Wisconsin Senate Bill SB778

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Creating a grant program for farmers who use certain sustainable practices, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The bill aims to make significant contributions to environmental health by focusing on projects that improve air and water quality while also enhancing agronomic benefits. These efforts are expected to create a more sustainable agricultural landscape in Wisconsin, incentivizing farmers to adopt practices that will lead to carbon reduction and better resource management. By integrating public and private funding opportunities, the program will leverage additional financial support for sustainable practices. However, the bill specifically excludes certain land types and projects from eligibility, aiming to direct funds to initiatives with higher expected environmental returns.

Summary

Senate Bill 778 establishes a sustainable agriculture grant program intended to support farmers in implementing practices that enhance agricultural sustainability and reduce fossil fuel consumption. The program will be administered by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), which is tasked with awarding grants for specific projects, such as increasing efficiency in fossil fuel use and promoting carbon storage in soil. This initiative aims to bolster environmental efforts in agriculture, addressing critical issues such as climate change and sustainability in farming operations. The bill also stipulates the allocation of $2.5 million for the grant program over the biennium.

Contention

Concerns surrounding SB778 may arise regarding the limitations it imposes, particularly the exclusion of grants for farmers eligible for other conservation programs unless they apply for those first. This could put additional bureaucratic pressure on farmers, potentially discouraging participation. Furthermore, some may question whether the fund allocation is sufficient to cover the demands of all applicable projects across the state. Additionally, the emphasis on measuring reductions in carbon emissions introduces the necessity for stringent monitoring and compliance, which could impact the administrative burden on both the DATCP and participating farms.