Minnesota Farmfest Canceled

IDEAg Group L.L.C. which is owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation announced late last week that Minnesota Farmfest and Dakotafest has been caneled for this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Farmfest was scheduled in Red Wood County for August 4 through 6, 2020. Farmfest has served Minnesota farmers and the agricultural community for 38 years. The dates for Farmfest next year are August 3 through 5, 2021.

"We announced this decision with great disappointment but the well-being of our exhibitors, attendees, and staff, volunteers and their families is paramount," said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. "We understand the impact this has had on the ag community, but simply put, it is the right decision to make in these uncertain times."

IDEAg said some "aspects of each show will be made available to attendees virtually this year, including the Farmfest Political Forums." Executive Director Melissa Sanders Carroll said "the Farmfest Political Forums are a highly anticipated part of our annual event, especially for the state's ag industry and in this important election year. Providing people a virtual opportunity to learn about and participate in the issues that directly impact their farms, lives and families is essential to us."

It comes as no surprise that Farmfest was canceled for this year. I am quite disappointed but we all knew it would not be held. I will stay in touch with Ag Analyst Kent Thiesse who for many years has organized the Farmfest Forums. I am assuming Kent will be involved with the virtual Political Forums.