New Farmer U

ABOUT: New Farmer U is Marbleseed’s signature weekend retreat designed to help beginning and intermediate farmers strengthen the business side of their farms. This training is offered by Marbleseed with regional partners in different states each year. For more than a decade, this event has supported farmers in building confidence around financial management, strategic planning, and decision-making—while creating space for meaningful peer-to-peer learning.

March 21-22 in Lanesboro, MN

2026 New Farmer U: Giving Your Beginning Farm a Boost!

in partnership with Renewing the Countryside

Hit the ground running this growing season with an early spring mini-academy itnended to boost farmers’ business skills. We're excited to collaborate with our friends at Renewing the Countryside on this early spring learning opportunity.

This is a great opportunity for farmers in the early part of their careers–whether aspiring and beginning or those in their first decade–no matter where you are located or what you produce.

Program
Featured presenters include Paul Dietmann, Compeer Financial’s Senior Lending Officer and popular farm author, plus additional speakers to be announced, including experienced organic farmers and agriculture experts. Through group and breakout sessions on a range of topics, farmers will gain exposure to fresh ideas and access to in-depth consulting on their farm finances and overall operation.

The weekend will also be ripe with camaraderie, peer-to-peer learning, abundant networking opportunities, plus a casual bonfire hangout on Saturday night.

Location
All this will take place at the picturesque Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center , a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through meaningful outdoor experiences that inspire care for the earth and one another. Situated in Minnesota’s Driftless region, this venue offers a unique space to explore, learn, and grow in nature.

Food & Lodging
Your registration includes a light morning pastry, lunch, and dinner on Saturday, as well as Sunday breakfast and lunch. Tea and coffee will be available throughout. Please communicate any dietary preferences or restrictions so that accommodations can be made when possible.

You'll also receive one night of on-site lodging in clean, shared dormitory-style rooms with standard accommodations. If you prefer a private or couple’s room on-site, you may request one for an additional fee, or choose a private lodging option.

Registration and Costs

Early Bird Registration $125 (now through February 24, 2026)
Standard Registration $150 (registration closes March 11, 2026)

Spots are limited! Cost includes all workshops, 4 meals + snacks, one night of lodging, plus a free farm finance book.
REGISTER

Scholarships
A limited number of needs-based scholarships are available to help reduce the cost of registration. Requests will be accepted through March 2, 2026. For more information contact Sam Gutierrez at sam.gutierrez@marbleseed.org.

Refund Policy
Refunds are available upon request and are subject to a 25% processing fee. Refund requests must be submitted by March 11, 2026. No-shows are non-refundable. To request a refund email gilbert@rtcinfo.org.

General Information
Have questions, language interpretation requests, or need more details? Reach out to Gilbert at gilbert@rtcinfo.org or 612-296-9020.

Sponsors
This New Farmer U is a program of Marbleseed and is produced by Renewing the Countryside and co-hosted by Big River Farms.