WCMA Applauds Governor, State Lawmakers for Investment in Dairy Innovation Hub

The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WMCA) together with advocates for Wisconsin’s dairy farming community today applauded Governor Tony Evers and state lawmakers for approving an investment of up to $8.8 million to create a Dairy Innovation Hub.

“Wisconsin’s dairy industry – both producers and processors – have faced challenges posed by stagnant prices, labor challenges and limited international trade, but we firmly believe that product innovation and world-class research hold the key to dairy’s future success and profitability,” said John Umhoefer, WCMA Executive Director.  “State of Wisconsin support offered through the Dairy Innovation Hub will keep Wisconsin dairy farming on the cutting-edge, and link milk production to new product development through our great University system working hand-in-hand with industry partners.”

The Wisconsin state budget, signed today by Governor Evers, designates $1 million in Fiscal Year 2019-2020 and up to $7.8 million in the following year for the Dairy Innovation Hub.  The second year of funding must be approved by the legislature’s Joint Finance Committee, following review of detailed plans from the University of Wisconsin System.

State funding will be directed to three University of Wisconsin campuses: Madison, Platteville, and River Falls for dairy industry research and development projects focused on human nutrition, land and water use, animal health and welfare, and rural development efforts.  The Dairy Innovation Hub will also work to offer industry training opportunities.