News Article – 

This week, the USDA published to the Federal Register a request for public input as USDA develops its climate smart agriculture and forestry strategy. This action is in response to the Biden Administration’ recent Executive Orders focused on Climate. NASDA will be submitting comments.

USDA is looking for feedback specifically on these questions:

  1. How should USDA utilize programs, funding and financing capacities and other authorities to encourage the voluntary adoption of climate-smart agricultural and forestry practices on working farms, ranches and forest lands?
    1. How can USDA leverage existing policies and programs to encourage voluntary adoption of agricultural practices that sequester carbon, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure resiliency to climate change?
    1. What new strategies should USDA explore to encourage voluntary adoption of climate-smart agriculture and forestry practices?

2. How can partners and stakeholders, including state, local and tribal governments and the private sector, work with USDA in advancing climate-smart agricultural and forestry practices?

3. How can USDA help support emerging markets for carbon and greenhouse gases where agriculture and forestry can supply carbon benefits?

4. What data, tools and research are needed for USDA to effectively carry out climate-smart agriculture and forestry strategies?

5. How can USDA encourage the voluntary adoption of climate-smart agricultural and forestry practices in an efficient way, where the benefits accrue to producers?

USDA also posted specific questions about catastrophic wildfires.