Agriculture
AGRICULTURE
Serving Vernon, La Crosse, Crawford, and Richland Counties
If it happens on a farm or in a field, the Extension Institute of Agriculture works with you to achieve better results. Our innovative dairy management programs range from genetics to farm and business management. Extension researchers work hand-in-hand with row crop, forage and fresh produce growers to provide best practices for every aspect of the growing phase. We also advise communities on using sustainable practices to create inviting spaces free from invasive species.
University of Wisconsin-Extension programs in Agriculture and Natural Resources help urban and rural people use research and knowledge to solve problems and take advantage of new opportunities. Agriculture and Natural Resources educators balance farm profitability and production of high-quality food, horticulture crops, fiber and plant material with protection of the natural environment.
Services We Offer
Ask an Agriculture Question
Looking for an expert to advise you on your agriculture questions? Please click button below and fill out the form and attach relevant photographs concerning your agriculture issues. Your inquiry will be responded to by an Extension staff member.
If you live outside of Wisconsin, please contact Extension in your state.
Asking a Gardening Question
Looking for expert advice on a lawn, landscape or gardening issue? Please click the button below and fill out the form and attach photos showing your garden concern. A Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener or Extension staff will respond to your inquiry.
If you live outside of Wisconsin, please contact Extension in your state.
Private Pesticide Applicator Testing
The University of Wisconsin Pesticide Applicator Training (PAT) Program helps you become certified to apply pesticides in Wisconsin. They provide educational materials for the purpose of pesticide applicator certification in Wisconsin.
Soil Sample Testing
Just what is in your soil?! Let’s find out! A soil test provides more information about the nutrient levels of your soil.
Wisconsin Farm Account & Record Books
Farm Record Books are available for purchase at our office location.
Cost: $7.00
Cash and Check only.
Sign up for our newsletter!
Stay up to date on the latest Extension Agriculture news, resources, and impacts by signing up for our e-newsletter.
Farm Management News
- Held Dec. 4, 2024 at noon CST, this webinar is the first in a biannual series dedicated to keeping farmers and ag professionals up to date on the latest legal developments impacting Wisconsin farms.
- The USDA published its preliminary long-run Agricultural Baseline Projections for the farm economy on November 7, 2024. This report includes the first estimate of the 2025 season-average farm price from the USDA, as well as the long-run trends in the agricultural economy. These price estimates for 2025 are below most estimates of break-even prices needed […]
- Steph Plaster, Agriculture Business Development Outreach Specialist, was selected to be part of a three-day training to assist local farmers in addressing their childcare, health care, and health insurance needs. The Ohio State University and American Farmland Trust partnered to develop the curriculum and offer the training to a small delegation of educators living in […]
- The UW-Madison Department of Biological Systems Engineering and Extension Farm Management Program have set a date for the December Rural & Farm Health Retreat at Upham Woods, which will focus on Positive Emotions for Rural and Farm Health. The program will intersperse skill-building activities centered on creating “positive emotions,” an important key to promoting mental […]
- Join the UW-Madison Extension Farm Management Program Nov. 13 from noon-1 p.m. for a free webinar about starting a farm succession plan.
Agriculture Updates
- Christine Bender remembers the moment 10 years ago when she told her parents she wanted to come back and farm long-term. “My mom started to cry because she was so happy,” Bender said. In the decade since Bender and her family created a succession plan, they’ve had many discussions about working together. Now she serves […]
- This month presents two unique opportunities for farmers in the Midwest and Mid-South to advance their efforts to improve soil health and water quality, while protecting their profitability.
- The Wisconsin Association of County Agricultural Agents (WACAA) recently recognized several members during its annual awards and recognition program. An affiliate of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA), WACAA is a professional organization for county, area, and state Extension professionals to encourage excellence and professionalism in their work.
- Extension awarded grant funding to seven projects that bring innovation to the division’s outreach mission. Extension annually solicits proposals for new projects around engagement and research. Innovation is a core part of Extension’s programming, which ensures that the division is addressing emerging issues in Wisconsin’s communities.
- The Division of Extension and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education are excited to announce the nine recipients of the Wisconsin Idea Collaboration Grants. Now in its second year, this grant funding aims to promote collaboration with faculty across campus around Extension’s six focus areas: promote healthy relationships, empower health […]
Visit the Agriculture Topic Hub for more information.
Meet Our Ag Educators
Regional Crops & Soils Educator
Sam Bibby
Serving La Crosse, Crawford, and Vernon Counties
Contact: 608-219-2055
Email: sbibby@wisc.edu
Regional Livestock Educator
Beth McIlquham
Serving Crawford, La Crosse, Richland, and Vernon Counties
Contact: 608-632-0599
Email: beth.mcilquham@wisc.edu
