Supporting the Next Generation: Inside New Farmer U 2026

Published: Apr 2026
By: Gilbert Schwartz

On a warm March weekend in Lanesboro, Minnesota, 42 aspiring and active farmers gathered for New Farmer U 2026—bringing with them not only a wide range of experiences, questions, and goals, but also a shared commitment to building strong, sustainable farm businesses.

Held at the beautiful Eagle Bluff Environmental Center, the event was co-hosted by Renewing the Countryside, Marbleseed, and Big River Farms, with generous support from the USDA’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. Participants traveled from across the Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Iowa, and Illinois. Some were just beginning their journey—13 aspiring farmers—while another 29 were within their first decade of experience in the field. Their farms reflected that same diversity, ranging in scale from small urban and backyard operations to larger rural farms, and producing everything from vegetables and fruit to dairy, livestock, mushrooms, hemp, and bees.

Throughout the weekend, participants moved between sessions focused on the realities of farming today: financial management, marketing, production systems, and legal considerations. These sessions were grounded in real-world experience and paired with practical tools—reinforced by a complimentary copy of Fearless Farm Finances, a collection of take-home resources, and continued access to shared slide decks and digital planning tools.

But just as important as the sessions were the moments in between.

With on-site lodging included as part of the experience, participants stayed together throughout the weekend, creating a natural rhythm of learning and connection that extended beyond the classroom. That sense of community carried into shared meals featuring locally farmed food—carrots, onions, potatoes, corn, apples, eggs, beef, and chicken—where conversations flowed easily from workshop sessions into more informal exchanges. On Saturday evening, participants gathered around a cozy bonfire with snacks of local popcorn, switchel, and even roasted crickets, creating space for storytelling and laughter.
These shared experiences created meaningful opportunities, with one person noting, “Really appreciated the go around of attendee intros, classes, enough time for breaks and meals to chat, plus the bonfire. Lots of good opportunities to connect.”

The weekend closed with an inspiring presentation from Chris Barth, highlighting his top 10 marketing tips for farmers, followed by a moderated panel discussion featuring seasoned farmers and a wholesale buyer from the Iowa Food Hub. Together, they explored market development and shared practical strategies for connecting with diverse customer bases.

By the end of the event, many farmers described feeling not only more informed, but more grounded and supported—leaving with clearer next steps and a stronger network. As one attendee shared, “Very cool to connect with the regional community! It’s reassuring that there are so many supportive and knowledgeable people.”

With 23 scholarships awarded to improve accessibility, New Farmer U continues to invest in farmers at all stages—creating a space where knowledge, relationships, and real-world tools come together to support long-term success.