The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection announced on Mar. 9 that applications are open for the next Wisconsin Agriculture Youth Council, with a deadline of March 31, 2026. Current high school juniors who will be seniors during the 2026–2027 school year are encouraged to apply by submitting an electronic application that includes a brief essay and a one-minute video about their involvement in agriculture and future goals.
The council aims to introduce students to agricultural careers, share resources available for farmers, provide insight into policy development, and increase networking opportunities within the industry. The program is designed to help young people learn more about agriculture while connecting them with professionals across the state.
Each month during the school year, council members meet virtually to listen to presentations, participate in discussions, and build connections with others in the field. Students who complete their one-year term receive a certificate from DATCP. The department seeks to have 15 members representing different regions of Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection administers grant programs supporting agricultural processing, food security initiatives, conservation efforts, and small-business support according to the official website. The agency also handles over 100,000 consumer complaints annually and recovers millions of dollars for individuals affected by unfair practices according to the official website.
DATCP maintains offices throughout Wisconsin—including laboratory facilities and regional inspection offices in locations such as Antigo and Stevens Point—and oversees more than 250,000 annual inspections under weights and measures standards according to the official website. The department collaborates with residents statewide on economic growth through quality food production, healthy plants and animals, responsible resource management, and fair market practices according to the official website.
DATCP extends its oversight across agriculture, trade, consumer protection, and resource management through various regional offices statewide according to the official website.
