The 2024 Midwest Agriculture Summit, held at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in the Butler Machinery Arena, converged key agricultural leaders, industry experts, policymakers and community members, all uniting to shape the future of agriculture in the Midwest.  

Greg Lardy, Joe and Norma Peltier vice president for agriculture at North Dakota State University, opened the event, emphasizing the vital role agriculture plays in the region’s economy, history and future. He highlighted the contributions of The Chamber’s Agribusiness Committee in shaping the Summit’s agenda, emphasizing the importance of policy decisions, innovation, research and sustainability in agriculture. The Summit addressed the challenges and opportunities within the industry, with a focus on the Midwest's unique contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainability. 

The first speaker, Billi Hunt, executive director for America’s Cultivation Corridor, provided Industry Insights on the next generation of agriculture. She discussed the evolution of generational perspectives, the impact of social media trends and the industry’s ongoing concerns about greenhouse gas emissions and water availability. She emphasized the importance of sharing information to broaden participation and awareness in agricultural advancements. 

Dr. William Wilson, distinguished professor of agribusiness and applied economics at North Dakota State University, delivered a comprehensive keynote address on the current and future state of agriculture. Wilson highlighted the significant changes driven by technology, the impact of climate change and the importance of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) in agriculture. He also discussed international market dynamics, trade policies and the geopolitical implications of global conflicts on the agriculture industry. 

Jenna Mueller, executive director of the FMWF Chamber Foundation, discussed workforce initiatives under the Good Jobs Challenge. She shared the successes of their pilot implementation, which trained over 100 participants, and announced the launch of the first Agriculture Industry Sector Partnership, which will take place at Big Iron. 

A panel discussion on agricultural commodities, moderated by Bobby Ness, senior vice president of food and agribusiness for Bremer Bank, provided deep insights into the Farm Bill, global supply chain disruptions and the role of AgTech. Panelists Josh Gackle, Krista Swanson and Neil Rockstad shared their perspectives on the challenges within their industries and the importance of educational partnerships in supporting agriculture. 

Dr. Hollie Mackey, CEO of FARMS, presented on the importance of investing in agricultural technology to advance the region, emphasizing the need to accelerate innovation now that the resources are available. Dr. Mackey discussed the agricultural ecosystem and the necessity of finding solutions for future leaders, and how FARMS is actively engaged in research to further advance agricultural technology. You can learn more at farmsfeedstheworld.com. 

Zach Ducheneaux, administrator for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency, discussed future agricultural policies and the critical role of financial support in agriculture. He shared personal anecdotes about the impacts of past farm policies and emphasized the importance of supporting early adopters of agricultural innovation. 

This was followed by the next discussion into Industry Insights from Bruce Rastetter, founder and executive chairman of Summit Agricultural Group, explored carbon capture and its potential to expand markets for agriculture. He discussed the significance of biofuels, ethanol and sustainable airline fuel in driving farmer profits and enhancing sustainability. 

The Midwest Agriculture Summit fostered collaboration, learning and forward-thinking. Insights from industry experts, engaging panel discussions and a focus on innovation and sustainability highlighted agriculture's critical role in the Midwest and beyond.  

With renewed inspiration and a clear vision, this region is poised to drive meaningful change in its communities and the broader agricultural landscape. The Summit illuminated the path forward, ensuring the Midwest remains a leader in agricultural innovation and sustainability. 

The Midwest Agriculture Summit is part of AgTech week, a week-long celebration in Fargo, North Dakota, that is agriculture and technology focused. Hosted by dedicated organizations in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area, this week provides a unique opportunity to showcase the region's commitment to the sector and adjacent industries by bringing together leaders from across the community, region and nation to solve challenges, strengthen partnerships and accelerate FMWF's innovation and leadership in this space.