LEBANON, TN (WGNS News) - The 2026 Pick Tennessee Conference opened Thursday (1/15/2026) in Lebanon with record‑breaking attendance and a strong, unmistakable presence from Rutherford County. Representatives from the Lane Agri‑Park and the UT‑TSU Extension Service were there in strong numbers, eager to bring home new strategies to strengthen the county’s fast‑growing Farmers Market along with service to farmers, future farmers and home economists.
Even before the first session began, the conference was already setting records. A total of 1,018 people had pre‑registered, and by the end of Day 1, attendance reached 1,081—far surpassing previous highs that hovered in the mid‑600s. With Friday, more walk‑ins entered, and statewide 4‑H leadership packs the Wilson County Fairgrounds on Saturday. Organizers anticipate topping 1,100 participants before the weekend concludes. Representatives from the UT-TSU Agriculture Extension Service in Rutherford County will be on NewsRadio WGNS over the next few weeks to share some of the new information that was presented at the Pick Tennessee Conference.
From the opening remarks, Rutherford County’s delegation was fully engaged. Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt set the tone with a message focused on collaboration, interagency partnerships, and agriculture’s essential role in Tennessee’s economic and community health. His comments resonated strongly with the Lane Agri‑Park team, who have been expanding local outreach and producer support under the leadership of Rutherford County UT‑TSU Agriculture Extension Director Anthony Tuggle.
Deputy Commissioner Ronné Adkins of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation followed with remarks on conservation and land stewardship. A prerecorded message from U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn recognized Tennessee’s producers and reaffirmed federal support for agricultural innovation.
Tourism Commissioner Mark Ezell delivered a presentation highlighting the connection between agriculture, tourism, and statewide branding. Immediately afterward, Holt and Ezell cut the ceremonial ribbon to open the Expo Floor, where Rutherford County attendees spent much of the day exploring new tools, services, and opportunities.
This year’s conference arrives at a meaningful moment for Rutherford County, which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Rutherford County Farmers Market. Under the guidance of Market Manager Hannah Bleam, the market has expanded significantly, adding a Winter‑Spring Market every Friday from November through April and preparing to launch select Tuesday evening markets this spring to reach residents unable to attend during morning hours.
The Keynote Luncheon brought together statewide leaders including Secretary of State Tre Hargett and commissioners from Commerce and Insurance and Labor and Workforce Development. A major highlight came with the onsite participation of Stephen Vaden, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, who joined Congressman John Rose and Commissioner Holt for discussions on federal‑state collaboration.
With strong local involvement and a full slate of education sessions offering practical, immediately applicable content, Rutherford County’s agricultural community is poised to benefit greatly from the momentum of this year’s Pick Tennessee Conference.
