On December 7, former State Senator Joan Ballweg received the Distinguished Service to Wisconsin Agriculture award for her outstanding contributions to Wisconsin’s agriculture community during the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s 106th Annual Meeting in Wisconsin Dells.
Sen. Ballweg has been a steadfast advocate for Wisconsin agriculture throughout her legislative career. She has consistently worked to ensure that farmers and rural communities are represented in policy discussions at the Capitol. Known for her thoughtful and steady leadership, Sen. Ballweg has been recognized for effectively communicating the needs of farmers to her colleagues and supporting practical, farm-focused solutions.
Sen. Ballweg’s public service began in local government while working at her family’s farm implement business. She was elected to the Markesan City Council in 1986 and later served as mayor in 1991, winning reelection twice. In 2004, she was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly, where she served eight terms and held caucus leadership roles, including majority caucus chair. In 2020, she was elected to the state Senate and was elected caucus vice chair in 2023.
During her legislative tenure, Sen. Ballweg served on the Joint Finance Committee for several state budgets, helping to secure continued growth and support for Wisconsin’s agricultural programs. She championed the Farmland Preservation Program, prioritized rural broadband expansion, promoted local conservation efforts and advanced agricultural transportation initiatives essential to the success of farms and rural communities.
A longtime Farm Bureau member herself, Sen. Ballweg understood the organization’s mission and worked closely with members to address their concerns. She regularly attended county meetings and events, listening to members and serving as a trusted partner in shaping policy solutions. Her dedication and deep roots in agriculture have earned her the respect of farmers and colleagues alike.
“Sen. Joan Ballweg’s leadership and commitment to Wisconsin agriculture will have a lasting impact on our state and its farmers,” said Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation President Brad Olson. “Her thoughtful advocacy and dedication to the agriculture community exemplify the kind of public servant that strengthens rural Wisconsin for generations to come.”
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