(photo: MN Farm Bureau)
More than 180 farmers and ranchers representing 48 counties across Minnesota gathered at the State Capitol on March 24 for the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation’s (MFBF) annual Day on the Hill. The annual event highlights agriculture’s essential role in Minnesota.
Participants began the day with a policy briefing before gathering on the Capitol steps to hear from state leaders including Governor Tim Walz, Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Senator Aric Putnam, Representatives Paul Anderson and Rick Hansen, and MFBF President Dan Glessing of Waverly.
Minnesota Farm Bureau President Dan Glessing says the annual Day on the Hill provides a platform for farmers and ranchers to have a strong, unified voice for agriculture. Glessing said when legislators and decision makers hear directly from members, it brings real-world perspective to policy decisions.
One of the annual features is the display of a tractor on the steps of the capitol, which Glessing says works as a great visual to emphasize agriculture’s importance in the state…
“It serves as a good reminder, and hopefully it draws interest and people ask questions. Irregardless of the color…it’s one of those things you don’t see everyday, so it’s a neat opportunity.”
(file image: MN Farm Bureau)
After the gathering, participants met with their local legislators, attended committee hearings, and shared firsthand how proposed legislation affects the future of farming and ranching in Minnesota.
