USDA Doubles its Funding for Climate Mitigation Projects

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is ramping up its commitment to climate mitigation, announcing a remarkable $5.7 billion in funding for conservation efforts over the next year. This represents a significant doubling of the amount allocated during the previous fiscal year, highlighting an unprecedented interest in USDA’s stewardship programs. “We’re confident that we can continue to get the support out to conservation-minded producers,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

With the inclusion of $2 billion in routine funding for existing conservation programs, the total investment in conservation projects for fiscal 2025 could reach up to $7.5 billion. This would mark the largest single-year expenditure by the USDA for land and water conservation initiatives.

The newly earmarked climate funding comes from a broader $19.5 billion package designated for USDA stewardship programs under the 2022 climate, health care, and tax legislation. The breakdown of this funding includes:

• $2.8 billion for the Environmental Quality Improvement Program, which offers cost-sharing for conservation efforts.
• $1.4 billion for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program, aimed at enhancing land and water stewardship across various landscapes.
• $943 million for the Conservation Stewardship Program, the USDA’s pioneering working-lands initiative.
• $472 million for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, which protects vital lands from development.

The issue of climate mitigation is currently a contentious topic in discussions around the new farm bill. The Republican-backed farm bill approved by the House Agriculture Committee suggests allowing climate funds to be used for projects that do not specifically sequester carbon or lower greenhouse gas emissions. This has drawn criticism from Senate Agriculture Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, who opposes the removal of “guardrails” on spending.

So far, the USDA has committed approximately $11.4 billion—or 58%—of the climate mitigation funding. This includes $2.8 billion allocated in fiscal 2023 and nearly $2.9 billion in fiscal 2024, according to a USDA fact sheet released in August.

In an effort to further enhance these initiatives, the USDA has also introduced 14 new practices eligible for climate funding. These practices include:

• Mulching with natural materials.
• Grazing management designed to enhance wildlife food and habitat.
• Brush management techniques tailored for arid regions.

In addition to these conservation efforts, the USDA announced $852 million in loans and loan guarantees aimed at improving electric infrastructure and smart-grid technology across 14 states. Furthermore, $443 million will be allocated for projects related to drinking water, sewage disposal, and stormwater management in 24 states.

This significant investment from the USDA reflects a growing commitment to support sustainable practices and address climate challenges, providing vital resources for producers and communities alike.

View the full article at: USDA doubles its funding for climate mitigation projects (agriculture.com)