Minnesota Farms: The Backbone of Our Food

The state’s farmers are the unseen heroes that keep our plates full. Minnesota is sixth in overall farm output across the U. S. and leads in more than 20 products, such as sugar beets, turkeys, green peas, hogs, sweet corn, soybeans, sunflower seeds, canola, dry beans and oats. Corn is the fourth most produced crop in the state. Half of Minnesota’s land is used for farming, and there were 67, 100 farms in 2023. The agriculture sector supports over 388, 000 jobs and adds $106 billion to the state’s economy each year when combined with food processing and forestry.New projects are on the horizon. The University of Minnesota plans a research center called Future of Advanced Agriculture Research in Minnesota (FAARM) on the northern edge of our county. Large companies such as Hormel Foods and Nu‑Tek also invest in local farms. Farmers work hard every day to bring food from field to table. Their efforts are not taken for granted, and their dedication deserves gratitude. Young farmers stepping into the field keep the tradition alive. Their work matters and is recognized by the community.