USDA Invests in Climate-Smart Conservation Easements

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has committed approximately $138 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to establish 138 new climate-smart conservation easements. These easements form part of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) and are designed to safeguard wetlands, grasslands, and prime farmlands, furthering climate-smart agriculture and forestry initiatives. The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has prioritized land that aids in reducing, capturing, avoiding, or sequestering carbon dioxide, methane, or nitrous oxide emissions.

President Biden’s Vision

President Biden’s historic Inflation Reduction Act is facilitating a significant increase in conservation efforts, including the establishment of conservation easements. These easements provide farmers and ranchers with essential resources to protect delicate landscapes such as wetlands, grasslands, and prime farmland. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack expressed his support for these initiatives, highlighting the program’s enhancements to better serve agricultural producers and conservation partners.

Streamlined Processes

In line with streamlining efforts within the NRCS, ACEP processes have been simplified, making it easier for stakeholders to participate. The Inflation Reduction Act has allocated $19.5 billion for climate-smart agriculture and forestry activities, with ACEP set to receive $1.4 billion over multiple years. Interested parties can submit applications for ACEP and other NRCS programs, with specific deadlines varying by state.

Brian German
Ag News Director / AgNet West

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Read More of this Story at agnetwest.com – 2024-03-25 14:46:53

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