April 27, 2023 | USDA Press |
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially launched the implementation phase of projects funded through the $3.1 billion Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities effort. As agreements are finalized, project partners will begin formal implementation of climate-smart production practices, marketing, and quantification, monitoring, reporting, and verification of greenhouse gas benefits. To facilitate collaboration and generate valuable lessons learned, USDA has also established the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Learning Network, comprising all project partners. The network will share insights and data periodically as projects progress.
The initiative aims to support farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in delivering climate solutions through climate-smart production that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and sequesters carbon. The investment will fund 141 projects over up to five years, providing technical and financial assistance to producers, piloting innovative methods for quantifying climate benefits, and developing markets for climate-smart commodities. Small and underserved producers are a priority for participation in these projects.
This effort aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's focus on enhancing the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture, fostering rural community development, and supporting a diverse range of producers. Producers interested in participating can explore the active projects dashboard on the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities website.