Ag Law In The Field

I had so much fun chatting with Chip English, a dairy industry lawyer based in Washington, DC.  Chip shares his unique childhood, the story of his career, and his advice for younger attorneys.  You don't want to miss this episode!   Contact Information for Chip English Website Email address: chipenglish@dwt.com   Links to Other Topics Mentioned  American Agricultural Law Association (AALA) Fore Square in Portland, ME National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) USDA Dairy Information Hoard's Dairyman The Milkweed  

I cannot tell you how many questions I've gotten about legal issues surrounding data centers on rural land.  Chris Nichols, an attorney who has worked on these deals in a number of different capacities, joined me to chat about the various legal issues that arise, questions folks should be asking, and what the future might look like when it comes to data centers.   Contact Info for Chris Nichols Website Phone: 806-771-1850   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show  Podcast episode on options and rights of first refusal   Thank you to our 2026 Podcast Sponsors!

It would not be the holiday season without our Ag Law Year in Review podcast episode.  My friend, Paul Goeringer, joins me to talk through our list of top ten ag law issues for 2025.   Contact Info for Paul: (Email)  lgoering@umd.edu (Twitter)  @aglawpaul (Blog)  http://agrisk.umd.edu/  (Podcast)  https://marylandagpodcast.org/    Topics Mentioned on the Show: Blog post discussing top ag law issues 2fifty bbq restaurant What the One Big Beautiful Bill Means for Agriculture episode with Dr. Justin Benavidez Article on air emissions reporting exemption for livestock and poultry operations   Sponsors

I heard Misty Wilson Borkowski speak at the recent American Agricultural Law Association Conference, and I immediately knew we needed to have her on the podcast.  She joins me today to talk about how farms, ranches, and agribusinesses can prepare for immigration enforcement. Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Contact info for Misty Wilson Borkowski Restaurant recommendation:  The Fold, Little Rock, AR How to keep up with ag law news: AILA; farm association publications; Southern Farming Facebook group   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, AgTexas, and Texas Farm Bureau  

In this episode, I welcome back Garrett Couts to unpack the often-confusing world of rights of first refusal and option agreements in agricultural land transactions. Whether you're buying, selling, or leasing property, understanding these legal tools can make a big difference in protecting your interests and planning for the future. Tune in to learn what these terms really mean, how they're used in farm and ranch deals, and what to watch out for before signing on the dotted line.   Contact Info for Garrett Couts Website   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Previous Podcast Episodes The West Table  Trattoria Alberto of Capital Hill    Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, AgTexas, and Texas Farm Bureau  

In this episode, one of our favorites, Jim Bradbury is back, and he also brought special guest Lynn Sherman in to discuss the latest updates and developments in Texas groundwater law. From recent court cases to evolving management strategies, this conversation dives into the complexities of water rights, groundwater conservation districts, and how changing legal landscapes affect landowners, agricultural producers, and rural communities across the state. Contact Info for Lynn Sherman (Email)  (Website)  Contact Info for Jim Bradbury   (Email)   (Website) (Twitter) @jimbluewind   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Jim Bradbury Prior Podcasts Doug Caroom - Texas Groundwater Law Supreme Court Case - Cactus Water Services Terry Black's Barbeque  Cisco's - Austin, Texas   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, AgTexas, and Texas Farm Bureau  

This episode dives into one of the most important steps in any land purchase: due diligence. Guest Audra Rod Smith joins the conversation to share practical tips and legal insights on what buyers (and sellers) need to know before closing a deal.

It is time for our recap of the Texas Legislative Session when it comes to agriculture.  Our friend, J Pete Laney, is back with us once again.  J Pete and I talk through several key bills related to Texas agriculture this session.  It's always fun to chat with J Pete and get his on-the-ground knowledge about what's going on in Austin. Do note this episode was recorded on August 25, 2025.  With the ongoing special session, there may have been changes to bills considered in the special session since this time.  In particular, this is true for HB 27 related to groundwater in the Trinity Valley Groundwater Conservation District. Contact Info for J Pete Laney (website) http://www.jpetelaneylaw.com/ (phone) 512-473-0404 Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Senate Bills  SB 7 - Relating to the oversight and financing of certain water infrastructure matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Water Development Board. SB 17 - Relating to the purchase or acquisition of an interest in real property by certain aliens or

I’m excited to be joined by my friend Dr. Justin Benavidez, who serves as the Chief Economist for the House Committee on Agriculture. We’re going to dig into what’s being called “The Big Beautiful Bill” and talk through what it really means for agriculture and rural communities. Justin brings a front-row perspective from the policy and economic side in D.C., and I can’t wait for you to hear his insights.   Contact Info for Dr. Justin Benavidez (Email) Justin.Benavidez@mail.house.gov   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Big Beautiful Bill   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas

One of our favorites is back, Jim Bradbury!  We're diving into some major updates straight from the Texas Supreme Court. Listen in as we break down two pivotal cases making waves in rural and regulatory circles—Myers-Woodward and Cactus Water Services. These decisions could have far-reaching implications for landowners, water rights, and regulatory authority in the Lone Star State. If you’re involved in agriculture, land use, or Texas water law—you won’t want to miss this one.  Contact Info for Jim Bradbury (Email) jim@bradburycounsel.com  (Website) http://bradburycounsel.com/ (Twitter) @jimbluewind   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show American Agricultural Law Association Blog Post - Myers-Woodward, LLC v. Underground Services Markham, LLC Myers-Woodward, LLC v. Underground Services Markham, LLC Blog Post - Cactus Water Services, LLC v. COG Operating, LLC.  Cactus Water Services, LLC v. COG Operating, LLC.  Angelo's BBQ - Fort Worth    Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Co

In this episode, we're diving into a critical legal issue that affects landowners across the country — the Open Fields Doctrine. Our guests, Robert Frommer and Joshua Windham of the Institute for Justice, break down how this century-old legal doctrine allows government officials to enter private rural land without a warrant. If you own land, work in agriculture, or care about constitutional rights, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.   Contact info for Robert Frommer Website Contact info for Joshua Windham Website Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Devillier v. Texas - Blog George Mason Law Review Forum The Open Fields Doctrine: America's "Uncommon" Mistake Indochen Pepe's Pizzeria Napoletana   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas  

In this episode, we're joined by Cahil Murchison for an insightful discussion on the legal landscape surrounding vineyards and wineries. Whether you're a seasoned vintner or just exploring the idea of starting a vineyard, this episode offers practical guidance and legal insight to help navigate the complexities of the industry.   Contact info for Cahil Murchison (Phone) - 512.894.5426 Website   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Farm House Vineyards:  Texas Agriculture Legislation Newsletter:   Podcast with Cassie Gresham on easements/landlocked property TABC Winery Permit Information:   Book - From Demon to Darling   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas  

Today, we are diving into an incredibly important topic that’s making headlines across the country—PFAS contamination and its impact on agriculture. Joining me for Episode #202 is Jason Hill, an attorney with extensive experience navigating environmental regulations and agricultural law. We’ll explore what PFAS are, how they’re affecting farmers and ranchers, and the legal and regulatory issues of which ag producers and rural landowners should be aware. Whether you’re a landowner, ag attorney, or just curious about environmental issues in rural America, this episode is packed with insight you don’t want to miss.   Contact info for Jason Hill (Phone) 512-806-1060 (Website) https://jthill.com/   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Jason Hill Previous Episodes Mary-Thomas Hart (PFAS and Agriculture) Blog Posts on PFAS Cases in Johnson County Matt's El Rancho Spanky's     Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land &

Join us for Episode #201 of the Ag Law in the Field Podcast as we delve into the exciting world of Agrivoltaics with special guest Hannes Zetzsche! Discover how solar energy and agriculture can not only coexist but thrive together, offering innovative solutions for sustainable land use and power generation. Don't miss this insightful conversation!   Contact Info for Hannes Zetzsche Website Email: lhzetzsche@bairdholm.com   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Progressive Cattlemen Article Dish Downtown   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas  

Today marks a very special milestone for us here at the podcast. We are incredibly excited and honored to bring you our 200th episode! To celebrate this momentous occasion, we have a truly unique and heartwarming conversation for you. Today, we're stepping away from our usual legal deep dives to bring you an interview with one of my favorite people, Lois Dowell, my Gran. This is an audio recording from a highschool project in 2002 and our family is so grateful that we were able to capture these memories. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join us for Episode #200 of Ag Law in the Field, featuring the wonderful Lois Dowell. You won't want to miss it! Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Episode #100 with Tiffany’s Dad Gran’s favorite candy recipe  https://www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/web/ag/news/article/2023/11/01/taste-family-tradition A couple of Gran stories https://www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/web/ag/news/article/2019/06/01/one-dandy-scheme   https://alwaysafarmkid.wordpress.com/2024/05/08/gran-and-her-rew

In this episode we are welcoming back Leah Davis to talk about an important estate planning issue.  Before you leave land as an undivided interest, or inherit land titled this way, it is critical that you understand the concept of partition and how it can affect you and your land.    Contact Info for Leah Davis Website Email: ldavis@bmwb-law.com   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Prior Podcasts by Leah Prior Podcast by Shannon Ferrell   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas      

May is Mental Health Awareness Month.  The topic of mental health is one that is near and dear to my heart.  Because of that, we host podcast episodes each year related to this topic.  To see a complete list of mental health-related episodes, click here. Today, we are thrilled to have Chelsey Byers with us to chat with us about dementia and agriculture.  Chelsey has a vast array of experiences with this issue and offers practical tips and pointers for families navigating this challenging diagnosis. Contact Info for Chelsey Byers (Email)  clbyers@illinois.edu  (Website) https://extension.illinois.edu/staff/chelsey-byers  Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Farm Families Coping with Dementia (FFCD) Study link - https://gpcah.public-health.uiowa.edu/dementia-educational/ Dementia Stats - https://dementiadatahub.org/explore-data/map.html What is Dementia - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s10iPESAHmI&t=1s Local Area Agency on Aging (AAA):  In Texas, search by zip code here - https://resources.hhs.texas.gov/p

There has been a lot of buzz recently about the residual soil fertility tax deduction.  We've got the facts and advice from two of the best in the business on this episode with Kristine Tidgren and Dario Arezzo! Before you purchase land or take a residual soil fertility deduction, this is a must-listen!   Contact Info for Kristine Tidgren (Email) ktidgren@iastate.edu (Website) https://www.ageds.iastate.edu/people/kristine-tidgren    Contact Info for Dario Arezzo  (Email)  dario.arezzo@farmcrediteast.com  (Website) https://www.farmcrediteast.com/en/resources/meet-the-authors      Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Considering the Residual Fertility Deduction   Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas  

In this episode of the Ag Law in the Field Podcast, Judith McGeary delves into the intricacies of Texas Cottage Food Law. If you're a home baker, a small-scale food producer, or simply curious about the regulations surrounding selling homemade food in Texas, this episode is a must-listen.   Contact Info for Judith McGeary (Email) Judith@farmandranchfreedom.org (Website) https://farmandranchfreedom.org/about/team/    Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Laboratory Services Requests for Official Determination on Food Regulations Texas Cottage Food Production House Bill 2952 Senate Bill 2099 Senate Bill 541 House Bill 520 House Bill 2588 Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance National Ag Law Center 50 State Compilation of Cottage Food Laws   FARFA Cottage Food Law page   More info on Texas Cottage Food Law     Podcast Sponsors Capital Farm Credit,  AgTrust Farm Credit, Texas Corn Producers, Braun & Gresham, Plains Land Bank, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management, and AgTexas  

Understanding your property tax bill is crucial for any landowner, but what happens when you think it's wrong? In this episode, we dive into part two of this series on protesting your property taxes with Dr. Blake Bennett. Learn about the steps you need to take to challenge your assessment. Don't miss this essential information for Texas landowners!   Contact Info for Blake Bennett (Email) b-bennett@tamu.edu (Phone) 972-952-9273   Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Dr. Bennett previous podcasts Protesting Your Property Taxes: Part 1