Strength in the North Central Region: Farmers Share, Learn, and Lead Together

On March 13, 2025, farmers and collaborators from across Wisconsin’s North Central Region gathered at Matt Hintz’s farm in Amherst for the annual Producer-Led Summit, proudly sponsored by Farmers of the Roche-A-Cri. The event brought together members from nine watershed groups for a morning of connection, learning, and collaboration. Using an “unconference” format, attendees shaped the agenda themselves, diving into discussions that mattered most to their communities—from cost-sharing best practices and grant management challenges to conservation adoption and public outreach.

Throughout the day, participants shared candid insights about the realities of implementing conservation practices, including emotional and logistical barriers, market pressures, and the need for more flexible funding and technical support. Farmers emphasized the importance of peer mentorship, personalized outreach, and celebrating success stories to build trust and encourage broader participation. The group also explored creative ways to engage their communities, such as hosting informal gatherings, placing flyers at local ag businesses, and using face-to-face conversations to foster deeper connections.

One of the most powerful takeaways was the shared commitment to improving the land for future generations. Farmers expressed a desire to be recognized not only for their stewardship but also for their innovation and adaptability. The summit closed with a renewed focus on regional collaboration, showcasing diverse conservation efforts, and continuing to build momentum through practice tours and shared storytelling. As one participant noted, “Change takes time, but consistent effort plants the seeds”—a sentiment that perfectly captured the spirit of the day.