May 12, 2025
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture invites farmers, educators, researchers, and advocates to submit session proposals and speaker suggestions for the 2026 Minnesota Organic Conference, set for January 8-9, 2026, at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud, MN.
This annual event brings together growers of all experience levels — from aspiring and beginning farmers to seasoned organic producers — to connect, share knowledge, and advance organic agriculture in Minnesota.
Organizers welcome proposals for breakout sessions, panel discussions, and keynote speakers. Submissions will be accepted through June 13, 2025, through a simple online form. A planning committee will review all submissions and select a dynamic lineup of engaging sessions designed to meet the needs of farmers of all types and sizes. Selected presenters will receive complimentary conference registration, travel reimbursement, and for farmers and others who may need it, a speaking honorarium.
Information about trade show exhibiting and conference sponsorship will be available in late August. The full conference program will be released later this fall. Those interested in receiving exhibitor, sponsor, or program updates can sign up here.
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Media Contact
Nikki Warner, MDA Communications
651-238-7909
Nikki.Warner@state.mn.us
Scientific name: Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky)
Formal EAB Quarantine Version 40567.31 KB
Smarty Plants Podcast
Discover Smarty Plants, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's podcast that digs into the fascinating world of invasive species. Join expert guests as they share insights and solutions to protect our environment and agricultural resources. Visit Smarty Plants and start listening today.
Distribution
Emerald ash borer (EAB) is native to East Asia and was discovered in North America in 2002, though it may have been introduced as early as 1990 in solid wood packing material from Asia. Emerald ash borer has spread rapidly across the eastern United States due to the long-distance movement of infested ash firewood, nursery stock and other ash materials, as well as short distance natural flight. Emerald ash borer was found for the first time in Minnesota in 2009.
EAB is a serious invasive tree pest, and consequently a quarantine has been placed to help slow its spread to other areas. For information on EAB distribution and quarantine boundaries, refer to the MDA's EAB status map.
