This column by Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner first ran in the May-June 2026 issue of Soybean Business. Click here to read the digital issue. 

How MDA programs help farmers adapt and stay ahead 

Innovation is something Minnesota farmers understand. When equipment needs a retrofit, fields require a different approach, or weather doesn’t go to plan, farmers find a way. That kind of practical problem‑solving is one of our greatest strengths. But trying something new can come with risk — and that’s where the MDA can help. 

Across the state, we’re seeing this in action as farmers test new technologies, adjust management decisions and share what they learn, backed by MDA programs: 

• Minnesota Ag Weather Network provides free, hyperlocal, real‑time soil and weather data to guide on‑farm decisions. Using research‑grade equipment, stations monitor conditions from 33 feet above ground to 7.5 feet below the surface — including precipitation, air temperature, humidity, wind speed, solar radiation and soil temperature and moisture. 
• Soil Health Financial Assistance Grants help farmers, farmer groups, and local governments invest in equipment that improves soil structure and resilience. It offers cost‑share for the purchase or retrofit of specialized equipment — a major expense that often stands in the way of adopting soil health practices, such as reduced tillage. 
• Nitrogen Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer (N EEF) Discounts are a new funding opportunity that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect water quality by supporting ag retailers offering farmer discounts on approved N EEF products, including nitrogen inhibitors and polymer‑coated urea. Farmers receiving discounts must be certified through the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program, working to become certified, or agree to learn more about the program.  
• Biofertilizer Innovation and Efficiency Pilot Program gives farmers a chance to try microbial‑based biofertilizers and improve nitrogen management. Another round of funding will be available for the 2027 growing season. 
• Regional Conservation Partnership Program allows the MDA to expand access to irrigation technology, nitrogen‑management tools, and hands‑on technical assistance. In fall 2025, Minnesota secured another $11.16 million to continue this work across 25 counties in partnership with Soil and Water Conservation Districts, local governments and agricultural organizations. 
• Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program recognizes conservation leadership and helps producers adopt practices through technical and financial assistance. Among its benefits: Farmers receive 10 years of regulatory certainty, public recognition and ongoing technical support. 
• Nutrient Management Initiative provide financial support to identify nitrogen rates that make agronomic and economic sense. With the help of crop advisers, farmers set up field trials on their land. After completion, both are reimbursed and receive an analysis of the results. 
• AgBMP Loan Program offers low‑interest financing for projects that reduce runoff and address priority water quality concerns. It helps landowners comply with water‑related laws or rules, can be paired with state and federal cost‑share and makes funds available through counties statewide. 

Minnesota farmers have always been innovators. Your willingness to test new tools, look at emerging practices and share what works is shaping the future of agriculture in our state. The Minnesota Soybean Growers Association’s support makes this possible. Thank you to MSGA for advocating for these and many other programs that make Minnesota a national leader.