Contact: Ashley Andre, 608-224-5002, ashley.andre@wisconsin.gov
Jim Dick, Communications Director, 608-224-5020, jim.dick@wi.gov
MADISON – Dairy 30×20 grants are available again for farmers to plan for future projects, identify ways to increase profits or transfer the farm to the next generation. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) by December 2.
“Dairy farms are most successful when there is a strong support team of trusted advisors including nutritionists, veterinarians, dairy plant representatives and more,” said DATCP Secretary Ben Brancel. “The Dairy 30×20 grants give farmers the funds needed to add another consultant to their team who can help facilitate operational changes that will benefit the farm’s profitability and strengthen Wisconsin’s dairy industry.”
Grant recipients will be awarded up to $5,000 to hire consultants with the expertise to address specific business needs. Cost share payments by the farmer are required at 20% of the total grant amount. The grants are grouped into two categories: Planning & Preparation Teams and Dairy Profit Teams.
Planning & Preparation Teams can work toward business development and expansion needs. Funds can assist with business planning, financial analysis, transition planning and farm transfers. Farmers can also use the grant to cover professional service expenses related to engineering, design or layout of new facilities.
Dairy Profit Teams can assist farmers improve management of existing operational systems. Specialists can identify issues and opportunities for planning purposes. Topics may be technology implementation, herd health, milk production, managed grazing planning or a shift to organic production.
These grants are just one service of the Grow Wisconsin Dairy 30×20 Team. Farmers can contact DATCP year-round to connect with available dairy resources. Grow Wisconsin Dairy 30×20 was announced last year by Governor Scott Walker as a ‘one stop shop’ to offer support, access to services and financial assistance to improve the long-term viability of the state’s dairy industry.
“These grants can be most effective when used in the early stages of planning for changes on the farm,” added Brancel. “I encourage farmers to consider how the Dairy 30×20 grants can help their individual operation to ensure long-term sustainability and financial success.”
The application is available online at GrowWisconsinDairy.wi.gov. For more information, call toll-free at 855-WI DAIRY (855-943-2479) or email GrowWisconsinDairy@wi.gov.
Grow Wisconsin Dairy 30×20 team members will be available to answer questions and distribute grant application materials at the World Dairy Expo in Madison, October 1-5. Visitors to World Dairy Expo can meet DATCP staff in the Exhibition Hall, Booth 4424. Details on World Dairy Expo are available at worlddairyexpo.com.
