Minnesota State Wire

The public is invited to the Hastings Kernza Field Day on August 14 to learn about Kernza, a perennial grain with environmental and agricultural benefits. The event will demonstrate how Kernza is improving soil health, reducing runoff, and creating sustainable food and forage production opportunities.

This field day is hosted in partnership with Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Forever Green Initiative, University of Minnesota Extension, and Dakota County. It will highlight Kernza's role as both a grain and forage crop. Participants will also learn about market opportunities and cost-share programs for farmers interested in transitioning to perennial systems.

Kernza is part of the Forever Green Initiative's research efforts to commercialize new crops that benefit farmers, the environment, industry, and society. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture supports this initiative with Clean Water Funds.

Perennial crops like Kernza require fewer resources than annual crops and provide year-round living cover. This enhances water and soil quality, sequesters carbon, builds soil health, and supports biodiversity. The growing market for Kernza in Minnesota is backed by private and public investment.

Attendees at the event will learn about Kernza’s environmental benefits, hear from experts advancing perennial agriculture, discover funding opportunities for conservation, and network with professionals in the field.

The free event will take place rain or shine at 2500 Enterprise Ave in Hastings from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., across from the Hastings Water Tower. Lunch will be provided, followed by a social hour. Registration by August 1 is required to ensure lunch availability.

This event is possible through collaboration among Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District, Forever Green Initiative, Dakota County, University of Minnesota Extension, supported by Minnesota’s Clean Water Fund dedicated to protecting water resources.