The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Board of Directors recently identified four priority areas for the 2026 state legislative session following the organization’s annual meeting, held Nov. 20-22 in Minnetonka. 

Rooted in grassroots policies submitted and voted on by Farm Bureau members, these priorities reflect some of the most pressing issues facing Minnesota’s farm and ranch families.

"Minnesota Farm Bureau is focused on solutions that keep family farms viable, grow rural communities, and protect the land we all depend on,” said MFBF President Dan Glessing. “These priorities were highlighted by our members and come from their everyday challenges. Working together to find solutions, we can ensure agriculture will succeed now and for future generations.”

As the state’s largest general farm organization, MFBF advocates on behalf of its members across a wide range of issues at the state Capitol. During the 2026 legislative session, the organization will work with lawmakers on the following priority areas to support the vitality of farmers, ranchers and rural communities:

  • Family Farm Legacy – Ensuring policies and resources support farm families in passing land, knowledge and opportunity from one generation to the next. 
  • Rural Economic Vitality – Advancing initiatives that grow rural businesses, improve infrastructure and empower local communities.
  • Environmental Stewardship – Supporting science-based land and livestock conservation practices that protect natural resources while keeping farms productive and sustainable. 
  • Energy and Farmland Preservation – Balancing renewable energy policies with the long-term protection of Minnesota’s agricultural lands. 

“This session we want to work with legislators on policies that balance the challenges and opportunities for agriculture in our state,” Vice President Carolyn Olson. “Our members know it’s important to have rural voices at the Capitol, and are ready to have the conversations and build the relationships to make a difference for agriculture and their communities.”