MDA Opens Applications for Emerging Farmers Working Group

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is accepting applications for 11 positions on the Emerging Farmers’ Working Group (EFWG), with selected members serving two-year terms. The department encourages Minnesotans interested in supporting new and beginning farmers to apply by September 14, 2026.

The EFWG advises the state on programs, resources, and policies designed to support emerging farmers. Assistant MDA Commissioner Patrice Bailey said the group helps ensure farmers’ experiences and ideas contribute to the development of resources and services that meet their needs.

The EFWG was established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2020 under the Walz-Flanagan Administration. As the first state-level advisory group of its kind in the nation, it has included 62 members from 32 Minnesota counties, helping shape efforts that support new and emerging agricultural producers.

The MDA is seeking applicants for the group's seventh cohort and welcomes individuals interested in agriculture and farm development. The department is particularly interested in hearing from farmers and aspiring farmers from underrepresented communities, including women, veterans, people with disabilities, American Indian and Alaska Native individuals, people of color, LGBTQIA+ community members, young adults age 35 and younger, and residents of urban areas with populations exceeding 5,000.

Selected members will serve from November 2026 through May 2028. Meetings may be held either in person or virtually, and members can choose to receive a stipend for their participation.

Applications must be submitted by 11 p.m. on September 14. Additional information about the Emerging Farmers’ Working Group and the application process is available through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Emerging Farmers Office.

Questions may be directed to the Emerging Farmer Office at mda.emerging.farmers@state.mn.us.