On Friday, November 10, state lawmakers from the surrounding area were invited to Crystal Valley’s Janesville facility to learn more about ag retail. The event was in partnership with the Minnesota Crop Production Retailers (MCPR) and Crystal Valley. The dialogue and tour provided an educational opportunity for policymakers and an opportunity to discuss regulatory challenges and concerns in ag retail.
Travis Brekken, Crystal Valley Compliance and Safety Manager and MCPR Board Member, presented on several topics, including how Crystal Valley (and other ag retailers) operate. He covered the planning and data it takes to succeed, workforce challenges, and shared his experience with current policies and regulations within agriculture.
Lee Helgen, MCPR Executive Director, helped showcase how some current and proposed policies affect ag retailers across the state. Discussion around making agriculture a focal point in education was also addressed.
After the presentation, the group toured the location, visited a chemical shed and fertilizer plant, and had the opportunity to climb inside a sprayer and get a feel for what an applicator sees in the field.
Those in attendance were Senator Nick Frentz DFL- North Mankato, Senator John Jasinski R-Faribault, Representative Brian Daniels R-Faribault, and Waseca County Commissioner DeAnne Malterer, along with members of the MCPR board and Crystal Valley employees.
Links to news stories.
Mankato Free Press
KEYC News Now