Resource Details
Business
Agricultural Enterprise Areas
As of January 1, 2025, there were 51 AEAs statewide totaling 1,648,572 acres covering portions of 31 counties, 140 towns (villages and cities), 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 2025, two counties were awarded $19,550 to work on incentive programs in two AEAs around the state to promote participation and increase conservation implementation and nutrient management.
Eligibility
To be eligible, at least five 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
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