By Andi Anderson
Michigan will host a major national event focused on improving support for people with disabilities in agriculture. The AgrAbility National Training Workshop is a leading conference that addresses disability, injury, aging, and health challenges faced by farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers across the United States.
The four day workshop will take place in Traverse City and will be hosted at the Park Place Hotel and Conference Center.
The event is expected to welcome more than 200 participants, including Extension professionals, farmers, ranchers, veterans, rehabilitation specialists, rural health providers, and agricultural leaders.
Educators from Michigan State University Extension will also take part as presenters.
The National Training Workshop is designed to provide practical education and real world tools that help people continue working safely and independently in agriculture.
The program includes two full days of breakout sessions, focused learning activities, and opportunities for collaboration. Optional tours will allow participants to visit farms and agricultural operations to see solutions and adaptations in action.
AgrAbility is a national program funded through the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The initiative supports farmers and agricultural workers who face barriers related to disability, injury, chronic health conditions, or aging.
AgrAbility works by promoting assistive technology, worksite modifications, and educational outreach that improve safety and productivity on farms and ranches.
The National Training Workshop plays a key role in advancing AgrAbility’s mission. It helps professionals learn how to better serve agricultural producers while also strengthening national and local support networks.
Participants gain knowledge they can take back to their communities, helping ensure agriculture remains inclusive and accessible.
The conference also encourages collaboration among organizations and individuals who are committed to safe, sustainable, and inclusive agriculture. By bringing together experts and practitioners, the workshop helps build long term capacity within agricultural service systems.
Registration information, session updates, and sponsorship opportunities for the event are available through the AgrAbility program website. This national workshop highlights Michigan’s role in supporting inclusive agricultural education and helping producers continue meaningful work in agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Michigan, Education