Registration open for PFI’s 2025 Beginning Farmer Retreat
Farmers of all enterprises encouraged to attend Nov. 22–23 event in Montour
Contact: Elizabeth Wilhelm | Senior Media Relations Coordinator | (515) 232-5661 | elizabeth.wilhelm@practicalfarmers.org
AMES, Iowa (Oct. 2, 2025) — Beginning and aspiring farmers are invited to Practical Farmers of Iowa’s annual Beginning Farmer Retreat. The two-day event will take place Nov. 22-23 at Pilgrim Heights Camp & Retreat Center (3005 E Ave.) in Montour, Iowa.
“Getting into farming isn’t easy,” says Rachel Burke, PFI’s senior beginning farmer engagement coordinator. “From accessing land and covering start-up costs to tackling learning curves, beginning farmers face a lot of hurdles.”
The retreat is designed to ease those challenges. Attendees will gain practical knowledge tailored to beginning farmers’ needs, connect with farmland access experts and have time to network with both peers and landowners looking to support the next generation.
“Being able to talk to others navigating similar challenges is huge,” Rachel says. “This event gives farmers a space to share their stories and ask questions in an open, supportive setting.”
Retreat highlights:
- Five workshop-style sessions
- An evening bonfire and social time
- A networking breakfast with beginning farmers and landowners
- Opportunities to openly ask questions and share stories
Farmers of all enterprises are encouraged to attend. Farm knowledge, food and friendship will be freely shared.
Location: Pilgrim Heights Camp & Retreat Center, 3005 E Ave., Montour, Iowa 50173
Cost: $20 retreat ticket; optional $30 to stay overnight.
Registration is now open and will close Nov. 21. To learn more and register, visit practicalfarmers.org/beginning-farmers-retreat.
For questions, contact Rachel Burke at (515) 232-5661 or rachel.burke@practicalfarmers.org.
###
About Practical Farmers: Practical Farmers of Iowa is a nonprofit with more than 8,000 members that equips farmers to build resilient farms and communities. We create learning opportunities via farmer-led events, on-farm research and educational content through our robust network of farmers. We also provide funding and technical assistance to help farmers adopt regenerative farming practices and grow farm businesses. Our vision is an Iowa with healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities. To learn more, visit http://practicalfarmers.org