Wisconsin’s agriculture industry generates more than $116 billion annually, with dairy accounting for over one-third of that total. With so much at stake, local input on how resources are used and communities are supported is vital.
Residents will have the chance to join those conversations at the upcoming Agricultural Community Engagement (ACE) Twilight Meetings, scheduled for August 25-28 in Durand, Tomah, Newton, and Watertown. Each free, public event will begin at 6 p.m. with a farm tour, followed by ice cream and open discussions.
Community leaders, elected officials, educators, and farmers will gather to address key issues, such as water, community development, resource management, rural infrastructure, and changes in agriculture.
The ACE Twilight Meetings are presented in partnership with the Wisconsin Counties Association, Wisconsin Towns Association, and Professional Dairy Producers.
Chapman Farms Dairy in Tomah is hosting the event on Tuesday. Duane Chapman is the third generation on the nearly 140-year-old farm. The fourth and fifth generations are also involved in the dairy, milking 1,100 cows, farming 2,800 crop acres, and raising beef. Duane says they’re ready to welcome event goers this week after having hosted this year’s Monroe County June Dairy Breakfast.
He advises folks to come out, learn, and engage in thoughtful discussion: https://pdpw.org/programs/ACE-2025/details
