Recognition is always something we at DMN enjoy celebrating, and these six federal and state lawmakers are put front and center for their contributions to the dairy processing industry. The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) kicked off June Dairy Month by presenting its second annual Cheese Champion awards to:
As noted in the release, the awardees were recognized at WCMA’s recent Annual Member Meeting. Senator Baldwin was recognized for spearheading the successful creation and ongoing funding of the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance, a federally funded partnership administered by WCMA and the Center for Dairy Research that has provided technical assistance, education, and over $9.4 million in grants since 2018 to dairy farms and processors across the Midwest.
WCMA also recognized Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers for his efforts to maintain the state’s position as America’s Dairyland by working to boost funding for the state’s Dairy Processor Grants, expand opportunities for Wisconsin dairy exports, and direct $340 million to rural broadband expansion.
The association further commended Senator Ballweg and Representative Kurtz for leading the charge in the continued funding of the $5 million Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports, which helped boost the state’s dairy exports by 37 percent in its first year alone.
As co-chair of the Joint Finance Committee, Senator Marklein plays a critical role in the continued success of the Dairy Innovation Hub. He has authored legislation to require that all products being sold as milk or cheese be made from real dairy and has led efforts to expand rural broadband access.
Joining Senator Marklein is Representative Tranel, who also worked in leading the charge on rural road improvements through the Agricultural Road Improvement Program. Tranel is the bill’s lead co-author and a dairy farmer who also serves as Chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee.
For more details, check out the release here.
Congratulations to all on your amazing work!
