A new magazine launched this month highlights stories about the state's farms, food and families. Minnesota Made is a free annual publication about the diversity of the state's agricultural industry, which employs 340,000 people and contributes $75 billion to Minnesota's economy each year.
The inaugural issue features stories about the growing craft beer industry and the hops that supply it, century farms that are being honored this year, the state's history as a leader in biofuels development, and pollinator protection programs. It also includes stories about immigrant farmers, the growth of export businesses, the transition to locally-grown food in school lunches, and other topics.
Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Dave Fredrickson said that Minnesota Made intends to boast about the state's farm sector, and showcase some of the people who make it work by raising food, fiber and animals. "Whether you have a limited knowledge of agriculture's contributions to the state or you have farming in your background, I think you'll find the features interesting and appealing," he said.
Minnesota Made is published by Journal Communications, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. It does not use public funds.
Copies have been distributed to local libraries, city and county government offices, and farm organizations. They will also be available at the Minnesota State Fair at the state agriculture exhibit, and at Farmfest, a major agriculture trade show August 4-6 near Redwood Falls.
The magazine's online version can be viewed at www.farmflavor.com/magazine/minnesota-made-2015
