I. Way of Life

"Minnesota Nice" can best describe living in the rural areas across the state of Minnesota. Raising a family and living in the rural areas of Minnesota can offer rich and rewarding experiences and life long memories for you, your children and grandchildren. Minnesota’s rural towns offer many amenities that can provide many opportunities for your and your family.

II. Water Resources

Minnesota has more than 506,000 irrigated acres of agricultural crops.  Average rainfall in Minnesota is more than 26 inches of rain.  Minnesota has ample water resources for animal and crop production to co-exist in harmony.

III.  Dairy Processing Plants

Minnesota has excellent processing facilities and extremely competitive markets.  Dairy farmers here have choices amount Foremost Farms, Swiss Valley, Land O’ Lakes, AMPI, Dairy Farmers of America, Davisco, Bongards, Cass-Clay, First District, Valley Queen and several smaller milk buyers.  These choices exist in some of the finest dairy country in the nation.

IV.  Utilities

Low utility costs make Minnesota an excellent location for industries, including ag entrepreneurs.  Industrial rates are among the lowest in the nation.  Minnesota has an efficient mix of power sources including coal, nuclear, and hydro.  Many of our power suppliers offer special rebate programs on dairy electrical equipment.

V. Cattle Population

Minnesota ranks in the top 10 states in red meat production, milk cows, cattle/calves, and poultry and hog production.  In Minnesota there is ample room for increased cow numbers in some of the most productive land in the state.  Areas for expansion exist in most regions with exceptional opportunities in western and northern Minnesota.

VI. By-Product Feeds

Minnesota has a variety of corn, soybean, wheat, and sugarbeet processing plants located in the state.  These plants produce corn distillers grains, gluten feeds, beet pulp, wheat midds, roasted beans, and a variety of small grain screenings.  These by-products are an advantage in formulating an excellent low-cost feed ration.

VII. Feed Resources

Minnesota ranks 7th in agricultural exports at $4.28 billion.  Minnesota also lead the nation in farmer owned ethanol plants, producing and excess of 1.5 million tons of dried distillers grain, a high protein livestock feed.

VIII. Workforce

Minnesota is a leader in labor training programs.  The state recognizes the need for highly trained workers on today’s high-tech ag operations and works to ensure adequate labor supplies by being innovative and supportive of ag industry needs.   Minnesota’s labor force has a reputation for a strong work ethic, high productivity and low absentee and turnover rates.  The Minnesota workforce can work for you too!

IX. Education

In support of Minnesota Agricultural economy, the states educational system offers opportunities for students of all ages.  The University of Minnesota system offers extensive programs in both basic and applied research.  A variety of career paths are available to the more than 66,000 students enrolled.  In addition to the U of M system, Minnesota operates both a state college system and a private college, with schools located in almost every region of the state. 

X. Quality of Life

Minnesota offers some of the finest fishing, hunting, and four-season family activities in the nation.  The state has a strong Midwestern work ethic and family values.  The state also has a high quality network of schools, private colleges and universities.  Minnesota maintains an excellent infrastructure, including high quality roadways.

Safety and low crime rates are a trademark in Minnesota.  Many of Minnesota's communities have been recognized as great places to live. 

Other Resources

Once you move to Minnesota, get to know your local businesses which will lead to a better understanding of how your business fits into the local economic engine. For more information about local businesses, contact the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) also has many resources available to assist you in starting your new dairy business in Minnesota.