A workshop designed to help rural professionals tackle mental and emotional concerns in the agriculture industry will take place Wednesday, Feb. 21 in Austin. There will be two sessions at  Riverland Community College. Each lasts three hours and people can choose to attend at either 9 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.

The free event is called “Down on the Farm: Supporting Farmers in Stressful Times” and it is one of six such gatherings the Minnesota Department of Agriculture is hosting around the state in coming months. The series is geared toward helping rural professionals to identify and address mental and emotional stresses farmers and their families face.

“We all know that the agriculture industry can be very stressful, and these workshops will go to help those who may be struggling with mental or emotional stress,” said Rep. Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea.

The Agriculture Department indicates agency staff, bankers, veterinarians, crop consultants, clergy, social service and health care professionals, agriculture educators and others who work with farmers are welcome to attend.

Registration is now open at www.mdadownonthefarm.eventbrite.com.