Minnesota Climate Resilience Program Helps Farmers Adapt

By Scout Nelson

Farmers across central Minnesota will have an opportunity to strengthen their operations through the Climate Resilience for Farmers - Central program, a two-day educational event scheduled for Dec. 1-2, 2026, at the Deep Portage Learning Center in Hackensack, Minnesota. The program is designed to help farmers prepare for changing weather conditions and improve long-term farm resilience.

Designed for producers of specialty crops, row crops and livestock, the program will help participants understand how climate variability may affect their farms. Farmers will work with agricultural experts and peers to develop practical strategies that support long-term success.

The event will focus on whole-farm management approaches that build on participants' existing knowledge and experience. Attendees will evaluate climate-related risks, explore management options and identify opportunities that may arise from changing environmental conditions.

Participants will assess their farm's strengths and challenges while developing strategies that align with both business and family goals. The program emphasizes creating practical action plans that can be implemented and evaluated over time.

The cohort format will encourage networking and peer-to-peer learning among farmers facing similar challenges. Organizers aim to foster knowledge-sharing and collaboration that can support more resilient farming operations.

The program is free to attend, and meals will be provided. Participants are expected to attend the full two-day event, and registration remains open through Oct. 22, 2026.

The event is hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension, Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP), the University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership, and the Land Stewardship Project, which are working together to help farmers develop practical climate adaptation and risk management strategies.

For Registration Visit Here.

Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko