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MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Agriculture Department Seeks 11 Members for Emerging Farmers Working Group
SAINT PAUL, MN (August 18, 2026) The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for 11 positions on its Emerging Farmers’ Working Group, a statewide advisory body that helps shape programs, policies and resources affecting new and emerging farmers.
The selected members will serve two-year terms beginning in November 2026 and continuing through May 2028. Applications must be completed online and submitted by 11 p.m. Monday, September 14.
The department is seeking people who can help identify and address barriers confronting Minnesotans interested in entering or sustaining agricultural businesses. Farmers, aspiring farmers, representatives of agricultural organizations, community leaders and people with relevant expertise may apply.
MDA is particularly seeking perspectives from farmers and aspiring farmers who are women, veterans, people with disabilities, American Indian or Alaska Native, members of communities of color, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, age 35 or younger, or residents of urban communities with populations of at least 5,000.
Established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2020, the Emerging Farmers’ Working Group was the first state-level advisory organization of its kind in the country, according to MDA. Sixty-two people representing 32 Minnesota counties have served in six previous cohorts.
The department said the working group gives emerging farmers a formal voice in decisions involving agricultural assistance, access to resources and the development of state programs. Members also help officials understand the practical challenges facing people who are beginning or expanding agricultural operations.
The new group will be the program’s seventh cohort. Meetings will generally be conducted virtually through Microsoft Teams or Zoom, although some in-person meetings may be held in members’ communities. Members may receive a stipend for their participation, but accepting the payment is optional.
Applicants must submit a complete online form and provide two references who can speak about their leadership abilities, agricultural experience or potential. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The application period opened August 17 and closes at 11 p.m. September 14.
APPLICATION AND COMPLETE DETAILS:
https://www.mda.state.mn.us/efwgapplication
Questions may be directed to the MDA Emerging Farmers Office at mda.emerging.farmers@state.mn.us.
The official announcement is available from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
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