University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension is pleased to announce Leonard Polzin as the new Extension Dairy Markets and Policy Outreach Specialist. Leonard will identify needs, and incorporate research findings into high-quality outreach education programs around dairy markets and policy that aim to enhance the competitiveness of Wisconsin dairy farms.
Financially viable, healthy farm businesses are essential to Wisconsin’s $100 billion agriculture economy. Farmers must continually identify and evaluate opportunities to meet their mission and goals and enhance their competitive position. With this comes an increased need for effective business management. To make strategic business decisions, farmers rely on research-backed information and resources in order to expand, transition, diversify, or invest. The Dairy Markets and Policy Outreach Specialist will provide strategic business information to farmers, no matter the stage in their career.
Part of the Agriculture Institute’s Farm Management Program, this position will emphasize:
- Domestic and export dairy market conditions
- Price outlook and futures market expectations
- Dairy price risk management programs
- Federal Milk Marketing Orders
- Evolving structure of the farm and processing sector
Leonard Polzin grew up on a century-old Wisconsin dairy farm and received Bachelors Degrees in Dairy Science and Agricultural Business from UW River Falls, and Master of Science in Agriculture and Resource Economics from Michigan State University. He brings extensive experience as an educator and analyst to the position, having developed and provided programing on topics including market updates, outlook and market expectations, risk management reviews, and policy analysis. He will have the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Mark Stephenson, Director of the UW Madison Center for Dairy Profitability on current dairy market and policy issues.
Leonard started his new role as a statewide outreach specialist on June 20, 2022. He will work with partner organizations and constituents to develop and deliver educational programs for Wisconsin’s dairy industry. His office is located in Cadott. Please feel free to contact Leonard; he can be reached directly via email lpolzin@wisc.edu or phone (608)316-0960 . Learn more about Leonard at https://farms.extension.wisc.edu/author/lpolzin/.