Through paper and fiber, the state remains a powerhouse of productivity.  Wisconsin maintains its position as the #1 paper producer in the U.S., bolstered by two new $500 million mills recently constructed in the Green Bay area by Green Bay Packaging and Georgia Pacific. Beyond direct mill jobs, the industry supports a massive supply chain where every single papermaking job creates between one and six additional jobs in the community. While the industry has suffered painful mill closures over the last 15 years (such as in Wisconsin Rapids), recent expansions and state support in Northwest Wisconsin have helped stabilize the sector and provide new pathways for displaced workers. Stephanie Hoff gets all the details from Scott Suder, president of the WI Paper Council.

Enjoy the warm up today before snow returns to Wisconsin tomorrow.  Stu Muck says that while there could be an accumulation of snow here, there will be larger amounts in the eastern U.S.

Difficult weather in Wisconsin plus challenging market conditions can really wear dairy producers down.  Why not try and fire-up again at the Professional Dairy Producers of WI annual business meeting next week.  Kiley Allan gets a preview from their executive director, Shelly Mayer.  Remember, through a partnership with the Mid-West Farm Report, first time attendees are being offered free registeration through the end of the day Friday, 2/27.  Just text your name and email address to 877-301-3276.

The small community of Plover leaned on neighbors to host the visit of Vice President J.D. Vance on Thursday.  Stephanie Hoff was there.  While there was plenty of policy discussion, she focuses on how the small rural community pooled its resources to pull off a coordinated visit to their neighborhood.