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The central issue that drove Shafer's candidacy was the promotion of factory farming in his township and county. His opponent, an incumbant, had been pushing for permits and approval for factory farms. "He kind of fit in with the 'good ol boys network," Shafer says. Shafer thinks that large factory farms offer few benefits for the local community and make it more difficult for small farmers to survive.
Pierce County has been the site of stiff opposition to factory farm expansions. Local groups have battled against the expansions, and, in one township, have passed a one year moratorium on approvals for farms above 500 animal units. The moratorium is designed to allow for the development of meaningful town zoning ordinances.
Shafer grew up on a small dairy farm (he still helps out on the operation) and understands the benefits they offer: "Smaller operations are more environmentally friendly and put a lot more back into the community." Shafer adds that small farms generally promote good family and social values as well as land stewardship.
He supports programs that will help existing small farmers add value to the food they grow. It's a matter he explored in some detail while earning a degree in environmental technology at the UW-River Falls.
Another issue that concerns Shafer is sprawl. Located on the edge of Wisconsin that borders Minnesota's Twin Cities, Pierce County is witnessing the impact of urbanites fleeing their urban woes for the countryside. Shafer hopes to promote smart growth efforts and sustainable development programs while on the county board.
Shafer also want to see more attention paid to growing local businesses. "I want to create economic development from within," he says. "The jobs and money stay locally."
Shafer says he has more information on these issues and a collection of interesting links on his web site. To visit it, click here.