MADISON – This week, Governor Evers and the Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced the creation of the Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Resiliency Grant Program. This program will provide grants of up to $150,000 to meat processors in Wisconsin using funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Rep. Dave Considine (D-Baraboo) released the following statement on this investment:

“I am encouraged to hear that Governor Evers is directing $10 million to meat processing infrastructure. This significant investment will not only help meat processors, but also farmers and consumers. These funds are greatly needed, as many farmers currently struggle to find a processing facility that can process their meat in a timely matter. Meanwhile, meat processors are booked out for months or even years.

“This is not a new problem. I have heard from countless farmers about meat processing backlogs. They were facing this issue before the pandemic hit, and now the problem has been exacerbated. In early 2021, I advocated for investments in the meat processing industry in the biennial budget. While I was disappointed that the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) cut $1.8 million of Governor Evers’ proposed investment in meat processing, I am grateful that there was an investment of $200,000. However, due to the limited investment in the budget, there is still a large need in this industry.

“Governor Evers has continued to show his commitment to Wisconsin agriculture throughout his time in office. Earlier this year, Governor Evers invested $5 million in the Meat Talent Development Program, which helps attract individuals to the meat processing industry. Between this new investment in meat processing and previous investments, Wisconsin’s meat processing industry will have the ability to grow to its ever expanding potential.”