Whether the proposal complies with DATCP’s request for proposals.
Whether the proposed project meets the standards prescribed in this proposed rule.
The viability of the proposed project.
The management and technical qualifications of the grant applicant.
The qualifications of the persons who will carry out the project.
The financial capacity of the grant applicant to complete the project as proposed.
The adequacy of the project plan and budget.
Whether the grant proposal adequately identifies the nature of project expenses to be reimbursed under the proposed grant.Grant Contracts
Under this proposed rule, DATCP must enter into a contract with a grant recipient before distributing any funds to that recipient. The contract must spell out grant terms and conditions, including performance requirements, reporting requirements and payment terms.
Grant Payments
Under this proposed rule, DATCP may distribute grant funds in one or more payments, based on documented progress toward completion of the grant project. DATCP may require a grant recipient to file progress reports and require grant recipients to submit expense documentation as necessary to support grant payments.
Federal and Surrounding State Programs
Federal Programs
There are currently no similar federal programs.
Surrounding State Programs
The Minnesota Dairy Development and Profitability Enhancement program awards $200,000 annually in grants of up to $5,000 per dairy producer to cover half the cost of a comprehensive business plan to evaluate farm start-up, modernization and expansion.
In 2009-2010, 50 Minnesota producers were selected to share $1 million in grants aimed at boosting the state’s livestock sector with projects that include renovation of milking facilities, barn upgrades, technology modernization, improved waste management systems and business transitions.
There are no similar programs in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, or Michigan.
Data and Analytical Methodologies
DATCP worked with representatives of various dairy industry groups to develop standards for grant and loan determinations contained in this proposed rule.
Analysis and Supporting Documents used to Determine Effect on Small Business
DATCP worked with representatives of various dairy industry groups to determine the effect of the proposed rule on small businesses.
Business Impact
The “dairy processor” grant program is voluntary and thus imposes no cost on businesses. By providing $200,000 in grant funding to dairy processors, the “dairy processor” grant program will benefit dairy farms, other dairy businesses and communities that participate in production, distribution or marketing of dairy products. Grant recipients will benefit directly, while others will benefit indirectly from the creation of a stronger dairy industry. DATCP plans to use application procedures that will make the cost of applying insignificant and particularly make it possible for small businesses to apply for funding without hiring consulting services. A complete Regulatory Flexibility Analysis is attached.
DATCP Contact
Questions and comments related to this rule may be directed to:
Kathy Schmitt
Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
P.O. Box 8911
Madison, WI 53708-8911
Telephone (608) 224-5048
Where and when comments May Be Submitted
Questions and comments related to this rule may be directed to:
Kathy Schmitt
Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
P.O. Box 8911
Madison, WI 53708-8911
Telephone (608) 224-5048
Rule comments will be accepted up to two weeks after the last public hearing is held on this rule. Hearing dates will be scheduled after this proposed rule is approved by the DATCP Board.
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Section 1. ATCP 161.50 (3) (f) and 161.60 are amended to read:
ATCP 161.60 Purpose. This subchapter implements the “grow Wisconsin dairy producer” grant and loan program created under ss. 20.115 (4) (d) and (dm) and 93.40 (1) (g), Stats. SECTION 2. ATCP 161.61 (3m) is created to read:
ATCP 161.61 (3m) “Dairy processing plant” has the meaning provided in s. 97.20 (1) (h), Stats. SECTION 3. ATCP 161.62 (1) (intro.) is amended to read:
ATCP 161.62 (1) (intro.) The department may award grants from the appropriation under s. 20.115 (4) (dm), Stats., for projects undertaken by dairy processing plants and grants and loans from the appropriation under s. 20.115 (4) (d) under s. 93.40 (1) (g), Stats., for projects undertaken by dairy producers that are designed to do any of the following: Section 2. Effective date: This rule takes effect on the first day of the month following publication in the Wisconsin administrative register, as provided in s. 227.22 (2) (intro.), Stats.
