WI dairy farmers host free community events

By Blake Jackson

Wisconsin agriculture is a powerhouse, contributing a staggering $105 billion to the state's economy.

To bridge the gap between urban and rural communities, the 2024 Agricultural Community Engagement (ACE) Twilight Meetings offer a unique opportunity for open dialogue.

Held at dairy farms across St. Croix, Wood, Kewaunee, and Columbia counties on August 26th through 29th, these meetings bring together community leaders, elected officials, educators, and residents to connect and learn from Wisconsin's dairy industry.

"ACE Twilight Meetings are a fantastic way to get involved and understand the shared challenges and goals facing our communities," said John Haag, a Wisconsin dairy producer and president of the Professional Dairy Producers (PDP). "Open discussions with farmers, officials, and conservationists can pave the way to solving critical issues in our state."

The format is designed to foster engagement. Each evening begins with a guided tour of the host farm at 6:00 PM, allowing attendees to witness firsthand how animals are cared for and the technologies used in modern dairy production.

This is followed by ice cream and a lively discussion at 7:00 PM, focusing on relevant topics like water resource management, conservation practices, rural infrastructure, and educational opportunities. The meetings conclude at 8:30 PM.

Here's a breakdown of the host farms for the 2024 ACE Twilight Meetings:

• Monday, Aug 26th: St. Croix County - Luckwaldt Agriculture Inc. (Woodville) hosted by the Dan and Mary Luckwaldt family.
• Tuesday, Aug 27th: Wood County - Grass Ridge Farm (heifer farm location, Pittsville) hosted by Matt, Paul, and Carl Lippert.
• Wednesday, Aug 28th: Kewaunee County - Pagels Ponderosa Dairy LLC (Kewaunee) hosted by the JJ & Chase Pagel family, Bryan & Ashley Pagel family, and Jamie Witcpalek family.
• Thursday, Aug 29th: Columbia County - Wargo Acres, Inc. (Lodi) hosted by the Gordon & Emily Carncross family and Craig & Jen Carncross family.

Don't miss this chance to engage with Wisconsin's dairy community! Come prepared with your questions and participate in the discussions. For more information and to register for this free event, visit www.PDPW.org or call 800-947-7379.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-jesp62