MADISON, WI- Governor Tony Evers is encouraging Wisconsinites to celebrate June Dairy Month while highlighting state investments aimed at supporting farmers, dairy producers and Wisconsin’s agricultural economy.
In a message released this week, Evers praised the state’s dairy industry and the farmers who have helped earn Wisconsin its reputation as “America’s Dairyland.”
“Our dairy industry is a proud part of our state’s heritage and tradition, representing our past, present, and future successes,” Evers said.
The governor also acknowledged the challenges facing agriculture, including trade disputes, rising costs, federal funding cuts and unpredictable weather.
“Whether it’s trade wars, rising prices on equipment, feed and gas, cuts to critical federal programs, or unprecedented and unpredictable weather, it’s been tough,” Evers said. “But our dairy farmers have been the backbone of our state and our economy for generations, and here in Wisconsin, we will not turn our backs on them now.”
Since taking office, Evers said his administration has supported a number of agricultural initiatives, including the Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports, the Dairy Innovation Hub at the University of Wisconsin, dairy processor grants, farmer mental health services and improvements to rural transportation infrastructure.
The governor noted Wisconsin’s agricultural industry contributes more than $116 billion annually to the state’s economy and remains a key driver of jobs and economic activity across the state.
The recently approved state budget includes continued funding for agricultural export programs, $150 million for the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program, $20 million for a new dairy and agriculture resilience program, funding for food security initiatives, support for meat and dairy processors, and resources for farmer wellness and conservation efforts.
Evers said supporting agriculture remains a priority for his administration.
“We’re going to keep working every day to ensure our farmers, producers, and processors have the support they need to be successful and to ensure Wisconsin stays on top as ‘America’s Dairyland,'” he said.
As June Dairy Month begins, Evers is encouraging residents to support local dairy farmers by purchasing Wisconsin dairy products.
“So, I encourage Wisconsinites to join me in celebrating June Dairy Month by supporting our local dairy farmers and producers,” Evers said. “Pick up that pint of ice cream, treat yourself to some cheese curds, fresh or fried, and let’s celebrate all that makes Wisconsin, Wisconsin.”
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