News

Minnesota updates FarmLink service

Minnesota’s Department of Agriculture has updated its online farmer connection tool.        

Jim Ostlie tells Brownfield FarmLink has grown from simply introducing retiring farmers with no family transition plan to new and beginning farmers. “FarmLink, it’s a free online program from the Minnesota Department of Ag. It helps connect retiring farmers with new farmers. It helps buyers and sellers connect, renters and landlords, as well as employers and employees.”

Ostlie started FarmLink when he joined the department more than 15 years ago.  He says the new web platform will allow him to spend less time connecting people and more time working directly with transitioning farmers.

Ostlie says the upgrade means existing users will have to start a new free account and enter their information. “As time goes on, things change, so it was a good option for them to go in and update their information and really think about where they want to be in five to ten years so it really provided an opportunity to get the most up-to-date information.”

To see what’s available or to sign up, follow this link.