Farmland Preservation Planning Grants to Counties
Forecasted
Farmland Preservation Planning Grants to Counties support Wisconsin counties preparing or updating plans that protect agricultural land, guide local conservation, and promote agricultural development.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (grant application)
Funding Amounts: Reimbursement of up to 50% of county planning costs, capped at $30,000
Summary: Grants help Wisconsin counties prepare or update plans that guide farmland preservation and agricultural development.
Key Information: A county needs a state-certified farmland preservation plan to participate in Wisconsin’s farmland preservation program.
Description
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) supports counties preparing or updating farmland preservation plans. These plans document agricultural resources and trends, set county policies and goals for protecting farmland and promoting agricultural development, and identify land expected to remain in agricultural use. They guide local conservation and preservation efforts and underpin certified zoning, agricultural enterprise areas, and farmland preservation agreements.
Planning also gives counties an opportunity to work with towns, cities, villages, and local stakeholders on land-use priorities. DATCP encourages counties updating or amending plans in 2026, 2027, or 2028 to apply for a planning grant.
