Ag News

The database, at www.datcp.state.wi.us/resguide/index.jsp, will allow farmers and rural residents to search for information and services provided by public and private agencies throughout the state. The online guide was partially funded by grants from AgriWellness and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Innovation Center formed
UW-Extension, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Wisconsin Technical College System have established the Ag Innovation Center, 427 Lorch St., Room 224, to support agricultural venture growth. The center will provide help, training and business referrals to boost growth of agricultural businesses and industries.

For more information on the AIC or to contact innovation counselors, visit aic.uwex.edu or contact Greg Lawless at 608-265-2903.

Farmers urged to go organic
Wisconsin Agriculture Secretary Rod Nilsestuen called on state farmers to consider going organic at the recent Upper Midwest Organic Farming Conference in La Crosse. Nearly 1,600 people attended the event.

Wisconsin leads the nation in organic dairy and livestock production, with about 475 certified organic farms, but Nilsestuen said there are "a lot of opportunity to grow beyond that." Nilsestuen noted that Gov. Jim Doyle has included a new organic specialist position in his budget proposal.

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