The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 840, aims to enhance the agricultural conservation easement purchase program by reinstating certain provisions that were previously repealed. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) solicit applications for the program at least once annually, a requirement that had been removed. Additionally, it authorizes DATCP to engage in general fund supported borrowing up to $25,000,000 for the purchase of agricultural conservation easements, reversing a prior change that shifted funding responsibilities to the Department of Natural Resources. The bill also repeals a section of the statutes that is no longer necessary.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new legal language to facilitate the funding and management of agricultural conservation easements. It creates specific appropriations for principal repayment and interest related to these easements, ensuring that DATCP has the necessary financial resources to support the program. The amendments also clarify the funding sources and procedures for soliciting applications, thereby strengthening the framework for preserving agricultural land in Wisconsin.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 23.197(15), 23.197, 93.73(2)(b), 93.73