Wisconsin Ag and Food Processing Sectors Show Significant Growth
Friday, December 13th, 2024 -- 10:01 AM
(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) Wisconsin’s agriculture and food processing sectors have shown significant growth, contributing $116.3 billion to the state’s economy in 2022, according to a study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, this marks a 10.9% increase in economic impact between 2017 and 2022 and represents 14.3% of the state’s total economic output. Additionally, the sector supports 353,900 jobs, accounting for 9.5% of Wisconsin’s workforce.
“Here in America’s Dairyland, our farmers, producers, agricultural industries, and rural communities are such an important part of our state’s heritage and tradition as well as our economy and our future, providing 353,900 jobs, contributing $116.3 billion to the economy annually,” said Gov. Evers.
“From launching our Wisconsin Farm Support Program in 2020 to working to increase our state’s agricultural exports to investing in safe, reliable roads to get from point A to point B, we’ve been hard at work to bolster this vital industry for the past five years, and we will continue our work to strengthen Wisconsin’s agriculture industry for years to come.”
“I am pleased that the economic impact of Wisconsin agriculture is growing due to the hardworking and innovative farmers and food processors across the state,” said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski.
“Wisconsin is fortunate to be home to a thriving agricultural industry producing and processing quality products for consumers around the world. This study confirms that diversity is one of Wisconsin agriculture’s greatest strengths."
"Anchored by the dairy industry, Wisconsin agriculture is well-positioned for the future with its leadership in cranberries, snap beans for processing, corn for silage, and more.”
The Evers administration has prioritized investments in agriculture to bolster the industry’s growth. Key initiatives include:
- Wisconsin Farm Support Program: $100 million directed to support farmers across the state.
- Dairy Processor Grants: Increased funding from $200,000 to $500,000 annually to aid the dairy sector.
- Meat Processing Facilities Grants: A total of $1.8 million allocated for 2023-24.
- Agricultural Exports Initiative: $1 million annually to enhance Wisconsin’s global market presence by 2026.
- Farmer Mental Health Support: $100,000 annually for counseling, telehealth, and a 24-hour helpline.
- Tribal Food Security Program: $1.5 million allocated to provide culturally appropriate food for Tribal elders.
The state’s continued focus on innovation, including projects like the Dairy Innovation Hub and the Center for Dairy Research, underscores its commitment to maintaining a strong agricultural foundation.
These efforts ensure Wisconsin remains a leader in agriculture while supporting rural communities and driving long-term economic success.
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