CHIPPEWA FALLS — The Wisconsin Farmers Union Foundation has awarded $28,500 this year for events and projects that enhance life in rural Wisconsin. Over $13,000 was given in the second quarter, with projects including:  

●  Badger State Farms Handicap Accessible Workshop Area 

●  The Food Group’s Emerging Farmers Conference 

●  Lakeshore Natural Resource Partnership

●  REAP Food Group Harvest Dinner

●  Savanna Institute’s Perennial Farm Gathering

●  Wisconsin Association of Ag Educators Professional Development Conference

●  Wisconsin Public Radio

The WFU Foundation also approved several Local Initiative grants for activities organized by Farmers Union chapters. This quarter’s funded projects included a groundwater modeling project for farmers and rural residents coordinated by Vernon-Crawford Farmers Union, a regional local foods dinner organized by the Pepin-Pierce and St. Croix chapters, and support for the Little Farm Hands Ag Ed Center building project by Amnicon-Douglas Farmers Union. 

Chartered in 1998, the WFU Foundation supports efforts that foster family farming, enhance the quality of rural life, provide opportunities for public education and dialogue, and encourage cooperative economic development. 

“We are pleased to be able to support these organizations and individuals who are working to transform their communities and who align with our mission,” said WFU President Darin Von Ruden. “These awards illustrate WFU’s continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life for family farmers, rural communities, and all people.” 

Grant applications are reviewed quarterly, with application deadlines on the 15th of February, May, August, and November. Apply today at wisconsinfarmersunion.com/foundation.