By Rebekah Sweeney
Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) members are applauding action taken tonight by Wisconsin's powerful Joint Finance Committee (JFC) to grow the state's $46 billion dairy industry.
A proposal approved by JFC members increases annual funding for the Dairy Processor Grant Program at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), to a total of $1 million over the biennium. It also includes $2 million over the biennium for the impactful Wisconsin Initiative on Agricultural Exports, which in its first year supported dairy export growth of over 37 percent.
“Innovation and export engagement are critical to the long-term stability and success of Wisconsin's dairy farming and processing community,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director. "Our thanks go to lawmakers who have championed targeted investments in Wisconsin’s signature industry.”
WCMA recognizes the work of JFC members Rep. Tony Kurtz (R-Wonewoc) and Sen. Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan), as well as the leadership of JFC co-chairs Sen. Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) and Rep. Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam). WCMA members also thank Gov. Tony Evers for advocating for increases in funding for the Dairy Processor Grant Program and support for the Wisconsin Initiative on Agricultural Exports.
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