Sign in

Minnesota Farmers Union

@mnfarmersunion.bsky.social
2.1K followers 114 following 168 posts

A grassroots, member-driven organization working to protect and enhance the economic interests and quality of life of family farmers, ranchers, and rural residents.

PostsRepliesMedia
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 23/04/2026
"With a goal of giving people an opportunity to say what’s on their minds, the Minnesota Farmers Union hosted 12 town hall meetings across the state in the last few months. The final was held in Willmar on Thursday, April 16." Learn more: www.wctrib.com/news/local/m...
wctrib.com
Many concerns, calls for change at MFU town hall meeting
Minnesota Farmers Union hosts town hall to hear what’s on people’s minds. Plenty, it turns out, as many voice concerns and call for change at final session in Willmar.
111
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
Sen. Aric Putnam’s ag policy bill passed the Senate with a definition for Agrivoltaics and a requirement that companies label lab grown meat. Our members take great pride in their work to raise livestock and we believe that clear, informative labeling will help consumers make informed decisions.
011
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 26/03/2026
Attention next-gen and beginning farmers! FarmPath is a national, 3-year program designed to support aspiring and beginning farmers as they explore, plan, and build viable and sustainable farm businesses. Deadline: March 31 @ 5pm CST 🔗: www.cognitoforms.com/FarmFoundation/FarmPathApplication2026
112
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 24/03/2026
🌱Happy National Ag Day!🌱
020
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 24/03/2026
Yesterday (3/23) was a very busy day at the Capitol! A #mnleg thread 🧵
100
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 20/03/2026
“Minneapolis-based health system says bigger will be better for patients, but economists worry about the consumer cost.”
startribune.com
Will the Allina-Sutter Health deal drive up the cost of health care in Minnesota?
Minneapolis-based health system says bigger will be better for patients, but economists worry about the consumer cost.
032
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 12/03/2026
“We absolutely have to adapt to what the climate is giving to us. Honestly, I think a lot of conservation practices are also good agronomic best management practices.” Read our full interview with Dorian: mfufoundation.org/dorian-gatch...
020
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 11/03/2026
MFU Vice President Anne Schwagerl testified before the Minnesota House Agriculture Committee in support of Representative Luke Frederick’s bill to fund an Agricultural Land Trends Report to better understand changes in farmland ownership across the state.
000
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 08/03/2026
“Before Mayo Clinic posted a record $1.47 billion profit, the world-renowned medical system closed clinics and cut services in several cities across southern Minnesota.”
startribune.com
Mayo Clinic’s record profit leaves mixed feelings in the wake of med giant’s closures in small towns
Some cities affected by a wave of service cuts last fall are still looking to replace Mayo’s presence.
010
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 07/03/2026
MFU staff and delegates are assembled in New Orleans for the 124th Annual National Farmers Union Convention! We’re excited to connect with Farmers Union delegates from across the nation and debate/vote on NFU’s policy for the year. Cc: @nfudc.bsky.social
020
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 03/03/2026
70+ MFU members spread out across the Capitol campus for Lobby Day 2026 to advocate for our legislative priorities this session, including: ☑️ Responding to the crisis in farm country ☑️ Lowering healthcare costs ☑️ Investing in the next generation of farmers + so much more
020
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
"I have learned that farming systems are really complicated, every farm is unique… Because of that I’ve tried to build programs for farmers to learn and try things together for as many farms as possible." 🔗: mfufoundation.org/natalie-hoidal-local-foods-and-vegetable-crops-educator-at-umn-extension
053
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
MFU Executive Committee member Josh VanderPol, co-owner of Pastures A Plenty in Kirkhoven, testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee in support of S.F. 3686, a state pilot program to incentivize rotational grazing through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
000
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
MFU member and outreach organizer Brenda Rudolph testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee in support of Senator Torrey Westrom’s bill to expand the beverage options schools can offer students by allowing milk with higher fat content to be served with school meals.
001
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
MFU members Darrell Larsen and Owen Busse testified before the Senate Tax Committee this morning, and called on legislators to address the Beginning Farmer Tax Credit shortfall: “We were part of the more than 50 percent of applicants who were denied due to lack of funding.”
000
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 19/02/2026
Our executive committee was in Staples yesterday to check in on progress at Farmers Union Processing & Meats, which will be a state-of-the-art meat processing facility for primarily beef and pork, and will partner w/ Central Lakes College and Ridgewater College to provide training for students.
021
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 10/02/2026
Farmers and rural residents made their voices heard at our first two People’s Town Hall meetings of 2026 today in Austin and Owatonna. Folks are concerned about a number of issues, including harmful trade policies, the ICE surge in MN, and lack of access to affordable healthcare.
082
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 09/02/2026
Join us TOMORROW (2/10) in Austin and Owatonna to make your voice heard! Learn more and register: bit.ly/PeoplesTownHall
001
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 07/02/2026
Membership Director Gail Donkers represented MFU during Senator Amy Klobuchar’s visit to Rodney Moe's farm in Waltham. Topics discussed included the need for a new farm bill, the impact of tariffs, and E15.
011
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 05/02/2026
"Current economic conditions and Trump administration policies could lead to 'a widespread collapse of American agriculture,' a bipartisan coalition of former Agriculture Department officials and leaders of farm groups warned in a letter on Tuesday.”
nytimes.com
Former Farming Leaders Warn U.S. Agriculture Could Face ‘Widespread Collapse’
2136
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 02/02/2026
Agricultural communities are feeling the effects of the federal immigration crackdown, too. MFU President Gary Wertish predicts lower crop yields and ultimately higher prices at the grocery store.
cbsnews.com
Minnesota farm communities say ICE surge "is going to be very damaging" for business this year
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
165
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 22/01/2026
"I strongly encourage farmers to find a mentor or a trusted neighbor to lean on for advice…we have more than 50 farmer mentors across the state who help farmers avoid costly mistakes and shorten the learning curve." Read our full interview with Alex: mfu.org/conservation-advisor-spotlight
011
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 14/01/2026
HAPPENING NOW: We are joining other agricultural leaders and policymakers to discuss the ICE surge in Minnesota and its impact on farmers and rural communities. Watch the press conference live:
youtube.com
Press Conference: Impact of ICE Activity on Agriculture and Rural Communities - 01/14/26
YouTube video by Minnesota Senate Media Services
251
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 13/01/2026
“Egg prices are trending lower since supplies recovered from bird flu outbreaks. But Brittney Johnson said record highs from last year are still on her mind as she nears the first anniversary of the egg cooperative on her northwestern Minnesota farm.”
app.publicnewsservice.org
Cheaper by the dozen: MN egg co-op gives neighbors better options
Grocery shoppers can't help but feel frustration when a staple like eggs sees rapid price swings. One Minnesota farmer is helping her neighbors by offering a quality product that's not
110
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 07/01/2026
“The farmers are the experts of their operation and know the land better than anyone, so my goal is to hear their perspective and learn about the concerns they might have…” 🔗 mfu.org/conservation-advisor-spotlight
020
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 30/12/2025
“Farmers want their money from trade, they don’t want it from aid.” Learn more about what MFU President Gary Wertish says about the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program:
kvrr.com
Rising mediation cases signal deepening financial stress for Minnesota farmers - KVRR Local News
ST. PAUL, Minn. (KFGO/KVRR) — The president of Minnesota Farmers Union says while the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program is welcome, ag producers don’t want to rely on ad hoc payments from the governmen...
56293105
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 25/12/2025
🎄Merry Christmas🎄
060
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
MFU Antimonopoly Director Justin Stofferahn: “An underappreciated but core reason for rising costs are a range of anti-competitive tactics, some new, some old.”
agweek.com
Antimonopoly advocates say weak enforcement is fueling higher grocery prices
Farm, consumer and grocery groups argue consolidation and price discrimination are squeezing shoppers, farmers and small stores.
021
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 17/12/2025
Leaders from the Minnesota Department of Commerce joined Jim and Karen Falk on their farm to discuss energy costs and the impact of federal cuts to incentives for on-farm renewable energy. Learn more: www.agweek.com/news/policy/...
040
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 16/12/2025
"…the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will sharply raise health insurance costs in 2026, forcing painful tradeoffs that could slow farm growth, strain rural hospitals and push some producers out of business altogether.” www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/...
dtnpf.com
Farmers Say ACA Price Spike Will Force Some Painful Choices
Monday was the deadline to enroll in Affordable Care Act health-insurance plans for 2026 coverage. The deadline comes as people signing up for plans are seeing premium spikes and enrollment is expecte...
041
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
“The aid is definitely needed, but it's a little frustrating at the same time, because it's really self-inflicted by the president's policies.”
kare11.com
Minnesota farmers to receive assistance from $12 billion federal bailout package
Money will begin flowing early next year, including to soybean farmers, who have been heavily impacted by the U.S. trade war with China.
544
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 27/11/2025
Thankful for the farmers who make our Thanksgiving feasts possible. Learn more about the “Farmer’s Share” of the food dollar for items typically served during the holiday: nfu.org/news/thanksg...
040
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 22/11/2025
Elected officials are always welcome guests at State Convention! Thanks for stopping by #MFU84 @smith.senate.gov, @repangiecraig.bsky.social, and @ag.state.mn.us.
251
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 22/11/2025
We have a long history of nurturing the next generation of ag leaders, and we were happy to have a few of those leaders join the 84th Annual State Convention today: Princess Kay of the Milky Way Malorie Thorson, Minnesota FFA State Officers, and 4-H Ambassadors!
120
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 22/11/2025
Our 84th Annual State Convention is officially underway! Looking forward to a weekend of connection and conversations about the future of family farm agriculture.#MFU84
010
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 18/11/2025
“With so much uncertainty, and a hard-won skepticism that politicians will make decisions quickly or pass new legislation, a lot of farmers are in for difficult conversations with their bankers in the coming months.”
nytimes.com
As Struggling Farmers Take On Debt, a Bailout From D.C. May Come Too Late
121
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 10/11/2025
When Minnesotans turn on their kitchen faucets, the water quality might be tied to the health of regional farmland. Some farmers just finished planting seeds that help tie it all together…” Learn more about cover crops:
app.publicnewsservice.org
Farming, water quality solution in MN fits in palm of your hand
When Minnesotans turn on their kitchen faucets, the water quality might be tied to the health of regional farmland. Some farmers just finished planting seeds that help tie it all
062
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 05/11/2025
"The Smude family is no stranger to starting businesses and they're experts at finding innovative ways to use every part of the sunflower seed."
pineandlakes.com
When one door closed, the Smude family opened another for sunflower oil
The Smude family is no stranger to starting businesses and they're experts at finding innovative ways to use every part of the sunflower seed.
140
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 22/10/2025
"I have a strong passion for keeping the soil in place and helping farmers farm. It’s urgent work that needs to be done, and we need more conservation practices on the landscape. I have dedicated myself to working on that." 🔗: mfu.org/conservation-advisor-spotlight/
120
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 21/10/2025
MFU President Gary Wertish: “The $10 billion to $12 billion, the farmers need it. There's no doubt. But it's kind of been self-inflicted by the current president's policies. So that's a little frustrating as a farmer.”
kare11.com
Gov. Walz, MN agricultural leaders touch on Trump's promised farmer bailout
Farmers are looking for help — and fast — amid President Trump's trade war but many questions remain.
252
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 09/10/2025
"I want farmers to know that everyone is in the same boat. We’re all dealing with different weather challenges, and economic and market challenges, so we’re all in it together.” 🔗: mfu.org/conservation-advisor-spotlight
040
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 03/10/2025
MFU President Gary Wertish: "The shutdown comes as farmers begin to harvest. They need to know now they can count on not only USDA but other agencies. The last thing we need now is more uncertainty”
kare11.com
Minnesota union leaders and politicians react to federal government shutdown
The government shutdown is impacting people all across the nation, including the 18,000 federal employees working in Minnesota.
122
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
The Farm & Forest Growers Cooperative aims to advance the resilience of our forests by offering tree species that are genetically adapted to thrive in warmer climates and survive new pest pressure accompanying the warmer conditions. Learn more: climatesmarttrees.com
021
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 01/10/2025
MFU President Gary Wertish was at the Minnesota Capitol today to call for the reversal of healthcare cuts and the extension of tax credits that help make health coverage affordable for farm families.
042
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 26/09/2025
“A Minnesota family is sharing their experience of tragedy to encourage fellow farmers to stay safe around large machines and technology.”
cbsnews.com
Father and son who lost limbs in Minnesota farming accidents share message of farm safety
Bailers, combines, discs and grinders are part of farm life. Taking your time and treating those machines with respect can mean the difference between life and death.
041
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 24/09/2025
“I spend a fair amount of time working on pasture-related items and I really do believe that pastures are almost always the most underutilized and unappreciated resources for most producers." Read our full interview with Troy: mfu.org/conservation-advisor-spotlight/
030
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 23/09/2025
Yesterday, Farmers Union Enterprises (which is comprised of the Farmers Union organizations in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin) donated more than 20 pallets of ham, or about 35,000 pounds, to Second Harvest Heartland!
050
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 22/09/2025
"More than a big-name fundraising concert…Farm Aid is a flag that waves: Help is available. And it’s needed today as much as it was 40 years ago.”
startribune.com
How Farm Aid actually helps Minnesota farms
The 40-year-old organization’s fundraising concert is Saturday at Huntington Bank Stadium, but the group also provides a crucial hotline and grants that are needed as much as ever by farmers in crisis...
021
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
“The 40th anniversary concert comes at an auspicious time, as American farmers face perhaps the bleakest economic conditions since the 1980s farm crisis that spurred the first Farm Aid.”
nytimes.com
Farm Aid Turns 40 and Returns to Crisis Mode
101
Minnesota Farmers Union @mnfarmersunion.bsky.social · 17/09/2025
"Farm Aid 40 comes to Minneapolis this week. It is more than a celebration of music and family farms. It is also a reminder that for the farmers who fuel our economy, enliven our communities and feed our state, these are daunting days...” Learn more:
startribune.com
Opinion | As Farm Aid 40 comes to Minneapolis, Minnesota farmers face a new crisis
Farm Aid 40 is more than a celebration of music and family farms. "It is also a reminder that for the farmers who fuel our economy, enliven our communities and feed our state, these are daunting days,...
021