https://madison.com/opinion/column/david-ward-congress-should-invest-more-in-ag-research-to/article_29a51fc1-5bd0-5510-b464-5f390343f6f8.html > It’s no secret that Wisconsin farmers are facing difficult challenges right now. Low commodity prices, trade uncertainty and rising costs for everything from seed to health insurance are combining to threaten the future vitality of our state’s signature industry and one of the most important parts of our economy. > While much should be done to help boost our farmers and rural communities, an often overlooked component of a strong ag economy is investment in research. Our state’s agricultural roots combined with our leading education institutions has allowed Wisconsin to become a global leader in agricultural research and science.