A planned $43 million investment in the state’s agriculture economy and farm families has received rave reviews from local industry leaders. Governor Tony Evers announced that portion of his proposed 2021-2023 budget last Friday. The goals of the proposal are to expand local and international market opportunities, bolster local meat processing, promote agricultural innovation and farmer-led conservation, and support farmers’ mental health and well-being. Kewaunee County UW-Extension Agriculture Agent Aerica Bjurstrom says the efforts are good news for local dairy farmers.

Bjurstrom says even though the stigma around a farmer’s mental health is lessening, she is happy more support will be provided.

The Dairy Business Association also applauded the proposal last week, citing increased support for producer-led watershed grants and additional UW-Extension specialists as being among the things that are critically important for the state’s farmers.  

Picture courtesy of UW-Extension