IAM’s 50th Annual Convention & Expo and Celebratory Banquet – A Day to Remember
Waite Park, MN – February 20, 2025
In a landmark event that brought together over 175 dedicated members, the Irrigators Association of Minnesota (IAM) celebrated its 50th Annual Meeting and Celebratory Banquet at the Park Event Center. The day was packed with insightful sessions, historical reflections, and forward-thinking discussions that highlighted IAM’s enduring commitment to irrigated agriculture in Minnesota.
A Day of Insight and Inspiration
Registration & Welcome
Doors opened at 12:30 p.m., setting the stage for a day of networking and knowledge sharing. At 1:00 p.m., IAM President Jake Wildman kicked off the program with a warm welcome and an organizational update, followed by an engaging update from IAM’s state lobby team.
Connecting Across Capitol Hill
Members were treated to recorded video messages from key legislative leaders, including:
- Senator Amy Klobuchar
- Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach
- Congressman Brad Finstad
- Majority Whip in the United States House of Representatives and Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer
These messages reinforced the vital role of advocacy in shaping agricultural policy and ensuring that the voices of Minnesota’s irrigators are heard. You can watch all these videos by clicking the link: IAM 50th Annual Convention & Expo Legislator Videos.
Keynote Highlights
A highlight of the afternoon was undoubtedly the keynote session led by Blois Olson, owner of Fluence Media and political commentator. In his insightful presentation, “Communicating with Both Sides of the Aisle,” Blois examined the status of Minnesota politics following the 2024 election.
He discussed how shifting demographics, and generational trends influenced the election results and offered actionable strategies for Minnesota irrigators to effectively navigate the evolving political landscape. His session sparked thoughtful discussions and provided clear guidance on the steps the community can take moving forward.
Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future
A Glimpse into IAM’s Legacy
Long-time membership secretary Jerry Wright, alongside President Jake Wildman, delivered a moving historical review of IAM’s journey. Their presentation not only celebrated past milestones but also welcomed Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, who presented special member recognition and awards.
Evening Banquet & Motivation
At 6:00 p.m., the celebratory banquet began, filling the room with camaraderie and excitement. The evening reached its peak with motivational speaker Dallin Cooper, whose talk, “They Might Not Be Crazy: Working With People You Disagree With,” captivated the audience. Dallin shared his take on embracing disagreements—illustrated perfectly by the fierce showdown between a grizzly bear and a bison —and reminded us that healthy debates and diverse perspectives can spark innovation and strengthen our community.
A Hub of Innovation
The event was further enriched by the presence of more than 30 vendors who showcased the latest in irrigation and agricultural equipment, as well as engineering and consulting services. Their exhibits provided attendees with a firsthand look at industry advancements, fueling ideas and discussions that promise to shape the future of Minnesota agriculture.
About IAM
Established in 1975, the Irrigators Association of Minnesota is the sole statewide association dedicated exclusively to irrigated agriculture. With a membership exceeding 700, IAM supports over 400,000 acres of irrigated land across the state. The organization is committed to advancing science-based research on irrigation management and advocating for the rights of farmers to effectively manage Minnesota’s valuable land and water resources.
A Day to Remember
The 50th Annual Meeting and Celebratory Banquet was more than just an event—it was a celebration of IAM’s rich history, a showcase of innovation, and a testament to the strong community that continues to drive Minnesota’s agricultural success. As IAM looks toward the future, the legacy of the past and the energy of today merge to inspire a new era of growth and collaboration.
Thank you to all who participated and helped make this milestone event a resounding success!
IAM 