By Blake Jackson
More than 300 farmers and agriculture professionals gathered at Madison’s Monona Terrace for Ag Day at the Capitol, Wisconsin’s largest advocacy event for the agricultural community. The event brings together farm groups to discuss state issues impacting agriculture and provides an opportunity to meet with state legislators.
Attendees were welcomed by Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson and heard remarks from Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Randy Romanski. Sec. Romanski highlighted recent legislative successes, shared departmental updates, and praised participants for their active engagement in agricultural advocacy.
“Your voice has influenced many things in the last few years,” said Sec. Romanski. “Share your story, share your experience because it makes a difference.”
Following these remarks, keynote speaker Marcus Landry, a former UW-Madison Badgers basketball player who now runs a family farm, shared his journey into agriculture.
“I am a part of this farm community and I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Landry said. “When we come together and show unity, we can make a huge difference.”
The afternoon featured issue briefings on agricultural market development, farm family stability, resilience, transportation, and conservation and wildlife programs. Participants then walked to the Capitol to meet with legislators and visited Farm Bureau spotlight booths while connecting with Wisconsin Ag Coalition partners.
“Each one of you is a powerful voice for agriculture,” said WFBF President Brad Olson. “When lawmakers hear directly from the people who live these issues every day, it changes the conversation.”
Photo Credit: wisconsin-farm-bureau-federation
Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Government & Policy