Farm Business Management Fall Conference Strengthens Collaboration Across States

Educators from Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin gather for two days of professional development and farm family support

Waite Park, MN – AgCentric, in partnership with the Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence, co-hosted the 2025 Farm Business Management (FBM) Fall Conference on September 17–18 at The Park Event Center in Waite Park. Instructors from across Minnesota — joined by colleagues from South Dakota and Wisconsin — gathered for two days of learning, networking, and exploring new ways to support farm families.

A Shared Commitment to Farmers

The Farm Business Management program is a cornerstone of agricultural education and support, helping producers improve profitability, manage risk, and plan for the future. The Fall Conference brings together FBM instructors each year to exchange resources, strengthen professional skills, and align on strategies to serve farmers effectively.

Educators represented Minnesota State colleges including Alexandria Technical & Community College, Central Lakes College, Minnesota West Community & Technical College, Northland Community & Technical College, Riverland Community College, South Central College, and St. Cloud Technical & Community College. Colleagues from South Dakota and Wisconsin also attended, underscoring the regional importance of FBM collaboration.

Keynote and Mental Health Perspectives

Day one featured keynote speaker Ashley Rath, who delivered an inspiring message on resilience in challenging farm economics. Her session provided practical strategies to help educators and advisors guide farmers with confidence during uncertain times.

Another important highlight was the involvement of Minnesota’s Rural Mental Health Specialists, who play a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of farm families. The program, supported by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, offers free, confidential counseling and resources through a 24/7 helpline (833-600-2670).

The specialists currently serving Minnesota are:

• Monica McConkey, MA, LPC — More than 30 years of experience in rural mental health, raised on a farm, with a deep understanding of agricultural life.
• Tracie Rutherford Self, PhD, LPCC-S — Specializes in trauma, stress, and suicide prevention; works extensively in rural communities.
• Jennifer Vaughn, MS, LMFT — Serving rural Minnesota since 2009, working with individuals, families, and youth.

Their presence at the conference emphasized the connection between financial stability and mental health, and how both are essential to farm families’ success.

Tools, Resources, and Peer Learning

Over the course of two days, instructors participated in peer group discussions, breakout sessions, and updates on new tools and resources. Topics included data collection and analysis, FBM database applications, profitability insights, and integrating mental health awareness into farmer outreach.

These sessions allowed instructors to share strategies, troubleshoot challenges, and take home new ideas to apply directly with the farmers they serve. The exchange of experiences across states further strengthened the professional network supporting agriculture in the Upper Midwest.

Looking Ahead

As agriculture continues to face evolving markets, climate variability, and shifting demands, the FBM program remains a critical resource for guiding farm families. The annual Fall Conference ensures instructors are equipped with the latest insights, resources, and professional connections to continue serving Minnesota farmers with excellence.

👏 AgCentric and the Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence extend sincere thanks to all who contributed to the success of this year’s conference — from keynote speakers and mental health specialists to instructors and staff who make FBM a trusted resource for the farming community.