There’s a moment every winter when the world slows down.�When the noise fades, the chores settle, and you finally get the space to think about where you’re headed.
That moment is waiting for you in Duluth.
On February 7th, the North Central Highland Cattle Association gathers for a day that’s less “meeting” and more midwinter ignition—a place where ideas warm the room, conversations stretch across tables, and the next chapter of your farm begins to take shape.
This isn’t another conference.�
It’s a chance to lift your eyes above the daily work and see the horizon again.
The Kind of Speakers You Don’t Forget
John Keep — J Bar T Highland Ranch, Missouri
Every herd has a direction.�John’s coming to help you find yours.�He brings years of detailed data, real-world observations, and a deep understanding of how choosing the right bull can turn potential into progress. Whether your goals are growth, consistency, maternal strength, or carcass quality—John will show you how the numbers tell a story, and how to make that story work for your farm.
This isn’t guesswork. It’s clarity.
Hannah Bernhardt — Medicine Creek Farm, Finlayson, Minnesota
Hannah has built a brand that customers trust—because it’s honest, grounded, and unmistakably real. She knows the terrain of marketing grass-fed beef, lamb, and forest-raised pork, not from theory, but from lived experience.
She’ll talk you through what actually moves product, engages customers, and builds loyalty—so you can sell not just meat, but meaning.
This is marketing without the smoke. Just the signal.
The Place We Meet
The Radisson Harbor View has a way of making winter feel like an advantage.�Warm lights. Big windows. Duluth laid out beneath you, calm and steady.�It’s the perfect backdrop for the conversations that matter most—�the ones that start with “How’s your herd doing?”�and end with you seeing your farm a little differently.
Group Rate: $119/night�Reserve by January 8, 2026�Book through the group link:�
https://www.choicehotels.com/reservations/groups/JR04N5
Why You Should Be There
Because every farm, no matter the size, needs momentum.�Because knowledge shared across a table can change a whole season.�Because inspiration is contagious—and this room will be full of it.
On February 6th, we gather to learn.�To laugh.�To refocus.�To walk back into our barns and pastures with a renewed sense of what’s possible.
Join us in Duluth.
Where winter slows the world down—�and gives you the perfect moment to rise above it.
We’ve priced the day to reflect the true Highland spirit—generous, welcoming, and built around good food and good company. Adult tickets are $45, which covers a full day’s meals—breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner—along with all our educational sessions, guest speakers, and Highland-focused discussions.
And of course, our young calves are always welcome. Kids can attend for free, and if your little Highlanders 12 and under want to enjoy the day’s meals with us, a $20 kids’ food ticket makes sure they’re well fed and part of the herd.
Also check out other Meetups in Duluth, Kids events & activities in Duluth, Workshops in Duluth.
