Farmers Take Charge in Finding Climate Change Solutions

Climate Change Solutions for Farmers

(Written by Genevieve Lister, State Public Affairs Officer with Maryland NRCS)

As we commemorate Earth Day, it’s essential to acknowledge the impact of climate change on Delmarva’s farmers and forest landowners. These individuals have witnessed firsthand the effects of this global issue. However, they are not just observers; they are actively engaged in implementing Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Mitigation Activities on their lands.

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, these activities are now bolstered by substantial financial support. This Act, considered the largest investment in climate and clean energy solutions in American history, allocates an additional $19.5 billion to existing Farm Bill funds. This funding is crucial for USDA’s conservation programs, which aim to enhance climate mitigation efforts and improve resilience in agricultural operations.

Conservation Benefits and Financial Support

The initiatives supported by the Inflation Reduction Act have a wide range of benefits. They help conserve natural resources, promote healthier soils, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and sequester carbon. Moreover, this Act empowers the NRCS to provide unprecedented financial assistance to producers for their conservation endeavors.

In the fiscal year 2023, the NRCS set a record by supporting over 45,000 conservation contracts nationwide, totaling more than $2.8 billion in financial aid. In Maryland alone, producers secured over 350 contracts with $30 million in financial assistance. Similarly, Virginia and Delaware also saw significant participation in these conservation efforts.

Supporting Agricultural Sustainability

Producers like Gerald Lewis of Willards, Maryland, and Ted and Marilyn Sparks of Whitehouse, Md., exemplify the commitment of farmers towards climate-smart activities. These individuals, along with thousands of others, received assistance through the Inflation Reduction Act in fiscal year 2023.

Whether you operate a small urban farm or a vast rural expanse, NRCS has conservation assistance tailored to your needs. If you’re a producer with natural resource concerns, now is the time to explore the benefits of a conservation plan. Reach out to your local USDA Service Center for more information and guidance on applying for assistance.