Wisconsin Farm Bureau Leads Ag Advocacy at State Capitol

By Blake Jackson

On March 26th, approximately 400 farmers and agricultural professionals convened at the Monona Terrace in Madison for Ag Day at the Capitol, Wisconsin’s premier advocacy event for the agricultural sector.

The event facilitated direct engagement between farmers and state legislators, focusing on key issues impacting Wisconsin agriculture.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Brad Olson welcomed attendees, followed by remarks from Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Randy Romanski, who emphasized the importance of proactive communication with legislators.

"There is a whole lot more that we agree on than we disagree on, here in this room and at the Capitol," Romanski stated. "Identify what your priorities are and tell them what you need and then it’s up to the folks in that building to get to ‘yes'."

Brian Reisinger, author of "Land Rich, Cash Poor: My Family’s Hope and Untold History of the Disappearing American Farmer," delivered the keynote speech, sharing personal farm stories and reflecting on the resilience of rural communities, themes central to his book. "That resilience of farm families is what gives me hope. There are a lot of challenges out there but there are also a lot of opportunities," Reisinger remarked. "Imagine what we can do if we can make farming work for farm families again."

The afternoon program included a state budget overview by Sen. Howard Marklein and a legislative priorities discussion led by WFBF’s Executive Director of Government Relations, Jason Mugnaini.

Green County Farm Bureau president and farmer Eric Wuthrich encouraged first-time attendees to engage in advocacy, highlighting its importance.

"No matter your role in agriculture, whether you farm, work in agribusiness or simply care about the future of our industry, your voice matters," Wuthrich said. "Today is your opportunity to make an impact. Be confident, be passionate and share your story with those who shape the policies that affect us all. Because when we speak up together, we ensure a strong future for agriculture."

The event concluded with remarks from Sen. Pat Testin and Rep. Clint Moses, and a citation for WFBF’s recent Pinnacle and New Horizon Awards from the American Farm Bureau.

Attendees then proceeded to the Capitol to meet with legislators and explore an Agriculture Showcase on Capitol Square, featuring farm equipment, dairy calves, and cheese samples.

Inside the Capitol Rotunda, attendees engaged with Farm Bureau booths, Wisconsin Ag Coalition partners, and a hydraulic sprayer simulator.

Photo Credit: wisconsin-farm-bureau