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May brings sunshine, market openings, and the return of delicious spring produce like asparagus, green onions, radishes, and rhubarb! It's time to celebrate fresh flavors, explore agritourism, and learn how Minnesota's farmers are forging new paths in environmental stewardship! |
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Photos courtesy of Dancing the Land Farm, Sleepy Bison Acres and Frog Tree Farm.
Protecting Minnesota's Water
Minnesota's farmers and agricultural landowners are making a difference for our water! The Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) is a voluntary program through which they implement approved conservation practices that protect our water. Certified producers gain benefits including priority technical assistance and regulatory certainty for a period of ten years.
The program is a win-win. While producers receive recognition for their commitment to clean water, Minnesotans gain the assurance that certified farms are actively protecting our lakes, rivers, and streams. To date, over 1,480 producers and 1 million acres have been Water Quality Certified in Minnesota!
You can support producers doing this important work by using the filter in the Minnesota Grown directory to find and purchase from them!
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May the Feasting Begin
Spring is in full swing with garlic scapes, rhubarb, green onions, asparagus, and bedding plants showing up at early farmers' markets and farm stands. Find a local purveyor of lamb or chicken to serve with fresh herbs and salads.
Here's a start for your spring bucket list:
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- Find out when my favorite summer farmers' market opens and make plans for a first annual visit.
- Fire up the grill and fill it with local sausages, burgers, meats, and spring veggies.
- Include asparagus in a simple weeknight pasta dish.
- Get adventurous by trying a new sweet or savory rhubarb recipe.
Find recipes and more tips for a spectacular season in Living Local.
Photo courtesy of Brambling Rows Farm.
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Photo courtesy of Mixed Forage Farms.
Environmental Champions: Mixed Forage Farms
On Earth Day, we put a spotlight on a farm that makes sustainability a priority in all it does – Mixed Forage Farms in Park Rapids, MN.
Owners Dan and Shelly Caroll aren’t your run-of-the-mill farmers. Sure, they manage the ins and outs of their farm, but their mission goes beyond growing crops and tending livestock. They're stewards of the land, committed to regenerative practices and environmental conservation.
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Photo of Gerdes Fresh Farm, courtesy of Explore Minnesota Tourism.
12 of Minnesota's Best Farm Stays
From alpaca selfies to apple picking, it’s no secret that Minnesota excels at first-hand farm experiences. However, agritourism is taken to another level at the state’s many farm stays, whether it's a night in a renovated grain silo, dreamy geodesic dome, or tricked-out treehouse.
Tap the button below to take a look at some of Explore Minnesota’s favorites, many of which offer memorable classes, tours, and activities like forest bathing, art-oriented flower arrangements, and fossil hunting.
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 What's in Season?
Craving Minnesota-fresh tomatoes but not seeing them at the market yet? Our handy chart shows when your favorite summer produce will be hitting the stands! Remember, Mother Nature can be whimsical, so the exact arrival date will vary by region.
The good news? You can enjoy the bounty of Minnesota year-round. Don't forget the amazing selection of local meat and poultry, dairy, wild rice, honey, maple syrup and other specialty items that are available throughout the year.
Does your fridge need a copy of this on it? It's on our website to bookmark or print out. It is available in English, Hmong, Somali, and Spanish.
 Our friends at Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom are offering three teacher tours this summer, including a visit to Minnesota Grown member, Pine Tree Apple Orchard.
Teacher Tours are designed to give K-12 educators hands-on experience with Minnesota agriculture and have a good time while doing it! Share this opportunity with an educator in your life!
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