The Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Council (AFREC) traces it origins to the Agricultural Nutrient Task Force. This group of farm leaders, legislators, researchers, and industry representatives recognized the need for additional fertilizer research and associated education. They recommended that the legislature establish a council. The council, as stipulated by 18C.70, is composed of 15 voting members. Council members must be nominated by their organizations and appointed by the commissioner. Members serve three-year terms. Appointments must be staggered so that one-third of the council membership is replaced each year.
AFREC Board Members
- Crop Production Retailers: Scott Barnes, Secretary
- Independent Crop Consultant: Bryce Nelson
- Minnesota Corn Growers: Rodney Moe
- Minnesota Farm Bureau: Jeff Pagel, Chair
- Minnesota Farmers Union: Matt Kruger
- Minnesota Grain and Feed: Ryan Kelbrants
- Minnesota Irrigators Association: Grant Anderson, Vice Chair
- Minnesota Soybean Growers: Bob Lindeman, Secretary
- Minnesota Wheat Growers: Mark Jossund, Treasurer
- Potato Grower Industry: Pete Ewing
- Sugar Beet Industry: Emma Burt
- Minnesota Soil Health Coalition: currently being nominated by organization
- Minnesota Institute of Sustainable Agriculture: currently being nominated by organization
- Expert in Water Quality: currently open and accepting applications
- Expert in Public Health: currently open and accepting applications
