The agricultural landscape is fraught with challenges, from fluctuating commodity prices to the increasing frequency of natural disasters. For producers in the Mid-South, these issues can lead to significant financial strain, and in some cases, overwhelming debt. To address these pressing concerns, the 12th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference will host a critical session titled “Dealing with Debt: Practical Considerations in Preparing for and Navigating Ag Bankruptcy.” The event, co-hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation (NASDA Foundation), will take place June 5-6 at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, with a livestream option available for those who cannot attend in person.
The session will be led by Russell Morgan, a certified agricultural consultant and agribusiness advisor, and Renee Williams, a Chapter 12 trustee at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas. Both speakers bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, offering attendees valuable insights into the complex world of agricultural bankruptcy.
Morgan emphasized the unique challenges faced by agricultural producers, many of which are beyond their control. “Agricultural producers face an array of production and financial challenges in their daily business operations — many of them unique to agriculture,” Morgan said. These challenges can significantly impact a producer’s financial and debt situation, often leading to increased debt and reduced repayment capacity. In such cases, Chapter 12 bankruptcy may provide a lifeline, allowing producers to ‘Pause, Pivot, and Proceed.’
Chapter 12 bankruptcy is designed specifically for family farmers and fishermen, offering a structured repayment plan approved by the court. This plan details how payments will be made to creditors on a consistent basis, involving creditors in the court proceedings. However, Williams cautioned that filing for Chapter 12 bankruptcy is a serious decision with long-lasting impacts. “Agricultural bankruptcies have lingering impacts on producers and families,” she said. “There’s a lot to navigate when considering this process and if it’s a feasible option for your farm and family.”
The conference will also feature a session focusing on the landmark Supreme Court decision on agency authority, with presentations from nationally recognized food and ag industry lawyers. This session is expected to provide valuable insights into the legal landscape affecting the agricultural industry.
Registration for the Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference is now open online at nationalaglawcenter.org/midsouth2025. The event promises to be a vital resource for agricultural producers, providing practical advice and legal insights to help navigate the complexities of financial hardship and bankruptcy.