The 2008 Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative Grant Program

In 2008, we are expecting allocations from both state and federal sources for the GLCI grant program. A portion of the funding, $400,000 has already been allocated by the State of Wisconsin. An additional $950,000 is expected when the US Congress passes the 2008 budget. We expect these funds to become available in Spring, 2008. In anticipation of receiving them, we are issuing this call for proposals in two categories now: technical assistance and education. Our research call for proposals will be issued within the next few weeks.

As part of a comprehensive plan to re-invigorate dairy and livestock agriculture, the state is responding to a ground swell of interest in management intensive grazing (MIG). About one fourth of dairy farmers use some form of rotational or intensive grazing, allowing them to minimize cost of production and environmental risk. To capture those benefits, intensively managed grazing requires research, education and technical know-how.

Grazing is good for the environment, reduces labor and energy costs, and helps farmers keep more money in their pockets. About half of the state's beginning dairy farmers are using grazing as a strategy for getting started because it requires less capital outlay.

This year, we expect a total of approximately $1.3 million for our grazing grant program from state and federal sources. A portion of the funding, $400,000 has already been allocated by the State of Wisconsin. An additional $950,000 is expected when the US Congress passes the 2008 budget. We expect these funds to become available in Spring, 2008. In anticipation of receiving them, we are issuing this call for proposals in two categories now: technical assistance and education. Our research call for proposals will be issued within the next few weeks.

All grants are part of the Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative, a national effort begun in 1991. Senator Herb Kohl and Congressman David Obey are credited with helping to secure the funds for Wisconsin. DATCP has been administering the grants since 2004. In 2008, the state of Wisconsin is also contributing to the fund for the first time.

2008 Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative grant opportunities:

Grazing grants for technical assistance and education
Approximately $900,000 will be awarded for technical assistance and education. Applications must be postmarked by February 13, 2008.
Request for Proposals Download file

Cover Page Download file

Budget Page Download file

Technical Assistance Grant Application Download file

Education Grant Application Download file


Grazing grants for research
Approximately $300,000 will be awarded for research. The call for proposals for research grants will be announced soon.

For more information, contact Laura Paine, Division of Agricultural Development, 608-224-5120 or laura.paine@wisconsin.gov.