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Searched for: regional food systems

LSP: Policy That Supports a Bright Future for Dairy Farming Will Require Control of Mega-Operations

Public Has Until Oct. 1 to Speak Out on Socioeconomic Impacts of Flooding the Market With CAFO Milk

September 16, 2026

MORRIS, Minn. — Any public policy related to creating a positive future for dairy farming must include strong provisions for controlling the rampant growth of mega-operations in the region while instituting market reforms, argues the Land Stewardship Project (LSP) in official comments submitted to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) today. From now until Oct.…  Read More →

Approval of Riverview Facility Threatens Water, Family Farms & Rural Communities

Public Has Until Oct. 1 to Comment on Impacts of Mega-Dairies

September 2, 2026

MORRIS, Minn. — By giving the green light to what will be the largest concentrated animal feeding operation in Minnesota history, Stevens County officials have cast a vote for a type of livestock production that threatens water quality, puts small and medium-sized farmers out of business and empties rural Main Streets, said the Land Stewardship…  Read More →

Take Action: Tell MDA Industrial Dairies Hurt Family Farmers & Rural Communities

MDA Comment Period Open Through October 1.

July 23, 2026

Minnesota has a chance right now to stand up for independent dairy farmers, rural communities, and fair markets — but state decision-makers need to hear from us. Take action today: RSVP for a July 28 virtual public meeting and submit a written comment to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture between July 28 and October 1. The Minnesota Department…  Read More →

Flooding the (Legislative) Zone with Emerging Farmers

LSP & its Allies Bring Land Access Stories to the Capitol

By Pam Hartwell
June 19, 2026

The Land Stewardship Project’s annual Family Farm Breakfast and Lobby Day serves as a prime opportunity for our members to get together with lawmakers and discuss the issues they most care about. As the lead organizer focusing on issues related to land access, it’s my job during the day to facilitate meetings between beginning farmers…  Read More →

Ear to the Ground 402: Enemy of Good

Jane Marynik’s pursuit of perfection ran into a brick wall called vegetable farming. LSP’s Farm Beginnings has helped her strike a more sustainable balance between work and life. More Information • LSP’s Farm Beginnings Course (2026-2027 Early Bird Discount Deadline Aug. 1, 2026; Final Deadline Sept. 1, 2026) • Four Beans Farm • Food Farm •…  Read More →

When Industrial Dairy Comes to Town, Rural Communities are Fighting Back

Tri-state coalition webinar shows how industrial dairy expansion is not a “done deal” when rural communities get organized. 

By Heather Benson
June 10, 2026

Across South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota, rural residents are facing a growing wave of industrial dairy proposals that could reshape their communities for decades. On June 3, a coalition of organizations hosted “Community Responses to Industrial Dairy Proposals in SD, ND, and MN,” a webinar where community members and advocates shared what they are seeing on…  Read More →

LSP’s 21st Family Farm Breakfast at the Capitol Highlights the Importance of Fighting for Choices

Farmers & Others Lobbied Lawmakers on Healthy Soil, Clean Water, Sustainable Animal Ag, Farm to Kids, Land Access & Fair Markets 

March 16, 2026

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Guaranteeing a brighter future for rural Minnesota is about creating the opportunity for farmers and nonfarmers to make choices, Pine County livestock producer Hannah Bernhardt told over 150 Land Stewardship Project (LSP) members and allies gathered at Christ Lutheran Church on Capitol Hill in Saint Paul on March 11. The event…  Read More →

Tell Congress Farmers Need Real Relief & Real Solutions

If You Are a Farmer, Sign On to this Letter by Feb. 5 to Let Congress Know Band-Aid Solutions are not Enough

January 18, 2026

Last year was a tough one for most of us, and, based on recent events, it seems as if there’s little chance of reprieve for folks in agriculture. Farmers and ranchers experienced rising input costs and significant domestic and international market disruptions in 2025. To help address these problems, USDA is issuing $12 billion in…  Read More →

‘Beyond Exports’ Focus of Jan. 27 Crop Diversification Meeting in Rochester

Local Farmers to Lead Discussions on Practical Strategies for Growing & Marketing Alternatives

January 11, 2026

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Farmers will discuss alternatives to growing corn and soybeans for export markets during a special Land Stewardship Project (LSP) winter workshop Tuesday, Jan. 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Rochester International Event Center (7333 Airport View Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902). The “Beyond Exports: Rebuilding Local Markets” event is free;…  Read More →

Farm Aid Fridays: Hannah Bernhardt, Moses Momanyi & Lonah Onyancha Kilimo

Celebrating the LSP Member Stories Shared During 2025 Farm Aid in Minneapolis

December 4, 2025

From Farm Aid’s YouTube Channel: Minnesota farmer Hannah Bernhardt grew up on a farm during the devastating 1980s Farm Crisis. She explains how decades later, seeing other young farmers using sustainable, regenerative agriculture practices inspires her to stay on the land growing for the future. Moses Momanyi and Lonah Onyancha speak about the benefits of…  Read More →