Minnesota agriculture was celebrated this week at Farmfest as Meg Moynihan, a senior advisor with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), was named the 2026 Farmfest Woman Farmer of the Year and farm families from all 87 counties were recognized for their contributions to agriculture. The honors celebrate the people whose leadership, innovation, and stewardship continue to strengthen Minnesota agriculture.
Moynihan joined the MDA as a diversification specialist in 2002. She and her husband run Derrydale Farm in Le Sueur County, a 170‑acre certified organic dairy operation with a 70‑head herd. Her responsibilities range from caring for calves, maintaining pastures, and operating field equipment to managing the farm’s bookkeeping and organic certification.
Her experience at Derrydale Farm helped shape some of her most significant work at the MDA. After the farm lost its organic milk buyer in 2016, Moynihan’s husband worked out of state as a truck driver for a period of time while she managed the farm largely on her own. The financial uncertainty, anxiety, depression, and isolation she experienced deepened her understanding of the pressures many farmers quietly face.
As a result, Moynihan developed a suite of farmer well‑being programs for the MDA, including the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline, a free, confidential 24/7 resource connecting farmers with mental‑health, financial, and legal support. She also manages funding for three agricultural mental health specialists who provide free services to farmers and their families. In addition, she led the Farm Suicide Prevention Campaign, using radio, social media, and community‑based suicide‑prevention training to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and connect farmers with support before a crisis occurs.
“Meg brings a deep understanding of what farmers face every day, and she has spent her career turning that understanding into practical support,” said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “She listens, she shows up, and she works alongside farmers to help them succeed. As a farmer herself, she knows the commitment it takes. Minnesota agriculture is stronger because of her leadership.”
From left: Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Agricultural Marketing and Development Division Director Paul Hugunin, 2026 Farmfest Woman Farmer of the Year Meg Moynihan, MDA Communications Director Allen Sommerfeld, MDA Program Administrator Megan Moland, and University of Minnesota Extension Director of Government Relations and Agriculture Outreach Whitney Place at Farmfest on Aug. 6, 2026.
Moynihan reflected on the recognition and the farmers she has worked with throughout her career.
“I’m grateful for this recognition, but even more grateful for the farmers I’ve had the privilege to work with,” Moynihan said. “Farming is both humbling and hopeful, and women across Minnesota bring skill, resilience, and heart to this work every day. It’s an honor to stand alongside them.”
The finalists represent work spanning agritourism, poultry production, regenerative farming, and agricultural education. Visit the Farmfest Woman Farmer of the Year webpage to read their stories. The award is sponsored by the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program, Common Ground Minnesota, Farm Bureau Financial Services, and AgCountry Farm Credit Services.
Farmfest also honored the University of Minnesota Farm Families of the Year, a program that recognizes multigenerational farm families whose stewardship, operational continuity, and community involvement anchor Minnesota agriculture. Established in 1979 and coordinated by the University of Minnesota Extension; the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences; and the College of Veterinary Medicine, the program has honored more than 1,500 families, reflecting the depth and diversity of farm operations across the state. One family from each of Minnesota’s 87 counties is selected annually.
“This year's Farm Families of the Year reflect the impressive strength and incredible variety of agriculture in our state,” said University of Minnesota Extension Dean Bev Durgan. “The University of Minnesota is proud to honor these families and their innovation and dedication to Minnesota agriculture.”
Gov. Tim Walz declared Aug. 6 as Farm Family Recognition Day, underscoring the contributions of all farmers across the state.
Farmfest, held annually at the Historic Gilfillan Estate near Redwood Falls, is one of the largest agricultural gatherings in the Midwest, bringing together farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and organizations to share information, showcase innovation, and celebrate Minnesota agriculture.
“Being able to host programs like the Women in Ag Event, Farmfest Woman Farmer of the Year Award, and Farm Family of the Year recognition program allows us to recognize and thank hard-working and dedicated Minnesota farm families for their efforts,” said Niki Jones, spokesperson for IDEAg Group, the producer of Farmfest. “We believe that sharing their stories can inspire others, strengthen rural communities, and celebrate the vital role agriculture plays in Minnesota.”
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Media Contact
Nikki Warner, MDA Communications
651-238-7909
Nikki.Warner@state.mn.us
