Lobbyist Update Highlights Legislative Priorities at Irrigators Association of Minnesota Convention

The Irrigators Association of Minnesota’s 51st Annual Convention and Expo, held February 19, 2026, at The Park Event Center in Waite Park, featured a timely legislative update from association lobbyists John Berns and Tony Kwilas. Their presentation provided irrigators with insight into Minnesota’s evolving political climate, legislative priorities, and policy developments that could impact agriculturalContinue reading “Lobbyist Update Highlights Legislative Priorities at Irrigators Association of Minnesota Convention”

Dave Janson Headlines IAM Convention as Irrigators Navigate Markets, Policy, and the Future

The Irrigators Association of Minnesota (IAM) welcomed irrigators, industry partners, researchers, and agricultural leaders from across the state on Thursday, February 19, 2026, for its 51st Annual Convention & Expo at The Park Event Center in Waite Park, Minnesota. The event drew 163 attendees and featured 27 vendor exhibitors, highlighting the latest advancements in irrigationContinue reading “Dave Janson Headlines IAM Convention as Irrigators Navigate Markets, Policy, and the Future”

Minnesota Irrigation Continues to Play a Critical Role in Crop Production

Newly compiled data from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) highlights the scale, diversity, and geographic reach of irrigated agriculture across Minnesota heading into the 2026 permit year. The summary, prepared by retired University of Minnesota Extension irrigation engineer Jerry Wright using DNR data shared by Sean Hunt of Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesContinue reading “Minnesota Irrigation Continues to Play a Critical Role in Crop Production”

Make Your Voice Heard on Minnesota’s Groundwater Protection Rule

Irrigating farmers across Minnesota have an important opportunity to share their perspectives on how groundwater is managed and protected. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently reviewing its Groundwater Protection Rule and has issued a public call for written comments. These letters will help inform how the rule is interpreted and implemented moving forward,Continue reading “Make Your Voice Heard on Minnesota’s Groundwater Protection Rule”

New Precision Irrigation Initiative Brings Major Investment to Minnesota Farms

Minnesota irrigators will soon have access to unprecedented support to modernize irrigation systems, improve water efficiency, and protect groundwater resources. Through the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), more than $11 million has been awarded to Minnesota partners to launch a new Precision Irrigation initiative focused on long-term farm profitability and water stewardship. Led byContinue reading “New Precision Irrigation Initiative Brings Major Investment to Minnesota Farms”

Smarter Water. Stronger Yields.

Minnesota Irrigator Program Returns to Becker — Nov. 18–19, 2025 Irrigators across the state know that water isn’t just a resource—it’s an investment. The Minnesota Irrigator Program (MIP) is back this fall, offering two days of practical, research-driven training designed to help you make every drop count. Hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension inContinue reading “Smarter Water. Stronger Yields.”

MDA Awarded $11 Million to Advance Innovative Irrigation Practices

Investment will support groundwater conservation and protect water resources across 25 counties St. Paul, MN: The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), in partnership with local and regional organizations, has been awarded $11.16 million through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to expand conservation practices on irrigated agricultural land across the state. TheContinue reading “MDA Awarded $11 Million to Advance Innovative Irrigation Practices”

Irrigation Workshop Strengthens Technical Skills and Conservation Efforts Across Minnesota

Staples, MN Tyler Grunewald, AgCentric Central Lakes College/Ag and Energy Center in Staples hosted the 2025 Irrigation RCPP (Regional Conservation Partnership Program) Technical Advanced Training Workshop on June 24 and 25, bringing together 40 conservation professionals from NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Services), SWCDs (Soil and Water Conservation Districts) and partnering organizations from across the state.Continue reading “Irrigation Workshop Strengthens Technical Skills and Conservation Efforts Across Minnesota”

Rosholt Field Day Set for August 21: Explore Irrigation Innovation and Soil Health

The upcoming Rosholt Field Day is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM at the Rosholt Research Farm, located at 910 Old Hwy 28, Westport, MN 56385. This free event offers a valuable opportunity to explore current research and field demonstrations related to irrigation efficiency, nitrogen management, and soil healthContinue reading “Rosholt Field Day Set for August 21: Explore Irrigation Innovation and Soil Health”

💧 Calling All IAM Members: Help Shape the Future of Minnesota Agriculture

Published: 6.20.25 As an IAM member, you already know that agriculture doesn’t stand still—and neither do we. From shifting water regulations to evolving consumer demands, the landscape of Minnesota agriculture is changing fast. Now, you have a chance to help guide that change. AgriGrowth is hosting 16 virtual listening sessions starting June 24—and these aren’tContinue reading “💧 Calling All IAM Members: Help Shape the Future of Minnesota Agriculture”