These programs benefit all of us by improving water quality for cities and rural areas, improving habitat for wildlife and countless species, mitigating the affects of natural disasters by protecting wetland areas and reducing our nation’s production of green house gasses that contribute to global warming.

Currently, there are about 20 conservation programs in the Farm Bill.  Since 1985, succeeding Farm Bills have increased the programs available to farmers for conservation and increased funding that helps farmers conserve for future generations but also maintain income that keep farmers in business. 

Of the 20 conservation programs in the conservation title of the Farm Bill, several major programs stand out.

Conservation Reserve Program – Allows farmers to set aside marginally productive land for conservation rather than for growing crops.  Contracts typically last 10 years with an option to re-enroll.

Wetlands Reserve Program – Restores and protects wetlands through permanent easements.  Land owners receive technical assistance to encourage wetland restoration.

Grasslands Reserve Program – Restores and protects grasslands while maintaining grazing.

Environmental Quality Incentives Program – Helps ranchers and farmers install environmentally friendly improvements to their land, which help to improve animal waste, irrigation water management, emissions reductions, fish and wildlife habitat, and soil erosion to name a few.

Farmland Protection Program – Provides funds to state and local governments to buy easements from willing landowners for the purpose of preserving farmland.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• USDA Fact Sheet on 2007 Farm Bill Proposals
• Ducks Unlimited report on conservation programs in the Farm Bill.
• EARTH DAY -- April 22nd – MATERIALS: Our Daily Bread: Harvesters of Hope and Gardeners of Eden explores the need to put the Spirit of God back into the life-giving acts of producing and consuming food and particular attention to the renewal of this year’s Farm Bill. The resource acknowledges the brokenness of current policies, practices, and habits, and lifts up opportunities for the redemption of all of creation through more mindful choices. Includes background information, sermon starters, ideas for youth and adult study, suggestions for individual and congregational action, sample liturgies, and a bulletin insert, as well as an opportunity to engage your elected officials concerning the farm bill.