East Central Chapter Annual Meeting - February 20, 2026

You are invited to register and attend the annual meeting of the East Central Chapter of the Sustainable Farming Association (SFA) being held at Northern Lights Ballroom and Banquet Center, in Milaca, MN on Friday February 20, 2026. from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

At this meeting we will hear from guest speaker Stephen Thomforde (speaker bio) on the topic: Native Grazing and Agroecology Informed by Traditional Ecological Knowledge.

Stephen shares how healthy, nutrient-dense food and useful natural materials can be produced in ways that care for the land and support strong communities. Drawing on natural ecosystems and Indigenous land-management practices—such as the use of fire, native plants, and grazing animals—he explains how productive landscapes were created before European settlement. The presentation highlights practical, regenerative approaches that improve soil and water health, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support long-term resilience, economic stability, and meaningful livelihoods.

Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
Location: Northern Lights Ballroom and Banquet Center, 10376 112th Ave, Milaca, MN 56353

Agenda

5:00 – 5:45 PM Social (registration; cash bar open)
5:45 – 6:30 PM Buffet Dinner & Desserts
6:30 – 8:00 PM Speaker Presentation
8:00 – 9:00 PM Business Meeting

Registration & Cost

• Registration is required
• East Central Chapter members: Attend free if you are a member on the date of the event. Please sign in to your SFA account to register. (Note: If your East Central Chapter membership will expire prior to February 20, 2026, please renew your membership before registering)
  Need help registering? Email eastcentral@sfa-mn.org.
• Non-East Central Chapter members: Registration cost is $54.95.
  Become an East Central Chapter member to attend this event for free. Become an East Central Chapter Member

Dinner

Buffet dinner includes Fresh Garden Salad, Breast of Chicken and Pork Tenderloin, Baked Potato (with sour cream and butter), green beans, corn, dinner rolls, and cookies for dessert. One beverage ticket for the cash bar is included and may be used for soda, wine, beer, or other beverages. Coffee and Tea are also provided. (Most buffet options are gluten free and/or dairy free, croutons and dressings are on the side)

Business Meeting

The business meeting will include a continuation of the discussion on how potential grant funding could be used to increase engagement and better support farmers and homesteaders in our region. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend the business meeting.