Wisconsin Ag Connection - Walker Announces Plans to Grow Rural Wisconsin Economy

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Walker Announces Plans to Grow Rural Wisconsin Economy
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 01/29/2015

Governor Scott Walker announced plans to grow the economy in rural parts of Wisconsin with investments in education, broadband, technology, business growth, worker training, transportation and more. The governor made the announcement relating to the rollout of the 2015-17 state budget at a rally in Madison.

"Our investments in rural initiatives are aimed at improving the lives of the people who live in all corners of the state," Governor Walker said. "By investing in areas including education, transportation, and technology, we are helping to build a better Wisconsin and more prosperity for future generations."

Among some of the ideas the governor released on Wednesday included the establishment of an agricultural producer led water-quality initiative using $250,000 annually in existing soil and water management grants for the implementation of nonpoint source pollution abatement practices; protecting lakes and rivers and improving water quality in Wisconsin by providing $24 million over the biennium to reduce nonpoint source water pollution through increased nutrient and runoff management planning; and provide funding to assist counties with creating robust crisis services programs pairing law enforcement with mental health professionals to create a best practice model.

Other initiatives related to school funding, boosting infrastructure for rural clinics and hospitals, and increase services to child sex trafficking victims.

The governor will spell out more details about his proposed budget during an address to the state legislature next week.

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