Industrial Hemp Applications Available
This session we legalized industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity in Wisconsin. It was banned in 1937 because the plant is closely related to marijuana; although hemp contains very low levels of THC, the chemical that makes people high. Prior to being banned, Wisconsin led the nation in hemp production. It is an extremely versatile product - it can be used to make rope, paper, building materials and biofuel. The seeds are also extremely nutritious. It will likely take several years for the infrastructure to exist to fully utilize its potential but I believe hemp will be a very important part of our farm economy in the near future.
Because of its close relationship to marijuana, farmers wishing to grow hemp must be licensed by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Industrial hemp applications are now available in Wisconsin. The deadline to apply for the 2018 growing season is May 1, 2018.
For more information, please visit the following website to learn more about Wisconsin's industrial hemp program. Additionally, you can use this website to sign up for receiving automatic updates from DATCP on industrial hemp.
Fennimore Public Hearing
In Fennimore, the Blue Ribbon Commission heard some wonderful testimony from area superintendents, as well as Jamie Nutter, the CESA 3 Agency Administrator. The presenters covered topics such as the social costs of consolidation, the challenges presented by declining enrollment, and the importance of attracting quality teaching staff to rural areas.
I couldn't be happier with the level of engagement the commission has received from not just teachers and administrators, but the general public as well. Working together in this way, I know we can make significant improvements in how we fund our schools throughout Wisconsin, ensuring that every child, regardless of income, location, or needs will have equal access to the best education possible.
The next public hearing will be in Oshkosh on April 23.
You can keep up to date on everything related to the Blue Ribbon Commission by checking out our website!
Blue Ribbon Commission website
Upcoming District Events!
What:
Read To A Therapy Dog
Where: Sturgeon Bay Library, 107 S. 4th
Ave., Sturgeon Bay, WI
When: April 12, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Details: "Kids can read out loud to
a special dog who loves to listen."
What:
Kolache
Class
Where: Agricultural Heritage Farm, N 2251
Hwy 42, Kewaunee, WI
When: April 14, 8:00am - 10:00am
Details:
"Learn how to make a delicious Czech
pastry at the Agricultural Heritage Farm in Kewaunee. Classes begin at
8:00 and 9:00 am"
In Closing...
