Wisconsin Farmers Union to Host 95th Annual State Convention in Wisconsin Dells

Family farmers to gather for policy debates, workshops, and a locally sourced banquet curated by Luke Zahm

CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. — Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) will celebrate its 95th Annual State Convention December 12–14, 2025, at Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells. The annual gathering brings together family farmers, rural residents, and supporters from across the state to shape policy, share ideas, and celebrate the cooperative spirit at the heart of Farmers Union.

The weekend will include workshops on topics such as small grains, agritourism, and farmer mental health, as well as updates from National Farmers Union and presentations from grassroots leaders across Wisconsin.

The convention begins Friday, December 12, with Groundswell, a pre-convention workshop focused on building community and making change, followed by a Kamp Kenwood fundraiser dinner and live auction to support WFU’s youth education programs.

Saturday evening will feature a special banquet curated by Luke Zahm, host of Wisconsin Foodie, highlighting ingredients grown and raised by WFU members across the state. Zahm will guide attendees through a multi-course meal that celebrates Wisconsin’s farmers and the flavors that define our region.

WFU President Darin Von Ruden said the convention comes at an important moment for family agriculture.

“This has been a challenging year for farmers, from volatile markets to changing policies,” Von Ruden said. “Gathering as a membership helps us refocus our priorities — strengthening our food system, supporting our communities, and making sure family farms continue to thrive in Wisconsin.”

Members will also elect WFU Board Directors and National Farmers Union Convention delegates, and debate and adopt grassroots policy positions that will guide the organization’s advocacy in the coming year.

The weekend also features WFU’s Youth Convention, where young participants join leaders from two Wisconsin co-ops, SolarShare and the Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative, for hands-on activities and crafts, and develop their own youth policy book inspired by their experience observing the adult policy session.

Discounted WFU room block at Chula Vista Resort are available through November 11 and early-bird registration rates end November 16th. Registration and full details are available at wisconsinfarmersunion.com/convention.

Wisconsin Farmers Union, a member-driven organization, is committed to enhancing the quality of life for family farmers, rural communities, and all people through educational opportunities, cooperative endeavors, and civic engagement. For more information visit www.wisconsinfarmersunion.com.