Earlier this month, I wrote a column about my strong support for organic farming that appeared in the La Crosse Tribune. I'd like to share some more experiences with you that bring the rest of the picture into focus.

Last week, I toured Organic Valley, seeing firsthand the great things that happen at their farms and at their headquarters in La Farge. I also watched as they activated two new wind towers in Cashton in cooperation with Gundersen Lutheran.

Organic Valley is a true asset to our region. As Cashton village president Bob Amundson said, the growing company gives our region a chance to offer high quality jobs while preserving our agricultural heritage.

But in the past month I've also realized how family farms are being placed at risk by government intrusion. Rules, regulations, paperwork, fines, and fees that corporate farms can often absorb are strangling the small family farm. As if they didn't have enough to worry about!

I'm seeing the good things firsthand, and I'm seeing the bad things firsthand. As state senator, I will work hard to dial back the government intrusion before it's too late.

Please watch my latest web video, where I talk about how organic farming will grow our economy and create jobs.