By Rep. Brent Jacobson

Wisconsin’s farms and processors play a key role in moving our state forward, and are a prominent part of our heritage in the 87th Assembly District. Every year, the agricultural industry generates $116 billion for our economy, and our cheese, cranberries, meats, and ginseng are exported across the world. Our budget makes several major investments in Wisconsin farms and agriculture, ensuring that this critical industry continues its contribution for our communities.

First, my colleagues and I invested $800,000 for grants to dairy processors, and $1 million for grants to meat processors. This funding will be available to help improve operations and increase capacity, ensuring that Wisconsin continues to create the high-quality, award-winning dairy and meat products our state is known for.

My colleagues and I know that you have to continue innovating and improving if you want to stay on top. That is why our budget sets aside $20 million for loans to help dairy farmers increase efficiency, improve milk quality, and decrease their environmental impact.

I’m also proud to report that our budget invests in protecting and managing water and soil quality. We invested $2 million in a pilot program to reduce nitrogen pollution from fertilizers, $500,000 for producer-led watershed protection, and $1.6 million for cover crops that help protect our soil and groundwater. Wisconsin’s agriculture can only continue to be the best if we manage our natural resources, ensuring our farms continue producing healthy and nutritious food well into the future.

Finally, our budget invests in our farmers, ensuring they have the resources to be successful. This includes funding to continue mental health assistance for farmers, and $12 million to ensure county conservation departments are staffed. These departments work hand-in-hand with farmers and landowners to manage our natural resources and solve issues, ensuring our farms are successful in the long term.

As this session continues, I look forward to continuing our support for Wisconsin agriculture. More than just an economic driver, our farms are a core part of our Wisconsin identity, and I am committed to giving them the support they need to continue operating well into the future!