STAPLES, Minn. — Conservation professionals from across Minnesota gathered throughout 2025 for the annual On-Farm Communications Training, hosted at the Central Lakes College Ag & Energy Center in Staples. The three-part, season-long series — held in May, July, and October — continued to build collaboration between local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and AgCentric, offering a hands-on approach that connects conservation practices directly to farm operations.
Participants engaged in a range of interactive experiences designed to strengthen both technical expertise and communication skills, helping bridge the gap between conservation planning and producer partnership.
Hands-On Learning Throughout the Growing Season
The spring session, held on May 14, focused on precision agriculture, planting technology, and data-driven decision-making. Attendees rotated through stations exploring planter setup, tillage methods, and technology demonstrations using MyJohnDeere and AgCentric’s mobile learning trailer. The session concluded with a discussion on farm economics, reviewing Minnesota farm data to link agronomic practices with financial outcomes.
By mid-July, the summer session turned attention to water, soil, and pest management. Participants observed drone and sprayer demonstrations, examined soil profiles in a field pit, and learned about modern fertigation and Variable Rate Irrigation (VRI) technology. Sessions on pest management and farm startup economics tied agronomy to everyday management decisions.
The fall session, held on October 7, brought the season full circle with a focus on harvest efficiency, residue management, and soil health. Participants took part in combine and tillage ride-and-drives, while also discussing cover crop strategies, manure application, and post-harvest storage considerations.
Across the three sessions, 18 conservation professionals registered for the 2025 program, and eight participants completed all sessions, earning certificates of completion for their continued commitment to improving communication and conservation practices on the farm.
Program Reach Spans 17 Minnesota Counties
This year’s attendees represented 17 counties statewide, including Chisago, Washington, Pine, Isanti, Anoka, East Otter Tail, Douglas, Becker, Stearns, Swift, Crow Wing, Benton, Pope, Rice, Renville, and Wilkin.
This map illustrates the broad participation across Minnesota, reflecting the continued strength of partnerships between agencies and educators committed to advancing agricultural communication and conservation efforts.
Bridging Communication and Conservation
The On-Farm Communications Training has become a proven model for uniting conservation professionals, educators, and producers around shared goals. Through field-based learning, participants gain the confidence and skills to translate science into practice — connecting soil health, water management, and technology to everyday farm decisions.
By emphasizing communication as a critical conservation tool, the program helps build relationships that lead to better outcomes for both producers and the environment.
Organized by:
AgCentric — Minnesota State Northern Agricultural Center of Excellence
Central Lakes College Ag & Energy Center
In partnership with Natural Resources Conservation Services and Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
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