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Managing a farm

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Farmstead in winter.

We research and report on the financial performance of Minnesota farms and provide tools to farmers and ag professionals that support the future of agriculture. Our goal is to build on the profitability and success already achieved by Minnesota’s agricultural industry and help small farm owners succeed as stewards of the land.

Features

The impact of farm-to-school programs in Minnesota

The program reaches across the state to 114 schools and 501 businesses, including 461 farms and 19 food hubs.

Choosing plants for your cut flower farm

Choosing the right plant varieties is crucial for the success of your flower farm. Choose varieties that are in high demand to maximize sales and meet customer expectations.

What to do when your farm’s financial results are not what you want

When faced with disappointing financial data, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to address the situation and steer your farm back on track.

Business

Farm bill

Crop programs and Dairy Margin Coverage

Farm finance

For crop insurance, crop production and dairy

Farmland rent and economics

Rental rates and land values by county, flexible land rental agreements

Farm tax and legal

Tax and legal impacts for various situations

Marketing farm products

Marketing, recordkeeping and hiring

Transfer and estate planning

Passing the farm business and other assets to the next generation

Women in Ag Network

Leadership, management and agricultural production education and opportunities for women

Farming systems

Agroforestry

Agroforestry combines agricultural and forestry practices to improve environmental quality, productivity and economic returns.

Small farms

Information on running a one- to 40-acre farm

Safety

Farm safety

Stress management, extreme weather, equipment, livestock

Growing safe food

On-farm food safety, GAPs audits, Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

News

Farmer Hannah Bernhardt adjusts the feeding trough as five black pigs come around her.
agritourism liability reform

As more Minnesota farms open their gates to the public, understanding policies that support agritourism is growing in importance.

Child holding a small black board with "Local Produse!" written in chalk.
The impact of farm-to-school programs in Minnesota

The program reaches across the state to 114 schools and 501 businesses, including 461 farms and 19 food hubs.

Oranges.
Can I serve fresh-squeezed orange juice as a cottage food?

In short, no. Fresh-squeezed orange juice is not permitted under the Minnesota Cottage Food Exemption law.

Ag Business Management News

Find more articles on our news page.

Events

More learning opportunities

Courses and events for managing a farm from around the state

Ag business management events

Workshops, conferences and other learning opportunities

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© 2025 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This work is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.