If you’re in Wisconsin, you’ve probably heard of a wedding barn or event barn. These are barns on private land that a farmer rents out to a private event, such as a wedding or a family reunion. Wedding barns have been legally operating in Wisconsin for over 40 years, according to the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association. However, there are a few bills circulating the state Senate that could change how these farmers operate their event barns, and WATA says it’s a problem. Certain provisions would add stringent rules for agricultural venues. It would require those farmers to have liquor licenses or else get a permit that would only allow six events a year. Greg Schauf of Country Reflections in Sparta says this would classify private land as a public space and take away his ability to keep his Century Farm economically viable.

If you’re in Wisconsin, you’ve probably heard of a wedding barn or event barn. These are barns on private land that a farmer rents out to a private event, such as a wedding or a family reunion. Wedding barns have been legally operating in Wisconsin for over 40 years, according to the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association. However, there are a few bills circulating the state Senate that could change how these farmers operate their event barns, and WATA says it’s a problem. Certain provisions would add stringent rules for agricultural venues. It would require those farmers to have liquor licenses or else get a permit that would only allow six events a year. Greg Schauf of Country Reflections in Sparta says this would classify private land as a public space and take away his ability to keep his Century Farm economically viable.

Join Pam Jahnke for the latest farm news. Heard daily on WOZN 96.7 FM and 1670 AM in Madison Wisconsin from 5-6am. Also heard on affiliate stations all over Wisconsin.

Join Pam Jahnke for the latest farm news. Heard daily on WOZN 96.7 FM and 1670 AM in Madison Wisconsin from 5-6am. Also heard on affiliate stations all over Wisconsin.

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