MADISON – Back by popular demand, Wisconsin citizens and elected officials have another opportunity to participate in the Ultimate Land Use Study Tour, Oct. 4-9. Participants will learn first-hand how other states, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, are addressing land use challenges.
State Agriculture Secretary Rod Nilsestuen participated in the first land use study tour in April. “I found the first tour very inspiring, and I encourage others to take advantage of this opportunity,” he said.
“The tour is a tremendous way for people to see first-hand how some of the most innovative land use programs in the country are working, and for Wisconsin people to talk directly with farmers, local officials and others to gain a better understanding of the challenges and benefits of these programs,” he said. Nilsestuen heads the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
The goal of the tour is to increase awareness, knowledge and understanding of alternative land use implementation tools, and to expand leadership to consider pursing some of the techniques in Wisconsin, according to Greg Blonde, Waupaca County University of Wisconsin-Extension agent.
The study tour is coordinated by the University of Wisconsin Extension and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Participants will fly from Green Bay, Madison, Milwaukee and Minneapolis to Baltimore, MD. The cost is $750 per person, including airfare, meals, lodging and materials. Registration deadline is Aug. 31 and is limited to 50 people. Registration forms are available online at www.uwex.edu/ces/cty/waupaca or by calling 715-258-6231.
