The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says nearly 150 farmers, conservation groups, and state leaders met this week in Plover to tackle one of the state’s biggest challenges: protecting clean water while supporting a strong farm economy.
The Agriculture & Conservation Roundtable, hosted by the Interagency Water Quality Workgroup, focused on shaping Wisconsin’s next Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy — a statewide effort to cut fertilizer and soil runoff from farms.
DNR Secretary Karen Hyun said clean water and thriving agriculture “depend on each other,” and praised the collaboration among farmers, researchers and agencies.
Participants worked through issues including farmer-to-farmer networks, building trust, funding incentives, new technology, and statewide accountability. The goal: both immediate actions and long-term strategies that will guide the 2026 update of the state’s nutrient-loss plan.
Organizers say the strong turnout shows a shared commitment to cleaner water and more efficient farming. A public summary of the event is expected early next year, and the group is inviting continued involvement from farmers and conservation leaders across the state.