The National Farmers Union has partnered with The Climate Network to conduct a series of meetings this summer across the Midwest on the theme of renewable energy solutions. “The Renewable Energy Tour” will make stops in Minnesota, South Dakota and Wisconsin from June 27 to July 1. NFU President Roger Johnson says – this is an educational opportunity for family farmers and ranchers, a chance to see what others like them are doing to take advantage of this increased demand for renewable energy.

The tour will allow for firsthand dialogue with a German farmer and renewable energy expert. The Climate Network Project Coordinator Till Kötter, says – by sharing lessons learned in Germany, we want to support U.S. farmers on their way to becoming the energy producers of the future. Also, findings will be summarized in a policy report that will be released in Washington, D.C., at the end of July.

The tour will provide information to farmers and policymakers on the benefits of renewable energy, its role in rural economic growth and the opportunity for an extra revenue stream for farmers as well as attendant environmental benefits. Kötter says – we hope to help grow the seed that farmers in the Midwest have planted by turning to renewable energies.