Minnesota is in the forefront of agricultural production and livestock supply. The state has some of the most prominent industries i.e., soybean, corn, sugar beets, and hogs. As of 2017 statistical data, the Minnesotan farmers were able to generate $18.4 billion with agricultural processing and production.

Some sections of the society are highly against urbanization in the rural areas of Minnesota deeming it as an attempt to encroach on the agricultural lands of the state. But contrary to popular belief, urbanization has positively impacted agriculture processing in many ways. Though it is undeniable that careful consideration should be taken before selling prime agricultural land areas for urbanization, urban development is a sign of progress.

One of the main drivers of the decline in agricultural activities in rural areas is attributed to a lack of support towards the farmers and opportunities. This results in the migration and selling of prime-conditioned agricultural lands to settle in an urban city. Consequently, third-generation farmers are less likely to carry forward the agricultural enterprises due to a lack of growth opportunities.

From 2000 onwards, the profit margin for farmers has gradually decreased for reasons including, but not limited to, urbanization. Bringing better opportunities to a rural area with progress helps to retain the local population.

The stratification of urban and rural areas is fast diminishing and sub-urbanization development is taking place. A better way to promote and sustain agricultural activities would be to identify and implement connections between urban and rural progress. 

The State of Minnesota also fares well on the policies and legislation for #farmland protection and agricultural facilitation, which also reduces the risk of ‘urban encroachment’. Various strategies and programs are in effect such as:

• Land conservation and preservation by tracking agricultural areas' sale above 10 acres

• Tax relief on growing land 

• An active Green Acres initiative creates agriculture-centric blocks and zones

• Transfer development rights (TDR) that lets farmers shift the land areas. 

All these active interventions continue to preserve agricultural development along with urban progress on the side. Also, local authoritative bodies are responsible for zoning the agricultural area to limit rampant construction and urban projects on fertile and viable lands. There is a clear opportunity for two stark sensibilities to thrive in a mutually beneficial partnership.

Agricultural farmlands and processing industries in Minnesota serve as a cultural emblem for the rural population and economy. As long as effective measures are in place to safeguard and preserve the agricultural area, urbanization is not encroaching the farmlands. The future of civilization means living in a time where sustainable agriculture and urban development can survive together, rather than encroaching the space from each other.