Would your fields benefit from tile drainage? Would a lift station benefit the system? Are solar-powered lift stations more cost effective than running a power line? What regulations do I need to be aware of before I install tile? These questions, and more, will be addressed during the 2026 Ag Drainage update.
The event, at the UW-Stevens Point campus in Marshfield on March 9, features University of Minnesota ag drainage expert Lindsay Pease discussing considerations for both solar and conventional lift stations ,and UW Madison Ag Law attorney Kelly Wilfert on how Wisconsin water laws impact drainage system outfalls.
Designed for both farms installing their own drainage and professional drainage contractors, additional presentations at the workshop include avoiding mistakes by learning the basics of drainage design, understanding DNR and USDA drainage rules, water quality impacts of drainage, tips and tricks to find old drainage tile, and a panel discussion by drainage contractors.
“Tiling is a significant investment that can improve crop yields,” said Kevin Erb, Conservation Professional Development Coordinator at UW-Madison’s Division of Extension. “It’s important to avoid simple mistakes because a system that is improperly installed or interconnected can be difficult if not impossible to fix.”
The event is sponsored by Extension’s Conservation Professional Training Program and Ag Water Program.
Pre-registration is required for the one-day event. For more information , an agenda or to register, go to https://go.wisc.edu/drainage2026 or contact kevin.erb@wisc.edu, 920-391-4652.
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