Two prominent organizations in the agricultural sector are joining forces in 2025 to enhance educational and networking opportunities for professionals across the nation. The National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) is co-hosting its annual conferences with the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation (NASDA Foundation), aiming to create a platform for discussion and learning about critical agricultural legal issues.
“We’re really excited to be able to offer both of these programs again, and especially to continue to grow them by co-hosting with our friends at the NASDA Foundation. It’s an exciting time,” remarked NALC Director Harrison Pittman. The collaboration signifies a commitment to fostering dialogue among agricultural stakeholders, ensuring that the legal landscape evolves in accordance with the needs of the industry.
The two key events are the 12th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference and the 3rd Annual Western Water, Agricultural, and Environmental Law Conference, both scheduled for June 2025. Registration for these conferences is now open online, with a livestream option available for those unable to attend in person. Participants can also earn continuing legal education credits and continuing education from the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
The Mid-South conference will take place on June 5-6 in Memphis, Tennessee, commencing with an informal gathering at The Peabody Memphis, followed by the popular “Beer & BBQ” dinner at The Rendezvous. The main conference program is set for June 6 at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. Attendees who register by May 13 can benefit from an “Early Bird” online session in May, which offers three additional hours of CLE and CE.
This year’s Mid-South conference features a diverse agenda, headlined by a keynote address from Wes Ward, the head of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and president of NASDA. Other notable sessions include discussions on legal developments in agriculture, legal ethics, and updates on vital legislative issues such as the Farm Bill and EPA regulations. Presenters include experienced professionals from various sectors of agriculture, ensuring that the topics addressed are relevant and timely.
Simultaneously, the Western Water, Agricultural, and Environmental Law Conference will be held on June 19-20 in Reno, Nevada, at the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino. This conference is particularly pertinent as it focuses on legal and policy challenges that affect the agricultural and food industries in Western states. Pittman noted, “Issues impacting Western U.S. agriculture have significant influence for the entire country’s ag community. There is a lot that’s at play in the West. We’re excited to head back to Reno to connect with and learn from these talented presenters.”
The Western conference will cover a range of topics, including Fourth Amendment rights concerning agriculture, water quality issues, and the implications of federal-private land ownership. Presentations will feature insights from state department leaders and legal experts, fostering a collaborative environment for sharing knowledge and strategies.
Both conferences represent an important opportunity for legal professionals, students, and agricultural practitioners to engage with current issues facing the industry. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, these events will provide critical insights and connections that can help shape the future of agriculture in the United States. Registration and further details for both the Mid-South and Western conferences can be found on the NALC’s official website, ensuring that participants have easy access to the information they need to take part in these invaluable learning experiences.