Climate Action Campaign: Sen. Agard and state agricultural leaders gather at local dairy farm to host the Clean Energy Revolution Tour as it rolls into Dane County to tout investments in Climate Smart agriculture and rural communities

(DANE COUNTY, WISCONSIN) – Today, the Climate Action Campaign’s Clean Energy REVolution (CER) Tour rolled into Dane County and was joined by State Senator Melissa Agard and state agricultural leaders to tout climate progress and clean energy investments delivered in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), and the Solutions for Pollution established by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other agencies.

The event, held at Hinchley’s Dairy Farm, featured speakers highlighting local climate progress in Dane County, including roughly $19.5 billion that was allocated to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for conservation programs designed to help farmers be part of the solution to address climate change. The event also highlighted the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) investing over $27 million in Wisconsin through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). 

“Protecting Wisconsin’s agricultural natural resources and building an economy that works for all are at the forefront of our efforts. Investments from the IRA and BIL are essential in safeguarding our environment while fostering economic growth. These initiatives support critical conservation projects and promote sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring that our farms and rural communities remain vibrant for future generations despite the growing challenges of climate change and extreme weather. By expanding renewable energy and creating green jobs, we are making significant strides towards a resilient and inclusive economy that benefits every resident of Dane County,” said Sen. Melissa Agard.

“Investments from the IRA and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law not only provide immediate financial relief, but also drive long-term economic growth and sustainability. Dane County has benefited from $14.5 million in REAP awards and significant investments in solar energy projects, which are crucial for reducing energy costs and enhancing environmental stewardship. By supporting clean energy initiatives and modernizing infrastructure, we are empowering our rural communities to thrive in a changing climate,” said Rep. Melissa Ratcliff, Assembly District 46.​

Focusing on the importance of supporting family farmers, Tina Hinchley, District Vice President, WI Farmers Union, emphasized the role of federal funding. “The IRA is delivering for family farmers like mine and other Wisconsin Farmers Union members. These investments are critical in helping us adopt climate-smart practices that not only protect our environment but also ensure the long-term viability of our farms. The support from the IRA empowers us to be part of the solution to climate change while sustaining our way of life. As we face more frequent and severe weather events, these investments, tens of billions worth, are essential in building resilience on our farms.”

Julie Lassa, USDA Rural Development State Director for Wisconsin, highlighted the benefits for rural communities and farmers. “Federal programs like the IRA and BIL are game-changers for rural communities and farmers across Wisconsin. These investments provide the resources needed to modernize our infrastructure and adopt sustainable practices, driving both economic growth and environmental stewardship. The positive impacts of these initiatives in Wisconsin through the Rural Energy for America Program, including more than $50.5 million in obligations and investments, are reinforcing our commitment to a clean energy future. This is about more than just financial support; it’s about empowering our rural communities to thrive.”

Addressing the significance of climate-smart agricultural investments, Mike Strigel, Assistant Deputy Secretary, WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, spoke on their benefits. “Agriculture is a $104.8 billion industry in Wisconsin’s economy.  Our state’s land and water resources set Wisconsin apart and allow us to grow so many and such high-quality products. Wisconsin producers develop and implement practices to protect Wisconsin’s soil and water resources while maintaining productivity, and investments and programs that support these efforts are tools that producers can utilize to further this work.”

Dane County was the third media event on the tour which featured a visually striking all-electric Campervan. The REVolution Tour includes 13 media events in locations across Wisconsin,  Michigan and Pennsylvania  as well as additional visibility stops in Indiana, Ohio and Illinois.

About the Clean Energy REVolution Tour

The Climate Action Campaign’s Clean Energy REVolution Tour is a 6-state, 6-week, tour highlighting, celebrating, and driving climate progress. The Clean Energy REVolution Tour will spotlight key local investments delivered by  two historic legislative achievements: the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).