By Scout Nelson
Farmers are always looking for practical ways to improve land use, reduce feed costs, and support livestock production. Combining crop production with livestock grazing offers an opportunity to make better use of available farmland. Proper management of row crop fields and pastures can help farmers provide additional grazing opportunities and extend the grazing season.
To support farmers interested in crop and livestock integration, the University of Minnesota Extension organizes Virtual Farmer Shop Talks. These online sessions give farmers an opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences, and learn from other producers. Each session focuses on a different topic raised by a Minnesota farmer. Discussions cover common farming challenges, successful practices, and new ideas that farmers are testing on their operations.
One session focuses on a question from Amber Britz: How can farmers maximize their row crop ground and pasture to extend the grazing season?
The discussion helps farmers explore ways to use both crop fields and pastureland more effectively. Integrating livestock with crop production can provide additional grazing options and help producers make better use of available land throughout the year. Farmers can also learn from the experiences of others and consider practical methods that fit their own operations.
The Virtual Farmer Shop Talks series includes three sessions. Registration provides access to all three discussions. Participation is free, but advance registration is required. There is no registration deadline.
The event is delivered online as a webinar series, making it easier for farmers to participate from different locations.
Event Details:
- Date: Monday, November 9, 2026
- Time: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. CDT
- Location: Online webinar series
- Cost: Free
- Registration: Required, with access to all three sessions
- Contact: Gabi Bolwerk
- Email: gbolwerk@umn.edu
- Phone: 218-726-6462
University of Minnesota Extension supports equal participation in its programs, services, and activities. Farmers who need disability-related accommodations should contact the event organizer at least two weeks before the event. Requests received after this period are handled whenever possible.
The sessions are conducted in English. Interpreter services may also be available when requested in advance.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-r-j-seymour
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Livestock