Assembly Bill 851 aims to enhance the agricultural conservation easement purchase program in Wisconsin by reinstating certain provisions and increasing funding. 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Protection (DATCP) solicit applications for the program at least once annually, a requirement that was previously repealed. Additionally, it authorizes DATCP to borrow up to $25,000,000 from the general fund to purchase agricultural conservation easements, reversing a prior change that removed this borrowing authority. The bill also eliminates the requirement for the Department of Natural Resources to provide funds from the Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson stewardship program for these purchases.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new statutory provisions 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 effectively. The bill repeals a section of current law that is no longer relevant, streamlining the legal framework governing the program. Overall, Assembly Bill 851 seeks to strengthen the state's commitment to preserving agricultural land through enhanced funding and operational requirements.

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