By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin is taking steps to protect its soil and water resources, according to a new report from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection's (DATCP) Bureau of Land and Water Resource Management.
The 2022 Wisconsin Report on Soil and Water Conservation highlights the state's efforts to conserve soil, prevent agricultural runoff, and preserve farmland and agricultural infrastructure.
In 2022, state, federal, local, and other funds were used to support conservation efforts such as planting cover crops, implementing managed grazing, monitoring groundwater, preserving farmland, and farmer-led initiatives.
Local conservation staff worked with farmers and landowners to design and implement site-specific conservation practices, such as nutrient management plans. In 2022, more than 7,500 nutrient management plans covering over 3.45 million acres were created.
DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski said, "Our state's soil and water are two of our most vital resources, allowing producers to put food on our tables and adding an incalculable value to our quality of life."
"I applaud the hard work being done throughout Wisconsin to protect, preserve, and enhance our soil and water resources so that we may continue to utilize them for generations to come."
County land and water staff worked collaboratively with other conservation partners and landowners to share information, provide support, and reach conservation goals in 2022.
For example, Pierce County celebrated the completion of its 1,000th dam, which offers protection from erosion and flooding. In Dunn County, a partnership resulted in a long-term solution to control severe runoff and erosion. And in Washburn County, pasture walks on a bison farm introduced people to the benefits of alternative forages and cover crops.
DATCP's Bureau of Land and Water Resources works with local governments, other state and federal agencies, and landowners to conserve soil, prevent agricultural runoff, and preserve farmland and agricultural infrastructure for future generations. The bureau focuses on programs that are critical to preserving natural resources, including nutrient management planning, producer-led watershed protection, and farmland preservation. For more information, visit DATCP’s website.
Photo Credit: istock-nastco
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops