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USDA hopes investments spark farmer adoption of climate opportunities

USDA is bolstering resources that allow for greater utilization of climate opportunities.

During a call with reporters Thursday, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced $330 million will help fund 85 rural conservation partnership projects in 45 states.

“This resource will help to leverage and attract an additional $400 million into these projects, with a focus on drought relief, enhanced soil health, and expansion of wildlife habitat.”

As part of the Earth Day announcement, he says USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is also launching a series of innovation grants.

“(There will be) $25 million, which will be focused on innovation trials (and) a significant percentage of that will be invested in soil health practices.”

And Vilsack says USDA Rural Development will invest $487 million toward a wide variety of projects including renewable energy and enhanced water resources.