Agriculture

Agriculture is changing. To protect farmers from stress, mental health support has to change, too
Studies show that rising costs and trade turmoil are leading to increased rates of stress, depression and suicide in farm country. Mental health providers say farmers are seeking help, but the healthcare system needs to rethink how care is delivered to be effective.
Costs could squeeze Minnesota farmers long after Strait of Hormuz reopens
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade passageway, remains virtually closed amid the war in Iran. That’s driven up the prices of key agricultural necessities, which could remain high into next year.
Trump's foreign farm worker policy criticized by both unions and 'America First' groups
Guest farm workers holding H-2A visas are more important than ever for agriculture, especially after President Trump’s immigration crackdown. But efforts to expand the program are opposed by groups across the political spectrum.
Nitrate is quietly polluting rural drinking wells. How researchers are working to help
Across the central U.S., nitrate from crop fertilizer and livestock facilities is seeping into water underground. Many family wells are no longer safe to drink from without pricey treatment.
How are farmers coping with rising costs and uncertainty?
Farmers across Minnesota are facing rising costs, unpredictable weather and real uncertainty. MPR News host Angela Davis talks about how farmers are holding up — and what’s changed for agriculture in the past year.
Warren CHS grain elevator fire could impact area farmers
A large fire broke out at the Warren CHS grain elevator. Surrounding communities pitched in to contain the flames, but the fire’s aftermath could impact local farmers.
Moorhead group helps immigrants shape the food system, from farm to table
A Moorhead-based group is training immigrants to grow food, including produce from their native lands. Participants say tending the land and contributing to the local food system makes them feel at home.
USDA cancels $300M grant program, affecting projects for underserved Minnesota farmers
In cancellation letters shared with MPR, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said that the cancelled projects engaged in discriminatory diversity, equity and inclusion practices and did little to improve land access for farmers.