Wisconsin Ag Connection - State Farm Groups Like Proposed Ag Export Legislation

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State Farm Groups Like Proposed Ag Export Legislation
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 06/11/2021

A bill that would create a comprehensive agricultural export program to boost the value of Wisconsin's dairy, meat and crop products abroad has been approved by a unanimous vote in the state senate. Authored by Senate Ag Committee Chair Joan Ballweg of Markesan, the measure directs the Department of Agriculture to work in collaboration with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to increase market accessibility of such goods to other nations. A total of $5 million over five years would be allocated toward the effort.

"Agriculture is the second largest industry in our state, and we are in the top 10 states for agriculture production, yet we only rank 13th for our food, forestry and agricultural exports," said Ballweg. "I am proud to see this bill,which will create lasting impacts for our agriculture industry, take this next step toward being signed into law."

Rep. Tony Kurtz from Wonewoc co-sponsored the bill in the Assembly. That chamber is also expected to pass it.

So far, most agricultural groups in the state are supporting the bill, including the Wisconsin Cranberry Growers Association, Wisconsin Cheesemakers Association, Wisconsin Farm Bureau, Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association and Dairy Business Association.

"This investment will help Wisconsin to not only remain competitive but to be a leader in a growing global marketplace," DBA President Amy Penterman. "We need to seize on opportunities to sell more of them by improving existing trade relationships and connecting with new international partners."

Wisconsin exported $3.37 billion in agricultural and food products to 145 countries in 2020, including $263 million in the category of dairy, eggs and honey.

Gov. Tony Evers proposed a similar export program last session and did the same when releasing his 2021-23 proposed state budget.

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