News and Events

In a move that will benefit members and strengthen the custom farming community in Wisconsin and beyond, Wisconsin Custom Operators (WCO) and the Professional Nutrient Applicators Association of Wisconsin (PNAAW) are proud to announce a formal agreement to join forces under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This “affiliation” represents the beginning of a closer relationship between the two organizations, with the goal of a full merger at the end of the two-year MOU.

Both WCO and PNAAW share a deep-rooted commitment to Wisconsin’s agricultural industry. While PNAAW has traditionally focused on representing and supporting professionals in manure management and application, WCO serves operators who provide a range of custom farming services including planting, tillage, harvesting, and manure. By combining forces, the organizations aim to streamline resources, increase member value, and enhance educational and networking opportunities for all custom operators across the state and region.

The official affiliation began in April. Under the terms of the MOU, WCO will provide PNAAW with administrative support, infrastructure, and executive leadership as the two groups explore a full merger over the next two years.

What members can expect during the affiliation period

During the 24-month affiliation period, WCO will support PNAAW with a variety of essential services, including:

• Executive support from Maria Woldt, WCO Executive Director
• Access to WCO infrastructure, such as the website, communications systems, and office resources
• Bookkeeping and IRS-compliant tax reporting
• Enhanced educational offerings and partnerships

In exchange for these services, PNAAW will provide WCO with an administration fee and will share in costs associated with member services and events. Importantly, both organizations have agreed to an open and collaborative process for moving toward a full merger. This includes discussions about consolidating financial assets, streamlining organizational structures, and evaluating long-term staffing needs.

A shared vision for the future

“We welcome PNAAW members to the WCO community and look forward to working together to ensure a smooth transition,” said John Osterhaus, president of WCO. “Our missions have always been closely aligned, and this affiliation is a natural step toward better service and greater impact.”

Isaac Lemmenes, president of PNAAW, echoed the sentiment: “This is an exciting time for our members and for the future of custom farming in Wisconsin. By aligning with WCO, we’re bringing together two organizations that have always worked in parallel to support Wisconsin agriculture. Together, we’re stronger and better equipped to serve our members in a changing industry.”

Next steps and member involvement

Throughout the affiliation period, WCO will keep members informed and involved in discussions about the proposed merger. Members can expect updates, opportunities to provide input, and access to expanded resources starting immediately, and both boards are committed to working toward a successful, long-term merger.

The MOU will remain in effect through March 31, 2027, unless a formal merger agreement is reached sooner. Members with questions about the transition or how it may affect their membership benefits are encouraged to contact Maria Woldt.

As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, WCO and PNAAW are confident that this affiliation marks a positive step toward a more unified and effective voice for Wisconsin’s custom operators.