The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) is proud to announce that Jim Salfer, Dairy Livestock Systems Educator and Professor for Central Minnesota, has been named the 2025 Extension Educator of the Year. Salfer was recognized during MFBF’s Annual Meeting in Minnetonka on November 21.

 

Over the course of his career, Salfer has made significant contributions to Minnesota’s dairy industry through research, outreach, and education. He has produced 46 peer-reviewed publications, more than 100 articles and newspaper pieces, 63 proceedings, and over 20 podcasts and webinars. In addition, he has delivered more than 220 invited presentations and collaborated on nearly $3 million in grants to support dairy research and education.

 

Salfer actively leads and chairs numerous industry initiatives, including the I-29 Moo University, the   

4-State Dairy Nutrition and Management Conference, and multiple committees with the University of Minnesota, CFANS, Extension, Minnesota Milk Producers, and Ridgewater College. He develops programs supporting dairy farm succession planning, herd management, and graduate and extension training.

 

Salfer mentors students, is a supporter of Farm Bureau, and engages with local and statewide programs to educate the next generation of dairy producers. His work continues to strengthen the dairy industry and inspire both students and producers across the region.