An unwelcome surprise for Wisconsin farmers looking to apply for the Federal Rural Energy for America Program, or REAP. The popular program helps rural small businesses and farmers invest in money saving energy efficiency upgrades and clean energy. But the application window that was supposed to open July 1^st was abruptly closed by the USDA. The agency says it is delaying the grant application window.

The EPA is awarding a $700,000 grant to help Kenosha County pay for final phase of restoration of the Pike River. Crews are restoring banks and habitat along the River and planting native pollinator-friendly plants. The project is aimed at improving the quality of water flowing into Lake Michigan.

For a deep dive into environmental issues impacting Wisconsin, check out my Defender Podcast at cleanwisconsin.org or wherever you get your podcasts.