Wisconsin Farmer Joe Bragger Transitions Out of Dairy

Longtime leader plans next phase of diversified farming operations

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:00am

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A highly reflective, geometric metal sculpture in the shape of a cow, resting on a clean, monochromatic background and symbolizing the transition from dairy farming to a more diversified agricultural enterprise.A sculptural representation of the dairy industry's evolution, as one Wisconsin farmer moves beyond the traditional cow to explore new agricultural frontiers.Oshkosh Today

After decades of dairy farming and agricultural leadership roles, Wisconsin farmer Joe Bragger is transitioning out of the dairy business. Bragger, who was recently named a Wisconsin Master Agriculturist, plans to focus on other farming ventures like hazelnuts, malting barley, hemp, and canola, as well as continue his poultry operation and involvement in organizations like the Wisconsin Farm Bureau.

Why it matters

Bragger's transition highlights the challenges facing many dairy farmers in Wisconsin and across the Midwest, as low milk prices and other economic factors make it difficult to sustain large dairy operations. His move to diversify into other crops and enterprises reflects a broader trend among farmers seeking to adapt to changing market conditions.

The details

Joe Bragger recently sold the majority of his 300-cow dairy herd after decades of dairy farming in Buffalo County, Wisconsin. He plans to continue the farm's poultry operation, explore new crop opportunities like hazelnuts and malting barley, and stay active in agricultural leadership roles. Bragger has been involved in a variety of organizations over the years, including serving as president of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and vice president of the Wisconsin Soybean Association.

  • Bragger sold the majority of his 300-cow dairy herd in 2025.
  • Bragger has been involved in agricultural leadership roles for decades, including serving as president of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The players

Joe Bragger

A Wisconsin farmer who is transitioning out of dairy farming after decades in the industry. Bragger has been involved in a variety of agricultural leadership roles, including serving as president of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau.

Noel Bragger

Joe Bragger's wife, who oversees the farm's poultry operation consisting of 32,000 pullets.

Dan Bragger

Joe Bragger's brother, who has been involved in the family's dairy farming operations.

Carl Duley

The Buffalo County agriculture agent for more than 35 years, who provided valuable assistance to Joe Bragger over the years.

Dennis Frame

A former agriculture agent who led the Discovery Farms Program, which focused on water quality research and monitoring efforts that were influential to Joe Bragger.

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What they’re saying

“We've got a lot of problems to solve. I don't look negatively at the fact that the cows are gone. You just move on to the next step.”

— Joe Bragger, Wisconsin Farmer

“Joe is a servant leader who understands the importance of education, research and communication and is highly deserving of the Master Agriculturist Award.”

— Jerry Clark, Extension Crops and Soils Educator

What’s next

Bragger plans to continue exploring new farming ventures like hazelnuts, malting barley, hemp, and canola, while also maintaining the farm's poultry operation. He will remain active in his leadership roles with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and other agricultural organizations.

The takeaway

Bragger's transition out of dairy farming reflects the broader challenges facing many dairy producers in Wisconsin and the Midwest, as low milk prices and other economic factors make it difficult to sustain large dairy operations. His move to diversify into other crops and enterprises demonstrates how some farmers are adapting to these changing market conditions.