Contact: Amy Hasenberg, (608) 266-2839
Highlights the importance of Wisconsin agriculture
MANITOWOC – Governor Scott Walker and Secretary Sheila Harsdorf of the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) today participated in the opening of the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center. The Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center is an education center and tourist destination that will help families learn more about where their food comes from. The State of Wisconsin provided a $5 million grant from the 2015-17 state budget to help fund the Center.
“The Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center will give children, including Wisconsin’s future farmers, and their families the opportunity to learn more about Wisconsin’s truly diverse agriculture industry,” said Governor Walker. “Since agriculture is a key component of Wisconsin’s history, culture, and economy, this destination will soon be a valued education and tourist destination.”
Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center was created after Manitowoc-area farmer Norval Dvorak was inspired by a farm museum in Indiana. After eight years of research, fundraising, and partnerships with local farmers, the Center has raised 96% of their $13 million goal. Once fully operational, the Center will have a Birthing Barn with up to five baby calves born every day, a bus tour to Grotegut Dairy Farm, and multiple exhibits that will focus on answering the question, “Where does my food come from?”
“The Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center is an exciting opportunity to showcase the importance and diversity of Wisconsin agriculture, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about how their food is grown, processed, and delivered to their table,” said Secretary Harsdorf. “I applaud those who had the vision and the dedication to make this project a reality.”
Wisconsin’s agriculture industry is a critical component of Wisconsin’s economy employing more than 400,000 and having an annual economic impact of $88.3 billion statewide.
