How is the Discovery Farms Program organized?
All aspects of the Discovery Farms Program emphasize farmer input and direction. The Discovery Farms Steering Committee provides input on nonpoint pollution research needs, identifies research project possibilities, selects projects for funding, and solicits Discovery Farms cooperators. It helps with the coordination and dissemination of the research data and information generated. The steering committee is chaired by a farmer and has representatives from Wisconsin farm, agri-business and environmental organizations. Finally, a producer selected to conduct a Discovery Farm research project will be supported by an On-Farm Advisory Team chaired by the farmer himself. Working with the farm cooperator, this team will implement the project, monitor progress, collect and analyze data, and share results through a variety of channels. The team will be made up of neighboring farmers, agribusiness consultants, county and other local extension personnel, and local representatives of state and fed
