The Wisconsin Ag Coalition applauds the State Legislature after voting unanimously to pass Senate Bill 247 — the Agricultural Road Improvement Program.
This would give grants to local governments to repair and rebuild crumbling roads and bridges that create problems for farmers.
“Getting our products safely and efficiently from our growers’ farms to processing and consumers is a critical part of Wisconsin’s agricultural economy,” says Tom Lochner. Lochner is the executive director of the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association, a member of the Ag Coalition. “This investment in rural Wisconsin will provide essential funding to maintain our state food supply chain.”
Wisconsin agriculture has been significantly impacted by supply chain issues in recent years. Poor rural road conditions place additional strain on the food supply chain. Consumers experience the effects of these challenges firsthand as they encounter rising prices and limited availability of food products.
“Rural roads are an essential part of the modern transportation system agriculture relies on to move products from, and to the farm,” says Dan Smith. Smith is the president and CEO of the Cooperative Network, another Ag Coalition member.
The Wisconsin Ag Coalition, a group of organizations representing agricultural interests in the state, praises the legislative action on this issue as a vital step towards revitalizing the agricultural economy.
“Rural road improvements are essential for the stability and strength of Wisconsin’s dairy processing businesses and the entire food supply chain – from farm to table,” says Rebekah Sweeney. Sweeney is the senior director of policy for the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association.
The bill now goes to Governor Tony Evers’ desk for his signature.
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