The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is gathering ideas as the agency considers the state’s next biennial budget, and MDA wants your input. Farmers, businesses and others impacted by food and agriculture systems are all invited to share policy, funding and program suggestions.

MDA is hosting two virtual public input sessions where people can share their ideas directly, in addition to an online form for written submissions open through August 16, 2024.

The two sessions will take place on Zoom. Participation is free, but registration is required. The sessions are scheduled for:

• Monday, Aug. 12, from noon–1 p.m. Register for this event.
• Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 5–6 p.m. Register for this event.

The Minnesota Legislature appropriates funds for the MDA and related agricultural activities through a two-year budget bill that is part of the state’s overall government funding.

State budgets are set in legislative sessions that take place in odd-numbered years and are sometimes revised during sessions in even-numbered years. The next legislative session begins on Jan. 14, 2025, and will determine the next two-year state budget.

Information about MDA’s mission, leadership and responsibilities is available on MDA’s website.