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Bill

SB 326

Relating to: creating a nutrient loss reduction grant program. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rachael Cabral-Guevara

Wisconsin establishes a grant program offering farmers financial incentives to reduce nutrient pollution runoff from agricultural lands into state waterways.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · SB 326

Legislative bill overview

SB 326 establishes a nutrient loss reduction grant program in Wisconsin, designed to provide financial incentives to agricultural operations for implementing practices that reduce nutrient runoff into waterways. The bill allocates state funds to support farmers who adopt conservation measures that minimize nitrogen and phosphorus losses from their lands.

Why is this important

Wisconsin faces significant water quality challenges, particularly in lakes and rivers where agricultural nutrient runoff contributes to algal blooms and eutrophication. This program directly addresses agricultural pollution by making conservation practices more financially accessible to farmers, balancing environmental protection with agricultural sustainability. The initiative supports the state's long-term water quality goals while helping farmers manage costs associated with adopting new practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Program funding and sustainability: Questions about adequate appropriation levels, whether grant amounts sufficiently offset implementation costs, and long-term funding commitments beyond initial authorization
  • Eligibility and fairness: Debates over which farming practices qualify, how broadly the program is accessible across different farm sizes and types, and whether allocation mechanisms favor certain regions or operations
  • Regulatory vs. incentive approach: Disagreement over whether voluntary grants are sufficient environmental policy or if stronger mandatory nutrient management regulations should accompany this program

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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