Jill Lucht, Wisconsin Farmers Union, 715-723-5561
John Shafer, Izaak Walton League of Western Wisconsin 715-778-4757

Wisconsin Farmers Union and the Izaak Walton League of Western Wisconsin are co-sponsoring a Parade of Family Farms in Pierce County on February 17, 2001, to help heighten awareness of the ongoing farm crisis and its impact on all segments of the community.

The Parade includes visits to four Pierce County family farms, and allows consumers the opportunity to see how their food is produced and what can be done to support local farmers.  The parade will be followed by a panel discussion led by Dr. Larry Swain, professor of Agriculture Economics at UW-River Falls.

The farmers on the Parade offer a broad cross-section of Wisconsin family farm agriculture—from organic to conventional—in the year 2001.  Participating farmers include Julie Kenefick, a sheep producer from River Falls, Wi; Maureen Ash, a potato and vegetable farmer from River Falls; Jean Rohl, beef, grain farmer and small specialty business owner from Prescott, Wi; and Ed Fiedler, dairy farmer from Prescott, Wi.

Wisconsin Farmers Union and the Izaak Walton League of Western Wisconsin are urging consumers from across the area to participate in the Parade and to demonstrate their support for Wisconsin farmers, rural businesses and rural communities. This is a wonderful opportunity for consumers to gather and learn about family farming and what actions they can take to support their local farmers.

The Parade of Family Farms will be held on February 17, 2001, from 1-5 p.m.  Participants should meet at the Regional Development Institute on the UW-River Falls campus.  Transportation will be available if needed.  Anyone interested in participating in the Parade of Family Farms should RSVP by Monday, February 12, 2001, by contacting John Shafer or calling 715-778-4757.