Resource Details
Agriculture, Economic Development
Agricultural Enterprise Areas
As of January 1, 2021 there were 43 AEAs in the state totaling 1,475,280 acres in 28 counties, covering portions of 119 towns and the Bad River Reservation. AEAs establish eligibility for owners of farmland to sign a voluntary farmland preservation agreement and cluster farmland preservation agreements to promote farmland protection. Landowners who choose to enroll all or a part of their farm in a farmland preservation agreement must meet the state soil and water conservation standards on their whole farm. Farmland preservation agreements have a minimum term of 15 years. AEAs are a foundation for collaboration between landowners, local governments and agricultural partners in the community. In 2021, 7 counties were awarded $197,500 to work on incentive programs in 10 AEAs around the state to promote participation and increase conservation implementation and nutrient management.
Eligibility
To be eligible, at least 5 or more owners of farmland, cooperating entities and local units of government must request designation for an contiguous area of land that has been planned for farmland preservation.
Top Benefits
- AEAs promote collaboration between landowners, local governments and other agricultural/conservation partners
- Farmland preservation agreements provide a tool for landowners to preserve agricultural lands, implement conservation and establish eligibility for a tax credit
- Clusters of farmland preservation agreements provide community agricultural protections.
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)
We will deliver efficient and effective programs and services to Wisconsin agriculture, consumers, and businesses, to provide market confidence and to enhance competitiveness and profitability.
Contact
608-224-4611
Related Resources
Agriculture, Arts & Culture, Child Care, Economic Development, Eldercare, Energy, Food & Beverage, Forestry & Paper, Native Peoples, Transportation, Workforce
Wisconsin Cooperative Development Grant
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is offering grants to support the development of new and existing cooperatives in Wisconsin, with a goal of fostering the success of current and future cooperatives by supporting planning and exploratory research in advance of making a large investment.