News in Madison
Wisconsin Becomes a Top 10 U.S. Food, Forestry, and Ag Exporter
Wisconsin agriculture exports just hit a record high. The state reached $2.13 billion in the first half of 2026, marking a 5.42 percent increase over last year. The Wisconsin International Agribusiness Center’s second-quarter report for 2026 shows the highest first-half year on…
Finding a Niche Market Helps Keep Small Dairy Profitable
Facing the challenges of running a small dairy farm, a southwestern Wisconsin family secured their future by tapping into a unique niche: producing specialty cheese for consumers who struggle to digest traditional dairy. Lonnie Holthaus operates Milkhaus Dairy near Fennimore.…
Energy, Labor, Steel Tariffs, Competition Hurt Midwest Food Processors
Midwest vegetable growers and food processors face a perfect storm of soaring energy bills, severe labor shortages, and cheap foreign imports. Nick Novak represents the Midwest Food Products Association. He notes that rising expenses hit farmers, consumers, and food processors…
USDA Announces Value-Added Ag Grants In Wisconsin
U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development office announced $800,000 in four value-added agriculture projects across Wisconsin. The investments are through USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grants program. U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Wisconsin State Director…