In today’s agricultural landscape, farmers face a dual challenge: adapting to increasingly complex state regulations while maintaining the public trust that underpins their ability to operate. This session explores the concept of “social license to operate”—the informal but essential approval granted by communities, consumers, and stakeholders—and how it intersects with formal regulatory frameworks.
Drawing on real-world examples, we’ll examine how farmers and organizations are responding to scrutiny, communicating stewardship, and proactively shaping their public reputation. Attendees will gain insights into messaging strategies and practical approaches to safeguarding both compliance and community support. Whether you’re a grower, industry leader, or policy advocate, this session will help you understand the evolving expectations around farming and how to meet them with confidence and clarity.
Tara May, EVP, Corporate Affairs, R.D. Offutt Company
Larry Kramka, Market Leader, Foth Companies; formerly Director of the Division of Lands and Minerals, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources