Renewing the Countryside Wisconsin: Wisconsin’s energy independence and rural renewal

From an article in The Dunn County News:

SPRING VALLEY — Sometimes solutions to the most pressing global issues like climate change and mushrooming energy costs can be found in your own backyard. Through 39 engaging stories, Renewing the Countryside Wisconsin explores how the state is leading the nation in sustainable and organic agriculture, environmentally responsible business practices and homegrown, forward-looking answers to the challenges facing today’s rural economy and communities.

The new book release offered concrete examples and inspiration for governors who gathered in Milwaukee for the recent Energy Security and Climate Change Summit. Each governor received a book copy.

Renewing the Countryside n Wisconsin, showcases that the long-standing energy independence movement in Wisconsin stands ready to take on new challenges.

“Wisconsin’s rich agricultural heritage and identity are coupled with a strong and enduring conservation ethic and sense of stewardship for our land and natural resources,” wrote Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle in his foreword for the book. “Renewing the Countryside Wisconsin clearly shows how these vital traditions continue to shape how we live and work. ... Renewable sources of energy — including wind, ethanol and solar — and purposeful energy conservation are reshaping individual behavior and business practices.”

“While green energy refrains throughout the book, Renewing the Countryside Wisconsin exemplifies that all our actions and choices collectively relate to long-term sustainability,” said Faye Jones, executive director of Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), one of the book partners along with the Northern Center for Community and Economic Development (UW-Superior and UW-Extension). “Book topics range from farming to arts and culture to education, synergistically tying together how we can each individually make a difference in fighting climate change, from eating local, organic food to supporting local businesses.”