MADISON — The Dairy Business Association, Wisconsin’s leading dairy advocacy group, announced Jan. 28 that state Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green, is the organization’s Legislator of the Year.

DBA pointed to important legislation Marklein championed, including funding for the Dairy Innovation Hub; truth-in-labeling for milk, other dairy products and meat; and more capital access for rural businesses, including dairy processors.

“Senator Marklein has gone above and beyond to strengthen and promote Wisconsin’s dairy community. He recognized the importance of these issues and showed leadership in moving them forward,” said DBA President Amy Penterman, who farms with her family in Thorp.

The association also announced DBA Legislative Excellence Award recipients for the 2019-20 session. The award recognizes legislators for ongoing support for farmers, processors and the broader dairy community.

“We greatly appreciate these individuals for keeping dairy issues top of mind at the Capitol. Their commitment is critical to growing and protecting a major part of Wisconsin’s economy and ensuring that our rural communities thrive,” Penterman said. 

Last week, DBA announced its top legislative priorities for the current session. Among them: securing ongoing funding for the Dairy Innovation Hub, a research initiative on the University of Wisconsin System’s three agricultural campuses; support for ongoing water quality efforts, including many proposals stemming from the Speaker’s Task Force on Water Quality; and advocating for protections of common terms like milk, cheese and hamburger on food packaging and labels.

Also recognized was Rep. Todd Novak (R-Dodgeville).

“I am honored to receive this award from the Dairy Business Association for my work on issues affecting the dairy industry” said Novak. “I am proud to represent an agriculturally dependent district. Ag issues will continue to be a legislative priority for me and I look forward to continue working to support the Ag industry this session.”