ST. PAUL – Workshops designed to help rural professionals tackle mental and emotional concerns in the agriculture industry will take place Tuesday at Ridgewater College in Willmar.
The event is called “Down on the Farm: Supporting Farmers in Stressful Times.” It is one of several such gatherings the Minnesota Department of Agriculture is hosting around the state in coming months. The series is geared toward helping rural professionals to identify and address mental and emotional stresses farmers and their families face.
“Life on the farm comes with a unique set of challenges,” said Rep. Dean Urdahl, R-Acton Township. “Sometimes people who could be in a position to offer a helping hand do not recognize certain signs or, if they do, are unsure how to respond. This event should provide good information in that regard.”
The MDA indicates agency staff, bankers, veterinarians, crop consultants, clergy, social service and health care professionals, agriculture educators and others who work with farmers are welcome to attend.
The workshops are free of charge, last three hours and people can choose to attend sessions at either 9 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.
Registration is now open at www.mdadownonthefarm.eventbrite.com. Visit www.mda.state.mn.us or call the MDA at (651) 201-6012 for more information.
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