Contacts: Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162
Gary Radloff, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, 608-224-5020
WEST ALLIS – Governor Jim Doyle today announced the economic impact of the state agriculture industry has grown to over $59 billion annually. The Governor announced the growth of Wisconsin’s cornerstone industry at the Wisconsin State Fair Opening Ceremony in West Allis.
“Here in Wisconsin, we have a strong tradition of agriculture and I am working hard to ensure that farming remains a cornerstone of our economy for generations to come,” Governor Doyle said. “Agriculture generates more than $59 billion for the state annually, creating jobs for hundreds of thousands of hardworking people. Despite the economic hurdles we are all facing right now, I am confident that agriculture will continue to be an industry that defines Wisconsin and serve as a foundation for our economy.”
According to a recent study by the University of Wisconsin-Extension, from 2004-2007 the economic impact of agriculture increased almost 15 percent, from $51.5 billion to $59.16 billion. In 2007, farms and agriculture created almost 354,000 jobs.
Today Governor Doyle officially opened the 158th Wisconsin State Fair, and invited families to enjoy the state’s premier summer event. The Governor thanked the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors and all the Wisconsin businesses and volunteers that are working hard to make this year’s State Fair successful. Last year, more than 870,000 people enjoyed the fair.
This year, the state fair features forward-looking clean energy technology, including the “Energy on a Stick” solar panel project and solar display. The Governor thanked the State Fair Park for leading the way to reduce its energy use by over 40 percent, and for using the fair as an opportunity to showcase the innovative, cost-saving energy solutions that will lead the state to a clean energy future.
“Here at the State Fair, it’s easy to see the agriculture and innovation that will lead us into the future,” Governor Doyle added. ”From farming and production to renewable energy, innovation and originality defines who we are in Wisconsin, and over the next eleven days the State Fair will be the center of the state’s creative energy.”
– 30 –
