On Thursday, Jan. 22, approximately 130 farmers and agricultural business leaders gathered at Jennen Farms in Fergus Falls for the 2026 Agriculture Summit focused on key issues impacting West Central Minnesota and agriculture statewide.

“This was a great way to stay connected to the farmers and agricultural business interests in our area and across the state, which is vital to our rural way of life and Minnesota’s economy,” Sen. Torrey Westrom (R-Alexandria) said. “Agriculture accounts for over 15% of our state’s economy, so it is a big deal.” 

The two-hour summit was co-hosted by Rep. Jeff Backer (R-Browns Valley) and Westrom and included participation from state legislators, commissioners, and agricultural stakeholders. State legislator attendees included senators Steve Green (R-Fosston), Jordan Rasmusson (R-Fergus Falls) and Paul Utke (R-Park Rapids), and state representatives Tom Murphy (R-Underwood), Mary Franson (R-Alexandria), Kristin Robbins (R-Maple Grove) and Steve Gander (R-East Grand Forks).

Three state commissioners were present: Thom Peterson, commissioner of agriculture; Katrina Kessler, commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency; and Sarah Strommen, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 

The summit brought together farmers, agricultural organizations, and key stakeholders to discuss current challenges and opportunities in Minnesota agriculture. In addition to updates from legislators and commissioners, participants included representatives from Minnesota Corn Growers, Minnesota Soybean Growers, Minnesota Cattlemen’s Association, Minnesota Milk Producers Association, Red River Sugar Beet Growers Association, Minnesota Farm Bureau, Minnesota Farmers Union, and watershed organizations. 

Discussion topics included delays in Minnesota’s permitting process for farming, livestock, and agricultural operations, along with concerns over regulatory changes and drainage issues. Participants also discussed updates on the Public Waters Inventory and opportunities to expand in-state processing and value-added uses of Minnesota-grown crops.

“It was great to see such widespread attendance and the thoughtful questions and input brought forward by agricultural stakeholders,” Westrom said. “That kind of engagement helps create meaningful dialogue and better policy outcomes.”