USDA expands IRA-funded climate-smart practices list
TL/DR –
The Natural Resources Conservation Service has updated its list of activities eligible for Inflation Reduction Act funding, adding new climate-smart agriculture and forestry mitigation activities. These include livestock-related practices such as feed management and waste storage facility development, irrigation practices like pipeline installation and microirrigation, and other practices like cover cropping and biochar production. Despite these additions, Senate Agriculture Committee Republicans argue that fewer than half of the projects currently used in EQIP and CSP meet the climate-smart requirements for IRA eligibility.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service Boosts Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Mitigation Activities
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) expands its list of eligible activities for Inflation Reduction Act funding through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) in 2024.
New Additions Focus on Livestock and Irrigation Practices
Climate-smart agriculture and forestry mitigation practices have been enriched by the inclusion of livestock-related practices, such as feed and waste management, and new irrigation-related practices, including pipeline installation and microirrigation.
Wide Range of Other Activities for Natural Resource Health
Other notable activities include cover cropping for moisture use efficiency, biochar production, and fire prevention strategies, among others. According to the agency’s press release, these practices were suggested by producers, conservation groups, and NRCS staff.
Expected Benefits of The New Practices
NRCS stated, “These in-demand activities are anticipated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration, contributing significantly to soil health, water quality, pollinator and wildlife habitat, and air quality.”
Senate Agriculture Committee Republicans Voice Concerns
However, Senate Agriculture Committee Republicans argue that less than half of the projects under EQIP and CSP currently meet these climate-smart requirements for Inflation Reduction Act eligibility. They issued a report earlier this month, suggesting that these requirements be removed for IRA funding into the farm bill baseline.
Response to The Concerns
In response, some activities like prescribed burning and irrigation efficiency, as cited by the Republicans, have been included in the updated list of eligible activities.
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