With an annual financial impact of about $116 billion, agriculture is one of the main drivers of our state’s economy.

It is also responsible for employing approximately 354,000 people across Wisconsin – or 9.5 percent of our entire workforce.

In order to ensure the sustainability of this important industry, it is crucial that we give farmers the proper tools to protect our natural resources and the health of our families, friends and neighbors. After all, robust ecosystems are fundamental to their livelihoods and the long-term viability of food production.

That is why the Joint Finance Committee included the following appropriations in the 2025-27 state budget:

• $2 million for Producer-led Watershed Protection Grants
• $2 million for the Nitrogen Optimization Grant Program
• $1.6 million for the Cover Crop Insurance Premium Rebate Program

In my experience, farmers are some of the most responsible stewards and conservationists of our land. The investments we made in the budget will continue to encourage our farmers to work together to come up with innovative solutions that will allow them to remain profitable while also safeguarding our soil and water.

Over the years, this has proven to give us the most bang for our buck.