Dane County is moving forward on water quality efforts with a new Community Manure Treatment Feasibility Study from its Land and Water Resources Department. Watershed Manager Kyle Minks says the report identifies potential sites for a community digester based on factors like proximity to farms, utilities, transportation routes, and environmentally sensitive areas. Of the seven townships studied, the Town of Vienna ranked highest. The proposed 40- to 80-acre facility could process manure from about 20,000 animals, producing renewable natural gas and nutrient-rich byproducts for resale. While construction isn’t yet planned, the county says it remains committed to working with farmers on practical, long-term manure management solutions.

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In the Assembly Agriculture Committee, two key ag policy discussions are ongoing, from who can own farmland to what happens when your farm equipment breaks down. Assembly Ag Committee Chair Representative Travis Tranel joins us to talk about a proposal that would ban foreign adversaries from buying Wisconsin farmland, and another that would give farmers a “right to repair” their machinery. Plus, with all the uncertainty at the federal level on trade and the government shutdown, Tranel says it’s more important than ever for farmers to stay engaged.

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This year's Wisconsin Farmers Union Conference agenda is full of exciting news and discussion topics. To be held December 12-14, at the Chula Vista Resort in the Wisconsin Dells, the event is celebrating its 95th anniversary. Danielle Endvick, Executive Director of Wisconsin Farmers Union, says that with exciting conversations and a full agenda, there is something for everyone.

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