The Extension Institute of Agriculture works with you to achieve better results. Our innovative dairy management programs range from genetics to farm and business management. Extension researchers work hand-in-hand with row crop, forage and fresh produce growers to provide best practices for every aspect of the growing phase. We also advise communities on using sustainable practices to create inviting spaces free from invasive species. Our work supports people, communities, and businesses.

Crops and Soils
Providing timely resources and information to help Wisconsin crop producers and their agricultural consultants manage crops efficiently and profitably.

For current Rock County area news and events, please click on the Agriculture Update Newsletters below.
Agriculture Update December 2022
Agriculture Update June 2022

To receive future Agriculture Update Newsletter emails, please click the link and complete the brief Google form.

Dairy
Strengthening the competitiveness of the Wisconsin dairy industry through statewide leadership in education and research.

Youth Tractor and Machinery Safety Program

The Youth Tractor and Machinery Safety program is offered by many Extension partners across the state. As these programs become available, the list of locations, dates and times for these programs are found at the Extension Tractor Safety website. If you are interested in the Youth Tractor and Machinery Safety program, please visit this site and contact these partners directly to register for their programs.

Currently, there is not an in-person course offered in our area. Please consider enrolling in the Virtual Courses, once they are posted and become available.

The Wisconsin Youth Tractor & Machinery Safety Certification Program is designed to meet requirements established by the U.S. Department of Labor, pertaining to special provisions made for the employment of youth ages 14-15 on farms not operated by their parents. In addition, Wisconsin Act 455 provides specific provisions for tractor operation by 12-13 year olds.

[Newsfeed]:

• Free farm succession workshops scheduled for spring
  Thinking about Farm Succession?  You know you should make plans for the future of the farm, but maybe you’re not sure where to start? Or maybe you’ve had a few conversations with your family or farming partners, but that conversation drifts to other more pressing matters about the operation.  It is common for farmers to […]
• Vaccine and Medicine in Cattle Workshop
  UW-Madison Extension Dairy ProgramHandling and administration of vaccine and medicine in cattle WorkshopApril 10-11, 2024 The training of the farm personnel has positive impacts on animal welfare and performance, thus increasing the overall farm profitability. To support beef and dairy farms and their employees, the UW-Extension Dairy program has developed the “Handling and administration of […]
• Winter 2024 Online Gardening Programs
  Join Wisconsin Horticulture Extension for the next series of free online gardening programs! Programs consist of a presentation, followed by time for live Q&A with the presenter. These events are free, but registration is required. If you can’t attend during the scheduled time slot, we will send the recorded version shortly after. This series is […]
• Beef Up – Forage Management Workshop
  This beef production workshop will highlight forage management practices to improve haying and grazing potential. Proper administration of antibiotics, vaccinations, and other animal health products will also be discussed along with a cattle market outlook and livestock risk protection options. Join UW-Madison Division of Extension Educators for an educational workshop on Beefing Up- Forage Management on Friday […]
• Upcoming Gardening Online Programs
  Fall/Winter 2023 UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program is offering FREE educational online programs to help you be more successful in your own yards, gardens, containers – anywhere you grow plants! Our next series, Houseplant Myth Busters, Tool Ideas and Succulent Spotlight, starts soon. Registration is required for each program. Participants can attend only one […]