In Wisconsin, dairy farming has deep roots and profoundly impacts our state’s economy. The Dairy Business Association is championing dairy farmers and affiliated businesses and their interests in Madison.
On April 16, DBA members and the broader dairy community will converge in Madison for DBA’s Dairy Day at the Capitol. With the authoring of a state budget underway, Director of Government Affairs Chad Zuleger says it’s an important time to engage in state government.
He pulls some examples of what DBA wants to see supported in the state budget:
DBA is supporting policies aimed at improving transportation infrastructure for dairy producers and processors in Wisconsin. Zuleger notes that lasting agricultural infrastructure is crucial for enhancing efficiency and competitiveness in the industry.
One of the asks is $150 million for the Agricultural Road Improvement Program, aka ARIP. In the previous Legislative Session, Wisconsin established the nation’s first dedicated $150 million agriculture-specific road funding program. The investment is upgrading local roads that transport over 15 million tons of agricultural goods annually. The demand for the program resulted in nearly 300 applications totaling over $500 million — more than triple the available funds. Zuleger says the agriculture industry wants to see that success continue.
Zuleger says the association is also supporting efforts that address concerns about nitrates in groundwater, including existing programs that help farmers improve water quality. DBA supports clean water initiatives that balance environmental protections and economic vitality for Wisconsin dairy farmers.
These initiatives include producer-led watershed groups, nitrogen optimization grants, and cover crop rebates. Zuleger says these priorities have been successful for Wisconsin farmers in past budgets.
Learn more about Dairy Day at the Capitol: https://www.dairyforward.com/events/EventDetails.aspx
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