We help with planning livestock expansions, feedlot siting issues, and agricultural planning and zoning. We also offer grants and loans for specific livestock-related activities.
Learn more about what we do:
Are you starting a new feedlot or expanding an existing farm or ranch?
Careful planning and preparation for both new and expanding operations can reduce or end conflicts about land use down the road. We can help you:
- Site a feedlot properly.
- Find funding opportunities for feedlot-related projects.
- Communicate with local units of government about your project and help find engineering consultants or legal representation. Contact one of us for more information.
Do you want to buy or sell a farm?
FarmLink is our program that connects retiring farmers with prospective farmers and help farms stay farms. It's also a tool for:
- Landowners and farmers to list farms and land for sale or rent.
- Farms and businesses to post employment and mentorship opportunities.
- Anyone looking for employment or mentorships in the ag sector to list their interest.
Are you looking for new grazing opportunities?
Check out these resources for grazing private or public land:
- Cropland Grazing Exchange – find opportunities to graze private cropland and pastures in Minnesota – or list your own herd’s availability for grazing.
- Conservation Grazing Map – look for options to graze public land in your area.
Are you looking for ways to improve your dairy farm?
The Dairy Development and Profitability Enhancement Program was created in 1997 to support Minnesota's dairy farmers and improve their milk quality. It has two parts:
- Dairy Profitability and Enhancement Teams help you improve productivity, efficiency, and profitability using a one-on-one advisory team.
- Dairy Business Planning Grants reduce the cost of hiring someone to help you write a business plan for your dairy operation.
Do you want to be a livestock dealer or market agency?
We license all livestock dealers and market agencies in the state. If you’re looking for information about licensing requirements or if you want to find a licensed dealer or market, visit the Livestock Dealer Licensing Program.
Are you interested in fish farming?
If you currently raise fish or are interested in raising and selling fish, shrimp, shellfish, or other aquatic life, our Aquaculture page will guide you to information and resources that might be helpful.
Want to learn more about protecting your farm from a foreign animal disease?
If a foreign animal disease is ever found in the U.S., regulatory officials will limit the movement of animals and animal products to control its spread. All livestock producers should have a plan for this situation.
We encourage you to voluntarily prepare for a foreign animal disease outbreak. The livestock industry developed the following Secure Food Supply Plans were developed to help you get ready:
