It has passed the U.S. House of Representatives and awaits action in the U.S. Senate. This bill would greatly increase the appropriation of funds generated by off-shore oil leases to preserve the nation's natural and historic resources. If supported by Senators Kohl and Feingold and their colleagues, this bill could allow the State Historical Society to create a much larger historic preservation grant program. How this bill could assist barns awaits final wording of the law and how the program is developed in Wisconsin. Regardless, stabilize your barn.
Water is generally the greatest threat.
If you can't afford a new roof now, consider patching the existing roof to protect the structure. Walk around the building during a heavy rain. If water is collecting by the barn, possibly a couple hours work with equipment would allow you to direct the water away from the building. If there are structural problems, it is possible that only a few days work by a skilled contractor could strengthen it to last many more years. And there may be more assistance in helping them preserve their barns.