Posted: 03.08.2011

Everything is still "go" for Wednesday's Ag Day at the Capitol, but Paul Zimmerman with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation tells Pam Jahnke that they have made some adjustments to their schedule.

In a radio interview with Pam Jahnke, Zimmerman says he's been in constant contact with the Wisconsin Assembly Speaker, Jeff Fitzgerald, on whether or not the capitol would be open to the public on Wednesday.  As of Monday, Fitzgerald confirmed it would be - and that farmers were welcome.

Zimmerman says there are only two entrances that the public can use to gain access to the capitol - that means long lines for security checks.  Zimmerman says the hundreds of farmers that will be visiting the capitol should carry as little with them as possible to minimize the time spent in line.  He said once they're in the capitol - they'll be able to easily move through the hallways to meet with their political leaders. Zimmerman said in an effort to give those growers plenty of time to have those conversations - they'll be tightening the briefing session at Monona Terrace to allow for the extra security.

But will legislators really be able to focus on agriculture policy with so many distractions regarding the budget?  "Pam I've been up at the capitol walking the hallways talking to representatives and senators, and they're actually looking forward to seeing constituents,"  Zimmerman says, "They want to know what farmers think about everything!  They've still be working on agriculture policy even with all the protesting going on."

Zimmerman told Jahnke that farmers are apparently not intimidated by the protesters or extra security either,  "We've got more registrations this year then last year - farmers want to be involved in what's happening!"

Registration at the Monona Terrace Convention Center begins at 11 a.m. with the welcome and introductions at 11:30 a.m. A lunch will be served at 11:45 a.m. The issues briefing session begins with guest speakers State Senator Sheila Harsdorf and Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald at 12:45 p.m. At 3 p.m. attendees will walk to the State Capitol to meet with their legislators in the Wisconsin Assembly and Senate.

Cost is just $25 at the door.

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