The House Ag Committee held a farm bill hearing on Wednesday focusing on USDA’s role in the future of climate smart agriculture.  USDA Under Secretary Robert Bonnie says they’re already gearing up with their $1 billion Climate Smart Ag Program.  But as part of the farm bill they will also be focused on developing a program that is not too prescriptive and instead enhances existing conservation practices farmers are already doing.

He says the goal is to provide a new revenue stream for farmers but to also provide risk management for those venturing into carbon markets with private industry.

Bonnie says the key is to strike a balance between practices that promote a more carbon neutral environment but still allow farmers to make a living.

USDA announced on Friday they have extended the signup for their Climate Smart Agriculture program for 30 days.