Agriculture advocates gather to celebrate and strategize for Alaska’s farming future

Local farmers, students, and agricultural leaders gathered this spring in Palmer for a lively meeting filled with food, celebration, and discussion on the future of farming in Alaska. The Mat-Su Farm Bureau's annual meeting provides an opportunity for farmers to share plans, brainstorm ideas, and build excitement for the upcoming growing season. The meeting, though it focuses on farmers, is open to all of the public.

The evening opened with a meal provided by Janet Dinwiddie of Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm. Attendees enjoyed dinner while watching a spirited call to order and role descriptions performed by Palmer FFA students. Afterwards, an auction of carrots, potatoes, and desserts raised funds for agricultural initiatives. The Farm Bureau is always in need of prizes and gift cards that can be auctioned or raffled to support future projects and welcomes any donations.

Palmer FFA member Layla Buzzard shared updates on district competitions and emphasized the importance of community outreach, including mental health awareness.

As the meeting continued, Division of Agriculture Director Bryan Scoresby addressed the crowd, touching on the recent 32–28 vote against creating a Department of Agriculture. This decision frustrated many farmers who hoped a department would give agriculture greater influence and a louder voice in state politics. It would also carry more weight during state budget negotiations. However, the potential cost was a key reason many lawmakers voted against the proposal.

Director Scoresby also stressed the need for more and larger farms to meet Alaska’s food needs. "Big farms are what will make the difference for agriculture in Alaska," he said, encouraging attendees to advocate for local produce. He noted that a head of lettuce labeled "Alaska Grown" can fetch up to $3 more, according to a recent Alaska Beacon article. He urged consumers to "ask for it" in stores to help retailers recognize the demand.

Many grocery stores are eager to invest in local farmers, but challenges remain. The federal GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) regulations require farmers to follow strict protocols, pay for costly audits, and obtain certification before selling to stores. These requirements, seen by many farmers as restrictive and excessive, often prove too burdensome in terms of time and money. As a result, many farmers forgo certification, limiting the availability of local produce in stores. Nonetheless, efforts to stock Alaska-grown products are increasing. Three Bears Alaska was recognized with the prestigious Golden Carrot Award for their support of local agriculture.

Other speakers included Margaret Adsit of the Alaska Farmland Trust, who announced that 700 acres of new farmland are being added to the trust, with significant interest from new farmers. She encouraged landowners with unused property to connect with the trust to help meet the rising demand for farmland.

Amy Seitz, policy director for the Alaska Farm Bureau, updated attendees on legislative efforts. While the Bureau supports a farmer's right to repair, it does not endorse current legislation formalizing that right, citing a desire to maintain good relationships with agricultural equipment companies. Seitz is also working with lawmakers to secure an additional $3 million in funding for university agriculture research.

Scientist Jodie Anderson, director of UAF’s Institute of Agriculture, highlighted exciting research developments, including livestock feed innovations using kelp and crab meal, and the breeding of a new barley variety expected within the next few years. UAF’s annual Research Field Day is scheduled for July 31 and will showcase ongoing crop trials.

Finally, Arthur Keyes, founder of "Drive Your Tractor to Work Day," announced that the beloved event will return for its ninth year on May 5, starting at the Alaska State Fairgrounds and ending at the Palmer Pavilion.

For more information or to get involved, community members are encouraged to reach out to event organizers.