Northeast Wisconsin does many things very well. From agriculture and shipping to cheesemaking and football, we have a diverse range of industries that not only bolster our economy but also make us proud. One thing our region does a fantastic job at, but might not be as well known for, is sustainability.
Last week, I spoke at the Great Lakes Sediment and Nutrient Reduction Program (GLSNRP) Biennial Meeting, hosted by the Great Lakes Commission, where we celebrated the work made possible through grant funding that has improved water quality, cleaned up pollution, restored wildlife habitats, and supported the long-term health of the world’s largest freshwater system.
Just yesterday, I met with Wayside Dairy in Greenleaf and Kane Dairy in Denmark – two incredible farms in the Wisconsin Demonstration Farm Network. This program helps farmers adopt conservation practices that reduce nutrient and sediment loss while improving soil and water quality.
Both the Wisconsin Demonstration Farms and the GLSNRP are funded through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). This Initiative, along with partnerships with local governments, non-profits, and Tribal governments, has helped keep millions of pounds of runoff and sediment out of the Great Lakes, preventing damage to ecosystems and local economies that depend on clean, healthy lakes.
That is why, in March, I was proud to vote to pass the American Water Stewardship Act, which reauthorizes the GLRI and ensures we can continue funding these critical programs. In addition to supporting GLRI through legislation, I also submitted an appropriations request this Spring calling to fully fund GLRI for Fiscal Year 2027. This funding is vital to continuing cleanup of Areas of Concern, reducing harmful algal blooms, and protecting the long-term health of the Great Lakes.
Additionally, as part of the Farm Bill that passed the House in June, I was proud to support improvements to the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). These changes would help farmers use precision agriculture tools and technology to improve their farming practices, just as Wisconsin Demonstration Farms is doing. The bill also creates a matching grant program to help states and eligible Tribes improve soil health on agricultural lands through their own soil health programs.
Both pieces of legislation will help farms like Wayside and Kane, as well as the Great Lakes Commission, continue their incredible work to support the health of our region. I call on my Senate colleagues to pass these bills immediately.
Sustainability practices are essential to ensuring Northeast Wisconsin can remain America’s Dairyland and a home to Great Lakes shipping for generations to come. I am proud to support these initiatives and will continue to fight in Washington to promote sustainability and protect our region’s natural resources.
Thanks again for starting your weekend with us! We hope you enjoy this week’s edition of the Wied Wire.
District Update
Reminder: Register for 2026 Congressional App Challenge!
My office is accepting applications for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge! All middle school and high school students in the Eighth Congressional District are eligible to participate. This challenge is the official STEM competition of the U.S. House of Representatives and is a great way for students to work on their critical thinking and creativity! Students should register online and the deadline for submitting applications is Monday, October 26, 2026. You can find additional information regarding the challenge on my website here. If you have any questions, please contact my District Office at 920-301-4500.
Ride Along with Fox Valley and Lake Superior Rail System (FOXY)
[see featured photo above] This week, I had a great visit with GoRail representatives and the Fox Valley and Lake Superior Rail System (FOXY) which is short-line system that operates terminals in Green Bay, Appleton, Wausau, and the Shawano Subdivision. I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about how FOXY supports so many of our great industries throughout Northeast Wisconsin!
2026 Annual Port Green Bay Symposium
The 2026 Annual Port Green Bay Symposium was held this week at the National Railroad Museum. I appreciated the opportunity to hear from local leaders and stakeholders about the importance of our shipping industry and the significant economic impacts our ports have on our region. Thank you to Brown County Port Director Dean Haen, the Harbor Commission, and so many others for your continued hard work and advocacy!
College of Menominee Nation
I recently met with Dr. Chris Caldwell, President of the College of Menominee Nation, and members of his incredible team for a tour of the main college campus in Keshena. During my visit, I learned about the more than 20 programs offered and how Tribal Colleges and Universities support student success and provide educational opportunities. Thank you to the College of Menominee Nation for hosting me and for highlighting your campus!
International Union of Painters and Allied Trades
I enjoyed touring the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades to learn more about the training they provide to their members, the industries they serve, and how they support local businesses throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Thank you to the IUPAT team for having me and for showcasing your impressive facility!
Photo of the Week
We have received so many wonderful pictures since we launched the Photo of the Week section of the Wied Wire, and I would love to continue seeing more. This week’s photo is was taken while coming in to dock at Pine Acres at High Falls Flowage. If you would like to submit a picture to be featured in an upcoming Photo of the Week, please email it to twstaff@mail.house.gov with your name and location. We look forward to highlighting more of your photos that celebrate the places and moments that make Wisconsin special.
