DATCP NEWS RELEASE: Agricultural Development Staff Available to Present
Contact: Ashley Andre, 608-224-5002, ashley.andre@wisconsin.gov
Jim Dick, Communications Director, 608-224-5020, jim.dick@wi.gov
MADISON – Winter is meeting season for Wisconsin farmers and agribusinesses. As you are filling the agenda for an upcoming event or conference, remember that Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection staff are available for presentations on diverse topics.
“I am proud that the Agricultural Development Division offers a variety of services to grow Wisconsin’s agriculture industry,” said Dan Smith, Division Administrator of Agricultural Development. “I hope the Division can be recognized and counted upon as a key partner in supporting the growth and development of the state’s agricultural economy.”
The Wisconsin Farm Center is available year-round to assist farmers with financial analysis, conflict mediation, and herd health and energy-related issues. Let the Farm Center staff present about the need for end-of-the-year planning to ensure a profitable start in 2014. Plan a session on the importance of farm succession planning to discuss the transition from one generation to the next.
Local food experts can speak about the aggregation, distribution and marketing of Wisconsin products. Learn how small and mid-sized farms are working together to form food hubs and meeting wholesale, retail and institutional demands for local foods. Hear about how the Something Special from Wisconsin™ trademarked program can work for your business. Learn more about the diversity of Wisconsin’s many specialty crops.
The ag business services team is available to speak about the many opportunities available for farmers and agribusinesses. Hear how to move your farm to an organic operation or how the pasture-grazed dairy sector is growing in Wisconsin. Ask questions about the state’s evolving livestock industry or how you can market your meats with the Specialty Meat Development Center. Learn about support available for Wisconsin dairy farmers and processors right here in America’s Dairyland.
Wisconsin agriculture continues to go global. During the first nine months of 2013, Wisconsin exported over $2.3 billion worth of agricultural products to more than 140 countries, a 6% increase over the same period in 2012. Staff from the Wisconsin International Trade Team can speak about the benefits of exporting, needs for documentation and importance of market research. The Trade Team can share available resources and success stories from Wisconsin companies currently exporting.
For details on the Division of Agricultural Development programs, visit http://datcp.wi.gov/Programs/
