Youth Council looking for new agriculture members

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), is now accepting applications for the 2021-22 Wisconsin Agriculture Youth Council. The council was created in 2020, to encourage young people to engage with state government and increase their awareness of DATCP’s interactions with Wisconsin’s agriculture industry.

Students serve a one-year term and receive a certificate at the completion of their year.

“I strongly encourage students with an enthusiasm for Wisconsin agriculture,” said DATCP secretary-designee Randy Romanski, “to apply for this council, to network with others from across the industry and discover more about the many agricultural-related careers available.”

Current council members continue to meet virtually each month, engaging with speakers and participating in discussions on a variety of agricultural topics, including food processing, animal health, and land and water resources. Each monthly session includes interactive activities, and members rotate through leadership positions within the group.

The council is comprised of 15 Wisconsin high school seniors, and the DATCP will aim to include at least one member from each of the nine council districts. The remaining seats will be filled with at-large members.

To apply, students must be a high school senior during the 2021-22 school year. Students must complete an application form, sharing their experience and skills and writing a brief essay. Applicants must also submit a one-minute video and letter of recommendation.

A map and listing of which counties are located in each of the nine districts, as well as an application, are available at AgYouthCouncil.wi.gov. The department will accept applications through March 31.