The Wisconsin Farm Center provides information and support to farmers and their families in order to help grow Wisconsin’s agricultural economy. The Center partners with industry groups, government and educational entities, and other stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
Core programs include:
Agricultural Economic Development: Consultants help Wisconsin farmers deal with the critical economic, business and social needs of farm families. Services include financial and business consultation, farm succession planning, conflict mediation and production challenges.
Organics, Livestock Grazing and Specialty Crops: This program provides information and technical assistance to organic growers and processors. In addition, this program works to strengthen farm support services and processing capacity, along with a host of other services.
Minority Farmers Outreach: Designed to provide outreach and risk management assistance to beginning and minority farmers to increase sustainability and profitability, the program emphasizes working with Hmong fresh market producers and ginseng growers, but assists all minority farmers facing production or marketing challenges and opportunities.
Rural Electric Power Services: Administered in cooperation with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, the program addresses stray voltage problems that can adversely affect cattle and milk production on dairy farms.
Mediation and Arbitration: This program provides mediation services for farmer disputes ranging from credit issues to environmental concerns to farm family conflicts. Mediation involves a neutral individual who helps facilitate negotiation and understanding between conflicting parties.
Farmers and small agribusiness owners can reach the Farm Center through the toll-free line at 1-800-942-2474, or stop in on the fourth floor of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection office building at 2811 Agriculture Dr., Madison. Office hours and the toll free helpline are available from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weekdays. People can also contact the Farm Center by email at farmcenter@wisconsin.gov
Almost every change you make on the farm will need technical assistance, and the Farm Center staff can give you general information as well as link you to those people who can provide specific technical assistance.
Tips for hiring a farm consultant, including a list of questions to ask a prospective consultant.
Information for farmers looking to start or expand their own operation, relocated to a new location, or transition into retirement.
Find Farm Center individuals who can assist you by answering your questions and guiding you in the right direction.
