USDA’s $90M investment targets climate smart agriculture

Jul 19, 2024

Innovation grants to propel US agricultural sustainability

By Farms.com

The Administration, through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is directing $90 million into Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) to support pioneering agricultural practices that conserve natural resources and tackle climate change.

This funding effort, part of the historic Inflation Reduction Act, is allocated to both On-Farm Trials and Classic CIG projects, amounting to over $69.7 million and $20.2 million, respectively.

During a recent roundtable in Pennsylvania, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack highlighted how these grants contribute to the administration's broader Investing in America agenda, which aims to enhance the nation's climate and clean energy capabilities.

The selected projects will focus on key areas like methane reduction from livestock, the adoption of irrigation and nutrient management technologies, and transitioning to managed grazing systems.

These initiatives are important as they provide the tools and financial support necessary for farmers to adopt more sustainable practices. By doing so, they not only contribute to the global fight against climate change but also ensure the economic stability of the agricultural sector.

The Inflation Reduction Act is poised to continue transforming the landscape of American agriculture, prioritizing both productivity and environmental stewardship.

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