Family Farms/Rural Economy

Family Farms/Rural Economy

I grew up on my family's small dairy farm in Askeaton, in southern Brown County. I know firsthand the hard work that farmers do and the pride that they feel toward their land and their livelihood. Family farms are still the backbone of Wisconsin's economy, contributing over $51 billion to the state each year. As head of the state's economic development programs, I worked closely with many business leaders and farmers to create jobs in our rural communities. As your Congressman, I will continue my work to invigorate the rural economy in Northeast Wisconsin.

Extend the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program - The MILC program protects dairy farm families from volatile milk prices. It's rightly popular, and it deserves to be extended.

Work for trade agreements that help family farmers - Trade can benefit Wisconsin farmers, but it has to be balanced and fair to avoid disruptions in the ag economy.

Reward responsible stewardship - Farm programs should reward conservation as well as production. I'll work to reward farmers who go the extra mile to protect the land.

Helping rural schools - Smaller rural school districts sometimes struggle to provide a broad range of course offerings and to support all their students. The federal government can help provide adequate special education funding. It can also promote broadband Internet access for rural schools, which brings the world to the classroom door.

http://www.wallforcongress.com/farms