Ep. 216: NFR Chaos, Horse Herpes Outbreak, $11B 'Farmer Assistance,' & Mule Royalty with Drew Hanks

In this week's Talk Dirt To Me episode, we're joined by a special guest: Drew Hanks, Bobby Lee's little brother, fellow veterinarian and cattleman, fresh off his trip to the 2024 National Finals Rodeo (NFR). We dive deep into everything happening in Vegas, from the arena floor drama to the behind-the-scenes issues most fans never hear about.

Drew breaks down what it was really like attending the NFR this year! We then discuss some of the latest happenings with it. Of course, we get into the Stetson Wright Night 6 debacle, the decision that shook the rodeo world, and why fans are divided about what really went down.

The Horse Herpes Outbreak: What Veterinarians Are Saying

Drew explains the EHV-1 outbreak (horse herpes) that has hit while the NFR is happening and the biosecurity measures veterinarians and stock contractors are taking to prevent disaster. This is a rare behind-the-scenes look at rodeo animal health from someone who actually was there.

$11 Billion Farmer Assistance Package: Is It Enough?

We shift gears into agriculture news and break down the newly announced $11 billion USDA farmer assistance plan.
Spoiler: we don't think it's anywhere close to a bailout.
We explain why the numbers fall short, what farmers are actually facing, and how far off Washington is from understanding the real problem on the ground.

Reese Bro. Mules: A Mule Dynasty

Drew closes the show with a wild piece of ag/livestock history; his wife's family, Reese Bro. Mules, one of the most legendary names in the mule world. They've sold mules to celebrities like Tommy Lee Jones, and Drew gives us a look into the culture, breeding, and tradition behind this iconic family business.

Go check out Agzaga! It is the ultimate online farm store. American owned and operated. Go check out their site and get what you need. Be sure to use the code TalkDirt20 to get $20 off your order of $50 or more! Visit them at: https://agzaga.com

👉 Listen now, hit subscribe, and leave Logan and Bobby Lee a 5-star review to keep the dirt talk rolling every week!

Follow us on social media:

Talk Dirt to Me Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/talkdirtpodcast/

Bobby Lee: Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=hurricane%20creek%20farms

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/hurricanecreekfarm/

YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/c/HurricaneCreekFarms

Logan: Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/LHFarmsTN

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/lo.hanks/

YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqYpTjKQtOMABFOc2Aw3_Ow