Resolution Authorizing a Cropland Lease Agreement at the Sauk County Health Care Center.

Sauk County owns approximately 280 acres of cropland and pasture, known as the Sauk County Farm in the Town of Reedsburg. An additional 11.4 acres of cropland are located adjacent to the Sauk County Health Care Center in the City of Reedsburg. In March 2022, the Sauk County Board of Supervisors adopted the Sauk County Farm Property Master Plan outlining how the farm will showcase new and innovative conservation practices that prevent soil erosion and reduce agricultural runoff to protect groundwater and surface water resources. Cropland and pasture are leased to local farmers every five years and a competitive bidding procedure is used to solicit bids. Upon award of the bid, the farmer adheres to conditions outlined in the lease agreement that support soil health practices including no till, cover crops, and diverse crop rotations. Additionally, they work closely with the Land Resources and Environment Department to share planting and harvest data to evaluate the economics and efficacy of conservation practices implemented on the farm.