From everyone at Voice of Milk, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. As we reflect on the past year, we're grateful for your continued support and contributions to our organizations. Together, we're making significant strides for the entire dairy community.
Apply for the PREPARE Grant by January 15
Source: MN Department of Agriculture
The Preparing for Extreme Weather Grant Program, also referred to as the Prepare Grant, helps Minnesota livestock and specialty crop producers buy and install supplies or equipment that will help make their operations more resilient to extreme weather.
Approximately $500,000 is available for this program. We expect to award 50 to 75 grants.
Applications open Jan. 1 for MDA 2026 Beginning Farmer Tax Credit
Source: MN Department of Agriculture
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Rural Finance Authority (RFA) will start accepting applications for the 2026 Beginning Farmer Tax Credit on January 1. This is an annual program available to landlords and sellers (asset owners) who rent or sell farmland, equipment, livestock, and other agricultural assets to beginning farmers.
Farm Aid pressure builds as lawmakers eye another package in early 2026
Source: Successful Farming
The Trump administration unveiled a $12 billion farm aid package last week, but some lawmakers are already saying more aid is needed. Before Congress left Washington for the year, Agri-Pulse Newsmakers spoke with Senate Ag Committee Chairman John Boozman about the future of the farm bill, the potential need for more farm aid in early 2026, and if there will be a time when farmers don’t need to rely on government payments.
Indonesia eyes US tariff deal signing in January, says all issues settled
Source: Reuters
Indonesia and the U.S. have agreed on all substantial issues for a tariff deal, paving the way for the signing of an agreement by presidents Prabowo Subianto and Donald Trump at the end of January, Indonesia's chief negotiator said.
Save the date for our 2026 Annual Meeting & Dairy Dairy at the Capitol
Source: Minnesota Milk
Minnesota dairy farmers and allied businesses are invited to join us at our Annual Dairy Day at the Capitol event! Our members meet with legislators to share their stories and advocate for Minnesota dairy.
Learn more about these events as well as sponsorship opportunities below!