MADISON – The Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association (WI Land+Water) commends Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers’ announcement of a $43 million investment in conservation and agriculture as part of his 2021-23 Executive Budget. This investment includes substantial financial resources directed towards conservation on the local level, including county conservation department staffing and funding for producer-led watershed groups.

“We are pleased to see Governor Evers continuing to show leadership on priorities critical to both conservation and agriculture,” said WI Land+Water Executive Director Matt Krueger. “This is a sound investment in Wisconsin’s future.”

“County conservation staff are trusted professionals that provide boots-on-the-ground technical assistance to farmers and landowners, helping them achieve their management objectives while protecting land and water resources at the same time,” Krueger continued. “We commend Governor Evers’ action to support three conservation professionals in every county across the state.”

Additionally, the Governor’s investment proposes increased funding for the producer-led watershed grant program, funding to create a Conservation Grant Program which supports farmers seeking to transition to more environmentally sustainable agricultural practices, funding for water stewardship grants which provides support for third parties assisting farmers with water stewardship, and additional UW-Extension specialists and county agents, who provide both on-the-ground technical assistance and research to support producers.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and the Legislature on the bipartisan conservation and agricultural priorities identified in this proposal that will ensure Wisconsin remains a great place to recreate, farm, and raise a family,” Krueger added.

Click here to view Governor Evers’ announcement.