Senator Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska) joined Governor Tony Evers to tour Hamburg Hills Dairy Farm in rural Stoddard to celebrate June Dairy Month and stress the importance of the historic agriculture investment in the biennial budget proposal. Senator Pfaff, former Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary-designee, and current Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture and Tourism Committee, worked with the Governor to develop several provisions of the budget proposal.
After the event, Senator Pfaff said, “Family farms like Hamburg Hills help fuel our economy and enrich our communities. The dairy industry generates a number of jobs, provides significant economic opportunities, and creates a uniquely Wisconsin pride that has immeasurable value. The Governor’s historic $43 million agriculture budget proposal invests in new markets, product development, and important conservation efforts.”
“I want to thank Tim and Lisa Servais and their family for hosting the Governor and me. It’s clear that Hamburg Hills Farms incorporates strong conservation efforts into their organic farming. Visits like this are important, especially as we go back to Madison and vote on this budget. I want to make sure this is a ‘win’ for farmers, producers, and rural communities.” said Pfaff.
The Joint Finance Committee recently passed an omnibus motion that provided $30 million less for DATCP programs than Governor Evers proposed. The final budget must be authorized by the Governor and both chambers of the State Legislature.