Monday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a new $1 billion investment in partnerships that support climate-smart farming, ranching and forestry practices.  The goal is to expand market opportunities for those climate-smart commodities to increase their farmer’s competitive edge.  He says USDA will provide grants to implement various pilot programs.

Vilsack says the new Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Initiative will help the agricultural value chain to address climate change and provides equity among participants.

USDA grants ranging from $250,000 to $50 million will be available to a broad range of organizations and traditional agricultural partners chosen through an application process.

Farm groups say the new program will unlock a new climate-smart commodity marketplace and is a positive next step for the industry.  They are excited to see what innovations this pilot program delivers.