Accessing Cyberinfrastructure Funding in Wisconsin's Dairy Sector
GrantID: 11436
Grant Funding Amount Low: $5,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $5,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Revitalizing Dairy Farms with Advanced Cyberinfrastructure in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, the dairy industry faces significant challenges, including fluctuating market prices and climate-related issues that impact productivity. With over 1.3 million dairy cows and being one of the top dairy producers in the U.S., Wisconsin's reliance on this sector makes it imperative to address these barriers effectively. According to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, dairy farming contributes $45 billion annually to the state's economy, which highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to sustain this vital sector.
The primary stakeholders who are affected by these barriers include dairy farmers, agricultural workers, and the broader rural communities that depend on the economic stability of the dairy sector. Many local farmers struggle to maintain their operations due to the high cost of production and the inability to keep pace with technological advancements. In Wisconsin, approximately 60% of dairy farms have fewer than 100 cows, making them particularly vulnerable to economic fluctuations and unsustainable practices. The unfettered adoption of advanced technologies is often hindered by the high initial investment required, creating a barrier that many farmers cannot overcome alone.
This grant program directly addresses the outlined challenges by providing funding aimed at enhancing the cyberinfrastructure of Wisconsin's dairy operations. By focusing on the implementation of advanced data management systems and smart farming technologies, this initiative aims to bolster productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. Through partnerships with local tech firms, the program will facilitate the deployment of tools that allow farmers to monitor herd health, assess feed efficiency, and manage resources effectively. This is especially crucial in a state where the dairy industry has seen a decline in farm numbers but an increase in production efficiency and milk volume per cow, demonstrating a shift towards more advanced operations.
The funding will also enable collaborations with local agricultural universities, which play a pivotal role in training farmers to utilize these new technologies effectively. By focusing on educational initiatives, the program intends to build a knowledgeable workforce adept at using data to make informed decisions. This train-the-trainer approach will ensure that the adoption of these technologies is not just a temporary fix but a long-term strategy for maintaining dairy productivity in Wisconsin.
In addition to optimizing farm efficiencies, this initiative aims to create a network of support for Wisconsin's agricultural community. By facilitating the sharing of best practices and advancements in technological use, this project will promote resilience within the dairy sector. With Wisconsin's unique agricultural landscape and strong commitment to dairy farming, this funding provides an opportunity to sustain and revitalize a cornerstone of the state’s economy. Moreover, by addressing the specific needs of Wisconsin's farmers and leveraging local expertise, the initiative aligns with the state’s goal of becoming a leader in sustainable and innovative agricultural practices.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
