The Rural Policy Institute has unveiled its comprehensive report, “Rural-Urban Balance in Wisconsin,” providing an in-depth look at the state’s population distribution and the changing role of its rural communities. The report introduces a pioneering, data-supported definition of “rural” in Wisconsin, emphasizing the state’s persistent rural identity and forecasting continued growth in these areas.
“This report creates, for the first time, an accurate working definition of what is indeed ‘rural’ in our state,” said Robert Welch, executive director of the Rural Policy Institute. “And it highlights how we remain a rural state with solid growth projected in rural areas.”
The report reveals that despite recent redrawing of legislative district maps, regions with substantial rural influence maintain a strong foothold across Wisconsin. The Institute will also examine key trends in rural population growth and economic development, identifying opportunities such as new business ventures and infrastructure improvements, alongside challenges like limited healthcare access and workforce shortages.
The Rural Policy Institute collaborates with prominent partners to bolster its work, including the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, which champions agricultural priorities; the Wisconsin Towns Association, representing township governments; the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, focused on rural energy solutions; and The Welch Group, a consultancy under Robert Welch’s leadership that brings specialized knowledge in rural policy and development.
Beyond demographics, the institute will shed light on the cultural and economic fabric of rural Wisconsin, illustrating how these communities contribute to the state’s overall vitality. It points to emerging sectors like renewable energy and small-scale manufacturing as potential drivers of rural prosperity, while stressing the importance of addressing broadband connectivity gaps to keep these areas competitive.
The analysis also serves as a call to action for state and local leaders, urging investment in rural infrastructure and education to sustain the projected growth. By offering a clear framework for understanding rural-urban interplay, the Institute aims to inform policy decisions that balance the needs of both populations, fostering a more cohesive Wisconsin.
To explore the report’s findings, the institute held an event in Madison last week, drawing policymakers, stakeholders, and community leaders. The gathering highlighted the pressing need for sustained collaboration and dialogue to ensure rural Wisconsin’s perspectives help guide the state’s trajectory.
The institute invites the public to examine the report for a fuller grasp of the state’s evolving rural-urban landscape. Copies are available upon request. For more details about the Rural Policy Institute or partnership opportunities, visit ruralpolicyinstitute.org.
The Rural Policy Institute says it’s mission is to empower rural communities across the state by supporting rigorous research, fostering informed dialogue, and educating policy-makers about solutions that drive generational growth and prosperity in our rural areas. We are committed to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that our rural regions face, ensuring that they are heard, understood, and well-supported in the policy-making process
