Saint Paul, MN. – On November 9, 2023, AgriGrowth, a nonprofit, nonpartisan member organization representing the agriculture and food industries, held their annual Minnesota Ag & Food Summit. The event connected leaders in agriculture and food to discuss the top issues impacting the industry including Minnesota’s role in global food systems, geopolitics, building the talent pipeline for agri-food, the Minnesota-Canada trade relationship, and more.
“AgriGrowth is proud to bring together top agri-food leaders, policymakers, thought leaders and experts to discuss how we can work together and advocate for a strong agri-food economy in Minnesota. The 2023 Ag and Food Summit was a tremendous success, and we are thankful to everyone who joined us,” said Tamara Nelsen, Executive Director of AgriGrowth.
Additionally, Don Schiefelbein, Partner at Schiefelbein Farms, was presented with this year’s Distinguished Service Award. Since 1968, it has been an AgriGrowth tradition to present the Distinguished Service Award for unique service and significant contributions to strengthening food systems and agriculture in Minnesota.
On top of owning and operating a large farm operation, Schiefelbein also has served as President of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and President of the American Angus Association. In 2017, he was also recognized as Minnesota Cattleman of the Year.
“I am honored to receive this year’s Distinguished Service Award from AgriGrowth, and I greatly appreciate their shared vision of building a strong, resilient agri-food industry in Minnesota. My job is to raise cattle, and amazing opportunities keep coming my way that allow me to lead and elevate the value of agri-food,” said Schiefelbein. “I am proud to be connected to so many in our industry who share a passion for elevating agri-food and feeding the world.”.
“Every year, AgriGrowth is proud to recognize agri-food leaders who are positively impacting our sector and making a difference. Don Schiefelbein is an effective leader and voice for agri-food here in Minnesota, and across the nation,” said Nelsen. “He highlights all that Minnesota agriculture has to offer.”
You can learn more about AgriGrowth, its members and the 2023 Minnesota Ag & Food Summit at agrigrowth.org.
