The Herd

The Herd is for members ages 18-23 who enjoy social media and want to share their love of agriculture with the world. Members gain valuable skills in agriculture communication by learning from industry professionals and through hands-on experiences. Herd members are selected in the summer and participate in the program for one year.

collage with photos of 2025 The Herd class members

Class 4 Applications Open

Applications for the next class of The Herd are now open! The deadline to apply is June 30.

Apply Here

2026-27 Timeline

Application Deadline: June 30

Herd Class Announcement: July 10

Kick-Off Training: Aug. (TBD)

Virtual Monthly Networking Calls: Sept.- Mar.

Winter Training: Mid-Dec. (TBD)

MFBF LEAP Conference: Jan. 22-23

MFBF Day on the Hill: Mid-Mar

Final Training: April (TBD)

What to Expect

Each Herd member will set goals and will receive prizes for reaching milestones. Herd members will write articles, post on social media, attend trainings and network with industry professionals to build their skills and personal brand.

What We're Looking For

An ideal applicant is passionate about the future of agriculture, has experience with social media platforms, can express their love for agriculture with photos, videos and creative writing, enjoys networking, learning and working with like-minded individuals and wants to explore all aspects of agricultural communications.

Past Participants

Lauren Hopkins, Alexandria Technical and Community College
Zoe Jones, Ridgewater College
Savannah Selin, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Kloe Wadd, University of Minnesota - Crookston
Cole Sundeen, University of Minnesota - Crookston
Mary Lanoue, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Aly Dieball, University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Katelyn Kobbermann, Mitchell Technical College
Kestlyn Willert, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Jacob Runge, Ridgewater College-Willmar
Melissa Hammer, University of Minnesota-Crookston

Past Networking Call Speakers


Thom Petersen, Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture
Miles Kuschel, Cattle Rancher

Haley Ammann-Ekstrom, Beef Farmer
Caitlin Keck, National Pork Producers
Natalie Kovarik, Discover Ag Podcast
Saydee Longhurst, Cleo’s Cuttings
Chandler Mulvaney, National Cattleman’s Beef Association
Thom Petersen, Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Greg Peterson, Machinery PetePaige Roberts, Paige Farms  
Annaliese Wegner, Modern-day Farm Chick
Kennedy Youngren, The Legendairy Dietician