Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is seeking new members for its Emerging Farmers’ Working Group (EFWG). The group has seven volunteer positions available, each with a two-year term. The initiative aims to improve opportunities for new and emerging farmers who want to start or maintain an agricultural business in the state.

Assistant MDA Commissioner Patrice Bailey commented on the significance of the group’s efforts. “The work of the Emerging Farmers’ Working Group is important in helping identify barriers to entering farming and creating resources to support new and emerging farmers in our state,” Bailey said. “We continue to build out our Emerging Farmers Office and its programs.”

The department encourages all Minnesotans interested in agriculture to apply but is particularly looking for applicants from several underrepresented groups. These include women, veterans, people with disabilities, American Indian or Alaska Native individuals, members of communities of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, young people aged 35 years or younger, and those living in urban areas with populations over 5,000.

Applications are being accepted through an online portal that will close at 11 p.m. on September 12, 2025. More information about the application process and details about the EFWG can be found on the MDA website’s EFWG page. Those with questions can contact the Emerging Farmer Office by email at mda.emerging.farmers@state.mn.us.

Current and departing members were thanked for their participation as part of this announcement.