Minnesota Department of Agriculture Deputy Commissioner Jim Boerboom will host a listening session in Albert Lea on Wednesday. This event is the latest in a series of listening sessions held around the state by MDA to hear what’s on the minds of farmers and others involved in Minnesota agriculture.

The Albert Lea listening session will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Freebom-Mower Cooperative Services building, 2501 E. Main St. in Albert Lea. There is no cost for attending the listening session.

The informal discussions typically touch on a range of topics, giving MDA leaders an opportunity not only to share their thoughts on pressing issues facing the agriculture community, but also to hear from farmers and business operators about the unique opportunities and challenges in their part of the state.

“The economic climate is very challenging for Minnesota farmers, and particularly for livestock producers,” Deputy Commissioner Jim Boerboom said.