Rural Development

Piloted in Minnesota, the Rural Climate Dialogues began from the idea that rural citizens hold the solutions for addressing climate change in their communities. Our intensive work in three communities (Winona, Grand Rapids and Morris) has been globally recognized by the International Association for Public Participation as a creative and innovative form of community engagement that is empowering rural communities to take leadership in the transition to clean energy. 

Farm Bill expiration abandons farmers

The 2014 Farm Bill expired on Sunday, stranding nearly 40 programs and compounding the uncertainty in farm country. Congress did not pass an extension of the bill, and now, they are unlikely to revisit the Farm Bill until after harvest and the midterm elections. This situation highlights the growing disconnect between Washington and what’s happening on the ground with farmers and the rural economy.