Grow Wisconsin Dairy 30x20 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 Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) by Dec. 2.
“Dairy farms are most successful when there is a strong support team of trusted advisors including nutritionists, veterinarians, dairy plant representatives and more,” says DATCP Secretary Ben Brancel. “The Dairy 30x20 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 percent of the total grant amount. The grants are grouped into two categories: Planning and Preparation Teams and Dairy Profit Teams.
Planning and 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.
The grant program was announced last year by Gov. 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. Farmers can contact DATCP year-round to connect with available dairy resources. PD
—From DATCP news release
