Whitney Shannon Haigwood Staff Writer

Growing up in Newport, Arkansas, Whitney Shannon Haigwood never imagined her path would lead her from the classroom to the farm fields of the Delta, and eventually, to the pages of Delta Farm Press. Looking back, each step she took built the foundation for a career she’s passionate about today: telling the stories of farmers, innovation, and the land that sustains them.

"I love putting on my boots, getting out into the fields, and seeing firsthand the work that drives agriculture in our region," Haigwood said.

Whitney graduated from Arkansas State University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Mid-Level Education. She spent the early part of her career as a teacher before choosing to stay home and raise her two daughters. Later, she joined the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, gaining even deeper insight into the needs and innovations of Arkansas producers. Those experiences ultimately led her to Delta Farm Press, a brand of Farm Progress, where she now works as a staff writer.

In her role, Whitney covers row crop production, ag technology to market trends, and agricultural policy. She crafts articles that are both timely and engaging for her readership across the Delta.

“ My journey to this position wasn’t a straight line,” Haigwood said. “ E ach chapter—teaching, extension work, and now writing—has shaped the way I approach telling the stories of agriculture.”

Whitney has a deep interest in soil health, conservation, and on-farm efficiency—topics she believes are crucial to sustaining agriculture for future generations. She’s also especially proud of the feature stories she’s covered recently, including profiles of young farmers, women in agriculture, EPA regulation changes, and even a visit to a bison farm tucked away in Fox, Arkansas.
For Whitney, the most rewarding part of her work is connecting with the people behind the crops—the farmers, ranchers, and families whose efforts keep the Delta vibrant and productive.

“At the end of the day, it’s about building relationships and shining a light on the work being done across our state,” Haigwood said. “Telling those stories is truly an honor.”

To learn more about career opportunities in agriculture, click here.

To find college majors in agriculture and salary information, visit MyMajors.com.