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La Crosse uses AARP grant to inspire housing solutions
The city of La Crosse is hoping a new online design library of Accessory Dwelling Units will help inspire residents to build one.The units have been touted as a possible solution to housing shortages. After the city was awarded nearly $20,000 last year through AARP Wisconsin’s Community Challenge, it asked residents to submit designs to show the community what is possible in their own backyards.
Ken Notes: some interesting projects at the "library" above!
2025 Western Wisconsin Housing Partnership Toolkit...
ABOUT
This guide was created to support efforts to fill the gap in permanent, attainable housing inventory for people in five counties in Western Wisconsin: Dunn, Pierce, Pepin, Polk, and St. Croix.
By narrowing our target market to households with an income of approximately $53,000-76,000 in Polk/Dunn/Pepin Counties and $74,000-99,000 in Pierce/St. Croix Counties, the aim is to create housing priced between $160,000 -$250,000 in Polk/Dunn/Pepin Counties, and up to $300,000 in Pierce/St. Croix Counties. Note these ranges are based on data from 2023 and are subject to change...
Toolkit is Here
Ken Notes: Bookmark this article. The "Tools" work for any county, developer, community, or homeowner in the State. Great little resource...
Over 1,000 students compete in State Ice Fishing Championship on Mississippi River
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) - A fresh snowfall in the Coulee Region was a nice supplement as many were out on the Mississippi River between Trempealeau and Stoddard for the 2025 WIFA State Ice Fishing Championship.
Over 1,000 high school students and around 90 teams from across Wisconsin participated in the two day competition...
...Full Story Here
Wisconsin Governor visits local Peterson farm
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers visited the Peterson Dairy Farm on the south end of River Falls this past Thursday to announce additional state grant funding to help farmers control soil erosion, with the end goal of cleaner water. The current state-aid to help Wisconsin farmers sustain and improve their soil in the previous budget cycle was $1.5 million. The 2025-27 budget cycle for the farmer-led research soil conservation practices will be $2.5 million statewide, a 67-percent increase."We learned that nobody can change a farmer`s opinion better than a farmer," said Pierce County Land Conservation Technician Dan Sitz.
Four developers committed to developing over 100 units of housing in Viroqua’s Hanson Farm development
VIROQUA, Wis. – The Viroqua City Council accepted an agreement from a developer for the last remaining residential lots in what is known as the “Hanson Farm” development on Viroqua’s north side on Tuesday. The council approved a proposal from Riverland LLC to build two 12 unit apartment buildings and 10 townhomes. That means all of the residential property that has been proposed for the development have all been spoken for.The process of developing the property began in 2023 when the approximately 23 acres was initially purchased for development by the Viroqua Development Association for $650,000.
Wisconsin researchers use microbes to transform wastewater
Judith Ruiz-Branch – Public News ServiceBy Carolyn Beans for the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Wisconsin News Connection reporting for the Pulitzer Center-Public News Service Collaboration.
Every year, US dairy producers churn out billions of pounds of cheese—over 14 billion in 2023 alone. As that cheese heads to market, producers must contend with what’s left behind: roughly 6 billion pounds of whey by dry weight, says Declan Roche, chief commercial officer of Foremost Farms USA, a Wisconsin-based dairy cooperative.
Three Vernon County Producer Led Watershed Groups among 49 in Wisconsin awarded funding by DATCP
Feb. 5, 2025 -
MADISON, Wis. — Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), announced today that $1 million will be awarded to 49 farmer-led groups through the Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grant (PLWPG) Program. Funding will support producer-led conservation solutions by encouraging innovation and farmer participation in efforts to improve Wisconsin’s soil health and water quality.Explore tourism’s boundless potential at the Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism (WIGCOT) 2025.
You’re invited to WIGCOT 2025 to blaze a trail with us — a trail intersected with paths of possibilities for everyone — because the future for Wisconsin tourism is Boundless.
What is WIGCOT?
The?Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism?(WIGCOT) is one of the nation’s leading state tourism conferences, pairing education and networking to uplift Wisconsin’s powerful tourism industry. This renowned annual conference brings together destination marketing organizations, tourism attractions and vendors to put Wisconsin’s tourism industry on the cutting edge of research, trends and tools. Each year, we also celebrate the Governor`s Tourism Award winners and nominees.?Registration Here
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7 of the Most Beautiful Lakes in Wisconsin
Known for its fantastic cheese and harsh winters, Wisconsin certainly has its share of strong stereotypes. While debates may exist over the quality of its beer or the ability of its NFL team, there’s no questioning Wisconsin’s natural beauty—especially where lakes are concerned. The state is dotted with breathtaking lakes of various sizes and depths, each offering its own distinct charm that draws both residents and tourists in large numbers year-round. Although selecting the most gorgeous lakes in Wisconsin isn’t an easy task, given the many worthy contenders, here is a short list of those that truly stand out:
Lake Pepin
Located on the Wisconsin-Minnesota border, Lake Pepin might be one of the most tranquil lakes on this list. The lake covers about 40 square miles (100 km2) and has a maximum depth of 60 ft (18 m). The relatively calm waters at Lake Pepin make it an ideal place to go boating or sailing....
Wazee Lake
Found just outside of Black River Falls in Brockway, Jackson County, Lake Wazee is not a naturally forming body of water but rather artificial. Created out of what used to be the site of a long-depleted iron mine, the beaches and fishing at Lake Wazee make it a great way to spend a day with loved ones. It also is the state`s deepest lake, with a maximum depth of around 355 feet (108 m)! ...
...Full Story Here
La Crosse Area Waters celebrates Clearwater Farm as 2024 Soak it Up Award winner
La Crosse Area Waters (LAW announced this week that Clearwater Farm is the recipient of the 2024 Soak it Up Award for their innovative and sustainable stormwater best management practices. Through their commitment to creating a wetland garden, Clearwater Farm has transformed a previously unusable space into an educational oasis that demonstrates the value of effective stormwater management.
Clearwater Farm’s small apple orchard, originally a productive agricultural space, started to face challenges from increased stormwater runoff, which resulted in a shallow water table incompatible with apple tree growth. Recognizing the need for change, the farm installed a rain garden filled with water-tolerant native plants, berms, and swales that direct, capture, and absorb stormwater. This transformative project has turned a previously degraded area into a thriving educational resource, benefiting the local community and environment...
...Full Story Here
Ellsworth, town of Gilman receive state grants for road improvements
ARIP funds assist with roads that support farmers, producers
The Village of Ellsworth will receive an Agricultural Roads Improvement Program (ARIP) grant totaling $1,795,875, which will be used to fund the reconstruction of streets, sidewalks, curb and gutter, and stormwater systems on Wall and Morse streets. This project also includes plans for water and sewer upgrades, along with the addition of new streetscaping. Additionally, the village is exploring further funding and grant opportunities to expand the project to include Broadway Street.
Ellsworth Creamery CEO Kevin Pieh is grateful for the investment in Ellsworth’s infrastructure. Morse Street runs past the creamery in Ellsworth’s East End...
...Full Story Here
Norse Brew House receives donation from the Power of 100 + Driftless Region Organization
The Norse Brew House, a coffee cart run by Westby Middle & High School special education students, has received a $1,000 donation from the Power of 100 + Driftless Region Organization.According to a Westby Schools social media post, since opening in September, Norse Brew House has been delivering fresh coffee to staff at the high school, middle school, and now both Coon Valley and Westby Elementary Schools. With coffee grounds and syrups from Daily Brew Co., this initiative has provided incredible social and learning opportunities for students, creating meaningful connections across the district.
Vacant Fayze’s restaurant on 4th Street will soon house popular ramen franchise
A former 4th Street restaurant in La Crosse, which closed two years ago, is being converted into an Asian dining location and could open again by the end of March.
New signs, which say “Asian Market” and “coming soon,” have gone up in the windows of the old Fayze’s restaurant and bakery, advertising an Ichiddo Ramen franchise.
Fayze’s operated at the intersection of South 4th and Pearl streets for about four decades, before closing in October of 2023.
Ichiddo Ramen is based in the Minneapolis area and has locations in six states, including New York and Florida, but this would be the first to open in Wisconsin.
An Ichiddo Ramen sign is posted inside the former Fayze’s restaurant in La Crosse on Feb. 3, 2025...
...Full Story Here
Eat. Sleep. Camp. Repeat at Hixton/Alma Center KOA
West Central Wisconsin campground wins industry Icon Award
Because they put their “heart and soul into what we do,” the couple said the campground was recently recognized with the KOA Icon Award.
According to the KOA (Kampgrounds of America) website – koa.com – the Icon Award is given to the top 10% of KOA campgrounds in North America and recognizes campgrounds that provide exceptional guest experiences and uphold the KOA brand’s values.
“More specifically, over the past year, KOA has taken a new approach to recognizing campgrounds and their superior excellence through this award,” John said. “It involves a more targeted criteria. It then recognizes the top 10% of similar-sized parks across the KOA system.”
John said the Hixton/Alma Center KOA, located at N9657 State Road 95 in Alma Center, was the only KOA recognized in the State of Wisconsin...
...For more information on the Hixton/Alma Center KOA, visit koa.com/campgrounds/hixton or find it on Facebook.
...Full Story Here
The Great River Road
Ellsworth Creamery Launches New Logo and Comprehensive Rebranding Initiative
“Our new look reflects who we are today while staying true to our roots as a cooperative built on the dedication and hard work of our farmers.”
The updated logo embodies the spirit of innovation while honoring Ellsworth Creamery’s heritage as a farmer-owned cooperative. Designed to resonate with modern consumers, the new visual identity emphasizes freshness, quality, and a deep connection to the Midwest dairy community.
"A New Look for a Bright Future"
“This rebranding effort is more than just a new logo. It’s about reaffirming our commitment to excellence and embracing our evolution as a trusted name in the dairy industry,” said John Freeman, Director of Sales and Marketing. “Our new look reflects who we are today while staying true to our roots as a cooperative built on the dedication and hard work of our farmers.”Key Elements of the Rebranding Initiative
- Modernized Logo: A sleek and contemporary design that celebrates the creamery’s legacy and quality craftsmanship.
- Updated Packaging: Redesigned product packaging with vibrant visuals, clear labeling, and a cohesive brand story to enhance shelf appeal.
- Enhanced Customer Experience: A refreshed website and digital presence to better serve retail and food service customers nationwide.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Reinforcement of sustainable practices in production and packaging as part of Ellsworth Creamery’s long-term goals.
...Full Story Here
Kitchen Solvers of La Crosse transitions to new ownership
LA CROSSE – With a full ownership change finalized and a move to a new, larger location complete, Bryce Crowley, co-owner of Kitchen Solvers of La Crosse, said the company is poised to support even more customers.
“It’s one of the most gratifying jobs out there, as the kitchen is the heart of the home and people congregate there,” he said. “When it’s efficient and updated, it brings people so much joy.”
Crowley said he now owns the business 50/50 with his partner and lead installer, Dan Kollauf.
The duo became co-owners about five years ago, buying into 30% of the business then owned by Crowley’s parents, Brian and Suzie....
For more information, visit kitchensolvers.com/la-crosse.
...Full Story Here
Strong-rooted La Crosse business named finalist for manufacturing award
Inland Packaging in running for 36th Annual Manufacturer of the Year recognition
LA CROSSE – Over the past 80-plus years, Lilly Blum – marketing and CRM manager with Inland Packaging – said the company has strived to carve out its spot in the industry as one of the go-to providers of labels and flexible packaging for beverages, food, consumer products, pet, health and beauty, wine and spirits and other markets.
“By combining expertise, customization, and a continuous improvement approach, Inland is able to partner with customers to create exceptional labels and packaging,” she said.
Strong foundation
That focus on continuous improvement, Blum said, started in 1944 with John Glendenning.
“Glendenning moved his family to La Crosse in 1944 to purchase what was then the Inland Group,” Blum said. “Under his ownership, Inland expanded beyond printing garage forms to become a full-service print shop, producing posters, forms and more using offset presses.”...
...Full Story HereWWBIC -Finding Your Money Ballance
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La Crosse leaders are raising the awareness of flood risks
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WEAU) - This week is Flood Insurance Awareness Week. The week is meant to raise awareness of Wisconsin’s increasing flood risk and the importance of having appropriate insurance coverage.
Wisconsin Commissioner of Insurance Nathan Houdek is visiting with local leaders in La Crosse to discuss city projects looking to prevent flooding and the importance of flood awareness“We know that flooding is increasingly impacting communities throughout the state, including right here in La Crosse. It’s impacting places that really haven’t been impacted by flooding before. It’s important for people to think about having flood insurance to make sure you’re property is protected whether you’re a homeowner, renting, or own a business,” says Houdek.
Houses built by Habitat for Humanity on the city’s northside are structurally made to be more resilient to flood waters. La Crosse is also using a Floodplain Relief Program to help property owners reduce their risk of flooding by removing structures from the 100-year floodplain, filling in basements, or relocating utilities. City planning director Andrea Trane says flooding has been a concern for houses on the northside of the city....
...Full Story HereDNR announces primary results of Southwest Wisconsin CWD, Deer and Predator Study
Last week, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) presented the primary results of the Southwest Wisconsin Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), Deer and Predator Study to the Natural Resources Board (NRB).
The figures from the study indicate that CWD is substantially reducing the annual survival probability of both male and female white-tailed deer. Reduced female survival lowers the growth rate of the population, and when sufficiently suppressed, may result in population decline.
Specifically, results from the study indicate that when the CWD prevalence rates of females surpasses about 29%, deer populations are expected to begin declining.
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Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission (MRRPC)
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Other Websites
- https://www.mississippivalleyconservancy.org/
- Pierce County Tourism (arcgis.com)
- Visitor Information | Buffalo County, WI - Official Website (buffalocountywi.gov)
- Crawford County Tourism Council | Facebook
- Explore the La Crosse Region - ExploreLaCrosse
- LaCrosse Local
- Black River Falls Country - The Northwoods Close to Home (blackrivercountry.net)
- Go Monroe County WI
- Home - Visit Pepin County Wisconsin
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- Visiting | Vernon County (invernoncounty.com)
- Kickapoo Valley Reserve | Home (state.wi.us)
- Nature Preserves | Mississippi Valley Conservancy (Trail Maps for each parcel)
- Where To Eat in the La Crosse Region - ExploreLaCrosse
- Visit Pepin WI, Pepin County WI, Welcome To Pepin, Wisconsin
- TUDR-0419-01-16_final-single-page-as-printed-1-1.pdf Trout Unlimited Driftless
- TroutRegsFull2324.pdf (widen.net) State of WI Trout Guide with Maps
- bba454_0d24fe0a6e4e464095ea4767476fcc40.pdf (filesusr.com) old Tomah Guide
- Tourism Buffalo County
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