The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $50 million to both expand access to conservation assistance for climate-smart agriculture and forestry, and reach historically under-served farmers and producers.
The Equity Conservation Cooperative Agreements will fund two-year projects with 118 partnerships, the USDA announced Jan. 10, to increase access to and participation in USDA programs and services, especially for those who are "new to farming, low income, socially disadvantaged or military veterans," according to the announcement.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said these partnerships are an example of how the department is working to both promote equity and address climate change.
“We are committed to equal opportunity for those we serve, and we are taking bold, historic action to advance equity and root out generations of systemic racism,” Vilsack said in the announcement. "As we’ve said before: equity will be a vital part of our climate change work, as America’s farmers and rural communities are on the frontlines of climate change."
The program intends to encourages the development of new partnerships as well as state and local conservation leadership, to develop projects focused on key environmental priorities. Issues include how to improve natural resources, such as soil health and water quality; provide habitat for at-risk wildlife; improve productive in agricultural lands; and building and strengthening local and regional food systems and markets, according to the USDA report.
"Our work with producers and partners will invest in climate smart solutions that improve profitability and resilience, open new market opportunities, and build wealth that stays in rural communities,” Vilsack said.
