Identify animal agriculture's "big, hairy, audacious goal" at 2024 Stakeholders Summit
April 24, 2024 - J.J. Jones, executive director of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA), will guide attendees in identifying animal agriculture's "big, hairy, audacious goal" in the closing session of the Animal Agriculture Alliance's 2024 Stakeholders Summit. Registration for the event, set f...
Apr 25, 2024
FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative Appoints Mick Homb as New General Manager
Madison, Wis. [April 24, 2024] - FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative proudly announces Mick Homb as the newly appointed General Manager, bringing expertise and a proven track record to lead the cooperative into its next chapter of growth and success. Having served as the Director of Milk Marketing for the cooperative's Family ...
Apr 24, 2024
2024 PDP Accelerate™ to Provide Full Day of Training, Networking for Agriculture Industry Interns
DAIRY NEWS - Internships have become a critical part of building skills and preparing students for the workforce. A one-day program presented by the Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) will give agriculture sector interns the tools they need to set themselves apart and excel after college. PDP Accelerate is set fo...
Apr 24, 2024
Gov. Evers, DNR Encourage Wisconsinites to Take Action to Celebrate Earth Week
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers today shared a video message inviting Wisconsinites to celebrate Earth Day and Earth Week by taking action around their own homes and communities to reduce waste, recycle, conserve water, and take small steps that can make a big impact to protect the planet. The governor's video message is ava...
Apr 24, 2024
Gov. Evers Announces Wisconsin Awarded $62 Million Federal Solar for All Grant
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers announced today, as the state and country celebrate Earth Week, that Wisconsin is receiving a grant of $62.4 million from the Biden-Harris Administration to help fund solar systems for low- and moderate-income households across Wisconsin. Wisconsin is among 60 states, territories, Tribal gover...
Apr 24, 2024
Gov. Evers, WEDC Announce Incentives to Assist Kikkoman's $800 Million Investment in Rural Wisconsin
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers announced that the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) today approved awarding up to $15.5 million in performance-based tax credits to assist Kikkoman Foods Inc. in expanding its operations in Wisconsin. The company plans to invest at least $800 million ...
Apr 24, 2024
Spongy Moth Aerial Spraying to Begin in May
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) plans to treat select areas in nine western Wisconsin counties for spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) starting in May. Residents can expect loud, low-flying planes in the affected areas as early as sunrise. A small yellow plane w...
Apr 23, 2024
River Falls Beef Farmers Win "Soil Your Undies" Contest
PRESCOTT - The Soil Your Undies contest combines crude humor and crude science to help farmers see how the management choices they make impact the soil they work in. For two years now, local farmers and landowners have been burying extra large pairs of Hanes underwear, with the help of local Farmer-Led Watershed Counci...
Apr 22, 2024
Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order Increasing Wisconsin's Trillion Trees Pledge Goal to Plant 100 Million Trees by the End of 2030
WAUNAKEE - Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in celebration of Earth Day today and Forest Appreciation Week this week, announced that the state is increasing its Trillion Trees Pledge planting goal from planting 75 million trees by the end of 2030 to planting 100 millio...
Apr 22, 2024
PDP's The Dairy Signal to Feature Dairy Margin Coverage, 2024 Forage Strategies and Market News
DAIRY NEWS - With temperatures warming and spring arriving, next week's episodes of The Dairy Signal® from Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) will highlight strategies to keep finances and animals healthy throughout the growing season. The Tuesday episode will highlight the Dairy Margin Coverage Program, and t...
Apr 22, 2024
WCMA Auction Raises Record Funds to Support Dairy Industry's Future
MILWAUKEE, WI - An exuberant crowd of dairy processors, marketers, and suppliers raised an unprecedented $423,480 at the 2024 Novonesis Championship Cheese Auction at CheeseExpo in Milwaukee, Wisconsin - shattering the previous record by more than $80,000. The funds support industry training programs offered by the Wis...
Apr 22, 2024
Gov. Evers Delivers Radio Address Highlighting Historic Legislation to Support and Expand Wisconsin's Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers today delivered the Democratic Radio Address highlighting the historic legislation he signed into law last month, Senate Bill 791 and Senate Bill 792, now 2023 Wisconsin Acts 121 and 122, respectively, enabling the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to receive and administer more ...
Apr 22, 2024
DATCP to Offer Training Webinar for County and District Fair Judges
MADISON, Wis.- The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is offering an online training webinar for newly-licensed fair judges as well as those interested in learning more about the general principles of serving as a judge at a Wisconsin county or district fair. The training webinar...
Apr 22, 2024
Advancing Agriculture this Earth Day
This Earth Day, Wisconsin Farm Bureau is celebrating the farmers on the frontlines of progress reaching our sustainability goals. From planting crops to caring for livestock, every decision we make on the farm is guided by a deep respect for the environment. Wisconsin Farm Bureau is the trusted voice leading agricultur...
Apr 22, 2024
WFBF Statement on Summer Ethanol Blend Waiver
MADISON - Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Brad Olson released the following statement regarding the Biden administration's emergency fuel waiver to allow the sale of summer gasoline blends containing 15% ethanol (E15). "Wisconsin farmers appreciate the Environmental Protection Agency granting an emergen...
Apr 22, 2024
Western Wisconsin farmers implement conservation efforts for continuous improvement
BALDWIN, Wis. ― Skip Grosskreutz is continuing to experiment with new sustainable farming practices and motivated by the betterment he sees for the entire community. Grosskreutz is an agribusiness and farm insurance specialist at his family's business, Grosskreutz Crop Insurance, in Clear Lake; he's also been a crop ...
Apr 17, 2024
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Update
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to threaten wild and domestic birds. In addition to the response to HPAI in poultry in certain states across the nation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are also working...
Apr 17, 2024
Van Orden, Davis Introduce Legislation to Establish Farming and Ranching Opportunities for Veterans
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) and Congressman Don Davis (D-NC) introduced the Ag Vets Act. This bipartisan bill will codify an existing Ag Vets program to direct the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to award competitive grants to prepare veterans for entering the farming and ranching indu...
Apr 17, 2024
On the Road with Alice - The Buzz on Pollinators
On a nice warm spring day, head outside, and take a moment to slow down. Feel the warmth from the sun, listen to the wind through the trees or the birds chirping, smell the fresh flowers, and look for the bees, butterflies, and other pollinators visiting your space. It is estimated that "about 75% of the world's f...
Apr 17, 2024
The Soil and Water Outcomes Fund and John Deere Launch Seamless Integration of Field Data to Drive Efficiency, Support Farmers in Conservation Efforts
Moline, IL and Ankeny, IA - The Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF) and John Deere are proud to announce a new collaboration, bringing an integrated digital experience to farmers participating in SWOF's leading agricultural ecosystem services program. This digital integration with the John Deere Operations Center&trade...
Apr 17, 2024
Gov. Evers, WisDOT Announce Infrastructure Grant to Aid Economic Development around Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Northeast Wisconsin
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), today announced a $631,235 Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) grant to the city of Marinette. The grant will support road construction to improve traffic flow around Fincantieri Marinette Marine as the shipbuilding compa...
Apr 17, 2024
Gathering Ground Celebrates Agriculture On Washington Island With Farm and Field Bike Tour
Washington Island, WI. Gathering Ground is proud to announce its fourth annual Island Farm and Field Bike Tour - History Edition, scheduled to take place on Friday June 28 at 9 am. This unique event celebrates the island's rich agricultural heritage as well as provides a behind the scenes look at the farms working toda...
Apr 17, 2024
Dairy's Foundation Awards Grants to Strengthen Dairy Education and Outreach Efforts
April 2, 2024- DAIRY NEWS - Dairy's Foundation has awarded grants to programs focused on building healthy and vibrant dairy communities. The grants will support: Mobile Dairy Experience hosted by the New York Animal Ag Coalition to support curriculum development and multi-media development, including a video that can b...
Apr 16, 2024
Evaluating Runoff Risk Prior to Manure Spreading
MADISON - Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation is encouraging farmers to plan ahead in order to reduce the risk of manure runoff incidents. The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) offers an online runoff risk advisory forecast to help farmers determine the potential for manure runoff from field...
Apr 16, 2024
Spring Farmer Gathering - Grow It Forward, Manitowoc, WI on April 27
The Wisconsin Local Food Purchase Assistance program (WI LFPA) invites you to join us for a networking event on Saturday, April 27th, at 2:00 PM, hosted at Grow It Forward in Manitowoc, Wisconsin (Grow It Forward | Manitowoc (grow-it-forward.org). The event aims to build connections between farmers and hunger relief or...
Apr 15, 2024
Save the date for Dairy Symposium on May 15
The Dairy Symposium showcases the Hub's most advanced research and is formatted for an academic audience. Admission is free. Registration is open! Click the button below to register, view the agenda, speaker bios and more! DAIRY SYMPOSIUM WEBSITE Questions? Contact Maria Woldt at maria.woldt@wisc.edu or (608) 265-4009 ...
Apr 15, 2024
DATCP Reminds Farmers to Check Runoff Risk Prior to Spreading Manure
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is reminding farmers and manure applicators to check the runoff risk advisory forecast before spreading manure on fields. This tool helps determine the potential for manure runoff from a field depending on weather conditions ...
Apr 12, 2024
On the Road with Alice - Beef By-Products Focus on Sustainability
Sunny May days are made for grilling out, but the cherry (tomato) on top is that May is also Beef Month! We have a lot to celebrate in Wisconsin, with more than 27,000 farms and ranches with cattle that contribute to providing wholesome culinary options. Beef can be a nutrient dense part of a balanced diet. In just on...
Apr 11, 2024
Guard Your Green: Invasive Plant Pests Threaten Your Community's Trees and Gardens
WASHINGTON, April 5, 2024-The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) proclaims April 2024 as Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month. During this month, we are encouraging everyone-whether you're a gardener or a camper, a bug enthusiast or a student, a traveler, or an online shopper-to learn about the...
Apr 10, 2024
Soil health group accepting farmer enrollment for 2024
The Soil and Water Outcomes Fund (SWOF), a leading agricultural ecosystem services program, is now accepting farmer enrollment for 2024 across 28 states, with new areas of cropland eligibility in 23 states. The Soil and Water Outcomes Fund provides payment to farmers for environmental outcomes that result from implemen...
Apr 09, 2024
Kirnberger will support farmers' Climate-Smart projects as part of Edge
GREEN BAY, Wis. - Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative today announced that Paige Kirnberger has joined the organization as a sustainability project specialist to support farmers in all aspects of the Farmers for Sustainable Food Climate-Smart Program, from enrollment through data collection and analysis. Kirnberger has a bac...
Apr 09, 2024
USDA Confirms Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Dairy Herd in Idaho
WASHINGTON, April 2, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dairy herd in Idaho. APHIS shared on Friday, March 29 that its National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, ...
Apr 08, 2024
Nominations Open for WFBF's Heroes of Hope Campaign
MADISON - To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, Wisconsin Farm Bureau is recognizing rural neighbors through its Heroes of Hope campaign. Heroes of Hope is meant to shed light on rural heroes who have helped others through a tough time - i.e., helping harvest crops while going through a tough time, providing posi...
Apr 04, 2024
On the Road with Alice - A Focus on Tractor Safety and Spring Planting
The geese and sandhill cranes are calling, the tulips and tree buds are coming out, and the farmers are itching to get back into their fields, so that must mean that spring has arrived! For many communities around Wisconsin, this also means an increased amount of slow-moving traffic on their country roads for the upcom...
Apr 04, 2024
Mayer joins Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative communications team
GREEN BAY, Wis. - Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative announced Kayla Mayer as the newest addition to the company's communication team today. Mayer will serve as the marketing and communications manager. She works closely with Director of Communications Laura Hensley to oversee strategic direction, create creative assets and...
Apr 03, 2024
Calumet County Farm Bureau to host Classroom on the Farm on April 18
BRILLION-Calumet County Farm Bureau will be hosting Classroom on the Farm at Woldt Farms LLC in Brillion on April 18th. Approximately 400 fourth grade students from Chilton School District, New Holstein School District, Hilbert School District, Janet Berry School, Holy Family School-Brillion, Shepherd of the Valley Lut...
Apr 03, 2024
Wisconsin Jersey Spring Spectacular celebrates 25 years
VIROQUA, Wis. ― Entries are open for the 25th Annual Wisconsin Jersey Spring Spectacular at the Vernon County Fairgrounds in Viroqua, Wis. May 3-4. Showmanship begins on Friday, May 3 at 3:00 p.m. The cattle show will start with winter heifers at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 7, followed by milking classes at 12:30 p.m...
Apr 02, 2024
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, Farmers for Sustainable Food host Climate-Smart informational webinar
GREEN BAY, Wis. - Enrollment has begun in the Farmers for Sustainable Food Climate-Smart Program, which uses data to inform how farming practices can potentially generate added value for the food the farms produce. Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and Farmers for Sustainable Food held a Climate-Smart informational webinar...
Apr 02, 2024
Helena Introduces Dual-Purpose Planter Box Treatment
Helena Agri-Enterprises is giving a boost to planting programs with the introduction of Quickshot™. Previewed earlier this year at the 2024 Commodity Classic in Houston, Texas, this dual-purpose planter box treatment blends a fluency agent with a full nutrient package to streamline planting while increasing yield...
Apr 01, 2024
WCO honors two scholarship winners; 2024 applications due May 1
DEFOREST, Wis. - Wisconsin Custom Operators, Inc. (WCO) recently awarded two scholarships to students pursuing further education. These students were selected based on leadership, civic engagement, academics, and volunteer activities related to agriculture. Students also submitted essays detailing their educational and...
Apr 01, 2024
Luxemburg-Casco "grows" its participation in Farm to School program, providing increased opportunities for students and local businesses
The Luxemburg-Casco School District is among a growing number of districts - now more than 67,000 nationwide - to participate in the Farm to School program (F2S) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Farm-to-school programs, whose focus is on delivering healthy foods to children while supporting rural economic ...
Apr 01, 2024
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative member Sandy Larson speaks at USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities event
FOUNTAIN CITY, Wis. - Edge member Sandy Larson of Larson Acres presented yesterday at a United States Department of Agriculture Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities event. She spoke about the values important to her every day on her family's farm: quality, pride and family and how these values are reinforced in h...
Apr 01, 2024
On the Road with Alice - Wisconsin's Dairy Farmers Focus on Sustainability
Dairy farmers have long been focused on sustainability. Depending on the specific plans set in place by each farm, sustainable practices can look different. In general, sustainability includes caring for the land, water, and local communities, and safeguarding their health for future generations. Did you know Wisconsi...
Apr 01, 2024
Nomination Period Open for Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is accepting nominations for two seats on the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board. Producers who grow and sell soybeans in the following districts are eligible to nominate producers or be nominated to the board: District 2 - Bu...
Apr 01, 2024
WFBF Statement on Veto of Changes to Farmland Preservation Tax Credit Program
MADISON - Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation released the following statement from WFBF Executive Director Jason Mugnaini today following the veto of Assembly Bill 480. "The purpose of the Farmland Preservation Tax Credit is to do exactly what it says: preserve farmland. This bill would have continued to allow farme...
Apr 01, 2024
Best Practices for Colostrum Management in Beef Calves
AABP Executive Director Dr. Fred Gingrich is joined by Dr. Clair Windeyer, Associate Professor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. This podcast is brought to you by the ad hoc AABP Cattle Youngstock Committee. If you are interested in joining an AABP committee, please go to the committee page o...
Mar 29, 2024
Women Leading the Way at Pagel Family Businesses
Last week, we brought you a 3-part series, as we celebrate the month of March: the month of women's history, International Women's day, as well as National Agriculture Day. What better way to do this than in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, at Pagel's Ponderosa Dairy, with three very special guests from Pagel Family Businesses ......
Mar 28, 2024
Avian influenza detected in dairy cattle, no threat to dairy products or meat
An illness has been reported in dairy cows in Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico. Affected cows presented with decreased milk production, decreased feed consumption, and reduced rumen motility. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and ...
Mar 27, 2024
HPAI found in dairy cattle in Texas, Kansas, and possibly New Mexico. Milk and meat are safe to eat if pasteurized and cooked
From Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory On March 25th, the USDA announced that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was detected in dairy cattle in several southwestern states. This is the same strain of influenza A that has been circulating in North America since 2022 and is the most destructive foreign a...
Mar 27, 2024
Highly pathogenic avian influenza found in Texas, Kansas dairy cattle
From the American Veterinarian Medical Association On March 25 the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in laboratory samples obtained from some affected cows in...
Mar 27, 2024
STEM Week is Back at Farm Wisconsin
MANITOWOC, WI - For the fourth year, Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center will be hosting STEM Week from Wednesday, March 27 to Friday, March 29. Guests of all ages are welcome to engage in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities relating to agriculture and food production. Visitors are encouraged to ...
Mar 27, 2024
Rosco's Sweet Treats Comes to Life
KEWAUNEE COUNTY, Wis - Chase Pagel is thrilled to announce the launch of children's book, Rosco's Sweet Treats. The book launching will take place on Sunday, April 7th, 2024 at the Pagel's Ponderosa Dairy facility, marking a significant milestone in Chase's literary journey. Rosco's Sweet Treats is a non-fiction story ...
Mar 26, 2024
Join DATCP, DFI, and Savi for a Student Loan Repayment Webinar on April 9
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), together with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) and Savi, today announced they are hosting a free student loan repayment webinar on Tuesday, April 9. Join this interactive webinar to learn about federa...
Mar 26, 2024
WCMA Announces 2024 Student Scholarship Winners
MADISON, WI - The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) today announced the seven winners of its annual scholarship awards supporting emerging dairy industry leaders. These exceptional students have been selected to receive a total of $19,000 in scholarship funds in 2024. "It is a privilege to assist great...
Mar 26, 2024
Extension Women in Agriculture Program to be held at the WI Farm Discovery Center on April 4th
Eastern Wisconsin's Extension Women in Agriculture Program returns will be held at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center near Manitowoc on April 4th. The $13 million attraction is a state-of-the-art, interactive discovery center that focuses on the diversity of Wisconsin agriculture within a framework of sustainable and ...
Mar 21, 2024
Telling the Story of Wisconsin Agriculture this National Ag Day
MADISON, Wis. - Ahead of National Ag Day on March 19, I have had the opportunity to share the story of Wisconsin agriculture with industry groups, legislators, and consumers. Telling the story of Wisconsin agriculture is important for each of us as the impacts of this industry are far-reaching. Even those who are unfam...
Mar 20, 2024
Getting together to grow together: WPS Farm Show returns for 62nd year
Oshkosh - A popular event full of new opportunities for farmers and farm businesses arrives next week. Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is ready to welcome tens of thousands of people to its 62nd WPS Farm Show, March 26-28 on the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) grounds in Oshkosh. "We are excited to continue...
Mar 20, 2024
Wisconsin Beef Council kicks-off t-shirt sales to raise funds for families in need
VERONA, Wis. ― The Wisconsin Beef Council is launching a two-week fundraiser, donating all proceeds to Feeding Wisconsin to purchase beef for families in need. Feeding Wisconsin is the statewide association of the Feeding America food banks that sources, warehouses, and provides food to more than 1,000 local food pr...
Mar 20, 2024
Gov. Evers Signs Historic Legislation to Support and Expand Wisconsin's Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers today signed historic legislation, Senate Bill 791 and Senate Bill 792, now 2023 Wisconsin Acts 121 and 122, respectively, enabling the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to receive and administer more than $78 million in federal funds under President Joe Biden's Bipartisan Infras...
Mar 20, 2024
Discovery Farms Multi-State Webinar March 26
March 26, 2024 9:00 am CT/ 10:00 am ET This free 2.5 hour webinar will feature presentations from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Arkansas and Vermont. CCA CEUs available! Register Now! On the Agenda Wisconsin's Changing Climate and New In-Field Nitrate Monitoring Amber Radatz, Ag Water Quality Program Manager Ellen Albright, D...
Mar 20, 2024
Updates to the National FARM Program: FARM Animal Care Version 5
From The National FARM Program - more details here FARM Animal Care Program standards are revised every three years to reflect the most current science and best management practices within the dairy industry. Standards, rationale and accountability measures are reviewed and revised by the FARM Animal Care Task Force an...
Mar 20, 2024
Farm to Fire: Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board to attend SoyFoam TF 1122™ demonstration in Georgia
MADISON - The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board is heading to Dalton, Georgia, March 18-20 for a firsthand demonstration of one of its latest checkoff investments - SoyFoam TF 1122™. SoyFoam TF 1122™ is a wetting/smothering agent capable of extinguishing Class A and Class B fires while eliminating intention...
Mar 20, 2024
What trends are we seeing with dairy products developed for exports?
What trends are we seeing with dairy products developed for exports? Does unique branding and logos for dairy products make a difference in the exports market? Can you tell us more about the new Singapore Dairy Center of Excellence? These were a few of the questions dairy farmers asked during the 2023 Joint Annual Meet...
Mar 19, 2024
Wisconsin farmers attend National Farmers Union Convention
SCOTTSDALE - Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) members were in Scottsdale this week for the National Farmers Union 122nd Anniversary Convention. Hundreds of farmers and ranchers from throughout the nation gathered March 10-12 to set the family farm organization's 2024 policy. "Amidst the challenges and opportuniti...
Mar 18, 2024
Over $48,000 Raised at 2024 Dairy's Foundation Auction
DAIRY NEWS - Dairy's Foundation added a live auction and an online-bidding element to its annual silent auction campaign at the 2024 Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) Business Conference, held March 13-14 in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. The silent auction raised $30,792 and the live auction contributed an additional $17...
Mar 18, 2024
Agriculture Youth Council Application Deadline Approaching
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) reminds students to apply for the Wisconsin Agriculture Youth Council by the end of the month. DATCP will accept applications through March 31, 2024. High school students who will be seniors during the 2024 - 2025 school year...
Mar 18, 2024
Tune into PDP's The Dairy Signal for FARM Program, Soil Health and Water Quality, and Farm Safety
DAIRY NEWS - This week's episodes of The Dairy Signal® from Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) will feature timely updates on industry programs and keeping soil, water and team members healthy. The Tuesday episode will feature an update on the National Dairy FARM Program and tune in on Wednesday for a discuss...
Mar 18, 2024
PDP Business Conference Discusses Sustainability, New Initiative
DAIRY NEWS - The 2024 Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) Business Conference brought together nearly 1,200 dairy producers and industry professionals March 13-14 at Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. In addition to interactive sessions and networking opportunities, the annual conference featured more inform...
Mar 18, 2024
Brian Forrest Honored with Dean Strauss Leadership Award
DAIRY NEWS - Brian Forrest, owner and manager of Maple Ridge Dairy near Stratford, Wis., was honored as the fourth recipient of the Dean Strauss Leadership Award on Thur., March 14, at the Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) Business Conference in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. Forrest's primary focuses at Maple Ridge are s...
Mar 18, 2024
Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom Announces Grant Support of Agricultural Literacy Projects
MADISON - Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation's Agriculture in the Classroom program has awarded $5,000 to educators and agricultural literacy programs. Grant dollars will support innovative core curricula initiatives that incorporate agriculture concepts while helping students meet academic standards and develop career r...
Mar 18, 2024
DATCP Announces Wisconsin Farm to School Program Grant Recipients
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced that eight organizations will receive grants through the Wisconsin Farm to School Program Grant Program. A total of $250,000 will be awarded. These grants were awarded through a competitive review process, with amou...
Mar 18, 2024
Chile Trade Mission, two spots available
Chile is a free-trade partner with the U.S. and as such, it is an easy and secure place for Americans to do business. Chile is one of the largest export markets for U.S. consumer-oriented food products, has a stable economy, and is a gateway for U.S. exporters looking to reach Latin American markets. Dairy, foods, ingr...
Mar 18, 2024
Maple and Egg Hunt Traditions Headline Farm Wisconsin Event
MANITOWOC, WI - Celebrate springtime at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center on Saturday, March 30, 2024. The center's popular Egg Hunt and Maple Day return- this year, combined for an enhanced one-day experience. Family-friendly activities will run from 9 AM - 1 PM. In addition, thirteen eggs of various species are due to ...
Mar 18, 2024
Dairy Innovation Hub partners to support research to reduce cattle methane emissions
By Jori Skalitzky, Dairy Innovation Hub It's easy to ruminate over methane when thinking about dairy and its challenges. Dairy cattle are an essential piece of Wisconsin's $45.6 billion dairy community, but cattle have to eat - and when they eat, they produce the greenhouse gas methane during digestion. This methane-pr...
Mar 18, 2024
Gov. Evers Visits Local Water Treatment Centers, Continues to Urge Republicans to Release $125 Million to Fight PFAS Statewide
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers, last week, visited wastewater treatment and water utility centers in La Crosse, Marinette, Columbus, Beaver Dam, and Marshfield to celebrate National Groundwater Awareness Week. During his visits, Gov. Evers highlighted the $125 million investment to combat PFAS statewide, made available thro...
Mar 18, 2024
FSF Climate-Smart Program empowers farmers to improve, generate added value
LUXEMBURG, Wis. - When Paul Cornette and his brother, Tom, started down the path to farm in a more environmentally sustainable way on their dairy years ago, they soon came to realize there would be no finish line. "We're always looking for ways to do better. We'll never be done," Paul said. What has become a ...
Mar 15, 2024
Soybean research dollars: Plans for 2024
At this year's Wisconsin Corn Soy Expo, the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board (WSMB) made the exciting announcement of the recipients of research dollars, generated by Wisconsin soybean growers through the checkoff program. Corn Soy Expo is an incredibly important platform for WSMB to engage directly with growers, offe...
Mar 14, 2024
Farm Bureau Recognizes Graduates of Partners in Advocacy Leadership Class 11
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2024 - The American Farm Bureau Federation recently honored 10 outstanding leaders in agriculture as graduates of the organization's 11th Partners in Advocacy Leadership class. PAL was designed to help agricultural leaders accelerate their engagement abilities and solidify their roles as advocates...
Mar 13, 2024
Twenty-One Graduate from PDP Cornerstone Dairy Academy
DAIRY NEWS - Twenty-one dairy farmers and allied industry professionals received recognition for completing all three pillars of leadership training in Cornerstone Dairy Academy®. The application-based leadership-development program is designed to build the skills of dairy producers and industry professionals who w...
Mar 13, 2024
On the Road with Alice - Specialty Crops Make Wisconsin Agriculture Special!
Agriculture in Wisconsin contributes $104.8 billion annually to our state's economy and provides jobs for nearly 12% of the state's workforce. As America's Dairyland, it makes sense that a large portion of that economic impact comes from dairy, but the diversity of our agricultural production is what makes it so impact...
Mar 13, 2024
WPS showcasing support for farmers with 62nd WPS Farm Show
Oshkosh - New equipment, new efficiencies, new excitement - same tradition of serving America's Dairyland. A springtime tradition is back in one month with the return of the WPS Farm Show. Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) will welcome tens of thousands of farmers and exhibitors to its 62nd WPS Farm Show, March 26-28 at t...
Mar 13, 2024
Plan Ahead to Protect Your Vacation
MADISON, Wis. - Whether you are going on a spring break trip this month or planning ahead for a summer getaway, it is important to prepare so you know what to do if issues occur. The last thing anyone wants to deal with while on a vacation is a business dispute, scam, or identity theft, but understanding how to handle ...
Mar 13, 2024
WFBF Young Farmer and Agriculturist Award Applications Now Available
MADISON - Applications are now available for Wisconsin Farm Bureau's Young Farmer and Agriculturist program's Farming for the Future and Outstanding Agriculture Professional awards. The Farming for the Future Award recognizes members who own or work on a farm. The Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award recognizes m...
Mar 12, 2024
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Announces Earth Week Webinar Series
MADISON - Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation is proud to present a three-part webinar series during Earth Week. The webinars will explore carbon perspectives throughout the supply chain. "Carbon is the wild west and we are excited to offer this opportunity to provide clarity about it," said WFBF Director of Sus...
Mar 12, 2024
Gov. Evers Slams Republicans for Continued Delays Releasing Critical Funds to Fight PFAS Statewide, Stabilize Healthcare Industry in Western Wisconsin
Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee set to meet Monday without taking any action to release funding to fight PFAS, address urgent healthcare industry needs in Western Wisconsin MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers today slammed Republicans in the Wisconsin State Legislature for continued delays releasing two critical in...
Mar 11, 2024
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, Farmers for Sustainable Food to host Climate-Smart informational webinar
GREEN BAY, Wis. - Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and Farmers for Sustainable Food will present a Climate-Smart informational webinar on March 12 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. CST. The webinar will provide insight on the group's multi-year USDA's Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Program after recently announcing...
Mar 11, 2024
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation Establishes Board of Trustees
MADISON - A newly formed group of Wisconsin Farm Bureau leaders convened for the first time on March 6 as the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation Board of Trustees. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation Board of Trustees was established by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Board of Directors and will be responsible for expanding f...
Mar 11, 2024
DATCP Issues Public Health Alert for Rackow Family Sausage Sweet Maple Bacon Sticks with Bacon Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allerg
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is issuing a public health alert for a ready-to-eat snack stick product, Sweet Maple Bacon Sticks with Bacon, produced by Rackow Family Sausage in Juda. This alert is due to the product being misbranded and containing an unde...
Mar 11, 2024
On the Road with Alice - Celebrating Agriculture on National Ag Day
Writer and naturalist Aldo Leopold is quoted as saying, "there are two spiritual dangers in not owning a farm. One is the danger of supposing that breakfast comes from the grocery, and the other that heat comes from the furnace." With most Americans now three or more generations removed from the farm, finding...
Mar 08, 2024
New Innovations and Technologies on Display at the 2024 PDP Business Conference
DAIRY NEWS - The countdown is on to the 2024 Business Conference presented by the Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP), set for March 13-14, 2024, at the Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. With 54 sessions in a variety of formats, the two-day event is the premier opportunity for every member of a dairy team t...
Mar 07, 2024
Summer farm broadcasting internship with Midwest Communications
Connect and share about agriculture in Northeast Wisconsin through the radio and social media channels at Midwest Communications. This is a hands-on and in-person summer internship to explore farm broadcasting and digital storytelling. Intern job responsibilities include: Conduct virtual and in-person interviews with...
Mar 06, 2024
World Championship Cheese Contest Kicks Off in Madison, Wisconsin
MADISON, WI - The 2024 World Championship Cheese Contest® is officially underway! Now through Thursday, March 7, more than 3,300 cheese, yogurt, butter, and dry dairy products will be evaluated by a skilled team of internationally renowned judges. Preliminary rounds of judging are open for public observation from 1...
Mar 06, 2024
DATCP Issues Public Health Alert for Nilssen's Market Bacon Cheddar Beef Burgers Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is issuing a public health alert for Bacon Cheddar Beef Burgers produced by Nilssen's Foods in Clear Lake. This alert is due to the product being misbranded and containing undeclared allergens. The aforementioned product cont...
Mar 06, 2024
Sheboygan River Progressive Farmers scholarship applications due March 15
SRPF is offering $1000 scholarship(s) to graduating high school seniors and current college students who will be enrolled in a two-year technical school or four-year college during the upcoming academic year. Applicant must be pursuing an agriculture related or environmental science related degree. Scholarship money wi...
Mar 06, 2024
GROWING CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE IN NORTHEAST WISCONSIN
Join Wisconsin Farmers Union for an inaugural Farm Climate Smart WI event! Farm Climate Smart WI, a new collaborative project with the goal of empowering Northeast Wisconsin farmers to implement climate-smart agriculture practices, is set to host an educational event at the Oshkosh Food Co-Op on March 25, 2024 from 6:0...
Mar 06, 2024
On the Road with Alice - Farm to School Strengthens Wisconsin Agriculture
Think about the first time you ate a green bean or tomato right out of the garden, still warm from the sun. Or how about the first time you helped harvest produce that went into a meal you ate later that day? Farm to School (F2S) helps encourage these types of connections between Wisconsin's students and the food they ...
Mar 05, 2024
Consumer Protection Week: DATCP Has Your Back
MADISON, Wis. - Governor Evers has proclaimed March 3-9, 2024 as National Consumer Protection Week in Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is celebrating by promoting its many free resources and programs for consumers, including several that are new and improved....
Mar 04, 2024
Gov. Evers Signs Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Annual Child Care Costs for Working Families
WAUKESHA - Gov. Tony Evers today at La Casa de Esperanza in Waukesha signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1023, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 101, which expands the current child and dependent care tax credit from 50 percent to 100 percent of the federal credit, helping reduce the tax burden for families struggling to afford the high co...
Mar 04, 2024
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative offers scholarships to membership
GREEN BAY, Wis. - Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative will award $10,000 in secondary education scholarships to its membership, the cooperative announced today. Two $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to current students pursuing a degree in a four or two year program. Three $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school...
Mar 04, 2024
Gov. Evers Urges Lawmakers to Support Compromise to Release $125 Million to Fight PFAS Contaminants Statewide
MADISON - Gov. Tony Evers today urged Republican lawmakers to support a compromise proposal aimed at expeditiously releasing $125 million to fight PFAS contaminants statewide, asking the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee to release funds to combat PFAS without controversial provisions to benefit polluters c...
Mar 04, 2024
DATCP to Host Public Meetings on 2024 Spongy Moth Treatment Plans
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has published its 2024 spongy moth aerial treatment plans. Treatment plan maps, spray information, fact sheets, and other resources can be found at smaerialspray.wi.gov. "In 2023, spongy moth populations reached record ...
Mar 04, 2024
On the Road with Alice - The Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker
Wisconsin is home to over 1,200 licensed cheesemakers, but only a small group of the elite earn the title of Master Cheesemaker. The program is rigorous, takes several years to complete, and is no easy feat. According to the Center for Dairy Research, "The Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker® Program was established...
Mar 04, 2024
Dairy Producers Can Shape Their Future Using Your Farm - Your FootprintTM
JUNEAU, Wis. (Feb. 29, 2024) - It's tough to show progress without a starting point or a scale of measurement. That dilemma has been a roadblock for those tasked with reducing the environmental impact of milk production. Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) provides a solution with a new initiative, Your Farm - Your Foot...
Mar 04, 2024
WFBF's 35 Under 35 Nominations Now Open
MADISON - Nominations are now open for Wisconsin Farm Bureau's 35 Under 35 award program. The 35 Under 35 program recognizes and celebrates the creativity and innovation of young farmers and agriculturists who are preserving agriculture through leadership in environmental, social and economic activities. This is the th...
Mar 04, 2024
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, Farmers for Sustainable Food begin sustainability program enrollment
GREEN BAY, Wis. - Farmers throughout the Upper Midwest will have an opportunity to participate in a multi-year climate-smart sustainability program that uses data to inform new farming practices and potentially generate added value for the food the farms produce. Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and partner Farmers for Su...
Mar 04, 2024
PDP's The Dairy Signal to Feature Calf Diseases, Corn Rootworm, Impact of Overstocking
DAIRY NEWS - Next week's episodes of The Dairy Signal® from Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) will provide information on keeping calves, cows and crops healthy. On Tuesday, learn about common afflictions in calves and how to prevent and manage them. Join in on Wednesday to discuss corn rootworm potential d...
Mar 04, 2024
2024 Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmers: Jake and Jennifer Hoewisch
Joanna connected with Jake Hoewisch to learn more about his family farm, technology, conservation efforts and future goals. Connect with Jake: hstastyacres@gmail.com Follow H&S Tasty Acres on Facebook _________________________________________________________ WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wisconsin [Jan. 29, 2024] - The Wiscons...
Mar 04, 2024
3 Keys to Maximize Profit and ROI from Your People
Any dairy producer will tell you, a good employee is worth every dollar. But every two weeks, when pay day comes around, do you ever wonder if you are getting the most out of your investment? What if it didn't have to cost you a penny more to maximize the efforts and outcomes of every hour you are paying that employee ...
Mar 03, 2024
Optimizing Nitrogen Use and Reducing Nitrate Leaching
How do we optimize the use of commercial nitrogen and reduce nitrate leaching? Guolong Liang, agriculture water quality outreach specialist, and Monica Schauer, research director for NOPP, will discuss the importance of nitrogen optimization and the strategies to reduce nitrate leaching. Learn about how agronomic resul...
Feb 29, 2024
Insights, Ideas and Inspiration to Drive Innovation on Tap for the 2024 Business Conference
DAIRY NEWS - The 2024 Business Conference presented by the Professional Dairy Producers® (PDP) is just around the corner, with two days of programming designed to meet the needs of every member of a dairy farm team. Known as dairy's premier educational event, the PDP Business Conference is scheduled for March 13-14...
Feb 27, 2024
The Fundamentals of Shrub Pruning
Are you confused about which shrubs to prune at what time of year? Do you wonder if you are using the right techniques to prune different shrubs? Join us for this online program and learn four simple shrub pruning techniques, how to make proper cuts, and when to prune. Presented by Lisa Johnson, Horticulture Outreach S...
Feb 27, 2024
Dairy Margin Coverage Enrollment Begins Feb. 28
MADISON - Late last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the Dairy Margin Coverage program (DMC) will begin enrollment following publication of the rule in the Federal Register this week. Amidst mounting pressure, notably from Wisconsin Farm Bureau, American Farm Bureau and Wisconsin state legislators, th...
Feb 26, 2024
Peninsula Pride Farms share new regenerative strategies at annual meeting
KEWAUNEE, Wis. - Peninsula Pride Farms held their annual meeting on Feb. 13 at the Kewaunee Fairgrounds Expo Hall. Over 80 farmers, industry partners and community members gathered to hear from a distinguished lineup of speakers and gain insight on the progress made by the farmer-led watershed group over the past year....
Feb 26, 2024
USDA Deputy Secretary Torres Small Leads Trade Mission to Angola
WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced that Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small is leading USDA's first agribusiness trade mission to Luanda, Angola, this week, accompanied by representatives from the Kansas and Wisconsin departments of agriculture, as well as 16 U.S. companies...
Feb 26, 2024
Nomination Period Open for Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Board of Directors Election
MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is accepting nominations for eight seats on the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) Board of Directors. Nominations will be accepted from March 1 through March 30, 2024. The eight districts up for election are: District 2 - Fore...
Feb 26, 2024
Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy Launch Initiative to Help Farmers Reduce Costs with Underutilized Renewable Technologies as part of President Biden's Investing in America Agenda
WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today are launching a new initiative to help farmers cut costs and increase income using underutilized renewable technologies including smaller-scale wind projects. Through the Rural and Agricultural Income &am...
Feb 26, 2024
Beef Council Announces 'Wisconsin's Best Burger Contest'
VERONA, Wisc. (Feb. 21, 2024) - The Wisconsin Beef Council is accepting nominations for their inaugural Wisconsin's Best Burger Contest. The contest is designed to seek out and promote 100% beef burgers prepared in Wisconsin restaurants. Everyone has a favorite spot they choose when burger hunger strikes, and this is...
Feb 26, 2024
Calumet County Ag Stewardship Alliance sets goals for 2024 at annual meeting
CHILTON, Wis. - An innovative group of farmers in Calumet County continues to champion sustainable farming practices in their area to protect and improve local water quality and soil health. Calumet County Ag Stewardship Alliance held its annual meeting on Feb. 5. Over 65 farmers, industry partners and community member...
Feb 26, 2024
Chippewa Valley Forage Council Spring Seminar
The Chippewa Valley Forage Council will host its annual spring seminar on March 8 at the Back 40 Dining and Cocktails from 11:30am to 3:00pm. Forage, dairy, and livestock farmers are invited to attend. Speakers and topics include Scott Newell, Division of Extension Alfalfa Outreach Specialist, "Alfalfa challenges ...
Feb 26, 2024
Sheboygan River Progressive Farmers exchange innovative ideas at annual meeting
SHEBOYGAN FALLS, Wis. - Sheboygan River Progressive Farmers gathered with industry partners and community members on Feb. 9 for their annual meeting. The group's president, Brody Stapel of Double Dutch Dairy in Cedar Grove, welcomed attendees. He shared highlights from the past year and goals for the year ahead. "...
Feb 26, 2024
FarmFirst Statement on Dairy Margin Coverage Program Enrollment for 2024
Madison, Wis. [February 23, 2024) - The USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced this afternoon that starting next Wednesday, February 28th, dairy producers will be able to enroll for the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program for 2024. The DMC Program is a safety net program for dairy farmers, which is a risk-managemen...
Feb 26, 2024
Animal ag and public health on the docket at the Animal Agriculture Alliance's 2024 Stakeholders Summit
February 21, 2024 - Veterinarian and master of public health Michelle Kromm, alongside HealthforAnimals' Alex Rinkus, will dive into the topic of animal agriculture and its role in public health at the Animal Agriculture Alliance's 2024 Stakeholders Summit. The 2024 event, themed "Ready, Set, Solve! Advancing Anim...
Feb 23, 2024
2025 Nutrient Management Farmer Education Grant Office Hour
This webinar provides a brief overview of the Nutrient Management Farmer Education Grant program and changes to the 2025 Application, as well as a question-and-answer session.
Feb 23, 2024
Farm to School & Institution Program
Wisconsin Act 293 was created to: promote the use of locally grown food in school meals and snacks, grant rule−making authority and create the Farm to School Council. DATCP Farm to School Advisory Council members are nominated and appointed by the Secretary of DATCP. The council is comprised of 15 indiv...
Feb 22, 2024
Dive Into Dairy Sustainability at CheeseExpo 2024
MADISON, WI - Take your sustainability efforts to the next level at the dairy processing industry's premier gathering, where the latest strategies, ideas, and technology converge: CheeseExpo, set for April 16-18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Visit CheeseExpo.org by February 27 to take advantage of limited-time registration ...
Feb 22, 2024