On March 24, Governor Evers issued a Safer at Home order requiring Wisconsin citizens in non-essential industries to stop travel and remain at home or their place of residence.
The order requires all non-essential business to cease operation with exceptions for employees working from home and other basic functions. The order allows an exemption for food and beverage production, transport and agriculture. Businesses, including farms, are to use technology to avoid face-to-face meetings whenever possible.
“Wisconsin Farm Bureau applauds Governor Tony Evers for recognizing the important role farmers, farmer workers and others across the entire supply chain play in keeping food available for Wisconsin residents,” said WFBF President Joe Bragger. “It is important to note that at this time, documentation is not required for farmers or farm workers to travel to and from work.”
In anticipation of this order, WFBF joined other ag groups in sending a letter urging Governor Evers to exempt Wisconsin production agriculture, food processing, food manufacturing, farm supply retail, farm workers, agribusiness and veterinary medicine from the shelter in place requirement.
“Constant communication is essential during this challenging time,” Bragger added. “WFBF will continue to be a voice for farmers in raising the concerns and challenges from our rural communities. Farmers should remain in contact with their stakeholders to learn of any changes that may be coming.”
Other ag groups that signed on to the letter include the Dairy Business Association, Cooperative Network, Midwest Food Products Association, Wisconsin Agri-Business Association, Wisconsin Association of Professional Agricultural Consultants, Wisconsin BioFuels Association, Wisconsin Biomass Energy Coalition, Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association, Wisconsin Cranberry Growers Association, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Hemp Alliance, Wisconsin Nursery and Landscape Association, Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association, Wisconsin Soybean Association and the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association.
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