Big River Farms

09/04/2026

In observance of Labor Day, our office and programs will be closed on Monday, September 7th. We'll resume normal hours on Tuesday, September 8th.

We wish you a wonderful and safe long weekend, full of time to rest, recharge, and enjoy moments with loved ones.

09/02/2026

The cost of land is one of the biggest barriers for new farmers. Our Agrisolar program is focused on expanding long-term access to high-quality farmland for emerging and immigrant farmers. ☀️ 👨‍🌾

08/24/2026

Summer is peak season for Minnesota farmers, and building a strong local food system starts from the ground up. 🌾

🥕 From our Grower Training and Incubator programs to long-term land access at our Agrisolar Farm, we’re helping new farmers build sustainable businesses while supplying fresh, culturally connected food to local families.

👉 Read how we're growing opportunities from learning to land access in the latest Nourishing Change newsletter: https://ow.ly/uz0w50ZxeZ9

08/20/2026

We’re honored to partner with US Solar for our ☀️ AgriSolar Farm Program in Big Lake, Minnesota, where emerging farmers get long-term access to the land between solar panels to grow fruits and vegetables. The initiative is a win-win for farmers, the environment, and local economies. Long-term access to high-quality farmland allows farmers to invest in the land and build their business while the land between solar panels gains a new purpose. Read the article to learn more about the program!
➡️ https://ow.ly/KQ2K50ZC38S

Thanks for getting the word out Center for Rural Affairs.

An agrisolar project in Minnesota is proving that, given the right conditions, solar and farming can coexist fruitfully. While public worries about the implications of the loss of fertile farmland often presented in opposition to solar energy linger, a report by Center for Rural Affairs shows that t...

08/12/2026

From Grower Training to the Incubator program, we’re continuing the season of growing farmers, growing food, and nourishing our community. ☀️

08/05/2026

Quality control in action! 🥬 Our team at Big River Farms is giving this fresh batch of Malabar Spinach a final check before it heads off to one of our partner location.

07/27/2026

📣 Agrisolar Tour
Come tour our Big Lake solar site and explore our agrisolar project! ☀️🌱
Discover how we’re combining solar energy and agriculture—featuring research with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the University of Minnesota, a demonstration plot for annual and perennial produce, and local farmers cultivating over 3 acres of land.

🗓️ Wednesday, August 5th, 3-6pm
🕒 3pm open house style
🕓 30 minute structured tours starts at 4pm and 5pm
📍 19048 196th St Big Lake, MN 55309
➡️ RSVP via 📧 [email protected] 📞 763.450.3860

07/14/2026

🌾 Last year, we expanded market access for farmers in our program – and across
Minnesota – by purchasing more locally grown produce for Fare For All and Twin Cities Mobile Market, so our shoppers could feel connected to their food. ➡️ See the full 2025 report here: https://ow.ly/IQJx50Zmwy9

06/29/2026

Mid-summer is the perfect time for rest and connection. ❤️
The Food Group and programs will be closed July 1st–3rd so our staff can unplug, recharge, and spend time with their families. Taking this collective breath ensures we can keep showing up fully for the vital work we do in the community.

Have a wonderful, safe, and relaxing weekend! See you next Monday! ☀️✨

06/24/2026

Farmers in The Food Group’s Grower Training Program recently had the opportunity to visit Philadelphia Street Farm in Wisconsin. 🌱 The visit is one of four planned tours of local farms designed to expose farmers to different farm systems. As part of the program, each of our Growers has also been paired with a host farmer for a hands-on apprenticeship. After this season, they will have priority access to our Incubator Training Program at Big River Farms, where they can receive their own farm plot.