What Is the Farm Bill 2024 and Why Does It Matter?
The Farm Bill is the biggest investment America makes in taking care of its private lands. But what exactly is the Farm Bill? It’s a piece of legislation that offers voluntary, incentive-based programs to farmers, ranchers, and landowners. These programs help them tackle climate change while preserving their land and livelihoods. This bill is the largest source of federal funding for conservation, restoration, and management of private lands like grasslands, forests, ranches, and farmlands.
Every year, the Farm Bill allocates $6 billion for conservation efforts. This includes promoting climate-smart agricultural practices and supporting permanent conservation through agricultural easements. This vital bipartisan legislation benefits every state in the U.S. Since over 70% of land in the lower 48 states is privately owned, many lands are eligible for these programs, which foster healthier soils, cleaner water, carbon capture, and wildlife habitat conservation. The Farm Bill is truly one of America’s most effective conservation tools.
How the Farm Bill Helped Hatcher Ranch
Treg Hatcher’s ranch in Kansas was hit hard by drought and a prairie dog invasion. He was close to losing his family’s ranch. However, the Farm Bill’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program came to the rescue, helping him save and restore his land.
Why the Farm Bill Matters
The Farm Bill has helped farmers and ranchers enroll 140 million acres in conservation programs. The agriculture industry supports millions of jobs and, in the lower 48 states, 70% of land is privately owned and eligible for Farm Bill support. With over 2 million farms covering 475 million acres in the U.S., the Farm Bill’s impact is vast.
Future Policies for the Farm Bill
Support Regenerative Agriculture: More funding for programs like EQIP can help farmers face climate challenges.
Conserve Habitats: Programs to protect grasslands and wetlands are crucial.
Improve Water Management: Programs to enhance water quality and supply should be expanded.
Boost Clean Energy: Funding for rural renewable energy projects must be maintained.
Promote Equity: Increased support for socially disadvantaged farmers is needed.
Protect Forests: Programs for forest health and reforestation should be strengthened.
Urge Congress to pass a Farm Bill that continues to support conservation and communities.