town contained a cotton gin, two sawmills, two gristmills, a flour mill and many more businesses. Visitors could find entertainment in the local hotels, saloons, and even an opera house. It became an important stop along the trail of tears and later the Butterfield stage and other stage lines passed through its streets.

Its location as a significant river port lead to its occupation by Union forces during the civil war. Occupied in September of 1863, it remained occupied until August of 1865. During that time, it was used as a Union refugee camp. Families poured into the town from the surrounding area, leading to poor sanitation, food shortages and the dreaded small pox. Untold numbers of the refugees perished from the severe conditions.

Like much of the River Valley, Conway County was divided over the issues surrounding the Civil war and bitterness and hatred existed between neighbors.

Colonel Abraham Ryan commanded the Third Arkansas Cavalry and was assisted by a group of Union supporters called the William’s Raiders. Opposing them was an assortment of soldiers lead by another local, Colonel Allen Witt and the Quitman Rifles. The greatest conflict between the two groups occurred on Feb. 12, 1865, on the Lewisburg to Dover Road. The Union troops prevailed but about thirty members of the guerilla force escaped to Center ridge in north Conway County. The group traveled to the residence of Captain Williams, called him out, and shot him as he stood in the doorway. The episode set off a series of retaliatory events, some of which transcended the ending of the war. The Williams group eventually killed more than half-of the Witt family and their associates. The breakdown of law and order resulted in thievery, killings, and theft that continued throughout reconstruction. Governor Powell Clayton eventually declared martial law in the county and tried to restore civility.

The railroad had surveyed Conway county prior to the war and it was assumed that the rail would be laid through the county seat. In 1875, the Little Rock and Fort Smith railroad began laying track. They railroad asked the city to donate two-thousand dollars to lay the rail through the town. Feeling the railroad was bluffing, town leaders refused to pay. Two businessmen from the county, Edward Morrill and James Moose offered to donate the land to build the railroad if they would route the train about a mile and a half further north. Lewisburg was bypassed and people began moving businesses closer to the new rail station. By 1879, the new community contained over 800 residents and deemed it time to incorporated. The first station agent, Captain J.W. Boot is said to have flipped a coin to determine whether to name the town after Morrill or Moose. Fortunately, Morrill became the winner of the toss and the town became Morrilton. Mooseton just doesn’t sound like a name to attract new residents or businesses!

Eventually a bridge was built across the river, the ferry closed, and the residents scattered throughout the county. Today, the only item to remind of the past town is an historical plaque. The town, once a county seat, is no more.