With harvest time already underway, I wanted to take a moment to highlight a critical part of Green County’s economy: agriculture. While industrial businesses often come to mind when discussing economic development, it’s essential to recognize that agriculture plays a massive role in our county’s success. In fact, Green County’s ag economy makes up about half of our total economic impact.
Family-owned farms, food processors, and agriculture-related businesses generate thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in economic activity for Green County. According to a study by UW Extension, agriculture employs over 6,000 people in the county and contributes $1.7 billion in economic activity annually. Not only does it provide income, but it also generates $42.6 million in sales tax, property tax, and income tax, supporting vital public services and infrastructure.
Green County’s rich agricultural sector produces a wide variety of commodities, including milk, grain, cattle, hay, and vegetables. The county ranks among the top fifteen in Wisconsin for corn, corn silage, and hay production, and is home to one of the state’s first ethanol plants. Additionally, Green County boasts the highest concentration of Master Cheesemakers and cheese manufacturing plants in Wisconsin. These eleven plants process milk from 200 dairy farms, producing over 60 varieties of award-winning cheeses, which not only supports local dairy farmers but also enhances our reputation in the global food market.
Beyond its economic impact, agriculture also allows for sustainable development by creating jobs, integrating underrepresented groups, and offering opportunities for young people and the unemployed. The sector’s history in Green County’s broader economy runs deep. This county, like many other rural communities, would not be what it is today without the base support of the ag sector.
As the agricultural industry evolves, like any other, systems that once worked are being reimagined to meet new challenges. At Green County Development Corporation, we are constantly exploring ways to better support this vital sector as we look ahead to 2025. Our commitment to fostering a thriving and sustainable future remains strong, and we are dedicated to working alongside our agricultural community. To learn more about our initiatives, please visit our website or contact us at (608) 328-9452 or gcdc@
greencountydevelopment.com.
— Olivia Otte is the Executive Director of the Green County Development Corporation (GCDC). She can be reached at Olivia@greencountydevelopment.com, or by calling 608-328-9452.
