Earlier this week, The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) awarded $750,000 in producer led watershed protection grants to 30 farmer-led groups, including awards to 4 groups in our district. The Farmers of Sugar River received a grant of $14,700, Lafayette Ag Stewardship Alliance received a grant of $30,000, Sauk Soil and Water Improvement received a grant of $30,000, and Uplands Watershed Group: $13,000.
I am proud to support this watershed grant program. In previous sessions, I have worked to include increases to this program in the state budget, and I look forward to continuing this effort in the future. I believe this program provides a valuable partnership between our farmers across the state and provides critical support to Wisconsin’s conservation efforts.
New Faces in My Office
I would like to introduce you to my new staff for this session. On my right, is my new Legislative Assistant, Morgan O’Flahrity. Morgan is already familiar with my office, having spent the past year as my intern. On my left is Nolan Bursch. Nolan will be joining the office as my Research Assistant. Nolan is a veteran staffer at the Capitol. I am excited for the expertise he will bring to my office.
Letter to DHS on Vaccine Delays
Yesterday, I joined my legislative colleagues Representative Travis Tranel, Representative Tony Kurtz and Senator Howard Marklein in expressing our frustrations with the current COVID-19 vaccine distribution program. Our letter to DHS Secretary-Designee Andrea Palm highlights numerous issues in the current program and requests clarification for vaccine eligibility as well as demanding answers for the slow rollout of the vaccine.
Virtual Meeting with Southwest Tech Administrators
This week I had the pleasure of meeting Jason Wood, President of Southwest Tech, as well as Southwest Tech board members Chuck Bolstad, and Jane Wonderling. In the meeting we discussed the needs and priorities of the Wisconsin Technical College System and the individual needs of Southwest Tech. I am thrilled to continue my work with state technical schools like Southwest Tech this session to provide the necessary resources for our students as they prepare to enter the workforce.
Free Fishing Weekend
This weekend is winter free fishing weekend. Anglers can fish all water bodies in the state where there is an open season. All other fishing regulations apply, such as limits on the number and size of fish you can keep and any seasons when you must release certain fish species.
Here is a link to DNR website with more information.
National Milk Day
This past Monday was National Milk Day. Dairy farms are the backbone of our economy in Southwest Wisconsin. I am proud to represent a district with such strong ties to the dairy industry. Thank you to all of our dairy farmers for all you do!
2019-2020 Blue Books Still Available
My office still has a number of Blue Books available from the previous session. Blue Books contain a list of all state elected officials and their information, as well as important information and statistics about our state government. If you would like a copy, please reply to this email with your name and address. I will send you one free of charge.
Have A Great Weekend!
| State Capitol - Room 310 North | PO Box 8953 | Madison, WI 53708 | (608) 266-7502 | Rep.Novak@Legis.WI.Gov |
